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What Are Retainers?

A dental retainer is a device that supports the teeth and prevents them from shifting out of position. Manufacturers usually craft them out of metal, but some providers do offer plastic devices. Each retainer is custom made for the patient according to the plan that the specialist has for him or her. Several types of retainers exist. A reliable orthodontist can help a person to decide which device fits best for teeth alignment progress.

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Best Age for Your Child to Get Orthodontic Braces

GIF courtesy of giphy.com

GIF courtesy of giphy.com

As a parent, you want what’s best for your child, and this could mean getting their teeth straightened in order to improve their self-esteem, looks and confidence levels. Crooked teeth are incredibly common, and most people aren’t born or develop into having gorgeous straight teeth. This is where braces can come in handy, but it’s a subject that is touchy for a lot of parents because they may not know when the best age for your child to get orthodontic braces is. Knowing what age is right for them can help treatment to go by more smoothly, ensuring that their teeth stay straight for a lifetime.

Things to Consider When Getting a Child Braces

For those parents who want to know the best age for your child to get orthodontic braces, it’s all about knowing what to consider about the actual treatment that’s involved. Keep in mind that colored braces for kids will normally be put onto the teeth and stay there for about a year or two. This could vary depending on the severity of your child’s teeth and how crooked they are, but the average time a child will have braces is for about one or two years. This length of time may not seem like a huge deal for you, but it’s definitely an enormous deal for a growing kid.

Also, when the braces are actually being put on, your child will have to sit in the orthodontist’s treatment chair for a good hour or two. This may be too long for younger kids and younger teens, so this is a consideration that you’ll want to take in before you visit your local orthodontist. Colored braces for kids can make it fun and entertaining to get braces and to show them off to their friends, but the actual treatment that will be involved is something that all parents need to think about before they take their child to the orthodontist. It’s something that you want to go as smoothly as possible, and it cannot be like this when the child is either too young or still too immature to take things seriously.

FAQ # 2: Beach Braces:At what age should I schedule an appointment for an orthodontic screening?

 

Knowing the Care of the Braces

Another thing that all parents need to realize is that braces have to be cared for a lot differently than normal teeth. Braces colors and brackets can shine gorgeously when they’re brushed correctly, but this can sometimes be a chore for kids who are still getting used to just being able to brush their normal teeth. If your child is not able to brush their normal teeth without a lot of fuss, there may be issues when they have braces put on. While it isn’t impossible or overly difficult to brush teeth that have braces on them, it is more difficult than just brushing ordinary teeth.

Taking good care of the braces colors and brackets is essential for optimal treatment. If the teeth aren’t cared for properly, decay and cavities can become a huge problem, and this can hinder the overall look and health of the teeth despite the fact that they are being professionally straightened. This might be something you’ll want to discuss with both your child and the orthodontist if you would like for your child to begin treatment.

Image courtesy of stockimages at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Image courtesy of stockimages at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

When is the Best Age?

There really is no set age for a child to get braces, since all kids are different in terms of maturity. A 12 year old child might be mature enough to get braces on, but another 12 year old child may not even be able to brush their teeth correctly enough to where they’ll be able to take care of their new braces. Knowing your own child and how well they are able to handle going to an orthodontist or other type of doctor can also help you to figure out if treatment is even viable. In order for orthodontic treatment to be a success, you and your child need to go to the orthodontist routinely to get wires tightened and new plastic trays made up if they choose to go with an invisible brace option. If your teen continually skips their appointments, this does nothing for the overall straightening quality of their teeth.

Discussing orthodontic work with your child is the best place for you to start, since they should always have a say in their own treatment. Most kids will be eager and willing to straighten out their teeth, especially if they are dealing with severe crowding and mouth pain. This is why it is so important to sit down and have a good conversation with them about possibly going to get braces. Try to let them know what should be expected during treatment so that they feel as though they are prepared. It’s never a good idea for you to hide things from your kids and let them find out when it is too late for them to change their minds.

