Tips for Breaking Bad Oral Habits

Did you know that a lot of little things you do (or don't do) on a day-to-day basis affect your teeth's well-being and may fall under a list of bad oral habits? These include not brushing or flossing enough, eating too many sweets too often, or even using your teeth to open a bag of chips.

 

Bad oral habits die hard, but they can be stopped in their tracks by the following tips:

 

Floss at least once a day. It helps remove bits of food and dental plaque in places your toothbrush can't find, helping to keep your gums healthy.

 

Brush at least twice a day. If brushing is not an option, chew sugarless gum (make sure it's sugarless!) for 20 minutes after a meal or snack. This helps prevent tooth decay. 

 

Clean your tongue. Regularly cleaning your tongue with a toothbrush or a tongue scraper helps remove the bacteria that causes bad breath.

 

Replace your toothbrush regularly. Replacing your tooth brush ever 3-4 months is a good idea. Bristles in your toothbrush that are bent and broken don't do a good job cleaning your teeth.

 

Eat a balanced diet. Snacking on sweets without brushing increases the acid in your mouth… and the likelihood of tooth decay. Munch on vegetables and fruit instead.

 

Regular Dental Visits. Your dentist is trained to do damage control in your mouth before it's too late. You should visit the dentist regularly -- every six months.

 

Adding these to your list one at a time is a good start to kick those bad oral habits. By doing a little self-check on your daily dental care habits, you can be on your way to making sure your teeth, your mouth's health and your overall health are at their best.

Avoiding the Baby Bottle Blues

When it comes to thumb sucking, babies are naturals -- maybe because they practice even before they are born. Children begin sucking on their thumb while in the womb to develop the skills necessary for breastfeeding. Not surprisingly swapping a thumb for a pacifier or baby bottle is an easy transition for many kids.

 

In a child's first few years, pacifier use generally doesn't cause problems. But constant, long-term pacifier use, especially once permanent teeth come in, can lead to dental complications. Constant sucking can cause top front teeth to slant out, and bottom front teeth to tilt in. It also can lead to jaw misalignment (such as an overbite) and a narrowing of the roof of the mouth.

 

It is generally advised that children stop or drastically reduce their pacifier use around age 3. If a child is dependent on the pacifier to be calmed and soothed, try giving it to him or her only when absolutely necessary and using positive reinforcement to wean them off the habit.

 

Many children also use a baby bottle longer than necessary. Apart from the risks associated with the sucking motion, bottles also carry a heavy risk of promoting tooth decay if they contain anything other than water.

 

Frequently sucking or sipping on milk or juice from a bottle over an extended period of time will increase your child's risk of tooth decay. When sugars and carbohydrates come in consistent contact with teeth they create an environment for decay-causing bacteria to thrive. Tooth decay can lead to painful infection and in extreme cases children may need to have a tooth extraction or dental treatment to extensively repair damaged teeth.

 

Long-term use of pacifiers and bottles can lead to speech and dental problems as your child gets older. Since children develop at different ages, it is a good idea to speak with your dentist and pediatrician to make sure that your infant or toddler's early oral habits don't cause problems.

Toothpicks

Most dentists agree that toothpicks should be used sparingly as a method of teeth cleaning and should never be considered a substitute for brushing teeth and flossing. Fact is they should be used only when a toothbrush or floss is not available, for example, when you are in a restaurant and have food trapped between teeth.

 

Toothpicks that are used overzealously can damage tooth enamel, lacerate gums, and even cause a broken tooth in severe cases. People who have bonding or veneers can chip or break them if they aren't careful. Overly aggressive use of toothpicks can severely wear the roots of teeth, especially in cases where gums have pulled away from the teeth and leave teeth with root surfaces exposed, notably in the elderly.

 

Toothpicks date back to 3,500 BC when the earliest known oral hygiene kit featuring a toothbrush was found at the Ningal Temple in Ur. In China, a curved pendant, made of cast bronze was worn around the neck and used as a toothpick. In 536 BC, the Chinese mandated a law that required the use of the toothpick because their armies suffered from bad breath. In the Old Testament, it is written that "one may take a splinter from the wood lying near him to clean his teeth."

 

Today, most toothpicks in the United States come from "toothpick trees" in Maine. The tree is a white birch which has its trunk cut into thin sheets that are cut again to the thickness and length of toothpicks.

