tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8026697850082868042024-02-19T07:02:41.772-08:00Blog by Orthodontist Nancy Phan, DDS, MSDr. Nancy Phan is a San Jose orthodontist and Invisalign provider. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics. Her blog covers a variety of oral health topics to help you and your family make informed decisions about your orthodontic and oral health care.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.comBlogger45125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-52383440423644244362017-10-18T09:35:00.002-07:002017-10-18T09:36:53.843-07:007 common fears about wearing braces<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A smile is
more than just a smile! It brings out confidence and a first great impression. If two persons who have similar skills and
experience show up to a job interview, the one who smiles beautiful and
confidently has a good shot at landing the job than the one who carries a stern
face. So why aren’t more people wearing
braces to achieve that nice smile? Costs
can be a major factor. Time, not wanting
to spend 1-2 years in treatment, is another one. Beyond, there are other factors that prevent
people from seeking orthodontic treatment.
Here are seven common fears that our patients express when thinking
about braces:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">1)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Fear that braces will hurt.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> Fear of pain is normal to most
people. The truth is that braces does
not hurt that much. Many research and
studies conducted on people with braces, patient ranked the pain level is
average 3/10. Most of the time, it is a
light dull aching pain for 2-3 days then disappear. There is also over the
counter pain medication such as Tylenol and Ibuprofen to help with discomfort.
Other aids such as wax and silicone protectors can minimize any discomfort.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">2)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Fear that metal mouth that will look bad.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> Kids and teens may fear that
braces “look funny” and other kids may make fun of them. The truth is that nowadays braces are so
popular that braces are seen as a fashion trends. Most teens like to customize
their braces with specific color ties to match their fashion sense and outfits.
For adults or teenagers who cannot have braces, Invisalign or lingual braces
are alternative options.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">3)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Fear that food will get caught in between their teeth.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> Having braces required more
hardware in the mouth. There is a higher
tendency for more food to get caught in between the teeth and will require a
little more time for cleaning. Most
people spend an extra 10 minutes at night to clean in between their braces
before bedtime. They also spend a few
more minutes during the day to brush or swish out the mouth with water in
between meals.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">4)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Fear that they will get bad breath.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> Bad breath caused by a heavier
load of oral bacteria that release sulfur gas.
There are individual variations when someone is more prone to harbor
these type of bacteria than others. In
general, if you brush your teeth thoroughly, brush your tongue daily, and go to
your general dentist 2-4 times per year during orthodontic treatment, you can
prevent bad breath. In case that you do,
discuss with your general dentist as there are ways to treat bad breath.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">5)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Fear that treatment will take too long.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> For some teenagers, the thought of
having braces each year seem like an eternity.
If treatment may last two years, it sounds like forever. However, given two years of braces to achieve
a lifetime of having a beautiful, straight smile is something not to
regret. That confident boosting smile is
worth a lifetime of happiness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">6)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Fear that braces cost too much.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> In the 70s, the cost of braces is
close to purchasing a new car and only those people who are wealthy can afford
treatment. Nowadays, braces are so much cheaper and many offices offer monthly
interest-free payment plans to make braces more affordable. By eating in and not going to a fancy
restaurant once a week, four times a month, you can save enough money to pay
toward braces.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">7)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Fear to make a change.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> When there are fears, some people
may not act. It seems more comfortable to stay on status quo and not doing
anything about it. After all, you have this crooked smile for many years and
you are identified to it. The thing is
it takes courage to make a change. If you want a beautiful smile, you need to
make sacrifices. You need to take the
first step to set up an orthodontic consultation and begin. There is a Chinese proverb that said “Success
begins with taking the first step.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">If you are
thinking about getting braces, the best recommendation is to schedule a
face-to-face orthodontic consultation so our orthodontist, Dr. Nancy Phan, can answer
your specific questions. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-44476248526308251892017-09-02T09:30:00.000-07:002017-09-02T09:30:30.639-07:00Invisalign system and cost?<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The Invisalign system<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Invisalign
is an innovated system that started in the heart of Silicon Valley by Align
Technology, found in Santa Clara. In 1998 they got FDA approval for fabrication
of the product and began sales in 1999. Since
then roughly 5 million people has used the product, treated by over 80,000
dentists all over the world. This system
involves using Align Technology’s proprietary software to convert your 3-D
images of your teeth into a virtual 3-D model, then got set up such that your
orthodontist can pick apart individual
teeth, move, and set up your teeth into perfect alignment and occlusion. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Through Align Technology’s proprietary
software, your orthodontist create a virtual correction set-up for your teeth
first, then the prescribed treatment plan was sent to a distance location so robots
by Aligner Technology can fabricate, trim, cut, and package aligners </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">into neatly stacked package and send them to
your orthodontic office for dispensary.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Due to use of their proprietary software, Aligner Technology charged a
high lab fee for their aligner product.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The cost<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Full
Invisalign treatment may involve 25 trays or more and may take anywhere from 15
months or longer. The costs range from $5000-$9000 depend on the geographic
areas and offices. In the bay area, the
cost averages around $7000. At Care
Orthodontics, our fee is significant lower. We extend more affordable fee to make
treatment accessible to more patients. Fee varies depends on the complexity of
treatment and the individual’s occlusion.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Invisalign system
can be used to treat children, teenagers, adults ranging from age 7 to 97. A decade ago, Invisalign was recommended
mostly for patients age 14 or older but in recent years, with advanced technology,
Invisalign treatment, used in combination with braces, can be applied to treat
children at younger age. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Whether you are the parents of the teen or the
adult who considers the Invisalign system, every individual has different needs
and requirements. For specific recommendations, you need to
schedule a consultation with our orthodontist, Dr. Nancy Phan, to do a thorough
clinical examinations, review the teeth and see what best fitted for your
needs. The specific time, costs, and
requirements will be discussed at the consultation appointment. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Dr. Nancy
Phan is a Board-certified orthodontist and dedicated many years to bring out
the true beauty of your smile and strong bites.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Visit our website at </span><a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/" style="font-size: 12pt;">www.CareOrthodontics.com</a><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> or call Care
Orthodontic today at 408-971-2885 to </span><a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/schedule-a-complimentary-exam/" style="font-size: 12pt;" target="_blank"><u>schedule an appointment</u>.</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-40745914663990591222017-08-02T10:00:00.000-07:002017-08-02T10:00:27.089-07:00Does my child need a palatal expander?<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">If your child has a very small mouth, a high palatal
roof top, and back teeth crossed over in a scissor bite, then the answer is:
Yes. A palatal expander will correct this skeletal
deformity of the jaw. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">What
is an expander?</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">It is a custom-fitted dental device that is made by
two metal halves joined together by a small screw. When turned, the screw opens slowly to widen
the width of the upper jaw. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">What
are benefits of an expander?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A palatal expander can make space to allow more
spaces for crowding issues and prevent impaction of permanent teeth, such as
impacted canines. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A palatal expander can help to create a broad arch
and a more wider and beautiful smile. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Crooked teeth prevent proper brushing and flossing. Crooked teeth collect more stain on teeth. Food, plaque and bacteria that are not properly
removed from the mouth brushing and flossing get pushed down into gum pocket to
cause gingivitis, which can lead to gum infection, gum recession, and
periodontal disease. Correction of
crooked teeth is a path to better oral health care as straight teeth allow
easier brushing and daily oral hygiene. An expander allows spaces for the
orthodontist to correct dental crowding and eliminate dental cross bites.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Does
my child need it?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Depended on the size, shape and relationship of both
jaws, you child may or may not need a palatal expander. In some cases, simple orthodontic brackets and
wires can accomplish dental expansion and do not require an expander. In other cases, a palatal expander is
contra-indicated if the lower jaw cannot be expanded or occlusion does not
allow it. Furthermore, having an
expander can be somewhat uncomfortable and may need time for a child to adjust
to eat, speech and tolerance. Consult
with our orthodontist, Dr. Nancy Phan, for further advices. For more information, visit our office on the
web at <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/">www.CareOrthodontics.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-27084831086308946172017-07-19T09:29:00.001-07:002017-07-19T09:29:33.264-07:00Pros and Cons of Invisalign system<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Many adults
and teens who consider orthodontic treatments are interested in Invisalign
system. They like to get their teeth straight and beautiful without wearing
braces and come to Care Orthodontics to ask Dr. Phan about Invisalign. Here are the break downs of Invisalign pros
and cons that may help you as you make an informed decision whether this appliance
is right for you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The pros of Invisalign - there are
many:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">1)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
aligners are invisible. With the
transparent plastic materials, most people will not notice that you are wearing
them so you can very much being discreet as going through orthodontic
treatment. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">2)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
aligners are removable. You can remove them if you feel too much pressure and
want to take a break from treatment. You
can be remove them for important social events such as date nights, board
meetings, wedding, photo shots, speaking engagement, etc.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">3)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
aligners are easier to brush and floss. Without the added apparatus in the
mouth such as brackets and wires, there are less food traps. Flossing with
Invisalign is an ease, the same as you do without any treatment. In comparison, flossing with braces required
using special flossing devices such as floss threader, water flosser or Waterpik. Whichever system that your wear, whether braces
or Invisalign, your orthodontist will recommend you to brush and floss daily to
prevent cavities and gum diseases.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">4)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">There
are less orthodontics emergency visits. Without many braces and tubes glued to
the teeth, there are less chance that they will come off and thus less
emergency visits. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">5)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">There
are no diet restrictions compared to braces.
With braces, you need to stay away from eating hard and crunchy
food. Hard food break glue around brackets
and cause them to detach. With
Invisalign, you have no diet restriction.
You can eat everything including hard, crunchy and sticky foods such as
apples, carrots, ices, nuts, hard chips, caramelized candies, chewing gums, etc.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The cons of Invisalign:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The cons
have to do with your compliance to treatment.
You must wear Invisalign aligners almost full time to get enough stimulation
and tooth movement. If you leave the
aligners out of the mouth long enough, your teeth will stop moving or not
moving enough. For treatment success, you
must wear the Invisalign aligners for your teeth to move. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> You must
wear the aligners 20-22 hours a day, leave out 2 hours to eat, brush, and
floss. If you tend to forget to put
aligners back on after eating, snacking or brushing, your teeth may not
experience enough force to move. Less time wear will lead to inadequate fitting
or non-fitting aligners.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">You need to remove aligners to eat. Most people complain that they don’t
get to snack enough during the day as it is a hassle to remove the
aligners to snack. The truth is
that you can eat, you just need to remove the aligners, snack, brush your
teeth and put the aligners back. It
takes a little bit of time, but possible to indulge in food. You should brush after each meal;
however, if you are in a crunch and don’t have time to brush, at least swish
water in your mouth for a minute to wash away most food before putting the
aligners back. This will cut down on the amount of sugar
and plaque to minimize cavities. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Just like anything in life, you must work and follow through
to succeed. Once you wear Invisalign,
you will figure out a way to make the appliances fit with your lifestyle and
routines. If you have further questions,
schedule for a consultation appointment with Dr. Nancy Phan.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Dr. Nancy
Phan is a Board-certified orthodontist and dedicated many years to bring out
the true beauty of your smile and strong bites. Visit our website at <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/">www.CareOrthodontics.com</a> or call
Care Orthodontic today at 408-971-2885 to schedule an appointment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-37346793460300000212017-06-04T20:18:00.000-07:002017-06-04T20:18:37.491-07:00It takes a smile to start a smile!<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When was the last time you smiled at stranger at a party then
started to mingle and formed a new friendship?
