Candy Tips for Halloween
Candy Tips for Halloween
Halloween is right around the corner! And while eating copious amounts of candy isn’t spooky, cavities are! Halloween is a great time to enjoy some sugary treats, but an excess of these delicacies can leave your mouth rotten. Below are some tips to keep your teeth healthy from Dr. Barton Soper, Dr. Gabriela Aragon, Dr. Lauren Lewandowski, Dr. Mohammad Mainayar, Dr. Kara McCulloch and Dr. Todd Steinhart at Advanced Orthodontics during this holiday!
Timing is Everything
Eat your Halloween candy with meals or shortly after mealtime. Saliva production increases during meals which helps cancel out acids produced by bacteria in your mouth and rinse away food particles.
Make Good Choices
Avoid hard candy and other sweets that stay in your mouth for a long time. The length of time sugary food is in your mouth plays a role in tooth decay.
Limit Your Sweets
Snacking on sweets can increase your risk of cavities. Limit consumption to once or twice a day to keep cavities at bay.
Don’t Get Caught in a “Sticky Situation”
Sticky candies cling to your teeth and take longer to get washed away by saliva. The longer these foods stay on your teeth, the greater your risk for tooth decay. Be sure to brush your teeth immediately following consumption.
Spread the Love
Don’t keep tons of Halloween candy around to tempt you. Instead, pick out a small amount you would like to eat and then donate the rest. Many dentist or orthodontist’s offices will collect your candy or certain organizations, such as Operation Gratitude, will donate candy to troops overseas.
Halloween doesn’t have to derail your oral health. If you follow these simple tips, Halloween is sure to be a delicious and fun experience for everyone!
The Causes, Consequences, and Prevention of Teeth Shiftin
The Causes, Consequences, and Prevention of Teeth Shifting
Are your teeth supposed to move around? The answer is no. Teeth shifting is natural during orthodontic treatment, but after treatment or if there hasn’t ever been an orthodontic device installed, teeth movement is not a good sign. Tooth movement can cause several dental issues, including decay, gum disease, and misalignment of teeth, which can necessitate additional orthodontic treatment. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the causes, consequences, and prevention of teeth shifting.
Teeth shifting can be caused by several factors, including aging, general wear and tear, grinding, impact or injury to the mouth or face, gum disease, tooth decay, and gaps caused by missing teeth. However, some shifting can be prevented by practicing proper oral health. Brushing and flossing twice a day to your dentist’s standards promotes gum health and overall tooth health, which reduces the chances of shifting. Avoiding things that are high in sugar and acid can also prevent premature aging and shifting of the teeth. Additionally, avoiding tobacco and smoking can help prevent shifting as well as better general and oral health.
If you notice any tooth movement, it could be a sign of a more significant problem. Tooth movement can cause discomfort, lead to additional orthodontic treatment, and be a symptom of an underlying dental condition. Therefore, it is essential to seek the help of an orthodontist or dentist if you experience any movement of your teeth.
In conclusion, teeth are not supposed to move around, and any shifting can be a cause for concern. It is vital to understand the causes, consequences, and prevention of teeth shifting to maintain good dental health. Practicing proper oral hygiene and avoiding unhealthy habits can prevent tooth shifting and promote overall dental health.
Boost Your Oral Health with These Essential Nutrients
Boost Your Oral Health with These Essential Nutrients
We often hear about the importance of vitamins and minerals for our overall health, but did you know they’re also critical for maintaining a healthy mouth? Ensuring you get enough of the right nutrients can make a significant difference in keeping your teeth and gums in top shape. Here’s a breakdown of the vitamins and minerals you need for a bright, healthy smile from Dr. Barton Soper, Dr. Gabriela Aragon, Dr. Lauren Lewandowski, Dr. Mohammad Mainayar, Dr. Kara McCulloch and Dr. Todd Steinhart at Advanced Orthodontics.
