For the first article of the Sasha Smiles webpage, I thought that I could start simple with just a few tips to keep in mind to keep your teeth clean and healthy!

1. Brush your teeth twice a day! ( this is likely the most obvious one, but sometimes being tired or rushing to get to work/school in the morning can distract us from doing this extremely important activity! keep in mind: if you have braces, try to brush your teeth three times ensure that no food is stuck in your braces! alternatively, instead of brushing your teeth after lunch, you can use a proxy brush!)

2. Limit sugars in your diet! We all love to snack on chocolate and similar treats, but bacteria in your mouth tends to feed on the sugar that you eat! This leads to a weakened enamel, which can cause it to being to decay and can lead to cavities!

3. Make sure to floss daily! I am sure that this is something that you hear every time that you go to the dentist, but it is an essential part of your oral health! According to Dentistry for the Entire Family, not flossing your teeth is like only washing 65% of your body and can lead to gum disease.

4. Be sure to visit your dentist on a regular basis! Dentists are crucial because they are able to keep your teeth healthy and detect any signs of cavities or other oral issues that need to be addressed before a problem escalates!

References:

Cretzmeyer, John. “Dental Flossing Day: Facts & Stats about Dental Flossing: Fridley MN.” Dentistry for the Entire Family, 27 Oct. 2019, https://dentistryfortheentirefamily.com/dental-flossing-facts/.

“Official Ada Dental Health Recommendations.” MouthHealthy, https://www.mouthhealthy.org/oral-health-recommendations#:~:text=Brush%20your%20teeth%20twice%20a%20day%20Clean%20between,diet%20that%20limits%20sugar%20See%20your%20dentist%20regularly.

“What Are the Effects of Sugar on Your Teeth?” Colgate®, https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/nutrition-and-oral-health/sugar-consumption-gum-disease-cavities#.

One of the main questions you might ask yourself when you go to the dentist is, "do I have a cavity?", hopefully these tips are able to give you some more peace of mind, so that the next time you go to the dentist, you do not need to be as scared about having a cavity!

 Before I get to the tips, first, it is important to understand what a cavity even is. A cavity is when your tooth enamel (the outermost layer of your tooth) decays, which can be caused by eating sugars (as they often "attack" your enamel because of the acids that bacteria produces), which causes a hole to form in your tooth. The first step of cavity formation can be connected to plaque, which forms when you eat something high in sugar without sufficiently cleaning your teeth. Cavities are most common in the US in children and teens, but are also prominent in older adults as well.

1. Try to limit snacking, by eating 3 filling meals every day. Eating meals instead of snacks will decrease the likelihood of cavities because it will decrease the chances of bacteria forming on your teeth, thus, reducing the chances that cavity-causing acids are formed.

2. Consider getting sealants next time you go to your dentist! Sealants are a plastic coating that is put on your tooth that helps prevent the formation of cavities by protecting the bumps on your teeth that have a tendency to get food stuck on them.

3. Drink tap water! Tap water often has fluoride in it, which is important to keep your teeth healthy and will prevent tooth decay. 

References:

“Cavities.” MouthHealthy, www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/cavities#:~:text=Brush%20twice%20a%20day%20with%20a%20fluoride%20toothpaste.,Eat%20nutritious%20and%20balanced%20meals%20and%20limit%20snacking. Accessed 1 June 2023.

“Cavities/Tooth Decay.” Mayo Clinic, 19 Mar. 2022, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/symptoms-causes/syc-20352892.

Presmult. “Best Cleaning Practices for Teeth Whitening.” Schwartz, 28 Dec. 2022, youramazingsmile.com/best-cleaning-practices-for-teeth-whitening/.

When someone says "oral hygiene" a lot of people think of their teeth. While teeth are a major part of one's oral hygiene, your gums are extremely important too! In fact, it is estimated that gum disease effects 1 in 10 Americans over 64 years old. It is crucial to monitor your gum health because your gum health can dictate your overall health. For example,

1. Inflamed gums have been proven to cause inflammation across the body, causing issues concerning the heart

2. Not taking care of one's gums can put your teeth at risk of falling out, making it more difficult to eat the foods you need for a healthy diet!

3. Periodontal (gum) disease can increase the risk of lung infections such as pneumonia as gum disease makes it easier for bacteria to enter the respiratory system

Now, how can one go about preventing gum disease? Keep reading to find out!

1. In addition to brushing your teeth for 2 minutes, twice a day, also make sure to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. After being used for an extended period of time, the bristles on ones toothbrush begin to get worn out and can be uncomfortable to your gums!

2. Make sure to floss between teeth to prevent plaque from building up and to reduce the risk of gum inflammation!

3. See your dentist twice a year! If you notice that your gums are bleeding, make sure to make an appointment right away, your dentist may be able to prescribe an antibiotic to help. 

4. Eat a balanced diet! It has been shown, especially in Americans aged 65 and older, that eating a diet that includes high-fiber fruits delayed gum disease!

References:

“Healthy-Gums-Infographic-Download.” Easter Road Dental Practice, erdpdental.co.uk/covid-19-information/healthy-gums-infographic-download/. Accessed 4 June 2023.

“Top Reasons to Keep Your Gums Healthy.” WebMD, www.webmd.com/oral-health/healthy-gums. Accessed 4 June 2023.

As someone who had braces for 2 years, I know the main anticipation that those who wear braces experience: seeing their new smile after their orthodontic treatment is over. However, even though your braces are doing their job, straightening your teeth, you need to make sure that you are doing yours too! Here is what you should do while you have your braces on to ensure you have the best results once your orthodontic treatment is over:

1. Use a floss threader! Many orthodontists give their patients these right after they get their braces on. In addition to creating a strange sensation in one's mouth, braces also alter your normal oral hygiene routine, especially the way you floss. Floss threaders are like a normal piece of floss, but have a loop on one end that you can put a "thread" through the get the piece of floss over the wire and between your teeth! Having braces makes it much easier for food to get stuck between your teeth, so ensuring that you floss while you have braces is crucial!

2. Avoid whitening toothpaste/treatments! Even though you may want your teeth to look perfect right after your braces come off, doing whitening treatments is bound to leave dark marks  in the places where your brackets were. It is best to whiten your teeth after you finish your orthodontic treatment to ensure that your teeth look as perfect as possible!

3. If you have ceramic braces (clear) make sure to stay away from bright colored foods like curry as these foods are most likely to stain your braces, therefore, making your teeth look dirty

4. If you use clear aligners like Invisalign, stay away from any drinks except water while wearing them. Drinks other than water are likely to get stuck inside your aligner and start to breakdown your teeth because of the sugar and/or acidity that they contain, leading to cavities and/or stains. 

References:

“Caring for Braces: Colgate®.” Caring For Braces | Colgate®, www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/adult-orthodontics/caring-for-braces-you-are-on-your-way-to-a-healthy-smile#. Accessed 4 June 2023.

Kazakova, Natalia. “Medical Infographics. Braces Stock Vector - Illustration of Ligature, Irrigator: 179127705.” Dreamstime, 14 Apr. 2020, www.dreamstime.com/medical-infographics-braces-medical-infographics-braces-care-braces-teeth-alignment-concept-dentistry-orthodontists-image179127705.

