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Don’t Let Your Braces Be Scary This Halloween

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It’s that time of the year again! Perhaps on the 31st we should refer to ourselves as “BOO” instead of “BRO”?

We love Halloween around here, and we know most of our amazing patients do too!

That being said, let’s save the scary moments for haunted houses and costumes– not for your braces. We’ve put together a little guide on how to avoid all kinds of orthodontic scares.

Jack o lantern outside orthodontic practice in Asheville

Pre-Braces Jitters

Are you super excited to be straightening your smile? If you already feel the same way about improved confidence and oral health as little girls do about princess costumes, then you can skip on down to the next section!

These tips are for those of you who might be feeling a little wary of your upcoming orthodontic experience, or have kids who are nervous about theirs. Don’t worry, that’s okay too! Working through your apprehension is better than suppressing it.

Here are a few things that might help:

  • You are far from alone. Over four million people wear braces in the US alone!
  • Out of those four million people, approximately one million are adults.
  • Gwen Stefani once said, “I always told myself when I got rich, that’s the first thing I’d do,” in regard to braces. Here at Blue Ridge Orthodontics, we accept insurance and try to make them accessible to everyone. That being said, how cool that rocking braces was Gwen’s first priority!
  • Braces have become so commonplace that they no longer have the “nerdy” stereotype they did in the eighties and early nineties.
  • At BRO, we charge the same for Invisalign as we do for braces, so you can make your choice based on your true preference rather than your bank account.
  • Braces are like going to the gym. Even if you’re dreading it, you’ll feel happy and healthy after you’re done!

We like to think being at the BRO office is way more fun than the gym anyway. We even have a spa because the trick to entertaining waiting parents is a nice treat!

Spooky Snacks

When you think of Halloween, the main two things that come to mind are probably costumes and candy!

via GIPHY

That won’t need to change when you have braces; the second part will simply need to be modified a little.

We advise picking softer chocolates; for example, opt for Reese’s cups over harder options like Butterfinger or Reisen. Watch out for nuts, caramel, and anything crunchy or sticky.

If you (or your child) is a huge fan of something specific like Snickers, it will probably be okay to cut it into smaller pieces and put it back on the molars to chew slowly and carefully.

It’s always fun to get think like a family team too! For example, if you have one child in braces and one who isn’t, the siblings can trade trick or treat candies with one another and get some softer options to the braces-wearing child.

Not to mention that you can think outside the wrapper! Try baking Halloween themed cupcakes as a family or buy the braces-wearer’s favorite non-chunky flavor of ice cream during Halloween week. If you’re a 21+ orthodontic patient, maybe pour yourself a glass of champagne to make up for skipping the toffee and caramel this year. The possibilities are endless!

Keeping Your Teeth Healthy

When you’re indulging in things like candy and sugary beverages, make sure to brush your teeth as soon as you are done! Optimally you are brushing after every meal anyway, but it’s especially important after an orange-frosted chocolate cupcake.

Orthodontic patient considers eating a patient

Invisalign patients are in luck because they can take their aligners out and eat things like caramel apples. That being said, remember to brush your teeth, clean your aligners, and put them back in! It can be easy to take your aligners out for a Halloween party or a night of nibbling on your kids trick-or-treat snacks and go over your allotted 2 hours of daily eating time.

Happy Halloween from the BRO Team

Now that you know how to enjoy Halloween with braces, we hope you won’t have anything to be scared of… except maybe this ↓

via GIPHY

Is anyone planning on incorporating their braces into their Halloween costume? We’re thinking Gwen Stefani in her pink wig and tin grin would be quite the cool 90s throwback!

As always, please let us know if you have any questions or concerns. Dr. Roberts, Dr. Schuler, Dr. Twomley, and all of us BROmies want your holiday to be awesome and worry-free. Happy Halloween from our family to yours!

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The Surprising History of Braces

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Most people take braces at face value (or should we say “teeth” value?!). You find a great orthodontist, you come in for an appointment and get the braces put on. While you’re re-learning how to brush and what foods you can eat, have you ever stopped to think about the history of braces? Who was the first to try out this radical type of treatment?

While we all understand how effective braces are now, they didn’t just pop up out of nowhere. In fact, their history of braces is deeper than the roots of your molars and more colorful than your orthodontist’s array of rubber band options!

Wait… Ancient Cultures Had Braces?

Hieroglyphics have helped trace history of braces

The Egyptians

The desire for straighter teeth can be traced all the way back to Ancient Egypt. Some mummified remains were found with metal and catgut wrapped around their teeth in an attempt to straighten them. Yikes! We can’t imagine that procedure being very pleasant.

The Etruscans

This ancient group of Italians lived between 770 and 270 BC. They seemed to value straight teeth in the same way the Ancient Egyptians did– for women, that is. During burial, some Etruscan women were sent to rest with a glamorous mouthguard-like contraption made of 24k gold!

The Romans

The Ancient Romans prided themselves on being at the forefront of everything. Shockingly, Roman tombs have been uncovered containing bodies with “braces” that are quite similar to the ones we use today. The Romans’ braces were made of gold wire fitted along the teeth.

Another thing that’s similar to modern orthodontic practice is that the Ancient Romans realized treatment needed to start at a young age. Physician Aulus Cornelius Celsus (14 BC- 50 AD) recommended that children’s parents or caregivers use a finger to put daily pressure on the child’s growing adult teeth, in order to encourage them to come in straight.

Celsus’s teachings weren’t the only ancient documents that encouraged straight teeth and depicted crooked teeth as negative. Corpus Hippocraticum by Hippocrates claimed that people with crowded teeth or irregular palate arches are “molested by headaches and otorrhea [ear discharge]” as a result of their affliction.

From Rome to Italy to Egypt, ancient cultures saw straight teeth as a desirable attribute and dental problems as, well, problematic.

Who’s the Father of Modern Dentistry?

You may have already heard of Pierre Fauchard, the 18th-century French physician sometimes known as the “Father of Modern Dentistry.” He was pivotal in the evolution of braces; in fact, he developed numerous practices for straightening teeth:

  • Filing down teeth that jutted too far past their neighbors
  • Using a set of metal forceps called a “pelican” to make space between crowded teeth
  • Expanding a patient’s dental arch with metallic band called a “bandeau”

The last of these three items is by far the most important, as the bandeau is considered by most people to be the first real orthodontic appliance.

