Essential Tips for Proper Oral Hygiene While Wearing Braces | Palos Hills Orthodontist

Good oral hygiene is essential for anyone wearing braces, as it can help to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems. To ensure proper oral hygiene while wearing braces, it is important to brush and floss regularly, and to pay extra attention to areas of the mouth that are more difficult to reach. Here are some tips for proper oral hygiene when wearing braces. 

Brush After Every Meal

Brushing your teeth is one of the most important parts of oral hygiene, and it is even more important when wearing braces. It is recommended that those with braces brush their teeth after every meal or snack to remove food particles that can get stuck in the wires and brackets. When brushing, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean around the brackets and wires, making sure to brush each tooth thoroughly. An electric toothbrush can also be helpful for people with braces, as it can make it easier to get around the brackets and wires. 

Floss Daily 

Flossing is also important for those wearing braces, as it helps to remove food particles and plaque that can get stuck between the teeth and wires. To floss properly with braces, use an interdental brush or a floss threader to help guide the floss between the teeth and wires. Be sure to floss each tooth thoroughly, as it can help to prevent cavities and gum disease. 

Mouthwash 

Mouthwash can also be helpful for those with braces, as it can help to reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth and keep the teeth and gums healthy. Look for an antiseptic mouthwash that contains fluoride and use it after brushing and flossing to help reduce plaque and prevent cavities. 

Visit the Dentist Regularly 

Visiting the Orthodontist in Palos Hills regularly is also important for those with braces. During these visits, the dentist will be able to check the braces for any damage or problems, as well as check for cavities or gum disease. The dentist may also recommend an oral hygiene routine specifically designed for those with braces. 

Proper oral hygiene is essential for anyone wearing braces, as it can help to keep the teeth and gums healthy and reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease. Be sure to brush twice a day, floss daily, use mouthwash, and visit the dentist regularly to ensure proper oral hygiene. By following these tips, you can help to ensure your mouth stays healthy while wearing braces. For more information, please contact our Palos Hills Orthodontist today.

Paul DiFranco Orthodontics of Palos Hills
Phone: (708) 930-5941
10059 S. Roberts Rd. Suite 2A
Palos Hills, IL 60465

Understanding Two Phase Orthodontic Treatment | Palos Hills IL Orthodontist

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Orthodontic treatment is a specialized type of dental care that focuses on correcting the alignment of the teeth and jaws. The goal of orthodontic treatment is to improve the overall dental health and appearance of the patient by straightening the teeth and correcting any bite issues. Orthodontic treatment can be done in two phases: the first phase focuses on the active treatment of the teeth and jaws, while the second phase focuses on maintenance and stabilization of the new alignment. Both phases of orthodontic treatment are essential for achieving optimal results. 

Phase I Orthodontic Treatment

The first phase of orthodontic treatment involves actively correcting the alignment of the teeth and jaws. During this phase, the patient will typically receive braces or other appliances such as expanders, retainers, and headgear. These orthodontic appliances are designed to slowly but effectively move the teeth into the desired position. This is often a lengthy process, as it can take several months or even years for the teeth to fully move into the desired position. During this time, the patient must be diligent about following the instructions of their orthodontist in order to achieve the best results. 

Phase II Orthodontic Treatment

The second phase of orthodontic treatment focuses on maintaining and stabilizing the new alignment of the teeth and jaws. This phase typically involves the patient wearing retainers or other appliances that keep the teeth in their new position. Retainers are typically worn full-time for the first 6 months after the active treatment phase, and then can be worn part-time. The goal of this phase is to ensure that the teeth stay in their newly corrected position, and to prevent any relapse of the misalignment. 

The Value of Two Phases 

The value of two phases of orthodontic treatment is immense. By actively correcting the alignment of the teeth and jaws, patients can improve their dental health, self-esteem, and overall appearance. Additionally, by maintaining and stabilizing the new alignment during the second phase, patients can ensure that their teeth will stay in the correct position long-term. This gives patients the confidence that their improved dental health and appearance is here to stay. 

