Case Study: Stephanie before braces treatment in Creve CoeurCase Study: Stephanie after braces treatment in Creve Coeur

Adult Braces Treatment in Creve Coeur

In September 2023, a 30-year-old woman, Stephanie, visited Frost Orthodontics, hoping to address dental misalignment and bite issues impacting her confidence and oral health. During her initial consultation, Dr. Frost carefully assessed Stephanie’s dental condition, recommending that she pursue braces treatment in Creve Coeur to solve these concerns most effectively.

Dental Misalignment

Dental malocclusion, also known as misalignment, is a common issue that affects how the upper and lower teeth fit together. This can lead to complications, including difficulties maintaining oral hygiene, chewing problems, and self-esteem issues due to cosmetic appearance.

A published study estimated that about 56% of people worldwide have malocclusion, also known as misaligned teeth. Despite these statistics, many adults remain untreated due to misconceptions about adult braces. We provide braces treatment in Creve Coeur to help adults like Stephanie achieve healthier and happier smiles.

Adult Braces and Their Benefits

Braces are an orthodontic tool designed to correct misaligned teeth or jaws. They are a network of small brackets glued to your teeth, connected by a thin archwire, which guides your teeth into their ideal positions. The materials used to make braces are metal, ceramic, or plastic; some braces can even go behind the teeth for a more discreet appearance.

The duration of braces treatment varies by case but ranges from one to three years. Braces are highly effective at correcting dental issues, such as overcrowding, misalignment, bite issues, and crooked teeth. We recommend braces for adults seeking a long-term solution to improve their oral health.

Frost Orthodontics’ Braces Treatment in Creve Coeur

At Frost Orthodontics, we design our braces treatment in Creve Coeur with the utmost precision and care, ensuring our patients, like Stephanie, have a comfortable journey toward a confident smile.

Initial Braces Appointment in Creve Coeur

During Stephanie’s initial appointment, Dr. Frost reviewed Stephanie’s medical and dental history, assessed her teeth and facial structure, took x-rays, and provided a comprehensive treatment plan specific to her needs.

Placement of Braces

After the finalization of the treatment plan, Stephanie received her braces. This appointment lasted about an hour and a half, during which Dr. Frost glued the brackets to Stephanie’s teeth and connected them with the archwire.

Familiarization Period

After the initial placement, Stephanie had 4-8 weeks to adapt to her new braces before her next follow-up appointment.

Follow-Up Appointments

Subsequent follow-up appointments occurred regularly, usually every month to every two months. During these sessions, Dr. Frost assessed Stephanie’s progress and made necessary adjustments to the wires and rubber bands.

Completion of Braces Treatment

Upon completing the braces treatment in Creve Coeur, Dr. Frost removed the dental appliances. This process typically involves the following steps:

  • Removing the archwire, brackets, and rubber bands.
  • Cleaning and polishing the teeth.
  • Providing retainers to maintain the new arrangement of teeth.

Improved Quality of Life

Stephanie was thrilled with her outcome from braces treatment at Frost Orthodontics. She reported feeling much more confident in her smile and overall oral health and was pleased with the results of her improved bite.

Achieving Your Dream Smile with Braces Treatment in Creve Coeur

Stephanie’s journey with adult braces at Frost Orthodontics transformed her smile, confidence, and oral health. Her success story exemplifies the positive impact that orthodontic treatment can have on adults seeking to improve their smiles.

At Frost Orthodontics, we believe everyone deserves an opportunity to feel proud of their smile and enjoy enhanced oral health. If you are considering braces treatment in Creve Coeur, we happily provide you with the highest level of care and expertise. Achieve your dream smile by scheduling your initial consultation with Dr. Frost today.



Case Study: Daiysha; Before, Crooked TeethCase Study: Daiysha; During Treatment, Teeth with Braces Case Study: Daiysha; After - Straight Teeth

Daiysha visited Dr. Andy Frost of Frost Orthodontics for an initial consultation in August 2020. Although her smile was beautiful, it presented misalignment and an underbite. After reviewing her history, X-rays, and oral health, Dr. Frost recommended orthodontic surgery to straighten her teeth and correct her bite.

