Doctor Smiles Orthodontics https://doctorsmiles.com/ Fri, 19 Jan 2024 08:19:51 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Welcome to Doctor Smiles Orthodontics Blog! https://doctorsmiles.com/welcome-to-doctor-smiles-orthodontics-blog-2/ Fri, 19 Jan 2024 07:20:50 +0000 https://doctorsmiles.com/?p=2591 Dr. Bedoya and her team of friendly professionals would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to the Doctor Smiles Orthodontics blog! We are a leading Tucson, AZ orthodontist office that provides patients of all ages with comprehensive orthodontic treatment and superior service. We’re fully committed to providing you with a beautiful, healthy smile that will last you […]

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Dr. Bedoya and her team of friendly professionals would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to the Doctor Smiles Orthodontics blog! We are a leading Tucson, AZ orthodontist office that provides patients of all ages with comprehensive orthodontic treatment and superior service. We’re fully committed to providing you with a beautiful, healthy smile that will last you a lifetime!

Meet Dr. Bedoya

Dr. Marisela M. Bedoya is a native of Tucson. As she was growing up, she spent some of her free time in her father’s dental office, which inspired her to become a dentist. Dr. Bedoya earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree and her Certificate in Public Health from A.T. Still University, Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health, graduating at the top of her class.

While attending dental school, Dr. Bedoya decided that she wanted to specialize in orthodontics so she could help patients obtain beautiful smiles. This inspired her to specialize in orthodontics. Dr. Bedoya then proceeded to earn her Doctor of Health Science degree and her Certificate in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics from the same university.

Dr. Bedoya is passionate about orthodontics. She is a kind and caring person who loves helping her patients get the beautiful, straight smiles they deserve. She is an active member of several dental organizations including the American Association of Orthodontists, Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, American Dental Society and The  Arizona Dental Association.

Types of Braces We Use

Patients today have more choices than ever when it comes to wearing braces. We are proud to use several types of braces including metal braces. Today’s metal braces are smaller, more comfortable and more attractive than metal braces used a few years ago.

The ceramic braces we use are made of a translucent material. These braces are popular amongst our adult patients due to their cosmetic appeal. The only drawback to these braces is the fact that they’re somewhat fragile and the elastic ties can become discolored between orthodontic visits.

The gold braces we use are popular with patients of all ages due to their cosmetic appeal. These braces are made of stainless steel, which has been coated with 24-karat gold.

The Wild Smiles braces we use are made from high quality stainless steel. These braces allow the patient to mix and match the patented bracket designs for added individuality so that a unique smile can be created.

The Invisalign System we use consists of a series of clear, removable aligners that have been generated by computer simulation to gradually move teeth.  When Invisalign is worn, most people will not even notice you are having your teeth straightened as the clear aligners are virtually invisible. This system is available to adults and teenagers with certain orthodontic bite problems.

Your First Visit

We look forward to meeting each of our new patients! Your first visit will consist of a thorough examination and a follow-up discussion of your potential treatment options. This important 30-minute visit will allow us to determine your orthodontic needs. Knowing that your time is valuable and to expedite treatment, we may also reserve time following the exam to take diagnostic records which include X-rays, photos and impressions. These records are necessary for the development of your treatment plan.

We will address specific areas of your proposed treatment after we carefully analyze your diagnostic records. We feel that it’s important to analyze each patient’s specific needs because in-depth planning leads to superior results and higher patient satisfaction.

We will then schedule a consultation visit for you so that we can your discuss treatment options, time frames and financial arrangements. We encourage you to ask questions as our goal is for you to have a complete understanding of what your specific needs are, what the treatment plan consists of and how long treatment will take.

When you arrive for your first visit, please bring with you any panoramic X-rays taken within the past six months and your insurance card if you have orthodontic insurance.