 

Dentists can tell when they have a habitual toothpick user in their dental chair. There are the tell-tale signs of toothpick marks. So use them if you have too, but don't make it a habit. Brush and floss instead.

Tough Brushing Tortures Teeth

Most dentists don’t go a day without seeing patients who are damaging their teeth and gums by brushing too hard. Some report that as many as two out of three patients brush their teeth too hard. This is a problem. A stiff-bristled toothbrush combined with overzealous brushing teeth can cause serious dental problems over time, including gum disease and tooth sensitivity.

 

People think that if they brush twice as hard, they will do twice as much good, In fact, overzealous brushing can cause significant damage to the periodontal tissues and bones that support the teeth. If you used the same amount of force and brush the side of your arm, you could take your skin off.

 

One way to avoid damaging your teeth and gums is to purchase a "soft" toothbrush featuring rounded bristles which are less abrasive to teeth. You should hold the brush between the thumb and forefinger, not with the fist. When brushing, do not `scrub' the teeth with a horizontal, back-and-forth motion.

 

Instead, start at the gum line and angle the brush at a 45-degree angle. Brush both the teeth and the gums at the same time. Push hard enough to get the bristles under the gumline but not so hard that the bristles flare out. It's also a wise move to limit the amount of toothpaste because it is abrasive.

 

The irony is that dentists want people to brush longer, not harder. Children and adults tend to spend less than one minute at a time brushing their teeth, even though removing plaque from the mouth requires at least two to five minutes of brushing at least twice a day. Remember: brush longer, not harder.

6 Ways to Prevent Cavities in Kids

Kids and cavities seem to go hand in hand. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 28 percent of children ages 2 through 5 have at least one dental cavity, compared to 24 percent a decade ago.

Although 4 percent may not seem like a lot, that increase represents thousands and thousands of children and cavities -- as well as a trend in the opposite direction of the last 40 years, when tooth decay was on a gradual decline.

 So if you have children and cavities are a concern, here are six easy ways to reduce the risk:

 1. Avoid giving your baby juice or formula at night. The sugar in juice and formula causes the bacteria in the mouth to produce the acids that cause baby bottle tooth decay. Use fluoridated water instead.

 2. Choose low-fat foods from the basic food groups. Raw fruits and vegetables, nuts, whole-grain breads and low-fat dairy products are great for your child's overall health and their dental health!

 3. If you must, give sweets only as a dessert. If your child must have sweets, limit it to dessert or following a main meal. Late-night snacking and frequent snacking are a major culprit of cavities in children.

 4. Invest in a water filter. Instead of spending extra on bottled water, invest in a filter for your sink, or a filtered water pitcher. Fluoridated tap water is an excellent resource to help the battle between children and cavities.

 5. Don't share cups or utensils. Cavities are contagious. So if you have them, you can pass them onto your child by sharing cups and utensils.

 6. If you smoke, stop. The University of Rochester's Strong Children's Research Center has discovered a link between smoking, children and cavities. Results from a study show that children of parents who smoke are more likely to develop cavities.

Dealing with Orthodontic Emergencies

True orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but when they do occur we are available to you. As a general rule, you should call the office when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can’t take care of yourself. We’ll be able to schedule an appointment with our office.

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you get in to see us…

The following solutions may help you relieve your discomfort:

Poking Wire: Using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down or place wax on it to alleviate the discomfort.

Loose Bracket or Band: If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. If it comes out completely, save it and bring it to your next appointment.

Loose Wire: Using a tweezers, try to place your wire back into place. If doing this and using wax does not help, as a last resort use a small fingernail clipper to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If your discomfort continues, place wax on it.

Loose Appliance: If your appliance is poking you, place wax on the offending part of your appliance.

General Soreness: When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm salt water mouthwash. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously. If the tenderness is severe, take ibuprofen or whatever you normally take for headache or similar pain.

Remember, after alleviating your discomfort, it is still very important that you call our office at 714-990-5414 as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem.

Benefits of Orthodontics

The number one goal of orthodontic treatment is to give you or your child a good bite, meaning straight teeth that work well with the teeth in the opposite jaw. A good bite makes it easier for you to eat, chew and speak. It can enhance your dental health and your overall health, and may well improve your self-esteem. As a part of your comprehensive dental health care plan, orthodontic treatment can help you retain your teeth—and your smile—for a lifetime.