How long has it been that a stranger at a supermarket smiled at you and
started talking to you while waiting in line at the check-out stands? Either way, it takes a friendly gesture such
as a smile to warm up a person and open up a conversation. There is a cliché that life is about gives
and takes. You have to give a smile to
receive a smile! A smile is a strong
unspoken language to express happiness, human connection, friendship, and
love. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A smile gestures that you are happy and you
are open to connect. Why not smile more
and bring more happiness to your life! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Asides from the psychology and spiritual connection of human
bonding through smiling, there is also a physiological response occurred while
you smile. Your body releases a surplus
of good chemicals to keep your mind positive, balance, and healthy while reduce
amounts of stress hormones to prevent your body aging and fatigue.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">What prevent you from
smiling?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">If you have crooked teeth and they prevent you from smiling,
or if your buck teeth make you feel hyper self-conscious and shy away from camera,
then you need a smile make-over and we can help. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">It takes courage to take the first step toward seeking
orthodontic treatment. Most people are hold
back to receiving orthodontic treatment either from the fear that braces hurt, the
avoidance to appear with mouth full of metal, or the thought that foods stuck
in between their braces. In that case, you may want to seek alternative
treatment such as Invisalign.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When there is a will,
there is a way.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Nowadays, with the added technologies such as thinner
brackets, clearer ceramic brackets, and no metal and braces appliances such as
the Invisalign system, or even the lingual braces, you have many options to
choose from. Just pick the one that best
fits your lifestyle. Also know that
there are treatment options and financial options to make transformation
available.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Your first step is an
orthodontic consultation.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">An orthodontist can transform your smile through braces,
Invisalign and other tools. At the
consultation, your orthodontist can give you advices and plan your detailed
treatment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Dr. Nancy Phan is a Board-certified orthodontist and has been
practicing at Care Orthodontics in San Jose CA for over 10 years. Visit us at <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/">www.CareOrthodontics.com</a> or call
408-971-2885 for more information.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-54215112610704329092017-05-05T10:00:00.000-07:002017-05-05T10:00:26.269-07:007 best ways to reduce discomfort when wearing braces and Invisalign<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Unless you
are blessed with a perfect set of straight teeth, the only way to correct a crooked
smile is through either wearing braces or Invisalign. Either case, orthodontic treatments involve teeth
movements and thus some discomfort for a few days after each adjustment visit. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">With Invisalign
system, you are wearing removable plastic trays to move your teeth. Although the trays are removable; you can
experience pressure on your teeth during the first few days of wearing the new
set. You may remove trays to eat, brush, or when
the teeth are too sore. Most Invisalign
wearing patients experience teeth soreness but overall you need to wear the
trays for a period of 20-22 hours a day for effective teeth movement.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">With braces,
brackets are glued in your teeth so you cannot remove them as with Invisalign
trays. With braces, you may feel a
slightly more tender sensation on your teeth during the first 3-5 days of
getting braces place on. During this
time, your teeth experience orthodontic forces from the wires and brackets that
move teeth. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Following these
7 instructions and you can cut back more unpleasant discomfort from wearing braces
and Invisalign: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Eat soft food <o:p></o:p></span></b></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Soft food can reduce the aching pain on your teeth during the
first three days of braces. Some best
soft food for braces are tomato or chicken soup, scramble eggs, spaghetti
or lasagna, mashed potatoes, well cooked
beans or rice, fruit smoothies, ice cream, and frozen yogurt. Cold food has
added benefits by dulling the tooth pain and numb to mouth to reduce the pain
sensation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ol start="2" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Cut up food into
smaller pieces</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The act of chewing and the fiction of teeth grinding to break
down food intensify the aching discomfort.
By cutting the food into small pieces, you limit the pressures placed on
teeth, reduce teeth grinding motion and reduce the discomfort. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As a rule of thumb, you should eat soft food and cut up your
food into small pieces during the entire course of braces treatment, not just
during the first 3 days, to minimize bracket breakages. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ol start="3" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Use a soft
toothbrush</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> A hard-bristle
toothbrush and a high-powered electric toothbrush can extra vibration to your
teeth to intensify discomfort. By
switching to a soft toothbrush or use the lowest power-level on your electric
toothbrush to reduce the pain during the first few days.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ol start="4" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Avoid citric food<o:p></o:p></span></b></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Citric food such as oranges, grapefruits or sour drink such
as lemonade can sore your teeth and hurt them more. By rinsing with warm water and salt, this
solution will soothe the pain and prevent canker sores from getting ulcerated
or infected. Rinsing with hydrogen
peroxide for one minute in the mouth will cut down the risk of infection. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ol start="5" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Use desensitizing
toothpaste<o:p></o:p></span></b></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Over the counter toothpaste for sensitive teeth such as
Sensodyne can cut down tooth sensitivity and teeth discomfort. Ice pack to place outside the jaw or to hold
an ice cube inside the mouth for a few minutes can numb the teeth and discomfort
area to reduce soreness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ol start="6" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Take over the
counter pain medication<o:p></o:p></span></b></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Pain medication such as Tylenol and Ibuprofen can be taken if
your discomfort level keeps you from falling asleep. However, for best velocity in tooth movement,
Tylenol is better than Ibuprofen. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ol start="7" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Use wax to
alleviate irritated mouth</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">If some corners of the brackets scratch your gum or if you
develop a few canker sore spots, roll wax into a ball to place over that corner
of the bracket or opposite to the canker sore until your tissue get better. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">If an arch wire shifts while you are eating and the wire end
starts to poke your gum, use wax to place at the end of the sharp end and cal
your orthodontist’s office to get the wire clipped. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Survive the first month and you will survive the remaining orthodontic
journey. Most discomforts are most
intense during the first week and will taper off. Just like wearing new shoes, it may take a
few weeks to wear into your shoe as you adapt to the shoe and it conform to
your feet, the same goes with braces and Invisalign. By following these above remedies, you will
get used to the braces in no time. All
that hard work will paid off over the course of your lifetime as you gain a dazzling
smile and a confidence self!!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue;">Care
Orthodontics is located in San Jose California and Dr. Nancy Phan offers
complimentary orthodontic exam. We
offer:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: blue;">Invisalign -
clear removable aligners for adults and teenagers</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">Metal and
ceramic braces – catering to your individual need</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">Headgear –
to correct bad bite and different type of malocclusions</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">Retainers –
to replace lost retainers or after orthodontic treatment </span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue;">Visit us at <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/">www.CareOrthodontics.com</a> or call the
office at 408-971-2885 to <u>schedule an appointment</u>.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com088 Tully Rd #113, San Jose, CA 95111, USA37.3035705 -121.8595576000000211.827677999999999 -163.16815160000002 62.779463 -80.550963600000017tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-3951084012419218492017-04-06T09:30:00.000-07:002017-04-06T09:30:22.242-07:004 best ways to care for your teeth after finishing braces and Invisalign treatment<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">After enduring through at least 18 months of braces and Invisalign treatment, your braces finally come off. Y</span><span style="font-size: 16px;">ou are now in charge of your life and your new smile,</span><span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">You are thrilled with the results but then comes the next question: "What's to do next?" Dr. Nancy Phan recommends you these 4 steps to retain your beautiful smile. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> 1)</span><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; text-indent: -0.25in;">
</span><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><u>Wear your retainers</u></span></b><br /><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">You need to wear your retainers full time during the first year,
as per recommendations by your orthodontist. By the 2</span><sup style="text-indent: -0.25in;">nd</sup><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
year, you usually just need to wear retainers at bedtime.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><br /><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">2)</span><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; text-indent: -0.25in;">
</span><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><u>Care for your retainers</u></span></b><br /><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">You need to brush your retainers daily to prevent stain and tartar build-ups on your retainers.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Make sure you do not
leave the retainer near the window facing hot sun light or near heated sources because the retainers can get distorted.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Retainers are made out of acrylic material, which is a high-pressed
plastic material, thus in the presence of heat, they get distorted. When this happens, your retainers will not fit properly. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Avoid drinking hot coffee, tea or chocolate while wearing your retainers in your mouth.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">If
such event happened, you need to go back to your orthodontist right away to get them check out. You may need to order a
replacement set of retainers.</span><br /><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">3)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></b><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><u>Care for your new teeth</u></span></b><br /><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Daily dental hygiene is very important to maintain your healthy mouth.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">You need to brush and floss your teeth daily to
keep them shine, white, and smelling fresh</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Brushing and flossing also prevent cavity and gum disease.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Don’t forget to make an appointment with your
general dentist to get a dental cleaning and a thorough cavity check after braces came off.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">At that appointment, your general dentist can
evaluate your wisdom teeth and give you recommendations on whether or not to remove your wisdom teeth. Your dentist would let you know if any restorative or cosmetic treatment such as dental whitening recommended.</span><br /><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">4)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></b><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><u>Avoid unhealthy habits</u></span></b><br /><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Avoid biting your pen, pencil or your finger nails.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Repetitive motions such as biting on pencil can wear down
your enamel and place non-optimal force on your teeth to cause the teeth to shift. </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Avoid smoking while you are wearing your retainers. The smoke
can discolor your clear retainers and cause your wire (hawley) retainers to turn brown. </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Avoid eating while you are wearing your retainers.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> Chewing force</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> may rock the retainers' wires and cause your teeth to shift. Retainer arms can get bent and they change the fit in the mouth.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Eating with retainers
in the mouth also shorten the shelf life of retainers. They will crack sooner. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">By following
these tips, we hope you can best keep your fabulous smile for a life time. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Care
Orthodontics is located in San Jose California.