A Straighter “Angle”

By the time the 20th century started to unfold, America’s very own Edward Angle made waves with his then state-of-the-art orthodontic treatments. Angle, considered an innovator in the field of “tooth regulation,” was awarded patents for a whopping 37 tools for treating malocclusions.

The two most noteworthy were:

  1. The E-Arch, a metallic arch expander
  2. The Edgewise Appliance, a metal bracket somewhat resembling today’s braces

These two parts, at times in combination with some of the additional 35 inventions, were sold and distributed to other orthodontists as the “Angle system.”

Headgear was used a lot in the mid-20th century. Think the real-life version of the exaggerated headgear caricatures you may have seen before in comedies. At the time, this was the only way they knew how to correct an issue like an underbite, overbite, or crossbite. Pretty rough compared to today’s discreet options such as Invisalign.

Receiving orthodontic work in the early to mid 1900’s often meant braces made of real gold, platinum, or silver. Though this may sound cool, it was a fairly short-lived trend. Eventually orthodontists moved away from the expensive bling and instead utilized less fabulous options like:

  • Brass
  • Copper
  • Ivory
  • Wood
  • Zinc

Yes, wood! As uncomfortable as that sounds, luckily all of these methods were steps on the path to…

Today’s Orthodonture

We may be biased, but today’s braces are amazing! Brace-seekers can opt for the traditional route, or go with braces’ more subtle sister.

Of course, braces had to jump through one more hoops before they finally got the credit they deserved.

Pop Culture

Let’s take a quick rewind to the 1970s. Braces had become extremely popular, so their appearance in pop culture did too. Unfortunately, movies and TV shows didn’t exactly present them in the best light. Any of you adults thinking about getting braces feel hesitant about this life-improving decision?

It may be because you’re subconsciously pulling up memories from that episode of The Brady Bunch during which Marcia cried her heart out about how she hated her braces. Perhaps you’re channeling Sixteen Candles, which depicts braces as a hindrance for the simplest things, such as drinking out of a water fountain.

via GIPHY

The 90s, on the other hand, ushered in a little more acceptance for rocking a tin grin. By that point they were so common it was hard to realistically present them as nerdy or geeky. People also started to realize that if a celebrity starring in any given show or movie had straight teeth, there was a good chance they owed them to braces!

In the late 90s, the tin grin received some positive PR when Gwen Stefani rocked braces just as hard as she rocked her vocals. She even told Harper’s Bazaar that they were a treat to herself. She had always vowed braces would be her first big purchase as soon as she made some money–and they were. Talk about a statement!

Dangerous DIYs

These days, some people have sadly take their positivity over braces to a dangerous point. DIY braces are extremely trendy in numerous Asian countries, and they can be incredibly harmful. Not only can they lead to gingivitis and tooth decay, but they can even be fatal in the most extreme cases. Two teenagers from Thailand actually died from faux braces, leading the country to institute a nationwide ban.

It is heartbreaking to hear news like this, and we certainly hope the trend doesn’t spread to the United States. If you love the idea of having braces, but don’t think you can afford them, please don’t try any DIY kits or fashion braces. They are harmful and not at all effective. Instead, we encourage you to make a consultation appointment with us and research what your insurance may cover. Often, braces are more doable than people think!

Conclusion

From the Ancient Egyptians’ catgut-and-metal contraptions to the state-of-the art orthodontics of today, braces have certainly had a journey!

We hope that you will consider making Blue Ridge Orthodontics here in beautiful Asheville, NC your home for your own orthodontic journey. It promises to be far shorter and far less crazy than the things we’ve described in this blog post!

In fact, we don’t mean to brag, but you’d be in some of the best hands out there. Not only do we pride ourselves in being an Elite Preferred Provider of Invisalign (the highest ranking), we are also a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics and five time winner of the WNC Parent Family Choice Award. If you’d like more information, call us today at (828) 585-6045, email us at [email protected], or check out our Facebook page. We hope to talk to you soon!

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The Ultimate Guide to Brushing Your Teeth with Braces

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Have you ever heard someone say “…and eventually it’ll come as naturally as brushing your
teeth!” in regard to a new habit – such as eating a healthier diet or working out?

Brushing your teeth is a habit you’ve had ingrained since early childhood, so it’s fitting that people sometimes compare other good routines to dental hygiene. But once you get your braces, this seemingly simple habit becomes more complex.

Tooth brush used by adult who has braces

If that’s the case for you, this is the ultimate guide to help you establish your new tooth-brushing routine.

Brushing

Before you got your braces, did you find any areas harder to reach with your toothbrush? That’s not unusual, as malocclusions and other orthodontic issues often create these problems.

Fortunately, you made the smart choice of investing in your smile and getting braces. Once your orthodontic treatment is complete, your teeth will be much easier to clean!

In the meantime, braces will make brushing your teeth a little more complicated. Don’t worry,
the team at Blue Ridge Orthodontics is here to help! Here are some steps that will help you
through the process:

Step 1 – Choose a Good Toothbrush

A quality electric toothbrush is often a great idea – both when you have braces and just in
general. However, you don’t have to have one to do a great job brushing. A soft-bristled brush
that’s gentle on your gums, teeth and braces will work well, too. You also should use the
interdental toothbrush (Proxibrush) that we give you to get underneath your wires and around
your brackets.

Don’t hesitate to show us your toothbrush or ask for a replacement Proxibrush if you lose
yours! We want to make sure you’re using all the right tools.

Step 2 – Brush Gently, But Thoroughly

You’re probably used to brushing your teeth twice a day: once in the morning and once before
bed. Perhaps sometimes you sneak in a third brush before an important event like a birthday
party, presentation for school, date or business meeting!

(Remember, adults often get braces too. We know our young patients aren’t headed to board meetings… or on dates!)

However, once you get braces, it’s recommended you brush your teeth after every meal or
snack.