Let your smile express yourself! Nothing can show the world how happy you are quite like a beautiful smile. In fact, it’s one of the first things others notice about you, too. With orthodontics, you can be proud to flash your smile, because you’ll know that your smile truly represents your positive attitude.

Make your mouth healthy! Straight teeth aren’t just pretty, they’re healthy as well. Teeth that are properly aligned are easier to clean, reducing the amount of plaque buildup and risk for gingivitis. The cleaner you keep your teeth, the longer they’ll last!

Feel free to live your life! Orthodontics is easier today than ever before, with treatment options like Invisalign and Damon Clear braces, that fit your lifestyle and schedule. We can personalize your treatment to suit all of your needs! Please call us at 714-990-5414 to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Am I too old for braces?

Absolutely not! Orthodontic treatment for adults is becoming more and more common. In fact, the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! More adults than ever are realizing that orthodontic treatment is not just for kids, and can help improve the aesthetics and health of a smile of any age! In a society where appearance matters and can help make the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing wisely to invest in orthodontic treatment.
Some of the most common reasons our adult patients come to us considering orthodontic treatment include:

• Teeth that are crowded or spaced apart, sometimes as a result of tooth decay or gum disease


• Pain or pressure from crooked teeth or a misaligned jaw


• A bad bite or malocclusion, causing teeth to fit together incorrectly

Most of all though, adult patients come to our office seeking a healthier mouth and a more confident smile! Orthodontic treatment at our office can be successful at any age (our oldest patient started at age 84!), and adults especially can appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

As an adult patient, we recognize that you have different needs than our younger patients, and we will work with you to ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment and that your needs are met with understanding and respect from us.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, we would love to have you visit for a consultation. We understand you have a busy schedule, and will work with you to find a time that is convenient for you. Please give our office a call at 714-990-5414 to schedule your complimentary consultation today.

7 Childhood Conditions You Can Still Correct

By Good Housekeeping | Healthy Living – Tue, Jul 17, 2012 12:13 PM EDT
Josie Richardson was surprised when her dentist suggested she get braces. Although she'd always been embarrassed by her overlapping teeth, at 46 she'd resigned herself to her imperfect smile. But when the dentist pointed out that it was more than just a cosmetic issue - it's harder to clean between crooked teeth - Richardson, a jewelry designer in Boca Raton, FL, signed on for the mouthful of hardware normally associated with teens. Indeed, soon after, she and her 14-year-old son became a matched pair. Now, four years later, Richardson says, "I look for reasons to smile."

There are a host of cosmetic and medical conditions, from crooked teeth to reading difficulties, that are normally corrected in childhood. But if you missed out, now is the time to reconsider. Thanks to treatment advances and the extra motivation that maturity brings, it might be an even better time. "Fixing an issue you've had for many years can give you a huge boost in self-esteem," says Lauren Ozbolt, M.D., assistant professor of clinical psychiatry at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. And you won't be the only grown-up trying to squeeze into the tiny seats in the waiting room: More and more adults are now confronting these formerly "kids-only" problems. 

Crooked Teeth

The over-18 crowd makes up nearly a quarter of orthodontic patients, reports the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). One reason women may be more interested is the development of more aesthetic hardware, like enamel-colored braces and removable clear aligners that slide over teeth (Invisalign is the best-known brand), says Michael B. Rogers, D.D.S., president of the AAO.

The downside to having waited: Teeth that have twisted for many years try harder to return to their original positions once braces are removed. Your orthodontist may attach a wire to the backs of your teeth or send you to a periodontist who'll snip tiny gum fibers that may pull the teeth. Expect to pay around $5,000 (likely more in big cities); some dental policies cover the procedure, but many pay only for kids 18 and under.

Klutziness

Some women knock over their water glasses or bump into doors so often, they assume clumsiness is part of their makeup. Wrong. One reason may be that muscles are weak, says Mary Ann Wilmarth, D.P.T., chief of physical therapy at Harvard University Health Services. "Even if you work out regularly, you could be shortchanging certain areas," she says. Having a weak rotator cuff in your shoulder, for example, can cause you to rely on your smaller hand muscles when reaching for dishes in the cupboard, which leads you to drop them. Poorly toned hip muscles could make you trip when navigating curbs. A physical therapist can show you the best strength-training exercises and work with you on ways to move more fluidly. You might also want to learn to focus your mind (one effective way: incorporating the practice of mindfulness into your regimen). Robin Dilley, a psychologist in Phoenix, loved to hike, but was always falling over her feet until she realized how often she was thinking about something else. Once she began focusing on the trail, the problem disappeared. 

