Dec
03

Home Remedies to Whiten Teeth

By | Burleson Orthodontics, Services

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Did you know teeth whitening is the number one requested cosmetic service today and its popularity continues to soar? Everyone wants a mouth full of white, sparkling teeth. It not only makes your smile more beautiful, but it also makes you more confident. Americans spend more than $1.4 billion on over-the-counter teeth whitening products each year!

 We all know what stains your teeth: cranberry juice, red wine, coffee, tea. But do you know what will make them white? Try these home remedies to whiten your teeth and quickly and safely brighten your smile.
1. Baking Soda:
Baking soda is one of the strongest and safest whitening ingredient out there. This is because it’s an acid neutralizer, that gently removes stains and buildup from the enamel of your teeth, making whiter teeth. You can sprinkle some baking soda on top of your toothpaste each day.

2. Citrus Fruits:
Citrus fruits can also help prevent staining. The acid causes the mouth to produce more saliva, which help clean the teeth and whiten your smile. However, use these in moderation. Overdoing it would be too acidic, which can be damaging to the teeth.

3. Carrots:
A patient told me about this home remedy. She attests to rubbing raw carrot sticks on your teeth to make them look brighter. According to Dr. Jeffrey Gross, carrots act like natural stain removers by increasing production of saliva, which is the body’s natural cleaning agent. As a bonus, it is full of vitamin C, which prevents gingivitis and gum disease.

4. Strawberries
Studies show that strawberries contain an enzyme called malic acid, which can be found in whitening toothpaste. Malic acid in strawberries behaves as a natural cleaner for your teeth. So mash up strawberries or cut it in half and rub it on your teeth, leave it for a few minutes and rinse its sure to leave your smile bright white.
If you are concerned about whitening your teeth, try these home remedies, they will be sure to surprise you. Of course, if you don’t have time to try these mild home remedies and want to jump straight into professional whitening, ask your dentist or call our office for a complimentary consultation.Discover more tips for teeth whitening in Dr. Burleson’s video series at BurlesonOrthodontics.TV or click the link here:  Burleson OrthoTV Episode 30 (Teeth Whitening)

Nov
05

Some Wisdom About Wisdom Teeth

By | Burleson Orthodontics, Services

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At any given time, ask half a dozen adults around you about their wisdom teeth, and there is a good chance you will find that most have had them removed. This is common, considering what they are and some of the risks that they may pose. Many people have them removed during their younger years, for valid reasons, making it a good idea to be familiar with the ins and outs of these teeth, so that you will be better able to deal with them for you and your family.

What They Are, Why Removed

Wisdom teeth, also referred to as your third molars, are the larger teeth at the very back of the mouth. They are the last teeth to come in, usually somewhere between the ages of 15 and 25, which is considered to be the “age of wisdom,” hence their name. While some people have no problems with their wisdom teeth erupting, many others find that they present a challenge and can be risky to the health of your other teeth.

About the time that this third set of molars begins erupting, some common problems also emerge as a result. Some of the problems associated with erupting wisdom teeth include:

  • Impaction. According to the National Institutes of Health, wisdom teeth are the most common teeth to become impacted. When a tooth is impacted, it means that the tooth has failed to emerge through the surface of the gum, or that only a portion of it has emerged.
  • Caries. An impacted third molar leads to a high probability of creating dental carries, or cavities, both in that tooth and in the one next to it, as well. This is because they often trap plaque in the area, which is difficult to reach and to clean.
  • Cysts. When wisdom teeth are impacted, it can cause cysts and tumors to form around the area. This can lead to additional problems because it can affect the bone, and even damage the jaw. Risks with this involve infections, as well as tooth abscesses.
  • Misalignment. The emerging wisdom teeth may not be coming in straight or, even if they do, can cause problems with the other teeth. As they emerge, they often push the other teeth out of alignment.
  • Discomfort. The vast majority of people who have dealt with emerging or impacted wisdom teeth know just how uncomfortable the experience can be. From headaches to toothaches, pain, swelling, and feeling ill, the discomfort associated with wisdom teeth can make you miserable.

