As a parent, you want the best for your kids. Why should oral care be an exception? Trust Advance Orthodontics in Houston with the best orthodontic care for your children. We offer traditional braces, Invisalign and more.
Why Should You Trust Advance Orthodontics?
At Advance Orthodontics, we carry the latest technology to give you the best smile you can have! Remember, an orthodontist is different than your usual dentist and here are a couple of reasons to trust your local orthodontist.
Do you want to schedule a consultation today with Dr. Karotkin? Contact us now!
The Power of a Smile Should Never Be Underestimated
Did you know that in your toothy, uninhibited smile, you hold the power to make incredibly dramatic and positive changes in your life? This one simple gesture can help you in so many ways, it would take more than two hands to list them all. From subtle differences to huge, life-altering consequences, your smile could help you land the future you’ve been dreaming of!
Non-tangible Benefits of Smiling
Even if you can’t physically touch it, the difference in the confidence you’ll experience just as a result of routinely flashing your pearly whites – up to an 80% boost! – might come as a real shocker. Notice the interactions you’ll begin sharing with people, even strangers, when you begin smiling outwardly, intentionally. A smile makes you magnetic.
Boost Your Career
It has been proven in countless studies that the friendly act of smiling can improve your chances of being offered the job. By grinning, you show employers that you are friendly and approachable, and likely open to new suggestions. They will be more inclined to see you as a great fit and asset to their company.
Attract a Potential Life Partner
Just as a great smile can make you more popular around the office, it can also help in your search for a mate. By offering up an open and unassuming smile, you give off the vibe that you are confident yet fun and easy-going, and your chances of being approached by new prospects increase by almost ten-fold. Self-confidence and happiness in another person are two universally attractive qualities in a mate.
Orthodontics, Another Reason to Flash Your Smile
We understand that not everyone is blessed with a beautiful smile from birth, but at Advance Orthodontics we help mold people’s smiles so they can realize their full potential. We provide traditional braces, Invisalign and more. Having the smile you’ve always wanted is only a consultation away!
Sometimes bundled packages can be a good thing. Sadly, when they involve your teeth, they can be terribly misleading and end up costing you more. It’s hard to pass up a good two-for-one on anything, especially expensive procedures. Who wouldn’t want a free face lift with the purchase of a tummy tuck? Let the buyer beware, though, not all who practice are properly trained.
Would it be appropriate for a physician to perform a kidney transplant? The answer is quite simple. Not unless the practitioner has been properly trained, and certified as a surgeon. Obviously, when it comes to medical practice, consumers understand the need to seek certified specialists.
Your Mouth is Worth the Money
If a dental office offers options to move your teeth (like Invisalign or braces), are they actually properly trained to provide those treatments?
Going to the dentist is critical to oral health. Getting a check-up, having teeth cleaned and the occasional cavity filled are necessary to a healthy mouth. However, many dental practices offer services that should actually be performed by specialists.
Orthodontists specialize in the treatment of malocclusion (improper bite), growth and development of the jaws, and smile cosmetics. They often use braces or Invisalign to straighten teeth and improve the bite. Especially with Invisalign, however, the line in the consumer’s eye between a dentist and an orthodontist can easily become blurred.
Now general dentists’ offices can offer the straightening option as part of a package deal to the consumer while they have them in the office. Combining braces with a teeth cleaning at a seemingly discounted price can be an alluring prospect to someone who is already looking to straighten their smile. The customer can have a one-stop experience without the hassle of setting up another appointment with a specialist in a different office.
When a dentist offers you teeth straightening options, make sure that he or she is a certified orthodontic specialist. Specialists like orthodontists, oral surgeons, and endodontists go to an additional full-time residency program after dental school for 2-4 years to become specialists. This additional training qualifies them to provide specialty services. General dentists receive their “specialty training” mostly at weekend courses… it’s not the same!
Don’t skimp on a specialist. When it comes time to have your teeth moved, see a CERTIFIED ORTHODONTIC SPECIALIST. Your general dentist is NOT an orthodontist!
Don’t let braces limit your snack ideas! Here are the best snacks you can pack for your kids with braces.
There are many benefits that children can reap from snacking. Not only are snacks a great way to curb hunger between meals, but healthy snacks can provide children with necessary nutrients. Lots of snacks aren’t the best for kids with braces. Fortunately, Advance Orthodontics has put together a couple of snacks your children are sure to enjoy in their lunch box!
1. Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits like oranges, tangerines and lemons are great for children who have braces. They’re filled with Vitamin C and calcium. Citrus fruits are also soft and easy to chew, and not likely to get stuck between braces.
