AJ Orthodontics Blog

You used to have perfectly straight teeth. In fact, your pearly whites were straightened by metal braces. However, whether it be due to time or forgetting to wear your retainer for one too many nights, your teeth have shifted back out of alignment. Understandably, this is frustrating. You might wish you could turn back the clock and enjoy your flawless smile.

Thanks to Invisalign, you can – without repeating the wires and brackets. To see how Invisalign could make this time-jump possible, keep reading.

They may be rare, but orthodontic emergencies do happen from time to time. They can include regular toothaches, loose brackets, or even a broken or poking wire. The upside is that you can learn how treatments for them go ahead of time, ensuring you’re prepared for care. Your Palm Harbor orthodontist will even give you a primer on the matter. To that end, here are four things to expect during an emergency orthodontic visit.

Straightening your teeth with the help of braces introduces a whole new set of changes to your mouth that you might not have experienced before. For example, if you don’t brush your teeth properly, you can develop permanent white spots from demineralization on them.  You are also responsible for caring for new equipment like your brackets, wires, and maybe even an expander. Another common side effect of braces you may not be expecting is that your teeth can sometimes feel loose or a little wiggly during treatment, which may be a little disconcerting at first, but here’s why you shouldn’t worry.

The warmer months aren’t just great for soaking up some sun on the beach, relaxing by the pool, and traveling – summer is a great time to start Invisalign too. So, if you’ve been thinking about straightening your teeth with clear aligners, there’s no time like the present to start! If you’re not quite convinced yet, then keep reading to learn a few of the many perks of pursuing this discreet orthodontic treatment this season.

Playing sports offers fantastic opportunities for fitness and camaraderie. Whether you are playing casually with friends or competing on a school team or professionally, sports are a key part of many people’s lives. Luckily, having braces shouldn’t hinder your athletic pursuits! If you’re considering orthodontic treatment but want more information before making an appointment, read on for answers to common questions from your orthodontist about playing sports while wearing braces.

Loud, chronic snoring can be a telltale sign of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Snoring isn’t the only concern of the sleep disorder. It causes frequent breathing disruptions while sleeping, depriving your body of oxygen. You can be at risk of potentially deadly health conditions with no treatment, but the complications don’t end there. OSA also affects your sleep quality, which can lead to sleep deprivation. If you get behind the wheel when you’re sleep deprived, you can place yourself and others at risk. Sleep apnea is linked to auto accidents caused by drowsy driving. Here’s why you might want to think twice before driving if your sleep apnea is untreated.

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Invisalign is a popular alternative to traditional braces because it can straighten your smile without the need for bulky brackets. Instead, it relies on clear plastic aligner trays that fit over your teeth to gently reposition them. One of the biggest benefits of this transparent solution is that patients don’t experience the same level of self-consciousness as with standard orthodontics because their appearance isn’t as impacted. If your Invisalign becomes stained or discolored, however, it defeats the purpose of this ‘invisible’ option.

Fortunately, Invisalign Cleaning Crystals can help resolve the problem. Keep reading to learn how to use them properly to keep your aligners sparkling fresh!

Orthodontic treatment is a complex system of many moving parts and strategies. Because of this, orthodontic emergencies are bound to happen sooner or later. Being unprepared could lead to disrupted progress and frustration. This is not to mention the potential discomfort from broken brackets or loose wires.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of orthodontic emergencies. Read on to learn how!

Achieving a beautiful smile involves several factors, including white and uniform teeth with minimal gaps. Among these, the alignment of your teeth plays a crucial role. However, maintaining straight teeth can become a challenge when they start shifting. If you’ve ever wondered what leads to this shift, read on to explore seven common causes and discover how your dentist can effectively address and correct these issues, ensuring your smile remains radiant and aligned.

Embracing the journey towards a straighter smile no longer requires the conspicuous presence of metal braces. Invisalign, a popular choice among both teens and adults, offers a discreet alternative with its virtually invisible clear aligners. However, before delving into the transformative world of Invisalign, it’s crucial to be aware of six key considerations that can influence your orthodontic experience.