Safeguard Your Smile

Quest Johnson Orthodontics

April isn't just about showers bringing May flowers; it's also a time to highlight the importance of safeguarding our smiles. National Facial Protection Month serves as a reminder of the significance of protecting our faces during sports and recreational activities.

Sports and recreational activities bring joy, camaraderie, and numerous health benefits. However, they also pose risks, particularly to our faces. According to the American Dental Association, sports-related injuries account for a significant portion of dental injuries each year. From knocked-out teeth to fractured jaws, these injuries can be painful, costly, and sometimes irreversible.

The good news is that many sports-related facial injuries are preventable with the use of proper protective gear. Mouthguards, helmets, face masks, and protective eyewear function as a barrier against potential impacts, reducing the risk of injury to the face, mouth, and jaw. These simple yet effective tools can make all the difference in preserving your smile and overall oral health.

National Facial Protection Month serves as a platform to raise awareness about the importance of facial protection in sports and recreational activities. It's a time for athletes, coaches, parents, and healthcare professionals to come together and advocate for injury prevention strategies. By promoting education, proper equipment usage, and adherence to safety guidelines, we can create safer environments for participants of all ages and skill levels.

How to Protect Your Smile

Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a weekend warrior, taking proactive steps to protect your smile is essential. Here are some practical tips to minimize the risk of facial injuries during sports and recreational activities:

Wear a Mouthguard: Invest in a custom-fitted mouthguard, especially if you participate in contact sports like football, hockey, or basketball. A well-fitting mouthguard provides cushioning and protection for your teeth, lips, cheeks, and tongue.

Use Appropriate Headgear: Depending on the activity, wear helmets, face masks, or protective eyewear to shield your head and face from impact. Make sure the gear fits properly and meets safety standards recommended for your sport.

Practice Safe Play: Follow the rules of the game and encourage sportsmanship among players. Avoid reckless behavior that increases the likelihood of collisions or injuries to yourself and others.

Stay Alert and Aware: Be mindful of your surroundings and potential hazards on the field, court, or playground. Stay focused on the game while remaining vigilant to avoid accidents or collisions.

Maintain Proper Technique: Learn and practice proper techniques for your sport to reduce the risk of injury. Proper form and body mechanics can help minimize the impact of falls, collisions, and other incidents.

Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule routine dental checkups to assess the condition of your teeth, gums, and jaw. Early detection of dental issues allows for prompt treatment and intervention to prevent further damage.

As we celebrate National Facial Protection Month, let's commit to prioritizing the safety and well-being of our smiles. By raising awareness, advocating for proper protective gear, and promoting injury prevention strategies, we can enjoy sports and recreational activities with greater peace of mind. Together, let's safeguard our smiles for a lifetime of health and happiness.

If you have any questions on how to protect your smile while playing sports, feel free to contact Quest Johnson Orthodontics. Our team of experienced professionals are here to help. 

 

Getting the Most Out of Your Orthodontic Treatment

Quest Johnson Orthodontics

Embarking on orthodontic treatment is a significant investment in your oral health and the beauty of your smile. Whether you're considering braces, aligners, or other orthodontic options, it's essential to maximize the effectiveness of your treatment. By adopting a proactive approach and following certain guidelines, you can ensure that your orthodontic journey is as successful and efficient as possible.

