Eat These Foods for Optimal Oral Health

A healthy smile begins with what we eat. If we consume junk food and beverages that have high sugar content or harmful acids that attack the teeth, not only will our oral health status deplete, but our overall health will, too. Dr. Cynthia Wong, DDS of Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics wants each of her patients to keep their permanent teeth for a lifetime. By adding these foods to your diet, you are doing your mouth a favor.

The best food choices that we can make for healthy teeth and gums include cheeses, chicken, nuts, and milk. These foods help protect enamel by providing calcium that enamel needs to stay strong. Water cleans the mouth with every sip, unlike soda, energy drinks, and juices that attack the teeth with acidity. Other food choices include firm, crunchy fruits and vegetables that have a high water content which dilutes sugars and stimulates saliva flow to protect teeth from decay.

If you have questions or concerns regarding nutrition and oral health, please give us a call. To learn more about night guards and all the services we provide, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Holiday Foods with Braces

This holiday season, many braces patients will be attending feasts and parties full of seasonal treats. This raises some obvious questions about what they can eat, which is why Dr. Cynthia Wong’s orthodontic office wants to help guide patients looking for delicious (and possibly nutritious) meals.

It’s pretty obvious that people with braces need to avoid peanut brittle and the baby carrots on veggie platters. But there are still plenty of foods that aren’t especially tough or sticky. Ham, brisket, and turkey are all popular main courses that can be cooked tender enough to not present a challenge to braces. Mashed tubers and potato pancakes are sides that won’t displace any wires, and while raw carrots are out of the question, steamed or boiled vegetables aren’t a problem. Cheese is another safe appetizer, and one of the pleasures people with braces can particularly appreciate is a bowl of hearty winter squash soup.

One thing to remember with a lot of holiday foods, including pumpkin pie and Christmas pudding, is that foods which are soft are often high in sugar. While the risk to orthodontic wires is negligible, they do need to be removed from the teeth as soon as possible. Ice cream and custard are commonly suggested as dessert alternatives, but again, it’s important for people with braces to thoroughly clean their teeth after eating anything sugary due to their increased vulnerability to tooth decay. Keep in mind that lots of holiday drinks are also high in sugar or acidic and that a water chaser is your teeth’s friend.

Cynthia Wong, DMD, operates at 15614 S Harlem #B, Orland Park, Illinois, 60462. To contact her office, call 708-444-8341 or visit Dr. Cynthia Wong and send a message.

 

Chapped Lips

With winter upon us, many people are suffering from dry lips. People with braces tend to be especially vulnerable to dryness and irritation, which is why we at Dr. Cynthia Wong’s Orland Park orthodontic practice want our patients to know how to take care of themselves.

Cold air is not able to retain as much moisture as warm air. The first line of defense against chapping is to avoid exposing your lips to the air, especially when it’s windy. Wrap a scarf tightly over your mouth when you’re outside. When you’re inside, use a humidifier in rooms such as your bedroom where you have to be for a long time. Drink plenty of water, and apply lip balm several times per day, including before you go to bed. Pay attention to the ingredients in your lip balm, because some, such as menthol, makes irritation worse in some people. Avoid licking your lips; saliva evaporates quickly and will leave them even drier.

As for the inside of the mouth, apply dental wax to the brackets in problem areas frequently. You may need to see a breathing specialist if you are unable to breathe through your nose because mouth breathing is likely to dry out the inside of your mouth and make you more vulnerable to ulcers and chapping.

Cynthia Wong, DMD, operates at 15614 S Harlem #B, Orland Park, Illinois, 60462. To contact her office, call 708-444-8341 or visit Dr. Cynthia Wong and send a message.

 

When to Start Orthodontics

It’s never too late to start orthodontic treatment, but parents often wonder at what age it’s appropriate to start. At Dr. Cynthia Wong’s orthodontic office in Orland Park, we want our patients and their families to understand what is a normal timetable for different treatments and why they are necessary.

We recommend that children undergo an orthodontic assessment when they’re about seven years old, although it would be rare to begin braces or extractions at that age. Some sort of appliance may be recommended in cases of an underbite or narrow arch, but with more common malocclusions, we’d probably take a wait-and-see approach until the child is about ten.  (An exception would be if the child has lost a permanent tooth, in which case they may need a space maintainer until the other permanent teeth come in.) Although adults commonly undergo orthodontic corrections for cosmetic issues such as gaps and jumbled teeth, the age of ten to fourteen is when people respond best to major corrections. This is the best opportunity to fix impacted canines, for example, because the child has all their permanent teeth but their skull bones have not yet solidified. At this age, children are also more ready for braces psychologically and are better suited to maintain their oral hygiene.

Cynthia Wong, DMD, operates at 15614 S Harlem #B, Orland Park, Illinois, 60462. To contact her office, call 708-444-8341 or visit DrCynthiaWong.com and send a message.

 

American Diabetes Month

November is American Diabetes Month, and at Dr. Cynthia Wong’s orthodontic practice in Orland Park, we’re observing it by sharing information about how diabetes affects orthodontic treatment. People with diabetes are used to having to take extra care of their eyes and feet, and they also have to be especially vigilant about their oral hygiene. Diabetics are much likelier than other people to suffer from gingivitis and periodontitis. In turn, periodontal disease makes it harder to control glucose levels, creating a vicious circle.

People who have suffered periodontal disease often have lost gum ligaments and jaw bone tissue, causing their teeth to migrate. While these people would benefit from orthodontic treatment, they were formally considered poor candidates because of the added difficulty with oral hygiene caused by fixed appliances. But with the advent of Invisalign and better means of keeping blood sugar under control, that’s changing. Removable aligners allow people with diabetes to brush and floss normally, making it easier for them to fend off gingivitis. They also put less pressure on the teeth, which is accepted as preferable for this demographic. If you have diabetes, our office will work with you to ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy at each visit and to schedule appointments for when you’ve eaten recently.

