Posts in category: Uncategorized

As an adult, you may feel that it’s unnecessary to get orthodontic treatment. After all, you’re an adult now and in most cases your permanent teeth are fully developed. Why do you need to straighten them out? The truth is that many adults benefit from orthodontic treatment if they have issues such as impacted wisdom teeth, crooked or misaligned teeth, gaps between teeth or other problems that can be helped by braces and aligners.

Adults often think it’s too late to start orthodontic treatment

But in reality, adults are just as good candidates for orthodontic treatment as adolescents. In fact, orthodontic treatment is often much quicker and less expensive for adults than it is for adolescents.

There is no too late when it comes to getting the smile you want orthodontic treatment is a lifelong process that can keep improving your oral health well into adulthood. However, there are many common doubts about adult orthodontics which should be clarified before you commit to any professional procedure.

Here are some of the common fears people have about getting adult orthodontic treatment
It’s a huge commitment of time and money. It will affect my ability to eat. It won’t fit into my daily routine. It might cause problems with my gums or jawbone over time.

What can you do with braces?
One of the biggest reasons adults seek orthodontic treatment is because they have doubts about their smile. It may be that you’re worried your teeth aren’t lined up right, or it could be that you just don’t like how your teeth look when you smile.

How long will my adult orthodontic treatment take?
The length of your treatment will depend on your specific circumstances. You’ll have to meet with your orthodontist to get a better idea of how long it will take.

How much does adult orthodontic treatment cost?
While adult orthodontic treatment isn’t usually covered by dental insurance, there are financing options available to patients who require extensive orthodontic treatment.

Where can I find out more information about adult orthodontic treatment?
One of your best places to look for information about adult orthodontic treatment is at a dental practice. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, don’t be afraid to ask questions.

If you’re an adult who suffers from misaligned teeth, you may be considering orthodontic treatment to help fix the problem. While braces are an excellent option, they aren’t without their drawbacks. To help you make the best decision, here are three common myths about braces that you should know before committing to orthodontic treatment.

1) Myth: Braces will hurt
False. In fact, in most cases, you’ll barely even notice your braces while they are on. Many patients say that their experience with braces was easier than expected and surprisingly painless, especially when compared to their experiences with dentures or other invasive dental procedures. Today’s modern materials make it possible for your orthodontist to help straighten your teeth in an incredibly comfortable way. They may not be entirely pain-free, but chances are you won’t have much of a problem at all!

2) Myth: You won’t be able to eat what you want
The truth is that, once your braces are placed, you’ll be expected to continue a healthy diet. Your dentist will likely give you a list of foods that are OK for you to eat and those that should be avoided. If your teeth are extremely malformed, it’s possible that certain foods might require special treatment.

3) Myth: Braces are ugly
There’s no doubt braces have a stigma to them—but they really don’t have to. Many orthodontists will offer clear or tooth-colored braces to match your natural teeth so you can maintain your smile while straightening your teeth. Still, if you do choose metal brackets over clear ones, there are many options for making them less noticeable. For example, many orthodontists use ceramic brackets rather than traditional steel brackets because they’re not as reflective and make your smile look more natural. And if you really want to go all out? Orthodontists now offer invisible aligners (aka Invisalign) that help straighten teeth without any unwanted metals or wires showing in your mouth at all!

If you are in need of a cosmetic dentist to help design your smile, there are several things to consider before making an appointment with one. Do you want veneers or teeth whitening? What about braces? Is custom dentures right for you? Here’s how to find the right cosmetic dentist.

What cosmetic dentistry can do for you?
Cosmetic dentistry is an option that many people don’t even think about, but it can do wonders for your smile. If you’re considering cosmetic dentistry, Dr.

Questions to ask when selecting a cosmetic dentist
How long have you been practicing? What is your background? Do you have a specialty in cosmetic dentistry? What methods do you recommend for my specific problem(s)? How much does it cost?

Take Advantage of Cosmetic Dental Financing Options
Cosmetic dentistry is considered an elective procedure, so it’s a good idea to discuss financing options with your dentist.

