Tag: pediatric orthodontics

Guide to Choosing the Best Orthodontist in Tampa for Your Child

August 31, 2023

Did you know that as many as 75% of children could benefit from braces?

It’s crucial to do everything you can to improve your child’s dental care and oral health. Are you wondering if your child needs braces to ensure straight teeth and a healthy smile?

Read on to discover ways to find the best orthodontist near you.

Double-Check Qualifications and Credentials

Are you stumped about where to begin your search for the right orthodontist? If so, you should know how important it is to pick someone who is well-trained and boasts the right qualifications. You should find an orthodontist who has finished all the schooling and training needed to care for teeth.

Are you unsure how to tell who is qualified and who isn’t? It’s a good idea to check if they have the proper documents. For instance, most established dentists have their educational achievements framed on their office walls.

Also, see if they’re part of influential groups like the American Association of Orthodontists. This helps you know they’re a good choice and can give your child the best care.

You and your child will have peace of mind by going the extra mile and confirming their skills. This fact can even help your kid know that they’re in safe hands before undergoing any orthodontic treatment.

At Southshore Orthodontics, Dr. Matt Ahrens and Dr. Mary Shehata are board-certified, and professional affiliations include the American Association of Orthodontists and the Florida Dental Association.

Oral Care Experience Can Make a Huge Difference

Are you still hesitant about your dentist options? Experience counts when it comes to taking care of your child’s teeth. It’s better to go for an orthodontist who has worked with kids for a long time.

This is because they know how to make kids feel comfortable and unafraid. They also know the best ways to treat dental problems most associated with children.

When choosing an orthodontist, look for someone with a long track record working with children. They’ll know what to do to make the treatment go well.

From using lollipops to kneeling to their level, an experienced orthodontist can handle any issues that might come up. Instead of having to reschedule, they can soothe your child’s worries.

This makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved. The dentist should take the time to answer your questions and tell you what to expect.

Comprehensive Services Ensure Customization

Getting the right care for your child’s teeth can make all the difference. That’s why it’s a good idea to pick an orthodontist who offers many treatment options. When an orthodontist has comprehensive services, you can choose between different options for making your child’s teeth better.

For example, some kids might need traditional braces with metal wires. Others may prefer clear aligners that are less noticeable. Having choices means you and your child can decide together what works best for their situation.

Having comprehensive services also means the dentist can create a treatment plan that fits your child’s unique needs. They’ll know which treatment will work better for your child’s teeth.

It should never be a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, you should expect a treatment plan  tailored for your kid.

Another good thing about comprehensive services is that the orthodontist can adjust the plan. This will help if your child’s needs change during treatment. Since they have different options to choose from, they can find the best way to help your child’s teeth stay on track.

At SouthShore Orthodontics we specialize in skilled pediatric care. Our expert orthodontists will take the time to assess your child’s unique situation to provide a personalized treatment plan.

The Consultation Is a Vital Step Toward Straight Teeth

At some point in your search, you’ll have a list of your top dentist options. Prioritize an orthodontist who values open communication and provides a thorough consultation.

During the consultation, the orthodontist should assess your child’s oral health and discuss potential treatment plans. They should have no problem addressing any questions or concerns you may have. This is also an excellent opportunity to see how they interact with your pride and joy.

Effective communication ensures that you and your child understand the treatment process and what you should anticipate.

Our comprehensive consultations at SouthShore Orthodontics include an x-ray and a customized treatment plan!

See What Other Parents Have Said About Orthodontic Care

Before jumping into a decision, take the time to read reviews from other parents and patients.

Positive feedback can provide insights into the quality of care and the orthodontist’s approach to treatment. Negative reviews are also worth reading because they help recognize possible red flags.

We’re proud to provide the best care in Riverview, Fla. — the proof is in our patient testimonials.

Look for a Convenient Location for Braces in Tampa, Florida

Orthodontic treatment often calls for several or more appointments over an extended period.

Choosing an orthodontist with a convenient office location and flexible scheduling options can simplify the treatment journey. Consider an orthodontist whose office is accessible from home, work, or your child’s school.