To set up an initial appointment with our Tucson, AZ orthodontics office for you or your child, please fill out and submit the ‘Appointments’ form that is on our website. One of our team members will then contact you to schedule an appointment time. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Thank you for reading our blog! We will be using this space to share office news and information with you. We also will be regularly posting interesting reading materials here related to the exciting world of orthodontics so do drop in often to see what’s new!

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When to See an Orthodontist https://doctorsmiles.com/when-to-see-an-orthodontist-2/ Fri, 19 Jan 2024 07:19:17 +0000 https://doctorsmiles.com/?p=2600 Orthodontic technology has come a long way. In addition to the many first-rate orthodontic treatments that can straighten your teeth, there are other ways you can enhance your smile. With the use of innovative diode laser treatment, for example, you can easily remove excess gum tissue to improve the state of your smile. What is […]

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Orthodontic technology has come a long way. In addition to the many first-rate orthodontic treatments that can straighten your teeth, there are other ways you can enhance your smile. With the use of innovative diode laser treatment, for example, you can easily remove excess gum tissue to improve the state of your smile.

What is Diode Laser Treatment?
Diode laser treatment is a specific process of removing excess gum tissue safely and effectively in order to expose more of the tooth’s surface for better aesthetics and function. In this procedure, an orthodontist will use a specialized diode laser to sculpt the gums around the teeth to maximize these results and enhance your smile.

Who Uses Diode Laser Treatment?
Diode laser treatment may be an option for a variety of patients. The following are the three main reasons for utilizing diode laser treatment:

Bracket Placement
If your gums haven’t receded properly, or a tooth is emerging more slowly than expected, a diode laser can be used to remove excess tissue and reveal enough tooth surface to place a bracket for your braces treatment.

Impacted Teeth
Impactions refer to teeth that haven’t erupted properly through the gums. By using diode laser treatment, an orthodontist can help the tooth in question emerge without waiting months for it to erupt on its own, or undergoing an expensive surgical procedure.

Aesthetic Recontouring
Aesthetic gingival recontouring is a procedure to reshape the gum line to improve the appearance of your smile by exposing more of your teeth. After getting your braces removed, you may discuss recontouring your gum line with your orthodontist. If your orthodontist agrees this is a good option for you, the process involves using the orthodontic diode laser to remove excess gum tissue around the upper teeth to make them look longer. If the gum line is uneven, it can be sculpted to produce a more symmetrical, balanced smile.

Visit Your Best Rated Tucson, AZ Orthodontist Today!
Doctor Smiles Orthodontics is always happy to talk with you about the best ways to enhance your smile. Contact us today with your orthodontics questions, or book an appointment and find the best orthodontics solution for you!

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Early Orthodontic Treatment https://doctorsmiles.com/early-orthodontic-treatment/ Fri, 19 Jan 2024 07:00:56 +0000 https://doctorsmiles.com/?p=2566 It’s never too late to begin orthodontic treatment. But when it comes to your child’s teeth, earlier is better than later. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial screening at age seven to determine if early orthodontic treatment is right for your child. In most cases, if orthodontic work is not needed, your orthodontist […]

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It’s never too late to begin orthodontic treatment. But when it comes to your child’s teeth, earlier is better than later. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial screening at age seven to determine if early orthodontic treatment is right for your child. In most cases, if orthodontic work is not needed, your orthodontist will simply monitor your child’s growth patterns until the best time for treatment is determined.

Doctor Smiles Orthodontics can get your children started on the path to oral and dental health from their very first visit to our Tucson, AZ office. At this early age we can answer any questions you may have and begin evaluating your child’s tooth and jaw development. Each child’s speed and process of development is different, but early orthodontic treatment can be hugely beneficial to their futures.

Prevent Future Problems & Avoid Surgery
Treatment for common orthodontic problems typically begins around ages 9 – 14, when all of the baby teeth have fallen out and many permanent teeth have grown in. When your child comes in for an early evaluation, there are certain conditions that are much easier to treat if caught at an early age.