Cosmetic Dental Implants
Looking for an innovative solution to replace missing teeth? If so, dental implants may be right for you. A cosmetic dentist can work with you on your smile designing process, and learn more about options such as dental implants.

Porcelain Veneers
When you get porcelain veneers from your cosmetic dentist, they’ll be able to design a smile that complements your face.

Invisalign®
An orthodontic treatment option that utilizes clear plastic aligners to gradually move teeth into their proper place, Invisalign® is nearly invisible and allows patients to improve their smile without anyone knowing.

Other Solutions
Cosmetic dentistry has advanced by leaps and bounds over recent years, meaning there are many different solutions that can be used to help fix your smile. Some of these solutions include veneers, crowns, implants and bridges.

When most people hear the word root canal, they shudder with fear and dread. However, most of the common myths about root canal treatment are quite false, and not all that many people need it or should even get it done in the first place. Here are some of the most common myths about root canal treatment so you can make an informed decision about whether or not you actually need to have it done to save your teeth!

A lot of people say that having a root canal is more painful than other dental procedures. The truth is that r

7 Myths about Root Canal Treatment

When most people hear the word root canal, they shudder with fear and dread. However, most of the common myths about root canal treatment are quite false, and not all that many people need it or should even get it done in the first place. Here are some of the most common myths about root canal treatment so you can make an informed decision about whether or not you actually need to have it done to save your teeth!

Myth #1: It hurts more than other dental procedures

A lot of people say that having a root canal is more painful than other dental procedures. The truth is that root canals and fillings aren’t any more painful than many other dental procedures and are often less traumatic.

Myth #2: Root canals will always lead to tooth loss

That’s false. A 2007 study published in The Journal of Endodontics found that root canals can, in fact, save teeth that would otherwise have to be extracted.

Myth #3: It causes long-term pain

One of the most common myths is that root canal treatment can cause long-term pain, headaches or weakness. False! All studies have shown that people with a root canal are just as likely to experience future pain as those without a root canal. In fact, most people are amazed at how comfortable they feel immediately after their procedure.

Myth #4: Only older teeth need root canals

There’s no hard and fast rule that says only older teeth need root canals. In fact, any tooth can be in jeopardy of a root canal when exposed to too much decay. The pulp (which contains blood vessels and nerves) can also become inflamed due to trauma or an inherited condition called dentinogenesis imperfecta.

Myth #5: The recovery time is too long

a common root canal treatment myth is that patients need to take too much time off work. Root canal treatment takes just a few hours, and when it’s completed, you can resume normal activity immediately. When you’re not feeling well or when you have any kind of oral discomfort (and you will know if it hurts), then simply remember to stay away from any high-impact activities until your dentist gives you the go-ahead.

Myth #6: There’s no point in repairing a tooth that needs a root canal

It’s better to just pull it out. While root canals have become common dental practice, they’re still misunderstood. One of those misconceptions is that there’s no point in getting a tooth repaired if it requires a root canal—you may as well just pull it out. A lot of people also believe that you’ll feel pain for weeks after undergoing treatment for an infected tooth. But neither of these things are true, especially because root canal treatments are now performed with very little pain involved.

Myth #7: It’s cheap and quick if you choose to do it yourself
Many people still believe that root canal treatment is cheap and quick if you choose to do it yourself. This isn’t true at all. It’s a tedious procedure and will take some time to complete, but when left untreated can result in irreversible damage to your teeth and be far more expensive in the long run. Root canal treatment has come a long way over recent years – so much so that most of our patients don’t experience any of its side effects at all!

7 Foods That Ruin Your Teeth

It’s well known that sugar can rot your teeth, but many people don’t realize how many other foods are also harmful to dental health. This article discusses seven foods that may surprise you in their effects on tooth decay and gum disease.