Visiting the Orthodontist

Once you’ve talked to your child or teen about going for braces, it’s time to visit the orthodontist to begin treatment. During the first visit, x-rays may be taken of your child’s teeth, and this will be followed up with a consultation that discusses different options available to your teen or child and what they should expect. Encourage your child to ask as many questions as they want so that they can feel prepared for the treatment that will be coming up in the near future.
If you think that your child or teen is ready for braces, you’ll want to contact Beach Braces Orthodontics to set up a consultation appointment. This will allow you and your child to see what types of braces are there for them, and how long the overall treatment may take from start to finish. Your child will be thrilled that they have gorgeous and straight teeth after the braces have come off, and they can feel a lot more confident in showing off their smile to all of their friends at school.

Beach Braces, 1730 Manhattan Beach Blvd. Suite B, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

TEL: 310-379-0006 Fax: (310) 379-7051.

Best Age for Your Child to Get Orthodontic Braces

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What are Lingual Braces?

lingual braces

Unlike traditional braces that are placed on the front of the teeth for the entire world to see, lingual braces are placed on the inside of the teeth facing the tongue. In fact, the word “lingual” means tongue. From the outside, even up-close, they are just about invisible. Sometimes referred to as “inside” braces, they are similar to traditional braces in terms of orthodontic principles and the type of hardware used.

Why do People Choose Lingual Braces?
People of both genders and all ages that have considered braces have decided on lingual braces.

  • Many patients that come to an orthodontist for lingual braces are public and professional figures who feel their orthodontic treatment shouldn’t be a focus when they’re in public. Because lingual braces are practically invisible, they suit their lifestyle.
  • Other patients, like many adolescent or adult actors or models for whom appearance is paramount, want straight teeth without showing traditional braces during treatment.
  • For many, it’s a matter of not sharing with the world the fact that they’re undergoing a treatment plan. Lingual braces help keep it a private matter.
  • Lingual braces are also a good choice for people who play sports or wind instruments.

Are There People Who are Not Good Candidates for Lingual Braces?

While there are considerations that may eliminate certain individuals from being a good candidate, the best way to determine if they’re the right choice for you is to consult with your orthodontist. There are, however, issues your orthodontist will consider.

  • Lingual braces are not recommended to correct excessive bite problems like an overbite.
  • Those with small teeth are not good candidates for the procedure.

Lingual Braces Pros and Cons

Pros

  • The most obvious advantage is cosmetic.
  • Lingual braces are an excellent option for minor anterior movements like crowding, spacing, tipping, rotation, midline discrepancy and intrusion/extrusion.
  • Even if the minor discoloration that sometimes occurs with braces happens, it’s on the inside where it can’t be seen.
  • They’re less visible than clear plastic, removable tooth aligners.
  • Lingual braces allow the Orthodontist more control than with removable aligners, and patient compliance is a non-issue.
  • Your braces will be custom fabricated just for you, compared to conventional braces that often use stock parts.

Cons

  • Plaque buildup can become a problem.
  • Overall time for the treatment is sometimes longer than for traditional braces, and office appointments can be longer too.
  • Because the brackets are custom-made, lingual braces cost more than traditional braces.
  • There is an adjustment period because the placement behind the teeth affects the tongue. Swallowing and even speaking takes some getting used to.
  • It’s important to keep them clean, but it can be difficult.

MTM® No•Trace™ – See How It Works

 

What is the Treatment Procedure?

You’ve had a consultation with your orthodontist. You’ve had your exam and x-rays, and you’ve decided to get lingual braces. Through advanced robotic wire bending technology and the use of CAD/CAM, your braces will be custom fabricated.

It’s a pretty involved process.

Your Orthodontist Takes Impressions of Your Teeth

The impressions of your upper and lower teeth will be extremely detailed and accurate. The brackets and wires are made at the dental laboratory. They also outline the final desired alignment outcome.

Next, the Fabrication Process Begins

  • Using the impressions from your orthodontist, the lab will make casts.
  • Based on instructions from your orthodontist, the lab creates a mockup, or “setup,” of your teeth in perfect alignment.
  • The hardware is created and the setup is scanned into a computer.

The Brackets are Returned to Your Orthodontist

  • Your newly fabricated brackets are imbedded into an applicator tray that fits over your teeth. This process holds them in place during the bonding procedure.
  • But, you’re not done yet. Your hardware is left with your orthodontist for the final fabrication process.
  • Be prepared to wait a few weeks before your next appointment to have them attached to your teeth.

