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Invisalign - Types of Appliances

I Want a [Perfect Smile] When My Braces Come Off!

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braces off perfect smileI Want a Perfect Smile When My Braces Come Off!

Keeping your teeth in proper care is just as crucial as to when you were wearing them originally. The worst thing you can do is ruin your perfect smile is poor brushing habits. In the guide below, we will discuss the importance of maintaining your white smile, even when your braces come off.

Why Take Care of Your Teeth?

The two most common challenges that most people face after their procedure has finished are:

  • Teeth become less straight
  • Plaque and teeth stains build-up where brackets were originally
  • However, below, are the steps you can take to keep your teeth both straight and white while building up great oral health habits.

Get a Dental Cleaning and Exam

Once you’ve worn this type of dental gear, you fully know the struggle of brushing and flossing your teeth well. In fact, the longer you have them on, the more plaque can build up and damage your teeth. However, a dental cleaning is one of the best ways to remove excess plaque and stains. This is why getting one after is an ideal way to maintain your smile.

Plus, while you’re at the orthodontist, you should try asking for a professional whitening as well. After you’ve spent months, if not years trying to fix your teeth, it’s time to finally whiten up your smile the best you can. Additionally, don’t be surprised to see yellow stains or discoloration on your teeth after you get your braces removed. All you need is a little hard work and dentist trips to get your teeth back to what they were before.

Wear Your Retainer

Even though wearing a retainer can be painful and unappealing, it’s incredibly important to wear it after you get your dental gear off. In fact, your teeth will try sliding back out of place, this is what the retainer is for. Plus, if your dental equipment had to be removed early, a retainer can help finish the job they started, after all, teeth can take years to get in their newly desired position.

Depending on what type of situation you are in, there are three main types of retainers your orthodontist may make you wear:

  • Clear, removable retainer that has similar advantages to Invisalign
  • Hawley, removable retainer that is made of an acrylic base with metal wires to keep your teeth in position
  • Custom, non-removable retainer that is attached to your teeth via metal wires
    Make sure you carry a retainer case wherever you go. Since most retainers need to be removed before you eat or drink something, it’s best to bring it on-the-go for snacking emergencies. However, you should also keep napkins or tissues on hand to dry your retainers before you store them too.
  • In addition, you should also work on routinely cleaning your retainers. In fact, some retainers can be easily cleaned with your toothbrush and toothpaste. However, dentures require a specialized cleaner, along with most removable retainers as well. Remember, you never want to put a dirty retainer in your mouth.

Take Care of Your Teeth at Home

Whether you got braces or Invisalign, you have already spent a lot trying to get the best smile possible. In order to keep them looking this way, you will need to take extra care when performing your at-home dental routine. Here are a few ways you can maintain your new smile and ensure it will look great for many years to come.

  • Use a soft-bristled brush to clean your teeth twice a day. You should also replace your toothbrush once every three or four months or when you notice the bristles start to fray.
  • Floss every day to get rid of any leftover food particles or plaque. Be sure to floss between every single tooth.
  • Keep up with healthy eating habits and avoid consuming a lot of sugar.
  • Use mouthwash to give your teeth an added layer of protection.
  • Take proper care of your retainer, as mentioned above.

It is also a good idea to rinse out your mouth with water after you eat any sugary foods. You should also rinse your mouth after you eat or drink anything that can cause stains, like tea or coffee. This can help to prevent staining and maintain the whiteness of your teeth.

How to Get the Best Results

The only way to keep your teeth looking great after you get your dental gear removed is by taking proper care of them. This means caring for them at home and going to the orthodontist regularly, while you are undergoing treatment and afterward, too. If you want your smile to stay perfect, maintenance is crucial.

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/

I Want a [Perfect Smile] When My Braces Come Off!

How often should I brush my teeth with braces?

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toothbrush

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?

Invisalign - Types of Appliances

How to Care for Braces During Pregnancy

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pregnant with bracesHow to Care for Braces During Pregnancy

Pregnancy affects your body from top to toes, and that includes your teeth. Whether you are already wearing braces when you become pregnant (you did know that adults can get braces?) or start your orthodontic treatment during your pregnancy, it’s important to take proper care of your braces and oral health. Here are some of the most important issues about caring for your braces and teeth when you’re pregnant, courtesy of Dr. Samuel Papandreas, of Papandreas Orthodontics in North Royalton, Ohio.