We offer:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Invisalign - clear removable aligners for adults and
teenagers <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Metal and ceramic braces – catering to your individual need<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Headgear – to correct bad bite and different type of
mal-occlusions<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Retainers – to replace lost retainers or after orthodontic
treatment <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Visit us at <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/"><span style="color: purple;">www.CareOrthodontics.com</span></a> or call the
office at 408-971-2885 for questions or to schedule an appointment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-18722365385915611542017-03-04T09:00:00.000-08:002017-03-04T22:53:42.381-08:003 things you need to know about getting orthodontic retainers<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1) How many kinds of retainers are there?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When your orthodontic
treatment is completed, Dr. Nancy Phan will order retainers for you. There are
different types of retainers: wire retainers (or hawley retainers), clear
retainers or bonded retainers. Wire and clear retainers are removable types, which mean you take them out to eat,
brush, floss and clean. The bonded retainer is a fixed type. It stays glued to your teeth at all times
unless the glue broke off or you have it removed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In general,
most common retainers are wire or clear retainers. Removable retainers are easier to clean and maintain.
They are easier to detect when lost, broken, or if not fit properly. They do
not interfere with eating, flossing and keeping your teeth clean. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Bonded
retainers require a bit more maintenance care.
You need to use a special tool, called floss threader, to clean in
between your teeth, below bonded wire, to prevent stains and cavities. Regarding diet, you need to avoid biting into
hard food as the glue may break off and allow your teeth to shift. If you detect any broken part of the bonded
retainer, call your orthodontist for a check-up and repair immediately.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2) Which type of retainers do I need?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Your
lifestyle will influence what type of retainer that you have to wear. If you
have an active lifestyle and want rigid set of retainers, Wire retainers will
be a good choice. Wire retainers may
interfere with your speech during the first few weeks; however, after the adjustment period, your speech will get back to normal. They are a lot thicker than other types of retainers so they are very durable. On the other hand, if you lift weight or grind your teeth at
night, clear retainers or a custom mouth-guard are recommended as they may protect you from wearing
away your enamel. Finally, if you are out and
about and traveling a lot, or if you snack a lot, or if you tend to forget to
wear removable retainers, bonded retainers may be a good choice for you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3) How long do I need to wear them?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Depending on
your malocclusion and the complexity of your case, your orthodontist will let
you know how long to wear the retainers.
Generally, most patient wears retainers full time during the first years
out of braces then go to night-time wear the 2<sup>nd</sup> year and after. The more crowded your teeth started out with,
the longer you need to wear retainers full-time after braces removal. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Your teeth
are constantly experienced forces and pressures by the opposite teeth, jaw
muscles and tongue; thus they need constant retention to prevent shifting In general, life- time retention is
recommended. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Whether you
are a teenager or an adult, you will need to wear some type of retainers to
prevent your teeth from slipping and getting re-crowding after braces. If you
have any question, Dr. Nancy Phan, your orthodontist in San Jose, can help with
answers. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Visit our
website at </span><a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/" style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>www.CareOrthodontics.com</b></a><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
or call Dr. Nancy Phan in San Jose CA at 408-971-2885 to schedule an appointment.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-71601710087874599862017-02-03T09:30:00.000-08:002017-02-03T09:30:25.870-08:00Discover your smile and enjoy a healthy life <div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Smiling is a
powerful human contact and is an important gesture and communication cue. It identifies you, your moods, your appearance
and your outward expression. It sends a
signal to the receiving person that you are warm, connected and open to connect
to others.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Your smile affects your biological health</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; font-weight: normal; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">According to Discovery Communications<sup>1</sup>,
the human face typically has 43 muscles. </span></strong><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> To initiate a smile, your brain first send out
nerve signals to cause certain facial muscles to express a smile. This signaling process turns on other parts
of your brain, such as the hypothalamus, to release chemicals that directly
impact your sensory responses. Through the pipelines, a gesture of smiling
can cause your body to release many good chemicals, such as oxytoxin, to make
you happy, excited, contentment. The
same gesture can minimize stress. At the
cellular levels, your body produces less cortisol, a chemical that put your
through fight and flight and wear down your body overtime. Essentially, by smiling, you take active
steps to promote healthy heart, lower blood pressure, reduce stress, reduce anti-aging
chemicals, and lives<span style="background: white; color: #333333;"> longer<sup>2</sup>. </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Your smile affects your confidence:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">To live a passionate
life, you need the confidence to explore and engage in many new adventures in
life. To gain this confidence, it is
easier to start out with a straight and pleasant smile. Unlike crooked teeth which wedge food
particles and collect stain, straight teeth are easier to brush and minimize food
impaction. Straight teeth allow you to
brush and floss better to reduce cavities and bath breath. Straight teeth can improve your speech and reduce
risks of temporo-mandibular joint dysfunction. These parts contribute toward your confidence
and how you carry yourself. With a short
visit to the orthodontist, you can seek more information on how to achieve a dazzling
smile. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Your smile affects your overall life</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When you
open yourself and smile to others, you invite new friends, make more
connections and enjoy life happiness. If
you have crooked teeth, unaesthetic gaps, or protruding teeth and that causes
you to be afraid to smile, we here can help.
Dr. Nancy Phan at Care Orthodontics in San Jose CA can help you create a
dazzling attractive smile. Achieving
straight teeth and a confident smile may be easier to achieve than you
thought. Nowadays with the added
benefits of thinner brackets, cosmetic brackets, clear braces and Invisalign,
you have many options and can choose a treatment that most fitted for you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Our office offers: <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li>Invisalign -
clear removable aligners for adults and teenagers</li>
<li>Metal and
ceramic braces – catering to your individual need</li>
<li>Headgear –
to correct bad bite and different type of malocclusions</li>
<li>Retainers –
to replace lost retainers or after orthodontic treatment<span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span></li>
<li>Dr. Nancy
Phan is a Board-certified orthodontist and dedicated many years to bring out
the true beauty of your smile and strong bites.<span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Visit our website at </span><a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/" style="font-size: 12pt;">www.CareOrthodontics.com</a><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> or call
Care Orthodontic today at 408-971-2885 to </span><u style="font-size: 12pt;">schedule an appointment</u><span style="font-size: 12pt;">.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">References:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">1)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <a href="https://blog.bufferapp.com/the-science-of-smiling-a-guide-to-humans-most-powerful-gesture">https://blog.bufferapp.com/the-science-of-smiling-a-guide-to-humans-most-powerful-gesture</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">2)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> <a href="https://www.reference.com/science/many-muscles-face">https://www.reference.com/science/many-muscles-face</a></span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-12224605853536592972017-01-08T09:30:00.000-08:002017-01-08T09:30:03.863-08:00How long would my braces treatment take?<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">How long
would my braces treatment take? At Care
Orthodontics, we get asked this question a lot.
It’s understandable because you want to fix your teeth but get the job done
quickly so you can get back to your normal life as soon as possible. On average a case may take 2 years. However, there are variations in treatment
time depending on individual variations such as complexity of dental crowding,
overbite, overjet, degrees of jaw deviation, patient’s age, bone density, bone
biology and the health of the gum and jaw.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For a
child who are less than 10 years old:<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Children this age may need a phase I braces or also called interceptive braces.
Phase I braces takes an average 18
months. Instances when children need a phase
I treatment such as small jaw, constricted jaw, or misaligned jaw. In some children, their jaws may be too
small to fit all their teeth and a phase I jaw expander can help to create space for permanent teeth. In other children, genetic factors may cause
a misalignment in both upper and lower jaws.
These children may need other orthodontic appliances such as to elongate one jaw
and restrict growth on the opposite jaw.
The purpose of phase I treatment is to fix jaw discrepancy and to create
balance facial skeletal structure. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For a
teenager between 10-14 years old:<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">During this
age range, teenagers usually have all permanent teeth already and would need
full braces or comprehensive orthodontic treatment. Full braces can take anywhere between 18 months to
2 or 3 years. On average treatment time
takes 22 months. During comprehensive
treatment, all of bite issues would be corrected and all the permanent teeth are
finalized in the permanent position. At the end of treatment, the permanent teeth have to occlude well, to help the individual
chews food well, and to articulate well. Some sounds required teeth shield and lip shield and occasionally a bad bite can prevent a good lip shield to interfere with communication. A good occlusion must satisfy many esthetic requirement to give a good smile. Your smile is the focus of your face and your presence. Thus is must serve a a vehicle to display your best esthetic profile and exude confidence when you communication with others. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For an
adult who are 18 years or older:<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For adults, braces
may include correction the teeth along with other complexities such as orthodontic dental relapse, orthognathic surgery (jaw surgery), or
orthodontic treatment in the presence of periodontal disease such as deep gum
pockets, bone loss, bone resorption, or gum recession. Some adults may have missing teeth and will
need braces in additional to prosthetic correction such as porcelain crowns, dental filling, dental implants, dental bridges,
etc. Treatment time varied due to the
complexity of each case and the degrees of collaboration among dental specialists and dental insurance to collaborate, communicate, and render care. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Braces
treatmentfor your smile:<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">If you are
thinking about getting braces, the best recommendation is to schedule a
face-to-face orthodontic consultation so the orthodontist can evaluate your
bite, feel your teeth and give a customized treatment plan that is specific to
your need.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Our office
offers: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li>Invisalign -
clear removable aligners for adults and teenagers</li>
<li>Metal and
ceramic braces – catering to your individual need</li>
<li>Headgear –
to correct bad bite and different type of malocclusions</li>
<li>Retainers –
to replace lost retainers or after orthodontic treatment<span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span></li>
</ul>
Visit us at <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/" style="font-size: 12pt;">www.CareOrthodontics.com</a><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> or contact
Care Orthodontics in San Jose CA at 408-971-2885. Dr. Nancy Phan is a Board-certified
orthodontist and dedicated many years to find and bring out the true beauty of
your smile.</span><div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-65500928107907238092016-12-05T09:30:00.000-08:002016-12-05T09:30:00.155-08:00Which retainers should I get: fixed or removable?<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
At the end of braces or Invisalign treatment, patients
often ask which kind of retainers are best to have, removable or fix? There are advantages to each one and Dr. Nancy Phan at Care Orthodontics can give you recommendations on the ones that are
most appropriate for you. To educate yourself, it is also very helpful to know the difference between these
retainers. Below are the breakdowns of
pros and cons for each type.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><u>Removable
retainers:</u></b> They are best
retainers since they allow you the flexibility to remove while you eat, brush,
floss and important social events while wearing them at night and initially
during the day while the braces first come off to keep your teeth well aligned
and in shape. Of the category of
removable retainers, there are 2 kinds:
Hawley and clear retainers.