Now would be a good time to take a “before” picture for your before and after braces comparison when your treatment is finished.

Attaching the Braces

  • First, the surface of your teeth will be prepared so the bonding will properly adhere.
  • Your orthodontist will apply the cement, or bonding agent, to the brackets.
  • The applicator tray will be pressed into place over your teeth until the cement has cured, ensuring precise alignment.
  • When the cement has set and the applicator tray has been removed, your brackets will remain in place.
  • Finally, the pre-bent arch wire prepared by the laboratory can be installed.

You’ll be back in the office every few weeks to have the brackets tightened to ensure your teeth are being straightened according to plan.

what are lingual braces

How Much do They Cost?

Because of the sophisticated technology and robotics used to create custom fabricated braces, lingual braces generally cost more than other options, like traditional, ceramic and removable aligners. Examine the lingual braces pros and cons. Ask yourself just how important the cosmetic advantage is in your daily life. Do your research. If you decide that it’s worth a little more, then it’s worth a little more.

How do Orthodontists Feel About Them?

  • The use of lingual braces is more common in other part of the world than in the U.S.
  • Not all orthodontists who have already completed educational requirements beyond those of a dentist have an interest in additional specialized training.
  • Providing treatment presents some difficulties for the orthodontist related to visibility and access.
  • Orthodontists that have completed the specialized training, however, can offer their patients the additional option of lingual braces, making their practice more patient-friendly.

Don’t Forget to Take Your Before and After Braces Pictures

It’s easy to take that beautiful new smile for granted. Look at the before picture once in a while and you’ll be reassured it was worth it.

If you Live in Manhattan Beach, CA, You’re in Luck

Beach Braces Orthodontics, located in Manhattan Beach, specializes in orthodontics for adults, teens and children and would be happy to consult with you regarding all the options available to achieve your perfect smile.

Beach Braces, 220 N. Aviation Blvd. Suite A
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

TEL: 310-379-0006

What are Lingual Braces?

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Understanding How Self-Ligating Braces Work

tell me how

Are you interested to try braces but worried about how long it will take? The typical length of time prescribed for orthodontics is usually more than two years but that is not the case anymore. New technology such as self-ligating braces has immensely speeded up the process. Here is a guide to understanding how self-ligating braces work.

Self-ligating braces sometimes referred to as speed braces remove the need for the elastic or metal tie usually found on traditional braces. Instead, self-ligating hardware keeps the wire attached to the bracket through a removable metal piece. This change in design helps braces work more efficiently and comfortably.

Compared to traditional braces, self-ligating braces require 40% less orthodontist appointments. Without bands, there is less resistance, so your teeth can move freely. While this helps the braces move faster, it also makes them more comfortable. You don’t have to worry about suffering years of intense pain from traditional braces.

If you or someone you know is considering braces, worrying about needing them for an extended period of time is no longer valid. Self-ligating braces have speeded up the process enough to make them worth anyone’s time.

Tips for Keeping Your Teeth Clean With Braces

You’ve been brushing your teeth your whole life. You know how it’s done, and you know how important it is. So what is the big deal with braces? Just keep doing what you’re doing, right? Wrong! Braces change everything and dental hygiene is more important than ever. Here are some tips to keeping your teeth clean with braces:

Brush After Every Meal

That’s right – every meal. That means no matter where you are or what you’re doing, you need to make time to brush after you eat. Otherwise, food can get stuck between the wires and sit there all day. This not only looks bad, but can hurt your teeth and stink up your breath.

Make a “To Go” Kit

Since brushing after eating is so important, make a to-go kit so you can brush wherever you eat. This should include a travel toothbrush, travel toothpaste and a small brush to get in between the wires. When that piece of spinach is stuck at school, you’ll be happy you did!

Do Orthodontic Braces Cause White Spots on Teeth? Beach Braces Manhattan Beach

Floss

Flossing is difficult especially with braces, but it’s important. Food has a harder time falling out of your teeth so you need to work to get it all out. You only need to floss once a day and you can find special tools for threading the floss through your teeth. Ask your orthodontist about the best way to floss.

