How often should I brush my teeth with braces?

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LAST UPDATED: JULY 31, 2017

How often should I brush my teeth with braces?

Be proud of your smile. It may not be easy to achieve the perfect smile, but it will be worth all of the work that you put into it. Children and adults can benefit from improved smiles and better oral health when orthodontic devices are used to correct misaligned teeth. An orthodontic consultation can determine what types of appliances will work best for your specific situation. Yet it does not matter whether you wear expanders, traditional braces, Invisalign, or other equipment, the common guideline is that you need to take extra special care of your teeth during orthodontic treatment.

FAQ

What Is The Best Ways to Take Care of Your Teeth?

Your mouth may feel different when you have any orthodontic appliance installed. There may even be times when your jaw, teeth, or gums feel sore, and you may want to neglect your routine oral hygiene, but this is not recommended. Some of the positive steps you can take to care for your mouth include:

  • Attending routine appointments – Whether orthodontic or traditional dental cleanings, it is important for you to keep scheduled appointments to ensure that your mouth remains healthy and to keep your orthodontic work progressing.
  • Watching what you eat – Sticky or stringy foods are more likely to get stuck in dental work. Sugary foods are just generally bad for your teeth.
  • Brushing and flossing your teeth more often than usual – While this may be more difficult, it is important to take the time to do the job properly.

Why Does One Need to Brush Teeth Often?

When you do not properly brush their teeth, plaque builds up. Made up of food particles, saliva, and a great deal of bacteria, plaque is a sticky substance that can cause cavities if it is left on the teeth. When one wears orthodontic appliances, there are many extra places for plaque to get trapped and build up. Brackets and wires can be barriers that hold the plaque against the teeth, so it is important to be diligent and clean it all off. In addition to cavities, plaque can also cause bad breath, swollen gums, and stains on teeth once the brackets are removed.

How Often Should Teeth Be Brushed?

When wearing orthodontic equipment, it is important to clean your teeth after every time you eat. If possible, you should carry a toothbrush with you, so you can clean your teeth even if you are not at home. When brushing your teeth away from is not possible, you should at least rinse your mouth thoroughly with water after each meal, swishing it around your whole mouth and then spitting it out.

It is also important to floss between your teeth at least once daily. After a thorough flossing, you should brush your teeth as well as the brackets and wires in your mouth until all food particles are removed. Brushing should occur at least twice every day while flossing and brushing should occur at least once, preferably before bedtime so that plaque does not sit on the teeth overnight.

How to Clean Your Teeth With Orthodontic Appliances

Brushing and flossing your teeth when you have orthodontic appliances in your mouth is not much different from when you do not. Some things that are similar include:

  • Always use a soft bristled toothbrush.
  • Always brush for at least two minutes.
  • Always brush all of the surfaces of your teeth: front, back, sides, and chewing surfaces.
  • Always replace your toothbrush after three months or less.

When you have an orthodontic appliance, you should specifically remember to brush gently but thoroughly. The brackets in your mouth should appear shiny and free from food after you are done. Rinsing your mouth with water is also important after each brushing. It will help remove excess toothpaste that can get stuck around brackets or wires.

Flossing, on the other hand, can be a little bit more challenging with the wires in your mouth. A floss threader is a device that may help you get the floss under the wires and between the teeth for ease of flossing. Be patient and take care not to miss any spaces. If you still have trouble, your orthodontist may be able to recommend other tools to help you keep your teeth clean and healthy.

Potential Effects of Not Keeping Your Teeth Clean

When you fail to clean your teeth and mouth properly, it can lead to a variety of ailments. Some of these can be painful and permanent, so it is important not to fall into the trap of neglect. You want to be able to show off your new straight teeth upon removal of your dental appliances, not have to hide a painful or unhealthy mouth.

Some of the problems that can occur from brushing neglect include:

  • Gingivitis occurs when plaque builds up on the gum line. It can lead to swollen, red, or puffy gums. Though painless, it is usually only the first stage of periodontal disease.
  • Periodontitis happens when gingivitis is not treated. It causes infection and inflammation and can affect the ligaments and bones that support the teeth.
  • Decalcifications are white spots that appear on the teeth around the brackets. Once the brackets are removed, the spots remain as a permanent reminder of your neglect.

The simple way to keep your mouth healthy is to remember to brush your teeth frequently and effectively. Your orthodontist can help you figure out if you are doing a good job and give you advice on the best methods to take care of your particular situation. It is extremely important to follow all instructions carefully to attain the optimal results from the braces or Invisalign that you are wearing. Your healthy smile after the removal will be worth the extra work that you will have to put into your oral hygiene.