Severe Crossbite
When the upper teeth close inside of the lower teeth, a device called a palatal expander can be used to gradually and painlessly widen the upper jaw. This treatment is especially effective when the jaw itself has not been fully developed. If we wait too long, a more complicated treatment, or even oral surgery, may be required to correct the issue.

Severe Crowding
Some patients’ jaws may be too small to accommodate all of the permanent teeth. If this is the case, either palatal expansion or tooth extraction may be recommended to help the adult teeth emerge properly. Even if braces are required later, addressing severe crowding early will likely shorten orthodontic treatment time and prevent complications.

Protruding Teeth & Severe Underbite
Protruding front teeth can be prone to chipping and fractures and may also lead to problems with self-image. A severe underbite, caused by the lower jaw growing much larger than the upper jaw, can result in serious bite problems. Orthodontic appliances such as braces and headgear can be used to correct these problems at a younger age so surgery can be avoided in the future.

Correct Bad Habits
Anyone can pick up a bad habit, but certain parafunctional (detrimental to health) habits can negatively influence the development of the teeth, jaws, and mouth. Some of these problems are not easy to recognize, but an early orthodontic screening with your Tucson, AZ orthodontist can help identify a bad habit and thus lead to the prescription of preventative treatment.

Thumb Sucking & Tongue Thrusting
Thumb sucking is natural in early childhood and usually disappears between ages 2 – 4. However, if the habit persists, the pressure on the front teeth and upper jaw can cause the teeth to move apart and the jaws to change shape. Tongue thrust (the force from a tongue pushing forward) can also cause teeth to move. Both issues lead to an “open bite,” which may impair your child’s speech.

Mouth Breathing
Mouth breathing is an abnormal breathing pattern in which the mouth always remains open and passes air directly to the lungs. The issue is related to the muscular function of the tongue and face, and it may trigger the upper and lower jaw to grow abnormally and lead to serious orthodontic problems. Mouth breathing may begin as a physical condition, but it can become a chronic habit that causes bad breath and gum disease.

Get Started with Your Tucson Orthodontist Today!
To see if early orthodontic treatment is right for your child, contact Doctor Smiles Orthodontics today at our Tucson, AZ office. Together we can help your child achieve a lifetime of oral and dental health!

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Dangers of Direct-to-Consumer Orthodontic Treatment https://doctorsmiles.com/dangers-of-direct-to-consumer-orthodontic-treatment/ Fri, 19 Jan 2024 06:59:11 +0000 https://doctorsmiles.com/?p=2567 If you’re going to do something, do it right. There are dangers involved with direct-to-consumer orthodontic treatment. Learn about them now! Today we live in a world where people want things instantaneously—goods delivered to their homes so they won’t have to go out and get what they need. While this can work with some types […]

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If you’re going to do something, do it right. There are dangers involved with direct-to-consumer orthodontic treatment. Learn about them now!

Today we live in a world where people want things instantaneously—goods delivered to their homes so they won’t have to go out and get what they need. While this can work with some types of products, when it comes to medical treatment of any sort people should reconsider.

If you’re having skin problems you should go see a dermatologist. If your vision is acting up you should make an appointment with an optometrist. And if you desire straighter teeth you should book an appointment with an orthodontist. Sure, you could get face cream, glasses, or even teeth straightening products like direct-to-consumer aligners delivered to your home. HOWEVER, without in-person evaluations that are necessary to understand your specific needs and situation, those fixes will not be as effective and may even cause you harm in the long-run.

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) warns that (while online orthodontic companies make their treatment sound easy) without in-person evaluations and/or in-person supervision of your orthodontic treatment by an experienced orthodontist, your results may not be as reliable. They could even damage your teeth. After all, orthodontic treatment involves major movement of biological material in your mouth. So if done incorrectly, you could experience expensive and potentially irreversible oral/dental damage to your teeth, gums, bite, and more.

Before you decide to proceed with a direct-to-consumer orthodontic treatment company, bear in mind this warning. Read more on the AAO’s blog today and consider these two important questions: What are you willing to sacrifice for saving a little time and money with a direct-to-consumer product? And is it better to do things the easy way or the right way?

