Flossing often gets skipped after brushing one’s teeth because it is viewed as a nuisance and an unnecessary extra step. In fact, flossing is just as essential to your oral health as brushing. Flossing helps to eliminate the accumulation of harmful bacteria and plaque, which is a result of food particles that get trapped between the teeth and under the gum line. These are places that the toothbrush can’t always reach! Below are 3 secrets from Dr. Christopher Murphy at Southern Maine Orthodontics to make flossing simpler.Read More
Blog
Taking Care of Your Teeth at Home
Taking care of your teeth is an essential part of maintaining your health and wellness. While you should visit your dentist at least twice a year for a regular checkup and cleaning, they alone cannot account for your teeth health. Thus, it is up to you to take initiative and take care of your teeth at home! Keep reading for some advice from Dr. Christopher Murphy at Southern Maine Orthodontics on how to keep your pearly whites shining bright!
Statistics about Smiling and Happiness
Smiling is an important part of your health and happiness! Your dentist’s office (and your orthodontist’s) are committed to keeping your smile healthy and happy for years to come. While smiling can seem very superficial initially, a beautiful smile can actually have a positive impact on your overall well-being in addition to making you feel great. There has actually been a proven link between the act of smiling and feeling happy! Keep reading for some advice from Dr. Christopher Murphy at Southern Maine Orthodontics about why smiling is important.
What is a Digital Impression?
You’ve probably heard others complain about putty impressions at the orthodontist as recently as five years ago. These impressions were notorious for triggering gag reflexes and leaving a horrible, lasting taste. Fortunately, putty impressions are now a thing of the past. Today, orthodontists have access to high-tech digital impression machinery, which has drastically changed the experience of getting impressions taken. If you’re curious about how digital impressions have transformed orthodontic treatment, Dr. Christopher Murphy at Southern Maine Orthodontics can provide valuable insights.
Choosing the Right Dental Specialist
The dilemma of selecting between a dentist, pedodontist, or orthodontist in Scarborough ME often perplexes consumers. The rationale behind opting for an orthodontist is clear: experience and specialized training.
What are the Differences Between Dentists, Pedodontists, and Orthodontists?
- Dentists: All three—dentists, pedodontists, and orthodontists—are skilled in oral care. However, their expertise spans across different facets of dental health.
- Orthodontists: With an additional two to three years of intensive training solely focused on orthodontics, these specialists excel in teeth alignment and jaw correction beyond general dentistry.
- Pedodontists: Specializing in comprehensive children’s dental care, pedodontists undergo an additional two to three years of training, encompassing various aspects of pediatric dentistry.
Navigating Orthodontics: The ABC’s
At Southern Maine Orthodontics in Scarborough, ME discover the “ABC’s of Orthodontics”: “A” for age, “B” for braces, and “C” for cost and choices. This simplified approach is your gateway to understanding orthodontic care better.
Age plays a vital role, particularly in orthodontics. Evaluations around age 7 can prevent future issues, and these assessments are often complimentary. Planning evaluations during summer ensures minimal disruption to a child’s schooling if braces are needed.
The landscape of braces has evolved significantly. Modern techniques and equipment offer enhanced effectiveness and patient comfort. Today’s orthodontists are highly educated, providing tailored treatments and comprehensive patient education.