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Below are some common challenges you might face while wearing braces. From food getting stuck to managing discomfort, here’s your go-to guide for navigating those tricky braces moments with ease.

Dealing with Food That Gets Stuck

• Brush and Floss Regularly: After eating, make sure to brush thoroughly. An interdental brush or floss threader is the best tool for getting food out from between brackets.
• Rinse with Water: If you can't brush right away, a quick rinse with water can help dislodge particles.
• Avoid Sticky Foods: Steer clear of chewy or sticky snacks like caramel or taffy that can get stuck and are hard to clean.
• Invest in Supplies: If you are struggling to floss regularly, a water flosser can be a great tool to add to your routine.

Managing Soreness and Discomfort

• Use Orthodontic Wax: Applying wax to your brackets can soothe irritation and protect your mouth.
• Opt for Soft Foods: Stick to soft foods like yogurt and mashed potatoes if you’re experiencing discomfort.
• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and Tylenol can help with soreness. Follow the dosing instructions on the box.

Broken Brackets or Wires

• Contact Us: If a bracket or wire breaks, let us know ASAP. We’ll schedule a repair to keep your treatment on track.
• Temporary Fixes: In the meantime, orthodontic wax can help cover any sharp edges and reduce irritation until your appointment with us.

Handling Discoloration and Stains

• Brush After Every Meal: Keeping up with brushing helps prevent stains and plaque buildup.
• Avoid Staining Foods: Limit intake of foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, such as coffee and tea.
• Professional Cleanings: Regular dental cleanings can help keep your smile bright and healthy.

Keeping Your Braces Clean

• A soft-bristled toothbrush helps avoid damage to your brackets while ensuring a thorough clean.
• An electric toothbrush can enhance oral hygiene for individuals with braces by more effectively removing plaque and food particles around brackets and wires due to its rotating or oscillating bristle action.
• Use a floss threader to get between teeth and around wires.

With these tips, you'll tackle any braces-related issues like a pro. For more information about orthodontic services, or to speak with one of our board-certified specialists, contact us online or call 302-678-3000.

If you're using Invisalign aligners or traditional braces, you might be wondering how swimming fits into your orthodontic routine. Let’s dive into what you need to know to keep your smile healthy and your braces or aligners in excellent condition.

Swimming with Invisalign

• Remove Your Aligners: Before you take the plunge, make sure to remove your Invisalign aligners. Chlorine and salt water can degrade the plastic, so it’s best to avoid putting them at risk.
• Store Them Safely: Keep your aligners in their case while you swim. This way, you won’t risk losing or damaging them.
• Oral Hygiene: After swimming, rinse your mouth thoroughly to get rid of any chlorine or salt. Clean your aligners before putting them back in.

Swimming with Braces

• No Need to Remove: Good news—braces stay on! You don’t need to worry about removing them while swimming. They’re designed to handle daily activities, including a swim.
• Watch for Discomfort: Some patients might feel minor discomfort due to chlorine. If this happens, it’s usually temporary. If pain is persistent call our office immediately.
• Oral Hygiene: Rinse your mouth with water after swimming to help remove any chlorine residue. Stick to your regular brushing and flossing routine to keep your braces clean.

If you have damage to your Invisalign or braces, do not hesitate to get an appointment. For more information about orthodontic services, or to speak with one of our board-certified specialists, contact us online or call 302-678-3000.

For individuals with braces, maintaining oral hygiene can be challenging. A WaterPik, a device that uses pulsating water to clean between teeth and along the gumline, is often recommended as an adjunct to traditional oral care methods. This article assesses the effectiveness of a WaterPik in managing oral health for those undergoing orthodontic treatment.

The WaterPik Overview

A WaterPik is a popular choice for those with braces because it uses a stream of pulsating water to help clean between your teeth and along the gumline.