After you get your braces off, the first thing you may want to do is show off your teeth, but do not forget the most important part of keeping your teeth as beautiful as they were the second you got your braces off -- wearing your retainer! Making sure that you keep your retainer clean is a huge part of keeping up with your oral health! Here's what you should do to care for your retainer:

1. If you have a permanent retainer behind your bottom teeth , make sure to floss between your teeth that have the retainer attached to them to ensure that there is no plaque build-up between these teeth!

2. When you are not using your retainer, make sure to put it in a protective case to ensure that it does not get lost or broken!

3. Right after getting your braces off, it is often reccommeded that you wear your retained 24/7 for at least a week. After this period of time, orthodontists usually advise that you wear your retainer every night. Make sure to wear your retainer consistently to prevent your teeth from going back to their original position!

4. Whenever you visit your orthodontist, make sure to always bring your retainer so that your orthodontist can better ensure that your teeth are staying in place!

5. Unless you are given different directions from your orthodontist,  you should not eat/drink anything other than water while wearing your retainer to make sure that it does not get stained!

References:

Ivanov, Dr. Pavel. “Retainer Care: How to Clean and Handle Your Retainers.” Ivanov Orthodontic Experts, 21 Feb. 2023, ivanovortho.com/retainercare/#:~:text=For%20the%20proper%20retainer%20care %3A%201%20Floss%20and,clean%2C%20keep%20the%20case%20clean%20as%20well.%20.

“Orthodontic Retainers: Fixed or Removable?: Orthodontics in London.” Forest & Ray Dental Budapest, orthodonticsinlondon.co.uk/blogs/orthodontic-retainers-fixed-or-removable.html. Accessed 5 June 2023.

For the past few posts, I have spoken a lot about preventing cavities, keeping your gums healthy, etc., but a huge part of understanding your oral health is also having a good grasp on your teeth and how they work to help you break down food! Usually, we just refer to our teeth as "teeth," but really, we have different kinds of teeth and they all play a different role! Most adults have 32 teeth, which can be split up into groups based on their position and function, these groups/kinds of teeth are known as the incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. 

1. Incisors: these teeth are the most noticeable in your mouth. Most people have 8 incisors total, 4 on the top of their mouth, and 4 on the bottom. Incisors are important as they have edges on their sides, which help you cut through food.

2. Canines: these teeth are the most triangular and most people often have 4 of canines total, 2 on the top and 2 on the bottom. These teeth are important and they help you chew through foods that are tougher or crunchies such as meat.

3. Premolars: these teeth have the function of both molars and canines, meaning that they help tear through foods as well as break them down, making them particularly versatile

4. Molars: these teeth are where most of your chewing (90% of it) takes place and they include one's wisdom teeth. They are responsible for grinding up food before digestion. 

References:

professional, Cleveland Clinic medical. “Teeth: Types, Function & Care.” Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/24655-teeth. Accessed 8 June 2023.

“Teeth Names: Diagram, Types, and Functions.” Medical News Today, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326754. Accessed 8 June 2023.

In the last post, I discussed the different kinds of teeth we have, but it is also important to understand what your teeth are made up of! Similar to how all the different kinds of teeth have different purposes, each part of your teeth has a different purpose too! Even though some people think that teeth are bones, they actually are not because teeth cannot repair by themselves once they are broken, while bones can. This is a huge reason as to why it is important to keep up with your oral health! Consistently brushing, flossing, and going to your dentist will help ensure that your teeth stay stronger for longer! Also, teeth do not have marrow while bones do. Teeth are made up of the enamel, dentin, cementum, and tooth pulp. 

1. Enamel: this is the outermost layer of the tooth and protects it from bacteria that causes cavities. The enamel is also the hardest substance in the body and helps to keep your teeth white.

2. Dentin: it is located directly beneath the enamel, and once it is exposed, one's risk of getting a cavity increases. Unlike the enamel, dentin can grow back. There are also 4 different kinds of dentin!

   1.  Mantle dentin: this is the most flexible kind of dentin and its main purpose it to provide a place for the enamel to sit on.

   2. Primary dentin: this grows prior to when the tooth comes out of the gum and fills in the space between the pulp and enamel.

   3. Secondary dentin: this kind of dentin is similar to the structure of the primary dentin, but cannot grow as fast, but when it does grow, the pulp chamber (where the pulp of the tooth is located) may get smaller.

   4. Tertiary cavity: this dentin grows once a cavity has formed, or when they begin to break down. This kind of dentin is important as it provides teeth with a protective measure from damage to prevent abscesses or infections from developing.

3. Cementum: this part of your tooth is important as it helps to keep teeth anchored to the jaw and protects the roots of teeth from being damaged.

4. Tooth pulp: the layer of the tooth is home to nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. This is also the softest layer of the tooth.

References:

360blog. “The Anatomy of Your Teeth.” Appletree Dentistry, 20 Apr. 2018, appletreedentistry.net/the-anatomy-of-your-teeth/.

professional, Cleveland Clinic medical. “Teeth: Types, Function & Care.” Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/24655-teeth. Accessed 9 June 2023.

Watson, Shawn. “Dentin and the Layers of Your Teeth.” Verywell Health, 29 June 2021, www.verywellhealth.com/dentin-definition-of-dentin-1059420.

We're all told to brush our teeth twice a day for 2 minutes at a time, but how does one know that they brushed their teeth in an effective manner. There is a reason why many cavities are typically located towards the back of one's mouth or between teeth; many people simply forget to brush in these places. Therefore, it is important to adopt a brushing routine that will ensure that all of your teeth are attended to, to prevent cavities. However, it is important to note, that for many people, it is advisable to use an electric toothbrush because it provides a more thorough clean and requires less work from the user! It is also important to make sure that when you brush your teeth, you do not brush to firmly as this can negatively impact the gums and lead to teeth becoming more sensitive teeth.

1. Start by brushing the outside side of both your bottom and top teeth (the side facing away from your throat). Give specific attention to each tooth to ensure that all of your teeth are cleaned!

2. Ensure that your toothbrush is angled at about 45 degrees so that anything stuck in your gums falls out. 

3. Now, brush the inside of your teeth. Many times, people may forget to brush here, so ensure that both sides of your teeth stay clean by cleaning the inside as well!

4. Brush the top of your bottom teeth and bottom of your top teeth (this is known as the chewing surface) to avoid any plaque build-up here

5. Many people may not think of this step, but make sure to also brush your tongue to reduce the presence of bacteria that is connected to bad breath!

6. Also, never forget to floss after your have brushed your teeth to clean the parts of your teeth that a toothbrush cannot reach!

References:

“Are You over Brushing Your Teeth?” Houston Dentists at Post Oak, 28 Oct. 2022, www.houstondentistsatpostoak.com/are-you-over-brushing-your-teeth/.

“How to Brush Your Teeth and Floss Properly: Colgate®.” Oral Health and Dental Care, www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/brushing-and-flossing/how-to-brush-your-teeth-properly. Accessed 10 June 2023.

Root canals are a fairly common procedure that many people tend to not know about. They are often associated with cavities, but aside from this they are also a way to relieve pain in teeth that may have otherwise needed to be extracted. In fact, according to the American Dental Association (ADA) root canals are performed on millions of teeth every year. Often, endodontists are the dental professionals in charge of conducting root canals and are recommended by dentists.