Cynthia Wong, DMD, operates at 15614 S Harlem #B, Orland Park, Illinois, 60462. To contact her office, call 708-444-8341 or visit DrCynthiaWong.com and send a message.

 

Benefits of Invisalign

Crooked or misaligned teeth can not only diminish a person’s self-esteem, they can be detrimental to oral health. Wearing braces is an excellent way to correct the problem, but with so many options available, how do we know which one to choose? Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners that straighten teeth almost invisibly. Dr. Cynthia Wong is here to discuss further benefits of Invisalign.

Metal brackets and wires can cause irritation to the gums and oral cavity. Invisalign is removable, making eating and drinking as well as brushing and flossing, a breeze. Depending on the individual case, Invisalign treatment can take one year to complete. Since Invisalign is a planned process, you’ll know exactly what to expect during treatment. Anyone considering Invisalign should book an appointment with Dr. Wong as soon as possible.

If you have questions or concerns regarding orthodontic options or Invisalign, please give us a call. To learn more the services we provide, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Foods That Promote Oral Health

If you’ve ever heard the phrase, “You are what you eat,” then you better start eating nutritious foods. Ongoing research shows that antioxidants and other nutrients found in fruits, vegetables, and nuts can strengthen a person’s immune system as well as protect the teeth and gums. Dr. Cynthia Wong of Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics wants her patients to consume a healthy diet to keep a healthy smile.

To promote oral health, avoid beverages that contain sugars as they promote decay. Instead, drink as much water as possible because water cleans the mouth with every sip. Milk and other dairy products such as cheese and plain yogurt reduce the risk of tooth loss and strengthen enamel. Crisp fruits, and raw vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery, clean plaque from the teeth and freshen breath.

If you have questions or concerns regarding diet and dental health, please give us a call. To learn more the services we provide, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Preventing Bad Breath

At Dr. Cynthia Wong’s orthodontic practice in Orland Park, we endeavor to make our patients’ treatment as comfortable as possible in all aspects, including odor. While we hope our patients know how to clean their orthodontic devices, the increased risk of dry mouth makes it especially important that they keep up with their oral hygiene, as well.

Saliva is one of the body’s most important defense mechanisms against tooth-decay causing bacteria. When saliva production slows down or is insufficient, bacteria are able to grow out of control, causing a bad odor.

Typically, when people suffer from dry mouth, chewing sugar-free gum is one of the recommended ways of increasing saliva production. But this isn’t an option for people with braces and is impractical for people wearing aligners or retainers. Another option is to use a throat moisturizer, which can be purchased over-the-counter or prescribed for people suffering severe dryness. It is also helpful to reduce consumption of sugary, caffeinated, and alcoholic beverages and to quit smoking and using tobacco products. Of course, drinking more water and using a humidifier are the most reliable ways of preventing dry mouth.

Cynthia Wong, DMD, operates at 15614 S Harlem #B, Orland Park, Illinois, 60462. To contact her office, call 708-444-8341 or visit DrCynthiaWong.com and send a message.

 

Cleaning Removable Retainers

Keeping a removable retainer clean isn’t just a matter of oral health; it’s also a matter of aesthetics. Many patients at Dr. Cynthia Wong’s orthodontic practice in Orland Park desire clear retainers, and nobody wants theirs to stink, so we’ve put this together this guide on keeping retainers clean.

Rinse retainers frequently, but only do so with warm water. Water that is very hot could warp the plastic, making the retainer unusable. Use a separate toothbrush for scrubbing the retainer. You can use soap or a cleaning solution designed for dentures on it, but avoid using toothpaste used for natural teeth. Toothpaste contains gritty substances which the retainer has no defense against and which could scratch it (unlike the surfaces of your teeth, which are harder and have a protective film).

You have to scrub a retainer thoroughly to prevent tartar build-up and bad odors. However, if you do notice plaque accumulating, you can bring it to us for help. Although soft-bristled toothbrushes shouldn’t hurt a retainer, it is possible to damage one by scrubbing it too hard. It will be easier to clean your retainer if you do not allow it to dry out first. Always rinse your retainer well before putting it back in.

Cynthia Wong, DMD, operates at 15614 S Harlem #B, Orland Park, Illinois, 60462. To contact her office, call 708-444-8341 or visit DrCynthiaWong.com and send a message.

 

Wisdom Teeth Headaches

Are you constantly waking up with facial pain or experiencing headaches more often than usual? If you’ve answered yes to one or both of these symptoms, Dr. Cynthia Wong of Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics would like you to ask yourself another question. Are your wisdom teeth still intact? Wisdom teeth that are located under the gum line (impacted) can be a cause for concern. Learn why extraction is the best way to treat the problem.

If your wisdom teeth are impacted, they raise the risk of developing an infection. Additionally, impacted wisdom teeth don’t usually emerge without extraction. Because they stay under the gum, they can grow sideways and even at an angle, pushing on a nerve causing wisdom teeth headaches. Wisdom teeth extraction is recommended between the ages of 17-22, but Dr. Cynthia Wong will remove them if necessary, regardless of age.

If you have questions or concerns regarding wisdom teeth extraction, please give us a call. To learn more about night guards and all the services we provide, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month

Who knew that there was a month that revolves all around dental hygiene awareness? October is National Dental Hygiene Month and Dr. Cynthia Wong wants to encourage patients to celebrate. It’s important to know that you should be practicing proper oral hygiene habits for 12 months out of the year, instead of only one, and we’d like to offer some tips to help you better your dental health.

