The Crozat method is a way of "straightening teeth" – an approach to preventive or corrective orthodontics. It is not new. It utilizes an appliance named for Dr. George B. Crozat of New Orleans, who developed it in the 1920s. Dr. Albert Wiebrecht of Milwaukee was the first to use the Crozat appliance for dental arch development to resolve the problem of crooked or malaligned teeth without removing any permanent teeth. Hence, the Wiebrecht-Crozat method of orthodontics.

   There are many differences. First of all, the appliance itself. Instead of being cemented to the teeth, it is removable for cleaning. And, because it fits behind the teeth, the basic Crozat appliance is not visible when in place. It works from the inside of the mouth. Near the end of treatment, wires that are visible may be added to the front of the mouth.
   There are four basic methods to resolve crowding of teeth: extract teeth to create extra space; move the posterior teeth backwards in the dental arch, as with a headgear; move the front teeth forward; or widen the arches, which is what the Crozat does best at any age.
   There are other ways to widen the dental arch, but the Crozat appliance is unique. Because it is made of precisely adapted wires that are soldered together, the Crozat is the most comfortable, removable appliance.

   Widening, or developing the dental arch creates the most beautiful smile – the kind that people inherently prefer because there are not dark areas at the corners of the mouth during the wide smile, as is often the case when teeth are removed. The lips have more support, so the profile is fuller and not flat or concave as can happen with extractions. Surveys have shown that the public prefers a person's wide smile and full profile.

   The fact that the appliance can be removed for cleaning allows for healthier gun tissues. All areas of the teeth can be accessed – there are no "food traps" to encourage bacterial growth and cause disease.

   Crozat arch development is unique in the field of orthodontics. The adjustments that are placed in the appliance are very light (and comfortable!). They cause the teeth to tip slightly. It is the functional force of the teeth coming together in the bite that causes the tipping to become a complete tooth movement and upright the teeth. Because the teeth are not held rigidly, they can "function" to their new positions and adapt to their natural environment. This allows the bone and periodontal tissues to gradually accommodate to their new positions. Needless to say, the occlusion (bite) of the teeth improves during these slow, gradual adjustments. Keeping the lips together (the so called "lip seal") and a proper swallow, with the teeth together and the tongue in the palate, are necessary for the functional adaptation.

   The basic Crozat appliance is inconspicuous and patients often report that, after the initial accommodation period of a week or two, they hardly notice the presence of the appliance. There can be less discomfort than other methods because the pressures are so mild. Adjustments are made with the appliances out of the mouth. If the Crozats are used for the final finishing stages of treatment instead of braces (fixed appliances), they can have the appearance of a conventional retainer.

   The Crozat method is not necessarily a quicker mode of treatment; it may extend over a period of several years. Each case is unique, so the length of the treatment varies, depending on the objectives, the amount of arch development needed, the response of the tissues to change and the cooperation of the patient. The Crozat only works when the patient is wearing it. Part-time wear will take much longer and we may not reach our goals. The teeth may look nice before treatment is finished, but the appliance must continue to be worn at the direction of the doctor.

   Lateral arch development to relieve crowding can be started as young as five years. Young children adapt very readily to the appliance and become excellent patients. The indications for this early arch development are crowding or lack of spacing of the lower incisors. The permanent incisors are about 5 millimeters wider than the primary (baby) incisors, so there should be some natural spacing of the primary incisors to accommodate the permanent teeth.
   Adults appreciate Crozats because of the fact that they are comfortable, hygienic and inconspicuous. Arch development is possible at any age. Active treatment time can last between 18 and 36 months. Since the appliances are removable, if the patient chooses to wear them less than full time, treatment time will be extended. The Crozat appliances are often used as retainers. And it is advisable, in the light of recent research, to continue to use the retainers as much as is necessary to maintain the finished orthodontic result.

   Costs vary with the extent of the problem, duration of treatment and extent of correction. A complete evaluation with a set of records is needed in order to make a comprehensive diagnosis and plan of treatment.

   A close relationship develops between the office and the patient during orthodontic treatment because there are numerous appointments. Studies have shown that, as a result of orthodontic treatment, patients demonstrate increased self-confidence.
   With the changes in their dental bite following Crozat treatment, many patients with a history of headache pain or jaw joint discomfort ("TMJ") have reported a noticeable improvement in their symptoms.
   The benefits of Crozat orthopedics – straight, healthy teeth and a beautiful smile – can last a lifetime.