Use these tips to keep your teeth clean during braces. If you have any questions or think it’s time for you to get your braces, do not hesitate to ask an orthodontic specialist in Manhattan Beach!

Are Braces a Good Idea as an Adult?

When we picture orthodontist patients, we typically think of teenagers, but this isn’t entirely accurate. About 25% of all orthodontist patients are over the age of eighteen. It’s never really too late to get braces, but is it right for you?

There are two main reasons why adults would choose to wear braces: to reduce the risk for future problems and to change the look of their teeth.

As we age, problems can develop from crooked teeth and jaw. These problems include tooth decay, headache, earache, and trouble with normal mouth functions such as chewing or speaking. Talk to your orthodontist, and if they think you may be at risk for future problems, it may be time to talk about braces.

If you are conscious about your teeth, then braces are definitely a good idea for you! There’s no reason to continue feeling uncomfortable. Invisalign might be a good idea because you can straighten your teeth without the metal brackets.

Guide to Avoiding Problem Foods With Braces

Braces completely change the way you eat and what you eat. For awhile, you’ll have to say goodbye to some sweets and treats to earn that fabulous smile. Here is a guide of foods to avoid.

Sticky Foods

Sticky foods such as caramel and taffy are a recipe for disaster. They can stick to your brackets and pull them off. Avoid anything sticky while wearing braces.

Hard Foods

Hard candies, nuts, or other crunchy foods can knock your brackets right off. Unless you want an emergency trip to the orthodontist, stay with soft, chewy foods until the braces come off

Foods You Bite Into

This category actually applies more to fruits and vegetables than anything else. Don’t ever bite into an apple, carrot, celery or anything else big, hard, and crunchy. Instead, cut up your snack. Eat corn off the cob and choose apple bites instead of the whole apple. Otherwise you may have found some brackets lodged in your fruit.

Remember, that these dietary restrictions are only temporary. Eating foods you shouldn’t can only make you wear braces for a longer period.

what is invisalign

What is the average cost of braces?

Braces are known for being overly expensive. With so many options in orthodontics now, you have more choices for how much you will pay. Here is to give you an idea about the cost of braces:

Metal Braces

The cost of traditional metal braces depends on the patient’s condition. This is typically the least expensive option, but often takes the longest.

Invisalign

Invisalign is comparable to traditional braces. They may be a little more expensive, but you can’t see them so it might feel worth the extra cost.

Self-Ligating Braces

Self-Ligating braces usually cost more than traditional braces, but move faster so you don’t have to wear them longer. You have to decide if it’s worth the extra cost.

Health Insurance

Check with your health and dental insurance to see if they will help with the cost of braces. Unlike other cosmetic dentistry like whitening, braces are usually deemed “medically necessary” and will be covered by insurance.

The average cost of braces depends on the severity of your orthodontic needs. If you want to figure out a more accurate cost for you or your family, give Beach Braces a call! Beach Braces has the right team of orthodontic specialist in Manhattan Beach to help you achieve that beautiful smile.

Beach Braces, 1730 Manhattan Beach Blvd. Suite B, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

TEL: 310-379-0006 Fax: (310) 379-7051.

Understanding How Self-Ligating Braces Work

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Solutions for Off-Centered Teeth

How Do I Fix Off-centered Teeth?

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Photo Credit: Pensiero via Compfight cc

While procedures for fixing off-centered teeth are traditionally thought of as procedures for children and teenagers, an increasing number of adults are seeking an orthodontist’s help in order to improve their smile. Improvements in cosmetic dentistry have allowed orthodontists to offer a greater number of options to adults who wish to fix their off-center smiles through the use of braces for adults. If you’re unhappy with your smile, being an adult actually increases the orthodontic options available to help you achieve the perfect teeth of your dreams.

Metal Braces

The traditional metal braces are composed of metal brackets and wires. These types of braces are usually chosen because they are the least expensive type, but they are not typically preferred by adults because they are the most noticeable and less than ideal if you are working in a professional environment.

