Our Blog

Crowding can present generalized throughout the arch, localized to a particular region in the arch form, and also vary from upper to lower arch. Some factors to consider in crowding evaluation of the developing dentition are size of teeth, arch shape, supporting bone and tissues, arch symmetry, order of eruption, direction of erupting teeth, and rotational position of teeth. Once the crowding assessment is determined, then this information is applied to other factors to best manage the crowding for each patient. These additional factors include: chronological age, dental eruption schedule, jaw growth pattern, family history, impaction risk, and anterior functional arrangement (overjet, overbite, coordination). With this assessment, orthodontic treatment options, timing recommendations, and risks/benefits of a phase I treatment or waiting for more growth and eruption of teeth can be advised.

Orthodontic assessments at age 7-10 years old, when baby teeth are still present, can be thought of as a proactive evaluation to see if intervention could improve the overall orthodontic outcome and/or experience. Some typical goals of early assessment are attempting to reduce the risk of surgery, extractions, gum recession, or loss of tooth structure in addition to improved function and better overall esthetic results. Treatment options including Invisalign, braces or no treatment and a monitoring plan can be discussed at this visit.

Team Ekim Orthodontics is not just about orthodontics, we are a special place of dedicated working parents with a combination of expertise and compassion that creates a culture of trust, support and confidence. Going on our 15th year  in Prior Lake and 7th year in Burnsville, we are grateful for the relationships we have fostered over the years. Our team is blessed to hear about college graduations, engagements, weddings, new homes and growing families. We feel very blessed to do our jobs. Thank you to all our dental professionals and families for your trust in us!

Wax diagnostic set ups in orthodontics are now replaced with scans, 3D printing and digital orthodontic software. Dr. Ekim prefers the itero and aligntech software to manage orthodontic prediction, planning and communication with colleagues and patients. An easy 3-5 minute scan has now replaced the impression tray of alginate, plaster pouring, model trimming and sectioning teeth for a wax set up. Instead, Dr. Ekim can digitally plan orthodontic treatment options and demonstrate them to patients, their dental providers at in-person consults or live virtual meetings with shared screens!