What is decalcification?

I would say we are overdue for an update!  Madison has been doing really great with her braces.  She is now about 10 months into treatment.  She has been really good about brushing and keeping everything nice and clean, which is so important.  Luckily, she has been well-educated on decalcification (those white spots you can get on your teeth if your hygiene is taking a backseat)!

Example of decalcification seen after brace removal

Anyone is at risk for decalcification, as it is caused by plaque build-up due to poor oral hygiene.  This is a sign of early tooth decay.  How can it be prevented?  By using the tools (toothbrush and floss) and following the hygiene instructions provided to you that first day you get your braces on. When brushing and flossing, pay special attention to the areas right around the brackets and wires, and be sure to get up into that gumline. It is also helpful to stay away from sugary soda and other foods high in sugar acids.  We can also provide you with Prevident toothpaste to be used once a day.  Prevident is a fluoride toothpaste available by prescription only or through our office, which helps prevent and reverse white spot lesions. For more information about Prevident ask one of our team members at your next visit or check out their website at http://www.colgateprofessional.com/products/colgate-prevident-5000-booster-plus-rx-only/overview  Madison has been using Prevident at her bedtime brushing since Day 1.

On another note, we did have one issue pop up recently... It was time for Madison's orthodontic adjustment.  We did not realize that she had a Middle School band audition coming up on the following Tuesday!  Her adjustment was done on Saturday, so she was a bit sore that weekend...which means, she wasn't too keen on practicing her clarinet with her sore teeth. But with a little bit of Ibuprofen and some softer foods, she was ready to go.... and she said the audition went very well! She also uses her Acceledent device to assist with any soreness. ( Did you miss the post about Acceledent....get it here.  http://forcierortho.blogspot.com/2014/11/what-is-acceledent.html )

Thank you so much for reading our blog!  

Smile more at Forcier Orthodontics!

What is AcceleDent?

When I started my ortho treatment, my orthodontist (Dad) gave me this device called the AcceleDent. It helps the teeth move faster by vibrations. It has two parts: the vibration part (Activator) and the mouthpiece part (similar to a mouthguard). It also comes with a charger.  

So how do you use it? First, if the two parts aren't connected, do so. Next, you'll obviously put the mouthpiece part in your mouth. Then, you push the circular button and you'll feel a vibration. Make sure all of your teeth are touching the mouthpiece. After 10 minutes, the vibration will stop and start, about 3 or 4 times.  that's how you know that you are half way done. The vibrating will continue and go on for 10 more minutes. After  20 minutes of vibrating, it will stop and that means you're done.!

I thought it felt weird the 1st time, but after a few times, you'll feel like it's not even in your mouth. Trust me. You should though, really make sure, and I know I said this before, keep all your teeth touching the mouthguard so it helps to move all your teeth faster.  If you are having trouble, you should talk to your orthodontist about it.

The AcceleDent device

The travel case with device and charger

After you do it a lot, you'll notice a change. Your teeth become straighter a lot faster than they normally would (research studies have shown up to 50% faster)!  Also, after you get an adjustment, your teeth will probably be sore, am I right? When you use your AcceleDent, it can actually make your teeth feel better! 

Showing some spirit at the local football game!

And now a word from my mom:

Madison has been doing great with her braces so far!  She had her lower braces put on in September and has had no issues whatsoever.  I was concerned about her playing her clarinet, but that has not seemed to be an issue for her.  

She also made it through Halloween unscathed, but I did need to remind her today that Skittles is NOT a braces-friendly treat!  

The toughest part with the AcceleDent has been remembering to actually use it, especially on busier days.  It is very easy to use while doing homework, reading, or texting friends because it is hands-free.  So, making it part of a routine has been the only challenge.  The micro-vibration technology has been around for years and used for osteopenic women and athletes looking to heal quicker from broken bones.  It has been used in orthodontic applications for several years, is now an FDA approved device, and starting to be used by more state-of-the-art orthodontic practices and orthodontists looking to improve outcomes and the patient experience (like my husband!).  It charges by a USB charging port and you can even plug it into your computer to track the usage, which is pretty cool.

To find out more about AcceleDent, ask the staff at Forcier Orthodontics and visit our website  http://www.smilewny.com/blog/# or check out AcceleDent at http://acceledent.com