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Besides Braces, What is “Orthodontics”?

Smile Studio Orthodontics

Besides Braces, What is

Dr. Leroy Venn and the team at Smile Studio Orthodontics near Stockbridge, GA offer their patients a variety of orthodontic treatment approaches, including braces, that help ensure the best possible treatment outcomes.

When someone mentions orthodontics or an orthodontist, people’s minds often race to images of a mouth full of traditional metal braces. But, orthodontists today can offer their patients more than just traditional braces. Advances in technology, specifically in the field of the alignment of teeth or the repositioning of the jaws, have given orthodontists many treatment options and approaches to fix these common problems.

Yes, Orthodontics Includes Braces

One of the main treatment approaches orthodontists use to align and straighten teeth are traditional metal braces. Traditional braces are comprised of brackets, wires, and bands that straighten your teeth and which are continually tightened over a prescribed amount of time. Dr. Leroy Venn also offer patients near Stockbridge, GA treatment with light-colored ceramic braces (for patients who do not want their braces to be noticeable) and even fun clear-colored bands for his youngest patients. Braces can also be indicated for patients with overbites, underbites, or overcrowded or gapped teeth. Braces are used by many patients to achieve a perfect-picture smile.

Space Maintainers

When baby teeth are lost earlier than normal, space fillers are used so that the neighboring teeth do not grow into the space meant for the adult tooth to grow into. These space maintainers are used to keep the gap open until more childhood teeth fall out and the adult teeth begin to grow in. Fixed space maintainers work with a band that is attached to one tooth and a wire that is extended across the gap to the tooth on the other side to stretch and keep the gap open.

Aligners

Like braces, aligners help to straighten and align teeth, and they are indicated in treating common problems like:

  • underbites
  • overbites
  • open bites
  • cross bites
  • crowded teeth

Aligners like Invisalign are clear plastic trays that fit around your teeth and apply consistent pressure to straighten your teeth and contribute to your perfect smile.

Jaw Repositioning Appliances

Jaw repositioning appliances, sometimes called splints, are used to adjust either the upper or the lower jaw so that the whole jaw structure performs more naturally. Most often, this appliance is prescribed for patients with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).

Lip and Cheek Bumpers

Sometimes, patient’s lips and cheeks can put pressure on their teeth and cause pain or discomfort. Dr. Leroy Venn recommends lip and cheek bumpers for these patients to help keep the lips and cheeks away from the teeth and thus reduce or eliminate the pressure, pain, or discomfort that the patient is experiencing. 

Palatal Expander

A palatal expander is used to widen the curve of the upper jaw. It is a plastic tray which fits on the roof of the mouth and helps to better align the bones and joints in the mouth.

Removable Retainers

After orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign, using a retainer to keep the teeth from shifting back to their original positions is often indicated. Retainers are a plate that is placed on the roof of the mouth; a wire runs across the outside of the front teeth. Retainers may also be constructed as a plastic aligner. More often than not, these aligners are worn during the night.

Headgear

Headgear, usually, is a strap placed around the back of the head which is attached to a metal wire in the front of the mouth. Orthodontists prescribe headgear for patients who need to slow the growth of their jaw and to make sure that the patient’s teeth are in the right place and fit nicely within the jaw.

The pros at Smile Studio Orthodontics wants to make sure you receive the perfect orthodontic treatment with braces near Stockbridge, GA, and finding the most appropriate plan of orthodontic treatment is the first step. Orthodontists today offer a lot more treatment options than just traditional metal braces. The professional team at Smile Studio Orthodontics prescribe treatment plans for a variety of oral health care-related issues, including the alignment of teeth and the repositioning the jaw. For more information, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Leroy Venn and Smile Studio Orthodontics, please call: 770-892-3833

Make Your Invisalign Treatment Quick and Easy 

Invisalign® (Clear Braces) in Atlanta & Marietta, GA

Invisalign patients of Dr. Leroy Venn enjoy a more comfortable and convenient orthodontic treatment near Hiram, GA. The Invisalign treatment system of plastic aligners are effective at providing the wearer with a straighter smile while being much less noticeable in the mouth. Invisalign offers benefits that traditional braces can’t offer; they are removable by the wearer. This is a critical reason why many Smile Studio Orthodontics patients have chosen Invisalign for themselves.

