Dental Blog | Orthodontics In St. Louis, MO

26/Apr/2024

The end of the year is fast approaching and just as quickly as the days are flying off the calendar, your insurance benefits could be going up in smoke.

So, ‘tis the season to use it or lose it. With most insurance plans, paid for benefits do not carry over from year to year. Not to mention, it would be best to have a dental checkup before the holidays get into full swing.

Typically, with all insurance policies the fees associated with them will rise each year. By taking advantage of your locked-in fee for this calendar year, you will end up saving yourself some money this holiday season.

Additionally, due to the fact that the year is coming to a close, odds are you have substantially paid down your insurance deductible. By paying for treatment this year, it will be much cheaper than waiting for the new year to start by having to pay down a fresh deductible.

Additionally, if your insurance policy operates on paid monthly premiums, why not take advantage of something you’ve already paid for by having some preventative care done or finish a procedure that’s been in the works for too long? It just makes sense to set aside a few hours of your day and use what you’ve already paid for.

In the long run it will save you time by preventing further issues, save you money because your deductible will be lower, and potentially save you some serious physical agony in the year ahead.

If you have any questions about insurance benefits or how best to use them prior to the year end, contact Dr. Frost today at 314-720-1806 to discuss or to schedule your appointment.

From all of us at Frost Orthodontics, we’d like to wish you a happy and healthy new year!

Frost Orthodontics

26/Apr/2024

If you’re thinking to yourself, “oh great, I just got braces and now I can’t eat anything on Thanksgiving this year!”, you might be surprised. Some of the best Thanksgiving dishes are perfect for your tender teeth and gums, and we’re here to give you a list of some of our favorites.

Turkey

This big bird is ideal for people who’ve just gotten their braces because of the consistency of the meat. It’s soft and doesn’t need to be chewed much. It’s also high in phosphorous, which promotes healthy teeth too. So pile it high and dig in!

Casseroles

Theses trays of baked deliciousness are easy to chew and don’t require much effort when it comes to swallowing. Whether it comes as green bean or sweet potato, casseroles are a perfect Thanksgiving treat.

Potatoes

Sweet potatoes, yukon gold potatoes, russet potatoes, fingerling potatoes…it doesn’t matter. Potatoes are tasty! And when they’re cooked, they’re very easy on a mouth with fresh braces.

Creamed Corn

Just like potatoes, creamed corn is perfect for braces. It doesn’t need any excessive chewing due to its soft texture, but be careful of corn flecks sticking in your braces.

Cranberries

Cranberries are a hallmark of the Thanksgiving holiday and more importantly, they’re soft on your teeth. Whether they’re in a jello, sauce, relish, or spread, cranberries will keep your mouth and teeth feeling great!

Dressing/Stuffing

There are practically as many varieties of dressing/stuffing as days of the year, and nearly every type is perfect for your braces. Take as much as you want!

Apple Sauce

Apple sauce is perfect because it doesn’t require chewing at all. This delightful concoction is sure to make your teeth, gums, and stomach happy.

Buttered Rolls

Rolls are a staple of Thanksgiving celebrations and are the perfect complement to the meal. Feel free to sink your teeth in and enjoy!

Pie

No Thanksgiving is complete without a braces-friendly dessert like your favorite pie. Pumpkin pie is a particularly good choice for braces. Take a bite and delight with these homemade holiday sweets.

For more information about braces-friendly foods this Thanksgiving, call us today at (314) 567-1888 or schedule an appointment for a follow-up. Frost Orthodontics would be happy to help you with your braces in Creve Coeur!

Have a HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

Frost Orthodontics

26/Apr/2024

A technology like braces has long been dreamt about by humans hoping to achieve a perfect smile. Even Hippocrates and Aristotle wondered how to straighten teeth.

However, it wasn’t until the 1700s that advancements in straightening teeth were taken from ideas to actual devices. The oh-so-stylish French pioneered the first teeth straightening device. It looked like a horseshoe and sounds more like a torture device than anything, but it was believed to increase the arch of the mouth allowing more room for the teeth fill in to.

