Imagine turning the key in a lock, opening the door to a straighter smile and a future of enhanced dental well-being with Dietrich and Kelso Orthodontics. That’s the power of braces, a marvel of orthodontic treatment that our doctors masterfully simplify for you. Through this blog, we invite you on an engaging exploration into the science and artistry behind braces, revealing how each meticulous step meticulously crafts the smile you’ve always dreamed of. Let’s take a closer look! Understanding the Basics of Braces Braces are a cornerstone of orthodontic treatment, designed to correct dental imperfections like crooked teeth, spacing, and misalignments.  At Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, we harness the power of braces to not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your smile but also improve oral health. By applying controlled pressure through brackets and wires, braces gradually shift teeth into their ideal positions. This process not only results in a more harmonious smile but also promotes better bite function and easier oral hygiene. As we explore the intricacies of braces, we’ll reveal how this dynamic system transforms smiles and lives. Let’s now discover the components that make up this transformative system, shedding light on how each part works in concert to create the perfect smile. The Components of Braces At the heart of braces lies a sophisticated ensemble of parts, each contributing uniquely to the journey of aligning your smile. Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics employs these components with precision, ensuring every phase of your treatment is tailored to meet your dental goals: Understanding these components illuminates the path braces take to achieve their goal. Next, we’ll explore the mechanics of tooth movement, revealing the science behind how braces gently coax your teeth into perfect alignment. The Mechanics of Tooth Movement The magic of braces unfolds through a meticulous process known as orthodontic tooth movement. The underlying science is both fascinating and complex, involving a delicate balance of forces: Pressure and Reaction Braces work by applying continuous pressure on the teeth. This pressure stimulates a biological response in the tissues surrounding the teeth, leading to the remodeling of bone. On the side facing the pressure, bone is resorbed, and on the opposite side, new bone is formed. Bone Remodeling This is the cornerstone of orthodontic movement, where the periodontal ligament—a soft tissue layer between the tooth and bone—plays a pivotal role. As pressure is applied, cells called osteoclasts break down bone on the pressure side, while osteoblasts build new bone on the tension side. This dynamic process allows teeth to move through the bone gradually. The journey of braces is a testament to the body’s remarkable ability to adapt and reshape. With every adjustment at Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, your smile edges closer to its ideal form. Now that we’ve unveiled how braces move teeth, our final section will look into the phases of treatment and what you can expect during your transformation. The Phases of Braces Treatment Braces treatment at Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics is a journey that unfolds in various key phases, each critical to achieving that harmonious smile. Understanding these stages can help demystify the process and set clear expectations for what lies ahead: Each phase of treatment at Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics is designed with your ultimate smile in mind.  Securing Your Smile’s Future At Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, our commitment to excellence doesn’t end when your braces come off. The journey to a perfect smile extends into ensuring your results last a lifetime. With various Central Florida locations primed to serve you, we’re equipped to provide you with comprehensive aftercare, including the use of retainers to maintain your new alignment.  Embracing the changes braces bring not only enhances your smile but also bolsters your confidence and oral health. We invite you to schedule a free consultation with us and take the first step towards a lasting transformation. Your dream smile awaits at Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics!

