EVERY ORTHODONTIST KNOWS that each smile is unique, right down to the timeline of when the teeth that make them up come in. Some of us get our adult teeth on schedule, some early, some late, and some are left to wonder if a tooth or two might have gotten lost somewhere under their gums. When that happens, we call it an impacted tooth. It happens most often to wisdom teeth, but not always.

When Wisdom Teeth Become Impacted

If there isn’t room for an adult tooth to erupt, it can remain partially or completely under the gums and may end up heading in the wrong direction altogether. Impacted wisdom teeth can become a problem for the roots of the neighboring molars. The reason they become impacted is usually that there isn’t room for them in the jaw. The solution for impacted wisdom teeth is extraction, but what about when other teeth are impacted?

Impacted Upper Canine Teeth

The most likely teeth after wisdom teeth to become impacted are the upper canines or eyeteeth. This particular problem can even run in families. One or (less often) both of them could be impacted. Why the upper canines? It’s because the lateral incisors and the first premolars usually come in before they do, and if there’s a crowding problem, there might not be enough space left for the canines to erupt.

Complications of Impacted Teeth

Impacted teeth aren’t just a problem because they haven’t joined their fellows as part of your charming smile; they can cause infections, gum disease, nerve damage, and cavities. Symptoms include a persistent bad taste or bad breath, tenderness and pain around the jaw, headaches, and swollen lymph nodes or gums. They also leave a visible gap where they should be erupting, and the baby tooth might never become loose on its own if it’s an impacted canine.

Adult canine teeth are important because they form the “corners” of our smiles. If one or both of them fails to erupt, it makes a big difference to a person’s appearance.

Your PA Orthodontist Will Move the Impacted Tooth Into Place

There isn’t much that can prevent tooth impaction, but it is very treatable. An impacted tooth can be discovered with dental X-rays. Impacted wisdom teeth can be extracted and impacted canines can be moved into their proper positions through a combination of oral surgery and orthodontic treatment. This is the kind of orthodontic issue that requires traditional braces to fix, as invisible aligners don’t have the same pulling power.

Let’s Close the Gap in That Smile!

Your Greenwood Village orthodontist highly recommends for anyone with an impacted upper canine to schedule a consultation. There’s no reason to leave that tooth trapped and out of sight forever when you could be showing it off in your smile. We look forward to developing your treatment plan to achieve the straight, complete smile you deserve! You can also learn about our Greenwood Village location by checking our business page, and make sure to get directions before heading our way.

We can’t wait to see your “after” photos!

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The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.

PEOPLE MIGHT NEED to find a new orthodontist for all sorts of reasons, so they wonder “how do I find a great orthodontist near me?” Maybe they just moved to Denver. Maybe their old orthodontist retired. Maybe their kids are growing up and almost old enough for braces. Whatever the reason is, we recommend not waiting until to find an orthodontist that fits your needs. Here are five important factors to keep in mind when searching for the best orthodontist for you.

1. Location, Location, Location!

How close is the practice to your home? To your teen’s school or where they play sports? To your workplace? Make sure the distance isn’t so great that making it to adjustment appointments will become a major inconvenience. It’s a good idea to decide on a radius that seems doable for you and your family, then determine who the best orthodontist is within that radius. On the other hand, there might be an ortho slightly farther away who is still worth it for other reasons!

2. Which Orthodontist Near Me Has a Great Reputation?

What kind of reviews does the ortho have? What are their other patients saying about them? Check out the Yelp and Google reviews and maybe ask around your neighborhood, coworkers, and friend group to see if anyone you know is familiar with that particular orthodontist. While there can sometimes be hidden gems, a lot of good feedback is generally a positive sign.

3. What Specialties Can They Claim?

An orthodontic practice that operates close to you and has fantastic reviews might still not be right for you if they don’t offer some of the services you think you’re likely to need. Do they offer emergency care? Do they offer Invisalign for patients who want low-profile treatment? Do some research into an orthodontist’s services to see if they’re a good fit.

