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Palate Expander Alternatives: 6 Dental Treatment Options

Palate Expander Alternatives: 6 Dental Treatment Options

Are there palate expander alternatives for adult patients? Palate expanders are a standard oral device used in pre-adolescent children. However, teens and adults can also benefit from this dental apparatus. An orthodontic appliance such as palate expanders can treat common dental conditions like a narrow upper jaw. Keep reading to learn more about different palate expanders, how they work, and other alternatives for this treatment.

 

What is a Palate Expander?

Palatal or palate expanders are orthodontic devices that make more space in a kid’s mouth by widening the roof of the mouth over time.palate expander alternatives

The objective of palatal extension is to adjust narrow palates in children and accurately widen the upper jaw and teeth. In fact, this method can only be achieved before the jaw ultimately develops.

In addition, palatal expansion at a young age is the best approach to prevent crowded teeth, bad bites, and other misalignment issues.

 

What Dental Issues Can a Palatal Expander Fix?

A narrow space in the mouth can affect how the teeth fit together. As a matter of fact, this usually leads to substantial dental complications. Luckily, wearing a palatal expander can help create more areas in the mouth by widening the upper arch and helps fix dental issues like:

  • Overcrowding
  • Crossbites
  • Arch constriction

Most of the time, dentists recommend palate expanders for young children. This is because the mouth at a young age is still developing and more receptive to treatment. In fact, the upper jaw has two bones connected by a stitch and does not close until the early teen years. However, palate expanders can likewise be helpful for adult patients, even though the treatment might take longer.

 

Types of Palate Expanders

There are a few kinds of palatal expanders. Some are simply removable, and others are intended to stay fixed in the mouth for quite a long time. With the help of your orthodontist, you can decide which type is ideal for your condition.

 

Removable Palate Expander

Removable palate expanders are only ideal for minor jaw widening. You should wear this orthodontic device 24 hours a day, except while playing sports, eating, and brushing teeth. Removable expanders may just need the screw turned two or three times each week rather than daily or twice every day.

 

Hyrax Rapid Palatal Expander

The hyrax has bands that can fit cozily around individual back molars. Your dentist attaches these bands to the teeth, securing the device in place.

Furthermore, the screw-in this palatal expander is in the middle, under the top of the mouth. You will have a key to turn the screw, with directions on how to do it.

 

Quad helix appliance

Like hyrax, the quad helix is another type of fixed expander. Your orthodontist also adheres this device onto the back molars. In fact, over time, it gently opens independently and does not need manual adjustments at home.

 

Haas expander

Haas expanders is also a type of fixed expander that your dentist glued onto the back molars. The screw is also in the middle of an acrylic plate that extends when adjusted. In any case, this method creates pressure on the teeth and palate.

 

How to Adjust Palatal Expanders

If you have a manual expander, your orthodontist will ensure you have written instructions or videos on how to turn the screw. They will likewise give you a schedule or outline, so you can monitor how Invisalign clear alignerregularly you adjust your expander.

The palate expander has a row of small openings that you will be able to notice as you turn the screw. Your dentist will give you a key that looks like an opened paperclip connected to a handle.

For adjustment, you need to insert the key into the screw and rotate it toward the back of the mouth. This will help you achieve the desired expansion in your mouth. Furthermore, the rotation makes another hole show up. And remember that a new opening will not appear if you do not yet complete the process.

 

Do Palate Expanders Hurt?

A palate expander does not hurt while you are wearing it. In fact, even adjusting it should not make any painful side effects.

However, adjusting the expander may cause slight pressure along the roof of the mouth or a tingling sensation in the baby or permanent teeth. This feeling might extend upward to your nose or eyes. Furthermore, it commonly goes on around 5 minutes before dissipating totally.

 

Other Side Effects of A Palate Expander

Wearing a palate expander usually creates a gap to form between the two upper front teeth. In fact, this is a common effect of jaw widening, and the space typically closes all alone over time.

However, some temporary effects of using a palate expander may incorporate:

  • headaches
  • lisping
  • drooling

 

Alternatives to Palate Expanders

Palate expanders are just one of many orthodontic appliances used to fix bite problems. As a matter of fact, even an adult palatal expansion can be beneficial for patients with fully developed jaw or having permanent teeth. In any case, other treatment options may also fit your certain dental condition.

 

Braces

Traditional braces are a standard orthodontic appliance used to address various dental issues. They are also usually associated with children ages 11 and 13. However, older teen and adult patients can benefit from this treatment.

