TMJ

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull at the temporal bone. This joint controls everyday functions like talking and eating. It’s what allows your mouth to open and close, for chewing and swallowing. If you experience pain when doing any of these activities, you may have a temporomandibular disorder or TMD. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong, D.M.D. of Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics, located in Orland Park, IL.

 

Common symptoms of TMD are:

-Pain when opening or closing the mouth

-Trouble chewing

-Jaw becoming stuck open or shut

-Headaches or ear pain

-Clicking or popping sounds when opening your mouth

-Teeth grinding

 

Although all the symptoms of TMD are problematic, teeth grinding is probably one of the most detrimental symptoms. Teeth grinding or bruxism wears down and destroys the teeth. The enamel will eventually wear away and expose the dentin. This material is more sensitive and is very susceptible to decay.

 

Pain relievers and cold/hot compresses can help manage short term symptoms. A night guard is the best way to curb teeth grinding. It prevents the top and bottom teeth from touching, keeping you from wearing away your enamel.

 

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, visit Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong, D.M.D., visit our website or call 708-444-8341.

Invisalign

Invisalign are a clear, invisible alternative to traditional metal braces. Dr. Cynthia Wong of Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics provides patients with a free exam and consultation for Invisalign.

 

At your free consultation, Dr. Wong can answer any questions and concerns that you might have. She will then pinpoint the issues with your orthodontic alignment and potential for Invisalign eligibility. You’ll have the chance to see and feel for yourself what Invisalign is like. A rundown of what kind of results you should expect, and the cost and payment of Invisalign, are also included.

 

Patients that experience the best results from Invisalign only have mild to moderate spacing and crowding issues that need to be fixed. Unaligned teeth, or malocclusion, are also treatable through Invisalign. Malocclusion, when left untreated, can lead to periodontal disease and create stress on the teeth and jaws. This results in tooth decay, tooth loss, and an unsightly smile.

 

The Invisalign procedure itself will occur over various appointments. Invisalign works by shifting your teeth through multiple retainers. As your teeth shift, you will need to come in and receive a new retainer. These retainers are custom designed to fit you and your mouth. Invisalign are worn 24/7 and are only removed to eat, brush, and floss.

 

The benefits of Invisalign are comfortable and invisible orthodontics, allowing you to have the smile you deserve. Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics is located in Orland Park, IL. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong, D.M.D. visit our website or call 708-444-8341.

Flossing With Braces

Dental health and hygiene are always important, especially when you have braces. Traditional metal braces catch food and debris, making brushing and flossing crucial. Dr. Cynthia Wong, D.M.D. of Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL. has a few tips and tricks for flossing with braces.

 

With braces, your daily hygiene routine should take three times longer. Food has a lot more pathways to hide and lodge between your teeth. You need to be flossing at least once a day with braces to make the most of your oral health. One of the largest deterrents for flossing with braces is the difficulty. This doesn’t mean you should just give up. Besides the traditional approach to flossing, there a few other methods that make flossing with braces a lot easier.

 

Waterpik’s are unique handheld tools that spray a steady stream of water at the teeth. The pressure from the water cleans out food from the teeth and gumline. Special tips are offered to help clean orthodontic devices. This lets you clean brackets and between teeth easier.

 

Floss threaders are small, inexpensive tools that help pull floss behind brace wire. This lets you get around the metal work, allowing you to floss.

 

Dental tape is just like floss but more sensitive. This is a better option for flossing with braces if you didn't floss regularly beforehand.

 

Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics is located in Orland Park, IL. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong, D.M.D., visit our website or call 708-444-8341.