Although Invisalign treatment is one of the most advanced orthodontic treatments available today, patients are reminded that their teeth and the aligners need regular attention during treatment. To get the best results from treatment with Invisalign, Dr. Leroy Venn recommends patients:

  • Keep Invisalign in a safe place: Invisalign aligners are compact and clear, and some patients find them easy to misplace. Always keep the Invisalign clear aligner trays in a case or safely tucked in a plastic bag within your pocket, purse, or bag. Do not wrap them in a napkin when taking them out to eat. Many patients end up accidentally tossing the napkin out in the trash! If you have pets at home, make sure too that your aligners are always high up and out of reach of probing paws. The plastic material may be appealing to them as a chew toy. 
  • Remove Invisalign to eat and drink: One of the great benefits of Invisalign is that they are removable. Dr. Leroy Venn says to take advantage of this! Always take your Invisalign trays out when you’re eating or drinking. Leaving them in may lead to staining of the trays or other damage, such as distortion of shape due to hot food or drinks. Plus, removing them makes eating much easier.
  • Clean your Invisalign properly and thoroughly: To keep your Invisalign working well for your smile and for your oral health, be sure that you are always cleaning them correctly and completely. Invisalign trays should be cleaned at least twice a day, preferably after meals. Dr. Leroy Venn recommends that patients use a small toothbrush to softly brush the insides of the aligners with just a tiny drop of toothpaste. Some patients use denture cleaner as a soak for their Invisalign aligners. (Simply fill a cup with warm water, put the tablet in, and let the aligners soak.) Smile Studio Orthodontics says both methods will keep your Invisalign looking clean, feeling fresh, and working effectively.
  • Wear Invisalign as directed: The most important aspect of Invisalign treatment is to use the system properly. Always follow the exact instructions from Smile Studio Orthodontics. Likely, this means never leaving the Invisalign trays out of your mouth for extended periods of time, and always being aware of updating the set of trays when the 2-3 week time period has elapsed. Patients should remember that the longer the Invisalign clear aligner trays are out of a patient’s mouth, they are not working to correct their orthodontic issue. This will extend the treatment time for the wearer.

Invisalign treatment is designed to be comfortable and convenient, and by following some easy instructions, patients can ensure their successful treatment outcome. If you have any questions about the Invisalign clear aligner system and how to care for it, contact Dr. Leroy Venn and the team at Smile Studio Orthodontics near Hiram, GA at: 770-892-3833

How Old Is Too Old for Treatment with Braces?

Braces (Traditional Braces) in Atlanta & Marietta, GA

Dr. Leroy Venn and the team at Smile Studio Orthodontics near Hiram, GA don’t want prospective orthodontic patients to think that they are “too old” for treatment with braces. Starting from the moment you lose your last baby tooth and even after all of your adult teeth have grown in, you may be a candidate for braces. Braces can help improve your smile no matter what your age may be. Dr. Leroy Venn will be able to assess your orthodontic needs and determine the best orthodontic treatment plan for you.

Why do I need treatment with braces?

A healthy mouth and teeth contribute to your overall well-being. Braces are used to help correct or restore the alignment of your teeth, fix crooked or crowded teeth, overbites or underbites, or an incorrect jaw position. Dr. Leroy Venn knows that patients with orthodontic problems at any age can benefit from orthodontic treatment. 

How long will I need braces?

Your treatment with braces last anywhere from 18 to 30 months, in order for your teeth and jaw to properly align. Patients with more extreme malocclusions may need to have their braces on longer. The goal, however, is for you to have the straight teeth and perfect smile you’ve been working so hard toward. 

How do I clean my braces?

Adjusting to life with braces includes learning how to properly clean your teeth now that you have braces.

  • Brushing: Brush carefully with your manual toothbrush at least twice a day.
  • Flossing: Clean between the teeth and along the gums. Take extra care when working around the archwire to avoid damaging it.
  • Interproximal Brush: Clean the archwire of your braces and all around your teeth. Use this every time you brush your teeth to get rid of any food substances stuck within your braces.

How will I look with braces?

Dr. Leroy Venn has given many adults treatment with braces, and assures you that they are completely normal, as more people than you’d think have braces today. When you’re wearing braces, all you should think about is how amazing it will feel to have a new straight and healthy smile. All of your hard work toward keeping your braces nice and clean will pay off in the end, and you will have that bright healthy-looking smile you’ve always wanted.

Don’t let your age or insecurities about your appearance with braces get in the way of fixing your teeth. Contact us today and make an appointment to see Dr. Leroy Venn and the team at Smile Studio Orthodontics near Hiram, GA. Call us at: 770-892-3833

Dentist or Orthodontist? What’s the Difference?

