3 TIPS TO HELP YOU CARE FOR YOUR BRACES DURING ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT

bracesOnce you have braces, it is important that you know the best way to take care of your teeth, in order to ensure that your braces stay intact and do their job, so that your teeth are in top-notch condition after you complete your orthodontic treatment. In this post, Dr. Horner thought you would benefit from a few tips to help ensure your successful orthodontic treatment at Horner Barrow Orthodontics.

  • Brushing
    Teeth and appliances should be brushed after every meal and before bedtime using fluoride toothpaste and gentle, soft strokes. We recommend using an interdental toothbrush, which can help you clean the hard-to-reach areas under wires better than an ordinary toothbrush.
  • Flossing
    Flossing twice a day or after every meal can help you clean areas between teeth and other places a toothbrush can miss. We also recommend using a floss threader, which can be used to help you navigate safely around your braces and brackets. It is vital to floss twice a day, preferably after lunch and before bedtime to keep gum disease and tooth decay at bay.
  • Eat Friendly Foods
    When undergoing treatment, there are certain foods you must avoid. Foods that are hard, sticky, chewy or sour can add months to your treatment time. These includes gum, caramels, taco shells, nuts, ice, chips or hard candies.

VISITING YOUR DENTIST DURING ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT

Now that you have braces, are you thinking you may not have to see your dentist regularly? After all, you are now seeing Dr. Horner on a regular basis! Patients routinely ask if they should continue to see their dentist as usual, while going through orthodontic treatment.  The answer is…YES!

The best reason to visit your dentist while you undergo orthodontic treatment is to remove tartar and plaque. Having braces provides more places for food particles and bacteria to hide. Eventually, plaque and tartar can form around your brackets, or bands…and these can lead to cavities. Having your teeth regularly cleaned by your dentist can help ensure most, if not all, plaque and tartar is removed. Even if you are undergoing clear aligner treatment (or Invisalign®), dental checkups and cleanings are equally as important.

Another reason to visit a dentist is to help protect your teeth from decalcification, or the loss of calcium in your teeth. Decalcification is irreversible and if left untreated, can lead to cavities. Decalcification is preventable; patients who cut down on sugary sweets and acidic foods, practice good oral hygiene, and visit their dentist regularly can help prevent decalcification.

One more reason we recommend visiting your dentist while you have braces is that cavities aren’t good! They can prolong your treatment. If you want to complete your orthodontic treatment on time and without any delays, visiting your dentist as recommended can go a long way toward making that a realistic goal. Your dentist can provide fluoride treatments or other treatments that strengthen your teeth and protect them from cavities.

Be sure to visit your dentist, and your teeth will look their best when your braces come off. If you do not have a general dentist and would like a referral for one in the Sioux Falls area, please give us a call or let us know at your next adjustment appointment.

INVISALIGN TEEN® ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT IN SIOUX FALLS SD

If you are like many of the parents of our prospective, current, and past patients – you probably have asked yourself if braces, or Invisalign® is a good option for your teenage child. If your child has crooked teeth, an overbite, a cross-bite, or a different orofacial issue – it can likely be treated and corrected with orthodontic treatment, using either braces or Invisalign®. The question is typically asked: “Which treatment option is better for my child?” There is no right answer for that question, as it varies by the individual patient.  However, there has been a shift towards Invisalign® technology, and we want you to know why.

Invisalign-Teen

The following will provide you with information on why Invisalign Teen® is a popular orthodontic treatment option.

Invisalign® is a popular choice for many parents of patients at Horner Barrow Orthodontics. Why? It’s simple: Invisalign® offers a level of comfort, covenience, and confidence that you don’t get with metal or ceramic braces. Invisalign® is completely clear, and when worn over the teeth is virtually invisible. Invisalign® works by using a custom made series of aligners created specifically for the individual patient. There are no wires or brackets that need to be adjusted or tightened. The patient will use a new set of aligners every two weeks until the treatment has completed.

Eat what you want to Eat!

You’ve probably heard from friends that with braces you won’t be able to eat anything. With Invisalign Teen® you can eat whatever you want!

Unlike traditional metal braces, your Invisalign Teen® aligners are removable, which means you can go ahead and eat all the things you love without worrying about breaking a bracket or losing a rubber band. Talk about the best of both worlds!

