Get Braces Before Going Back to School

If your child is about to return to school, now is the time to get them fitted for orthodontics. Getting braces before returning to school can help your child feel more comfortable and confident. It also gives them time to adjust to any discomfort and familiarize themselves with having braces.

Let’s go over some advantages of getting braces before returning to school. We’ll also provide ways to help your child adapt to this new change.

What to Expect During the Adjustment Period

The first few weeks of having braces may be uncomfortable as your child’s mouth adjusts to the new hardware. This is normal and will decrease within a few weeks. To help ease any discomfort, we recommend that patients:

• Eat soft foods
• Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods
• Use orthodontic wax to cover sharp edges
• Rinse with salt water
• Take over-the-counter pain medication if needed

By getting your child braces early, you give your child a chance to acclimate to having braces in a low-stress environment. They’ll also have time to experiment with different foods and learn which ones are safe to eat with braces.

In addition, it’s a chance to learn how to clean their teeth and develop a good oral hygiene routine. This can help immensely since the first few weeks after getting braces are typically the hardest.

In addition, they may experience some discomfort and soreness. Therefore, having a comfortable setting at home can help them feel more at ease.

Tips for Taking Care of Braces While at School

If your child is worried about taking care of their braces, you can do a few things to help.

Firstly, a braces kit will give your kid everything needed to care for their teeth throughout the day.

This can include items such as:

• A toothbrush and toothpaste
• Orthodontic wax
• Dental floss
• Chapstick

They must also drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help keep their mouth clean.

Remember, this can be a challenging time for your child, so be sure to offer support and encouragement. With a little time and effort, they’ll be adjusting to their new braces in no time.

Eating Soft Foods

In addition, make sure that your child is eating soft foods and knows which foods to avoid.

This includes foods like:

• Hard candy
• Chewing gum
• Nuts and seeds
• Popcorn
• Crunchy fruits and vegetables
• Chewy bread

Although this seems like a lot, having braces doesn’t mean your child must miss out on their favorite foods. There are still plenty of delicious options that are safe for them to eat.

Some soft food ideas include:

• Yogurt
• Soups
• Pasta
• Apple sauce
• Soft fruits
• String cheese

You may want to pack extra snacks and lunch items that are safe for them to eat.

Get Braces Before Going Back to School. The Bottom Line:

Overall, getting braces before returning to school can be beneficial for your child. It provides an opportunity to adjust to the new hardware and develop a good oral hygiene routine. Plus, it gives you time to figure out which soft food options work best for them.

Book your complimentary braces consultation here.

4 Questions to Ask an Invisalign® Doctor in Weston

If you are considering Invisalign®, finding a qualified Invisalign® doctor in Weston is crucial. Doing so will ensure you have a positive experience and achieve your desired results. However, you may wonder what questions you should ask an Invisalign® provider once you find one.

Here are four questions to ask when meeting with an Invisalign® doctor in Weston.

1. What Is Your Experience with Invisalign®?

First, you will want to ask the Invisalign® doctor about their experience with the treatment. Invisalign® is a newer technology. Therefore, you want to check that the orthodontist is familiar with it and successful.

Additionally, ask about how many patients they have treated with Invisalign®. This will give you an impression of their experience level and how comfortable they are with the treatment.

Finally, ask if they have any before and after photos of patients who have undergone Invisalign® treatment. This will help you understand the results that are possible with Invisalign®.

2. What Are the Potential Risks and Side Effects of Invisalign®?

Next, you should ask about the potential risks and side effects of Invisalign®. While Invisalign® is generally safe, there are some potential risks and side effects that you should be aware of.

Some possible side effects of Invisalign® include tooth sensitivity, gum soreness, and headaches. Although side effects are typically mild, it’s important to be aware of these issues ahead of time.

This is also an excellent opportunity to disclose any concerns you may have.

3. How Long Will Invisalign® Treatment Take?

Another important thing to ask is how long Invisalign® treatment will take. In general, Invisalign® treatment takes anywhere from six months to a few years.

