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We know that having metal in your mouth doesn’t always feel like the most natural thing. Fortunately, after you get your braces on and have your initial adjustment, most people don’t even notice their braces are there. However, sometimes a pesky wire will escape and remind you that your braces are there. Have no fear though, most of the time you can fix rogue wires on your own without having to make an extra trip to the orthodontist. Loose or pokey wires are the most common problem people experience while in braces, so if that happens to you, here are some steps to follow from Dr. Kevin Theroux and Dr. Brooks Barefoot at Total Orthodontics.Read More

Did you know that orthodontic treatment is more than just straightening teeth? The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) states, “The goal of orthodontic treatment is a beautiful smile and a good bite—meaning straight teeth that mesh well with the teeth in the opposite jaw and look great.” A straighter smile isn’t only good for aesthetics, it can also make it easier for you to bite, chew and even speak.

 

Cost vs. Value

Compared to the drastic increase in the price of a house or car in the last 20 years, you will get more value with orthodontic treatment as it typically lasts longer than most people keep a car or even the same house. With proper oral hygiene, the beautiful new smile you achieve with Dr. Kevin Theroux and Dr. Brooks Barefoot at Total Orthodontics can last a lifetime at an unbelievable value.

Speaking of value, let’s discuss the value of the orthodontic treatment process itself. No two smiles are alike and, for this reason, we spend an enormous amount of time and energy into the treatment of each one of our patients. Using the latest advances in orthodontic and dental technology, we are able to create custom orthodontic treatment plans based on your specific needs.

From your first visit, Dr. Kevin Theroux and Dr. Brooks Barefoot at Total Orthodontics performs a clinical exam to determine if orthodontic treatment is necessary or not. Next, your diagnostic records are taken and analyzed in order to diagnose potential orthodontic problems. A treatment plan is then created detailing step-by-step how these oral issues will be resolved. Depending on your plan, treatment can take anywhere from 18 to 24 months to complete with visits to our office every 6 to 10 weeks for adjustments.

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It’s 11 pm and, while you should be in bed, you’re standing in front of the fridge trying to decide a snack of choice before calling it a night. You know this isn’t the best life choice for your waistline, but did you know that it’s also bad for your oral health – especially your braces. Your orthodontic treatment increases the potential to leave food behind on the teeth after eating.

 

Late Night Snacking Can Lead to Tooth Loss

A 2010 study in Denmark discovered a relationship between midnight snacking and tooth loss. Over a six-year period, a group of over 2,000 adults (8% labeled “nocturnal eaters”) were found to have significantly increased their chances of tooth loss from repeated midnight snacking.

Nocturnal eaters were classified as those who eat a quarter or more of their daily calories after dinner several times per week. This also includes those who wake up in the middle of the night to eat a snack.

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Did you know that orthodontic treatment is not just for teens and adults? In fact, the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO) recommends that by the age of 7, children should have an initial orthodontic consultation. These comprehensive consultations determine whether or not a child’s teeth are developing properly or if early orthodontic treatment is or will be needed in the future.

 

Phase 1 vs Phase 2 Orthodontics

The typical process for Phase 1 orthodontic treatment involves a patient being fitted for their appliance (braces for example) which is worn until their teeth move into their proper positions. Some patients may require extractions or surgery prior to beginning treatment. Once the teeth are properly aligned, the patient wears a retainer to keep the teeth from shifting back. 

Two-phase orthodontic treatment differs from Phase 1 in that the first part of treatment is done while the patient still has most of their baby teeth. The goal of two-phase orthodontic treatment is to minimize development problems early so that treatment in their teens will be faster.

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Orthodontic consultations are often times a complimentary introduction for orthodontists, like Dr. Kevin Theroux and Dr. Brooks Barefoot at Total Orthodontics to get to know you and your oral health concerns. The best thing you can do to make the most of your consultation is to prepare a list of questions beforehand. To help you get started, we’ve come up with a list of common questions answered during our complimentary smile exams.

How Long Will My Treatment Take?

It is important to first note that orthodontic treatment is not a “one size fits all” approach to straightening teeth. At [Orthodontic Office], we develop orthodontic treatment plans based on the individual needs of each patient to ensure they get the best results. Be sure to ask the orthodontist for an estimate of how long your treatment will take as the length may vary depending on how complex your situation is.

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In a previous post, we discussed some of the drinks that have a negative effect on the teeth. This included soda, fruit juices, and coffee. While it may seem like water is your only beverage option, fear not. There are a few drinks still available to quench your thirst without affecting your orthodontic treatment.

Milk 

Not only can it help build strong bones, but milk is a great source of calcium. Calcium helps to repair and maintain tooth enamel to keep your teeth strong. Lactose intolerant? Don’t worry. Calcium-fortified soy milk is a great alternative to getting the same benefits as regular milk. However, it is important to keep in mind that milk also contains sugar which, if left on the teeth for too long, can cause tooth decay.

Green and Herbal Teas 

Black tea is very similar to coffee and red wine and can leave stains on the teeth. Green and herbal teas, on the other hand, do not. In fact, they can actually be beneficial to your oral health. Tea can help fight the bacteria found on teeth due to the compounds called polyphenols they are made of. The best way to drink tea while wearing braces is to drink it as is – no sugar or honey added. For those who prefer a sweeter taste, use sugar-free sweeteners instead.

Water 

Although it may be the most obvious choice, water is an essential part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and staying hydrated. Water is an important part of oral health because it helps produce saliva, the mouth’s first defense against sugars, acids and bacteria left over from food we’ve eaten. Drinking water after every meal can be the best solution until you are able to brush your teeth.

Good Drinks are Just the Beginning 

Consuming healthy drinks is only one part of maintaining good oral health while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Keep in mind to continue daily brushing, flossing and attending appointments as scheduled with Dr. Kevin Theroux and Dr. Brooks Barefoot at Total Orthodontics as well. Your beautiful, straight smile at the end of treatment will thank you later.