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Orthodontic treatment is crucial for maintaining oral health, especially during pregnancy when hormonal changes can affect dental health. As a mom-to-be, it's essential to understand the implications and options available for orthodontic care during this time.

Importance of Oral Health During Pregnancy

Pregnancy brings about various physiological changes, including hormonal fluctuations that can impact oral health. It's vital for expecting mothers to prioritize dental care to prevent issues such as gum disease and tooth decay, which can worsen during pregnancy.

Safe Orthodontic Procedures During Pregnancy

Many pregnant women may wonder if it's safe to undergo orthodontic treatment During Pregnancy. Fortunately, several options are considered safe during pregnancy, including:

1. Consultation with a Dentist

Before undergoing any orthodontic procedure, it's crucial to consult with a dentist or orthodontist who can assess your oral health and recommend the most suitable treatment options.

2. Non-Invasive Treatments

Non-invasive orthodontic treatments such as clear aligners may be recommended during pregnancy as they do not involve adjustments or procedures that could pose risks to the mother or fetus.

3. Regular Dental Check-Ups

Regular dental check-ups are essential during pregnancy to monitor oral health and address any issues promptly. Dentists can provide guidance on maintaining good oral hygiene practices throughout pregnancy.

Tips for Managing Orthodontic Treatment While Pregnant

Managing orthodontic treatment during pregnancy requires careful consideration and adherence to certain guidelines:

1. Communicate with Your Orthodontist

Open communication with your orthodontist is key. Inform them about your pregnancy and any concerns you may have regarding treatment options and potential risks.

2. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Pregnancy can increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay, so it's crucial to maintain good oral hygiene habits, including regular brushing, flossing, and using fluoride mouthwash.

3. Follow Dietary Recommendations

Following a healthy diet rich in essential nutrients is essential for both maternal and fetal health. Avoid sugary foods and beverages that can contribute to dental issues.

Orthodontic treatment during pregnancy is possible with careful consideration and guidance from dental professionals. By prioritizing oral health and following recommended guidelines, expecting mothers can maintain a healthy smile throughout pregnancy and beyond. Remember to consult with your dentist or Orthodontist in Orlando for personalized advice tailored to your unique needs.

If you're considering getting braces or are already wearing them, there are a few things you should know about straightening your teeth. Orthodontic treatment consists of more than just wires, brackets, and elastics. There are numerous fascinating orthodontic facts to learn, such as why tooth straightening is now easier than ever. Read on for some of the most fascinating facts about teeth straightening you should be aware of.

1. Wires used in braces were originally created by NASA

You may be aware that wires in certain braces contain nickel titanium. In fact, NASA developed this alloy with the purpose of employing it in the space program. These small, incredibly elastic, and flexible wires used in orthodontic equipment are activated by body heat and can retain their shape after being bent and bonded to the teeth.

2. First braces were created almost three centuries ago 

The first documented braces were created in 1728 by Pierre Fauchard, commonly regarded as the Father of Dentistry. These braces were made of flat metal that was threaded onto the teeth. Later, in the 20th century, as humanity gained a better understanding of malocclusion, dentist Edward Angle created more sophisticated and contemporary orthodontic tools, including brackets.

3. All orthodontists are dental specialists 

Only around 6% of dentists are orthodontists, yet all orthodontists are dentists. An orthodontist is a dental specialist focused on the prevention and treatment of dental abnormalities, such as an incorrect bite. It's essential to finish an additional two to three years of study from a recognized orthodontic residency program after graduating from dentistry school to become an orthodontist.

4. Some of the first attempts to straighten teeth have been found in Ancient Egypt 

Despite the fact that braces weren't invented until the early 18th century, people have always yearned for a healthy and aesthetically pleasing smile. Archaeologists think that the use of animal intestine cords, which resemble the wire seen in modern braces, to wrap around the teeth of several mummies was one of the first attempts to straighten teeth in ancient times. 

5. It’s essential to wear retainers afterward 

Your commitment to wearing a retainer after completing the treatment will dictate how well your results will hold up over time. Unfortunately, over 25% of individuals who have worn braces must undergo the procedure once again due to not using their retainers as they should have. Their teeth often return to their natural, misaligned positions as a result. Hence, wearing your retainer is essential to keep your teeth straight and attractive.

6. Braces have no age restrictions 

Think again if you believe that the best time for getting braces is your teenage years and you're no longer eligible for orthodontic treatment as an adult. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists reports that a majority of those wearing braces are in their 50s, 60s, and 70s, and around one in five orthodontic patients are adults. This implies that orthodontic treatment can benefit everyone, including children, their parents, and even grandparents.

7. Millions of Americans are undergoing orthodontic treatment right now

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, 4 million Americans are now using braces or another type of orthodontic appliance to correct their teeth. Additionally, 75% percent of individuals undergoing treatment are under the age of 18.

8. There are plenty of myths surrounding braces 

It's safe to say that a great deal of the myths you have heard about braces are untrue. You should be aware that metal detectors won't detect braces, braces cannot be locked when kissing, and they do not interfere with radio signals. Braces won't make you more likely to get struck by lightning. Also, while wearing braces, you may still perform musically and take part in athletic activities safely and productively.

In the past, orthodontics was routinely an early teen event that began once all of the baby teeth were gone and permanent teeth were in. Recent advances in the understanding of a child development as well as modern materials have re-evaluated the time for orthodontic treatment to an earlier age. It is now recommended by the American Association of Orthodontiststhat every child should receive an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. But Why?

