Adult Braces: Are They Worth It?

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Adult Braces, Are They Worth It?

Today, the number of adult orthodontic patients is increasing. Indeed, it is not hard to figure out why. Dental appliances that are hardly noticeable were developed to offer adults more discreet choices in terms of orthodontic treatment.

Moreover, more and more adults now realize that a smile makeover offers significant benefits, both professionally and socially. For instance, teeth straightening has become a crucial part of that confident-boosting process.

When it comes to adult braces, are they worth it? Well, if you have healthy teeth, they can be moved at any age. Thus, there is no such thing as being too old for orthodontic treatments like braces. But orthodontic treatment for adults is somewhat different. First, gum disease is more common in adults.  Secondly, jaw growth and development are already complete in adults, so not all changes in your jaw structure can be attained.

Orthodontic appliances apply gentle force to your teeth so they can be successfully moved through their surrounding bone. The health of your gums plays a crucial role in all of this. A Sterling Heights dentist shares that when your gum tissues aren’t healthy, bone loss can take place. Also, this will weaken your teeth’s long-term prognosis.

We spoke to our friend Dr. Ben Kacos at Shreveport’s dentist to elaborate on this topic. So if you are suffering from gum disease, it should be treated first before any orthodontic treatment can begin. You may undergo regular professional cleanings while you are on an orthodontic treatment to maintain good periodontal health. Most importantly, you must maintain proper dental hygiene at home.

4 Types of Orthodontic Appliances

All orthodontic appliances will work the same way – they employ light yet constant force in order to move your teeth into proper alignment. How these forces are applied varies. Here are the common types of orthodontic appliances:

Traditional Metal Braces – These are small metal braces bonded to the front of your teeth. There is a thin wire that runs through the brackets. The wire is attached on either end to the metal bands that often go around your back molars.

Clear Aligners – These are removable. They are a series of clear plastic trays that can easily fit over your teeth. Every tray is part of a series of trays that will help move your teeth until they are in their proper position. The trays are designed using specialized computer software that creates a virtual model of your bite.

Clear Braces – Instead of the traditional metal braces, you can opt for clear ones. These are made of plastic, ceramic or a combination of both. These appliances are hardly visible, except for the wire that runs through. Remember though that this option is more vulnerable to breakage than the traditional metal braces.

Lingual Braces – These are metal braces that are bonded to the back of your teeth so they can’t be seen. However, these braces are more difficult to get used to wearing. Also, they are more costly than traditional metal braces.

What to Expect After the Treatment

Regardless of which type of appliance you choose, it is crucial for you to wear a retainer. Without a retainer, your teeth can gradually drift back to their original positions. A reputable Sterling Heights dentist can provide you with additional instructions on how to retain your beautiful smile so it continues to make you feel and look gorgeous for many years to come.

Why Choose Invisalign

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Why Choose Invisalign

Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Get Invisalign

Invisalign braces are notoriously expensive – which is one of the main reasons why patients tend to shy away from them altogether, especially when their dental insurance may not cover Invisalign treatment.

However, before you discount them altogether as a viable dental treatment for your misaligned teeth, here are the top five reasons why you should get Invisalign:

Reason #1: They are aesthetically pleasing

This is inevitably one of the oft-quoted reasons for opting to go for Invisalign. Invisalign braces are barely discernible since they are clear and fitted onto the teeth like a glove. Unlike metal braces, food particles will not get caught in between them as well.

Reason #2: They are removable and easy to clean

Unlike metal braces which can only be removed on your next dental appointment, Invisalign teeth aligners can be removed before a meal (as needed) and then replaced afterwards, making it easier to maintain, clean and reinstall them by yourself.

Reason #3: They are relatively more comfortable

With Invisalign braces, those painful mouth sores which usually accompany metal braces will be a thing of the past as well as the discomfort and irritation that come with their abrasive metal components. The smooth, transparent plastic surface of Invisalign teeth aligners is definitely more comfortable than protruding metal braces.