Reading Issues

Up to one in five Americans have dyslexia, making it challenging for them to get through a best seller - or even a menu. If they weren't diagnosed in school, many may incorrectly assume they're simply slow readers - "or even stupid," says Sally Shaywitz, M.D., codirector of the Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity. But dyslexia is neurological: Disruptions in key brain circuits affect the ability to retrieve or correctly order the basic sounds of language, explains Dr. Shaywitz. Telltale clues - beyond reading in a way that feels plodding and deliberate - include exceptionally poor spelling and knowing a word but being unable to utter it correctly.

Although the process is time- consuming, you can overcome dyslexia. It requires relearning the basics of reading, all the way back to learning how to sound out words. Group classes for adults typically meet at libraries, adult education centers, or offices of nonprofit literacy organizations several times a week for a year or longer. You can also have private lessons with a tutor. Two reading programs that Dr. Shaywitz recommends: the Wilson Reading System (wilsonlanguage.com) and Language (voyagerlearning.com/language). 

Lazy Eye

For many years, doctors believed that if you didn't strengthen the vision in a "lazy eye" by the second grade - generally by patching the stronger eye for several hours a day - you were out of luck. "The thinking was that after age 7, the brain would not make the needed corrections," says Michael Repka, M.D., professor of ophthalmology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. But new research suggests that the age limit might be extended: A University of California, Berkeley study found, for example, that adults playing video games (with the stronger eye patched) for about two hours a day for 40 hours could improve visual acuity by 30% - one to two lines on an eye chart.

If your lazy eye is caused by a muscle weakness (strabismus), the same surgery that straightens out misaligned eyes in children works in adults, too. Susan Reale of Oakland, CA, had that operation at age 38 to correct an extremely turned-in right eye. A dozen years later, she marvels at how much the surgery has changed her life, allowing her to open her own consulting firm, where she interviews customers face-to-face for corporations: "Before, it was difficult to connect with people because they thought I was staring over their shoulders. Now they know I'm looking them right in the eye." 

Speech Disorders

Shannon Armes of Wilsons, VA, worried that her lifelong inability to say even her first name without stuttering would hold back her career. So three years ago, at the age of 31, she enrolled in a 12-day intensive program, spending eight hours each day practicing new techniques until her speech was fluid. "The therapy was incredibly challenging, but it gave me skills that have transformed my life," says Armes, who has been promoted to a new job in customer service. And last summer, she was thrilled to be able to say her wedding vows without stuttering.

There are about a dozen intensive programs for stuttering in the United States and Canada, but they can be expensive. (Armes's cost about $3,500, only half of which was covered by insurance.) To find a center, go to stutteringhelp.org and click on Referrals, then on Intensive Clinics. You can also work with a local speech-language pathologist (SLP) either on an intense basis or for a few days each week for several months, says Diane R. Paul, Ph.D., of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. (For a listing of SLPs, go to asha.org/findpro.)

Breaking a lisp can be easier: Substituting the "th" sound for the "s" involves focusing on just one pattern. An SLP will diagnose faulty tongue positions and prescribe exercises.

If you haven't outgrown it, you can still put an end to...

 

Nail biting

Not surprisingly, women use this unconscious repetitive behavior (hair pulling is another) to shake off stress or boredom, says Fred Penzel, Ph.D., a psychologist in Huntington, NY. He advises adults to keep a log of when, where, and in what moods they're more likely to bite their nails, then find other ways to use their fingers during those times. Penzel's favorites: popping Bubble Wrap, manipulating Silly Putty, or playing with toothed hardware washers (their points stimulate the fingers). In addition, a 2011 Israeli study found that wearing a vinyl wristband can serve as a reminder of your desire to quit and help steel your resolve.

 

Sleepwalking

A just-released survey from the Stanford Sleep Epidemiology Research Center in California found that 29% of adults have walked in their sleep at least once in their lives and close to 3% do so regularly. First, you need to rule out medical causes, such as sleep apnea or medication side effects. Then, if none is found, you might want to try a treatment known as "anticipatory awakening": setting your alarm to rouse you a half hour before you typically wander, suggests John Villa, D.O., medical director of the Institute for Sleep-Wake Disorders at the Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey. One or two sessions of hypnosis can also help, one study has found.

