Orthodontic Resources

An Orthodontist vs a Dentist

When it comes to improving your smile with braces, Invisalign, or other orthodontic treatments, you want to make sure you’re in the best hands. While both dentists and orthodontists play essential roles in maintaining oral health, there are key differences between the two, especially when it comes to straightening teeth and correcting bite issues. At Smile Power Orthodontics, our doctors are board-certified orthodontists, which means you’re receiving care from specialists with the highest level of expertise and training.

The Difference Between a Dentist & an Orthodontist

While all orthodontists are dentists, not all dentists are orthodontists. Here’s a breakdown of the differences:

Dentists

• Focus on general oral health, including cleanings, fillings, and crowns.
• Provide preventive care and treat common dental issues like cavities and gum disease.
• May offer basic orthodontic services, such as clear aligners, but lack the specialized training of an orthodontist.

Orthodontists

• Are dental specialists who complete an additional 2-3 years of full-time, post-graduate training focused solely on orthodontics.
• Specialize in diagnosing and treating alignment and bite issues, including crowded teeth, overbites, underbites, and jaw discrepancies.
• Use advanced techniques and technologies, such as braces, Invisalign, and other appliances, to create healthy, beautiful smiles.
• By choosing an orthodontist for your treatment, you’re trusting a specialist whose primary focus is the art and science of straightening teeth and improving jaw alignment.

Why Board Certification Matters

Board certification is an additional distinction that sets our orthodontists apart. While all orthodontists must complete rigorous training, only a select few go the extra mile to become board-certified.

Board-certified orthodontists have successfully completed a series of rigorous exams and evaluations by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO). This process demonstrates their commitment to excellence, lifelong learning, and providing the highest standard of care.

Benefits of Choosing a Board-Certified Orthodontist

• Advanced Expertise — Board certification ensures your orthodontist has mastered the latest techniques and technologies in the field.
• Commitment to Quality — Board-certified orthodontists are dedicated to ongoing education, staying current with the most effective treatment options.
• Exceptional Results — You can trust that your care is in the hands of a specialist who prioritizes precision, safety, and superior outcomes.

Trust Our Board-Certified Specialists

At Smile Power Orthodontics, our board-certified orthodontists, Dr. Powers and Dr. Roseth, are highly trained experts who specialize in transforming smiles. By choosing a board-certified orthodontist, you’re ensuring that your orthodontic care is tailored to your unique needs and held to the highest professional standards.

Common Ortho Issues

Orthodontic care is about more than just straightening teeth — it’s about addressing the underlying issues that affect your smile, bite, and overall oral health. At Smile Power Orthodontics, we specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of orthodontic problems for patients of all ages. By correcting these issues, we help you achieve a smile that is not only beautiful but also healthy and functional.

Here’s a closer look at some of the most common orthodontic problems and how we address them:

1. Crowded Teeth

Crowding occurs when there isn’t enough space in the jaw for all of your teeth to fit properly, causing them to overlap, twist, or become misaligned. Crowded teeth can make brushing and flossing difficult, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Orthodontic treatment like braces or Invisalign creates space by gradually aligning the teeth.

2. Spacing Issues (Gaps)

Spacing issues involve gaps between teeth, which may be due to missing teeth, teeth that are too small, or an uneven jaw size. While some gaps are purely cosmetic, others can lead to improper biting and chewing. We use aligners, braces, or other appliances to close gaps and improve function.

3. Overbite

An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth excessively. Severe overbites can cause wear on the teeth, jaw pain, or even speech problems. Braces, aligners, or other corrective treatments can balance the alignment of the upper and lower teeth.

4. Underbite

An underbite happens when the lower jaw extends beyond the upper jaw, causing the lower front teeth to sit in front of the upper teeth. This can interfere with chewing, speaking, and even facial aesthetics. Orthodontic treatment, often combined with jaw correction appliances or surgery in severe cases, helps align the jaws properly.

5. Crossbite

A crossbite occurs when some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when biting down. This can affect a single tooth or multiple teeth and may lead to uneven wear or jaw issues. Crossbites can be corrected using braces, expanders, or other orthodontic appliances.

6. Open Bite

An open bite refers to a gap between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed, often caused by thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting habits. This can make chewing difficult and affect speech. Treatment may involve braces, aligners, or habit-correcting appliances.

7. Misaligned Jaw (Jaw Discrepancy)

Jaw alignment issues, such as asymmetry or improper jaw positioning, can result in functional problems like difficulty chewing, jaw pain, or sleep apnea. These cases may require a combination of braces, appliances, or even orthognathic (jaw) surgery to correct.

8. Impacted Teeth

An impacted tooth is one that fails to erupt properly, often due to overcrowding or misalignment. This is common with wisdom teeth but can also occur with other teeth. Orthodontic care helps guide impacted teeth into their proper positions.

