Missing permanent teeth or premature loss of baby teeth is one reason why the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO) recommends an orthodontic consultation for children beginning at age 7. The upper lateral incisors, second premolars and third molars (wisdom teeth) are the teeth most likely to fail to develop or erupt. Heredity is considered a major factor when permanent teeth are congenitally missing.
To determine whether or not teeth are actually missing, x-rays must be taken and carefully evaluated by Affiliated Orthodontics. At times, a tooth may not actually be missing, but hidden underneath the gums and in poor position, preventing normal eruption and requiring orthodontic treatment to bring the tooth into alignment.
Read more on A Question of Missing Teeth…
Filed under Blog Posts, Dental Tips, Orthodontic Info by on Jul 1st, 2011. Comment. 
At Affiliated Orthodontics, we don’t have to tell you that keeping your teeth clean during treatment is very important. Braces have a habit of collecting additional food while eating that can cause a multitude of problems if not cared for correctly.
So you don't offend others with unsightly food caught on your braces, or to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, decalcification or discoloring of teeth and cavities, here are are five tooth brushing tips from Drs. Womack and Davis and our team for orthodontic patients to keep in mind while wearing braces:Read more on Five Tips for Cleaning Braces in Peoria, Glendale and Surprise AZ…
Filed under Dental Tips, News, Orthodontic Info by on Jun 1st, 2011. Comment.
There are many reasons why people want straight teeth. Not the least of these is the fact that crooked teeth are not the most attractive feature. While a nicely aligned smile can be the part of your looks that pulls everything else together, a crooked smile can draw attention away from an otherwise striking appearance. A great smile is vital to your self-confidence, which in turn can improve your outlook on life in general.
However, the benefits of straight teeth do not end with just your appearance.
- Crooked teeth can interfere with proper chewing, a problem which is with you at every meal if not confronted.
- Good oral hygiene (such as regular brushing and flossing) can be much more difficult and ineffective with crooked teeth. When your teeth are not straight and evenly spaced, there is a much higher likelihood that there will be hard-to-reach spaces that do not receive the proper treatment from your daily cleaning routine. As a result, unwanted plaque and tartar can build up unnoticed. Over time, this can lead to such serious consequences as tooth decay, gum disease, or even tooth loss. Since no one enjoys spending time in the dentist’s chair having root canals, fillings, and oral surgery, it is important to stay on top of your oral hygiene.
Read more on Benefits of Straight Teeth…
Filed under Blog Posts, Dental Tips, Orthodontic Info by on May 15th, 2011.
