Other Treatments

Comprehensive Treatment

At Hancock Orthodontics, we believe every smile deserves a personalized treatment plan tailored to individual needs. For most patients, comprehensive orthodontic treatment offers an efficient and effective way to achieve a beautifully aligned smile in a single phase of care. This approach allows us to address all orthodontic concerns at once, with a clear treatment plan, one fee, and consistent progress toward your goals.

What Is Comprehensive Treatment?

Comprehensive treatment is a one-phase orthodontic approach designed to correct alignment, bite, and spacing issues in patients who are ready for full orthodontic care. Unlike a two-phase treatment plan, which is sometimes necessary for younger patients with specific developmental needs, comprehensive treatment typically begins once all or most of the permanent teeth have erupted.
This streamlined approach focuses on achieving complete results in one phase, using braces, Invisalign, or other appliances to guide teeth and jaws into their ideal positions.

Benefits of Comprehensive Treatment

Comprehensive orthodontic care provides several advantages for patients of all ages, including:

• Efficient Results — With a single phase of treatment, we can address all orthodontic issues at once, eliminating the need for a second phase later on. This saves time and simplifies your care.
• Clear, Upfront Fees — Comprehensive treatment is provided under one straightforward fee, covering all aspects of your care from start to finish. This transparency allows you to plan confidently for your orthodontic journey.
• Convenience — Because comprehensive treatment is designed to achieve your final results in one phase, it’s often a more convenient choice for patients ready to complete their orthodontic care.
• Expert Guidance — Dr. Matt Hancock carefully assesses each patient’s needs to determine the best treatment approach. If comprehensive treatment is the right fit for you, we’ll create a plan that aligns with your goals and delivers outstanding results.

When Is Comprehensive Treatment the Right Choice?

Comprehensive treatment is ideal for patients who:

• Have all or most of their permanent teeth in place.
• Are ready to address alignment, bite, or spacing issues in a single phase of care.
• Do not require early intervention or two-phase treatment for developmental concerns.

For younger patients with specific orthodontic issues, such as significant jaw growth discrepancies or impacted teeth, two-phase treatment may still be necessary. At Hancock Orthodontics, we only recommend this approach when it’s truly needed to ensure the best long-term results.
At Hancock Orthodontics, we prioritize individualized care and honesty in every recommendation. Whether you’re a candidate for comprehensive treatment or require a more specialized plan, we’ll guide you through the process with clarity and support. Our goal is to deliver exceptional results that last a lifetime.

Two-Phase Treatment

At Hancock Orthodontics, we believe in providing personalized care that meets the unique needs of every patient. For younger patients with developing smiles, two-phase orthodontic treatment may be the best way to address certain orthodontic concerns early and ensure long-lasting, effective results. This specialized approach focuses on guiding the growth of the teeth and jaw in childhood, followed by comprehensive alignment during adolescence.
While two-phase treatment isn’t necessary for all patients, it can be invaluable for those with specific developmental needs. Our goal is to recommend this approach only when it offers the greatest benefit to your child’s long-term oral health.

What Is Two-Phase Treatment?

Two-phase treatment is a carefully planned orthodontic process divided into two distinct stages, with a resting period in between. Each phase serves a unique purpose in supporting proper growth and development.

Phase One: Early Intervention

The first phase typically begins around age seven to ten, when a child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth. This phase focuses on addressing issues that could worsen over time or impact the proper development of the teeth and jaw. Examples include:

• Jaw growth problems, such as an underbite or overbite.
• Severe crowding or spacing issues.
• Habits like thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting that can affect dental alignment.

During Phase One, appliances like expanders, partial braces, or retainers may be used to guide jaw growth, create space for erupting teeth, or correct early bite concerns. The goal is to set the stage for a healthier, more functional smile as the child grows.

Resting Phase

After Phase One, there is typically a period of observation to allow the remaining permanent teeth to erupt naturally. During this time, regular check-ups help us monitor your child’s development and ensure their teeth and jaw are progressing as expected.

Phase Two: Comprehensive Treatment

The second phase typically begins during adolescence, once all or most permanent teeth have erupted. This stage focuses on aligning the teeth and bite for the final, beautifully balanced smile. Full braces, Invisalign, or other appliances may be used to complete treatment and achieve optimal results.

When Is Two-Phase Treatment Necessary?

