Ask Orthodontic Associates: Who really benefits from braces?

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Drs. Ahman, Janowski and Mayers will tell you that anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic treatment at our convenient offices in Lima, Celina and Ottawa.

To ensure the best overall treatment, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists recommend that children receive an orthodontic consultation as early as age seven. Taking action early - if a problem is evident - can spare a lot of treatment and expense down the road. If you never received orthodontic treatment when you were young, not to worry! You’re never too old for a beautiful smile. Set up an appointment for a complimentary consultation and find out how orthodontic treatment will transform your smile and your life!

Orthodontic Associates present: Your Friend, fluoride

Our team at Orthodontic Associates will tell you there are many, many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment with either Drs. Janowski, Mayers or Ahman.

Think about it: You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and protect your mouth and appliances from being damaged. But did you know there is another, often forgotten about, way to keep your teeth clean and healthy during your treatment?

Fluoride – a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay – can help keep your teeth strong! Fluoride comes in two varieties, topical and systemic. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth. Topical fluoride includes toothpastes and mouth rinses. Systemic fluorides are swallowed in the form of a dietary supplement. Dentists and orthodontists use in-office fluoride treatments to help protect the oral health of adults and children undergoing dental or orthodontic procedures.

Fluoride used in the dentist/orthodontists’ office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask Drs. Janowski, Mayers or Ahman how to purchase professional strength fluoride).

A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. After the treatment patients may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. Depending on your oral health or doctor’s recommendation, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six or 12 months. Your doctor may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses for at-home treatment.

When choosing your own fluoride product be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and have met the criteria of the ADA for safety and effectiveness. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

Parsing through the myths and facts about orthodontics with the Orthodontic Associates team

Drs. Mayers, Ahman and Janowski know there quite a lot of myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) flying around these days. But before you buy into those myths, our team at Orthodontic Associates think you should get the facts! We came across a great site that helps set the record straight. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at Orthodontic Associates, feel free to give us a call at our Lima, Ottawa or Celina locations! Happy Wednesday!