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Life with Braces: Tips for Eating, Cleaning, and Coping

December 13, 2023

At least 4 million people in the US alone are wearing braces. One in four of them are adults.

Metal braces are one of the most popular ways to achieve the dream of straight teeth. They can make you feel confident, fix your bite, and improve your oral health.

Discover the different types of metal braces to choose from and tips for during and after treatment.

Types of Metal Braces

“Metal braces” is a general term for orthodontic appliances made of metal. There are various types, and your orthodontist can help you pick the best option to fit your needs.

Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces connect the teeth to a wire with elastic ties that come in various colors. They work by applying pressure to straighten the teeth. They get adjusted at the orthodontist every 4-8 weeks.

They aren’t removable, so children don’t need to be reminded to put them on and absent-minded adults can’t lose them. They’re one of the most affordable types of metal braces, but their longevity relies on maintaining proper oral hygiene.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are an efficient, customizable option for eligible patients. They’re almost invisible, making them perfect for image-conscious adults or teens. INBRACE is a popular type of lingual braces and involves the application of metal wires and brackets behind the teeth, rendering them the most discreet option available.

The fact that they go behind the teeth does mean that they can create slight changes in speech such as a lisp. They can also irritate the tongue. These symptoms should go away in a few weeks as you get accustomed to them.

Eating With Braces

The rules about what types of food you can and can’t eat differ based on type and brand. Your orthodontist can help you find the right balance, but there are a few general rules to follow.

Most foods that are off-limits are the ones that are hard and sticky. Popcorns, caramels, and nuts can get stuck or cause damage. They might pop a wire or break a bracket, sending you back to the orthodontist.

Braces-friendly foods to enjoy on special occasions or during the holidays include:

Cake pops
Mini chocolate bars
Plain M&Ms
Cookies
Pastries

Cleaning Your Braces

Caring for braces is similar to caring for your natural teeth. That means maintaining your oral health with proper brushing and flossing.

It starts with the right tools. Get an interdental brush with soft bristles to help you reach between your teeth and braces. An interproximal brush is an effective option when you’re traveling.

A floss threader gets floss into the hard-to-reach areas. You can also use a water flosser if you’re still struggling to remove plaque and food residue.

Mouthwash provides another layer of protection. Find one that’s anti-microbial and contains fluoride and use it before brushing.

Make sure you are using these tools with the right technique. When brushing your teeth, remove your elastics, then brush at a 45° angle to get around and under each bracket and wire.

Visit the orthodontist at least every six months. They’ll make adjustments and spot any issues before they become an emergency.

Coping With Braces

Orthodontic care is an investment, and not just in terms of money. Being prepared for the discomfort you can expect during braces treatment will make it easier to handle. It’s also important to know what to do when pain goes beyond common discomfort.

The term “common discomfort” is a bit subjective. It refers to the type of pain almost every patient should expect such as jaw pain or difficulty chewing.

Ways to reduce the discomfort include:

Using orthodontic wax
Eating cold foods
Drinking cold drinks
Using over-the-counter pain relievers
Rinsing your mouth with saltwater

Pain that’s severe or prolonged can be a sign of a serious issue. Go to the orthodontist if this happens or your discomfort is accompanied by:

Bleeding teeth and gums
Sores
Malfunctioning braces
Facial trauma or damage

An Investment In The Future

The average treatment times for braces vary widely. Metal braces take one to two years for most patients.

There’s also the financial investment. Metal braces cost $2,750-$7,000 on average without insurance. Budget for it and look for payment plans to help with the cost.

Maintain your straight teeth once the treatment is done. Wear retainers if your orthodontist recommends them and keep up your oral hygiene routine.

Braces In Riverview, FL

SouthShore Orthodontics is dedicated to providing exceptional orthodontic treatment in a welcoming environment. Our expert team of board-certified orthodontists is here to guide you on your journey to the smile of your dreams.

Worried about the cost of braces? Our office staff will work with you to find financing solutions that best fit your budget. We accept most insurance plans and offer flexible payment plans and in-house financing.

Understanding the Investment in Braces

November 27, 2023

Picture someone with straight, beautiful teeth alongside someone with crooked teeth and oral health issues. Who are you more likely to ask out on a date or promote? If you chose candidate number one, you’re not alone.

We judge people based on their appearance, especially their smiles. An investment in braces can improve the appearance of your smile and oral health. The initial cost of braces can pay itself forward for years to come.

On the fence about paying for braces? Read on to discover the benefits of affordable dental braces in Tampa today!