Reason #4: They can be used as a protective lifetime dental appliance

Beyond simply helping straighten misaligned or crooked teeth, Invisalign braces may be used for teeth whitening and, more importantly, as a protective device against the wear and tear resulting from teeth grinding as well as during contact sports or physically challenging activities that may pose a danger to your teeth.

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD) sufferers can also benefit from long-term (several months) Invisalign use as long as it has been established that there is no joint pathology involved in their symptoms.

Reason #5: The outcome is calculated and certain

The assessment of and treatment plans for patients who opt for Invisalign aligners are fully computerized. So, the duration of the treatment and expected outcome are all calculated with great accuracy. There are no unexpected surprises at the end of Invisalign therapy. Only the promise of a great bite and smile, as well as better-looking, well-aligned teeth.

So, have you decided yet?

Talk to your dentist in Sterling Heights about possible payment options if the only thing that’s keeping you from deciding to have Invisalign is the price.

4 Ways To Close A Tooth Gap

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4 Ways To Close A Tooth Gap

Diastema, or a gap between two teeth, is a fairly common cosmetic dental issue. It can be caused by various factors such as a mismatch between the size of the teeth and the jawbone, missing or undersized teeth, and certain habits such as thumb sucking. Should I leave my tooth gap alone or are there ways to close a tooth gap?

Although having gapped teeth is not a huge concern for many today, there are still a number of people who are not confident in their smiles and want to know how to close a tooth gap. The good news is that there are different solutions dentists offer which can fix this dental flaw.

If you want to get rid of your diastema, here are 4 ways to close a tooth gap:

Braces

This is the most popular way of closing a gap between teeth. Braces move teeth by forcing them into the desired positions and closing the gap with the help of controlled movement. Eventually, the braces will stabilize the teeth to prevent relapse or unwanted drifting.

Aside from metal, you can also opt for ceramic braces which look better and are less of an inconvenience.

Although this is the most effective treatment, you have to be prepared to wear braces for quite a long time. Depending on the size of the gap and other orthodontic problems you may have, you might need to wear them for at least a year or two. You will also have to wear retainers once the braces have been removed.

Invisible aligners

Orthopedic treatments are the most recommended solutions for serious diastema. But if you don’t want to wear conventional braces, you can opt for Invisalign.

Invisalign are invisible aligners that are designed to move the teeth just like braces. However, they are “invisible” and are thus not easily seen like metal braces. They are also removable which means you can take them off when eating, speaking in public, or brushing and flossing. They are more comfortable to wear, too.

To allow the invisible aligners to do their magic, you have to wear them for 20 to 22 hours every day for at least 10 months or as recommended by your Sterling Heights dentist.

Dental Veneers

If you want a quick fix for your gapped teeth, you can choose veneers. Dental veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin. They are custom-made based on the color, size, and shape of a patient’s natural teeth.

When ready, the veneers will be placed on the teeth with gaps and the diastema will be covered. With veneers, you will have more attractive gap-free pearly whites that function and look like natural teeth.

Bonding

In case you want something quicker since veneers can take several days to be made, you can opt for dental bonding.

Dental bonding is where tooth-colored composite resin is placed to the surface of the tooth, molded into the desired shape, and then hardened. It is highly effective in fixing small gaps. It is also an affordable solution and treatment can be done within one hour.  

When choosing the best treatment for your diastema, consider your Sterling Heights dentist’s recommendation. It is the only way you can be certain you will safely and effectively close unsightly and annoying gaps between your teeth. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. 

The Best Way to Clean Your Retainers

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The last yet most important step in an orthodontic treatment is to wear a retainer. Contrary to what everyone thinks, your teeth are not fixed in place in your jaw. This means they can slowly move around, regardless of your age. In fact, this is how a dentist in Sterling Heights can get your teeth into a better position.