Financial Considerations for Invisalign in Riverview

There’s no denying that orthodontic treatment is a long-term investment in your child’s oral health and confidence. Before finalizing your choice, ask about the cost of treatment.

You should also find out about available payment plans. It’s important to know whether the orthodontist accepts your insurance or not.

A transparent discussion about financial matters helps you plan for the cost of treatment without any surprises.

Are You Ready to See the Best Orthodontist in Tampa?

SouthShore Orthodontics is here to help. Our board-certified, experienced dentists use the latest and greatest technology to provide the most thorough orthodontic care. We take our time to provide a personalized treatment plan to fit your child’s unique needs. Plus, we offer flexible payment plans and financing options to fit every budget.

We’d love to see your kid smile, so schedule an appointment with SouthShore Orthodontics today.

Cavities in Baby Teeth: Do You Feel Pushed to Pull?

June 6, 2022

You always want to see that little smile reemerge. After all, what better feeling is there as a parent than to know that your child is both happy and healthy?

That being said, when they do eventually pucker their lips in pain or discomfort, you’ll be left weighing the best options for their long-term well-being.

Thus, when it comes to cavities, you might ask yourself: Is it better to fill or to pull the baby tooth?

Why Primary Teeth Are A Priority

While many parents might think that pulling baby teeth because of a cavity is no big deal, the reality is that these little teeth play an important role despite their temporary nature.

“Baby teeth hold space for adult teeth growing in the jaw,” the Early Childhood Knowledge & Learning Center explains. “If a baby tooth is lost too early, other teeth that are already in the mouth will move into the space. It can block out the adult tooth trying to come in and cause crowding.”

What’s more, if a baby tooth comes out prematurely, the crooked teeth may also cause a misalignment of the child’s jaw as the adult teeth grow in.

Thus, we encourage you not to take these teeth too lightly.

To Fill Or To Pull

“Baby teeth (primary teeth) are meant to fall out on their own to make room for permanent adult teeth (secondary teeth),” according to Healthline. “This typically occurs when children are 6 or 7 years old.”

In other words, while you can pull a baby tooth, we generally do not recommend it unless the cavity is severe enough that immediate removal becomes necessary. Otherwise, simply filling the tooth should be adequate.

As reported by Hopkins Medicine, “in most cases, [tooth decay] treatment requires removing the decayed part of the tooth and replacing it with a filling.”

This solution is both simpler and more capable of mitigating further orthodontic complications down the line.

Calling The Cavalry On Cavities

If your child has lost a tooth prematurely — or even started to develop dental misalignment despite an ordinary process of losing their baby teeth — you always want to put their smiles into hands you can trust.

And that’s why, here at SouthShore Orthodontics, we offer exceptional service in a relaxing environment!

No matter the age of our patient, we have a variety of solutions and advanced technology to treat their needs:

Additionally, we always want to provide your family with peace of mind. To learn more about how we can help you or your child develop a healthier, happier smile, contact our office today by calling 813-815-0080!

A Passion for Our Patients: All About Patient-Centric Technology

February 13, 2022

The point of a practice is to put the patients first — and there’s no such thing as being too focused on an individual’s care. Consequently, shouldn’t an orthodontist’s technology be just as patient-centric as the whole of the team?

We think so.

Thus, we’d like to take a moment to review the patient-centric technology that is changing the community’s overall experience while in the chair:

Talking About Teledentistry

Particularly following the COVID-19 related lockdowns in 2020, patients have needed the ability to contact their care providers safely and without the necessity of physical contact. Thus, teledentistry offers a patient-centric solution that also protects physicians from potential viral transmission.

What’s more, teledentistry saves patients money in that they no longer have to pay for the gas required in commuting to an in-person appointment.

And when it comes to pediatric patients? Well, teledentistry also offers a more comfortable alternative, as parents and young patients who might otherwise experience anxiety while in the chair can now make contact with their dentist from the safety of their own home.

