How Technology Can Improve Your Orthodontic Experience

Going to the orthodontist may be good for you, but it may not always be an experience you can’t wait to relive. If you want to give yourself a break, it can help to see an orthodontist who invests in the latest technology. Here, we’ll look at why that is, and how the right equipment can make a real difference.

An Overview of Technology in Orthodontics

While you might have fun keeping up with the latest iPhone release, chances are, you aren’t keeping up with the latest iTero releases (more on that below). Because industrial-specific technology isn’t exactly flashy, much of the public doesn’t even realize what’s available, which can make it harder to know what to look for.

The good news is that the basics of the latest technologies should be relatively easy to understand: it can make your appointment faster and easier. Plus, it can make your orthodontist in West Bend, WI more confident in their treatment plans and diagnosis.

Orthodontists in West Bend

At Wisconsin Orthodontics S.C., we chose the iTero Element Scanner, also known as a sophisticated way to eliminate the traditional putty process. If you need braces or clear aligners, this scanner takes a detailed, 3D model of your teeth and gums. These scans reveal more details than traditional X-rays — without the orthodontist having to lay the images side-by-side.

It’s worth doing some homework about the process that your orthodontist uses, not just because technology is everywhere these days, but because the right technology can give you more freedom and flexibility. It can ensure you have the right fit for any dental appliance, which can reduce the length of time you have to wear it.

If you’re ready for orthodontic treatments, like braces in West Bend, WI, the commitment in and of itself can already be daunting. While technology may not eliminate every barrier, it can give you just enough of a cushion to get through it all. Just remember that it’s equally important to find a team that can use the technology to its fullest extent. To learn more about why our staff selected our equipment (and how we evaluated its many features, contact us today for more information.

6 Things Your Orthodontist Doesn’t Want You to Eat

You’ve invested a lot of money and time into your orthodontics in Hartland, WI, so it only makes good sense to follow your orthodontist’s advice when it comes to taking care of them and your teeth. With that in mind, here are seven foods to avoid when you have braces.

1. Ice

Many people enjoy chewing on ice after finishing off their beverage, but orthodontics strongly advise against this habit, particularly if you are wearing orthodontics. The sharp edges on ice can puncture sensitive gums, while the hardness of the ice can easily chip teeth.

2. Caramels

Caramel candy is gooey, sticky and delicious, but it has no place in your mouth while you’re having orthodontic treatment. The sticky candy is nearly impossible to clean off of orthodontics, and the excessive sugar content is bound to lead to decay.

3. Soft Bread

You might think that soft bread and sandwiches wouldn’t pose a problem for orthodontic-wearing patients. However, soft bread can get trapped in your braces in Hartland, WI just as easily, particularly at that point when you first bite into it. Pass on the soft bread, just for now.

4. Apples

An apple a day keeps the doctor away – unless your doctor is an orthodontist. Apples are notorious for causing orthodontic damage, and your orthodontist won’t be happy if you bite into this forbidden fruit.

5. Corn on the Cob

If your goal is to completely gum up your orthodontics and frustrate your orthodontist, go ahead and enjoy some corn on the cob. The tiny kernels will disappear inside the appliance and you’ll be trying to get them out for months. Meanwhile the corn sugar will be doing a number on your teeth.

6. Popcorn

The trouble with popcorn is that you can never really be certain that all the kernels have popped, or that a hard kernel shell is lurking inside a puffed piece. Once you accidentally bite down on a hard kernel, you’ll be lucky if you don’t chip a tooth or break a section of your orthodontics. Pass the popcorn, please.

Certain foods can lead to tooth decay or gum disease, while others can interfere with your orthodontic appliance or treatment. Get the most out of your orthodontic experience by avoiding these culprits.