 

Invisalign

This option is an excellent alternative to traditional metal braces. Invisalign uses clear aligners instead of metal wires and brackets. In fact, it is a popular choice among older teens and adults. However, this treatment is not ideal for treating severe cases.

 

Herbst

This oral appliance helps address overbites. Your dentist will attach Herbst devices to the back teeth and move the lower jaw into a correct alignment bit by bit.

 

Distal Jet

This permanent appliance is similar to a palate expander that sits on the roof of the mouth. In fact, a distal jet pushes the upper teeth back to create a space for other teeth or to adjust rotated teeth.

 

Teeth Removal

Sometimes, your dentist may suggest that impacted teeth be surgically removed to prevent overlapping or overcrowded teeth. Your dentist may also recommend tooth extractions for molars that do not have enough space to erupt through the gums.

 

Jaw Surgery

Corrective jaw surgery is the best option when dental conditions cannot be corrected with orthodontic devices.

 

Getting an Orthodontic Treatment

While orthodontics is usually associated with children, adult patients can also benefit from this treatment. In fact, various treatments can help adults correct alignment issues and improve overall oral health.

New Jersey Orthodontics offers different modern ways to improve a patient’s smile. With our trained and qualified dentists, you can achieve your desired outcome. To schedule an appointment, feel free to email us at info@newjerseyortho.org or call us at (01) 435-683-3660 today! If you’re in Australia, you can also visit Radiant Smiles’ clinic in Bundoora, VIC for a consultation.

 

References:

What Causes Crooked Teeth?

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/adult-orthodontics/what-causes-crooked-teeth

Braces.

https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/braces-and-retainers#1

What to know about tooth extraction.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327170

Orthodontic Treatment with Clear Aligners and The Scientific Reality Behind Their Marketing: A Literature Review.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7018497/

How To Eat With A Palate Expander? 5 Food Techniques To Try

How To Eat With A Palate Expander? 5 Food Techniques To Try

Specific orthodontic issues are brought on by a lack of sufficient bone development to accommodate the upper front teeth. In this situation, a palate spreading gadget is quite helpful. However, after coming home with a bright new expander, you might be wondering what could happen while wearing a palate expander. So, if you’re wondering how to eat with a palate expander, you’ve come to the right place. This article will discuss all you will need to know when adjusting to your new palatal expander.

 

 

Overview

According to several pieces of research, modern times have led to the development of humans to get more minor features and narrower dental arches than their forefathers. This is owing to the fact that modern food is softer than before. Unfortunately, small dental arches cause impacted teeth, overcrowding, and extensive buccal corridors, resulting in an unflattering smile. To address this concern, dentists use palatal expanders. This dental accessory assists in broadening the dental arches and provide more space for our front teeth. Buccal corridors are the dark areas between the teeth and cheeks. They are regarded to be more beautiful when smaller. Therefore, palatal expanders are a piece of crucial orthodontic equipment.

 

What Is a Palatal Expander?

There are cases when there is enough room for the upper teeth. However, other people’s palate is smaller, which hinders speech. In other circumstances, an individual’s palate appears much higher. This condition restricts the quantity of air that can travel through the nose, making deep breathing difficult without opening the mouth.

A palatal expander is a popular treatment that provides moderate pressure to the upper jaw or roof of the mouth. This appliance will help minimize, prevent, or reduce the severity of teeth and jaw issues.

Typically, a palatal expander is a standard orthodontic treatment for children at a young age. Experts recommend this technique to take advantage of before going through significant changes in the jaw and teeth area.

 

How Does a Palate Expander Work?

overview of palate expanderPalate expanders are made up of two parts connected to the two sides of the jaw’s upper rear teeth. A screw is usually used to join these parts of the mouth, and it sits higher at the center of the mouth. You’ll grab hold of the key to turn and rotate the screw on a set timetable. This causes both parts of the jawbone to expand and move apart as a result of the strain.

Each palate expander is customized per patient. The orthodontist will make an imprint on the upper jaw and teeth. This impression will be transferred to a specialized professional, where the expander will be manufactured to suit the mouth exactly.

 

What Should I Expect After Treatment?

Patients may find it increasingly challenging to eat and regularly speak throughout therapy, typically lasting from four to six months. This might cause problems in your day-to-day routine, especially if your profession requires you to talk in front of others. However, with enough practice, you should be able to speak and eat much more manageable within a week or two.

 

How to Eat with a Palate Expander?

