Orthodontic Emergency Essentials
Orthodontic Emergency Essentials
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
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.”
5 Tips for Teaching Kids How to Brush
5 Tips for Teaching Kids How to Brush
- Start Them Young! – In order for your child to learn how to properly brush their teeth, start by teaching them at a younger age. This allows them to develop consistency and routine while also getting plenty of brushing practice in! Make sure your child knows that brushing your teeth leads to a healthy smile. Also, be sure to discuss cavities, bad breath, toothy decay, and all of the other negatives that arise from improper tooth brushing.
- Make it Fun! – This aspect is truly key. If you can make tooth brushing fun and not be viewed as a chore, children will be more inclined to do it. Do it with them! Here’s an idea: pick a song he or she loves that is about two minutes in length. Then you both have to brush your teeth for the entire duration of the song!
- Let Them Pick Out Their Toothpaste and Toothbrush – Just like kids get excited about picking out what they get to wear, let them pick out their toothpaste and toothbrush (just be sure to purchase a toothpaste with fluoride in it!). This way they have a flavor of toothpaste they like and a toothbrush they are excited about!
- Compliment Them! – When their teeth look good say so! Positive reinforcement is never a bad idea with children. If you make them feel like brushing their teeth is a skill they are good at, they will be more apt to keep doing it!
- Find the Right Dentist – Find a dentist who your child likes and is good at working with kids. You can even ask the dentist to compliment the child’s brushing. Your dentist can also give you tips and tricks for your child’s oral hygiene care.
If you follow these five simple tips, you will be well on your way to making sure your child is an excellent tooth-brusher! Tooth brushing is an important part of maintaining good oral health and is a skill that should be instilled from a young age. If you have any questions about tooth brushing and oral hygiene, please don’t hesitate to contact our office.
Don’t Forget to Do This Before Your Next Dental Visit
Don’t Forget to Do This Before Your Next Dental Visit
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You should see your dentist twice a year for check-ups. It is important that you have the necessary items for your appointment and also make a list of any questions or concerns you may have to make the most of your appointment time. Read below about how best to prepare for your dental visit.
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- Make a List – Be sure to list any questions or concerns you may want to discuss during your visit. This way you won’t forget to mention anything when you go. Some things you might want to mention include: any pain or discomfort you’re experiencing and the location of the discomfort, questions about your oral health (brushing and flossing habits), and any questions about cosmetic dentistry (teeth whitening, veneers, etc.).
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- Confirm Your Appointment – Most dentists offices will call you to confirm your appointment, but since you have made time in your schedule, it never hurts to have peace of mind. You can simply call your dentist’s office to confirm your appointment and ask any questions you may have prior to the appointment.
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- Insurance and Payment – Make sure you have your insurance card and any other forms of payment you may need to utilize ready to go and are brought to the appointment.
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- Medical Information – You may be asked to fill out a medical history form, so make sure you are aware of any important details of your medical history.
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If you follow this simple checklist, you will be totally prepared for your upcoming dental appointment! It is important that you make the time to see your dentist for at least two dental visits a year. We are here to help, so if you have any questions about your dental health, please don’t hesitate to contact our office.
What You Should Know about Veneers
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT VENEERS
- Veneers are a long-term fix – They are not removable. Veneers are fixed in place by a dental professional and typically last between 15-20 years.
- Be careful with color – While everyone wants a bright white smile, you can go too white with porcelain veneers. You want to make sure you choose a shade of white that will look natural.
- Chips and Cracks – Veneers are similar to teeth; they can chip and crack. Thus, you need to be careful while wearing them.
- Temporary options are available – Temporary veneers are available. These are typically used for one to two weeks.
- Porcelain vs. Resin – Porcelain veneers are often chosen over resin ones because they are better at resisting stains. However, proper hygiene is crucial either way in order to keep veneers from becoming discolored.
- People keep their natural teeth – Veneers are NOT the same thing as implants! The natural tooth acts as a base, and the veneer is attached to it.
- Veneers are a cosmetic procedure – Since veneers are a cosmetic procedure, they are not covered by most insurance plans. It never hurts to double check with your insurance provider though!
DECIDING IF VENEERS ARE THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR YOU?
Be sure to speak with a dental professional before deciding if veneers are the best option for you. They can assess whether veneers will give you the results you want. They may also be able to offer a different or more affordable option.Â
