There is no doubt that smiles open doors for all kinds of opportunities. It is a universally understood gesture in every part of the world. As a result, a smile is likely the first step in making friends and getting that coveted job.
Braces At Any Age
Initial evaluation by an orthodontist should be around age 7
Early treatment may result in less time wearing braces
Evaluation of emerging adult teeth
Middle and high school students
Adult teeth erupt and may present in crooked or awkward positions especially in this age group
Adults
Many adults over 25, 35 or even 50 come for orthodontic evaluations
It is never too late for a beautiful smile
Types of Braces
American Orthodontics EMPOWER combines the best of metal and plastic bracing techniques
Adjustable torque and fit for comfort
Can be metal, plastic or a combination of both
Provides correction for the most difficult alignment issues
Can be customized with color or theme of child’s choice to make orthodontia
a little more fun
EMPOWER clear
Similar to the metal type, but completely clear
Suitable for those who wish to be less conspicuous
Corrects with wires, but generally not as quickly as with metal
The popular Invisalign appliance is invisible as the name implies and simply sits over the top of teeth.
Consequently the best for minor orthodontic correction
Furthermore easily removes for eating and cleaning
Helpful to maintain teeth after completing course of orthodontia
Lingual
These appliances are worn behind the teeth and thus not visible from the outside
Each orthodontist at our practice is an expert in their field. Consequently, with advanced training in the latest and safest technologies, our orthodontists care about one thing only: our patients’ smiles.
We offer free consultations that thoroughly explore every patient’s options. Dr. Panucci and her expert and friendly staff that will ensure a helpful and comfortable visit.
Dr Patti Panucci attended the University of Louisville School of Dentistry for four years, where she graduated with a DMD degree (May 2000) among the Top 10 in her class. Following that, she headed west to Los Angeles to complete her three-year residency at one of the top-ranked orthodontic programs in the country – the University of Southern California.
Along with her certificate in orthodontics, Dr. Panucci earned a master’s degree in craniofacial biology. During those three years, she fell in love with Southern California beach life and decided that this was where her future lay.
Smile. Jim Beggs believed that you should only have a frown on your face when it is impossible to smile. However, if you have crooked teeth, then you probably don’t want to smile due to embarrassment. It is important for children to begin wearing braces as soon as possible to repair their malocclusions, but if you are an adult with misaligned teeth, then it is easy to wear Invisalign aligners instead. While taking your child to an orthodontist for an appointment, make sure to schedule a free consultation to determine if you can benefit from orthodontic treatment.
Eliminate Secondary Problems That Are Caused by Misaligned Teeth
You might frown each day because you wake up with a headache or jaw pain that is caused by a bad bite. By undergoing orthodontic treatment for a few months with clear plastic aligners, you can shift some of your teeth into better positions to improve your bite to prevent secondary problems such as earaches. Wearing aligners is easy because the devices are made of soft but durable plastic that is molded to fit over your teeth precisely. After wearing a set of aligners for two weeks, you will replace the devices with a new set that will apply pressure to your teeth.
Call Us to Schedule an Appointment for a Complete Examination
If you live in or near Manhattan Beach, Calif., then make sure to schedule an appointment at Beach Braces. Our orthodontic facility has top-of-the-line diagnostic equipment in order to create the best orthodontic devices for our patient’s teeth. Dr. Patricia J. Panucci is able to assist patients with these orthodontic treatments:
• Self-ligating devices
• Invisalign for adults and teens
• Clear braces
• WildSmile brackets
• Lingual devices
In addition, our orthodontist offers the AcceleDent Aura system that can reduce your orthodontic treatment time.
Beach Braces Orthodontics
220 N. Aviation Blvd
Suite A
Manhattan Beach
CA 90266
Phone: (310) 379-0006
Skype: Beachbraces https://www.beachbraces.org/
Dr Patti Panucci attended the University of Louisville School of Dentistry for four years, where she graduated with a DMD degree (May 2000) among the Top 10 in her class. Following that, she headed west to Los Angeles to complete her three-year residency at one of the top-ranked orthodontic programs in the country – the University of Southern California.