Why Treating Orthodontic Issues Matters

Correcting orthodontic problems not only enhances your smile but also improves oral health, bite function, and overall quality of life. By addressing these issues early, we can prevent more serious complications and set the stage for a healthy, confident smile.

At Smile Power Orthodontics, our experienced team is here to diagnose and treat a wide range of orthodontic issues using personalized, effective solutions. Whether you’re dealing with crowding, bite problems, or other concerns, we’ll create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Tips for Brushing & Flossing

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial when you’re wearing braces or aligners. Proper brushing and flossing help prevent cavities, gum disease, and discoloration around your brackets, ensuring that your teeth stay healthy throughout your treatment. At Smile Power Orthodontics, we’re here to help you develop an easy and effective routine for keeping your smile sparkling clean.

Brushing Tips for Patients with Braces or Aligners

Braces can create extra places for food and plaque to hide, so it’s important to brush thoroughly:

• Brush After Every Meal — Food particles can easily get trapped in braces or aligners, so aim to brush after each meal or snack to prevent buildup.
• Use the Right Toothbrush — Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush or an orthodontic toothbrush designed to clean around brackets and wires. For added convenience, consider using an electric toothbrush for a deeper clean.
• Angle Your Brush — Brush at a 45-degree angle to clean above and below the brackets, then directly over the brackets and wires. Take your time to ensure every surface is cleaned.
• Don’t Forget the Gumline — Gently brush along the gumline to prevent inflammation and ensure healthy gums.
• Use Fluoride Toothpaste — Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities. Be sure to use a fluoride toothpaste to protect your teeth during treatment.

Flossing Tips for Patients with Braces

Flossing is essential for removing plaque and food particles from between your teeth, even with braces. Here’s how to make it easier:

• Use a Floss Threader or Orthodontic Floss — A floss threader helps you navigate under the wires of your braces, while orthodontic floss is pre-threaded for convenience.
• Try an Interdental Brush or Water Flosser — Interdental brushes are small, bristled tools that can clean between brackets and wires. A water flosser uses a gentle stream of water to remove debris, making flossing quick and effective.
• Be Gentle — Floss carefully to avoid damaging your braces or irritating your gums. Slide the floss between your teeth and gently curve it around each tooth.

Additional Oral Hygiene Tips

• Rinse with Mouthwash — Antibacterial mouthwash helps reduce plaque and prevent gum inflammation.
• Carry a Travel Kit — Keep a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss with you for on-the-go cleanings.
• Visit Your Dentist Regularly — Routine dental cleanings are essential to maintaining oral health during orthodontic treatment.

Proper brushing and flossing are key to successful orthodontic treatment and a healthy, beautiful smile. At Smile Power Orthodontics, we’re here to provide the guidance and tools you need to maintain excellent oral hygiene every step of the way.

Have questions about your oral care routine? Ask our team about best practices for keeping up your oral health, and let us help you achieve the best results possible!

Foods to Avoid

When you’re wearing braces, maintaining a healthy diet and protecting your orthodontic appliances go hand in hand. Certain foods can damage brackets, bend wires, or get stuck in your braces, potentially delaying your treatment. At Smile Power Orthodontics, we want to help you make smart food choices that keep your treatment on track and your smile healthy.

Foods to Avoid with Braces

To prevent damage to your braces and ensure a smooth treatment journey, steer clear of these foods:

Sticky foods can cling to your braces and be difficult to clean off, increasing the risk of cavities and damaging your brackets or wires. Avoid:

• Caramel
• Chewing gum
• Taffy or gummy candies

Hard foods can break brackets or bend wires, which can lead to extra orthodontic visits. Avoid:

• Hard candies
• Ice
• Nuts
• Popcorn (especially unpopped kernels)
• Raw carrots or apples (unless cut into small pieces)

Crunchy snacks can put unnecessary pressure on your braces. Avoid:

• Chips
• Pretzels
• Hard taco shells

Chewy foods can tug at your braces and cause discomfort. Avoid:

• Bagels
• Licorice
• Tough meats

Foods to Limit During Treatment

While some foods don’t need to be completely eliminated, it’s best to enjoy them in moderation and with extra care:

• Sugary Foods and Drinks — Limit candy, desserts, sodas, and sports drinks, as they can lead to tooth decay if not properly cleaned off.
• Starchy Foods — Bread, pasta, and crackers can stick to your braces, so be sure to brush thoroughly after eating.
• Citrus Fruits — Acidic foods like lemons and oranges can irritate your gums and weaken tooth enamel over time.

Braces-Friendly Food Alternatives

Don’t worry — there are still plenty of delicious and safe options to enjoy during treatment. Here are some braces-friendly foods:

• Soft fruits like bananas, berries, and melons
• Cooked vegetables such as steamed broccoli, mashed potatoes, or roasted zucchini
• Dairy products like yogurt, cheese, and soft-serve ice cream
• Soft proteins like eggs, tofu, fish, or shredded chicken
• Pasta, rice, and soft bread (avoid crusty or hard varieties)

Protect Your Smile & Stay on Track

By avoiding and limiting certain foods, you’ll protect your braces and ensure your treatment stays on schedule. If you’re ever unsure about whether a food is safe to eat, feel free to ask our team at Smile Power Orthodontics for guidance.

