Will Braces Cause White Marks on Your Teeth?

braces folsom el dorado hills

Will Braces Cause White Marks on Your Teeth?

braces folsom el dorado hills

If you’re looking into getting braces, you may be wondering will braces cause white marks on your teeth? According to your orthodontist in El Dorado Hills, Dr. Tim Lyons, white marks on your teeth can be completely preventable! Read on to learn how you can prevent white spots from developing on your teeth.

What can cause white marks on teeth?

It is important that we first distinguish between the white marks that can be as the result of wearing braces and other types of white marks that can appear on the teeth. White marks on the teeth can be due to concerns related to genetics, nutrition and also from an excessive fluoride intake. Quite often there is little that can be done to avoid white spots stemming from these concerns. However, maintaining a healthy and well-balanced diet, while keeping up with good oral hygiene, is still the best practice for ensuring that your mouth and teeth are healthy.

Referred to as orthodontic white spot lesions (WSLs), seeing white marks on your teeth after bottom and top braces are actually as a result of decalcifications, or the loss of hard minerals. This can happen when plaque builds up on the teeth. Plaque is filled with bacteria that excrete an acid that can start to break down the mineralized surface of the tooth. There is an increased risk of getting these white marks during orthodontic treatment, but they can also occur without any type of orthodontia if teeth aren’t being brushed and flossed regularly.

You’re probably wondering if these marks on the teeth are fixable. Dr. Ben Kacos, a cosmetic dentist in Shreveport, LA, adds that white spots are not going to go away on their own, you do have some options to consider.

Preventing white marks on the teeth while wearing braces

WSLs are 100% preventable. Rest assured, white marks will not automatically appear on your teeth because you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. 

It’s as simple as brushing, flossing and inspecting your teeth and your braces every day. When you first get your braces, your orthodontic team will discuss proper oral hygiene methods with you. It’s important to maintain a good routine for the duration of your orthodontic treatment.

Keep in mind that these white marks, or WSLs, are not an issue exclusive to those who have traditional fixed braces. Even those who have clear aligners may be at risk of decalcification on their teeth. Keeping the aligners and your teeth clean is essential. Plaque can build up on your teeth and then be trapped against the inside of the aligner tray until when you next brush your teeth.

When visiting your orthodontist in Folsom, CA patients may be told that a professional cleaning could be the way to go, to prevent the white marks. Remember that these white marks are the very early beginnings of what could become cavities and serious tooth decay. If you recognize any white blemishes on your teeth, be sure to follow up with your orthodontist as soon as you are able. Working with your orthodontist and other dental health professionals will help to ensure that you get the beautiful smile that you deserve.

If in need of a team skilled in all things orthodontics, reach out to Lyons Orthodontics. When it comes to understanding the best treatment solutions in the field of orthodontics El Dorado Hills orthodontist Dr. Tim Lyons is the professional you need by your side. Contact us today for a free consultation.

What is a Crossbite?

what is a crossbite - Lyons Orthodontics

What is a Crossbite?

what is a crossbite - Lyons Orthodontics

When you visit us at Lyons Orthodontics, you will be treated with the utmost care. We will guide you through every step of your treatment plan. We will help you from the initial consultation all the way to the big smile reveal. One important part of your treatment plan is understanding the different reasons behind the treatment, i.e., crossbites. A crossbite is one of the more common misalignments orthodontists see today. So, what is a crossbite? Sacramento orthodontists explain what you need to know about a crossbite.

Understanding the Crossbite

A crossbite is a type of misalignment. In a typical case, the upper teeth fit inside of the lower teeth when the jaw is closed. This type of tooth misalignment can impact just a single tooth or several groups of teeth. It can involve the back teeth, the front teeth, or all of the teeth. Each case is different and will be evaluated individually.

An anterior crossbite involves the front top teeth sitting behind the teeth on your bottom jaw, whereas a posterior crossbite involves the back upper teeth sitting on the inside of the lower teeth.

Causes of a Crossbite

There are several causes behind a crossbite, with genetics often being the primary culprit. According to Dr. Tim Lyons, the best orthodontist Sacramento, explains that a delay in the loss of baby teeth or an abnormal permanent teeth eruption can also result in a crossbite.  Dr. Kristina Neda, a Georgetown KY dentist, says that another cause of a crossbite could include prolonged thumb-sucking, as it can generate pressure against the teeth. The teeth in our mouth are constantly shifting and can be pushed out of place with any type of pressure, which is what makes orthodontic solutions possible. 