Two-phase treatment is recommended for children with orthodontic concerns that, if left unaddressed, could lead to more severe issues later in life. These may include:

• Significant jaw growth discrepancies.
• Severe crowding or spacing problems.
• Bite misalignments that could affect chewing, speech, or facial symmetry.
• Conditions that may require surgical intervention if not treated early.

By addressing these issues during growth, two-phase treatment can help reduce the need for extractions, surgeries, or longer treatment times in the future.

Benefits of Two-Phase Treatment

Two-phase orthodontic care offers several key advantages, including:

• Improved Jaw Development — Early intervention can guide the jaw’s growth and alignment, ensuring a more harmonious bite and balanced facial structure.
• Room for Permanent Teeth — Creating space for permanent teeth reduces the risk of crowding or impaction.
• Reduced Treatment Complexity — By addressing major issues early, the second phase of treatment is often simpler and more efficient.
• Enhanced Long-Term Results — Two-phase care provides the foundation for a healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing smile that lasts a lifetime.

At Hancock Orthodontics, we take a thoughtful, patient-centered approach to every treatment plan. While two-phase treatment can provide incredible benefits for some children, we recommend it only when it’s truly necessary. Dr. Hancock will carefully evaluate your child’s smile and provide honest guidance on whether this approach is the right choice for their needs.

Interceptive Orthodontic Treatment

At Hancock Orthodontics, we know that early intervention can make a significant difference in your child’s smile and overall oral health. Interceptive orthodontic treatment, also known as Phase 1 treatment, is designed to address orthodontic concerns in young children, typically between the ages of six to ten. By identifying and treating issues early, interceptive care helps guide the growth of the teeth and jaw, laying the foundation for a healthy, confident smile.

What Is Interceptive Orthodontic Treatment?

Interceptive orthodontics focuses on correcting problems in a child’s developing mouth before they become more severe. This treatment is ideal for children who still have a mix of baby and permanent teeth and are in the early stages of dental and jaw development.
Common goals of interceptive treatment include:

• Correcting jaw growth discrepancies, such as overbites or underbites.
• Creating space for permanent teeth to erupt properly.
• Addressing habits like thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting that can affect dental alignment.
• Improving alignment of baby teeth to prevent crowding or spacing issues in permanent teeth.

By addressing these concerns early, interceptive treatment reduces the risk of more complex or invasive orthodontic care in the future.

How Interceptive Treatment Works

Interceptive orthodontic care typically involves the use of specialized appliances or partial braces to guide the growth and development of the teeth and jaw. For example:

• Palatal Expanders — Widen the upper jaw to create space for teeth and improve bite alignment.
• Space Maintainers — Preserve the spacing of baby teeth to ensure proper alignment of permanent teeth.
• Habit Appliances — Help correct habits like thumb-sucking that can affect the position of teeth and jaw growth.

Each treatment is tailored to your child’s specific needs, ensuring a comfortable and effective approach.

Who Needs Interceptive Treatment?

Not all children will require interceptive treatment, but it can be beneficial for those with:

• Early signs of crowding, spacing, or bite issues.
• Habits that are impacting their oral development.
• Jaw alignment concerns that may worsen with time.

Dr. Matt Hancock evaluates each child individually to determine whether interceptive treatment is necessary or if monitoring is the best approach.
Early orthodontic care can set the stage for a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles. If your child is around age seven, now is the perfect time for their first orthodontic evaluation. At Hancock Orthodontics.

Retainers

Congratulations on completing your orthodontic treatment! While your braces or Invisalign may be off, your journey to a lasting, beautiful smile isn’t over just yet. Retainers play a crucial role in maintaining your results and ensuring your teeth stay in their new, properly aligned positions.

Why Are Retainers Important?

After orthodontic treatment, your teeth naturally want to shift back to their original positions — a process called relapse. Retainers help prevent this by holding your teeth in place as your jawbone and surrounding tissues adjust to their new alignment. Without a retainer, all the time and effort spent on orthodontic treatment could be undone.
Wearing your retainer as instructed by Dr. Hancock ensures that your smile stays straight and healthy for years to come. In the first few months after treatment, your teeth are especially prone to shifting, making consistent retainer wear critical. Over time, you may be able to reduce how often you wear your retainer, but it’s important to follow your orthodontist’s recommendations to keep your results intact.