• Follow Treatment Instructions Diligently - To optimize the effectiveness of your orthodontic treatment, it's vital to follow the instructions provided by your orthodontist. This includes wearing any appliances, braces, or aligners as prescribed, adhering to recommended oral hygiene practices, and attending regular check-ups and adjustments. Compliance with these instructions will help ensure that your teeth are moving in the desired direction and at the expected pace. Skipping appointments or neglecting proper care can prolong treatment time and compromise results.
• Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene - Maintaining impeccable oral hygiene is crucial throughout your orthodontic treatment. Braces, aligners, and other appliances can create additional spaces for food particles and plaque to accumulate, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum problems. Follow a thorough oral hygiene routine, including brushing after every meal and flossing daily. Dr. Quest and Dr. Johnson may also recommend additional tools, such as interdental brushes or water flossers, to ensure thorough cleaning around the braces or aligners.
• Mind Your Diet and Eating Habits - Your diet and eating habits play a significant role in the success of your orthodontic treatment. Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage your braces or aligners and prolong treatment time. Opt for softer alternatives and cut food into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Minimize sugary snacks and beverages that can contribute to tooth decay. Be mindful of chewing on non-food items like pens or nails, as they can also cause damage. By making conscious choices, you'll help your treatment progress smoothly and prevent any setbacks.
• Protect Your Smile During Physical Activities - If you participate in sports or other physical activities, it's essential to protect your smile during orthodontic treatment. Wear a mouthguard provided by your orthodontist to shield your teeth and braces from potential injuries. Custom-fit mouthguards offer the best protection and comfort. Even if your activity doesn't require a mouthguard, be mindful of any potential impact on your teeth and take precautions to prevent accidents or trauma.
• Communicate with Your Orthodontist - Open and honest communication with your orthodontist is key throughout your treatment. If you experience discomfort, pain, or concerns about your progress, don't hesitate to reach out to our team for guidance. We are here to address your questions, make adjustments if necessary, and ensure that you're comfortable and satisfied with your treatment. Regular check-ups provide opportunities to discuss any issues, track your progress, and make any necessary modifications to your treatment plan.
• Embrace Retention and Follow-up Care - After your active orthodontic treatment, retention and follow-up care are essential for maintaining the results. Dr. Quest and Dr. Johnson will provide you with retainers and specific instructions for wearing them. Consistently wearing your retainers as directed will help prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Additionally, attend follow-up appointments as recommended to monitor the stability of your smile and address any concerns that may arise.

Maximizing the benefits of your orthodontic treatment requires proactive participation. Diligently following treatment instructions, maintaining excellent oral hygiene, being mindful of your diet and activities, communicating openly, and embracing retention care, you can ensure the best possible outcome for your smile journey.

 

What is the Ideal Bite?

Quest Johnson Orthodontics

A beautiful smile is a reflection of not only well-aligned teeth but also a harmonious bite. Achieving the ideal bite and smile goes beyond aesthetics; it plays a vital role in oral health, function, and overall well-being.

The ideal bite and smile are synonymous with dental harmony, where the upper and lower teeth align properly and fit together harmoniously. Dental harmony ensures that the forces of chewing and biting are distributed evenly across the teeth, reducing the risk of excessive wear, tooth damage, and jaw joint problems.

The ideal bite involves balanced proportions and midline alignment. The size and shape of each tooth should be proportionate to the adjacent teeth. Additionally, the midline of the upper and lower teeth should align with the midline of the face. These factors contribute to a balanced smile that is aesthetically pleasing and in harmony with facial features.

A proper bite ensures that the teeth fit together correctly, allowing for effective chewing, speaking, and swallowing. An ideal bite minimizes strain on the jaw joints, prevents tooth wear, and reduces the risk of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Having an evaluation by a skilled orthodontist can identify bite irregularities and guide the necessary treatment to achieve an ideal bite.

Straight teeth are a key component of an ideal bite. They contribute to a pleasing aesthetic appearance, boosting self-confidence and enhancing facial symmetry. Proper alignment allows for easier cleaning, reducing the risk of dental decay and gum disease. Straight teeth also play a crucial role in bite stability and jaw joint health. Orthodontic treatments like braces or clear aligners can help achieve the desired alignment and create a harmonious smile.

Attaining an ideal bite goes beyond aesthetics. It encompasses dental harmony, functional occlusion, and a balance between symmetry and proportion. A properly aligned bite and a radiant smile contribute to oral health, overall well-being, and enhanced self-confidence. Consult with Quest Johnson Orthodontics to evaluate your bite and explore suitable treatment options. Embrace the transformative power of an ideal bite and unlock a world of dental harmony and confidence.

