Amazing Smile Transformations at Shine
At Shine Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, Dr. Lauren Carlson and Dr. Michael Seelig are passionate about creating healthy, confident smiles through thoughtful, individualized care. Check out these amazing patient transformations to see what you can expect with us!
Early Orthodontic Treatment & Guided Growth
Results like these are exactly why we’re so passionate about early orthodontic treatment when it’s indicated.
Where We Started
- Narrow upper & lower arches caused by a finger-sucking habit
- Impacted upper canines
- Blocked-out lower right canine
Treatment Approach
- Rapid palatal expander
- Upper & lower braces
- Retainers to hold our correction
What We Achieved
- Proper width of both arches
- Clear pathways for permanent teeth to erupt
- Guided the impacted canines into the correct position
What’s Next
Monitoring growth until all permanent teeth erupt (usually ages 11–13), followed by a simplified Phase II for overbite correction once all permanent teeth have come in.
Preserving Natural Beauty Without Extractions
We’re so proud of our patient’s progress in just 11 months. Many orthodontists would’ve recommended extractions, but Dr. Mike knew how to protect her natural smile.
How We Adjusted Treatment
Dr. Mike removed her original braces and replaced them with our American Orthodontics bracket system, using customized bracket prescriptions and selective tooth polishing to guide movement more precisely.
The Result So Far
Her bite and smile are looking amazing, with just a few final touches left to complete her transformation.
The Power of the Tongue
Our sweet patient came to us with a tongue thrust habit that caused an anterior open bite, meaning her front teeth did not touch when biting down.
Phase 1 Treatment Strategy
We used early orthodontic treatment with a custom expander that included a built-in tongue trainer, along with a few upper braces.
What Early Treatment Accomplished
- Broadened her smile
- Created space for permanent teeth
- Retrained proper tongue posture
Looking Ahead
In just one year, her progress has been incredible. We’ll continue monitoring her growth until all baby teeth are gone to ensure long-term stability.
A Remarkable One-Year Transformation
What a difference just 12 months can make! While we’re still putting the finishing touches on this smile, the transformation in just one year of braces is remarkable We can’t wait to see the final results. Such a beautiful person with an even more beautiful smile!
Phase I Treatment for Severe Crowding & Narrow Arches
This young patient came to us with significant crowding caused by narrow upper and lower arches. Early intervention allowed us to guide growth and create space before permanent teeth fully erupted.
Where We Started
- Narrow upper and lower arches
- Severe crowding of the teeth
- Limited space for proper eruption
Treatment Approach
- Palatal expander
- Upper and lower braces
- Retainers to maintain results
What We Achieved
- Gently widened both arches
- Created proper spacing for permanent teeth
- Improved overall alignment and bite function
What’s Next
We’ll continue monitoring growth as remaining permanent teeth come in (typically ages 11–13), with the option for a simplified Phase II treatment if needed.
An 11-Month Smile Transformation
Look at the difference 11 months can make! Our patient started with an already beautiful smile, and through widening her arches, closing excess spacing, and correcting her overbite, we’ve enhanced both her smile and her long-term oral health. Just a few final details left!
Correcting an Anterior Open Bite Through Coordinated Care
This patient presented with a severe anterior open bite caused in part by tongue posture and restriction. A comprehensive, coordinated treatment plan allowed us to address both function and alignment.
Where We Started
- Low tongue posture and tongue thrust
- Significant lingual restriction
- Severe anterior open bite
Treatment Approach
- Lingual frenectomy
- Maxillary expansion
- Tongue training
- Braces with excellent rubber band compliance
What We Achieved
- Closed the anterior open bite
- Improved tongue posture and function
- Dramatically transformed the smile and bite