Hawley retainers are often seen with a wire run across the front teeth
and a customized process acrylic adapted to the back of the teeth. This type of retainers is thick and durable;
however, they require 2 weeks of adjustment time when first wearing them. The clear retainers are made out of a special
kind of clear, shape-performance plastic to wrap around your teeth. These retainers are very thin, comfortable,
and satisfactory both esthetics and retention requirements. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><u>Fixed retainers
are glued-in retainers</u></b>: There is
a piece of wire that was glued behind your front teeth. These retainers are great in that they are
‘fixed it and forgot it’. They are in
24-7 and you don’t have to remember to put on retainers. However, these retainers require more
maintenance care. You need to use a
special tool called ‘floss threader' to floss daily. It usually takes a few minutes longer to
floss with fixed retainers daily. They
are also required to be checked periodically by your general dentist or
orthodontist for stain or breakage. If
any of the cement broken off from any of bonded teeth, they need to be fixed or
the teeth may move. Also these retainers
tend to break overtime and may need to be switched over to removable retainers
in the future.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
So, which retainers should you choose? Although some orthodontists may recommend
upper removable retainer and lower bonded retainer, at Care Orthodontics, Dr. Nancy Phan often recommends upper and lower removable retainers for ease of care and
cleanliness. Ultimately, the most
important thing is to wear retainers as directed, regardless of which
type. As long as you wear retainers, you
will be able to retain your best smile results. </div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<o:p></o:p></div>
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Give our office a call if you wish to schedule a
complimentary consultation. Our orthodontist is Board Certified and committed to the highest standard of excellence. For more
information, please visit our website, <span style="color: #0070c0;">www.CareOrthodontics.com.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-54847472904409583632016-11-09T09:09:00.000-08:002016-11-09T23:27:27.297-08:00Remind me again…what is so important about keeping my teeth clean?<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="MsoNormal">
What is so important about keeping your teeth clean? Let’s
cover the why and how, even if you wear braces. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h4>
<b>Why is it important to clean your teeth?</b></h4>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Whether you have baby teeth or permanent teeth, you want
good healthy teeth so you can eat well, live well and enjoy a life free of
pain, disease and discomfort. Once you lose all your baby teeth, it is
even more urgent that you work hard to keep your teeth healthy, since you only
have ONE set of permanent teeth. They are so precious because, if you lose one,
you lose it for life. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you don’t brush well, you can develop <b>decalcification</b>,
which is equivalent to having scar marks on your teeth. These spots are not
only <b>unaesthetic</b>, but they weaken your teeth and lead to higher chances of
cavities and decay. Tooth decay leads to <b>pain</b> associated with things
like fillings, root canal treatment, expensive restoration, crowns, bridges,
fillings, implants and even dentures. Unhygienic brushing can lead to gingivitis,
gum disease, bone loss or tooth loss.<br />
<br />
While you can go through oral rehabilitation to restore your
teeth once they are broken or damaged, it is <b>best to prevent</b> these
things from happening in the first place. You will save yourself pain, time,
expense and headaches, and maintain great oral health. Getting braces is
not an excuse for inadequate brushing. You need to spend more time to
remove plaque and bacteria that sits around the brackets, teeth and gum
surfaces.<br />
<br />
By taking good care of your teeth while wearing braces, you
will gain the benefits of having <b>healthy teeth and a confident
smile. </b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<ul>
</ul>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSPezMP3cw-Il4U6I7aKVobpoaIp0lHSFVKQ1raf5UTy19y-im1BtkuJCECEUTizamG2Zt4lDZKuiR4VMfr_zU9f0hSyhLNdZynID4ybRAbjV5zUP1RiCiRZso3Eiy3Bhyo1sZwHH8u-y2/s1600/brush2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="cleaning your teeth with and without braces" border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSPezMP3cw-Il4U6I7aKVobpoaIp0lHSFVKQ1raf5UTy19y-im1BtkuJCECEUTizamG2Zt4lDZKuiR4VMfr_zU9f0hSyhLNdZynID4ybRAbjV5zUP1RiCiRZso3Eiy3Bhyo1sZwHH8u-y2/s400/brush2.jpg" title="benefits of keeping your teeth clean" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h4>
<b><u><br /></u></b><b>How to keep your teeth clean:</b></h4>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Begin with good daily habits. Brush your teeth at least
2-3 times daily after meals. <b>Flossing is equally as important as brushing</b>. Flossing
allows the removal of food and bacteria in between the teeth and gums to keep
them healthy. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you have children, explain the reasons to them.<b> Teach
them the skills</b>, and help them maintain daily discipline and habits of brushing
and flossing. Visiting your family dentist twice a year is part of an
important oral heath regimen.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h4>
<b>Care for your teeth while wearing braces:</b></h4>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is even more important to maintain good oral hygiene
<a href="http://careorthodontics.blogspot.com/2016/05/8-steps-to-reduce-tooth-decay-while.html" target="_blank">while wearing braces</a>. There are more surfaces for food to get stuck
around the braces and in between your teeth. You need to brush, floss and
remove plaque daily to <b>keep your teeth clean</b>, prevent bad breath, and avoid
irreversible damage to your teeth and gum tissue. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dr. Nancy Phan recommends <b>avoiding sticky foods and
carbonated drinks</b>. The sugar in these items can create an acidic environment
and easily break down enamel, which can cause damage to the teeth.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dr. Phan and the staff at Care Orthodontics can give you a
list of foods to avoid while wearing braces and instructions on how to brush,
floss and take care of your teeth while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Visit
us at <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/">www.CareOrthodontics.com</a> for more information.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-6817995099319367212016-10-05T11:50:00.000-07:002016-10-05T11:50:04.264-07:007 tips to care for Invisalign alignersThere are some important things you need to know while wearing aligner trays. Here are 7 tips that will help you properly care for your <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/invisalign-san-jose/" target="_blank">Invisalign aligners</a>:<br />
<br />
<b>1. Remove them to eat.</b> You should not wear aligners while eating since food will accumulate in the trays. The food particles make your trays unappealing. More importantly, the acidic food particles and bacteria can quickly demineralize your teeth and cause many issues such as cavities, stains and hyperflourosis.<br />
<br />
<b>2. Except for with water, remove them to drink</b>. Drinking carbonated or sugary drinks with the aligners in place can lead to the demineralization of teeth, which can cause cavities and bad breath.<br />
<br />
<b>3. Brush your aligners daily.</b> To maintain the crystal clear invisible look that Invisalign are known for, the aligners need to be brushed daily. Dr. Phan recommends brushing aligners three times a daily, every time you insert them back in the mouth after a meal, with soap and water.<br />
<br />
You can also brush with toothpaste and water. You can use aligner cleaning tablets or a sonic cleaner machine to clean aligners. The ultimate goal is remove stains and build-up around aligners in order to keep them looking nice - clean, clear and free of yellow stains.<br />
<br />
<b>4. Keep your aligners away from heat. </b>Your aligners are made out of a special type of proprietary shape-memory plastic material. However, as with any type of plastic material, if you leave them out on your car dashboard or near the window where the sun gets too hot, the plastic can get distorted and your tray may not fit properly. If you soak your aligners in hot water, they will shrink and will not fit properly.<br />
<br />
<b>5. Keep your aligners in the case when not in use.</b> From time to time, Dr. Phan finds some patients lost the trays or they threw them out in the trash by accident because they forgot to carry the case. Occasionally, someone may step on them while they are out of the case or on the floor, and now the trays no longer fit. Remember, your trays are your medical correction device. <br />
<br />
If you had a ventilation machine, you would not throw it, kick it or step on it and expect it to work properly. The same goes with your orthodontic correctional devices; they are custom-made to fit the shape of your teeth and are programmed to move your teeth, so you need to handle them with care.<br />
<br />
<b>6. Remove the aligners to chew gum.</b> Chewing gum while wearing Invisalign damages the material and the retention of the trays, thus affecting the fit and the programmed movements.<br />
<br />
<b>7. Do not soak the aligners in mouthwash.</b> Many mouthwashes have color pigments and they can stain the trays.<br />
<br />
<br />
If you have any questions regarding tips and advice to achieve a successful Invisalign experience, contact our orthodontic office, <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/">www.CareOrthodontics.com</a>.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-35031845976081751252016-09-12T09:15:00.000-07:002016-09-12T09:15:00.194-07:00Why should I have an orthodontist put on my braces?<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Many people are curious about general dentists and orthodontists. The common misconception is that both can put your braces on, and both give you the same results. The truth is that most general dentists are not trained to handle braces. The results are not comparable. <o:p></o:p></div>
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In dental school, most dentists receive only introductory courses in orthodontics, not enough to provide comprehensive treatment. Some pursue extra courses after dental school to learn how to apply braces, but general dentists are not orthodontists. They do not go through all the required hours of training or take the required tests. They are not certified by the Commission of Dental Accreditation (CODA), a division of the American Dental Association (ADA) that oversees and monitors the nine specialties existing in dentistry. <o:p></o:p></div>
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General dentists routinely oversee the health of your teeth and gums. They perform exams, cleanings and checkups. They treat oral diseases such as cavities and infected lesions, and restore teeth and gums. They monitor and maintain your general oral health. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Orthodontists routinely work on diagnosis, prevention and correction of malocclusion, or poor bite. Their job is to focus on the reconstruction of your smile. Their day-to-day activities focus on correcting the position of the teeth, bite, face and jaw to create beautiful smiles. Orthodontists do not practice general dentistry.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
All orthodontists must go through two to three years of additional post-graduate study after dental school to specialize in orthodontia, the straightening of the teeth and jaw. They attend an accredited specialty program recognized by the ADA and the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). They must pass all the prerequisite courses and clinical training hours to be certified as a dental specialist. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Orthodontics is one of the nine specialties in dentistry. Orthodontists focus on different types of bad bites such as over-bite, under-bite, open-bite and bite asymmetry. They are responsible for bite correction in children and adults using braces, arch wires, orthodontic devices, dental orthopedic appliances and removable appliances, such as<a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/invisalign-san-jose/" target="_blank"> Invisalign clear aligners</a>. They may also work with an oral maxillofacial surgeon to plan and treat surgical cases, such as cleft palette or treatment for patients who need a combination of braces and jaw surgery to correct their bite.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Just as you go to a family physician for a physical check-up but go to a plastic surgeon for cosmetic surgeries, you go to a specialist because they have advanced training and they do these procedures daily. The same applies to your dentist and your orthodontist. Dr. Nancy Phan is a specialist in orthodontics. For more information, visit us at <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/">www.CareOrthodontics.com</a>.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-66729853682360236492016-08-09T09:00:00.000-07:002016-08-09T09:00:11.894-07:00How to avoid bad breath while wearing braces or InvisalignThe road to a beautiful and straight smile is through <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/braces-san-jose/" target="_blank">braces</a> or <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/invisalign-san-jose/" target="_blank">Invisalign</a>. Orthodontic treatment is an investment in your smile and your life, but it takes time and commitment to clean your teeth and appliances. You need to do it correctly so that you don't accumulate food and bacteria that can lead to bad breath.<br />