- by Meryl Davids Landau

Invisalign Q & A

Are you wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you are in treatment? You’re not alone in your concerns!
We at Tagawa & Curtis Orthodontics thought that we would share this list of questions and answers for anyone pondering Invisalign treatment from our office.

How exactly does Invisalign work?
Using 3-D computer imaging technology, Invisalign creates a series of custom-made, clear aligners exclusively for your teeth, based on the treatment plan that we specify for you. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.

Will I experience pain during treatment?
Most people experience temporary discomfort for a few days after a new aligner is placed. This feeling of pressure is normal and is a sign that Invisalign is working by sequentially moving your teeth to their final destination.

Can other people see that I’m in treatment?
One of the benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing, though they may be slightly noticeable to anyone who is close to you.

Can I smoke during treatment?
We discourage smoking while wearing the aligners as they may become discolored.

Are there any foods I shouldn’t eat while in treatment?
You can eat normally during the entire course of treatment. One of the advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. Simply take the aligners out before each meal, brush when you’re finished eating, then reinsert the aligners afterward.

What about chewing gum?
We recommend removing your aligners for all meals and snacks, as gum and other chewy substances can stick to the aligners.

How often must I wear my aligners?
Aligners should be worn all day, except when eating, brushing, and flossing.

Will my speech be affected by the aligners?
As with any orthodontic treatment, aligners may temporarily affect your speech. If this does happen, your tongue will adjust within a day or two and your speech should return to normal.

How do I clean my aligners?
The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water.

How often must I visit the office during treatment?
For most patients, visits every 6-10 weeks are frequent enough for us to determine that your treatment is progressing properly. We will provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan.

If you have additional questions about the Invisalign treatment, please give our office a call at 714-990-5414. You can find further information at our website www.breasmiles.com or our Facebook page www.facebook.com/breasmiles .

Oral Piercing

Oral piercing is a form of body art and self-expression that is popular among teenagers and young adults. While piercings of the tongue, lip or cheek might seem safe because “everyone has them,” that’s not entirely true. The mouth is a moist place, which means it’s a breeding ground for bacteria and infection. And the primary danger of oral piercing is increased risk of infection. There are other risks, too. Oral piercings can also chip or crack teeth, cause nerve damage and produce an allergic reaction to metal. Some people also notice that it’s more difficult to speak, chew and swallow after piercings.

 

Do the smart thing and have your teenager see a dentist before piercing. Learning about the potential risks will make for a happier, healthier loved one.

 

And if your teen decides to go ahead with a piercing, make sure he or she keeps it clean! This is the single most effective way to fight off infection. And if your teen notices any of the following symptoms, schedule a dentist appointment right away:

 

·        Pain, soreness or swelling

·        Chipped or cracked teeth

·        Damage to fillings

·        Sensitivity to metals

·        Numbness

Congratulations to Dr. Curtis on his re-certification with the American Board of Orthodontics!

What is a Board Certified Orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed an American Dental Association accredited graduate program in the specialty of orthodontics. A dentist who graduates from a specialty program becomes an orthodontic specialist who is eligible to become board certified through the voluntary examination process of The American Board of Orthodontics (ABO). Involvement in the certification process is a demonstration of the orthodontist's pursuit of continued proficiency and excellence.

The certification process involves a thorough Written Examination covering all areas of information on which an orthodontist should be knowledgeable. Successful passage allows the orthodontist to present treated cases which will be evaluated by expert examiners of the Board during a Clinical Examination. Certification is now awarded for a time-limited period and the orthodontist must re-examine on a periodic basis to retain the board certified status.

Always verify the certifying board when an orthodontist does not provide this information. The ABO is the only certifying board recognized by the American Association of Orthodontists and the American Dental Association. An orthodontist certified by the ABO may use these logos:

For more information about orthodontic board certification visit http://www.americanboardortho.com/about/.

The Benefits of Damon Clear braces

Can you tell who's wearing Damon Clear and who isn't?

With Damon Clear, people may not even realize you're wearing braces. Other clear or so-called invisible braces have visible metal parts or elastic ties that can yellow during treatment. But tieless Damon Clear braces are more discrete and resistant to staining and discoloration all throughout treatment.

