Don’t Let Your Dental Insurance Benefits Go to Waste

Do you have a dental insurance plan that expires at the end of the year? If so, now is the time to book an appointment and use your benefits before they disappear.

If you’ve been putting off seeing an orthodontist, now is the time to make some positive changes in your life. Orthodontics can improve your oral health and help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Plus, with the help of dental insurance, orthodontic treatment is more affordable than ever.

Here’s how orthodontics work and why you should use your dental insurance benefits to pursue orthodontic treatment today.

What Is Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontic treatment is a type of dental treatment that helps to realign the teeth and jaws. This type of treatment often uses braces, which are devices that attach to the teeth. Braces create tension to move your teeth into the correct position gradually.

Orthodontics includes metal braces, ceramic braces, and invisible braces. In addition, Invisalign® is a popular orthodontic treatment option that uses clear aligners instead of braces.

How Does Orthodontic Treatment Work?

Your orthodontist will develop a treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs. But first, you will need to have an initial consultation. During this appointment, your orthodontist will assess your teeth and jaws to determine if orthodontic treatment is right for you.

If your orthodontist determines that you would benefit from orthodontic treatment, they will create a treatment plan. This plan details the steps necessary to attain the desired results. In addition, it will consider the severity of your misalignment, your age, and your overall oral health.

Once an orthodontist creates your treatment plan, you must have periodic appointments at their office to adjust your braces. These appointments will occur monthly or as often as your orthodontist sees fit.

Why You Should Use Your Dental Insurance Benefits for Orthodontic Treatment

If you have benefits that expire at the end of the year, now is the time to use them. Orthodontic treatment can be expensive, but with dental insurance, it is more affordable than ever.

In addition, orthodontic treatment is an excellent way to improve your oral health. Realigning your teeth and jaws can help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.

Plus, having straight teeth can boost your confidence and improve your self-esteem. So if you’ve been unhappy with your smile, orthodontic treatment can help you to feel better about yourself.

Conclusion

Don’t wait any longer—book an appointment today and start using your dental insurance benefits before it’s too late. Orthodontic treatment can improve your well-being and confidence and help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

At Dr. Yazji Orthodontics, we offer a wide variety of orthodontic treatments to choose from. Plus, our friendly and helpful staff is here to help you every step of the way. So contact Dr. Yazji today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our services. We can’t wait for you to get the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve!

Halloween with Braces: How To Care for your Teeth

Who said Halloween with braces can’t be fun? It’s that time of year again! The leaves are falling, the fall air is getting crisp, and the smell of pumpkin spice is in the air. That can only mean one thing – Halloween is right around the corner!

If you have braces, Halloween can be a bit of a tricky holiday. You want to enjoy all the fun that comes with trick-or-treating and eating candy. However, you also don’t want to eat anything that will damage your orthodontics. And unfortunately, it can be difficult to determine what’s right or wrong when it comes to candy. But don’t worry! We’re here to help.

In this blog post, we’ll offer tips for eating Halloween candy. We’ll also discuss which candy to avoid and why it’s important to clean your braces after eating candy.

Tips for Eating Halloween Candy with Braces

Halloween is all about indulging in sweet treats. And thankfully, you can still do that even during orthodontic treatment.

Here are some tips for enjoying Halloween candy without doing damage to your braces.

Encourage moderation

It’s okay for you or your child to have a few pieces of candy here and there, but be careful. Overeating candy can cause cavities and other dental problems. Plus, braces can worsen these issues since they provide many nooks and crannies for sugar to get stuck in.

Stick to softer candies

In general, you should avoid any candy that is sticky or chewy. These foods can damage your orthodontics and may cause discomfort. For example, gum can get stuck in braces and be difficult to remove. Taffy is also very sticky and can pull at brackets and wires. You should also avoid hard candy as it can damage brackets and wires.

Instead, opt for soft candies like chocolate bars or peanut butter cups. Chewing on hard candy can cause brackets to become loose or even break.

Tips for Cleaning Braces After Eating Candy

Brushing and flossing are important when you have braces, but it’s especially crucial after eating sugary snacks or candy.

