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Teeth-friendly Fruits & Vegetables No. 1: Apples 1

Teeth-friendly Fruits & Vegetables No. 1: Apples

apples

Take Care of Your Teeth

If you want to keep your teeth and have that beautiful smile well into your golden years, you need to take care of them. Make regular appointments to see your dentist, perform a good, oral hygiene regimen on a daily basis, and eat foods that are healthy for your teeth. As a rule of thumb, fresh produce is a major plus when it comes to your oral health. Apples are excellent for cleaning debris from your teeth after a meal, making them the perfect dessert. No matter how well you take care of your teeth, orthodontic concerns can cause a problem. If they are not aligned properly, it can be tough to keep your teeth clean. An orthodontist can help.

Braces: More than a Cosmetic Improvement

When you think about braces, the main goal is to straighten your teeth and give you a beautiful smile. However, making sure your teeth are in proper alignment will provide you with many benefits down the line. It will be easier to stave off tooth decay and you can avoid other problems, such as a TMJ disorder and sleep apnea. Ask your orthodontist how braces can help you to take care of your smile and look your best.

Fix Your Smile Today

Contact Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics today to set up your consultation. There’s no reason to put off a visit to our helpful team of professionals. It is our goal to help you make the most of your smile.

Dr. Jasmine Gorton

Dr. Bill Schmohl

When your teeth are aligned properly and your jaw is flowing smoothly, you will find more reasons to flash those pearly whites every day. Let Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics be your partner in good oral hygiene.

Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics 900 Larkspur Landing Circle, Suite 200, Larkspur, California 94939 415-459-8006

 

What Makes Invisalign Unique Among Other Orthodontic Treatments? 2

What Makes Invisalign Unique Among Other Orthodontic Treatments?

Manhattan Beach Orthodontics

When it comes to improving your smile, you have a range of options, from traditional metal braces to incognito or slim brackets. Although these may be right for some people, there is a much better way to straighten your teeth: Invisalign. This innovative system is a superior alternative to conventional braces because it offers the greatest level of convenience and comfort. It stands out among other treatments in a variety of ways.

A Revolutionary Approach

One unique aspect of this treatment is the cutting-edge technology. The process involves the use of clear trays that are custom-made to fit the teeth. Before you receive your personalized liners, you’ll need a consultation with your orthodontist. It’s important to choose a specialist who has experience fitting the liners. At Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics, you can rest assured you’ll receive professional advice regarding your personal needs.

Once you discuss the procedure with an expert, a customized treatment plan will be created for you based on your X-rays and dental impressions. From these images, a computer will design a 3-D plastic print that is used to construct the first set of liner trays. The new liners should fit smoothly over your teeth. As your teeth shift positions, you’ll need to return to the orthodontist’s office for a new fitting and another set of liners. This typically occurs every two weeks.

Minimal Surprises During Treatment

Using this system, you’ll know what to expect from start to finish. Unlike with traditional braces, there are virtually no surprises. You’ll see accurate 3-D images showing how your teeth will shift throughout the course of treatment, and you’ll get an idea of how long the process should take. Rather than taking two or more years, these advanced methods shorten the correction time to approximately one year.

Although each method of straightening provides similar results, you may require additional hardware with regular braces. This can be discouraging if it comes as a surprise. With Invisalign, you only need to replace your liners, and you’ll be able to see your progress during each update as well. You also won’t need to worry about the typical nuisances that can occur with braces.

These include:

  • Discoloration of the teeth
  • Bracket or wire breakage
  • Tooth decay
  • Buildup of plaque
  • Tooth chipping
  • Difficulties eating

Everyday Comfort

The rules for straightening teeth have drastically changed through the years, and those wanting a perfect smile no longer have to feel pain to achieve it. Invisible aligners are crafted from smooth, thin plastic, which means they’ll glide easily along your gums and the inside of your mouth. You won’t feel the poking, pinching and irritation that can occur with the alternative.

Another benefit is that you’ll never experience the soreness or tension associated with wire tightening. Your liners won’t leave abrasions on your cheeks or gum line either. The trays are also easy to adjust to because they fit snugly to the natural curves of your teeth. Once you’re used to the fit, you’ll hardly know you’re wearing them. You can even sleep comfortably while the aligners are in place.

Convenience and Ease of Use

The most distinctive feature of this alignment system is its removability. You can remove the trays at mealtimes, which means you won’t have to deal with the usual dietary restrictions of other teeth straightening systems. Essentially, you can eat whatever you want as long as you clean your teeth before putting the liners back in your mouth. Removable trays allow you to efficiently brush and floss, so you don’t need to worry about food becoming lodged in wires or brackets.

