Know Your Ortho Terms: Impressions

For orthodontic appliances to fit perfectly to each individual patients smile there is a process in place to attain custom mold, this is called Impressions. This is the first step in making a mold of teeth.

Impressions are usually done to before you undergo orthodontic treatment and get appliances that must fit to the position of your teeth. Impressions are done by placing a tray filled with alginate onto
your teeth.

Alginate is a mixture of powder and water produces a cream-like substance. The tray is kept in your mouth until the alginate sets. Once the substance has hardened imprints are of your gums and teeth are created. This process is done to both the upper and lower teeth.

Lastly, plaster is poured into the imprints, which allows the orthodontist to create a mold of your teeth. This impression can now be used for examination and to make your custom-fit appliances. Impressions are done before and after braces to since the alignment of your teeth changes.

Two Brushes a Day Keeps the Bacteria Away

What’s one of the first things you do when you wake up in the morning? No not press snooze on the alarm clock, were talking about brushing your teeth! Taking care of your oral health is a daily task, but morning isn’t the only time you take care of your teeth.

Brushing should be done in the morning, after meals and before bedtime. It is important that you are at least brushing your teeth (and braces if you are under treatment) once a day to keep your teeth clean.

Brushing Tips:

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• Step 1 – Starting at one side of the mouth on upper teeth, position the brush so that the bristles angle downward beneath the arch wire. Brush 1-2 teeth at a time, and do 5-6 circular motions in each area.
• Step 2 – Repeat Step 1, except angle bristles upward beneath the arch wire.
• Step 3 – Brush again without angling the bristles using a gentle, circular motion between the gum line and the braces.
• Step 4 – Repeat Steps 1-3 for the lower teeth. Remember to brush the back and biting surfaces of all your teeth as well 

In addition to brushing you should also be flossing regularly. Flossing helps get the food particles and bacteria your tooth brush may not be able to reach. Flossing should be done every day, but 3 days a week is acceptable.

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Flossing Tips:

• Step 1 – Starting between the first two teeth on one side of your mouth, insert the stiff end of Super Floss between the teeth and above the arch wire for the upper teeth and beneath the arch wire for the lower teeth. Move floss in an up-and-down motion (not a sawing motion) between contacts of the two teeth.
• Step 2 – Remove floss and then reinsert floss between the next two teeth. Repeat this procedure until all the teeth have been completed.

So your daily routine should consist of brushing, flossing and rinsing (with water or over-the-counter fluoride rinse) to retain good oral health.

Know Your Ortho Terms: Herbst

There are many different orthodontic appliances that can be used for treatment. Each problem can have several different types of treatment, it all depends on which appliance best suits you and your needs.

An overbite is a common condition where the front teeth overlap the lower teeth. Most people assume when you have an overbite braces are the only treatment available, however, the Herbst appliance has revolutionized the way orthodontist treat overbites.

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The Herbst is a hydraulic-like metal appliance that attaches to the upper and lower back molars. Pistons and bands are used to put pressure on the lower jaw, helping it grow forwards while the upper jaw moves backward. 

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This appliance may seem like it would hinder movement of the mouth, but it doesn’t enable your mouth from opening and closing. Designed to correct bites and also improve facial profiles, it combines two treatment phases by achieving skeletal and dental correction at the same time.

As a result the use of the Herbst the facial profile is noticeably changed, providing the patient with a healthier smile.

Yum and Fun!... It's National Picnic Month

August is National Picnic Month, so it’s time to pack up some food, grab those blankets and a meal outside in the fresh air.

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As summer comes to an end we must take time to enjoy the warm weather and sunny skies with our family and friends. You don’t have to go far, with this it’s cheaper and more enjoyable alternative to dining out. We have 5 things to consider when planning the best end of summer picnic.

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1. Location: The basis of any great picnic starts off with the location. The best thing about a picnic is that they can take place anywhere, just has to be an outdoor setting. A beach, lake, local park or any other outdoor setting. The location sets the tone for your picnic, so be sure to pick the right site for a great time.

2. Guest: Invite family and friends out for a day of fun. Picnics parties can be as small or large as you please.

3. Weather: Pick a date that your local weather person says will be the right temperature for you. Some summer days can be really hot, so make sure the date you pick is good for you and your guest.

4. Seating: Being that you are outdoors you must make the setting comfortable for you and your guest. Depending on your location this could be a blanket, quilt or a beach towel. Table cloths are also an option; some locations may have picnic tables available. You want to have fun in nature, but since there is going to be food involved you don’t want dirt, sand or grass added to your meals.

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5. Food: Depending on your guest you can either go with nice dishes for adults or finger foods for children. But, you can never go wrong with picnic favorites. Favorites include sandwiches, potato salad and fruit salads. You could even bring a portable grill and turn things up on the grill.

Summer isn’t over just yet so you still have time to plan the perfect summer picnic. So invite everyone out for a day of fun to create a great summer memory. Post pictures on Facebook and tag us to show us your great picnic.