How To Support Sustainable Dentistry

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Posted on 06/22/2020

In an age where the entire world is starting to see the negative effects of our industrial practices, it is necessary for consumers to change our behaviors and actions. Our doctors and our team at Pedodontics, P.C. as a whole are aspiring to make changes one day at a time by adapting to different resources that support sustainable dentistry. Every little change helps! This is why we’ve decided to ask our patients to stand with us against the effects of climate change and join us in changing our practices in order to leave a better world for the future. Our changes begin here at our pediatric dentistry in Omaha, NE, but we hope that all of our readers will take initiative to begin changes around the world. The following are some tips that we’ve come up with to help combat climate change!

Avoid Water Waste by Using Less Water

Because water is usually available at our fingertips, it makes sense that we often take its presence for granted. We have to remember, however, that there are many places around the world where potable water is not at people’s disposal. When using water, be mindful of closing the tap during unnecessary times such as when you’re brushing your teeth, scrubbing your dishes, only running the dishwasher/washing machine when you have a full load, etc.

Consider Stocking All-Natural Cleaning Supplies

There are actually many great green cleaning supplies available in the market that do just as great a job as regular cleaning supplies, but without the chemicals that are detrimental to our earth and our oceans. Cleaning solutions exist for your kitchen surface, wood and tile floor, bathrooms, laundry, glass/mirrors, etc. that are biodegradable and plant/mineral based. Not only do they avoid harmful effects in the environment, they are also crafted to be safe for your family, non-toxic, fragrance free (for those with allergies or sensitivities), and non-GMO.

Alternative Green Dental Supplies

Instead of Plastic Toothbrushes…

Use bamboo toothbrushes! Bamboo toothbrushes are biodegradable, unlike common plastic toothbrushes. Some even come with charcoal bristles for a more natural way of cleaning!

Instead of Regular Toothpaste…

Use charcoal powder! Charcoal has activated ingredients that both clean and kill bad oral bacteria. This non-toxic option is a great substitute for normal toothpastes that contain chemicals and preservatives. Some powders even include mint essential oils to freshen your breath!

Instead of Plastic Tongue Cleaners…

Use reusable tongue cleaners! There are stainless steel and copper tongue cleaners in the market that won’t rust or collect mold—just purchase once and keep cleaning and reusing!

Instead of Plastic Floss…

Use biodegradable silk floss! A great alternative, silk floss is actually dipped in natural wax and coated with natural mint essential oils and is 100% biodegradable! It will do the same job as plastic floss, but won’t add to the earth’s nearly insurmountable pollution issue.

Begin Changing the World with Us at Pedodontics, P.C.!

At Pedodontics, P.C., we may be just a children’s orthodontist practice, but we believe that change begins with every individual. Let’s change individually and join together with the masses that have already begun their environmental betterment journey. If you’d like to discuss more environmentally-friendly dental options or discuss our dental or orthodontic services, please contact us directly at (402) 330-5913 to speak to our knowledgeable staff. Call us today!

Can My Child Floss With Braces?

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Posted on 05/08/2020

Beginning an orthodontic treatment such as traditional braces is a huge responsibility for your child. They will quickly have to learn how to care for their orthodontic equipment, start forming new daily oral cleaning practices, and must be prepared to change the practice of their pre-existing oral habits. This includes flossing their teeth. One may believe that this is impossible being that there are dental wires that slightly obscure the space between your child’s teeth, but it’s very possible—using the correct appliances of course! At Pedodontics, P.C., we are here to assist you and your child on the basics of flossing your teeth with braces.

Flossing Your Teeth With Braces

Flossing when you have braces can be a delicate job, but there is no need to panic. Although there are many different flossing tools in the market that have been designed to be used during an orthodontic treatment, the one that is most commonly used is a reusable floss threader. A floss threader essentially holds a portion of the dental floss and allows the user to more readily and easily slip the cord under and around their dental archwires. Be sure to let your child know that they must floss daily and gently. Let them know to take their time until they are used to this new practice so they don’t accidentally damage their doctor’s work and cause a dental wire to pop out of their brackets.

Why Does Flossing Your Teeth Accomplish?

Even though brushing your teeth is a very important practice to maintain your child’s oral health, their teeth won’t be able to be fully cleaned by the bristles of their toothbrush. The dental bristles at the head of their toothbrush are largely designed to clean the exposed surfaces of your child’s teeth. While the bristles are somewhat clean in between their teeth and gumline, they simply can’t fully reach the space in between your child’s teeth or into their gumline as well as dental floss does. The area in between the teeth and gums is the main area where food will often get stuck. Once stuck, as the food particles start to break down, this will create the ideal environment where oral bacteria and tooth decay can occur. For this reason alone, your child must floss!

Contact Your Preferred Team Of Omaha Pediatric Dentists!

Now that you’re more educated on the practice of flossing while wearing braces, we are confident that you can assist you child as they begin their new oral cleaning practices. If you still have questions about flossing with braces or any other orthodontic services such as invisible braces, feel free to contact our knowledgeable staff directly at (402) 330-5913. See you soon!