Along with her certificate in orthodontics, Dr. Panucci earned a master’s degree in craniofacial biology. During those three years, she fell in love with Southern California beach life and decided that this was where her future lay.
https://www.beachbraces.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/2BB-OCT2016.png600800Dr Patricia Panuccihttps://www.beachbraces.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/logo-beach-braces-orthodontics.pngDr Patricia Panucci2016-10-10 11:44:552019-05-28 05:18:35How to Smile Like a Boss
A healthy smile does indeed brighten up a person’s face like sunshine from within. Beautiful teeth not only improve a smile but also improve the overall health of teeth and jaw.
Importance of Straightening Teeth
Orthodontics is the dental specialty that focuses on the straightening of teeth and improving the bite. Misaligned teeth and jaw problems can cause a myriad of problems further down the road. These include tooth loss, therefore a persons bone structure can be comprised and tooth enamel worn down.
Age for Orthodontics
A child can be evaluated for orthodontic check-ups around the age of 7, moreover, the child’s progression from baby teeth to adult teeth can be monitored annually to assess the need for orthodontia. The earlier misaligned teeth are corrected, the shorter the treatment and easier the correction.
However, it’s never too late for adults to obtain an evaluation and consultation with an orthodontist. Improving one’s smile is not just cosmetic, it keeps the jaw and the bite healthy and strong. In addition, it adds to confidence and bolsters self-esteem. In our practice, we firmly believe it is never too late to obtain and maintain a bright beautiful smile.
Braces
There are several types of orthodontic corrective devices available for both children and adults including colored braces. Traditional metal ones used in conjunction with rubber bands slowly move teeth to the desired position, additionally, there are the types that are attached to just the inner side of teeth where less correction is needed and invisible from the outside. Also available are invisible or clear ones which are less noticeable for minor to moderate correction. Invisalign is a system is nearly invisible and can correct minor orthodontic problems, thus they are easy to wear and to maintain and are completely inconspicuous. Braces or retainers can be in most cases worn at night.
For a healthy smile call Beach Braces for an orthodontist consultation today
Beach Braces Orthodontics
220 N. Aviation Blvd
Suite A
Manhattan Beach
CA 90266
Phone: (310) 379-0006
Skype: Beachbraces https://www.beachbraces.org/
Dr Patti Panucci attended the University of Louisville School of Dentistry for four years, where she graduated with a DMD degree (May 2000) among the Top 10 in her class. Following that, she headed west to Los Angeles to complete her three-year residency at one of the top-ranked orthodontic programs in the country – the University of Southern California.
Along with her certificate in orthodontics, Dr. Panucci earned a master’s degree in craniofacial biology. During those three years, she fell in love with Southern California beach life and decided that this was where her future lay.
Yes, smiles really are contagious! Your smile truly does affect those around you. The area of your brain that controls your smiling mechanism and the times that you mimic someone else’s smile is in the cingulate cortex, which is a response area that is automatic. Swedish researchers showed subjects pictures of different emotions, including anger, fear, joy and surprise. When a subject was shown a picture of a smiling person, the researchers told them to frown. What the researchers found was that the subjects naturally did the opposite. It actually took a lot of effort for the subjects to put a frown on their face. When you smile at someone, the odds are good that they can’t help but return that smile to you. If they don’t, it’s only because they are trying really hard to be a Grumpy Gus!
Who Is Missing Your Smile?
We all want to make the people around us happy. That’s just a natural part of being a social, well-adjusted individual. We would all rather be around someone who’s flashing smiles as opposed to frowns. But passing along the smiles may be harder if you’re not happy with your own smile. While a smile is a smile is a smile, you may be less apt to flash your less-than-perfect whites to a friend or stranger who sorely needs it.
How Can The World Benefit From Your Smile?
