Tag: invisalign

Indulge This Halloween with These Braces-Friendly Foods

October 23, 2023

There’s nothing quite so alluring as Halloween’s creep factor and sweet celebrations. However, when you or your child has braces, it’s important to select safe foods that won’t interfere with orthodontic devices. Read on to learn what foods to avoid with braces (and what you can indulge in instead).

Sticky Foods to Avoid with Braces

Sticky foods and chewy foods are a serious risk to dental devices, as they can get stuck in between brackets and wires. They can also damage your braces or dislodge them, which means an emergency trip to the orthodontist and missed festivities.

Sticky treats to avoid include:

  • Caramel candy
  • Taffy
  • Starburst
  • Tootsie Rolls
  • Airheads
  • Skittles
  • Candy corn
  • Jelly beans
  • Gum
  • Rice Krispies treats

Hard Candy: Another Thing to Reject

Hard candy also never qualifies as braces-friendly food. Sucking on it is a lot of work for your mouth. It’s also normal to unconsciously bite down on hard candy, which could crack or chip a tooth. It could crack your braces or dislodge the glue on one of the brackets.

Some hard candies to avoid this Halloween are:

  • Caramel hard candy like Werther’s
  • Toffee (this could be a double whammy if it’s sticky)
  • Lemon drops
  • Jolly Ranchers
  • Lemon Heads
  • Lifesavers
  • Malt Balls

Anything with nuts in it is also a no-go. This means chocolate bars like Snickers and Ferrero Rocher.

What About Invisalign?

Note that all these restrictions also apply to people with Invisalign, unless you remove the device first. Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment option that uses clear, removable trays to straighten your teeth. They can be especially convenient during the holiday season. If you remember to take them out before indulging in something chewy or hard, you’ll be good to go!

The Award for “Worst Halloween Treat with Braces” Goes To…

Unfortunately, there’s one treat synonymous with Halloween that you should say no to this year. That’s the caramel apple. It’s easily the No. 1 worst thing you can eat when you have braces.

You’re dealing with the stickiness of caramel, but you’re also contending with the hard crunch of an apple. This means you’ll need a really hard bite, and apples are already one of the worst foods for braces.

Delicious Halloween Candy Alternatives

People love chocolate for tons of reasons. It has a unique and delicious flavor. It’s rich and can be creamy.

But the #1 reason people love chocolate is that it can melt in the mouth. This is why it’s a great braces-friendly food. Just make sure that your chocolate doesn’t have nuts inside.

This Halloween, indulge in chocolate candies like:

  • Mini chocolate bars (Hershey’s, Kit Kat, Three Musketeers)
  • Reese’s peanut butter cups (or other brands)
  • Reese’s Pieces
  • Hershey’s Kisses (without nuts)
  • Plain M&Ms

How Hard Is Too Hard for Hard Candy?

It’s best to avoid hard candy if it has a texture like a Jolly Rancher. Stick with soft foods or go for powder-based candy, which is a safe food for braces.

Make sure to brush really well after eating them, though. They’re basically just sugar, so they’ll cause cavities fast if you’re not careful.

Candies you can have include:

  • Pixy Stix
  • Smarties
  • SweeTARTS (though not the chewable kind!)
  • Pez
  • Powder-based candy

Other Treats Kids and Adults Love

You can enjoy other braces-friendly holiday recipes this Halloween, too. Pumpkin-flavored treats like doughnuts, cookies, and pies are delicious and safe foods to eat.

Cake pops also work wonders if you’re looking for a fun Halloween treat. You also might enjoy apple-flavored treats like cider doughnuts, pie, and Danishes.

Just make sure that they have a soft texture rather than a crunchy one.

SouthShore is Here to Help

At SouthShore Orthodontics, we’re committed to giving you all the information you need to stay smart this Halloween. Schedule an appointment to learn more about caring for your braces during the holiday season. We’ll also help you schedule an appointment to make sure everything stayed in place after the holiday is over.