Most adults and children find brushing their teeth for two minutes, boring. To make brushing more fun, play a song that lasts at least two minutes so that you can rock out while cleaning your teeth. Additionally, try to make it a goal to brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day on a daily basis. You should always schedule a consultation with Dr. Cynthia Wong of Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics to ensure optimal oral health.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental health, please give us a call. To learn more about night guards and all the services we provide, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Thumb Sucking

Thumb sucking is one of the most common reasons why people need orthodontic treatment. It is also a common habit among young children, so parents are often reasonably concerned about it.

Until the child’s permanent teeth start coming in, there is little cause for worry. Children’s skull bones are more flexible than those of adults, and while thumb sucking puts pressure on them, they can spring back. However, with the eruption of the first permanent teeth around the age of five, children’s faces start to solidify. After this point, continued thumb sucking will draw the teeth forward, resulting in an open bite, and they have a higher chance of being stuck that way.

An open bite makes oral hygiene difficult and may interfere with speech, which is why orthodontics is needed to correct it. If thumb sucking continues during or after orthodontic work, the patient will have a high risk of relapse. Because thumb sucking is often motivated by a need to self-soothe, it is best to include the child in developing strategies for breaking the habit. In extreme cases, assistance from a child psychologist may be necessary.

Cynthia Wong, DMD, operates at 15614 S Harlem #B, Orland Park, Illinois, 60462. To contact her office, call 708-444-8341 or visit DrCynthiaWong.com and send a message.

 

How Long Will I Need My Retainer?

Once you’ve completed the first portion of your orthodontic treatment, it will be important to continue keeping your appointments so that we can ensure your retainer fits properly. Teeth continue to shift around after braces are removed or Invisalign treatment is complete, so it is important for patients to wear a properly-fitted retainer to prevent relapse.

Ideally, patients will keep a working retainer for the rest of their lives. However, in most cases, they will not need to wear a retainer for twenty-four hours a day on a permanent basis. The exact amount of time they will need a retainer varies from case to case, but it will probably be for at least a year and is often for as long as they were undergoing orthodontic treatment. Corrections for gap teeth usually require the longest treatment, since they are the type of misalignment which has the greatest risk of relapse. While retainers should fit snugly, bring them in for adjustment if they are becoming tighter or you have difficulty getting them to fit right. Do not attempt to adjust them yourself.

Cynthia Wong, DMD, operates at 15614 S Harlem #B, Orland Park, Illinois, 60462. To contact her office, call 708-444-8341 or visit DrCynthiaWong.com and send a message.

 

Treatment for Worn Down Teeth

Your teeth are strong, but they are not invincible. Sometimes, teeth become worn down over time due to bad habits, health conditions, or dental trauma. When this happens, wear and tear on the teeth can be mild, moderate, or excessive. Fortunately, Dr. Cynthia Wong has cosmetic and restorative treatment options for all cases.

When a tooth becomes worn down, treatment is necessary to prevent further damage to the tooth. Because worn down teeth affect the tooth root, teeth may be extra sensitive. If more than the tooth’s surface has been damaged, Dr. Wong may suggest dental crowns or veneers cover the surface and improve the overall appearance of the tooth. If damage to a tooth’s structure is mild, dental bonding can be used to protect the tooth from further damage.

If you have questions or concerns regarding worn down teeth, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Wisdom Teeth Headaches

With age, comes wisdom teeth and when wisdom teeth are impacted, they can cause throbbing in the back of the mouth, swelling around the jaw, and headaches. When wisdom teeth are impacted, this simply means that they are sitting comfortably (or uncomfortably) below the gum line. Just because you can’t see them, doesn’t mean they aren’t causing problems. If you experience frequent headaches due to wisdom teeth, Dr. Cynthia Wong may suggest extracting them.

Frequent headaches that occur as a result of jaw pain are a warning sign that wisdom teeth may need to be extracted. This is because wisdom teeth that are pushing through but can’t erupt can put pressure on the jaw joint. If you are experiencing pain and swelling in the jaw, swollen and bleeding gums, or ear pain, schedule a consultation with Dr. Cynthia Wong to discuss extraction.

If you have concerns about wisdom teeth extraction, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety affects many patients.  An overwhelming fear of dentists or dental treatment can stem from negative experiences with dental procedures in the past.  Other patients have a sensitive gag reflex that always makes dental work dreadful.  Whatever the cause, Dr. Cynthia Wong does not want patients to delay treatment because of anxiety.  Over the years, her technique and gentle touch have helped many anxious patients feel as comfortable as possible.

The best way to ease any dental anxiety is to explain and discuss your fears with your doctor.  Once your dentist understands what your fears are, you are both better prepared to determine the best way to make you less anxious and more relaxed.   It is also important to ask your dentist explain every stage of a procedure or appointment. This way you can mentally prepare for what’s to come.

If you suffer from dental anxiety, give us a call so we ease your fear. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

When Braces Cause Pain

Dr. Cynthia Wong loves to see smiles transformed with braces.  But we all know braces are a long process and there is some pain and discomfort along the way.  Patients with braces often feel a little discomfort after their wires have been tightened, and patients with new braces usually experience some uncomfortable chafing as their mouth gets used to braces.  These are both normal occurrences and you can ease the pain while getting to your perfect smile!   

With a new set of braces, the insides of cheeks and lips will rub against the brackets and wires.  The soft tissue will toughen as your mouth gets accustomed to the braces, but at first it can create sore spots.  Dental wax is a great defense against this.  Just a small piece can cover the edge of a bracket and relieve any chafing.  After a set of braces is tightened a patient will also feel some pain and soreness.  The patient should eat soft foods right after a tightening if they are experiencing discomfort.  If the pain continues, over-the-counter pain relievers like Advil and Motrin are helpful.  Please still contact the office if you experience any extreme or long-lasting discomfort.

