For some, the idea of DIY braces and mail-order aligners is attractive because they cost less than dentist-guided orthodontics. However, some solutions can damage both your teeth and your bank account. Before taking matters into your own hands, schedule an appointment with our Portage orthodontist to discuss your options.
If you or your child is getting braces, you know how important it is to step up your oral hygiene game. Of course, this can be tricky, especially for kids, so we have compiled some of the best tips to make it easier.
Practice Patience
Allow extra time to brush and floss.
Braces can be life-changing for people who would benefit from a straighter smile. Here are answers to your most common questions about orthodontics.
What are the benefits of orthodontics?
Straight teeth can improve the way you bite, chew, and even speak.
Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, can be caused by something you ate or drank, or from a health problem. While foul breath related to food resolves on its own, a chronic problem requires more investigation by your dentist. Fortunately, there are solutions.
Halitosis that is not caused by food is often related to bacteria in your mouth.
If you have braces, you know how important it is to take extra care of your oral health. This is even more critical if you also take medications.
Nearly half of all Americans take prescriptions for a medical condition, and more than half take vitamins or other dietary supplements,
Most orthodontic treatment consists of traditional braces or aligners. Both move teeth slowly into new positions to correct misalignment. This ensures both a straight smile and an even bite. However, once braces have been removed or the last aligner used, you will most likely need an orthodontic retainer.
Wearing traditional braces calls for making some changes to the way you eat. What you consume and what you avoid will directly affect the condition of your teeth during orthodontic treatment and after. Here are some types of foods to steer clear of when you are wearing braces,
Orthodontic braces come with an adjustment period as teeth begin to move into their optimal positions. Occasionally, some patients may experience minor discomfort from the braces themselves. Left unaddressed, some of these issues can lead to larger problems.
The majority of problems with braces can be avoided or remedied by practicing proper oral care at home.
Wearing braces means you need to double up on efforts to keep your mouth clean. That means brushing twice a day or after meals, as well as flossing. That last step stumps some people when they first get outfitted with traditional braces, but it doesn’t have to.
Toothpaste does a great job of keeping your teeth clean but there are many other, unexpected uses that you might not have considered. The same ingredients that help polish teeth can also prove to be a real helper around the house. Here are a few toothpaste tips shared by our orthodontist in 49002 that go beyond keeping your smile bright and mouth healthy.