Irmo Smiles, in Irmo SC, is pleased to provide a full range of dental care services and dental treatments. Our dentistry services include: children's, cosmetic, family, general, laser, orthodontic, preventive, restorative and sedation dentistry.
How do I know if I should use braces or Invisalign? Every patient’s situation is unique. We offer a complimentary evaluation to determine if your best treatment options are traditional braces, Invisalign, or a combination of the two. With any of these options, AcceleDent™ may be another possibility to help speed up the progression of your treatment. Raman Orthodontics Jim Raman, DMD 1600 Lake Murray Boulevard Columbia, SC 29212 (803) 212-0996 RamanOrtho.com
Myth 1: The consequences of poor oral health are restricted to the mouth Expectant mothers may not know that what they eat affects the tooth development of the fetus. Poor nutrition during pregnancy may make the unborn child more likely to have tooth decay later in life. “Between the ages of 14 weeks to four months, deficiencies in calcium, vitamin D, vitamin A, protein and calories could result in oral defects,” says Carole Palmer, EdD, RD, professor at TUSDM and head of the division of nutrition and oral health promotion in the department of public health and community service. Some data also suggest that lack of adequate vitamin B6 or B12 could be a risk factor for cleft lip and cleft palate formation. In children, tooth decay is the most prevalent disease, about five times more common than childhood asthma. “If a child’s mouth hurts due to tooth decay, he/she is less likely to be able to concentrate at school and is more likely to be eating foods that are easier to chew but that are less nutritious. Foods such as donuts and pastries are often lower in nutritional quality and higher in sugar content than more nutritious foods that require chewing, like fruits and vegetables,” says Palmer. “Oral complications combined with poor diet can also contribute to cognitive and growth problems and can contribute to obesity.” Myth 2: More sugar means more tooth decay It isn’t the amount of sugar you eat; it is the amount of time that the sugar has contact with the teeth. “Foods such as slowly-dissolving candies and soda are in the mouth for longer periods of time. This increases the amount of time teeth are exposed to the acids formed by oral bacteria from the sugars,” says Palmer. Some research shows that teens obtain about 40 percent of their carbohydrate intake from soft drinks. This constant beverage use increases the risk of tooth decay. Sugar-free carbonated drinks and acidic beverages, such as lemonade, are often considered safer for teeth than sugared beverages but can also contribute to demineralization of tooth enamel if consumed regularly. To read the entire article written by Medardo Chua, please visit IDentalAccess.com Raman Orthodontics Jim Raman, DMD 1600 Lake Murray Boulevard Columbia, SC 29212 (803) 212-0996 RamanOrtho.com
When it comes to personal oral hygiene, not all men are as attentive to their teeth as women. Starting with the checkup, surveys suggests men are more likely to see a dentist only in the event of a problem. So, guys, learn how to step up your oral care routine with the following tips for maintaining a healthy smile and preventing oral health problems before they start. Toothbrush Tips Brushing is just one part of keeping your mouth clean - doing so twice a day, in particular. However, the average man brushes his teeth 1.9 times a day, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). It's not enough to brush quickly and be on your way; two minutes of thorough cleaning is your most effective approach. Keep in mind you don't need to brush hard during this process. Use a soft-bristled brush such as Colgate® Slim Soft™ and brush gently at a 45-degree angle. Some helpful hints: Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, rinse it after each use and store it in an upright position to air dry. Storing it in a container actually allows microorganisms to grow on the brush, explains the American Dental Association (ADA), so it's best to avoid this method. Sports and Dental Injuries Playing contact sports can lead to trauma in unexpected places, and this includes broken, chipped or lost teeth. Wear a mouthguard when you're on the field and a helmet when you're on your bike. Ultimately, see your dentist as soon as possible after experiencing an incident to quickly assess the damage and determine what can be done to fix it. To read the entire article written by Margie Monin Dombrowski, please visit Colgate.com Raman Orthodontics Jim Raman, DMD 1600 Lake Murray Boulevard Columbia, SC 29212 (803) 212-0996 RamanOrtho.com
Is it okay to drink soft drinks during orthodontic treatment? Sugar and acids are your teeth’s worst enemies, because they soften the tooth enamel and encourage decay. Braces will give you a fantastic smile when the treatment is complete, but you have to be diligent during the treatment for the best results. This means brushing and flossing very carefully, especially around the brackets and wires, but also avoiding foods and beverages that can do damage. We’ll provide a complete list of instructions and foods to avoid, and it’s important that you follow all recommendations for the best results. Raman Orthodontics Jim Raman, DMD 1600 Lake Murray Boulevard Columbia, SC 29212 (803) 212-0996 RamanOrtho.com