Invisalign aligners can straighten your teeth without the use of braces. You can remove these invisible aligners, which means that no one has to know that you’re straightening your teeth. A benefit of Invisalign is that you can eat and drink as you normally do. You can also brush and floss as you would in your normal routine. Because these aligners are not braces, there are no metals, wires or brackets that can cause abrasions.
If you’re interesting in having the world benefit from your smile, contact Beach Braces to see if Invisalign is the right solution for your smile. You and your orthodontist can create a treatment plan that will give you your perfect smile.
Beach Braces Orthodontics
220 N. Aviation Blvd
Suite A, Manhattan Beach
CA 90266
Phone: (310) 379-0006
Fax: (310) 379-7051
Skype: Beachbraces
If You See a Friend Without a Smile, Give Him One of Yours
Dr Patti Panucci attended the University of Louisville School of Dentistry for four years, where she graduated with a DMD degree (May 2000) among the Top 10 in her class. Following that, she headed west to Los Angeles to complete her three-year residency at one of the top-ranked orthodontic programs in the country – the University of Southern California.
Along with her certificate in orthodontics, Dr. Panucci earned a master’s degree in craniofacial biology. During those three years, she fell in love with Southern California beach life and decided that this was where her future lay.
https://www.beachbraces.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/BB2-July2016.png600800Dr Patricia Panuccihttps://www.beachbraces.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/logo-beach-braces-orthodontics.pngDr Patricia Panucci2016-07-14 20:13:492019-02-12 22:06:16If You See a Friend Without a Smile
In today’s world, it seems like we are bombarded with stress and pressure. Sometimes, it can be hard for moms to get a break from the constant drive to be what society deems “perfect”. While it’s fantastic to strive to do your best, Dawn Gluskin reminds us all of some important truths when she states “Don’t take life too seriously! Nobody gets out alive anyway. Smile. Be goofy. Take chances. Have fun. Inspire.” Today we’re going to focus on how to do just that!
Be Goofy
Yes, there are times when you have to act like a mature adult, but there are also times when you can “let down your hair” and just enjoy the moment. Take the opportunity to goof off with your kids or enjoy time with some friends.
Take Chances
It’s easy for moms to get stuck in a comfort zone and feel nervous doing anything out of the norm. Today, break free from the bondage and feel free to step out there. Take chances and release your wild side.
Have Fun
Go out for pizza in the middle of the week, ride the scariest roller coaster at the amusement park, and listen to your favorite music on the way to work.
Inspire Others
Every day, you have the opportunity to make an impact on the lives of those around you. Whether you’re in college, working full-time, or a stay-at-home mom who only sees her kids, husband, and the workers at the grocery store, you have the chance to make a difference. Look to inspire those around you with acts of kindness and words of understanding.
Smile
How can you tell a happy girl? By the big smile on her face! Make a conscious effort to always wear that frown upside down, and let your smile bring joy wherever you go. It’s amazing what a smile can do for not only those around you but even for your own attitude. If you feel uncomfortable about your smile, consider looking into braces or Invisalign treatment.
Here at Beach Braces Orthodontics, we specialize in helping both adults and children unlock their hidden self-confidence by developing a beautiful smile. We will work with you to help you get the smile you want by using braces or Invisalign treatments. Contact us today and find out how our orthodontist can help you improve your quality of life!
Beach Braces Orthodontics
220 N. Aviation Blvd
Suite A
Manhattan Beach
CA 90266
Phone: (310) 379-0006
Skype: Beachbraces https://www.beachbraces.org/
Dr Patti Panucci attended the University of Louisville School of Dentistry for four years, where she graduated with a DMD degree (May 2000) among the Top 10 in her class. Following that, she headed west to Los Angeles to complete her three-year residency at one of the top-ranked orthodontic programs in the country – the University of Southern California.
Along with her certificate in orthodontics, Dr. Panucci earned a master’s degree in craniofacial biology. During those three years, she fell in love with Southern California beach life and decided that this was where her future lay.
https://www.beachbraces.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Toyna-M.jpg480640Dr Patricia Panuccihttps://www.beachbraces.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/logo-beach-braces-orthodontics.pngDr Patricia Panucci2016-01-30 10:00:002019-02-12 22:06:17Smile; Don’t Take Life to Seriously!