Suppose you have a palatal expander and are worrying about your ability to eat. In that case, you can follow the steps below to help transition to your new device. Here are a few tips that you can consider:

 

1. Cutting your food into smaller pieces

Before putting food into your mouth, you can start by chopping it into tiny bits. For example, cut spaghetti or noodles into smaller pieces. Doing this will save you from choking or gagging when you try to swallow. To assist you eat meals more smoothly, you can try drinking some water and slightly tilt your head back.

 

2. Sticking to soups and mashed potato 

Since feeling the roof of your mouth will be a challenge, it can be tough to swallow food and even saliva. As a result, you need to stick to liquid and soft foods. These include mashed potatoes and gravy or soups. Until you acclimatize, you can gradually introduce more solid and slightly soft foods, and your eating will return to normal.

 

3. Avoiding sticky and hard foods

You must be highly cautious about the foods you consume and how you consume them. Sticky and hard foods can do a lot of harm to your dental accessory. Avoid chewy foods such as licorice, taffy, gums, and caramels. Also, crunchy foods like nuts, popcorn, and ice are not a good choice.

 

what to eat palate expander4. Committing to a well-balanced diet

It is a general principle to feed your body with nutritious food daily. You need to encourage the consumption of a variety of fruits and vegetables. This goes as well for whole grains, meat, and dairy products. Additionally, you may also include fun meals like ice cream, yogurt, and pudding. These foods will be the most convenient for you to eat with an expander while also keeping the nutrients to your developing bodies.

 

5. Caring after each meals

Eventually, food will become stuck on and beneath your expander. This situation might be aggravating, but a needleless syringe or Waterpik can help you manage your concern. You’ll find yourself cleaning food out from under your expander more frequently than you’d want at first. However, with practice, you’ll learn to eat in such a manner that soft foods get to where they should.

 

Final Words of Advice

Keeping your gums, teeth, and palatal expander clean will be your top priority while wearing it. These details are crucial because a puffy and unbrushed mouth might develop over the bands and slow down tooth mobility. This concern may lengthen the time you have to wear your expanders. Moreover, an unhealthy oral condition can cause swollen, inflamed, and painful sensations and could often result in complications.

Lastly, it is essential to keep practicing, even if it’s incredibly challenging at first. At those times when you feel tempted to discontinue your treatment, just imagine how your smile will look once your expander is taken out.

 

References:

https://www.healthline.com/health/palate-expander

https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/health-wellness-and-safety-resources/helping-hands/dental-wearing-a-palatal-expander

https://www.houzz.com/discussions/2412737/food-recommendations-for-kid-with-expander

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/oral-health

How To Fix Pointy Canine Teeth? (Dental Treatment Options)

How To Fix Pointy Canine Teeth? (Dental Treatment Options)

Whether it is slightly crooked, sharpened, or prominent canines, we all have flaws in our smiles that we are not quite in favor of. Believe it or not, many people across the world are looking for ways on how to fix pointy canine teeth. Thanks to the advanced practices in cosmetic dentistry, we now have tooth recontouring options that can help resolve your aesthetic concerns. If you are interested in transforming your dental structure, you’ve come to the right place. Take part in our discussion and find out how you can bring beauty and confidence to your smile. The dentists from Maroondah Dental Care in Croydon, VIC can help you achieve the perfect smile you’ve always dreamed of!

 

 

Why Are Canine Teeth Pointed?

Canine teeth, also called vampire fangs, closely resemble that of a dog’s teeth. They are commonly found adjacent to our incisors. Two are located at the top, while the other two are at the bottom.

Several decades ago, our ancestors used their canines as their primary weapon for survival. Up to date, our canines allow us to grasp, hold, and shred food. This further explains why human canines have more extensive roots than the rest of our teeth. As years went by, evolution helped us get over our primal instincts and use canines less frequently. While a sharp tip is typical for this type of tooth, some people, on the other hand, have canines that appear to be considerably more prominent or pointier than others.

 

How To Fix Pointy Canine Teeth?

While there’s nothing wrong with having an additional pointiness in your canine teeth, it is normal for patients to feel self-conscious about their teeth’ vampire-like appearance. As vampire teeth significantly protrude beyond the length of their neighboring teeth, those who have it might experience being teased for its look.

If you are looking for ways on how to fix pointy canine teeth, there are two complementary options that you can consider. Depending on your dental structure and preferences, you can choose which one is more suitable for your needs.

 

Tooth Reshaping

how to fix canine teetth reshapingTooth reshaping, otherwise known as tooth recontouring, is a branch of cosmetic dentistry that involves the process of filing down the excess enamel from your canines. Through this method, the cosmetic dentist scrapes the pointy edges of your vampire teeth to provide a better shape on your cuspids. This allows your canines to blend more accurately with the rest of your teeth.