How to Take Care of Your Retainer

Proper care of your retainer helps extend its lifespan and keeps it clean and effective. Here are some essential tips for keeping your retainer in great shape:

• Wear It as Directed — Always follow Dr. Hancock’s instructions on when and how long to wear your retainer to prevent unwanted tooth movement.
• Clean It Regularly — Rinse your retainer with lukewarm water after each use and brush it gently with a soft toothbrush to remove bacteria and plaque. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the retainer.
• Store It Safely — Always keep your retainer in its case when not in use. Leaving it out can expose it to bacteria, damage, or even accidental loss.
• Avoid Harsh Cleaners — Steer clear of toothpaste, alcohol-based mouthwashes, or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the retainer. Instead, use a mild soap or a retainer cleaner recommended by Dr. Hancock.
• Keep It Away from Heat — High temperatures from hot water, direct sunlight, or leaving your retainer in a hot car can cause it to lose its shape.
• Watch for Wear and Tear — Retainers can wear out over time. If yours becomes loose, cracked, or uncomfortable, schedule an appointment at Hancock Orthodontics for a replacement or adjustment.

What Happens If You Lose or Damage Your Retainer?

Life happens — if your retainer is lost, broken, or no longer fits properly, contact Hancock Orthodontics as soon as possible. Going too long without a retainer can lead to unwanted tooth movement, potentially requiring additional orthodontic treatment. Our team is here to help you get a replacement quickly so you can keep your smile looking its best.

Keep Your Smile Straight for a Lifetime

Retainers are the key to protecting the investment you made in your smile. By wearing your retainer as directed and taking good care of it, you can enjoy a straight, confident smile for years to come.
If you have any questions about your retainer or need a replacement, contact Hancock Orthodontics today. We’re here to help you maintain your perfect smile!

Night Guards

Do you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or worn-down teeth? You may be grinding or clenching your teeth at night, a condition known as bruxism. Over time, this can lead to serious dental issues, including enamel erosion, tooth fractures, and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. A custom night guard from Hancock Orthodontics can help protect your teeth and relieve discomfort while you sleep.
A night guard is a custom-made oral appliance that fits comfortably over your teeth to provide a protective barrier. It cushions the effects of grinding and clenching, reducing stress on your teeth and jaw. Unlike over-the-counter night guards, a professionally made night guard offers a precise fit, better durability, and superior comfort.

Benefits of Wearing a Night Guard

Using a night guard can help:

• Prevent Tooth Damage — Protects against enamel wear, cracks, and fractures caused by grinding.
• Reduce Jaw Pain & Headaches — Minimizes strain on your jaw muscles and joints, alleviating pain and tension.
• Improve Sleep Quality — Helps relax the jaw and reduce nighttime discomfort for a more restful sleep.
• Prevent TMJ Issues — Reduces pressure on the temporomandibular joint, lowering the risk of TMJ disorders.

Do You Need a Night Guard?

If you experience jaw pain, frequent headaches, or notice signs of teeth grinding, a night guard may be the solution you need. At Hancock Orthodontics, we provide custom-fitted night guards designed for maximum comfort and protection.

MARPE (Maxillary Skeletal Expander)

If you or your child has a narrow upper jaw, it can lead to issues like crowding, crossbites, and even breathing difficulties. Maxillary Skeletal Expander (MARPE) is an advanced orthodontic solution designed to widen the upper jaw in adolescents and adults without surgery. Unlike traditional expanders, MARPE uses mini-implants to create a more stable and effective expansion, making it a great option for patients who have completed most of their jaw growth.

How MARPE Works

MARPE is a minimally invasive, nonsurgical palatal expander that gradually widens the upper jaw. It consists of a custom-fitted expander that attaches to mini-screws (TADs, or temporary anchorage devices) placed in the roof of the mouth. These screws provide direct skeletal support, allowing for a more predictable and effective expansion of the maxilla (upper jaw).
Patients activate the expander with a small key, following Dr. Hancock’s instructions to apply gentle pressure over time. As the jaw expands, space is created for improved tooth alignment, a healthier bite, and even better airflow for easier breathing.