These aligners are easy to clean and care for, they won’t interrupt your lifestyle, and you will have almost no limitations while wearing them. Whether you want to participate in sports, exercise, swim, visit your favorite restaurant or even play a musical instrument, your invisible straighteners won’t get in the way. You can live your life without ever having to stress over your orthodontic treatment.

A Smile Enhancer for All Age Groups

Braces cannot be applied on everyone, and many teenagers need to put off getting them until their teeth, gums and jaws develop more. Some younger patients even have to undergo other procedures before they are ready for braces. With customized liners, it doesn’t matter what phase of development you’re at. If you need to or want to avoid braces for any reason, you may benefit from this alternate option.

Traditional orthodontics are often too complicated for certain dental problems. Some people just need a quick fix. The invisible alignment approach allows individuals to enhance their appearance in the most straightforward way. Before you opt for braces, factor in how mild or severe your situation is. You may be better off with a simpler treatment plan.

Consider using plastic aligner trays if you have:

  • An overbite
  • An underbite
  • Crowded or crooked teeth
  • Gaps
  • Oral sensitivities

An Aesthetically Pleasing Improvement

Many people with dental imperfections are timid or self-conscious about receiving treatment. They don’t want to highlight or put a shiny, sparkling spotlight on their flaws. Because Invisalign uses barely noticeable liners, it won’t be obvious that you’re correcting your teeth. You can smile and laugh throughout the entire process and still feel good about your appearance.

When it comes to effectiveness, comfort, convenience and aesthetics, there really is no better method for straightening the teeth. If you think this procedure may be right for you, speak to an orthodontist about any concerns you may have. The professionals at Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics understand your nervousness and will openly and sensitively discuss your options. Set up a consultation today, and you’ll be one step closer to having the perfect, gorgeous smile you deserve.

Fix Your Smile Today

Contact Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics today to set up your consultation. There’s no reason to put off a visit to our helpful team of professionals. It is our goal to help you make the most of your smile.

Dr. Jasmine Gorton

Dr. Bill Schmohl

When your teeth are aligned properly and your jaw is flowing smoothly, you will find more reasons to flash those pearly whites every day. Let Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics be your partner in good oral hygiene.

Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics 900 Larkspur Landing Circle, Suite 200, Larkspur, California 94939 415-459-8006

If you happen to live in Manhattan Beach, and our office is too far to visit. You can always contact our Manhattan Beach Orthodontics friends.

SQ1-Gorton-Schmohl-Orthodontics1

Everyday You Spend Without a Smile is a Lost Day

SQ1- Gorton-&-Schmohl-Orthodontics in Marin County CA.

People who have crooked teeth realize better than anyone how important a smile is. People who have nice teeth may not understand why someone they know won’t just smile in pictures and be happy. If you have “normal” teeth and know someone who has crooked teeth, maybe you’ve told them they really don’t look bad and they shouldn’t worry about it. But inevitably, it’s the person with the crooked teeth who has to see them in the mirror. And it’s the person with the misaligned teeth who has to worry about what everyone is thinking about them; having a few nice friends who tell them they look okay doesn’t turn the worrying off.

The Special Problem of Kids and Crooked Teeth

When children and teenagers aren’t happy with their smiles, it can be emotionally devastating. Those years are difficult enough as it is, and kids often can’t express their feelings well, especially to their parents. If your child has issues with their teeth such as crooked teeth, gap teeth, crowding or an overbite, seeking a solution now is one of the best gifts you can give them.

Many teens hate the idea of having to wear braces, but today they are many options for correcting misaligned teeth, chips and even missing teeth. One of the most exciting alternatives to braces is Invisalign Teen, clear and practically invisible aligners that straighten the teeth, sometimes in less time than traditional braces.

It’s Never Too Late for Adults to Improve Their Smiles

Invisalign is great for adults too, since it can give adults the straight teeth that they’ve always wanted without the stigma of wearing braces.

Some other options available for a variety of dental issues include:

• Implants – Permanent artificial teeth that replace missing teeth.

• Crowns – Repair and rebuild damaged and decayed teeth, making them strong, healthy and attractive.

• Clear braces – When Invisalign is not able to correct serious bite issues, clear braces like Damon Clear may be the answer.