Effectiveness with Braces

• Cleans Around Brackets and Wires: A WaterPik is great for flushing out food particles and plaque from around your braces, making it easier to maintain oral hygiene.
• Complementary Tool: A WaterPik is effective for flushing out food particles and plaque from between teeth and around braces, but it does not replace traditional flossing, which is crucial for removing plaque from tight spaces; using both tools together ensures thorough cleaning and optimal oral health.
• Reduces Gum Inflammation: The pulsating action can help soothe inflamed gums and improve overall gum health.

Tips for Using a WaterPik

• Use the Right Tip: Opt for tips designed specifically for braces. These are more effective at cleaning around brackets.
• Adjust Settings: Start with a lower pressure and gradually increase to find the setting that’s most comfortable for you.
• Combine with Traditional Methods: Use a WaterPik alongside brushing and flossing to keep your braces and teeth in top condition.

A WaterPik can be a fantastic addition to your braces care routine. It helps clean those hard-to-reach areas and soothes your gums. Just remember to use it as a complement to your regular flossing and brushing.

For more information about orthodontic services, or to speak with one of our board-certified specialists, contact us online or call 302-678-3000.

Completing your Invisalign treatment marks a significant milestone in your journey towards a straighter, more confident smile. However, it's essential to recognize that the process doesn't end there. Retainers play a crucial role in ensuring that your teeth maintain their alignment and that your smile remains stable for years to come.

After your Invisalign treatment, we recommend wearing retainers to preserve the results achieved. While Invisalign aligners have moved your teeth into their desired positions, retainers provide the necessary support to prevent them from reverting to their original misalignment.

Retainers come in various forms, including traditional removable retainers, as well as, bonded retainers affixed to the back of your teeth. Dr. Ahl and Dr. O’Connor will determine the most suitable type based on your individual needs and preferences.

Consistency is key when it comes to wearing retainers. Initially, you may be required to wear them for the majority of the day, gradually transitioning to nighttime wear only. Adhering to your prescribed instructions will help maintain the alignment of your teeth and prevent any unwanted shifting.

Regular maintenance and care are also essential for prolonging the lifespan of your retainers. Clean them daily using a soft toothbrush and mild soap to remove plaque and bacteria, preventing odors and potential oral health issues. Additionally, store them in their designated case when not in use to protect them from damage or loss.

Retainers serve as guardians of your investment in your smile and safeguard the progress achieved through Invisalign to ensure longevity.

For more information about orthodontic services, or to speak with one of our board-certified specialists, contact us online or call 302-678-3000.

The beginning of your orthodontic journey can be both an exciting and nerve-wracking commitment. The first step toward achieving a beautiful, healthy smile is a complimentary consultation with Dr. Ahl or Dr. O’Connor. Here's a glimpse of what you can expect:

1. Getting Acquainted: The goal of your first visit is to become acquainted with our doctors and our team. We’ll review your dental and medical history, discuss your concerns and expectations, and conduct a thorough examination of your teeth, jaws, and bite.

2. Diagnostic Tests: To formulate an accurate treatment plan, we’ll take digital X-rays and photographs of your teeth. These tools help assess the current alignment of your teeth and determine the most suitable treatment options.

3. Discussion of Treatment Options: Once the doctor has assessed your dental condition, they will discuss potential treatment options tailored to your needs. Whether it's traditional braces, clear aligners, or other appliances, they'll explain the pros and cons of each option and address any questions or apprehensions you may have.

4. Treatment Plan and Timeline: After weighing your preferences and considering the complexity of your case, the doctor will outline a comprehensive treatment plan along with an estimated timeline. While every case is unique, they'll provide you with a rough idea of how long your treatment may take and what milestones to expect along the way.

5. Financial Considerations: Orthodontic treatment involves financial planning. During this complimentary consultation, the orthodontic team will discuss the cost of treatment, available payment options, and whether your insurance covers any portion of the expenses. This transparency helps you make informed decisions regarding your investment. 

6. Next Steps: Before leaving your complimentary consultation, you'll have the option to begin treatment the same day, or review the quote before scheduling your follow-up visits.