Call Papandreas Orthodontics to Schedule Your First Orthodontic Appointment

Dr. Samuel Papandreas provides expert orthodontic care for adults, teenagers and children at his facilities in:

• Brunswick, Ohio
• North Royalton, Ohio

His patients are fitted with customized orthodontic devices that include:

• Braces – color-matching ceramic or metal devices
• Retainers – worn at night when your braces are removed
• Invisalign aligners – clear plastic devices
• Palatal expanders – worn before your orthodontic treatment begins

You can schedule an appointment with Papandreas Orthodontics to learn about the best type of orthodontic treatment for you and your children to improve your smile correct your dental bite.

Papandreas Orthodontics
3511 Center Road, Suite B
Brunswick, OH 44212
tel: 330-558-9092

***

14200 Ridge Rd
North Royalton, OH 44133
tel: 440-582-8585
https://drpapandreas.com/

How often should I brush my teeth with braces?

How to Deal with Orthodontic Emergencies

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orthodontic emergenciesHow to Deal with Orthodontic Emergencies

We’ve been there before. Part of the orthodontic treatment is understanding that emergencies happen. This guide will help you know what to do if you or your child runs into any of these issues.

Discomfort

Getting new orthodontic hardware can be a somewhat uncomfortable experience. It can also be worrisome for a parent since we never want to see our child in pain. Typically, the discomfort can be alleviated with over the counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Patients may also feel discomfort during monthly adjustments. This is also normal and can be treated in the same way.

Irritation or Sores

This common issue is one of the complaints most often heard by Orthodontists. As your mouth grows used to having braces or other hardware, spots of irritation can develop. You can apply orthodontic relief wax directly on the metal that is causing the pain. It will act as a cushion and protect the sensitive area from further irritation while allowing the skin to heal. At the next appointment, be sure to let us know of any areas causing irritation. We will do our best to fix the underlying issue, so you can smile more comfortably.

Loosened Wires

Eating certain foods or even a trauma to the mouth could possibly cause a wire to become loose. If this happens, it’s usually best to call us and make an appointment to be seen at your earliest convenience. However, we understand that isn’t always possible. If you must clip the wire do so as a last resort. Be sure to cut it carefully with clean clippers or small, sharp pliers that have been sanitized with rubbing alcohol. Give us a call so you can come in for assistance and to replace the wire.

Protruding Wires

Occasionally a wire may work itself out and irritate your child’s mouth. Using a Q-tip or a pencil eraser, gently push the end of the wire so that it rests flat against the tooth. If you are unable to move the wire or it is still irritating the sensitive skin, you can cover it with orthodontic relief wax to act as a buffer between the wire and skin. Call us as soon as possible so that we can get you in to be seen.

Loosened Brackets

Occasionally a bracket can loosen or even become dislodged. Once again this is a situation where we would like you to come in as soon as possible so we can correct the issue. If you aren’t able to come in right away, the bracket can be removed and kept at home until you can bring it in with you to your next appointment. Being careful while eating hard or sticky foods and wearing the proper protective mouth equipment during sports can help lower the risk of this issue.

Swallowed Appliance

Accidentally swallowing part of your braces is extremely rare. It is also a true emergency. Swallowing any component of your orthodontic equipment is serious as it could impair breathing or restrict an airway. If you are unable to reach your orthodontist or the office, it’s best to head to the nearest emergency room to receive treatment.

Safer Options are Available

Invisalign continues to gain in popularity for many reasons, including the fact that it is less likely to result in many of the orthodontic emergencies mentioned. Since Invisalign is almost invisible and not composed of metal, many problems have been eradicated entirely. There are no metal pieces to loosen, break off, or be accidentally swallowed. The Invisalign appliances are typically more comfortable, causing fewer issues of discomfort in our patients. For more information, please visit us at drpapandreas.com or call to make an appointment with Dr. Papandreas and his team.

Quick Tips

1. When in doubt, give us a call.

Remember that we are always here to help. No emergency or concern is too small or strange to contact us. Chances are we have dealt with that issue before, several times. We want everyone to be as comfortable and pain-free as possible because we think of our patients as family.

2. Make an emergency kit to keep handy.

Things to include:

  • Orthodontic relief wax
  • Floss
  • Q-tips
  • Pencil eraser
  • Topical anesthetic gel or paste, like Orajel
  • Interproximal Brush
  • The number and office information of your orthodontist

3. Be sure to give our office number and contact information to teachers, babysitters, and family members in case of an emergency. 

Anytime you face an orthodontic emergency big or small, just remember these tips, and give Dr. Papandreas a call.