This treatment is best for you if you are looking for a simple and straightforward solution to improve your canine teeth. Many people swear by this procedure as you can see the results in an instant.

 

Dental Bonding

To make the most out of treatment, your dentist might also recommend an additional procedure to strengthen your cuspid teeth. Following your tooth reshaping treatment, dental bonding is often necessary to allow a life-like feel to your teeth.

During the dental bonding process, your dentist will use resin materials that closely resemble your natural tooth color. This bonding serves as an additional coating to fill any gaps and issues that the reshaping procedure could not address. The new form will take the place of the previous extra-pointy appearance.

 

What Are the Benefits of Tooth Recontouring?

Of course, now that you don’t have to worry about extra-pointy canine teeth showing, you should be able to smile with complete confidence. This is really beneficial to your comfort and overall self-esteem. Not only that, it brings other benefits to the table.

Canine teeth that are particularly pointy might be a breeding ground for cavities and bacteria. By tooth reshaping, you dramatically reduce your chances of developing tooth decay or gum disease in the near future.

After all, the process isn’t very invasive or complex. It’s also usually pain-free. Most of the time, the procedure doesn’t even require anesthesia, so there’s really no excuse not to get your vampire teeth reshaped.

 

What To Expect on Tooth Reshaping?

Like most dental procedures, tooth reshaping may come with risks. Sanding and scraping to remove excess enamel can pose unexpected damages to your teeth. If not done correctly, such damage might require additional dental treatments. Resolving the concern will cost more time in the dentist’s chair and most likely an unbudgeted expense.

Sanding exposes the dentin by thinning out the enamel. If the teeth are not well-bonded, sensitivity may develop as a new concern. Therefore, it would be best to find a well-experienced and accomplished dental professional for your treatment. A board-certified specialist can suggest various treatments to correct all your dental concerns, including bonding, reshaping, crowns, and veneers.

 

Final Thoughts

teeth contouring resultsDo you feel conscious about smiling because of your vampire teeth? Perhaps tooth contouring and dental bonding may be the solution that you need. According to experts, one of the most sought-after treatments involves the restoration of canine teeth. Both dental bonding and tooth reshaping are low-cost dental procedures that can dramatically improve the look of your smile. Aside from creating a whole new tooth form, these procedures can also enhance the overall health of your mouth.

Do not hesitate to talk to us about your options. Here at New Jersey Orthodontics, we are the dental and orthodontic resource that will walk you through the various dental concerns. You can say goodbye to your vampire teeth and smile your way towards the beaming pearly whites that you’ve always been dreaming of.

 

Find out more from our reading resources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/teeth-names

https://www.elmsleighhouse.co.uk/blog/cosmetic-bonding-to-reshape-canine-teeth-and-improve-symmetry

https://www.everydayhealth.com/dental-health/cosmetic-dentistry/tooth-reshaping.aspx

https://www.realself.com/question/dallas-tx-pointy-canine-teeth

Teeth Alignment Options: Best Choices For Children and Adults

Teeth Alignment Options: Best Choices For Children and Adults

Do your crooked teeth get in the way of your smile or even cause you to avoid social situations? Are you feeling frustrated that straightening your teeth would take years? Then we’ve got some excellent news for you. Thanks to innovation and advanced practices in dental care, children and adults now have more teeth alignment options to straighten their teeth or fix an irregular bite. What’s even better is that these orthodontic procedures are less invasive, and the recovery period is far shorter. 

Many people are born with crooked teeth and looking for a cost-effective way to straighten them. But what else can you do if traditional treatment options seem to be too expensive? Luckily, orthodontics has come a long way in recent years. If you’ve been looking for ways on how to correct your normal bite, then this article is for you. 

 

 

What is Teeth Straightening?

Teeth straightening is a dental practice that uses external pressure to fix a person’s bite. Simply put, whether you have uneven, misplaced, or misaligned teeth, there are still many ways for you to straighten it out.

Teeth straightening methods essentially aim to improve dental hygiene by fixing oral concerns. It involves the help of an orthodontist who performs different orthodontic procedures to correct various misalignment issues, including the following:

  • Underbites
  • Overbites
  • Open bites
  • Deep bites
  • Crossbites
  • Teeth gaps

 

What Are the Advantages of Straightening Your Teeth?