Embarking on your orthodontic journey signifies a commitment to improving your oral health and enhancing your confidence. While the process may seem daunting initially, rest assured that our orthodontic team is here to guide you every step of the way!

For more information about orthodontic services, or to speak with one of our board-certified specialists, contact us online or call 302-678-3000.

Starting orthodontic treatment after chemotherapy is generally possible, but it's essential to consider the overall health of the patient and consult with both an orthodontist and the oncologist or medical team managing the chemotherapy. Chemotherapy can have systemic effects on the body, including the oral cavity, and it's crucial to ensure that the patient has recovered sufficiently before beginning orthodontic treatment.

Here are some key points to consider:

1. Consultation with your Oncologist: Before starting any orthodontic treatment, it's crucial to consult with the oncologist who managed the chemotherapy. They can provide insights into the patient's overall health, immune system status, and any specific considerations related to the chemotherapy.
2. Oral Health Assessment: Chemotherapy can affect the oral cavity, leading to issues such as mucositis, xerostomia (dry mouth), and increased susceptibility to infections. An assessment of the patient's oral health is necessary to determine if they are ready for orthodontic treatment.
3. Timing of Orthodontic Treatment: The timing of orthodontic treatment should be coordinated with the Oncologist to ensure that the patient is in a stable and healthy condition. Starting treatment too soon after chemotherapy may not be advisable if the patient is still dealing with side effects or complications.
4. Orthodontic Treatment Planning: The orthodontist will need to carefully plan the treatment based on the individual's oral health, treatment goals, and any specific considerations related to their medical history.
5. Communication Between Healthcare Providers: It's essential for the orthodontist and oncologist to communicate and coordinate care. This ensures that both aspects of the patient's health are considered in the treatment plan.

Always keep in mind that each individual's case is unique, and decisions about starting orthodontic treatment after chemotherapy should be made on a case-by-case basis. The health and well-being of the patient should be the top priority, and a collaborative approach involving both the orthodontic and medical teams is crucial.

For more information about orthodontic services, or to speak with one of our board-certified specialists, contact us online or call 302-678-3000.

Thumb sucking is a common habit among infants and young children and is generally considered normal during the early developmental stages. Most children naturally stop thumb sucking on their own by the age of 4 or 5. However, if the habit persists beyond this age, it can potentially lead to dental issues that may require orthodontic treatment.

Persistent thumb sucking can contribute to the following orthodontic problems:

1. Malocclusion: Thumb sucking can influence the alignment of the teeth and the development of the jaw. Prolonged and intense sucking may result in an open bite, where the front teeth don't meet properly when the mouth is closed.
2. Overbite or Overjet: Thumb sucking may contribute to the development of an overbite (protrusion of upper front teeth over the lower front teeth) or an overjet (protrusion of upper front teeth ahead of the lower front teeth).
3. Changes in Palate Shape: The pressure from the thumb can affect the shape of the palate, leading to a narrower upper jaw.

It's important to note that not all children who suck their thumbs will develop these issues, and the severity of the habit can influence its impact on dental development. Genetics, pacifier use, and other factors also play a role in dental health.

If you are concerned about your child's thumb-sucking habit and its potential impact on their dental development, it's advisable to consult with a pediatric dentist or orthodontist. They can assess your child's oral health, provide guidance on how to address the habit, and monitor dental development over time. Early intervention may be recommended if there are signs of developing orthodontic issues.

In some cases, orthodontic treatment, such as braces, may be necessary to correct dental misalignments that result from prolonged thumb sucking. However, the specific treatment plan will depend on the individual circumstances of each child.

For more information about orthodontic services, or to speak with one of our board-certified specialists, contact us online or call 302-678-3000.

Dental insurance can help offset the costs of orthodontic treatment, but it's not required in order to start treatment. Whether you need dental insurance for orthodontic treatment depends on your financial situation, the type of orthodontic treatment required, and the available options for coverage.