Brace yourselves, Earthlings, for a cosmic exploration into the realm of braces care! Here at Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, our esteemed specialists are ready to be your guides on this stellar adventure. Just as astronauts prepare meticulously for their space odysseys, ensuring your braces stay in top-notch condition is vital for a stunning smile. So, strap in and prepare for an exciting expedition into the art of braces care. The Galactic Fundamentals of Braces Care Imagine your oral hygiene routine as a spaceship’s life support system. Your braces are the intricate machinery that keeps this spacecraft cruising smoothly. Just as astronauts depend on their ship’s systems, your braces rely on meticulous care to stay on course! Navigating the Importance of Cleanliness This cosmic trek begins with understanding the vital role of cleanliness for your teeth and braces. Maintaining pristine dental hygiene is your mission – it prevents dental decay and ensures your braces function flawlessly. In this space, odyssey, every brushing session, every flossing maneuver, and every rinse is a crucial part of your dental exploration. Tools for Brace Maintenance As you prepare for lift-off on this orthodontic voyage, gather your essential tools for brace care: a soft-bristle toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, dental floss or interdental brushes, and a mirror.  Now, let’s initiate the next phase of our mission and explore the intricacies of proper brushing techniques. Navigating Brushing Techniques In the universe of oral care, your spaceship – your braces – requires precision navigation. Picture your mouth as a vast expanse and your braces as distant galaxies full of nooks and crannies. To maintain a stellar smile, you’ll need to brush with finesse. Ensure your soft-bristle toothbrush is angled at 45 degrees toward the gumline. Begin with either your upper or lower teeth. Focus on small clusters of teeth at a time, using gentle, circular motions. Pay extra attention to brackets and wires. Interstellar flossing is the next step. Glide dental floss or interdental brushes between teeth and wires. Explore thoroughly between each tooth and around your braces. Finish your celestial routine with an orbital rinse. Use a fluoride rinse or antimicrobial mouthwash to swish around your mouth, targeting both your braces and teeth. Our mission continues as we explore dietary choices and their impact on your braces and overall dental health. The Cosmic Connection Between Diet and Brace Care Just as astronauts carefully select their spacecraft’s fuel, you must make wise dietary choices to ensure your braces stay in stellar condition. Your transformation with braces involves more than just brushing and flossing; it’s intrinsically linked to what you eat. Avoid space debris like: These can damage your braces or get lodged between wires and brackets. Opt for brace-friendly foods like: Maintain proper hydration levels by drinking plenty of water. It’s the elixir that keeps your mouth moist and helps flush away food particles. The experts at Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics are your co-pilots on this voyage. They can provide you with dietary guidelines that align with your braces care routine, ensuring a smooth flight to a radiant smile. Prepare for the next revelation as we unlock the secrets of managing orthodontic discomfort. Navigating Orthodontic Discomfort Starting your voyage through the cosmos with braces might hit a few bumps along the way, causing some mild unease. Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics is here to provide you with the wisdom needed to manage discomfort and ensure your path to a radiant smile is as smooth as possible. Strategies for Discomfort: Next, we’ll review the importance of staying on course with your orthodontic check-ups, just as astronauts remain in contact with mission control. Crucial Check-Ups: Monitoring Your Progress Just as astronauts rely on scheduled pit stops for ship maintenance, your orthodontic check-ups serve a similar purpose: With regular check-ups, you’ll stay on course for a successful smile transformation. But what happens when you encounter unexpected obstacles? In the next section, we’ll explore how to navigate orthodontic emergencies. Handling Orthodontic Emergencies with Braces In your orthodontic voyage, unexpected issues can emerge, much like asteroids in space: Always trust Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics to navigate these orthodontic emergencies with you! Chart Your Orthodontic Course with Confidence With this intergalactic guide to braces maintenance and care, you’re well-prepared for your orthodontic odyssey. If you ever need assistance, Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics is here to guide you, so don’t hesitate to reach out.  Schedule a free consultation and explore the newest addition to our orthodontic universe – our South Tampa Office, which is now open!

At Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, we understand the magnetic allure of a confident smile, and we’re here to introduce you to a game-changer – Laser Gum Contouring. Ever wondered how celebrities achieve those perfectly proportioned, dazzling grins? This treatment might just be the secret sauce. In this guide, we’ll unveil the magic behind this innovative procedure and why our renowned experts are your go-to team for achieving that dream smile. The Magic Behind Laser Gum Contouring Laser gum contouring may sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, but it’s a real game-changer in the world of cosmetic dentistry. This cutting-edge procedure involves using a specialized laser to reshape your gum line, creating a beautifully balanced frame for your teeth. What Does It Treat? How It Works The laser precisely sculpts and reshapes the gum tissue, instantly revealing more of your teeth. The best part? It’s virtually painless and requires minimal recovery time. Why Choose Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics? Our team is well-versed in the art of laser gum contouring. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for transforming smiles, we’ll ensure your procedure is safe and effective and leaves you with a smile that truly shines. Ready to learn more about the benefits? Keep reading! How Laser Gum Contouring Can Transform Your Smile Laser gum contouring is like a sculptor’s tool for your smile. It offers numerous advantages over traditional gum surgery. Here’s why you might want to consider it: Next, let’s dive deeper into what the actual procedure looks like and what you can expect when you choose this treatment with us. The Process of Laser Gum Contouring Now that you understand what laser gum contouring is and why it’s a game-changer let’s dive into the step-by-step process Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics use to transform your smile with this innovative procedure: The process of laser gum contouring at Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics is designed to be straightforward, efficient, and comfortable. Now, let’s explore whether this treatment is the right choice for you. Is Laser Gum Contouring Right for You? Laser gum contouring is undoubtedly an exciting and effective solution for enhancing your smile. At Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, we take a personalized approach to help you make the best decision for your oral health and aesthetics. Choosing this treatment is an important decision, and our expert orthodontists are here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s now discuss essential post-procedure care and maintenance to ensure your results shine brightly. Post-Procedure Care and Maintenance After your procedure at Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, maintaining your beautiful results is simple with these steps: With these guidelines, your gum contouring results will remain stunning. For any questions or concerns, our team is ready to assist you. Experience the Future of Orthodontic Care As you can see, laser gum contouring is a transformative treatment that can enhance both the beauty of your smile and your oral health. At Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, we are dedicated to providing the highest level of care, ensuring your comfort and satisfaction. We invite you to schedule a free consultation and experience the expertise of our team. Don’t miss our upcoming South Tampa Office opening in January 2024!

