Family Smiling

How Orthodontics Can Improve Sleep and Reduce Snoring

/0 Comments/in /by

At Richards & Associates Orthodontics, we employ orthodontic treatment to help our patients enjoy straighter teeth and better oral health. But did you know that certainorthodontic treatments in Cape Coral, FL can also help with improving the quality of sleep you get if you struggle with things like snoring? Here’s how.

Correcting Jaw Alignment for Better Breathing

If your jaw is misaligned jaw or your bite doesn’t line up the way Nature intended, your airway might be restricted. That’s not good, and it can make it harder to breathe properly, especially when you’re trying to sleep. What often happens is, when the lower jaw is set too far back, it can cause the tongue to fall toward the throat, partially blocking the airway and leading to snoring or even sleep apnea.

Expanding the Palate to Reduce Airway Obstruction

In some cases, a narrow upper jaw can limit the amount of space in the airway, making breathing more difficult at night.Palatal expanders in Cape Coral, FL, are commonly used in children and teens but they can also be beneficial for adults who struggle with sleep problems due to snoring, widening the upper jaw and creating more room for proper airflow. This can often reduce snoring and may even help with mild cases of sleep apnea.

Better Tooth Positioning for Optimal Jaw Function

Crowded or misaligned teeth can lead to improper tongue posture and jaw positioning, contributing to nighttime breathing difficulties. Orthodontic treatment can help create a balanced bite, allowing the tongue to rest properly in the mouth and reducing airway blockages.

If you or a loved one struggles with snoring or disrupted sleep, an orthodontic evaluation might be worth considering. By addressing structural issues in the mouth and jaw, orthodontics can contribute to better breathing, more restful sleep and improved overall health.

Tips to Keep Nighttime Appliance From Bending or Breaking

/0 Comments/in /by

You might need to wear a nighttime appliance, either as part of your primary orthodontic treatment in Fort Myers, FL, or after braces have come off, so your teeth can stabilize in their new position. These appliances are made well, but they aren’t impervious to damage. Here’s how to take care of them.

Regularly Check for Wear and Tear

Over time, even well-maintained appliances can develop small cracks or weak spots. Many nighttime appliances have some metal parts. What can happen is called metal fatigue. This is where a bend causes the metal to eventually snap. What you can do is just take a good look at it regularly. You’re looking for any signs of damage, and if you notice any bending or discomfort, go ahead and schedule an appointment with your orthodontist in Fort Myers, FL to have them take a look at it.

Store It Properly

Don’t be leaving your appliance unprotected on a nightstand or bathroom counter, because you don’t know what could happen to it. Just tuck it into its storage container when you aren’t using it. Then put the storage container in a drawer—not on a countertop—so there’s no way it can accidentally get knocked off the counter or desk. Also, avoid placing it near heat sources, such as radiators or direct sunlight, as excessive heat can warp any plastic that’s on it.

Handle With Care

When inserting or removing your appliance, use gentle, even pressure rather than forcefully pulling or twisting it. Many retainers and night guards are made from flexible material, but excessive bending can weaken their structure over time. Avoid clicking or playing with the appliance using your tongue, as this can also cause warping or fractures.

With proper care, your nighttime appliance can remain in excellent condition, helping to maintain your healthy smile for years to come.

When to Alert Your Orthodontist With Braces Problems

/0 Comments/in , /by

Wearing braces isn’t without its snafus. It’s important to communicate with your orthodontist in Cape Coral, FL about your experience. Granted, there’s a certain amount of discomfort associated with wearing traditional braces. At the same time, wearing braces shouldn’t be painful. In fact, at some point, many patients forget they have braces on, especially when they have a high quality orthodontist. If you’re having issues, please let us know. Here are some times when you should alert your orthodontist with braces problems.

A Tooth Feels Loose

None of your teeth should “jiggle” or feel loose in any way while wearing braces. If one does, contact your orthodontist right away so it can be looked at.

A Wire End is Poking Your Gums or Inner Lips

Wire ends are meant to be tucked away. They shouldn’t cause abrasions. If one does poke out, your orthodontist can easily fix it when you come in for an appointment.

It’s Hard to Eat or Speak

If your braces make it hard to eat or speak, something might be wrong with their fit or placement. Contact your orthodontist to address the issue and ensure your braces are working as they should.

They Accidentally Got Damaged

Sports injuries, falls, motor vehicle accidents and other incidents have the potential to damage braces. If this happens, call your orthodontist so they can carefully inspect your braces and rectify any damage right away.

At Richards & Associates Orthodontics, we want you to know that you’re never bothering us when you contact us to report an issue with your braces in Cape Coral, FL. Whether it’s a loose wire, an irritation on your soft tissue or something else, we want to know about it so we can help to remedy it.