Invisalign and oral health, from Parker Orthodontics

We've discussed Invisalign treatment in previous posts, but today would like to share with you a few of the oral health benefits associated with Invisalign, which is a series of removable aligners that are not only nearly invisible, but they can straighten your teeth just as effectively as braces, and can even improve your oral health. Here’s how:

Healthy gums: Straight teeth allow a close fit for gums. This lessens the gum stress that is caused by crowded or widely spaced teeth, thus also reducing red and swollen gums.

Easy cleaning: Invisalign is removable, therefore brushing and flossing is easier and you are able to maintain a healthy mouth. These habits are vital to avoiding tooth decay, plaque and even gum disease.

Improved speech and chewing: Properly-aligned teeth don’t have the discomfort or compound speech impediments that can be caused by crowded teeth or a deteriorating jawbone.

If you have any questions about Invisalign, just ask Dr. Jeff Collins the next time you’re in for an appointment. Or, you may post your question on our Facebook page! We hope you had a great weekend!

Dr. Collins, helping you understand cavities

At Parker Orthodontics, we know one word nobody wants to hear when they visit the dentist is Cavity! But what, exactly, is a exactly is a cavity and how do you get one? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger.

So, what causes a cavity? A cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

According to Cavity-Free at Three, in Colorado,

•18% of 2-4 year olds have dental caries; 16% have untreated decay.
•45.7% of kindergarteners have dental caries; 26.9% have untreated decay.
•57.2% of third graders have dental caries; 26.1% have untreated decay.
•By age 17, 78% of children have had at least one cavity; 7% have lost a permanent tooth to dental decay.

Yes, cavities can be repaired by your general dentist, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)
• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach
• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink
• Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up

We hope this helps! Please give us a call for more tips on your oral health during treatment with Dr. Collins!

Ask Dr. Collins: When should my child come in for a consultation?

Many parents here in Parker, Castle Rock, Elizabeth and surrounding communities around Denver assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to come in for a consultation with Dr. Jeff Collins, only to find that treatment would have been much easier if started sooner. Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommend that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That's right - seven.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age provides one of two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, a healthy prognosis will provide immediate peace of mind.

Early evaluation, Dr. Collins will tell you, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from years of harmful teasing, crooked teeth are also prone to injury and detrimental to good oral hygiene. So if your child is nearing age seven, we invite you to give us a call at Parker Orthodontics to schedule a complimentary initial consultation.

Have a GREAT rest of your weekend everyone!

Parker Orthodontics, "Best of the Best" 10 years in a row!

Besides being recognized as one of the top orthodontists in the Denver area by 5280 Magazine, Dr. Jeff Collins and Parker Orthodontics been recognized as the "Best of the Best" in Parker by our wonderful patients and The Colorado Community Newspapers.

We are, of course, thankful to all of you patients who chose us Dr. Collins as your orthodontist! For Dr. Collins, orthodontics is more than just a job; it's a true passion. It is a passion he shares with each and every patient, staff, friends and family.

Our entire staff at Parker Orthodontics wish you a safe, relaxing and happy Independence Day weekend!