Pregnancy and Oral Health

The shifting hormonal levels of pregnancy cause a number of changes that can affect your oral health. You may develop dry mouth or inadequate saliva production, bad breath or even loose teeth. Morning sickness can expose your teeth to stomach acids and increase enamel wear. Pregnancy can increase the chances of developing gum disease (gingivitis) and infections (periodontitis). Your eating habits may change and many pregnant women develop food cravings; certain foods can be a problem when you have braces. Hormonal changes can affect tooth movement and if you gain considerable weight, it may change the shape of your gums, mouth or face, which may necessitate more frequent adjustments to your braces.

Professional Care

Ideally, you should see your regular dentist either before you become pregnant or as soon as you know you are pregnant. There is no risk in having dental X-rays at that stage, as the dentist can use special lead shielding to protect your baby. Make sure to tell both your regular dentist and your orthodontist about your pregnancy. You can have your teeth cleaned by the hygienist as you normally would, and it’s best to have a professional cleaning prior to getting metal braces put on. If you choose the clear plastic aligners called Invisalign, cleaning is no problem as the aligners are removable.

Oral Hygiene

Just as you did before your pregnancy, you should floss daily and brush twice a day. With metal and ceramic braces, you’ll need to take extra care to clean not only the tooth surfaces but to ensure you don’t have bits of food trapped in wires or around brackets. Some women find that a regular tooth brush is all they need, while others find a waterpik is more effective. You’ll need to take extra care in flossing as well. When wearing braces, you might find that floss in a metal or plastic holder is easier to use than a piece of floss wrapped around your fingers.

Your Diet

When you’re pregnant, you really are eating for two. A healthy diet increases your chances of having a healthy baby and decreases the chances you will have nutrition-related problems. With metal and ceramic braces, you need to eliminate some foods entirely. Popcorn and hard candies, for example, increase the risk of breaking a wire or bracket. Any kind of sugary treat increases the risk of tooth decay, which can be more of an issue during pregnancy because your immune system is affected by shifting hormones. Refined carbohydrates like white bread, white rice or baked goods have less nutritional value and leave a film on your teeth and braces. Choose high-quality proteins, fruits, vegetables, calcium rich dairy foods, whole grains and healthy fats like olive oil – good for your braces, baby and you.

Stay Alert for Problems

Since you are at higher risk for certain dental problems during pregnancy, it’s important to pay close attention to your oral health. You may find your teeth become more sensitive to temperature during pregnancy; this isn’t usually a major problem. If you’ve been wearing braces for a while once you become pregnant, you’ll have a pretty good idea of what’s “normal.” If you seem to be having more pain after an adjustment or your teeth start to hurt in between adjustments, it could mean your pregnancy is affecting tooth movement. Food cravings may be a sign that you need more nutrients. Cravings for nuts – which can break wires and brackets – could mean you need more iron, folate or vitamin B12. Healthy gums don’t usually bleed, nor are they puffy and reddened. These symptoms could be signs of gingivitis. Some women develop “pregnancy tumors.” These are swellings on the gums that look like raspberries; they typically occur in the second trimester. They are not cancer and usually go away after delivery, but may bleed easily. Tell your orthodontist about any of these symptoms as soon as you notice them.


Wearing braces during pregnancy is not all that different from wearing braces at any other time in your life. As far as timing, you can start your orthodontic treatments just before or during your pregnancy. You might also want to consider that it’s better to be dealing with orthodontic appointments while you’re pregnant than when you’re chasing an active toddler. If you pay attention to potential problems, follow good oral hygiene practices and eat a healthy diet, you are unlikely to have any problems. Of course, you can always contact us for any problems or questions you may have.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

You can contact a practitioner like Papandreas Orthodontics to get some work done on your teeth. The office specializes in procedures such as braces, Invisalign, corrective appliances and more. You can schedule an appointment and see if the specialists recommend braces, Invisalign or something different that can make your life better. You have two choices for contact.

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 Care for Braces During Pregnancy

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

pregnant with braces

Can I Wear Braces If I’m Pregnant?