 

7 Ways Your Smile Can Change As You Grow Older

Quest Johnson Orthodontics

Just as with most things in our bodies, your smile does change with age. From the teeth shifting to the enamel wearing down, the appearance and function of your teeth and bite evolve as you get older. The good news is, there are ways to minimize these age-related changes and keep your smile looking its best throughout your life.

Why does your smile change as you age? Some changes are due to natural biological processes, including bone remodeling and the tendency of the teeth to shift towards each other. Other reasons your smile changes with age may include:

Bottom Teeth Crowding - As you age, your jawbone loses density and shrinks. The mismatched size of the jawbone with teeth can lead to crowding of the bottom front teeth and this crowding can worsen with age. Crowding can also occur because other issues such as mouth breathing, gum disease, and even facial trauma.

Overlapping Teeth - As you get older and the jawbone changes, many people experience what’s known as physiologic mesial drift. It’s a slow, natural shifting of the teeth towards the front of your dental arch. As the teeth move towards the midline, they can overlap. It can be worsened by missing teeth, gum disease, bruxism, and decay.

Front teeth Gap - Space between two front teeth is referred to as a diastema, can be caused by gum disease, the tongue pushing between the front teeth when swallowing, or a discrepancy in jaw size that was never treated.

Collapsing Teeth - If you have gaps in your teeth, missing teeth that weren’t replaced or severe wear of the enamel, the teeth around the spaces can collapse inwardly. This is because the teeth try to fill in the empty spaces. As the teeth tilt or shift into the gaps, it will impact the appearance of your smile, as well as your bite. Missing teeth may also change your face shape.

Post-Orthodontic Teeth Shifting - Our bodies change our whole life, and our teeth change, too. If you had orthodontic treatment in the past, but forgot to wear your retainer, the teeth will naturally begin shifting back towards their old positions.

Wrong Bite - Misalignment of the teeth or jaw, known as malocclusion, doesn’t sort itself out. In many cases, if issues like crowding, spacing or an excessive overbite, underbite, open bite or crossbite aren’t treated, they will get worse as you get older. After years of living with a bad bite, you may also be dealing with the consequences of misalignment, such as tooth decay, gum disease, excessive wear of the enamel. These issues will create further changes to your smile.

Changes in the Length or Shape of Teeth - All of the biting and chewing you do causes the enamel to slowly wear down. Teeth grinding and clenching, known as bruxism, can speed up the process. This impacts your smile by making your teeth look shorter. Teeth can also change shape with age as they wear down. Gum recession does the opposite by exposing more tooth surface and making teeth look longer. It can also leave visible black spaces between the teeth as pockets form.

While these changes may be completely normal, that doesn’t mean you just have to live with them. Whether you’re eight or 80, the biological process of orthodontic treatment is the same. Age does not keep teeth from moving. Check out our website to learn more about the options we have for adult orthodontics and then give our Mooresville, Indiana office a call to schedule your initial exam.

 

Preparing for Braces

Quest Johnson Orthodontics

It is completely normal to feel a bit apprehensive when you first consider going to an orthodontist. Whether your dentist has advised you to seek care from Quest Johnson Orthodontics, or you have decided to do so on your own, there are a few things you can do to prepare for your initial exam with Dr. Quest, Dr. Johnson and their team.

Before your initial orthodontic appointment, we will do our part to educate you on the process of getting braces. But it is always good if you can do some research of your own to ease any lingering fears.

Things to Know

1. Your initial appointment is about 60 minutes. This appointment allows us time to gather some information and obtain photographs, indicated X-rays, and a clinical examination. When you call to schedule this appointment, you will be asked to provide some personal information, along with any orthodontic insurance coverage you have so that we can verify your benefits and provide you with the most accurate estimate. If treatment is indicated, an approximate estimate of the time and fees involved will be provided.

2. You will not need to do anything out of the ordinary to prepare for the day your braces will be placed. The only thing we ask is that you brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before your appointment.

3. Braces are applied using a special adhesive that cures rapidly initially but takes 24-hours to completely cure. At the end of your braces appointment, a team member will explain how to brush and floss, review what foods to avoid, and what to do if you experience any difficulties with your braces. You will want to check your braces daily for anything loose or bent. If a bracket or band comes loose or you break a wire, please call our office so we can arrange an appointment to repair it.