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Fast Treatment

See results faster than you might think. While treatment time can vary, clinical studies demonstrate that Damon System treatment is up to six months faster than traditional braces.²

And while invisible aligners can be effective at straightening some crooked teeth, not everyone is a candidate. In contrast, Damon Clear works 24 hours a day, seven days a week to perfectly align ALL teeth for a phenomenal smile that enhances your entire facial appearance.
Another benefit: No need to worry about lost, misplaced or forgotten clear aligners, so you get in and out of treatment quickly.

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Extraordinary Results

Clinical studies demonstrate that Invisalign can help straighten teeth but does not treat as effectively as braces and delivers limited results.³ In fact, one study found that the mean accuracy of tooth movement with Invisalign was only 41%.⁴ With Damon Clear, you get more than straight teeth. A Damon doctor will take into account your unique facial proportions when aligning your teeth, bite and smile. In no time at all you'll have the smile and facial profile and aesthetics you've always dreamed about.

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Greater Comfort without Tightening

Clinical studies show that the Damon System provides more comfortable orthodontic treatment than traditional braces.⁵

Damon Clear uses tieless braces that don't need to be "tightened" and are gentle to the teeth and tissues. Other styles of braces use elastics or active clips that bind archwires in place, which can slow down treatment and cause pain.

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A Great Smile for a Lifetime

Deciding what type of treatment you want can be a difficult decision. Traditional braces, invisible aligners or Damon Clear? When making your decision, be sure to look at the big picture. Don't focus solely on what you will experience during your time in treatment. Focus on what you will look like for the rest of your life. With Damon Clear, you'll benefit from fast, comfortable braces that are virtually invisible during treatment. And after treatment, you'll have a spectacular smile that goes beyond just straight teeth.

Following the end of treatment, teeth often have a tendency to return to their original positions, which is called a relapse. There are a variety of factors that may influence the possibility of relapse including the type of treatment. One study showed that patients treated with Invisalign relapsed more than those treated with braces.⁶ Damon System results are built to last. However, because all teeth have a tendency to relapse, it may be necessary to wear some type of removable retention device at night – such as a Damon Splint – following treatment.
No Speech Impediments

Some people suffer from speech impediments with invisible aligners. With Damon Clear, you don't have to worry about any speech problems.

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Few Office Visits

Damon System treatment requires fewer office visits than traditional braces and invisible aligners. On average, patients treated with the Damon System require seven fewer office appointments than patients who undergo traditional orthodontic treatment.⁷ That means more convenience for you regardless of your level of busy activity or lifestyle.

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Easy to Keep Clean

Clinical studies indicate that the elastomeric rings of traditional braces collect more bacteria and plaque and can lead to adverse gingival conditions.⁸ Unlike traditional clear braces, Damon Clear does not use elastomeric rings, so your braces are easy to keep clean.

Please call us at 714-990-5414 to schedule a complimentary consultation to see if Damon Clear is right for you.

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1. Invisalign is a registered trademark of Align Technology, Inc.
2. Eberting JJ, Straja SR, Tuncay OC. Treatment time, outcome and patient satisfaction comparisons of Damon and conventional brackets. Clinical Orthodontics and Research 2001; 4(4):228-234.
3. Djeu G, Shelton C, Magazini A. Outcome assessment of Invisalign and traditional orthodontic treatment compared with the American Board of Orthodontics objective grading system. American Journal of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics 2005; 128(3):292-298.
4. Kravitz N, Kusnoto B, BeGole E, Obrez A, Agrane B. A prospective clinical study evaluating the efficacy of tooth movement with Invisalign. Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop 2009;135:27-35.
5. Berger J. Self-ligation in the year 2000, a comparative assessment of conventional ligation and self-ligation bracket systems. Journal of Clinical Orthodontics 2000.
6. Eberting et al.
7. Sousa R, Magnani M, Nouer D, Silva C, Klein M, Sallum E, Goncalves R. Periodontal and microbiologic evaluation of two methods of archwire ligation: Ligature wires and elatomeric rings. American Journal of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics 2008; 134(4):506-512.
8. Daniel Kuncioa D, Maganzinib A, Sheltonc C, Freemand K. Invisalign and Traditional Orthodontic Treatment Postretention Outcomes Compared Using the American Board of Orthodontics Objective Grading System. Angle Orthodontist, Vol 77, No 5, 2007.