Wearing a retainer will prevent your teeth from staying out of the alignment you just spent money and time moving them into.

It is for this reason that you should keep your retainer undamaged and clean. This way, it will function properly and won’t cause any oral problem. Also, a fresh-smelling, clean retainer is more pleasant to place in your mouth.

It may seem like your retainer will only need a quick daily rinse, but Dr. Farhat emphasizes that this is not enough to keep it bacteria-free. Here is a guide to cleaning your retainers effectively.

Get the Right Tools

You will need a toothbrush apart from the one you use on your teeth because you have to use soap to clean your retainers, not toothpaste. You can opt for a brush designed to clean dentures, which is quite bigger.

Also, you must have a liquid soap – you can use antibacterial hand soap or a dishwashing liquid. Denture cleaners work great as well, but they are costly.

Use the Right Technique

Here is the best way to clean your retainers:

Step 1: Put a bit of soap on your toothbrush and add water (preferably lukewarm) to make lather.

Step 2: Place your retainer in your hand. Gently scrub its surfaces using the soapy brush.

Step 3: Rinse your retainer thoroughly to remove all the soap film. This ensures that you won’t have a soapy taste once you put back your retainer.  

The fresh-smelling, clean retainer can either be placed back into your mouth or stored in its case. When storing your dental appliance, make sure to place it away from your pets and even from heat.

What not to do?

When it comes to cleaning or disinfecting a retainer, a Sterling Heights dentist says it is possible that you go overboard. For instance, you may think that using boiled water is a better option. But this can distort your retainer. Remember that your retainer was specifically made to perfectly fit your teeth; thus, maintaining its shape is vital.

Using bleach is not advisable as well. This can give your retainer an unpleasant odor and degrade its plastic base. You should not even use the regular toothpaste since this contains abrasive particles that will create tiny nooks where bacteria can hide and thrive.

Keeping your retainer clean and fresh with the right tools and technique is crucial to staying on the path toward a pearly white, healthy smile.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our office!

Drinking Tap Water May Help Your Teeth

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Drinking Tap Water May Help You At The Dentist

When tooth decay is left untreated, it can cause infections and pain that will hinder speaking, eating, learning, and playing.

With the controlled addition of fluoride compound to the public water supplies, a study published in the January/February 2010 issue of General Dentistry says that this is a cost-effective way to fight tooth decay and prevent cavities. Indeed, drinking tap water may help at the dentist.

Fluoride and Your Teeth

Fluoride will make your entire tooth surface more resistant to decay. Also, it promotes remineralization, which is crucial for repairing early decay. Water fluoridation is considered to be the best source of fluoride.

Tap water has been treated with fluoride in order to prevent cavities. Water fluoridation can prevent at least 25% of tooth decay both in children and adults. While teeth are erupting under the gums, the fluoride will strengthen tooth enamel. This way, it becomes stronger and more resistant to cavities. And when the teeth erupt, fluoride will rebuild weakened tooth enamel.

Also, it can reverse early signs of tooth decay. Whenever you use fluoride dental products, you are giving your mouth a topical benefit since the fluoride is directly applied to your teeth’s surface.

In the US, more than 144 million residents in over 10,000 communities are drinking fluoridated tap water. And this can provide an automatic defense against the unsafe ingredients causing preventable oral health disease.

Rather than drilling holes in order to fix cavities, dentists prefer educating the public about tips for preventing tooth decay. A Sterling Heights dentist further emphasized that drinking tap water is safe; it is the most effective way of receiving fluoride. Also, this is more affordable than going to your dentist for a filling.

Varnish is also an effective source of fluoride. Applied by your dentist, varnish is among the most concentrated products today. This product has sodium fluoride that will adhere to your tooth surfaces when there is saliva, thus giving an excellent fluoride treatment.