QUESTIONS TO ASK AT YOUR ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT CONSULTATION

While contemplating orthodontic treatment, it’s natural that a few questions may naturally arise. Don’t be afraid to ask any questions you might have. Our staff is here to help. We’ve compiled a list here, of frequently asked questions:

  • Is there an estimated length of time that I will likely require braces?
  • How much should I expect to pay for my treatment? What are the payment options?
  • Does getting braces hurt? Is there anything I can do to prevent or minimize pain?
  • Is it likely that I will be wearing extra appliances in addition to braces to correct my overbite or other problems?
  • Are there specific foods I will need to avoid when I get braces?
  • Will braces prevent me from playing my favorite sport or musical instrument?
  • How can I keep my teeth clean with braces?
  • How often will I be expected to come in for checkups and other appointments?

Once your consultation is over, you don’t have to feel like your options are exhausted. If questions arise after the consultation, don’t be afraid to ask. Our staff will be here to help throughout the entire process.

While considering orthodontic treatment, why not take advantage of a great savings opportunity…just click on our offer below to receive your FREE exam and savings certificate.

ADULT ORTHODONTICS…MORE COMMON THAN YOU THINK

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. At Horner Barrow Orthodontics, we treat a large number of adult patients. National studies reveal that one out of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over the age of 21. The American Association of Orthodontics estimates that approximately 1,000,000 adults in the United States are currently receiving treatment from orthodontists. Today, orthodontic treatment is a viable option for almost any adult.

One area where adult orthodontics can be helpful is in the job market. The job market is tight right now, especially for recent college graduates and young adults. First impressions are everything and serious job hunters are giving themselves the gift of an improved new smile to promote their success. Many hiring professionals say that a healthy, improved smile during the interview process, no matter what your age, makes a difference when interviewing for a new job. It also helps to boost your confidence when communicating with others on all levels, both professionally and personally, thereby helping you to perform better throughout your life and career.

One of the ways you can achieve your new smile without anyone knowing you are in orthodontic treatment is with Invisalign! Invisalign aligners are removable and invisible. Yes, you can have straight teeth with no braces!

Adult OrthodonticsOrthodontic treatment for adults has several benefits which might include:

  • Improved health of your teeth and gums
  • Increased self-esteem and self-confidence
  • Reduction in unwanted wear of the teeth
  • Decreased potential jaw joint problems or pain (TMJ/TMD)
  • Development of the proper bite relationships for long-term function

Horner Orthodontics specializes in the latest in orthodontic care for patients of all ages. It
is never too late to have a beautiful, healthy smile for a lifetime. Call our office for your complimentary orthodontic examination, and find out how we can help you live life smiling!

Teen Invisalign® Sioux Falls SD

For most teens, the thought of having metal brackets and wires attached to their teeth for a period of time is enough to delay orthodontic treatment. Teens today have more options than ever before, including Invisalign Teen®. View the video below to see that your teen can still have a normal life.

 

Here are some of the key features you should consider:

  • No one needs to know – Invisalign Teen® aligners are made of a smooth, clear plastic that is virtually invisible! Your friends probably won’t even know you’re wearing them. In fact, they’re so comfortable, you may not even notice you’re wearing them either. Whether you’re taking pictures or just hanging out with friends, you’ll enjoy a better smile every day.
  • Eat with freedom – You probably have friends with braces who aren’t allowed to eat certain things like popcorn and chewing gum. With Invisalign Teen®, you’re free to eat all of your favorite foods whenever you want because the aligners are completely removable. This also means you can easily keep brushing and flossing as you normally would. Try that with braces.
  • Keep doing what you love – Whether you play sports or a musical instrument, a mouthful of metal can often prevent you from enjoying the things you want to. Invisalign Teen® helps you focus on doing what you do best—being a teenager.

WHY MOUTHGUARDS ARE IMPORTANT WHEN YOU HAVE BRACES

Many of our orthodontic treatment patients play sports, and now is a great time to remind all of you to take care of both your mouth and appliances while participating in sports – especially contact sports such as soccer, football, lacrosse, baseball, and basketball.

When you have braces or Invisalign®, one of the most important pieces of sports equipment you can wear on the field is a mouth guard. A well-fitted mouth guard allows you to breathe and speak more clearly, in addition to protecting your mouth and appliances. Only by using a mouth guard can athletes avoid serious mouth and jaw injuries. The next time you’re in for an adjustment appointment, we encourage you to let us know if you’re playing or planning to play any sports. We can recommend a mouth guard that will work best for you.

What Kind of Mouthguard?

Before deciding on whether to choose a boil-and-bite type mouthguard or one custom-made by your dentist, check with the coach or instructor of each the sports your child plays. In some sports, the players are covered by team or league insurance that will only cover damage or injury if a dentist has made the mouthguard.