During a root canal, the pulp (which contains nerves, connective tissues, and blood vessels) is removed. Even though the pulp was crucial during the tooth's initial development, most healthy, fully developed teeth are able to survive without the pulp as the tooth is able to be sustained by the tissues around it.

Root canals are usually done under anesthetics and are done in response to cracked teeth, cavities, or problems with a pre-existing filling. Some signs that could indicate that one needs a root canal include: extreme pain while eating, pimples on gums, having a chipped/cracked tooth, swollen gums, and extreme decay/dark gums. Despite being numb following root canals, many people are able to go back to work/school after their appointment, but usually should not eat until the numbness goes away. 

As previously mentioned, root canals are notable as they are able to save a tooth that would otherwise potentially be extracted. The benefits of keeping a tooth are numerous and include: easier food consumption, confidence, and ensures that other teeth do not experience overuse.

References:

“Dental Terms Crossword!.Pdf.” Google Drive, drive.google.com/file/d/1LxZav278YpL7VKVnn2KSTvpp_nmZ-Lh9/view?usp=sharing. Accessed 12 June 2023.

Many times, we hear and acknowledge the fact that certain foods such as candy are bad for our teeth. However, it is relatively uncommon to hear that a food is good for the teeth. Despite this, just like the rest of the body, teeth need nutrients in order to stay strong and function correctly! A huge part of maintaining oral health is not only brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes and flossing, but it is also eating foods that with support your teeth! That is not to say that one should not indulge at all, but one should consider the positive effects of eating foods that fuel your teeth!

1. Surprisingly, cocoa nibs are considered to be healthy for the teeth! This is because if eaten with  minimal/low sugar content, it can help get rid of cavity-causing bacteria and make a space between the teeth and plaque. In fact, in 2019, researchers were able to determine that a mouth rinse that included cocoa beans got rid of S. mutans, a bacteria that is often tied to the presence of cavities. 

2. Dairy products are great for the teeth, but consuming grass-fed dairy (which often includes cheese and butter) is ideal. Grass-fed dairy is favorable to other kinds of dairy as it has a higher concentration of the K2 vitamin -- a vitamin that many people globally have a deficiency in. Further, many of these dairy products also contain phosphorus, a nutrient that teeth benefit from.

3. Foods high in vitamin D such as fatty fish also tend to be beneficial for the teeth because they can reduce the risk of tooth decay. Vitamin D works with vitamins A and K2 in order to strengthen the enamel through calcium. 

4. Omega-3 is also good for the teeth and can be found in food sources such as oily fish. Omega-3 is important for the gums and can even reduce the risk of periodontitis (also known as gum disease, a condition that has been found to effect nearly 50% of adults in the US). Also, even though most acidic foods are bad for the teeth, fruits such as grapefruit and oranges are beneficial to the teeth as they have significant amounts of vitamin C. This is important as it allows for blood vessels to be strengthened and decreases the risk of inflamed gums. 

References:

Burhenne, Mark. “Foods for Great Oral Health: 5 to Eat and 5 to Avoid.” Healthline, 20 July 2020, www.healthline.com/health-news/foods-for-great-oral-health-5-to-eat-and-5-to-avoid#Foods-to-eat.

“Is Your Diet Damaging Your Teeth?” KRB Dentistry, 25 June 2021, krbdentistry.com/is-your-diet-damaging-your-teeth/.

X-rays are used by those in the dental field for a variety of reasons. For example, dentists use x-rays to check for cavities and orthodontists can use x-rays to assist them in creating a treatment plan for a patient's orthodontic treatment.  The primary reason for using dental x-rays is so that a dental professional can look at parts of the teeth/gums that cannot be seen by the naked eye. This includes: the jawbone, roots of teeth, and nerves, among other structures. X-rays are able to create images of these structures by using electromagnetic radiation. The radiation beam goes through the soft tissues of the teeth, therefore, allowing for the creation of the photos later used by a dental professional. 

These x-rays are crucial to preventative dentistry and checkups as they are able to detect cavities, decay in/around fillings, bone loss in the jaw, infection in the mouth, where teeth that have not yet erupted are located (this is particularly helpful to see how wisdom teeth will come in and to track the positioning of adult teeth for a child still losing their baby teeth), and cysts.  X-rays are also important as they help dentists decide if a patient should get an implant or dentures and can track the progress of healing after a procedure. 

There are two different kinds of x-rays: intraoral and extraoral

1. Intraoral: when the sensor is inside the mouth, there are three different kinds of intraoral x-rays:

   1. Bitewing: show the upper and lower teeth in one specific area of the mouth. These are specifically useful in detecting decay and gum issues, but usually do not display the roots of the teeth

   2. Periapical: this shows the entire tooth and helps a dentist find tooth decay, gum disease, or bone loss

   3. Occlusal: these are specifically helpful in detecting any issues on the top or bottom of the tooth to find fractures, abscesses, cysts, jaw fractures, and examining the jaw. This kind of x-ray is also commonly used by pediatric dentists to examine developing teeth

2. Extraoral: the sensor is outside the mouth, there are also three different kinds of extraoral x-rays:

   1. Panoramic: shows all the structures in one's mouth in one single image. This helps dentists gain an overview of one's oral health

   2. Cephalometric: exhibits the position of one's jaw in comparison to the rest of their head. These are often used by orthodontists to help create a treatment plan for a patient

   3. Cone beam CT scan: these are a 3D scan of one's teeth and are often used by surgeons to plan the placement of dental implants

References:

DrMaymi2016. “6 Types of Dental X-Rays.” Dr. Jerry Maymi & Associates, 30 Nov. 2020, drmaymi.com/6-types-of-dental-x-rays/.

professional, Cleveland Clinic medical. “Dental X-Rays: Types, Uses and Safety.” Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/11199-dental-x-rays. Accessed 13 June 2023.

Braces are usually regarded as the most commonly used appliance to straighten a patient's teeth. Even though some clear aligners have gained popularity in the market, orthodontists tend to prefer braces because they give them more control over the patient's treatment.

The foundation of braces is the brackets, which are placed on each tooth and hold the wire. Although traditional brackets are made of metal, some people use ceramic brackets for aesthetic purposes. There are specific brackets for each tooth so that teeth can be moved to their ideal position more efficiently. The wire that is used is known as an arch wire, which can be held down with the help of an elastic tie. However, there are also some brackets that have been developed that have built-in doors that hold the wires, and, therefore, do not require the use of elastics. 

The wires used in orthodontic treatment are effective because they are able to return to their exact original position. Even if wires need to be shaped and bent in order to be attached to the teeth, the wires help to straighten teeth because they always work to return to their original position. As treatment goes on, the wires used typically increase in thickness. Also, wires used at the beginning of treatment tend to have circular cross sections while the wires used later tend to have rectangular cross sections. In addition, wires used later are usually made of stainless steel as opposed to nickel titanium.

Towards the end of treatment, the orthodontist will do what is known as "detailing". This occurs once the teeth are generally straight, but there are some minor imperfections in the teeth that the orthodontist wants to address before the braces come off. 

During orthodontic treatment, the alveolar bone is crucial in allowing the teeth to move. Braces place pressure on teeth, specifically on the periodontal ligament (gum tissue located around the root of the teeth), thus, prompting them to move. This movement is made possible because what is known as osteoblasts move into place to allow the tooth to move. Osteoblasts are important because they play a role in creating new bone in the area that the tooth is moving away from (negative pressure side). On the other hand, osteoclasts get rid of bone in areas that the tooth is moving directly towards (positive pressure side). The change in bone structure is a crucial aspect in the success of braces.

