A Smile Worth Growing Into

The Science

This case began with severe crowding in both arches, including blocked-out upper canines, upper lateral incisors in crossbite, and a deep, impinging overbite. The patient also had a narrow upper jaw, which contributed to the crowding and crossbite. Treatment began in the late mixed dentition, before all permanent teeth had erupted. Although this extended the timeline (30 months), it allowed us to create space early, guide eruption, and prevent future complications. A comprehensive, non-extraction approach was used to align both arches, correct the crossbite, and open the overbite into a healthy, stable bite.

The Artistry

She started with a narrow smile that didn't fully fill her lip frame. Using Pitts 21 self-ligating braces with Smile Arc Protection, Dr. Benson treated this severe crowding without extractions and without the need for an expander. The artistry was in the balance — carefully widening the smile, guiding the canines into place, and preserving the natural curvature of her smile as she grew. The final result is a healthy bite, a beautifully shaped smile, and the confidence of a young lady stepping fully into her own.

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