Two phases of orthodontic treatment are essential for achieving long-term results and optimal dental health. By actively correcting the alignment of the teeth and jaws, and then maintaining and stabilizing the new alignment, patients can enjoy improved dental health and an enhanced appearance for years to come. Contact Paul DiFranco Orthodontics today to learn more from our Palos Hills Orthodontist

Paul DiFranco Orthodontics of Palos Hills
Phone: (708) 930-5941
10059 S. Roberts Rd. Suite 2A
Palos Hills, IL 60465

Unlock the Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment | Orthodontist Palos Hills

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of malocclusion and other related conditions. Malocclusion is a condition where the teeth and jaws do not align properly, resulting in improper bite and function. Orthodontics focuses on the straightening of teeth and the correction of improper jaw position to restore the natural bite and function of the mouth. 

Orthodontic treatment is a long-term process that can involve braces, appliances, and other devices to help correct the alignment of a person’s teeth and jaw. Orthodontic treatment not only improves the appearance of a person’s smile, but it also helps to improve the overall health of their teeth and gums. It can help to reduce the risk of dental diseases, such as tooth decay and gum disease, by helping to keep teeth and gums in the proper position for proper cleaning. 

The orthodontic process typically begins with a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s mouth and teeth. This evaluation will usually include X-rays, photographs, and impressions of the teeth. After the evaluation is complete, the orthodontist will develop a plan to correct any malocclusion or misalignment present. The treatment plan may include braces, retainers, headgear, or other appliances. 

Braces are the most common orthodontic treatment and involve the use of brackets and wires to move the teeth into the desired position. Braces are usually made of metal, ceramic, or plastic and are typically worn for a period of several months to several years, depending on the severity of the misalignment. Retainers and headgear may also be prescribed to help maintain the desired position of the teeth once the braces are removed. 

Orthodontic treatment can have many benefits, both cosmetic and functional. By correcting misalignment, orthodontic treatment can improve a person’s appearance and boost their confidence. Additionally, it can improve the fit of the teeth, which can improve overall oral health and reduce the risk of dental diseases. Orthodontic treatment can also improve the patient’s speech, chewing, and other functions of their mouth. With the right treatment plan, you can enjoy the long-term benefits of improved oral health and a beautiful smile. Contact our orthodontic office today to schedule a consultation.

Paul DiFranco Orthodontics of Palos Hills
Phone: (708) 930-5941
10059 S. Roberts Rd. Suite 2A
Palos Hills, IL 60465

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Clear Aligner Treatment  | Best Orthodontist Palos Hills

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Clear aligner treatment for orthodontics is a revolutionary way to straighten teeth and correct misalignments, without the use of traditional metal braces. Clear aligners are made from a comfortable, plastic material that is virtually invisible when worn. They’re designed to be worn for at least 22 hours per day and gradually move teeth into their desired position. This type of orthodontic treatment has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its convenience and discretion. 

When considering clear aligner treatment, it’s important to understand the benefits and drawbacks of this option. One of the biggest advantages of clear aligners is that they’re practically invisible when worn. This makes them the perfect choice for adults or teens who don’t want to draw attention to their braces. Additionally, they’re much more comfortable than traditional metal braces, as they’re made from a lightweight material that’s designed to fit snugly over the teeth. 

Another significant benefit of clear aligners is that they’re removable. This makes it much easier for patients to brush and floss their teeth, as well as maintaining their regular dental hygiene routine. Patients can also continue to eat their favorite foods, as the aligners can be removed prior to meals. In comparison, traditional metal braces can be harder to clean around, and certain foods are not recommended. 

In addition to these benefits, clear aligners can also provide faster results than traditional metal braces. This is because they’re designed to move teeth more quickly and efficiently. As a result, patients may be able to achieve their desired results in as little as 12 months. 

However, clear aligners do have some drawbacks. One of the main drawbacks is that they’re not suitable for all types of orthodontic issues. For example, they may not be effective for more serious misalignments such as overbites or underbites. Additionally, they can be more expensive than traditional metal braces, as they’re not covered by most insurance plans. 

Finally, it’s important to note that clear aligners require more commitment from patients than traditional metal braces. Patients must wear their aligners for at least 22 hours per day and must also visit their orthodontist on a regular basis for check-ups. If these instructions are not followed, treatment may take longer or may even be unsuccessful. 

Overall, clear aligner treatment can be an effective and convenient way to straighten teeth and correct misalignments. However, it’s important to understand the benefits and drawbacks before making a decision. A consultation with our orthodontist can help you to determine if this type of treatment is right for you. Contact us today.