Orthodontics in Atlanta & Marietta, GA

Dr. Leroy Venn of Smile Studio Orthodontics has some tips to help patients near Hiram, GA to distinguish between a dentist and an orthodontist. The difference between an orthodontist and a dentist may be indistinguishable to some people. Something that many folks don’t know is that all orthodontists can be dentists, but not all dentists can be orthodontists. They are both certified oral health care professionals, both treat and maintain the health of your teeth and gums, and both have the education and experience to be called doctors. In these areas, they are pretty comparable. However, there are more differences than similarities.

What’s the difference?

All orthodontists require further schooling and more experience in their specialty (orthodontics) beyond their dental school training. A similar example would be if a medical doctor elects to take special training to become a surgeon. So, if a dentist has a patient with a dental malocclusion, they will refer them to an orthodontist for treatment.

What services do they provide? 

Dentists typically deal with problems like:

  • Gum Disease
  • Tooth Decay
  • Root Canals
  • Crowns
  • Bridges
  • Veneers
  • Tooth Whitening

An orthodontist is a dentist that specializes in the alignment of your teeth, and their services typically are employed for common problems like:

  • Underbite
  • Overbite
  • Crowded teeth
  • Misaligned teeth

Traditional braces, Invisalign clear aligners, and other corrective treatments are methods an orthodontist might use to treat these issues.

What Kind of Care Do You Need: Dentist or Orthodontist? 

Orthodontists help with crooked teeth, underbites and overbites, crossbites, spaces between teeth, overcrowded teeth, and the effective treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. An orthodontist should be consulted for other jaw issues as well. While your dentist may be qualified to offer their patients fillings, TMJ treatments, and other orthodontic care, putting your smile in the hands of a qualified professional orthodontist can help a patient to experience better treatment outcomes. 

Any Questions?

Dr. Leroy Venn and the team at Smile Studio Orthodontics can help answer any questions you might have about orthodontics near Hiram, GA. If you still have questions about the differences between dentistry and orthodontics, or to schedule an appointment, call: 770-892-3833

Six Of The Best Foods to Eat During Your Treatment with Braces 

(and eight you shouldn’t eat)

Braces (Traditional Braces) in Atlanta & Marietta, GA

Many orthodontics patients going through treatment with braces are unsure of what foods are restricted in their diets. Many also believe the list of foods to avoid is longer than it actually is. Dr. Leroy Venn of Smile Studio Orthodontics shares some ideas about what foods are safely enjoyed and which foods are best to avoid eating while wearing braces or during orthodontic treatment near Dallas, GA.

It is true that during your treatment with braces there are limitations on what you can eat. But the time (and money) invested with braces is well worth coping with these limitations. The payoff is a perfectly straight, healthy, and attractive smile.

What foods can be enjoyed during your treatment with braces?

There are many delicious food options that can be eaten while wearing braces including:

  • Bananas
  • Yogurt
  • Soup
  • Cheese
  • Pasta
  • Mashed Potatoes

Dr. Leroy Venn wants to make sure that every patient, child or adult, with braces eats healthy food and gets enough daily nutrients. Here are some meal ideas that are safe for patients who are wearing braces. Perhaps there is a family favorite among some of these delicious meal options:

  • Lasagna. Lasagna is a great dinner because it provides many food groups in one dish, is tasty, and is soft on your braces.
  • Grilled Chicken and Vegetables. While meat from a bone can cause damage to your braces, deboned meats like chicken breast can be eaten. Chicken pairs nicely with vegetables like broccoli.
  • Chicken Noodle Soup. Chicken noodle soup gives you many necessary nutrients because of the variety of ingredients that can be added. Soup is also a filling and tasty meal and will not damage your braces.

What foods should be avoided?

During treatment with braces, the three types of food that should be avoided are hard, sticky, and chewy foods. These types of food should be avoided because they can get stuck in your braces easily and be difficult and sometimes painful to get out. Some food categories that should be avoided are:

  • Gum
  • Popcorn
  • Ice
  • Caramel
  • Pretzels
  • Raw vegetables
  • Steak
  • Hard candies

Some of these foods do not have to be completely avoided, however. Foods like vegetables, steak, and pretzels can be broken or cut up into smaller pieces and then eaten safely.

There are many foods which are nutritious, delicious, and are friendly to your braces. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Leroy Venn and Smile Studio Orthodontics near Dallas, GA, or for more information, please call: 770-892-3833

Smile Studio Orthodontics