Here are some considerations:

1. Dental Insurance Coverage: Many dental insurance plans do provide coverage for orthodontic treatment, but the extent of coverage can vary. Some plans cover a percentage of the costs, while others may have a maximum dollar amount or a waiting period before orthodontic benefits become available. It's essential to review the details of your insurance policy to understand the coverage specifics.
2. Out-of-Pocket Costs: Even with dental insurance, there may be out-of-pocket costs associated with orthodontic treatment. This can include copayments, deductibles, and any costs exceeding the maximum coverage limit.
3. Orthodontic Payment Plans: Our orthodontic office offers payment plans to help spread the cost of treatment over time, making orthodontic care more affordable for individuals without insurance or with limited coverage.
4. Discount Plans: Some individuals may opt for dental discount plans rather than traditional insurance. These plans typically involve paying an annual fee to access discounted rates on dental services, including orthodontics, from participating providers.
5. Self-Payment: Some individuals choose to pay for orthodontic treatment entirely out of pocket, especially if the treatment is relatively straightforward or if they don't have dental insurance coverage.

We believe finances shouldn’t stand in the way of a healthy, confident smile. Consultations with our office are complimentary! During the initial consultation we will take digital X-rays and pictures for the doctor to review with you. Following the evaluation, consultation, and treatment recommendation, our treatment coordinator will discuss the cost of your treatment and each available payment option, so you can determine the best fit for your budget. Many discounts are available to patients who serve in the military, teach, are first responders, or work in the medical field. We’re in-network with most insurances and have a refer-a-friend program. We will help you utilize your flexible spending account to the fullest, and we accept CareCredit.

For more information about orthodontic services, or to speak with one of our board-certified specialists, contact us online or call 302-678-3000.

The good news is that orthodontic treatment during pregnancy is generally safe. In fact, it might even be the perfect timing for you. If you wait until after your baby is born, it may be harder to commit to the appointments and fit them into your new schedule. There are some important considerations to keep in mind.

1. Consult with your healthcare provider: Before starting any orthodontic treatment during pregnancy, consult with your obstetrician or midwife. They can provide guidance and assess your individual health and pregnancy status to ensure it's safe for you.

2. Timing: Pregnancy is a critical time for your baby's development, and minimizing potential stressors is important. If your orthodontic treatment plan involves more invasive procedures like oral surgery, you may want to wait until after your baby is born. However, waiting until after delivery might make it harder to commit to the appointments and fit them into your new schedule.

3. X-rays: X-rays are commonly used in orthodontic treatment planning. It's important to minimize exposure to ionizing radiation during pregnancy. If X-rays are necessary, inform your orthodontist about your pregnancy, and they can take steps to minimize radiation exposure, such as using lead aprons and thyroid collars.

4. Morning sickness: Morning sickness often subsides after the first trimester. If morning sickness causes you to vomit daily, you may want to wait until it subsides to start treatment.

5. Oral hygiene: Pregnancy can increase the risk of gum problems and dental issues. Maintaining good oral hygiene during pregnancy is crucial. If you choose to have orthodontic treatment, be diligent about brushing and flossing to prevent complications.

Ultimately, the decision to start orthodontic treatment during pregnancy should be made in consultation with your healthcare providers. They can help you evaluate the potential risks and benefits based on your individual circumstances.

For more information about orthodontic services, or to speak with one of our board-certified specialists contact us online or call 302-678-3000.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation between the age of 7 and 8. This may seem early, but it allows orthodontists to identify and address potential orthodontic issues while a child's mouth and jaw are still growing.

Children typically begin to lose their baby teeth, also known as primary teeth or deciduous teeth, around the age of 6. This process continues through their early teenage years, and by the time they reach adolescence, most children will have lost all of their baby teeth and replaced them with permanent adult teeth. However, the exact timing can vary from child to child.

