When a child gets new braces, it’s a big adjustment, that involves not only getting used to what their new mouth feels like, but also changing their diet. Foods that are too crunchy or sticky can break off brackets or damage wires, as can biting straight into hard foods. These foods are also harder to […]
What makes a patient’s bite “ideal?
Many people may not realize that their or their child’s bite is not ideal because they’ve grown into their teeth slowly overtime and have gotten used to their current bite. When an orthodontist is evaluating someone’s teeth, they’re looking not only for straightness, but correct alignment. A patient can have straight teeth, but a bite […]
Orthodontic Problems: What Does an Incorrect Bite (Malocclusion) Look Like?
Incorrect tooth position can express themselves in three dimensions: Width Crossbite: The most common width problem is a crossbite of the back teeth. When the upper jaw or teeth are too narrow or constricted they fit on the inside of the lower teeth. In the proper width relationship the upper teeth should overlap the lower […]
Orthodontic Care: How Do I Brush and Floss With Braces?
Though learning how to brush and floss with braces takes a little getting used to, following this simple guide should have you on the right track quickly. Brushing with Braces Picking the right brush is the first step in ensuring proper brushing with braces. For manual toothbrushes, Dr. Mike recommends using either manual and electronic […]
The Importance of Using an Orthodontic Retainer
Once braces are removed, it is critical that patients use a retainer to ensure that their straightened teeth maintain their new position. Without the proper use of an orthodontic retainer following treatment, it should be expected that the teeth will shift back (to varying degrees) to their original (pre-treatment) positions. As such, it’s very important […]
When Should I Pursue Orthodontic Treatment (Braces) for My Child?
When to Begin Orthodontic Treatment It is important to first understand that there are a variety of equally well-founded, professional opinions regarding when orthodontic treatment should begin. Nonetheless, as a general rule of thumb, braces are typically not placed until the pediatric patient has: 1) Lost all their primary (or baby) teeth; and 2) The […]