Your dental health is an important part of your overall wellness, and the New Year is a great time to create resolutions for improving your health. Many people have dental health resolutions that range from improving their toothbrushing habits to completing delayed dental treatment. Understanding the benefits of your particular resolutions can be motivating and rewarding. Whatever your goals might be, it is important to take small steps to achieve them. Consistency is key with any resolution that you make. Improving Toothbrushing and Flossing Habits Perhaps you would like to improve your oral health. Daily toothbrushing and flossing is a sure and simple way to improve your oral health. For successful bacterial plaque removal, it is important to brush at least twice a day using an appropriately sized, soft-bristle, manual or electric toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. When you brush your teeth, gently position the toothbrush bristles at a 45-degree angle toward the gumline and move the toothbrush across the teeth to effectively remove bacterial plaque. It is also important to floss at least once per day to remove bacterial plaque and food that has accumulated throughout the day. Your toothbrush should be replaced every 3 to 4 months, as well as after you have a cold or flu or if the bristles are frayed. Daily toothbrushing and flossing help to prevent gingivitis (gum disease), tooth decay and halitosis (bad breath). The daily use of antimicrobial and fluoride mouthrinses also helps to improve your oral health. To read the entire article written by Yolanda Eddis, please visit Colgate.com
I had braces a long time ago, and my teeth have shifted since then. Can Invisalign correct this? Invisalign is a fantastic option for returning the smile you worked so hard to obtain through original treatment, because it is so quick and discreet. Shifting often occurs into adulthood after braces are removed, and many Invisalign patients have come to us for just this reason. Raman Orthodontics Jim Raman, DMD 1600 Lake Murray Boulevard Columbia, SC 29212 (803) 212-0996 RamanOrtho.com
Why is it important to have regular teeth cleaning?
Did you know “teeth cleaning” does more than just clean your teeth? Removing plaque is absolutely essential if you want to preserve your teeth, especially during orthodontic care. Plaque builds up on the tooth surfaces and between the teeth, and braces give it even more places to lurk and harden into tartar. Brushing and flossing are, of course, vital, but everyone needs their teeth professionally cleaned on a regular basis. Remember – only a dental hygienist can completely clean your teeth.
There's nothing like jamming a waxed piece of string between your tightest molars and sliding it back and forth. And who doesn't do that once a day, just as the dentist prescribes? Well, a lot of us. Twenty-seven percent of adults lie to their dentists about how often they floss their teeth, a survey released Tuesday found. Not only that, but more than a third of people surveyed would rather be doing unpleasant chores than flossing their teeth daily. Fourteen percent would rather clean the toilet. Nine percent would rather sit in gridlock traffic for an hour. And 7 percent would rather listen to small children crying on a plane. Actually, that 27 percent sounds awfully low. When we called up Dr. Joan Otomo-Corgel, a periodontist and president of the American Academy of Periodontology, which conducted the survey, she said: "Is that all?" More than a third of Americans would rather do an unpleasant activity than floss. American Academy of Periodontology She's not the only oral health professional who thinks many patients are fibbing when they say they're flossing. "I am shocked," says Dr. Sally Cram, a periodontist and spokesperson for the American Dental Association, via email. "Given my experience with patients in my practice I thought it would be higher!" To read the entire article written by Jessie Rack, please visit NPR.org
Taking care of your pearly whites isn't rocket science, but it's easy to slip into habits that could cause heartache -- er, toothache -- in the long run. We got the latest on giving your teeth the TLC they need from two New York City pros: Alice Lee, DDS, an assistant professor in the Department of Dentistry for Montefiore Health System, and Alison Newgard, DDS, an assistant professor of clinical dentistry at Columbia University College of Dentistry, will clue you in on where you could be going wrong. Multitasking while you brush Every minute in the morning feels precious, so it's tempting to brush your teeth in the shower or while scrolling through your Twitter feed. "To each his own," says Dr. Newgard, "but I prefer patients to be in front of a mirror, over the sink; you can be sure to hit all the surfaces of your teeth, and you'll do a more thorough job when you're not distracted." Better to leave the bathroom a few minutes later having given proper attention to each step of your prep. Overcleaning your toothbrush Thinking about running your brush through the dishwasher or zapping it in the microwave to disinfect it? Think again: While we've all seen those stories about toothbrushes harboring gross bacteria, the CDC says there's no evidence that anyone