Paul DiFranco Orthodontics of Palos Hills
Phone: (708) 930-5941
10059 S. Roberts Rd. Suite 2A
Palos Hills, IL 60465

Transform Your Life: The Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment | Orthodontist in Palos Hills IL

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Do you want to lead a healthier life? If so, orthodontics may be the answer. Orthodontics is a specialized area of dentistry that focuses on the correction of teeth and jaw alignment issues. Orthodontic treatments can help you improve your oral health and overall wellbeing. Here’s how: 

1. Better Oral Health Having straight teeth makes it easier to properly brush and floss your teeth, which can help reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease. Orthodontic treatment can also help correct any bite problems, reducing the risk of TMJ disorder and other painful conditions. 

2. Improved Confidence Having a beautiful smile can do wonders for your self-esteem. Orthodontic treatments can help you achieve a beautiful, straight smile that you’ll be proud to show off. Plus, knowing that you’re taking steps to improve your oral health can help boost your overall confidence. 

3. Easier Digestion Crooked teeth can cause problems when it comes to chewing food, which can lead to digestive issues. With proper orthodontic treatment, your teeth and jaw will be properly aligned, making it easier to properly chew and digest food. This can help improve your overall health and wellbeing. 

4. Better Posture Misaligned teeth and jaws can cause your head to be off balance, leading to poor posture. Proper orthodontic treatment can help correct any alignment issues, allowing you to stand and sit in a healthier posture. 

5. Reduced Risk of Injury Misaligned teeth can cause excessive wear and tear on your jaw joints, leading to painful TMJ disorder. Orthodontic treatment can help correct any misalignment issues, reducing the risk of painful joint injuries. 

6. Long-Lasting Results Once your teeth and jaw are properly aligned, you can enjoy the benefits for years to come. Orthodontic treatments are designed to provide long-term results, so you can enjoy a healthier, straighter smile and improved oral health for a lifetime. 

If you’re looking for a way to lead a healthier life, orthodontic treatment may be the answer. Orthodontic treatments can help improve your oral health, boost your confidence, aid in digestion, improve your posture, and reduce the risk of painful joint injuries. Plus, the results are long-lasting, so you can enjoy the benefits for years to come. 

If you are ready to change your smile and change your life, our orthodontic team is here to help. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn which treatment options are best for you.

Paul DiFranco Orthodontics of Palos Hills
Phone: (708) 930-5941
10059 S. Roberts Rd. Suite 2A
Palos Hills, IL 60465

Cheese please! | Palos Hills IL Orthodontist

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There is no doubt that dairy products contain high levels of calcium, which is essential for the development and maintenance of strong teeth and bones. However, not all dairy products work in the same way. According to a recent study, cheese is actually capable of preventing dental cavities.

In what ways does cheese prevent cavities?

Cheese stimulates the production of saliva in your child’s mouth, which removes sugars, acids, and bacteria from their teeth. Additionally, cheese is an excellent source of calcium and phosphorus, both of which contribute to the strength of tooth enamel. Some of the compounds found in cheese actually adhere to tooth enamel and provide added protection against acids that attack the enamel of teeth.

Do all cheeses have the same characteristics?

There are some cheeses that are healthier for your family than others. Make sure your child consumes real cheese varieties rather than processed cheeses in order to get the most benefit from cheese consumption. To enhance their flavor, American cheese, cheese dips, and prepackaged cheese products, such as those in jars or spray cans, contain added sugars. Instead of protecting teeth, these sugars can harm them by wearing down tooth enamel, increasing your child’s risk of tooth decay. Furthermore, these types of cheese products contain a considerably reduced amount of actual cheese.

What types of cheese should I give my child?

There are hundreds of types of real cheese available that contain calcium and are excellent for protecting your teeth. Several aged cheeses are delicious options for your child, including cheddar, Swiss, and Monterey Jack. If your child prefers softer cheeses, mozzarella, Brie, or Camembert are delicious options. For children with an adventurous palate, cheeses such as Gorgonzola, Roquefort, and other similar cheeses make excellent choices.

If we are following a low-fat diet, what should we do?

There’s good news! The fat content of the cheese you choose does not affect its ability to protect your child’s teeth. There is just as much calcium, phosphorus, and other tooth-protecting compounds in low-fat or non-fat varieties of cheese as in full-fat varieties.

As there are many delicious options to choose from, consider offering your child cheese as a snack or at the end of a meal. This is an alternative to sugary or starchy foods. Your child will enjoy the taste of cheese as well as the fact that it is healthy for their teeth. Contact our Palos Hills IL orthodontist if you would like more information about healthy snacking.