1) Calcium
Calcium is a superstar when it comes to building strong bones—and your teeth are no different! This mineral helps harden tooth enamel and strengthens your jawbone, providing a solid foundation for your smile. Make sure to include plenty of dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, in your diet, along with calcium-rich vegetables like broccoli.
2) Vitamin D
Vitamin D works alongside calcium to promote healthy teeth by improving calcium absorption and boosting bone density. Without enough vitamin D, your body can’t effectively use the calcium you consume. Get your daily vitamin D by soaking up some sun, drinking fortified milk or orange juice, and eating fatty fish or mushrooms.
3) Potassium
Potassium is another key player in maintaining oral health. It works with magnesium to keep your blood from becoming too acidic, which can otherwise lead to calcium loss from your bones and teeth. Foods rich in potassium include bananas, avocados, potatoes, and lima beans.
4) Phosphorus
Phosphorus supports the work of calcium by helping to build strong bones and teeth. You can find phosphorus in a variety of foods, including seafood like shrimp, tuna, and salmon, as well as in plant-based sources like soybeans, lentils, and pumpkin seeds.
5) Vitamin K
Vitamin K is essential for bone health, helping to block substances that break down bone and aiding in the production of osteocalcin, a protein that strengthens bones. Leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and collard greens are excellent sources of vitamin K.
6) Vitamin C
Vitamin C is crucial for healthy gums and soft tissues in your mouth, offering protection against gum disease. To increase your vitamin C intake, enjoy citrus fruits, potatoes, and leafy greens as part of your diet.
7) Vitamin A
Vitamin A is important for maintaining healthy mucous membranes and preventing dry mouth, while also promoting quicker healing of oral tissues. Include foods like fish, egg yolks, and liver in your diet to ensure you’re getting enough vitamin A.
By making sure you get enough of these essential nutrients, you’ll be well on your way to a healthier mouth and a brighter smile!
Orthodontic Emergency Essentials
Orthodontic Emergency Essentials
Fortunately, our teeth are strong and durable and work day in and day out for us. However, sometimes the wear and tear of daily life can cause an orthodontic emergency. This is why it is crucial you have some important items on hand at all times so you can handle an orthodontic emergency in case one strikes. Keep reading for some advice from Dr. Barton Soper, Dr. Gabriela Aragon, Dr. Lauren Lewandowski, Dr. Mohammad Mainayar, Dr. Kara McCulloch and Dr. Todd Steinhart at Advanced Orthodontics about what items to have on hand in case of an orthodontic emergency.
Safety First
While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, there are a few things you can do to take preventative measures against tooth emergencies. You should be doing things like:
- Wearing a mouthguard while playing sports
- Brushing and flossing regularly to keep your teeth and gums healthy
- Staying away from hard, crunchy, or sticky foods you aren’t supposed to eat while in braces treatment
- Going to all of your orthodontist and general dentist appointments as scheduled
Preparation is Key
Preparation is the ultimate key to keeping a small orthodontic emergency from escalating into a full-blown disaster. Here are some things you should keep readily available at home, in the car, and while traveling to make sure you’re ready for an orthodontic emergency:
- Over the Counter Painkiller: Over the counter pain relievers such as Advil, Aleve, and Ibprofuen may be taken to help alleviate any pain or discomfort. Please consult the directions on the back of the bottle or your general practitioner for safe dosage amounts and instructions. An oral painkiller such as Orajel may prove helpful as well.
- Orthodontic Wax: Your orthodontist’s office gives you wax for a reason! You can use this wax to cover a bracket or hook that’s rubbing or causing any discomfort. Don’t be stingy with it! And never hesitate to ask your orthodontist for more wax if you run out. Additionally, if something is out of whack, you can cover it with wax until you can get to your orthodontist’s office to have them take a look.
- Nail Clippers: If you have a wire that is poking you and you need immediate relief, sometimes wires can be clipped using nail clippers with the help of a parent or trusted adult. DO NOT ATTEMPT THIS WITHOUT SPEAKING TO YOUR ORTHODONTIST’S OFFICE FIRST. Your office should have an emergency number to call, and they can talk you through how to do this safely.