Call Papandreas Orthodontics to Schedule Your First Orthodontic Appointment

Dr. Samuel Papandreas provides expert orthodontic care for adults, teenagers, and children at his facilities in:

• Brunswick, Ohio
• North Royalton, Ohio

His patients are fitted with customized orthodontic devices that include:

• Braces – color-matching ceramic or metal devices
• Retainers – worn at night when your braces are removed
• Invisalign aligners – clear plastic devices
• Palatal expanders – worn before your orthodontic treatment begins

You can schedule an appointment with Papandreas Orthodontics to learn about the best type of orthodontic treatment for you and your children to improve your smile correct your dental bite.

How to Deal with Orthodontic Emergencies

Papandreas Orthodontics
3511 Center Road, Suite B
Brunswick, OH 44212
tel: 330-558-9092

***

14200 Ridge Rd
North Royalton, OH 44133
tel: 440-582-8585

Why is a Dentist Not an Orthodontist?

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Why is a Dentist Not an Orthodontist?

Orthodontists are different from dentists because they are medical specialists who align their patient’s teeth through the use of braces, retainers or trays such as Invisalign. Patients are often referred to an orthodontist through their family dentist.

To become an orthodontist, a person goes to college and gets their bachelor’s degree after majoring in biological science. After that, they take the Dental Admission Test, or DAT to be admitted into a school of dentistry. During dentistry school, the student usually has two years of classroom work and two years of residency in orthodontics. They will spend some time treating patients during their residency. After this training, the student gets a Doctor of Dental Medicine, or DMD degree.

Some people take a seven year program that begins in high school and spares them the need to go to dentistry school. After they receive their DMD, they go on to postgraduate work in orthodontics. No matter what path they take, orthodontists still have to pass the National Board Dental Examinations, which are written and clinical test that are overseen by the Joint Commission on Dental Examinations. After passing this test, the doctor receives their license to practice. However, they’ll probably need a few more years training in orthodontics. The learning, of course, never stops.

The doctor also needs to be certified by the American Board of Orthodontics. Like the National Board Dental Examinations, the test to qualify for the board consists of written and clinical exams.

Orthodontics

Braces have improved somewhat from the heavy and frankly ugly brackets, wires and rubber bands that many people remember with no fondness whatsoever. Nowadays, the brackets of traditional braces are smaller and the wires not quite so appalling. The patient also has the option of lingual devices that are placed behind the teeth and can’t be seen, and tooth-colored devices that make the braces hard to see.


The devices are specialized for the patient, and the time they’ll have to spend wearing them depends on the individual case. Most people wear their braces between six months and three years. After they come off, the patient is fitted with a retainer, which helps to keep the teeth properly aligned and trains the structures of the mouth to help hold the teeth in place. Usually, they are at first worn full time and then worn at night. The length of time a retainer needs to be worn at night can be longer than the patient wants, but they’ll need to consult with their orthodontist.

Wearing braces does require a bit of commitment on the part of the patient. They’ll need to brush, floss and use a fluoride rinse after every meal and then again before going to bed. Some patients receive special brushes for getting in between the wires to clean their teeth thoroughly. There are also some foods that the patient can’t eat. They tend to be hard, crunchy, sugary or sticky, i.e. the types of foods that a lot of kids crave. Yet, these foods can get caught in the metal or even knock brackets out of position or bend wires. On top of all this, the metal and wires make for a sore mouth, especially in the beginning. They will also have to go for check-ups every month or so. Younger patients need to be reminded that at the end of their treatment they will have a smile that others will envy and to be praised for keeping up with their annoying and fiddly dental hygiene regimen. Even adults may find meticulous oral care several times a day and not being able to eat what hey want daunting.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a system for people who simply can’t stand the look, feel or inconvenience of traditional braces. It’s a system where the patient is fitted with clear, custom made trays that are meant to be worn 23 hours a day. The trays are changed every two weeks or so as the bite eventually comes into alignment. Though they take about the same time to work as more traditional methods, the trays have differences that are attractive to many patients.

First, the trays are hard to see. A person needs to get very close to the patient to see that they’re wearing the alignment trays. Second, the trays, made of smooth plastic, are painless. Third, the patient doesn’t have to see their orthodontist as often. Fourth, and most important, they can be taken out by the patient. This means the patient can eat what they want and go about fairly normal oral hygiene.

Orthodontists also appreciate the fact that because of this ease of use their patients simply take better care of their teeth. Some patients with traditional metal aligners give up in frustration, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

Orthodontics is a fascinating, exciting and growing field. Those who practice it take pride in both the health and beauty of their patient’s teeth.

Call Papandreas Orthodontics to Schedule Your First Orthodontic Appointment

Dr. Samuel Papandreas provides expert orthodontic care for adults, teenagers and children at his facilities in:

• Brunswick, Ohio
• North Royalton, Ohio

His patients are fitted with customized orthodontic devices that include:

• Braces – color-matching ceramic or metal devices
• Retainers – worn at night when your braces are removed
• Invisalign aligners – clear plastic devices
• Palatal expanders – worn before your orthodontic treatment begins

You can schedule an appointment with Papandreas Orthodontics to learn about the best type of orthodontic treatment for you and your children to improve your smile correct your dental bite.