The motivational speaker Steve Maraboli believes that giving someone a smile provides a lifetime of memories. When you smile at anyone, the expression may last less than a second, but it helps the other person feel better all day and influences someone’s behavior. If you avoid smiling because your teeth are crooked, then it is time to visit an orthodontist for a thorough examination. In many cases, a tiny change in your teeth’s alignment can make a huge difference in the appearance of a smile, and this is why many individuals choose to wear Invisalign to straighten their teeth.
Wear Clear Aligners
Invisalign aligners are one of the newest treatments recommended by an orthodontist for mild malocclusions. When you wear removable plastic aligners, the treatment plan typically lasts less than one year but can make a big difference in the positions of your teeth. These aligners are created in an assortment of sets, but each has a slightly different configuration. You are responsible for wearing the aligners in the correct order to move your teeth slowly into correct positions in the mouth. While you wear clear aligners, others can barely see the devices, so you can continue to give a great smile to anyone.
Schedule an Appointment
If you live in Manhattan Beach, Calif., then schedule an appointment with Dr. Patricia J. Panucci at Beach Braces. She is a knowledgeable orthodontist who provides personalized care to adults, teenagers, and children. While Dr. Panucci recommends Invisalign for many of her patients, she also offers these types of braces:
• Lingual – brackets are placed on the backs of teeth
• Self-ligating – designed without metal ties
• Wild smile – colorful brackets
• Clear – nearly invisible wires and brackets
When you have moderate to severe malocclusions, Dr. Panucci suggests that traditional braces rather than aligners are a better choice for repairing your misalignments.
Beach Braces Orthodontics
220 N. Aviation Blvd
Suite A
Manhattan Beach
CA 90266
Phone: (310) 379-0006
Skype: Beachbraces https://www.beachbraces.org/
Dr Patti Panucci attended the University of Louisville School of Dentistry for four years, where she graduated with a DMD degree (May 2000) among the Top 10 in her class. Following that, she headed west to Los Angeles to complete her three-year residency at one of the top-ranked orthodontic programs in the country – the University of Southern California.
Along with her certificate in orthodontics, Dr. Panucci earned a master’s degree in craniofacial biology. During those three years, she fell in love with Southern California beach life and decided that this was where her future lay.
https://www.beachbraces.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/BB5-Dec2015.png600800Dr Patricia Panuccihttps://www.beachbraces.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/logo-beach-braces-orthodontics.pngDr Patricia Panucci2016-01-23 10:00:002016-08-18 09:12:25It only takes a split second to smile and forget, yet to someone that needed it, it can last a lifetime. ― Steve Maraboli
Braces. Few children grow up to have perfect teeth. Despite the best efforts of parents to train their kids in effective dental hygiene and twice-a-year checkups with a dentist, permanent teeth may display problems. Common dental concerns include teeth that do not come in when they should or in their designated place. Uneven alignment between upper and lower teeth is another issue. In fact, there are several scenarios that suggest someone may need or benefit from orthodontic treatment.
Dr Patti Panucci attended the University of Louisville School of Dentistry for four years, where she graduated with a DMD degree (May 2000) among the Top 10 in her class. Following that, she headed west to Los Angeles to complete her three-year residency at one of the top-ranked orthodontic programs in the country – the University of Southern California.
Along with her certificate in orthodontics, Dr. Panucci earned a master’s degree in craniofacial biology. During those three years, she fell in love with Southern California beach life and decided that this was where her future lay.
https://www.beachbraces.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/DSC00062.jpg33766000Dr Patricia Panuccihttps://www.beachbraces.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/logo-beach-braces-orthodontics.pngDr Patricia Panucci2016-01-20 10:00:002019-03-05 10:13:09What Are the Signs? (Braces May Be Needed)
As a parent, you want what’s best for your child, and this could mean getting their teeth straightened in order to improve their self-esteem, looks and confidence levels. Crooked teeth are incredibly common, and most people aren’t born or develop into having gorgeous straight teeth. This is where braces can come in handy, but it’s a subject that is touchy for a lot of parents because they may not know when the best age for your child to get orthodontic braces is. Knowing what age is right for them can help treatment to go by more smoothly, ensuring that their teeth stay straight for a lifetime.