Here’s how:

  • Rinse your mouth with water to get the loose or large particles out before you even start
    brushing.
  • Get your toothbrush wet and apply a toothpaste that contains fluoride.
    • Make sure not to use a whitening toothpaste, since it’ll only whiten the area of the teeth NOT covered by your braces and you’ll wind up with little darker patches where the brackets were.
    • If you’d like tips on choosing your toothpaste, any of the Blue Ridge
      Orthodontics team is here to help.
  • Put your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and brush the parts of your teeth
    above the braces.
  • Gently move your brush back and forth – or if you have an electric toothbrush, move it
    slowly forward or backward as it does its work.
  • Repeat for:
    • the parts of your teeth below the braces
    • the brackets themselves
    • the biting surfaces of your teeth
    • the backs
  • Brush thoroughly for 3 to 5 minutes (at least).
    • Remember “thoroughly” doesn’t mean “aggressively.” Brushing too vigorously is
      bad for your enamel and gums; it can even lead to periodontal problems and cavities on the roots of your teeth.
  • Don’t forget to brush your tongue, too!

These step-by-step videos are also helpful!

If for any reason you can’t brush after you eat, make sure to drink lots of water and/or rinse your
mouth out.

Step 3 – Follow Up with Mouthwash

A hydrogen peroxide antiseptic mouthwash can do for your gums and inside of your cheeks
what hydrogen peroxide can do for shallow cuts and skin problems:

  • Reduce inflammation
  • Prevent infection
  • Decrease irritation
  • Help with the healing process

Peroxyl is a great brand of mouthwash to use while you have braces. It can help heal canker
sores, cheek bites and other temporary injuries to your gums.

Your braces shouldn’t be jabbing you or cutting the inside of your mouth. If you experience
anything like this, let us know right away so we can fix that wire or bracket! However, little gum and cheek irritations can happen sometimes, and a good offense is your best defense.

To use Peroxyl or another brand of antibacterial mouthwash, rinse your mouth with two
teaspoons up to four times daily, following your normal brushing routine.

Step 4 – Fight with Fluoride

As you likely know, fluoride strengthens the enamel of your teeth, preventing damage and tooth
decay.

You likely already use a toothpaste with fluoride, but adding a post-brushing treatment can be a good idea, too. One effective brand is Phos-Flur, a sodium fluoride gel that kills bacteria and replaces minerals in tooth enamel. Unlike brushing and using mouthwash, you should only use a fluoride treatment once a day at bedtime.

These four steps to brushing will help keep your smile sparkling and healthy! Remember to be
consistent with your routine and to abstain from any kind of whitening. (That can be your treat to yourself when the braces come off!)

Flossing

Our Asheville orthodontics team is going to be honest with you: flossing with braces is not what most people consider a delightful task. It takes some getting used to and the braces will require even more time to adequately maneuver. That being said, it’s even more important than ever!

Luckily there are two great options for flossing with braces.

Option #1 – Glide Threader Floss

Glide Threader Floss comes in individual pieces, rather than in an enclosed spool. Each piece has three parts:

  1. A straight, stiff end that’s still somewhat bendable
  2. A section of thicker, spongy material
  3. A normal floss end (significantly longer than the first two parts)

You use the stiff end to get under the wire and between the two teeth. Once the floss is where it needs to be, you can proceed as usual, making a C-shape against each tooth.

Option #2 – A Floss Threader

A floss threader is made of similar material as the stiff end of a piece of Superfloss. Use the floss threader to “thread” your piece of dental floss under your wire and proceed as usual.

Since it’s easier for food to get stuck when you have braces, it’s a great idea to floss after every meal. However, be sure that you’re being gentle and not damaging your gums. If flossing after every meal isn’t feasible, make sure you’re flossing at least once a day. And don’t forget to rinse your mouth with water after you’re done!

Retainer Care

After your braces come off, it’s important to make sure all your hard work results in a lifetime of straight, beautiful teeth! That means wearing a retainer.

One big plus of wearing a retainer is that it’s far easier than having braces. You only wear them when you sleep at night time.

Optimally you should clean your retainer once a day. Here are some great retainer care tips:

  • Brush your retainer with non-whitening toothpaste after brushing your teeth. This way, you’ll establish an easy-to-remember routine.
  • Disinfect your retainer by soaking it in hydrogen peroxide or Retainer Brite.
  • Rinse your retainer with regular water afterwards.
  • Put it back in your mouth to protect that straight smile!
  • Make sure to never:
    • Scrub it with whitening toothpaste, which can damage the surface
    • Over-soak
    • Use vinegar instead of Retainer Brite or hydrogen peroxide
    • Expose your retainer to excessive heat
    • Put it somewhere where a pet or small child can reach it

Please remember how important your retainer is! It’s a lot easier to care for than braces, but
equally important.

Conclusion

We hope you’ve enjoyed the ultimate guide to brushing your teeth with braces! We know that
the extra minutes spent on oral care while you have braces might be tedious, but we promise
they are worth it. Just think about that gorgeous, healthy smile you’ll be rocking in the very near future!

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a free consultation at our Asheville office, please call us at 828-585-6045 or email us at [email protected].

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How Do Your Invisalign Aligners Straighten Your Teeth?

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If you’re thinking of getting Invisalign here in beautiful Asheville, NC, you likely have a couple of questions. Most people who are considering any kind of orthodontics have questions and often those specifically considering Invisalign have even more. One of the biggest ones is “How exactly will Invisalign aligners actually straighten my teeth?”

The discreet and convenient treatment method has already been used by 2.6 million patients worldwide, but since traditional braces have a longer history, many people don’t yet understand Invisalign.

If you’re one of them, don’t worry! We’re here to break down the Invisalign treatment process for you.

The Preparation

When you come in for your free initial consultation, Invisalign will be one of the options we discuss. Since we’re an Elite Preferred Provider, you will be in the best hands possible!

If you love this almost-invisible way to straighten your smile as much as we do, we would then proceed with the beginning steps.