Papandreas Orthodontics
3511 Center Road, Suite B
Brunswick, OH 44212
tel: 330-558-9092

***

14200 Ridge Rd
North Royalton, OH 44133
tel: 440-582-8585

Orthodontic Fact #6 – The First Braces Were a Piece of Flat Metal in 1720; It was Connected to the Patient’s Teeth Using Several Pieces of Thread

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Orthodontic Fact #6 – The First Braces Were a Piece of Flat Metal in 1720; It was Connected to the Patient’s Teeth Using Several Pieces of Thread

Teeth that are crooked or improperly spaced have always been a source of trouble for humans. In addition to affecting a person’s facial appearance, such deformities can lead to related dental and even to general health problems. The desire to have straight teeth dates back to ancient times, but it would take the then-new field orthodontics to successfully tackle the issue. The goal was finally reached through the development of dental braces.

The Birth of Orthodontics

The first practical tooth-straightening device was developed in the 1720s. Essentially a flat piece of metal, the brace was connected to the teeth with thread. Later devices consisted of bands cut from rubber tubing that, while primitive, worked in a way similar to modern braces. The braces themselves were made of different materials, including copper, gold and even wood. Greater advancements in the field have come about in the past 50 years, including the development of a dental adhesive designed to keep the braces attached to the teeth. Braces made of stainless steel would also come into use during this period of time. Dental braces are widely used today by adolescents who have all of their permanent teeth and by adults who also desire teeth that are straight and attractive. Three principal types of braces are available today:

The Invisalign System

The most recent development in the field of orthodontics comes in the form of invisible aligners. Known as Invisalign, these clear plastic devices are fitted to the teeth and then changed periodically. Each aligner is slightly different, which allows the Invisalign system to gently move the teeth into the desired position.

Call Papandreas Orthodontics to Schedule Your First Orthodontic Appointment

Dr. Samuel Papandreas provides expert orthodontic care for adults, teenagers and children at his facilities in:

• Brunswick, Ohio
• North Royalton, Ohio

His patients are fitted with customized orthodontic devices that include:

• Braces – color-matching ceramic or metal devices
• Retainers – worn at night when your braces are removed
• Invisalign aligners – clear plastic devices
• Palatal expanders – worn before your orthodontic treatment begins

You can schedule an appointment with Papandreas Orthodontics to learn about the best type of orthodontic treatment for you and your children to improve your smile correct your dental bite.

Papandreas Orthodontics
3511 Center Road, Suite B
Brunswick, OH 44212
tel: 330-558-9092

***

14200 Ridge Rd
North Royalton, OH 44133
tel: 440-582-8585
https://drpapandreas.com/

Orthodontic Fact #6 – The First Braces Were a Piece of Flat Metal in 1720; It was Connected to the Patient’s Teeth Using Several Pieces of Thread

How to Take Care of Your Retainers

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retainersHow to Take Care of Your Retainers

Getting your braces off is a moment to celebrate! After all, you can now see the results of all your hard work every time you flash that beautiful smile. While this is an exciting time, it is important to remember that your treatment plan involves using a retainer to keep your teeth in proper alignment.

For most people, the retainment period lasts for about a year, but it could be longer or shorter depending upon your needs. At first, you will probably have to wear your retainer for most of the day and night, but you may be able to wean down to only wearing it at night as you progress through your treatment. Since your retainers are critical for keeping your teeth aligned, you will want to take special care of them throughout this time.

Know When to Remove Your Retainer

While your orthodontist will tell you to wear your retainer for the majority of the day, there are times when it will be necessary to remove it from your mouth. Typically, you will need to remove your retainer when you eat, yet you can drink without having to remove it. If you play sports, then it is also essential to remove your retainer before practice or competitions since it could cause injuries to your mouth if it is hit. Your retainer should not be worn during swimming, either. You can, however, wear your retainer during mild forms of exercise that do not pose a risk of objects coming in contact with your mouth such as jogging.

Store The Retainer Properly

Almost everyone has heard the horror story of parents who end up searching through the elementary school trash bin because their kid threw their retainer away. Unfortunately, this does happen all too often due to kids wrapping their retainer in a napkin during lunch. We understand that leaving your retainer on full display may be embarrassing, so just bring your storage container with you anytime you know that it will need to be removed. Keeping your retainer in your storage container not only keeps it safe, but it also keeps it clean so that you will not put as many germs into your mouth.