What is Orthodontic Surgery?

Orthodontic surgery is a surgical procedure that corrects misaligned teeth and jaws. It involves metal braces and archwires to move teeth into proper positions. Once the appliances have shifted the teeth, the patient will undergo surgery to fix their jaw. Following surgery, numerous patients receive metal braces again.

An oral surgeon makes small incisions in the gum line and jawbone during orthodontic surgery. Doing so allows them to manipulate the bone and tissue as necessary. In Daiysha’s case, her lower jaw needed to rest neatly behind her upper.

Candidates for Orthodontic Surgery

If you have a misaligned bite or teeth, orthodontic surgery could be the best choice, depending on your situation and your dental professional’s recommendations. An ideal candidate must possess healthy gums and bones since dental restorations and appliances must be removed before the procedure.

The Issue

Without treatment, misaligned teeth and underbites can cause a variety of issues. The most common are difficulty chewing, headaches, TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain, and speech problems due to a lack of support from the jaw.

An improper bite can also lead to excessive wear on the teeth, eventually leading to decay and gum disease. As a result, prompt treatment was vital for Daiysha’s oral health.

The Treatment

Pre-Surgical Orthodontics

Dr. Frost placed metal braces on Daiysha’s teeth, which she had to keep for two years and four months (although cases vary). During this time, she had to follow a meticulous oral hygiene routine and attend regular checkups approximately every six weeks with her Creve Coeur orthodontist.

Dr. Frost adjusted Daiysha’s braces at each appointment to move her teeth closer to the desired position. Once the first round of treatment was complete, Dr. Frost removed her braces by cutting the brackets from the archwire, cementing them off, and filing down rough spots or edges on her teeth for a smooth finish.

Orthognathic Surgery

After Daiysha’s teeth were adequately aligned in her jaw, she underwent orthognathic surgery, which takes place in a hospital or outpatient surgery center. The maxillofacial surgeon moved her lower jaw to the correct position, with the lower jaw slightly behind the upper one. Her orthodontic treatment before the surgery ensured that her teeth and jaws fit together seamlessly.

Post-Surgical Orthodontics

During recovery, which typically lasts for approximately six to nine weeks, patients have frequent appointments with the oral surgeon to ensure their healing process is proceeding correctly. Once Daiysha fully recovered and her oral surgeon confirmed, she received a second round of orthodontic treatment.

The Result

Daiysha was thrilled with the results of her orthodontic surgery. She had a beautiful, properly aligned smile that she and Dr. Frost were proud of. Daiysha was also relieved to be free from TMJ pain and uncomfortable bite alignment. Her experience serves as an excellent example of what orthodontic surgery can achieve.

The Benefits of Orthodontic Surgery

There are numerous benefits of orthodontic surgery. The most notable include the following:

  • Improved bite alignment
  • Reduced risk of gum disease and tooth decay
  • Improved chewing ability
  • Relief from jaw pain or discomfort
  • Optimal facial structure appearance
  • Improved self-confidence and self-esteem
  • A beautiful, straight, healthy smile

Visit Dr. Andy Frost for Orthodontic Surgery in Creve Coeur

Daiysha’s case study is a prime example of how orthodontic surgery can help correct misaligned teeth and an underbite. With the assistance of Dr. Andy Frost, she achieved a beautiful smile with improved bite alignment and self-confidence. If you’re seeking ways to improve your smile, we encourage you to contact us for an initial consultation. Dr. Frost and our team will develop a customized treatment plan. Request an appointment today for the best orthodontics in St. Louis!



Case study: Keishia (Invisalign Treatment) before Case study: Keishia (Invisalign Treatment) after

Keishia consulted Dr. Andy Frost, Creve Coeur orthodontist, about her gapped and misaligned teeth. Dr. Frost determined that the best treatment for Keishia was Invisalign – clear aligners that straighten teeth and close gaps between them. After 12 months, she had a beautiful, straightened smile.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a system of clear, custom-made aligners that gradually move teeth into the desired position. It also requires regular orthodontic supervision to ensure the best results.

