Bri Stoterau, DMD

It's completely natural to have concerns about changes in facial structure during orthodontic treatment. Braces can indeed create slight changes in the face due to the repositioning of teeth, but these alterations are typically minimal and usually not permanent.

As for not wearing a retainer after braces removal, while your teeth may shift slightly, the extent of any change in your facial appearance would likely be very subtle, if at all. Your teeth might move back toward their original positions, but the impact on your facial structure would be minimal compared to the adjustments made during treatment.

Retainers are essential after braces to maintain the new position of your teeth. They prevent shifting and ensure that your smile stays in its corrected state. If you're concerned about the impact on your facial appearance, I highly recommend wearing the retainer as advised by your orthodontist. This will not only preserve your beautiful new smile but also help maintain the overall balance and alignment of your facial features.

If you're experiencing specific concerns or noticing significant changes, it's always best to discuss them directly with your orthodontist. They'll provide personalized guidance to address your worries and ensure the best outcome for your smile and facial harmony.

After laser teeth whitening, it's essential to maintain the brightness of your smile. Here are some aftercare tips:

Avoid Staining Foods: For the first 24-48 hours, steer clear of foods and drinks that may stain your teeth, like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored foods.

Be Mindful of Temperature: Your teeth might be more sensitive after the treatment. Stick to lukewarm or room temperature drinks and foods to minimize discomfort.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Maintain your regular oral hygiene routine by brushing and flossing regularly. Consider using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth if you experience any sensitivity.

Skip Smoking: Avoid smoking or using any tobacco products as they can quickly stain your teeth.

Follow Up with Touch-ups: Depending on your case, periodic touch-up treatments might be needed to maintain the whiteness.

Consult Your Dentist: If you have any concerns or questions post-treatment, don't hesitate to reach out to your dentist. They can offer personalized advice based on your specific situation.

Remember, these guidelines may vary slightly based on your unique dental situation, so it's always wise to consult your dentist for tailored aftercare instructions.

Black triangles can be treated in various ways depending on the cause and severity. It's essential to first determine the underlying reason for these spaces between your teeth. They can result from gum recession, bone loss, or simply the natural shape of your teeth.

Here are a few potential treatments:

Cosmetic Bonding: For mild cases, composite bonding can fill in the spaces between teeth, improving aesthetics.

1. Orthodontics: Braces or clear aligners can help if the black triangles are due to misalignment. Aligning the teeth can reduce or eliminate these spaces.

2. Gum Recontouring: In cases where gum recession is the cause, gum recontouring procedures can be performed to reshape the gumline, reducing the gaps.

3. Dental Veneers or Crowns: These restorative options can be used to cover and fill in spaces between teeth for a more uniform appearance.

Periodontal Treatment: If the cause is gum disease or bone loss, addressing the underlying periodontal issues may help prevent further recession and reduce the size of the black triangles.

It's crucial to consult with a dental professional like myself to assess your specific situation and determine the most suitable treatment option for you. The best approach will depend on the cause, your oral health, and your aesthetic goals.

Certainly! Retainers can undergo slight changes in shape over time, especially if they are subject to regular wear. This is a normal occurrence due to factors like the natural shifting of teeth, jaw movements, and the materials used in the retainer itself. However, significant changes or discomfort might indicate a need for adjustment or replacement. I always advise my patients to schedule regular check-ups to ensure their retainers fit properly and continue to support their beautiful smiles effectively. If you're experiencing noticeable changes or discomfort, it's best to reach out for an evaluation to ensure your retainer continues to do its job effectively.

Whether veneers can be shortened to address lopsidedness depends on the specific situation and the extent of the issue. Generally, minor adjustments can be made to veneers, including slight reshaping or trimming, to improve symmetry and correct minor irregularities. However, significant changes might not be possible through this method alone.

It's essential to consult with us at S&C Dental so we can assess your veneers and determine the best course of action. They'll evaluate the condition of your veneers, your overall oral health, and the extent of the lopsidedness to recommend suitable solutions. In some cases, additional veneers or alternative treatments might be suggested for a more effective correction.