4. How Well Do They Fit Your Budget?

Sometimes an ortho’s only flaw is the cost of their services in comparison to your budget. A properly aligned smile is an investment, so it’s still important to find an orthodontist to correct bite and alignment problems before they create other issues. Finding a budget-friendly orthodontist is the smart move, both financially and in terms of dental health.

5. Patient Comfort

If you aren’t comfortable around an orthodontist or within their practice, then the other factors might not matter much to you. It’s a good idea to pay a practice you’re considering an early visit just to get a sense of the place and the staff. A good orthodontist will always prioritize patient comfort, especially considering how many patients struggle with dental anxiety!

Meanwhile, keep up those oral hygiene habits!

We Look Forward to Meeting You!

If you’ve been asking yourself “Where can I find an orthodontist near me?” but weren’t sure how to start, we hope we’ve given you a few ideas of where to begin! If you want to learn more about our practice, just give us a call or stop by. You can also check our business page, and make sure to get directions before you head our way. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have!

Thank you for trusting us with your dental health needs!

Top image used under CC0 Public Domain license. Image cropped and modified from original.

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.

WE GET A LOT OF patients and parents of patients asking us the same questions about pediatric dentistry at our practice in Greenwood Village near Denver, so we’re rounding up a few of the most common questions we hear and providing the answers in an FAQ! If these questions have been burning in your mind, we’ve got your answers here!

When is the right time for a child’s first dental appointment?

A child can benefit from a dentist as soon as their first tooth appears! That’s why we recommend bringing them to see us around six months old (and no later than their first birthday). The earlier you bring them in, the more advice we can offer on taking care of incoming baby teeth and managing those difficult teething periods.

How important is it to keep baby teeth healthy?

If our kids are just going to lose their baby teeth in a few years anyway, does it really matter if they get cavities? A lot of parents think this way, but that’s something we discourage. Just because baby teeth are temporary doesn’t mean they’re not important. Baby teeth are essential for chewing food, learning to speak clearly, and mastering lifelong dental health habits like brushing and flossing. They also guide the adult teeth into place!

What can I do if my child gets a toothache?

A good way to soothe the ache is to have your child swish (but not swallow) some warm salt water. You can also apply a cold compress to their face and give them children’s Tylenol (to ingest, not as a topical treatment). These should all be temporary measures until you can bring them in to see us.

How bad are thumbsucking and pacifiers for my child’s teeth?

They aren’t bad at all — at first. These habits can become an oral health concern in time, if they continue them beyond age three, but most children grow out of them on their own. After age three, it’s time to start thinking about strategies for discouraging the habit. If you’d like suggestions, we can help with that.

What’s the right amount of toothpaste for brushing my child’s teeth?

It’s important not to use too much toothpaste when brushing a young child’s teeth, because that can lead to fluorosis (discoloration) in the incoming adult teeth. All you need is a tiny smear of toothpaste when brushing a baby’s or toddler’s teeth, and a dab the size of a pea is enough for ages 3-6. Also make sure you’re encouraging them to spit it out instead of swallowing!

Why should my child see a kids’ dentist?

There are many specialties in dentistry, and pediatric dentistry is one of them. Pediatric dentists go through an additional two to three years of training after dental school to learn everything they need to know to be able to address the dental health concerns unique to babies, children, and teenagers, so take advantage of that expertise by bringing your kids to see us!

Did We Miss Your Question?

If your biggest questions about pediatric dentistry weren’t on our list, don’t hesitate to ask us anyway! We want all parents to be as educated as possible on children’s dental health concerns so that they can give their kids the best chance at lifelong healthy smiles! You can learn more about our Greenwood Village, Colorado pediatric dentistry practice by checking our business page, and make sure to get directions before heading our way.

We love all of our pediatric dentistry patients!

Top image used under CC0 Public Domain license. Image cropped and modified from original.

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.

Orthodontist in Greenwood Village and Denver

You have decided to get your crooked teeth straightened at Iritani Orthodontics. But you may still have concerns about what the whole orthodontic process is. This blog has the five basic steps of getting braces, so you know what to expect.