Common Orthodontic Problems Found At Age 7

1. Buck Teeth. Do the upper front teeth stick way out of line?

2. Deep Bite. Do the upper teeth cover the lower teeth?

3. Underbite. Do the upper teeth fit inside the arch of the lower teeth?

4. Open Bite. Do only the back teeth touch when biting down?

5. Crowded or overlapped teeth. Do the teeth have too much or too little space in certain areas?

6. Misaligned front teeth. Do the spaces between the upper two front teeth and lower two front teeth not line up?

7. Crossbite. Do the lower teeth fit properly inside the upper teeth?

8 .Missing teeth. If there are baby teeth that never developed, there will not be a permanent tooth to follow. Jaw x-rays may also find that certain permanent teeth are not  presently formed or are unable to come down on their own.

9. Extra teeth. When there are double teeth, extra teeth or malformed teeth.

Generally, orthodontic treatment does not begin at age 7 but it is good to get a head start to avoid any complications down the road. However, early orthodontic treatment may be necessary before age 7 if the following appear:

-Problems Speaking

-Proper Chewing Is Difficult

-Abnormal bite development

-Clicking or popping in the jaw

-Permanent teeth that are erutping into the mouth crowded or overlapped

-A thumb sucking problem

-A teeth grinding problem

-Issues biting cheeks or biting into the roof of the mouth

Benefits Of Early Orthodontic Treatment

Early orthodontic evaluation provides both timely diagnosis of problems and increased opportunity for more effective treatment. Early intervention gives the ability to guide growth and development, preventing more serious issues later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.

Early orthodontic treatment is also referred to as interceptive treatment or Phase I treatment. Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment include the following:

-Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth

-Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth

-Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth

-Preserving space for teeth that are coming in

-Reducing the need for tooth removal

-Reducing Phase II treatment time with braces

Phase II orthodontic treatment begins when all of the permanent teeth erupt and usually involves a full set of braces and not just a localized treatment plan.

Orthodontic Conclusion

While not every child will need early orthodontic treatment, it is best to know in advance what the options will be going forward. It is important to remember, orthodontics is not strictly a cosmetic endeavor, bite alignment is the ultimate goal. The issues presented above can all be corrected fairly easily if done in a phased approach. However, allowing this early intervention time to pass can complicate treatment requiring more extreme measures (i.e. teeth removal or surgery) to fulfill the same goal.

© 2014, Marielaina Perrone DDS. All rights reserved. Henderson Cosmetic Dentist

Reposted From Dentistry IQ

A beautiful smile is important to many. With so many adults in our practices with misaligned teeth, shouldn't cosmetic orthodontics become a bigger part of your treatment planning? In the past, many adults were afraid to wear orthodontic braces because they were either embarrassed to wear brackets or did not want to spend the time and money. Cosmetic orthodontics has addressed these concerns. Below you will see some common questions and fears about cosmetic orthodontics, which can help you help your patients with their concerns.

“I’m just too old for braces. Braces are for kids.”
When your patients make statements like these, they expect you to agree with them. Instead, you should take this opportunity to reassure your patients that it is never too late to have the smile they have always wanted. There is no age limit for adults with a healthy periodontal condition to undergo orthodontic treatment. Cosmetic orthodontics lets you have the perfect smile you have always wanted without putting your life on hold. These new options allow you to look great throughout treatment. FACT: One out of every five orthodontic patients is an adult.

“I’ve already had braces; won’t they just move again?”
Explaining to a patient the importance of retention after movement is key. If they understand why that fixed retainer or clear stent needs to be worn during bone fill after movement and that they need to be continually monitored at each recall appointment, they are more likely to be compliant with their retention. For many, they need to understand retention as a protection of their investment.

“Braces take too long.”
For many adults, cosmetic orthodontics can be completed in as little as six months. Depending upon the appliances used and the amount of movement required, treatment can be quite short in length. When addressed in this manner, a patient should understand that treatment may be completed by the time of the next recall visit.

“Orthodontic treatment is painful.”
There is a huge difference between discomfort and pain. All appliances take some getting used to, but it is only for a matter of months. Most of the discomfort is short-lived, lasting a few days after an adjustment appointment. Some of the discomfort has to do with the metal aspects, which may poke or pinch, but this can be reduced drastically with a quick application of wax. In general, the discomfort does not get past the point where a Tylenol does not bring relief.

“Orthodontic braces make it more difficult to keep your teeth clean. Will this cause cavities?"
Good oral hygiene will take a bit more attention than it did before appliances were in place, but is very manageable with the right tools. Waterpiks, electric toothbrushes, fluoride rinses, and threader floss can make it much easier to keep everything clean and cavity-free.

“Isn’t it expensive?”
Your patients need to understand that cosmetic orthodontics is usually the most conservative way to fix a cosmetic issue. Very often, the need for full bonding or veneers may reduce to just a few teeth or none. It may also be the only way to achieve optimal cosmetic dentistry results. The cost factor can be overcome using payment plans through your dentist or using a third-party provider such as CareCredit.

Cosmetic orthodontics conclusion
Whether you practice limited orthodontic movement in your office or not, cosmetic orthodontics should be offered as a treatment option for patients who would benefit from it. Orthodontic treatment can transform your patients' smiles and attitudes about their dental health. You will be surprised at the positive results and referrals!

Marielaina Perrone DDS, is a family, cosmetic, and implant dentist creating and enhancing beautiful smiles in Henderson and Las Vegas, Nevada. 

Cosmetic Dentist Las Vegas