1) Processed foods
Avoiding sugar and processed foods can help prevent tooth decay. Processed foods are often full of high fructose corn syrup, which has been shown to destroy enamel. Processed foods also contain phosphoric acid, which can also be damaging to teeth. At home, you should aim to avoid drinks like soda and fruit juice, as well as baked goods made with refined flour or other sweeteners that rot your teeth faster than natural ones do.

2) Sugar-coated cereal
It’s easy to forget how much sugar is in cereal, especially if you’re sticking to healthy brands. Often there are more grams of sugar than fiber per serving; so once you subtract fiber from total carbohydrates, what you have left is a ton of white-flour carbs with no nutritional value and absolutely nothing to combat tooth decay. Also check for added sugars like high fructose corn syrup or brown rice syrup as well as dried fruit.

3) White bread
White bread and rolls are basically just empty carbs. While these types of foods may leave you feeling full for a few minutes, they won’t keep you satisfied for long and may even encourage you to overeat later on in order to fill up that new emptiness in your stomach. Stick with whole-grain versions instead, which have more fiber and can help lower blood sugar levels. If you’re looking for something sweet, choose fruit over sugar-laden treats like candy bars or pastries.

4) Frozen treats
Ice cream, ice pops, frozen yogurt, shaved ice and frozen beverages have plenty of appealing qualities. They’re tasty, they’re inexpensive and they keep us cool in warm weather. However, these delightful treats can wreak havoc on our teeth if we don’t watch how often we indulge. Those who already have dental problems or bad habits should avoid frozen treats altogether. The cold temperature can cause teeth to crack when consumed too frequently or enjoyed for too long at a time.

5) Sodas and energy drinks
According to studies, sodas and energy drinks aren’t as bad for your teeth as you might think. This isn’t because these sugary beverages aren’t capable of causing decay; rather, it’s because your teeth are protected by an additional layer of enamel when exposed to acid. However, frequent sipping can still weaken your teeth over time. If you consume more than one soda a day, consider switching to water or a low-acid alternative such as tea.

6) Alcoholic beverages
Alcohol doesn’t just affect your mind, but also your mouth. It can dry out your teeth and make them more prone to cavities, as well as yellowing and discoloration. To avoid stains on your teeth, limit yourself to no more than two drinks per day. These tips for healthy teeth will help keep them pearly white for life!

1. Use an anti-aging toothpaste. Your dentist may have recommended an anti-aging toothpaste for sensitive gums, but these types of formulas can also be used by anyone who’s trying to make their teeth whiter naturally. While there are many ingredients that are marketed as whitening agents, studies suggest that fluoride is one of the most effective for removing surface stains from our pearly whites and preventing them from being deposited again on exposed areas of our teeth. In fact, a 2009 study published in Caries Research found that using a toothpaste with 1,100 ppm (parts per million) of fluoride helped subjects achieve whiter results than when they brushed with a 900 ppm version.

2. Mix baking soda with lemon juice. This common kitchen staple has actually been around since ancient times—the ancient Egyptians mixed it with water to clean their teeth! The mild abrasive property of baking soda makes it ideal for gently scrubbing away surface stains while the antibacterial properties of lemon juice get rid of bad breath and plaque. Still not convinced? A 2013 study published in International Journal of Cosmetic Science even demonstrated that brushing your teeth with a mixture containing 4% baking soda could remove coffee and tea stains better than commercial products designed specifically for stain removal!

3. Switch out your old habits. Maybe you’re already religiously brushing twice daily—but you’re doing it wrong! Only brush with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and never after eating sugary foods or drinking alcohol. Fluoride doesn’t break down easily, so if you eat something sweet or acidic after brushing, it might damage your enamel more than help it.

4. Flossing: Flossing’s importance cannot be understated because debris trapped between your teeth can cause serious dental issues over time if left alone—to say nothing of leaving unsightly food particles stuck along your gum line once they begin to decay! Even though most Americans are aware that flossing is important, just 53% reported flossing regularly according to the latest National Health Interview Survey conducted by CDC and US Department of Health & Human Services. If you want to start flossing today, consider investing in an electronic version like Waterpik. Its specially-designed handles work wonders for those with limited dexterity in their hands and its countertop models don’t require any batteries at all!

