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Search results for: all posts
What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the specialty of dentistry that is devoted to bringing the teeth, jawbones, and facial profile into proper alignment. An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed an additional two to three years of graduate education in an ADA approved, university affiliated orthodontic specialty program. They are truly specialists in dentistry.
· posted · Friday, April 05, 2002
What can one expect from orthodontic care?
An attractive smile!!
Teeth that fit together properly which will provide for improved function and long-term health of the teeth and gums.
More efficient chewing which will allow for improved digestion and over-all health
· posted · Friday, April 05, 2002
Do I need braces?
If you have crooked, irregular or protruding teeth or an incorrect relation between the top and bottom teeth and jaws, you should visit our office for a free consultation. Dr. Alizadeh or Dr. Schreiner will do a thorough evaluation and determine whether you would benefit from orthodontic treatment.
· posted · Friday, April 05, 2002
Your first few days with braces
There might be some general soreness of the teeth and mouth. Usually this is not enough to interfere with your daily routine, but if tenderness is severe, Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen is the safest form of pain reliever for children (but please consult Dr. Alizadeh, Dr. Schreiner or your dentist first). Try to avoid harder foods that require chewing while the teeth are tender. Stick to soft, nutritious foods such as pastas, soups, etc. Discomfort is usually worse on the first few days after braces are first placed and then gradually resolves. The teeth may even appear loose which is a normal reaction so "Don't Panic". Teeth must loosen first so they can move but they will firm up again.
· posted · Friday, April 05, 2002
When is the best time to begin treatment?
Dr. Alizadeh and Dr. Schreiner like to see patients at a young age. Between the ages of 5 and 7, the front permanent teeth begin to come in. At this time, potential bite and crowding problems become noticeable to the orthodontist.
This is also an ideal time, when indicated, to begin early treatment to take advantage of the child's growing facial bones to achieve the best treatment results. Because 75% of a child's growth occurs before the age of 10, early treatment expands and directs moldable, growing bones to produce a greatly improved profile and a healthy, properly functioning mouth. However, it is never too late to receive orthodontic treatment. Even adults can benefit from treatment.
· posted · Friday, April 05, 2002
TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint/Muscle Dysfunction)
Many patients experience pain or limitation of movement in their jaw joint (TMJ) at different times of their lives. Clicking or "popping" of the joint, along with pain, when opening or chewing is another common problem. Sometimes pain of the TMJ will mimic ear pain. Headaches can also result from the jaw joint not functioning properly. If you suspect a TMJ problem, you should consult your dentist or our Doctors immediately.
· posted · Friday, April 05, 2002
What can Orthodontics do for me?
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Increase self-esteem by improving appearance
Decrease the likelihood of gum disease and premature loss of teeth by relieving stress on gums and bones which results when teeth do not meet properly
Eliminate speech problems caused by protruding or misaligned teeth
Possibly help reduce and help treat jaw joint difficulties (see TMJ)
Lower the incidence of decay in crowded, overlapping teeth which can become food trap areas
Help the jawbone develop so there is less need to remove adult teeth
· posted · Friday, April 05, 2002
Adult Orthodontics
Many people think that orthodontics can only be done on children and teenagers. Not true! Orthodontics can be effective at almost any age. Treatment protocols may be somewhat different between adults and children, but many adults are now undergoing orthodontic treatment to improve their health and appearance.
Recent advances in materials and techniques have combined to make it possible to provide treatment that is shorter in duration (see SureSmile). Treatment can also be completed with fewer appointments, leaving you more time to do all of the other things in your busy schedule.
Modern braces are far more cosmetically pleasing than they were just a few years ago. Advanced composites make it possible to have partially clear or neutral colored brackets.
Other options are available for adults who desire a more cosmetic appearance during treatment. Lingual braces attach to the inside of the teeth and are not visible at all. Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, can sometimes be used to straighten the teeth.
· posted · Thursday, April 14, 2005
Oral Hygiene
Now that you have your orthodontic appliances or braces in place, keeping your teeth, gums and appliances clean is most important.
Braces, wires, bands and retainers all can trap food particles and make it difficult to brush or floss away plaque. Plaque is a sticky layer of harmful bacteria, food, saliva and debris which, if allowed to build up, can attack your teeth and gums, causing cavities and gum disease.
Brushing and flossing after every meal and snack is the only way to prevent plaque build up, tooth decay, and gum disease.