Comparing Your Options on the Latest Clear Braces Offerings

September 28, 2023

In the early 1700s, dental genius Pierre Fauchard shook the world with a simple yet transformative idea – using wire and bracket braces to realign teeth. Fast-forward to today, when this revelation has evolved dramatically and new types of braces have been introduced.

How so? Welcome to the era of invisible braces! These modern marvels promise the same alignment results without the conspicuous appearance of traditional braces.

Do you want to straighten your teeth, but want to avoid the look of traditional metal braces? Read on to learn the best invisible braces solutions available to ensure your smile is both captivating and confident!

Behind-teeth Braces: Hidden Alignment Magic

As the world of orthodontics continues to evolve, patients and orthodontists alike search for solutions that combine efficacy with discretion. This is where behind-teeth braces come into play.

Unlike their front-facing counterparts, these braces sit comfortably behind your teeth. This makes them virtually invisible to the casual observer. But don’t let their covert nature fool you. They pack the same punch in terms of alignment power.

One might wonder about the comfort aspect of these braces. After all, they occupy a space that hasn’t traditionally housed braces.

Interestingly, many patients report getting used to them just as quickly as conventional braces. Plus, there’s a certain confidence that comes with knowing your orthodontic journey remains your secret.

Clear Braces: A Subtle Shift to Perfection

When we say clear braces – also known as ceramic braces – we’re referring to a more modern and refined version of traditional metal braces. The difference? These braces use clear or tooth-colored brackets and wires, which make them far less noticeable.

The magic of clear braces is that they maintain the structural integrity and functionality of the metal originals, yet offer a more aesthetically pleasing experience.

A question that frequently pops up is about their durability. Can something so delicate-looking stand up to the rigors of everyday life? Absolutely. Clear braces have been crafted with modern materials that ensure strength without compromising on appearance.

Invisalign: A Modern Solution to a Traditional Problem

Invisalign is a name that has almost become synonymous with clear aligners. These removable, transparent trays are custom-made for each patient and are designed to gradually shift teeth into the desired position. Their clear nature makes them a favorite among those wary of the “metal mouth” label.

But it’s not just about looks. Invisalign treatments offer a level of convenience and flexibility not seen with traditional braces. For example, you can remove Invisalign aligners for meals and special occasions. Plus, their smooth design ensures no unwelcome scratches or pokes.

Of course, as with all treatments, discipline is crucial. For the best results, wearers should keep them in for the recommended 20 to 22 hours a day.

A vital point of consideration is the need for regular adjustments. Unlike traditional braces that require tightening, Invisalign users transition to a new set of aligners every couple of weeks. It’s a dance of precision and patience that leads to beautifully aligned teeth.

Simply SouthShore Aligners: In-house Care & Innovation

Our Simply SouthShore aligners are custom designed for you in-house. We use digital scanning and 3D-printing technology, meaning ill-fitting and uncomfortable aligners are a thing of the past.

By using advanced, in-house technology, we keep the overall cost of your treatment low while exponentially increasing the quality of your care. Plus, you can trust that you are in the right hands, as the entire process is overseen by Dr. Matt Ahrens. The treatment is perfect for patients who are looking to straighten their teeth, have previously undergone orthodontic treatment, or have teeth that are only slightly out of alignment.

Benefits of Simply SouthShore Treatment:

  • Perfect for re-treatment
  • In-house customization and manufacturing
  • Comfortable
  • Affordable
  • Faster treatment times
  • Doctor-designed and directed

Criteria to Consider for Invisible Braces

Advancements in orthodontic treatments offer an array of choices. This makes deciding on one both exciting and a tad overwhelming. Whether you’re grappling with the decision of clear braces vs. Invisalign or trying to figure out the best invisible braces for you, there are several criteria to keep in mind.

Lifestyle Compatibility

The foremost thing to consider is how the braces fit into your daily life. For people with an active lifestyle or who frequently engage in public speaking, traditional braces might be a hindrance. Opting for invisible braces could be the answer as they allow for orthodontic treatment without drawing undue attention.