The Innovation Of 3D Imaging

Many adults who underwent orthodontic treatment in their youth are familiar with the painstaking process of having a dental impression made in-office. Messy, time-consuming, and sometimes unpleasant in taste, it’s simple to say that the impression process was probably less than desirable.

Thankfully, 3D scans of the individual’s teeth are now available, rendering the entirety of the planning process more precise and patient-centric.

Not only can 3D digital scans provide accurate imaging of all measurements the orthodontic team might need, but it also makes it easier for them to generate a preview of the final results, thereby keeping the patient informed before treatment begins.

Why Be Patient When You Can Print?

One of the difficulties in straightening one’s teeth is remaining patient. Particularly for patients undergoing treatment via clear aligners, waiting for each custom tray to be completed adds another stretch of in-between time that can never seem to go fast enough.

Thankfully, in-house 3D printers are now changing the game.

With this innovative technology at hand, orthodontic teams can both render and generate custom-designed trays for each patient while on-site. Thus, the total wait time is reduced and the overall treatment process can continue smoothly and as planned.

For example, here at SouthShore Orthodontics, we offer Simply SouthShore aligners for life’s everyday shifts! Featuring in-house care and in-house innovation, Simply SouthShore is an affordable alternative to commercial aligners that is also ideal for retreatment.

But if you’re not a candidate for clear aligners, don’t worry — we also offer a variety of options for all ages.

So, are you ready to receive exceptionally patient-centric service in a welcoming environment? Then it’s time to schedule with SouthShore Orthodontics! To learn more about our team and services, reach out to us today by calling (813) 815-0080.

Your smile is our passion.

Hello, Halitosis: Why is My Child’s Breath So Bad?

January 13, 2022

A little bad breath here and there is normal. If we’ve eaten something particularly pungent or had to cut our two minutes’ worth of toothbrushing time short because we ran late before work, chances are we won’t spend the day smelling like cinnamon or mint.

But when your child has bad breath, you have to pay more attention. And if their bad breath persists for prolonged periods of time, then action becomes necessary.

The problem? You don’t know how to act until you know what, exactly, has caused it.

The Origins of Oral Odors

First and foremost, infections and disease may be the leading cause of your child’s bad breath, otherwise referred to as “halitosis.” Your child’s tonsils, for example, may be the culprit.

“Healthy tonsils should be pink and spot free, but infected ones are red, inflamed, can have white spots and smell terrible,” Colgate explains. “Bacteria can collect in the pits of swollen tonsils and, paired with the sour smell of infection, can cause bad breath.”

Similarly, diabetes, sinus infections, and even stomach infections can also cause unpleasant oral odors.

Otherwise, be on the lookout for mouth breathing. Mouth breathing and snoring at night — in dry mouth in general — can dissolve their saliva faster, thereby allowing odor-causing bacteria to remain in their mouths longer.

Solutions for the Sordid Smell

The first place to start in curing bad breath is, as always, helping your child remain diligent in their dental practices. Flossing, brushing for two minutes, and — if they’re old enough – using mouth wash twice a day can drastically improve the way their breath smells throughout the day.

Luckily, there are also a few other options you can try.

“To get more saliva moving in your mouth, try eating healthy foods that require a lot of chewing, like carrots or apples,” the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends. “You can also try chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candies. Your dentist may also recommend artificial saliva.”

That being said, if your child’s bad breath persists despite implementing the aforementioned lifestyle changes, it’s time to see your dentist. If the cause is oral, their team will be able to help you make a plan of action. If not, they will know when to direct you to your primary care doctor for further answers.

A Breath of Fresh Air with SouthShore

If you’re planning to tackle the heavy burden of halitosis — and if you’re also ready to straighten your child’s smile — SouthShore Orthodontics can help!

Not only do we offer a variety of options for aligning your child’s teeth (including clear aligners, various braces, and more), but our team also offers exceptional services in a relaxing environment. In short, we can’t wait to keep your smile as healthy and happy as possible!

Ready to learn more? Then contact our team today to schedule your FREE consultation by calling (813) 815-0080! We welcome new patients of all ages.