However, treatment length will vary depending on the severity of your case. Therefore, ask an Invisalign® doctor in Weston to estimate how long Invisalign® treatment will take in your specific case.

Keep in mind that Invisalign® is not an overnight treatment. However, the results are worth the wait!

This will also give you a general estimate of how often you will need to visit for appointments. In general, patients need to see the doctor every four to six weeks.

4. How Much Does Invisalign® Treatment Cost?

Cost is always an important concern for any type of medical treatment. Invisalign® treatment can range in cost depending on the severity of your case and the length of treatment.

If you have a strict budget, ask the Invisalign® doctor about financing options. In many cases, Invisalign® providers offer financing plans that can make treatment more affordable.

In general, Invisalign® treatment is a wise investment that can significantly improve your smile. However, it is essential to know the cost before starting treatment.

Conclusion

If you are considering Invisalign®, ask these four important questions during your consultation. Doing so will help guarantee you have a positive Invisalign® experience and achieve your desired results.

In addition, be sure to ask about financing options if cost is a concern. In many cases, Invisalign® providers offer financing plans to make treatment more affordable.

Dr. Yazji is an experienced Invisalign® Doctor in Weston and Miami, and a Diamond Top 1% Invisalign® provider. If you have questions about Invisalign® or orthodontic treatment, she is happy to answer them. Schedule a consultation today to learn more.

Can Invisalign® Fix Croosbites? | Crossbite Treatment

Do you have a crossbite? This is when one or more of your upper teeth don’t align properly and sit behind your bottom teeth.

Crossbites can cause significant tooth and jaw problems over time, so getting them fixed as soon as possible is important.

In this article, we’ll discuss how Invisalign® can fix a crossbite. We’ll also discuss alternative options if you have a more severe case of crossbite.

Why Is Fixing My Crossbite Important?

Crossbites can be mild or severe. A mild crossbite might not cause any problems other than cosmetic concerns.

However, a severe crossbite can cause:

• Discomfort
• Sleep disturbances and snoring
• Chipped or damaged teeth
• Uneven or abnormal jaw development
• Joint issues like TMJ

If you have a crossbite, try to get it fixed. Unfortunately, the longer you wait, the worse the problem can become. In some cases, crossbites can even lead to tooth loss.

So, if you’re concerned about your crossbite, make an appointment with an orthodontist as soon as possible.

How Can Invisalign® Fix My Crossbite?

Invisalign® is a popular treatment option for crossbites. Invisalign® uses clear, plastic aligners to gradually move your teeth into their proper position.

In most cases, Invisalign® can treat mild crossbites.

If you have a more severe crossbite, you might need to use additional appliances along with your Invisalign® aligners. These appliances can include:

• Elastics: Small rubber bands attach to your braces and help move your teeth into place.
• Expanders: Devices that gradually widen your upper jaw. This can help improve the alignment of your teeth.
• Extractions: In some severe cases, you might need to have one or more permanent teeth extracted to improve the alignment of your teeth.

Whatever your situation, an orthodontist will be able to recommend the best treatment option based on your circumstances.

Benefits of Fixing Your Crossbite with Invisalign®

There are many benefits of fixing your crossbite with Invisalign®. That’s why Invisalign is used for crossbites.

Some of the most notable benefits include:

Aesthetics

One of the top advantages of Invisalign® is that it can improve the appearance of your smile. If you’re self-conscious about your crossbite, Invisalign® can help you feel more confident about your smile.

Functionality

In addition to helping the appearance of your smile, Invisalign® can also improve its function. By aligning your teeth properly, Invisalign® can help you bite and chew more effectively.

It can also help you avoid joint problems like TMJ in the future.

Comfort

Another benefit of Invisalign® is that it’s much more comfortable than traditional braces. In addition, because the aligners are smooth plastic, they’re gentle on your gums and cheeks.

Traditional braces and other treatment options can rub against your gums and cheeks and cause irritation.

Discretion

Invisalign® is also a very discreet treatment option. The aligners are clear, so they’re practically invisible when you wear them.