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pregnant with braces

Can I Wear Braces If I’m Pregnant?

As an expecting mother, you’ll want to give your child the very best chance at a healthy life as possible. You’ll want to provide an environment where he or she can grow comfortably. You may need teeth alignment services while you are pregnant, however, and the question of whether you can get braces while you are carrying a child may arise. The following information pertains to the question of whether wearing braces while you are pregnant is feasible.

Are Braces Safe for the Baby?

The main concern that many pregnant women have about getting braces while they are pregnant is whether the braces are safe for the growing child. Many of them are concerned about the bracket material. The good news is that braces are completely safe to wear during one’s pregnancy. The only part of the process that could even be considered as remotely unsafe is the X-ray activity. If you have already had your X-rays taken, then you don’t have to worry about a thing. Your orthodontist can discuss a wide variety of options for braces that will be perfect for you.

General Discomfort

Braces can cause general discomfort whether you are pregnant or not. You may have some swelling and pain during the first few weeks that should subside over time. The awkwardness that may occur is a normal feeling for many new orthodontic patients. Again, it should subside as your oral cavity adjusts to provide additional room and your tongue shifts its activities to accommodate for the appliance that rests inside of your mouth. Until you adjust, you may be prone to speaking challenges such as lisps, whistles and other hindrances. You can resolve that issue by practicing difficult words and phrases.

Straightening Challenges During Pregnancy

Pregnancy causes several hormones to change, and those changes may affect your mouth. One problem that you may have is a situation where your teeth are looser than they would normally be if you were not pregnant. Because of the looseness, you may have to wear a retainer, or you may have to wear your braces for a longer period so that your hormones get the chance to go back to normal before the specialist removes your braces. A retainer is an appliance that keeps the teeth together after a person has the braces removed.

Tooth Decay During Pregnancy Treatment

Accelerated tooth decay is another problem that may arise during pregnancy is a greater potential for tooth decay. That potential increase because the growing baby extracts the vitamins and minerals from you. Because of that, you will need to make sure that you supply yourself with extra nutrients such as vitamin D and calcium while you are pregnant and while you have braces on your teeth. You can take supplements, or you can implement some dietary changes that can give you the same effect. Keeping your nutrients up can protect you from symptoms such as bleeding and decay.

Alternatives for Leery Mothers-To-Be

The orthodontist can talk to you about a variety of alternatives to traditional braces if you have concerns about them. One alternative that may interest you is the Invisalign alternative. Invisalign is a system that uses plastic aligners to straighten the teeth instead of traditional braces. One benefit that you can get from the Invisalign system is discretion. If you want to be discreet about having your teeth straightened while you are pregnant, then you can ask the orthodontist about Invisalign. Another benefit that you may get out of trying Invisalign is the easier cleaning access. you can remove the Invisalign system at any time so that you will have clear access to clean your teeth. That may decrease the potential for tooth decay issues.


Lingual braces are another option that you can ask about if you have a discretion concern. Lingual braces are similar to traditional braces except they go on the back of the teeth as opposed to the front. They can give you the stability of traditional braces without the blatancy.

You could even choose to have a self-ligating system installed. With the self-ligating system in place, you will not have to go to as many visits to the orthodontist for testing. The self-ligating brackets do some of the tightening work themselves.

You can choose from a wide variety of fashion-based options, as well. However, you don’t necessarily have to choose one of the alternatives. You can be just fine with regular traditional braces, and you can go on to have a healthy and happy baby. A consultation with a specialist will help you to choose the next step in the process. The specialist can give you advice based on your individual malalignment issue.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

You can contact a practitioner like Papandreas Orthodontics to get some work done on your teeth. The office specializes in procedures such as braces, Invisalign, corrective appliances and more. You can schedule an appointment and see if the specialists recommend braces, Invisalign or something different that can make your life better. You have two choices for contact.