Things to Consider When Getting a Child Braces
For those parents who want to know the best age for your child to get orthodontic braces, it’s all about knowing what to consider about the actual treatment that’s involved. Keep in mind that colored braces for kids will normally be put onto the teeth and stay there for about a year or two. This could vary depending on the severity of your child’s teeth and how crooked they are, but the average time a child will have braces is for about one or two years. This length of time may not seem like a huge deal for you, but it’s definitely an enormous deal for a growing kid.
Also, when the braces are actually being put on, your child will have to sit in the orthodontist’s treatment chair for a good hour or two. This may be too long for younger kids and younger teens, so this is a consideration that you’ll want to take in before you visit your local orthodontist. Colored braces for kids can make it fun and entertaining to get braces and to show them off to their friends, but the actual treatment that will be involved is something that all parents need to think about before they take their child to the orthodontist. It’s something that you want to go as smoothly as possible, and it cannot be like this when the child is either too young or still too immature to take things seriously.
Another thing that all parents need to realize is that braces have to be cared for a lot differently than normal teeth. Braces colors and brackets can shine gorgeously when they’re brushed correctly, but this can sometimes be a chore for kids who are still getting used to just being able to brush their normal teeth. If your child is not able to brush their normal teeth without a lot of fuss, there may be issues when they have braces put on. While it isn’t impossible or overly difficult to brush teeth that have braces on them, it is more difficult than just brushing ordinary teeth.
Taking good care of the braces colors and brackets is essential for optimal treatment. If the teeth aren’t cared for properly, decay and cavities can become a huge problem, and this can hinder the overall look and health of the teeth despite the fact that they are being professionally straightened. This might be something you’ll want to discuss with both your child and the orthodontist if you would like for your child to begin treatment.
Image courtesy of stockimages at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
When is the Best Age?
There really is no set age for a child to get braces, since all kids are different in terms of maturity. A 12 year old child might be mature enough to get braces on, but another 12 year old child may not even be able to brush their teeth correctly enough to where they’ll be able to take care of their new braces. Knowing your own child and how well they are able to handle going to an orthodontist or other type of doctor can also help you to figure out if treatment is even viable. In order for orthodontic treatment to be a success, you and your child need to go to the orthodontist routinely to get wires tightened and new plastic trays made up if they choose to go with an invisible brace option. If your teen continually skips their appointments, this does nothing for the overall straightening quality of their teeth.
Discussing orthodontic work with your child is the best place for you to start, since they should always have a say in their own treatment. Most kids will be eager and willing to straighten out their teeth, especially if they are dealing with severe crowding and mouth pain. This is why it is so important to sit down and have a good conversation with them about possibly going to get braces. Try to let them know what should be expected during treatment so that they feel as though they are prepared. It’s never a good idea for you to hide things from your kids and let them find out when it is too late for them to change their minds.
Visiting the Orthodontist
Once you’ve talked to your child or teen about going for braces, it’s time to visit the orthodontist to begin treatment. During the first visit, x-rays may be taken of your child’s teeth, and this will be followed up with a consultation that discusses different options available to your teen or child and what they should expect. Encourage your child to ask as many questions as they want so that they can feel prepared for the treatment that will be coming up in the near future.
If you think that your child or teen is ready for braces, you’ll want to contact Beach Braces Orthodontics to set up a consultation appointment. This will allow you and your child to see what types of braces are there for them, and how long the overall treatment may take from start to finish. Your child will be thrilled that they have gorgeous and straight teeth after the braces have come off, and they can feel a lot more confident in showing off their smile to all of their friends at school.
