The world of braces has changed dramatically over the years. The word braces used to evoke feelings of dread as people pictured bulky metal and headgear. Now, there are many more options making braces less uncomfortable and less obvious. The age that many people wear braces is also changing. While braces are typically seen on school-aged children, more and more adults are getting braces. If you missed the opportunity for braces as a child, or your teeth have shifted since then, there are several reasons you should consider braces as an adult.

1.    Invisalign is an Option

Unlike when you were an adolescent, there are many more options to straighten your teeth. Clear aligners such as Invisalign will still give you the impact of traditional braces without the discomfort or visibility of metal (or colorful rubber bands). At Atkins & Anderson, DDS, we are thrilled to offer Invisalign to our patients. Schedule an appointment with us today to discover if Invisalign is right for you.

2.    Improve Your Overall Oral Health

Braces do more than simply straighten your teeth. Braces reduce discomfort in your jaw and correct an overbite or underbite. Misalignment of your teeth can lead to more serious dental conditions causing persistent pain, sleep disruptions, and difficulty eating. Jaw-related issues such as TMJ, overcrowded teeth, or a history of grinding your teeth can be reduced with the help of braces. Sometimes the position of the teeth makes it difficult to brush or floss effectively which can lead to tooth decay and cavities. Braces are a simple solution to a host of dental problems.

3.    Smile with Confidence

Life is too short to be self-conscious. We want you to love your smile. Wearing braces for a short time is worth it if the result gives you more confidence. We want you to be successful in both your personal and professional life. Having a smile you’re proud of is a great step toward putting yourself out there and achieving your goals.

4.    It’s Worth the Investment

Braces often cost between $5,000 and $8,000. Check with your insurance company to see if you have orthodontics coverage. If braces are needed for reasons beyond cosmetics, dental insurance may help cover the costs. While braces are a financial investment, they can positively impact your life and protect your mouth from various dental issues. If you’re concerned about the cost of braces, talk to our front office about payment plans. Our team at Atkins & Anderson will show you the best options for braces that meet your oral needs as well as your budget.

If you have questions about braces or want to see if Invisalign is right for you, schedule an appointment with us at Atkins & Anderson, DDS, today!

After months or years of wearing braces, your smile is finally picture-perfect. You’ve invested a lot of time and money to make your teeth straight, and it was worth it–you love your reflection! But without wearing a retainer, you risk watching your teeth shift back into their pre-braces location. Many orthodontists recommend a removable retainer for the top teeth and a fixed or permanent retainer for the lower teeth. Because of their convenience, permanent retainers are a popular choice. We’ll review everything you need to know about fixed retainers to make the best choice for your teeth.

What is a Permanent Retainer?

A fixed or permanent retainer is glued to the back surfaces of your teeth to effectively restrict the movement of your teeth after your braces are removed. Permanent retainers are often preferred over removable retainers because you do not have to take them out and replace them throughout the day. Permanent retainers ensure that your teeth maintain a new, aligned position that not only enhances your smile, but also corrects spacing or crowding problems. 

Four Cons to a Permanent Retainer

In some cases, a permanent retainer indicates that your orthodontic issue is unresolved even after your braces are removed. If the cause of misalignment is correctly addressed, there should be no need for a permanent retainer. While they are convenient, there are some drawbacks to a fixed retainer:

• Diminished Proprioception: Each individual tooth was created to function independently, moving mildly in its respective socket. A permanent retainer bonds multiple teeth together, preventing individual movement and diminishing the proprioceptive property of your teeth.
• Early Bone Loss: Did you know that your teeth subtly move when you chew or clench your teeth? Permanent retainers restrict normal tooth mobility, which leads to a decreased blood supply to the periodontal ligament. Over time, this causes young, healthy people to experience bone loss around the teeth that are secured to a fixed retainer.
• Difficulty in Maintaining Oral Hygiene: It’s not easy to correctly and thoroughly brush and floss your teeth with a metal wire glued to the surface. Flossing around the retainer and in between your teeth requires extra time, patience, and effort. A floss threader is recommended for patients with a permanent retainer to effectively clean your teeth. Regular dental visits are also necessary to protect your teeth from plaque and tartar buildup around the glue and wire of your permanent retainer.
• Replacement Expense: If a fixed or bonded retainer breaks or becomes detached from your teeth, expect to pay an extra fee. The detached end can also hurt your tongue or gums if it’s not addressed quickly.