You should also check with the league or team to find out if a double mouthguard is required, as some sports like wrestling require the use of a mouthguard that covers both the top and bottom teeth (if a child has braces on both). Knowing exactly what to ask the dentist for will save time and money; getting your child back on the field or mats more quickly.

We hope this helps. You can always contact us if you have any questions.

ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT – HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?

No one smile is the same, thus orthodontic treatment length of time can differ on a case by case basis. You may remember back to when you or your friends had braces a generation ago — the old average used to be about two years. Today, orthodontic treatment can span a shorter length of time, mostly due to recent technology. With the use of lighter forces, customized braces, and clear aligners, our patients experience less discomfort and shorter treatment time while achieving a great smile.

OrthodonticsThat said, orthodontic treatment may vary depending on your child’s individual situation. Minor tooth movement may only take a few months to correct, while serious malocclusion (poor bite) may need more than two years to correct. Dr. Horner and his staff will be able to provide you with an accurate assessment upon your initial orthodontic exam.

If you haven’t yet set up an orthodontic consultation, please give us a call and let us help you or your child begin the journey to a gorgeous smile! Contact our Sioux Falls orthodontic practice, and let us know how we can help you. We look forward to working with you and your family, and providing you with orthodontic treatment that will leave you with a lifetime of great smiles!

DON’T FRET MUSICIANS – BRACES AND INSTRUMENTS WORK WELL TOGETHER!

Many patients of our orthodontic practice play musical instruments. We often are asked by parents about the effect braces, Invisalign®, or orthodontic treatment will have on their childrens’ ability to play their instruments. This post will address some of the more common questions we receive.braces music instrument

Braces and Wind Instruments

When you first get braces you may discover that it affects your ability to play your instrument.  Don’t fret!  With motivation and practice you should soon be back jamming in no time!

Before your braces are fitted

Before you start orthodontic treatment find out what type of braces you will need, and talk to your orthodontist about the instrument you play. If you are having new braces fitted, try to arrange this at a time when you don’t have any important performances.

Removable braces

Some braces, such as functional and removable braces, can be taken out while you practice and perform.  Make sure you discuss with the orthodontist how many hours you practice daily.  Removing your braces for an extended time may affect the course of your treatment.

Fixed braces

Treatment with fixed braces can affect your ability to play a wind instrument, but it is very unlikely that this will last for more than a few months.

Woodwind players

If you play a woodwind instrument you will probably adjust to playing with your braces on very quickly. Your playing is likely to return to normal within a few weeks.

Brass players

If you play a brass instrument you may have problems playing high notes when your braces are first fitted. Your playing is likely to return to normal within a few months.

Some players find that sores may develop inside their mouth while playing.  Check with your music teacher to inquire if your mouthpiece can be changed for a larger one.  This may help spread the load evenly over your lips. Some musicans use brace wax when playing to protect their lips and cheeks.

Musicians often get a dry mouth when practicing or performing.  If your mouth is feeling dry, it is best to drink water.   Sodas and sugar drinks can damage your teeth during your orthodontic treatment.

If you have had any teeth removed as part of your treatment, it is a good idea to refrain from playing your instrument until your extraction site has fully healed.  Once your braces are removed and treatment is complete, it will be a short time until you are used to playing without your braces.

 

ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT BY DR. KEVIN HORNER & DR. BARROW – GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH!

barrowDid you know that Orthodontic treatment (braces or Invisalign®) can improve your overall health? It can also improve one’s self-image of themselves, and lead to increased confidence and happiness.

Dental, General Health and Function

Teeth in malocclusion are hard to clean and maintain and may lead to periodontal disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss.  Other orthodontic problems can cause abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, speech problems, difficulty in chewing, or undesirable wear of the temporomandibular joints.  Some malocclusions, such as maxillary teeth that protrude, can increase the possibility of fracture due to trauma.

When Should Treatment Begin (Early Orthodontic Treatment)?

Each patient or child is different. There is no CORRECT answer to when treatment needs to begin. The American Association of Orthodontics (AAO) recommends that every child get an orthodontic checkup by age 7 — or earlier if an orthodontic problem is detected by parents, the family dentist or the child’s physician.  In some cases, early intervention utilizing the patient’s growth can often make corrective treatment faster and easier, and lead to far less problems down the road.

Orthodontic Treatment for Adults

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age! Many adults are choosing orthodontic treatment to improve their smile, and/or increase function to support good oral health.

If your goal is to have a great-looking smile, we’d love to help! Please give us a call and schedule your Orthodontic consultation. We look forward to working with you and your family!