References:

“Braces.” Zboril Dental Center, www.zborildentalcenter.com/procedures/braces. Accessed 14 June 2023.

Thompson, AuthorDr. Joseph. “How Do Braces Work? - Ask an Orthodontist.Com.” Ask an Orthodontist.Com - Answering Your Orthodontic & Dental Questions, 13 Sept. 2016, askanorthodontist.com/braces/how-do-braces-work/.

Expanders are often used in younger children as a way to widen the upper palate to make more room for the teeth or fix bites. Expanders are typically worn for a couple months, but in some cases they are worn for up to a year.  Expanders are placed on the roof of the mouth and work to move both halves of the jawbone away from each other. This is why palate expanders are more effective the younger the patient is -- because those two bones have not fused together yet.  As the upper palate widens with the help of an expander, new bone will develop between the two bones located in the roof of the mouth. This is why many orthodontists will have a patient keep their expander in, even after they are done turning the key to gradually widen the expander. There are also four different kinds of palate expanders, and the kind used on a patient is dependent upon their particular case. 

1. Removable palate expander: often used for minor cases and looks similar to a retainer, but is commonly made out of chrome as opposed to acrylic.

2. Rapid palate expander: this is one of the most common kinds of retainers. It is attached to the roof of the mouth and comes with a key. Periodically, the key is used to turn a hole inside of he expander, therefore, forcing the upper palate to widen. These expanders are often able to increase the width of an upper palate at a rate of 0.5 mm a day and are usually worn for a couple of months.

3. Surgically assisted rapid palate expander: these are most commonly used for severe cases or for adults whose facial bones have fully developed. However, these expanders are similar to the regular rapid palate expander as they are also activated periodically by a key

4. Implant-supported palate expander: this kind of expander relies on the helps of four small implants on the roof of the mouth and is most commonly used with teens and adults. This expander allows the pressure from the expander to be placed directly on the upper jaw. This kind of expander requires collaboration between an orthodontist and a periodontist (the periodontist is in charge of the implants placed in the patient's mouth). 

References: 

“Palatal Expansion.” Stephen P. Tigani D.D.S. - Expanders, www.tiganiorthodontics.net/treatments/expanders/. Accessed 15 June 2023.

professional, Cleveland Clinic medical. “Palate Expander: Uses, Types & Adjusting.” Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23502-palate-expander. Accessed 15 June 2023.

Many people who undergo orthodontic treatment are often asked to wear rubber bands in order to perfect their bite. Often, rubber bands are a crucial aspect of a patient's treatment and can stand in the way of someone getting their braces off if they do not wear them enough. Rubber bands are worn in different manners based on the "class" of bite that a patient has. In addition, these bands come in different strengths (high, medium, and low), based on how much pressure they put on a patient's teeth. Bands attach to the teeth with the help of hooks that can be found on brackets placed on the canines and molars on each side of the mouth. 

1. Class I elastics: these are used to close gaps between teeth and are often placed from the upper first/second molar to the upper canine

2. Class II elastics: these are used in order to correct overbites. In order to do so, the bands are stretched from the upper canine down to the lower molar, therefore, pushing the upper teeth back and bringing the lower teeth forward in an effort to create an optimal bite

3. Class III elastics: these are used to correct underbites. This class works by attaching bands from the lower canine to the upper molar, pushing the lower teeth back and the upper teeth forward. 

References:

Amanda Dexter, Contributors:, et al. “Rubber Brands for Braces: What Are They and How Do They Work?” Dentaly.Org, 20 Jan. 2023, www.dentaly.org/us/adult-braces/elastic-bands-for-braces/.

Mahajan, Priti. “What Are Elastics (Rubberbands) and How Do They Help with My Braces?” Braces For U, 18 Oct. 2019, braces-foru.com/what-are-elastics-rubberbandsand-how-do-they-help-with-my-braces/.

Especially in recent years, undergoing orthodontic treatment with clear aligners instead of traditional metal braces has become more and more prominent. Clear aligners have become popular because of their minimal restraint on what a patient can eat as well as, primarily, the fact that they are invisible. There are several various types of clear aligners, however, regardless of which type of clear aligner a patient uses, there are steps that they should take to ensure the success of their orthodontic treatment. Aligners work differently from braces in that, even though they achieve the final goal of straightening teeth, they do so through a series of retainers that gradually move the teeth into their desired position. However, it is important to note that even though clear aligners can straighten teeth, they often cannot perform the same functions as expanders and elastics. Clear aligners can be a great treatment option for some patients!

1. Clear aligners are compliance-based, meaning that a patient must be wearing their aligners in order for them to work in a correct and timely manner! For many patients, this means wearing their aligners for 22 hours every day, taking the aligners out to eat.

2. It is very important to change the aligners as directed in the schedule that one's orthodontist/cosmetic dentist gives to a patient. This will ensure that the treatment runs as smoothly as possible!

3. Some clear aligners offer the option to get "buttons" on a patient's teeth to make treatment more efficient. If this is an option for treatment, this is worth looking into. Even though these buttons remain on a patient's teeth throughout treatment, they are clear and are not very noticeable.

4. Just like all orthodontic treatment, once a patient has concluded wearing all of their aligners, it is crucial to wear a retainer to ensure that the teeth do not go back into their original position. 

References:

Midtown Dental Group. “9 Tips & Tricks to Get the Most from Your Invisalign Braces.” Midtown Dental Group, 18 Dec. 2020, midtowndentalgroup.com/2020/12/18/9-tips-tricks-to-get-the-most-from-your-invisalign-braces/.

Werner, Alison. “Clear Path for ClearCorrect.” Orthodontic Products, 26 Sept. 2020, orthodonticproductsonline.com/treatment-products/aligners/clear-path-clearcorrect/.

Another option for people looking to prioritize cosmetics during their orthodontic treatment is lingual braces. This option is a less common alternative to ceramic braces of clear aligners and can be appealing because they are not taken in and out of the mouth. Rather, they are placed on the backs of the teeth, opposite to traditional, metal braces. Lingual braces have proven to be an effective, cosmetic alternative to regular metal braces according to a 2016 study that proved that lingual braces were largely able to achieve the goals of doctors and patients alike. However, in order to find out if you are a good candidate for this orthodontic treatment, it is essential to consult an orthodontic professional. 

When considering lingual braces as your orthodontic treatment, it is crucial to consider the fact that lingual braces often cost more than typical metal braces and can result in a lisp, which is not as common with metal braces, but should go away after some time. However, it is important to understand that, just like all other orthodontic treatments, lingual braces will also result in some discomfort at first and after adjustments.  Also, overtime, it has been shown that lingual braces can take longer than other forms of orthodontic treatment. 

References:

“How Much Do Braces Cost in the UK? - The Dental Guide.” The Dental Guide UK, 9 Feb. 2021, www.thedentalguide.net/braces-cost-uk/.

Stanborough, Rebecca Joy. “Lingual Braces: Pros and Cons, Cost, Comfort, Lisping, and More.” Healthline, 17 June 2019, www.healthline.com/health/lingual-braces-2.