Ceramic Braces

Although ceramic braces are similar to metal braces, they are not as noticeable. This is due to the fact that ceramic braces come with clear or tooth-colored brackets. These brackets are designed to blend in and not be noticeable. These types of braces are typically preferred because they are capable of moving teeth faster than other options. However, these options can stain easily.

Lingual Braces

In-Ovation L (lingual) Minor Tooth Movement is an orthodontic procedure that places the brackets behind your teeth. This orthodontic treatment focuses on the six upper and the six lower front teeth. There are no removable braces and you will not have to remove any trays. You will be free to eat, converse, and interact with others without anyone ever seeing your braces. Lingual braces are preferred because a difference is typically noticeable within 12 to 24 weeks. Additionally, fewer office visits are required with Lingual braces.

Invisalign

This procedure uses clear, removable, and customized aligners instead of brackets or wires. This technology requires an initial office visit to see if Invisalign will work for your teeth. If you are a candidate for the procedure, Invisalign’s advanced computer technology will design specific aligners calibrated exactly for your teeth. These are typically worn for two weeks until they are replaced with a new set. Using Invisalign with Acceledent may reduce the overall treatment time required to have perfectly straight teeth. The aligners must be taken out when eating, brushing, and flossing. Invisalign can only be provided by orthodontists who have received training and certification from Align Technology. Invisalign are an option for braces for adults only and cannot be used for children.
A qualified orthodontist should be able to help you decide which type of braces are right for you and your lifestyle. Fortunately, as part of her role as the best orthodontist in Los Angeles, Dr. Patricia J. Panucci has experience in providing orthodontic treatment for adults who need to fix their off-centered teeth. Contact her office at Beach Braces today to begin your journey towards the smile you’ve always wanted.

Beach Braces, 1730 Manhattan Beach Blvd. Suite B, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

TEL: 310-379-0006 Fax: (310) 379-7051.

Solutions for Off-Centered Teeth

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Beach Braces, Orthodontics

Acceledent: Accelerating Orthodontic Procedures

Acceledent – Faster and More Comfortable Orthodontic Treatment

Beach Braces, OrthodonticsBraces are able to straighten teeth by the application of force as a means of realigning them gradually by a reshaping of the surrounding bone. How long it takes for this procedure to complete will differ greatly depending on the person. However, it usually takes more than a year. As a way of making this process go faster, OrthoAccell Technologies has created the AcceleDent system. Vibration is utilized by the appliance, speeding up the process dramatically. It is an appliance that is non-invasive and removable. A person will wear the appliance in his or her mouth for only 20 minutes each day. Since the process of straightening the teeth has been cut down considerably with this appliance, it is perfect for making 6 month smiles. The appliance is completely FDA approved, so you can be rest assured that it has been thoroughly tested and is safe for you or your children to use.

Clinical trial:

AcceleDent was the subject of a randomized clinical trial that proved beyond the shadow of a doubt how effective the appliance is when it comes to accelerating the process of straightening teeth. In the trial, the appliance increased the movement of teeth by 106 percent during the phase of initial alignment and between 38 and 50 percent during closure of extraction space. The study did not reveal any signs of teeth roots being damaged or other problems that might have been caused by the appliance.

Many years in development:

The increased rate of tooth movement that the study revealed basically means that the time a patient undergoes orthodontic treatment can be shortened by a minimum of five months during the initial two stages of the treatment. The science that this appliance uses took years of research to successfully develop. Dr. Jeremy Mao, Professor of Orthodontics at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, is one of the people responsible for the device’s creation. His work was critical in understanding the therapeutic effect that pulsatile forces can have in the acceleration of bone modeling.

How does Acceledent work?

Patented SoftPulse Technology applies micropulses that are specifically calibrated for each individual patient. These micropulses will gently cause the acceleration of teeth movement. The direction your teeth are going will be monitored by your orthodontist during the entire process. Conventional orthodontic treatment is perfectly complimented by the safe and gentle acceleration of the process of bone remodeling. The SoftPulse Technology micropulses are made to exert up to eight times less force than that of an electric toothbrush. This will make your orthodontic treatment process much easier than if you were wearing traditional braces.