Duration of Treatment

Treatment times vary. Some options, like Invisalign, promise quicker results for minor adjustments, while traditional clear braces might be more effective for significant realignments.

It’s essential to have a clear conversation with your orthodontist about the expected duration of any treatment you’re considering.

Maintenance and Care

While removable braces sound appealing, they come with the responsibility of maintaining them. For example, you’ll need to clean Invisalign trays regularly to avoid staining and to maintain oral hygiene.

In contrast, fixed clear braces might require less daily maintenance. However, they need more attention during regular cleaning to avoid staining the brackets.

Comfort and Ease

Let’s face it – no one wants to be in constant discomfort. Some people find the smooth texture of aligner trays more comfortable than the brackets and wires of traditional braces.

However, the periodic change of aligner trays can sometimes cause temporary discomfort as teeth move. It’s a personal choice, and what works for one person might not work for another.

Cost Implications

Orthodontic treatments are an investment in your smile and overall dental health. The costs can vary substantially based on the type of treatment.

In general, custom solutions like Invisalign might have a higher upfront cost compared to other clear brace options. However, you’ll need to consider not just the initial price but any additional costs that might crop up during treatment.

Effectiveness of Your Dental Situation

Not all dental misalignments are the same. Some require more intensive interventions than others.

Invisalign might be the ideal solution for minor spacing issues or slight crowding. More complex cases, however, might benefit from the precision of clear braces.

Aesthetics

Lastly, while the main goal is to achieve a perfect smile, the journey matters too. Is the idea of visible brackets, no matter how clear, a deterrent? Then virtually invisible aligners might be more your style.

Achieve Your Perfect Smile

Embracing the future of orthodontics means gravitating toward solutions that are efficient, aesthetic and tailored to your needs. While the world of invisible braces can be overwhelming, a little knowledge goes a long way.

At SouthShore Orthodontics, we offer a variety of treatment options to fit your unique needs. Our expert orthodontists Dr. Matt Ahrens and Dr. Mary Awadallah can provide you with customized treatment options using the latest technology, such as Inbrace, Invisalign and Simply SouthShore Aligners.

At SouthShore Orthodontics, we’re committed to cutting-edge techniques and personalized care. This ensures that every patient’s journey is not just about straightening teeth but about enhancing smiles and boosting confidence.

Ready to take the next step towards your radiant smile? Contact us today to schedule your free consultation!

7 Benefits of Getting Invisalign as an Adult

September 12, 2023

About 76% of people base first impressions on another person’s smile. Another 68% say people who smile are more trustworthy, confident, and approachable. Unfortunately, three in five Americans hate how their smile looks in photos.

If you’re unhappy with your smile, SouthShore Orthodontics offers Invisalign treatment options for all ages. Schedule a free consultation with one of our board-certified orthodontists today to see if Invisalign is right for you. Discover 7 amazing benefits of this orthodontic treatment!

1. Avoid Decay

Plaque, bacteria, and food particles have more places to hide when your teeth stick out. The gaps between your teeth can also make it more difficult for you to effectively brush and floss. Without orthodontic care, your risk of tooth decay could increase.

Tooth decay begins when food and bacteria mix, forming plaque. Plaque is the tacky, clear substance that clings onto and between your teeth.

Straightening your teeth with Invisalign will give food particles and bacteria fewer places to hide.

2. Promote Healthier Gums

You can get straight teeth and close the gaps between your teeth with Invisalign treatment. Failing to thoroughly brush and floss in between the gaps in your teeth can lead to plaque formation. Excessive plaque can increase your risk of gum disease as well.

Symptoms of gum disease include:

  • Bleeding gums
  • Bad breath (that doesn’t go away)
  • Sensitivity
  • Red or swollen gums
  • Changes in your bite
  • Gums that recede from your teeth
  • Loose teeth
  • Pain when chewing
  • Tender gums

If these symptoms sound familiar, seek treatment for gingivitis right away. When left untreated, gum disease can progress. As your gums recede, your risk of losing teeth will increase.