Veneers are used by dentists in order to better the appearance of a patients' teeth.  Veneers are custom-made shells that are put over teeth and are able to cover up stains, and broken and uneven teeth. However, typically, getting veneers can typically not be used in place of orthodontic treatment if they are being used solely to make teeth appear straighter. However, for those who want to prioritize the look of their teeth, but do not want to undergo orthodontic treatment, getting veneers can be a feasible solution. 

There are two primary kinds of veneers that are different because of what they are made of:

1. Porcelain veneers:  in order to attach these kinds of veneers, a dentist will need to remove some of the enamel to ensure that they sit correctly. These also typically require 2-3 appointments.

2. Resin-based composite veneers: these veneers are different because they are usually less expensive and require less enamel removal. This kind of veneer usually only requires one appointment, but is prone to staining over time. While porcelain veneers are sent to a lab where they are custom made for a patient, resin-based veneers are molded using a material by a dentist the same day that the veneer is bonded to a patient's tooth.

After getting veneers, some dentists may advise scheduling a follow-up appointment in order to ensure against any issues and to give patients the opportunity to express any concerns that they may have.  It is likely that dentists will advise against drinking coffee and tea in order to prevent a patient's veneers from staining. 

References:

“Cosmetic Veneers and Crowns.” Summit Dental Health, summitdentalhealth.net/services/veneers/. Accessed 28 June 2023.

“Dental Veneers: Cost, Procedure, and Results.” Medical News Today, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dental-veneers#what-are-they. Accessed 28 June 2023.

There are many different ways in which people hear that they can prevent bad breath, however, before tackling bad breath, it is crucial to figure out where it comes from. Dentists can help suggest new oral hygiene practices and products in order to help a patient with bad breath. However, sometimes bad breath can be caused by another underlying health condition that needs to be addressed by another healthcare provider. The following are steps that have been recommended by the Mayo Clinic and can help prevent/decrease bad breath.

1. Bad breath can be caused by plaque build-up on the teeth, which is a result of inadequate brushing and/or flossing. In order to combat this, ensuring that you brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes is crucial. However, to address plaque once it has already built up, using mouth rinses and toothpaste, both of which can be recommended by your dental provider, can help get rid of the bacteria that causes plaque. 

2. Another common cause of bad breath is gum disease. If you are concerned that you may have gum disease, please talk to a dental health professional. Gum disease is a cause of bad breath because it makes gums pull away from the teeth, leaving space for bacteria connected to bad breath to grow. 

3. Brushing your tongue is also a way to reduce bad breath as it is a place where bacteria tends to grow, but make sure to do so carefully.

4. If you have an appliance such as a retainer or denture, make sure to clean it as directed by your dentist, as well, in order to reduce bad breath. 

5. Regularly get a new toothbrush to reduce the risk of bacteria build-up on it

References:

“Bad Breath.” Mayo Clinic, 10 Mar. 2018, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bad-breath/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350925.

“How to Cure Bad Breath Permanently - the Holistic Approach.” Holistic Dental Center New Jersey, 28 Sept. 2022, holisticdentalcenternj.com/how-to-cure-bad-breath-permenantly/.

Many people dread the moment when their dentist tells them that they need to get their wisdom teeth taken out. Wisdom teeth are considered a vestigial trait, something that was beneficial to humans' ancestors, but are not longer necessary for the present generation. Also known as one's "third molars" wisdom teeth are the last set of adult teeth to grow in. Often wisdom teeth come in between the ages of 17-25. While some people are lucky and their wisdom teeth grow in straight, most people's wisdom teeth end up impacting their gums or other teeth, meaning that they need to be removed. If wisdom teeth are impacting the adjacent teeth, this can reverse any orthodontic treatment one has already had done because they would put pressure on, and therefore, ultimately move the impacted teeth, causing a "waterfall effect" with the rest of the teeth. Additionally, wisdom teeth can cause gum disease and and cavities if they are not removed.

When wisdom tooth growth can be detected when gums become red and feel sore, one may detect jaw pain, or you may start to see the wisdom teeth protruding through the gums. At this point, it may be beneficial to get an x-ray at your next dental appointment. If the wisdom teeth start causing symptoms that are uncomfortable, it is possible that you may need to get them removed. 

References:

professional, Cleveland Clinic medical. “Wisdom Teeth: Function, Location & Anatomy.” Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/23223-wisdom-teeth#:~:text=Wisdom%20teeth%20are%20your%20last%20set%20of%20adult,fully%20trapped%20%28impacted%29%20in%20your%20gums%20or%20jawbone. Accessed 5 July 2023.

“Wisdom Tooth Extraction.” Dental House, 14 Dec. 2022, dentalhouse.ie/services/wisdom-tooth-extraction/.

Some may have heard that using mouthwash is a viable alternative to brushing teeth, but is this really the case? Nothing can replace brushing one's teeth for twice a day for two minutes at a time and flossing, however, mouthwash can be a supplement to brushing teeth.  Mouthwashes are beneficial because they can reach areas in the mouth that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush. However, it is important to note that it is typically not recommended for children under 6 to use mouthwash, unless directed by an oral health professional. There are two main kinds of mouth wash: therapeutic and cosmetic.

1. Therapeutic: these kinds of mouthwashes can be bought over-the-counter or can be given as a prescription and help reduce the risk of plaque, bad breath, gingivitis, and tooth decay. Common ingredients found in therapeutic mouth washes include: cetylpyridinium chloride (helps reduce bad breath), chlorhexidine (used to limit plaque and gingivitis, but is only found in prescription mouth washes. Alternatively, over-the-counter mouthwashes tend to use essential oils as a substitute), flouride, and peroxide. 

2. Cosmetic: these kinds of mouth washes have temporary effects. In other words, they do not kill bacteria associated with bad breath, but rather mask over them for a period of time. 

When purchasing a mouthwash, it is important to look for if it has been certified by the ADA, which confirms that the given mouthwash is safe and efficient.

References:

“Mouthrinse (Mouthwash).” American Dental Association, www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/mouthrinse-mouthwash. Accessed 6 July 2023.

Pace, Madeline. “Can You Rinse Away Covid-19?” The Well, 8 Mar. 2021, thewell.unc.edu/2021/02/24/can-you-rinse-away-covid-19/.

Many people get braces during their childhood or even later in life.  In fact 4 million people in the US and Canada currently have braces. Although getting braces is a fairly short process, one might wonder what is going on while their braces are being put on. Below is the step-by-step process describing how braces are bonded!

1. Cleaning teeth: In order to ensure the smoothest bonding possible, it is crucial to ensure that your teeth are clean. Even after your braces are put on and you visit your orthodontist for check-ups throughout your treatment, these appointments will go much smoother if your orthodontist does not need to work around plaque!

2. Gluing on brackets: To attach the brackets, a small amount of glue is placed on the back of each bracket. The orthodontist will adjust the brackets once they are put on the teeth in order to ensure they are in an optimal place. Typically, brackets are put in the middle of the tooth, or for the lower teeth, they can be placed closer to the gumline to prevent the top teeth hitting the bottom brackets. Then, to keep the bracket in place, a blue light is shone over the bracket. 

3. Putting on bands: Many times, instead of having typical brackets on the back molars, orthodontists will put bands on the teeth. Sometimes, this may require spacers in order to make enough space to slide these bands onto the teeth. Bands are important because they keep the braces in place.

