Othman Orthodontics Newsletter

OTHMAN ORTHODONTICS 1 WWW.OTHMANORTHODONTICS.COM

OTHMAN ORTHODONTICS EMAGAZINE (1/2013)

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While everyone understands that a dentist takes care of teeth, not everyone is aware of what an orthodontist does. This confusion sometimes leads to misunderstandings about what our practice does for our patients and how exactly we can help them. Let’s take a closer look at a couple of the myths and misconceptions about orthodontics.

Perhaps the biggest misconception about the orthodontist is that we’re just like your family dentist. The truth is, we are actually very different. While it’s true that both orthodontists and dentists care about helping you enjoy a lifetime of good dental and oral health, we go about achieving this goal in

different ways. For instance, if you need to have a cavity filled, you probably won’t make an appointment to see us. Dentists are the health professionals to see if you’re concerned about a cavity or need a filling. Actually for any sort of restorative procedure, including crowns, bridges or veneers, a dentist is the correct professional to see. A dentist can also treat gum disease, tooth decay, toothaches, and other common oral health problems.

People see an orthodontist for very particular services. Most of the patients we see on a daily basis are here because they have braces, or they need to be fitted with braces or another form of tooth-straightening device.

In other words, they consult an orthodontist when they are concerned about the alignment of their teeth. Correcting misaligned teeth not only results in the important esthetic benefit for a beautiful smile, but as importantly allows your teeth and gums to remain healthy as your bite is properly balances, and you can more easily care for your smile. As a child grows up, his or her teeth may grow in crooked or have gaps between teeth. This can happen for a number of reasons, so it’s important for an orthodontist to take a look at a child’s teeth at about seven years of age. At that age, it’s possible to detect any problems that have not become too advanced and more easily treat those.

OTHMAN ORTHODONTICS EMAGAZINE FIRST EDITION (2013)

Misconceptions About

Orthodontics






Your family dentist may also refer your child to an orthodontist once the adult teeth have fully grown in.

Another common misconception about orthodontists is that we only treat children. It’s true that when you visit an orthodontic clinic you’re apt to see a lot of young kids, but you’ll also see teenagers, college students, and adults. Because crooked teeth can be caused by a number of different factors, it’s entirely possible for someone to require orthodontic treatment at any age.

If you want to know more about the practice of orthodontics or what your orthodontist can do for you, we invite you to simply ask us. It’s best to get answers to your specific questions directly from the person who will be treating you. While you’re sure to find Internet resources helpful, there really is no substitute for the personal attention you’ll get during your appointment at our practice.

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What is Invisalign?

The Invisalign system uses a sequence of tailor-made, clear, plastic aligners to slowly reposition and straighten your teeth. Unlike traditional braces, these aligners are completely removable, requiring no metal wires or brackets. Over 1 million people worldwide have chosen Invisalign to improve their smile quickly and unobtrusively.

A Process That Fits Your Lifestyle

The Invisalign system is designed to be flexible:

• Consultation We meet with you to discuss the issues you have with your teeth. As

experienced Invisalign treatment providers, we can determine whether you would benefit from treatment with Invisalign.

• Fitting Then we take pictures and make impressions of your teeth. These will be digitized to form a 3D model that we use to plan your entire treatment from start to finish.

• TreatmentBased on these 3D models, your customized aligners will be produced to fit precisely into the treatment plan we’ve created for you. The aligners

are used in stages: each aligner is worn for about two weeks before being replaced by the next in the sequence, carefully moving your teeth according to plan.

• Check-upsIt is easy to graduate from one set of aligners to another, so unlike with traditional braces, you will not need to frequent our office for small adjustments. You will have check-ups so we can gauge your progress. On average, these appointments occur once every six weeks.


Invisalign: Designed to Fit Your Teeth and

Your Life






The Best Way to Achieve Your Best Smile

With the Invisalign system, time is on your side. Most adults will find that their treatment time is under one year. Treatment is fast, simple, and subtle because the Invisalign system is designed to fit your life. Give us a call to set up a consultation today.






According to Preferred Consumer, it's estimated that 50 percent of people have teeth that are crooked, not aligned properly, or irregular. Fortunately, modern orthodontics has advanced to the point where corrective devices, such as braces and retainers, are less obvious, more comfortable, and can be worn for shorter periods of time.