3. Prevent Teeth Grinding

You might start grinding your teeth if they’re not properly aligned. Bruxism (teeth grinding) throughout the night can wear down your protective tooth enamel. Your risk of tooth decay could increase as a result.

Straightening your teeth with Invisalign can help. Wearing clear, plastic aligners at night can protect your teeth from bruxism. Neglecting treatment, on the other hand, can lead to complications.

4. Open Your Airways

Orthodontic issues can cause you to develop sleep apnea. Symptoms include morning headaches, gasping for air while you sleep, and daytime sleepiness. Failing to get enough sleep at night will affect your ability to function during the day.

Straightening your teeth with Invisalign could treat the underlying cause of your sleep apnea. You’ll have an easier time falling and staying asleep each night.

Neglecting treatment can increase your risk of heart problems, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes.

5. Create Implant Space

Are you missing a tooth? The surrounding teeth might begin leaning toward the gap, and your teeth may begin appearing crooked while also leaving no space for a dental implant.

Beginning orthodontic treatment with Invisalign can help create space for an implant. Once your implant is in place, you can avoid other issues.

Together, these treatment options can restore the appearance and functionality of your smile.

6. Get a Confidence Boost

One of the top benefits of Invisalign treatment is its ability to improve self-confidence.

Straightening your teeth will make you feel more comfortable smiling in public or for photos. Smiling will boost the production of feel-good hormones like serotonin.

Invisalign is also a discrete treatment option, making it ideal for adults.

You won’t have to feel self-conscious about someone noticing your aligners. They’re created from clear, thin plastic. While metal braces and wires will affect the appearance of your smile, Invisalign won’t!

7. Correct Your Bite

Invisalign treatment can help correct a variety of bite issues. The most common bite issues include:

  • Overbites
  • Underbites
  • Crossbites
  • Open bites

You can talk to your orthodontist to determine if Invisalign will treat your bite issues. Its effectiveness will depend on the severity of your orthodontic problem.

Overbite

An overbite, or an overjet, will cause the top teeth to stick out from the lower teeth. This gap between your teeth can cause additional issues. For example, your teeth will appear exposed when you close your mouth.

Your risk of sustaining an injury could increase as a result.

An overbite can also cause discomfort or make it more difficult to chew. Over time, you might develop jaw pain or speech problems.

Invisalign will gradually move your jaws into alignment. They can help you achieve a healthy gap between your lower and upper teeth.

Underbite

An underbite indicates your bottom teeth are in front of your top teeth when you close your mouth. You can develop an underbite due to:

  • Tumors
  • Trauma
  • Genetics
  • Sucking your thumb as a child

You could develop sleep apnea, mouth breathing, or difficulty chewing from an underbite.

It’s easier to treat underbites in younger patients who still have developing jaws. However, treatment is ideal for adults as well. The aligners will readjust your lower jaw to ensure that it’s in the proper position.

Crossbite

If you have a crossbite, your bottom teeth sit in front of your upper teeth. Patients either have a front or backcross bite. You can develop a crossbite due to poor oral care habits, genetics, or an early loss of your baby teeth.

Your aligners will pull the teeth that are sticking out back into place. You can achieve proper alignment to improve your smile.

If you have a crossbite due to a jaw development issue, you might need to combine multiple treatments. Talk to your local orthodontists. They’ll evaluate your dental health to determine the best option.

Open Bite

An open bite occurs when the bottom and top teeth don’t touch or overlap when you close your mouth. This is the least common alignment issue of the four. However, it can still affect your oral and physical well-being.

Neglecting to fix an open bite can lead to speech issues.

Over time, you could wear down the protective tooth enamel on your back teeth. Your risk of breaking or chipping a tooth will increase.

Get Invisalign in Riverview Today

If you need orthodontic treatment, look no further! Getting Invisalign in Riverview, Fla., will more than straighten your smile. It will also benefit your oral and overall health.

Our expert orthodontists will take the time to review your unique situation to help create a personalized Invisalign treatment plan just for you.

Contact SouthShore Orthodontics today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your Invisalign treatment options.