To learn more about orthodontic treatment, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Tooth Sensitivity and Braces

If you cringe while eating an ice cream cone or a hot beverage, you may have fallen victim to tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity can occur with or without braces, but if occurs with them, it may be attributed to internal or external factors. If your teeth are sensitive, Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics will need to see you for a consultation to determine the cause and discuss treatment options.  

Tooth sensitivity can be caused for a variety of reasons. Perhaps you grind or clench your teeth, or you aren’t brushing and flossing as you should be. Proper oral hygiene is essential in preventing pain from tooth sensitivity. However, if your teeth are sensitive because you’ve recently had braces applied, the sensitivity may only be temporary. If you experience any orthodontic discomfort of any kind, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Wong so that she can fix the problem.

If you have questions about orthodontic oral hygiene or our orthodontic options, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Water Flossing

A little floss goes a long way when it comes to oral health. This is because it removes food particles that have been left behind after brushing. Flossing can significantly reduce periodontal disease and cavity-causing causing bacteria that leads to tooth decay but sometimes the act of flossing is difficult for a patient with orthodontics. Dr. Cynthia Wong of Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics suggests using a water flosser for those hard to reach places.

A safe, easy, and effective way to remove plaque around dental braces is to use a water flosser. A water flosser is a handheld device that sprays streams of water in steady pulses. Not only is this beneficial to patients with traditional braces, water flossers are also an option for people who have trouble flossing by hand. You should never get by on flossing alone. It’s important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day to reap the maximum benefits of a healthy mouth.

If you have questions about orthodontic oral hygiene, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

What is Invisalign?

Dr. Cynthia Wong has an orthodontic solution for every patient, and Invisalign may be what you’re looking for.  Invisalign is an invisible and removable alternative to traditional braces for adults and teens, and is recommended to correct mild to moderate spacing or crowding of the teeth.  Severely crooked teeth or a misaligned bite may require another method, so always consult your dentist. 

Straightening your teeth with Invisalign always begins with an examination to ensure you can expect positive results from treatment. Then, impressions or scans of your teeth are used to create a series of aligners customized to your teeth and treatment plan.  An average treatment plan with Invisalign might include around 20 sets of aligners and be completed in about a year.  Depending on your individual treatment plan, each set of aligners should be worn at least 20 hours a day for about two weeks. The aligners should be removed to eat, and to brush and floss.

To learn more about Invisalign and all the different orthodontic treatments available, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Removing Braces

When it’s time for braces to come off, patients can’t wait to see their new smile!  Dr. Cynthia Wong has revealed many new smiles to her patients and we always look forward to the payoff.  But how are braces removed? Understanding this process is important for you to know what to expect and how to care for your teeth afterward. 

Removing braces is accomplished in one relatively painless visit, and each element of the braces is removed in reverse of the order it was applied.  This begins with removing the small elastic bands around each bracket with a small, hooked instrument.  Specialized pliers are then used to gently pull the wire away from each bracket and to help your dentist remove each bracket individually.  Once all components of the braces have been removed, you will still feel residue from the powerful adhesive on your teeth.  Once your teeth are polished and cleaned, this residue will be gone and you can enjoy your brand new smile!  If necessary, your dentist will discuss the need for a permanent or temporary retainer.

To learn more about the different orthodontic treatments available, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Cleaning Your Retainers

If you’re wearing a retainer, congratulations! Your orthodontic treatment has ended and you are on your way to having straight teeth for years to come. Dr. Cynthia Wong hopes you are wearing your retainers for the maximum amount of time, and if you are, they may seem cloudy or foggy in appearance. Here are some tips and tricks for cleaning them and bringing them back to life.

If you’ve been told that cleaning your retainer with a toothbrush will scratch it – this is a myth. In fact, brushing your retainer with a toothbrush is the only way to remove tartar that naturally builds up. Regardless of what type of retainer you have, it’s always best to keep them moist – either in the mouth or soaking in distilled water. You should never use harsh chemicals or boiling water to clean your retainers as this will damage them. If you feel like the at-home care routine isn’t cleaning them enough, bring them to our office and we’ll h help you clean them!

If you have questions or concerns about orthodontic treatment, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Drink More Water

A healthy smile is just a sip away if you drink more water for your oral health. Our bodies are 60% water, so by consuming sugary beverages, we aren’t doing anything to improve our overall health. Sugary beverages like juice or soda pop may wash away food particles but they leave unwanted sugar behind on teeth.  Water cleans the mouth with every sip and Dr. Cynthia Wong is here to tell you why.

The cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth feed off sugars and produce acid that wears away enamel. Water dilutes these acids to keep your smile cavity-free. Additionally, human saliva has 99% water content, so when drinking water, you are preventing yourself from experiencing dry mouth and reducing your risk of tooth decay. Though drinking water helps you maintain a healthy smile, don’t forget to brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss at least once a day, and visit us for professional cleanings.

If you have questions or concerns about orthodontic treatment, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Brushing and Flossing with Braces

The staff at Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics wants patients to remember that brushing and flossing are important no matter what stage of orthodontic treatment you are in.  But how do you get the best clean with braces? Here are some tips!

• ·        Holding the head of the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to the gum line will help the bristles clean around the brackets most effectively.


• ·        Floss threaders and orthodontic floss help you thread floss underneath the wires of your braces.  Once you thread the floss underneath each wire, wrap your pointer fingers around each end of the floss. 


• ·        Rub the side of each tooth up to the gum line, and once you’ve removed the plaque and food particles, remove the floss the thread it underneath the next wire. 


• ·        If you feel flossing between your braces does not remove all the lingering food particles, you may be more effective with a water flosser.  Water flossers use a stream of water and pulsing pressure to clean between your teeth and any brackets or appliances.

To learn more about oral hygiene and all the services we provide at the practice, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

What is TMD?

The tempromandibilar joint is a hinge that connects your jaw bone (mandible) to the temporal bones in your skull, in front of each ear.  A general term for any problem or issue with this joint is temporomandibular disorder, or TMD.  Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics can help patients prevent and recover from negative effects of TMD.