Avoid Tooth Decay

If there are gaps between your teeth, you’re giving food particles and bacteria more places to hide. Bacteria, saliva, and food particles can mix, creating plaque. Plaque is the clear, sticky film that can lead to tooth decay.

Neglecting your oral health can give plaque time to harden into tartar. Unfortunately, misaligned teeth or gaps between your teeth can make brushing and flossing more difficult.

Cavities are one of the top unmet health treatment needs. When left untreated, cavities can cause infections. They can lead to problems with speaking, eating, learning, and playing.

Untreated cavities can also cause an abscess (severe infection). The infection can develop under your gums before spreading to other parts of the body. In some cases, an abscess can have serious or even fatal consequences.

Let your dentist know if you experience symptoms such as:

Pain when chewing
Toothaches
Spontaneous pain
Mild to sharp pain when eating/drinking
Visible pits or holes in your teeth
White, black, or brown staining

Tooth decay could cause your teeth to shift further. You could develop chewing problems or even lose a tooth.

If eating or chewing becomes painful, a cavity can also lead to weight loss or nutritional problems. The pain you experience could interfere with your daily life.

Though cavities are common, they are avoidable. About 90% of adults ages 20 and older have had at least one cavity.

Investing in orthodontic treatment could help you avoid cavities. Otherwise, treating tooth decay can become costly and time-consuming. Instead of waiting for a cavity to form, remain proactive with your oral health.

Straightening your teeth with cheap dental braces can close the gaps in your smile. You’ll have an easier time brushing and flossing. Your risk of tooth decay will decrease.

Prevent Heart Disease

Straightening your teeth with braces can prevent plaque and tartar from forming. Otherwise, tartar deposits will harden, leading to inflamed gums. Gum disease (gingivitis) can increase your risk of a bacterial infection.

Otherwise, the infection can spread through your bloodstream to other parts of your body, including your heart. Not many people realize heart disease can start in the mouth and gums.

To reduce your risk of heart disease, find an orthodontist in Tampa and discuss your treatment options. Braces can straighten your smile, making it easier for you to brush and floss. Prioritizing your oral hygiene can keep plaque and tartar from forming.

Let your dentist know right away if you experience symptoms of gingivitis, including:

Sensitivity
Pain when chewing
Pus between your teeth and gums
Loose teeth
Gums that pull away from your teeth
Gums that are swollen, red, or tender
A change in your bite
Foul-smelling breath that doesn’t go away
Gums that bleed when you brush or floss

You can reverse gum disease while it’s still in its early stages. Without treatment, gum disease can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and lung disease.

Address Health Issues

Orthodontic treatment could address other health issues, including:

Speech problems
Tension headaches
TMJ
Chewing problems

Straightening your teeth with braces will ensure your jaw is in proper alignment. You could stop clenching your jaw, which can cause tension in the jaw and neck.

Alignment issues can cause speech issues, including a lisp or whistling. Treatment with braces could mitigate these issues.

Let your orthodontist know if you chew sideways or in a lopsided fashion. Treatment can improve your ability to chew. If you don’t chew foods thoroughly, your digestive system will work harder to break down foods.

All of these seemingly tiny tissues can have a major impact on your quality of life. Investing in braces can help you avoid these problems. It can also help you avoid costly treatments that will only tackle symptoms (not the source of the issue).

Better Self-Confidence

Crooked teeth could keep you from feeling confident in social settings. You may start hiding your smile behind closed lips. Investing in braces will improve your smile and produce stunning results.

When your teeth are no longer misshapen, strange, or misaligned, you’ll feel better about yourself and your appearance. You may start taking risks in your personal or social life.

For example, you may go after a promotion or ask someone out on a date. You could feel more inclined to smile, which will help you make a strong first impression on everyone you meet.

A boost in self-confidence can make you more approachable. In fact, 68% of Americans say people who smile are more confident, trustworthy, and approachable. Another 76% say a smile is the number one physical trait that makes a first impression.

Investing in braces will encourage you to smile more, which can make you more attractive. If you’re ready to take a risk in romance, improve your smile first!

Consider the Investment in Braces

An investment in braces is an investment in your future. Over time, the initial cost of your braces will pay you back tenfold. Consider investing in your smile with orthodontic treatment today!

Need to find an orthodontist? SouthShore Orthodontics provides the best orthodontic care in the greater Tampa Bay area.

We can customize a treatment based on your smile goals. Contact us today to take the first step in investing in your smile.

A Straighter Smile: 7 Facts About Braces You Might Not Know

October 27, 2023

Braces were once considered a status symbol, a sign of wealth and prestige. Surprising, isn’t it? Today, they’re a common dental treatment, but there’s so much more to know about these tooth-aligning devices.