These include the following:

  1. Dental Impressions- We will put a tray filled with impression putty in your mouth and allow it to set, providing an impression of your teeth. Or we can take digital impressions instead! (NOTE: would like to confirm that this is how BRO does this.)
  2. Bite registration – We will spread a layer of fast-setting paste on your teeth and have you bite down. It sounds similar to the impressions, but the bite registration allows us to document how your upper and lower bite actually come together, as opposed to just having separate impressions of each row of teeth.
  3. Dental X-Rays – Taking a look at your root positioning, as well as your tooth and jawbone health, is an important step of the Invisalign process. You’re likely already familiar with having dental X-Rays taken.
  4. Photographs – Smile for the camera! Align Technology, the company behind Invisalign, asks for a series of 8 specific photos. They will include different sides of your face and close-ups of your teeth.

This may seem like a lot of tasks, but luckily this appointment only takes an hour, maybe an hour and a half! (Again, I’d like to confirm that BRO keeps to this type of timeframe)

The Aligner Manufacturing Process

Once we have all the information we need, we send it to Align Technology. Over on their end of things, the company will transform your impressions into digital information. The Invisalign technicians will create an on-screen 3-D model of your teeth, and then create your treatment simulation. This simulation will map out the proposed plan of action, giving you a glimpse of your smile’s future.

After the treatment animation is finished, Dr. Roberts, Dr. Twomley or Dr. Schuler will evaluate this proposed treatment plan. If your orthodontist here at BRO agrees that the sequence of tooth movements will yield the perfect results, he or she will give approval to proceed to the next step.

Align Technology will use your digital information to create a series of personalized upper and lower aligners. They are then sent to Blue Ridge Orthodontics in Asheville. Once we’ve received the aligners (typically anywhere from 3-6 weeks), it’s time to really get that tooth-straightening party started!

Your Journey to Your Perfect Smile

The amount of aligners you will need varies from person to person. It can be as small of a number as ten, or it can be over thirty! Sometimes the amount of time you need to wear a specific tray can vary too. While they tend to be worn about two weeks each, there are exceptions to this rule.

Some people may also need attachments, little clear buttons on some of their teeth. Attachments work as anchors to help aligners move some of the teeth while others stay stationary. Attachments are only used in certain cases, so you may not need them.

If this is starting to sound a little unpredictable, don’t worry! We’ll let you know these details ahead of time and be there for you every step of the way.

An “Alphabet” of Small Shifts

You may notice that your aligner is snug at first, or even hard to get in and out. That’s how it’s supposed to feel! The reason behind this seemingly ill fit is that the first aligner is meant to take your teeth from Point A to Point B, so it starts at Point B. Your teeth will gradually shift to fit the aligner, which is how they straighten over time. When you’re done with the first set and it’s time to urge your teeth from Point B to Point C, that second set will start at Point C.

As the “alphabet” progresses, your teeth get closer and closer to their desired location.

One of the benefits of Invisalign is that this treatment has the capability of moving faster than traditional braces. However, you hold the power to utilize or negate this advantage. Wearing your aligners for the recommended 22 hours a day will ensure a treatment experience that lives up to its full potential.

If you get to the “end” of your treatment and your teeth are not yet perfect, we will use a set of refinement trays. This is actually pretty common, so don’t be surprised if you were great about wearing the aligners and it still happens to you. Just consider your refinement trays the finishing touch!

Many people ask whether they will need a retainer after they finish Invisalign and the answer is almost always yes. Invisalign may look like a retainer, but it replaces traditional braces’ active role, not the retainer’s role of keeping your newly straightened teeth in place. We can always give you an Essix Retainer, which is made of clear plastic and looks a lot like an Invisalign tray.

Is Invisalign Right for You?

At the end of the day, only you can answer that question! Well, perhaps you and your parents if you’re a minor.

Invisalign can be the right choice for a number of reasons:

  1. You prefer a subtler form of treatment
  2. You’re in a career field where physical appearance is involved
  3. You want a treatment that goes at a faster pace
  4. You prefer a form of orthodontic treatment you can take out
  5. You’re ready for beautiful straight teeth… but not so ready for traditional braces!

Invisalign is chosen for more reasons than we could ever name, but the primary draw is, well, Invisalign’s invisibility! Its potential to be a faster treatment option also appeals to many.

Every one of the 2.6 million people who’ve had Invisalign had their own unique reasons why, and now they have their own inspiring story to tell. If you’re curious about some of our patients’ experiences, feel free to check them out here!

Conclusion

We hope we’ve been able to shed some light on how Invisalign works and whether it may be the best fit for you. If you’d like a great visual resource, you can take a peek at this 2-minute YouTube video of the Invisalign process.

If you’d like to talk more in person about potentially starting your own Invisalign treatment, please set up your free consultation appointment by calling (828) 585-6045 or dropping us a line via our email: [email protected]. Also, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with questions or concerns. There is never any obligation or pressure. We save any “pressure” for nudging teeth perfectly into place!

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10 Facts about Braces That’ll Leave a Smile on Your Face

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Braces probably seem pretty straightforward– or should we say straight-teeth-forward?

Dear readers,
Please excuse this attempt at orthodontic humor; we can’t help ourselves…

The overall process is simple: you get them put on by a reputable orthodontist, you wear them, you get them taken off, you wear your retainer. You probably know plenty of people who have or have had braces, and perhaps you’re one of them yourself. Braces may be pretty standard, but there are actually a lot of incredible facts about them you may not know!

Young girl learns interesting facts about braces

Fact #1 – Braces Are Nearly 300 Years Old

French physician Pierre Fauchard, known as the father of modern dentistry, made the first set of braces in 1728. They consisted of a flat piece of metal material connected to the wearer’s teeth by thread. Just shy of 200 years later, dentist Edward Angle made some important advancements to more effectively fix problematic tooth alignment. He created brackets in 1915, using either 14 or 18 karat gold because of its malleable properties.

Fact #2 – The Type of Wire Used for Braces was Invented by NASA

Are you ready for your straight, beautiful smile to blow people out of this world? Then you might love that the wire used for braces was created by none other than NASA!

Dr. Angle’s developments may have been innovative, but gold braces were also expensive. The field of orthodontics took a giant leap when NASA developed a metal alloy called nickel titanium in 1959. Though they created this heat-resistant metal for space-bound shuttles, it was also perfect for making thin, highly flexible wires that could maintain their shape after being bent and attached to a wearer’s teeth.