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

Life is BETTER when you’re SMILING! ― Karen McNair Gibbs

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

 

 

I never get tired of smiling. I’m just the kind of guy who likes to smile. – Jason Ritter

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fix my smileI never get tired of smiling. I’m just the kind of guy who likes to smile. – Jason Ritter

You Can Enjoy Smiling Just Like Jason Ritter Does In His Television Shows

Jason Ritter is an actor who enjoys smiling, and he smiles a lot without getting tired of doing it in his everyday life or television programs. If you want to smile all of the time, then you need to have straight teeth. Today, you can visit an orthodontist to have your teeth repaired with Invisalign aligners. First, you must have an examination from an orthodontist to understand the type of malocclusions that you have. At an orthodontic facility, you can have a thorough examination with computerized medical images to determine if you have mild or serious malocclusions.

You Can Have an Attractive Smile While Undergoing Orthodontic Treatment

If you are an adult with mild misalignments, then it is easy to have multiple sets of plastic aligners made in different configurations so that your teeth shift slowly into the correct positions. You will throw away a set of aligners every two weeks to switch to a new set. Alternatively, children and some adults or teenagers will need to wear braces instead. Wearing brackets and wires don’t meet that you will have a metallic smile because modern braces are often placed on the backs of your teeth. You can also request invisible wires and color-matching ceramic brackets for your teeth instead of metallic brackets or wires.

Call Papandreas Orthodontics Today To Schedule an Appointment

Dr. Samuel G. Papandreas has a state-of-the-art orthodontic facility in North Royalton, Ohio. This location is close to Parma and Brunswick, making it easy for the residents of these cities to schedule an orthodontic appointment. At Papandreas Orthodontics, you can undergo treatment with these devices:

• Invisalign – comfortable plastic aligners
• Braces – ceramic brackets or metal wires
• Retainers – recommended after orthodontic treatment ends

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.

I never get tired of smiling. I’m just the kind of guy who likes to smile. – Jason Ritter

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

Papandreas Orthodontics - Brunswick Patient Smiles

The surplus of the heart overflows from a smile ― Charles de Leusse

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quote about smilingThe surplus of the heart overflows from a smile ― Charles de Leusse

People often judge our moods by facial expressions. If you smile, everyone will know you are happy, and that makes others happy, too. Unfortunately, many people avoid smiling because their teeth are not as attractive as they would like. They may have broken, chipped, or twisted teeth, or even be missing some, leaving prominent gaps that can be seen by others. The good news is that an orthodontist can repair many types of teeth problems, using braces or Invisalign treatments to move teeth into their correct positions to create a balanced, picturesque smile that anyone will be proud of.

Braces.

The main approach to orthodontic treatment is traditional braces, using wires, metals, and ties. As the gold standard of correct orthodontia, this method is primarily used due to its high success rate.

Invisalign.

Teenagers or professionals, or anyone who is self-conscious about getting orthodontic work may want to consider this exciting option. Removable aligners are nearly invisible to the casual observer and can be removed for short periods for eating or other activities. While not everyone is a candidate for this type of treatment, it can be very effective under the right circumstances.

Retainers.

Following orthodontic treatment, patients will likely need to wear retainers afterward to hold their newly-arranged teeth in place. Sometimes an upper or lower retainer is needed, or both, to maintain the fantastic results of their treatment. Retainers can be removed as needed for brushing and flossing the teeth. Some people may need to wear them only at night.

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.

The surplus of the heart overflows from a smile ― Charles de Leusse

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

“If you’ve put a smile on someone’s face today, you’ve done more good than you know. – Richelle E. Goodrich

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smile“If you’ve put a smile on someone’s face today, you’ve done more good than you know. – Richelle E. Goodrich

Many people in the world desire to “do good” at least once every day. They want to do good for themselves and for mankind. Little do they know that doing good does not require an elaborate task or an expensive gesture. Sometimes, people can find the very best workings of positivity in something as simple as a smile. Richelle E. Goodrich said it all when she pointed out the high significance of a smile. A smile is a powerful gesture that can truly shine a light on the lives of other people.

Why a Smile Is Such a Powerful Thing

A smile is such a powerful thing because it comes from our inner self. When we smile at a person, we project the love, warmth, and positivity that is within our soul onto that other person. Sometimes, we smile at people who are severely hurting, and we make their entire day. Our smile might shine onto them, perk them up and then come back at us and make our day even better. Many people do not realize how much power a good smile has. If you have not done it, try smiling at someone today and see how it makes you and the other person feel.