Dr. Frost created a personalized plan for Keishia, including which aligners to use, how long she should wear them, and when to switch to the next set. She maintained regular appointments with Dr. Frost throughout treatment to ensure her progress.

Who is a Good Candidate for Invisalign?

Invisalign is an effective and discreet treatment for orthodontic problems such as crookedness, teeth gaps, and minor crowding or spacing. In Keishia’s case, her gapped front teeth made her an ideal candidate for Invisalign treatment.

We typically recommend Invisalign for adults and teens with good oral hygiene looking for a less noticeable way to straighten their teeth. However, it’s not suitable for everyone – Dr. Frost can provide more advice on whether Invisalign is the best treatment for you.

If you’re considering Invisalign and want to know if you’d be a good candidate, take our brief survey using the link below.

Do You Qualify for Invisalign?

The Invisalign Treatment Process

Initial Consultation

Keishia’s Invisalign treatment process began with an initial consultation. During this appointment, Dr. Frost utilized the state-of-the-art iTero scanner to obtain a 3D scan of her mouth.

Then, he created an individualized plan using the information gathered. Once they discussed the treatment length and her questions, he sent the 3D scan to a dental laboratory for custom fabrication.

Fitting & Follow-Ups

Once the laboratory finished her custom aligners, Keishia visited us for a fitting. Dr. Frost made the necessary adjustments and ensured that she was comfortable with the fit before sending her home with instructions on how to wear and care for them.

Keishia attended regular follow-up appointments approximately every six weeks throughout her Invisalign treatment to monitor her progress. During these appointments, Dr. Frost evaluated her smile and adjusted the aligners to continue moving her teeth into the desired position.

Wearing the Aligners

Keishia wore her aligners for 20-22 hours daily and removed them for meals, brushing, and flossing. Dr. Frost advised her to switch aligners every two weeks throughout her 12-month treatment. However, it’s important to note that the number of aligners and treatment lengths vary depending on the issues presented.

It’s best to follow all instructions from Dr. Frost to ensure successful treatment. Keishia followed Dr. Frost’s instructions for 12 months, and the results were outstanding – her gapped front teeth closed completely, giving her a beautiful, straightened smile.

After Treatment

Once Keishia completed her Invisalign treatment, Dr. Frost prescribed a retainer to maintain the results of her straightened teeth. Patients need to wear their retainers as directed. Otherwise, their teeth may shift again, reversing their progress.

The Benefits of Invisalign

There are several advantages to Invisalign treatment. The most notable include the following:

  • More discreet than traditional braces: Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for special occasions, making them more discreet than traditional braces. 
  • Comfortable fit: The clear plastic used to make the aligners is comfortable and won’t irritate the gums or cheeks like metal brackets and wires can.
  • Faster treatment: Invisalign can be a quicker option for orthodontic treatment than traditional braces. Keishia’s case shows how effective Invisalign can be when supervised by an orthodontist – her gapped front teeth were closed in 12 months! 
  • Easier oral hygiene: Aligners can be easily removed for brushing and flossing, making oral hygiene easier.
  • Improved confidence: Invisalign can give you a straighter smile and improved self-confidence, as Keishia experienced after her treatment.

Choose Frost Orthodontics for Invisalign Treatment

Invisalign is an effective orthodontic solution for many people looking for straight teeth without the hassle of traditional braces. Dr. Frost and our team at Frost Orthodontics have the experience and expertise to provide top-notch treatment and ensure excellent results. Don’t hesitate to contact us today if you want to learn more about orthodontics in St. Louis!

If Keishia’s story has inspired you to start your orthodontic journey with Invisalign in Creve Coeur, contact Frost Orthodontics today to learn more about how we can help!