Patients that grind or clench their teeth often end up with a sore jaw.  Other patients experience injuries with facial trauma that cause jaw pain or result in the patient feeling their jaw gets stuck or ‘locked’ in either an open or closed position.  A custom night guard keeps the jaw in a neutral position during sleep, and this helps many patients find relief from TMD symptoms.  For any pain, your dentist may recommend an over-the-counter painkiller or warm and cold compresses.  To prevent further discomfort, you may be assigned stretches for your jaw. 

Whatever your symptoms, you don’t have to suffer discomfort in your jaw.  To learn more about TMD and the services we provide at the practice, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

How Sugar Affects the Teeth

Foods that contain sugars of any kind contribute to tooth decay. Though Dr. Cynthia Wong understands that we can’t eliminate sugar from our diets completely, reducing the amount of sugar we consume can go a long way. The mouth is full of bacteria, many of which are beneficial to your oral health. However, certain harmful bacteria will feed on the sugars we consume and destroy tooth enamel.  

Soda, energy drinks, chocolate milk, and fruit juices are beverages that contain an abundance of sugar. For example, a glass of apple juice can contain as much sugar as a can of soda. Dr. Wong suggests opting for better choices such as water, unsweetened tea, milk, or diluted juice. If your sweet tooth is just too strong, there are other ways to protect your teeth. For starters, brush your teeth after you eat to eliminate the acids that stick to the enamel and floss to remove any excess carbohydrates.

If you have questions or concerns about the status of your oral health, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visitwww.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Why Not to do Orthodontics Yourself

It was nearly a year ago that the American Association of Orthodontists released a public service announcement warning people not to attempt to do orthodontic work on themselves. That warning is back in the news following a study by the Association, released in February of this year, finding that thirteen percent of its members have treated a person who tried to straighten their own teeth through unprofessional methods. These practices are much more likely to do severe damage to a person’s teeth than they are to help them.

One of the purported benefits of DIY orthodontics is that it works faster. But the reason professional orthodontics is slow is not because the patient is being milked for money, but because there is a careful balance to maintain in moving teeth through other bones without making them come loose. Teeth that are moved very quickly could easily migrate back or fall out completely. DIY guides also frequently encourage people to use bonds without cemented brackets to keep them from sliding into their gum pockets. The bonds are also frequently of a biodegradable material which will rot in the user’s mouth while strangling their teeth.

Our office offers free initial exams and consultations. Orthodontic treatment is an investment—it prevents a lifetime of dental problems resulting from a bad bite, but only when overseen by an expert.

Cynthia Wong, DMD, operates at 15614 S Harlem #B, Orland Park, Illinois, 60462. To contact her office, call 708-444-8341 or visit DrCynthiaWong.com and send a message.

 

Nighttime Oral Care

You may brush your teeth in the morning to eliminate rancid morning breath, but what about brushing your teeth before bed? Brushing your teeth before hitting the hay is very important and Dr. Cynthia Wong would like to explain why. When we sleep, our saliva flow slows down and saliva is what’s used to wash away food particles that cause bad breath and tooth decay. If you currently don’t brush before bed, it’s never too late to implement a nighttime oral care routine.

After we eat, plaque sits on our teeth, and if this plaque sits on your teeth all night, it can potentially lead to gingivitis and even more severe forms of periodontal disease. Each time you brush your teeth you should be using fluoride toothpaste that has the ADA seal of approval. You should always go to sleep with a clean mouth, because this will reduce morning breath odor when you wake up. Dr. Cynthia Wong understands that sometimes we are too exhausted to brush, floss, rinse, etc. which is why she recommends keeping a toothbrush near your nightstand and give those pearly whites a quick sweep before your head hits the pillow because a dry brush is better than none at all.

If you have questions or concerns about your oral hygiene routine, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Oral Thrush

Thrush is a medical condition in which a yeast-shaped fungus called Candida overgrows in the mouth and throat. Normally, Candida exists in the mouth in small numbers along with various kinds of good bacteria, but when this balance is disrupted, an infection will occur. Thrush most commonly occurs in elderly patients who wear dentures, but it can also occur in children. Dr. Cynthia Wong would like to explain this condition and assure you that it is preventable as well as treatable.

Thrush often occurs in people with weakened immune systems. It’s not unusual for infants to develop this condition, and it’s usually not serious unless the infection persists for more than a week. Symptoms of a thrush infection include white patches in the mouth or tongue that may bleed, redness or soreness inside the mouth, or painful cracks in the corners of the mouth. Treatment for thrush depends on the cause and the severity of the infection.

If you have questions or concerns about thrush, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Traditional Braces – Pain Management

Have you been putting off braces because you fear they are going to hurt? Well, we can’t say that they won’t - because the pain means that the teeth are straightening out - but the good news is that this pain is manageable. The discomfort that you experience from braces can be internal or external and Dr. Cynthia Wong would like to explain the difference between the two and what you can do to manage the pain.

Braces are used to move teeth into their ideal position and align how they bite together. Each person will have a different response to this orthodontic method, but there is likely to be some pain. After visiting Dr. Cynthia Wong for an orthodontic adjustment, your brackets and wires may cause gum inflammation or tooth sensitivity. Many products are available to relieve this pain, such as ibuprofen, or orthodontic wax if the wires are irritating the soft tissues in your mouth. Additionally, to relieve this pain it helps to eat a soft diet for a day or two after receiving braces or having them adjusted. If you can’t eliminate the discomfort on your own, call our office so we can help.