<br />
Here are ways to eliminate bad breath so you can smile and talk with confidence while going through orthodontic treatment. Some of the tips listed below can apply for both braces and Invisalign wearers. Use them as you see fit.<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
<h3>
Fresh breath tips for the braces wearer:</h3>
<ol>
<li><b>Eat a healthy diet.</b> Protein-rich foods, vegetables, fibers and grains are easily digested, minimizing the potential for bad breath. Foods that have high calcium content such as low-fat yogurt, cheese, milk and other dairy products support strong bones and healthy teeth, and do not contribute to bad breath. Sugary foods tend to stick on teeth longer and contribute to bad breath. When carbohydrates sit on the teeth for too long, bacteria in the mouth start to ferment, secreting acid and causing decay, which in turn causes the secretion of sulfur gas and leads to halitosis, the technical term for bad breath.<b> </b></li>
<li><b>Drink less sugary products.</b> Since anything with sugar tends to contribute to bad breath, try to cut down on juice, carbonated soda, and other sugary drinks. Not only you will cut down on bad breath, you will cut down on getting cavities. <b> </b></li>
<li><b>Brush and floss after each meal.</b> If you brush and floss your teeth right after each meal, you dislodge any remaining bits of food so that they do not stick around in the mouth long enough to cause bad breath. Brushing and flossing also reduce your risk of getting tooth decay and stains. <b> </b></li>
<li><b>Use a water flosser.</b> A water flosser will displace most plaque and bacteria that sit right above the gum and around the brackets to keep your mouth clean and cut down on bad breath.<b> </b></li>
<li><b>Scrape your tongue in the morning.</b> The tongue traps more than 50 percent of bacteria that contribute to bad breath. In the morning, use a tongue scraper to clean and scrape your tongue for one minute. You will get rid of most of the bacteria that excrete sulfur gas and contribute to bad breath.</li>
</ol>
<h3>
Fresh breath tips for the Invisalign wearer.</h3>
<ol>
<li><b>Brush your Invisalign trays 2-3 times daily.</b> Food particles and build-ups around the trays contribute to bad breath so brush them well and keep the trays clean.<b> </b></li>
<li><b>Maintain good oral hygiene.</b> Brush and floss your teeth daily to keep your teeth clean and fresh. <b> </b></li>
<li><b>Remove trays while you are eating.</b> Eating with the trays in the mouth contribute to more food impaction, more risk of tooth decay, and more bad breath. Always take the trays out while you eat, whether you are at home or in public. <b> </b></li>
<li><b>Keep your mouth hydrated.</b> A dry mouth will lead to bad breath. By sipping plenty of water, you will keep your mouth hydrated. If you are out and about and cannot brush your teeth after a meal, then take a sip of water and swish around to clean out lodged food. If water is not available, licking your teeth for about 20 to 30 seconds and bath your teeth in saliva so that saliva can wash out food and bacteria to cut down on bad breath. <b> </b></li>
<li><b>Rinse your mouth with Listerine</b> to get rid of more bacteria and leave your breath minty fresh. </li>
</ol>
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Whether you wear braces or Invisalign, don't forget to <b>get regular cleanings and cavity check-ups</b> at your general dentist. Cavities and gum diseases are the primary reasons that contribute to having bad breath. When you see your family dentist, you get regular detection to prevent these oral diseases, and minimize bad breath.<br />
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<b>Together you, your general dentist and the Care Orthodontics team</b> will monitor your teeth. Take care of your teeth and smile and you will maintain fresh breath during your orthodontic treatment. For more information, visit our website at <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/">www.CareOrthodontics.com</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-84957062667978742522016-07-08T13:48:00.000-07:002016-07-08T13:51:37.180-07:00What’s so great about having straight teeth anyway? You might ask yourself:<br />
<h3>
Is it worth it to endure orthodontic treatment? </h3>
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Yes… an emphatic yes! In exchange for the discomfort of having sore teeth during orthodontic treatment, you'll get a beautiful smile that lasts. You'll have a confident smile and a proper bite that can last a lifetime.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5OwuVU5gKAquvFh2DeuSSV1yLkJa85vYmgKmGoeX7yPmlganHT_y7qaqa3eHFRr3m2h2Y3x_hswPFWRlHqsNcRJ2FlMXQJK-3NSv5fTDjINphaTery_nj9I8handQdMMrG53InJ9sNoR4/s1600/perfect-smile1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="nice smile with straight teeth that you can achieve with orthodontic treatment" border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5OwuVU5gKAquvFh2DeuSSV1yLkJa85vYmgKmGoeX7yPmlganHT_y7qaqa3eHFRr3m2h2Y3x_hswPFWRlHqsNcRJ2FlMXQJK-3NSv5fTDjINphaTery_nj9I8handQdMMrG53InJ9sNoR4/s320/perfect-smile1.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></div>
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You might also ask:<br />
<h3>
What are the benefits of braces and <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/invisalign-san-jose/">Invisalign</a>? </h3>
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First and foremost, you get straight teeth. Beyond cosmetics, you achieve psychological gain. Straight teeth give you the added advantage of <b>more self-confidence</b> when interacting with others. When you smile more, you interact more. You attract more friends into your life and gain more satisfaction and happiness in life.<br />
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Straight teeth are <b>less prone to decay</b>. Well-aligned teeth hold less food impaction as well as less plaque and stain. Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss. Straight teeth, combined with good hygiene habits and frequent check-ups with your dentist, can lead to fewer periodontal pockets, less gingivitis and fewer cavities. <br />
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Functionally, straight teeth allow you to <b>chew and eat food better</b>. A stable occlusion distributes bite force evenly throughout the mouth. For example, if you start out with an open bite, where only the back teeth touch and your front teeth do not, you have no chewing force in your front teeth. You will not be able to bite into a piece of lettuce or a thin slice of turkey. <br />
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Straight teeth can <b>improve speech</b>. When you have an open bite, your front teeth will not form a proper seal. This can result in speech difficulties, such as a lisp. Straight teeth allow for a proper seal for accurate articulation and speech.<br />
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The next time someone asks you why you wear braces or Invisalign, think of all the benefits that orthodontic treatment brings, such <b>straight teeth</b>, <b>a nicer smile</b>, <b>easier brushing and flossing</b>, <b>better chewing</b>, <b>proper speech</b>, <b>more self-confidence</b>, and <b>a better chance of keeping your teeth the rest of your life</b>. <br />
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Then you know you are making <b>a wise investment in yourself</b> by obtaining orthodontic treatment. The next time you flash that beautiful smile, you'll know you have a beautiful look and a more confident self!<br />
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Dr. Nancy Phan and the entire team at Care Orthodontics work hard to give all our patients the best smile and bite possible. We offer complimentary consultations. You can visit us at <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/">www.CareOrthodontics.com</a> for more information.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-58417982457749421272016-06-06T09:30:00.000-07:002016-06-07T11:26:17.408-07:00Braces versus Invisalign. Which option is best for me? <div class="MsoNormal">
A beautiful smile goes a long way! A smile expresses attractiveness, self-confidence, friendliness to others, and your happiness. A smile is also an investment in your oral health. Having straight teeth allows you to eat and brush better, which leads to a reduction in stains, cavities and gingivitis.<br />
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When it comes time to decide whether you should use braces or Invisalign to fix your teeth, many people find the options to be daunting. Here is some information about both that will help you decide which option is the best to fit for you and your lifestyle.<br />
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<h3>
How are braces and Invisalign different?</h3>
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Braces are brackets and wires that are fixed to your teeth 24/7 in order to move and straighten your teeth. <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/invisalign-san-jose/" target="_blank">Invisalign</a> are removable aligners.<br />
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With Invisalign, your teeth are scanned in 3D and a plan is made to move and correct the position of your teeth in stages. Those movements and stages are then fabricated into a series of custom-fitted trays, or aligners, that guide your teeth into the corrected positions. Because these trays are removable, you can take them off to eat, brush, floss and occasionally for important social events. Overall, you need to wear them an average of 22 hours a day for the programmed movements to take effect.<br />
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<h3>
Aesthetics</h3>
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Traditional braces are made of stainless steel metal. If you prefer an aesthetic option for braces, ceramic braces are made up of clear tooth-color brackets that cut down on the amount of metal shown when you smile or speak.<br />
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If you don't want any kind of brackets glued onto the teeth, then Invisalign is an ideal option. The crystal clear trays blend in with your teeth well, making the aligners almost invisible when you're wearing them. If you don't want anyone to notice your braces while going through orthodontic treatment, you definitely want Invisalign.<br />
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<h3>
Eating and Drinking</h3>
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There is a diet alteration requirement when wearing traditional braces. Overall, you can eat at least 95% of food. You want to stay away from a few hard and sticky foods, such as hard chips, nuts, gum and sticky candies, like taffy, Skittles and Starburst. Fruits, such as apples and pears, need to be cut up. Meat and fish need to be cut up.<br />
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Invisalign trays are removable, thus, you remove the trays to eat and drink. You also remove the trays to brush and floss. Since there are no brackets and wires attached to the teeth, there are no diet restrictions associated with hard and sticky foods.<br />
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<h3>
Convenience</h3>
<br />
Another reality of braces is that, occasionally, a bracket may come loose or a wire may shift and irritate the inside of your cheek. There are tricks to get around these issues and stay comfortable until your next visit where your orthodontist can fix the problem at the office. You will learn ways to handle these discomforts if they occur once you start treatment. At Care Orthodontics, we are available in the office every day to help take care of any orthodontic emergency for our patients. If you see someone else, you may want to check your orthodontist's availability and emergency policies before the need arises.<br />
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With Invisalign, you do not have issues with loose brackets and pokey wires, since you simply don't have them. For working adults who often travel out of town, busy parents who are constantly on the go or students who are away at college and occasionally come home, Invisalign treatment can be a good option since you have more flexibility to the numbers of adjustment and office visits.<br />
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<h3>
Complexity of the Orthodontic Problem</h3>
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Invisalign works well for some cases but not others. For complex problems that require orthopedic devices to be used in growing kids, braces are the appliance of choice. For surgical cases in adults, braces may be a better option.<br />
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<h3>
Conclusion</h3>