However, there was nothing to to pull the teeth with. Eventually, there were holes placed in the horseshoe-like device for wires which would be bound to the teeth and and tightened periodically. This tightening concept is very similar to the idea behind today’s braces.

As early as the 1800s, gum rubbers were used as bands to pull the teeth into place, and it wasn’t until the early 1900s that orthodontists implemented a crib construction with loops and hooks to pull the wires through. These hooks and loops were made of precious metals due to their incredible bendable nature.

In the 1960s, the braces of today finally began to take shape. Stainless steel became the industry standard material and in the 1970s, glued brackets on the front of the teeth became the standard. There were even braces that mounted behind the teeth, which served as the invisible braces of the time.

Now, with further advancements in orthodontics, invisible braces have become even more widespread. But instead of using brackets, these braces are clear and look more like a mouth guard. These invisible braces are known as Invisalign, and instead of having the wires tightened periodically, there is a series of thermoplastic aligners used to straighten your teeth.

If you have any questions about Invisalign or braces in Creve Coeur, we would love to give you more information! Call us today at (314) 567-1888 or schedule an appointment here!

Frost Orthodontics

26/Apr/2024

It’s that time of the year when your sweet tooth starts acting up, and for good reason. Everyone knows that Halloween is around the corner and candy is sure to be everywhere.

As dentists, we tell children to make sure that they brush their teeth twice a day, to floss, and lay off the sweets, but this time of year it’s tough for adults to follow their own advice.

But why is candy so bad for teeth, anyway? The main reason is corrosive acid, which is produced by bacteria fueled by sugar. These bacteria love sugar just as much as the rest of us, and candy creates a perfect environment for them. As the sugars settle into and in between teeth, the resulting acid slowly decays them to the point where small holes we call cavities are created. Unfortunately, if you have braces, the problems only start there.

Now let’s talk about the good stuff…

Candy

It tastes delicious! We all know it, so there’s no reason for us to completely avoid the sweet tastes of Halloween. But, as with most things, it needs to be done with moderation in mind.

Also like most things, some varieties of candy are worse than others. So here’s a breakdown for you:

Gummy Candies

Let’s take a look at gummy candies. They taste great, feel cool in your mouth, and stick to your gums so you can enjoy them long after they’re “gone.” Well, the reason they taste so good is because of the enormous amount of processed sugar that is packed in each bite of your favorite bear or worm. Next, that gummy texture which feels so fun and sticks to your gums is great, until the sugar that’s in it starts to fester underneath your gum line causing gum disease, coupled with tooth decay.

Gummy and sticky candies are also the worst for braces. These candies are hard to clean off of braces once they’re stuck in, and the longer they’re stuck, the better chance they have of harming your teeth.

Hard Candies

Up next on the list are hard candies, such as Jolly Ranchers, suckers, or lemon drops. Hard candy is usually nothing more than caramelized sugar. Sugar paired with your favorite artificial flavor sounds delicious and is enough to make your mouth water on its own, but the sugar mixed with the potential tooth breaking possibilities is enough to leave any dentist scared for your little ones’ teeth come November 1st.

Hard candies are also rough on braces too. Just think of the sound or the feeling of hard candy on metal…it’s not good for anyone!

Candy Apples

Lastly, there’s the old standby of candy apples. The first ingredient is the apple, and those are great sources of nutrition. Plus, due to the nature of their construction, they act almost like a toothbrush as your teeth chomp through, cleaning off any plaque or debris.

But, then there’s the caramel. Even though an apple can help clean up some of the sticky caramel, it can’t get all of it. Besides, eating whole apples and caramel aren’t the easiest or the best when you have braces.

Lastly, there’s the stick. We highly recommend that you don’t go munching on that… So maybe it’s best to avoid candy apples with braces.

Happy Halloween!