By keeping fluoride in your mouth, its ability to prevent demineralization will be enhanced. Varnishes are better choices for this purpose as opposed to fluoridated toothpaste or drinking water. Typically, fluoridated varnishes are for those who do not receive sufficient fluoride from tap water, toothpaste, and other sources.

Fluoride can be found in salt products, specialty milk, gum, mouthwash, and toothpaste. However, the fluoride that the fluoridated water and varnish methods have can help reduce cavities by over 30%. If you suspect that you have a cavity, you need to visit your dentist now to prevent further damage to your teeth and mouth.

I Think I Have A Cavity But It Doesn’t Hurt

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I Think I Have A Cavity But It Doesn’t Hurt

Most people think that all dental cavities cause pain. Dr Fadi Farhat, a leading Sterling Heights dentist, says that there is no truth to this notion. You can have a dental cavity but not feel any pain or discomfort at all.

The Tooth Decay Process

A small cavity in the tooth indicates the early stages of tooth decay. At this point, your tooth will not hurt. This is because the cavity is only found on the enamel, the hardest portion of the tooth. Since this part is hard and it does not contain any nerve endings, decay in this area does not cause pain.

If nothing is done to treat the tooth, the cavity will affect the next layer, the dentin. The dentin is not as tough as the enamel but it does not contain any nerve endings as well. As such, dental caries found on the dentin will not cause any pain or discomfort either.

Dealing with Cavities

Your dentist is the best person who can ascertain if you have any cavities or not. Regardless of the size of the cavity and even if it still located on the enamel or dentin, you need to get the right dental treatment immediately.

Your dentist will be able to detect cavities through two ways:

  • X-ray. Small cavities and some medium-sized ones, which are often painless, may only be visible through an X-ray or under high magnification.
  • Physical or clinical check-up. Your dentist will place a pointed dental instrument (an explorer) into the suspected area. If the explorer sticks in or penetrates the area, there is a cavity already present.

Keep in mind that if a cavity is left untreated, it will grow bigger and make its way to the nerve inside the tooth. At this point, you will start suffering from a severe, recurring toothache. If you don’t get the appropriate treatment, it can cause other dental issues and even tooth loss.

The bottom line is, if your dentist tells you that you have a cavity, don’t wait until it becomes painful before you have it treated. The best time to have a cavity removed or treated is when it is still in its early stages.

If you wait until you start feeling pain, you will end up getting a surgical procedure such as root canal therapy or tooth extraction as treatment. To avoid suffering from severe toothaches and the hassles of undergoing an invasive and expensive dental procedure, have your cavities treated immediately as soon as they appear.

Are You Ready To Invisalign Your Smile?

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Teeth with gaps or are misaligned can easily make anyone feel embarrassed about flashing their smile.

The good news is that there is an easy and simple way to correct your smile without the inconveniences and other side effects of wearing conventional retainers. You can finally have the perfect smile through an invisible aligner called Invisalign.

But are you ready for Invisalign? Here’s what you can expect when you wear these clear aligners:

You will start to see results from Invisalign within several weeks.

Sterling Heights dentist Dr. Fadi Farhat explains that advanced 3-D computer imaging technology will be used to create your personalized treatment plan. Based on this plan, a series of clear aligners will be custom-made for your teeth. The aligners are designed to gradually move your teeth into the proper position.

Many patients say they see results on their teeth in as short as six weeks. Generally, results will either show up more quickly or require more time depending on the nature of your bite. This will also depend on your customized plan since your teeth will be moved systematically based on the program.

You will be wearing braces that are barely noticeable.

Many people put off getting treatment for straighter teeth because traditional metal braces are bulky and are often thought as visually unappealing. Meanwhile, Invisalign aligners are made of clear, transparent material.

As such, they are not easily noticeable and can only be seen by others up close. Speaking and eating is also easier thanks to Invisalign’s flexibility and comfortable wear.

You will improve your smile without any discomfort and inconvenience.