 

If you are not happy with your teeth and you want to find out what your options are, please contact Beach Braces today and schedule a free consultation. Dr. Patricia J. Panucci and our friendly and professional staff will help you to obtain a smile you can be proud of. Beach Braces is conveniently located in Manhattan Beach. For more information about the services we offer, visit our website.

Beach Braces, 1730 Manhattan Beach Blvd. Suite B, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

TEL: 310-379-0006 Fax: (310) 379-7051.

Acceledent: Accelerating Orthodontic Procedures

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Whiter Teeth, More Confident Smiles

Teens and Teeth Whitening

Having a bright, white smile is a real confidence-booster for teens. While there are many consumer based products available, kiosks and salons that offer treatments, a better option entails consulting with licensed professionals to ensure that teens get the bests results.

Importance of Diagnosing Potential Problems:

Natural teeth are rarely completely white. Teeth may darken for a variety of reasons that include antibiotic therapy, injury or vitamin supplements. Sometimes, perceived discoloration is a natural component of tooth coloring. Cavities, cracked teeth or gum disease must also be treated properly before clients undergo whitening. A dentist should perform a thorough evaluation, which determines if teens are good candidates for treatments that create whiter teeth. Before having aesthetic orthodontics treatment, teens should have a complete set of permanent teeth and be anywhere from 12 to 14 years of age. Baby teeth and adult teeth do not have the same thickness of enamel and attempting to whiten the different teeth types may cause uneven results.

Prevent Discoloration:

There are a number of methods that teens should implement to reduce the risk of endangering a natural Hollywood smile.

  • Avoid smoking
  • Do not drink coffee, soda or tea or eat foods that cause staining.
  • If choosing to drink darkly colored coffee, tea or soda, use a straw to minimize contact with teeth.
  • Brush teeth regularly
  • If wearing braces, clean teeth thoroughly. Food often becomes trapped between the appliances and the teeth, which causes discoloration and cavities.

Professional Teeth Whitening:

The chemicals used in teeth-whitening products may cause soft tissue irritation, discomfort and gum damage. In addition to the treatments provided in an office setting, physicians may prescribe custom fitting bleaching trays that ensure minimal contact between the bleaching agents and soft tissues. If teens have only one or two teeth exhibiting discoloration, professionals correct the problem using mild abrasives and treatments that target these teeth, which reduces the danger of affecting gums and surrounding teeth. Dentists often use this technique when discoloration occurs because of fluorosis or tetracycline use. Targeted treatment is also more cost-effective.

Teens should only use teeth-whitening products under the supervision of a dentist. These products are designed to remove the superficial stains found on the top layer of enamel. Appropriate aesthetic orthodontics contain carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide, which breaks down the substances that cause teeth to appear yellow or brown.

As the enamel of younger teeth is more porous than adult teeth, their teeth often more readily respond to treatment. However, care must be taken to ensure that teens use prescribed products correctly. Incorrect use or overuse may damage gums and enamel. In-office treatments consist of peroxide gels exposed to specially designed lamps that hasten the whitening process.

Contact Dr. Patricia Panucci:

When teens or parents have concerns about the coloration of teeth, consult with Dr. Panucci at Beach Braces. The facility uses state-of-the-art technology to educate patients and offer individualized treatment. Ensure the health of your child’s teeth by making an appointment with a qualified professional at Beach Braces.

Beach Braces, 1730 Manhattan Beach Blvd. Suite B, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

TEL: 310-379-0006 Fax: (310) 379-7051.

Whiter Teeth, More Confident Smiles

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Protect your Smile [while Playing Sports]

If you are an athlete and always on the go, it’s good for you. You’re going to be physically fit and strong for years to come. However, don’t forget to take care with your mouth. When it comes to any kind of contact sport, mouth guards are a must. Think of it as a minor investment that will protect your pearly whites for a lifetime. Remember that goes for kids too. If your children are signed up for sports, be sure to take a trip to the store or to an orthodontist in Manhattan Beach to get a mouth guard. It’s a simple insurance policy against the risk of major damage.