Four Pros to a Permanent Retainer

Despite the drawbacks, there are several reasons a permanent retainer is a helpful tool:

• Convenience: There’s no need to take your retainer out to eat, drink, give a presentation, or take a picture if you have a permanent retainer. Removable retainers must be worn for a certain number of hours every day, but you won’t have to pay attention to those details if you have a permanent retainer.
• No Speech Interference: There’s no issue with your speech when you have a permanent retainer. In most cases, your speech will be affected if you choose to wear a removable retainer.
• Unnoticeable: With a fixed retainer, you can keep your smile straight without the distraction from wires.
• Reliable: Once a permanent retainer is in, you don’t have to keep track of it. There’s no risk of losing it, which makes it an easy choice for kids and teenagers.

Tips to Effectively Clean Your Permanent Retainer

It will take some time to get used to cleaning your teeth with your permanent retainer, but after a few days of practice, it will become second nature and should not impair your oral hygiene.

• Continue Brushing Regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes. Make sure the bristles of your toothbrush get around the glue and in between the wire to thoroughly clean the surface of every tooth. You may consider an electric or sonic toothbrush.
• Keep Flossing: Just because it’s a bit more tedious, don’t skip out on flossing your teeth. You may need to use a threader to help get the floss through the gaps in your teeth along the wire. Be gentle as you maneuver the floss on the sides of your teeth so that you don’t harm your gums.
• Schedule a Cleaning: Regular cleanings at your dentist’s office will ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy, especially in the hard-to-reach places associated with your permanent retainer. A dental hygienist can effectively brush, floss, and remove plaque that forms around the bonding. They can also give you more tips and training on how to take care of your teeth and permanent retainer.

To schedule a cleaning and properly maintain your permanent retainer, make an appointment at Atkins and Anderson Dentistry, today.

Your smile is an important part of who you are. It’s how you express joy and greet others. It’s how you encourage your child when he looks for you in the stands during his basketball game. At Atkins and Anderson Dentistry, we want you to love your smile and show it off as often as possible. If you have concerns or are embarrassed about your teeth, we offer many cosmetic dental services to correct various minor issues. It’s time to show off your smile, not hide it!

Cosmetic Service for a Brighter Smile:

Teeth Whitening System

Maybe you’ve tried at-home teeth whitening systems before, but at Anderson & Atkins, we trust Opalescence to safely and effectively brighten your smile. This is a dentist-supervised whitening system that is customized to fit your teeth. It includes prescription-strength whitening gel and clear instructions that will give you a whiter smile in less than a month. Compared to over-the-counter tooth whitening kits, Opalescence is effective and long-lasting.

Cosmetic Service for Crooked Teeth:

Invisalign

Invisalign is a system of clear aligners that move your teeth into their correct position. Because the aligners are nearly invisible, you may feel more comfortable and confident during the process than if you were wearing traditional braces. Even if you had braces as a child and your teeth have shifted, Invisalign can redefine your smile. Schedule an appointment with us at Anderson & Atkins to determine if Invisalign is right for you.

Cosmetic Services for Broken, Chipped, or Missing Teeth:

Porcelain Crowns

If you have experienced natural wear and tear over the years, your dentist may encourage putting in a crown. At Anderson & Atkins, we use a porcelain, tooth-like crown that can restore a decayed tooth, a broken or chipped tooth, and even correct gaps in your teeth. The crown is delicately matched to the color of your other teeth, so no one but you will know it’s there.

Porcelain Bridges

To remedy missing teeth, a porcelain bridge can be anchored to your existing teeth on either side of the missing teeth. With precise color-matching, your smile will look flawless.

Tooth-Colored Fillings

Did you have a cavity as a child and receive a silver filling? Advancements in dentistry have led to a tooth-colored filling to ensure a brighter smile. The tooth-colored material is bonded to the tooth for a stronger restoration.

Cosmetic Service to Remedy Any Issues:

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers give you the straighter, brilliant smile you’ve dreamed of! If you want to correct chipped or crooked teeth, gaps in your teeth, or stained teeth, veneers may be the solution. This is a more costly procedure, but it produces a dramatic difference that enhances your appearance in a lasting way.

Composite Bonding

To correct chipped, broken, discolored, or stained teeth, composite bonding can be applied. It is a tooth-colored material that adheres to the surface of your tooth so you can confidently smile again. Composite bonding is less expensive than porcelain veneers. However, the material does not last as long. Over time, the bonding can become stained from consuming certain food and beverages.