This makes Invisalign® the perfect choice for self-conscious teens or professionals who don’t want others to know they’re receiving treatment.

Conclusion

Crossbites can cause a host of problems, both cosmetic and functional. If you’re concerned about your crossbite, Invisalign® might be your best treatment option.

Talk to an experienced orthodontist like Dr. Yazji today to see if Invisalign® is right for you. If you’re interested in orthodontic treatment, contact us today to schedule your appointment

Early Braces Treatment and Cost in Miami and Weston, Florida

It’s never too early to start thinking about braces. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends getting an evaluation by age 7. Orthodontics can seem expensive, but there are considerable benefits to aiding a child’s dental development from an early age.

Let’s review some benefits of early braces treatment and discuss factors that may influence the cost.

Why It’s Important to Get Braces at a Young Age

If you’re considering braces for your child, starting at a young age is best.

Here are three reasons why early braces treatment is essential:

Braces Help Guide Jaw Growth

One of the most important benefits of braces is that they can help guide the growth of your child’s jaw. This can be helpful if your child has a crossbite, overbite, or underbite.

Braces can also help prevent alignment issues when their bones are still developing. This not only results in a straighter smile but can also prevent jaw joint issues like TMJ from developing.

Braces Create Sufficient Space for Permanent Teeth

Another benefit of braces is that they help create sufficient space for your child’s permanent teeth. This is important because if there is not enough space for the permanent teeth, they may come in crowded or crooked.

Crooked teeth can lead to tooth decay and issues maintaining oral health.

Braces Can Help Avoid Future Dental Problems

Finally, braces can help avoid future dental problems. Correcting alignment issues early on can help your child avoid gum disease and tooth decay. Issues like these can lead to more serious problems down the road, so it’s best to avoid them altogether.

Elements Influencing the Cost of Your Child’s Treatment

There are a few things that can influence the cost of braces. Here are some cost factors for early braces treatment to consider and keep in mind:

The Severity of Your Child’s Case

The severity of your child’s case will play a significant role in how much you end up paying for braces. If their case is more severe, it will likely take longer to correct and require more appointments. And, you’ll end up paying more for treatment in the long run if you wait.

The Type of Braces You Choose

There are a few different braces options to choose from, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.

Available options include:

• Traditional metal braces: This option uses metal brackets and wires and is the most efficient, durable, and budget-friendly option.
• Ceramic or clear braces: Clear ceramic brackets and tooth-colored wires. They’re less noticeable than traditional metal braces but can be more fragile.
• Lingual braces: Lingual braces are traditional metal braces placed on the back of the teeth, making them invisible from the front. They’re a good option for people concerned about how traditional braces look.
• Invisalign®: This is a transparent aligner system. This option is discreet. In some cases, it can be as affordable as regular braces. Contact Dr. Yazji today and find out if they have an Invisalign® Special for you. 

The Duration of Treatment

Finally, the duration of your child’s treatment will also influence how much you pay. If their case is more severe, it will likely take longer to correct. This means more appointments and higher overall costs.

Conclusion

There are many benefits to having braces at a young age. These benefits include guiding jaw growth, creating sufficient space for permanent teeth, and avoiding future dental problems.

Keep in mind that the severity of your child’s case, the type of braces you choose, and the duration of treatment will all play a role in early braces treatment and cost.

Dr. Yazji works with children and patients of all ages to give them the smile they’ve always wanted. Schedule a consultation to learn how Dr. Yazji can help your child achieve the perfect smile. At Dr. Yazji Orthodontics, we offer in-house financing and accept Care Credit to finance your orthodontic treatment. Book your free consultation today. 

Invisalign® Cost in Miami: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re considering Invisalign® or seeing an orthodontist, you’re probably wondering how much treatment will cost. Several factors contribute to the amount you might pay for orthodontic work like Invisalign®.

Although Invisalign® may initially seem expensive, having a straight smile can significantly benefit your oral health and self-confidence.

Invisalign® is a popular choice since it’s virtually invisible, meaning you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing. In addition, Invisalign® allows you to eat freely and brush and floss your teeth easily.

