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Improving your smile and bite is something both exciting and can provide a lifetime of benefits. At our orthodontic practice, we often encounter patients who are unsure whether they should seek orthodontic care from a general dentist or an orthodontist. Understanding the differences in qualifications and training between these two types of dental professionals is essential for making an informed decision about your orthodontic treatment. Let’s explore the unique roles of dentists and orthodontists, and why specialized orthodontic care can make a significant difference in achieving the best results.

Formal Orthodontic Education

After dental school, which is 4 years, orthodontists return to school for 24-36 months of full time training through a residency program accredited by the American Dental Association(ADA) and the Commission on Dental Accreditation(CODA). These are highly competitive specialty programs, requiring dental students to usually graduate at the top of their class and achieve high test scores. During these programs residents are devoted full time to learn how to properly diagnose and treat any type of orthodontic case. In all these programs can run upwards of 5000 hours of intensive supervised training by orthodontic faculty.

Dental Education

Dental school is 4 years, and is very intensive and challenging in itself. In dental school students learn about all areas of dentistry from cleanings, fillings, crowns, root canals and more. The clinical and didactic training prepares dentists to perform these routine type procedures. One area that is not focused on in dental school is orthodontics. Most dental schools orthodontic training is several lectures on the basics of malocclusion and then a few days shadowing in the orthodontic residency clinic. Given that orthodontic treatment takes 1-3 years and is ongoing, dental schools do not train students in orthodontic care, but give the most fundamental background on what orthodontics is. Because orthodontists have to go to dental school first they know exactly what type of exposure dental students are given. As a dental student, I performed no orthodontic treatment on any patients, but given my interest, spent additional time shadowing in the orthodontic clinics to learn as much as I could and show my interest to the faculty.

Legality

It is completely legal for dentists to do orthodontic work. Despite the little to zero training in orthodontics, once a dentist has their license they can legally perform all dental procedures, no matter what their experience is.

Weekend Courses

Given that dentists do not receive orthodontic training in school, courses to learn orthodontics are very common. It is very challenging to be accepted to orthodontic residency so many dentists try to learn how through these types of courses. Many of these courses are for-profit by companies and vendors with the only qualification being paying enrollment fees. There are no admission criteria for these courses. These courses usually take place over a weekend and are held in hotels or conference centers. Often, they lack hands-on clinical experience, and providers likely won't perform any treatment on real patients before offering these services in their own practice. Once the seminar is over, there is no ongoing support or oversight for the progression of treatment. If complications arise, the instructor from the weekend course is no longer available to provide assistance to the dentist that signed up for the class. It would certainly be difficult to replicate the comprehensive training an orthodontic resident receives over a weekend. Often in these courses, dentists are told that they will be able to go back to their offices on Monday and start offering this service! They may even tell you that they can complete it faster and cheaper then anyone else after completing their course.

What Does This Mean?

While your dentist can legally perform orthodontic care, an orthodontic specialist is most qualified to complete orthodontic treatment given their training. Imagine if you found out the the provider completing your or your child's knee surgery learned about the procedure at a course a year ago and has never completed one themselves! Just like you would not seek your general doctor to perform heart surgery, orthopedic joint replacement or brain surgery, it is best to seek an orthodontic specialist for the services of your smile and bite. You only get one set of teeth and they should be trusted to an orthodontic specialist.

At Strouse Orthodontics, we’re excited to announce that we are now offering Zoom Whitening! This state-of-the-art teeth whitening treatment can help you achieve a dazzling, radiant smile in just one visit. Whether you’re preparing for a special event or simply want to boost your confidence, Zoom Whitening can provide dramatic results quickly and safely.

What is Zoom Whitening?

Zoom Whitening is a professional teeth whitening treatment that uses advanced LED light technology and a specially formulated whitening gel to remove stains and discoloration from your teeth. It’s an in-office procedure that can lighten your teeth by several shades in about an hour.

How Does Zoom Whitening Work?

The Process

1. Preparation: Your treatment begins with a thorough cleaning of your teeth to remove any plaque and tartar. We then apply a protective covering to your gums and lips to shield them from the whitening gel.
2. Application of Whitening Gel: The Zoom whitening gel, which contains hydrogen peroxide, is applied to your teeth. The hydrogen peroxide breaks down into oxygen molecules that penetrate the enamel and dentin, breaking apart stains and discoloration.
3. Activation with LED Light: The Zoom LED light is positioned over your teeth to activate the whitening gel. The light helps to accelerate the whitening process, allowing the gel to work more effectively and produce quicker results.
4. Reapplication and Repeat: The gel is applied and activated in three 15-minute sessions. Between sessions, you’ll be able to relax comfortably.
5. Post-Treatment Care: After the final session, we apply a special gel to help reduce any sensitivity and strengthen your teeth.

Benefits of Zoom Whitening

• Quick Results: Unlike over-the-counter whitening products that can take weeks to show results, Zoom Whitening provides noticeable improvement in just one appointment.
• Professional Supervision: The procedure is performed under the supervision of our experienced dental professionals, ensuring safety and effectiveness.
• Long-Lasting: With proper care, the results of Zoom Whitening can last for years. We also provide tips on maintaining your bright smile at home.

Why Choose Zoom Whitening?

Effective on Tough Stains

Zoom Whitening is highly effective at treating a variety of stains caused by factors such as:

• Food and Drink: Coffee, tea, red wine, and certain fruits can stain your teeth over time.
• Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can lead to significant discoloration.
• Aging: As you age, your teeth can become yellowed or discolored.
• Medications: Certain medications can cause intrinsic stains that are tough to remove with regular brushing.

At Strouse Orthodontics, we tailor the Zoom Whitening treatment to your specific needs and goals. Whether you want a subtle enhancement or a dramatic change, we adjust the treatment to achieve the desired level of brightness.

