Are You Flossing Correctly?
Dental Floss is the finest tool we have to clean between teeth.
Toothbrushes cannot reach between the tight contacts of our back teeth. We, therefore, recommend that parents floss between their children’s teeth. By the age of 10, children are generally able to floss by themselves.
Flossing Wands
To ease the flossing procedure, there have been several innovative tools that have been invented. Among the easiest to use are the different varieties of flossing wands.
How to Floss
- Use an adequate amount of floss – generally between 15 – 18 inches.
- Guide the floss gently between the teeth and see-saw through the contact.
- Once it is through the contact, gently slide the floss along the sides of both teeth.
- When flossing, go in a predictable order. For example, start on the upper right, go entirely around the upper arch and then move to the bottom and go in order on that arch as well.
Contact us with any further questions!
Our practice is a Carriere SLX Braces and Carriere Class II and Class III motion appliance provider.
Invisalign® is a virtually invisible orthodontic treatment that eliminates the use of traditional metal brackets and wires. This process is comfortable and convenient, allowing patients to eat, drink, brush, and floss as they normally would. Treatment is effective and proven in clinical research and orthodontic practices nationwide. A certified dentist is necessary to undertake the procedure, and patients will wear a set of aligners for about two weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. Total treatment time averages 11 months with the average number of aligners worn during treatment between 18 and 30. The Invisalign System combines advanced 3-D computer graphics technology with the 100-year-old science of orthodontics.
Orthodontics is a dental specialty that focuses on correcting improper bites and tooth irregularity. Orthodontists can help patients of any age improve tooth and jaw problems and can also assist those who desire cosmetic improvements. Orthodontics has a rich history, dating back to as early as 1000 B.C. Today, orthodontists use various methods to correct dental problems such as dental braces, headgear, expansion appliances, and retainers. Orthodontic treatments can last from six months to several years, depending on the patient's specific problems. Straight teeth are not only aesthetically pleasing but also easier to clean and help in biting, chewing, and speaking effectively.
It's recommended for children to have their first orthodontic consultation by the age of 7, but adults and seniors can also undergo orthodontic treatments. Interceptive orthodontics is a technique that addresses certain orthodontic problems between the ages of 7-11 and can result in fewer extracted teeth and better patient compliance. Some techniques used in this interceptive phase include arch expansion and orthopedic growth appliances to enhance jaw growth. This acts as Phase 1 of a two-step orthodontic treatment, making Phase 2 simpler, shorter, and less extensive.
If you're experiencing discomfort with your teeth, it's best to go to a dentist for a diagnosis. However, if the issue is related to misalignment or temporomandibular disorder, you should visit an orthodontist. Orthodontists can provide customized solutions to issues such as overcrowding, overbites, and underbites that do not result in too much discomfort. They can also provide consultation to identify any treatment options and causes of TMJ. Patients can visit either a dentist or orthodontist for dental emergencies. Contact our office to learn more or schedule an appointment.
Looking for alternative orthodontic treatments that are more comfortable and cost-effective than traditional braces? Look no further than the latest technological advancements offered by orthodontists, including AcceleDent, Carriere brackets, Clarity Brackets, and Invisalign. These options can straighten teeth and fix bite patterns while minimizing daily discomfort and saving you money. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