Have questions about your diet during treatment? Ask our team about best practices for keeping your smile healthy and appliances safe, and let us help you enjoy a smooth orthodontic journey with a healthy, beautiful smile!

Retainers

Completing your orthodontic treatment is an exciting milestone, but keeping your teeth straight and your smile looking its best requires ongoing care. That’s where retainers come in. Retainers are essential for maintaining the results of your treatment by preventing your teeth from shifting back to their original positions. At Smile Power Orthodontics, we emphasize the importance of retention to ensure your new smile lasts a lifetime.

Why Retainers Are Essential

After braces or Invisalign, your teeth may naturally want to shift as your jaw and surrounding tissues adjust to their new alignment. Wearing a retainer helps stabilize your teeth while the bone and gums settle into place. Without a retainer, your teeth are at risk of returning to their previous positions, potentially undoing all the hard work of your orthodontic treatment.

How to Use Your Retainer Effectively

For the best results, follow your orthodontist’s instructions on when and how to wear your retainer. In the first few months after treatment, it’s often necessary to wear your retainer full-time, gradually transitioning to nighttime wear as your teeth become more stable.

Tips for Successful Retainer Wear

1. Wear It Consistently — Skipping days or forgetting to wear your retainer can allow teeth to shift, so consistency is key.
2. Listen to Your Orthodontist — Follow the specific guidelines provided for your retainer wear schedule.

Caring for Your Retainer

To keep your retainer in good condition and ensure it functions properly, it’s important to clean and store it correctly.

Retainer Care Tips

• Clean Daily — Gently brush your retainer with a soft toothbrush and mild soap to remove plaque and bacteria.
• Avoid Damage — Keep your retainer away from hot water or harsh cleaning agents that could warp or damage it.
• Store Safely — Always place your retainer in its case when not in use to protect it from being lost or damaged. Remember, “on your face, or in your case!”

Retainers are a simple yet crucial part of your orthodontic journey. By wearing your retainer as directed and taking good care of it, you’ll protect your investment in your smile and maintain the results you’ve worked so hard to achieve.

Emergency Care

Orthodontic emergencies are rare, but minor issues can occasionally arise during your treatment. At Smile Power Orthodontics, we’re here to help you handle any situation quickly and effectively so that your treatment stays on track and your comfort is restored. Whether it’s a loose bracket or a poking wire, our team is just a call away to provide guidance and support.

Common Orthodontic Emergencies

Here are some of the most common issues patients may face during orthodontic treatment and how to handle them:

1. Loose Bracket or Band

A bracket or band can become loose due to eating hard or sticky foods or from direct impact. If this happens, avoid playing with the loose bracket and contact our office for a repair appointment. In the meantime, you can temporarily secure the bracket with orthodontic wax if it’s causing discomfort.

2. Poking Wire

Sometimes, a wire may shift and begin to poke the inside of your cheeks or gums, causing irritation. To alleviate the discomfort, try using a clean pair of tweezers to gently push the wire back into place. If that’s not possible, place orthodontic wax over the end of the wire to protect your mouth.

3. Lost or Dislodged Separator

Separators are small rubber bands used to create space between teeth. If a separator falls out, call our office, and we’ll advise you on whether it needs to be replaced.

4. Soreness or Discomfort

It’s normal to experience mild soreness after braces are first applied or following adjustments. This discomfort typically subsides within a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and a soft food diet.

5. Broken Appliance

If a part of your appliance, such as a spring or expander, breaks or becomes loose, stop using it if possible and call us right away. Broken appliances need prompt attention to avoid delaying your treatment progress.

6. Swallowed Appliance Part

If you accidentally swallow a small piece of your appliance, such as a bracket or band, don’t panic. In most cases, the part will pass through your system naturally. However, if you experience difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek immediate medical attention and contact our office afterward.

How We Handle Emergencies

If you experience an orthodontic emergency, don’t hesitate to contact Smile Power Orthodontics. Our team will assess the situation over the phone and determine if you need to come in for an appointment. For minor issues, we’ll provide instructions on how to manage the problem at home until your next visit.

Preventing Orthodontic Emergencies

While some emergencies may be unavoidable, many can be prevented by taking a few simple precautions:

1. Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage your braces or appliances.
2. Wear a mouthguard during sports to protect your teeth and braces.
3. Follow all care instructions provided by your orthodontist.

We’re Here When You Need Us

At Smile Power Orthodontics, your comfort and care are our top priorities. If you’re experiencing an orthodontic emergency, call our office immediately so we can help you resolve the issue and keep your treatment on track. With our support, you’ll be smiling confidently again in no time!