Avoid Heat Sources

Retainers are fairly durable, but they are made of plastic that is sensitive to the effects of heat. Make sure to avoid placing your retainer in the dishwasher, and use lukewarm water when you are cleaning it. A retainer should also never be left in a hot car, especially on the dashboard where the heat levels tend to be the highest. For the most part, wearing your retainer as outlined by your treatment plan will ensure that it does not come into contact with many heat sources, but you need to be careful if you leave it on the bathroom counter along with heat styling appliances. Sitting too close to curling irons and straighteners has ruined many retainers.

Clean It Properly

Sure, a dishwasher may seem like a hygienic way to sanitize your retainer, but the hot water and strong water movement can damage it beyond repair. Cleaning your retainer properly should become a part of your normal oral hygiene routine, and the extra step will ensure that bacteria and food debris do not stay in contact with your teeth when you place your retainer in your mouth. To clean it, simply use your toothbrush along with some toothpaste and warm water to brush it like you would your teeth. Remember to use gentle strokes, and take your time if you see obvious debris. Your retainer should be cleaned at least once a day, but it may need to be cleaned more if you notice that it tastes odd or looks dirty.

Don’t Let It Dry Out

Similar to the effect of heat, drying out can warp the plastic used to make your retainer. When your retainer is not in your mouth, keep it wet by storing it in your container. If you are wearing your retainer and notice that your mouth gets dry, then simply drink some water to rehydrate it.

Be Careful During Insertion and Removal

It is important to use a gentle touch when you insert or remove your retainer. This is because using too heavy of a touch can result in broken wires. Many kids think it is cool to use their tongue to flip the retainer in place, however this is one of the most common causes of damage to retainers so please use the technique your orthodontist has showed you in their office.

Schedule an Exam at the First Sign of Damage

Sometimes, kids will delay telling their parents about a broken retainer because they are afraid of getting in trouble. However, doing so can have serious consequences for your teeth. A broken or ill-fitting retainer will not hold the teeth in the correct alignment, and all that hard work done by the braces will go to waste. Broken wires on a retainer can also lead to mouth injuries. For this reason, it is important to schedule an appointment quickly if damage is suspected. Your orthodontist may be able to simply repair the retainer in the office so that no delay in your treatment occurs.

Call Papandreas Orthodontics to Schedule Your First Orthodontic Appointment

Dr. Samuel Papandreas provides expert orthodontic care for adults, teenagers and children at his facilities in:

• Brunswick, Ohio
• North Royalton, Ohio

His patients are fitted with customized orthodontic devices that include:

• Braces – color-matching ceramic or metal devices
• Retainers – worn at night when your braces are removed
• Invisalign aligners – clear plastic devices
• Palatal expanders – worn before your orthodontic treatment begins

You can schedule an appointment with Papandreas Orthodontics to learn about the best type of orthodontic treatment for you and your children to improve your smile correct your dental bite.

Papandreas Orthodontics
3511 Center Road, Suite B
Brunswick, OH 44212
tel: 330-558-9092

***

14200 Ridge Rd
North Royalton, OH 44133
tel: 440-582-8585
https://drpapandreas.com/

How to Take Care of Your Retainers

The Importance of Wearing Retainers After Treatment

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retainers
Getting your braces off is an exciting day for everyone who goes through the treatment. After months or years of having braces, they will finally be removed to reveal the straight smile you’ve been dreaming of. But treatment doesn’t end after the braces are off. While you may have the permanent fixtures removed from your mouth, you will probably still need to wear retainers to maintain your new straight smile that you’ve invested so much time – and money – into.

Why Do I Need a Retainer?

When you first get your braces off, your teeth may not be used to their new positioning. While they have spent so many years in their original place, they may be tempted to migrate back to where they started. Because you don’t want to keep your braces on until they are used to their new location, retainers act as a removable support system for keeping your smile straight.

The first month after you get your braces off will have the highest risk of what is known as “relapse.” Relapse refers to the movement of your teeth back into their original pre-braces position. Most people will need to wear their retainer at all times during this first month, although it can be removed for eating and cleaning.

After the first month, your teeth should be more used to their new homes and less likely to try and move back. Even so, there is still a strong chance of relapse during your first year.

How Often Do I Need to Wear My Retainer?

The amount that you will need to wear your retainer will depend on the retainer kind and the state of your teeth before your braces. If your teeth did not need to move much, then you may spend less time with your retainer.

For the most part, all individuals will need to wear their retainer full time for at least one month. In most circumstances, six months of full time wear is recommended. Then possible for a couple years after that, the retainer will only need to be worn at night.

If you got braces as an adult, you may be required to wear your retainer more often. Because aging can change the shape of your mouth and face, your teeth may be tempted to move as well. A permanent retainer may be recommended, or you may need to wear your retainer at night for years to come.

The amount that you will need to wear your retainer will be determined by your orthodontist. Through a plan that he or she creates for you, you can ensure that your teeth stay in their new, straight position.