5. Choose chewing gum wisely. If you prefer avoiding oral hygiene products due to sensitivities or allergies, then chewing sugarless gum instead of eating sweets is a great idea…as long as you choose brands like Spry Xylitol Gum which are formulated to promote healthy teeth while helping fight cavities through neutralizing harmful acids produced by bacteria during digestion.

6. Eat healthy foods high in vitamin C. Many fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps strengthen teeth by making it difficult for bacteria to stick to their surface. This is especially true of citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits, as well as some leafy greens like spinach. If you’re looking for an affordable way to eat healthier on a regular basis, ask your grocery store to place pre-cut bags of spinach in front of your favorite produce section—it’ll quickly become one of your go-to snacks that won’t cost much money or calories!

7. Drink more water. Most people will agree that it’s a good idea to drink plenty of water every day for proper digestion and strong muscles—you’d be surprised how many people still don’t consume enough H2O!

What Does Smoking Do To Your Teeth?

Smoking cigarettes doesn’t just affect your lungs, heart, and skin; it also affects your teeth. In fact, smoking cigarettes can lead to serious oral health problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and even oral cancer. As you might guess, cigarette smoke isn’t exactly great for your teeth, but what exactly does smoking do to your teeth? Below, we’ll talk about why you should never put your cigarettes in your mouth and the damage that smoking can cause to your pearly whites. Let’s take a look!

How Does Nicotine Affect The Teeth?
The biggest problem with smoking is not only what it does to your lungs but also what it does to your teeth. Tobacco affects all parts of your body, and because of that, many people who smoke have oral problems such as bad breath, tooth decay, loss of bone density in their jaw (which leads to pain), and gum disease. Cigarettes can make you feel a little more relaxed after a hard day or give you something to do with your hands while hanging out with friends.

How Can The Damage Be Avoided?
You can’t stop your teeth from yellowing, but you can take certain steps to avoid permanent damage. Stop smoking if you haven’t already; it is only one of many ways to help your teeth. Using tobacco products or alcohol and certain medications are also a risk factor for tooth loss and gum disease, so be sure to stop using these as well. Try rinsing with salt water after eating or drinking acidic foods and beverages; dentists recommend doing so three times a day for two minutes each time.

Is There Any Treatment For Damaged Teeth?
Damaged teeth can only be treated with oral care and fixing your habits to prevent further damage. It’s important to practice good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Be sure you know how to properly brush your teeth and be sure to reach every surface of each tooth when you are brushing so that you are able to remove any bacteria from each surface of each tooth. Also, flossing at least once a day is very important in removing particles that brushing alone cannot remove.

What’s In A Pack Of Cigarettes, Anyway?
Many of us are aware that smoking can contribute to lung cancer, respiratory disease and cardiovascular disease. We may even be aware that it’s linked to gum disease, poor circulation and reduced sex drive. But what many smokers don’t know is just how damaging tobacco is to their teeth. The chemicals in cigarettes are not only bad for our skin and internal organs—they’re also harmful to our dental health.

Are E-Cigarettes As Bad As Regular Ones?
The jury is still out on whether e-cigarettes are safe, but most experts agree that they’re at least a better choice than regular cigarettes. E-cigarettes don’t burn tobacco and produce smoke, they vaporize liquid nicotine instead. So while they certainly aren’t good for you, their safety record isn’t nearly as troubling as smoking’s—and it seems to be getting safer all the time.

Invisalign is a popular brand of clear aligners, but there are still some facts about it that many people don’t know about. From how well Invisalign works to where you can buy Invisalign, these facts are fascinating and will definitely help you understand more about Invisalign and its place in the orthodontic industry. Here are ten facts about Invisalign that might surprise you.

What it is and how it works
The primary difference between Invisalign and other orthodontic treatments is that with Invisalign, patients do not need to remove their braces at night. What’s more, unlike some other types of braces, there’s no gap when you smile because they are virtually invisible. This means people can wear them while they sleep without worrying about how they look to others.

