Dr. King Answers: How Often Should Patients With Braces Change Toothbrushes?

Q: Both of our kids have braces. How often should they change toothbrushes?

Dr. King recommends that patients with braces
change toothbrushes every one to two months.

A: Most dentists recommend changing to a new toothbrush every three months. Studies have proven that, after about three months of normal usage, toothbrushes are much less effective at removing plaque.

The key point is under "normal" usage. With braces, toothbrushes break down much faster from the added friction of orthodontic brackets and wires. Germs, such as fungus and bacteria, can hide in the worn-out toothbrush bristles. Also, worn and bent bristles are much less effective at keeping braces and teeth clean.

I personally recommend a new toothbrush every one to two months for my braces patients. It really does make a difference!

Keep smiling, and see you soon for a free consultation.

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SOURCES: American Dental Association, Wikimedia Commons [image]

Dr. King Answers: What Is the Difference Between Rubber Bands and Rubber Chains on Orthodontic Brackets?

Q: What is the difference between the rubber bands and the rubber chains that are on orthodontic brackets?

Orthodontic rubber chains, or connected chains, are
placed among teeth on the same arch. This results
in closure of gaps between a patient's teeth.

A: Great question! Rubber bands are also known as elastics and are typically worn from the upper braces to the lower braces. There are many different ways of putting them on the braces, so I figure out which particular connection points will most benefit a patient. Elastics are used to correct the occlusion, or bite, by creating an overall movement.

Rubber chains, or connected chains, are placed among teeth on the same arch. So, for example, several or all of the upper teeth may be connected together with rubber chains.  This results in closure of gaps between teeth.

Often, rubber bands and rubber chains are used simultaneously in an effort to create a functional and beautiful smile!

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SOURCE: Wikipedia [image]

Dr. King Answers: I’m an Adult. Do I Need Orthodontic Treatment...AGAIN?

Q: I had braces as a teen. Now, as an adult, I’ve had some relapse, giving me crooked teeth again. How common is this, and can you help?

When left untreated, overly crowded teeth
can get worse over time, and result in
severely crowded teeth. This crowding can
lead to plaque accumulation, tooth decay
and an increased chance of gum disease. 

A: This situation is not entirely uncommon. Many teen patients from the 1980s did not receive bonded retainers, as the technology was not widely accepted or developed. As a consequence, without lifetime removable retainer wear, shifting and relapse were inevitable for many patients.

The solution is often a simple course of braces or Invisalign® to correct the re-crowded areas. Sometimes, treatment can be as brief as 6 months. And, yes, at the end, I almost always insist on a bonded retainer :-)

Keep smiling, and see you soon.

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SOURCE: Invisalign®

Dr. King Answers: Is Invisalign® OK for Young Teenagers, Too?

Q: Can my younger teenager achieve straight teeth with the clear aligners -- i.e., Invisalign® -- rather than braces? Or, is Invisalign® a teeth-straightening process just for adults?

Invisalign® can be a successful orthodontic
treatment alternative for adults and teens, as
long as patients responsibly comply during
the entire treatment process. 

A: Teenagers can often be excellent candidates for Invisalign®!

First and foremost, a teenager considering Invisalign® instead of braces needs to have a high level of dedication. Invisalign® clear trays need to be worn 22 hours per day to be effective. If a young person is not responsible and diligent with aligner wear, the entire process fails, and they end up in braces.

Also, with the many activities teenagers participate in -- such as sports, dance, band, etc. -- there are many opportunities to lose the aligners. Even during school lunch, aligners are often forgotten. But, with care and persistence, even teenagers can be successful with Invisalign®.

Stop by for a free consult to see if Invisalign® is right for you or your teen. Keep smiling.

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SOURCE: Invisalign® [image]