4. You can expect some discomfort for the first few days after having your braces placed. This is temporary and can be relieved by rinsing with warm salt water or by taking an over-the-counter pain reliever.

5. After your braces have been placed, you can expect to come back for adjustment appointments about every 8 weeks. Adjustment appointments typically take about 15-45 minutes based on the involvement of the adjustment.

If you are interested in braces for children, teens, or adults, start by visiting our website and familiarizing yourself with the different types of braces we offer…then give us a call to schedule your initial exam.

Orthodontic Myths

Quest Johnson Orthodontics

Choosing to get orthodontic care is a big decision for anyone. At Quest Johnson Orthodontics, we understand and respect your reasons for wanting to improve the way you look and feel. Our practice will work with you every step of the way to make sure your orthodontic treatment is an amazing experience. Our office utilizes the latest technology while offering a variety of safe and gentle treatment options to give you the customized, individual care you deserve.

We are often asked a lot of great questions on orthodontic care and treatment. We have also seen a lot of false information on orthodontic treatment. Some are rumors and others are myths that are believed to be true. Here are a few orthodontic myths and the truth.

Myth: “My dentist can give me Invisalign.”

Truth: At the foundational level, both an orthodontist and a dentist are health care professionals that work on teeth. Both health care professionals help patients achieve good oral health and both are dental school graduates. However, orthodontists must successfully complete an additional two to three-year residency program of advanced dental education in orthodontics. Orthodontists specialize in the alignment of teeth and services include treating crowded teeth, overbites and under bites. Only an orthodontist who has been trained and certified by Align Technology can diagnose and treat using Invisalign.

Myth: “Braces and orthodontic treatment are only for children.”

Truth: Braces are not just for kids… orthodontics can be rewarding to adults as well. Our teeth provide the support structure for the soft tissue of the lower face, including lips and cheeks. By repositioning the teeth and jaw, skin can appear tighter, and lips can appear fuller.

Myth: “I can’t play sports anymore because I have braces.”

Truth: Having braces, does not mean you have to stop living your life. Whether you just received braces or are near the end of your treatment, braces should not be a barrier to doing the things you love. As long as you wear a mouth guard, braces should not stop you from playing your favorite sport. If you are unsure which type of mouth guard to use or need more information on mouth guards, ask our staff.

Myth: “My teeth will remain straight forever.”

Truth: The truth is…even after your braces have been removed your orthodontic treatment is not over. If you want your teeth to remain straight forever, a retainer will be the most important tool for you to use. Your teeth will start to drift back to the original position if you do not wear your retainer as prescribed by Dr. Johnson and Dr. Quest. Just like you need to keep exercising and eating right to maintain your body; you cannot just diet and exercise once.

Myth: “I don’t need to see my regular dentist while in orthodontic treatment.”

Truth: Even during orthodontic treatment, it is important that you continue to visit your general dentist and continue your regularly scheduled appointments. Wearing braces can make you more prone to plaque and tartar around your teeth, which is why you should stick with your regular dental check-ups.

A new smile means a new life change. At Quest Johnson Orthodontics, we understand that a big decision like this is not easy. We will ensure that we answer all questions and make you feel comfortable. If you have any addition questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask us before coming to your first visit.

 

 

Common Orthodontic Questions

Quest Johnson Orthodontics

If you have been considering orthodontic treatment for you or your child, you probably have some questions. Below are the top 10 questions our team has gotten from patients who are just starting their smile journey. 

How old do you have to be to get braces? Braces are typically recommended for children between the ages of 9 and 13. However, you can get braces at any age!  

How soon can I bring my child in to see an orthodontist? The American Association of Orthodontists recommends bringing your child to see an orthodontist by the time they turn seven years old. By bringing your child to see an orthodontist this early on, you can save money and time later. Most kids at this age will not need any treatment. However, an orthodontist can provide preventative treatment by detecting problems earlier and from problems worsening that the untrained eye may have missed.