Have a HAPPY HALLOWEEN and let’s enjoy some tasty, sweet treats, but remember to brush and floss to protect your teeth—they’re the only ones you have.

If you have any questions about braces or Invisalign in Creve Coeur, or would like to schedule an appointment, call Dr. Frost today at (314) 567-1888 or fill out our online form.

Frost Orthodontics

26/Apr/2024

Athletes tend to be the picture of physical human perfection, but that is not always the case, especially when analyzing their oral health. There are multiple contributing factors to this, but here are just a few.

For starters, athletes at a high level who don’t participate in the major sports are less likely to have access to dental insurance plans. Athletes who train and compete in the fringe sports spend their time training and are not provided dental insurance by their employers. Additionally, if they are not a top level performer, they are typically not provided with health insurance by their sport’s governing body.

Next on the list of reasons is the amount of sugary sports drinks athletes consume over the course of training. It makes sense that drinks high in sugar and acid would erode an athlete’s teeth faster than water, and without access to proper dental care, athletes run a higher risk of damaging their teeth through the consumption of these sports drinks.

Lastly, there is a study recently released by Scandinavian researchers that points to an altogether different hypothesis. The researchers believe that the pH level of athletes’ saliva is to blame for their poor dental health. In the course of their study, the researchers found that athlete’s saliva was more alkaline than that of an average person. Additionally, the researchers noticed that athletes produce less saliva while they are training. This is troubling because there is a protein in saliva that aids in the prevention of tooth erosion. Finally, the researchers also noted that athletes were at a higher risk of tooth erosion than the average person as a result of their strenuous workout patterns.

Athlete or not, consuming acidic or sugary drinks is an issue for dental health. Be sure to brush twice a day and take proper care of your teeth. If you have any questions about the best dental practices—especially if you have braces or Invisalign—call Dr. Frost today at (314) 567-1888 or fill out our online form here. He would be happy to assist you with caring for your Invisalign or braces in Creve Coeur.

Frost Orthodontics

26/Apr/2024

The day your bright and shiny new braces go on your teeth, you might not notice anything different other than having something strange attached to them. But as the days and weeks go by, having braces will seem like just a regular part of life. However, usually the second and third days after your braces have been applied, you might experience varying levels of soreness. Each patient will feel differently, but typically the soreness should subside after a few days.

After your teeth have gotten past the initial sore phase, your gums, cheeks, and tongue may develop sore spots. These will in time pass as well, but you can help prevent those sore spots by placing orthodontics wax over the brackets that are causing trouble in your mouth.

To apply the wax, start by washing your hands. Next, dry them and begin rolling the wax back and forth between your fingers to help loosen it up so that if can be applied easier. Once the wax is nice and loose, dry the brackets that you’re going to put the wax on so that it sticks better. Place the wax over the brackets so that the metal no longer sticks through and rub smooth. Orthodontics wax is there to help you through the adjustment period, so feel free to use it as you see fit.

Beyond the normal discomfort, eating with braces is going to be a new adventure for you. Start with foods that are soft and have a low level of acidity, as the acid could further irritate the sore spots in your mouth. Foods such as eggs, fish, pasta, potatoes, pancakes, waffles, yogurt, bananas, and milkshakes are great because they’re easy on your teeth. We also suggest that milk and water be consumed during this period, as the milk will help fortify your teeth and the water will keep your mouth and new braces clean.

Following each meal, it is important to brush your teeth and clear the braces of any debris. Not only is it good for your oral health, but you don’t want to walk around with spinach stuck in your braces all day either!

If you have any questions about braces in Creve Coeur or other orthodontic treatment options, simply fill out our appointment form or call Dr. Frost in Creve Coeur, MO at (314) 567-1888.

Frost Orthodontics

26/Apr/2024

The FIBA Basketball World Cup is currently underway and it looks like the United States is sure to take home yet another crown, but this is a dental blog so we’re here to talk about the goliath efforts of Dario Saric after having 6 of his teeth knocked out by Andres Nocioni. Not only did he come back into the game, but he buried a 3-pointer right after entering the game from having his dental health assessed.