Why you should consider getting it
Dentists recommend Invisalign over traditional braces because it’s more discreet and easier to remove. Since you wear your trays for less time, having them on is generally more comfortable than traditional braces. And unlike metal wires, they don’t need to be adjusted often—only a few times during your treatment period. For all these reasons, patients who have been fitted with aligners say they can go about their daily lives more easily while wearing them.

Who is it for?
Invisalign is for people who want to straighten their teeth and improve their smiles but don’t want to wear a mouthful of traditional metal braces. Invisalign uses a series of aligners that are made just for you, with your exact teeth and bite, so they will fit more comfortably and look more natural than any other option. Made of smooth, comfortable plastic that you won’t even feel when wearing them, they will gradually shift your teeth into place so you can smile with confidence!

What can happen if you don’t wear your aligners
If you wear your aligners for less than 20 hours per day, your teeth will start to shift back toward their original position. Also, if you don’t wear them consistently, your teeth won’t move as quickly or predictably. This can slow down treatment and make it more expensive.

How much does it cost?
Many people assume that clear braces are prohibitively expensive. However, it’s often not nearly as pricey as you might think—and in some cases, clear aligners can even be cheaper than traditional orthodontic treatment. If you want to learn more about what it costs to get a set of invisible braces, visit your local orthodontist and ask for an estimate.

Will insurance cover it?
Most dental insurance policies will not cover Invisalign. The good news is that there are a variety of financing options that can help you pay for treatment, including flex spending accounts, personal savings and credit cards. If you’re concerned about your ability to afford Invisalign, it may be worthwhile to explore these options. Your dentist can discuss these matters with you in detail during your initial consultation.

What if I get braces instead?
The first thing you should know about getting braces is that you have options. Traditional metal braces are called Braces for a reason: they have been used for decades and show no signs of slowing down. But there are other options out there—like invisible braces or clear aligners, for example—that might be better for your lifestyle. A consultation with an orthodontist will help you decide which option is best for you.

What do I need to know before starting treatment?
Before starting treatment, make sure you understand how Invisalign works and what it can (and cannot) do for you. What should I expect from treatment?: One of our orthodontists will give you a customized treatment plan designed just for your teeth and smile goals. Where does treatment start?: Each aligner is worn for about two weeks before being replaced with a new one.

Where can I get them?
So, you’ve heard of Invisalign and have decided that it might be a good choice for your straightening treatment. And why wouldn’t you? No one else has to know that you are even wearing them! But can anyone get these trays? The short answer is yes, but there are certain eligibility requirements that need to be met before considering these clear aligners as an option. […]

What are the alternatives to Invisalign?
If you have misaligned teeth but don’t want to undergo orthodontic treatment, there are other options for correcting your smile. One is a retainer, which uses wire or rubber bands to keep your teeth in place. Another option is to wear a series of removable appliances called aligners, similar to Invisalign’s custom trays.

Bad breath, or halitosis, can be embarrassing and keep you from enjoying eating out or other social situations in which others are close to you. Don’t worry—you don’t have to just put up with bad breath if you can’t get rid of it on your own. With the right products and methods, you can control your breath so that it always smells fresh no matter what you’re doing! Here are five of the best ways to do that.

1) Floss
Even if you don’t have time for a full brushing session, take just a few minutes to floss. It will help eliminate food particles that can lead to bad breath. Use an antimicrobial mouthwash: Many mouthwashes also contain antibacterial agents that kill bacteria and stop them from growing. Chew sugar-free gum: This is one simple trick that helps fight bad breath. Chewing increases saliva production, which washes away food debris and dead cells.

2) Brush Properly
Brushing your teeth twice a day is an easy way to make sure your mouth stays fresh and clean. Be sure you’re brushing for at least two minutes and paying special attention to hard-to-reach spots like between your teeth, on both sides of your tongue, behind your front teeth, below your gum line and on top of it. This step should be one you never skip.