As innovations in dental practice start to take over, more people are paying attention to their oral health. Many are even claiming that fixing their misaligned teeth was one of the most significant treatments they’ve ever had. With the various teeth straightening options, you might be wondering what benefits are in store for you. 

Here are the advantages you’ll get for straightening your teeth: 

 

Improves Appearance and Self-Esteem

beautiful straight teeth alignment optionsUnderstandably, many people want to improve their smiles in order to enhance their overall look. Getting rid of misaligned teeth can change the way you look, as your teeth contribute to your appearance. They improve the shape of the face by raising the mouth upwards, giving the skin a firmer and youthful appearance.

Our beauty has a significant influence on our perceptions and how we view ourselves in social situations. Therefore, being confident about our appearance can crucially affect our self-esteem.

One thing that you need to be careful is that it’s crucial to protect your teeth from blunt force. You can wear a mouthguard customized for you if you’re in to sports.

 

Boosts Oral Health 

Besides its aesthetic purposes, having straight and well-aligned teeth can significantly lower your risk of developing oral health problems. Misaligned teeth can be painful to brush, resulting in plaque buildup and tooth decay. Straightening your teeth can help you fix crooked or crowded teeth, thus allowing you to steer away from unnecessary dental concerns. 

Moreover, gaps and spaces that are too wide can lead to inflammation and redness on your gum line. Fortunately, there are several teeth straightening options that can increase gum hygiene and strengthen the body’s defenses against periodontal disease.

 

Prevent and Resolve Jaw Problems

Orthodontic procedures and teeth straightening options can help resolve jaw issues. When the teeth follow an incorrect bite, closing the jaws can cause malocclusion. According to dental experts, a bad bite, such as a significant underbite or overbite, can lead to functional issues. 

Without enough support, the jawbones can deteriorate and cause simple tasks like swallowing or chewing to become more challenging. Luckily, dental appliances such as clear aligners and metal braces can assist you in chewing your food thoroughly, which is essential for proper digestion.

 

Improves your Speech

You’re more likely to have speech issues if the teeth aren’t correctly aligned. Teeth that are overlapping, crooked, or bent can alter the position of your tongue. This condition can cause extra air to flow through your teeth, causing a whistle as you talk.

The most common way to deal with speech concerns due to crooked teeth is through restorative dentistry. Teeth alignment procedures can restore the correct placement of your teeth and tongue, thus improving the quality of your speech.

 

What Are the Top Teeth Alignment Options?

kinds of straightening optionsThe orthodontic industry has grown to become more inclusive than it was before. Advancements in cosmetic dentistry have opened up new treatment options that are easily accessible for all patients. Decades ago, many people considered traditional braces to be the only way to achieve a flawless smile. However, with all of the new solutions available today, there’s no need for someone to be left with a smile they don’t love.

If you want to know which option is right for you, you’ve come to the right place. We have compiled a comprehensive list of the top teeth alignment options, each with its disadvantages and advantages.  

 

At-Home Clear Aligners

At-home clear aligners are somewhat similar to traditional clear aligners. However, unlike Invisalign, this dental appliance does not require going to a dental clinic. Instead, its design allows the patient to self-administer conveniently at the comfort of their home. People often call this type of aligners the do-it-yourself braces because of their easy-to-use and straightforward vibes. 

For adults, at-home aligners are by far the most cost-effective yet comfortable choice to improve their smile. Therefore, if the difficulty and costs of regular dental treatments stop you from getting the orthodontic care you need, home aligners may be the answer you’re looking for.

 

Traditional Clear Aligners 

Traditional aligners are a common treatment choice for young adults because it offers a less noticeable substitute to conventional braces. Clear aligners resemble clear retainers in appearance. These come from special plastic materials that are customized to suit the teeth. Patients must wear these aligners for twenty-two hours per day, taking them out only when eating or drinking colored beverages. Invisalign and ClearCorrect are the most common in-office clear aligner labels.

 

Metal Braces

Classic metal braces often get a bad reputation due to the proliferation of modern, groundbreaking orthodontic procedures. However, there are no reasons to rule braces out of the treatment choices. Traditional braces continue to be available for a reason- they’re the most thorough and effective treatment available.

Braces may be helpful to correct a wide range of complex teeth misalignments and bite problems. Because of this feature, they’re often an alternative solution for individuals who don’t seem to be a suitable match for less conventional orthodontic options like home aligners or Invisalign.

 

Ceramic Braces

For young adults, ceramic braces are the far more discreet option to fix misaligned teeth. While these braces are somewhat similar to conventional braces, they serve more advantages. Instead of metal brackets, ceramic braces make use of clear or tooth-colored brackets. Sometimes, wires for ceramic braces are available in an off-white shade. 