A Matter of the Mouth: Food, Pain, and What to Expect

December 17, 2021

As you and/or your child prepare for the coming appointment where your wires and brackets will be applied, it’s natural to feel on edge. Particularly for those who anticipate some level of pain, a fine thread of fear may even creep in, making it more difficult to feel excited for the orthodontic journey to come.

Thankfully, we can help to assuage those fears.

If you have questions about what discomfort you may experience, or how best to avoid future discomfort, simply read on below:

The Particular Pains of Orthodontics

When a patient first has their braces applied, they might not experience any immediate pain or discomfort.

“However, within a few hours, the gentle pressure that the braces put on the teeth will start to take effect,” as reported by Medical News Today. “The pressure of the braces slowly pulling the teeth into alignment can create pain and discomfort, which could last from a day or two to about a week.”

To put it simply, braces-related discomfort is perfectly normal.

That being said, if the pain is sharp, debilitating, or lasts more than a week, it is time to contact your orthodontist to determine what may be wrong.

The Challenge of Chewing

The consistency of some foods is liable to break, bend, or otherwise damage orthodontic appliances. Hard and/or sticky snacks, in particular, are the most likely to cause such difficulties.

“Any food that you need to bite into to eat is prime for breaking braces,” according to the American Dental Association (ADA). “You can get around this by cutting the food, such as corn off the cob or rib meat off the bone, or slicing apples and chopping carrots into small, bite-size pieces.”

Otherwise, we recommend generally steering clear of some of the following foods:

  • Nuts
  • Popcorn
  • Gummies
  • Gum
  • Hardshell tacos
  • Pizza crust
  • Hard crackers
  • And more

Safe, Comfortable Smiles with SouthShore

Should food pull a wire or bracket out of place, don’t panic — you might be able to correct it at home.

Cleveland Clinic, for example, recommends using the eraser end of a pencil to try to gently push it back into position. However, “if you can’t reposition the wire, cover the end with orthodontic wax, a small cotton ball, or piece of gauze until you can get to your orthodontist’s office.”

SouthShore Orthodontics, for example, will be there should you find yourself in need of emergency orthodontic care!

To learn more about what may constitute an orthodontic obstacle, or if you’re ready to schedule an appointment with our skilled team, contact us today by calling 813-815-0080. We offer exceptional service in a relaxing environment, and we can’t wait to keep you smiling!

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.

Sweet, Sour, and Spooky: 5 Hauntingly Good Halloween Treats For When You Have Braces

September 13, 2021

As Halloween night creeps closer and closer, you already know that anyone wearing braces would be wise to steer clear of monstrous hard candies and chocolate-covered nuts.

But what else might you accidentally overlook while you relish the spoils of a successful night of trick-or-treating?

Unfortunately, both gummies and caramel apples — two wickedly delicious staples of the season — should remain out of your candy bag, lest you face the fright of broken brackets and wires. Otherwise, anything that can be described as sticky, chewy, or crunchy is going to remain off-limits.

But don’t worry! If you’re wondering what treats you can sink your fangs into this year, here are our top five braces-friendly favorites:

  • Hershey’s Kisses & Bars

Soft, traditional chocolate is always a safe bet — both in terms of flavor and texture. Not only do they provide the sugar rush you’ve long craved, but the sheer variety of chocolate bars also bears the blessing of options… just be sure not to buy anything with nuts or toffee inside! Additionally, be mindful to break your bar into smaller, bite-sized pieces before enjoying it.

  • Pixie Sticks

For those looking to venture outside the world of chocolate, Pixie Sticks and other tubes of powdered sugar offer an ideally sweet alternative. As they melt in your mouth and require no chewing whatsoever, they won’t pose any immediate damage to your braces. Be careful to brush right after, however, as it may be easy to forget just how much sugar is now coating your teeth!

  • Peanut Butter Cups

Both sweet and savory, peanut butter cups offer the best of both worlds when it comes to Halloween candy. And the bonus? They’re soft enough to bow to the force of braces without consequence. Plus, if you’re looking to get creative, you could also dip your chocolates into melted peanut butter for better control of your chocolate-to-peanut-butter ratio.