If you, your child or your teen has issues with the health of their teeth or the way their smile looks, consulting an orthodontic specialist could be the first step in making a life-changing improvement. Investing in your smile is important for your health and your emotional well-being.

Contact your local orthodontist in Marin County. Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics invite you to schedule a consultation today. Don’t go another day longer than you have to without a great smile.

Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics 900 Larkspur Landing Circle, Suite 200, Larkspur, California
94939 415-459-8006

Words of Wisdom No.9: “Brush Your Teeth When You First Get Out of Bed and Before You Get Back In at Night“ 3

Words of Wisdom No.9: “Brush Your Teeth When You First Get Out of Bed and Before You Get Back In at Night“

bed

If you currently do not brush your teeth every morning and night, your oral health may suffer in the future. Preventive care means being responsible for the health of your teeth and gums. Even though it may seem like an unwanted chore, it only takes a few minutes to brush your teeth twice a day. The results may reveal less cavities and stronger teeth. If you wear braces, you need to brush two times a day.

Avoid Plaque Build-up in Your Mouth

Plaque is an arch enemy of good oral health. If you do not brush your teeth before you go to bed, you are not eliminating the plaque build-up taking place in your mouth throughout the day. If you avoid brushing your teeth in the morning when you first get out of bed, you risk skipping the event until bedtime. One reason why it is important to brush your teeth in the morning is because you need to get rid of bacteria and plaque remaining in your mouth while you sleep. If you wear Invisalign braces, you still need to brush twice a day.

Do Not Brush Your Teeth Right After Eating Drinking Citrus Juice

If you drink a glass of orange juice or grapefruit juice in the morning, you should not brush your teeth right away. You could brush the acidic fruit juice onto your teeth and Invisalign braces. A good habit is to brush your teeth when you wake up and then rinse your mouth with an oral antiseptic mouthwash after eating breakfast.

Ask Your Orthodontist about Which Type of Toothbrush to Use

If you are not sure whether to use a manual or electric toothbrush, ask your orthodontist for professional advice. One thing to remember is that most orthodontists recommend brushing the teeth with a soft toothbrush. Make an appointment with Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics today.

Words of Wisdom No.8: “Practice Flossing with Your Eyes Shut“ 4

Words of Wisdom No.8: “Practice Flossing with Your Eyes Shut“

flossing

Braces are an orthodontic treatment that can greatly improve the appearance of the teeth. However, if you don’t take care of the teeth while the braces are worn, then there won’t be as much of an improvement as desired. Invisalign is an option for those who want to be able to eat the foods that they enjoy while still getting the straight teeth as a result of the orthodontic treatment. One of the things that is essential when caring for the teeth is flossing.

All About Flossing

While you are flossing the teeth, consider doing so with your eyes closed. This will force your hand to examine the teeth and gums while you are using the floss. It can help to get the string around each tooth instead of looking in a mirror while flossing only the areas that you can see. The orthodontist can show you how to floss in this manner so that you get the best results. Invisalign makes this a little easier as you can remove the tray from the mouth while cleaning the teeth.

There are a few benefits of flossing the teeth that your orthodontist might not tell you about. One of the reasons to floss your teeth is to keep your teeth in your mouth. This might seem like something that couldn’t happen, but if you don’t floss between the teeth, there is bacteria that can build. This can create tartar. It can soon lead to gingivitis, which can cause loose teeth if it’s not taken care of as soon as possible. When you floss, you remove the bacteria that is between the teeth. Live bacteria can get into the bloodstream through the gums. This bacteria can lead to heart disease and other conditions that could easily be avoided if you floss on a regular basis.

To learn more about how to properly care for your teeth, Invisalign or braces, contact an orthodontist at Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics in Larkspur to schedule an appointment!

Words of Wisdom No. 7 - Stay Fresh 5

Words of Wisdom No. 7 – Stay Fresh

fresh food

Our grandmothers always told us to stay fresh when going out in public by wearing clean clothing and brushing our teeth. You can also stay fresh by making sure that your teeth are straight and strong by wearing braces that are designed by an expert orthodontist. If you are an adult with crooked teeth that cause a feeling of embarrassment, then learn about the benefits of clear Invisalign aligners. Clear aligners are perfect for mild to moderate malocclusions of your teeth, especially the ones toward the front of the mouth. These soft and comfortable devices are easy to wear for most of the day, and other people do not see these items inside your mouth.