Orthodontic emergencies can trigger a wide range of emotions. At Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, we’re steadfast in our commitment to your well-being, and we address any urgent concerns swiftly. Let’s explore orthodontic emergencies and how our team is prepared to assist you regardless of what arises. What is an Orthodontic Emergency? Orthodontic emergencies distinguish themselves from everyday dental issues. They are urgent situations stemming from unexpected problems that can induce pain, significant discomfort, or threaten the outcome of your orthodontic treatment. Recognizing these emergencies promptly is pivotal. It’s the difference between a quick resolution and a prolonged issue that could set back your treatment plan. Most Common Orthodontic Emergencies Dietrich & Kelso’s Rapid Response System Emergencies are unpredictable, but our response to them isn’t. Our team is a collective of experienced professionals trained to handle the most unforeseen orthodontic situations. We recognize the essence of time during these crises, which is why we’ve dedicated specific times in our daily schedule exclusively for such instances. This built-in availability ensures that your treatment remains as uninterrupted as possible. Beyond addressing the immediate issue, we aim to provide a calming and reassuring experience, minimizing the stress associated with emergencies. Tips to Prevent Common Orthodontic Emergencies Your Trusted Partner in Orthodontic Care & Emergencies Emergencies can be daunting, but remember, you’re not alone. At Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, we are always ready to address these unexpected challenges, ensuring your treatment journey remains smooth and stress-free! Should you encounter any orthodontic emergencies or just have questions about your treatment, don’t hesitate to contact us. For comprehensive guidance and support on all things orthodontic, schedule a free consultation with our dedicated team today!

Invisalign has become a household name, almost as synonymous to clear aligners as Band-Aid is to adhesive bandages. This recognition is because they have created a stellar reputation as the leading clear aligner provider and innovator. And now they’ve created Invisalign for Teens, a similar treatment program for younger patients. To help your children get the most out of their Invisalign experience, Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics has put together the following tips to create your teen’s guide to Invisalign. Why Invisalign For Teens? Understanding your teenager’s needs can be challenging, especially when it comes to their dental health and confidence. Fortunately, Invisalign created a modern solution for teens to straighten their teeth. Unlike traditional braces with noticeable metal brackets and wires, Invisalign offers a nearly invisible method using clear, custom-made aligners. These aligners are discreet and removable, allowing your teen to eat their favorite foods without restriction, easily maintain impeccable oral hygiene, and have the confidence of an almost undetectable treatment method. How To Get The Most Of Invisalign Treatment Though the removability of Invisalign clear aligners does provide your teen with freedom and flexibility, it can also cause some problems if they’re not careful. Here are a few ways your teen can take advantage of the benefits without jeopardizing their treatment. Wear the trays Orthodontic technology has come so far in recent years, but unfortunately, the aligners don’t work from a distance. Your teen does have to wear the aligners for twenty to twenty-two hours a day to straighten their teeth and jaw. It takes as little as one day to see noticeable regression, and the more days they miss, the more likely the trays will not fit when they try to wear them again! It’s also worth noting that Invisalign for Teens trays have a Compliance Dot that will tell on them if they’re not wearing them! Stay on schedule Invisalign treatment involves a series of trays, each worn for one to two weeks before advancing to the next. Sometimes, patients may be inclined to speed the process by moving to the next one in the set early or skipping a tray entirely in hopes of fast-forwarding their treatment. While we are just as excited as you and your teen are to see their bite aligned, we strongly discourage these and similar alterations to the treatment program. Attempts to speed up treatment risk negatively impacting the final treatment outcome and will likely extend overall treatment time. Following the schedule created by our team is the safest, quickest, and most effective way for your teen to finish their orthodontic journey. Clean the aligners Invisalign trays can have the same bacteria and plaque that cause decay, bad breath, and infection as the teeth and gums! If your teen cleans their mouth but not their aligners, they could develop oral health issues. Luckily, cleaning clear aligners takes only a few minutes a day. As long as they carefully follow the cleaning instructions provided by their orthodontist at Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, your child can preserve their health and the transparency of the trays. Protect the aligners Your teen should always put clear aligners in their protective case when they’re not in use! Due to their size and color, Invisalign cases are much easier to keep up with than thin, clear, loose trays. They also shield against germs and physical danger. Damaged, broken, or lost trays could result in prolonged treatment.  