Why is it Important to Fix a Crossbite?

A child with a crossbite may have an underlying problem with their jaw. These concerns are best addressed with orthodontic solutions when they are still young and developing. There are several concerns that could become a reality if a crossbite is not corrected, including the following:

  • Jaw growth may be uneven
  • Shifting of the jaw to one side
  • Uneven wear on tooth enamel

How is a Crossbite Corrected?

There are a number of treatment options for a crossbite. Your orthodontist, Dr. Lyons, will need to evaluate your unique condition in order to create the treatment plan that will best meet your needs. Treatment could include a palatal expander, which will gradually widen the upper jaw. Typically, a palatal expander is used in conjunction with braces on top teeth or clear aligner trays.

It can take several months before results are seen, with routine follow-up appointments to track your progress. If you are in need of an orthodontist in Sacramento, contact Lyons Orthodontics for a no-obligation consultation. We can help you obtain the smile you’ve always wanted through braces or Invisalign!

Surprising Benefits of Clear Aligners

surprising benefits of clear aligners - Lyons Orthodontics

Surprising Benefits of Clear Aligners

surprising benefits of clear aligners - Lyons Orthodontics

When you’re looking for an orthodontist El Dorado Hills patients know that they can rely on Dr. Tim Lyons to help give them the straight and beautiful smile that they deserve. If you’re on the fence about getting braces or Invisalign aligners, you may be surprised to learn the benefits of clear aligners.

Invisalign Reduces the Risks of Decay

One of the most surprising benefits associated with clear aligners is that they can reduce the risks of tooth decay. Traditional braces have long been the standard for treating misaligned teeth, and they do offer great benefits for those with serious orthodontic concerns. However, these types of braces can make it more of a challenge to keep teeth clean after meals. It can be difficult to brush and floss around braces, which can potentially lead to an increased risk of decay. We particularly see this happen in teens who may not take the time to clean their teeth correctly. Braces can also lead to gum irritation and inflammation when there’s poor oral hygiene.

Aligner trays are conveniently removable. So, you or your teen will have no problem brushing and flossing your teeth after your meals. Your teeth will be much healthier as a result.

Decreasing Treatment Time

Perhaps one of the most interesting and surprising facts about Invisalign is that the treatment time is much less than what is typically expected from traditional braces. Traditional braces can often take as long as 3 full years, or more, in order to achieve a perfect smile. When you use clear aligners, you can see results within less than a year.  It’s important to note that the length of time needed to see results from clear aligners will vary and be based upon the orthodontic needs of the individual.

Discreet Orthodontic Treatment

While orthodontic solutions are a very important part of creating a healthy and straight smile, they can often be intrusive and very obvious. This is not the case with Invisalign aligners. Dr. Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA, adds, “For someone who may already struggle with self-confidence, traditional braces may not feel like the right choice to consider.” Invisalign clear aligners are designed to be discreet. They are clear and largely invisible once in place. Patients of all ages can benefit from Invisalign.

Improved Comfort Over Other Orthodontic Treatments

Traditional braces can take some getting used to. You may experience some irritation in the gums as well as some general discomfort. There are solutions to help ease some of the discomfort and irritation. For example, your El Dorado Hills orthodontist may recommend using wax to prevent your brackets from scratching the insides of your mouth.

Clear aligners are made using a material that is soft and comfortable to wear. Patients rarely have any issues with them, particularly as the aligner trays are designed specifically for their mouth. 

If you’re looking for an orthodontist in El Dorado Hills, know that you can trust Dr. Lyons and his team to create the smile of your dreams. Contact our dental office in El Dorado Hills to learn more about the benefits of clear aligners and how they just might be the right choice for you.

Dentist vs. Orthodontist

dentist vs orthodontist - Lyons Orthodontics

Difference Between Dentist and an Orthodontist

dentist vs orthodontist

You probably know that you need to visit your dentist at least twice a year for optimal oral health. But when it comes time to consider getting braces, you may find yourself being referred to an orthodontist. Certainly, some dentists offer orthodontic solutions like Invisalign, but there are some key differences between your dentist and your orthodontist.

The truth is that not only do dentists and orthodontists offer different types of treatment solutions, but they also hold different qualifications.