4. Adding the archwires: The wires are what make your teeth move during orthodontic treatment. Usually, as treatment goes on, the wires in your braces will get thicker. These wires are effective because they are specifically designed to go back into their original position. Therefore, when they are slightly bent in order to connect all the brackets at the beginning of treatment, as time goes on the teeth will straighten out as the wires put pressure on the teeth so that the wire can return back to its original position. The wires are secured with colored bands around each bracket!

References:

Frothingham, Scott. “Open Bite: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment.” Healthline, 15 May 2018, www.healthline.com/health/open-bite#treatment.

Orthodontics, Bales. “Bales Orthodontics.” Bales Orthodontics, balesortho.blogspot.com/2011_04_01_archive.html. Accessed 12 July 2023.

Whenever you go to the dentist, you may hear your dentist refer to teeth using numbers when they speak to their colleagues, but you may wonder  what the point of this numbering system is and why it is used in place of simply pointing at teeth or referring to them as top right canine, molar, etc. (for example). You may also wonder why knowing this numbering system is important to you, but sometimes treatment plans refer to teeth with by their number. In order to fully understand your treatment plan, it is crucial for you to at least have a basic understanding of the tooth numbering system.  

Since most adults have 32 teeth, the tooth numbering system goes from 1-32. The teeth on the upper jaw are counted clockwise from 1-16 and (left to right) and the teeth on the lower jaw are counted the same way, but in order to stay clockwise the are counted from right to left.

The mouth is also split-up into 4 quadrants. Essentially, they split the upper and lower jaw down the middle (between tooth 8 and 9). An example of a practical use of this numbering system is that your wisdom teeth are numbered 1, 16, 17, and 32. Additionally, the teeth that are most visible are 6-11 and 22-26. A diagram of the teeth numbering system is located to the left as seeing this visually may be helpful!

References:

Teeth Numbers and Names: A First Step in Understanding Your Treatment Plan, www.dayodental.com/teeth-numbers-and-teeth-names/.

The type of retainer that a patient gets it highly dependent upon their orthodontist and what they prefer and/or supply. There are three main kinds of retainers: clear, metal, and bonded (permanent) retainers

1. Clear retainers:  these are very similar to clear aligners in that they are removable and are very hard to notice. While these retainers are good because they can be removed when the patient needs to eat and are invisible, they can be easily lost if not taken care of and have a tendency to get stained. Additionally, if a patient has this kind of retainer it is crucial that either they or their orthodontist have a record of what their teeth looked like directly after treatment in case the retainer is lost.

2. Bonded (permanent) retainer: this retainer is typically put on the back of the bottom teeth in order to keep those teeth in place. The retainer is a small, thin metal wire and is not noticeable e and should not cause discomfort. These retainers are good as they will ensure that the patients' teeth remain straight. However, having this metal wire behind the teeth can make it particularly difficult to floss, thus, causing plaque to build up.

3. Metal: metal retainers can also be regarded as hawley retainers and are made out of a metal wire that can be placed over your teeth in order to keep them in place. Different from the bonded retainers, these retainers are removeable and the wire can be adjusted if need be. However, because these retainers use the top of the mouth to stay secure, they can effect one's speech while they are getting used to their retainer and are much more noticeable. 

Overall, there are clearly several options available to patients who need retainers and all of them primarily serve the same purpose-- to ensure that a patient's new smile stays as close to what it looked like right after orthodontic treatment!

References:

McCarthy, Dr. Tom. “Types of Retainers: Which One Is Best for You? - Sportingsmiles Retainers.” SportingSmiles, 23 Feb. 2022, www.sportingsmiles.com/blog/types-of-retainers-which-one-is-best-for-you/.

Team, The Healthline Editorial. “Retainer Types: Bonded, Hawley, ESSIX, and Clear Retainers.” Healthline, 29 May 2018, www.healthline.com/health/retainer-types#TOC_TITLE_HDR_1.

When beginning orthodontic treatment, one of the first things that orthodontists tend to look at is a patient's bite. That is, the way that their top and bottom teeth connect when a patient bites down. Below, there are listed the types of bites that orthodontists commonly encounter:

1. Crossbites: this is a combination of an overbite and an underbite. In this situation, some of the upper teeth are behind the lower teeth and some are in front of them.

2. Overbite: an overbite is when the upper teeth are in front of the lower teeth. This commonly has to be treated using rubber band in order to pull the upper teeth back and the lower teeth forward.

3. Underbite: this is the opposite of an overbite-- the lower teeth are ahead of the upper teeth. This is often fixed using rubber bands in order to pull the lower teeth back and the upper teeth forward. 

4. Open bite: this is when, even when a patient bites down, the front teeth do not touch.

5. Misalignment: this is when the teeth do not fit together correctly. For example, the 2 front upper teeth may not be on top of the front lower teeth. 

When orthodontists put braces on, they often do not start with rubber band treatment right away so that the patient can get used to having braces first. However, during this time, an underbite/overbite could potentially cause a patient to bite their braces off if their bite is too deep. In order to combat this, an orthodontist will usually put bite turbos on top of the molars of the lower/upper teeth in order to prevent the lower/upper teeth from biting the lower/upper braces from being bitten off. 

References: 

Gibbons, Rebecca. “Different Types of Bites Teeth Can Have.” Pachter Orthodontics, 9 July 2021, pachterortho.com/different-types-of-bites-teeth-have/.

INVISALIGN | Windsor Dentists | North Brisbane, windsordentists.com.au/invisalign-brisbane-north/. Accessed 9 Aug. 2023.

When deciding what career you want to go into, there are a lot of factors that must be considered. What do you want your work environment to look like? Do you want to be your own boss? Do you want to engage with people? Do you want to work in a healthcare-related field? These were all questions going through my mind when I started realizing that I may want to become an orthodontist, and after shadowing for nearly 30 hours this summer and continuing to do so in the years to come, I feel confident saying that if you want to help spread confidence, happiness, and have a great schedule, a career in the oral health field may be right for you.

From all of the orthodontists that I have spoken to/interviewed, it has been a common trend that getting their practice started proved to be difficult at first, but once it is set up and running, it is a great experience. What draws me into the oral health field is that you are able to help patients, but also own your own practice and schedule your hours, creating a great work-life balance. There are also countless options within the oral health field. Careers within the oral health field include: dental hygienists, dentists, endodontists, orthodontists, oral surgeons, pediatric dentists, and so much more.  If you are interested in working in the oral healthcare field, I would highly recommend shadowing someone near you, this is a very eye-opening experience!

On the topic of careers in the dental field, it is important to touch on the difference between a dentist and a dental hygienist-- both play integral roles in ensuring your oral health but what specifically is the difference between these two?

1.  One of the larger differences between these two careers, is that to be a dentist you must have taken the DAT and gone through dental school and completeing an undergrad degree, but dental hygenists must have completed an associates degree and then gotten a license in the state that they would like to practice in.

2. Once one is in either positon, the core duty of someone in either job is different. For example, a dentist is largely responsible for indentifying and diagnosing oral health issues while dental hygenists are in charge of helping dentists with cleaning and with any procedures that need to be completed to assist a patient 

When looking at both of these positions, it is important to consider where one's desires lie when it comes to a profession. Many times, dentists are the owners of their practices, and, therefore, also have many administrative duties that need to be completed. On the other hand, dental hygentists are more likely to have defined work hours. Both of these positions are crucial to patient's dental hygiene and also have great job outlooks going forward (up to 6% job growth rate in the next 7 years!)..