When to Remove

The best time to have your third set of molars removed really depends on the tooth’s development. A good professional rule of thumb is to have them removed when two-thirds of the root has formed. Ideally, it is recommended that people have them removed by the time they turn 24 years old. This is because it will help to prevent all of the problems listed above, and because the ability to re-grow bone in that area of the jaw is reduced as time goes on. Also, the third set of molars are usually easier to remove when you are younger, and the recovery period is also shorter during that time.

The presence of your third set of molars is usually associated with an increased risk of periodontitis, which is an inflammation of the gums which can lead to tooth loss, abscesses, infections, and tooth shifting. It is important to note, as well, that an absence of symptoms does not mean that there is no problem or disease.

Additionally, research regarding people who did not have their wisdom teeth removed demonstrates that, the older they got, the more common it was for them to have cavities in those teeth, as well as in the adjacent ones, due to the difficulties of keeping them properly cleaned. In fact, a 2011 study published in the “Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery” reported that, of the nearly 7,000 older adults they studied who had at least one third molar, most of those people had caries or periodontal pathology involving those teeth, and that few had visible molars that were free of disease.

Additional Concerns

There is some controversy regarding whether those who wear a retainer or have had braces in the past need to continue wearing their retainer once the wisdom teeth have been removed. Because there is a risk of relapse if the retainer is not worn, it is recommended that patients continue wearing theirs, as recommended by their orthodontist. Doing so will help to eliminate the risks associated with shifting teeth.

If you are experiencing the emergence of your wisdom teeth, or someone in your family is, be sure you know the facts, risks, and options that are currently available. Having wisdom teeth removed is a common procedure today, one that most people recover from without issue. Removing third molars can be an important step to take if you are having problems now, or as a preventative measure to avoid issues that can arise later.

Addressing the Issue

Either way, it is important to speak with your doctor to learn more about your specific third molar development, risks, and options. When you are dealing with your third molars, it may seem as if they steal the show, due to the discomfort they can cause. But it doesn’t have to be like that, since this is an issue that can usually be addressed without difficulty.

Wisdom teeth really are an issue that is better dealt with sooner, rather than later, in order to avoid a lot of discomfort, as well as the risk of an array of complications. Besides, when you address this issue head on, rather than putting it off and prolonging the issue, you will find that you gain the wisdom, without all the worry!

 

Oct
09

Braces, Incognito

By | Burleson Orthodontics, Services

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Adults, say goodbye to “metal mouth.” Incognito braces, brought to you by the legendary innovators at 3M, will not only transform your teeth, but the way you think about orthodontics.

Incognito is the only fully customizable lingual braces system on the market. When orthodontists say lingual, we mean they’re actually worn behind your teeth, rather than in front. So, how does Incognito work? Here’s what Dr. Burleson calls the “3Is”  of the product:

  •  Invisible
    Incognito Orthodontic Braces are a new generation of braces for teens and adults. Because they are placed behind your teeth, no one will ever know you are wearing braces unless you tell them. The Incognito appliances can give you a beautiful smile, even while you’re wearing them.
  •  Individualized
    Incognito Appliances are the only 100% customized fixed appliance system for invisible orthodontic treatment on the U.S. market today. They are created using state-of-the-art technology and are completely customized to the shape of your teeth and to your dental situation. And they have the unique prescription that your orthodontist creates for you built-in, to ensure you get the results that you want.
  •  Intelligent
    With the Incognito System you get efficient, effective tooth movement and great aesthetics. From the outset, the brackets and wires are engineered to deliver targeted results.

If you’d like to give the Incognito system a try, talk to the staff at Burleson Orthodontics, located in Briarcliff Village. Call (816) 759-0123.

Sep
04

The Benefits of Early Treatment

By | Burleson Orthodontics, Services

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When it comes to taking care of your child’s oral health, you may think you are doing enough. Getting them to brush twice a day and ?oss once a day may seem like heading in the right direction. But a lot is happening at a level that you can’t see, and that development could lead to dental problems down the road.

