Casthely Orthodontics

Braces are a permanent fixture on your teeth for several months or even years, and, for many patients, this can be a very daunting thought! However, we don’t want you to worry – braces are a great way to improve your smile (and your oral health) in a short amount of time. And, you may even be surprised to hear that some of your favorite celebrities have worn them!

Are you a Harry Potter fan? Emma Watson, who played Hermione Granger, wore her braces in-between filming for a brief 4 months! They didn’t interfere with her career and now she has a beautiful smile!

Gwen Stefani, a singer once part of the band “No Doubt”, told herself as soon as her band made it big, the first thing she was going to do was to get braces! Sure enough, in 1999 No Doubt was extremely popular and Gwen became an official celebrity with braces. She even dabbled in bright colored bands over her braces like pink and blue!

Another celebrity who’s been through a hefty orthodontic regimen is Dakota Fanning. Dakota has had several teeth pulled, quite a few sets of retainers, multiple braces and even sported some headgear while being interviewed on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno! It took a lot of courage and confidence, but she pulled it off and now her teeth are gorgeous!

Age has no boundaries when it comes to orthodontics and you shouldn’t let that hold you back from braces! Tom Cruise was 40 years old in 2002 when he decided to opt into clear brackets to fix his teeth. We can all agree; it was a great choice!

Braces, like people, come in all shapes and sizes! Metal braces can come in silver or golden, which is a very popular choice because they look like tooth jewelry!
If something more subdued is more your style, you may want to consider ceramic brackets, which are often tooth-colored with similarly colored bands. New technology has introduced “monocrystalline sapphire” brackets which are virtually translucent!
There is also a style of braces called “lingual” braces, which are attached behind your lower teeth, making them undetectable! While not every option is available to every patient, there is always a great choice out there available to you.

Are you ready to be part of the A-list? Don’t call the paparazzi, give Casthely Orthodontics & Dental a call today on [PRACTICE_NUMBER]!

Everyone is going green, but did you know that “going green” can also benefit your oral health? Your pH levels inside your body can greatly affect your overall health. Too much acid in your system can make various parts of your body inflamed. This may include your gum tissues. Gingivitis (early gum disease) and periodontitis (advanced gum disease) are conditions of infection and inflammation. Aiming to consume a balanced diet with the goal of achieving an acidic-alkaline balance (balanced pH level) has been shown to reduce symptoms of many health conditions. One of the fastest and easiest ways to saturate your body with these nutrients is by consuming green fruits and vegetables. Some great green additions to your diet are spinach and green smoothies:

Spinach & Dark Green Vegetables

Eating dark green veggies, like spinach, can have some great health benefits deeming it a “super food” among nutrition experts! The nutrients found in spinach are a powerful source of cancer-fighting properties, producing a substance that causes prostate cancer cells to self-destruct, and another compound that can prevent the formation of ovarian cancer cells. Spinach promotes cardiovascular health via properties that can lower blood pressure and prevent the oxidation of cholesterol. Evidence shows that juicing dark green vegetables like spinach can improve your dental health, preventing gum disease and cavities!

Green Smoothies

Green smoothie can keep your gums, jawbone, and teeth healthier and stronger! The best part about drinking green smoothies is the taste. If you can get over the color, you will find how delicious a green smoothie can be. Spinach, cucumber, kale, lettuce, and zucchini can be blended with fruit to create a low-calorie, nutrient dense meal replacement that boosts your oral health. A great addition to your green smoothie is yogurt. Yogurt has been shown to strengthen teeth and prevent bad breath, as well as add a creamy consistency to your nutrient-dense smoothie.

If you have questions regarding your dental health, give Casthely Orthodontics & Dental a call at Casthely Orthodontics & Dental Phone Number 305.940-.4911 today!

Whether you’re drinking from a glass that is half-empty or half-full, drinking a glass of water is always beneficial to your health. Human beings are 60% water; so staying hydrated throughout the day is crucial for the hydration of tissue, the distribution of nutrients, and the removal of waste from your body. Not only is drinking water beneficial to your overall health, but your dental health as well!

Here are four reasons why water is the best beverage for your teeth:

1. Water keeps your mouth clean.

Water cleans your mouth with every sip! As your drink, water washes away leftover food and any residual cavity-causing bacteria. Water also reduces the pH of your mouth by diluting the acids produced by bacteria that live in your mouth. Don’t forget to brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes, but drinking water throughout the day will help keep your smile healthy and cavity-free.