People who choose to get metal braces to align their teeth often complain about problems with speaking and eating. Even brushing and flossing can be difficult too, since the metal wires can make maneuvering through the teeth’s nooks and crannies difficult. These are problems you won’t encounter if you opt for an Invisalign treatment.

With Invisalign, you can quickly remove your aligners when you have to talk in public or eat. Maintaining your oral hygiene is also easy since you also simply take out your aligners before brushing and flossing your teeth. In addition, invisible aligners do not have metal brackets or wires that can sometimes cause irritate your mouth.

Having a more beautiful and healthier smile is a goal worth achieving regardless of your age. If you want to have straighter teeth and get rid of any unsightly gaps, Invisalign aligners are a great option, thanks to the convenience, comfort and quick results they offer.

What’s the longevity of veneers?

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  • 3 Tips To Ensure The Longevity Of Veneers

    Veneers are made of a thin material that covers each tooth. This is a great option if you want to restore your smile’s natural beauty. Whether it is staining, uneven bite or decay, these porcelain coverings will make quick work of helping you achieve the natural appearance you want.

    However, damage can set in fast when you aren’t careful. Veneers are not indestructible. They can crack and chip like natural teeth. Thus, biting down on hard foods like ice and inedible items will result in a damaged surface. Moreover, veneers are capable of staining, so a Sterling Heights dentist warns against their repeated exposure to wine, tea or coffee.

    Porcelain veneers are sturdy. How long your veneers last will depend on how you care for them. With proper care, they should last for 10-15 years. Veneers might need a full replacement or cosmetic repair, depending on the type of damage incurred.

    How to Make Your Veneers Last

    There are only few things you can do to expand the lifespan of your veneers since they are not meant to be a maintenance-free and permanent fix. Still, you can get the most out of them if you treat them well. Veneers are an excellent investment in your dental health, so make sure to take measures to help them last longer.

    1. Follow Good Oral Care Regimen

    To avoid stains and to maintain your natural dental health, clean your mouth regularly. Brush at least twice a day using the right toothpaste. Also, floss daily and see your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and dental check-ups.

    2. Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools

    Most people are guilty of using their teeth instead of scissors to cut or tear things, for example, or to loosen a knot. When it comes to ensuring the integrity of your teeth and the longevity of veneers, these are some of the most dangerous habits. These will invite germs. Also, these will chip your veneers, prematurely ending their lifespan.

    3. Address Bruxism

    Bruxism is a condition wherein one clenches or grinds their teeth while sleeping. If you have bruxism and you are getting veneers, tell your dentist about it. Unchecked teeth grinding might result in cracked veneers. Your dentist might recommend the use of a nighttime mouth guard.

    Veneers are among the best methods for achieving the perfect smile you want. Although porcelain veneers are durable, they aren’t indestructible. You still need to practice good oral care habits. Skipping out on basic oral hygiene habits can lead to costly repairs or surfaces showing early wear. By treating your veneers with care, they can last for more than a decade.

concerns you should talk to your dentist about

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5 Things You Should Mention When You Talk To Your Dentist

Most people just go to a dentist when they begin feeling pain or discomfort on their teeth and gums. In fact, some say they do not always enjoy going to their dentist, and many have some level of fear of going. However, dental professionals always highly emphasize that it is vital that you get a cleaning at least twice a year. This will prevent any dental issues from emerging or getting worse.
Each time you visit your dentist for a cleaning and a checkup, it is crucial that you mention any health-related information that you think might be good for them to know. A Sterling Heights dentist shares some of the important things you may not realize is valuable for your dentist to be informed of.

1. Oral Care Regimen

This might seem like an obvious one, but most patients aren’t getting their dentist’s opinion on which dental products are the best to use for taking care of their teeth and mouth. Today, there are plenty of products being sold in the market. Phrases like “silica blend” or “fluoride-free” can be confusing. Moreover, every individual has specific needs, depending on their health and dental history.
Ask your dentist about the right toothbrush and toothpaste suitable for your teeth and gums. Inquire also if there are other issues you must be addressing when practicing your oral hygiene.