Bonus Tip: Encourage teens to keep their previous trays when they advance to the next in the set. If anything happens, they can wear those aligners to keep their teeth from back-shifting too much while waiting on replacements. Use orthodontic wax This removable, single-use product is for when the aligner irritates the cheek or gums. Discomfort is more likely to occur as your child adjusts to a new aligner or if their aligner is damaged. Whatever the reason, easy-to-apply orthodontic wax can keep them comfortable and promote continued wear despite agitation. Invisalign School Survival Kit Navigating the bustling hallways, juggling classes, social life, and hobbies can be a whirlwind. And if your teen is starting or continuing on their Invisalign journey through all this, packing the following items in their bag as a “clear aligner survival kit” can make it smooth sailing for everyone. Get More Invisalign For Teens Information From The Experts At Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics! As a Diamond+ Invisalign provider, you can be sure you and your child are receiving the best Invisalign care possible. Schedule a free consultation with us at one of our convenient locations today to discover if you or your teen qualify for clear aligner treatment!

When people think of orthodontics and straightening smiles, they often think of braces and clear aligners. But did you know those are not the only tools we have at Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics to create the smile of your dreams? We also have expanders! If you’re wondering what that is and what life with an expander looks like, keep reading! What Is An Expander? Teeth, like people, sometimes need a bit more room to shine. When they’re squished together, they can’t align properly.  An expander is a dental device designed to widen the upper jaw to ensure ample space for teeth to be adequately spaced and correctly placed. It sits on the roof of the mouth. Over time, the expander gently stretches the bone and cartilage, making room for a more harmonious smile. Your bone will then form new bone to fill the gap and make the expansion permanent. Isn’t that cool? Though patients of all ages can benefit from a palate expander,  younger patients are the most common recipients. Because children’s bones have not yet solidified and the two halves of their palate have not fused together, it is easier to make adjustments. How Will An Expander Affect My Day-To-Day? Fortunately, your expander will not change your daily routine too much. Let’s look at common questions patients and parents have about palate expanders. 1) What Does It Feel Like? Having a new device in your mouth can feel unusual at first. It’s like wearing a new pair of shoes; they might initially feel unfamiliar but mold to your feet with time. Similarly, your mouth will acclimate to the expander, and soon, you’ll barely notice it’s there. If you feel a slight pressure, don’t worry! This is normal, especially after adjustments, and is a sign that the expander is doing its job of creating a more aligned and spacious dental structure. Over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses can provide relief during these times. And if you ever feel unsure, your orthodontist is just a call away, ready to assist. 2) Will Eating Be Difficult? When you have a palate expander, you must make some minor diet modifications. You will need to avoid food that can break, stick to, or damage the appliance (such as overly hard, chewy, or sticky foods). Chewing might take some practice with your expander in place, but you’ll become a pro fairly quickly. It helps to remember that these dietary changes are only temporary, and soon you’ll be able to eat all the things your heart desires! At Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, we try to encourage patients to use their time in the palate expander as an opportunity to explore new foods you might not have otherwise given a second thought.  Most patients quickly adjust, and we feel confident you will too! 3) What Will My Oral Hygiene Routine Look Like? Your oral hygiene routine will stay pretty much the same! All you will have to do is ensure your palate expander remains clean. You can do this by brushing your palate expander with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing with interproximal brushes.  A water flosser is an excellent investment for patients with fixed expanders. These devices use water jets to rinse out your expander’s hard-to-reach places. Once you have completed your expander experience, the water flosser can help you keep your teeth and gums squeaky clean and healthy during and after braces, too! 4) Will I Still Be Able To Talk? Yes, of course, but it might be slightly challenging in the beginning.  The expander occupies an area the tongue frequently touches, especially when forming certain sounds. As a result, you might develop a temporary lisp, increased salivation, and unintentional mumbling.  Reading aloud can help you improve your confidence and conquer any communication difficulties faster. With some practice and time, you’ll forget about the expander and be able to talk without issue.  5) How Often Is My Expander Adjusted? Your expander is expanded daily, though that doesn’t mean you’ll have to come to see us every day!  While a few palate expanders widen your teeth automatically, most require manually turning a screw once daily or a few times per week  to enlarge the device. You will receive a special key to turn the screw in your expander. It takes only seconds per day and is not painful. The most you will feel from these adjustments is a slight tingling sensation that fades as fast as it comes! Expanders can be worn for as little as three months or as long as one year! However long you are with your expander, it’s not long when you think about the lifetime of enjoyment you’ll get from your new smile! Visit Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics! Each of our orthodontists at Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics prides themselves on creating personalized treatment plans for every patient. Schedule a free consultation with us today at one of our convenient locations to discover what your orthodontic journey would entail!

