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Build Stronger Teeth

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Build Stronger Teeth

Everyone knows the basics of good dental care. Brush your teeth after every meal, floss every day, see your dentist at least twice a year. It sounds simple. But what if you still don’t have strong, healthy teeth? Weak enamel can be a genetic weakness, or it can be caused by other conditions, like Celiac disease. I’ve always had weak enamel, so I started looking into ways that I could increase the strength of my teeth, and found that dietary changes could make a big difference. I started this blog to share my experience, and to talk about other ways you can make your teeth stronger and healthier. There are lots of things that you can do to improve your dental health. You just have to find them.

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What To Expect With Braces

12 July 2019
 Categories: Dentist, Blog

If your dentist has suggested braces to straighten your misaligned teeth, you may be feeling a bit apprehensive about the thought of wearing brackets in your mouth.

Here is a bit of information about the appliance to help you understand what to expect.

Brackets Can Be Tooth-colored

Braces don't have to include metal brackets that appear obvious against the teeth. A ceramic option still includes elastic bands and archwires. However, the brackets can be made of tooth-colored ceramic. Thus, you can enjoy the straightening benefits of the appliance without being uncomfortable about your appearance.

Still, ceramic brackets may be a bit more expensive than their metal counterparts. To reduce the expense of your braces, the dentist may suggest applying ceramic brackets to your front teeth, while still straightening the side and rear teeth with metal. 

You May Need Additional Devices to Clean Your Teeth Properly

Because the appliance rests directly against the tooth enamel, plaque and bacteria that build up on its components can still cause your teeth to decay. Additionally, it may be difficult to effectively clean the teeth due to the presence of the brackets, wires, and bands.

As a result, the dentist may suggest interdental brushes and floss threader to assist with the cleaning process. The interdental brushes clear plaque and food particles from the intricate parts of the appliance. Additionally, the floss picks help you navigate the string floss past the appliance and between your teeth.

Your dentist may also advise you to use an oral irrigator, especially if you are having difficulties with the string floss. The irrigator directs a stream of water at the teeth to flush out debris and plaque.

You May Still Be Able to Participate in Contact Sports

Many people who wear an orthodontic appliance still desire to lead active lives. As a part of their exercise regimen, they may regularly participate in contact sports. To help protect the soft tissues of your mouth from inadvertent contact with your braces, your dentist may prescribe a gum shield.

The gum shield is fabricated from an impression of your mouth with the appliance in place, and it is custom-designed to fit over your brackets and wires. The device helps absorb the shock of a blow to the mouth and prevent the gums and inner cheeks from becoming snagged on the metal parts. 

To learn more about braces and what you can expect from them, look for a professional like Poulson Orthodontics in your local area.