Benefits of MARPE

• Nonsurgical Expansion for Older Patients — Ideal for adolescents and adults whose jaw growth is nearly complete.
• Improves Breathing & Airway Function — Expanding the upper jaw can help open nasal passages, reducing airway restrictions and improving sleep quality.
• Creates Space for Straighter Teeth — Helps prevent or reduce the need for extractions and complex orthodontic treatments.
• Corrects Crossbites & Narrow Palates — Effectively widens the jaw for a healthier, more functional bite.
• Stable, Long-Lasting Results — The skeletal anchorage ensures that expansion occurs at the bone level, providing lasting benefits.

MARPE is typically recommended for older adolescents and adults with a narrow upper jaw who are no longer candidates for traditional palatal expanders. It is an excellent alternative to surgical jaw expansion (SARPE) for many patients. Dr. Hancock will evaluate your jaw structure and growth stage to determine if MARPE is the right solution for you.

What to Expect During Treatment

• Consultation & Digital Imaging — Dr. Hancock will assess your bite and use imaging to determine if MARPE is the best treatment option.
• Placement of the Expander — The MARPE device is attached to temporary mini-implants in the upper jaw.
• Activation Phase — You will turn a small key as directed to gradually widen the jaw over a few weeks.
• Retention & Stabilization — Once expansion is complete, the device remains in place for a few months to allow the bone to stabilize.

MARPE is a safe and effective way to expand the upper jaw, improving both dental alignment and overall health.

Emergency Care

At Hancock Orthodontics, your comfort and care are our top priorities. While orthodontic treatments like braces or Invisalign are designed to be durable and safe, occasional issues may arise that need attention. Our team is here to help if you experience an orthodontic emergency, providing guidance and prompt care to get your treatment back on track.
An orthodontic emergency can be any unexpected issue during your treatment that causes discomfort, interrupts progress, or requires immediate attention to prevent further complications. While most orthodontic concerns can be managed at home until your next appointment, some situations may need prompt care from our office.

Common Orthodontic Emergencies

Here are some examples of orthodontic issues that patients might encounter and how to handle them:

Loose Brackets or Bands

Brackets or bands can occasionally come loose, especially after eating hard or sticky foods. If a bracket detaches but is still attached to the wire, gently secure it in place with orthodontic wax to prevent irritation. Contact our office to schedule a repair.

Poking Wires

Sometimes, a wire may shift or protrude, causing irritation to your cheeks or gums. Use a pencil eraser to gently push the wire back into place or cover it with orthodontic wax to alleviate discomfort. If the issue persists, let us know so we can adjust it.

Broken Wires

A broken wire can cause discomfort and may disrupt your treatment. If the wire has a sharp edge, carefully trim it with clean nail clippers and cover it with wax. Call us to arrange a repair appointment as soon as possible.

Lost or Broken Aligners

If you lose or break an Invisalign aligner, wear the previous aligner or the next one in the series until you can contact us. This will help maintain your progress while we work to replace it.

Soreness or Discomfort

Mild soreness is common after braces are placed or adjusted or when transitioning to a new set of Invisalign aligners. Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods can help ease discomfort. Rinsing with warm salt water can also soothe irritated areas.

Mouth Sores or Irritation

Brackets and wires may sometimes irritate the soft tissues of your mouth, especially when you’re first getting used to them. Applying orthodontic wax to the affected areas can reduce friction and allow the tissues to heal.

Traumatic Injuries

In the case of a sports-related injury or other trauma that affects your braces or teeth, seek immediate attention. If a tooth is knocked out or significantly damaged, visit an emergency dentist or urgent care facility, then contact our office so we can address any orthodontic concerns.

What to Do in an Orthodontic Emergency

If you experience an orthodontic emergency, follow these steps:

1. Assess the situation to determine whether it’s causing significant discomfort or interfering with your treatment.
2. Use orthodontic wax, salt water rinses, or home tools like clean nail clippers to manage the issue temporarily.
3. Call our office to explain the problem and schedule an appointment if necessary.

For severe injuries or pain, such as a knocked-out tooth or significant trauma to the face or jaw, seek immediate medical attention before contacting us.

We’re Here to Help

At Hancock Orthodontics, we’re dedicated to ensuring your treatment is as smooth and comfortable as possible. If you have questions or concerns about an orthodontic emergency, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team will guide you through the steps to manage the issue and provide the care you need to stay on track.
If you’re experiencing an orthodontic emergency, call our Leesburg or Winchester office. We’ll help you resolve the issue and ensure your treatment continues without unnecessary delays!