Here are a few tips for cleaning braces after eating Halloween candy.

Rinse with water

Rinse your mouth and teeth with water immediately after eating candy. This will help remove any lingering sugar before it becomes plaque.

Brush gently

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush your teeth gently after eating anything with sugar. Be careful, and make sure to go around each and every bracket. Sugar causes cavities, and you don’t want to deal with cavities while you have braces if you don’t have to.

Floss daily

You must floss daily, especially if you consume candy. Since it’s more challenging to take care of your teeth when you have braces, you have to be diligent. Plaque buildup can cause your teeth to become sensitive, infected, and damaged.

Conclusion

Halloween is fun for all ages, but it can be tricky for those with braces. However, with a bit of planning and caution, you and your kids can still enjoy all the joys of Halloween. And by exercising caution, you can eat Halloween candy without causing any damage to your braces.

Remember, stick to softer candies, avoid hard and sticky sweets, and be sure to brush carefully afterward.

At Dr. Yazji’s office, we’re here if you have any questions about braces and how to take care of them. Call or contact us today to discuss Halloween with  braces.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month | Smile and Think Pink!

Choose pink and smile! October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. And although we typically focus on orthodontic treatment, we wanted to take a moment to raise awareness for this important cause.

Breast cancer is a serious health condition that affects women of all ages. And while it primarily affects those over the age of 50, it can occur at any age. With early detection being key to successful treatment, all women must be aware of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer.

In this article, we’re going to discuss common signs and symptoms for you to be on the lookout for. We’ll also touch on some of the risk factors for developing breast cancer. Plus, we’ll provide suggestions for how you can celebrate breast cancer awareness month with orthodontics.

Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

There are a few different signs and symptoms of breast cancer that you should be aware of.

These include:

• A lump or mass in the breast
• Pain and swelling
• Skin redness or flakiness
• Swelling in the armpit

If you notice any of these changes in your body, see a doctor as soon as possible. Early detection is key to effective action, so don’t hesitate to make an appointment if you’re concerned about any of these changes.

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

A few factors can increase the risk of developing breast cancer.

Common risk factors include:

• Age – The risk of breast cancer goes up as you age.
• Family history – If you have a family member who has had breast cancer, your risk is higher.
• Personal history – If you’ve had breast cancer before, your risk is higher.
• Alcohol use – Drinking alcohol increases your risk of breast cancer
• Hormone use – Taking hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills increases your risk of breast cancer.

Staying aware of these risk factors and being proactive about breast health is important for all women, regardless of age.

Support Breast Cancer Awareness Month Today by Showing Pink when you Smile

If you want to support someone in your life with breast cancer, October is a great month to do so.

Here are a few ideas for Breast Cancer Awareness Month:

• Wear pink – Use colored rubber bands or elastics to turn your braces pink for the month. You can also get pink Invisalign™ Stickables if you don’t have braces.
• Make donations – Donate to a breast cancer research or support organization in honor of someone you know.
• Spread the word – Use social media to raise awareness about breast cancer and its signs and symptoms.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are numerous ways to show your support and bring awareness to this serious issue. So don’t hesitate to reach out to your orthodontist if you want your smile to support a great cause.

We hope you’ll join us in supporting and celebrating this important cause this October. At Dr. Yazji’s office, we support many causes throughout the year. And we are proud to offer our patients a way to show their support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Contact us today to learn more about how you can participate.

October is National Orthodontic Health Month

With autumn in full swing, October is one of the best times of the year. And with the holidays and New Year’s just around the corner, there’s no better time to start orthodontic treatment.

Here’s why you should consider orthodontics to celebrate National Orthodontic Health Month.

Orthodontics Can Boost Your Confidence

One of the best things about orthodontics is that it can give you a boost in confidence. If you’re self-conscious about your teeth, straightening them can make a big difference.

For kids in school, starting treatment can help them feel better about themselves and make new friends. And for adults, it can enhance their appearance, career prospects, and social life.

Orthodontics Can Improve Your Oral Health

Another great reason to start orthodontic treatment is for the sake of your oral health. Crooked and crowded teeth are more difficult to clean, which can lead to cavities and gum disease. Straightening your teeth will make it easier to keep them clean and healthy. It will also evenly distribute the force of your bite, which can relieve pain in your jaw and neck.