How much do braces cost? At our practice, prices vary depending on multiple factors. Expenses can also vary based on treatment options and insurance plans. 

How long will I need to wear braces? Each patient’s treatment time is different based on the severity of their case. As each case is different, the duration of wearing braces varies from patient to patient. Factors like age, type of problem, and treatment affect the period of wearing braces. When you schedule your consultation with our practice, we will give you an estimated treatment time before you decide to get started. To insure you complete your treatment on time, it is important to keep your scheduled appointments. Delays in adjustments can slow progress and result extended treatment time. 

Do braces hurt? Getting braces put on does not cause the patient any pain. For the first few days you may feel some tightness occurring as your mouth adjusts to the change. Any over the counter pain medications such as Tylenol will help with the mild discomfort. 

What can I eat with braces? Eating with braces at first can be a bit tricky while adjusting to your new eating habits. We recommend staying away from anything hard or crunchy to help avoid breaking a bracket or wire. Watching your sugar intake is also key while wearing braces to avoid cavities and decalcification.  

How do I care for my braces? Caring for yourbraces means caring for your overall dental health. The brackets and wires of your braces provide food and plaque with the ideal hiding places, making you more susceptible to cavities if they are not cleaned. We recommend brushing your teeth three times a day while wearing braces and flossing at least once daily. Make sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the top, bottom, and sides of your braces. It would also help to use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush when brushing with braces. A fluoride rinse is also recommended to help prevent against cavities. 

How often do I have appointments? Towards the beginning of treatment, we typically see most patients every 8 weeks. As treatment progresses, we will start seeing patients more often between 4-6 weeks. 

Do I still need to go to my general dentist during my orthodontic treatment? Yes. In addition to regular brushing and flossing, visiting your general dentist for normal check-ups and cleanings is a key to braces success. During professional cleanings, the hygienist will use special tools to remove hardened plaque (tartar) that you can’t eliminate at home by brushing and flossing. 

Can my child’s dentist provide orthodontic treatment? While your dentist can offer orthodontic care, they typically refer complicated cases to an orthodontist who specializes in this kind of treatment. An orthodontist can provide prevention, diagnosis, and correction of misaligned teeth and bite patterns. A dentist can refer you to an orthodontist, but you do not need to have a referral from a dentist to make an appointment to see Dr.Quest and Dr. Johnson. 

Still have questions? Contact Quest Johnson Orthodontics today, and we can answer all your questions. We even offer Complimentary Consultations!

 

5 Things You Didn't Know About Your Teeth

Quest Johnson Orthodontics

Learning how to take care of your teeth is as much a part of growing up as learning to tie your shoes or reciting the alphabet. However, when it comes to our teeth, many of us still have a thing or two to learn. 

Here are 5 facts about your teeth that you might not know.

1. Your enamel is the hardest part of your body - The enamel is the outermost layer of your teeth. Like a hard shell, its primary purpose is to protect the rest of the tooth. The enamel is mostly made of calcium and phosphate, like your bones, but is stronger because of the specific proteins and crystallites that form it. Even though it is there to protect your teeth, the enamel can still chip or crack, and it isn’t safe from decay. Sugars and acids, like those found in soft drinks, interact with bacteria in your mouth and attack your enamel, which marks the start of tooth decay. Soft drinks are particularly damaging when you drink them often, or slowly throughout the day.

2. Yellow means decay - When you think of reasons your teeth might be looking yellow, your first thought likely goes to stains. And while teeth can get stained by foods, drinks, and other substances, these stains are not the only reason your teeth might change color. Enamel is partly responsible for your teeth’s white appearance, and when it decays, your teeth may start to appear yellow. Decaying enamel could also be to blame for any pain you feel.

3. Your mouth is home to 300 types of bacteria - Plaque contains millions of bacteria, made up of 200 to 300 different species. The main culprit for poor tooth health is Streptococcus mutans, which converts sugar and other carbohydrates into the acids which eat away at your teeth. White and sticky, plaque is constantly growing. If you don’t remove it regularly by brushing and flossing, it can cause tooth decay. Without removal, plaque hardens and develops into tartar. So, brush and floss at least twice daily and see your dentist for regular cleanings.