Sources:

Dentist vs. Dental Hygienist: What’s the Difference? | Indeed.Com, www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/dentist-vs-dental-hygienist. Accessed 15 Dec. 2023. 

You're laying in your dentists chair for about an hour during a cleaning, but what are those tools they are using in your mouth? Dentists recommend that one gets a cleaning every 6 months, or every 4 if a patient is in braces, but one central aspect to understanding what specifically is going on during a cleaning is investigating what the tools dentists are using do. 

1. Mirrors: Dental mirrors are crucial to a cleaning because it allows dentists to more easily see your teeth without needing an x-ray. Another use for mirrors is to be a light source: they reflect overhead lights more effectively into the mouth than just the light alone

2. Scalers: A scaler looks like a hook and is often used by dental hygienists (who we learned about in the previous article!) to remove tartar and plaque from a patient's teeth. The curved part of this tool can be used under the gumline in order to clean without harming the gum tissue

3. Polisher: A polisher is a device with a rubber cup on the end that spins slowly and is often used with a gritty paste to make your teeth as shiny as possible

4. Water flosser: In addition to getting between the teeth to ensure a full clean, water flossers are also very important because they are able to massage the gums to allow for overall gum tissue health

Sources:

“What Tools Do Dental Professionals Use to Clean Teeth?” Byte®, www.byte.com/community/resources/article/what-tools-do-dental-professionals-use-to-clean-teeth/#:~:text=During%20a%20professional%20cleaning%2C%20a%20dental%20hygienist%20will,treated%20with%20fluoride%20to%20protect%20them%20from%20cavities. Accessed 16 Dec. 2023.

Sometimes dentists, especially pediatric dentists, discuss sealants with caregivers and parents. These thin coatings for teeth are extremely important to children's overall oral health as they are central to preventing cavities in children. Sealants are painted on to molars after they are cleaned in order to reduce the risk of cavities forming on these teeth. Often, molars are the most prone to cavities as they are in hard-to-reach areas that children do not brush regularly. However, sealants protect against cavities by 80% for the first 2 years and 50% for 4 years. 

Sealants are an important preventitive measure to take financially as well. In fact, they often cost less than to fill teeth once a cavity has emerged. It is common for children to get sealants when they are 6 (first molars) and 12 (second molars). 

However, sealants are not the only step to be taken in order to prevent cavities. Since sealants are only applied twice during one's childhood, people, both young and adult, must be keeping up with their oral hygiene on a daily basis in order to prevent the formation of cavities. In particular, people should be sure to use flouride toothpaste. Flouride and sealants are different from each other because sealants protect the grroves of the teeth in order to make sure that food does not get stuck in these places. However, flouride acts by strengthing teeth in order to make them more resistant to the formation of cavities. 

Some schools have what is called a School Sealant Program, where a dental professional visits a school in order to do check-ups on the students. During these examinations, a dentist would check if students have pre-existing sealants, how well sealants are holding up (if they are there), and apply sealants to students with the permission of their caregiver.  These programs are especially targeted towards schols where many children are eligible for free or reduced cost meal programs as children from lower-income families are more prone to untreated tooth decay, not having sealants, and not having annual dental visits. 

Sources:

“Dental Sealant Faqs.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 30 Oct. 2020, www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/dental_sealant_program/sealants-FAQ.htm#:~:text=What%20are%20dental%20sealants%3F,blocks%20out%20germs%20and%20food. 

Many people who participate in sports are often told to wear mouthguards, however, they may wonder why wearing these protective devices is so important. The main purpose of mouthguards is to prevent one's mouth from expereiencing damage to the lips, tounge, face, and/or jaw. Typically, mouthguards cover the upper teeth because they are the teeth that take on most of the pressure during collisions or any other situations that could potentially harm one's mouth. 

Mouthguards should be worn during any contact sports such as boxing, hockey, lacrosse, and similar activities. Ideally, one's mouthguard is custom-made by their dentist. However, if this is not a viable option, then there are other options:

Boil and bite: Often are available at sporting goods stores. They are softend in water and then put into one's mouth so that they can achieve a similar shape to the natural way that one's teeth lie. When buying one of these, it is important that it has the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

Stock: These mouthguards come pre-formed, which can make them very bulky and make breathing and talking a challenge. 

Mouthguards are especially important for those who are wearing braces as collisions could damage the integrity one one's braces. Mouthguards should be washed between games and if they show any signs of breaking down, they must be replaced. 

Sources:

“Mouthguards.” MouthHealthy, www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/mouthguards#:~:text=Mouthguards%2C%20also%20called%20mouth%20protectors,tongue%2C%20lips%20and%20cheek%20lining. Accessed 17 Mar. 2024. 

Many people seek teeth whitening treatements, however, there are several ways to go about this process. People tend to engage in this practice in order to lighten the color of their teeth and/or to remove stains. Teeth whitening is usually completed through the use of a peroxide-based cleaning agent. Those used at home range in 3-20% peroxide and those in offices often have 15-43% peroxide. Solutions with a higher concentration of peroxide cannot stay on teeth for as long because they can increase sensitivity and dehydrate teeth. 

Sometimes, the terms teeth bleaching and whitening  are used interchangeably, but they are not technically the same process. In fact, bleaching means that one is whitening their teeth with products that contain peroxide. The advantage to using peroxide is that it is able to clean both deep and surface stains to increase how white teeth can become. However, teeth whitening can be done with or without this agent.

In office teeth whitening: Can often allow for patients to see the effects faster since the bleaching solution is stronger than what can be bought over-the-counter. In 8 visits, patients' teeth can become 3-8 shades lighter. However, the cost can be up to $1000. 

At-Home Teeth Whitening: This can come in the form of teeth whitening strips and gels (tends to lighten teeth by 1-2 shades), tray-based systems (a mouth guard that is filled with peroxide bleaching gel), tooth whitening toothpastes (can brighten teeth by about one shade; even though most contain peroxides, they are not on the teeth for long enough to have a stronger whitening effect), and whitening rinses (effects tend to be mild).  

Sources:

“Teeth Whitening and Bleaching Treatments.” WebMD, WebMD, www.webmd.com/oral-health/teeth-whitening-and-bleaching. Accessed 17 Mar. 2024. 

Jaw surgery can also be regarded as orthognathic surgery and is often used in order to realign the jaw and teeth in order to make sure they can work as efficently as possible. This procedure is performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Many times, jaw misalignments such as over/under/crossbites can be corrected via traditonal orthodontic treatment. However,   jaw surgery is used when an issue cannot be resolved using orthodontics. Before and after this procedure, patients often must have braces to allow for healing and alignment. Oftentimes, jaw surgery is performed after patients stop growing: 14-16 for women and 17-21 for men. 

While jaw surgery may seem scary, it does have a significant amount of benefits for those who are reccomended to undergo it by a dental professional. For example, it can make eating easier, correct facial assymetry, relieve pain connected to the TMJ (temporomandibular joint), and correct open bites (which occur when the molars touch, but the front teeth do not).