In addition, orthodontics can treat more severe issues like TMJ. If left untreated, people with jaw issues can experience a lot of pain and discomfort throughout their lives.

Orthodontic Treatment May Save You Money in the Long Run

If you have crooked or crowded teeth, you may be at risk for more serious dental problems down the road. Untreated crowding, underbites, overbites, and crossbites can lead to tooth loss, gum disease, and other issues.

By getting orthodontic treatment now, you can avoid more costly dental problems in the future. In some cases, orthodontics can help you keep your natural teeth for life. And the earlier you start treatment, the better.

Addressing dental and bite issues in children by the age of seven can help avoid more serious problems later on. So if you have a child who’s due for an orthodontic evaluation, now is the time to schedule one.

Orthodontics is for Everyone

Contrary to popular belief, orthodontics isn’t just for kids and teens. In fact, about 25% of orthodontic patients are adults. So if you’re considering orthodontics but think you’re too old, think again. There’s no age limit on orthodontic treatment, and it’s never too late to improve your smile.

Invisalign® and clear braces are popular choices for adult patients because they’re less noticeable than metal braces. And with new technology, treatment times are shorter than ever before.

Conclusion

As National Orthodontic Health Month, October is the perfect time to start treatment. Whether you’re looking to boost your confidence, improve your oral health, or save money, orthodontics can help. Don’t delay treatment because you think you’re too old for braces. Orthodontics is for everyone. Use this month as an excuse to begin the journey to your best smile.

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, schedule a consultation with Dr. Yazji today. We’ll be happy to discuss your treatment options and help you decide if orthodontics is right for you. Dr. Yazji offers consultations in Weston, Brickell, and West Miami in South Florida.

Dr. Maria Yazji and her orthodontic team will help you get that smile you’ve been dreaming of. By booking a complimentary appointment, you’ll be starting on the journey to a smile you’ll love. Cant wait to come in? Don’t worry, you can save some time by submitting your information and pictures for a preliminary evaluation with Dr. Yazji here.

Weston Orthodontist Reveals Common Myths about Orthodontics

Dr. Yazji, your Weston orthodontist, can answer your orthodontic concerns. Many people refuse to get braces or see an orthodontist because of false information. And delaying treatment or avoiding it altogether can have a significant impact on your oral health long-term.

Orthodontics can correct many dental problems, including crooked teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, and more. And the sooner you get treatment, the better.

So if you’re delaying treatment from a Weston Orthodontist, here are some debunked myths to help change your mind.

I’m Too Old for Braces

Most people think that only kids and teens get braces, but this is not true. You’re never too old to get braces! No matter your age, you can still benefit from orthodontic treatment. In fact, about 25% of orthodontic patients are adults. And thanks to new technology, there are more options than ever for adults who want to improve their smiles.

Treatments like Invisalign® and lingual braces are practically invisible. Plus, they’re a great option for busy adults who don’t want to deal with the hassle of traditional braces.

Orthodontic Treatment Takes Years

Another common myth about orthodontics is that treatment takes years to complete. While this myth may have been true in the past, this is no longer the case for most people. Now, most treatment only lasts between 12 and 24 months, thanks to new and improved treatment methods.

Some individuals will need to wear their braces for longer, depending on the severity of their dental problems. However, most will be able to achieve their desired results within two years. And for those with only mild issues, treatment may only take less than a year.

Braces Are Painful

Many people avoid metal and clear braces because they think they will be painful. While you may feel some discomfort when you first get your braces, this is only temporary. Your mouth will adjust to the braces within a few days, and any pain should disappear.

If you experience any aches or discomfort, you can take over-the-counter pain medication to help ease the discomfort. Your orthodontist will also give you wax for your braces you can use to cover up any sharp, uncomfortable edges.

You Can’t Enjoy Your Favorite Foods While In Braces

Although you may have to avoid hard, chewy, and sticky foods with braces, you can still enjoy most things. Your Weston orthodontist will provide a list of foods to avoid, such as gum, candy, and popcorn. However, most other foods are fair game, and you will only have to modify your diet slightly.