 

When should my child visit the orthodontist?

Great question!

Braces were originally considered to be appropriate for teens, but now kids as young as 5 years old are beginning their early (or phase I) orthodontic treatment. However, early treatment is not necessary for every child and is reserved for children with growth issues, severe crowding, underbites, overbites and crossbites.

Most orthodontic treatment begins between ages nine and 14, and lasts from one to three years, with two years being the average. It is important that children be screened no later than age 7 for us to assess what the best age for treatment is.

We hope this helps! Please give us a call at 714-990-5414 if you would like to schedule a complimentary consultation to have us evaluate your child's unique situation.

TMD and Orthodontic Treatment

by Gerald Nelson, DDS

There has been some compelling research relative to Temporo-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD) and orthodontic treatment.  Researchers are now convinced that orthodontic treatment, even when extractions are involved, is not connected to the incidence or onset of TMD.  Researchers are also convinced that orthodontic treatment will not effectively relieve or cure TMD. 

 In the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dento-facial Orthopedics,(AJO-DO) Mar 1991, 'Extraction, orthodontic treatment, and CMD' by Dibbets and van der Weele, could find no association between extraction or non-extraction treatment and TMJ pain, limitation of opening, crepitation, or condylar deformation. 

 In the May 1991 issue of the AJODO, 'Orthodontic treatment and TMJ' by Sadowsky, Theisen and Sakois examined 160 patients before and after fixed orthodontic appliances to record changes in joint sounds.  Slightly fewer patients had joints sounds after treatment.  No difference was detected between extraction and non-extraction patients.

 In the same issue, 'Condylar position and maxillary first premolar extraction, 'Gianelly, Coxxani, and Boffa compared the condylar position in the fossa of 17 controls with 17 patients treated with removal of upper first bicuspids.  Computed tomography was used to evaluate condylar position.  They found that condylar position was unrelated to treatment, bite depth, inter-incisal angle, and maxillary incisor inclination. 

 In the August,1991 issue of the AJODO, 'Premolar extraction therapy', by Kudinger, Austin, Christensen, Donegan, and Ferguson compared 29 controls with 29 upper first bicuspid extraction patients.  They checked joint space with computed tomography, and muscle activity with electro-myograms.  No differences were detected between the two groups. 

 In the January 1992 issue of the AJODO, 'Premolar extraction and mandibular position' by Luecke and Johnston showed that the mandibular position comes slightly forward (0.5mm) in the fossa as a result of orthodontic treatment when extractions are done.  This contradicts claims that orthodontic extraction therapy leads to a distal displacement of the condyle. 

 In the same issue, 'Risk factors for TMD' by Kremenak, Kinser, Harman, Menard, and Jakobssen found no significant differences in TMD risk factors of patients before and after treatment, or between extraction or non-extraction groups. 

 In the same issue, 'Study of signs of TMD', by Hirata, Heft, Hernandez, and King found that the incidence of TMD signs for the treatment group and control group were not significantly different. 

 In the same issue, 'Orthodontic treatment and TMD' by Rendell, Norton, and Gay found no relationship in 451 patients between either the onset of TMJ pain and dysfunction and the course of orthodontic treatment or the change in TMJ pain and dysfunction and the course of orthodontic treatment.

 Given these studies, clinicians can be satisfied that orthodontic treatment does not cure or cause TMD.  This does not detract from the many benefits of good orthodontic care, which must be based on thoughtful functional and esthetic goals.

Ten tips to keep your braces clean

Keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever when you have braces! Food bits have more spots than usual to hide in your mouth, so you must be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. If you remove plaque regularly during treatment, you'll experience better results and shorter treatment time. Keep plaque at bay with these top ten tips:

1. One tooth at a time. When you brush, take time with each individual tooth – at least 10 seconds each – and pay careful attention to the spots where your teeth touch your braces.

2. It’s all about the angles. Brush the tops of your teeth and braces with your brush angled down toward where they meet. Brush the bottoms of your teeth and braces with your brush angled up.

3. The tooth, the whole tooth, nothing but the tooth. While the front surface of your teeth may seem like the most logical to clean, it’s equally important to clean the inner surface of your teeth (tongue side) as well as the chewing surface. And be sure to clean along your gum line – a key spot for plaque buildup.