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How to Clean Your Invisalign Aligners https://doctorsmiles.com/how-to-clean-your-invisalign-aligners/ Fri, 19 Jan 2024 06:58:11 +0000 https://doctorsmiles.com/?p=2560 Invisalign is a great option for orthodontic treatment. The aligners are practically invisible, they’re removable, and best of all, you can eat any foods that you want. However, to get the most out of your experience with Invisalign, you have to take good care of your aligners and make sure you clean them properly. The […]

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Invisalign is a great option for orthodontic treatment. The aligners are practically invisible, they’re removable, and best of all, you can eat any foods that you want. However, to get the most out of your experience with Invisalign, you have to take good care of your aligners and make sure you clean them properly. The Doctor Smiles Orthodontics team has created a comprehensive list of the biggest do’s and don’ts when it comes to taking care of and cleaning your Invisalign aligners.

Invisalign Do’s

  • Brush and floss your teeth before putting your Invisalign aligners back on. If food gets trapped between your Invisalign aligners and your teeth, your teeth can decay and develop cavities.
  • Rinse your Invisalign aligners in water whenever you remove them so that bacteria does not build up in inside and soak your aligners with cleaning crystals to make sure you don’t get stains on them.
  • Keep your Invisalign aligners in a container when you don’t have them on so that they are protected from damage.

Invisalign Don’ts

  • Eat or drink while you have your aligners in. This will lead to discoloration and foul smells.
  • Use toothpaste to clean your aligners. Toothpaste can be harsh for your aligners and eventually dull them.
  • Place your Invisalign aligners near a heat source. This can misshape the plastic material and ruin the personalized form of your aligners.
  • Vigorously brush your Invisalign aligners. Rough brushes or aggressive brushing can leave scratches on your aligners that allow more space for bacteria to grow.

Interested in Invisalign? Contact Us!
At Doctor Smiles Orthodontics, we are a premier provider of Invisalign. Contact us today and we can answer any further questions you may have about Invisalign aligners. And if you’re looking for Invisalign treatment, make an appointment with our Tucson, AZ office today. We can’t wait to help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

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What is Diode Laser Treatment? https://doctorsmiles.com/what-is-diode-laser-treatment/ Fri, 19 Jan 2024 06:57:04 +0000 https://doctorsmiles.com/?p=2561 Orthodontic technology has come a long way. In addition to the many first-rate orthodontic treatments that can straighten your teeth, there are other ways you can enhance your smile. With the use of innovative diode laser treatment, for example, you can easily remove excess gum tissue to improve the state of your smile. What is […]

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Orthodontic technology has come a long way. In addition to the many first-rate orthodontic treatments that can straighten your teeth, there are other ways you can enhance your smile. With the use of innovative diode laser treatment, for example, you can easily remove excess gum tissue to improve the state of your smile.

What is Diode Laser Treatment?
Diode laser treatment is a specific process of removing excess gum tissue safely and effectively in order to expose more of the tooth’s surface for better aesthetics and function. In this procedure, an orthodontist will use a specialized diode laser to sculpt the gums around the teeth to maximize these results and enhance your smile.

Who Uses Diode Laser Treatment?
Diode laser treatment may be an option for a variety of patients. The following are the three main reasons for utilizing diode laser treatment:

Bracket Placement

  • If your gums haven’t receded properly, or a tooth is emerging more slowly than expected, a diode laser can be used to remove excess tissue and reveal enough tooth surface to place a bracket for your braces treatment.

Impacted Teeth

  • Impactions refer to teeth that haven’t erupted properly through the gums. By using diode laser treatment, an orthodontist can help the tooth in question emerge without waiting months for it to erupt on its own, or undergoing an expensive surgical procedure.

