Now Is the Time To Set Orthodontic Goals for an Aligned Smile!

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It’s that time of year again when we reflect on the past year and set goals to enhance ourselves mentally and physically. For many, this involves improving their smile! While planning your New Year’s resolutions for this year, be sure to include enhancing your smile on your list! And what better way to enhance your smile than by getting orthodontic treatment?

A Great Smile Starts With Good Oral Health

You already know that maintaining healthy teeth involves brushing twice a day and flossing daily. You want to prevent dental plaque from hardening into tartar, which your dental hygienist would then need to remove. But did you know that straight teeth are easier to properly clean? Having crooked or overlapping teeth makes oral hygiene more challenging and leaves teeth vulnerable to cavities and gum disease.

Why Orthodontic Goals?

While setting new goals for 2022, consider including your smile on the list for improvement with orthodontics! Brushing and flossing are more effective with straight and aligned teeth. This not only saves you from unnecessary tooth decay and gum issues but also prevents difficulties with chewing and eating. Being able to show off a straight smile boosts your self-confidence in various settings, whether at school, work, social gatherings, or while dating! An aligned smile can leave you beaming and laughing more openly because you are happy with your smile.

Modern Orthodontic Options

Today’s orthodontic treatments offer sleeker, more comfortable alternatives to traditional metal braces. Options include smaller, smoother braces or clear acrylic aligners that are removable and aesthetically pleasing. Modern braces are lighter and more comfortable, making them more effective at moving teeth. This also means shorter treatment times and fewer visits to the orthodontist for adjustments. You can still choose traditional metal braces if you prefer, or opt for ceramic braces or colorful brackets. Kids and teens often enjoy colorful braces, while adults often prefer clear aligners.

Oral Hygiene While in Orthodontic Treatment

Regardless of your choice of orthodontic treatment, it’s essential to brush and floss your teeth daily. Cleaning your teeth with clear aligners is simple and helps maintain dental health, but it’s also important to keep your aligner trays clean from bacteria, food particles, and dried saliva. Staying hydrated throughout the day by drinking enough water helps flush out harmful bacteria and food particles that cause tooth decay. Therefore, it’s wise to avoid alcohol during orthodontic treatment to protect your tooth enamel and prevent bacterial acids. This reduces the risk of cavities, gum disease, or other oral health issues that could affect your treatment.

While wearing clear aligners, it’s best to stick to drinking only water to prevent staining. Hot drinks like chocolate, tea, or coffee can also warp your aligners, so avoid them! With braces, it’s important to avoid soda due to its high sugar and acid content, which speed up tooth decay. Even sports drinks and fruit juices contain high amounts of sugar that can harm teeth.

Initial Complimentary Consultation

Whichever orthodontic treatment you decide on, our orthodontic team is eager to assist you this year in achieving the straight, beautiful smile you desire! Feel free to contact us to schedule your complimentary initial orthodontic evaluation. We are excited to help you achieve your New Year’s goal of a stunning smile!