Common Orthodontic Emergencies

4 Small Things You Can Do To Care for Your Braces

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Braces need regular maintenance to function their best. When your braces are installed, your orthodontist in Glen Allen, VA, can give you advice about caring for your braces. In this article, we’ll go over four things that you can do to take care of your braces and teeth at the same time.

1. Avoid Damaging Foods
Some food can damage your braces. Hard, crunchy foods like crusty bread, almonds, and hard candy are all examples of the types of food that can cause damage.

Some other foods to avoid are sticky foods that can get caught in your braces. Caramel, for example, may get caught on the wires and can be very difficult to clean off. Avoid eating these foods while there are braces on your teeth.

2. Floss

Flossing can help keep your teeth and braces clean. Flossing with braces can be difficult. Ask your orthodontist to show you how to floss when the braces are installed.

3. Brush Regularly
Brush your teeth after meals and snacks. Brush your teeth before going to bed at night, too. Brushing regularly can help your braces continue to look good, and helps protect your tooth enamel.

4. See the Orthodontist On the Recommended Schedule
See the orthodontist at the intervals they recommend. During these appointments, the orthodontist will adjust your braces and look for damage. Do you have more questions about maintaining your braces in Glen Allen, VA? Call West End Orthodontics today to make an appointment. We can help you take care of your braces and your teeth.

Braces Questions and Answers

Pros and Cons of Clear Braces

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For many orthodontic patients the thought of a mouth full of metal for a year or longer feels uncomfortable. For some, seeking an alternative means aligners, but not all orthodontic problems are the right fit for aligners instead of traditional braces. Another alternative is clear braces. Here’s a closer look at the benefits and drawbacks of this orthodontic option.

Benefits of Clear Braces

For many patients, the most obvious benefit of clear braces is the visual benefits. Clear braces don’t have as much of an impact on the way you look as traditional metal brackets. While they can still be visible to someone looking closely, they aren’t as glaringly obvious as metal braces. This makes them a popular choice with adults who are getting braces.

In addition, clear braces are slightly softer than metal ones, and thus, they can be more comfortable to wear. They rub less on the gums and cheeks.

Drawbacks of Clear Braces

If they are hard to see and more comfortable to wear, then what are the risks of clear braces? First, these braces have larger brackets than metal ones. While this doesn’t make them more visible, it does make it harder for wearers to clean around the brackets, which can lead to gum and tooth problems.

In addition, clear braces aren’t quite as durable as metal ones. This means they can break off more efficiently, leading to more time spent at the orthodontic office getting them repaired. Finally, the elastics used to hold the wire to the bracket do stain easily, and this makes them more visible.

If, after weighing the pros and cons of clear braces, you decide this is a good route for you, then reach out to our team oforthodontists in Glen Allen to schedule a consultation. Let us show you what is possible with a skilled orthodontic team.

Clear Retainers

Common Myths About Clear Braces Debunked

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When you visit your Glen Allen, VA orthodontist, you may learn that you’re a good candidate for clear braces. Clear braces are a terrific alternative to traditional braces, ideal for those individuals who are looking for a more discreet way to straighten their teeth. Yet, misconceptions still abound about clear braces, so here are the most common myths, debunked.

Clear Braces Are Less Effective

The effectiveness of any orthodontic treatment has more to do with the expertise of the orthodontist and the application of the treatment than anything else. If your orthodontist has offered clear braces, then you can rest assured that they’ll get the job done.

Clear Braces Are More Fragile

All braces are prone to damage if they’re mistreated. Clear braces are no more fragile than other kinds of braces. Modern clear braces are made from durable materials that can withstand daily wear and tear. As long as a patient follows their orthodontist’s instructions to avoid damaging the braces, clear braces are just as reliable as metal braces.

Clear Braces Are Only For Certain People

Clear braces solve a range of problems, from alignment issues, gaps in teeth, bite function and the problem of self-esteem or professionalism. They aren’t only for adults who need to appear professional in the workplace, or for people in the public eye who need to downplay their orthodontic treatment. They aren’t just for teens who feel self-conscious about wearing braces, either. The only caveat for who should get clear braces is whether or not the individual’s orthodontic needs can be resolved with clear braces. And only a qualified orthodontist can make that assessment.