Did you know that you can actually help your child to avoid and reduce the amount of oral treatment they may need later on? It’s true! Whether you have received an orthodontics referral from your dentist, or you think it would just be a safer route to inquire, it may be time to call and make that ?rst appointment. In addition to brushing and ?ossing regularly, seeing an orthodontist from an early age may provide huge bene?ts.

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should have their ?rst appointment with an orthodontist when they are 7 years old. Not many people even think of the orthodontist when it comes to taking
care of their child’s teeth. That is, at least, until they notice that there is a problem. By then, there may be more extensive treatment plans that are necessary to address the issues. By getting your child started in early orthodontic treatment, you may be saving them from years of embarrassing issues associated with their teeth and smile. You may also be helping to reduce or prevent more aggressive treatments later on. An orthodontist can also help to ensure that poor oral habits don’t get started or are addressed as soon as they are discovered.

Having a nice smile gives a child a great deal of con?dence. They smile more, feel great doing so, and they avoid feeling ashamed, like some do that have oral problems. Often times, children who suffer from conditions where their teeth are crowded or their bite is off, among other conditions, may be teased or have lower self con?dence as a result.

An important condition that early orthodontic treatment can help to address is Class II Malocclusion, which is otherwise known as “buck teeth.” While children who have this condition may grow up being teased and feeling
embarrassed, the orthodontist may be able to help correct it through early orthodontic treatment. Some of the more common early orthodontic treatments that may help children include:

  • Braces. Some children may be able to benefit from having braces, even partial ones, at an early age. They can be used in treating crossbites and preventing damage to supporting structures.
  • Palatal Expander. This is used to treat severe crossbite, when the upper teeth are abnormally located on the inside of the lower teeth, in the reverse relationship than normal.
  • Headgear. This can be used as a treatment for buck teeth or severely protruding front teeth.
  • Face Mask. This is a treatment that can be used for an underbite, where the upper jaw is trapped inside the lower jaw, in the reverse relationship than normal.

Additionally, the orthodontist may perform extractions if there is severe crowding taking place. All in all, seeing an orthodontist can help to ensure that your child will have crooked teeth straightened, and that erupting teeth will be guided into place. They will also watch to make sure that any bite problems are addressed.

Malocclusion, teeth that are crooked or crowded, is often an inherited condition. Because it usually runs in families, if you have a family history of it, you especially make a prime candidate for getting your child into the orthodontist for early exams and treatment. Yet heredity issues are not the only way that problems with the teeth occur. Some additional reasons that children may have dental problems include accidents, thumb
sucking, or an early loss of their primary teeth. There are many issues that can contribute to your child having problems with their teeth. But the good news is that they can usually be addressed, even at an early age!

To get started with getting your child into an orthodontist, simply arrange a consultation. The treatments and guidance that they receive today may help save them from years of embarrassment and possibly more intense treatment later. When it comes to children’s oral health care, early detection is the key to preventing future problems!

-Dr. Dustin S. Burleson, Founder, Burleson Orthodontics

Jul
27

Get to Know Your Orthodontist

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Orthodontists are dental specialists who have completed 2-3 years of additional education beyond dental school to learn the proper way to align teeth and jaws. This further training qualifies your orthodontist to identify, diagnose and more importantly treat a broad spectrum of dental irregularities your family dentist may not, such as :

  • Early or late loss of teeth
  • Difficulty in chewing or biting
  • Crowding, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth
  • Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
  • Speech difficulty
  • Biting the cheek or into the roof of the mouth
  • Protruding teeth
  • Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
  • Facial imbalance
  • Grinding or clenching of teeth

The nature of some of these issues, many of which present themselves in early to late childhood or adolescence, grow increasingly serious with lack of proper treatment. Having a specialist identify, diagnose and treat such ailments is the # 1 reason for seeing an orthodontist.
So, why should I choose a specialist for my child’s orthodontic care?

Some problems simply need a specialist’s care. When you’re pregnant, you go to an obstetrician. When you have stomach problems beyond what your general practitioner is qualified to handle, you visit your gastroenterologist.

Well, in the same way that pediatricians or obstetricians are medical specialists, orthodontists are dental specialists. When you choose an orthodontist, you are choosing a specialist with the broadest experience and training possible.