Foods you can still eat include:

• Soft fruits and vegetables
• Soups and stews
• Yogurt
• Cheese
• Pizza
• Hamburgers and hotdogs

Final Thoughts

If you’re unsure what’s true about orthodontics and what isn’t, contact an orthodontist like Dr. Maria Yazji, she has over 27 years of experience and she’ll be happy to help achieve the smile you deserve. Only an experienced orthodontist can tell you how long you need treatment and if it’s right for you. Don’t let false information stop you from getting the orthodontics you need to achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. Everyone deserves to smile with confidence. Let Dr. Maria Yazji and her qualified orthodontic team help you. You can get started on the journey to a fabulous smile by requesting a complimentary consultation here.

If you want to speak to a Weston Orthodontist about braces or other orthodontic treatment options like Invisalign® clear aligners or lingual braces, schedule a consultation. Dr. Maria Yazji is happy to answer your questions and help you decide if orthodontic treatment is proper for you. Dr. Maria Yazji sees patients in three locations in South Florida: Weston, Brickell, and West Miami.

What Happens During a Virtual Braces Consultation?

Virtual braces consultations are becoming increasingly popular because they’re convenient and easy. And with recent advancements in technology, an orthodontist can use photographs to determine the treatment you may need. This means you won’t have to sit in traffic or take time from work for an appointment. Instead, these appointments can happen in the comfort of your own home.

Here’s what you need to know before a virtual braces consultation and how it works.

Scheduling a Virtual Braces Consultation

The first step is scheduling an appointment. You can do this by finding an orthodontic practice in your area that offers virtual consultations. Once you’ve found an orthodontic office, you can give them a call or go online to schedule an appointment.

When you schedule your consultation, you’ll provide basic information about yourself. This includes your name, date of birth, and contact information. They may also request your dental history or x-rays. Once you have an appointment scheduled, you can move on to the next step.

During the Appointment

After you have an appointment scheduled, it’s time for your virtual braces consultation. The most important thing you’ll need is a set of recent pictures. These should be close-up shots of your teeth that show your smile. The orthodontist will tell you exactly what images they need for you to take.

Then, they will use these pictures to determine what treatment you may need. Depending on what they see during your virtual braces consultation, they may recommend braces or Invisalign®.

At this time, you should also bring up any concerns you have about treatment. This is an excellent opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the process.

After Your Virtual Braces Consultation

Once your appointment is over, the orthodontist will give you a treatment plan. This will outline what they recommend for you and the next steps you need to take. The orthodontist may also provide additional information like estimated treatment time and cost.

In addition, they may also recommend that you come in for an in-person consultation to get updated x-rays. This is usually the case if they need to take a closer look at your teeth. If necessary, your orthodontist will ask you for clearance letter from your dentist that states that you’re in good oral conditions to get your braces on.

Then, it will be time for you to make a decision about treatment. You can either move forward with the recommended treatment plan or decide to do something different. Either way, your orthodontist will be there to help you make the best decision for your smile.

You Can Also Have Remote Dental Checkups Through Dental Monitoring

Dr. Yazji offers Anywhere Smiles®, a fully-integrated system through Dental Monitoring. DM uses artificial intelligence and by downloading the app on your phone and following your orthodontist instructions, you’ll be able to be monitored remotely without coming in to the office. All you’ll have to do is get a scan using your phone when your orthodontist sends you a notification. This means that no matter where you are, you can get in touch with your orthodontist. It’s like having your Invisalign® doctor in your pocket. Isn’t that cool?

Final Thoughts

Overall, a virtual braces consultation is quick and easy. It’s a great option if you’re busy and don’t have time to come in for an in-person consultation. And during the appointment, an orthodontist will get a good idea of your treatment options using your dental images.

If you’re considering braces or Invisalign®, check out our smile assessment to receive a preliminary diagnosis. With the smile assessment, Dr. Yazji can get an understanding of your needs and determine the right treatment for you. It’s also a chance to ask any questions you may have about orthodontics and the treatment process.