If you are interested in clear braces in Glen Allen, VA, contact West End Orthodontics to book an appointment. You’ll be glad you did!

West End Orthodontics – Invisalign® vs. Clear Braces

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Are you in need of orthodontics in Glen Allen, VA? If so, you should know that you have a lot more choices now than in years past. Two of the most advanced and popular choices that patients consider are Invisalign® and clear braces. Both offer significant advantages over previous options, but they also have distinct differences. Here is an overall comparison so you can make an informed decision.

Invisalign® Pros

Appearance

Virtually invisible, Invisalign® is top choice for those who wish to keep their orthodontics low-profile.

Comfort

Invisalign® has a reputation for being extremely comfortable. Constructed from smooth plastic, they don’t irritate cheeks and gums like some other options.

Removability

Invisalign® aligners can be removed for up to three hours in each 24-hour period. This offers a break for eating, drinking and special events, as well as easing oral hygiene practices.

Invisalign® Cons

Personal Discipline

To be effective, Invisalign® aligners must be worn at least 21 hours each day. This means the wearer must carefully track time.

Not Effective For Severe Cases

Invisalign® is great for mild to moderate alignment issues, but for more complex cases, other orthodontic solutions need to be considered.

Clear Braces Pros

Works For Severe Cases

Clear braces aren’t limited to mild to moderate cases. They can also treat more severe alignment issues.

Fewer Visits

Since clear braces are permanently affixed, they don’t need to be switched out every few weeks like Invisalign®.

Less Responsibility

Wearers of clear braces only have to make sure they practice good oral hygiene. They don’t have to track time or manually handle the appliance.

Clear Braces Cons

Visibility

Clear braces are more obvious to others.

Comfort

The brackets on clear braces can irritate the soft tissue behind the lips, while eating or speaking.

Discomfort

The tightening process that’s needed with clear braces can be a source of discomfort.

Talk to yourGlen Allen, VA orthodontist about Invisalign® and clear braces. Together, you can decide which option fits your orthodontic needs and your lifestyle.

Removing Appliances and Retainers

Clear Braces vs. Invisalign

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Whether you choose clear braces or Invisalign, both of these options can leave you with a straight, glowing smile. Here at West End Orthodontics, we can make those orthodontic dreams come true. We’re proud to offer trusted, high-quality clear braces or Invisalign in Glen Allen, VA. Call us today to make an appointment!

In this post, we’ll discuss the differences between clear braces and Invisalign.

What Are Clear Braces?

Clear braces look and work much like traditional braces, but they’re made with clear, less noticeable materials. Instead of using metal brackets, clear braces feature clear brackets that blend in better with your smile.

Although clear braces do carry some drawbacks, there are multiple benefits to consider. For one, they’re very effective at moving teeth and correcting smiles. Secondly, they’re harder to notice compared to regular braces. This can lead to more confidence during treatment, making the process easier and more enjoyable.

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is another oral appliance used to move teeth to the correct position. However, a strong, dental-grade plastic is used instead of metal brackets and wires. These come in the form of dental aligners that snap over your teeth. Over time, the constant pressure moves teeth to their desired position. Many people like Invisalign because the aligner trays are 100% removable! Patients must remove them before eating, brushing, or flossing.

How to Choose?

Deciding on one option over the other can depend on several factors. If you’re on a smaller budget, consider clear braces. They tend to be more affordable over time. However, if you’re looking for something more comfortable and less noticeable, Invisalign will be your best bet. Many people won’t even be able to tell you’re wearing an oral appliance!

To get started with clear braces or Invisalign, contact West End Orthodontics today! We’re happy to have a leading dentist in Glen Allen, VA!

Braces for Children

What Are Clear Braces?

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Before clear braces became available in 1998, people undergoing orthodontic treatment had no choice but to wear metal brackets and wires to straighten their teeth. Clear braces in Glen Allen, VA, changed all that. If you have been putting off orthodontic work because you do not want to display a mouth full of metal when you smile, clear braces are the ideal alternative.

