Tag: Ruston Orthodontist

Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics | Orthodontist in Monroe LA

Posted on by user
Orthodontist 71201

Braces can be life-changing for people who would benefit from a straighter smile. Here are answers to your most common questions about orthodontics. 

What are the benefits of orthodontics?

Straight teeth can improve the way you bite, chew, and even speak. Properly aligned teeth are easier to keep clean. They collect less plaque and promote healthier gums. A straight smile can also contribute to self-confidence at almost every age. 

When should I consider braces?

Primary reasons for getting braces include teeth crowding and spacing issues, an overbite, underbite, or crossbite, and jaw misalignment.

Will braces hurt?

Although wearing braces usually doesn’t hurt, you may feel slight discomfort the first few days after getting them or immediately after periodic adjustments. Your teeth are simply adjusting to the pressure needed to move them into an optimal position. 

Can adults benefit from orthodontics?

Yes. Adults account for one in four new orthodontic cases, according to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). Teeth can be treated at any age to create a healthy, straight smile. Many orthodontic problems can be corrected as easily for adults as for children.

What is the best age to visit the orthodontist?

The AAO recommends that children get an initial evaluation at age seven. If you bring your child to our orthodontic practice, our doctor will monitor their bite and begin treatment later if it’s needed. 

Do I need to brush my teeth more often when I get braces? 

When you have braces, it is important to brush your teeth after every meal, if possible, to prevent food from getting stuck between teeth or in the hardware. It is also vital to floss frequently. Rinse vigorously with water when you’re on the go and can’t brush.  

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

It depends on the individual. Teeth must be moved very slowly to avoid damaging the roots. However, you can keep the process on track by following our doctor’s instructions. If you are required to wear rubber bands, for example, make sure to wear them as directed by our 71201 orthodontist.

How often should I visit my general dentist while I have braces?

When you are wearing traditional braces, it is easier for food to get stuck in places where your toothbrush can’t reach; so even with good oral hygiene at home, it is important to keep up with general dentist appointments as directed. 

Will having braces interfere with playing sports or a musical instrument?

Not at all. Braces will not stop you or your child from participating in either activity. However, if you are playing a contact or ball sport, talk to our orthodontist to get fitted for a [protective mouthguard.If you have more questions about traditional braces, clear aligners, or other forms of orthodontic care, please give our Monroe, LA orthodontics office a call.

Caples & Robinson Orthodontics
Phone: (318) 325-9655
2210 Forsythe Ave.
Monroe, LA 71201

6 Ways to Combat Bad Breath | Orthodontist Monroe

Posted on by user
Clear Aligners in Ruston

Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, can be caused by something you ate or drank, or from a health problem. While foul breath related to food resolves on its own, a chronic problem requires more investigation by your dentist. Fortunately, there are solutions.

Halitosis that is not caused by food is often related to bacteria in your mouth. These bacteria are frequently found on the back of the tongue and thrive when your mouth is dry. They can also accumulate on orthodontic appliances. Here are ways to keep your breath sweet. 

Be Rigorous About Oral Hygiene

Brush your teeth twice a day and after a spicy meal. Clean between your teeth using dental floss or another interdental (between teeth) cleaner at least once each day or after a meal if you feel food particles lodged in your teeth. Those particles can break down and cause unpleasant odors and tastes.

Brush or Scrape Your Tongue

Even after brushing and flossing, bacteria can remain on your tongue. Talk to our orthodontist in Monroe, LA about using a tongue scraper or toothbrush to gently remove tongue film when you brush. Aim for the back of the tongue.  

Keep Orthodontic Appliances Clean

If you wear conventional braces, carefully clean brackets and beneath wires each day to remove food particles after you eat. Removable devices such as aligners, mouth guards, and retainers need to be rinsed after meals. We can also recommend a special cleanser. It’s important to prevent invisible bacteria buildup on these appliances.   

Stay Hydrated

Dry mouths allow bacteria to thrive. By drinking plenty of water, you can help prevent bacteria growth and reduce the risk of bad breath.