Stage #1 - The Consultation

During the initial appointment, your orthodontist examines your teeth and jaws. Depending on your particular case, it can last from 30 minutes to one hour. Digital impressions are taken of your upper and lower arch. We discuss our concerns, solutions, and possible risks of getting orthodontic appliances. 

The best part of this appointment is the before and after photos of previous patients with similar orthodontic needs. You see how your treatment can transform your smile. We also take this time to discuss different types of orthodontic treatment options like tooth-colored ceramic braces, traditional braces, or clear aligners. We then tackle fees and whether you have insurance benefits. 

Stage #2 - Bonding/Banding

If you have chosen traditional metal braces, the second stage is when the braces are finally attached to your teeth. Some patients may require spacers placed between teeth to create small gaps a week or two beforehand. 

The small spacers are removed, and the brackets are carefully placed and cemented to the front of your teeth. The arch wires lay on top of the brackets, connecting everything. At this point, you can choose color elastics that hold the wire on the frame. 

Getting braces doesn’t hurt, but it takes time. We have to prep the teeth for the brackets, carefully position onto each tooth, run the archwire through and finally tighten things up!

Afterward, you are given care instructions and a list of foods to avoid. We teach you about the changes in oral hygiene while wearing braces and how to clean your teeth to prevent tooth decay. 

Please know that for every instance you break a bracket, the entire orthodontic treatment will extend for an extra month. So it is wise to listen to the orthodontist’s instructions.

Stage #3 - Regular Adjustments Stage

Routine appointments are scheduled every 4-7 weeks for 30 minutes to monitor progress and make adjustments and wire modifications. The braces are tightened, rubber bands are changed, and broken brackets are replaced. 

Stage #4 - Debanding Stage

The debanding stage is one to celebrate. We finally remove your braces and give you a thorough polishing so you can see how amazing your new smile looks without all that metal blocking your view! The debanding appointment usually takes about an hour.

Stage #5 - Retainer Stage

The last stage is when a retainer is made to keep your straight teeth in the final position. Your retainer is to be worn constantly except while eating or drinking anything other than water. It’s critical to wear your retainer as directed by your orthodontist to avoid having to undergo the process again!

Visit Your Orthodontist in Greenwood Village and Denver

Iritani Orthodontics are expert in orthodontic care. We know how to correct bad bites to give you the most beautiful smile. We are with you at each stage of the treatment plan. Give us a call today to learn about all the types of braces we offer.

Pediatric Dentist in Greenwood Village, CO

Iritani Orthodontics treats children of all ages, and everyone is welcome through our doors. Our pediatric dentists have specialized training and love to teach kids the importance of preventive care for good dental health. The earlier your children learn good oral hygiene habits, the better their health for the future. 

Good oral hygiene is critical to your child's teeth and overall health. Children need healthy teeth to speak correctly, eat, and smile comfortably. Your pediatric dentists in Greenwood Village recommend starting good oral hygiene habits as early as possible. 

So, how do you teach children the importance of caring for their teeth? Below are some simple tips to get your kid's dental hygiene off to the best start.

#1 Supervise Your Kids

The younger the child is, the more supervision they will need. You must ensure they're not only brushing their teeth twice a day but doing it correctly. Observe them while brushing their baby teeth, give them positive feedback, and assist them when they need help to clean missed spots and hard-to-reach areas.

Many parents choose the picks when it comes to flossing, as they are much easier for tiny hands. Be sure to help your children floss the hard-to-reach areas until they grow more comfortable doing it themselves.

#2 Keep a Routine

It feels natural to make oral hygiene a part of our morning or bedtime routine. Have your kids brush their teeth at the same time each day. For example, cleaning their teeth can be the first thing they do after putting on their pajamas at night, or it could be the last thing they do before heading out the door in the morning. We know life is busy with children, but this is one health routine that you should never skip!