2. String Cheese
String cheese is filled with calcium that helps strength teeth. It is important to not that children who have braces are more prone to tooth decay. Getting the proper amounts of calcium can reduce risk and well, who doesn’t love cheese! Your kids will also have fun peeling string cheese.
3. Yogurt
Yogurt is another calcium-rich snack. It is also high in protein and helps supply the body with energy. Protein also rebuilds damaged muscles and tissues. For an even healthier choice, go for greek yogurt. Consider greek yogurt for more protein and less sugar than regular yogurt! Make it more fun by adding a couple pieces of soft fruit.
4. Walnuts
Most nuts are off-limits to children who have braces because they are hard to chew. However, walnuts are an exception. They are soft enough for children to chew without damaging their braces. Walnuts are also filled with protein and healthy fats. Try adding them to a yogurt snack too!
5. Bananas
One of the reasons that bananas are a great snack for children with braces is because they are soft. Bananas are also rich in nutrients, such as fiber and potassium. Furthermore, because bananas are a source of natural sugar, they’re a great snack choice for children who like sweets.
6. Whole Wheat Crackers
Does your child prefer salty snacks? If they do, best to stay away from popcorn, hard pretzels and potato chips. Those types of snacks are not a good choice for braces. Consider whole wheat crackers. They are very high in fiber and go great with some cheese.
7. Grapes
Grapes are among the healthiest snacks that one can eat. They are also a good choice for children with braces. Grapes have antioxidants that help support a healthy immune system.
8. Applesauce
Applesauce is another great selection for children who have a sweet tooth. Most of the health benefits of eating apples are the same with applesauce. Like apples, applesauce has Vitamin A, Vitamin C and fiber. Keep in mind that store-bought applesauce is typically high in sugar. Cut some of that sugar by making your own. Try putting unpeeled sliced apples in a food processor. Apple chunks should be cooked long enough to soften them. You can add a little bit of cinnamon and lemon juice to your applesauce for a little more flavor.
At Advance Orthodontics, healthy teeth and quality braces are priority. Pack these healthy, delicious snacks safe for braces for your children or you can even have them yourself! If you have any more questions on braces, check out our Houston Braces page. If you are interested in braces for yourself or your children, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Karotkin and get started today!
Braces and other devices such as Invisalign® have been used to fix crooked teeth. While these options are extremely effective in straightening teeth and fixing bites, sometimes the patient wants to get their result quicker.
Breakthrough
Fortunately for people with crooked teeth, a breakthrough in orthodontics has been invented. It is called AcceleDent®. This device has the ability to dramatically shorten the length of time it takes to straighten teeth. As you might imagine, this revolutionary technology has caused a great deal of excitement in the orthodontics community.
What is AcceleDent®?
AcceleDent® is a mouthpiece that vibrates in a specific way that increases the rate of tooth movement. It is used for 20 minutes per day, whether the patient is wearing traditional braces, clear braces, or Invisalign®. Not only does this device speed up the orthodontic treatment process, but it also reduces the soreness that is common with tooth movement.
How does it work?
AcceleDent® produces gentle vibrations that increase the rate of movement of teeth into their proper positions. It is a hands-free device that is simple for anybody to use. It uses cyclical pulses to increase the rate of bone metabolism in the areas surrounding the roots of the teeth. The faster the bone around the roots is able to change, the faster the teeth can move. The patient bites into the device and then is free to go about his or her daily activities for the 20 minutes it takes to use the AcceleDent® device.
Along with its ability to straighten teeth faster, AcceleDent® makes the teeth straightening process much more bearable for people. Patented “SoftPulse Technology” micropulses produce eight times less force than a standard electric toothbrush. These pulses actually decrease the soreness and discomfort experienced after an orthodontic “adjustment.”
Safe to use
AcceleDent® has been approved by the FDA, so patients can be sure that the technology is safe to use. Since it was first introduced in 2009, thousands of patients around the world have used AcceleDent®. It is only available by prescription from your dental professional (e.g. orthodontist!).
Additional information
So how much does AcceleDent® really reduce the time it takes to straighten someone’s teeth? Studies have shown that AcceleDent® can reduce a person’s time in treatment by as much as 30%. The device comes with a charging port, an activator and a shell designed to keep it sanitary and safe when you carry it with you.
Tonight, Local 2 is running a feature on AcceleDent. It’s a new technology that shortens the duration of treatment. It is being hailed as one of the greatest technological advancements in the field in the last 15 years.
AcceleDent uses small vibrations called micropulses. These vibrations stimulate tooth movement and bone remodeling. This same treatment has been used for years to help heal broken bones. The technology has now been adapted to orthodontics. It works with many types of treatment — braces, Invisalign, etc.
Each patient is given an AcceleDent device to take home. The device’s mouth piece is custom fit to each client to provide maximum comfort and results. By using AcceleDent for about 20 minutes each day, the patient speeds up their journey to a straighter smile.