Fact #3 – Braces Aren’t Just for Straightening Your Teeth

Although having perfectly aligned teeth is a wonderful aspect of braces, one of the main benefits is actually that braces fix a wearer’s bite. If your upper front teeth cover your lower teeth and the cusps of your molars don’t touch, you have the perfect dental alignment; however, not many people have this naturally.

Braces are far more than just a cosmetic investment. Because they fix your bite, they also alleviate an array of health problems, including:

  • Difficulty speaking
  • Breathing issues
  • Problems chewing and swallowing

When it comes to your mouth, orthodontics are pretty and practical.

Fact #4 – {Smile} Like an Egyptian

The desire for straight teeth can be traced far further back than 18th century France– all the way to Ancient Egypt! Who knows whether Ancient Egyptians knew about the health benefits listed in the previous section or if they just wanted straight teeth for cosmetic reasons, but some mummies were actually found with makeshift “braces”. Archaeologists believe that the animal intestines wrapped around mummies’ teeth in a fashion similar to modern braces wiring were an attempt at straightening crooked teeth.

Fact #5 – There Are Over Ten Different Types of Braces

At first glance, you may think all braces are the same; however, they actually vary from one another in small ways. You and your orthodontist will evaluate what type of braces are perfect for you. Invisalign is an excellent option for patients who don’t want their braces to be visible. Mini braces or porcelain braces are also sometimes an option for people who don’t need their braces to be fully invisible, but do want them to be somewhat less noticeable.

Fact #6 – All Orthodontists are Dentists

Do you remember learning in elementary school that “all squares are rectangles, but not all rectangles are squares”? This is similar! An orthodontist is actually a dentist who specializes in the prevention and treatment of malocclusions and other teeth irregularities. Orthodontists go to dental school, but afterwards they complete an additional two to three years in an orthodontic residency program. About 6% of dentists are orthodontists.

Fact #7 – Braces Aren’t Just for Tweens and Teens

Sure, that may have been a stereotype of the past, but it’s certainly not realistic! The American Association of Orthodontics has reported that about one in five orthodontic patients is an adult. These days, parents, grandparents and even great-grandparents have decided to reap the benefits of a healthy bite and straighter smile. It’s never too late!

On the flip side of that coin, many people also don’t realize how young orthodontic treatment should start. The earlier you get your child in for his or her first free consultation, the earlier you’ll know what he or she might need. The American Association of Orthodontics recommends getting your child into an office by age seven. Certain malocclusions are best treated young; in fact, sometimes seeking orthodontic care for a small child can entirely prevent him or her from needing braces later in life.

Fact #8 – You Might Need to Bust Some Myths!

If you’re thinking about getting braces, it’s natural to have questions or concerns. But make sure you’re not letting any myths get to you! Here are some busted myths about braces you might be relieved to hear:

  1. You can still safely play sports
  2. You can still effectively play musical instruments, including ones that use your mouth
  3. Braces don’t actually set off metal detectors
  4. Braces do not interfere with radio signals
  5. Braces are not magnetic
  6. It’s not possible to “lock” braces while kissing another person with braces!

Whew! No one wants to have issues going through airport security, give up hobbies, or have trouble kissing. Good news all around!

Fact #9 – Time and Pressure Work Wonders

Time and pressure provide the teamwork that make the perfect smile dream work! If you’ve ever wondered why you have to wear braces for so long, you’ll find this fact especially interesting.

Each tooth has a nerve ending inside, known as pulp. If your teeth were to be realigned too quickly, the process would cut off their blood supply. Instead, we adjust your teeth with slow, steady pressure so the pulp continues to move with the tooth, supplying the tooth tissue with the blood and nutrition it needs. The archwires of the braces are designed to get the perfect amount of pressure to each tooth, moving it to its desired place at the most efficient–and healthy!–rate possible.

Fact #10 – One of Four Million

Going through a big change like getting braces can sometimes make people feel alone or self-conscious. While there’s nothing wrong with feeling that way at first, there is really no need to feel alienated. Why? Because FOUR MILLION other Americans are currently in your shoes!

That’s right, the American Association of Orthodontics has reported that four million other people also have braces at this very minute. Not only are millions sharing your quest for a healthier and more beautiful smile, but about one million of these orthodontics patients are adults over the age of 18. Braces are a popular decision– and for good reason. Rock that decision now and rock perfect teeth soon!

In addition to being a wise decision for your looks and health, it turns out braces are pretty interesting too! We hope you’ve enjoyed these incredible facts, and that they’ve shed some light on potential worries or concerns. If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, please call us at (828) 585-6045 or email us at [email protected] today. Blue Ridge Orthodontics is passionate about perfecting Asheville smiles, and yours can be next!

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BRO’s Lifestyle Guide to Adult Braces

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When you think “braces,” do you automatically picture a thirteen-year-old in his or her awkward phase?

If you do, then it might be time to refresh that word-association, because more adults are getting braces than ever before! In fact, the American Association of Orthodontics reports that about one in five orthodontic patients is an adult.

Woman shows off her adult braces

While it’s never too late to attain the smile of your dreams, you may have some reservations about wearing braces as an adult. If that’s the case, then this comprehensive guide to living with braces is a must-read!

Keep the Goal in Mind

Every part of your daily life has a reason behind it, even tasks you don’t necessarily enjoy. You’ll pull through a bad day at the office, because it still produces a paycheck. Even a gym trip you dreaded making (but made anyway!) helps keep you fit and healthy. Loading the dishwasher may not be the time of your life, but you probably don’t consider it too big of an intrusion, either.

Braces are the same, in that they’re also a means to an end. In fact, they’re a means to multiple ends, including:

  • A correct occlusion (or bite)
  • Improved speech and chewing
  • Healthier teeth
  • Lessened risk of future cavities
  • A straight, beautiful smile
  • Bonus results like increased confidence!

Speaking of bonus results, one woman who got braces at age 49 even reported “less pronounced nose-to-mouth lines.” Braces didn’t make her look like a teen, but they DID make her look younger!

Em-Brace Your New Look!

Of course, wearing braces begrudgingly and counting down the days until they’re off is arguably not the optimal way of doing things.

