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.
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.