How to Make a Smile Even More Beautiful

An orthodontist such as the ones at Papandreas Orthodontics can help you to perfect your smile and increase its intensity. If you have an alignment problem, for example, the orthodontist can use Invisalign or braces to correct it. Invisalign is a new system that uses plastic aligners instead of metal braces to produce a similar effect. There are positives to both choices of recovery options. Schedule an appointment today and see one of the practitioners for a recovery plan. You can then shine your beautiful light on people who truly need it.

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.

“If you’ve put a smile on someone’s face today, you’ve done more good than you know. – Richelle E. Goodrich

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

To smile is to turn the lights on, the lights of existence within you! ― Mehmet Murat ildan

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smiles

To smile is to turn the lights on, the lights of existence within you! ― Mehmet Murat ildan

A smile is a beauteous way to greet others, showing your natural appeal and good nature. However, some people are so self-conscious about their teeth that they smile minimally or not at all. Quality orthodontic care can turn the light on these people’s world, brightening their self-image as well as the way they positively influence others with a brilliant, lovely smile. A qualified orthodontist offers professional care and treatment that can substantially improve a patient’s appearance and outlook.

Traditional braces.

The clunky gold and silver orthodontia metals of the mid-20th century have been replaced with lighter weight stainless steel, reducing the cost and discomfort of orthodontic treatment. Today, the average patient can expect to have their teeth wired about two years, give or take, to achieve the desired effect. However, those with greater or lesser dental problems will likely wear braces in a proportionate timeframe. Some insurance companies cover part of the cost of orthodontic treatment. For patients who don’t have this type of insurance, affordable payment plans are available.

Innovative Invisalign.

Active teens and busy people may prefer not to show others they are wearing brackets and wires. They might prefer a treatment with aligners, called Invisalign, which involves wearing clear plastic retainers on the teeth. Unlike traditional braces that are wired into place and adjusted routinely, aligners can be removed to eat or brush teeth as needed, and then returned to the mouth to continue moving teeth into the goal positions.

After-care support.

Following a round of orthodontic treatment to move teeth where they should be for a balanced, healthy smile, follow-up care is essential to hold teeth in their respective positions. For some, a slim metal bar about an inch long may be attached behind a couple of teeth, usually in front, to keep them from moving. Other patients may wear upper or lower plastic retainers, or both, much of the day and at night, or just overnight, to keep teeth in place. Periodic exams may also be scheduled to check on the lasting effects of treatment.

From minor problems to extensive dental issues, a competent orthodontist can provide a detailed evaluation that includes a treatment plan. You can then check with your insurance company or apply for a health care loan to cover the cost. Orthodontic work is typically considered by patients to be well worth the investment, for health reasons as well as aesthetics. Contact a qualified orthodontist, like Dr. Papandreas, for a free consultation.

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.

To smile is to turn the lights on, the lights of existence within you! ― Mehmet Murat ildan

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

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

Smile at everyone and brighten their day! – Ramana Pemmaraju

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smileSmile at everyone and brighten their day! – Ramana Pemmaraju

Smiling is an important social skill. A bright smile makes other people feel better. People who smile are considered more competent, more trustworthy and more friendly than people who do not smile often. If smiling is a challenge for you, try the following tips.

Practice

Some people have gotten out of the practice of smiling, or they may feel sad as if they had no reason for smiling. You can get back into the habit of smiling by practicing. Try smiling at your reflection as you do your daily grooming. Make it a point to smile at family members and friends. After you practice for a while, smiling will come naturally to you.

Maintain Your Health

It’s hard to smile when you don’t feel well, so do everything you can to protect your health. Drink plenty of water. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Try to sleep at least eight hours per night. Exercise regularly. And of course, don’t forget to brush and floss your teeth twice a day. Following these suggestions will improve your overall health, and when you’re feeling at your best, smiling is easy.

Have Your Teeth Straightened

Many people feel too embarrassed to smile because they have crooked teeth. If this is a problem for you, schedule a consultation with an orthodontist. He or she can discuss your options, like using braces or Invisalign to straighten your teeth. You will be relieved to know that braces today are not like the train tracks from your childhood. Modern braces match the color of your enamel so closely that most people can’t even tell that you are wearing braces.

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.

Smile at everyone and brighten their day! – Ramana Pemmaraju

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