Let’s explore what contributes to the overall cost and how you can keep your expenses as low as possible.

The Severity of Your Case

The first factor coming into play is the severity of your case. For example, more time is necessary if you have a severe overbite or crooked teeth.

This means that the Invisalign® cost in Miami for complex cases will be higher than for those with milder cases. In general, the more complicated your orthodontic needs are, the higher the cost will be.

The Duration of Your Treatment

Another factor contributing to Invisalign® cost in Miami is the orthodontist’s time. The amount of time and work the orthodontist spends on your case will affect the overall cost.

The orthodontist will also need to monitor your progress and adjust your aligners as you go through the treatment. Invisalign® is the most advance clear aligner system in the world, so you can expect to pay more for an Invisalign® treatment than other orthodontic treatments with clear aligners.

Insurance Coverage

Most dental insurance plans don’t cover Invisalign®, but some will cover a portion of the cost.

If you have dental insurance, review your policy to see how much it will cover. In some cases, you may be able to use your flex spending account or health savings account.

Ways to Pay Your Invisalign® Cost in Miami

Once you’ve determined how much Invisalign® will cost, you’ll need to find a way to pay for it. Invisalign® is an investment in your oral health and self-confidence, so find a payment option that works for you.

There are a few different ways to pay for Invisalign®:

• Pay in total: If you have the funds available, you can pay for Invisalign® in full upfront. This will often give you a discount on the overall cost of treatment.
• Monthly payment plans: Many orthodontists offer monthly payment plans that can make treatment more accessible.
• Financing: You may be able to finance your Invisalign® treatment through a third-party lender.
• Dental insurance: As we mentioned, some dental insurance plans will cover Invisalign®.

Conclusion

While Invisalign® cost in Miami can be expensive, there are many ways to keep your expenses as low as possible. By understanding the cost of Invisalign® and your individual case, you can decide whether Invisalign® is right for you.

Every case is unique, so consult an orthodontist to estimate what your Invisalign® treatment will cost.

Dr. Yazji is a Diamond Top 1% Invisalign® provider in South Florida and has ample experience helping people of all ages straighten their smiles. So schedule your consultation today and get started on the path to a straighter smile! At Dr. Yazji Orthodontics we’ll create a financing treatment plan tailored to you. No matter your financial situation we can help you get the smile you want. Book a FREE consultation today!

How to Fix a Crossbite: Orthodontic Treatment for a Misaligned Bite

A crossbite is when the lower teeth cover one or more upper teeth when you bite. This can cause discomfort and even affect your appearance. In some cases, it can also lead to more severe dental issues down the road.

However, there is no need to worry. In most instances, you can correct crossbites using orthodontics like braces.

Let’s go over how to fix a crossbite and how to prevent further dental issues from occurring.

What Are The Symptoms of a Crossbite?

If you think that you have a crossbite, there are several symptoms you should look out for.

Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Pain in the jaw
• Headaches
• Tooth decay
• Crowding of teeth
• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Abnormal development of the face or jaws

Cosmetic issues like facial asymmetry can also be a sign that you have a crossbite. This is when the lips and teeth do not line up correctly.

The Consequences of an Untreated Crossbite

Although having a crossbite may not seem like a big deal, it can lead to several more severe dental issues. Therefore, addressing the problem early on is vital to avoid any long-term damage.

Some of the potential consequences of an untreated crossbite include:

• Wearing down the teeth
• Gum disease
• Infection
• Bone loss around the teeth
• Difficulty chewing
• TMJ (temporomandibular joint) problems

As you can see, it’s important to seek treatment for a crossbite as soon as possible.

How Is a Crossbite Corrected?

There are several ways to correct a crossbite. The most common method is orthodontics, which uses devices like braces to realign the teeth.

First, you will need to visit with an experienced orthodontist like Dr. Yazji to discuss your treatment options. Once you have decided the best course of action, they will take x-rays and impressions of your teeth. Then, they will work with you and create a customized treatment plan.