If you’re ready to make an investment in your smile, contact Atkins and Anderson Dentistry today. We’ll go over your options and customize a plan that meets your needs aesthetically and financially.

Sports are back! We know after the long hiatus due to COVID-19, your kids are glad to be playing again. However, it’s important to take precautions to avoid unnecessary injuries. Various reports note that sports-related injuries account for nearly 36% of unintentional injuries to children and teenagers. The American Dental Association (ADA) states that of those injuries, 10-20% are facial trauma. Dental injuries are the most common type of facial trauma—and the most preventable—according to The National Youth Sports Foundation for Safety. Athletes who do not wear mouthguards are 60 times more likely to experience dental injuries. If your child plays contact sports, he or she needs a mouthguard that fits correctly. Anderson and Atkins Dentistry is here to help.

Who needs a mouthguard?

Athletes need to wear a mouthguard when they play a sport where impact, contact, or collision is likely to happen. According to the ADA, those who play the following sports should wear a custom mouthguard: football, basketball, boxing, hockey, lacrosse, wrestling, martial arts, racquetball, skateboarding, soccer, water polo, acrobats, gymnastics, skiing, volleyball, and weightlifting. Some experts recommend that baseball and softball infielders wear a mouthguard as well. All are in agreement that athletes should wear a correctly fitting mouthguard during practices and competition. Contact sports put players at risk for breaking or knocking out their front teeth or damaging the soft tissue in their gums, lips, cheeks, and tongue. This is why wearing a mouthguard is important.

How do you choose a mouthguard?

There are three different kinds of mouthguards:

1. Stock

Stock mouthguards are pre-formed and can be purchased at a sports retail store. While they provide some form of protection, they are often bulky and uncomfortable. Some athletes find that this cheaper option makes it difficult to speak and breathe normally.

2. Boil-and-bite

These mouthguards come pre-formed from many athletic stores, but they are more comfortable and tend to fit better than the stock guards. Boil-and-bite mouthguards can be softened in boiling water. Once they are soft and malleable, the athlete can place the guard over their teeth and adjust the shape to fit their mouth.

3. Custom-made

At Anderson and Atkins, DDS, we want to give our patients a mouthguard that is not only comfortable but provides the best protection. This is why we recommend a custom-made mouthguard. With this option, your child will receive an individually designed mouthguard made from a mold of their teeth. A custom-fit mouthguard is durable, comfortable, and does not hinder speech or breathing.

How do you take care of a mouthguard?

Taking care of a mouthguard is crucial. Your child will need to rinse their mouthguard before each use and brush it using toothpaste and a toothbrush after wearing it. We encourage our patients to wash their mouthguards in cool, soapy water on a regular basis and allow it to dry completely before storing. Store the mouthguard in a ventilated container that will keep the mouthguard dry and protect it from bacteria. Replace the mouthguard immediately if it tears, breaks, or does not fit correctly. Encourage your child to bring their mouthguard to routine dental visits. Someone on our team will double-check the fit and condition of the mouthguard. Taking care of a custom-fit mouthguard will ensure it lasts a long time.

If your child plays a sport in Bryan-College Station that requires a mouthguard, contact Anderson and Atkins Dentistry and set up an appointment for a custom-fit mouthguard.  We’ll help you protect your child’s teeth and preserve their precious smile!

At Anderson and Atkins, DDS, we want to give our Bryan-College Station patients a comfortable, positive dental experience. Skilled dentists and technicians, paired with advanced dental technology, allow us to make your visit efficient and enjoyable. We see ourselves as a member of your team working to meet your dental goals, which is why we use an intraoral camera to bring you along in our process.

What is an Intraoral Camera?

We use the iTero Intraoral Scanner, an intraoral camera that displays the inside of your mouth onto a screen. It allows your dentist to walk you through a procedure or proposed treatment. This cutting-edge technology puts you and your dentist on the same team, giving you a greater understanding as to what your dentist sees when it comes to your oral health. The iTero Scanner enables your dentist to take photographs of your entire mouth quickly and easily. You can immediately see an accurate rendering of your teeth and your dentist can clearly explain any problem areas and the best course of treatment.