Jaw surgery can be a very positive procedure to undergo for some patients and can often result in increased confidence for those who have these surgeries. If you believe that you may need  jaw surgery, please speak to a dental professional. 

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/jaw-surgery/about/pac-20384990

Dental care is crucial to one's overall well-being. However, without proper insurance, it can be unafforable for many people. Therefore, it is important that people have access to dental insurance in order to allow moth them and their families (particularly children) to have access to proper oral healthcare. Additionally, when choosing a dental office  it is important to keep in mind the kinds of insurance plans that different practices take as this often varies from office to office. Below listed are the kinds of plans that dental offices tend to have with dental insurance partners:

1. Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO): often, there is a set of dentists working under this plan and they make an agreement with an insurance company to cover a pre-determined number of services. The amount that dentists can charge in this network is dependent upon the agreement reached between the dentist and the insurance provider.

2. Dental Health Maintenance Organizations (DHMO)?Capitation Plans: This plan guarentees dentists a certain pau for each patient that a dentist provides care for, provided that these dentists give some services to their patients for free/low-cost

3. Indemnity Plans: This is one of the most traditional approaches as insurance companies pay for claims based on what service was provided. Many insurance companies have a cap on how much they are willing to pay for each claim, known as a UCR or a usual, customary, and reasonable fee

4. Exclusive Provider Organizations (EPO): This plan guarentees coverage to patients if they go to participating dentists.

5. Table or Schedule of Allowances Plans: When an insurance provider uses this format, that means that they will pay a set amount of each procedure, regardless of what service is actually performed. Patients must pay the difference between what the insurance covered and the cost of the service according to their dental provider. Sometimes, this plan is used in conjunction with a PPO (which is described above), limiting the amount a dental professional can charge for a given service.

Sources: 

“Types of Dental Plans.” American Dental Association, www.ada.org/en/resources/practice/dental-insurance/dental-plan-overview. Accessed 6 Apr. 2024. 

Expanders are a common tool used during orthodontic treatment in order to correct bites and create room for more teeth to come in as well as other uses. Especially after the expnader is bonded, the degree to which it is effective is largely based upon the patient's compliance with taking care of and using their expander correctly.

During the beginning of treatment, patients usually need to use a key to turn their expander every day in order for it to function as intended and to create more space in the mouth. While turning, it is crucial that the key is turned all the way to ensure that treatment goes as expected. Additionally, outside of turning the key daily (or as advised by your orthodontist),  it is important to keep the appliance clean by gently brushing it every day during the patient's regular brushing routine.  Sometimes, food can get stuck between the roof of the mouth and the expander, so it is important that this is clean everyday in order to keep the teeth clean.

Expanders are a very powerful, effective tool that can be central to the success of a patient's orthodontic treatment, but care for this appliance ensures that it will help achieve the desired results at the end of orthodontic treatment. 

Sources:

“How to Use and Care for a Rapid Palatal Expander:  | We Serve the La Mesa, El Cajon, Spring Valley, Rancho San Diego, and the San Diego, California Area.” Stormberg Orthodontics, 21 Dec. 2021, orthosandiego.com/blog/kids/use-and-care-of-rapid-palatal-expander/#:~:text=Use%20the%20Right%20Tools%2D%20Use,Brush%20for%20about%202%20minutes. 

Oftentimes, orthodontic treatment requires the use of rubber bands in order to correct bites. While rubber bands can be very effective, the degree of their effectiveness is directly dependent upon the patient. Patients must wear rubber bands as close to 24/7 as possible in order to ensure that the desired results can be achieved in a timely manner. If not, braces may stay on for longer than originally planned or orthodontists must employ the use of a forsus.

A forsus is a spring that is attached to the upper back molars and the lower canines. The pressure that is created by this placement is able to fix overbites. Since this device cannot be removed, it expidites treatment as patient cooperation is not as central to this processes' success. 

Most of the times, forsus springs are not installed when braces are initially bonded. Just as rubber bands are usually used once the teeth have been aligned for the most part, forsus springs are usually employed about a year into treatment, but timing depends on specific cases. When forsus springs are installed there is usually little to no discomfort, but, as with any new orthodontic appliances, after installation, there may be some discomfort coming from the constant pressure being placed on jaw movement for about a week. 

In order to keep up with oral hygiene while having these springs, patients must clean them regulalry after meals and take extra care flossing the teeth that are keeping this appliance in place. While Waterpiks do not replace flossing, they can also be a helpful tool to use in keeping forsus springs clean. 

Sources:

Stephani. “Forsus Springs - a Patient’s Guide.” Premier Orthodontics, 3 Mar. 2023, yourazbraces.com/the-patients-guide-to-forsus-springs/. 

A common misconseption is that waterpiks can replace flossing. Naturally, once one has acquired a Waterpik, it is easy to replace a usual flossing regimen with it because of how much easier it is to use. However, the two are different because flossing can get rid of plaque while the primary use of a Waterpik is to remove food from the teeth. 

Despite the fact that a Waterpik is a supplement to flossing, it can still be a postive contribution to an oral hygiene routine as it is able to reach places that regular toothbrushing would not be able to address. In order to maximize the effectiveness of a Waterpik, it is ideal to use before brushing as studies have shown that more plaque is removed when flossing/ Waterpik useage occurs before brushing. 

Waterpiks can also be helpful as they could increase gum health through their massaging tendencies. If one has periodintal (gum) disease, flossing may cause bleeding, so using a Waterpik could mitigate that effect of traditional flossing. 

Sources:

“Waterpik vs. Flossing: Uses, Benefits and Comparison.” WebMD, WebMD, www.webmd.com/oral-health/what-is-waterpik. Accessed 23 June 2024. 

Throughout the span of orthodontic treatment, if a patient chooses to use braces, the strength of the wires they use will vary as they progress through treatment. Often, when one first gets braces they will be given thinner, flimsy wires to mitigate the discomfort, but still start teeth movement. However, by the end of treatment, once a patient has gotten used to their braces, they are able to have thicker, stronger wires, as they are used to the sensation of tooth movement. There are 3 primary materials used in braces wires and the material that a wire is made of determines what it is used for:

1. Stainless Steel: These wires are strong and are often used to maintain any adjustments that have already been made, meaning, they are often used when rubber bands and bite correction are the most pertinent part of treatment. Given these characteristics, it is uncommon for them to be used at the beginning of treatment.

2. Beat-Titanium Wires: These wires are the "middle-ground" as they are more maluable than stainless steel wires and not as weak as nickel-titanium wires. Accordingly, they are often used in the middle of treatment. 

3. Nickel-Titanium Alloy: Also known as a "ni-ti," these wires work because they have the tendency to move back into their original orientation. Therefore, when they are bent and shaped to fit into brackets, they will naturally move the teeth as the wire works to straighten out into its original position. 

Even though it is not certain when a patient will get their braces off, the kind of wire that it using may be an indication as to how far along they are in treatment. All of these wres serve diifferent purposes, but when used in the correct order are able to create the desires effect. 

Sources:

Dresback, Emily. “Understanding Orthodontic Treatment: Types of Braces Wires.” Great Smiles Pediatric Dentistry + Orthodontics, 29 May 2024, greatsmiles.com/types-of-braces-wires/#:~:text=Wire%20Types%3A%20Stainless%20Steel%20Alloy,of%20treatment%20you%20are%20in.