Depending on the severity of your crossbite, you may need to wear braces for 12-24 months. However, this varies from case to case. After completing your treatment, you’ll need to wear a retainer to keep your teeth in their new, corrected position.

In more severe cases, you might require a more serious treatment like surgery to correct the alignment of your jaws. However, this is usually only recommended for adults.

Preventing Further Dental Problems

If you have a crossbite, don’t wait to seek treatment. Orthodontics can help realign your teeth and prevent further dental issues from occurring.

Children are especially at risk for developing dental problems like crossbites. This is because their jaws and teeth are still growing and developing. As a result, it’s essential to take them to the orthodontist early on so they can catch any issues that may arise.

If you think you or your child may have a crossbite, contact our office today. We can help you schedule a consultation and discuss your treatment options. Dr. Maria Yazji will be happy to answer any questions and create a customized treatment plan that meets your needs.

Dr. Yazji has been treating hundreds of patients with crossbites sin 1995. She sees patients of all ages in her three orthodontic offices in South Florida, located in Weston, Brickell (downtown Miami) and West Miami. Book a FREE smile consultation with her today!

TMJ Disorder: Get Relief with Orthodontic Treatment in Miami

Do you suffer from jaw pain, teeth grinding, and clenching? If so, you may have TMJ disorder. Bite and misalignment issues can cause this condition, and you may need to seek treatment with orthodontic braces.

In this article, we’ll discuss the symptoms and treatment of TMJ disorder. We’ll also discuss how orthodontic braces can help to realign the mandibular bone and alleviate the symptoms of this condition.

What Is TMJ?

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. This joint is located in front of each ear and connects the lower jaw to the skull. It helps open and close your mouth by acting as a hinge.

If you have TMJ disorder, your temporomandibular joints are not working properly. This can cause several problems, including pain, clicking and popping sounds, and difficulty opening and closing your mouth.

Many factors can contribute to TMJ disorder, including teeth grinding, clenching, misaligned teeth, and jaw trauma. However, the exact source of TMJ disorder is often unknown.

How Is TMJ Disorder Treated?

Many treatment options are available for TMJ disorder, depending on the severity of your symptoms. In some cases, conservative treatments such as ice packs, heat therapy, and over-the-counter pain medication can be effective.

If your symptoms are more serious, you may need to see an orthodontist for more aggressive treatment. One of the most efficient treatments for TMJ disorder is orthodontic braces.

Orthodontic braces work by realigning the teeth and jaws into their proper position. This can help to relieve the pain and other symptoms associated with TMJ disorder.

During your treatment, an orthodontist like Dr. Maria Yazji will carefully assess your individual case and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. In most cases, you will need to wear orthodontic braces for 12-36 months in order to achieve the desired results.

When You Should See an Orthodontist

If you think you have jaw issues like TMJ, it is essential to see an orthodontist for a diagnosis. Only an orthodontist can properly assess your individual case and determine the best course of treatment.

If you have any of the symptoms mentioned below, see an orthodontist as soon as possible:

• Jaw pain or discomfort
• Cracking and clicking sounds coming from your jaw
• Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
• Teeth grinding or clenching
• A misaligned bite
• Jaw trauma

The Bottom Line

If you are searching for treatment for TMJ disorder, orthodontic braces may be the answer. Orthodontic braces can help to realign your jaw and relieve the pain and other symptoms associated with TMJ disorder.

If you are experiencing TMJ disorder symptoms, it is important to see an orthodontist for a diagnosis. Only an orthodontist can properly assess your individual case and determine the best course of treatment.

At Dr. Yazji Orthodontics, we strive to help our patients achieve relief from issues like TMJ. Our office offers orthodontic treatments, including traditional braces, clear braces, and Invisalign®, that can help with TMJ. Contact us to schedule a consultation today to learn more about achieving relief from TMJ and other dental issues.

How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment Take? Orthodontist in Florida

If you are contemplating orthodontic treatment, you may wonder how long your treatment will take. The answer to that question depends on many factors. Including the severity of your case, the treatments you choose, and how compliant you are with your treatment plan. In addition to these factors, you need to consider the orthodontist you choose for your orthodontic treatment. The more experience and knowledgable the dental professional is, the better treatment plan they will be able to create for your unique orthodontic needs.