In this article, we’ll delve into seven captivating facts about braces that go beyond the dental chair. Learn about NASA’s surprising role in orthodontics, the costliest braces, and how braces are not exclusive to humans.

We’ll also explore the psychology behind a straighter smile, the influence pop culture has on the stigma of wearing braces, and some truly bizarre materials used in the past.

Ready to uncover the fascinating world of braces? Keep reading to expand your knowledge.

1. Braces Were Once a Status Symbol

In the early 20th century, metal braces were far from commonplace. They were a luxury, a sign of affluence and social standing. If you had braces, it meant your family could afford top-notch dental care, a luxury that was out of reach for most.

Over time, advances in technology and materials made braces more accessible to the public. This shift not only democratized the path to a straighter smile but also changed the cultural perception of braces.

Braces are now common for people who want to improve their dental health and appearance, not just for the wealthy elite.

2. NASA’s Contribution to Orthodontics

You might think NASA is all about rockets and space exploration. But here’s a twist: they’ve also had a hand in your dental health. NASA developed a nickel-titanium alloy for spacecraft, and it turns out this material had properties ideal for orthodontics.

The nickel-titanium alloy is flexible yet strong, making it perfect for the wires in braces. This innovation led to braces that are more effective and require fewer adjustments. It’s a prime example of how advancements in one field can have unexpected but beneficial impacts on another.

3. Braces Aren’t Just for Humans

It may come as a surprise, but braces aren’t exclusive to humans. In the veterinary world, orthodontic care has been extended to animals like dogs and cats. These pets sometimes require braces for medical reasons, such as difficulty eating or jaw misalignment.

The use of braces in animals serves as a testament to the importance of dental health across species. It also highlights the adaptability of orthodontic technology to meet diverse needs.

Orthodontics has more uses than people think, even though it mostly focuses on human dental care.

4. The Psychology of a Straighter Smile

A straighter smile can boost your mental game. Straightening crooked teeth can lead to feeling more confident, and let’s face it, confidence can be a game-changer. It can make you stand out in social settings, help you nail that job interview, and even improve your overall mood.

This confidence isn’t just in your head; it shows in how you carry yourself and interact with others. It’s like a ripple effect that starts with a simple smile but ends up influencing various aspects of your life.

So, while braces may be a dental tool, their impact is felt far beyond your mouth.

5. Braces in Pop Culture and Celebrity Influence

Braces have made their mark in pop culture, often seen on the smiles of famous figures and characters in movies and TV shows. Celebrities like Tom Cruise and Dakota Fanning have sported braces, making headlines and influencing public perception.

The visibility of braces in the media has helped normalize them, especially among younger audiences. When a well-known celebrity gets braces, it becomes a talking point, often encouraging others to consider orthodontic treatment. It’s not just about straightening teeth; it’s about breaking down stigmas and making braces more socially acceptable.

This celebrity influence has a trickle-down effect. It shapes societal views, making braces less of an awkward phase and more of a common, even trendy, experience.

The impact extends beyond individual choices to embrace orthodontic care, contributing to a broader cultural acceptance of braces.

6. Unusual Materials Used in the Past

The journey of braces is a tale of innovation and, believe it or not, some rather strange materials. In the early days, braces were made from materials like ivory, wood, and even copper bands. These rudimentary designs were far from comfortable and often led to various dental issues.

Fast forward to the 20th century, and materials like stainless steel became the norm, offering better durability and comfort. Today, we have even more advanced options like clear aligners made from medical-grade plastic and nickel-titanium wires, thanks to NASA’s contributions to the field.

The evolution of materials used in braces is a testament to human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of better dental care. It’s fascinating to see how far we’ve come, from crude early versions to the highly effective and aesthetically pleasing options available today.

Beyond the Brackets: Facts About Braces

We’ve journeyed through seven compelling facts about braces that go beyond just straightening teeth. From their historical role as a status symbol to NASA’s surprising contributions, and even the psychological benefits of a straighter smile.

If you’re now considering taking the leap into the world of orthodontics, or simply have more questions, we’re here to help. Call us today to discover your personalized treatment plan and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile!

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.

Braces: What Constitutes Common Discomfort?

June 12, 2021

Nerves and trepidation are common when a patient walks in to either get their braces put on or have them adjusted.

After all, even once they’re back in the comfort of their own home, the discomfort of the braces themselves may last longer than the window of time they spend in the orthodontist’s chair.

But in that case, you may be wondering, what pain constitutes “normal”? And when should you take action?