Orthodontic Treatment can improve Your Overall Appearance

There are other types of braces that help you to keep a fresh appearance by reducing the wide spaces between your teeth. While traditional silver metal bracket and wire devices are still an affordable option, you can opt to wear self-ligating or ceramic orthodontia devices instead. It is possible for young children to undergo orthodontic treatment to ensure permanent teeth erupt into the correct positions, but more adults are choosing to keep fresh by improving their smile. Visiting an orthodontist is an important way to improve your overall health by correcting a bad bite that causes jaw pain.

Schedule an Appointment Today

An important part of orthodontic treatment is getting a natural and individualized smile. A knowledgeable orthodontist understands how to look at a patient’s facial anatomy to determine the best type of braces for their teeth, including:

• Invisalign aligners
• Damon devices
• Color brackets and wires

At Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics in Larkspur, Calif., patients are able to receive treatment from two experts:

• Dr. Bill Schmohl
• Dr. Jasmine Gorton

Schedule an appointment with an online form or telephone call to 415-459-8006.

Words of Wisdom No.5 - Gargle with apple cider vinegar 6

Words of Wisdom No.5 – Gargle with apple cider vinegar

apple cider vingear

Braces are a way to straighten the teeth and are applied by an orthodontist. There are a few things that need to be done in order to keep the teeth as clean as possible and to decrease the amount of bacteria that might hide in the mouth as a result of the braces being on the teeth. An option is Invisalign as this is a tray that is placed in the mouth that straightens the teeth instead of brackets. The orthodontist will take a mold of the teeth before creating the Invisalign braces. However, the mouth still needs to stay as clean as possible, and gargling with apple cider vinegar can help.

Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

Although vinegar might not sound like it would be pleasant, apple cider vinegar can help freshen the breath. You only need about a teaspoon in order to begin seeing the difference in the way the breath smells. The vinegar can be mixed with water so that it’s not as potent and to decrease some of the strong flavors. You can use the vinegar each day after brushing the teeth. It can be used as a mouthwash, or you can gargle with it so that it helps to cleanse the throat as well.

A benefit of using the vinegar is that it can kill bacteria in the mouth and the throat. This can help to keep the teeth and gums healthy not only while the orthodontic treatment is being used, but after the orthodontic treatment is completed. The vinegar can break down plaque that might form on the gum and the edges of the teeth. It can also help clean in between the teeth as brushing sometimes doesn’t get to these areas.

Contact Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics for more information about orthodontic treatment and the added benefits of using natural substances for cleaning the mouth.

audrey invisalign child

Five Tips in Caring for Your Braces During Orthodontic Treatment

orthodontist

If you want your child/teen to have the perfect smile, getting braces on the teeth is not enough. While that is an important first step, you also need to make sure he/she cares for them properly. Fortunately, caring for them is easy when you know what to do.

Tip #1 Proper Brushing

If you want your child to have a beautiful smile, you have to make sure he brushes his teeth properly. Forget everything you know about brushing teeth. It is a different process when orthodontic devices are involved.  Make sure your child brushes both above and below they brackets, keeping the toothbrush in place for several seconds on each tooth. It is as if the braces are diving each tooth into a top and bottom half.

In addition, replace the toothbrush on a regular basis. Braces can cause toothbrushes to fray so you will need to give your child a new one more often than you did in the past. Otherwise, the toothbrush won’t be able to remove all of the bacteria on his teeth.
We also recommend patients use an interdental toothbrush in addition to a regular toothbrush. This toothbrush looks similar to a pipe cleaner and it fits underneath the brackets and wires. Make sure your child uses the toothbrush gently to avoid damaging the wires. If used gently, it is a great way to clean underneath the wires and remove any additional bacteria.  Finally, make sure your child brushes often enough. He should brush after each meal and before bedtime. If there is a situation where brushing isn’t possible, we recommend rinsing with water.

Tip #2 Flossing

Some people think that they don’t need to floss when they have braces, but that could not be further from the truth. Proper flossing is critical to have healthy teeth and gums when the braces come off. The way to get the floss under the wires is to use a “floss threader” or the floss that is stiff on 1 end and run the floss under the wire by the gums in order to get access in between the teeth. Once finished, unthread the floss and move down the line to the next two teeth. Preloaded floss such as Platypus that are mounted in a plastic holder and come down halfway between the teeth form the top and “water piks” are also great adjuncts.  Flossing should be done every night. If flossing has not been done regularly, the gums may bleed some in the beginning, but this should go away with a few flossing sessions.