Custom-Designing Your Future, One Smile at a Time

May 21, 2022

You’re probably not new to the idea of orthodontic care, regardless of whether or not you’ve received it yourself in the past.

But just because the treatment itself doesn’t sound new, that doesn’t mean it will actually be the same this time around. But don’t worry — we actually mean this in a good way!

In other words, what we’re trying to say is that modern technology allows us to now customize smile treatments more than ever before. Here’s what this might mean for you:

Considerations Involved in Custom Smiles

A custom smile is pretty much exactly what it sounds like: dental and orthodontic care that is specially tailored to your unique smile!

In particular, customization may come into play when it comes to your tooth color. Porcelain crowns, for example, need to match the surrounding teeth in both shade and hue in order to not stand out.

Today, the continual rise of dental technology is largely to thank for such individualized care and solutions.

How Custom Smiles Align with Your Goals

One of the most important instances wherein a patient needs a custom smile design? When it comes to orthodontic realignment.

Particularly if the patient will be utilizing clear aligners to achieve a straighter smile, the trays themselves must be customized if they are to successfully guide the teeth into place without causing any harm to the jaw or other facial features.

And that’s where revolutionary digital technology comes in! By generating 3D scans of a patient’s dental landscape, the orthodontist may provide treatments that are increasingly…

  • Comfortable
  • Discreet
  • Efficient
  • And more

What’s more? Invisalign isn’t necessarily your only option for custom aligners.

State-of-the-Art Smiles with SouthShore Orthodontics

Here at SouthShore Orthodontics, we don’t just offer Invisalign — we also provide our own in-house manufactured aligners: Simply SouthShore!

Simply Southshore is doctor-designed and directed by our very own Dr. Matt Ahrens. Additionally, both the digital scanning and 3D printing processes are completed on-site, meaning you or your child will be able to undergo treatment sooner and for a more affordable price.

“This product is great for the individual who maybe previously had some orthodontic treatment and in the years since has had some shifting occur,” Dr. Ahrens explains.

And if clear aligners aren’t the best treatment for your smile, we can also provide other customized treatments using:

So, are you ready to receive exceptional orthodontic service in a relaxing environment? Then it’s time to reach out to SouthShore Orthodontics! Smile bigger, smile healthier, and smile longer. Call us today at 813-815-0080 today to schedule your appointment for customized care.

Alternative Options to Braces

April 13, 2022

One of the factors most likely to deter patients from taking the plunge with traditional braces? The metal.

From the discomfort of the brackets pushing against the soft skin inside the cheek to the general insecurity that comes with a smile full of metal, let’s be honest: many patients are looking for an alternative that brings them both physical and emotional comfort.

And if you’re beginning to wonder what that all may entail, we’re here to answer your questions:

#1 — What Alternatives Are There?

If a patient needs the strength of traditional brackets and wires but would also prefer a more discreet solution, ceramic braces offer the ideal middle ground. This is because “the ceramic material used in these braces can be either clear or tooth-colored,” Healthline explains.

Invisible aligners, too, can shift the teeth back into alignment without drastically changing the appearance of one’s smile during treatment. A patient needs only to wear and clean their trays regularly — which will then be changed every six weeks or so to continue the orthodontic process.

Finally, INBRACE is the newest alternative to traditional braces. Some patients are simply ineligible for invisible aligners, as the work they need is too extensive. Thankfully, INBRACE involves the application of metal wires and brackets behind the teeth, rendering them the most discreet option available.

#2 — What Alternatives Are Right for Me?

The option that is best suited to a patient depends entirely on their individual smile. Even if a patient has an idea of what kind of treatment they want, they may need another form of orthodontic care.

That’s why you should never order invisible aligners online without first consulting an orthodontist.

“Because of orthodontists’ extensive education and familiarity with the many types of ‘appliances’ (devices used to move teeth/align jaws) available, they can knowledgeably suggest what is right for you, based on your treatment goals and lifestyle needs,” according to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAC).

