Braces Rookies

If you or someone you know just got braces then you know the changes that come with it. In the beginning, you may experience minor pain, discomfort and most experience confusion about how braces change the simplest daily activities. Not until you have them for a lengthier period of time can one familiarize themselves with their braces and how their teeth react to different situations. But there are some things that you should know that will certainly support you in your rookie season with braces.

When and if you are feeling pain, orthodontists recommend eating or drinking something cold. This is because hotter liquids or foods will tighten up the wires of the braces, which may cause discomfort and unwanted pressure. Colder drinks and foods allow the wire to become looser and allow you to have instant pain relief.

For travelers, braces will not set off any metal detectors! For some this may seem obvious but surprisingly, it is a concern for most people who are getting braces. The metal that is used in making modern-day braces is a nonmagnetic alloy. So, although you may have to remove your belt and shoes, you won’t have to worry about your braces.

Braces may cause gaps in your mouth. But aren’t braces supposed to close those gaps? Yes, they eventually will but braces are made in a specific way so that they can rearrange your teeth slowly but surely. So don’t be shocked to see that your braces are causing new gaps. Know that it’s all happening for a reason.

For all you braces rookies out there, realize that remembering the tips (along with time and practice), you will turn into a braces veteran in no time. Braces aren’t always a walk in the park, but ultimately, you, your friends, and your family will love your beautiful smile.

            

Brushing Made Easy

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, 28 percent of children (2-5 years old) and 52 percent of children (6-11 years old) have at least one cavity. Treatment for cavities can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a thousand dollars depending on the amount and severity of the cavities. One of the easiest ways to prevent cavities and to potentially save hundreds of dollars is to ensure that your children are brushing their teeth. Yes, it is that simple. But what may not be so simple is getting your child to want to brush their teeth. So, if you’re running out of ways to get your little one to brush his or her teeth or just looking for something to spice up the morning and evening routine, look no further.

Here are a few tips to get you and your family on the right path:

First, change the time when they brush their teeth. Children tend to be either grumpy or defiant when it comes to bedtime. Instead of brushing right before bed, try brushing in between dinner and bedtime. Just make sure that there is no post-dinner snacking.

Second, make brushing teeth a family activity. Children love to imitate their parents, so brush your teeth with them instead of supervising them while they brush.  Take this opportunity to chat about how their day was or something they may be looking forward to in order to keep them engaged.

And finally, make it a party! Something as simple as playing music while brushing makes it seem like less of a chore. Let your child choose a song and you can let loose while brushing your teeth. Use this time not only to improve your family’s brushing routine, but also, to bond with your child.

Make an effort to ensure that your child is taking care of their teeth and that you are taking care of yours, because a little change can help in a big way. 

Fact or Fiction: Caring for your teeth

The statements below are some that we hear with consistency from our patients. Some are true, some are false. Today, we'll clear up the differences between fact and fiction.

It is okay to whiten your teeth at home.

Fiction.

Although over-the-counter whitening products are safe, they won’t always work. If you have had bonding or tooth-colored fillings, the teeth whitener will not affect the color.

If you never have tooth pain or pain in your mouth, you don’t need to go to the dentist or orthodontist.

Fiction.

Don’t wait to schedule an appointment. If you wait, you put yourself at high risk for not being able to treat a cavity or gum disease. It is encouraged that you visit your dentist or orthodontist regularly in order to prevent this from happening.

Tooth decay is something you can outgrow.

Fiction.

Tooth decay doesn’t affect just the young or the old, it affects everyone. For this reason, developing good dental habits is essential to living a healthier life.

You are supposed to floss daily.

Fact.

Although it might seem silly to take time out of your busy schedule to floss, it will help your mouth to stay fresh and clean. If flossing isn’t something that you normally do, try putting it by the TV remote and floss during commercials.

If your teeth are white, they are healthy.

Fiction.

White teeth aren’t clean teeth. In order to have a clean mouth you need to brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes, and floss daily. In addition to that, make regular appointments to ensure that your mouth is clean and healthy.

Taking care of your teeth is just as important as taking care of your body and mind. Always remember that a clean mouth is a happy mouth!