Tip #3 Fluoride

Fluoride is one of the best ways to prevent tooth decay, since it makes teeth more resistant to acid attacks and can even reverse some signs of beginning decay. This can be very helpful with when your child has orthodontic appliances. We recommend a stronger toothpaste during orthodontic treatment of 5000 ppm (instead of regular toothpaste which is only 1000 ppm). Consider putting a timer out so your child can get the most out of it, since brushing should take at least a minimum of 2 minutes. At night time, it is best to spit out the extra toothpaste when done instead of rinsing, so that the fluoride can stay in contact with the teeth overnight.

http://www.ada.org/en/science-research/ada-seal-of-acceptance/product-category-information/toothpaste

Tip #4 Eating Right

Patients with braces need to be mindful of what is going in their mouth. Certain foods can break the wires/brackets, which is likely to push back the anticipated braces removal date.  Foods to avoid:

  • hard foods
  • sticky foods
  • chewy foods

Your child should also avoid sugary and starchy foods. These foods promote tooth decay and can bend or break appliances, causing teeth to move a direction different than what the doctors intended.

Tip #5 Habits to Avoid

Your child also needs to avoid some habits while he is under the care of an orthodontist. Habits like biting nails and chewing on pens can distort the wires and lead to longer treatment time.
When properly cared for, orthodontic appliances are the best way to get a great smile.

If you need additional help, Contact Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics for reliable orthodontic services.

Words of Wisdom No.4 - Eat cleansing foods 7

Words of Wisdom No.4 – Eat cleansing foods

foods

For the ultimate natural and long-term sustainability mouth care maintenance, eat cleansing foods. These are foods that will protect your teeth whether you currently have or have had braces or invisalign. Caring for your teeth should be a top priority because a beautiful smile can make your day and the day of everyone around you even brighter.

Drinks

Certain drinks can help to promote good health in your teeth. Green tea will help to fight against gum disease, plaque and cavities. Milk and yogurt are high in calcium and low in acidity making them dual protectors and enforcers of your smile. Water is also an important drink for your teeth care routine. It helps to rinse away food particles, and it also promotes saliva which is essential in preventing tooth decay.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables help your teeth both externally and internally. Apples and fruits with seed are excellent ways to clean and whiten your teeth naturally. The seeds and fibrous flesh act as abrasives that safely remove stains. Broccoli, carrots, cauliflower and celery can also help to clean your teeth and gums. Many orange vegetables such as carrots, pumpkin and sweet potatoes assist in creating tooth enamel.

A Few Surprises

Sesame seeds also help to promote tooth enamel. Fresh herbs such as cilantro, mint and parsley can act as a natural breath freshener. Cheese fights against cavities. Raw onion will help to kill certain varieties of bacteria. And, whole grains are good for your gums.

As any good orthodontist will tell you, natural food sources are the perfect tooth care compliment to braces or invisalign. They are a spectacular way to protect your teeth and for the overall good health of your mouth. For more information pertaining to the treatment of teeth during and after your orthodontist treatments, contact Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

Words of Wisdom No.3 - Clean your tongue 8

Words of Wisdom No.3 – Clean your tongue

tongue

When you use Invisalign, it is important to keep your tongue as clean as possible. You can easily remove Invisalign when you need to so that you are able to care for your teeth and tongue properly. If you want to have good oral health, you can ask your orthodontist to help you figure out a cleaning regiment that will be right for you.

An Unclean Tongue Can Lead To:

  • Bacteria
  • Plaque in Your Mouth
  • Bad Breath
  • Gum Disease

Bacteria

When you forget to brush your tongue, bacteria can start to form in your mouth. This bacteria can cause all sorts of problems. Whether you have braces or not, it is going to be necessary to keep your entire mouth clean. If you leave bacteria on your tongue, you could end up having to deal with more plaque in your mouth. This plaque can dull your beautiful smile, so you should be sure to brush your teeth up to the 3 times a day and make sure that your tongue is properly cleaned. You can enjoy the results of having a tongue and mouth that is well taken care of.

Bad Breath

If your tongue is not properly cleaned, you could develop a case of bad breath. By making sure that your tongue is cleaned correctly, your breath will be as fresh as possible. You can also avoid tooth decay if your tongue is cleaned on a regular basis and stop gum disease from starting too.

When you visit your orthodontist, be sure to ask him for tips on keeping your tongue clean. If you have braces, you should be sure to talk to a dental expert about the importance of properly caring for your teeth, tongue, and gums. You want to make sure that you have great overall dental health. Contact Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics for reliable orthodontic services.