3) Rinse With Mouthwash
Mouthwash is great for removing odor-causing food particles from your teeth and gums. While it won’t kill all of your bad breath, it will certainly make you feel better about yourself.

4) Eat Fruits and Vegetables
Skip sugary, starchy snacks and opt for raw fruits and vegetables instead. They’re loaded with fiber, which aids in digestion, and they leave your mouth feeling fresh. Fruits and veggies also contain natural enzymes that combat bad breath. For example, an apple a day keeps halitosis at bay. Strawberries work too; eat one every morning for a clean-mouth treat that lasts all day long. ( Here’s more on how to stop halitosis with food.)

5) Use Over-the-Counter Medication
The easiest way to get rid of bad breath is to pick up some sort of mouthwash at your local pharmacy. Mouthwashes like Listerine and Scope offer a quick fix for bad breath and kill germs that cause halitosis, too.

One of the most important things that you can do to take care of your smile is to practice good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing at least twice per day. Here are 10 healthy habits that will not only improve your smile, but also the rest of your body as well.

1) Brush twice a day
Brushing and flossing your teeth can prevent gum disease and cavities, two common causes of bad breath. Remember to brush your tongue, too. If you’re brushing less than twice a day, do so as soon as you wake up and again before bed to freshen your breath.

2) Floss once a day
Keep your teeth and gums clean by using dental floss at least once a day. Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth that you may have missed while brushing. It also reduces gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss or tooth extraction.

3) Visit your dentist regularly
The mouth is full of bacteria and plaque, and if you don’t visit your dentist on a regular basis, you are more likely to get cavities or gum disease. Schedule an appointment every six months for routine cleaning to avoid further health problems.

4) Don’t forget about your tongue
When you brush, make sure to reach your tongue. This can be done by pulling it out of your mouth as far as possible and running your toothbrush around it gently. Use a tongue scraper before brushing if your tongue is specially coated. Bacteria tend to stick to our tongues more than other parts of our body because there are no taste buds on them, so keeping them clean is an important factor in good oral hygiene. Once or twice a day should do it!

5) Drink plenty of water
Water helps keep your gums and teeth moist, preventing bacteria from growing on them. It also flushes toxins out of your mouth and keeps mucus membranes in your throat healthy, helping you to breathe easier. As such, make sure you’re consuming enough water to keep your mouth healthy: aim for 6-8 glasses each day.

6) Minimize sugar intake
Sugar causes our teeth to rot and fall out. Make sure you brush your teeth after every meal or snack, as well as floss at least once a day, to help fight plaque build-up and keep your smile healthy. If you’re prone to sweet cravings, try chewing on a piece of sugar-free gum or drinking water after meals instead—this will refresh your mouth and make you less inclined to reach for a sweet treat.

7) Reduce the amount of citrus you eat
Although citrus fruits are healthy and packed with vitamin C, they can actually be bad for your teeth. Citrus fruits tend to be high in acid, which can eat away at your enamel over time. If you want to stay healthy and fight cavities at the same time, it’s a good idea to drink fruit juice that is diluted with water rather than eating whole citrus fruits. This will help protect your teeth from acidic foods.

8) Get enough sleep
Teeth are at their most vulnerable when you’re asleep. If you want your smile to be healthy, get plenty of rest. Sleep deprivation can lead to an increased risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and even loss of teeth.

9) Avoid tobacco products
It doesn’t matter how old you are, it’s never too late to quit smoking. The sooner you stop tobacco use, even if you do it for a short time, the better your smile will be. Tobacco does not just cause staining; it causes periodontal disease and can increase your risk of gum cancer by causing damage to gums and supporting tissues in your mouth. If you have any questions about what can improve your smile, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

10) Choose natural and organic foods
When it comes to maintaining your dental health, a natural and organic diet is absolutely essential. The most common food additives and preservatives are known to cause long-term damage to tooth enamel, so keeping them out of your system is vital to creating a healthy smile. Organic fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains and other unprocessed foods should be standard in your daily diet—and you should have plenty of water available as well!