Check out this video to see how the iTero Intraoral Scanner works.

iTero and Invisalign

The iTero Scanner is the technology we use to provide free Invisalign consultations. Say goodbye to uncomfortable impressions. With the iTero Scanner, we can get a clear picture of your teeth alignment without traditional impressions. We receive accurate information, and you have a comfortable visit. In fact, Invisalign cases that began with an iTero scan experienced seven times fewer fit issues. iTero technology even provides a simulation of what your smile will look like once you complete Invisalign treatment. iTero not only gives you a more pleasant experience but the confidence that the treatment will be effective.

If you want to know whether or not Invisalign is right for you, schedule a free consultation today. Trust that Anderson and Atkins Dentistry uses effective techniques that will help you reach your dental goals in the most comfortable way possible. Contact our office to schedule your next dental appointment.

You use your molars the most out of all your teeth because they help you chew your favorite foods. However, they are not that easy to reach. This makes brushing and flossing effectively difficult. You may take great care of your teeth but are still at risk for cavities and tooth decay if your oral hygiene habits prove unproductive on your molars. Rather than surrendering to the pain and problems caused by decay, you can take an extra step in protecting your teeth with sealants.

What is a Sealant?

A sealant is a thin, protective covering for the chewing surface of your teeth. It is usually made of plastic or a dental material that wraps around your molars. A sealant’s job is to keep food particles and bacteria from settling in the nooks and crannies of your back teeth. When food particles do settle, cavity-causing bacteria that is already in your mouth develops into acid and creates holes in your teeth (aka cavities). But sealants minimize the risk of cavities and decay by 80%.

Who are Sealants For?

Anyone can benefit from a sealant, no matter your age. Adults are just as prone to cavities as children. But the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends parents consider sealants for their children when their permanent molars come in. The CDC says, “school-age children without sealants have almost three times more cavities than children with sealants.” Molars will break through in most children at the age of 12. The sooner you apply sealants, the greater your chances of preventing cavities and decay. While sealants are often applied to teeth before cavities form, it is possible to apply a sealant over areas that show early signs of decay in an attempt to prevent further damage.

How are Sealants Applied?

During your dental visit, your dentist will first clean and dry the tooth receiving a sealant. Next, an acidic gel will cover your tooth to create a strong bond between your tooth and the sealant. Then, your dentist will rinse off the gel, dry your tooth, and apply the sealant along the grooves of your molar. A blue light will be used to harden the sealant as the final step. The process is fast and painless. Sealants are generally clear, so at every dental visit, your dentist can make sure the sealant is doing its job and notice if any cracks forming in the sealant. Every few years, your dentist may need to reapply the sealant.

Are Sealants Covered Under Insurance?

In some cases, insurance will fully cover the application of sealants. Contact your dental insurance company to get further clarity, or contact our office for insurance questions. We can give you more information on the types of insurance accepted at Anderson & Atkins, DDS, discuss payment options, and double-check your coverage.

If you are prone to cavities, you and your children may benefit from the application of sealants. Schedule an appointment with us at Anderson & Atkins Dentistry and we’ll help you determine whether or not sealants are right for you. Every staff member of our family practice will make sure you and your children feel at ease in our office. We want you to walk away from every visit confident in your dental decisions.

Mouthguards are an essential part of your uniform if you play contact sports such as football, basketball, lacrosse, or boxing. When you participate in these activities, your front teeth are at risk of breaking or getting knocked out. The soft tissue in your gums, lips, cheeks, and tongue are also at risk of injury if a mouthguard is not worn. They are also necessary if you grind your teeth while sleeping. In fact, nearly 20% of adults and one-third of children in America have bruxism—a condition which causes teeth grinding and jaw clenching. This can cause long term damage to your teeth and lead to headaches and jaw pain. If you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night, you need a mouthguard that’s right for you.

What Kind of Mouthguard Do I Need?

There are three kinds of mouthguards: stock, boil-and-bite, and custom-made. Stock mouthguards are the cheapest of the three options because they come pre-formed and ready to go. However, they are often bulky, uncomfortable, and are known to make speaking and breathing difficult. Boil-and-bite can be found at most athletic stores. These guards are also pre-formed but can be softened in boiling water. Once it is soft, you can put the guard over your top teeth and adjust the shape to fit comfortably in your mouth. At Anderson and Atkins, DDS, we recommend the custom-fit mouthguard. These guards are individually designed from a mold of your teeth. The custom-made mouthguard will provide the most comfortable fit and the best protection. In most cases, a mouthguard is only needed for your top teeth. Dr. Thomas Long, the team dentist for the Carolina Hurricanes professional hockey team and private practice dentist says, “your top teeth take the brunt of the trauma because they stick out more while your bottom teeth are a little more protected because they are further back.” If made correctly, your mouthguard will be durable without hindering your speech or breathing.

