Thursday, April 17, 2014

Age Is Not a Factor

So your teenager has just gotten their braces off and their smile looks amazing...now you find yourself looking at your own smile. 

Photo Provided by damonbraces.com
Over the years there may have been some shifting of teeth, a little crowding here, a little space issue there...not necessarily the most perfect smile. Like many adults, you might think that now that you're of a "certain age" your smile is what it is. Quite frankly you probably look at yourself and say..."I am too old for braces. For Pete's sake, I'm a grown up."

Well, have we got news for you! It is never to late too get that smile you have always dreamed of.  

Adult orthodontic treatment is becoming more and more popular every day. Advances in technology now provide for more discriminate treatment and quicker results. Age should not be a factor in considering orthodontic treatment. The fact of the matter is that any adult in good general health with healthy gums and good bone support for the teeth is a good candidate for orthodontic treatment. 

Now if that doesn't get you re-thinking the whole, "I'm too old for braces" thing, what about this? Did you know that your teeth provide the support structure for your lips, cheeks...and those horrible marionette lines? By repositioning the teeth, your skin can appear tighter and your lips can appear fuller. Getting braces later in life can oftentimes achieve greater facial aesthetics without surgery. Need we say more? 

So if you have been looking at yourself in the mirror lately, and you've been wondering if there is anything you can do about the way your smile looks...there's never been a better time to come see us for an initial consultation.

Thursday, April 10, 2014

Here Comes Peter Cottontail

Easter will be here before you know it. And you know what that means...EASTER BASKETS! Now traditionally, the Easter Bunny isn't known for leaving a basket full of soft, bite sized, healthy treats at your doorstep...the Easter Bunny usually leaves a big basket full of candy.
Photo Provided by assaggiosteria.com
Oh the candy...and how we all love it so. If you have an orthodontic appliance, we are sure you're well aware that candy is on the list of foods that can cause your orthodontic appliance (not to mention your teeth) harm. So what do you do? Its Easter morning. The Easter Bunny just left you a huge basket filled with jelly beans and chocolates and marshmallow peeps. Do you simply throw it all away? The answer is...yes. 

Just kidding...we know that is way too much to ask. But we would like you to follow some guidelines in order to keep your orthodontic appliances, and your teeth, healthy while in treatment.

Successful orthodontic treatment depends upon our patients exercising reasonable care in avoiding hard or chewy substances which will damage braces or other orthodontic appliances. And we all know that foods high in sugar should be limited as these foods can promote dental decay. 

Photo Provided by hebertcandies.com
Tip #1: Sort it Out. Avoid hard, sour or chewy candies. These candies have high acidity and will stick to the teeth longer, which can cause more damage.

Tip #2: Enjoy in Moderation. Try your best to limit the amount of candy you do eat. Pick out your favorites and get rid of the rest.

Tip #3: Brush. Brush your teeth after eating Easter candy. If it's not possible to brush your teeth right away, rinse your mouth with water. But remember to brush as soon as you can.

That said...use your best judgment. We know you know the importance of excellent oral hygiene. Just as with anything in life, common sense is the key to success. But know...if you do experience a problem with a loose bracket, band, or other orthodontic appliance, please call us as soon as possible.