When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every children, no later than age 7, should have an orthodontic evaluation. Many times, extensive and painful treatment later in life can be avoided by scheduling an early orthodontic evaluation. At the Smile Specialist, our doctors are trained and experienced at treating a wide variety of orthodontic conditions on children of all ages (and adults too!).
Dr. McSurdy and Dr. Pavlow are the top Orthodontists in the greater Philadelphia area and work with children and young adult on a daily basis. We utilize the most progressive and innovative technology in the industry. Both our Collegeville and Gilbertsville offices use state of the art equipment and sterilization procedures to maintain the health and safety of our patients. Our doctors believe that a beautiful smile is the result of harmony between face and teeth. Schedule your free smile analysis today at 610-489-6032 or Click Here. FAQ about orthodontic care.
Foods to Avoid with Braces
The first few weeks with your braces can be a little tricky in the eating department, especially for young people. Foods you had no problems eating before can now cause pain and damage to your new braces. While it may be tempting to simply eat all the old foods you once enjoyed, here are some suggestions of foods to avoid:
- Raw Foods Like Veggies: These aren’t totally off limits. If you decide to eat raw veggies, like carrots, cut them into smaller, more manageable pieces that are easily chewed with back teeth.
- Corn on the Cob: When chewing corn off the cob, it can get stuck in the wires of braces and can even cause wires to break or come loose. Cutting it off the cob can be a simple solution.
- Hard or Chewy Bread: Cut breads like french bread or bagels into smaller pieces that don’t require your teeth to tear apart.
- Pizza Crust
- Apples: Again, biting apples off the core can cause broken wires. Cut apples into smaller, bite sized pieces.
- Burgers or Sub Sandwiches
- Chips
These food restrictions only apply to braces that are permanently affixed to your teeth. One of the huge benefits of using the Invisalign system to straighten your teeth is the fact that there are no diet restrictions. With clear, removable aligners, eating with Invisalign becomes simple and straightforward.
Are Braces Painful?
The actual application of the braces shouldn’t hurt in the slightest. The mild discomfort and soreness most patients experience comes from the gums and tongue being irritated. About 3-5 days following your initial braces treatment, the discomfort should subside.
To help ease any discomfort and swelling, we suggest an over the counter pain medicine. Your orthodontist may also give you some orthodontic wax, which, when applied will coat the metal brackets and wires. This will effectively keep the metal from cutting into your inner lips, tongue and cheeks.
If you choose the Invisalign System, there should be no pain to teeth and gums beyond the actual movement of your teeth. Without the metal brackets, the Invisalign aligners are smooth and gentle for gums and tongue causing little to no discomfort.
What Is the Average Cost Of Braces?
At The Smile Specialists, we never want the cost of braces to deter you from investing in a healthy smile. The total cost of braces depends on the duration and extent of each patient’s treatment. That being said, the total bill is typically less than $6000, and braces for teenagers and children cost much less.
Before deciding to pay for braces, patients should consider the options and benefits. Money spent on braces is money spent on overall health, as braces prevent malocclusions and improve self-confidence, speech, and long-term oral health. At The Smile Specialists, we are dedicated to helping patients and families with every step of their treatment. Call 610-489-6032 for an obligation-free, complimentary visit.
During your free first visit, we take photos, x-rays, and provide a comprehensive examination. Dr. McSurdy or Dr. Pavlow will spend one-on-one time with you and outline the kind of treatment you need. During this time, parents and patients can discuss the exact cost and duration of your treatment.
Braces vs. Invisalign
Invisalign are clear trays that correct your teeth without the use of wires and brackets. Every two weeks, we provide patients with new trays. Invisalign costs a little more than traditional braces, but they may be the better option for patients who only need minimal treatment or those who frequently participate in contact sports. Read below for the pros and cons of braces and Invisalign.
Braces: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Better option for more complex issues
- No removal for sports or eating
- No chance of losing aligner
- Normal brushing and flossing; no cleaning special appliance
Cons:
- Mild pain and discomfort of gums and lips
- Food restrictions: candy, popcorn, hard foods, sticky foods
- Special mouth guards needed for sporting events
Invisalign: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Virtually invisible
- Removable for food variety
- Less discomfort
- Improved oral health
- Fewer office visits
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive
- Because aligners are removed before eating, brushing and flossing is required before replacing to avoid discoloration of teeth
- Must remove to eat or drink
It is very common for people to think that teeth straightening treatments are strictly aesthetic. While these treatments definitely improve smiles, they also do a lot to improve your oral health. There are many oral health issues associated with crooked teeth so it is often best to get treatment to fix these issues. Braces and Invisalign treatments are incredibly popular methods.
The Smile Specialists is an orthodontist based out of Philadelphia. Our team is focused on providing care to the greater Philadelphia area and that includes Bally. Bally residents can take advantage of the staff and equipment we have available. Our facilities are perfect for braces and Invisalign treatments. Learn more about our services and the benefits of straight teeth.
Straighten Your Smile With Braces
As we mentioned, straight teeth offers benefits that extend beyond aesthetic improvements. Braces are one of the most common forms of treatment for crooked teeth. However, braces are also used to address malocclusions, underbites, overbites, deep bites, cross bites, and crooked teeth.
Problems with your bite can have other negative effects on your body and speech. The uneven bites can put a lot of pressure at points of your jaw and cause a lot of pain. Another common issue with crooked teeth is tooth decay. Bacteria has an easy time hiding in your teeth and gums. With braces, you can rid your mouth of many of these problems.
Get Straight Teeth With Invisalign
Many are nervous or embarrassed about having braces. In this case, you can seek alternative teeth straightening methods to achieve your goals. Invisalign is a great option because it provides a nearly invisible treatment for crooked teeth. It is also significantly less invasive than braces treatment.
Invisalign trays are removable so you can take them out whenever you are eating or drinking. Though they are removable, it is still best to wear them for 20 to 22 hours a day. This will help you achieve the best results from your treatment. If you want to improve your smile and oral health, we can find out if this is the right treatment for you.
Best Orthodontist in Bally
Living in Bally, you can take advantage of the orthodontic treatments we offer. The Smile Specialists office services cities in the greater Philadelphia area. We can provide you braces and invisalign treatments. If you want to schedule a visit, you can contact us here or give us a call at 610-489-6032!