Unique treatment requirements and otherwise difficult bite problems are common, everyday scenarios for your orthodontist. In the interest of receiving the most efficient and effective orthodontic treatment possible, choose an orthodontic specialist.

 

Why is Your Smile So Important?

The First Reason : Health

The fact is, a straight smile is a healthy smile. Like anything else in life, balance is all about proportion. Straight teeth and jaws that align mean the rest of the mouth and, indeed, face can grow proportionally, ensuring good oral health.

The Second Reason : Confidence

Let’s face it: kids can be cruel. From elementary school on, and sometimes even sooner, peer groups and classmates look for any reason to tease, ostracize or even outright humiliate kids who are perceived as “different.”

I see it every day when my patients come in complaining of the other kids teasing them about their crooked teeth, buck teeth or overbite. The fact is, they may not share this with you, for fear of being even more embarrassed at home as well as school.

You might be surprised what your kids will tell me while sitting in my chair that they won’t tell you while sitting at the dinner table. A straight, clean and healthy smile can not only give your child the confidence she needs to embrace her true worth, but can also pave the way toward easier socialization at school, at church, in groups and during extracurricular activities.

The Third Reason : Comfort

Headaches. Toothaches. Sinus problems. Dry mouth. Snoring. Drooling. Bad breath. Insomnia.

All of these and much more are symptoms of a smile that isn’t straight, jaws that aren’t aligned or teeth that are too close together – or not quite close enough. Oftentimes, however, the mouth is the last place we check for signs of discomfort, loss of sleep, or even a simple headache.

If your child’s pediatrician can’t figure out why she’s not sleeping well or experiencing headaches or even insomnia for which there seems to be no cause, a simple 30-minute exam at your local orthodontist could clear the problem right up.

The Fourth Reason : Peace of Mind

As a parent, I know you want the best for your child. No parent wants their child to suffer, either from teeth that actually hurt, from headaches you can’t explain, insomnia that affects everything else or insecurity your child may be feeling because of a crooked or oversized smile.

The fact is, your child’s formative years are actually the most sensitive for his or her teeth. Now is the time to pay close attention to your child’s smile, his behavior, his peer relationships, even his confidence level.

If any or all are lacking, a qualified orthodontist can give you and your child the peace of mind you both crave.
-Dr. Dustin S. Burleson, DDS

Jun
25

Invisalign: The Clear Alternative

By | Burleson Orthodontics, Services

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Each year many people find that they need braces to help treat the alignment of their teeth. The first thing that pops into most people’s mind is a mouth full of metal, which is not something they want. This is especially true for those millions of adults who would like to straighten their teeth but don’t want to walk around with traditional metal braces, calling attention to what they are doing. The good news is that there is a better option, called Invisalign, and it’s one that most people love.

With Invisalign, the treatment essentially goes unnoticed because they have been designed to be invisible. The Invisalign braces were first available in 1998 and have been popular ever since because they provide a more comfortable and private treatment option. To use Invisalign braces, people see the orthodontist for an exam and fitting. The treatment uses custom made plastic aligners that are clear and fit right over the teeth, so they are not noticeable. The aligners are removable, as well, giving people the freedom to eat what they want and continue brushing and flossing their teeth as they normally would.

In order for the company to make the custom fit aligners, they make an impression of  the patient’s mouth, create a bite image, and then create a series of aligners that take into account the person’s prescription for correction. The patient wears each aligner for about two weeks, changing them as they progress through the treatment.

Another reason that the Invisalign braces are so popular is because people find them so much more comfortable. With wire braces, people usually find that the wires and brackets irritate and poke their mouths. However, the Invisalign aligners are made of a comfortable plastic, so there is no poking. It is recommended that they are worn for 20-22 hours per day, giving you the option to take a short break each day. With traditional metal braces, there are no such break options, as they are permanently on until removed by the doctor.

Patients who prefer the idea of the Invisalign braces over the traditional metal ones will find that there is a higher cost associated. The national average price for Invisalign is around $5,000. The price is higher due to the technology and process used to make the aligners. Yet most people find that the fee is balanced by the fact that they feel more confident and secure in their treatment decision when they are wearing invisible braces. This is especially true for those that are in the workplace, as they don’t want to draw attention to their treatment.