If you have questions or concerns about orthodontic treatment, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Orthodontics and Oral Piercings

Perhaps you’ve been toying around with the idea of expressing yourself through a lip ring, or a tongue ring. Though oral piercings are a form of expression, it’s important to know what role they play in your oral hygiene. Oral piercings can not only cause pain and swelling in the oral cavity, they also pose a high risk for infection. Dr. Cynthia Wong does not want to discourage you from self-expression, but if you are going to go through with the process, it’s important to wait until your orthodontic treatment is complete.

Fractured teeth are a common problem with people who have oral piercings which are why they are not recommended when braces are in the mouth. This is because every time you swallow, the barbell can hit the teeth. If you already have a tongue piercing or a lip piercing, you should remove your jewelry every time you practice your oral hygiene routine. Brushing and flossing are extra important when you have oral piercings because this lowers your chances for infection.

If you have concerns about the status of your oral hygiene, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Braces and Gum Disease

The first stage of gum disease, also known as gingivitis, occurs when the tissues around the teeth become inflamed. This is already a pesky problem without braces, but when braces are involved, gum disease becomes a little trickier. While orthodontics can promote periodontal disease, they can also reduce the symptoms of it. The case will depend on the patient and Dr. Cynthia Wong can discuss these issues during a consultation.

It is normal to feel pain in your mouth after receiving new braces or wire adjustments because your teeth are working hard to give you a brand new smile. However, the patient should always be aware of gum disease symptoms because the risk is always there. The patient may experience tender or bleeding gums, as well as redness or swelling. To prevent this from happening, those who wear braces should vigilantly brush after every meal and floss at least once a day. It is important to contact Dr. Cynthia Wong if you are experiencing any pain.

If you are concerned about the status of your periodontal health, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Night Guards

Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics offers custom night guards to help patients overcome the negative effects of bruxism. Bruxism is defined as any regular teeth grinding or clenching of the jaw. Stress can intensify bruxism, but it is most often caused by an abnormal bite or crooked teeth. Some teeth grinders consciously grind their teeth and clench their jaw, but some only do so while asleep and may not even realize it.  Waking up with a dull headache or experiencing pain and stiffness in your jaw are signs you may be grinding your teeth overnight.

Patients who continually grind their teeth often end up needing crowns, bridges, root canals and implants. In severe cases, tooth loss can occur and partial or complete dentures may be needed.  Wearing a custom night guard protects the surface of the teeth, and also properly aligns the jaw to improve breathing and sleep. To fit you with a custom night guard a dentist takes an impression of your teeth, and the night guard is manufactured in a dental lab. This is an easy step to take to protect your teeth with an added bonus of improving sleep! 

To learn more about night guards and all the services we provide, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Clear Braces

Traditional braces are still the most common way adults and children correct their teeth. Methods like clear aligners have become popular, but are not effective for everyone.  Traditional braces use silver brackets and wires that work together to straighten teeth.  This method has always been effective, but results in a metallic look dreaded by teens everywhere. Dr. Cynthia Wong has a solution for every orthodontic patient, and clear braces could be the one for you.

Aesthetic improvements have been made to traditional braces that can achieve the same results without the metallic element.  Brackets are now available in clear and translucent forms that are designed to resist staining over time.  To connect these brackets, wires the color of natural teeth are used.  The final look is not totally invisible but is much more subtle than traditional silver braces and doesn’t look metallic.  Almost any orthodontic patient can achieve the same great results as traditional braces offer with a better disguise during treatment.

To learn about the different types of braces available to you, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Retainers after Orthodontic Treatment

Choosing the type of retainer once orthodontic treatment is complete, typically depends on the patient’s individual preference, but Dr. Cynthia Wong will recommend what she thinks is best. Once orthodontic treatment ends, the use of retainers is critical to upkeep all of the hard work that went into straightening your smile. There are two types of retainers that Dr. Cynthia Wong would like to discuss; fixed and removable.

Fixed retainers are usually a thin wire that is placed across the front of the lower or upper front teeth, which is bonded in place with cement similar to that applied on the brackets of braces. Despite the fact that they may require more maintenance than a removable retainer, they are the best option, because they keep teeth in place 24/7. A removable retainer, on the other hand, is a combination of wire running across the front of the lower or upper front teeth and are held in place with a combination of acrylic material and hooks that insert in or around the back teeth to hold the retainer in the place.

If you have questions regarding your orthodontic retainer, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Mouth Sores and Orthodontics

Braces have improved a lot over the years, but traditional metal braces still have the ability to cause discomfort. When a dental appliance such as traditional braces, or even Invisalign, rubs against the cheek, mouth sores may occur. Dr. Cynthia Wong may recommend orthodontic wax to relieve irritation, but she can discuss treatment options with you if they become persistent.

Mouth sores can be quite painful, especially when talking or eating your food. To minimize the pain, you should always avoid spicy foods and foods with sharp edges such as chips, or crackers. If you have a loose orthodontic wire or a denture that doesn’t fit, you should contact Dr. Wong immediately to discuss your treatment options. Depending on the cause, Dr. Wong will adjust, reposition, or reattach existing wires or brackets. To ease the discomfort of your mouth sores before your appointment, you may want to take over-the-counter pain medication such as Tylenol or Advil or apply an over-the-counter topical anesthetic to numb the area.

If you suffer from persistent mouth sores, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Why Our Teeth Can't Fit in Our Mouths

The human body is far from perfect, but people may justifiably be perplexed as to why so many of us require orthodontic work and wisdom teeth extraction. Why would nature cause us to have such overcrowded and misaligned teeth? Well, the short answer is, it didn’t. A number of studies in recent years, including one published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences in 2011 and one in Plos One in 2015, found that an agricultural lifestyle has caused modern people to have underdeveloped jaw bones which aren’t big enough for our teeth.