The order in which children lose their baby teeth can also differ, but generally the teeth fall out in the same order that they arrived:

• Lower central incisors (bottom front teeth) are usually the first to be lost, typically around 6 to 7 years of age.
• Upper central incisors (top front teeth) are next, often lost between 7 and 8 years of age.
• Lateral incisors (the teeth adjacent to the central incisors) follow, typically around 7 to 8 years old.
• First molars (the large back teeth) are usually lost between 9 and 11 years of age.
• Canine teeth (the pointed teeth next to the lateral incisors) are lost around 9 to 12 years of age.
• Second molars (the last set of molars in the back of the mouth) are the last to go, typically between 10 and 12 years old.

It's important to note that these ages are general guidelines, and there can be considerable variation among individual children. Some children may start losing teeth earlier or later than the average, and that's perfectly normal. Typically, by age 7 many of the permanent teeth have come in, and orthodontists can evaluate the alignment of the teeth and the relationship between the upper and lower jaws. Early intervention may be recommended if significant issues are identified, or the orthodontist may recommend periodic check-ups to monitor your child's growth and development, with treatment starting at a later age when it's most effective.

Not all children will need orthodontic treatment, and the decision to pursue it should be made in consultation with an orthodontist who can assess your child's specific situation with a physical exam and a full set of x-rays.

For more information about orthodontic services, or to speak with one of our board-certified specialists contact us online or call 302-678-3000.

Orthodontic treatment can certainly improve the alignment and appearance of teeth, which can boost self-esteem and confidence. But it's not just about having a bright and beautiful smile; your oral health can have far-reaching effects on various aspects of your body. Here are three ways in which oral health might impact you:

1. Heart Health and infections: Poor oral health, particularly gum disease (periodontitis), has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular problems, including heart disease and stroke. The mouth is a gateway for many infections. Poor oral hygiene can increase the risk of infections entering the bloodstream, which can affect various organs and systems in the body. Inflammation in the mouth may contribute to inflammation throughout the body, which can affect the heart. Chronic inflammation in the gums can contribute to systemic inflammation, which is associated with a range of diseases, including cancer, arthritis, and autoimmune disorders. Orthodontic treatment can make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and health by aligning the teeth and jaws making it easier to clean between them.
2. Pregnancy Complications: Pregnant women with gum disease may be at a higher risk for complications such as premature birth and low birth weight. The inflammation from gum disease could potentially trigger an inflammatory response elsewhere in the body.
3. Digestive Disorders: Oral health issues can affect your ability to chew food properly, leading to digestive problems. Properly aligned teeth are essential for effective biting and chewing. Orthodontic treatment can correct issues such as overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites, which can affect a person's ability to eat comfortably and speak clearly.

It's crucial to maintain good oral hygiene practices, including regular dental check-ups and cleanings, to prevent oral health problems. The mouth is not isolated from the rest of the body, and taking care of your oral health is an integral part of maintaining good overall health. So, while the cosmetic aspect of orthodontics is undoubtedly important and often the primary reason people seek treatment, it's important to recognize that orthodontics can have a broader impact on your health. Many orthodontic cases involve a combination of cosmetic and functional considerations. It's essential to consult with an orthodontist to determine the specific benefits and goals of treatment for your individual needs.

For more information about orthodontic services, or to speak with one of our board-certified specialists contact us online or call 302-678-3000.

Picture someone with braces. Did you imagine a teenager with rows of colorful brackets? While it’s true that most orthodontic patients are teenagers, orthodontists also work with adults, as well as providing interceptive orthodontic treatment for younger children.

Interceptive orthodontics can reduce the need for jaw surgery or tooth extraction, it can correct certain problems as they appear (before they can get worse), shorten the length of later orthodontic treatment, encourage better facial development, and pave the way for a better final result.

We Head Off Problems Early With Interceptive Orthodontics
The conventional wisdom is that orthodontic treatment can’t start until all the adult teeth have emerged, but certain problems with alignment, bite, and facial development can appear long before the full set of adult teeth. An orthodontist can help a child’s jawbones grow properly so that there will be enough room for all the adult teeth and a better structure for a healthy bite. When we correct malocclusions (bad bites) as they appear, it makes future treatment faster, easier, and sometimes unnecessary!