Schedule an Appointment



Frost Orthodontics- Case Study- Kevin (Surgical Orthodontics) before          Frost Orthodontics- Case Study- Kevin (Surgical Orthodontics) after

Kevin visited our office in November 2020 following an accident. He suffered trauma to the face, resulting in a fractured jaw and underbite. After examination, Dr. Andy Frost determined that Kevin should receive surgical orthodontics to align his teeth and reposition his jaw.

What is Surgical Orthodontics?

Surgical orthodontics combines traditional braces treatment with jaw realignment surgery to achieve a healthy, functional bite. Patients receive conventional braces for a specified period before jaw surgery (also called orthognathic surgery) to shift the teeth into their proper positions. Then, a maxillofacial surgeon straightens and corrects the jaw.

Following surgery, patients receive orthodontic treatment again for a specified time to ensure the teeth and jaw fit properly. The treatment process requires a multidisciplinary approach whereby orthodontists and surgeons work together to correct a patient’s bite issues.

Who is a Good Candidate for Orthodontic Jaw Surgery?

Like Kevin, good candidates for orthodontic jaw surgery include those who wouldn’t benefit from braces alone. Additionally, surgical orthodontics only applies to adult patients with a fully developed bone structure. Whether an individual needs orthognathic surgery depends on various factors:

  • Injury to the jaw or face, like Kevin
  • Congenital disabilities
  • Protruding jaw
  • Receding lower jaw
  • And more.

Overall, patients receiving surgical orthodontic treatment have a jaw condition that causes difficulty when speaking, chewing, and swallowing. Visit your orthodontist if you have issues with your jaw and bite, as you may benefit from surgical orthodontics.

The Surgical Orthodontic Treatment Process

Kevin’s surgical orthodontic treatment lasted a year and nine months, although the length varies with each case. The process spans four stages: pre-surgical orthodontics, orthognathic surgery, recovery, and post-surgical orthodontics.

Pre-Surgical Orthodontics

When Kevin first visited our office, Dr. Frost examined his jaw and bite to determine the course of treatment. When he deemed surgical orthodontics appropriate, he consulted with a surgeon to define each specific step. Next, Dr. Frost took x-rays, measurements, and photographs of Kevin’s jaw and bite as a baseline.

After that, Kevin received traditional metal braces to move his teeth to an ideal position. Teeth must align before surgery so the jaw can fit and function properly. Throughout the pre-surgical orthodontics stage, Dr. Frost maintained contact with Kevin’s surgeon, keeping them updated on the alignment process.

Orthognathic Surgery

Once Kevin’s teeth were positioned favorably in his jaw, it was time for orthognathic surgery. The procedure typically occurs at a hospital or outpatient surgery center. During the surgery, the maxillofacial surgeon repositioned Kevin’s upper lower jaw to its intended place, slightly behind his upper. His teeth and jaw fit together nicely thanks to his pre-surgical orthodontic treatment.

Recovery

Following surgery, patients typically feel sore and often receive prescription pain medication. After a few days, many transition to over-the-counter pain medications. Recovery time differs depending on the case, but on average, patients feel better after a couple of weeks. Bruising typically reduces after a few days, and swelling will diminish after two to three weeks.

In most cases, surgeons create incisions along the folds of the mouth with sutures that disintegrate or fall out on their own after 10-14 days. Patients commonly experience slight soreness while talking, but doing so frequently strengthens the jaw muscles and speeds up the healing process. Throughout the recovery period, lasting roughly six to nine weeks, patients visit the oral surgeon often to ensure proper healing.

Post-Surgical Orthodontics

Once Kevin’s recovery period ended and his surgeon verified proper healing, he returned to our office for his final round of orthodontic treatment: Creve Coeur braces. Like the first stage, the second stage of braces treatment varies from person to person. However, the primary goal of post-surgical orthodontics is to make final bite and teeth straightening adjustments.

As a result, Kevin went from a fractured jaw, tooth misalignment, and an underbite to a healthy, functional smile. He now wears a retainer to maintain his new smile’s appearance.