For example, as mentioned previously, invisible aligners cannot be used to correct all smiles. This includes instances of…

  • Overcrowding
  • Overbite
  • Underbite
  • And more

#3 — Who Should I Seek Treatment With?

At the end of the day, what kind of treatment you’ll undergo, as well as how long it may take, will depend entirely on what you and your chosen orthodontic team agree on. Thus, you’ll want to find a trusted orthodontist with a history of providing comprehensive treatment.

So why not reach out to SouthShore Orthodontics?

When you work with our team, you’ll find exceptional results in a welcoming environment for patients of all ages! What’s more, we offer Invisalign in addition to Simply SouthShore, custom-made clear aligners that are printed right here in our own office!

Call our office today at (813) 815-0080 today to schedule your FREE consultation.

Counting Down to Orthodontic Care: All About Average Treatment Times

March 13, 2022

Patience may be a virtue, but let’s face it — we all want beautiful smiles sooner rather than later. And when you’re preparing to go undergo orthodontic care, it’s natural that you find yourself wondering…

Just how long will this take?

Don’t worry! If you’re in a rush for answers, we’ll get you up to speed in no time:

Filing Through the Factors and Variations

The amount of time one will undergo orthodontic treatment can vary widely based on their individual situation. For example, clear aligners and braces typically involve different timeframes.

“A comprehensive 2019 study found that people with clear aligners wore them for a shorter amount of time than those with traditional metal braces,” according to Healthline. “But those wearing clear aligners had less severe alignment issues than those wearing metal braces.”

Specifically, treatment involving clear aligners may take up to 12 to 18 months on average.

Other factors that may influence how long treatment will take include:

  • Age
  • Bone density
  • Jaw alignment
  • Overcrowding
  • Teeth gaps
  • Material preference
  • And more

Back to Braces Basics

Generally speaking, fixed braces — which may be traditional metal or ceramic — take a minimum of a year on average. In particular, the Oral Health Foundation specifies that it may take between 12 to 24 months overall, depending on the patient.

“Patients with braces typically visit the orthodontist every six to ten weeks, until teeth are aligned properly,” the American Association of Orthodontics explains (AAO).

Oftentimes, this is because patients who need fixed braces don’t just need an alignment of their teeth, but they may also need a correction of their jaw in the cases of an under- or over-bite. Such patients are not eligible for clear aligners.

Seamless Smiles with SouthShore Orthodontics

Overall, the good news is that “orthodontic treatment often is more comfortable and takes less time than it did years ago,” as reported by the Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA).

What’s more, when you choose to see the orthodontic experts at SouthShore Orthodontics, you’ll also get exceptional results in a welcoming environment!

Here at SouthShore Orthodontics, we offer a variety of braces for all ages as well as Simply SouthShore — custom-fit clear aligners made in-house just for you! Regardless of what you need, you’ll find a renewed smile and a relaxing team when you visit.

Learn more or schedule with us today by calling (813) 815-0080!

Perfecting Your Senior Pictures: When to Get Braces to Achieve a Picturesque Smile

November 18, 2021

The end of high school heralds the time wherein your child will officially embark upon adulthood, meaning you’ll want to immortalize every moment you can during those final years.

And their senior pictures are especially likely to hold the attention of the whole family.

Consequently, it makes sense that you and/or your child feel particularly motivated to undergo orthodontic treatment — and have it finished — by the time they step in front of the camera. And if that’s a priority, here’s what you need to keep in mind in terms of timing:

The Early Bird Gets… The Perfect Smile

When it comes to orthodontic treatment, it’s common for parents to wonder: How early is too early? Well, that depends.

“Even though most people think of pre-teens and teens when they think of orthodontics, there are good reasons your child should get an orthodontic evaluation much sooner,” according to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). “[The AAO] recommends a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7.”

Of course, if your child receives orthodontic care earlier in life, they are more likely to have their bright smiles in correct alignment by the mid-teens. Thus, if your goal is to optimize their grin before it’s time for their senior photos, today is never a bad day to get the ball rolling!