Cartoon characters come in all shapes and sizes. Some characters are tall and others are short. Some have dark hair while others have blond hair or red hair. These physical characteristics are the traits that differentiate cartoon characters from each other. Some characters even have braces. Check out these five well-known cartoon characters that sport braces on their teeth:
Tootie from Fairly Oddparents: Fairly Oddparents is a show that’s about Timmy Turner, a boy who gets unlimited wishes from his fairy godparents Cosmo and Wanda. Timmy was granted fairy godparents because he was being tortured by his evil babysitter, Vicki. Tootie is Vicki’s younger sister who has an enormous crush on Timmy. Tootie, who wears braces, is a little crazy and drives Timmy nuts throughout the show. But, Tootie has a very good heart and always defends Timmy when she has a chance.
Sharon Spitz: Sharon Spitz is the main character on Braceface. She has beautiful blond hair and green eyes. Sharon is a typical teen girl who deals with normal teen things like puberty, liking boys and friendship troubles. Sometimes, she messes up along the way, but, like any other teenage girl, she always learns a lesson from her mistakes. And, with help from her friends, she learns that standing up for yourself is very important.
Chuckie Finster: Chuckie Finster used to be the cute red-haired baby on Rugrats, but he grew up and is now on the show All Grown Up. Chuckie has wild red hair that’s kinky, purple glasses and braces. He is Tommy’s best friend and a well-known scaredy-cat. He has a stepsister called Kimmie who is a lot braver than he is. In the show All Grown Up, Chuckie is portrayed as an uptight dork who is way too protective of his sister and tries to prove his bravery to others. But he always stands up for his friends when it’s needed.
Jimmy: Sweet and insecure, Jimmy is the little boy who wears a large retainer on the TV show Ed, Edd and Eddy after one of the characters accidently hits him in the face with a bowling pin. He is a little clumsy and innocent, but his headstrong friend, Sarah, is always there to protect him from bullies. Jimmy is usually a target of one of Ed, Eddy and Eddy’s schemes. Sometimes, though, Jimmy can create complex schemes that end up working even if he’s the weakest kid in the cul-de-sac. Secretly, Jimmy has an enormous crush on Sarah, but he keeps his feelings to himself.
Also check out these real life celebrities with crooked teeth. Some celebs, like the cartoons, used braces to correct their smiles, but some like Katherine Heigl decided Invisalign was a better fit for her.
For many individuals, braces are the way to go in order to achieve beautiful, straight, and sparkling teeth. There are even many options when it comes to braces, from traditional ones to clear ones, to fit the needs of every individual. Caring for your braces is absolutely necessary while under orthodontic treatment, which includes brushing thoroughly and flossing every day. In addition, there are many habits that should be avoided completely while you have braces in order to protect your teeth and the braces themselves. Failure to care for your teeth while wearing braces may result in cavities, gum disease, etc. In this article, we will discuss five habits you should nix while wearing braces.
Nix Sticky Foods
Perhaps the very most important habit to avoid when you have braces is eating sticky foods. These can wreak havoc in many ways, from sticking all throughout your braces to actually bending wires or even breaking off a bracket. This will definitely warrant an extra trip to the orthodontist for some damage control. In addition, sugars and bits of food can get trapped in the brackets and increase your chance of cavities. Items in the “sticky” category that you should definitely avoid include gum, taffy, caramel, and many other such items.
Nix Hard Foods and Objects
If you have a habit of opening things with your teeth or biting your nails, it is best to stop if you have braces. Actually, even if you don’t have braces, these are damaging habits for your teeth. Chewing on pencils and pens is another habit to avoid. Hard foods such as raw carrots, hard candy, and peanut brittle should be avoided while you have braces. Biting hard objects and foods can break or bend parts of your braces.
Careful with Darkly Colored Beverages
Darkly colored drinks, such as red wine, coffee, cola, and black tea tend to stain the teeth significantly, especially around the brackets. If you have braces with traditional rubber ligatures, these beverages can also stain the ligatures. If you must consume these beverages, it is best to rinse with water or mouthwash immediately afterwards.
Go Light on Soda and Juice
Sodas and fruit juices have acidic properties and lots of sugar, both of which are known to be harmful to the teeth. This is cause for extra concern for those wearing braces because the braces make it more difficult to clean the teeth thoroughly, making the patient more prone to cavities. Again, if you must consume these beverages, it is best to rinse with water or mouthwash immediately afterwards.
Nix Smoking
Smoking, like red wine, can discolor the teeth tremendously, especially in people who have braces. It stains the teeth a yellowish-brown color that can be difficult to get rid of. Smoking can also result in a gum disease called gingivitis. These things are compounded in people who have braces simply because the damaging particles can get trapped more easily and sit on the teeth for long enough to do some serious discoloring.