Additionally, other materials for ceramic braces tend to be less painful yet slightly faster than traditional braces. As a result, patients can easily see improvements in their alignment while staying comfortable. 

 

Lingual Braces

invisible braces teeth alignment optionsLingual braces are the most discreet kind of braces. While lingual braces use the same brackets and wires as conventional braces, dentists place them at the back of the teeth rather than the front. To the naked eye, lingual braces are almost undetectable. Lingual braces are a perfect choice for those who don’t believe ceramic braces would be discreet enough.

Lingual braces can usually cost between eight to ten thousand dollars, making them an expensive choice. Still, if your primary concern with braces is their appearance, lingual braces may be the best option for you.

 

Dental Bonding

Bonding is a less common treatment choice, but it stands out because of its near-instant results and affordability. Dental bonding is a procedure that uses a resin-based filler to make minor modifications to your teeth. Dentists often recommend this treatment to repair chipped teeth, correct irregularly-formed teeth, and close gaps or spaces.

If you are looking for ways to make minor improvements to your smile, bonding can be an excellent budget-friendly option.

 

Dental Veneers

If you want to experience an overall improvement to your smile, a dental veneer should be your choice. Veneers are porcelain shells that closely resemble natural teeth. During this procedure, the cosmetic dentist will carefully place and cement the veneers over the problematic teeth. 

Your dentist would most likely need to shave off a thin layer of enamel before positioning the veneers onto your teeth. Since this procedure is permanent, it is crucial to ensure that you are ready for the treatment. On the other hand, some veneers do not require any preparation. However, you need to consult your dentist first to determine if you’re a good candidate for this treatment. Typically, the process takes only about an hour, although you should also consider significant factors. 

 

Do I Need Teeth Alignment?

why is teeth straightening importantThere are many reasons why you need teeth alignments. One of the most significant aspects revolves around gaining a sense of confidence in your smile. 

On the other hand, straightening your teeth is vital, not just for aesthetic reasons. This treatment is also essential to maintain good oral health and prevent health issues and injuries caused by crooked or misaligned teeth.

Therefore, having perfectly aligned teeth can lead to an overall improvement in your quality of life.  

 

Final Thoughts

If you want to straighten your teeth, there are several teeth alignment options available. With the proper orthodontic procedure, teeth alignment methods are effective for individuals of all ages. The only requirement is that your gums are healthy since teeth alignment places more strain on the teeth and gums.

To get the most out of your teeth straightening experience, it’s still the best to get expert advice from a board-certified dentist. They will be the ones to recommend different treatment options suitable for your oral care needs. Since every set of teeth is different, the treatment options may also vary.

 

References:

Appleby, J. (January 2020). In-Home Teeth-Straightening Business Is Booming ― But Better Brace Yourself.
https://khn.org/news/in-home-teeth-straightening-business-is-booming-―-but-better-brace-yourself/

Stanborough, R. (August 2019). What is Dental Plaque?
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/plaque

Archibald, J. (May 2020). What to know about dental veneers.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dental-veneers

(October 2020). 6 Innovations in the Dental Industry.
https://www.adia.org.au/blog/what-is-new-and-innovative-in-dentistry

How To Choose Good Colors For Braces For A More Natural Smile

How To Choose Good Colors For Braces For A More Natural Smile

Wearing braces is something that can significantly change someone’s appearance. Due to the appliance, the way they smile and talk will no longer be as natural as before. If you are wearing dental braces, it’s better to choose good colors for braces that will complement your smile. Go to this page and see how braces color affects your overall appearance.

 

When To Change Braces Color

Upon application, you will need to visit your dentists at least every after 4 weeks. And during those visits, your dental braces will be adjusted. You may opt to have the color of your braces changed if you wish to. This basically means that if you are not very fond of the color of the braces that you have right now, you won’t have to deal with it for too long.

How Many Colors Are There

Luckily, there is now a wide variety of braces color to choose from. From lighter to darker colors, you will definitely have a hard time choosing the good color for your braces. But the question is, how are you going to choose which color is best for you? There are some factors to consider, moreover, remember that whatever you choose, your braces color will have something to say about you as a person.