On average, most patients require 24 months of treatment to achieve their desired results. However, some patients achieve good results in as little as 12 months, while others may need up to 36 months.

Every patient is unique, and each mouth presents its own challenges during orthodontic treatment. That’s why it’s important to consult an orthodontist. They can create a customized treatment plan designed to meet your individual issues and needs.

Here are a few factors that may affect how long your orthodontic treatment will take.

The Severity of Your Case

The severity of your case plays a big role in how long treatment takes. If you have a more complex issue, it may take longer to achieve the results you want. In addition, the greater the degree of misalignment, the longer it will take to correct.

This includes not only the straightness of your teeth but also the alignment of your jaws. For example, if you have a serious crossbite, it will likely take longer to correct than a milder misalignment.

The Type of Treatment You Choose

There are a few different orthodontic treatments, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some options are quicker than others, which can impact how long treatment takes.

Metal braces, for example, are the most common type of braces, and they are also the most effective. They use high-quality materials that allow your orthodontist to make precise adjustments to your teeth. This means they can correct even the most severe cases of misalignment in a shorter amount of time.

On the other hand, clear braces contain ceramic or plastic and are less visible than metal braces. While they are effective, they may not be as efficient as metal braces, so treatment may take longer.

Your Compliance with Treatment

For orthodontic treatment to succeed, you must comply with your treatment plan. This means wearing your braces as prescribed, attending your scheduled appointments, and following your orthodontist’s instructions.

If you are not compliant with treatment, achieving the desired results will likely take longer. For example: if you’re told to wear your elastic bands and you don’t do it, guess what? Your orthodontic treatment will be delayed. Additionally, you may be at risk for developing complications that could lengthen treatment time even further.

Speeding Up Your Orthodontic Treatment

Thankfully, devices like Propel Orthodontics’ VPro™, a high-frequency vibration device, can help to speed up orthodontic treatment. In fact, VPro™ can help reduce treatment time by up to 50%.

If you’re looking to shorten your orthodontic treatment time, talk to your orthodontist about VPro™. They can determine if you are a candidate for this treatment and create a customized plan. In addition, VPro™ can also help reduce treatment discomfort.

Dr. Yazji offers VPro™ to her patients to help them achieve their desired results in a shorter time. Contact us today to learn more about VPro™ or schedule a consultation with Dr. Yazji.

Orthodontic Treatments: What to Do If Your Teeth Are Crooked

So, your teeth are crooked? If you’re unhappy with how your teeth look or if they’re causing issues, you may consider orthodontic treatment. Dr. Maria Yazji offers a variety of treatments to choose from, so there’s sure to be an option that’s perfect for you.

Let’s discuss the different types of orthodontic treatments available and what to expect from each one.

Why Are My Teeth Crooked?

There are a few reasons your teeth are or can become crooked. Maybe your teeth never grew in evenly, to begin with. It’s also possible that you had perfectly straight teeth once, but an injury or thumb-sucking habit caused them to shift.

With children, teeth may also crowd due to extra teeth or baby teeth that haven’t fallen out.

Whatever the reason your teeth are not straight, know that you’re not alone.

Fixing Crooked Teeth

If your teeth are crooked, fixing them is more than just a cosmetic issue. Crooked teeth can cause several problems, including:

• Difficulty chewing or biting properly
• Jaw pain
• Headaches
• More considerable risk of tooth decay and gum disease

Additionally, many people feel self-conscious about their crooked teeth and may avoid smiling as a result.

What Are My Treatment Options?

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, you likely have a lot of questions about your options. Here are the available treatment options and how each one works.

