Children and Orthodontics

1. What is an Orthodontist?

An Orthodontist is a highly trained specialist who has completed two to three years of training after graduating from dental school. An orthodontist not only straightens teeth but also is interested in the bite, facial profile, and oral growth. 

2. Why should I see an orthodontic specialist?

Orthodontist has two or three years of highly specialized training above and beyond that of a general dentist in correcting jaw and bite irregularities. An orthodontic specialist does only orthodontics. Other types of dentists can legally offer braces to their patients, but lack the intensive training and specialized experience of an orthodontist. A pediatric dentist has specialized knowledge of how to do fillings and crowns for children. An oral surgeon has specialized knowledge of how to do complex surgical and anesthetic procedures. A general dentist lacks specialized training in bite correction and jaw irregularities. Just as we seek the opinions of medical specialists, such as cardiologists and dermatologists, for specific medical problems, it is important to choose the proper dental specialists for bite corrections. 

Dr. Beim is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the only organization of orthodontists recognized by the American Dental Association, and has successfully provided orthodontic treatment to several thousand patients since opening his practice in 1990.

3. At what age should an orthodontist see my child?

The American Association of Orthodontists and the American Dental Association recommend that a child be evaluated by age seven. Early detection of some orthodontic problems is important in order to take early corrective action and avoid more difficult treatment later. Most patients, however, are treated during adolescence between the ages of 10-12.

4. How do I know if my child is in need of orthodontic treatment?

It is usually difficult for you to determine if treatment is necessary because there are many problems that can occur even though the front teeth look straight. Also, there are some problems that look intimidating and complex which will resolve on their own. Asking your general dentist is a good place to start, but we are your best resource since orthodontics is a specialty and it is all that we do. The following are just a few of the early indications that an orthodontic problem may be present.

• Crowded teeth
• Early loss of teeth
• Underbite
• Mouth breathing
• Thumb and finger habits
• Missing teeth
• Protrusion of front teeth
• Crossbites
• Speech difficulties
• Poor facial profile
• Low self-esteem from teeth misalignment

To learn more or for more questions, please call us at (407) 323-0600

Protect Your Face

It’s National Facial Protection Month so Beim Orthodontics would like to remind everyone to protect those faces (and those smiles) this spring. 

  

Photo provided by perfectteeth.com

Did you know spring is one of the busiest times in emergency rooms for mouth and facial injuries?  Several of these injuries happen in the spring because they are sports-related accidents that could have easily been prevented with the use of sports safety equipment. 

By utilizing equipment like helmets and mouth guards, children and adults can avoid serious facial injuries. Just by wearing a mouth guard or helmet, patients can reduce the risk of concussions, knocking out teeth, or breaking jaw bones. Most coaches recommend a mouth guard or helmet, but unfortunately several athletes stray away from these two very important pieces of equipment because they don’t comprehend the importance of wearing them.  

We can’t stress enough the importance of simply wearing a mouth guard or helmet during organized sports and activities. There are 3 different types of mouth guards on the market today...all of which will help to protect your smile.  

• Custom-Fitted Mouth Guards - Made by your dentist for you personally.
• Stock Mouth Guards - Pre-formed and may offer a bulky fit. 
• Boil and Bite Mouth Guards - Softened in boiling water and then inserted and allowed to adapt to the shape of your mouth. 

Mouth guards are a smart investment for your health, so be sure to make the use of a mouth guard a routine. If you have any questions regarding facial protection, please contact Beim Orthodontics at 407-323-0600.

  

Selfies 101

Photo provided by livefortech.com

We know, at first it seemed a little silly, all these people taking photos of themselves and posting them online. But did you know that taking selfies is a great way to show off your personality and confidence? 

Taking a selfie is an art form in itself. A great selfie is more than just a quick camera click, it actually takes a level of skill to capture and edit the perfect one. But don't worry...Beim Orthodontics has your back. We have some simple techniques, that when practiced, will make you a selfie master in no time at all.

1. Capture Your Best Angle. Instead of taking the picture head-on, turn your head a little to the right or left, or maybe hold your camera a little higher.  Try different angles to show off your best features. 
2. Show Off Something New. If you decide to take a selfie to show off something new, like…oh we don’t know, maybe your braces, make sure that you frame the photo in a way that highlights the new accessory that has you so excited. 
3. Have Expression. You can never go wrong with smiling! Play around with different smiles and expressions and have fun! No matter what, a smile is the best expression you can wear.  
4. Focus on Lighting. A great light source is an essential part of taking any photograph. Natural light is best, so start taking those selfies near a window or outdoors. 
5.  Don't Use a Mirror. Just stretch your arm out, point the camera toward your face and click. You can use your face forward camera to make it easier!  

Ok, now you’re ready! Upload those selfies to all of your feeds…Instagram, Facebook, anywhere and everywhere. Are you a patient of Beim Orthodontics? Then tag us in your selfies, we'd love to see your smiling faces! Use #BeimOrtho!

Tips and Tricks

Beim Orthodontics

We know even despite your best efforts, the wires and bands on your braces may come loose. If this happens, please contact Beim Orthodontics as soon as possible so that we can check and repair your appliance. 