2. Water strengthens your teeth.

Drinking water with fluoride, aka “nature’s cavity fighter”, is one of the easiest and most effective ways to fight cavities. While almost all water contains naturally-occurring fluoride, the community water systems that serve most American households adjust the level, usually by adding fluoride to achieve the right amount to reduce tooth decay. Health organizations, like the American Dental Association (ADA), say this is one of the major reasons most people no longer need the dentures that were so common before widespread fluoridation, and studies have shown that it is why dental costs are lower and oral health problems have declined in fluoridated communities!

3. Drinking water fights dry mouth.

Saliva is the human mouth’s first defense against cavities. Saliva helps wash away residual food and coats your teeth in calcium, phosphate, and fluoride. When your mouth doesn’t have enough saliva, you run the risk for tooth decay. When your mouth is feeling dry, drink a glass of water to quench your thirst, and strengthen your teeth!

4. Water is free of calories.

Drinking sugary beverages can create a cavity-prone environment within your mouth, and can lead to weight gain. Studies show that drinking water, eight 8-ounce glasses or 8×8, can help you lose weight.

If you have questions regarding water consumption or your overall dental health, don’t hesitate to call Casthely Orthodontics & Dental at Casthely Orthodontics & Dental Phone Number 305.940-.4911 today!

We live in a high-tech world. Technology is constantly changing and evolving, for the better! Cell phones have gone from large brick-like objects to wearable watches! We now watch movies in High Definition and 3-Dimensions, thanks to the impressive workings of computers.

“3D” derives its meaning from stereopsis, which means “solid depth” in Greek. The human eye sees everything in the world in many dimensions because objects have several angles. However, when an image is projected onto a screen, the image loses its angles and becomes “flat”. New advances in technology now mean that computers and imaging are able to imitate these planes and display an image that the human eye can see as “three dimensional.”

It is this same level of advanced technology that allows Invisalign treatment to be totally customized to your mouth. First, we take x-rays, pictures and impressions of your teeth, which are then inserted into a computer that creates a 3-D digital image of them. These images allow us to create a precise treatment plan completely tailored to your needs, including the exact movements of your teeth. Then we are able to approximate the length of treatment. We can even show you a virtual representation of how your teeth will move and look with each stage of the treatment. Once a treatment plan is in place, you will receive custom-made, clear aligners to take home.

Invisalign combines our clinical treatment plan with 3-D computer-generated software to make sets of unique custom-made aligners that move teeth in precise increments. Invisalign is innovative technology, based on biomechanical principles that achieve more precise and predictable tooth movement.

There are 2.6 million Invisalign patients, treated by 39.3 thousand doctors, with over 149 million unique liners! Now that’s a lot of customization!

Not all doctors are trained in Invisalign treatment, so know that you’re in good hands here at Casthely Orthodontics & Dental because we offer Invisalign. Give us a call today!

Gum disease can be serious business if left untreated. The good news is, with regular maintenance and good oral hygiene, you can avoid and even reverse the early stages of gum disease. We’ve put together some tips for you that will help you prevent gum disease.

Maintaining a Clean Mouth

Brushing your gums, as well as your teeth after every meal is the best way to take care of your teeth. Remove those food particles without being too hard on your enamel. We can show you the best method at your next appointment.

Dental floss can reach those spaces in your mouth that a tooth brush just can’t get to. Get in between your teeth with floss before you brush, so that any food you pull out can be picked up by your tooth brush.

While you shouldn’t rely on mouthwash alone, certain mouthwash products are great for killing bacteria. Consult our office for suggestions as some products are better than others.

Practice Good Overall Health

Keeping a balanced diet keeps your whole body healthy. Staying away from eating too much sugar is a great place to start. Making sure you get all the nutrients you need helps your body fight bacteria, including those that can cause gum disease.

If you are a smoker, quit! Smoking is not just awful for your lungs, smoking leads to tooth decay, tooth loss and poor gum health. Smoking leads to the creation of pockets in your gums, where bacteria collect and form tartar. It also degrades the tissues that hold your teeth in place.

Talk to Your Doctor about your Medications

It may be worth talking with your doctor about the side effects of any medication you may be on. Some drugs lead to bacteria build up in the mouth, or affect the flow of saliva that keeps that bacteria from settling.

Hormones can also play a role in oral health. If you are experiencing hormonal changes, you may be experiencing tooth sensitivity, and promoting the development of gum disease.