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If you're considering braces or Invisalign in the San Jose area, schedule a complimentary consultation appointment at Care Orthodontics. Dr. Nancy Phan can advise you as to what will work best for your situation. Dr. Phan can treat most patients with braces or Invisalign. Weigh the pros and cons of your options, then decide which treatment option is best suited for your life.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-20857559975276673192016-05-09T09:30:00.000-07:002016-05-10T10:03:41.278-07:008 Steps to reduce tooth decay while wearing bracesMaking a commitment to <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/braces-san-jose/" target="_blank">get braces</a> is an important step toward getting an attractive smile. Taking care of your smile is a lifetime commitment and the decision to get braces is an investment in yourself.<br />
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Dr. Phan applauds you and wants to make sure you also protect your teeth so that, when the braces come off, you do not have cavities or stains. The steps below will help to prevent tooth decay so that you can preserve those pearly-white, healthy teeth during your orthodontic treatment.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEiU_QWQT8ZuiDYoXeazT6l0JLl1BRzPwel-FGHCATcW1heXaQE87aUoznR74BenJhk45_BajvDVaCV74atfKGCwAGHnn87wFXCE5Yoqtd4PD2U32A9Qkzm84EQ5b0xbBsve5me-JNDvMU/s1600/braces10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="tooth care while wearing braces" border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEiU_QWQT8ZuiDYoXeazT6l0JLl1BRzPwel-FGHCATcW1heXaQE87aUoznR74BenJhk45_BajvDVaCV74atfKGCwAGHnn87wFXCE5Yoqtd4PD2U32A9Qkzm84EQ5b0xbBsve5me-JNDvMU/s320/braces10.png" title="" width="320" /></a></div>
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<h4>
1. Brush after each meal.</h4>
Whether you wear braces or not, food tends to adhere to the teeth. With braces on, it can be a bit hard to brush and you tend to collect more food since there are more surfaces for food to bind to. Brushing may seem like a lot of work, but if you dedicate yourself to brushing after each meal, you will get used to the routine quickly.<br />
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Brush around the teeth and the brackets. Pay attention around the gum level as plaque tends to collect there. Use an inter-dental brush to get in between the brackets and rub around the brackets near the gum line. An inter-dental brush looks like a Christmas tree and has a small tip to get in hard-to-reach places better than a regular toothbrush.<br />
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<h4>
2. Floss daily.</h4>
Use floss thread to get below the wire and remove bits and pieces of food that get stuck in between the teeth and around the gums. Flossing reduces the risk of cavities in between the teeth as well as swelling and bleeding gums caused by food embedded in the gum pockets for days at a time.<br />
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<h4>
3. Use a water flosser.</h4>
The popular brand, <a href="https://www.waterpik.com/oral-health/products/dental-water-flosser/" target="_blank">Waterpik</a>, uses a pressurized pulsating water stream to clean around the braces and leave your teeth free of plaque and bacteria.<br />
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<h4>
4. Use a fluoride mouthwash before bedtime.</h4>
Fluoride rinse helps to stop the acid attacks, strengthen your weak enamel and rebuild the enamel rods. It cuts down on decay and cavities.<br />
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<h4>
5. Minimize snacks.</h4>
Each time you eat, your teeth are overwhelmed by acid from the degradation of sugars. Prolonged exposure to acid can lead to a high risk of tooth decay.<br />
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<h4>
6. Avoid sugar and carbonated drinks.</h4>
Sugar in soda combines with bacteria in your mouth to form acid that attaches to the teeth. Drinking too many sugary drinks, such as carbonated soda, sport drinks and other sweet liquids, will lead to ongoing acid attacks and weaken tooth enamel.<br />
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<h4>
7. Drink plenty of water.</h4>
Water washes away bacteria and sugar and will help to slow down or minimize tooth damage.<br />
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<h4>
8. See your dentist two to four times a year while in braces.</h4>
A professional cleaning will help to keep your teeth, gums and periodontal structure healthy and free from oral bacterial diseases.<br />
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Give our office a call if you wish to schedule a complimentary consultation. For more information, please visit our website, <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/">www.CareOrthodontics.com</a>.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-43283641443765358422016-04-11T10:00:00.000-07:002016-04-11T10:00:20.561-07:00How to care for your smile while wearing Invisalign aligners<div class="MsoNormal">
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Wearing <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/invisalign-san-jose/" target="_blank">Invisalign aligners</a> is exciting because you are on your way to getting straighter teeth and a beautiful smile. However, you don't want to discover decay underneath. That's why it is important to know how to care for your smile while wearing aligners.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-_cSXWqqHVlmz0TaXv9lFE7yn021Pzm6xWSf5LFpF5StQDsgM-19tetNIqSzDZlbx-_tQjBFzZk9DBTtqLY1WY4v1K7rBn2RpseVOxUtotWk8ekgghmrDIm-qhDaqnplBjP4c42-viB5B/s1600/invisalign2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="best care practices for your teeth while receiving Invisalign treatment" border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-_cSXWqqHVlmz0TaXv9lFE7yn021Pzm6xWSf5LFpF5StQDsgM-19tetNIqSzDZlbx-_tQjBFzZk9DBTtqLY1WY4v1K7rBn2RpseVOxUtotWk8ekgghmrDIm-qhDaqnplBjP4c42-viB5B/s320/invisalign2.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></div>
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<h4>
Take your trays out to eat:</h4>
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It is critical that you eat without wearing your aligners. Eating with aligners in your mouth can create more food impaction between teeth. You can wear down your trays quickly and create perforations and tray breakage if you eat with them in.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<h4>
Brush your trays frequently:</h4>
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The trays will cake with build-up quickly if you do not brush them daily. We recommend brushing the trays at least one or twice a day with liquid soap and water. You can also use commercial cleaning tablets if that is your preference. Brushing the trays will keep your aligners clean, eliminate any type of stains, keep your breath smelling fresh, and prevent food and debris from getting into your teeth.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<h4>
Brush your teeth routinely:</h4>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Whether or not you wear Invisalign aligners, you should brush your teeth at least twice a day or after every meal using a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Remember your dentist's or hygienist's recommendations about holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle. Use circular motion to get all the plaque removed.<br />
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Do the same while you wear Invisalign aligners. Remove your trays and brush daily. If you are at work or school and it is difficult to brush right after eating, take a sip of water and swish around to get rid of most of the food and sugar around the teeth. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<h4>
Floss your teeth daily:</h4>
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Have you heard of the expression, "Flossing is as equally important as brushing?" Flossing eliminates bits of food stuck in between the teeth and gums. This cuts down your risk of getting cavities and gingivitis. Trapped food gets pushed down into the gum pockets, causing swelling and bleeding of the gums. Flossing eliminates this problem. With aligners, it is easier and less time consuming to floss than compared to having braces. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<h4>
Rinse your mouth with Listerine: </h4>
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Before you go to bed and again in the morning, rinse your mouth with <a href="http://www.listerine.com/mouth-coach/why-rinse-for-oral-health" target="_blank">Listerine</a> or an antibacterial mouthwash to clean your teeth, strengthen your enamel, and leave your breath clean, minty and fresh.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Once you develop a daily routine, caring for your smile is simple and easy. It does not take that long. By spending five minutes, two to three times daily, you will be on your way to developing great oral hygiene habits that prevent tooth decay and periodontal disease. Care for your smile now, and you will see a healthy smile at the end of your Invisalign treatment. Continue those same hygiene habits after Invisalign, and your smile can last a lifetime.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Visit us at <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/">www.CareOrthodontics.com</a> for more information.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-57079232853409702472016-03-08T09:00:00.000-08:002016-03-11T18:07:42.698-08:00Now that I got braces, what gadgets are in my mouth?After much thought and consideration, you've finally decided to get braces. You are on your way to achieving a beautiful smile that you always wanted. Your teeth will line up straighter. Your bite will come together better. You will chew food better. You will speak better.<br />
<br />
However, first you want to know what gadgets are in your mouth. Below are some orthodontic components that Dr. Nancy Phan uses in her <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/our-practice/our-services/" target="_blank">orthodontic practice</a>:<br />
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Braces refer to a combination of brackets, bands and wires used in orthodontic treatment:<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Brackets</b> are handles to move your teeth. </li>
<li><b>Bands</b> are rings around your molars to carry a bracket </li>
<li><b>Wires</b> are tracks for your teeth to slide. . </li>
<li><b>Spacers</b> are little rubber bands that go in between your back molars. They create spaces for insertion of bands or orthodontics devices. </li>
</ul>
Orthodontic devices refer to apparatus that are inserted in the mouth to aid in tooth movement: <br />
<ul>
<li><b>Expanders</b> are used to widen your jaws and to create spaces. A <strong>Palatal expander</strong> can separate your palatal bone to make your upper jaw larger and fit better to the lower jaw. It creates space while the jaw is still growing to allow the permanent teeth to erupt more easily. A <strong>Quadhelix expander</strong> can be used in both upper and lower jaws to create more space.</li>
<li>A <strong>Bite Plate</strong> is used to correct a deep bite. When your lower teeth come up too far and hit hard on the back of your upper teeth causing heavy pressure or swollen gums, then a bite plate is needed to correct the deep bite.</li>
<li><b>Space Maintainers</b> are used to anchor the back teeth and maximize your orthodontic outcome. A T<b>rans-Palatal arch</b> is used to anchor a molar. A <b>Nance Holding Arch</b> is to hold space for the permanent premolars to come in. A <strong>Lingual Holding Arch</strong> can be used to hold space or it can also be used to lift an impacted tooth.</li>
</ul>
<ul></ul>
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Retainers are used after braces come off to hold the shape of the jaw and position of the teeth: </div>
<ul>
<li> A <b>Hawley retainer</b> is a removable retainer that has a wire in front of the teeth with an acrylic plate on the back of the teeth and the roof of the mouth to hold teeth in place and maintain the shape of the jaw.</li>
<li>An <b>Essix retainer or Clear retainer</b> is a shape performance tray that holds teeth in place. It is clear and durable and helps to maintain the position of the teeth after orthodontic treatment.</li>
</ul>
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Other orthodontic devices are added tools to aid the orthodontist in correction of your teeth and jaw. They are customized and recommended based on an individual's age, pubertal growth stage, maturation phase and specific orthodontic needs to correct the bite and jaw. <br />
<ul>
<li>A<strong> Headgear</strong> is an orthodontic appliance that aids in the correction of a long upper jaw or an excessive overjet (or often referred as "overbite").</li>
<li>A <strong>Facemask</strong> is an orthodontic appliance that aids in the correction of an anterior crossbites (or often referred as "underbite"). </li>
<li>A <strong>Bite Corrector</strong> is an orthodontic appliance that aids in the alignment of the upper and lower jaws.</li>
<li><b>TADs (Temporary Anchorage Devices)</b> are mini-implants or fixed anchorage that assists in the efficiency of orthodontic treatment </li>
<li><b>Soft Tissues Laser</b>, such as a Diode Laser, is used to correct uneven gum height, remove gummy smile, remove excess nodules in the mouth, remove thick frenum, uncover thick fibrous tissues that impact permanent teeth, and many other applications. The benefits of laser surgery are huge, such as no suture, comfortable patient's experience, minimal bleeding, minimal pain, minimize infection, and quick recovery. For example, 2% of the population has tighten frenum, an over-pulling gum tissue that cause teeth to space apart, tongue tie, or gum recession. Patient who has a laser frenectomy can go back to work or school within the next day and have very little pain or swelling. Dr. Nancy Phan is a Certified Laser Provider for many orthodontic-related procedures.</li>
