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Isn’t a Dentist Enough? Why You Need to See an Orthodontist

Some people wonder why they need to see an orthodontist if they already see a dentist twice a year. What you may not know is that an orthodontist and a dentist have different training backgrounds that allow them to be specialized in different areas. Thus, not one of these doctors covers all of your oral hygiene bases. You need to see both to make sure you are taking the best care of your teeth possible. To learn more about why you need an orthodontist, keep reading for some advice from Dr. Amir Davoody, Dr. Rana Mehr, and Dr. Niloufar Azami at Greater Houston Orthodontics.

While a beautiful smile is the result of a good orthodontic treatment, there is a lot that goes into the process of getting there. Orthodontic treatment is an incredibly complex process that orthodontists have special training in. Treatment involves changes in jaw bones, facial bones, and soft tissue. After dental school, orthodontists must complete a two to three year residency in an accredited program to master the multi-faceted intricacies of orthodontics. This intensive training gives them the tools they need to create healthy, beautiful smiles.Read More

Feeling a Little Sore After Tightening? These Tips Can Help!

While braces are not painful, your mouth is a very sensitive area. Thus, it is not uncommon to experience a little soreness after your braces have been tightened. However, what everyone feels is a little different! Most only feel a mild, achy pressure that will subside within a day or two. The longer you’re in braces, the quicker your discomfort will go away after each tightening. In the meantime, have no fear! These simple tips can help ease your discomfort from Dr. Amir Davoody, Dr. Rana Mehr, and Dr. Niloufar Azami at Greater Houston Orthodontics.

Stick to Soft Foods

Soft foods like mashed potatoes and applesauce are great when you are experiencing any mouth discomfort. When you initially get your braces, soft foods are a great option for the first couple of days. Then, on each day you go in for a tightening it is smart to stick to a soft food diet.

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How to Take Care of Your Retainer

Wrapping up your orthodontic treatment is an exciting time! Your hard work is rewarded with a beautiful smile. However, the work doesn’t end here. It is crucial that you continue to take great care of your teeth in order to maintain your new smile. This includes wearing your retainer, which allows your smile to last a lifetime. Keep reading for some advice on retainers from Dr. Amir Davoody, Dr. Rana Mehr and Dr. Niloufar Azami at Greater Houston Orthodontics.

Retainers hold your teeth in their new positions while bone tissue rebuilds around them, stabilizing them. This process takes time, and it is important that you continue to wear your retainer after this process has been completed. Your bite can change over time as bone continues to break down and rebuild. Wearing your retainer will help preserve your smile throughout this process.

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Are Dental X-Rays Safe

It is quite common that when you go to the dentist, they will take X-rays of your teeth. Dental X-rays are images of your teeth that your dentist will use to evaluate your oral health. These X-rays may seem complex, but they’re actually very common tools that are just as important as getting your teeth cleaned. Keep reading for more information about dental X-rays from Dr. Amir Davoody, Dr. Rana Mehr and Dr. Niloufar Azami at Greater Houston Orthodontics

You may be wondering if dental X-rays are safe. Fortunately, they are! This is because these X-rays are used with low levels of radiation to capture images of the interior of your teeth and gums. These X-rays are incredibly important because they can help your dentist to identify problems such as cavities, tooth decay, and impacted teeth. Dental X-rays are typically performed yearly. However, they may happen more often if your dentist is monitoring a problem or performing dental treatment.

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Can I Still Wear My Retainer if it Feels Tight?

Wearing your retainer is a crucial part of maintaining your new smile after your braces treatment is completed. However, your teeth can shift over time, especially if you neglect wearing your retainer. If you stop wearing your retainer and want to start again or it begins to feel tight, you can still wear it – in certain instances. Continue reading for some advice on retainer use from Dr. Amir Davoody, Dr. Rana Mehr, and Dr. Niloufar Azami at Greater Houston Orthodontics.

As long as your retainer doesn’t hurt and still fits over your teeth, you can wear it even if it feels tight. This probably means that your teeth have shifted. In this case, you should wear your retainer longer each day to prevent your teeth from moving further. You can start by wearing your retainer all day for a few days to encourage your teeth to move back into the correct positions.

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The Connection Between Athletes & Poor Oral Health

Athletes are typically praised for their high level of wellness and health. However, did you know athletes tend to have more teeth-related issues than most? A recent study found that untreated tooth decay and gum inflammation was still prevalent among elite athletes despite regular brushing and flossing. Keep reading for some athlete related dental advice from Dr. Amir Davoody, Dr. Rana Mehr, and Dr. Niloufar Azami at Greater Houston Orthodontics.

Some athletes’ tooth related issues stem from the consumption of high-acid drinks, gels and energy bars. These all can weaken tooth enamel and damage teeth due to high sugar content and acidity. Studies have shown that nearly half of elite endurance athletes had untreated tooth decay, and the majority of them had early signs of gum inflammation. This is despite these athletes otherwise having good oral hygiene habits.

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What is the Difference Between a Dentist and an Orthodontist?

Many people don’t know the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist. This confusion is common because both doctors work on teeth. However, it is important to understand the difference between them. When you have a problem with your teeth, jaws, or gums, it is important that you are seeing the right professional for your needs. Learn more from Dr. Amir Davoody, Dr. Rana Mehr, Dr. Niloufar Azami, and Dr. Adam Skrypczak at Greater Houston Orthodontics.

There are some similarities between the two doctors. Both dentists and orthodontists are involved in the care of teeth and solving dental problems. Additionally, both of them are dental school graduates. However, there are some differences between the two.

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What to Expect at an Orthodontic Evaluation

Orthodontics is a great way to get the smile of your dreams! Beyond cosmetic improvements, orthodontics can help correct jaw conditions, bite dysfunctions, and crooked teeth. If you or your child are experiencing any of these issues, an orthodontist may be able to help. Additionally, oral health is very important and an orthodontist can help to keep your oral health in tip-top shape! Keep reading to learn from Dr. Amir Davoody, Dr. Rana Mehr, Dr. Niloufar Azami, and Dr. Adam Skrypczak at Greater Houston Orthodontics about what to expect at your initial visit to the orthodontist.

When you arrive at the orthodontist for the first time, the staff will check you in and then you will have the opportunity to meet the doctor. They will take some time to look at your teeth and explain to you what your best treatment options are. During this time, the orthodontist will measure the person’s bite. This will help the doctor to detect any issues that will need correction. Additionally, you will have an X-ray taken of your mouth to give the orthodontist another look at your teeth in a different way. You may even have an impression, which is when the patient will bite into a try filled with a substance called alginate. This creates a mold of the person’s mouth and can help the orthodontist to have a look at the patient’s tooth placement.

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