4. Your teeth cannot repair themselves - A tooth is the only part of your body that cannot heal itself. Your tooth enamel is a very strong part of your body, and it is essential to look after it so your smile can look and feel healthy for your entire life.

5. Your teeth can be an indicator of your overall health - One in 7 adults aged 35 to 44 has gum disease. For adults older than 65, that increases to 1 in every 4. Tooth decay and other infections in the mouth may be associated with health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. People who have higher levels of gum disease also have a higher level of heart disease. They also have a higher rate of low birthweight babies and premature births.

You use your teeth to bite, chew and talk countless times throughout your day. It's easy to take your teeth for granted, but healthy teeth and gums are critical contributors to your overall good health. If you have any questions about oral hygiene or your dental health, please give Quest Johnson Orthodontics a call. 

 

Why You Need Orthodontic Care

Quest Johnson Orthodontics

Oral health is a window into your overall health. Orthodontic treatment helps ensure proper function of teeth and creates healthy smiles. A good bite makes it easier for you to chew and speak. Teeth that are misaligned are harder to clean and can cause abnormal wearing of tooth enamel which can lead to extensive and expensive dental procedures. Orthodontic treatment can yield life-enhancing results: better function (biting, chewing, speaking).

In the simplest terms, orthodontics refers to “straightening” your teeth. While this may not sound important, it actually has a significant impact on your oral health and appearance. People who have crowded or crooked teeth often develop issues with their gums and jawbones which can lead to pain and discomfort. If the teeth are crooked, they can begin to grow in funny ways. This can lead to more issues down the line such as chipped or worn tooth enamel. Gum recession and fractures around the roots of your teeth where it attaches into your jawbone can also occur. You may even discover worse problems with decay from food being trapped between uneven surfaces.

The bottom line is that orthodontic care is not something you should avoid. If you recognize any of the signs or concerns below in your child or yourself, it might be time to schedule a consultation with Quest Johnson Orthodontics.

• Difficulty chewing or biting 
• Sucking the thumb or fingers, or other oral habits 
• Crowded, misplaced or blocked-out teeth 
• Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude, or are recessed 
• Speech difficulty 
• Protruding teeth 
• Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all 
• Facial imbalance or asymmetry 
• Grinding or clenching of teeth 
• Inability to comfortably close lips

Even if the only thing that bothers you about your smile or bite is a little bit of crookedness in a few teeth, it’s still worth getting them straightened out as soon as possible.

Few people are lucky enough to have perfect teeth, but orthodontic treatment can make a dramatic difference to you or your child. Contact Quest Johnson Orthodontics today to schedule an initial exam.

 

5 Reasons To Love Your Braces

Quest Johnson Orthodontics

Your braces are an investment in your smile, your health, and your overall well-being. Braces can transform your teeth, give you a more comfortable bite, and give you a beautiful smile that will boost your confidence.

Braces can solve almost any orthodontic issue.

Whether you have an underbite, overbite, or crossbite, braces treatment can help. Braces are individualized to suit your needs and can help to improve a wide range of orthodontic issues. Therefore, if you’d really like to straighten your teeth, braces are most likely your best option.

1. Braces enhance your natural teeth. Rather than covering your smile with veneers, braces can fix your natural teeth. Not to mention, braces are cheaper than most of these transformative cosmetic dentistry procedures.

2. Straight teeth are healthy teeth. Braces don’t just enhance your smile, they can improve your oral health too. Straight teeth are easier to clean. When your teeth are easier to brush and floss you’re less likely to develop cavities or infections. Oral health problems like worn enamel, gum recession, and side effects of grinding and clenching your teeth are also eliminated when teeth are shifted into proper alignment with braces.

3. Braces can be discrete. If you’d like to avoid the metal brackets on your teeth, you have options. For example, ceramic braces work like metal braces…only better. Ceramic braces blend in with your teeth for a great look. You’ll be able to straighten your teeth without anyone noticing.