The earlier study established that people in agricultural societies tend to have more malocclusions than non-agricultural people. This is widely believed to be because a diet of soft foods, such as grains, during childhood causes people to not develop as large jaws, but tooth size remains controlled by genetics. The second study found that people in agricultural societies not only have smaller jaws, but differently shaped ones from hunter-gatherers and pastoralists, and that the change occurred piecemeal throughout the world as different civilizations adopted agriculture. Agricultural peoples’ jaws are shorter in length and depth, resulting in overcrowding and incomplete eruptions.

So it seems that a dependence on orthodontics is the trade-off for reliable food.

Cynthia Wong, DMD, operates at 15614 S Harlem #B, Orland Park, Illinois, 60462. To contact her office, call 708-444-8341 or visit DrCynthiaWong.com and send a message.

 

Types of Teeth

At Dr. Cynthia Wong’s Orland Park office, we often educate patients about why their misaligned teeth are causing them problems. Therefore, we thought we’d offer this run-down of the types and purposes of teeth.

Adults naturally have thirty-two teeth, with sixteen in each jaw. Per jaw, there are two pairs of incisors, one pair of canines, two pairs of premolars, and three pairs of molars. The backmost molars are called wisdom teeth, but they are functionally the same as the other molars.

Incisors are the front teeth and are used to tear food and form most consonants. They are further divided into central and lateral incisors. Canines are the pointy teeth next to the incisors which are used for piercing food. They often have difficulty erupting from the gum line, which is why orthodontic devices are used to guide them into place.

Premolars and molars are used for chewing. Their surfaces are made up of indentations in between cusps. Some premolars and molars, especially the wisdom teeth, are often removed so that they will not cause overcrowding. Orthodontists place brackets on the back molars to secure the arch wires which bind all the other teeth.

Cynthia Wong, DMD, operates at 15614 S Harlem #B, Orland Park, Illinois, 60462. To contact her office, call 708-444-8341 or visit DrCynthiaWong.com and send a message.

 

Orthodontics for Cerebral Palsy Patients

A long-standing problem in orthodontics was that people with cerebral palsy were among those who would most benefit from malocclusion correction but were not considered good candidates for traditional braces. However, the rise of invisible aligners, such as Invisalign, has made it much easier to provide care for these patients.

People with cerebral palsy commonly suffer from misalignment problems which cause them to produce too much saliva, not be able to chew safely, and sometimes even prevent them from closing their mouths. As with other patients, tooth overcrowding also makes oral hygiene difficult. Traditional braces require even greater attention to oral hygiene, which people with cerebral palsy often cannot do for themselves and which caregivers may struggle with.

However, overcrowding is one of the problems which Invisalign is best suited for. The removable aligners make oral hygiene much easier and are generally considered much more comfortable and less prone to accidents. Invisalign cannot be used to correct the most severe cases of malocclusion, but if a child with cerebral palsy begins a treatment plan at a young enough age, a great deal of dental stress for patient and caregiver may be avoided in the future.

Cynthia Wong, DMD, operates at 15614 S Harlem #B, Orland Park, Illinois, 60462. To contact her office, call 708-444-8341 or visit DrCynthiaWong.com and send a message.

 

Take Care of Infant Teeth

Baby teeth may be small, but they’re important. To help prevent the buildup of plaque bacteria that can lead to decay, Dr. Cynthia Wong recommends regularly cleaning your newborn’s gums with a damp washcloth following feedings. It’s important to start cleaning your child’s teeth before they come in to jumpstart a healthy smile.

Wipe the gums off after each feeding with a warm, wet washcloth or a dampened piece of gauze wrapped around your finger. In addition, take measures to prevent baby bottle tooth decay, a disease that causes severe, and swift decay of baby teeth. To help prevent it, do not put your baby to bed with a bottle of formula or a sugary drink, such as juice. The possibility of tooth decay is directly related to the number of times that sugar comes in contact with the teeth. Your child’s baby teeth act as placeholders for adult teeth. Without a healthy set of baby teeth, your child risks having trouble chewing and speaking clearly as they get older.

If you have questions about infant tooth care, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Prevent Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a common and mild form of gum disease that causes irritation, redness, and swelling (inflammation) of your gums. Because gingivitis can be mild, you may not be aware that you have the condition. However, it’s important to take gingivitis seriously and treat it promptly. If you suffer from gingivitis, Dr. Cynthia Wong will provide you with a preventive treatment plan before it leads to periodontitis and eventual tooth loss.

Gingivitis – an inflammation of the gums – is the initial stage of gum disease and the easiest to treat. The direct cause of gingivitis is plaque – the soft, sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms constantly on teeth and gums. If the plaque is not removed by daily brushing and flossing, it produces toxins that can irritate the gum tissue, causing gingivitis. Classic signs and symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen, tender gums that may bleed when you brush. Another sign of gum disease is gums that have receded or pulled away from your teeth, giving your teeth an elongated appearance. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can usually be reversed with daily brushing and flossing.

If you suffer from gingivitis and are in the process of orthodontic treatment, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Denture Pain

Denture pain typically stems from poor fitting or poorly adjusted dentures. It may also be a result of new dentures, worn over soft tissues that have not developed thick, toughened layers of protective keratin. If you are experiencing gum and mouth irritation, problems eating and speaking, mouth infections and/or dentures that move around in your mouth, give Dr. Cynthia Wong a call to discuss your treatment options.

If you wear dentures, it is very important you keep your mouth clean and healthy. In addition, you should never experience pain when wearing your dentures. If you do experience pain from your dentures and this discomfort is not treated by speaking slowly, eating soft foods or using an adhesive, your dentures may need to be replaced. At Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics, we have plenty of tooth-replacement options for you to choose from if dentures aren’t working out.

If you have dentures that are causing you pain, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Wisdom Tooth Decay

As we age, we acquire wisdom, and the same goes for wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth appear between the ages of 17-21 and are known as the third set of molars. When they erupt correctly, healthy wisdom teeth can help you chomp your food a little faster.  However, if they start to cause you pain and discomfort, you may need to schedule a consultation Dr. Cynthia Wong to discuss extraction.