Strategizing Pediatric Care

According to Nemours Kids Health, the length of time a child may spend with brackets and wires is dependent upon the specific types of misalignments the orthodontist is trying to fix. However,  “the average [length of time] is about two years.”

In many cases, young patients with Invisalign or other forms of clear aligners — like our own Simply SouthShore aligners — may also take up to 12 to 18 months to reach the completion of their treatment plan. That being said, in these cases, a student may require a smaller timeframe of treatment time, as aligners are typically used to correct less extensive abnormalities.

Simply put, if your child starts their orthodontic treatment in their teen years, we recommend that you begin the process between the ages of 14 and 16. This way, should they need up to two years of treatment, their braces should be off before the start of their senior year.

Timely Solutions With SouthShore

From the initial consultation where you’re brimming with questions to the final treatment day where you’re ready to see your child emerge from brackets and wires, here at SouthShore Orthodontics, we’re ready to help your whole family achieve their picture-perfect smiles.

We offer traditional braces, ceramic braces, and various options for clear aligners to ensure you can undergo the most efficient and effective care possible.

So, are you ready to learn more or schedule an appointment? Then it’s time to contact the team here at SouthShore Orthodontics by calling (813) 815-0080! We offer exceptional results in a welcoming environment, and we can’t wait to both straighten and brighten your smile.

How Long Will My Orthodontics Treatment Take for Braces and Invisalign?

October 17, 2021

From the fear of physical discomfort to the general sense of insecurity one feels when the metal brackets are applied, we understand that many orthodontic patients are crossing their fingers and hoping for a treatment option that concludes sooner rather than later.

Of course, that depends entirely on what your teeth currently look like and how, exactly, you’d prefer to undergo the alignment process.

But that being said, how often does treatment usually take? And how might that differ between Invisalign and braces?

Is It Possibly Time For Invisalign?

“The length of treatment depends on multiple factors, like how complex your case is and how often you wear your aligners,” Invisalign explains. “On average, Invisalign treatment time is 12 to 18 months, though you can start seeing results in a matter of weeks.”

Specifically, clear aligners are designed to treat mildly crooked or misaligned teeth. Capable of eliminating gaps between teeth or eliminating overlapping of the teeth, it is not suited for patients with extremely crooked teeth or in cases where the jaw bone itself needs to be shifted in order to ensure a safe and proper treatment process.

Thus, as Invisalign is generally suited for less severe orthodontic complications, treatment may often take less time.

Counting Down To Basic Braces

Traditional braces are the recommended treatment for patients who:

  • Have a severe overbite
  • Have a severe underbite
  • Are likely to forget to wear their clear aligners
  • Are too young to keep up with cleaning their clear aligners
  • And more

“How long your child will need to wear braces depends on the problems the orthodontist is trying to fix, but the average is about two years,” according to Nemours Kids Health. “After that, your child might wear a specially molded retainer.”

Otherwise, for older teens and adults, the treatment process is again dependent upon multiple individual factors, particularly as the jaw bone is no longer growing for this age group.

“The entire process may take longer for you than for a child or adolescent,” Harvard Health clarifies. That being said, the average treatment for adults also lasts approximately two years.

Aligning With The Bottom Line

Regardless of whether your treatment entails clear aligners, traditional braces, ceramic braces, and another appliance, here at SouthShore Orthodontics, we’re equipped to help you achieve a renewed, healthy smile in a warm and friendly office!

What’s more, we have our own in-house method of creating custom-fit clear aligners: Simply SouthShore. These aligners are designed to treat slightly misaligned smiles or individuals that have previously undergone orthodontic treatment.

So are you ready to learn more and embark on your journey to a brighter smile? Then contact our team today by calling (813) 815-0080! We look forward to providing you with exceptional results in a welcoming environment.

How Do I Know If I/My Child Needs Emergency Orthodontics?

February 15, 2021

Your braces are designed to enhance your smile, thereby artistically crafting the healthiest orthodontic landscape possible.

But what if that orthodontic care is what has you frowning?

Should your braces or other dental appliances be causing more pain than is ordinary or expected, emergency orthodontic care may be in order. Here’s what you need to know:

What Is Emergency Orthodontics?