So, with that being said, how do you know if braces are right for you? Here are some things to keep in mind when deciding whether or not braces could be in your future:

Crooked TeethAs children grow, so do their teeth. And more often than not, certain teeth will grow in crooked. This isn't uncommon, as the majority

of children will require some sort of teeth correction, whether that’s braces or retainers. Retainers are custom-made devices that either work to hold teeth in place or correct tooth alignment. They're often worn all day, aside from meals, at the start of the treatment period and then eventually are rolled back so they're just worn at night. Braces on the other hand are worn for at least a year and work to help straighten or position teeth.

Overbite or UnderbiteThe other main oral issue that orthodontics helps correct is uneven alignment, such as an underbite or an overbite. You might hear us refer to this as a "malocclusion," which means "bad bite." Braces

can help rearrange your alignment so an overbite or underbite is less of a problem. Typically after the braces come off for this sort of treatment, patients need to wear a retainer to finish the treatment.

While braces are typically associated with dental issues in children, more adults are wearing the devices as well. According to USA Today, about one in every five braces wearers are adults; a sign that it's never too late to correct any oral issues. Part of this trend is due to significant technological advancements in orthodontics. For instance, new braces feel much better and come in a variety of styles — including clear — so they're far less obvious. Plus, the wires on braces are now


Are Braces Right for Me?




http://dental.preferredconsumer.com/orthodontics/guide.html




http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2006-10-15-braces_x.htm

http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2006-10-15-braces_x.htm



made from advanced metals, which are stronger and lighter, so they get the job done much more efficiently. With so many people wearing braces these days (according to the Pennsylvania Dental Association, about four million people in the US wear braces at any given time and many more have worn them at some time in their lives), nicknames like "metal mouth" and "brace face" are almost a thing of the past. Technology has also advanced to the point some orthodontic treatment will not require braces at all. The entire treatment can be successfully achieved by wearing clear aligners over your teeth, removing them for meals. This prevents any discomfort that may be associated with traditional braces. What's more, insurance plans are increasingly covering orthodontic treatment, making braces a much more feasible option for families on a budget.

When weighing whether or not braces or aligners are in your future, it's important to study all of your options

about the categories of braces and other treatments. Also be sure to contact your insurance provider to see what is covered and what will have to be paid out of pocket. It might take a few years of treatment, but braces can give you that winning smile for the rest of your life. Call our office with any questions you might have!





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Orthodontic braces are used to straighten the teeth, which not only creates a more pleasing appearance, but also helps prevent tooth decay and other oral health problems. Braces are only effective when they are properly cared for, however. Certain foods, for example, are better suited for individuals who have braces, as opposed to hard and sticky foods that can cause damage. So, what types of foods should you or your kids eat to protect dental appliances?

The best foods to eat with braces are those that are not high in sugar and do not require excessive chewing. For breakfast, try eggs, yogurt, bacon, wheat toast, or oatmeal. Lunch may steer toward a banana rather than an apple, a salad without

nuts, servings of lean proteins such as meats or fish, and a glass of water rather than sugar laden sodas or juice drinks. If you are looking for some after-school snacks for your kids, consider baked tortilla chips with salsa and guacamole, or try string cheese with fruit.

A healthy dinner can include most types of vegetables, so long as they are cooked to an appropriate softness. Pair that with a lean protein, such as fish or chicken, and follow up with dessert. Just be sure to floss and brush afterward!

Post-Tightening Foods

As braces begin to adjust the alignment of the teeth, we will periodically tighten them to continue the

alignment process. After tightening occurs, the teeth may be sore and sensitive to certain foods. During this time, it is best to eat soft foods. Examples include:

• Pudding• Mashed potatoes• Soup• Ice cream• Cottage cheese• Peas• Pancakes• Pasta

Foods to Avoid

According to the American Dental Association, anyone who wears braces – whether fixed or removable – should avoid excessive snacking and should aim to eat a healthy and balanced diet. It is also important to avoid foods that could cause


Food that are Safe for Braces






damage to the braces, such as:

• Hard candies• Gum• Nuts• Popcorn• Certain raw

vegetables (for example, carrots)

Considerations

Regardless of what types of foods you eat with braces, it is important to keep the crevices between the teeth and around the braces very clean. That means brushing and flossing after meals to prevent the build-up of plaque and decay. Not only can failing to do so damage the teeth, but it can also cause discoloration. It is also advisable to follow the professional hygiene appointment regiment proposed during your treatment planning, so that your oral health is maintained and we have a bright, healthy smile once we complete the orthodontic treatment and deband.

Have more questions about orthodontic treatment? Our team is always ready to

answer all of your questions and help you get the most out of the treatment plan prescribed for you.