#3 Provide Healthy Food 

Allowing children unlimited amounts of sweets, juices, or other junk food does not result in healthy smiles. Your child's diet is an essential element of their oral health. Children who eat highly processed foods laden with salt and sugar when young have much more tooth decay and gum disease and tend to crave these foods in adulthood. 

Instead, choose child-friendly healthy snacks, like fruit, cheese, nuts, hard-boiled eggs, and yogurt. Candy and sweets are not off the table completely. They are great for special occasions and holidays, but always in moderation. 

#4 Be the Best Example

Every child carefully watches their parents and copies everything they do. The best way to show the importance of good oral health is for you, the parent, to look out for your teeth. Let your children observe you brushing, flossing, and making healthy dietary choices. Your children are sure to follow suit.

#5 Biannual Checkups

Infants, children, and teens should visit their dentist's practice once every six months for exams and cleanings. This checkup is critical to catch problems before they start. 

We know many young patients are nervous about visiting the dentist. Everyone at Iritani Orthodontics loves caring for your children. We take extra time to ensure that our youngest patients feel comfortable and at ease. 

Pediatric Dentistry in Greenwood Village, Colorado

Please schedule an appointment at our state-of-the-art pediatric dental office in Greenwood Village. We are passionate about providing superior dental care for your children. We hope that our kid-friendly practice will be your new dental home. 

When we think "orthodontics," we automatically picture an awkward teenager with a mouth full of metal. But these days, it's not only children and teens that get braces. More adults are getting braces than ever before. An estimated one in five orthodontics patients is an adult?

It goes to show that it's never too late to go for the smile of your dreams. If you have some reservations about adult orthodontic treatment plans, read on for valuable tips. 

Keep Your Eye on the Goal

It is inconvenient but true; sometimes, we have to do things we don't necessarily enjoy. It is just part of being a responsible adult. 

We put in the hours at work to have the paycheck at the end of the month. We sometimes dread working out, but it helps keep us fit and healthy in the long run. Braces are the same - a bit inconvenient, but a means to an end. 

Focus on the future, and know that your adult braces are working to straighten your misaligned teeth and achieve the smile of your dreams one day at a time. The short period spent wearing braces will be worth it. 

Besides, crooked teeth and a bad bite are prone to tooth decay. Having braces improves oral health. Be proud that you are making progress in improving your health and appearance in the long term. 

Rock your New Look!

Your smile is a critical element of expressing yourself and reflecting confidence, so don't wait for your treatment to be over – smile confidently. People will look past the braces and see your beautiful smile shining through.

Wearing braces does not change the simple fact that you are still your unique self. Don't let dental care hold you back from the activities you love and the person you are. Just be your old self, and you'll soon feel that way!

Be inspiring to other adults who might also be considering getting braces themselves. They'll likely feel encouraged by seeing you. 

Care for Your Braces

Braces do require a bit of extra work. Keeping your braces sparkly clean is a massive part of your treatment. Brush after each meal to reduce food particles and plaque sticking to your enamel, metal brackets, and archwires. 

Carry a small bag of essentials in your purse, car, or office. Always have a small toothbrush, floss, travel-size toothpaste, and a mirror to ensure you're good to go. Knowing your teeth and brackets are squeaky clean, you can't help but feel more confident.

Know Your Options

As an adult, you get to choose the best type of braces for you. You don't have to settle for traditional metal braces at our orthodontic practice. Know that you have options at Iritani. We provide the following orthodontics treatment options:

• Clear braces
• Ceramic braces
• Self-ligating braces
• Lingual (behind the tooth) braces
• Invisible braces
• Traditional metal braces

So, remember your goals, rock your smile with confidence, care for your braces, and consider your options. The time will speed by. Don't wait any longer to get your perfectly straight teeth; it might just be one of the best decisions of your life!

What is my Next Step for Orthodontics in Greenwood Village, CO?

If you are looking to get orthodontics and live in or around Greenwood Village, Colorado, schedule a consultation at Iritani Orthodontics. We have a state-of-the-art orthodontic practice and take pride in creating beautiful smiles.