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Questions and Answers
Batastini Orthodontics


What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The technical term for these problems is "malocclusion," which means "bad bite." The practice of orthodontics requires professional skill in the design, application and control of corrective appliances (braces) to bring teeth, lips and haws into proper alignment and achieve facial balance.

Why do dental and facial problems occur

Most malocclusions are inherited, but some are acquired. Inherited problems include crowding of teeth, too much space between teeth, extra or missing teeth, cleft palate and a wide variety of irregularities of the jaws and face.

Acquired malocclusions can be caused by thumb or finger sucking, tongue thrusting, the airway being restricted by tonsils and adenoids, dental disease, or premature loss of primary teeth. Whether inherited or acquired, many of these problems affect not only the alignment of the teeth but facial Appearance as well.

Why is orthodontic treatment important?

Everyone wants beautiful smile - and everyone should have a healthy one. The orthodontist's goal is to achieve both for the patient

Crooked an crowed teeth are hard to clean and maintain. This may contribute conditions that cause not only tooth decay but eventual gum disease and tooth loss. Other orthodontic problems can cause abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, excess stress on supporting bone and gum tissue, or misalignment of the jaw joints with resultant chronic headaches or pain in the face or neck.

When left untreated, many orthodontic problems become worse. Treatment by a specialist to correct the original problem is often less costly than the additional dental care required to treat the more serious problems in later years.

The importance of an attractive smile should not be underestimated A pleasing appearance is a vital asset to one's self-confidence. A person's self-esteem often improves treatment brings teeth, lips and face into harmony. In this way, orthodontic treatment can benefit social and career success as well as improve one's general attitude toward life.

Toothbrush
Brushing and Flossing

The Biggest enemy of your teeth is plaque and the most common and effective means of removing plaque from your teeth is regular brushing and flossing.

Brushing Technique

  • Hold the brush at an angle and press firmly against the teeth, flexing the bristles.
  • Move the brush in small circles Cleaning the tooth surface.
  • Brush above the archwire and below it.
  • Brush the backside and chewing surfaces of all your teeth

Success

By actively taking part in your treatment, you, your orthodontist and the office staff will develop a mutual confidence, and together you'll advance step-by-step towards your ultimate goal . . . a beautiful, healthy smile.

Chocolates Pop Corn

Foods to Avoid

Braces are delicate and easily damaged, so what you eat becomes especially important in caring for your appliances. Chewing ice, for example, can really cause a lot of harm. Here are some examples of foods which should be avoided:

Sticky Foods
Caramels, taffy and chewing gum.

Hard Foods
Hard candy, raw carrots, popcorn, pizza crusts, etc.

It is important to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet, including plenty of fruit and vegetables. Even if some foods are hard and crunchy - an apple, for instance - you can cut them into small pieces. Also remember, unless you can brush immediately afterwards, sugary foods should be avoided.

Feelings

Your braces may cause some discomfort during the first few days of treatment, and after some subsequent adjustments. There are several thins you can do to minimize this problem:

  • Eat soft foods for the first few days.
  • Use warm saltwater rinse, as needed.
  • Take aspirin or an aspirin substitute, as needed.
  • Put wax over any problem areas.


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American Association of Orthodontists

Paul J. Batastini, D.D.S., Spec. Lic. 2417

Paul F. Batastini, D.M.D., Spec. Lic. 3672

Dr. Frank Batastini, M.B.A., D.M.D., Spec. Lic. 5089

3 Convenient Locations to Serve You:

69 Haddonfield-Berlin Rd.
Cherry Hill, NJ 08034
Tel 856-428-1888
Fax 856-354-2081
1168 White Horse Pike
Hammonton, NJ 08037
Tel 609-561-2424
1035 East Landis Ave.
Vineland, NJ 08360
Tel 856-696-2600
Fax 856-696-1347