There are several ways that people can go about paying for the Invisalign braces, including checking to see if their insurance covers all or part of it, as many do, speaking with orthodontists about in-house financing options, and using the Flexible Spending Account that they may have with their employer.

When considering the higher costs associated with the Invisalign option, people need to also take into account that they will not spend as much time visiting their orthodontist with this treatment. With wire braces, there is tightening that needs to be done on a regular basis, but there is no tightening with Invisalign; you simply get a new aligner to start using every couple of weeks.

To get started, schedule a consultation with an orthodontist to make sure that you are an ideal candidate for Invisalign. Most people are, but the orthodontist is a specialist in treating tooth and jaw alignment and will ensure that the best treatment option is discussed. For most adults, Invisalign takes about 12 months of treatment. So within a year, you can have a perfect smile.

With Invisalign, there is no reason to dodge getting your teeth fixed. Today the treatment is virtually pain free, convenient, and discrete. Call us when you’re ready to get started.

- Dustin S. Burleson, DDS, Burleson Orthodontics

May
07

Tips for Getting Your Child to Brush

By | Burleson Orthodontics, Services

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From an early age, children can begin taking on the responsibility of brushing and flossing their teeth. However, a parent will still need to double check their work and likely go over their teeth, even when they are 6 or 7 years old or longer. Children should be brushing their teeth twice per day, ideally once in the morning and once before bed, and flossing once per day as well.

When they brush their teeth, it is recommended that they use a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste, and that they should brush for a period of two minutes. It is important to also teach kids to brush their tongue and to gently brush their gums as well.

The number one goal should be to establish the healthy habit of regularly brushing and flossing. But just how do you go about doing that? There are some things you can do to help get your child more interested in taking part of this daily ritual, including:

  1. Make it fun. You can do this by letting them choose a new toothbrush every time they need a new one (which is every three to four months, or when the bristles are frayed).
  2. Use a reward chart. Kids love to get stickers or checkmarks! You can set up a tooth care reward chart to keep them on track each day. Keep track of each time they do it, and then provide a small reward for doing well.
  3. Make it a routine. If you create a morning and evening routine that includes oral care, kids will be more likely to know that it is going to happen, and they will avoid trying to get out if it.
  4. Use an electric toothbrush. Not only do kids like them, and some are quite affordable today, but they will help them learn how long to brush as well.
  5. See the results. Pick up some disclosure tablets from the drugstore or dentist office that will reveal the job they are doing. After brushing, kids chew the tablet, and it shows all the places they missed. It will help them learn to brush better.
  6. Make it musical. Put a CD player near the bathroom with some kids tunes. Each tooth-brushing time, play one song and have them brush through the whole song. You can even dance around some while it plays.
Apr
16

Getting Braces Off – Celebrate 7 Ways

By | Burleson Orthodontics, Services

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Having braces on your teeth can last from a few months to a few years, depending upon all the factors involved. And during the time that you have had them on your teeth, you probably felt like you missed out on a lot! There are things you couldn’t eat at all, things you had to cut up real small, and most likely you longed for the day that you could sink your teeth into an apple!

So the day is finally in sight. It’s time to get the braces off and give your teeth and mouth the freedom for which you have been waiting. Now is the time to celebrate! There are so many ways that you can celebrate, everything from writing a journal about your experience to recording a video that shares your experience and shows your new look. Here are seven options that you may want to consider:

1. Throw a party. Throwing a braces are off party is a great way to celebrate. Invite your friends over, put out the Doritos that you have been longing for, and enjoy showing off those new straight teeth. Your friends will love being able to take part in your celebration.

2. Plan a photo shoot. You deserve to show the world your new beautiful smile! Plan a photo shoot, so you can be one – on – one with a photographer and put your best smile forward. You will get some great shots and can show all your MySpace or Facebook friends your new look. You may even want to complete the whole look by making your photo shoot one of the glamour shot ones, where you get the make-up and hair pampering right before the shoot.