Paul DiFranco Orthodontics of Palos Hills
Phone: (708) 930-5941
10059 S. Roberts Rd. Suite 2A
Palos Hills, IL 60465

Mail-Order Aligners: Inexpensive Care at a High Cost | Palos Hills IL Orthodontist

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Smiles are important. A person’s oral health can have a significant impact on his or her opportunities, self-confidence, and overall health. A beautiful smile and a more optimal level of health can be achieved by correcting crooked or misaligned teeth. A recent trend has been to entice patients with promises of equal quality care at a lower cost and without the need for in-office visits. Unfortunately, many people have discovered too late that these promises are false.

What is the mail-order trend?

The recent trend of remote orthodontic care, generally in the form of mail-order aligners, has been causing havoc for so many people. In recent years, private companies have advertised online that they will provide clear aligners that are similar to those used by orthodontists’ offices. They claim to be able to provide the same level of care at a lower cost without the need for office visits.

Is there a problem?

A number of problems may arise during the remote care process. An orthodontist fabricates your aligners based on a digital scan of your mouth. Each aligner in the series is custom-created in order to guide your teeth into their proper positions. As a result, the aligners are a precise fit for your mouth and teeth.

Aligners manufactured by mail order are fabricated from a mold of your teeth taken without the assistance of a dental professional to ensure that the aligners are placed and fitted correctly. In general, molds are less accurate than digital scans, which may result in an incorrect fit for the aligner.

During professional orthodontic care, such as that offered by our orthodontist in Palos Hills, you will visit our office for a series of appointments, during which our Palos Hills IL Orthodontist will evaluate your progress and monitor for any early warning signs of complications. Unless you follow recommended guidelines, your treatment can be prolonged, so these appointments are essential to ensuring the most successful outcome possible.

During remote orthodontic treatment, your care is overseen by a doctor you have never met in person. While you will generally be able to email with questions or concerns, it is your responsibility to determine whether there is a problem that needs to be addressed. Following the recommended guidelines can prevent your treatment from being prolonged, so these appointments are essential to the success of your treatment.

If you are considering straightening your teeth, do not let false promises or cheap alternatives influence your decision. Make an appointment with our Palos Hills Orthodontist and feel confident about your investment in your smile.

Paul DiFranco Orthodontics of Palos Hills
Phone: (708) 930-5941
10059 S. Roberts Rd. Suite 2A
Palos Hills, IL 60465

There’s More to Malocclusion Than a Bad Bite | Palos Hills Orthodontist

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Orthodontist_Near_me_Palos_Hills_IL

We are all aware of the aesthetic problems associated with misaligned teeth and jaws. Despite this, the consequences of malocclusion extend far beyond aesthetics, negatively affecting your oral and overall health. In this article, we will discuss some of the most serious health effects that malocclusion can have on the body. We will also explain why orthodontic treatment is necessary and potentially lifesaving.

Hygiene:

If your teeth are not aligned correctly, it can be extremely difficult for your toothbrush to reach all the places that it should. The result is the accumulation of plaque and tartar on teeth, which can lead to tooth decay, periodontal disease, and an even more problematic bite. Apart from the unenviable prospect of losing teeth due to tooth decay or periodontal disease, this condition also leaves your remaining teeth susceptible to decay in a domino-like manner. Make sure you avoid this fate by receiving orthodontic care.

Speech:

In addition to proper hygiene, the condition of your teeth and jaw can have a serious impact on your ability to speak clearly. You may experience speech impairments or breathing difficulties as a result of a malocclusion.

Diet:

You may not have considered this as one of the effects of a misaligned bite. If your bite is not functioning properly, it can affect your ability to consume the foods you need to remain properly nourished. As a result, patients may begin eating foods they shouldn’t be eating, gain serious weight, or lose too much weight by not eating at all.

Malnutrition and the resulting variations in weight cause a wide variety of health problems that are too numerous to list in this short blog. However, you can certainly imagine the negative effects on your health. Some of these conditions include high blood pressure, strokes, osteoporosis, depression, and some types of cancer.

