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

Tips from Beim Orthodontics for a Healthy Smile

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!