 Sugar-Free Mints and Lozenges

The ADA recommends chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes after eating to boost saliva production. However, gum is off-limits when you have braces. Instead, look for sugar-free mints or lozenges. Just be sure to suck them and not crunch. Keeping your mouth moist slows or prevents bacteria growth, minimizing your chances of bad breath. 

Keep Up with Dental Appointments

In addition to your orthodontic checkups, maintain routine hygiene appointments and examinations. If you are still experiencing signs of halitosis, we can check for underlying causes. Some cases have underlying medical causes unrelated to oral health, and we might recommend a visit to your physician.For more information about halitosis with orthodontic treatment, contact our orthodontics office in Monroe, LA.

Caples & Robinson Orthodontics
Phone: (318) 325-9655
2210 Forsythe Ave.
Monroe, LA 71201

Medications That Can Affect Your Oral Health | Ruston LA Clear Aligners

Posted on by user
Suspicious man reading the leaflet of a pill sitting on a couch at home Orthodontist in Monroe LA

If you have braces, you know how important it is to take extra care of your oral health. This is even more critical if you also take medications. 

Nearly half of all Americans take prescriptions for a medical condition, and more than half take vitamins or other dietary supplements, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Even when used as directed and under medical supervision, you may experience medication side effects that can impact your oral health.

Here are a few side effects of common medications and supplements. 

Gum Tissue Enlargement

Overgrowth or enlargement of gingival (gum) tissue may occur as a side effect of certain medications. These include anticonvulsants, immunosuppressants, and calcium channel blockers. Patients taking these medications must pay special attention to keeping teeth and gums clean to prevent inflammation.

Dry Mouth

Some medications reduce saliva production, including certain antidepressants, muscle relaxants, diuretics, antacids, decongestants, and antihistamines. When your mouth does not produce enough saliva, it is more susceptible to inflammation and infection, tooth decay, and other oral health problems.

Abnormal Bleeding

Blood-thinning medications may lead to excessive bleeding during treatment for periodontal conditions. Tell our Bastrop LA Orthodontist if you are taking this kind of medication or a blood-thinning supplement before scheduling treatment.

Soft Tissue Reactions

Inflammation, oral sores, or soft tissue discoloration can be a side-effect of some medicines. These include minocycline to treat acne, some oral contraceptives, chemotherapy medications, immunosuppressive agents, and certain blood pressure medicines. If you experience this type of reaction, we may be able to prescribe a special oral hygiene regimen to alleviate your discomfort.

Fungal Infection

Oral candidiasis is a fungal infection that can affect people who use oral inhalers for asthma and other breathing conditions. We encourage patients with inhalers to rinse their mouth thoroughly with water after using their inhaler. Other medications that cause oral yeast infections include antibiotics, steroids, and chemotherapy drugs.  

Tooth Decay

You already know to avoid sugary foods while wearing braces, but did you know that many medications contain sugar to improve flavor? This is especially true for children’s medications. When sweet liquids, chewables, and lozenges are used over time, the sugar left on the teeth can increase the risk of tooth decay. Whenever possible, choose capsules or sugar-free versions of medications, or rinse well after taking sweetened medicines. 

If you have concerns about the effects of medications while wearing braces, contact our Monroe Orthodontist for advice. 

Caples & Robinson Orthodontics
Phone: (318) 325-9655
Url: https://caplesrobinsonortho.com/
2210 Forsythe Ave.
Monroe, LA 71201

The Benefits of a Retainer After Orthodontic Treatment | Bastrop Clear Aligners

Posted on by user
Young woman resting and laughing outdoors in the city Monroe Clear Aligners

Most orthodontic treatment consists of traditional braces or aligners. Both move teeth slowly into new positions to correct misalignment. This ensures both a straight smile and an even bite. However, once braces have been removed or the last aligner used, you will most likely need an orthodontic retainer. 

It is vital to follow through with the retention phase to maintain your newly straight smile. Proper retainer use will yield the results you have waiting a long time to achieve.   

