Neuromuscular Orthodontics Anchorage

Some of our patients come to us with misaligned (crooked) teeth because they want a more attractive, confident smile—after all, who doesn’t want a dazzling smile? Others are seeking relief from bite issues, jaw discomfort, or difficulty chewing, speaking, or laughing. But traditional metal braces aren’t the right fit for everyone—whether due to personal preference or cosmetic concerns.

At our Anchorage dental practice, we understand that every smile is different. Not everyone with crooked teeth or a misaligned bite needs metal braces. In some cases, teeth straightening may be recommended as part of a broader treatment plan, such as for TMJ disorder or sleep apnea, using neuromuscular orthodontics. (We’ll explore that more below.)

As part of your personalized dental care in Anchorage, Dr. Crosby will walk you through your options. If traditional braces are appropriate for your needs, we’ll discuss the process and what to expect. Metal braces do require a time commitment and periodic office visits for adjustments—but for many patients, they can deliver beautifully aligned results.

Alternatives to Traditional Braces

If you’re exploring less noticeable options, we also offer cosmetic dentistry solutions like Invisalign® and ClearCorrect®. These clear aligners are a popular alternative to metal braces and are especially appealing to teens and adults who want a discreet way to straighten teeth. They’re removable, comfortable, and customized to gradually shift your teeth into alignment—all without brackets or wires.

The Process for Metal Braces

Even if you’ve had braces before, shifting teeth may require realignment in adulthood. Thankfully, modern materials and technology have made metal braces more comfortable and less obtrusive than in the past. Today’s smaller brackets and optional ceramic materials offer a more refined, patient-friendly experience.

Dr. Crosby uses advanced scanning technology to map out your bite and design a custom movement plan. Once ready, we bond the brackets to your teeth, add spacers or bands where necessary, and use a flexible wire to apply gentle, consistent pressure to reposition your teeth. You’ll visit us regularly for adjustments, and while mild soreness may occur after these visits, it’s temporary and part of the transformation.

Neuromuscular Orthodontics

Neuromuscular orthodontics focuses on the relationship between the jaw joints, facial muscles, and bite alignment. If your teeth are not in harmony with the surrounding structures, it can lead to chronic pain, TMJ disorder, or even sleep apnea symptoms.

With advanced diagnostic tools like the Myotronics K7 Evaluation System, Anchorage neuromuscular dentist Dr. Richard Crosby can track jaw movements, detect joint sounds, and understand how your bite functions in real time. This pain-free analysis helps us create a customized treatment plan aimed at long-term relief and proper function.

Depending on your condition, treatment may include traditional braces, Invisalign®, ClearCorrect®, oral appliances, or even a comprehensive approach like full mouth reconstruction. Every treatment is personalized—because your smile and comfort deserve nothing less.