Yes, Dario Saric is a terrific basketball player and he showed extreme grit in the game against Argentina, but he made a crucial error in judgement when he decided to not wear a mouth guard. Basketball is a non-contact sport, but there is bound to be accidents and an elbow flying errantly into your mouth is one of them. Some of the best in the game wear a mouthguard and there is a variety of styles to pick from for function and the always important ‘cool factor.’

When you’re playing sports your mouthguard is your last line of defense in protecting your teeth and it should always be on top of your list when getting ready for practice or the game. When picking your mouthguard you have the option of a standard mouthguard, which offers some basic protection for your chompers, but not as much as the other alternatives.

Next in terms of protection would be a mouthguard from the boil and bite variety. This mouthguard offers a great deal of protection, but usually fills your mouth with excess material that makes it difficult to communicate with your teammates.

Lastly, there is the custom mouthguard. This piece is very streamlined as it’s created to fit perfectly into your mouth. Not only is it great for sports where communication is relied on heavily, but with custom mouthguards you can create one that is as cool as your nerves when you’re shooting those game winning free-throws.

So have fun out there and don’t forget to protect those teeth of yours, because they’re the only ones you have. For any questions about mouthguards and how to protect your teeth better, contact Dr. Frost today at (314) 567-1888 for your consultation.

Relieve-Discomfort-from-Getting-Your-Braces-Tightened-612x252.jpg

Frost Orthodontics

26/Apr/2024

Getting your braces tightened can be a little uncomfortable, especially the first couple of times you have it done. The discomfort means that your teeth are moving and the treatment is working!

But we know it can be kind of hard to focus on the long-term when your mouth is sore right now, so here are some tips to relieve some of the discomfort:

Over-the-counter pain relief medicine

Common over-the-counter pain medications like Advil or Tylenol can help with some of the mild pain that comes from getting your braces tightened. To get a jump on things, take a dose as recommended on the packaging an hour before your appointment, then as needed afterwards. Always stick to the directions!

Use an oral anesthetic

Special medications are available over-the-counter which can be applied directly to gums. These are nice because you can put the medication exactly where the discomfort is, but they may also not taste the greatest. Try it to see if this solution works for you.

Eat soft foods

Eating soft or liquid foods can really help in keeping discomfort down while your mouth is sore. Being smart about the foods you eat is important when you have braces. See this post for foods to avoid when you have braces.

Use an ice pack

Applying an ice pack to your cheek over the area that hurts can reduce pain and inflammation. This works in the same way as when you get a sprain or a bruise on another part of your body.

Drink cold water

Like an ice pack, drinking cold water is a cheap and effective way to numb your mouth and reduce any inflammation in the gums. Plus, it’s always a good idea to drink more water!

If you have any more questions about having braces in Creve Coeur, contact Dr. Frost’s office!

Frost Orthodontics

26/Apr/2024

Before you get braces or consider Invisalign, there are a lot of questions that you want—and need—to ask yourself. How the treatment will be paid for is often the first question to come up, and it’s important to know your options before you get started. Here are some common questions patients ask:

Does insurance cover braces?

It depends. Every patient’s insurance is just as different as every patient’s treatment plan. Some insurance plans have separate orthodontic coverage, some will only cover certain types of treatment under certain circumstances, and some plans may cover little to no part of the cost of orthodontia.

However, insurance companies are generally more sympathetic to issues that cause pain or discomfort which could be corrected with braces or another orthodontic treatment. It all depends on your insurance and your treatment needs. When you call our office or come in for your first visit, we will review your case and your insurance to see how much of the treatment will be covered.

Can I finance my orthodontic treatment?

Absolutely. We offer financing along with several other payment options. Just like your treatment plan, we will work out a payment solution that works best for you.

How much do braces cost?

It’s difficult to say. Every patient has different wants and needs, the details of which will determine the final cost of treatment. When you contact us, we will be able to give you a more detailed estimate once we have some more information about you, your needs, and your insurance.