Aesthetic Recontouring

  • Aesthetic gingival recontouring is a procedure to reshape the gum line to improve the appearance of your smile by exposing more of your teeth. After getting your braces removed, you may discuss recontouring your gum line with your orthodontist. If your orthodontist agrees this is a good option for you, the process involves using the orthodontic diode laser to remove excess gum tissue around the upper teeth to make them look longer. If the gum line is uneven, it can be sculpted to produce a more symmetrical, balanced smile.

Visit Your Best Rated Tucson, AZ Orthodontist Today!
Doctor Smiles Orthodontics is always happy to talk with you about the best ways to enhance your smile. Contact us today with your orthodontics questions, or book an appointment and find the best orthodontics solution for you!

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Can Adults Get Braces Too? https://doctorsmiles.com/can-adults-get-braces-too/ Fri, 19 Jan 2024 06:55:34 +0000 https://doctorsmiles.com/?p=2551 Usually, when people hear the word “braces,” they associate it with kids and teenagers. In fact, one of the most common questions we receive is: “Can adults get braces too?” And the answer is absolute; it’s never too late! Here at Doctor Smiles Orthodontics, we offer a wide range of dental and orthodontic treatments for […]

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Usually, when people hear the word “braces,” they associate it with kids and teenagers. In fact, one of the most common questions we receive is: “Can adults get braces too?” And the answer is absolute; it’s never too late! Here at Doctor Smiles Orthodontics, we offer a wide range of dental and orthodontic treatments for patients of all ages in Tucson, AZ and the surrounding communities.

The reality is, braces have become so mainstream that now nearly 20% of braces wearers are adults. This is due to the fact that teeth straightening options have advanced and expanded – and because healthy teeth are capable of shifting at any age. Furthermore, since the alignment of your teeth isn’t simply important for cosmetic reasons—it’s linked to your overall dental health—you are truly never “too old” for braces. Orthodontic treatment options are an investment into a healthy future at all stages of life.

What are the Orthodontic Treatment Options for Adults?
We recognize that different patients will have different dental needs depending on their varying lifestyles. Therefore, we at Doctor Smiles Orthodontics are proud to offer an array of adult orthodontic treatment options that are all uniquely capable of reinvigorating your smile. You’re able to choose between:

Metal Braces:
The most popular teeth-straightening, bite-correcting orthodontic option out there continues to be metal braces. Over the years, these classic braces have evolved to become smaller, increasingly efficient, and more comfortable than ever before.

Clear Braces:
Clear braces function the same fundamental way as metal braces—the only distinction is they offer an aesthetic benefit due to their translucent (clear) appearance. Sometimes referred to as “ceramic braces,” Clear braces are constructed from a hard ceramic material that will not stain or discolor. Overall, they’re equally as efficient as metal braces, but with an added bonus of blending into your smile with greater ease.

Lingual Braces:
These braces are more discreet than metal braces. Lingual braces attach to the tongue side of the teeth and are custom fit to your mouth. Since the braces are attached to the back side of your teeth, you are unable to see the metal wires and brackets.

Invisalign®:
The newest teeth-straightening technique on the market, Invisalign utilizes a series of clear trays called aligners that are formed to custom fit your mouth and adjust the placement of your teeth – no brackets or wires required. Another benefit of choosing Invisalign is that your aligners are removable, so there are virtually no food restrictions. You can easily maintain good oral hygiene, and you can even sparingly remove the aligners for important events.

For more information on Invisalign, please see our Invisalign FAQ page.

Schedule a Consultation with Doctor Smiles Orthodontics Today!
Do any of these treatment options sound like the right choice for you? If you feel ready to explore the orthodontic magic of braces or Invisalign, or simply have questions you’re interested in asking, feel free to call us at (520) 201-7311 for our Tucson, AZ office. You’re also welcome to visit our request an appointment page online. We hope to hear from you soon!