 

Things To Consider In Choosing Good Colors For Braces

diferent brace colorsYou may think that choosing a good color for your braces is easy, but as a matter of fact, many wearers are having a hard time choosing one, especially because there are so many colors to choose from. Drummoyne’s trusted dentists from Our Dental Care made a list to consider when choosing your braces color:

  1. Your diet. If you eat foods with dark colors, they can potentially stain your teeth and affect the color of your braces.
  2. Teeth shade. Most people do not possess sparkling white teeth. To make your teeth appear lighter, choose dark colors instead of light ones.
  3. Skin complexion. Choosing the color for your braces is like choosing the color of the clothes you wear. If there is a particular color that you don’t find quite appealing with your skin, then you probably don’t want that color in your teeth too.

Tips in Choosing Braces Color

To help you decide which color to get, here are some tips that you might find helpful:

  • Dark skin complexions will complement with pink, blue, gold, violet, and green colors.
  • For a light skin complexion, go for colors like dark blue, dark purple, or toned down red shades.
  • If you want to make your teeth appear whiter, opt for dark shades.
  • Beware of some light colors that can make your teeth seem yellow.
  • Match your braces color with your eyes.
  • Do you wear a particular color every day for work or school? Consider matching it with your braces too.
  • Want to support your favorite sports team? Choose a color that would match their uniform.
  • 4th of July and Memorial Day are both celebrated with blue, red, and white.
  • Holidays such as Christmas, Easter, or even Valentine’s day are also some of the things that you can consider.
  • Take the chance to wear dark colors during Halloween.

If you are feeling a bit more festive, you may also choose to play with two colors. Just inform your dentist and he will be happy to make your braces look better.

Patients who want to make their teeth look whiter could go for neutral colors instead. Clear, gray, or silver braces color do not attract too much attention to discolored teeth.

Colors To Avoid

Sadly, there are specific colors that just do not do justice for everyone. It may look good on others but becomes a total mess with you. Listed below are the common colors that don’t look good on almost everyone:

  • At first, white braces look neat and clean. However, it gets stained due to the colors of the food that you eat making it look yellowish over time. Apart from this, white color can make your teeth appear yellow because the enamel is often in colored shade than the bands.
  • Some colors such as dark blue or violet can make your teeth whiter since they go against the color of the natural teeth. But colors like dark green or dark brown can give an illusion of uncleaned food particles stuck between your braces.
  • Wearing yellow or gold colors can emphasize the yellow shade of your teeth.
  • Patients have different shades of teeth. Colors that look good on others may not look as appealing to you and vice versa. It’s important to know which color looks good on you in general.

Do not be scared of trying new colors from time to time. After all, you will only wear the color for a few weeks so there is no need to worry about looking unappealing for a long period of time.

 

How To Look Better With Braces

smile confidentlyBraces, specifically metal braces often affect someone’s confidence. Wearing one takes a lot of patience as the appliance could be uncomfortable to wear. But fret not because you can still look your best despite wearing braces, here are some of the things to remember if you get braces:

  • Practice smiling in front of the mirror. You will be less conscious with braces if you know exactly how you look while wearing them. To do so, practice your smile in the mirror to see if you need to make any adjustments.
  • In taking pictures, avoid using flash. Camera flashes can emphasize the metal brackets in your teeth. Sometimes, they even reflect with the metals making the main focus of the image all about your teeth.
  • Wear the correct shade of lipstick. The color of your braces should complement your lipstick color as well to make your smile look even brighter.
  • Keep your braces clean. It is quite easy to distinguish debris and food particles especially if you are wearing light-colored braces so be sure to clean them after eating.
  • Be natural. Sometimes, the harder you try to look good, the more you look strange. Remember to not overdo things and just be natural as much as possible.

 

For further reading on orthodontic treatments go to this URL: BroadfordDental.com.au.

Proper Teeth Alignment: What Should I Know About?

Proper Teeth Alignment: What Should I Know About?

According to research, only a few people are born with perfectly straight teeth. Although some opt to have their smile adjusted, others choose to leave it as it is. While a pretty smile is a compelling excuse to see an orthodontist, proper teeth alignment entails more than just straightening your teeth. You can visit CP Dental’s clinic in Emerald, QLD if you’re interested in getting a perfect set of teeth.

Many patients receive a referral for orthodontic treatment when their bite seems to be off from its correct orientation. However, this situation might become a little confusing, especially when you are already happy with the way your smile appears. So, how does a normal bite look like? Aside from the aesthetic benefits, what makes it such a relevant topic?

This article will discuss the best ways to describe a healthy smile from an orthodontist’s perspective and how having a misaligned bite affects your dental health.

 

 

What Are the Benefits of Teeth Alignment?