What Causes a Malocclusion?
Harmful habits like thumb sucking, nail-biting, tongue thrusting, and mouth breathing can all contribute to a bad bite by leading to a narrow upper arch, an underdeveloped lower jaw, an open bite, a deep bite, or dental crowding. These can all make it more difficult to speak clearly or chew and swallow effectively. Genetics is also a factor in certain cases. The main goal of early orthodontic intervention is to repair the damage caused by these habits and stop the habits themselves so the adult teeth can grow in how they should.

How can bad habits affect oral health? Lots of ways:

Click Here to Watch on YouTube

What Are Typical Interceptive Orthodontic Treatments?
The biggest difference between phase 1 and phase 2 orthodontics is that phase 1 treatments don’t involve a full set of braces. That can wait until later — if they’re still needed by then. Common treatments in interceptive orthodontics (phase 1):

Eliminating a crossbite with upper jaw expansion
Expansion to make more room for adult teeth
Early extraction of specific baby teeth to help the adult teeth come in
Holding space open for permanent teeth after the early loss of a baby tooth
Reducing the protrusion of upper teeth to protect them from trauma

What Makes a Child a Good Candidate for Interceptive Orthodontics?
Early orthodontic intervention won’t correct every type of orthodontic issue, so the best way to find out if it would benefit your child is to bring them in for a consultation around age 7, particularly if you’ve noticed any obvious problems with their bite or if they have one of the harmful oral health habits we mentioned. Until then (and always), look out for their oral health by encouraging good brushing and flossing!

Helping our patients achieve healthy smiles for life is always our top priority!

For more information about orthodontic services, or to speak with one of our board-certified specialists contact us online or call 302-678-3000.

#1 – ALL PLASTIC ALIGNER BRANDS ARE THE SAME

Although similar in appearance, there are major differences in design and overall function. Professionally fabricated Invisalign aligners fit into place on the teeth via attachments. These tooth attachments are small anchors directly affixed to the teeth by your dentist or orthodontist. Tooth attachments are an important part of Invisalign treatment because they secure aligners into place and aid in tooth movement. Without attachments unpredictable movement may occur causing harm. The combination of aligners and attachments allows for the best result not only in appearance, but with overall health of your teeth.

#2 – THEY’RE GOOD ENOUGH FOR “SIMPLE” CASES

Although some orthodontic cases are easier than others, there is nothing ever “simple” about moving teeth. Moving teeth can cause the surrounding teeth to move as well as the jaw and affect how the bite fits together. Unsupervised aligner wear can negatively affect the bite and result in long term discomfort which is why you should be closely monitored by your orthodontist or dentist to ensure the health of your teeth and gums throughout your treatment.

A board-certified orthodontist is focused on moving teeth in harmony with each other to get an overall result that is pleasing to the eye, but also acceptable to the bite. This requires close and detailed monitoring to ensure the treatment plan is safe and effective throughout the course of treatment.

#3– IT’S OVERSEEN BY A VIRTUAL DENTIST

Virtual consultations are wonderful in certain situations, however, without a direct physical exam of your teeth by a licensed professional, patients may not be aware of any underlying conditions that can impact your overall health. Tooth decay, abscessed teeth or bone and gum infections, which are diagnosed with xrays and in person exams, can worsen if left untreated. Be aware that these conditions may occur without symptoms initially so seeing your dentist or orthodontist prior to starting aligner wear and throughout treatment is very important to ensure your safety.

#4 – IT’S HASSLE FREE AND GUARENTEED

The convenience of mail order and guarantees sounds appealing because who doesn’t want things to be easier in their busy lives? After considering the aligner company you choose, that convenience may turn into a hassle due to the chain of commands throughout the process.

Divisions of patient care such as a shipping department, mailing service, virtual care providers and outsourced customer service representatives could lead to poor communication and service inconsistency when issues arise. It’s not uncommon for patients to receive the wrong aligners or experience long delivery delays, only to have their teeth shift out of alignment while waiting for their product to arrive in the mail.