Receive Expert Surgical Orthodontics Today

Orthodontic treatment is so much more than traditional metal braces. Treatment methods continue to improve and may involve multiple dental specialties, such as in Kevin’s case. Even if you aren’t a strong candidate for surgical orthodontics, Dr. Frost can create a customized treatment plan that grants you the smile you’ve always wanted!

Schedule an appointment with us today to improve your bite, smile, and confidence.



Frost Orthodontics - Case Suty: Marcus (Adult Braces) BeforeFrost Orthodontics - Case Study: Marcus (Adult Braces) After

Marcus, a 52-year-old male, first visited our office in May of 2019. He suffered from a bite problem his whole life, and wanted to improve his confidence through orthodontic treatment. During his initial consultation at our St. Louis orthodontic office, Dr. Frost examined his smile, taking special note of misalignment and bite issues. After the initial steps were taken, Dr. Frost recommended adult braces in Creve Coeur to correct Marcus’ smile.

What is Adult Underbite?

Underbite is a fairly common condition affecting millions of adults in the United States. Many avoid treatment because they are either wary of the cost or are unaware of their options. However, it can be affordably corrected through orthodontics, regardless of its severity.

Also known as “prognathism” in the dental profession, underbite is a type of misalignment where the lower teeth overlap the upper teeth. In the vast majority of cases, underbite is either present at birth due to genetics or develops during early childhood.

Adult Braces

Although braces are traditionally used to correct children’s teeth, adults can also benefit. Marcus was ready to move forward with a healthy smile. His treatment recommendation from Dr. Frost was based upon a formal examination of his teeth, which included X-rays and a 3D impression from our newly developed iTero Element Plus Mobile Scanner.

What Are Braces?

Braces are orthodontic devices that help correct problems in the teeth, such as overcrowding, bite issues, crooked teeth, and more. As patients wear them, their teeth slowly straighten and align, creating a healthy smile. Marcus received traditional braces, which are metal brackets attached to the front of the teeth with flexible wires that hold the brackets together. Rubber bands are then used to link each bracket to the wire.

Braces Treatment

The process of braces treatment can take several months to a few years, depending on the severity of a patient’s condition. In Marcus’ case, we were happily surprised that his mouth and bite were corrected after just 20 months!

Every situation is unique, but the procedure to receive braces remains the same from one patient to the next. The steps include:

  • The orthodontist inserts a device to keep the mouth dry and the tongue in place.
  • An etchant is applied to the front surfaces of the teeth to prepare them for bonding.
  • A special adhesive is used to hold the brackets in place.
  • The adhesive is hardened and the bond is set through a curing light.
  • The orthodontist runs the wire through the brackets and places rubber bands to secure.

The appointment for placing braces lasts approximately 90 minutes to two hours total. In many cases, patients have about 4-8 weeks to familiarize themselves with the new devices before their next follow-up appointment.

Follow-up appointments are much faster than the initial procedure. Taking place regularly every month to every two months, the orthodontist analyzes your progress, as well as adjusts the wires and rubber bands during each appointment. Marcus visited our office routinely throughout his 20-month treatment for checkups and adjustments, resulting in the beautiful smile he has today!

When your braces treatment is complete, the devices are removed. During this procedure, the brackets come off easily, leaving behind a trace of bonding material. The orthodontist removes the excess materials and polishes your teeth’s enamel, leaving smooth and pearly whites. In many situations, patients receive a retainer to wear at night that helps their teeth “remember” the new placement.

Get Started With Your Adult Orthodontics Treatment Today

Receiving braces as an adult is not something to be ashamed of – rather, it’s a good thing. You’re improving your smile, confidence, and overall oral health. Marcus achieved significant results through his adult orthodontic treatment, and you can, too. When you visit our orthodontic office in St. Louis, you’ll receive the utmost care. It’s our goal to assist you in achieving your dream smile! Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation.