HERE ARE SOME TIPS FOR EXCELLENT ORAL HYGIENE
1. Use a fluoride containing toothpaste when you brush.
2. A soft bristled brush is also recommended----change every three months.
3. Continue to use all hygiene aids (such as waterpics, electric toothbrushes, perioaids, proxybrushes, fluoride mouth rinses, etc.) that have been part of your regular routine. Remember, however, these cannot substitute for good brushing and flossing!
4. A fluoride rinse may be prescribed if needed to help prevent cavities and decalcification(scarring of the teeth).
5. Use an egg timer or watch to measure your brushing time. A minimum of two minutes is needed to brush correctly.
6. Use waxed floss to help prevent fraying. A floss threader or Super floss (threader attached) is helpful in flossing under orthodontic wires.
7 Floss, brushes, Super floss, mouth rinses, auxiliary aids, etc. are all available at the local drug store or super market. Keep a supply on hand at home, work, school or when you travel so you may clean your teeth after every meal.
8. Maintain regular three to six month checkups with your family dentist throughout your orthodontic treatment.
9. Avoid eating hard foods such as ice, popcorn, nuts, spare ribs or corn chips. If you eat hard fruit, vegetables or french bread, it's a good idea to cut them into bite size pieces first.
10. Avoid sticky foods and foods high in added sugar such as caramel, bubble gum, taffy, gummy bears, now and laters, etc.
11. When ever you have something sweet, brush your teeth and braces immediately afterward. Don't wait!
TIPS FOR BRUSHING WITH BRACES
1. Brush the braces and teeth first. Start brushing the outside surfaces of the teeth with braces in a back and forth motion, try to brush each tooth 10 times. Continue around the outside, then the inside and finally the tops of the teeth.
2. Repeat this sequence, this time concentrating your brushing along the gum line (where the tooth and gum meet.) Brush in a small gentle circular motion, about ten times per tooth. Avoid hard scrubbing which can cause the gums to recede.
3. Don't forget to brush your tongue.
4. Rinse your mouth thoroughly.
TIPS FOR FLOSSING WITH BRACES
1. Use the floss threader, as a needle and thread, and lace the floss under the wire between the teeth. Remove the floss threader, and holding the floss with the fingers of both hands, gently wipe up and down the surface of each tooth a minimum of five times. The tooth will feel "squeaky" when clean. Without removing the floss from between the teeth, move the floss to a clean section and repeat for the other surface of the adjacent tooth. Remove the floss, re-thread, and repeat for each tooth. After practice, you may be able to thread the floss without the help of the floss threader.
2. Floss all teeth at least once a day. Remember, flossing is the best way to prevent plaque build-up between the teeth and gums. Without daily plaque removal from between your teeth, your gums will bleed, a first sign of gum infection, gingivitis or periodontal (gum) disease.
· posted · Thursday, April 14, 2005
Home Care for Temporomandibular Joint/Muscle Dysfunction (TMJ)
The following instructions will aid in the healing of a sore jaw joint.
1) Do NOT chew gum.
2) During the initial phase of dysfunction, particularly if symptoms are acute, stay on a definite soft diet (baby food, soups, milkshakes, eggs, hamburger, etc.)
3) For the next few months, be sure to cut all foods into small, bite sized pieces and try to avoid opening your mouth any wider than the thickness of your thumb. (1-2 inch).
4) Do not eat hard crusts of bread, rough meat, raw vegetables, or any other food that will require prolonged chewing.
5) Do not chew peanuts, ice cubes, or any other substance that is repeatedly milled between your back teeth.
6) Do not chew gum, bite your lips, clench your teeth or habitually chew the insides of your cheeks.
7) Do not thrust your lower jaw forward, as when biting off a piece of thread, applying lipstick, smoking, or through force of habit.
8) Do not bite any food with your front teeth.
9) If you must yawn, limit the distance your mouth opens by pulling your lower lip up over the edges of your lower teeth.
10) Make every effort not to strain your jaw joints unnecessarily by such activities as talking excessively, deliberately popping your jaw joint as one would pop the knuckles of his hand, leaning on the palm of your hand while reading or watching TV, etc.
11) Try to sleep on your back. Avoid sleeping on the side of your face or on your fist.
· posted · Thursday, April 14, 2005
Eating and Braces
Protect your braces by avoiding the foods mentioned below. Loose braces or bands are not only uncomfortable but also delay treatment. Examples of Things You Cannot Eat or Chew...
Ice. . . A thousand times NO! It will totally destroy your braces.
Pizza Crust . . .The hard crust bends wires.
Hard Pretzels . . . Bends wires, loosens bands, knocks off brackets.
Doritos, Tacos, Tostitos, Cheetos, Fritos and the like . . . Will form a hard ball and break your braces.