Stress

Stress affects your body’s ability to fight infection. Evaluating the stress in your life and what you can do to manage it is a great idea to promote your general health.

Appointments

Regular oral health visits are the best way to pin down gum disease. The professionals at our office are trained to notice the kinds of things you may not see in your mouth.

You may not have considered that your crooked teeth put you at risk for gum disease. Having straight teeth means eliminating certain pockets where gum disease can develop. Braces are a great way to do this.

Contact our office today to set up your next appointment!

Pregnancy is an exciting time when your body is going through many changes. You may be wondering how this will affect your teeth and gums. This blog is meant to answer your oral health questions and give you the information you need to help both you and your baby!

Keep Up Your Routine. It is important to keep up your brushing and flossing routine. You may be indulging your cravings for sweets, so make sure you brush regularly. It is important to continue regular check ups and cleanings. Let us know your stage of pregnancy when you make your appointment, as well as any changes in your medication or special advice you may have received from your doctor. If you have a high-risk pregnancy or other medical condition, we may recommend certain procedures be postponed.

Pregnancy Gingivitis. During pregnancy some women are prone to a mild form of gum disease, called gingivitis that causes gums to be red, tender, and sore. Keeping your teeth clean is important for the prevention of pregnancy gingivitis. We may recommend more frequent cleanings to help control any signs of the disorder, because if left untreated, it can lead to more serious gum disease.

X-ray Safety. If you suffer a dental emergency or need an assessment, dental X-rays are sometimes necessary. Don’t worry – you will be covered with a leaded apron that will protect you and your baby from any harmful exposure.

Food for You and Your Baby’s Teeth. While pregnant, many women tend to crave sweets or snack more, both of which can put you at higher risk of tooth decay. It is important to choose low-sugar snacks that contain the nutrients your body needs. Your baby’s teeth will begin to develop between the third and six months of your pregnancy. Eating foods rich in vitamins A, C, and D, as well as protein, calcium, and phosphorous will give both you and your baby what you need for good dental health.

Morning Sickness. If you have frequent vomiting or morning sickness, rinse with a teaspoon of baking soda mixed with water to stop stomach acid from attacking your teeth.

Being a mother is exciting, but it is a huge responsibility. Start your healthy dental routine now for the benefit of you and your baby!

Bethany Hamilton has become a source of inspiration to millions. At the age of thirteen, Bethany lost her left arm to a 14-foot tiger shark, an accident that many believed would end her career as a rising surf star. One month after the attack, Bethany returned to the water and within 2 years had won her first National title. Soul surfer, Bethany Hamilton, has become an embodiment of self-confidence. Bethany didn’t let losing an arm or wearing braces hold her back from enjoying what she loved. Hamilton battled the waves and crooked teeth with self-ligating braces. Channel your inner soul surfer this summer, and don’t let braces hold you back from doing what you love.

What are self-ligating braces? Well, this relatively new orthodontic treatment doesn’t use elastic or metal ligatures to attach an arch wire to brackets. Self-ligating braces brackets have a built-in component that closes around the wire to keep it attached. Self-ligating braces have a few notable advantages to take advantage of:

1. Self-ligating metal brackets reduce friction between brackets and wires by eliminating use of ligature ties, reducing total treatment time.
2. Because no friction is involved using metal or elastic ligatures, self-ligating braces allow teeth to move freely, causing less pain during the extent of orthodontic treatment.
3. Metal and elastic ligatures associated with conventional braces can also accumulate bacteria and plaque, often become discolored with different foods and beverages. By eliminating these ligatures, the self-ligating braces can lead to better oral health throughout your orthodontic treatment.

While self-ligating braces have the ability to reduce duration time, are less painful, and can lead to better oral hygiene throughout orthodontic treatment, self-ligating braces do have the potential to be slightly more costly than their traditional counterparts. Though Bethany Hamilton straightened her smile with self-ligating braces, traditional and clear braces remain excellent options for orthodontic treatment.

Whether surfing, swimming, or enjoying the beach, don’t let your orthodontic treatment hold you back from enjoying your summer. For questions regarding self-ligating, traditional or clear braces, give Casthely Orthodontics & Dental a call today, we would love to hear from you this summer!

We’re all familiar with cavities – the anxiety before going to the dentist, the satisfaction of leaving without having to return for fillings. As routine as cavity treatment seems, tooth decay, or dental caries, is more complex than we often realize. Keep reading to get the inside scoop on tooth decay and how you can prevent it!