Safe and Comfortable

Your comfort and safety are our top priorities. We take all necessary precautions to protect your gums and soft tissues during the whitening process. While we use special solutions to reduce or eliminate \sensitivity, any sensitivity experienced during or after the treatment is typically mild and temporary.

Post-Treatment Care for Lasting Results

To help maintain your newly whitened smile, follow these tips:

• Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks: Limit your consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, and other staining substances.
• Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and prevent stains.
• Regular Dental Check-Ups: Visit Strouse Orthodontics for regular cleanings and check-ups to keep your teeth healthy and bright.
• Use a Whitening Toothpaste: A whitening toothpaste can help maintain your results by removing surface stains between treatments.

Schedule Your Zoom Whitening Appointment Today!

If you’re ready to transform your smile with Zoom Whitening, contact Strouse Orthodontics today to schedule your appointment. With offices in Spring Hill, FL and Lecanto, FL, we services patients from Hernando and Citrus County, including Brooksville, Crystal River and the surrounding areas offering the best orthodontic treatment with braces and clear aligners! Our team is excited to help you achieve a brighter, more confident smile.

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Strouse Orthodontics - Your Smile, Our Passion.

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Retention is the most important part of the orthodontic journey. Once treatment is complete, retainers help maintain the position of your teeth after braces or clear aligners. They help make sure your smile stays straight forever! However, the retainers themselves do not last forever and occasionally need to be replaced.

What Are Essix Retainers?
Essix retainers are clear, plastic retainers that fit snugly over your teeth. They are custom-made to ensure a perfect fit and are designed to maintain your teeth's position after braces or other orthodontic treatments.

Lifespan of Essix Retainers
The lifespan of retainers depends on several factors, most importantly how well they are taken care of. For most patients, retainers last somewhere between 2-8 years, however can range based on your individual habits. It is somewhat similar to tires on a car; they do need to be replaced occasionally, and how quickly they wear depends on several factors including how they are handled, road conditions, aggressive driving, hard braking, etc.

Factors

Habits: Patients that clench and grind their teeth, find that retainers will wear down faster than patients that do not.
Care and Maintenance: Proper cleaning, storage and handling significantly impact how long your Essix retainer will last.
Dental Changes: Changes in your dental structure(Fillings, crowns etc) may necessitate a new retainer.

How to Care for Your Essix Retainer
Proper care is essential to maximize the lifespan of your Essix retainer. Here are some tips to keep it in optimal condition:

1. Cleaning
   Daily Cleaning: Clean your retainer daily using a soft toothbrush and mild, non-abrasive soap. Avoid toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and cause scratches.
   Deep Cleaning: Periodically, soak your retainer in a retainer cleaning solution or a mixture of water and a bit of baking soda to keep it fresh and free of bacteria.
2. Handling
   Avoid Heat: Do not expose your retainer to hot water, direct sunlight, or heat sources, as it can warp the plastic.
   Storage: Always store your retainer in its protective case when not in use to prevent damage and loss. Avoid napkins for storage as they will end up in the trash!
3. Usage
   Gentle Removal: Remove your retainer gently to avoid cracking or bending it. Use both hands to pull it out evenly. Avoid pulling the retainer out from the front.
   Avoid Certain Foods: Refrain from eating or drinking anything other than water while wearing your retainer to prevent staining and damage.

   Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Essix Retainer
   Despite your best efforts, Essix retainers will eventually need to be replaced. Here are some signs that it’s time for a new one:

Cracks or Breaks: Any visible damage means the retainer is no longer effective.
Loss of Fit: If your retainer feels loose or doesn’t fit as snugly as it used to, it’s time for a replacement.
Discoloration or Odor: Persistent discoloration or an unpleasant odor, even after cleaning, indicates it’s time for a new retainer.
Wear and Tear: General wear over time will reduce the retainer’s effectiveness in maintaining your teeth’s position.

Conclusion
Essix retainers are a fantastic option for maintaining your smile post-treatment, but they do require care and eventual replacement. By following the care tips outlined above, you can maximize the lifespan of your retainer and keep your smile looking its best.

Age: 15.6
Treatment Duration: 24 months

Before Treatment:

This patient came to our office looking to improve her crowding and give a more esthetic smile.

On exam, the findings were
Mandibular skeletal asymmetry
Right side class 3 malocclusion
Left side class 2 malocclusion
Upper crowding
Lower Crowding
Full posterior crossbite on left side
Anterior crossbite of Upper left canine
Mild mandibular(lower crowding)
Narrow smile

Treatment Journey:

Our patients treatment plan involved upper and lower metal braces with the use of rubber bands. A decision needed to be made of whether or not to use a palate expander to address the posterior crossbite. At 16 years old, females are typically done growing and palate expanders without surgery are much less predictable so a decision was made to use rubber bands to address the crossbite.

After Treatment:

In this amazing transformation we were able to correct all of the pre-existing orthodontic issues, improving the asymmetry, eliminating the crowding, and correcting all of the bite issues with rubber bands to achieve an ideal bite in all dimensions, all while widening and broadening the smile.

A challenging case like this is not possible without the cooperation of the patient, which we certainly had in this case. Amazing compliance with rubber bands, as well as keeping the teeth clean allowed us to obtain a truly incredible result in this case.

Orthodontics can not only play a pivotal role in optimizing both oral health and functional well-being, but more importantly can elevate one's self-confidence. Our practice is committed to serving patients of all ages and embraces the belief that it's never too late to embark on the journey to your dream smile.

I invite you and your family to reach out to our office to schedule a complimentary consultation. Allow me the privilege of discussing the orthodontic solutions tailored to your unique needs. Your journey to your dream smile begins with an orthodontic specialist!

Dr. Strouse