  • Cupcakes

If you’re hosting an annual Halloween party featuring guests who favor all sorts of different flavors, cupcakes and other such baked goods offer the perfect dessert. Festive, fun, and flavorful, both the moist cake and rich frosting will be very easy to eat with braces on, no matter what stage of orthodontic treatment someone is in.

  • Peppermint Patties

Another classic treat for those seeking chocolate with a twist, peppermint patties are soft, rich, and leave your tongue buzzing and refreshed. That being said, while some people like to freeze these chilling treats before they bite in, we encourage you not to do so if you have braces. A frozen pattie might simply be too much for your braces, and you don’t want to end the night with a call for emergency orthodontic care.

Of course, this is by no means a comprehensive list of all of the sweets you might enjoy after trick-or-treating, but we hope it gets you started!

If you have further questions about how to care for your braces, or if you’re ready to schedule an appointment, our team is here to offer you exceptional results in a welcoming environment. Learn more today by contacting SouthShore Orthodontics at 813-815-0080!

Filling You In On Fillings: Answering Your Top 3 Questions

July 15, 2021

The idea of needing a cavity filled is typically not a pleasant one for most patients.

The good news, however, is that modern technology has rendered the entire process nearly painless, and we even have a variety of material options for fillings depending on the patient’s unique circumstances and desires!

And don’t worry — getting a filling can be completed and will not impact your braces so long as it is taken care of in a timely manner. Here’s what you need to know:

What Are Fillings?

A filling is a dental solution, sometimes formulated using different composites or materials, designed to restore teeth.

Most commonly, patients will need a filling when their dentist has located a cavity. Otherwise, fillings are also used to repair and remedy teeth that have suffered damage, be it a crack from physical trauma or surface erosion from teeth grinding.

The only question, then, is which type of filling material you may need.

“Your dentist considers materials to use on an individualized basis, taking into account the size and location of your cavity,” the American Dental Association (ADA) explains. “Cosmetic considerations, how long the filling could last, insurance coverage, and out-of-pocket costs are some other factors you might want to consider.”

What Are The Different Types Of Fillings?

If you’re looking for a brief overview of the pros and cons of different filling types, we’ve got you covered! Simply take a look below at the four primary filling materials:

  • Gold — The longest lasting of all filling materials, gold alloy fillings are strong and will easily withstand the forces applied against them while chewing. However, they do not match the color of the tooth and, according to Crest, they cost up to six (or even ten) times more than that of traditional amalgam fillings.
  • Glass Ionomer — Glass ionomer fillings match the appearance of the tooth more closely and even release fluoride once in place. They’re usually placed near to the gum line, such as when a patient has root caries. However, they do take longer to apply and are not as strong as other filling materials.
  • Amalgam — One of the most affordable and commonly used filling materials, amalgam is a metal composite that is durable and lasting. The major drawback for most patients, however, is that amalgam is silver and will be plainly visible against the color of the tooth. Amalgams also do not bond to the tooth itself.
  • Composite Resin — Composite resin fillings are popular in that, out of the different filling materials, this one will most closely match your tooth color, therefore being relatively hard to notice. Composite resin is strong and binds to the teeth, albeit it costs more than amalgam. This resin material may also require more time in the dentist’s chair to complete.

What If I Need A Filling?

As we said before, if you need a filling while your braces are still on, that’s okay! Keeping your dental health optimized while undergoing orthodontic care is of the utmost importance, so please don’t feel as though you have to put off a filling for the sake of your smile’s alignment.

In fact, many patients with overcrowded teeth need fillings precisely because of their misalignment! Therefore, fillings and braces are sometimes inevitable.

And if you have further questions on the matter, or if you’re ready to reimagine your smile, don’t hesitate to contact SouthShore Orthodontics! We can’t wait to offer you exceptional results in a welcoming environment. Call us today at 813-815-0080 to learn more!

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!