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Frost Orthodontics of St. Louis - Case Study: Mark (Adult Invisalign) Before Photo
Mark’s smile before Invisalign
Frost Orthodontics of St. Louis - Case Study: Mark (Adult Invisalign) - After Photo
Mark’s smile after Invisalign

Mark, a 51-year-old male, visited our St. Louis orthodontist office in September of 2020 for an initial consultation. He wished to improve the appearance of his teeth in addition to his self-confidence. During his first appointment, Dr. Frost studied Mark’s smile, taking note of misalignment and any issues with his bite. Photos were taken documenting his teeth before orthodontic treatment, and it was determined that his primary issue was overcrowding.

What is Crowding Teeth?

Crowded teeth, also referred to as a form of malocclusion (misalignment), occurs when there isn’t enough space in the mouth for permanent teeth to grow straight. Therefore, the teeth are crooked and overlap. Patients with crowded teeth can either have mild, moderate, or severe misalignment.

  • Mild crowding occurs when one tooth is slightly rotated in the upper or lower jaw.
  • Moderate crowding is characterized by two or three teeth that overlap in the upper and lower jaw. 
  • Severe crowding is seen in patients where most of their teeth are crooked and overlapping in the upper and lower jaw.

What Causes Crowded Teeth?

Overcrowding can be caused by a variety of factors, such as genetics, jaw size, and number of permanent teeth. Potential causes include:

  • When teeth are larger than the jaw bone as a result of genetics, they tend to misalign, overlap, and twist.
  • Those with genetically smaller jaws typically don’t have enough room to properly fit each permanent tooth as they develop.
  • Patients that lose primary (baby) teeth early have empty spaces that aren’t immediately filled by permanent teeth, and therefore are subject to movement.
  • On the other hand, some individuals retain their primary teeth longer than normal, thus suppressing the permanent structures beneath and affecting their development.

How to Fix Crowded Teeth

Braces

The traditional method of fixing crowded teeth is through braces. They consist of metal brackets that are glued to the teeth and connected by wire. The treatment requires regular orthodontic visits to tighten the hardware and therefore gradually move the teeth into their desired position. Length of treatment depends on each specific case.

Invisalign

An alternative to traditional braces, clear plastic aligners such as Invisalign are a more aesthetically pleasing and discreet way to straighten teeth. Although they are not 100% invisible, aligners are growing in popularity due to being less noticeable compared to braces. Mark underwent a 15-month Invisalign treatment, which transformed his overcrowded teeth into a straight, confident smile.

In addition to overcrowding, Invisalign can also treat spacing issues. However, more complex problems, such as those with the bite, will likely require more extensive orthodontic intervention. When you visit your orthodontist, they will be able to recommend the best treatment for your specific situation.

The Invisalign Process

The first step in Mark’s Invisalign treatment process was paying us a visit. Using the newly developed iTero Element Plus Mobile Scanner, Dr. Frost was able to create 3D impressions of Mark’s mouth without the traditional putty. Additionally, the latest technology will save the impressions forever, which allows patients like Mark to receive new treatments and trays without another consultation.

The impression was then used to create and implement a treatment regimen that included a series of customized plastic aligners that gradually moved Mark’s teeth over the 15-month time period. Gentle pressure was applied by the Invisalign with the goal of moving his teeth just enough to where the next aligner in the process would fit comfortably.

Mark was instructed to wear his Invisalign for at least 22 hours each day, only removing them when eating, drinking, or cleaning his teeth. Compared to braces, Mark could easily brush and floss his teeth without attempting to work around brackets and wires. Additionally, his ability to thoroughly clean his teeth allowed him to reduce his risk of gum disease. He was quite pleased with his treatment and results!

Contact our St. Louis Orthodontist Today

As you can see in our before and after photos, Mark’s smile greatly improved during his 15-month Invisalign treatment. His issue with dental crowding was solved through an attractive, effective, and minimally invasive process. Our team at Frost Orthodontics, led by Creve Coeur orthodontist Dr. Andy Frost, has helped thousands of patients like Mark across the St. Louis area improve their smiles, and we’ll do the same for you, too. Schedule your consultation for Invisalign in Creve Coeur today, and experience the latest in scanning technology! We look forward to meeting you.

Schedule an Appointment


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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!


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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!



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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.


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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!


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