Understanding Orthodontia

Dentistry specializes in working with the jaw, gum, nerves and the teeth. Orthodontia is a branch of dentistry that offers a focus on the face, teeth, and jaws. The goal of orthodontia is to ensure the best in function and aesthetics from the face, teeth, and jaws. This is most often achieved with fixed braces, aligner tray systems and other types of orthodontic treatment.

Orthodontists have the same qualifications as a dentist. They have undergone the same type of education and training as the dentists have. On top of this, the orthodontist-in-training will go through an additional three-year postgraduate course. Prior to starting orthodontic training, the dentist will need to undergo hands-on experience with restorative dentistry, pediatric dentistry, and maxillofacial surgery. This training will be earned most often in hospitals and dental clinics that are affiliated with dental schools.

The orthodontist who treats your misalignment issues is a fully trained and experienced dentist, who has undergone additional training and hands-on experience in order to best know how to treat concerns with your face, teeth, and jaws.

Do Dentists Offer Orthodontic Treatments?

Some general dentists may offer their patients orthodontic treatments. However, it is worth considering that your dentist will not likely have the same type of experience and training as an orthodontist will have.

If you need braces for teens and other youngsters, it’s best to seek out the best orthodontist in El Dorado Hills. This is because an orthodontist will be well familiar with the physical changes that patients will be undergoing. They will also understand how it can impact the orthodontic treatment.

Some types of orthodontic treatment most often offered by dentists include Invisalign aligners. These systems use a series of aligner trays that will gradually adjust misaligned teeth into the desired position. There is very little hands-on treatment needed with these types of systems. Dr. Christopher Green, a dentist in Parker, CO, says that many patients who undergo Invisalign aligners are very happy with their results.

Visit Lyons Orthodontics

Both the dentist and the orthodontist will help patients to see an improvement in their oral health. Just know that they can help through differing approaches. Whether you need a full set of braces or Invisalign, you’ll find benefit in calling Lyon’s Orthodontics. If you are in need of an orthodontist, El Dorado Hills patients will find that Lyon’s Orthodontics offers treatment plans and solutions that will meet your needs. Visit Lyons Orthodontics for a free no-obligation smile consultation! 

The Difference Between an Orthodontist and Dentist

the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist - Lyons Orthodontics

the difference between an orthodontist and a dentistThe Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist

You’re probably wondering if there’s a difference between an orthodontist and dentist? The short answer is, yes, there is a difference! A dentist and an orthodontist provide different dental treatments. They also have different qualifications as well. While you might already know what a dentist is, you may not know what an orthodontist is. In this article, our Lyons Orthodontics team explains the difference between an orthodontist and dentist. 

What is an Orthodontist?

Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that is based on the development of the jaw, face, and teeth to reach its full potential and fulfill its purpose. The use of clear or removable aligners and fixed braces are common to help your face reach its aesthetics.

An orthodontist is a highly qualified specialist who has fist taken training to become a dentist and then has undertaken an additional three-year postgraduate course at Masters or Doctorate level. Orthodontic training posts are usually looked for both before and after a dentist starts his/her training to become an orthodontist as the job requires experience in pediatric dentistry, maxillofacial surgery, and restorative dentistry.

In most cases, specialist training takes place in hospitals associated with university dental schools. Trainees learn the theory of orthodontics and also gain all the experience they need by treating patients under the supervision of more experienced orthodontists.

In general, dentists can provide you with orthodontic treatment, and some dentists perform with a very high standard. Some of the orthodontic treatment includes Invisalign or traditional braces.  In majority cases, they would not have the same level of experience and training as compared to a specialist orthodontist.

After having completed training, the orthodontist will stick to orthodontic treatments. They quickly develop the skills and gain the experience by treating different types of cases from highly complex cases to even mild cases. Some of these dental problems may include overbites, underbites, crowded teeth, crossbite, and more.

Should I visit a Dentist or an Orthodontist?

It’s recommended that you visit an orthodontist if you need orthodontic treatment. That way, you can achieve your smile goals and avoid any problems that may occur. Dr. Leeson, a cosmetic dentist in St. Petersburg, FL, adds that orthodontic treatment should always be done by a professional. Otherwise, you may pay the consequences.

If you’re interested in improving your smile, we highly recommend visiting Lyons Orthodontics in El Dorado Hills for a no-obligation, free consultation. Dr. Tim Lyons and his team will take good care of your smile!