In the same way that you can genuinely love your job or hitting the gym, you can rock your braces with confidence!

First of all, a ton of people might not even notice the little bit of tin in your grin. Most people tend to think about their own bodies, faces, outfits, etc., far more than other people’s. If you feel like everyone is staring at your braces, this is likely inaccurate. The psychological phenomenon of “spotlight effect” is simply coming into play, which means it feels like people are observing you far more closely than they actually are.

Furthermore, more people than you realize can probably relate to having braces. Some may have had the experience when they were younger, but they have still been in your shoes. Others may have had adult braces too. Perhaps the forty-year-old ahead of you in line at the grocery store got his braces off last year!

Still others might be considering getting braces themselves. They’ll likely feel inspired and encouraged by seeing yours. Even people who have never had braces and don’t plan on getting them will probably see your decision as confident and proactive – and they’re right!

When you have braces as an adult, it’s best to live every day as if you already have the Julia Roberts smile you’re working for. Remember, you’re in control of setting the mood surrounding your braces. When you love your smile, everyone else will follow suit.

Care for Your Braces

When it comes to caring for your teeth while wearing braces, there are pros and cons to having braces as adult – but more of the former than the latter.

Some potential pros include:

  • You’re older and more responsible.
  • Braces are your choice rather than your parents’ choice.
  • You have a better understanding of cause and effect.
  • You want to maximize your financial investment.

One con to look out for is:

  • Since you’re older, your non-braces brushing habits have been ingrained for more years. Unlike a tween or teen who is undergoing constant changes, you might need to be more intentional when adjusting to your new routine.

We don’t want to scare you off, but braces do require some extra work. Flossing takes longer, you have to brush more precisely, and you have to be careful when eating certain foods.

If you’re considering getting braces as an adult here in Asheville, NC, Dr. Roberts and our amazing team will give you the scoop on your new dental care routine. Some great tips include:

  • Keep a spare toothbrush in your purse, car, or office desk.
  • Avoid biting into food or tearing with your teeth.
    • Hard foods like apples and carrots should be cut up.
    • Food usually eaten with the hands (like pizza) may now require a knife and fork.
  • Take the extra time your braces require.
    • Don’t substitute thoroughness for harsh brushing, as this is bad for your gums.
    • Floss every day, even though it takes some time.

For all the reasons we named in the “pros” list, we know you’ll do great! And, of course, we’re always here to give you added tips or answer any questions.

Know Your Options

We hope that you’re feeling a lot better about living with braces as an adult!

But if the idea of traditional metal braces still seems unpleasant, know that you have options. Blue Ridge Orthodontics in Asheville happens to be recognized as among the top 1% of Invisalign providers in North America for the second consecutive year.

If you’ve been told in the past that you aren’t a viable candidate for Invisalign, don’t hesitate to check with us. Because of our extensive experience, it’s possible you’re a candidate for Invisalign at BRO even if other orthodontic practices have told you they can’t do it. Our expertise makes all the difference! The only way to know for sure is to schedule a free consultation.

Conclusion

Living with braces as an adult may be intimidating to some, but that’s okay! Any physical change, even if it’s temporary, can be foreign or downright scary. But when you keep your reasons in mind, rock your smile with confidence, care for your braces, and consider all your options, the experience will be so easy you probably won’t even remember why you were worried.

If you’re thinking of joining the 1.5 million adult orthodontics patients in the U.S. and Canada, it might just be one of the best decisions of your life!

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4 Essential Vacation Tips for Your Braces

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Have any upcoming vacations on your calendar? (If so, can you pack us in your suitcase?!)

While travel is fun and exciting, it can also be more challenging to take care of your braces or Invisalign. Whether you’re on the road or speed-walking to make your connecting flight, travel can be hectic.

No matter whether you’re enjoying a day at the beach or on the slopes, travel takes you out of your daily routine. That’s one of the best parts, but this deviation from the norm can negatively impact your orthodontic plan if you’re not careful! Here are four key tips to keep in mind while traveling with braces.

Patient with braces files to vacation destination

1) Snack Smart

Unfortunately your braces don’t get any PTO; they are on you full-time! (Unless, of course, you have Invisalign.)

Nothing puts a damper on a fun day like losing a bracket, especially if you are far away from Asheville, North Carolina and the team here at Blue Ridge Orthodontics.

While we don’t want you to miss out on the interesting foods of a new region, here are some things you always should skip:

  • Bagels
  • Candies that are:
    • Chewy
    • Gummy
    • Sticky
  • Hard or chewy:
    • Bread
    • Cookies
    • Rolls
  • Corn on the cob
  • Ice (this is a sneaky, common culprit!)
  • Nuts of any kind
  • Pretzels
  • Whole raw fruits and vegetables
    • Fruits and veggies are usually fine if they’re cut small

Remember, you can still treat yourself! You can eat ice cream as long as it doesn’t have a hard cone or crunchy toppings. With a food like pizza, you can cut it up into smaller bites. There are ways to handle vacation meals without compromising your braces or the joy behind that smile. Talk about having your cake and eating it too!

Invisalign Tips

If you have Invisalign, you already know you can eat whatever you’d like when your aligners are out. That being said, it’s easy to neglect the mandatory 22 hours of wear if you’re sipping pina coladas on a beach! Make extra sure you’ve set your timer for your eating/drinking non-water windows, so you don’t fall behind on your progress.

If you lose an aligner to a napkin in a “We’re about to miss our tour bus!” moment of panic, don’t worry. Simply use your previous or next aligner for the time being, and let us know what happened either by email or when you get back home to the Asheville area.

2) Keep Up Your Routine

Vacation is a great time to relax and leave your responsibilities behind, but this doesn’t include your brushing and flossing regimen. It may be tempting to do a sub-par job brushing in the morning, if you’re ready for a fun-packed day or just want to fall into that hotel bed at night without flossing. However, you don’t want a week or two of fun to negatively impact the smile you’ll have for the rest of your life.

Not to mention that good dental hygiene will make your smile look nice and shiny for those inevitable social media vacation selfies!