We recognize that the decision to start an orthodontic treatment is big. One common concern from our new Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics patients is the fear of ending up with multi-colored  teeth, or white spots, after treatment. While we understand this worry, we believe this fear should never stand in the way of achieving the smile of your dreams. That’s why we’re here to arm you with knowledge and practical tips to prevent white spots. What Are White Spots? But First, What Are White Spots? White spots are decalcified, or weakened, areas on your teeth where minerals, like calcium and phosphate, have been lost. They often appear chalky, white patches and can be a bit of an eyesore on your otherwise shiny smile. The primary culprit in their production is plaque. This sticky, colorless film of bacteria loves to hang out on your teeth. When you consume sugary or starchy foods and drinks, the bacteria and plaque can create the acids that eat away your tooth enamel. Over time, these attacks can lead to losing minerals from your enamel, resulting in these pesky white spots. Here’s where orthodontic treatment comes into the picture. Braces, whether metal or clear, create lots of tiny nooks and crannies where plaque can hide, making your teeth more susceptible to white spots. If plaque isn’t thoroughly removed from around the brackets and along the gum line, it can lead to decalcification and, eventually, white spots. How to Prevent White Spots on Teeth Don’t worry; it’s not all doom and gloom with braces and white spots! While white spots can be a concern for those wearing braces, they’re not inevitable. You can maintain a healthy, spot-free smile when straightening your teeth with the proper care and prevention strategies. Here are some of Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics’ favorite ways to avoid white spots! 1. Master the Art of Brushing Brushing is your first line of defense against white spots. Brushing twice a day is always recommended, but when you have braces, you should brush (or at least clean your braces) after every meal. These extra brushings help to remove any food particles that might be stuck in your braces and prevent plaque buildup. 2. Floss Like a Boss Flossing might seem like a chore, especially with braces, but it’s essential in preventing white spots. Floss daily to remove plaque and food debris your toothbrush can’t reach. Special flossers, like water flossers and interproximal toothbrushes, can make flossing with braces more effortless and effective, even when you’re away from home. 3. Regular Dental Check-ups Regular visits to your dentist or orthodontist are crucial. They monitor your oral health, clean your teeth professionally, and spot any early signs of white spots or other issues. Aim for a check-up every six months or as often as your trusted dentist recommends. Your dentist can be an excellent resource if you have questions about your routine or need guidance on bettering your oral health. Since white spots are almost always avoidable, having a knowledgeable dentist in your corner is a great advantage.  4. Use Fluoride Products Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decalcification. The mineral is already in your body, and studies found it to be so helpful in maintaining oral health that it’s been added to all USA tap water!  Some people, however, need more fluoride than that. We recommend adding fluoride toothpaste or fluoride mouthwash to your oral hygiene routine for those patients.  5. Remove Whitening Products From Your Routine While we all love a bright, white smile, using whitening products when you have braces can lead to uneven color and white spots. The areas under the brackets will remain their original color while the exposed parts of your teeth become whiter. This uneven exposure to the whitening agent can result in a patchy appearance on your teeth when a member of our orthodontic team removes your braces. It’s best to wait until your braces are off before considering any whitening treatments. 6. Watch What You Eat Your diet plays a significant role in preventing white spots. Limit sugary and starchy foods, as they can contribute to plaque buildup. Instead, choose a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products. These foods promote overall health and help maintain strong, spot-free teeth.  Let Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics Erase Your Worries About White Spots! Preventing white spots is a crucial part of your orthodontic journey. It’s all about maintaining good oral hygiene, making smart dietary choices, and keeping up with dental check-ups.  Remember, we at Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics are your dedicated oral healthcare team members, and with nine convenient, fully staffed locations, we’re always here for you. Have you got questions or concerns? Ready to schedule your next check-up? Contacting us is as easy as a quick phone call or a few clicks with your mouse! Let’s work together to keep your smile spotless and shining bright!