Caramel, Candy, Bubble Gum . . . Sticky goo which pulls off wires and feeds the bacteria in your mouth.
Hard Rolls, Bagels, Bones . . . Bends the wire and knocks off brackets.
Beef Jerky . . . Tough as nails.
Suckers . . . You might weaken and bite.
Nuts . . . No nuts of any kind.
Ribs . . . Knocks off brackets.
Pens and Pencils . . . Favorite exam time food, breaks everything.
Popcorn . . . The little shells get between the gum and band - hurts like crazy.
Raw Carrots . . . Hard as rocks.
Eating these foods will loosen the braces, but you may not discover the problem until hours or days later...Surprise! loose bands, broken wires, and detached brackets cause a longer treatment time.
· posted · Thursday, April 14, 2005
Surgical Orthodontics
Jaw growth is a slow and gradual process. Sometimes abnormal growth may occur, causing one or both jaws to grow too much or too little. The resulting abnormal jaw relationship may cause an improper bite and possible speaking and chewing problems. An improper bite can also cause long term health problems for the gums, teeth and possibly the jaw joint (TMJ). Appearance can also be affected, with one jaw sticking too far out or back or even too much gums showing when smiling.
When the jaw relationships are so severely malposed that tooth movement alone cannot accomplish the desired changes, surgical intervention (called orthognathic surgery), may be necessary. Braces are placed first to align the teeth within the bone. An oral surgeon then does corrective jaw surgery. The surgery involves moving all or part of the upper and/or lower jaw into a more favorable position. The goal of surgical treatment is to restore proper function and facial balance. With recent advances in surgery the jaws rarely have to be wired shut after surgery, allowing the patient to open and close their jaws sooner. After surgery the orthodontic treatment is completed, usually in 6 to 9 months, to establish a proper bite.
· posted · Thursday, April 14, 2005
Emergencies
Before calling your orthodontist with a problem, ask yourself: Is this an emergency? True emergencies are rare. Spend a few moments learning more about your appliance and how to solve small problems. This will help you handle minor concerns on your own without first calling our office.
What You Can Do:
Keep orthodontic wax and pencil eraser handy. Here are some tips for handling minor problems:
Poking wire or bracket: Roll a piece of wax into a ball and press it onto the part that's poking you. Try to keep the wax dry prior to placing it. The wax will come off frequently, so keep a supply with you.
Broken Wire: Press the wire toward your teeth with a pencil eraser. If you are unable to push the wire out of the way, try cutting the part that is sticking out with wire cutters or a large finger nail clipper.
Small cut: To help the cut heal, rinse your mouth with a mixture of 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 cup of warm water. Peroxyl, which you can buy over the counter, is also an excellent rinse to clean the cut and promote healing.
Call your orthodontist's office during regular business hours if:
An appliance breaks
A piece of the appliance is loose
An appliance gets lost
An appliance does not fit properly
Call Your Orthodontist Right Away If:
A broken appliance prevents the mouth from opening or closing.
Pain from an appliance is still felt even after taking over-the-counter pain relievers.
Call 911 or your emergency number first, then call your orthodontist, if:
A serious face or mouth injury occurs.
A piece of the appliance is inhaled or gets in the way of breathing. This is extremely rare.
Know Your Appliance
Try to learn as much about your orthodontic appliance as you can. This will help you talk to us about any problems you might have. The more accurately you describe any problem, the better we are able to help you solve it.
Tips to Prevent Problems
Always follow your orthodontist's instructions about proper wear and care. But here are some general tips that will help prevent problems.
Don't play rough while wearing headgear or any other removable appliance.
If you wear braces, don't eat foods that are hard, sticky, crunchy, or chewy. Avoid candy, gum, nuts, and corn on the cob. Cut raw carrots or apples into small pieces.
Don't pick at or pull on braces even if it makes your teeth feel better.
Don't flick your retainer around with your tongue, it will break!
Remove retainers and wear a mouthguard when playing sports.
REMEMBER--Broken appliances will slow down your treatment!
· posted · Thursday, April 14, 2005
What can I expect from my first visit?
We usually allow 60 minutes for the first visit. During this appointment a thorough medical and dental history will be taken and a comprehensive examination of the teeth, jaws and muscles of the face will be done. Digital photographs along with digital xrays of the face and teeth will also be taken. During this examination either Dr. Alizadeh or Dr. Schreiner will determine:
1) whether orthodontic treatment is necessary
2) if so, when is the best time to start
3) the estimated length and cost of treatment
There is no charge for this examination.