3) Pack a Travel Kit

We’ve talked about the braces kit before, but sometimes people stop needing them. If you don’t need wax because your braces never rub, you keep an extra toothbrush and floss in your locker/desk/car, and you use your phone as a mirror, you might be all set in your day-to-day life.

If you’re about to hit the road, however, you may find yourself needing a kit again! Here are the important items to include:

  • A Compact Mirror – Vacations are sometimes so go-go-go that your phone might be dead at the end of a long day. Having a tiny compact mirror for checking your teeth in situations like this is ideal.
  • Travel-Sized Toothbrush – Since you’re not near your school locker or work desk (yay!), you don’t have that second toothbrush to fall back on. Slip a small, foldable toothbrush into your purse or pocket for those post-meal cleanings on the go.
  • Dental Floss – There’s nothing more annoying that having something between your teeth. You don’t want to spend part of a day with your tongue struggling in vain over that stringy bit of cubed mango, so make sure you have some floss and floss threaders on hand.
  • Orthodontic Wax – Speaking of things you don’t want, it’s always a bummer if one of your brackets starts rubbing, and you’re stuck without wax. A packet of orthodontic wax is easily slipped into a wallet or pocket for that extra comfort insurance – just in case!
  • Water Bottle – Staying hydrated on vacation is important, so having a water bottle on hand kills two birds with one stone. If you’re in a pinch and don’t have time to brush your teeth after a meal or snack, swishing water around your mouth is the next best option.

Your travel kit will help ensure that each vacation day goes smoothly. Make sure to remember your sunscreen, too!

4) Before You Go, Let Us Know

Schedule a pre-vacation appointment here at Blue Ridge Orthodontics before you leave. A last checkup can ensure all your brackets and wires are in place. If needed, we also can make adjustments to the upcoming appointments on your schedule, though this is typically only necessary for longer vacations.

If you do have big travel plans, such as an entire summer abroad, it’s best for us to know as soon as you do.

Conclusion

Most importantly, have an absolutely wonderful vacation! We hope you gained value from these four tips, but we encourage you not to worry too much. In the case of a broken bracket or other urgent problem, you can see an orthodontist who practices in your current area. Please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 828- 585-6045 if you have any questions or need help.

Here’s to rocking Blue Ridge Orthodontics braces or Invisalign anywhere across the globe! Bon voyage!

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What Are the Best Foods to Eat With Braces?

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Congratulations on your new braces!

If you’re reading this because you’re rocking some new bling in your mouth, you’ve just taken a proactive step for both your appearance and oral health. Spending some time perfecting your bite and teeth is bound to leave you…well, smiling!

But in the meantime, it can take some time to adjust to your new braces. Especially when it comes to what you can (or can’t) eat. If you’re looking for a little extra advice, you came to the right place! Our team in Asheville has helped many people make the adjustment to eating with braces – and we know all the best foods for you!

Girl with braces eats fruits

Fruits

Chances are that if you just got your braces put on, you might be feeling some temporary soreness and aren’t tempted to bite into a crisp gala or granny smith right now!

But even after you’ve moved past the initial week or two, you shouldn’t bite directly into hard fruits like apples, or even moderately hard fruits like pears or cantaloupe. Instead, cut them into very small pieces and put them on your back teeth for chewing. (Be careful to stay toward the sides, rather than putting anything too near your throat!) This strategy not only prevents damage to your braces, but it’s also typically less painful.

Of course, soft fruits are often your best bet, at least in the very beginning. Here are some great examples:

  • Kiwi
  • Nectarines
  • Grapefruit
  • Tangerines
  • Raspberries
  • Bananas

Speaking of bananas, did you know that you can make a healthy pancake using one banana and two eggs? You’ll need to mash up the eggs and banana into a simple mixture before adding to the pan, but this pancake is tasty and won’t harm your braces.

We also recommend topping this off with some greek yogurt and a drizzle of maple syrup!

Vegetables

Vegetables can also cause issues with your braces. Fortunately, you won’t have to worry if you take a few precautions.

Steaming everything a little past the point you normally would is always a safe bet. This allows you to include any veggies you are already used to eating on a regular basis, such as broccoli and peas.

You can also use this as a time to get creative! Make spinach or kale smoothies, and you can blend in any fruit you’ve been missing, such as stringy mango or textured pineapple. We recommend experimenting with mashed cauliflower or extra-roasted carrots. Use a veggie peeler for thin “ribbons” of cucumber and carrots, then drizzle with olive oil for a quick and simple salad.

And even though it’s technically a fruit, don’t forget to include some avocado!

Carbohydrates

Don’t pass the pretzels, please! And leave that pizza crust in the box!

Carbs can be sneaky culprits, because sometimes they’re not as obviously risky as foods like carrots or apples. If you’re not careful, however, they can knock a bracket loose.

Luckily for anyone who is a fan of carbohydrates, there are plenty of braces-friendly options. These include:

  • Pasta
  • Lasagna
  • Baked or mashed potatoes
  • Baked or mashed sweet potatoes
  • Soft bread
    • Zucchini bread or other dense, moist loaves
    • The soft inside of bakery breads (tear off into small chunks)
    • Bagged bread (without hard grains or seeds) that hasn’t been toasted
  • Couscous
  • Polenta
  • Oatmeal
  • Muffins

Be wary of any carbohydrates you’d usually have to tear off with your teeth, such as a bagel. You might not immediately think, “Super hard food alert!” but these should be treated with the same caution.

Meat and Dairy Products

This is another category that has a few bad options, but also plenty of great ones!

Adult with braces prepares chicken for dinner

Some protein-packed choices both your body and braces will appreciate include:

  • Salmon
  • Fluffy scrambled eggs
  • Tuna
  • Shredded chicken
  • Sliced lunch meat
  • Ground meat/meatballs

However, be wary of options like steak, bacon or beef jerky, since they can be tough and get stuck or cause the need to tear with your teeth.

The good news for cheese lovers is that you can nosh on all the Brie, cream cheese, and fresh mozzarella you want. In fact, even cheeses like cheddar or monterey jack are usually fine, especially since they’re bound to be sliced or cubed. The only things you’ll want to watch out for are hard cheeses and some of the carbs that often accompany cheese, such as crackers, pretzels, or crostinis.