It is good news that professional orthodontic care can prevent all of these negative effects from occurring in the first place. In order to enjoy your life to the fullest, our orthodontic team is committed to providing you with the healthiest smile possible. Our office can help you obtain the care you need. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Paul DiFranco Orthodontics of Palos Hills
Phone: (708) 930-5941
10059 S. Roberts Rd. Suite 2A
Palos Hills, IL 60465

What Are the Benefits of Brushing More Frequently With Braces? | Palos Hills IL Orthodontist

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Palos_Hills_IL60465_Orthodontist

There are many different parts to your braces, all of which might interfere with your ability to brush your teeth thoroughly. After every meal, your wires, brackets, and bands can trap food particles, even if you feel like your mouth is completely clean. You can maintain excellent oral health throughout your orthodontic treatment and beyond by giving your mouth a quick rinse and brushing after meals.

How to brush effectively:

The braces themselves can become breeding grounds for bacteria if you are not diligent about keeping them clean. If you are brushing your teeth with braces, it is critical to make sure you get into all the nooks and crannies, as there are many of them. The best way to target the areas between brackets and bands is to brush your teeth from different angles. Taking your time is important; you should expect to brush for longer periods of time and more thoroughly with braces.

You should also rinse your mouth with water regularly to remove any debris that may have remained in your bands or brackets. This rinse could help remove stubborn food particles left in your braces after a meal. It also prevents plaque buildup or tooth decay if you do not have a toothbrush with you. 

Brush, but don’t overdo it.

When you have braces, should you brush more frequently? Yes, but do not overdo it. It is not necessary to brush your teeth more than ten times a day if you have braces. Additionally, it does not imply that you should brush aggressively.

Don’t forget to floss.

A significant portion of your tooth enamel is covered by brackets when you have braces on your teeth. Additionally, you have wires and rubber bands. Combined, these factors create a multitude of small spaces in which food particles may be trapped. In the absence of braces, food particles can still get trapped, usually between the teeth, but this is far less likely than when braces are worn.

You should floss at least once a day and more frequently if necessary. It is difficult to floss with braces, but most drug stores and supermarkets sell tools that make it easier to thread floss around wires and brackets.

It is important to take care of your mouth. There should never be any discomfort or pain experienced while brushing. In order to maintain a healthy smile after your braces have been removed, you should rinse and brush your teeth thoroughly in the morning, at night, and after meals. For more information on optimal oral health or to schedule an appointment, please contact our office. Our team is available to assist you.

Paul DiFranco Orthodontics of Palos Hills
Phone: (708) 930-5941
10059 S. Roberts Rd. Suite 2A
Palos Hills, IL 60465

It’s Time to Set the Record Straight | Palos Hills IL Orthodontist

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When you wear braces, you achieve a beautiful, straight smile, but how do you maintain these results after treatment? The final results of your orthodontic treatment are dependent on your retainer. The purpose of retainers is to maintain the position of straightened teeth. Discover more about retainers and how to care for them at home by reading the information below.

The types of retainers

You may be recommended to wear one of the following types of retainers:

Clear retainers: A removable, clear plastic tray that is worn over the teeth.

Traditional Retainers: A removable acrylic and wire appliance that fits over the front of the teeth.

Bonded Retainer: A thin, fixed wire that is temporarily bonded to the anterior teeth on the lingual (tongue) side.

Other ways retainers help

Retainers provide many benefits in addition to maintaining straight teeth. Straighter teeth are easier to clean, which reduces plaque buildup and the risk of tooth decay. There are certain types of retainers that may be helpful in improving snoring and breathing at night. Additionally, retainers may be used to adjust the placement of your child’s tongue, thereby assisting with speech difficulties and vocabulary development.

Here are some tips to help you remember your retainer.

  • Use your cell phone to set daily reminders to remind you to insert your retainer before going to sleep.
  • If you have a designated retainer spot, you will not forget where you left your retainer if you misplace it.
  • You can always use Post-Its to remind yourself! They are bright and colorful and serve as a pleasant reminder.
  • It is okay to ask for helpful reminders through the buddy system. Consider asking a sibling, spouse, or friend to help you remember with periodic check-ins and nudges.

Retainer care 

As with teeth, retainers should be brushed daily with toothpaste. Brush the entire area gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Make sure that you are extra careful around the wires so they do not bend out of place.

Maintaining your retainer is an essential part of completing your orthodontic treatment, so take good care of it, and it will take good care of you. The retention phase begins once your braces have been removed. In order to maintain your newly straight smile, it is vital that you follow through with tooth retention.

For more information about retainers, contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Paul DiFranco Orthodontics of Palos Hills
Phone: (708) 930-5941
10059 S. Roberts Rd. Suite 2A
Palos Hills, IL 60465