has ever gotten sick from their own toothbrush. Just give your brush a good rinse with regular old tap water, let it air-dry, and store it upright where it's not touching anyone else's brush. More drastic cleaning measures may damage your brush, the CDC notes, which defeats its purpose. Using social media as your dentist The web is full of weird and (seemingly) wonderful DIY dental tips that can hurt much more than they'll help. Read our lips: Don't even go there. "I've heard of patients who go on Pinterest and find ways to whiten their teeth there--by swishing with straight peroxide, for example--which are not good for their teeth," Dr. Newgard says. "Use ADA-approved products that have been tested." (Another online tip to skip: trying to close up a gap in your teeth with DIY rubber band braces.) To read the entire article written by Lauren Oster, please visit HuffingtonPost.com Raman Orthodontics Jim Raman, DMD 1600 Lake Murray Boulevard Columbia, SC 29212 (803) 212-0996 RamanOrtho.com
Do Invisalign aligners contain Bisphenol-A (BPA)? No. The materials used to create Invisalign aligners are made from USP Class VI medical grade, high molecular weight, polyurethane resins. Studies and tests have determined these materials to be biologically compatible and safe for use in a person’s mouth, and Invisalign is approved by the FDA. Of course, as with any treatment, Dr. Raman will review your personal situation to analyze any risks there may be. Raman Orthodontics Jim Raman, DMD 1600 Lake Murray Boulevard Columbia, SC 29212 (803) 212-0996 RamanOrtho.com
Let's just say, it might be time to get your pearly whites checked. It's time for Americans to get over their fear of the dentist. According to new data published from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Center for Health Statistics, more than 25% of U.S. adults aged 20 to 64 have untreated tooth decay. Additionally, 1 in 5 adults aged 65 and older may have it as well. And if that's not motivation enough to take a seat in the dental chair, 91% have one tooth (or more) that has been treated for tooth decay or needs to be. To read the entire article written by Samantha Toscano, please visit GoodHouseKeeping.com
My 12-year-old likes to chew ice. Is this harmful? Tooth enamel can be damaged by such things as eating “hard foods” like popcorn, cracking nut shells with your teeth, or chewing on ice. Opening packages or untying tight laces with your teeth can also damage the enamel. All of these things become much riskier when you have braces, because they can shift or bend the brackets or wires, interfering with the work the braces are designed to do and often lengthening treatment time. Raman Orthodontics Jim Raman, DMD 1600 Lake Murray Boulevard Columbia, SC 29212 (803) 212-0996 RamanOrtho.com
Aren’t braces for teenagers? Why do you want to start so young? Experience has shown that the optimum time to begin addressing bite issues and crowded or crooked teeth is when children are young, often before permanent teeth start coming in. Correction now can make room for incoming teeth and prevent far more extensive treatment later, saving you time and money. Correction is also easier when the child is young and the jaw bone is less dense. Raman Orthodontics Jim Raman, DMD 1600 Lake Murray Boulevard Columbia, SC 29212 (803) 212-0996 RamanOrtho.com
Halloween is just around the corner, and although candy consumption is almost unavoidable this time of year, the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) wants parents and children to know that there are both good and bad candy options, both of which may find their way into children's trick-or-treat bags this fall. "Of course, dentists do not advocate that children eat large amounts of sugary treats, but it is that time of year, so we want to clarify for parents which treats are better for their kids' teeth and which ones may increase the risk of developing cavities," says AGD spokesperson Cynthia Sherwood, DDS, FAGD. To read the entire article, visit: KnowYourTeeth.com Raman Orthodontics Jim Raman, DMD 1600 Lake Murray Boulevard Columbia, SC 29212 (803) 212-0996 RamanOrtho.com
How many hours a day will I wear the aligners? The treatment plan dictates wearing the aligners for 20 – 22 hours per day, both awake and asleep, and only removing them for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. It is also possible to remove them for a special event, such as a wedding or professional photographs. Will my speech be affected when wearing Invisalign? Any orthodontic appliances will require a short adjustment period, so you may have a bit of a lisp for a few days until your mouth and tongue get used to having them in your mouth. It’s a short-lived effect. Will my insurance cover Invisalign treatment? Insurance plans vary widely, though most plans that contain orthodontic coverage will apply to Invisalign, as well. Please contact our office if you’d like us to do a complimentary benefits check to see what your specific plan will cover. How many people have been treated with Invisalign? In the last decade or so, over 2 million patients have successfully corrected a wide variety of dental challenges with Invisalign. Orthodontists were involved in the product’s development, and dental practices all over the world offer this treatment to their patients. Raman Orthodontics Jim Raman, DMD 1600 Lake Murray Boulevard Columbia, SC 29212 (803) 212-0996 RamanOrtho.com