Does Invisalign cost more than braces?

The cost of Invisalign compared to braces is pretty even. On average, Invisalign tends to cost a little more, but not by very much. Again, it will all depend on your unique situation, so schedule a free consultation with our orthodontist in Creve Coeur to get a more solid and detailed estimate.

>>Click here to schedule an appointment!

Frost Orthodontics

26/Apr/2024

Braces can be stressful, but picking out the color of your rubber bands is the fun part! Colored bands can be used to show off your personality and compliment outfits, while some colors can even make your teeth look whiter.

So, how do you choose the color of your braces, and which color rubber bands make your teeth look whiter?

As an experienced St. Louis Orthodontist, we’ve put together the following guide below! For more information on braces, or to schedule an appointment, contact Frost Ordonthics today.

What Braces Color Should I Get?

Originally, braces were made out of thick, bulky metal; today’s braces are lightweight and come in a variety of colors, from gold to blue to pink and purple. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to choose just one!

When picking out the color of your braces, start by thinking of your favorite colors – take a look at your closet and see which color you have the most of. This can be helpful, as you can match your brace’s color to your wardrobe or choose a contrasting shade that suits your style.

What Color Rubber Bands Make Your Teeth Look Whiter?

It can be difficult to choose a rubber band color that matches your style and makes your teeth look their best. Not to mention, different colors work better on people with different hair colors, skin tones, and even eye colors.

When choosing rubber bands for your braces, there are certain colors to avoid and certain colors that can make your teeth look whiter. If you want whiter-looking teeth, you should avoid the following braces colors:

White/Gold/Clear – can make your teeth look dull or yellow
Green – could be mistaken for food stuck in your teeth
Brown – could make your teeth appear yellowed and dirty
Black – mimics rotten, decayed teeth

These rubber band colors can make your teeth stand out and look whiter than ever:

Dark Blue – the contrast of dark navy bands can make the whiteness of your teeth pop
Pink/Purple/Red – if you want a fun, positive color, bright pink, deep purple, and vibrant red compliment both lighter/dark skin tones perfectly
Orange/teal – neon and bright orange/teal bands let you showcase your personality and make your smile stand out

These are just some of the rubber band colors that can make your teeth look whiter and more vibrant. For more information on our braces colors, call Frost Orthodontics today at (314) 567-1888.

Interested in Learning More About Braces?

Your rubber bands can be any color you like, but the best way to keep your teeth looking and feeling their best is to keep up good hygiene like brushing and flossing twice a day and visiting the orthodontist every 6-8 weeks to maintain your braces and oral hygiene.

If you want to learn more about braces in Creve Coeur or would like to schedule an orthodontics appointment, contact Frost Orthodontics today.

Newer Posts

Older Posts

News &
Announcements

Use It Or Lose It: Year-End Insurance Benefits

Braces-Friendly Foods for Thanksgiving

Turkey

Casseroles

Potatoes

Creamed Corn

Cranberries

Dressing/Stuffing

Apple Sauce

Buttered Rolls

Pie

The History of Braces

Halloween Candy, Braces, and Tooth Decay

Candy

Gummy Candies

Hard Candies

Candy Apples

Happy Halloween!

Athletes At Risk For More Oral Health Issues

What to Expect After Getting Braces

Should I Wear a Mouthguard for Basketball?

Relieve Discomfort from Getting Your Braces Tightened

Over-the-counter pain relief medicine

Use an oral anesthetic

Eat soft foods

Use an ice pack

Drink cold water

Paying for Braces or Invisalign

Does insurance cover braces?

Can I finance my orthodontic treatment?

How much do braces cost?

Does Invisalign cost more than braces?

>>Click here to schedule an appointment!

Choosing the Color of Your Braces

What Braces Color Should I Get?

What Color Rubber Bands Make Your Teeth Look Whiter?

Interested in Learning More About Braces?