If you bite on a piece of food that is too hard or you experience a mouth injury, wisdom teeth may become troublesome. They can also become cracked, broken, and decayed. Decay can form on any tooth surface, but when the decay begins to attack the wisdom teeth, depending on the position of the tooth it becomes difficult to clean. Depending on the individual case, Dr. Cynthia Wong may be able to fill the tooth, but even in cases where a filling could be successfully placed, if the wisdom tooth cannot be adequately maintained, recurrent decay can occur. Though many patients tend to procrastinate through the process, extraction is always best to avoid infection.

If your wisdom teeth are still intact and you have questions about removal, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

How to Orthodontics Work with Implants?

Dr. Cynthia Wong is proud to say her Orland Park orthodontic clinic provides treatment to adult patients. Many people find that Invisalign and other retainers greatly assist their confidence and self-esteem. But adults also tend to have more complicated dental histories than children and may wonder how orthodontics will interact with prosthetic teeth.

Artificial crowns and bridges can be removed for the purposes of realignment, but implants are titanium screwed into bone. Nothing is going to move that! On the other hand, an implant can be a very useful anchor for moving other teeth. Usually, if a patient wants an implant but doesn’t have one yet, it is best to wait until after orthodontic treatment is finished or nearly finished to place it. There may not even be room for the implant before the other teeth have been moved into place. But an exception occurs if the implant can be placed in the ideal position early in the process and then be used as an alternative anchoring point for the arch. If the implant-supported crown is not going to be one of the teeth targeted for treatment, it may not matter as much at which point it is placed, but every case is unique.

Cynthia Wong, DMD, operates at 15614 S Harlem #B, Orland Park, Illinois, 60462. To contact her office, call 708-444-8341 or visit DrCynthiaWong.com and send a message.

 

Impacted Canines

Impacted teeth are one of the most common reasons why patients need orthodontic treatment, and canines, also known as cuspids, are among the teeth most likely to be impacted. As an experienced orthodontist, Dr. Cynthia Wong works with dental surgeons to help guide canine teeth through the patients’ gum line and into place, ensuring a strong bite and arch shape.

In children, x-rays should reveal whether there will be room for the canines to erupt. If there is not, it is a good thing the problem was caught early, because impacted canines may never emerge in adults. There are a variety of strategies a dental surgeon may pursue depending on the situation, but most will involve making an incision in the gums in order to expose enough of the canine for a bracket to be attached to it.

Attaching the bracket of an impacted tooth to the arch wire may require some unusual looking hardware.  Chains are one common tool; ballista-shaped springs are another. These are both intended to pull on the impacted canine without putting pressure on the adjacent teeth. Moving an impacted canine into place is generally expected to take a year. Once completed, the canines are crucial to maintaining the straightened arch of all the other teeth.

Cynthia Wong, DMD, operates at 15614 S Harlem #B, Orland Park, Illinois, 60462. To contact her office, call 708-444-8341 or visit DrCynthiaWong.com and send a message.

 

Etiquette and Safety with Orthodontics

Dr. Cynthia Wong’s potential patients are often reluctant to get braces because they are afraid they would look and feel awkward. We offer invisible braces and Invisalign partly for this reason, but these still require retainers to be worn afterward, and when people spit out their retainers while they are dining with friends, feeling awkward is quite natural. There are a few pitfalls which you might want to know to watch out for before you get orthodontics.

While you are wearing traditional (or clear, or ceramic) braces, you will want to keep the proxabrush on you at all times. This will allow you to dislodge food from the front of your mouth any time you duck out to the bathroom. Of course, food can still get stuck in between your teeth, but if you are concerned enough about this to carry floss, you can also carry a floss threader. Braces are likely to trap much bigger food chunks than you are used to dealing with, and carrying the proxabrush will provide you with peace of mind so you aren’t tempted to push at your braces with the tip of your tongue (or thumb).

Likewise, if you wear a retainer or aligner, keep the case close at hand, even if out of sight. In terms of etiquette, the retainer is ideally removed and replaced in private, but sometimes, you will get offered food unexpectedly. Never leave the retainer in while eating; it is much better to explain the need to remove it and do so as discreetly as possible than to attempt to eat while wearing it, possibly damaging it, and creating a great deal of difficulty for yourself with every bite and swallow.

Cynthia Wong, DMD, operates at 15614 S Harlem #B, Orland Park, Illinois, 60462. To contact her office, call 708-444-8341 or visit DrCynthiaWong.com and send a message.

 

 

Cooking for Someone with Orthodontics

There are a lot of guides online for what kinds of food to make for kids with braces, but they mostly focus on how to make food as soft as possible. They neglect to mention that sticky or thick foods could break braces, as well, and foods that are too soft will get stuck and are difficult to remove. We at Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics thought we’d provide a few tips of our own:

•  Steam vegetables and cut them into thin strips. Slicing corn from the cob is also a way to make it safe, though the proxabrush will be necessary to remove it.


• Long beans don’t even need to be cut


•  Eggs are a good choice in nearly any mode of preparation


• Baked fish is soft, but has enough resistance to provide the pleasure of biting into something tasty


• Slow cooked meats in general are satisfying, especially in soups


• Curries are often nutritious, and traditionally paired with long-grain, instead of sticky, rice


• Desserts with crumbled graham cracker crusts are quick to soften up inside the mouth


• Immediately after tightening, it may be best to avoid chewing at all. This is a good time for smoothies, milkshakes, oatmeal, and mashed root vegetables

Cynthia Wong, DMD, operates at 15614 S Harlem #B, Orland Park, Illinois, 60462. To contact her office, call 708-444-8341 or visit DrCynthiaWong.com and send a message.