Your child's first visit to the dentist should happen before his or her first birthday. The general rule is six months after eruption of the first tooth. Taking your child to the dentist at a young age is the best way to prevent problems such as tooth decay, and can help parents learn how to clean their child's teeth and identify his or her fluoride needs. After all, decay can occur as soon as teeth appear. Bringing your child to the dentist early often leads to a lifetime of good oral care habits and acclimates your child to the dental office, thereby reducing anxiety and fear, which will make for plenty of stress-free visits in the future. To read the entire article, visit: KnowYourTeeth.com
How does Invisalign work? Invisalign and braces both use similar principles to move the teeth slowly into a more ideal position for a more pleasing appearance and better functionality. Invisalign uses clear aligners that fit over the entire arch of your teeth, rather than brackets fastened to your teeth, and uses timing as well as controlled forces to dictate which teeth move when. Your doctor will create a plan for this that is specific to your needs and goals. The shape of the aligners is custom designed for the current shape and position of your teeth and the desired result. You wear each set for about two weeks before progressing to the next, gradually shifting to the final position. The average number of aligners for a full treatment plan falls between 18 and 30, but the number varies from case to case. Raman Orthodontics Jim Raman, DMD 1600 Lake Murray Boulevard Columbia, SC 29212 (803) 212-0996 RamanOrtho.com
With the American population living longer, seniors' oral health has become an important issue, as has the widespread problem of elder abuse. Every year more than 2.5 million older Americans may be victims of elder abuse, and in some cases dentists serve as the first line of defense, according to a report in the May/June 2005 issue of General Dentistry, the clinical, peer-reviewed journal of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). To read the entire article, visit: KnowYourTeeth.com
Why should we consider orthodontics? Many people consider orthodontics to be elective treatment. While braces and clear aligners can straighten teeth so your child’s smile looks great, they can do so much more. Braces and other devices are also used to modify your (or your child’s) bite, so that teeth and the jaw align in the best, most functional way possible. This helps prevent problems years later with the jaw or with excessive wear of the teeth, among other issues. Raman Orthodontics Jim Raman, DMD 1600 Lake Murray Boulevard Columbia, SC 29212 (803) 212-0996 RamanOrtho.com
Flossing helps control plaque. It can reach where a toothbrush can't, like between the teeth. Floss daily with floss and interdental cleaners that carry the American Dental Association (ADA) seal. Ask your dentist for tips if you're not sure how to floss. Like everything else, flossing gets easier with practice. The above article is from: WebMD.com Raman Orthodontics Jim Raman, DMD 1600 Lake Murray Boulevard Columbia, SC 29212 (803) 212-0996 RamanOrtho.com
Brushing your teeth twice a day not only keeps your breath sweet, but also helps rid the mouth of bacteria that makes up plaque and can lead to oral infections. To brush properly, point bristles at a 45-degree angle against the gums. Use gentle back-and-forth strokes all over your teeth -- in front, in back, and on chewing surfaces -- for two minutes. If holding a toothbrush is hard for you, try an electric toothbrush. Also brush your gums and tongue. The above article is from: WebMD.com
How do I know if I should use braces or Invisalign?
Expectant mothers may not know that what they eat affects the tooth development of the fetus. Poor nutrition during pregnancy may make the unborn child more likely to have tooth decay later in life. “Between the ages of 14 weeks to four months, deficiencies in calcium, vitamin D, vitamin A, protein and calories could result in oral defects,” says Carole Palmer, EdD, RD, professor at TUSDM and head of the division of nutrition and oral health promotion in the department of public health and community service. Some data also suggest that lack of adequate vitamin B6 or B12 could be a risk factor for cleft lip and cleft palate formation.
When it comes to personal oral hygiene, not all men are as attentive to their teeth as women. Starting with the checkup, surveys suggests men are more likely to see a dentist only in the event of a problem. So, guys, learn how to step up your oral care routine with the following tips for maintaining a healthy smile and preventing oral health problems before they start.
Sugar and acids are your teeth’s worst enemies, because they soften the tooth enamel and encourage decay. Braces will give you a fantastic smile when the treatment is complete, but you have to be diligent during the treatment for the best results. This means brushing and flossing very carefully, especially around the brackets and wires, but also avoiding foods and beverages that can do damage. We’ll provide a complete list of instructions and foods to avoid, and it’s important that you follow all recommendations for the best results.