Beach Braces, 1730 Manhattan Beach Blvd. Suite B, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Dr Patti Panucci attended the University of Louisville School of Dentistry for four years, where she graduated with a DMD degree (May 2000) among the Top 10 in her class. Following that, she headed west to Los Angeles to complete her three-year residency at one of the top-ranked orthodontic programs in the country – the University of Southern California.
Along with her certificate in orthodontics, Dr. Panucci earned a master’s degree in craniofacial biology. During those three years, she fell in love with Southern California beach life and decided that this was where her future lay.
https://www.beachbraces.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/ID-100171423.jpg400266Dr Patricia Panuccihttps://www.beachbraces.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/logo-beach-braces-orthodontics.pngDr Patricia Panucci2014-12-30 10:01:402018-08-23 06:39:16Best Age for Your Child to Get Orthodontic Braces
Unlike traditional braces that are placed on the front of the teeth for the entire world to see, lingual braces are placed on the inside of the teeth facing the tongue. In fact, the word “lingual” means tongue. From the outside, even up-close, they are just about invisible. Sometimes referred to as “inside” braces, they are similar to traditional braces in terms of orthodontic principles and the type of hardware used.
Why do People Choose Lingual Braces?
People of both genders and all ages that have considered braces have decided on lingual braces.
Many patients that come to an orthodontist for lingual braces are public and professional figures who feel their orthodontic treatment shouldn’t be a focus when they’re in public. Because lingual braces are practically invisible, they suit their lifestyle.
Other patients, like many adolescent or adult actors or models for whom appearance is paramount, want straight teeth without showing traditional braces during treatment.
For many, it’s a matter of not sharing with the world the fact that they’re undergoing a treatment plan. Lingual braces help keep it a private matter.
Lingual braces are also a good choice for people who play sports or wind instruments.
Are There People Who are Not Good Candidates for Lingual Braces?
While there are considerations that may eliminate certain individuals from being a good candidate, the best way to determine if they’re the right choice for you is to consult with your orthodontist. There are, however, issues your orthodontist will consider.
Lingual braces are not recommended to correct excessive bite problems like an overbite.
Those with small teeth are not good candidates for the procedure.
Lingual Braces Pros and Cons
Pros
The most obvious advantage is cosmetic.
Lingual braces are an excellent option for minor anterior movements like crowding, spacing, tipping, rotation, midline discrepancy and intrusion/extrusion.
Even if the minor discoloration that sometimes occurs with braces happens, it’s on the inside where it can’t be seen.
They’re less visible than clear plastic, removable tooth aligners.
Lingual braces allow the Orthodontist more control than with removable aligners, and patient compliance is a non-issue.
Your braces will be custom fabricated just for you, compared to conventional braces that often use stock parts.
Cons
Plaque buildup can become a problem.
Overall time for the treatment is sometimes longer than for traditional braces, and office appointments can be longer too.
Because the brackets are custom-made, lingual braces cost more than traditional braces.
There is an adjustment period because the placement behind the teeth affects the tongue. Swallowing and even speaking takes some getting used to.
It’s important to keep them clean, but it can be difficult.
You’ve had a consultation with your orthodontist. You’ve had your exam and x-rays, and you’ve decided to get lingual braces. Through advanced robotic wire bending technology and the use of CAD/CAM, your braces will be custom fabricated.
It’s a pretty involved process.
Your Orthodontist Takes Impressions of Your Teeth
The impressions of your upper and lower teeth will be extremely detailed and accurate. The brackets and wires are made at the dental laboratory. They also outline the final desired alignment outcome.
Next, the Fabrication Process Begins
Using the impressions from your orthodontist, the lab will make casts.
Based on instructions from your orthodontist, the lab creates a mockup, or “setup,” of your teeth in perfect alignment.
The hardware is created and the setup is scanned into a computer.
The Brackets are Returned to Your Orthodontist
Your newly fabricated brackets are imbedded into an applicator tray that fits over your teeth. This process holds them in place during the bonding procedure.
