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.