Your dental health is an important part of your overall wellness, and the New Year is a great time to create resolutions for improving your health. Many people have dental health resolutions that range from improving their toothbrushing habits to completing delayed dental treatment. Understanding the benefits of your particular resolutions can be motivating and rewarding. Whatever your goals might be, it is important to take small steps to achieve them. Consistency is key with any resolution that you make.
I had braces a long time ago, and my teeth have shifted since then. Can Invisalign correct this?
Did you know “teeth cleaning” does more than just clean your teeth? Removing plaque is absolutely essential if you want to preserve your teeth, especially during orthodontic care. Plaque builds up on the tooth surfaces and between the teeth, and braces give it even more places to lurk and harden into tartar. Brushing and flossing are, of course, vital, but everyone needs their teeth professionally cleaned on a regular basis. Remember – only a dental hygienist can completely clean your teeth.
There's nothing like jamming a waxed piece of string between your tightest molars and sliding it back and forth. And who doesn't do that once a day, just as the dentist prescribes?
Taking care of your pearly whites isn't rocket science, but it's easy to slip into habits that could cause heartache -- er, toothache -- in the long run. We got the latest on giving your teeth the TLC they need from two New York City pros: Alice Lee, DDS, an assistant professor in the Department of Dentistry for Montefiore Health System, and Alison Newgard, DDS, an assistant professor of clinical dentistry at Columbia University College of Dentistry, will clue you in on where you could be going wrong.
Do Invisalign aligners contain Bisphenol-A (BPA)?
It's time for Americans to get over their fear of the dentist. According to new data published from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Center for Health Statistics, more than 25% of U.S. adults aged 20 to 64 have untreated tooth decay. Additionally, 1 in 5 adults aged 65 and older may have it as well.
My 12-year-old likes to chew ice. Is this harmful?
Experience has shown that the optimum time to begin addressing bite issues and crowded or crooked teeth is when children are young, often before permanent teeth start coming in. Correction now can make room for incoming teeth and prevent far more extensive treatment later, saving you time and money. Correction is also easier when the child is young and the jaw bone is less dense.
Halloween is just around the corner, and although candy consumption is almost unavoidable this time of year, the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) wants parents and children to know that there are both good and bad candy options, both of which may find their way into children's trick-or-treat bags this fall. 
How many hours a day will I wear the aligners? 
Your child's first visit to the dentist should happen before his or her first birthday. The general rule is six months after eruption of the first tooth. Taking your child to the dentist at a young age is the best way to prevent problems such as tooth decay, and can help parents learn how to clean their child's teeth and identify his or her fluoride needs. After all, decay can occur as soon as teeth appear. Bringing your child to the dentist early often leads to a lifetime of good oral care habits and acclimates your child to the dental office, thereby reducing anxiety and fear, which will make for plenty of stress-free visits in the future. 
Invisalign and braces both use similar principles to move the teeth slowly into a more ideal position for a more pleasing appearance and better functionality. Invisalign uses clear aligners that fit over the entire arch of your teeth, rather than brackets fastened to your teeth, and uses timing as well as controlled forces to dictate which teeth move when. Your doctor will create a plan for this that is specific to your needs and goals. The shape of the aligners is custom designed for the current shape and position of your teeth and the desired result. You wear each set for about two weeks before progressing to the next, gradually shifting to the final position. The average number of aligners for a full treatment plan falls between 18 and 30, but the number varies from case to case.
With the American population living longer, seniors' oral health has become an important issue, as has the widespread problem of elder abuse. Every year more than 2.5 million older Americans may be victims of elder abuse, and in some cases dentists serve as the first line of defense, according to a report in the May/June 2005 issue of General Dentistry, the clinical, peer-reviewed journal of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD).
Why should we consider orthodontics?
Flossing helps control plaque. It can reach where a toothbrush can't, like between the teeth. Floss daily with floss and interdental cleaners that carry the American Dental Association (ADA) seal. Ask your dentist for tips if you're not sure how to floss. Like everything else, flossing gets easier with practice.
Brushing your teeth twice a day not only keeps your breath sweet, but also helps rid the mouth of bacteria that makes up plaque and can lead to oral infections. To brush properly, point bristles at a 45-degree angle against the gums. Use gentle back-and-forth strokes all over your teeth -- in front, in back, and on chewing surfaces -- for two minutes. If holding a toothbrush is hard for you, try an electric toothbrush. Also brush your gums and tongue.