How Do Clear Braces Work?

Clear braces are plastic appliances that are not colored, so other people cannot always tell that you wear braces. Our dental laboratory creates a customized appliance for your top and bottom rows of teeth that fits like a mouth guard. Both clear and traditional metal braces apply pressure to the teeth to shift into a new position.

During your first orthodontic appointment, Dr. Frank Iuorno, Jr. takes several X-rays of your teeth and creates a plaster mold of how your teeth appear right now. When the laboratory notifies him that your appliances are ready, we contact you to come in for a fitting. If the clear braces do not fit just right, Dr. Iuorno adjusts them to ensure they remain snug and comfortable in your mouth.

You will receive a set of clear aligners, which confuses some patients at first. As Dr. Iuorno will explain, you need to wear the first aligner for about two weeks and then discard it and replace it with the next one in the set. When you get to the last aligner, Dr. Iuorno will determine if you are done with treatment or if you need to wear a retainer for a while.

Patients love the flexibility and discreetness of clear braces in Glen Allen, VA. We invite you to request an orthodontic consultation to find out why.

Braces

Tips to Prevent Lip Irritation With Braces

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Traditional braces still do an amazing job when it comes to orthodontic treatment in Glen Allen, VA, and other areas. But one common complaint with braces has less to do with appearances and more to do with the way they can irritate the insides of the lips. This irritation can range from minor to causing canker sores. Thankfully, there are ways to prevent this lip irritation.

Use Dental Wax
Dental wax is a special wax that’s safe for use in the mouth. Just a small amount of wax can act as a barrier, protecting the delicate tissue of your lips. To use dental wax, wash your hands with soap and warm water to prevent bacteria from entering the mouth. Next, brush your teeth and braces as you normally would. Then, use a clean, soft towel to pat dry the braces where they usually irritate your lips. Warm a pea-sized amount of dental wax by rolling it between your index finger and thumb. Push the wax gently atop the irritating area until it’s firmly affixed. You’ll probably have to reapply each day.

Tell Your Orthodontist
The next time you visit with your orthodontist, point out the area of the braces that’s irritating your lips. It’s possible that there’s a jagged edge or point of metal and that the orthodontist can smooth it off so it no longer irritates you.

Rinse With Salt Water
If you’ve developed a canker sore, rinse with salt water a few times a day to speed recovery. You can also apply a topical numbing agent to alleviate the pain.

Contact your Glen Allen, VA orthodontist with any problems related to your braces. The idea of braces is to make you look and feel better, not cause discomfort!

Common Orthodontic Emergencies

Can Adults Get Braces?

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If you’re an adult who has lived with tooth and jaw misalignment for most of your life, you may not think of your problem as having a solution. Many people get braces when they’re young, and if they don’t, they assume they missed the window of time to correct it.

As your orthodontist in Glen Allen, VA, we’re happy to inform you that your orthodontic troubles can be corrected with braces and other means, even well into adulthood. At West End Orthodontics, we help adults to fix problems they’ve had for years and years.

Can Adults Get Braces?
Yes, adults can get braces. Whether you have crowded teeth, an overbite, underbite, speech impediment, or some other problem impacting the spacing and alignment of your teeth, you may be a good candidate for braces or another treatment to help realign your teeth.

What Are the Options?
Orthodontists use many tools to help correct patient problems. Your orthodontist will have to evaluate you to determine what are the best options for your situation, but here are some common solutions to these problems:

Braces
Braces are made up of brackets and wires that are regularly adjusted to push and pull the teeth into alignment. Braces are very visible, but your orthodontist may recommend ceramic or lingual braces, which are more subtle.

Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are made of plastic and designed to fit over the teeth to reposition them over time. Clear aligners are a tool preferred by many adults because they’re difficult to see.

See Your Orthodontist To Learn More
The first step to getting braces for adults in Glen Allen, VA, is to see the orthodontist and learn more about your options. Call today to get started.