5 Benefits of Lingual Braces

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Many advances have been made in the field of orthodontics. One of the most exciting is lingual braces, which are braces that attach to the teeth from the inside instead of front-facing. Many patients opt for lingual braces for the reasons cited below.

1. Appearance

For anyone concerned with appearance, lingual braces in Franklin, TN, can’t be beaten. In fact, aesthetics is one of the most common reasons that people choose lingual braces over alternatives. While lingual braces aren’t completely invisible, they are nearly undetectable, even close-up. They present a great option for both adults and teenagers, allowing wearers to smile confidently throughout the orthodontic journey.

2. Customizable

The latest versions of lingual braces are very customizable. They feature very well-fit brackets to match the teeth’ contours. This helps to ensure a high level of comfort and adds control and precision to the dentist’s treatment plan.

3. Minimal Irritation

One of the biggest challenges that wearers of traditional braces have is the irritation to the insides of the lips. The harsh metal rubbing up against soft tissue isn’t just irritating; it can cause microabrasions that have the potential to become infected. Rising with antibacterial mouthwash helps, but the experience causes an unpleasant burning sensation. With lingual braces, all that irritation is non-existent. This makes the adjustment period much easier for the patient.

4. Fewer Needed Adjustments

Patients with lingual braces often require fewer adjustments than those with traditional braces. This can mean shorter and less frequent appointments, saving time for busy professional adults and time-strapped, school-aged teenagers.

5. Easier Oral Hygiene

Another common challenge that traditional braces wearers face is oral hygiene. However, the enhanced design and positioning of lingual braces make it much easier to practice oral hygiene and ensure that food debris isn’t caught in the braces. Since the fronts of the teeth are not covered by brackets, it’s easier to spot plaque build-up and maintain crucial oral hygiene. This visibility also encourages better brushing and flossing habits.

If you need to get braces, it’s worth considering lingual braces. Talk to your orthodontist in Franklin, TN, for more information about this advanced orthodontic treatment and to find out if it’s right for you. Contact us today to book your appointment!

3 Signs You May Need Corrective Jaw Surgery

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Corrective jaw surgery sounds scary. However, it’s a common procedure that helps to correct problems with the way your upper and lower jaw (maxilla and mandible) align. If you’re experiencing problems with a misaligned jaw, you could notice jaw pain, headaches, facial fatigue and more. Corrective jaw surgery is a simple procedure that fixes this misalignment. Your orthodontist in Franklin, TN, can answer your questions regarding corrective jaw surgery and whether it’s right for you. The symptoms of misalignment are many, but some are more common than others.

1. Chronic Jaw or Joint Pain

Your temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is the “hinge” that connects your mandible to your maxilla. It’s this hinge that allows your mouth to open and close. You have one TMJ on each side of your face, and when something goes wrong, the result can be jaw misalignment. Disorders of the TMJ are often quite painful. You may experience discomfort in the area beneath your ears, or it may radiate throughout your entire facial structure. This makes it difficult to pinpoint the source. TMJ disorders may also cause annoying headaches that border on migraines. Pain is often one of the first indicators of a jaw problem.

2. Upper and Lower Teeth That Don’t Meet in the Front

Dental problems such as advanced gum disease or bone loss can affect the alignment of your jaw, causing shifts and changes. Often, these affect the way your teeth align, too. As a result, your upper and lower teeth may no longer come together in the front or the back when your mouth is closed. This is called malocclusion, and it may cause issues such as an open bite.

3. Consistently Dry Mouth

Jaw problems may make it difficult to breathe through your nose normally. To compensate, you may find yourself breathing through your open mouth. This can cause a condition known as dry mouth, which may contribute to faster tooth decay.

If you suspect you may need corrective jaw surgery in Franklin, TN, call Cool Water Orthodontics today. Our friendly representatives are happy to schedule a convenient time for you to come in to discuss your dental goals.