3. Chew some gum. You know you have been wanting to have gum for the longest time . Although it’s not a good thing to still do regularly, you can take an afternoon to chew some gum and feel guilt and worry free. Chew to your heart’s content!

4. Go caramel. Now is the time that you can sink your teeth into a caramel apple. No more avoiding the caramel and cutting the apple into bite-sized pieces. Nope, you can actually eat a full caramel apple, right off the stick! Get one at the mall, a carnival, or have fun making them yourself. Either way, you will love being able to bite into that sticky, gooey sweetness worry-free!

5 . Picnic in the park. Weather permitting, a picnic in the park will make for a fun celebration. Take some of your favorite outdoor games, invite the friends, and have a cooler filled with icy drinks. On the grill, you can plan for things like corn on the cob that you have had to largely avoid while having your braces. It will make for a memorable afternoon!

6. Have a potluck dinner. Have your friends each bring a dish people with braces have to take precaution with. This will give them the chance to learn a little more about what you went through, and it will be fun to see what options they come up with. Ask each of your guests to write down a comment about you with or without your braces. Your potluck will be filled with interesting dishes, laughs, and a good time!

7. Hit the spa. What could be better then spending a couple of hours being pampered? Not much! Have a spa party for yourself, or invite a friend or two. Get a make-over, manicure, pedicure, massage, or whatever else you feel like getting. Just pamper yourself for making it through your treatment. You will walk out feeling and looking great!

Doing some of the above things, such as chewing gum, may still not be good for your teeth or your body overall. But doing it on a special occasion, and not making a habit out of it, shouldn’t do any harm. Now that you have made it through wearing braces, you will find that you like to smile
more , show off your beautiful teeth, and feel great! Having a celebration for getting your braces off is a great way to remember the day as something really special, include those you love, and start a new you!

-Dustin S. Burleson, DDS, Burleson Orthodontics

Feb
15

$1000 Toward Your Wedding Smile

By | Burleson Orthodontics, Services

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If there’s ever a day to smile, it’s your wedding. Burleson Orthodontics may not instantly conjure up bouquets and white veils, but feeling confident about your smile is crucial when you want to look your best. After all, you’re going to be in a lot of pictures that day.

Maybe you don’t need to run out and get braces before your wedding. But if you’ve always wanted to fix your smile, what could be a better time? Especially since you won’t have to pay for it. Simply enter to win our drawing at the Briarcliff Bridal Fair, Saturday March 3. Burleson Orthodontics is giving away two, $1000 gift certificates for brides-to-be. Services include Invisalign and other incognito braces, so no one will even know you’re wearing them.

Just another reason to smile.

Nov
22

Don’t Chew Gum With Braces … and Other Facts

By | Burleson Orthodontics, Services

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Is your food intake really restricted after you get your braces on? Exactly what should you avoid? The professionals at Burleson Orthodontics have a few rules about munching with your new metal mouth:

After your orthodontic appliance has been placed, the teeth will be tender to biting pressure for 5 to 10 days. Of course this can vary with different patients. During this period of tenderness, softer foods are recommended, such as soups, macaroni, spaghetti, fish, eggs, yogurt, Jello, fish, milkshakes, etc. Tylenol or Advil will help relieve any discomfort. Warm salt-water rinses are also helpful. Use the soft white wax where it is needed.

Hard and sticky foods will break off brackets, bend wires, and loosen bands, which will extend your total treatment time. Foods high in sugar can cause cavities, calculus build-up, and ugly stains on your teeth. So, what can you do? You must limit your diet to softer healthy foods. There are certain types of foods that must be avoided during orthodontic treatment:

HARD FOODS
Ice, nuts, popcorn, peanut brittle, rock candy, apples & carrots (unless cut into pieces), corn on the cob, hard pretzels, hard rolls, bagels, hard tacos, corn chips.

STICKY FOODS
Jolly Ranches, caramels, bubble gum, taffy, suckers, Starburst candy, Dots / jelly candies.

CHEWY FOODS
Pizza crust, crusty breads, beef jerky, gummy bears, avoid chewing on pens and pencils.

SUGARY FOODS & DRINKS
Cake, ice cream, cookies, pie, candy, soda pop, drinks with sugar.