 

If any piece of your appliance comes off, be sure to save it and bring it to the office with you. Call our office for advice if a bracket or wire is loosened. The bracket may need to be re-bonded as soon as possible. You may have a situation that requires cutting a wire or sliding a bracket off a wire at night or over the weekend. 

 

In an emergency, you can temporarily fix the loose wire by using the back of a spoon or the eraser end of a pencil to carefully and gently push the wire back into place. If the loose wire is causing irritation to your lips or cheeks, put wax or a wet cotton ball over the broken wire to relieve the pain until your appointment. 

 

Don't hesitate to contact Beim Orthodontics at (407) 323-0600 immediately if you experience any issue with your braces.

Crowd Pleasing Braces-Friendly Game Day Recipes

If you're still searching for a few more snacks to add to your Super Bowl menu, we've got two that will be sure to score with your friends & family.

Hot Ham & Cheese Party Rolls

• 1 can refrigerated pizza crust
• 1 lb. deli ham (thinly sliced, but not shaved)
• 12 slices Swiss cheese

Glaze:

• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray
2. Unroll the pizza dough onto a cutting board. Press into an approximately 13x18-inch rectangle. Top with ham and cheese slices. Starting on the longer side of the rectangle, roll up the edge tightly. When you reach the end, pinch the seam together and flip the roll so that the seam is face side down. Cut into 12 slices. Arrange in the prepared baking dish. 
3. Next combine the butter, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and poppy seeds in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk until the butter is melted and glaze is smooth. Pour evenly over the top of the rolls.
4. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes until golden brown. 

Tip: Make these rolls a day ahead! Refrigerate rolls up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to warm up the glaze so you're able to pour it on top of the rolls!

Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs

• 1 bag frozen meatballs (any brand)
• 1 jar chili sauce
• 1 can jellied cranberry sauce

Directions:

1. Add chili sauce and cranberry sauce to a medium mixing bowl. Use a whisk to mix ingredients until semi-smooth.
2. Add half the bag of meatballs to your crockpot. Top with half of the sauce mixture. Repeat with remaining meatballs and sauce. 
3. Cook on low until heated through, typically 3-4 hours. 

This crowd-pleasing favorite can easily be adapted for a larger group! Just double the recipe and increase your heating time to 5-6 hours. In a time crunch? Heat meatballs and sauce on your stovetop until warm. Transfer to your crockpot for a quick, delicious addition to your game day party!

Benefits Beyond Your Smile

Beim Orthodontics

Dr. Beim and all the Beim Orthodontics team want to remind you that orthodontic health is much more than straight teeth. When Dr. Beim creates beautiful smiles for his patients, he places all the elements of the face into their perfect alignment for a healthy as well as beautiful smile. Orthodontic treatment at Beim Orthodontics also provides many additional health benefits. Here are just a few you might not realize:

Prevent TMJ: TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Disorders occur from stress on the jaw joint. Often, people who suffer from TMJ have an incorrect bite pattern or a misalignment of their bite. Orthodontic treatment can align the teeth and bite to remove the stress on the joints that causes TMJ Disorder.

Aid Digestive Health: Perfectly aligned teeth help you chew your food more effectively, which helps your digestive health.

Avoid Tooth Decay and Gum Disease: Crowded and misaligned teeth make it difficult to clean your teeth and gums, which can lead to food and bacteria build-up. It's much easier to brush and floss your teeth when they are in healthy alignment.

Correct some speech impediments: Sometimes when your teeth and joints are misaligned, this misalignment causes speech impediments. The teeth and tongue are important tools in our speech process, and it is extremely important that these tools be in their perfect alignment to speak our best.

If you have any questions about the health and aesthetic benefits of orthodontic treatment, feel free to contact us today. At Beim Orthodontics our goal is for our patients to feel that their experience with our office is remarkable, unique, and pleasurable. 

Avoiding Orthodontic Emergencies

At Beim Orthodontics we know that even with the best of care, braces can cause soreness to your mouth. This soreness is the way your body reacts to your teeth as they begin to move. Your braces play an important part in helping to create a healthy and beautiful smile but you may experience a few side effects while wearing them that are common and can be easily treated.

Canker Sores

Canker sores are a common occurrence when braces rub inside the mouth. There are ointments available to reduce the pain and irritation associated with mouth sores. We recommend Canker-X gel and we can provide you with a sample to try.

Loose Brackets

If you have a loose bracket you can apply a small amount of orthodontic wax to the bracket temporarily. You might also apply a little between the braces and the soft tissue of your mouth. Please call the office for an appointment.

Loose Bands

The band will need to be reattached. Please call the office for an appointment and remember to bring the band with you.

Broken or Protruding Wires

The eraser end of a pencil can be used to move the wire carefully to a less painful spot. If you are unable to move it, apply orthodontic wax to the tip. If a mouth sore develops, rinse with warm salt water or antiseptic rinse. Please call the office for an appointment to trim or adjust the wire.

Loose Spacers

If a spacer (separator) becomes dislodged it may need to be repositioned and sometimes replaced. Please call the office to see if they need to be replaced.

Remember, braces aren't forever but your smile is!

If you have questions or any concerns during your treatment, or simply have a question that you'd like to ask, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help!