• Metal Braces: This is the most common type of orthodontic treatment. These braces include metal brackets glued to your teeth and a wire that runs through the brackets. An orthodontist will periodically tighten the wire to move your teeth into place gradually.
• Ceramic or clear braces: This option uses clear or tooth-colored ceramic brackets. They’re less visible than metal braces but require more care to avoid staining.
• Lingual braces: These braces are similar to metal braces but are on the back side of your teeth. This makes them invisible from the front.
• Invisalign®: This treatment uses sets of clear, removable aligners. Because the aligners are clear, they’re much less noticeable than traditional braces.

Benefits of Fixing Crooked Teeth

Besides the obvious cosmetic benefit of having straight teeth, there are a few other reasons to consider orthodontic treatment.

The benefits of fixing your teeth include:

• Improved oral health: Crooked teeth are challenging to brush and floss properly, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. By straightening your teeth, you can reduce your risk of these problems.
• Ease of eating: When your teeth are crooked, you may have difficulty chewing properly. This can lead to digestive problems or make it difficult to eat certain foods.
• Reduced risk of injury: Crooked teeth are more likely to chip or break during an injury.
• Improved speech: Straight teeth make it easier to speak clearly.
• Increased self-esteem: Many people feel more confident with straighter teeth.

Conclusion

If your teeth are crooked, there are a few different treatment options to choose from. Each option has its own benefits, so be sure to discuss your options with an orthodontist.

If your teeth are crooked or if you’re considering orthodontic treatment, we can help! At Dr. Yazji’s office, we offer various orthodontic treatment options to meet your needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Dr. Maria Yazji has been creating beautiful smiles since 1995. She treats patients of all ages in her three offices in Weston, Brickell, and West Miami. Your best smile is only a click away!

It’s International Retainer Day! Caring for Your Retainer after Metal Braces

If you have metal braces or any kind of dental braces, and you are having them removed, you will need to wear a retainer. Retainers work by keeping your teeth from shifting back over time. Furthermore, a retainer will ensure that your metal braces have done their job in straightening your teeth. Actually, retention is for life.

Here are some tips on caring for your retainer and guaranteeing your teeth stay straight and healthy.

Why Do I Need to Wear a Retainer?

After removing your metal braces, your teeth are no longer in a rigid environment. As a result, your teeth can shift and move out of place over time. After treatment, your orthodontist will provide you with a retainer to prevent this from happening.

There are three main types of retainers:

• Hawley retainers: A removable retainer made using an acrylic mold of your teeth.
• Clear retainers: A removable, transparent retainer that fits over your teeth.
• Fixed retainers: A permanently bonded retainer adhered to the back of your teeth.

The retainer you receive will depend on your needs and your orthodontist’s recommendation.

Wearing Your Retainer

After removing your metal braces, you will need to wear your retainer daily. This process will be a bit of an adjustment, as you will need to get used to sleeping with a retainer.

As you sleep, your retainer will help keep your teeth in place, so they don’t shift. Therefore, wearing your retainer at night is crucial to maintaining the results of your metal braces.

During the day, you won’t have a retainer in, and can eat, drink, and floss as usual. Just be sure to remove your retainer at night before doing these activities.

With fixed retainers, you don’t have to worry about removing them before eating or drinking. Just brush and floss as usual!

Cleaning Your Retainer

Your retainer will quickly accumulate bacteria, plaque, and tartar since it spends a lot of time in your mouth. So, just like how you brush your teeth every day, it’s essential to clean your retainer every day.

You can clean your retainer with toothpaste and a toothbrush or by soaking it in denture cleaner. If you don’t have denture cleaner, you can also use mild dish soap or antibacterial soap to clean your retainer. Just be sure to avoid using hot water, as this can warp the shape of the retainer.

It’s also important to clean your retainer case regularly. Bacteria can build up in the case, so empty it out and wash it with soap and water at least once a week.

Make Your Orthodontics Last a Lifetime

With proper care, your retainer will last for many years.

By following these tips on how to care for your retainer, you can ensure that your teeth stay straight. Metal braces can be a big investment. And by taking good care of your retainer, you can guarantee your straight smile lasts a lifetime.

If you’re interested in metal braces or have any questions, schedule a consultation with Dr. Yazji today. We look forward to meeting you!