If you absolutely can’t live with out the sticky candy and popcorn, you may want to check out Invisalign as an option to getting your perfect smile.
Celebrities today must project an air of perfection. There are tons of celebrities with horrible teeth that are crooked, gapped, etc. and even more who have had their smiles transformed by orthodontics and dentistry and made more beautiful.
1. Madonna
Madonna has had a gap between her two front teeth forever, but it would seem that in the past few years that space had gotten a little smaller. It’s likely that she had some dental work to reduce the size of the space since such imperfections do tend to grow over the years instead of shrink.
2. Keith Urban
As one of Australia’s most famous exports, singer Keith Urban sang for years with a large gap between his two front teeth. After he underwent a style makeover, however, he arrived on the scene without that trademark gap.
3. Katherine Heigl
As an actress known for a beautiful smile, she surprised fans when she admitted to having some dental work. She had a tooth that twisted oddly in her mouth and decided to get it fixed by using Invisalign several years ago so her teeth would be absolutely perfect just in time for her wedding day.
4. Zac Efron
Like many young actors today, Zac Efron had a giant gap in his teeth and decided to do something about it during the early years of his career before he had too many films under his belt.
5. Jewel
A gorgeous voice has always been joined by a truly terrifying set of teeth in Jewel’s mouth. When she decided to take an acting role as the late June Carter, she actually wore prosthetic teeth and didn’t get real dental work done to have them straightened.
6. Anna Paquin
Although many stars do tend to get their teeth issues repaired, Anna Paquin doesn’t seem to be interested in doing anything to her teeth except allow the gap between the two teeth in the front of her mouth to get bigger. The gap was quite small when she was a child, but it’s grown significantly in recent years.
7. Keira Knightly
Despite having quite an unruly mouth full of crooked teeth, the acting awards and accolades for Keira Knightly have rolled in for quite some time, and although she’s occasionally tried to hide her crooked teeth, her giant smile has made that rather difficult.
8. Matthew Lewis
As a star with a set of what could probably be considered the most crooked teeth in Hollywood, actor Matthew Lewis, of “Harry Potter” fame, got a dramatic makeover for his teeth and went from a set of truly terrible teeth to a very nice and very straight set.
9. Gwen Stefani
Most stars try to hide when they have some work done on their teeth and then seem to appear suddenly after a short absence from the limelight with a great set of teeth. Gwen Stefani didn’t follow that trend, however, and actually showed off her braces for photographs in the early days of No Doubt’s popularity.
10. 50 Cent
Popular rapper 50 Cent sang and acted for years with a pair of front teeth that were a little larger than the rest of his teeth, but after a fellow rapper made fun of him, he decided to get part of the problem fixed. Although he kept the gap in his teeth, the rapper did have their size modified to match the rest of his mouth.
Orthodontic braces are used for cosmetic and practical reasons to correct the placement of teeth that are misaligned, crooked or unevenly spaced. Unfortunately, many people avoid them due to the notorious visibility of braces and the discomfort associated with treatment. Increasingly, however, these disadvantages are being cast aside by people who opt for clear braces rather than the unsightly metal ones. However, both types of braces have distinct upsides and downsides. Below is more information about the differences between these options.
Basic Differences
In both types of braces, metal wires are used to apply pressure to teeth, causing them to shift over time. These wires are attached to teeth by brackets, but the bracket is different in clear braces versus ones made of metal. Metal brackets are made of stainless steel. While newer, bonded metal brackets are less visible than the old “banded” ones, they are still much more conspicuous than the clear brackets available today. Clear braces can be made of plastic or ceramic. Designed to match the color of teeth, clear braces are not very obvious, but some types can be vulnerable to staining through consumption of coffee, wine and other heavily pigmented foods and drinks.
Cosmetic Value of Each Type
To the casual observer, clear braces blend into the teeth, making them a top choice for people who are mainly concerned about cosmetic qualities of their braces. With metal braces, patients can choose from among different colored “elastomeric ligatures,” which are the tiny rubber bands that hold the arch wires into the braces.
Cost Considerations
Metal braces are less expensive due to the high cost of fabrication associated with clear braces.
Durability Compared
In general metal braces are slightly more durable than their ceramic counterparts and far more durable than plastic ones. Each patient must weigh the advantages and disadvantages of metal and clear braces to decide which is best for his or her teeth. Many patients will have the option to choose between the two types with help from their orthodontist. With information about lifestyle and expectations from treatment as well as an orthodontic exam, the orthodontist will be able to explain how the characteristics of each type of braces can serve the patient best.