How Do I Take Care of a Mouthguard?

You will need to rinse your mouthguard before each use and brush it with toothpaste and a toothbrush after it’s worn. On a regular basis, clean your mouthguard in cool, soapy water and then rinse it completely before drying. Storing your mouthguard correctly is just as important as cleaning it regularly. Store it in a sturdy container that is ventilated. This not only keeps the guard dry, but it also prevents bacteria from growing. Keep your mouthguard away from hot temperatures either in direct sunlight or hot water. Check the guard for signs of wear and replace it immediately if it is torn, broken, or ill-fitting. Both children and adults are encouraged to bring their mouthguard to their dental visits. During your office visit, your dentist can make sure the guard is in good condition, and still fitting properly. Because children and adolescents are constantly growing, their mouth is changing shape which requires more frequent adjustments to the size and shape of their mouthguard. Your mouthguard will last for a long time if you take care of it properly.

If you have questions about whether or not you or your child need a mouthguard, contact us at Anderson and Atkins Dentistry at (979) 846-1813. Your teeth are too important to overlook this simple solution! Set up an appointment today for your custom-fit mouthguard. You can also explore our website for more information about our general dental services and client reviews.

The idea of “same-day” dentures may be appealing to you. But it’s not quite as simple as the name makes it out to be. Let us show you the details behind “same-day” dentures so you know exactly what to expect. At Anderson & Atkins, DDS we want you to be informed and confident when it comes to making decisions about your teeth. Find out if “same-day”, or more commonly known as immediate, dentures is the best course of treatment for you.

What You Don’t Hear About “Same-Day” Dentures

“Same-day” dentures sounds easy, right? One appointment, new teeth, you’re good to go. But the name is misleading. Dr. Atkins explains, “In reality, you have a few appointments before you get teeth pulled to measure for the denture. Then appointments after you get the denture for adjustments. But you never hear about those until you come in, of course.” We don’t want you to feel misled. We want you to know that there will be multiple appointments before and after the surgery. This is important if you want the fit to be secure and the color of the teeth to be correct.

All in all, the idea behind “same-day” dentures is that your teeth will be removed and new teeth inserted on the same day. Dr. Atkins assures you, “We won’t let people walk out without teeth.”

The Process of “Same-Day” Dentures

Your first several appointments will include the fabrication phase. This phase includes an impression of the teeth and jaw, bite records, and selecting the tooth color. If you plan to receive a full set of dentures, your back teeth with be extracted six to eight weeks prior to fabrication. When the back teeth are removed and the gums are fully healed before the remainder of your teeth are removed, the dentures are more likely to fit correctly. After the back teeth are removed and fabrication is complete, your surgery is scheduled to remove your remaining teeth and insert the denture. Initially, your gums will be swollen, so a follow-up appointment is required to adjust the fit of the dentures after the swelling subsides. In fact, it may take up to six months after you receive the denture before it can be finalized.

The Pros and Cons to “Same-Day” Dentures

The most obvious “pro” of immediate dentures is the fact that you always have teeth. Traditional denture insertion occurs at least six weeks after the teeth are extracted. This allows the gums to heal before the denture is inserted and may reduce the need for size adjustments. However, six weeks is a long time to go without teeth. Immediate dentures prevent you from having to change your dietary habits, face insecurity as you go about your daily routine, or learn how to talk without teeth. Immediate dentures also help to protect your gums after teeth extraction. On the flip side, immediate dentures are more expensive than traditional dentures. And, as we mentioned early, immediate dentures will require sizing adjustments as the gums heal.

Immediate dentures are not for everyone. Various health conditions or oral problems could prevent you from being eligible for this procedure. But for those who see that the pros outweigh the cons, contact us at Anderson & Atkins, DDS. Immediate dentures may be the right procedure for you. If you’re interested in learning more, call us at (979) 846-1813.

 

Sources:

https://www.stgeorgesmiles.com/blog/2018/07/30/what-are-same-day-dentures/

https://www.dentistry.uiowa.edu/patient-care-immediate-dentures