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Foods You Can Eat with Braces https://doctorsmiles.com/foods-you-can-eat-with-braces/ Fri, 19 Jan 2024 06:53:27 +0000 https://doctorsmiles.com/?p=2552 Many people who have braces or are considering getting braces have heard of the “forbidden foods” list that they will have to adhere to while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Here at Doctor Smiles Orthodontics in Tucson, AZ, we have food to avoid a list of our own that you can find on our site. However, while […]

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Many people who have braces or are considering getting braces have heard of the “forbidden foods” list that they will have to adhere to while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Here at Doctor Smiles Orthodontics in Tucson, AZ, we have food to avoid a list of our own that you can find on our site. However, while this sort of list can be a little daunting, don’t worry—there are still many yummy options that you can partake in and we’re here to offer some suggestions!

Breakfast Ideas

  • Smoothie – A smoothie is always a great start to your day. These drinks are jam-packed with vitamins and minerals, depending on what you add to your concoction. Be sure to add both veggies and fruits to this drink and not overdo the sugar content!
  • Eggs – These protein filled wonders can be prepared in a myriad of ways: scrambled, boiled, poached, sunny side up, you name it! They are agreeable foods for those with braces and can be enjoyed with or without veggies.
  • Pancakes – This soft bread is a treat for any breakfast meal. We recommend not eating these on a daily basis as they are often paired with syrup or fruit compotes that can be high in sugar, but rest assured that they can be enjoyed without doing damage to your braces!
  • Muffins (without nuts) – This is another soft bread that can be enjoyed by someone with braces. Easy to prepare in bulk, you can take these on the go if you’re pressed for time in the mornings.
    Yogurt with Fruit – Yogurt is filled with Vitamin C and adding fruit will only sweeten the deal, both in health and taste. Be sure to only use soft fruit when creating your yogurt dish. Avoid hard fruits such as apples, as those can damage your braces!

Lunch Ideas

  • Quesadillas with rice and beans – Tortillas are considered a soft bread that is approved for people with braces. Add a soft cheese with a side of soft rice (grain) and soft beans (legume) and you’ve got yourself a filling, wholesome, and delicious meal. Top your quesadillas with sour cream, avocado, and salsa, too!
  • Mac & Cheese – This soft noodle and soft cheese plate are savory, easy to make, and even easier to eat.
  • Spaghetti & Meatballs – A soft noodle meal topped with soft meat will practically fall apart in your mouth and will not burden your orthodontic treatment.
  • Peanut Butter (not crunchy) & Jelly Sandwich – This is an oldie but a goodie. Likely, you have these ingredients sitting in your pantry right now. This is a practical and time-saving meal that also won’t irritate your teeth, gum line, or braces.
  • Lunch Meat Wrap – This is a new take on an old classic. Instead of simply making a lunch meat sandwich, make a lunch meat wrap! The same ingredients neatly nestled into a large flour tortilla make for a great twist on mom’s traditional school lunch.

 

Dinner Ideas

  • Soft Meats – Examples of this include: meatloaf, chicken, tuna, or salmon. These meats are so soft you can cut them with a fork with no problem. This should signal that it is all right for you to consume and will not cause you to pop a wire or unfasten a bracket.
  • Sides – Pair any of the soft meats above with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, wild rice, or soup and call it a day! Sit back and enjoy this healthy and dental braces friendly meal.

Snack Ideas

  • Cottage Cheese and Soft Peaches – Great source of Vitamin C that will not interfere with your braces.
  • Soft Fruits – Examples include melons, bananas, grapes, and applesauce (sort of fruit) to name a few.

Dessert Ideas
Desserts must be included in this list as many people have a sweet tooth, however, please be attentive to your family orthodontist or dentist’s order and don’t intake too much sugar—this is bad for your teeth and your overall health. Sweets that are approved for those who wear braces are:

  • Pudding
  • Soft cookies
  • Soft chocolates (no nuts or caramel)
  • Jell-O
  • Ice cream
  • Milkshakes
  • Cake (soft bread, no nuts)

Contact Our Tucson Office!
You see; there are plenty of delicious foods you can have at all times of day even while wearing braces. Though if you’re still unsure if braces are right for you, know that we also offer Invisalign as another form of orthodontic treatment, which involves using removable aligners vs. the placed metal wires and brackets of braces.