If you have been thinking about orthodontic treatment to straighten teeth or correct jaw alignment, your first step is a visit to our office for an orthodontic consultation. During the initial consultation we will address your questions, concerns, and talk about a treatment plan that would best suit your case.

Because we want you to feel prepared and in charge of your orthodontic treatment decisions, consider the following questions when you visit for your initial consultation.

• If I do need some adjustments to my teeth, what options will I have besides braces?

• What kind of preparation is needed to get braces? How many visits will it take?

• How many visits will the treatment plan take?

• Can I expect any pain when getting braces?

• What are the factors that determine how long I have to wear braces?

• How will braces affect my lifestyle? Foods I can eat? Activities I can participate in?

• Who will be involved in the orthodontic work? Whom can I expect to see during my adjustment visits?

• What is the correct expectation in terms of outcome?

• How much will my orthodontic work cost? What is the “average” cost?

Your initial orthodontic consultation may just be the

first step in relieving concerns about the appearance of your smile, or discomfort you are experiencing. Going in with the right questions will help you to understand the entire process, the state of the art treatment options available to you, and prepare you to do your part for your own dental health, ultimately leaving you with a great smile!



What Should I Ask During my Consultation





We know a lot of people enjoy a hot-brewed coffee or tea during their day. But what many don’t know is that both coffee and tea are especially tough on your teeth—especially during orthodontic treatment—because tannic acid (the substance that makes the dark color) etches into the pits and grooves of tooth enamel, and can stain your pearly whites.

So, if you can’t give up that morning cup o’joe, what can you do? We suggest rinsing with a glass of water after every cup. If you enjoy iced coffee or tea, drink your beverage with a straw so that tannins don’t make contact with your front upper and lower teeth. Even if you’re not a big coffee drinker, we encourage you to swish some water at the

end of each meal. Water, after all, helps neutralize acids left in your mouth after eating and also reduces cavity-causing bacteria.

We hope this helps! Let us know if you have any questions!



What’s the Deal with Coffee or

Tea?





Because we know a lot of our patients are active and play sports, we wanted to take a moment to remind you how critical it is to protect your teeth, whether you are playing full-contact football or a game of pick-up basketball. Today, we thought we would answer some of the most frequent questions we get from patients:

Q: I keep hearing about a mouth guard – what is it?

If you play or are planning on playing sports, it’s important that you take special precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard. The guard will protect your teeth from impact and in most instances prevent teeth from becoming chipped or broken. Mouth guards are advisable for playing sports

such as baseball, football, soccer, basketball, and many, many more.

Q: If I’m hit in the mouth, and a tooth gets knocked out, what should I do?

1. Find the tooth2. Hold the tooth by

the crown (the surface farthest from the gumline), not the root

3. If it is an adult tooth, try to put the tooth back in the socket right away

4. If the tooth can not be put back in the socket, store it in cold milk (do not store in tap water)

5. Bite down on a gauze pad to relieve bleeding and pain

6. Call your dentist immediately

Q: Can my teeth be fixed if they are chipped, broken or knocked out?

In most cases, if you see a dentist immediately after a tooth injury occurs, the tooth can be fixed. Unfortunately, the long-term health of the injured tooth is compromised.

Q: Are sports drinks bad for my teeth?

Some drinks are bad for your teeth, depending on the amount of sugar content. They are okay to drink only if you are brushing on a regular basis.

Q: What can I drink to stay hydrated and keep my teeth healthy?

Lots of water.


Sports Q & A






Q: Can I still play sports while wearing my retainer, or is it best to take it out?

Because retainers are often lost or stepped on while playing sports, it is best to remove your retainer while playing sports and use your mouth guard instead.

Q: Can I still wear a mouth guard with braces?

Yes, a mouth guard is a must while playing contact sports with braces! Ask us about obtaining one!

We hope that helps! Please enjoy your sports activities and give us a call if you have other questions about protecting your mouth!






We’d like to share a big THANK YOU with all of our patients for passing along the word about us to your friends, families, and colleagues year after year. You’re part of the reason we’re able to keep doing what we love to do!

Unlike dentists, who often share a lifetime relationship with their patients, we complete our work in a short time frame. Most orthodontic

patients are only in active treatment for two years or less. In many cases, our new patients come from our old patients!

Many people come to us seeking treatment based on recommendations from people like you, who know us and trust us after enjoying positive experiences with our office and our orthodontic treatment. All health care professionals

depend on the confidence of their patients; referrals are the best illustration of our patients’ satisfaction with our work.

THANK YOU for your continued support. We really appreciate it!

Copyright © Sesame Communications

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