Even though many people view a misaligned bite as a cosmetic need, there are significant health reasons for correcting it. Proper teeth alignment will not only give you a beautiful smile but will also lower your chances of developing cavities.

Often called malocclusions, misaligned teeth are more challenging to clean with simple flossing and brushing techniques. The alignment causes your dental structure to form hard-to-reach spaces. Dental aids such as Fluoride will not penetrate these areas leading to a higher risk of tooth decay. It encourages the build-up of bacteria, dirt, and other debris, making the situation worse. Food contaminants can get stuck under or between the gums, causing chronic gum infections.

On the other hand, a misaligned bite also causes speech impediments and chewing difficulties. Though dentists may repair mild misalignments with veneers or crowns, the majority of malocclusions require orthodontic treatment.

 

What Dental Issues Require Orthodontic Treatment?

Essentially, there are no two identical smiles. Each person has a different dental structure, including its size and shape. However, it is crucial to be aware of how to examine your bite. By doing so, you can be sure to avoid unnecessary complications in your oral health.

To see if you have proper teeth alignment, a dentist will examine your bite under different perspectives:

 

Crowded Teeth

Teeth crowding happens when your jaw doesn’t have enough room for other teeth to fit comfortably.

 

Gapped Teeth

Teeth shifting or premature jaw development may be due to spaces and gaps present between teeth.

 

Crossbites

Misalignment between the lower and upper jaws.

 

Overbites

When your upper teeth stick out over the lower teeth

 

diagnose teeth misalignmentUnderbite

If your lower teeth appear to be more prominent than the upper teeth, you may have an underbite.

 

Open Bite

Open bites happen when a specific area on your teeth does not contact its adjacent teeth.

 

How Are Malocclusions Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of improper teeth alignment typically happens through a routine dental exam. While your dentist carefully examines your teeth, imaging scans, including dental x-rays, are performed. If a clear sign of malocclusion is detected, the dentist further identifies its classification.

 

Class One

This type of malocclusion shows a typical bite that does not pose a severe misalignment. As the most common type of malocclusion, the upper molars overlap with your lower molars but show signs of crowding or gaps in between your teeth.

 

Class Two

A class two malocclusion is a severe overbite where significant overlapping happens. This condition is also known as retrognathism.

 

Class Three

During a class three malocclusion, there appears to be a severe underbite. A person with this condition seems to have their lower jaw protruding forward.

 

How to Correct Teeth Alignment?

Aligners or braces are some of the most common teeth straightening options. Depending on your budget and dental needs, choosing between the two have their advantages and disadvantages.

 

Traditional Braces

Also known as contemporary braces, this orthodontic treatment focuses on the alignment of your front teeth. It allows a much faster restoration as compared to full orthodontic braces. Modern braces may be the most straightforward remedy you need to fix your teeth alignment, especially for protruding, rotated, cramped, or slightly gapped front teeth.

On average, modern braces take about four to six months for a complete procedure. They are also less expensive than aligners and are an ideal option for relapsed orthodontic treatments. If you are looking for a cost-effective solution to correct your crossbites and align your front teeth, this treatment option is for you.

 

Clear Aligners

invisalign and bracesAre you uncomfortable with brackets and wires covering your smile? Perhaps a clear aligner is what you need. Clear aligners are custom-moulded trays uniquely made to restore your dental structure. It closely resembles a mouthguard and is less distinguishable than typical braces.

During your treatment, your dentist will require you to wear your aligners for twenty-two hours a day. It means you can only remove it when washing, brushing, flossing, and eating to get a significant improvement on your dental structure.

Unlike traditional braces, a patient could only wear their clear aligners for two weeks. Once it reaches its two-week period, it needs to be replaced and switched out for another tray. Replacement allows more room for your teeth to improve their alignment. However, modifying your braces from time to time is more expensive than contemporary braces.

 

How Can Misaligned Teeth Be Prevented?

Since several factors can cause a malocclusion, prevention can be quite a challenge. Aside from many environmental factors, most cases of misaligned bites are known to be hereditary.

On the other hand, early detection of misalignment can help minimise the length and seriousness of the treatment. Therefore, it is best to visit your dentist regularly to see if there any changes in the development of your teeth’ structure.

 

References:

Hereditary Influence of Malocclusion.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0096634738901401

(October 2019). Guide to Tooth Alignment for Adults.
https://dentistry.uic.edu/news-stories/guide-to-tooth-alignment-for-adults/

Malocclusion of Teeth.
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001058.htm

Staff, H. (October 2020). Malocclusion and Orthodontics.
https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/tn1000