If you have any lingering questions about what we suggest you can or cannot eat, please call our Tucson, AZ office at 520 201-7311. And if you’re ready to learn more about our treatments and procedures, and get started with braces, schedule your appointment today. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

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Direct-to-Consumer Braces vs. Professional Orthodontist https://doctorsmiles.com/its-a-common-misconception-that-teeth-straightening-is-purely-a-cosmetic-procedure-its-not-orthodontic-care-has-many-benefits-especially-when-done-with-great-care-by-professionals/ Fri, 19 Jan 2024 06:52:50 +0000 https://doctorsmiles.com/?p=2553 If you’ve ever considered using braces to straighten your teeth, you’re most likely familiar with direct-to-consumer orthodontic treatment options, such as SmileDirectClub. These companies have exploded in popularity recently—boasting their affordability and less fuss involved. However, not all aspects of direct-to-consumer treatment are good. There are strong, unwavering benefits to completing orthodontic treatment with a […]

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If you’ve ever considered using braces to straighten your teeth, you’re most likely familiar with direct-to-consumer orthodontic treatment options, such as SmileDirectClub. These companies have exploded in popularity recently—boasting their affordability and less fuss involved. However, not all aspects of direct-to-consumer treatment are good. There are strong, unwavering benefits to completing orthodontic treatment with a certified and experienced orthodontist vs. getting the quick fix of straight-to-order aligners. Here are some things you should consider before clicking “purchase” on a smile kit.

Expert Care in Tucson, AZ
The field of orthodontics is a professional medical field. To be certified as an orthodontist, doctors must go through rigorous academic study and training to become licensed as a professional in the industry. Your best reviewed orthodontist in Tucson, AZ, Dr. Marisela Bedoya, is a member of the American Association of Orthodontics, which is a professional association of doctors who have dedicated great time, energy, and effort into transforming smiles. When you’re orthodontic treatment is supervised by a professional orthodontist like Dr. Bedoya, you can be certain that your care is of the highest quality and your results will be equally exceptional.

How Does Direct-to-Consumer Orthodontic Treatment Work?
Many companies such as SmileDirectClub offer an easy, online way to get a new smile. You simply submit an impression and photo of your teeth using the company’s kit, and the company sends you a custom set of aligners every month or so. After completing all sets of aligners to straighten teeth, your smile will be aligned! This may sound too-good-to-be-true. And that’s because, in many cases, it is.

In actuality, there is more to creating a straight, stunning smile than simply moving the teeth. Orthodontic treatment does more than straighten the visible part of your smile. Effective orthodontic treatment takes into consideration your bite, jaw alignment, facial structure, and smile/mouth as a whole—targeting all of these areas to provide you with a smile that is properly aligned and will maximize your oral and dental health as well. If orthodontic treatment is not done correctly, this can actually cause irreversible and costly damage such as misaligned bite, tooth or gum loss, and other issues.

Many direct-to-consumer orthodontic treatments cannot properly assess all features of your oral and dental health and therefore, only work to correct visible issues like crookedness, gaps, or crowded teeth.

Questions to Ask about Direct-to-Consumer Orthodontic Treatment
To help make your decision easier, here are a few questions that are important to ask yourself when considering direct-to-consumer orthodontic treatment, such as SmileDirectClub aligners.