Dr. Chung Kau, chairman and professor of orthodontics at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, said moving teeth without in-person supervision can lead to permanent hard. Problems with a person’s bite aren’t just cosmetic. “If you can't get a proper bite, that affects the entire function of your jaw,” Kau said. “You could get migraines, jaw joint problems, disintegration of your joints.”

-“‘Things Didn't Feel Right’: Smiledirectclub's

Dental Aligners Cause Problems.” NBCNews.com, Feb. 13, 2020 NBCUniversal News Group

What does a career in dentistry look like? Being a dentist is an incredibly rewarding career, and beyond helping our patients maintain lifelong healthy smiles, we hope our team inspires at least a few budding dentists out there!

Private Practice Dentists Aren’t the Whole Story

The dental career everyone is most familiar with is the private practice dentist, meaning an individual dentist or a partnership working with local patients in their own practice. Not everyone who graduates from a four-year dental program goes in this direction.

Other Types of Dentists

Academic dentists add a teaching role and help usher in the next generation of dentists. Research dentists get to be on the cutting edge of new advancements in treatments and technology. Some dentists go international and work with organizations like the WHO, UNESCO, and FAO. Finally, there are dentists who work alongside physicians in hospitals.

Dental Specialties

About 20% of dentists undergo additional years of training in one of the nine dental specialties: Dental Public Health, Endodontics, Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Pediatric Dentistry, Periodontics, and Prosthodontics.

The Team Is More Than the Dentist

Aside from the dentists themselves, other essential roles in the field of dentistry are hygienists, assistants, and lab technicians. Hygienists and assistants interact closely with patients to ensure a high level of care, while dental lab technicians work behind the scenes designing the dentures, crowns, and appliances used by dentists.

And of course we wouldn’t get far without our office staff!

Interested in more ortho-related careers? Check out Dr. Ahl's career fair video below!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Yy6PLa63zA

Anyone out of their teens might think they missed their chance for straight teeth, but that’s not true! Modern orthodontic treatment is for adults too. While it’s true that our teeth can be guided into place more easily when we are younger, they will still respond to orthodontic appliances. And whether or not we had braces as teens, our teeth can still shift over time if retainers are not worn as instructed.

Mesial Drift

In a process called mesial drift, our teeth slowly move towards the front of our mouths as we age. Other factors, including enamel loss, teeth grinding, and tooth loss, can move our teeth out of alignment too. The result is an increasingly crooked, overcrowded smile that is harder to keep healthy.

How Daily Habits Shift Teeth

Some of the things we do every day without even thinking about it can contribute to our teeth shifting over time. Stomach sleeping and resting our heads on our hands when sitting can both be culprits of dental shifting, but good posture and side or back sleeping will minimize this effect.

Healthy Teeth Stay Put Better!

Good oral hygiene is also important for keeping our teeth where they should be, because it helps reduce enamel loss over time. So keep up with that daily flossing and twice daily brushing, and don’t forget about regular dental appointments!

Adults Make Better Ortho Patients!

One advantage adult orthodontic patients have over teenagers is that they typically have the self-discipline to carefully follow the orthodontist’s instructions, ensuring better, timelier results!

Straight teeth aren't just about looking good. People with straight teeth are perceived as being wealthier, happier, and more attractive than people with crooked teeth, and it can definitely be a nice confidence boost. What we want to focus on, though, are the very real health benefits that come with having straight teeth.

Straight Teeth Help With Clear Speech

Crooked or crowded teeth or a bad bite (such as a severe overbite or an underbite) can make it harder to enunciate clearly when speaking. We need our tongues, teeth, and lips in the right places to make the correct sounds, and if our teeth aren’t where they should be, then we have to try to compensate for it, which isn’t always very effective. Orthodontic treatment can help with that. Don’t be discouraged if it takes a while to figure out how to speak clearly around braces or a retainer. That will all be worth it at the end of treatment!

Straight Teeth Help With…Digestion?

