Patient Education
Welcome to the Patient Education Library of Upper Bucks Orthodontics
Below you will find our comprehensive list of resources and educational materials designed to help educate you about your orthodontic condition or treatment. Simply click on a topic below to learn more.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your condition or treatment, please feel free to contact Upper Bucks Orthodontics in in Perkasie, PA at (215) 257-8011 or in Quakertown, PA at (215) 538-2911. To request an appointment, use our secure online appointment request form.
This information is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used in place of an individual consultation or examination or replace the advice of your health care professional and should not be relied upon to determine diagnosis or course of treatment.
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Adult Braces
More and more, braces are becoming very popular among adults. Adults realize the importance of a beautiful healthy smile and preventing future dental problems. There are a variety of braces to choose from; some are barely even noticeable. ... Read More
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Are braces uncomfortable?
It is common for most people to feel discomfort from braces from time to time. It may depend on the type of braces that you have and your age. Traditional braces may cause more discomfort than newer types of braces. Orthodontics ... Read More
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Benefits of Braces
Orthodontics or “braces” can be helpful for both children and adults. They can straighten crooked teeth, correct the spacing between teeth, and improve bite patterns. Orthodontics can contribute to healthy teeth and gums and prevent future dental problems. Orthodontics can ... Read More
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Bite Problems- Malocclusions
A malocclusion is a dental term for a bite problem. Everyone has some degree of malocclusion. However, significant malocclusions can contribute to mouth breathing and interfere with speaking and eating. A poor bite can cause teeth and enamel to wear ... Read More
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Braces - Pediatrics
Orthodontics or “braces” are devices worn on the teeth to improve tooth alignment. Orthodontics can be helpful for both children and adults. Orthodontics can improve the function of your child’s teeth and the appearance of his or her smile. In ... Read More
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Braces and Tooth Care
Good oral health care is more important than ever once you have braces. Brushing and flossing removes food that can get caught in braces. Your orthodontist will provide you with an oral health care plan. Healthy habits ensure healthy teeth ... Read More
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Broken Braces (What to do)
Even though you may do everything to avoid it, it is common for braces to break at one time or another. Braces, brackets, bands, and wires may become loose or break because of chewing hard or sticky food or for ... Read More
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Cavities
Cavities are caused by tooth decay. Cavities are more common among children, but adults may develop them as well. Tooth decay occurs for several reasons including plaque formation, what you eat, the use of fluoride, how well you care for ... Read More
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Diabetes and Oral Health
Diabetes is a disease that affects how the body uses glucose, a sugar that is a source of fuel. Normally, insulin, a hormone, helps glucose enter the body cells where it is used for energy. There are different types of ... Read More
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Dry Socket
Dry socket is a condition that can develop after a tooth is removed. Normally, a blot clot forms in the space where your tooth was at to protect the area while it heals. A dry socket results when a blood ... Read More
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Eating with Braces
There are a variety of orthodontic choices. Today’s braces range from clear aligners to clear or metal brackets. Some types of braces are removable, but non-removable braces make take a little time to get used to when eating. ... Read More
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Gum Disease and Periodontal Treatments
Periodontal disease, commonly known as “gum disease,” is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. It occurs when harmful bacteria infect the gums and create gaps around the teeth. Periodontal disease is termed a “silent disease” because it may ... Read More
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Invisalign
Invisalign® is the newest product in tooth straightening systems. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign® Aligners are clear and nearly undetectable. They are conveniently removable for eating, brushing, and flossing your teeth. Invisalign® Aligners are comfortable. They are custom made to ... Read More
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Kids: What's it Like to Wear Braces?