4. Step 1: eat, step 2: clean. While you’re in treatment, it’s important to brush after every meal. Bits of food can easily get caught between braces and teeth, and these food bits interact with bacteria in your mouth to cause decay. The longer food is in contact with your teeth, the greater opportunity for plaque to form. If you are eating somewhere that you can’t brush, thoroughly rinse your mouth with water.

5. Like a Boy Scout, always be prepared. The easiest way to be sure you can brush after every meal is to get in the habit of taking a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss with you wherever you go. Designate a special container just for your teeth-cleaning tools and keep it in your purse, backpack, or laptop case.

6. Remove the moving parts. If you have elastic bands or headgear, remove these parts before you brush or floss.

7. Fluoride is your friend. Fluoride helps prevent cavities. Be sure to brush with fluoride toothpaste, and rinse with fluoride mouthwash.

8. Pointy brushes reach tiny places. Interproximal brushes (sometimes called proxy brushes or interdental brushes) are cone-shaped and come in very handy for reaching spots around your braces that standard brushes can’t.

9. Find the floss for you. Regular floss works for some patients, but others find it easier to work with a floss threader, which helps you get the floss into tight places. Other patients like an all-in-one product called Superfloss, which comes with a stiff end for easy threading, a spongy section for cleaning wide spaces, and regular floss for narrow spaces.

10. Make time for the pros. It’s your job to take care of the everyday cleaning. But make sure to visit your dentist regularly while in treatment, to get the deep, thorough cleaning that only a professional can provide. If you need help finding the right Dentist for you, feel free to contact our office - we’d love to help!

We hope this helps, and remember to give our team a call if you ever have any questions!

Tagawa & Curtis Orthodontics
230 S. Orange Ave.
Brea, CA 92821
714-990-5414
http://www.breasmiles.com/

Braces? At My Age?

By Peter Jaret
WebMD Feature

Feel a little self conscious about your crooked teeth? You aren’t alone. Thankfully, braces aren't just for kids any more. Today, adults make up nearly 20% of brace wearers, says Michael B. Rogers, DDS, president of the American Association of Orthodontists.

Although there are many reasons for adults to consider braces, most people simply want to look and feel their best. Here are a few leading reasons to make a trip to the ortho:

A straighter smile. It’s no surprise that many people want to perfect their pearly whites to achieve a winning smile. And, those smiles pay off. A recent study compared people's reactions to photos that were manipulated to show either straight or crooked teeth. People with straight teeth rated higher on scores of leadership, popularity, and sports ability. (The only score that didn't change was intelligence.)

Shifting teeth. Just because you had braces as a kid doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. "Teeth tend to move a little throughout your life," Rogers says. "Your teeth may shift a little back toward their original positions."

Better oral health. It’s no surprise that straight teeth are easier to brush and floss. So -- if you’re doing your part -- expect less decay and healthier gums, says Pamela K. McClain, DDS, president of the American Academy of Periodontology. Antibacterial mouth rinses can also help keep your teeth and gums free of plaque-causing bacteria.

Braces can help people manage some more serious issues too, like bite problems that cause jaw pain. In some cases, braces are necessary to change the position of neighboring teeth for a new bridge, crown, or implant.

New Options

Thankfully, we’ve come a long way from the days when kids were called "Brace Face." Today’s options are barely noticeable. They include:

• Ceramic braces made of a clear material that is much less obvious than traditional metal braces.
• Brackets attached to the back of teeth to hold the wires that pull teeth into a new position.
• Customized plastic aligners that fit like tooth guards over teeth, gently moving them into a new position.

What to Expect

How long you'll need to wear braces depends on what you have done. Most treatments range from 12 to 44 months. "Adult teeth sometimes take longer than children's teeth to move into new positions,” Rogers says. “But in many cases there's no real difference."

Once teeth are in the desired position, you are likely to need to wear a retainer. Many orthodontists now recommend permanent retainers that are fitted and attached to the back of teeth.

Cost also varies widely depending on the extent of treatment. The typical range is $4,000 to $8,000. A growing number of dental plans cover all or part of orthodontic treatment. Many orthodontists offer discounts if you pay the entire fee up front. If you can't spring that, talk to your orthodontist about monthly installments or other payment plans.