4. The results are incredible! With braces, you can get a beautiful straight smile you’ve always wanted. Not to mention, having straighter teeth can improve your facial profile, align your jaw, and fix your bite…drastically improving your appearance.

 

 

Remember, braces are temporary. If you want to learn more about how braces can improve your smile, call Quest Johnson Orthodontics to schedule an appointment. From conventional metal braces to Invisalign Dr. Quest and Dr. Johnson have you covered!

Handle Your Retainer With Care

Quest Johnson Orthodnotics

Like most patients at Quest Johnson Orthodontics, you are probably counting down the days until you get your braces off. It’s no question that when that day comes, it will be exciting. But…it’s important to remember that just because your braces have been removed, that doesn’t mean your orthodontic treatment is over.

Retainers will need to be worn following the removal of your braces in order to prevent the teeth from shifting. It is vital to follow Dr. Quest’s and Dr. Johnson’s instructions carefully after you have had your orthodontic treatment completed to ensure long-standing results.

Unfortunately, braces don’t guarantee that your orthodontic treatment results will be permanent. In fact, teeth have a natural tendency to move back into their original place after the forces holding them have been removed. Without a retainer, it is likely that the teeth will go back to their prior misalignment shortly after having your braces removed. A retainer helps to keep your teeth aligned until they have set firmly into place.

Ultimately, retainer use will continue indefinitely. The amount of time that you must spend wearing your retainer will depend on how long it has been since you had your braces removed. In most situations, you will be required to wear your retainer as often as possible for the first 3 to 6 months after your braces have been removed. After this, it is recommended that you wear your retainer nightly for the next 1 to 3 years. Failing to wear your retainer for a day or two won’t cause significant issues but failing to wear your retainer for long periods of time will cause your teeth to move out of alignment.

There two main types of retainers and our team will discuss the best solution for retaining the alignment of your teeth with you.

Removable Retainers – These are retainers that you can remove and store when they are not in your mouth. This kind of retainer is often much easier to keep clean, because you can remove your retainer whenever you eat or brush your teeth. Removable retainers allow you to be more efficient with your oral hygiene routine. However, the main drawback to removable retainers is that you must remember to wear it according to Dr. Quest’s and Dr. Johnson’s specifications. Removable retainers are also easier to lose and damage, because they can be taken out of your mouth and misplaced.

Fixed Retainers - A fixed retainer is adhered to the teeth in much the same way as your braces. Fixed retainers consist of a thin wire that is positioned and bonded to the back surface of your teeth. Fixed retainers effective at keeping the teeth in place, but they can be more difficult to keep clean.

It is important to keep your retainer clean and in good condition. Remember to rinse your removable retainer in cold water before and after use. If you have a fixed retainer, you will need to follow the same processes to clean it as you did with braces. Store your removable retainer in a plastic case whenever it is not in your mouth. You will also need to wash your retainer with a specialized cleaner every few months.

At Quest Johnson Orthodontics, we are passionate about your smile. To learn more about how to keep your smile straight and beautiful, visit our website or give one of our friendly and knowledgeable team members a call.

 

 

Affordable Orthodontic Care

Quest Johnson Orthodontics

If you recently learned that orthodontic treatment is in your or your child’s future, remain calm and rest assured that Quest Johnson Orthodontics will help you each step of the way.

Dr. Quest and Dr. Johnson are aware that people have finite budgets. Juggling expenses is a fact of life. Our office is accustomed to working with families and individuals to make care afford-able and budget-friendly.

First thing first…make an appointment with our Mooresville, Indiana office.  New patient exams are always complimentary.  During this initial exam, we will provide a complete clinical diagnosis regarding the nature of your orthodontic problem, a written summary of our findings, and a detailed plan that outlines your treatment, goals, and estimated fees. Our team will discuss the cost of your treatment and your payment plan options so you can make the best choice for you, and your smile.