  • Will X-rays be taken of your teeth and jaws?
  • Will a clinical examination of your bite, facial profile, jaw alignment, and overall smile be taken to determine the best method for straightening your teeth?
  • What type of treatment is offered by the direct-to-consumer company?
  • How can you know that the type of treatment offered is the best method for your individual needs and smile goals?
  • Are your teeth and gums healthy enough for orthodontic treatment, and has this been determined by your licensed dentist?
  • Will you require any in-person office visits to a licensed dentist or orthodontist during your treatment?
  • Is there a professional dentist or orthodontist involved in the creation and customization of your treatment?
  • Are you provided with or able to research his or her name, practice, education, credentials, etc.?
  • If there is a problem with your orthodontic treatment, who will be taking care of it, and who will be held responsible for it?
  • Are you asked to sign any forms that release the company from liability should an injury or other issue occur?
  • Who will handle any issues such as injury or an emergency, and how will those issues be handled?

Based on these questions, in the end it should become clear that trusting a direct-to-consumer teeth straightening option is not the best choice. Your smile is important after all. Why risk irreversible damage and take shortcuts designed for the masses not your unique mouth and smile when you could have amazing orthodontic treatment from an orthodontist with skill, experience, and a passion for helping people get the smile they desire?

Contact Your Trusted Tucson, AZ Orthodontist
If you’re looking to improve your confidence by transforming your smile, it is always best to start by scheduling a consultation with your best reviewed Tucson, AZ orthodontist.

At Doctor Smiles Orthodontics, we will take accurate images of your teeth and jaw, assess your bite, alignment, and facial structure, and discuss your smile goals with you. Together, we will determine the best possible course of action for your orthodontic treatment. If you’d like to know more, or have any questions regarding orthodontic treatment, we welcome you to contact us today. We can’t wait to help you get started!

The post Direct-to-Consumer Braces vs. Professional Orthodontist appeared first on Doctor Smiles Orthodontics.

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Is Straightening Your Teeth Purely A Cosmetic Decision? https://doctorsmiles.com/is-straightening-your-teeth-purely-a-cosmetic-decision/ Fri, 19 Jan 2024 06:51:15 +0000 https://doctorsmiles.com/?p=2543 It’s a common misconception that teeth straightening is purely a cosmetic procedure. It’s not. Orthodontic care has many benefits, especially when done with great care by professionals, like Tucson’s most trusted orthodontist, Dr. Marisela Bedoya. Here are a few of the many reasons why you should consider getting your teeth straightened. Better Brushing Orthodontic care […]

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It’s a common misconception that teeth straightening is purely a cosmetic procedure. It’s not. Orthodontic care has many benefits, especially when done with great care by professionals, like Tucson’s most trusted orthodontist, Dr. Marisela Bedoya. Here are a few of the many reasons why you should consider getting your teeth straightened.

Better Brushing
Orthodontic care leads to straighter teeth. Straighter teeth improves your oral hygiene results. When your teeth are crowded, it’s difficult for your toothbrush to reach the complete surface of your teeth, but teeth straightening leaves a flat surface for your toothbrush to effectively reach and clean entirely.

Clearer Speech
Sometimes people seek orthodontic care to improve their speech capabilities. Crooked teeth may lead to a lisp or slur in one’s speaking patterns; however, this can be remedied with the use of braces or other teeth straightening procedures!

Eating Difficulties
Crowded teeth can cause an overbite or even prevent the jawline from closing entirely. This could lead to difficulty eating certain foods, or even solid foods in general! Additionally, improper or incomplete chewing as a result of a common orthodontic problem could lead to digestive issues.

Fewer Headaches
In some cases, people who suffer from chronic headaches could be experiencing “dental headaches” as a result of crooked teeth, otherwise known as “malocclusion”. The right orthodontic care can alleviate these problems and provide relief to aching minds.

Improved Quality of Life
Teeth straightening will not only lead to improved dental hygiene; undergoing orthodontic care at your local Tucson orthodontics practice will also enhance your quality of life! Straight teeth enhance confidence and can therefore lead to improve social situations at school, work, you name it.

Contact our Tucson Team
If any of the other reasons above inspire you, contact Doctor Smiles Orthodontics today in our Tucson office. We’d be happy to discuss your teeth straightening options with you!

The post Is Straightening Your Teeth Purely A Cosmetic Decision? appeared first on Doctor Smiles Orthodontics.

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