Though countless children, teens, and adults pursue orthodontic care because they are unhappy with the cosmetics of their smile, it is not the only reason to obtain orthodontic treatment! The alignment of your teeth and jaw is vital to maintaining excellent physical health. The following is a list of our top 5 health benefits of straight teeth created by our orthodontist team at Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics. 5 Health Benefits of Straight Teeth 1) Prevents Digestive Issues The alignment of your teeth is crucial to your mouth’s ability to effectively perform the first step in the digestive process! How? We’ll tell you! Teeth are supposed to break down food before you swallow it, but the importance of chewing goes beyond that! Thoroughly chewing food also stimulates saliva production, which helps lubricate the throat and clump food together to prevent choking. Additionally, chewing primes the stomach to digest the food you swallow. Breaking food down into smaller pieces is essential to maximize nutrient intake and to avoid large clumps of food from getting stuck in the digestive tract, which can lead to a build-up of bacteria and encourage indigestion, bloating, constipation, gas, bad breath, and heartburn.  Because of this, eating can quickly become uncomfortable and discouraging, making it an uninviting chore. If you associate eating with negative emotions, you are more at risk of developing unhealthy habits and malnutrition. Orthodontic care can make eating much more enjoyable and beneficial, two things you should want and expect from a necessary part of your daily routine. 2) Easier To Keep Teeth And Gums Healthy Improperly aligned teeth can make oral hygiene a frustrating challenge. Crooked teeth can create hard-to-reach nooks and crannies that hide bacteria, plaque, and food from your sight and oral hygiene tools. Over time, a build-up of these unwanted invaders can cause bad breath, tooth decay, gum disease, infections, and other oral health issues. If left alone long enough, your oral health concerns could produce permanent cosmetic and health damage to your teeth and gums, including tooth loss! Malocclusion makes teeth more vulnerable to the above conditions because overcrowded teeth rub against each other and weaken your enamel, the protective layer on your teeth. Without sufficient protection, bacteria and plaque have a much easier time attacking your teeth. Unfortunately, damage to your enamel is irreversible, though you can strengthen your enamel using fluoride products.  Properly cleaned teeth and gums have a lower risk of oral health concerns. When your teeth are straighter, protecting your enamel and cleaning your teeth and gums is more effortless. 3) Reduce or Eliminate Related Pain Uneven pressure and abnormal stress on the jaw from improper teeth alignment could result in headaches, migraines, and neck pain. If left untreated, this tension can eventually lead to TMJ, an uncomfortable condition triggered by a jaw that cannot function properly. TMJ is, unfortunately, a lifetime condition for most people once it develops. Gum disease, tooth decay, TMJ, and digestive issues have the potential to create various degrees of discomfort and pain. Luckily, you can avoid most problems or manage their symptoms with dental and orthodontic care.  4) Helps To Better Breathing Difficulties Improperly aligned jaws can force the formation of narrow air passageways, which produce breathing problems such as (including but not limited to) shortness of breath, dry mouth, and sleep disorders like sleep apnea. Some symptoms include difficulty catching breath, chest pain, fatigue, irritability, and increased risk of infections and sores. Braces and their accessories (like rubber bands that attach to both rows of teeth) can put your teeth and jaw in more favorable positions and make a noticeable improvement to your breathing abilities.  5) Improves Mental Health Did you know your smile plays a significant role in your mental health? It’s true! Your teeth alignment can negatively impact your quality of life by reducing your odds of getting a job, making friends, and getting second dates. At Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, we believe that everyone is beautiful and make sure our patients know that before, during, and after treatment. But in complete honesty, sadly, society views the undesirable cosmetic appearance of your teeth as unattractive or related to negative personality traits. Because of this, those with malocclusion are likely to feel isolated and have depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and other mental health issues. Orthodontic care can upgrade your lifestyle by positively changing how you and others perceive you. Let Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics Create Your Personalized Treatment Plan! Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics is passionate about orthodontic care and would love to discuss how treatment can personally benefit you and enhance your quality of life! To discover which of our fantastic treatment options (metal braces, clear braces,and Invisalign) can help you or your family, contact our offices in Lakeland and surrounding areas to schedule your free consultation today!