But, you’re not done yet. Your hardware is left with your orthodontist for the final fabrication process.
Be prepared to wait a few weeks before your next appointment to have them attached to your teeth.
Now would be a good time to take a “before” picture for your before and after braces comparison when your treatment is finished.
Attaching the Braces
First, the surface of your teeth will be prepared so the bonding will properly adhere.
Your orthodontist will apply the cement, or bonding agent, to the brackets.
The applicator tray will be pressed into place over your teeth until the cement has cured, ensuring precise alignment.
When the cement has set and the applicator tray has been removed, your brackets will remain in place.
Finally, the pre-bent arch wire prepared by the laboratory can be installed.
You’ll be back in the office every few weeks to have the brackets tightened to ensure your teeth are being straightened according to plan.
How Much do They Cost?
Because of the sophisticated technology and robotics used to create custom fabricated braces, lingual braces generally cost more than other options, like traditional, ceramic and removable aligners. Examine the lingual braces pros and cons. Ask yourself just how important the cosmetic advantage is in your daily life. Do your research. If you decide that it’s worth a little more, then it’s worth a little more.
How do Orthodontists Feel About Them?
The use of lingual braces is more common in other part of the world than in the U.S.
Not all orthodontists who have already completed educational requirements beyond those of a dentist have an interest in additional specialized training.
Providing treatment presents some difficulties for the orthodontist related to visibility and access.
Orthodontists that have completed the specialized training, however, can offer their patients the additional option of lingual braces, making their practice more patient-friendly.
Don’t Forget to Take Your Before and After Braces Pictures
It’s easy to take that beautiful new smile for granted. Look at the before picture once in a while and you’ll be reassured it was worth it.
If you Live in Manhattan Beach, CA, You’re in Luck
Beach Braces Orthodontics, located in Manhattan Beach, specializes in orthodontics for adults, teens and children and would be happy to consult with you regarding all the options available to achieve your perfect smile.
Beach Braces, 220 N. Aviation Blvd. Suite A Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Dr Patti Panucci attended the University of Louisville School of Dentistry for four years, where she graduated with a DMD degree (May 2000) among the Top 10 in her class. Following that, she headed west to Los Angeles to complete her three-year residency at one of the top-ranked orthodontic programs in the country – the University of Southern California.
Along with her certificate in orthodontics, Dr. Panucci earned a master’s degree in craniofacial biology. During those three years, she fell in love with Southern California beach life and decided that this was where her future lay.
Are you interested to try braces but worried about how long it will take? The typical length of time prescribed for orthodontics is usually more than two years but that is not the case anymore. New technology such as self-ligating braces has immensely speeded up the process. Here is a guide to understanding how self-ligating braces work.
Self-ligating braces sometimes referred to as speed braces remove the need for the elastic or metal tie usually found on traditional braces. Instead, self-ligating hardware keeps the wire attached to the bracket through a removable metal piece. This change in design helps braces work more efficiently and comfortably.
Compared to traditional braces, self-ligating braces require 40% less orthodontist appointments. Without bands, there is less resistance, so your teeth can move freely. While this helps the braces move faster, it also makes them more comfortable. You don’t have to worry about suffering years of intense pain from traditional braces.
If you or someone you know is considering braces, worrying about needing them for an extended period of time is no longer valid. Self-ligating braces have speeded up the process enough to make them worth anyone’s time.
Tips for Keeping Your Teeth Clean With Braces
You’ve been brushing your teeth your whole life. You know how it’s done, and you know how important it is. So what is the big deal with braces? Just keep doing what you’re doing, right? Wrong! Braces change everything and dental hygiene is more important than ever. Here are some tips to keeping your teeth clean with braces:
Brush After Every Meal
That’s right – every meal. That means no matter where you are or what you’re doing, you need to make time to brush after you eat. Otherwise, food can get stuck between the wires and sit there all day. This not only looks bad, but can hurt your teeth and stink up your breath.