What Does My Retainer Look Like?

Your retainer will be custom made to fit your teeth perfectly after your braces come off. While you may feel a bit of tightness while wearing your retainer, this is just to ensure that your teeth do not have space to move. The kind of retainer that you have will depend on your needs, the likelihood that your teeth will try to move, and your age.

If your teeth have a high chance of moving, your orthodontist may recommend using a permanent retainer. Rather than a removable item, a permanent retainer is a piece of metal that is fused to the back of your teeth. Some individuals will need to have this permanent retainer for the rest of their lives. Others may have it removed after a few years.


The most common kind of retainer will be made of acrylic and metal. The metal is specially fit to go around the teeth while the acrylic piece rests on the top of your mouth. Another kind of retainer is made of clear plastic and resembles an Invisalign tray. These retainers may be used more often if you need to wear the piece full time, but they are usually more expensive than the standard metal and acrylic retainers.

Why is My Retainer Important?

A retainer keeps all the hard work of you, your orthodontist, and your braces in place. While you may believe that your straight smile is here to stay, in a few years you may be back to where you started if you don’t take care of your teeth.

It is natural for our teeth to want to return to their starting position after the braces come off. If you should ignore your smile and fail to use your retainer properly, you may find that your smile is the same as it was before your braces went on – making you feel as if you’ve wasted your time and money going through the treatment of having braces.

It is important that you follow the instructions on wearing and maintaining your retainer as given to you by your orthodontist. By following your orthodontist’s instructions, you can ensure that the smile you’ve worked so hard to get is here to stay.

Call Papandreas Orthodontics to Schedule Your First Orthodontic Appointment

Dr. Samuel Papandreas provides expert orthodontic care for adults, teenagers and children at his facilities in:

• Brunswick, Ohio
• North Royalton, Ohio

His patients are fitted with customized orthodontic devices that include:

• Braces – color-matching ceramic or metal devices
• Retainers – worn at night when your braces are removed
• Invisalign aligners – clear plastic devices
• Palatal expanders – worn before your orthodontic treatment begins

You can schedule an appointment with Papandreas Orthodontics to learn about the best type of orthodontic treatment for you and your children to improve your smile correct your dental bite.

Papandreas Orthodontics
3511 Center Road, Suite B
Brunswick, OH 44212
tel: 330-558-9092

***

14200 Ridge Rd
North Royalton, OH 44133
tel: 440-582-8585
https://drpapandreas.com/

The Importance of Wearing Retainers After Treatment

Tooth brushing Mistake No.8: “Not Following Up With a Rinse”

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brush your teethLearn How to Brush Your Teeth Correctly

If you have the habit of beginning to brush you teeth in the same location each time, then make a change today. After you put a dollop of toothpaste on a toothbrush, you will begin to brush your teeth while moving the toothpaste over your teeth and gums. When you always begin brushing in the same location, those teeth get a full dose of fluoride while other teeth get less. You probably use the same routine to brush your teeth without realizing it, but you can make a change by using your other hand to brush or keeping a record of how you brush your teeth.

Orthodontic Treatments That Will Straighten Your Teeth

In addition to brushing your teeth in a new way, don’t forget to visit an orthodontist to determine if you need treatment. If you are having problems removing the debris from your teeth with brushing, then you might need to straighten your teeth with Invisalign aligners or braces. The best time to undergo orthodontic treatment is at a young age to repair the bones in the mouth in addition to your teeth, but more adults also want to straighten their teeth.

Call Us Today

When you are looking for a knowledgeable orthodontist in Ohio, call Papandreas Orthodontics in Ohio. Dr. Samuel Papandreas has two state-of-art facilities to choose from in these cities:

• North Royalton – 440-582-8585
• Brunswick – 330-558-9092

Our orthodontist offers a variety of treatment for children, teenagers and adults, and you might need to wear these devices to repair your malocclusions:

• Invisalign aligners – for teenagers or adults
• Palatal expanders – to increase the size of your palate
• Braces – metal or color-matching ceramics
• Retainers – to keep teeth in the correct positions

You can schedule an appointment with Papandreas Orthodontics to learn about the best type of orthodontic treatment for you and your children to improve your smile correct your dental bite.

Papandreas Orthodontics
3511 Center Road, Suite B
Brunswick, OH 44212
tel: 330-558-9092

***

14200 Ridge Rd
North Royalton, OH 44133
tel: 440-582-8585
https://drpapandreas.com/

Tooth brushing Mistake No.8: “Not Following Up With a Rinse”

What Is Invisalign and How Does It Work?

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invisalignThe field of orthodontics has a variety of options to offer patients who wish to correct imperfections. Two of these options are braces and aligners. Aligners, such as Invisalign, are taking the world by storm with their flexible options for usage and for the fact that they are virtually invisible. Check out more information about Invisalign here.