</ul>
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Contact us at <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/">www.CareOrthodontics.com</a> for more information. <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-20828615321343456812016-02-08T09:00:00.000-08:002016-02-11T17:36:13.837-08:007 Common Myths about BracesWhen thinking about braces, people tend to have a stereotypical image about people wearing braces as well as many myths about braces themselves. Here are 7 common myths that Dr. Nancy Phan often hears in our Care Orthodontics practice.<br />
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<h3>
Myth 1: Braces are just for kids. </h3>
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</div>
<div>
<br />
Although many kids wear braces, adults have braces, too. The American Association of Orthodontists conducted a survey in 2015 and found that nearly 40% of orthodontic patients are adults. Adults can still wear braces to correct teeth, bite and achieve a better smile appearance.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Myth 2: My general dentist can do braces faster and cheaper. </h3>
</div>
<div>
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<div>
With a flood of advertisement about "six month braces" or "fast braces," it may seem like your general dentist is better at doing orthodontics than an orthodontist. They market wearing braces for only six months, while your orthodontist may recommend 18 months of treatment, and you may wonder why. The devil lies in the details.</div>
<div>
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<div>
As the old adage says, "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is." With speedy braces, you get only a quick alignment of teeth, not the full correction of the bite. Your treatment may include just the alignment of the front teeth.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The deep bite, open bite, excessive bite and misaligned bite are not commonly addressed. Without proper bite correction or root alignment, aligned teeth can relapse quickly. Depending on if you want to get partial treatment or full treatment, you have to decide with whom to render orthodontic treatment.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Myth 3: Braces mean metal mouth.</h3>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Although traditional braces are metal braces, there are many options to having braces today. You can get ceramic braces that include clear-colored brackets. You can also get removable braces, such as Invisalign, without any type of metal in the mouth.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Myth 4: Braces are just for crooked teeth.</h3>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Braces correct more than crooked teeth! For example, you may not have crooked teeth but your front teeth may not come together. They interfere with the way you eat and talk, thus you need braces. In other cases, your teeth may be straight but you show too much gum and your bite is off to one side when biting down. Braces can correct all of these bite problems in addition to straightening the teeth.<br />
<h3>
<br />
Myth 5: Braces are too costly and I cannot afford it. </h3>
<br />
Braces take time and resources, and just like any medical procedure, they can be expensive. At Care Orthodontics, we work out flexible payment plans along with insurance coverage, flexible spending accounts and other payment options to reduce the financial burden and make it fit within your budget.</div>
<div>
<h3>
<br />
Myth 6: Braces are too painful. </h3>
<br />
Although braces can cause discomfort, they are not as painful as you might think. Many studies have been done to survey patients. People, statistically averaged, rate the discomfort of having braces at about two on a scale of one to ten. This discomfort happens mostly during the first three days after braces are put on. Don't let the fear of pain keep you away from attaining that attractive smile that you've always dreamt of!</div>
<div>
<br />
<h3>
Myth 7: Braces will make me lose weight.</h3>
</div>
<div>
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<div>
While some people see it as a good thing, others may not want to lose any weight. Most people think that, with braces on, you have to stop eating normal food and start eating soup every day. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Although we tell you to stay away from hard and sticky food while wearing braces, you can eat 95% of the foods you normally eat. For the hard and sticky foods, such as apples, corn on the cob and caramel, you have to find creative ways to eat them, such as cutting it into small pieces, chewing slowly or taking small bites.<br />
<br />
Give our office a call if you wish to schedule a complimentary consultation. For more information, please visit our website, <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/">www.CareOrthodontics.com</a>.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-63206823175344577132016-01-11T10:00:00.000-08:002016-01-11T10:13:56.436-08:00The Invisalign way to straighten teethLess than 20 years ago, the only orthodontic method to correct the alignment of teeth was through braces. Nowadays, with our advanced technology, Invisalign has become a very effective alternative and is gaining popularity. According to Align Technology, the company that makes Invisalign, there are more than three million people wearing <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/invisalign-san-jose/" target="_blank">Invisalign</a>, and that number is continuing to grow. For those of you who are not quite familiar with Invisalign, here is how it works.<br />
<br />
Invisalign use a series of trays and sometimes elastics to guide your teeth to their final position. Invisalign is a good option for those who do not want to bring attention to their teeth during orthodontic treatment. It is also a good option for busy adults who travel a lot, who are away from home for school, and who have to do a lot of public speaking. Invisalign aligners cut down risk factors such as pokey wires, loose brackets, loose bands and the discomfort from wearing braces.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Consultation with an Invisalign provider:</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjX_Wng92lgytze73CyuEU5rCgxuaaoOXLkfwqtbtQPAJy_KTWL4RnatSI0RfVu_WvbNXCXdrB7DWSSa8kPvRsuhH0EN-n4zbUANYmHL72Z0zqF8v91KKuV0dfzn0Tca8bGcGxpGhhDMhX/s1600/invisalign-logo-preferred-provider.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Dr. Phan is an Invisalign Preferred Provider in San Jose" border="0" height="65" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjX_Wng92lgytze73CyuEU5rCgxuaaoOXLkfwqtbtQPAJy_KTWL4RnatSI0RfVu_WvbNXCXdrB7DWSSa8kPvRsuhH0EN-n4zbUANYmHL72Z0zqF8v91KKuV0dfzn0Tca8bGcGxpGhhDMhX/s200/invisalign-logo-preferred-provider.png" title="Invisalign Preferred Provider" width="200" /></a>To achieve a beautiful smile through Invisalign, you need to choose a provider who has received specialized training and who has experience using Invisalign. After all, Invisalign is just a material. Just as with a bucket of good paint, you need a good painter to create a masterpiece. Similarly, with Invisalign, you need a doctor to design, monitor and make adjustments to your case in order to achieve the best results.<br />
<br />
At Care Orthodontics, Dr. Phan treats many Invisalign patients. She can give you recommendations on whether or not your case should be corrected with Invisalign or advise you on any special conditions to watch out for while going through Invisalign treatment.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Creating a customized treatment plan:</h3>
Once you get started with treatment, Dr. Phan will take X-rays and impressions to create 3D images of your teeth. Based on her specific treatment plan, she will design the movements for your teeth and work with the lab technician to get the custom trays generated. A 3D video will demonstrate how your teeth will move, the end results and an estimated treatment time.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Arrival and delivery of your trays:</h3>
Once the custom trays are created, they will be sent to Dr. Phan's office to begin treatment. Invisalign should be worn 22 hours a day, except to eat, drink, brush and floss. In general, you will replace the trays every 10 to 14 days during the treatment plan. These trays will move your teeth into the proper alignment and bite. You will come into the office every few months to pick up more trays and for Dr. Phan to monitor your treatment results.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Touch-up trays:</h3>
When you finish with your custom trays, Dr. Phan will determine if your bite needs retainers or more touch up trays. Sometimes one or a few teeth move slower than expected and may need more trays to add needed movement.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Retainers to reserve a beautiful smile:</h3>
Once you complete your smile transformation then it's time to enjoy your beautiful smile for a lifetime. At the end of treatment, Dr. Phan will order your retainers to ensure that your teeth settle into this new position. Just remember to wear them as recommended so that your teeth do not move.<br />
<br />
It seems like there is a lot of work involved in creating a beautiful smile…and there is. But at the end of the day, it's all worth it. You get to keep your smile for the rest of your life. So smile confidently, you earned it!<br />
<br />
If you cannot decide whether braces or Invisalign is right for you, give our office a call to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Nancy Phan at <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/">www.CareOrthodontics.com</a>.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-53152927757124792562015-12-08T09:30:00.000-08:002015-12-08T09:30:01.211-08:00When will my braces come off?At Care Orthodontics we're frequently asked, "When will my braces come off?" The short answer is, "When your bite looks perfect." The long answer is that it depends on many factors.<br />
<br />
The biological response rate of each individual is different. Some people's teeth move faster than others. Then there are factors like the severity of the bite as well as the compliance of the individual toward attendance, wearing appliances and taking care of the braces.<br />
Despite certain factors that you cannot control, there are things you can do to avoid setbacks and speed up your treatment time. <b>Below is a list of things that you can do to keep your treatment on track:</b><br />
<ol>
<li><b>Keep your appointments.</b> Missing appointments will delay treatment length. At each adjustment visit, treatment plans need to be renewed and monitored. Canceled or postponed appointments will delay treatment time.</li>
<li><b>Show up to appointments on time.</b> When you are late, there is often not enough time do all the procedures that were planned.</li>
<li><b>Watch what you eat and avoid hard foods.</b> While wearing braces, you need to follow the <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/braces-san-jose/braces-and-emergency-care/" target="_blank">diet restrictions</a> that your orthodontist recommends. You must avoid eating hard and sticky foods, such as gum, caramel candies ice chips, apples and carrots because they will cause the brackets to come off. Loose brackets will delay treatment completion.</li>
<li><b>Wear your rubber bands.</b> If your treatment requires you to wear rubber bands, you have to comply and wear elastics full time in order to finish your treatment on target. If you do not wear the rubber bands as recommended, your bite will not finish beautifully.</li>
<li><b>Wear your orthodontic appliances.</b> As with rubber bands, you may be required to wear appliances, such as bite plate, expander, headgear or facemask. You need to wear these appliances daily and follow the instructions that are given to achieve optimal results. </li>
<li><b>Wear your mouth guard during sports activities.</b> To protect your lips and gums, and avoid damage to your orthodontic appliances, wear a mouth guard during sports activities. By avoiding emergency visits and unexpected procedures, your treatment will progress quickly.</li>
<li><b>Brush and floss daily.</b> Whether or not you are wearing braces, you need to brush your teeth. However, while wearing braces, it is even more important to brush and floss thoroughly to avoid cavities and periodontal problems. With braces, there are more surfaces for food, plaque and bacteria to bind to. Dr. Phan recommends five minutes of brushing three times a day and after each meal to avoid cavities, gingivitis and bad breath. The rate of teeth movement drops significantly in the presence of plaque, bacteria and swollen gums. Thus, clean teeth means more efficient tooth movement.</li>
<li><b>See your general dentist two to three times a year.</b> Many times, parents mistakenly think that their child does not need to see a general dentist during braces treatment. However, the opposite is true. Orthodontists and general dentists have different sets of exams, x-rays and treatment plans. For example, your general dentist takes specific x-rays and performs
specific exams to check for cavities, deep pockets and bone and gum
attachment. If you don't have frequent cleanings, your gums will swell
up and bleed, and this effects the rate of tooth movement. Since teeth
move slower in the presence of gingivitis and gum disease, by