It may be a pleasant surprise to learn how truly affordable orthodontic care is today. Monthly payments can be about the cost of a mobile phone plan, but the benefits last a lot longer. At the end of the day, orthodontic care is a lifetime investment in your or your child’s health and appearance, and payment plans make care quite manageable. 

Do you have insurance to help pay for treatment? Our office is committed to helping you maximize your insurance benefits. We accept almost every traditional (Non-PPO, Non-HMO) insurance plan and we are preferred providers for Delta-PPO, Dentemax and United Concordia. We can even help you strategize how to maximize your benefits so you can minimize your out-of-pocket costs.

How can you afford braces without insurance? When it comes to paying for braces, you have options.

Choose a low-cost option. At Quest Johnson Orthodontics, we offer affordable braces. Meaning, we have braces that require fewer office visits and braces that are made with more cost effective materials. These more affordable options will help reduce the cost of your treatment overall.   

Ask for a payment plan. We offer payment plans for patients without insurance and can provide flexible payment options that cost less than conventional credit financing. You can choose between plans with little to no interest and payable by up to two years. These types of plans help tremendously when investing in affordable braces for you or your child.

Use your Flexible Spending Account. Even if your dental plan does not cover orthodontics, your employer might offer a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA). The money you put into this account is not taxed, which means your dollars will go further. Contribute the maximum amount and use these funds to pay for expenses not covered by insurance, including braces.

Though orthodontics can come with a higher price tag, you do have many options to help you pay for your or your child’s orthodontic care. Start by having a conversation with Quest Johnson Orthodontics then begin your journey toward an improved smile.

 

Scheduling Orthodontic Appointments

Quest Johnson Orthodontics

For many of us, making doctor appointments is a troubling task. Easily forgotten and always hard to fit into our busy weeks, especially with schedules that seem to change frequently.

If you’re trying to schedule your initial appointment with Quest Johnson Orthodontics but aren’t sure about the specifics, such as how to request an appointment or what exactly you need to be seen for, don’t worry…these are common concerns that many of our patients share. At Quest Johnson Orthodontics, we want to make every step as simple as can be.

Whether you need to schedule an appointment for braces, a retainer, or other orthodontic issues, Dr. Quest and Dr. Johnson will investigate abnormalities that you or your dentist may have noticed to give a better vision for the future of your teeth. Visiting our office should be done anytime you have a concern or issue with the placement of your teeth, jaw, or general alignment within your mouth. Keeping your teeth healthy, straight, strong, and beautiful is a joint effort between you and Drs. Quest and Johnson, so it’s important to be sure you’re on the right track moving forward with your oral health.

Timing is everything, especially when it comes to your or your child’s orthodontic treatment.

Our team believes each smile is unique and feel that it is very important to listen to your concerns, your specific needs, and your preferences. This is just part of what makes us one of the best orthodontic offices in the Mooresville, Indiana area. Quest Johnson Orthodontics has been a respected provider of orthodontic care in our community for over 20 years and is looking forward to educating you on your best options for creating your new smile.

At Quest Johnson Orthodontics, you have a few options for requesting your appointment. Below are the ways you can do this:

1. Call Our Office. Give us a call and discuss how to set up an appointment with our Dr. Quest or Dr. Johnson. Calling our Mooresville office is one of the easiest ways to get your appointment finalized, and is the easy way to find a great time that works with your schedule.

2. Request Online. Requesting an orthodontic appointment online via our website is another easy way to fit an appointment into your schedule. Simply fill out the form on our request page and one of our team members will contact you to finalize and confirm your appointment.

3. Stop By. If you’re in the Mooresville, Indiana area, stop in and set up your appointment in person. You can get a feel for the office when you're inside, and it makes it very easy to ask any questions you may have about the appointment that you’re requesting to schedule.

Always remember…you are never too old for orthodontic treatment as long as you have healthy teeth and gums. Dr. Quest and Dr. Johnson are experts in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. They possess the skills and experience needed to give you your best smile.

Drs. Quest, Johnson, and the Quest Johnson Orthodontic Team have a mission to not only give you a more beautiful smile but to also provide an extremely pleasant experience in our family-friendly environment. Come visit us today.