How Orthodontic Retainers Work

The process of shifting teeth with braces involves the subtle building and breakdown of bone in the jaw. Once your teeth have been moved into their final place, bone must harden around them to keep them in position. Your retainer does that job.   

Types of Retainers

Here are three types of retainers that orthodontists typically recommended:

  • Traditional retainers – This removable appliance is made of acrylic and a wire arch that sits on the front side of the teeth.
  • Clear retainers – This is a removable, clear plastic tray that fits over the teeth.
  • Bonded retainer – Also called a permanent retainer, this is a fixed wire bonded to the lingual (tongue) side of the teeth. It may be worn for months or years.

Our Orthodontist Monroe will provide the best retainer option for your orthodontic treatment plan. If yours is removable, be sure to wear it as directed. Keep in mind that your teeth have been in active treatment for months, or perhaps years. Wearing your retainer right after treatment for the designated amount of time is critical to successful treatment.  

Caring for Your Retainer

Regular cleaning is an important part of retainer care. When it is not in your mouth, keep your retainer in its case. Bacteria can build up on it just as they do on teeth, making the appliance less hygienic and possibly affecting the fit.

Clean your removable retainer with a wet toothbrush. Thoroughly rinse it with water before placing it back in your mouth. If it is removable, disinfect it regularly by soaking it in a cleansing solution our Ruston LA Orthodontist will recommend. 

Bonded retainers need to be handled like braces. That means twice-daily brushing and flossing in a way that thoroughly cleans all interdental surfaces.  

For more information about your retainer, or if yours gets lost, contact our Monroe LA Orthodontics office. 

Caples & Robinson Orthodontics
Phone: (318) 325-9655
Url: https://caplesrobinsonortho.com/
2210 Forsythe Ave.
Monroe, LA 71201

The Safest Way to Eat with Braces | Ruston Orthodontist

Posted on by user
Orthodontist Ruston

Wearing traditional braces calls for making some changes to the way you eat. What you consume and what you avoid will directly affect the condition of your teeth during orthodontic treatment and after. Here are some types of foods to steer clear of when you are wearing braces, and tips to carefully enjoy some of your favorites.

Eating Hard Foods with Orthodontics

Eating harder foods can be harmful during orthodontic treatment because they can bend or break wires and even displace brackets. Try to avoid them after you have had your wires changed, since teeth are most tender at this stage.

Here are foods to avoid and careful ways to eat solids:

  • Avoid chewing on ice. You can suck on ice cubes but never bite them. Cubes and chips can easily dislodge orthodontics.
  • Before eating meaty foods like ribs or chicken wings, carefully check for and remove the bones. This prevents you from accidentally chewing on a bone and dislocating a bracket.
  • Fruits are an essential part of a balanced diet, and you should continue to eat them. However, instead of biting into apples, peaches or pears, cut them into small pieces first.
  • If you enjoy eating peanuts, almonds, or cashews, consider grinding them and adding the nut meal to cereals and yogurt.
  • Avoid eating corn on the cob; instead, cut the kernels off to help prevent damage to your braces.

Sticky and Sweet Foods

Sticky foods are one of the worst things you can eat while you are wearing braces. They can get stuck to your teeth and hardware and can even result in the braces getting pulled off. Another reason to avoid things like taffy and sugary gum is that they promote tooth decay. 

If you must have a sweet treat, here are a few tips:

  • If you enjoy eating candy, try sucking on pieces instead of chewing them. Stick to sugarless candies. If you do indulge in sugary treats, be sure to rinse your mouth with water to avoid plaque buildup on your teeth. Brush and floss as soon as possible.
  • Avoid chewing gum. Whether regular or sugar-free, it can stick to braces and may be difficult to get off. It can also loosen wires and brackets.

It is best to eat a nutritious diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables. Avoiding soda, candy, and other sugary and acidic foods can help prevent tooth decay and keep you healthier overall. Contact our Orthodontist in Monroe office for more helpful information on life with braces or to schedule an appointment.

Caples & Robinson Orthodontics
Phone: (318) 325-9655
Url: https://caplesrobinsonortho.com/
2210 Forsythe Ave.
Monroe, LA 71201