Yogurt and cottage cheese are of course extremely braces-friendly options! They are also a great way to stay healthy during that potentially painful first week during which you might be tempted to live on refreshing, mouth-soothing ice cream.

Desserts

Did somebody say ice cream?

This is a favorite dessert for many, especially with summer around the corner. However, there are some popular flavors that can be problematic if you have braces. Does your favorite flavor have frozen chocolate chips or pockets of sticky caramel? It’s safest to stick to simple flavors like chocolate, coffee or vanilla.

Sorbet is also an excellent option, if you choose one that doesn’t have unexpected chunks of frozen fruit.

One good rule of thumb for dessert is to go for baked options rather than candies. Having a piece of tiramisu or cake is always a safer bet than grabbing a Snickers Bar or Skittles! And needless to say, definitely stay away from toffee and caramel.

Remember that desserts can be healthy, too! You can opt for some applesauce with cinnamon and a dash of whipped cream, or make a nice smoothie with your favorite fruits, honey and vanilla yogurt.

No matter what the sweet treat, make sure to brush your teeth afterwards. Optimally you’re doing this after every meal anyway, but it’s especially important when sugar is involved.

Conclusion

We hope you’ve enjoyed our guide to the best foods to eat with braces. If you’d like to learn more about your braces.

Remember that one of the biggest braces-breakers actually isn’t a food at all – it’s ice! If you have a habit of crunching on ice after you finish your favorite drink, you need to be very careful.

No matter what, the dedicated team at Blue Ridge Orthodontics here in Asheville will always be there for you. Whether you need some advice or did end up accidentally breaking a bracket, we are on your side. Here’s to delicious, nutritious meals – and to eating them with a healthy, happy smile!

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4 Reasons to Love Your Smile

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A smile isn’t just the thing between your nose and chin.  It’s actually a bunch of muscles that are attached to your brain. There are scientific reasons everyone should be smiling.

Smiling Asheville residents who have Invisalign

1) Smiling Helps Reduce Stress

In 2012 scientists Tara Kraft and Sarah Pressman from the University of Kansas published an article in Psychological Science on how this works.

They had participants in a study complete multitasking activities designed to be stressful.  During these tasks some participants were told to hold chopsticks to their mouth in a certain way.  They were not told that what they were doing was forcing a smile.  The groups that were told to do this experienced a reduction in heartrate and self reported stress levels!

“The next time you are stuck in traffic or are experiencing some other type of stress,” says Pressman, “you might try to hold your face in a smile for a moment. Not only will it help you ‘grin and bear it’ psychologically, but it might actually help your heart health as well!”

2) Smiling Makes You More Creative

Research from the University of California, San Francisco suggests that being in a good mood can get your creative juices flowing.  When you are happy, more dopamine is released which is linked with motivation.  This increases your control over your mind which can also give a boost to the parts of the brain that are used for making decisions, learning and processing.

3. Smiling Boosts Your Productivity

In 2010 a group of economists at the Warwich business school studied the effect of emotions on productivity.  It came out strikingly obvious that the group that was happier and smiling had a 12% increase in productivity over the other group.

4. Smiling Can Improve Your Mood

For decades scientists have been conducting research about how individuals can be happy.  There are books out there on the subject and lots of theories, but one easy way is to just smile.  Even a fake smile will slowly boost your mood.  You may have heard the comment, “fake it ‘til you make it”. That’s right even a fake smile can help.

The best part about this all is that SMILES ARE FREE! Since even fake smiles help, there’s no reason you should not be smiling.  If you are unhappy with your smile and that prevents you from grinning ear to ear, Blue Ridge Orthodontics can help.  Call or Contact Us to schedule online a COMPLETELY FREE consultation.  You can meet with one of our doctors to go over your smile and learn about options to help you LOVE YOUR SMILE!

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Blue Ridge Orthodontics Blue Star Program

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One of the reasons our team loves working in orthodontics is that we get to change lives every day. Our Blue Star Program is one way we’re able to do just that.

Each year, Drs. Roberts and Alvarado and our team accept nominations for children in our community who are in need of orthodontic care and unable to afford treatment. Sam is one of our Blue Star Program participants.

Meet Sam

Dr. Robers with Sam, who is one of BRO's Blue Star Program participants

Here’s what Sam told us about his smile:

“I don’t feel confident about my smile and/ or when I smile. I can’t show my teeth and don’t feel that they look right. I have friends and like to laugh I would like to show them my beautiful smile if I had one.

If I had a beautiful smile then I would feel more confident about my smile and show my teeth a lot more. Then I could feel better about showing my teeth around my friends.

I’m sure there are other families that are in need of help. In the end I’m sure you will make the right decision.

Me and two of my three brothers have had a lot of medical problems. I have good insurance but it doesn’t pay for the help that I need for braces. My dad is the only one that works and money is short.

I would like to have a chance to have a nice smile and my teeth fit better.

Thank you for that chance.

Samuel E.”

From the Parents

Here’s what Sam’s parents shared with the BRO team:

“I don’t know the needs of other kids and their families but I do know ours. Sam has no chance of receiving orthodontics services that Dr. Love, Sam’s dentist, has recommended to straighten his teeth.

We have four boys. Sam’s the youngest. 3 out of 4 have had numerous medical problems throughout their lives and continue to do so. These issues along with daily expenses has the family over a long period of time not being able to always do everything that needs to be done. Sam’s insurance is good but doesn’t cover braces and we can’t afford them.

Sam is a special young man. His teachers tell us he is the most social, friendly and hard working boy they know. Because of Sam having obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety and learning disabilities, Sam has suffered confidence issues. We are afraid the more evident the problems with his teeth become the more his self confidence could be damaged. He could have more problems with depression and that could cause his overall health along with his dental needs to decline. This would cause even more expenses that could be avoided.

My wife and I would like to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for this opportunity to help our very special son.

Thank you,

Robert and Kathy E.”

Congratulations on starting Invisalign® treatment, Sam! We are so thrilled to have you as a patient and so excited to watch your progress with you.

Be sure to watch our Facebook page and blog for more updates on Sam’s progress from our team here at Blue Ridge Orthodontics!