2. Headaches

Most people suffer from headaches at least once a week. But many don’t realize that these pains might be a symptom of a cavity, an infected tooth, or a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. If you are having headaches constantly and don’t know its cause, you must discuss this with your dentist.

3. Fatigue

Fatigue is also a common symptom felt by many people on a daily basis. Although excessive fatigue can be caused by different things, the major one is sleep apnea. Your dentist can actually recommend the right treatment. Furthermore, fatigue can also be a symptom of mercury poisoning due to your metal fillings.

4. Pregnancy

Aside from going on regular appointments with an obstetrician/gynecologist to ensure a healthy pregnancy, pregnant women must also visit their dentist. When you are pregnant, you must work with your dentist to make sure that you have good oral health. A healthy mouth will also mean a healthier baby. Women suffering from gum disease while pregnant might experience more complications.

5. Tingling sensations in extremities

Finally, just like headaches, tingling and a weak sensation in your limbs are symptoms of TMJ. This may also indicate diabetic neuropathy. Since this is related to gum disease, you must mention this each time you talk to your dentist. An overuse of denture adhesive can also result in nerve damage. So if you are using such and you suddenly experience this symptom, you need to discuss it with your dentist so she’ll recommend another option.

Toddler Tooth Care – Practical Tips for Parents

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Your child’s future growth and development depends heavily on the foundations that you build during his early years.

That also applies to his oral health.

Your child’s initial years are marked by rapid growth and development. And with the flurry of milestones and activities, parents sometimes overlook taking proper care of their little ones’ oral health.

This should not be the case.

Most of the habits that your child picks up as he grows start during his formative years. And as a parent, you would want to give your child a good head start, including in aspects related to his dental and overall health and well-being.

That means teaching your child, as early as possible, the importance of practicing good oral hygiene habits which he should take with him to adulthood. These include regular brushing and flossing, eating healthy and balanced meals, and visiting the dentist at least twice a year.

Ideally, your child should be able to schedule his first appointment with a Sterling Heights dentist at around the age of two.

This will provide you and your child the opportunity to take better care of your child’s teeth through solid advice from a trusted professional, as well as to monitor potential problems before these spiral out of control.

Furthermore, when a child is exposed to the environment of a dental clinic, he develops a sense of confidence and positivity, warding off the fear of the dentist which can undermine his oral health.

Taking care of a child’s teeth requires a solid partnership between parents and dentists.

But what exactly can you, as a parent, do to take better care of your little darling’s teeth? Here are a few practical toddler tooth care tips.

Helping your kid deal with the eruption of his first teeth

Your child’s first tooth will emerge at the age of six months. His first set of teeth will continue to come out until the age of three.

The eruption of teeth can bring discomfort in young children, making them irritable. In order to minimize the effects of teeth eruption, there are a few things that you can do. These include placing a cold spoon or a teething ring in your child’s mouth and using pain relief gels.

Brushing your young one’s teeth

Parents should closely monitor and supervise their child’s tooth brushing until their children reach the age of six.

For toddlers, parents should use an ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste. Remember that your child does not need too much toothpaste. A small amount, roughly the size of a pea, will do.

Invest in a soft-bristled toothbrush for your child. In brushing your child’s teeth, make sure that you clean all surfaces using a soft, back and forth motion.

Dealing with thumb sucking

Thumb sucking is a reflex action among babies and toddlers. Simply put, this is normal among children of this age. Ideally, your child should outgrow this habit before the emergence of his permanent teeth.

However, parents should take the necessary steps to wean their children off this habit when it persists upon the eruption of the permanent teeth. Otherwise, this can lead to a few dental health problems, including tooth decay and bite problems.

Contact Us: 586 274 2800

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