Make a “To Go” Kit
Since brushing after eating is so important, make a to-go kit so you can brush wherever you eat. This should include a travel toothbrush, travel toothpaste and a small brush to get in between the wires. When that piece of spinach is stuck at school, you’ll be happy you did!
Flossing is difficult especially with braces, but it’s important. Food has a harder time falling out of your teeth so you need to work to get it all out. You only need to floss once a day and you can find special tools for threading the floss through your teeth. Ask your orthodontist about the best way to floss.
Use these tips to keep your teeth clean during braces. If you have any questions or think it’s time for you to get your braces, do not hesitate to ask an orthodontic specialist in Manhattan Beach!
Are Braces a Good Idea as an Adult?
When we picture orthodontist patients, we typically think of teenagers, but this isn’t entirely accurate. About 25% of all orthodontist patients are over the age of eighteen. It’s never really too late to get braces, but is it right for you?
There are two main reasons why adults would choose to wear braces: to reduce the risk for future problems and to change the look of their teeth.
As we age, problems can develop from crooked teeth and jaw. These problems include tooth decay, headache, earache, and trouble with normal mouth functions such as chewing or speaking. Talk to your orthodontist, and if they think you may be at risk for future problems, it may be time to talk about braces.
If you are conscious about your teeth, then braces are definitely a good idea for you! There’s no reason to continue feeling uncomfortable. Invisalign might be a good idea because you can straighten your teeth without the metal brackets.
Guide to Avoiding Problem Foods With Braces
Braces completely change the way you eat and what you eat. For awhile, you’ll have to say goodbye to some sweets and treats to earn that fabulous smile. Here is a guide of foods to avoid.
Sticky Foods
Sticky foods such as caramel and taffy are a recipe for disaster. They can stick to your brackets and pull them off. Avoid anything sticky while wearing braces.
Hard Foods
Hard candies, nuts, or other crunchy foods can knock your brackets right off. Unless you want an emergency trip to the orthodontist, stay with soft, chewy foods until the braces come off
Foods You Bite Into
This category actually applies more to fruits and vegetables than anything else. Don’t ever bite into an apple, carrot, celery or anything else big, hard, and crunchy. Instead, cut up your snack. Eat corn off the cob and choose apple bites instead of the whole apple. Otherwise you may have found some brackets lodged in your fruit.
Remember, that these dietary restrictions are only temporary. Eating foods you shouldn’t can only make you wear braces for a longer period.
What is the average cost of braces?
Braces are known for being overly expensive. With so many options in orthodontics now, you have more choices for how much you will pay. Here is to give you an idea about the cost of braces:
Metal Braces
The cost of traditional metal braces depends on the patient’s condition. This is typically the least expensive option, but often takes the longest.
Invisalign
Invisalign is comparable to traditional braces. They may be a little more expensive, but you can’t see them so it might feel worth the extra cost.
Self-Ligating Braces
Self-Ligating braces usually cost more than traditional braces, but move faster so you don’t have to wear them longer. You have to decide if it’s worth the extra cost.
Health Insurance
Check with your health and dental insurance to see if they will help with the cost of braces. Unlike other cosmetic dentistry like whitening, braces are usually deemed “medically necessary” and will be covered by insurance.
The average cost of braces depends on the severity of your orthodontic needs. If you want to figure out a more accurate cost for you or your family, give Beach Braces a call! Beach Braces has the right team of orthodontic specialist in Manhattan Beach to help you achieve that beautiful smile.
Beach Braces, 1730 Manhattan Beach Blvd. Suite B, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Dr Patti Panucci attended the University of Louisville School of Dentistry for four years, where she graduated with a DMD degree (May 2000) among the Top 10 in her class. Following that, she headed west to Los Angeles to complete her three-year residency at one of the top-ranked orthodontic programs in the country – the University of Southern California.
Along with her certificate in orthodontics, Dr. Panucci earned a master’s degree in craniofacial biology. During those three years, she fell in love with Southern California beach life and decided that this was where her future lay.
