Besides Straight Teeth, What are the Benefits of Braces?

May 17th, 2013

Everyone wants a naturally aligned and beautiful smile, and it is no secret that orthodontic braces from Tinsworth Orthodontics can help deliver one. However, there are greater benefits to wearing braces than just having straight teeth. You’ll gain many oral health benefits in addition to the cosmetic ones.

Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

Crooked or crowded teeth may overlap each other and create tight spaces in between. These can make it very difficult to brush and floss effectively, allowing bacteria and plaque to build up, and eventually leading to tooth decay and gum disease. With orthodontic treatment, your teeth will become properly aligned and spaced, which allows for more effective brushing.

Difficulties with Speech

Your teeth play an essential role in speech. When they are out of line or lean too far forward or backward, this can affect your speaking patterns, and possibly cause embarrassment and frustration. Braces can readjust the positioning of the teeth to allow for clearer, more professional speech.

Bone Erosion

Bone and gum tissues begin to erode when there are no teeth to support. This is also true for poorly aligned teeth that leave gaps and spaces or place too much pressure on the jawbone due to a bad bite. With braces, the bones and tissues are less likely to erode and can continue to support the teeth in their new alignment.

Digestion

Your teeth play an important role in digestion. Before food ever enters your stomach, it has been partially digested by the teeth. If teeth are severely out of line, however, they may not play their role in breaking down food as effectively as they should. With braces, your teeth will be straightened into optimal alignment for eating and chewing.

Dr. Stephen Tinsworth and staff will be happy to answer any of your questions about your orthodontic treatment. Visit us in Bradenton, FL today!

What helps you relax at our office?

May 14th, 2013

Dr. Stephen Tinsworth and our team understand not everyone is always thrilled about visiting their orthodontist. But at Tinsworth Orthodontics, we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. Today, we’d like to know: What is it about our Bradenton, FL office that makes you comfortable or puts you or your child at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our courteous staff? Is it something about Dr. Stephen Tinsworth?

Let us know by posting below or on our Facebook page! Or tell us at your next adjustment appointment!

May is National Teen Self-Esteem Month!

May 3rd, 2013

At Tinsworth Orthodontics, we know image is everything, especially for today’s teenagers. At an age when image is so important, the thought of having braces may intensify the already-delicate confidence of today’s teens. Well, May is National Teen Self-Esteem Month, and during this time, parents are encouraged to act as positive role models, help stop negative self-images, and improve confidence and security among teenagers.

Dr. Stephen Tinsworth and our team will tell you one of the great ways to improve your confidence is to improve your smile. And that begins with a consultation at Tinsworth Orthodontics. After all, what better time to avoid having crooked teeth in your adulthood than coming in for a consultation with Dr. Stephen Tinsworth?

We are happy to treat today’s image-conscious teens, and invite you to give us a call to schedule an initial consultation at our convenient Bradenton, FL office!

How to Protect Your Braces During Sports Activities

April 26th, 2013

Proper mouth protection is recommended by Tinsworth Orthodontics when you participate in any sports activities. If you wear braces, this protection becomes essential. Injuries to your mouth can not only damage your teeth, but your braces could break and cut open your lip.

Full Facial Guards

Full facial guards are often used in football and offer protection to your mouth from most injuries. Even with full facial protection, you may benefit from additional mouth protection. While your face is protected from outside impact, you could still suffer from cuts or damage to your braces from internal impact.

Mouthguards

Mouthguards referred to as boil-and-bites can be purchased at many retail stores. As the name implies, these guards are boiled in water to heat and soften the material. While the guard is still warm, you place it in your mouth and bite down gently. This causes the guard to form to the shape of your mouth. Unfortunately, these guards do not necessarily offer the best protection or fit.

Dr. Stephen Tinsworth can make custom mouthguards specifically for you. The custom fitting ensures you of better protection and a comfortable fit. Custom guards are also built in layers for durability. The American Dental Association recommends custom guards for orthodontic patients. Your mouthguard will be designed to provide proper protection for both your teeth and your braces.

No matter what type of sport you participate in, a mouthguard can protect your braces. Even an activity as seemingly harmless as table tennis can result in a contact injury. The Academy for Sports Dentistry states that a properly fitted mouthguard should not interfere with any athletic activity.

Tinsworth Orthodontics will provide you with properly-fitting mouth protection to ensure the safety of your braces and your teeth. We will be glad to answer any questions you have so you can continue the activities you enjoy with little concern. If you do suffer any injuries to your mouth or braces during sporting activities, please contact us immediately. The sooner we can care for your mouth, the better the results will be.