Determining Daily Discomfort

Generally speaking, mild pain, discomfort, and soreness are all to be expected when one undergoes orthodontic treatment with braces.

As the braces and wires are periodically tightened to progress the treatment, the pressure placed upon the teeth may render them sensitive up through the gums, thereby causing:

Difficulty chewing
Irritation
Jaw pain
And more

That being said, the modern advancements of the orthodontics industry have enhanced an orthodontist’s ability to mitigate such pain, rendering the whole process less daunting to those who may still experience anxiety.

“Although a little discomfort is expected during treatment, today’s braces are more comfortable than in the past,” according to the American Dental Association (ADA). “Newer materials apply a constant, gentle force to move teeth and usually require fewer adjustments.”

Asking About Abnormal Pain

While mild discomfort and pain are to be expected of braces, there are times when the pain becomes abnormal and thus merits greater — if not immediate — professional attention.

For example, braces-related pain is not normal when:

It is prolonged
It is accompanied by mouth bleeding
It results in lasting mouth sores
It is caused by a malfunction of the orthodontic appliances themselves
It is caused by facial trauma or damage

If you are not sure whether your pain may be “abnormal,” however, the best course of action is simply to reach out to your orthodontist for guidance.

“While there are steps you can take to temporarily fix or alleviate discomfort and prevent additional damage, your orthodontist should always be notified,” the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) explains. “Many times, they may be able to handle the issue over the phone or virtually through video communication.”

Reaching Out For Reliable Aid

If you have further questions about what to expect come time to equip yourself or your child with braces, or if you’re simply browsing around for a trusted orthodontic expert in your local area, we guarantee you won’t be disappointed with SouthShore Orthodontics!

Not only do we offer braces for all ages, but we also provide compassionate emergency orthodontic services in the event that you need immediate assistance.

So, are you ready to schedule with a team that offers results you can trust in a welcoming environment? Then contact SouthShore Orthodontics today by calling 813-815-0080!

Bracing For Pain: What Type of Orthodontic Discomfort is Normal?

March 18, 2021

Perhaps your child has already undergone their pediatric orthodontic consultation and their braces will be officially going on in the coming weeks. Or perhaps your child has already had them fitted to their teeth, and you’re simply scouring for answers as to what, exactly, constitutes “normal pain” in this unfamiliar situation.

Regardless, we’re here to help provide you with both peace of mind and answers.

When it comes to discomfort, here’s what you need to know:

What To Expect…

Unfortunately, braces come with an inherent level of discomfort, no matter your child’s age. As the orthodontic appliances are manually placing pressure in order to slowly align both the jaw and teeth, some soreness and achiness are bound to occur every time your child comes in for an adjustment.

Specifically, mild discomfort and pain are perfectly normal. In particular, difficulty eating may come into play, although eating soft foods will help to alleviate the pain of chewing over time. Additionally, your child may experience slight irritation along the soft tissue of their inner mouth. After all, it will take some time for their mouths to adjust to the hard press of the metal wires and brackets.

Finally, jaw pain and headaches are also possible, especially if jaw realignment is part of your child’s orthodontic care plan. That being said, ibuprofen or other over-the-counter pain medications will often do the trick in these circumstances.

… And When To Take Action

While discomfort and/or pain is an expected factor in undergoing the installment of braces, pain that worsens with time is not normal. In fact, any pain your child feels following their orthodontic adjustment should subside within a couple of days to a week at most, meaning pain that gradually worsens merits a call to your orthodontist’s office.

Similarly, pain that does not worsen but also does not subside after a week may also require additional attention.

Additionally, should your child develop sores or begin bleeding as a result of their braces, you may need to make a call to receive emergency orthodontic care, as this indicates a potential malfunction of the braces themselves and should be handled immediately.

Finally, allergic reactions are not normal and may indicate your child is allergic to the latex rubber used in the braces.

Simple Solutions, Certified Care

If your child is experiencing normal braces-related pain at home, there are a few simple steps you can take to help alleviate the discomfort.

For example, helping them to apply wax over the metal appliances can protect and soothe their soft tissue. Additionally, brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and — as mentioned previously — eating soft foods or taking ibuprofen may also mitigate tenderness.

Otherwise, maintenance aside, the best way to ensure the most comfortable process possible is to work with a board-certified team of compassionate professionals! And here at SouthShore Orthodontics, we are committed to providing exceptional service in a relaxing environment for the whole family.

To learn more about how we can help your child achieve the healthiest and happiest smile possible, contact us today by calling (813) 815-0080. We look forward to providing you with the highest-quality orthodontic care in Tampa Bay!

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!