- Floss: If something uncomfortable gets wedged in between your teeth, floss can usually set it free. Don’t forget to use your floss threaders to help make flossing with braces easier!
- Your Orthodontist’s Contact Info: Be sure to contact your orthodontist’s office if any orthodontic emergency strikes. They can often see you that day, if necessary, or if you’re out of town, they can give you professional advice and perhaps even get you in contact with a local Orthodontist in your temporary location.
It is important you take measures to keep your mouth and teeth safe. However, if an orthodontic emergency takes place, no need to fear! Just make sure you have an emergency kit on hand to help tackle the problem. As always, never hesitate to contact our office if you find yourself with an orthodontic emergency. We are here to help!
When To Schedule Your Child’s First Orthodontic Appointment
When To Schedule Your Child’s First Orthodontic Appointment
Parents in Bellevue, WA
often ask, “When is the best time for my child to visit an orthodontist?” Dr. Barton Soper, Dr. Gabriela Aragon, Dr. Lauren Lewandowski, Dr. Mohammad Mainayar, Dr. Kara McCulloch and Dr. Todd Steinhart at Advanced Orthodontics has the answer for you.
Orthodontics involves realigning teeth into a perfect smile, shifting them from their current position to the desired one. Although orthodontic treatment is beneficial at any age, certain times, especially during juvenile and adolescent growth spurts (ages 7-12), are more advantageous.
Think of it like turning the wheel of a car without power steering. It’s doable but much harder when the car isn’t moving. Similarly, during growth phases, teeth and jaw development are ongoing, making it easier for an orthodontist to guide jaw growth and create space for teeth.
The American Association of Orthodontists suggests that children be examined by an orthodontist by age 7 to determine if early treatment is necessary. Becoming an orthodontic specialist requires an additional three years of training beyond dental school, focusing on tooth movement and jaw growth.
A referral from your general dentist isn’t required for a complimentary orthodontic evaluation. Be proactive and contact our office to schedule a complimentary smile exam. If your child isn’t a candidate for early treatment, we’ll continue to monitor their dental and jaw growth to determine the optimal time for treatment.
Setting the Record Straight: Invisalign Facts
addresses common misconceptions about the cost and effectiveness of Invisalign.
Orthodontic treatment can be daunting, especially with the thought of traditional braces. For many, the idea of metal braces can be a source of embarrassment or inconvenience. But what if we told you there’s a nearly invisible alternative? Invisalign is an excellent option that many overlook due to common myths and misconceptions. Let’s set the record straight!
Myth: Invisalign is Not Cost-Effective
There’s a common misconception that Invisalign is more expensive than traditional braces. However, at Advanced Orthodontics, we strive to offer affordable treatment options, including flexible payment plans and insurance support. Invisalign can be just as cost-effective, providing excellent results without the perceived higher cost.
How Invisalign Works
Invisalign aligners are crafted using cutting-edge 3-D computer imaging technology, creating a precise replica of your teeth and gums. These custom-made aligners gradually move your teeth into the desired position. The treatment involves shorter and less frequent visits than traditional braces, with many patients completing treatment in about a year.
Invisalign: A Convenient and Comfortable Choice
One of the significant advantages of Invisalign is the convenience it offers. Unlike braces, Invisalign aligners can be removed for meals, sports, and cleaning. This flexibility helps maintain good oral hygiene and reduces discomfort. Remember to wear your aligners for at least 20 hours a day for optimal results.
Invisalign’s Success and Efficacy
Some may wonder if Invisalign is as effective as traditional braces. Thanks to recent technological advancements, Invisalign can achieve comparable results, often within the same timeframe or even faster. The discreet nature of Invisalign also helps boost patients’ confidence, encouraging better compliance with treatment.
Not every patient is a candidate for Invisalign, but at Advanced Orthodontics, we offer a range of orthodontic treatments to suit your needs. Contact us for a free smile exam and discover the best path to a “Smile that Lasts a Lifetime.”