How it all began

Zia Chishti was a student at Stanford University, and a braces user, when he first came up with an idea: a less annoying and more convenient system to straighten up teeth, especially for adults like him. Shortly after having his braces removed, and receiving his retainer, the idea of a similar type of technology, modeled to do a different job, came up. He immediately partnered up with Kelsey Wirth, a fellow student, and, as the model continued to develop, two more partners named Apostolos Lerios and Brian Freyburger joined in the project.

By the year 1997, the partnership completed the final model of what we know today as “the Invisalign,” which they created under their company “Align Technology.” After getting the final touches in manufacturing, they obtained more partners into the project, and the FDA approved the Invisalign to be sold in the United States.

The technology and process to use Invisalign

Invisalign works as a combined effort between your orthodontist and the Invisalign company technologies.

First, you would need to get your teeth examined at the orthodontist office. The exam is free of charge, and it will determine whether your particular case is a good candidate for this treatment. As with everything, one technology is not a fit for every case.

Making your very own aligners

The orthodontist will take x-rays, photographs and dental impressions of your teeth. He or she will also specify to Invisalign the way that your teeth should move throughout time. When this information is gathered, it will be put together as your personal record. The records are then sent to Invisalign so that they can scan and create a 3D model of your teeth.

Since each mouth is different, each plan is also different. Therefore, the technicians at Invisalign will make different trays modeled progressively the way your doctor plans for your teeth to be aligned every two weeks. After reviewing the final product, the final aligners, also known as “trays,” which is what you will be wearing, will be sent to the orthodontist’s office. There will be multiple trays, depending on each case. You will not wear just one tray for the entire duration of your treatment.

Trying on the aligners

Once your very own trays reach the orthodontist’s office, you will be called in to try on the first aligner. You will use your aligners in increments of two-week periods, depending on your plan. Keep in mind that each aligner will be straighter than the previous one. This is how the aligner will push the tooth the way that the orthodontist recommends. Therefore, you may feel pressure at first, but you will get used to it. Gums are soft and semi-malleable. The tooth will slowly become more erect and will go to the position where it should be. The idea is that, in that two-week period, the teeth will slowly place themselves in the exact spot where the tray puts them. Eventually, the aligner and your teeth will match.

Time

You will be wearing your aligners around 20 hours per day. The pressure of the aligner will likely move your teeth at a faster rate than regular braces, which use a “pull” technique. Your doctor will ask you to wear the aligners as close to full time as possible. Of course you can remove them to brush your teeth and even when you eat. You also will learn how to clean the aligner and maintain it as hygienic as possible. It is imperative, however, that you keep it on as long as possible. Remember that another tray will be waiting at your doctor’s office within a two-week period. It is important that your teeth have moved to the desired location in order for the next tray to fit the way it was originally scheduled to.

Additional treatment options

At some point your doctor may ask you to add rubber bands or attachments to your treatment. The rubber bands are used the same way as with braces: They rotate teeth and help correct the bite. In other cases, you may be asked to wear attachments, which are plastic composites that are placed on some of the teeth to make the aligner even more effective. This is not the case for everyone.

Completion of treatment

You cannot put a time stamp on every treatment, as every case is different. The more work you need done, the more trays will be needed. If you follow your treatment plan the way that your doctor wants you to, your teeth should be in the desired position by the last two aligners. Therefore, you can estimate your treatment period and completion based on how many trays are ordered for your case.

Refinement trays

There may be a slight tardiness in some teeth to shift, for which your orthodontist will take more pictures of you teeth and order more trays from the Invisalign company. This is very normal; remember that the purpose of the aligner is to be the least invasive way to treat such a delicate area. These trays are called “refinement trays,” and not everyone will end up needing them. At most, there may be a need for one or two of these trays to complete the process.

After the treatment

Like with braces, after the alignment treatment is over, you will use retainers. The company makes retainers that are plastic and transparent, just like the Invisalign tray. There are options for permanent retainers that are placed inside your mouth in the front teeth (lower.) Part-time retainers are also available. Your doctor will ask you to wear them full-time for two months. After that, you may wear them at night while you sleep. In some cases you may end up just wearing them once a week or so.

The reason why you need a retainer after such a deep treatment is to keep your teeth from continuing to change. Remember that the mouth is one of the parts of the body that is used the most. Jaws exert enormous pressure on one another, especially at night when your mouth is closed shut. A retainer helps control the normal shifting of teeth. Always continue to take care of your teeth, and be sure to enjoy the benefits of a healthy smile.