It might sound strange, but yes, having straight teeth does help improve digestion. Chewing is a crucial step in the digestive process, and not just because it breaks food into small enough pieces to swallow. As our teeth grind up the food, digestive enzymes in our saliva begin to break it down chemically.

Poorly aligned teeth make it hard to get the most out of this step in the process, which puts a heavier burden on the rest of the digestive system and leads to gastrointestinal issues. It can even make it more difficult to lose weight!

It’s Easier to Breathe With Straight Teeth

First speaking, then eating, but breathing? What does breathing have to do with a straight smile? It’s about the way our teeth fit together. If you aren’t able to comfortably close your jaws when resting, then odds are you’ll end up breathing through your mouth more often. Mouth breathing is linked with many negative health effects, from dry mouth (which makes gum disease and tooth decay more likely) to bad breath to lower energy levels and difficulty focusing.

Straight Teeth Are Easier on the Jaws

A bad bite makes problems with the jaw joint (such as temporomandibular joint disorders or TMD) much more likely. Symptoms of a jaw problem include clicking sounds when moving the jaw, jaw pain, and even frequent headaches.

It’s Easier to Clean Straight Teeth

Teeth that overlap each other and are crowded together can be harder to effectively clean. There are more tight spaces that are hard to reach and easy to miss, leaving them more at risk of decay. It’s much easier to clean all the surfaces of straight teeth and keep that plaque at bay!

Let’s Get Started on a Straighter Smile!

Even if the aesthetics of a crooked smile have never bothered you, you could still be missing out on the health and function benefits of having a properly aligned smile. Just about everything we need teeth for works better when our teeth are straight. If you have any questions about the advantages of a straight smile, just give us a call!

We love helping patients achieve their smile goals!

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.

We are so excited to be in our new location!

17425 Ocean One Plaza, Lewes, DE 19958

We are in suite #3, above L'occhio Eyecare.

MANY adults mistakenly believe that they missed their chance to get braces because they didn’t have them as teenagers. However, the number of adult orthodontic patients has risen dramatically over the last few decades, and today we’re going to debunk all of your excuses for not getting braces and show you why orthodontic treatment is still a wonderful option for adults with dental alignment issues.

“It’s Too Late; My Teeth Won’t Move”
It may be preferable to start young for orthodontic treatment, but there is no age limit to getting a straighter smile. We can help determine the best treatment for your circumstances. One advantage that adult orthodontic patients have over teens is the self-discipline that comes with maturity; adults will often be better at following instructions for their treatment, which means it will go much smoother.

Check out how much this woman’s teeth moved in one year with adult braces!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3E6wGQAfZc

“I’ll Be Fine If I Keep My Crooked Teeth”
If you’ve been living with crooked teeth your whole life, you might think there’s no point in getting orthodontic treatment. But having straight teeth isn’t just about appearances — it’s also about improved oral and overall health. Straight teeth are easier to clean and make it easier to speak, chew, and even breathe effectively, whereas crooked teeth cause difficulties in all of these areas and can grow more crooked over time.

“Having Braces Will Make Me Look Unprofessional”
Some adults who would like straighter teeth may still hesitate to seek orthodontic treatment because they worry that spending a year or longer in braces could impact their personal lives or careers by making them look immature or unprofessional. Luckily, there are several low-profile orthodontic treatment options for patients who don’t want to broadcast their treatment to the world, such as invisible aligners and clear ceramic braces. With these, you can straighten your teeth without anyone noticing your hardware!

“Orthodontic Treatment Is Expensive”
Orthodontic treatment can certainly cost more than a regular dental appointment, but it’s also an investment in your future, saving you from the expenses of problems that come with crooked teeth or a bad bite. If you aren’t sure you can fit braces into your budget, schedule a consultation with us. Together, we can find the best and most affordable option for you.

Leave Your Braces Excuses In 2018
This year is nearly over, and what better way to welcome the next one than by leaving your braces excuses behind and getting on the path to a healthier, straighter smile? We can’t wait to help you get the smile you deserve!