maintaining healthy teeth and gums, you can finish orthodontic treatment
more quickly.</li>
</ol>
If you follow these guidelines, you will be on your way to completing your treatment efficiently. You will avoid setbacks that can delay your orthodontic treatment. Meanwhile, Dr. Phan and her team will do their best to correct your teeth and bite, and finish the treatment quickly. <br />
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Our goal is to give you a radiant smile in the shortest treatment time! Visit our website at <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/">www.CareOrthodontics.com</a>.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com188 Tully Rd #113, San Jose, CA 95111, USA37.303676 -121.859309311.827781500000004 -163.1679033 62.779570500000005 -80.550715300000007tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-71146268360822249642015-11-03T09:30:00.000-08:002015-11-05T23:04:51.862-08:00When is a good age for my child to start braces?This article answers some commonly asked questions that parents have about when their child should see a dentist or seek orthodontic treatment. <br />
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<h3>
When is a good age for my child to see a dentist? </h3>
<br />
<b>Age one. </b><br />
<br />
The <a href="http://www.aapd.org/resources/frequently_asked_questions/#36" target="_blank">American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry</a> (AAPD) recommends that a child go to the dentist by age one or within six months after the first tooth erupts. At six months of age, the two lower front teeth begin to erupt. Around age one, your dentist can evaluate the condition of your child's teeth and give recommendations on daily oral hygiene and routine dental care.<br />
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<h3>
When is a good age for my child to see an orthodontist? </h3>
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<b>Age seven.</b><br />
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The <a href="https://mylifemysmile.org/mylifemysmile/brochures/Your_Childs_First_Checkup.pdf" target="_blank">American Association of Orthodontists</a> (AAO) recommends that a child see an orthodontist by age seven. At that age, the orthodontist can evaluate your child's jaw and facial growth patterns, as well as tooth development and bite. Around age seven, your orthodontist can evaluate any dental malocclusion and give recommendations on the <a href="http://careorthodontics.blogspot.com/2015/06/does-my-child-need-early-orthodontic.html">best time to start orthodontic treatment</a>. Your orthodontist can help you monitor the eruption of your child's permanent teeth and jaw development.<br />
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<h3>
When is a good age for my child to start orthodontic treatment? </h3>
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<b>It depends. </b><br />
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Orthodontic treatment varies from child to child. Some children may not need any orthodontic treatment until age 11 or 12. These children may have good jaw and facial growth and only need orthodontic treatment to correct the teeth and occlusion. Other children may need early orthodontic treatment to change the jaw features. <br />
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Genetics may dictate a non-favorable jaw relationship, and these children may need interceptive treatment, such as jaw expansion. This jaw modification during growth creates space and reduces the chances of needing jaw surgery later on. Early orthodontic treatment, when required, is usually recommended around age 7 to 10.<br />
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<h3>
A review on development of permanent teeth:</h3>
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At age six, lower permanent incisors grow in. At age seven, the first back permanent molars grow in. Sequentially other teeth such as canines and premolars erupt in both the lower and upper jaws. When permanent teeth start to grow in, this is a good time to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist. <br />
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<h3>
Why you shouldn't wait to seek orthodontic treatment: </h3>
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Most parents wait until they think their child needs braces. Then they make an appointment. However, waiting is not a good solution. You can miss out on many available treatment options that are more effective while the jaw is still growing, or before all the permanent teeth are in place. For example, without adequate space, many permanent teeth may fail to come in. The longer you wait, the denser the bone quality and the more slowly teeth erupt. <br />
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Waiting can make the face look worse. Since genetic make-up already dictates how the face will grow, you should seek an orthodontic consultation at the first signs of possible problems. Waiting will not reverse growth patterns - they will need orthodontic intervention eventually, and the longer you wait the harder it will be. In addition, older children are less compliant to follow treatment regimens than younger children. Preteens and teens are less willing to wear headgear, expanders, a facemask or rubber bands. They may want braces off quickly before treatment is fully completed. <br />
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An early orthodontic evaluation will also allow you more flexibility, not just with treatment planning, but also with financial planning.<br />
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At Care Orthodontics, Dr. Nancy Phan provides complimentary consultations and follow-up visits. At these visits, she will check your child's bite and make specific recommendations on when and what needs to be done. <br />
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In the follow-up visits, she monitors teeth that are delayed in eruption and verifies any factors that contribute to a bad occlusion. Depending on the diagnosis, she will give you recommendations on whether to pursue orthodontics now or in the future.<br />
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Dr. Nancy Phan has been providing orthodontic treatment for children and adults in San Jose and the surrounding Bay areas for over ten years. Schedule a complimentary consultation for your child by calling our office at (408) 971-2885. Check out our website for other beneficial information and educational videos at <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/">www.CareOrthodontics.com</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-802669785008286804.post-13127772683602369822015-10-02T11:30:00.000-07:002015-10-02T12:21:18.268-07:00Should I buy an electric toothbrush?Can an electric toothbrush brush your teeth better than a manual toothbrush? No. As long as you can do a good job of brushing and removing all plaque on the teeth and around your gums, then either toothbrush can help you accomplish this goal.<br />
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Can an electric toothbrush brush your teeth faster than a manual toothbrush? Absolutely.<br />
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Is it worthwhile to spend $70 on an electric toothbrush? Yes. If you can afford to buy one, it will save you time and effort. You just need to hold the angle of the toothbrush correctly and it will do the job for you.<br />
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<h4>
Comparing electric tooth brushing with manual brushing:</h4>
If the ultimate goal of brushing is to remove plaque and bacteria then either method can work as long as the end goal was accomplished – that is the removal of plaque. Research has found that electric toothbrushes are no more effective than manual toothbrushes, assuming that the people used a manual toothbrush effectively. [Source: Manual versus powered brushing] <br />
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Research has concluded that the way brushing is done and the amount of time spent is more important than the choice of brushes. [Source: Meta Analysis] <br />
<h4>
Special features of an electric toothbrush:</h4>
Did you know the first electric toothbrush was invented in 1954 in Switzerland by Dr. Philippe-Guy Woog? It was created for patients with limited motor skills and for patients in braces. [Source: Wikipedia]<br />
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Here are a few reasons why you should spend $70 on an electric toothbrush:</h4>
1. An electric toothbrush can have two types of action: vibration or rotation-oscillation. A vibrating toothbrush is similar to manual brushing, however, at a faster rate. A rotational oscillation toothbrush alternately rotates in one direction and then the opposite direction. They can both deliver around 20,000 to 50,000 strokes per minute compared to 100-300 strokes per minute with manual brushing.<br />
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2. An electric toothbrush is classified based on speed, such as power brush, sonic brush or ultrasonic brush. If it is below 1000 oscillations per minute, it is a power brush. If it is below 20,000 oscillations per minute, it is a sonic brush. If it is above 20,000 oscillations per minute, it is classified as an ultrasonic brush. An ultrasonic toothbrush emits vibration in high frequency and low amplitude to break up plaque and bio film on teeth surfaces as well as up to 5mm below gum level.<br />
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3. An electric toothbrush comes with a small head to get to hard-to-reach surfaces, such as behind the last molars and around inside surfaces of the teeth.<br />
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4. An electric toothbrush can come with a bigger handle to make it easier for young children and adults with arthritis to operate.<br />
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5. An electric toothbrush is rechargeable so it can deliver the same force after it is fully charged.<br />
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6. An electric toothbrush has a 30-second beeping feature for each quadrant and a two-minute timer for entire mouth brushing.<br />
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Don't forget to change the brush head every 3-6 months or when the brush bristles are visibly worn out. If you decide to keep using a manual toothbrush, you can do so, just make sure you spend at least 2 to 3 minutes to brush, reach all surfaces including gum-line level to adequately remove plaque, and get in between the brackets. Brush and floss daily.<br />
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Dr. Nancy Phan and the team at Care Orthodontics in San Jose, CA love to see you with a beautiful and radiant smile. Please check out our website <a href="http://www.careorthodontics.com/">www.CareOrthodontics.com</a> for more information about Invisalign or braces.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6kE1c8MapfY-y6Dte6yD8voACh0aL3fGdjcF_WFMwlCDWMjOAT4SVoke2gCf3iOQCKwgB8y3N98xamETrcS7Ts6rRPj5hKEJ2Uxu_Zmid0Mnqp4_MThfw7oVWqPFz4yHiHr53Ff72l6Us/s1600/electric+toothbrush2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="different types of electric toothbrushes" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6kE1c8MapfY-y6Dte6yD8voACh0aL3fGdjcF_WFMwlCDWMjOAT4SVoke2gCf3iOQCKwgB8y3N98xamETrcS7Ts6rRPj5hKEJ2Uxu_Zmid0Mnqp4_MThfw7oVWqPFz4yHiHr53Ff72l6Us/s400/electric+toothbrush2.jpg" title="Electric Toothbrush Set" width="341" /></a></div>
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<b>Resources:</b><o:p></o:p><br />
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1.<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_toothbrush">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_toothbrush</a><o:p></o:p><br />
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2. Robinson PG, Deacon SA, Deery C, Heanue M, Walmsley AD, Worthington HV, Glenny AM, Shaw WC (2009). <a href="http://mrw.interscience.wiley.com/cochrane/clsysrev/articles/CD002281/frame.html">"Manual versus powered tooth brushing for oral health"</a> Cochrane Database Syst Rev (1): CD002281. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_object_identifier" title="Digital object identifier">doi</a>: <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1002%2F14651858.CD002281.pub2">10.1002/14651858.CD002281.pub2</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PubMed_Identifier" title="PubMed Identifier">PMID</a> <a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15846633">15846633</a> - Meta-analysis of studies of the effectiveness of electric toothbrushes.<o:p></o:p><br />
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3. Deery C, Heanue M, Deacon S, Robinson PG, Walmsley AD, Worthington H, Shaw W, Glenny AM (March 2004). "The effectiveness of manual versus powered toothbrushes for dental health: a systematic review". J Dent 32 (3): 197- 211. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_object_identifier" title="Digital object identifier">doi</a>: <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016%2Fj.jdent.2003.11.006">10.1016/j.jdent.2003.11.006</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PubMed_Identifier" title="PubMed Identifier">PMID</a> <a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15001285">15001285</a><o:p></o:p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00871715276646378666noreply@blogger.com088 Tully Rd #113, San Jose, CA 95111, USA37.3036818 -121.8588548000000211.8277763 -163.16744880000002 62.7795873 -80.550260800000018