If Dr. Alizadeh or Dr. Schreiner has determined that orthodontic treatment is necessary, a digital conebeam scan of the head and neck will be done to enable the Doctors to study the orthodontic problems and determine the ideal treatment to correct them.
Financial arrangements will be made at this time if indicated. We will be happy to accept assignment of insurance benefits if so desired. If necessary, or if desired, at the next appointment, Dr. Alizadeh or Dr. Schreiner will present the planned treatment or any changes to the original treatment plan since the initial visit. Questions are encouraged at any time because it is important to understand why, what and when things occur.
We hope this information has been helpful and we look forward to meeting you!!
· posted · Thursday, April 14, 2005
Invisalign
For some patients who are concerned with the appearance of conventional braces, Invisalign may be an alternative form of treatment. Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners that are custom-molded to fit you. The virtually invisible aligners gradually reposition your teeth into a smile you'll be proud of.
- Remove your aligners to eat, brush and floss
- Change aligners every two weeks
- Your teeth move little by little
- Regular progress checks with our office
- Results often in 6 months to 1 year
- Most people won't notice you're in treatment
- Won't disrupt your lifestyle
· posted · Monday, April 09, 2007
I-CAT Cone Beam 3-D Imaging System
Our office is proud to offer the i-CATTM cone beam 3-d imaging system. Blending innovation with patient comfort, the i-CAT produces immediate three-dimensional images of patients' critical anatomy typically in under one minute. The i-CAT provides complete views of all oral and maxillofacial structures in an easy to us, cost effective, in office system that allows us to dramatically enhance our patient care in a variety of ways.
The i-CAT's Cone Beam 3-D Dental Imaging System provides high-definirion, digial imaging at reduced cost with less radiation than a typical medical CT scan. The typical scan time for an orthodontic patient is only 40 seconds. The iCAT's computer controlled software delivers quick and easy reconstruction of critical anatomical information typically in under 1 minute. By having the unit in-office we do not have to send our patients to a different facility and we can access the information immediately. To learn more be sure to ask us or visit www.imagingsciences.com.
· posted · Monday, April 09, 2007
SureSmile
Our office is proud to offer cutting edge technology to redure overall treatment time. SureSmile is more than a single advance in orthodontic technology. It's an end-to-end treatment precess that draws from elements of several leading-edge technologies to:
- Shorten treatment time
- Reduce the number of adjustments
- Reduce the number of office visits
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Reduce discomfort
SureSmile technology offers the best of old and new: conventional bracket-and-wire braces plus technology that minimizes ther inefficiencies and limitations.
SureSmile is the first and only orthodontic treatment provess to combine:
- Digital imaging, with the handheld OraScanner, to map the exact position of every tooth in your mouth.
- Computer simulation, allowing the orthodontist to precisely plan every step of your treatment and custom design your archwire.
- Robotics to precision-bend the archwire in exact accordance with the doctor's prescription
- Shape Memory Allow, a high tech wire material that works with your own body heat to make treatment more efficient.
Each component is important on its own, but the real value of SureSmile is the way they work together as a single system to revolutionize orthodontic treatment.
Be sure to ask us about this fantastic technology or visit www.suresmile.com.
· posted · Monday, April 09, 2007
Damon Brackets
The Damon System is a whole new way of treating patients, Conventional treatment often requires removal of healthy teeth and/or the use of palatal expanders to make space. This approach is often uncomfortable, takes a long time, and can leave a narrower arch and a flat profile. Smiles using the Damon system are full, natural 10-tooth smiles achieved with light biologially-sensible forces, and are specifially designed to improve the overall facial result of each patient.
Braces are the beginning, but the system makes the smile. Utilizing the Damon system, our office combines three key components, which when used together can deliver faster treatment, fewer appointments, greater comfort, and consistent high-quality results:
- Damon passive self-ligating braces eliminate the need for elastic or metal "ties".
- Light high-technology shape memory wires that move teeth faster and require fewer adjustments.
- A new clinically proven treatment approach that aligns your teeth and enhances your facial aesthetics- usually without extractions or rapid palatal expanders.
Conventional braces are tied in with elastics, which cause friction and pressure, making treatment slower and less comfortable. Damon braces use a slide mechanism to hold the wire, which allows teeth to move more freely, quickly, and comfortably.
Damon braces are designed to be discreet, comfortable and easy to keep clean. Without the elastic ties which attract and collect plaque, Damon braces make dental hygiene easy during treatment. To learn more be sure to ask us or visit www.damonbraces.com.
· posted · Tuesday, April 10, 2007
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