Emergency orthodontics constitutes immediate care to an orthodontic patient who is experiencing inordinate pain as a result of their braces and/or malfunctioning of their orthodontic appliances.

In some cases, emergency orthodontic care may be as simple as receiving guidance from an orthodontist over the phone. Otherwise, the patient may need to see their orthodontist during off-hours in order to achieve proper and immediate comfort.

To prevent such emergencies from happening, the best a patient, orthodontist, and/or parent can do is ensure the person receiving orthodontic care is educated regarding how best to protect and care for their braces.

How Do I Know If I/My Child Needs Emergency Orthodontics?

According to the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO), emergency care might be required for a variety of issues.

For example, lesser complications may include a fallen ligature or even a patient’s inability to remove stuck food particles or other objects from between their teeth and braces. As mentioned before, such issues might be resolved at home with the assistance of a professional over the phone.

Mouth sores or discomfort of the lips or cheeks may merit heightened attention depending on the cause.

Greater complications that require on-site orthodontic care, however, include:

  • A protruding wire
  • Loose brackets
  • Broken wires or bands
  • Facial or dental trauma resulting from injury

Who Can I Call for Emergency Orthodontics?

If you’re confronting facial trauma as the result of an injury or sports accident, you may first want to visit the ER depending on the severity of the trauma. Otherwise, if you’re experiencing any of the above issues, you should always call your trusted orthodontist first, such as with SouthShore Orthodontics!

“If any orthodontic emergency instances do occur for our patients we are always on call and always available to take care of them and make them feel comfortable,” SouthShore founder and lead orthodontist Matt Ahrens explained. “Anytime a patient is uncomfortable we need to do whatever it takes to get them comfortable.”

To learn more or schedule an appointment with our team, contact our office today by calling (813) 815-0080! We are proud to provide exceptional results in a welcoming environment for the whole family, and we’re committed to your comfort.

Pediatric Orthodontics: How Early Is Too Early?

January 10, 2021

The older a patient is, the longer their treatment time might be once it’s time to adjust their teeth or jaw.

In that case, doesn’t it make sense to start treatment as early as possible?

In most cases, the answer is yes — the earlier a patient undergoes treatment, the faster and easier it will be to achieve the desired results. The only other question you may find yourself asking then, is how early is too early?

An Overview of Orthodontic Options

If your child has not yet begun to lose any of their baby teeth, it may be too early to bring them in to see the orthodontist. However, once their baby teeth begin to fall out, going in for their first check-up should be fine — even if they haven’t lost all of their teeth yet.

Thus, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children visit the orthodontist for the first time no later than the age of 7 or 8 years old.

“By that age, a child will have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, and the orthodontist will be able to recognize orthodontic problems (“malocclusions”) even in their earliest stages,” the AAO explains.

What Early Orthodontics Entails

Early orthodontics — sometimes referred to as “phase one” orthodontics — is designed to address and correct early signs of crooked teeth, crossbites, and other jaw or teeth-related complications.

Early orthodontics does not always include the use of braces. However, it can help to decrease the time a child spends in braces should they need phase two orthodontic treatment as they grow older, as well as mitigate the need for tooth extraction or other, more comprehensive treatments.

If early orthodontics is not yet warranted, your pediatric orthodontist may still continue to monitor your child’s oral landscape as they age in order to ensure everything grows in safely and correctly.

Safe Solutions with SouthShore

While it may be easy to brush off the idea of an orthodontic visit when your child is young, it’s better to start early and ensure you don’t unwittingly forego braces altogether. After all, by not undergoing treatment, your child may end up with a different set of orthodontic challenges in adulthood.

That’s why, if you’re ready to explore your pediatric options, we encourage you to contact SouthShore Orthodontics! 

Not only do we offer orthodontic treatments for patients of all ages, but we have a proven history of providing exceptional service in a welcoming environment. Find out for yourself just how successful our results can be when you call (813) 815-0080 to schedule an appointment with our team!