You may already know other kids that have braces, like your classmates or brothers and sisters. You may have seen old photos of your parents wearing braces and now it’s your turn and you’re wondering, “What’s it like to wear ... Read More
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Mouth Piercings and Jewelry
Mouth piercings and jewelry are a type of fashion trend among some young adults and teenagers. The lips, tongue, and cheeks may be pierced to wear barbell, hoop, or stud-type jewelry, similar to earrings. Oral piercing procedures and the jewelry ... Read More
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Mouth Sores
Mouth sores are a common condition. They can cause pain and discomfort. Some develop inside of the mouth and others develop on the lips and skin surrounding the mouth. There are several different types of mouth sores. The most common ... Read More
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Oral Health
Good oral health care includes professional dental treatments provided by your dentist and good habits at home. You should eat well-balanced meals and limit between-meal snacks. Keep your teeth clean by brushing and flossing. Healthy habits ensure healthy teeth and ... Read More
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Orthodontic Phasing
In the past, orthodontics were mainly for teenagers. More and more, adults are wearing braces as well. Orthodontists recognize the importance of healthy teeth and gums across the life span. Today, early proactive treatment delivered in phases during early childhood ... Read More
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Orthodontics
Orthodontics or “braces” are devices worn on the teeth to improve tooth alignment. Orthodontics can be helpful for both children and adults. Orthodontics can improve the function of your teeth and the appearance of your smile. In most cases, orthodontics ... Read More
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Pediatrics - Mouth Piercings and Jewelry
Mouth piercings and jewelry are a type of fashion trend among some young adults and teenagers. The lips, tongue, and cheeks may be pierced to wear barbell, hoop, or stud type jewelry, similar to earrings. Oral piercing procedures and the ... Read More
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Pediatrics - Mouthguards for Sports
Mouthguards are protective coverings worn over the teeth. They provide protection to a child’s mouth, teeth, tongue, and gums during contact or impact sports. There are several types of mouthguards. Your dentist can help you choose the most appropriate one ... Read More
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Pediatrics - Thumb Sucking
Thumb sucking is a natural reflex for babies. They may suck on their thumb, pacifier, or other objects to relax, induce sleep, explore their world, or for security. Youngsters usually stop thumb sucking between the ages of two and four ... Read More
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Retainers
Retainers are orthodontic devices that are worn after braces are removed. The purpose of retainers is to keep your teeth in alignment following orthodontic treatment. Retainers can be removable or permanent and custom-made to fit your mouth. They may be ... Read More
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Space Maintainers
Space maintainers are small appliances that are worn to maintain a space between teeth. A space maintainer may be necessary if a “baby tooth” or primary tooth is lost before the permanent replacement tooth is ready to come in. Ordinarily, ... Read More
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Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Teeth grinding, called bruxism, results from repeatedly clenching and releasing the jaw muscles. Both children and adults can experience bruxism. It may occur during the day or night. It is caused by several factors including stress, certain medications, certain illegal ... Read More
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TMJ- Temporomandibular Joint Disorder
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) is a condition that affects the jaw joint. Your lower jaw attaches to your skull by muscles and the two temporomandibular joints located near your ears. Your jaw opens, closes, and moves from side to side. ... Read More
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Tooth Anatomy: An Overview of Your Teeth
Your teeth serve many purposes. They help you chew food. Teeth work with your tongue to help you form sounds to speak. Teeth also create your beautiful smile and give your face its shape. Teeth vary in shape, size, location, ... Read More
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Tooth Extraction
Tooth extraction may be necessary for several reasons. Teeth may need to be removed if they are decayed or infected. In some cases, teeth are removed prior to orthodontic procedures. Wisdom teeth are commonly extracted. With modern dental methods, you ... Read More
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Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars. Some people may not develop a full set of wisdom teeth. Others may not develop any at all. It is very common for wisdom teeth to require dental treatment. Wisdom teeth ... Read More
Copyright © - iHealthSpot Interactive - www.iHealthSpot.com
This information is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used in place of an individual consultation or examination or replace the advice of your health care professional and should not be relied upon to determine diagnosis or course of treatment.
The iHealthSpot patient education library was written collaboratively by the iHealthSpot editorial team which includes Senior Medical Authors Dr. Mary Car-Blanchard, OTD/OTR/L and Valerie K. Clark, and the following editorial advisors: Steve Meadows, MD, Ernie F. Soto, DDS, Ronald J. Glatzer, MD, Jonathan Rosenberg, MD, Christopher M. Nolte, MD, David Applebaum, MD, Jonathan M. Tarrash, MD, and Paula Soto, RN/BSN. This content complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information. The library commenced development on September 1, 2005 with the latest update/addition on February 16, 2022. For information on iHealthSpot’s other services including medical website design, visit www.iHealthSpot.com.
