These malocclusions can detract from the appearance of a patient’s smile, but they can also create oral health problems without intervention from an orthodontist. You can lower the risk of these orthodontic concerns arising by avoiding certain behaviors. Dr. Kirat Sodhi, an orthodontist practicing in Irving, TX, lists three oral habits in childhood that could negatively affect the alignment of your smile.

POOR ORAL HABITS COULD MISALIGN YOUR BITE

THUMB SUCKING

Some habits can be harmless in themselves, but the continued and repeated behavior can cause lasting effects to the shape of the mouth. Thumb sucking is one of these habits that can alter a young individual’s teeth into their adulthood.

The thumb’s prolonged presence in a child’s mouth can lead to the formation of an open bite, a type of malocclusion in which the top and bottom teeth do not connect when biting down. The sucking motion of this behavior can also pull at the top arch of teeth and lead to an over bite. This orthodontic issue occurs when the top row of teeth protrudes over the bottom one. Both of these problems can be amended with orthodontic treatment though they can be prevented by ceasing this oral habit early in life.

NAIL BITING

As with thumb sucking, nail biting is an oral habit that can negatively impact an individual’s bite and dental structure, especially at a young age. Biting a hard item like fingernails can cause teeth to shift out of place and become crooked.

Other biting habits, including chewing on the lip, can push the teeth forward and encourage an over bite too. Braces and other orthodontic appliances can help straighten teeth and align a bite if a malocclusion has developed.

IMPROPER ORAL HYGIENE

We practice oral hygiene to remove plaque, tartar, and other residues from our teeth which could threaten the health of our smiles if they remain on the surface of our teeth. A good oral hygiene routine includes flossing each day, brushing teeth twice a day, and visiting a dentist for cleanings every six months.

However, if this regimen is not adhered to, and plaque stays on your teeth, it can eat away at your dental structure and your gums, leading to teeth falling out or shifting out of place. Sticking to a healthy oral hygiene routine can keep your teeth straight so that you can preserve the appearance and health of your smile.

Find Expert Orthodontic Treatment in Irving, TX

Define Orthodontics provides braces, Invisalign, and other orthodontic appliances to patients seeking teeth straightening treatment in Irving, TX. If you have crooked teeth or bite alignment concerns, call our expert orthodontic team for a consultation. To schedule an appointment with our practice, contact our office by phone at 972.845.8898 or reach our staff online.

The post 3 HABITS THAT COULD HARM YOUR SMILE first appeared on Define Orthodontics.

However, Invisalign requires maintenance if you want to get the most out of your treatment and keep your aligners clean. Dr. Kirat Sodhi, an orthodontist located in Irving, TX, offers tips to keep your Invisalign appliances looking their best throughout your treatment.

REMOVE INVISALIGN WHILE EATING AND DRINKING

Traditional teeth straightening treatment with braces usually comes with restrictions to what a patient can eat, which many people find frustrating. Hard, sticky, and chewy foods can damage metal wires and brackets.

Invisalign features clear-colored plastic aligners that can be removed while you eat or drink. This means that you do not have to worry about damaging your orthodontic appliances during mealtimes.

In fact, orthodontists recommend that you take out Invisalign when eating and drinking to reduce the risk of staining agents in foods affecting your aligners. This also prevents food particles from getting stuck in your appliance and lingering on your teeth, potentially harming your tooth enamel.

CONTINUE PRACTICING GOOD ORAL HYGIENE

Plaque forms over your teeth every day thanks to natural bacteria in your mouth. It will continue to develop as you undergo orthodontic treatment with Invisalign. You practice oral hygiene to remove plaque build-up, and you should do the same throughout the teeth straightening process.

This entails brushing teeth twice per day, flossing on a daily basis, and visiting your dentist for routine cleanings. By keeping your smile clean, you can prevent dental damage, like tooth decay, from interfering with your orthodontic treatment.

You should remove your aligners when completing your oral hygiene regimen so that you can clean your teeth without disruption. This feature is another advantage of choosing Invisalign to align your smile.

RINSE AND BRUSH ALIGNERS SEPARATELY

You should clean your Invisalign with a separate regimen than the rest of your mouth if you want to keep your aligners looking and feeling their best. While your aligners are not vulnerable to decay, they can still gather plaque that could spread to your teeth or stain the plastic material.

You should brush your aligners gently at the same time as you complete your oral hygiene routine. You should also rinse your aligners before replacing them in your mouth after removing them while eating.

Invisalign should be worn 22 hours each day for optimal results. Regular cleaning can make sure these devices do not hinder your smile during your treatment.

Straighten Your Smile with Invisalign in Irving, TX

Define Orthodontics offers Invisalign, braces, and other orthodontic treatments to patients of all ages in Irving, TX. Dr. Sodhi can help patients straighten crooked teeth and realign their bites for improved appearance and function in their smiles. To schedule a consultation with our practice, contact our staff online or reach us by phone at 972.853.5770.

The post HOW CAN I KEEP INVISALIGN CLEAN? first appeared on Define Orthodontics.

Our practice prioritizes patient comfort and provides comprehensive treatments that enhance your smile’s appearance while caring for your overall oral health. Learn more about our approach from five-star reviews from our patients.

“This place is amazing! From the second you walk in the door, to the second you walk out, you’re treated like family. Dr. Sodhi especially is one of the kindest, most genuine doctors I’ve ever had the pleasure of seeing. 10 out of 10 would recommend this place to anyone and everyone!”

— Riley D.

“I always have a great experience at Define Orthodontics. Everyone in the office is friendly and helpful. My appointments are always handled professionally and on time. Dr. Sodhi is very knowledgeable and provides great care. I would highly recommend Define Orthodontics.”

— Chris J.

“The whole staff at Define Orthodontics are top notch, and you never feel like you are being rushed, while at their office. They are very flexible with you while trying to schedule your future appointments, and they try their best to accommodate your schedule. I purchased my Invisalign from Define Orthodontics and I am very satisfied with the results. I highly recommend that you come to Define Orthodontics if you are thinking about getting braces or Invisalign Aligners to straighten your teeth.”

— Robert H.

“The clinic and staff are exceptional! The whole team including Edna, Jodi, and Rosie are always on time, compassionate, and incredibly easy to talk to. Dr. Sodhi is an extremely knowledgeable and personable doctor. She always spends time with her patients to ensure that all their questions are answered while simultaneously looking after their well-being and progress. I would recommend this orthodontic office to everyone.”

— Sanjana M.

“Getting my Invisalign has been a breeze and extremely satisfying. Dr. Sodhi has been kind, professional, and caring. I recommend coming here if you’re looking for quick, efficient, and professional orthodontist help.”

–Caroline F.

VISIT AN ORTHODONTIST IN IRVING, TX

Define Orthodontics offers Invisalign, braces, and other orthodontic treatments to patients of all ages. Dr. Sodhi is a highly qualified orthodontist in Irving, TX, helping patients straighten teeth and amend malocclusions. To schedule a consultation with our practice, contact us online or reach our office by phone at 972.635.0282.

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