Help Others Smile

Dr. Samuel G. Papandreas is an excellent orthodontist in North Royalton and Brunswick, who provides a variety of specialized orthodontic treatments such as:

• Surgical orthodontics
• Dentofacial orthodontics
• Two-phase treatment
• Palatal expanders
• Invisalign
• Braces

You can visit Papandreas Orthodontics to learn about the best type of orthodontic treatment for you and your children to improve your smile correct your dental bite.

Papandreas Orthodontics
3511 Center Road, Suite B
Brunswick, OH 44212
tel: 330-558-9092

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14200 Ridge Rd
North Royalton, OH 44133
tel: 440-582-8585
https://drpapandreas.com/

What Is Invisalign and How Does It Work?

Metal Braces on teeth

Are Teeth or Jaws the Problem When Teeth are Crowded?

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Common problems

A common problem we see every day at Papandreas Orthodontics is crowding of teeth. This problem is often accompanied by protruding or “buck teeth”. Crowding can give the appearance the teeth are oversized or too big for the size of the jaws. However, this is not always correct. Often, it is not a tooth problem, but because the size of the jaws is too small or narrow to accommodate the teeth.

Before and After Crowding Rochester NY

 

Orthodontic improvements

Throughout the years, orthodontists have approached this issue in different ways. In the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s, the most common practice was to remove permanent teeth to make room. Dr. Samuel Papandreas recognizes that tooth extractions may not be necessary with many crowded jaw situations. The removal of permanent teeth may result in a lack of lip support or reduction of a patient’s profile. While the reduced profile may be acceptable in younger years, the reduction becomes more pronounced with the aging process and less flattering as they grow older. For this reason, correct treatment diagnosis when considering tooth removals is critical to the outcome of a good long term result.

Due to these aesthetic considerations, extensive research, and technological advancements in the field of orthodontics, many orthodontists have altered their view on how best to deal with crowded situations. Today, a non-extraction therapy is preferred rather than extracting permanent teeth in most treatment plans for children and adolescents. Instead, the treatment focus is on encouraging jaw growth to properly house all the teeth and is most successful when children and adolescents are still growing and developing.

This type of treatment usually is based on the use of specialized appliances and newly designed braces which can move teeth further and faster than traditional braces of old. Successful non-extraction therapy results in a more pleasing long-term facial balance and improved bites. It is recommended that children be checked out by an orthodontist by age 7 or 8 to find out if they are a candidate for this type of treatment.

For more information contact our office for a complimentary orthodontic consultation. Dr. Papandreas and the Papandreas Orthodontics Team will be happy to help you determine if your child would benefit from this type of orthodontic treatment.

Papandreas Orthodontics
3511 Center Road, Suite B
Brunswick, OH 44212
tel: 330-558-9092

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Are Teeth or Jaws the Problem When Teeth are Crowded?

What’s the Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist?

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Papandreas Orthodontics

Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that involves the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. An orthodontist is highly-skilled at using various techniques to bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment.

Orthodontist v's Dentist - Happy child undergoing orthodontic dental treatment- bracesCorrecting bites, occlusion, and crooked teeth is orthodontist Samuel Papandreas‘ specialty. As an Elite Preferred Invisalign Provider, Dr. Papandreas’ mission is to provide superior speciality Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics for each one of his patients within a nurturing setting.

But you may hate the idea of wearing bulky-looking metal braces! Choosing Invisalign is a great solution if this your concern. Not only are these teeth appliances virtually undetectable, they’re also removable. As a result, you can eat and drink as well as brush and floss at leisure during treatment.

Dr. Papandreas also offers iBraces, which are installed behind your teeth and away from onlookers’ view. Each patient’s iBraces are 100% customizable, which results in effective, efficient tooth movement. iBraces are ideal for athletes who play contact sports, adult professionals, musicians who play wind instruments, or individuals concerned about the effect braces would have on the front of their teeth.

Making a Decision

Choosing the right orthodontist is an important decision. The Papandreas Orthodontics website is designed to make this decision easier. We encourage you to browse our online office to find the right treatment method for you. Take a few minutes to read our patients’ testimonials, and read about our philosophy, state-of-the-art services and expert staff. We can schedule a free orthodontic consultation to:

• Diagnose your dental issue(s)
• Explain your treatment options and answer your questions
• Empower you to successfully reach your goals once a treatment option is chosen

 

 

Dr. Papandreas falls within the top 1 percent of Invisalign providers in North America, for expertise and experience. His practice offers braces and Invisalign for kids, teens and adults in the North Royalton and Brunswick, OH area including Brecksville, Broadview Heights, Brunswick, Independence, Middleburg Heights, Parma Heights, Parma, and Strongsville.

Contact us by phone North Royalton: 440-582-8585 – Brunswick: 330-558-9092, fill out our online request form today or in person at a practice.

14200 Ridge Rd
North Royalton, OH 44133
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3511 Center Road, Suite B
Brunswick, OH 44212

What’s the Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist?