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Posts Tagged ‘orthodontist Laconia NH’

Why do I need braces?

Thursday, May 9th, 2013

There are many reasons for braces. Most importantly, they improve your smile and confidence. Braces also correct bites allowing easier chewing and better speech, they eliminate tooth interferences that can cause TMD or joint problems; they align teeth so patients can clean between teeth, and they eliminate harmful wear patterns that destroy your teeth and gums. Braces can also be used to open or close spaces for implants, crowns, or bridges. Kennell Orthodontics offers a pressure-free environment, so that you can comfortably explore your options without any commitments. Braces are a wonderful way to improve your oral presentation and health, but getting braces is a decision you have to make. We love helping people reach their goal of a fantastic new smile!

 

My dentist does braces, why do I need an orthodontist?

Because we are specifically trained to serve you! After 4 years of dental school, an orthodontist completes another 2-3 years of specialized orthodontic training at an accredited university. An orthodontist does not do fillings, crowns, or cleanings. Instead, we are specially trained to deal with problems of tooth alignment and bite functioning. We work closely with pediatric dentists, family dentists, cosmetic dentists and other dental specialists on every case to create an efficient dental team. If you have questions about why you are seeing a licensed orthodontist for your treatment, please ask us or you can visit the American Association of Orthodontists website at http://www.braces.org.

Braces generally have two components: brackets and wires. Today’s brackets can be made of metal or of tooth-colored ceramic. They are usually attached to the front of your teeth, but some can be “hidden” behind your teeth. Wires, which do the work of moving your teeth, are threaded through slots in the brackets. You will need to see Kennell Orthodontics periodically to adjust your wires.

 

What age of people get braces?

Braces and other treatment options are available for ALL ages, from elementary school through retirement, people are enjoying the benefits of a beautiful, more comfortable smile. Kennell Orthodontics can work with you to give you a smile that fits your style, so why limit yourself to one treatment option, Kennell Orthodontics also offers treatments using new technology like braces with brackets that go behind your teeth and clear aligners, like Invisalign.

 

Food for thought.

Check out this website for recipes tailored for individuals with braces. Lots of ideas for healthy meals and snacks. What is your favorite food to eat while wearing braces? Let us know! Just because you have braces, doesn’t mean you have to miss out on your favorite summer fruits and vegetables. Make sure to slice your apples very thin and simply cut the corn off the cob!

 

Bright, Beautiful, Healthy Smiles!

Check out our link to Brace Painter, you’ll have fun and can be creative to make your smile unique, bright and fun! Ask Dr. Kennell and his staff what fun colors are available to design your braces!  http://www.kennellortho.com/brace-painter.php

Season’s Greetings!

Thursday, December 20th, 2012


In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as we reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What do you love about the holidays this year? Being with your loved ones? Hitting the slopes? A clean slate for 2013? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food?

Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year? We’d love if you shared with us all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to limit the amount of sweets you eat!

Happy holidays from our family to yours!

Need a New Year’s Resolution? How about a healthier, more beautiful smile?

Friday, December 14th, 2012


2013 is almost here, and it’s a great time of year to get started on achieving a straight, dazzling and confident smile that will last you a lifetime. We are proud to offer some of today’s most innovative orthodontic technologies that can straighten your smile in less time than you ever imagined. Not only do today’s braces and other orthodontic treatments straighten your teeth quicker, they also offer greater comfort for you, and require fewer visits to our office.

So if obtaining a healthy, beautiful smile is one of your New Year’s resolutions, we invite you to give us a call to schedule an initial orthodontic consultation. Happy holidays!

Where’s your bite? The differences between crossbites, overbites, and underbites

Friday, December 7th, 2012

Did you know there is a direct correlation between your bite and your overall health? When your teeth and jaws are not properly-aligned, it may affect your breathing, speech, and, in extreme cases, even affect the appearance of your face. As a result of malocclusion, also commonly referred to as “bad bite,” your teeth may become crooked, worn or protruded over time. Most people experience some degree of malocclusion, but it is generally not severe enough to require corrective measures. If your malocclusion is serious enough, however, orthodontic treatment may be necessary to correct the issue.

Malocclusion may also be referred to as an underbite, crossbite or overbite. So, what, exactly, is the difference between the three?

• Crossbites, which can involve a single tooth or a group of teeth, occur when your upper and lower jaws are both misaligned, and usually causes one or more upper teeth to bite on the inside of the lower teeth. Crossbites can happen on both the front and/or the sides of the mouth, and are known to cause wear of the teeth, gum disease and bone loss.
• Overbites, also known as “overjet,” occurs when your upper teeth overlap considerably with the lower teeth. Overbites can lead to gum issues or irritation and even wear on the lower teeth, and are known to cause painful jaw and joint problems. Overbites can usually be traced to genetics, bad oral habits, or overdevelopment of the bone that supports the teeth.
• Underbites, which occur when the lower teeth protrude past the front teeth, are caused by undergrowth of the upper jaw, overgrowth of the lower jaw, or both. Underbites can also be caused by missing upper teeth, which can prevent the normal function of front teeth ( molars). This in turn leads to tooth wear and pain in your joints and jaw.

Fortunately, we are able to treat bite problems. If you suspect you or your child has a bite misalignment, we encourage you to be examined at our office as early as possible. By starting early, you can make sure you or your child avoid years of pain and self-consciousness.