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White Spot Lesions: Not a Cause for Concern

White Spot Lesions after Orthodontic Treatment

White spot lesions will frequently occur after the removal of orthodontic appliances. During orthodontic treatment there are some teeth that seem to be more prone to this demineralization process. Around the mandibular canines as well as the maxillary lateral incisors we can start to see area affected by the orthodontic appliance and a real reaction caused on the enamel. This is usually seen mostly in the first few weeks after the removal of a fixed appliance like braces. The lesions can appear shortly after the appliances are installed and may still prevail after the appliances are removed. Saliva seems to do wonders for fading these lesions however. White spot lesions after orthodontic treatment will fade in time and the belief is that saliva plays a big part in that role.

There are some other methods used for assisting the fading of these lesions as well. Low concentrations of fluoride products at the site of the lesions can work to fade them, but high concentration of fluoride will only result in staining. The key is to find a low dose product that can gently remove the stains. Saliva can also be stimulated by regularly chewing sugar free gum. Gum will work to increase saliva flow which can in turn work to cut back on the severity of the lesions.

White spot lesions that have reached advanced stages can make things more difficult. These advanced stages make sure that lesions will persist and may require advanced care treatments to cause them to fade.

With advanced white spot lesions, fluoride therapy may be ineffective and restorative fillings may be required. These fillings do not require any type of anesthesia or drilling and simply add a product that reinforces the enamel. With fully reinforced enamel the lesions will fade away completely and there will be little to no evidence they were ever there. This is an advanced and effective treatment e.

The only real disadvantage to using restorative fillings is that in most cases there is also a sacrifice of part of the healthy tooth structure. With this healthy tooth structure sacrificed there can be some sensitivity, but the overall structure of the tooth will be just as strong with the reinforced enamel to help it.

If you are affected by white tooth lesions shortly after an orthodontic appliance has been removed, it is never a good idea to adopt a reactive attitude to white spot lesions. Act preemptively and seek professional low dose fluoride immediately as these lesions can get worse if they go untreated. In most cases your orthodontist can make recommendations based off of your case when your orthodontic appliances are removed. Remember that this is fairly common and very treatable.

The orthodontic experts at Beach Braces can provide recommendations for any patient who experiences white spot lesions prior to their treatment through the office. For more information on treatment options after orthodontic appliances, or to book a free consultation for orthodontics please contact Beach braces today.

Beach Braces 1730 Manhattan Beach Blvd. Suite B, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

TEL: 310-379-0006 Fax: (310) 379-7051.

White spot lesions: Not a cause for concern

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Invisible Braces

What are the Benefits of Lingual Braces?

People seeking dental treatment today are markedly different from patients a few decades ago, when saving one’s teeth from tooth decay or preventing tooth loss was of more importance. Children were often the recipients of braces in a desperate bid to straighten their teeth What has become far more important these days is how adults are able to improve their appearance through the use of modern orthodontic techniques. Clear braces, such as lingual braces, have attracted people’s attention more and more as a solution.

Lingual braces are often referred to as invisible braces and attract those people who want to improve their facial appearance and their smile but don’t want others to know they are doing this. As they are attached to the inner surfaces of the teeth, they can barely be seen even up-close. Besides their invisible characteristics, lingual braces do offer other benefits. They are able to do quite complicated movements such as correcting rotations, altering the teeth’s height, and closing spaces caused by extractions.

Lingual braces do have their challenges. It takes a few days or even up to a fortnight to get used to them being so close to the tongue. The wires and brackets may feel slightly rough to begin with and could have a slight effect on your speech, but the recipient soon becomes adjusted to the inconveniences of lingual braces and looks forward to the eventual outcome of wearing them for so long.

If your current job restricts your ability to wear braces or you simply want to cover up the fact that you are having braces treatment then you will benefit greatly from lingual braces. 3D imaging  and diagnosis software, along with robotically made wires, are the fundamental keys to lingual orthodontics today.

If your teeth are crooked or even just a little bit out of place, then lingual braces are a great way to correct those noticeable deficiencies and enable the recipients to smile and open their mouth with confidence, particularly after the treatment process has been completed. Contact beach braces today for the appointment and taking a first step towards a perfect smile.

 

Dr Panucci – Beach Braces 1730 Manhattan Beach Blvd. Suite B, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

TEL: 310-379-0006 Fax: (310) 379-7051.

Invisible Braces

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