Orthodontics

Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics | Invisalign in Portage

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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.

6 Ways to Combat Bad Breath | 49002 Orthodontist

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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.

Medications That Can Affect Your Oral Health | Portage Invisalign

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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,

The Benefits of a Retainer After Orthodontic Treatment | Portage Orthodontist

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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. 

The Safest Way to Eat with Braces | Portage Orthodontist

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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,

First Aid for Broken Braces | Orthodontics Portage MI

Orthodontist in Portage

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.

Why You Shouldn’t Skip Flossing Your Teeth | 49002 Orthodontist

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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. 

Unexpected Uses for Toothpaste | Orthodontics Portage MI

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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. 

6 Fascinating Facts About Your Toothbrush | Portage MI Orthodontist

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Most of us don’t give our toothbrush much thought, but we should. From its fascinating origin to its dirty little secrets, here are six fascinating facts shared by our orthodontist in 49002 about your toothbrush. 

  1. Where Did Modern Toothbrushes Originate?

Am I Too Old for Braces? | Orthodontist in 49002

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Many adults who never had orthodontics but needed them as kids are self-conscious of their smiles; yet they wonder if they are too old for braces. The answer is most likely no. 

Straight teeth can help you bite, chew and, in some cases,