Orthodontics, also referred to as dentofacial orthopedics, is a specialized form of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial abnormalities.
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received two to three years of additional training and experience beyond dental school. Your orthodontist is trained to straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structures, and improve the overall function and appearance of your smile.
If you want to improve the look and feel of your smile, any age can be a great age to see the orthodontist. Dr. Christensen sees patients at birth for the correction of tongue and lip ties and beginning at age three for early correction of jaw growth and development problems related to airway and breathing concerns.
Orthodontic care and sleep and breathing treatment are not exclusive to children and teens. In fact, about one in every five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. Whether you are considering treatment for yourself or for a child, any time is a good time to visit the orthodontist.
Always remember to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day. Be sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride, and ask your orthodontist or family dentist if a fluoride rinse is recommended. This will help prevent cavities during treatment.
If you remove your retainer to eat, make sure to brush and floss your teeth before placing it back in your mouth. Always store your retainer safely in its container so it does not get lost or broken. Keep your retainer clean by gently brushing it with a toothbrush and toothpaste. You may also soak it in denture cleaner as instructed by your orthodontist.
Do not place your retainer in boiling water or in the dishwasher.
During orthodontic treatment, avoid foods high in sugar, as sugar increases bacteria and plaque that can lead to cavities. You should also avoid sticky or chewy foods such as caramel, chewing gum, and gummy candy, as well as hard foods like hard candy, nuts, and ice. Foods that may get stuck in braces, such as corn on the cob, soft bagels, ribs, or taffy, should also be avoided.
Be sure to continue routine checkups with your family dentist every six months throughout orthodontic treatment.
Braces are orthodontic appliances used to improve the look, feel, and function of your smile. There are several different types of braces available, including clear aligners, ceramic braces, and self ligating braces.
The length of time spent in braces varies from patient to patient, as every smile responds differently to treatment. Treatment times can range from six to thirty months, though most standard orthodontic treatments take approximately twenty two months.
Braces do not usually hurt, but you may experience mild discomfort for a few days as your teeth, gums, cheeks, and mouth adjust to your new braces.
Yes. With braces, you should brush your teeth at least three times a day to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy and clean. Brushing regularly helps remove food that can become trapped in and around the braces.
You should also floss daily to clean areas your toothbrush cannot reach. Your orthodontist can show you proper brushing and flossing techniques once your braces are placed.
Yes. Regular dental visits are even more important during orthodontic treatment. Braces can trap food in areas that are difficult to clean, allowing bacteria to build up and potentially cause cavities, gingivitis, or gum disease.
Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist to help keep your teeth healthy throughout treatment.
Wearing braces will not prevent you from participating in school activities. Playing an instrument or participating in contact sports may require a short adjustment period at first. If you play a contact sport, wearing a mouthguard is recommended to protect your braces or orthodontic appliance.
Simply call our practice. Our front desk team will be happy to help schedule your next appointment at a time that is convenient for you. If you are a new patient or have been referred to our office, please let us know so we can provide all necessary information.
Our Lewiston, Idaho location is our main office. Our other locations listed: Grangeville and Moscow are satellite offices. If you have any questions about the services we provide at our satellite locations, please call our Lewiston office at (208) 798-4427.
