ORTHODONTICS
Orthodontics is the dental specialty that addresses misaligned teeth and jaws. Most patients who seek orthodontics do so to improve their smile but many of these persons receive additional benefits from treatment; straight teeth improve ease of cleaning reducing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss. Speech annunciation can be improved and orthodontic treatment can also stop issues such as headaches and neck pain that caused by long term strain on bones and gums. Orthodontics can also be a medical necessity in persons who have facial malformations such as cleft lip and palate. Persons with these conditions can experience speech and eating difficulties as well as increased occurrence of ear infections and an assortment of orthodontic and other dental issues. Surgery is generally used to correct these problems.
WHAT IS AN ORTHODONTIST?
An Orthodontist is a dental specialist who completes a two to three year residency after receiving their Doctor in Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. Orthodontists are specialists in straightening teeth, correcting bites and jaw misalignment. They can make you happy about your smile.
Straight Teeth Lead to Longer Lasting Teeth
Straight teeth can lead to easier to clean teeth which means your teeth will last longer. We recommend that you practice good oral hygiene and maintain your smile by visiting the dentist regularly and taking care of your teeth and gums between checkups. Our practice wants to make sure that you get the most out of your office visits, and that your teeth stay healthy for life! We'll work with you and show you how to maintain your smile at home with the right dental products for you.
REGULAR CHECKUPS AND DENTAL CHECKUPS WITH BRACES
Regular dental checkups are an important part of maintaining your oral health while straightening your teeth. Continue your regular checkups with your general dentist while visiting your orthodontist. Your general dentist will:
- Check for any problems that you may not see or feel
- Look for cavities or any other signs of tooth decay
- Inspect your teeth and gums for gingivitis and signs of periodontal disease
- Provide a thorough teeth cleaning, rinse, and polish
Visiting the general dentist every six months while straightening your teeth will ensure all cavities are treated promptly.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT TOOTHPASTE AND TOOTHBRUSH
From toothpaste and mouthwash to toothbrushes and dental floss, it's important to choose the right products for your smile. Keep in mind that when you're looking for a new toothpaste or toothbrush, be sure to choose one that has been approved by the American Dental Association (ADA). Your dentist can also help by recommending certain dental products for use at home.
MORE ABOUT TEETH
Did you know that at birth, people already have 20 primary (baby) teeth that begin erupting after six months of age? As an adult there are no more primary teeth, and all 32 permanent teeth have erupted? Lets talk about your teeth!
ANATOMY OF A TOOTH