What is tooth decay?

Dental caries, also known as tooth decay, is the bacterial destruction of the tooth’s enamel.

What causes tooth decay?

Even with an effective dental care routine, bacteria in the mouth cause plaque to form on the teeth. When the bacteria in plaque react with food in your mouth, it produces acid that wears away at the enamel.

Stages and treatments:

There is a range of treatment methods for dental caries depending on the severity of the decay:

• Fillings and restorations are the most common cavity treatments. We use inlays and onlays to treat tooth decay because they’re similar to traditional fillings but are more stable and longer lasting.
• Crowns are necessary if the decay goes deep enough to make the tooth weak or unstable. These tooth-colored caps are secured to the tops of damaged teeth to strengthen them and restore them to normal function.
• Root canal therapy (RCT) is needed when the cavity goes deep enough to infect the pulp in the tooth. Sometimes the damage is severe enough that root canal therapy is not effective, and if retreatment is unsuccessful an apicoectomy is performed. During an apicoectomy, the infected pulp tissue is removed through the tooth’s root. Then the root tip is cut off and replaced with biocompatible material.
• If the tooth is beyond saving through one of these previously mentioned methods, extraction is the way to go. Dental implants offer a sturdy, long-lasting solution to extracted teeth to restore your smile.

We all have bacteria in our mouth, good and bad. But what exactly do these bacteria do? We’ve got all kinds of information on the role bacteria play in your oral health. Learn more about those pesky bacteria in your mouth!

Fact #1

There are anywhere between 500 and 1,000 different kinds of bacteria in our mouths.

Fact #2

Babies’ mouths are free of bacteria at birth. However, bacteria is transferred into their mouths from their mothers within hours of birth, mainly through kissing and food sharing.

Fact #3

Saliva flushes harmful bacteria out of the mouth by making it hard for bacteria to stick to the surfaces of our teeth.

Fact #4

Some foods can also flush bacteria from the teeth. Crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery stimulate the gums, while acidic fruits like apples increase saliva production to wash the teeth clean.

Fact #5

The tongue holds a significant portion of the mouth’s bacteria. It’s just as important to clean the tongue as it is to brush and floss, because bacteria on the tongue contributes to gum disease and bad breath. Try using a plastic or metal tongue scraper to clear out bacteria!

Fact #6

Hormonal changes during pregnancy put soon-to-be mothers at a higher risk of tooth erosion. Morning sickness and general hormonal changes cause acidity in the mouth to increase, which in turn erodes enamel.

Fact #7

Smoking increases your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Not all bacteria are bad; in fact, some are even necessary to maintain hygienic balance. However, smoking tobacco destroys helpful bacteria in the mouth, which promotes the growth of harmful oral bacteria.

Fact #8

Oral bacteria multiply in number every 4-5 hours. No wonder it’s so important to brush teeth twice a day!

Who knew something so small could have such a big impact on your oral health! Make sure to schedule regular dental exams with your dentist to keep oral bacteria under control for a clean, healthy smile!

Oral cancer screenings are performed regularly at dental exams, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be paying attention to your dental hygiene between appointments. Taking matters into your own hands is the best way to maintain your oral health. Not sure how to screen for oral cancer? We’ll show you!

What is oral pathology?
This branch of dentistry involves the evaluation and treatment of diseases of the mouth. The most dangerous, but not always the most obvious, of these diseases is oral cancer.

What should I look for?
Keep an eye out for these oral cancer symptoms during your self-screenings:

• Red or white patches in the mouth
• Lumps on the tongue or lining of the mouth
• Mouth sores that won’t heal
• Unexplained bleeding
• Chronic throat soreness
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• Mouth numbness

How do I perform an oral cancer self-exam?

1. When performing your oral cancer self-screening, be sure to check all areas of the mouth, including the roof, floor, tongue, lips, cheeks and the back of your throat.
2. Examine your face in the mirror for abnormal asymmetry and irregularities.
3. Feel your neck and the back of your head with your fingers to look for any bumps or changes in texture.
4. Examine your throat by placing your fingers around your thyroid cartilage (Adam’s apple) and swallowing.

How often should I perform a self-exam?
Self-exams should be performed at least once a month. Changes to your oral health can occur rapidly, so it’s important to stay on top of things. Treatment is most effective when symptoms are detected early.