Delicious Snacks That Are Braces-Friendly

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Posted on 04/15/2020

Summertime is full of traveling to fun places with the family for quick weekend getaways, baseball games and soccer matches, and finishing up obligations to prepare for the summer long time-off. It is challenging during these moments to get healthy, tasty and easy snack ideas that align with your child’s dietary restrictions while wearing braces. You know to avoid food that is sticky or easily gets stuck in their teeth and wires is necessary to avoid, but then you start to wonder, “What healthy and tasty snacks can my child eat while having braces?” Your trusted, local Omaha, Nebraska children’s orthodontist has a few recommendations that will make preparing healthy and delicious summertime snacks easy during the duration of your child having braces to straighten their teeth into beautiful, healthy smiles.

Healthy & Tasty Snacks

Quick and healthy snacks are perfect to support you and your family’s busy summertime lifestyle. These foods are orthodontist recommended, braces-friendly and delicious snacks:

  • String cheese, cheese squares, squeezable yogurts are calcium rich dairy products that don’t get stuck in your kid’s braces and they will help rebuild tooth enamel according to health experts.
  • Sliced seasonal fruits, such as grapefruit, mangos, kiwis and fresh apricots are excellent, healthy snacks that are braces-friendly. But other fruits not necessarily seasonal, but should still be available at a grocery store are bananas and oranges.
  • Scrambled or hard-boiled eggs are great, soft foods if you are looking to get a little extra protein in your child’s diet.
  • Steamed carrots, broccoli and sweet potatoes are vegetables that when prepared properly can not easily get caught in your child’s brace wires and their fiber-rich nature makes them highly recommended by nutrition health specialists because they promote gum health.
  • On vacation, a fresh acai bowl or smoothies are excellent sources of fresh fruit for your family member with braces to enjoy and not miss out on a delicious snack.
  • Nuts and seeds are tough on your braces and wires so they can easily break a band but nut spreads such as peanut butter or almond butter are an excellent snack to have with your favorite fruit.

Foods To Avoid With Braces

There are several primary foods to avoid or be very careful eating while undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces. But as you may notice, there are still numerous alternatives and tasty options of snacks your child is able to enjoy.

  • Candy is not a recommended food primarily if it is a chewy candy or a hard candy that could break bands or brackets.
  • Whole nuts and seeds are healthy foods to eat, but consuming them whole are not recommended while having braces. They often get stuck in wires, but if ground up, they can still be eaten.
  • Tough meats to chew such as beef jerky are another food that can easily get stuck in your teeth with braces, so recommend to your child they eat this food with care.

Talk About Life With Braces With Your Omaha Orthodontist!

Eating habits can be a large adjustment when your child begins their journey to straighten their teeth with braces. But choosing braces to create an even smile is an effective choice and you can still prepare delicious snacks to enjoy during the or other seasons! Please call our office. Pedodontics is conveniently located in Omaha, Nebraska to serve the entire surrounding area with excellent orthodontic care. Schedule your appointment with our orthodontist or call our office directly. We look forward to supporting the health of your child’s smile through orthodontic treatment!

How Do I Know I Need Braces?

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Posted on 03/17/2020

In a world where there are so many options available, why choose braces? Luckily, our orthodontists, Drs. Strunk, Dana, and Snyder have made it easy to know why selecting traditional braces is your best choice.

How do you know you need braces and not another alignment correcting appliances such as popular choice Invisalign? Well, those who actually go through the Invisalign treatment have to qualify for it—not just choose it. The Invisalign treatment is only optional for those who have minimal adjustments and minor alignment issues. Dental braces, however, are for those who have more serious alignment issues.

Because the Invisalign treatment is made up of clear plastic aligner trays that slowly change into a different, more aligned version of your teeth, the people who opt for this orthodontic treatment do not have severe alignment issues. Dental braces on the other hand, are for those who are more prone to having narrow jaws, missing teeth, or instances where impacted teeth have broken through the gum line in an inappropriate position such as on top of an existing tooth or in between other teeth, causing crowding.

What Do Dental Braces Do?

Dental braces parts are made up of dental brackets, archwires, and rubber bands which use pressure and force to push and to pull teeth into different positions. Although this seems like an aggressive approach to correcting the alignment of your teeth, it is a very effective and speedy orthodontic treatment in comparison to Invisalign. As time passes by, with each visit to your Omaha orthodontist, you’ll switch out rubber bands and create different pressure points of force to move your teeth into not only a more aesthetically appealing position to create a beautiful smile, but also a better and healthier position as teeth alignment influences oral health greatly.

Begin Your Orthodontic Treatment With Your Preferred Omaha Kids’ Orthodontist!

Orthodontic braces have come a long way in both design and effectiveness. From traditional metal braces to lingual braces and clear braces, you have an array of options to choose from when you select dental braces as the best choice to get your smile in its best shape, ever! If you have more questions concerning dental braces or are ready to begin an orthodontic treatment that has lasted the test of time, be sure to schedule an appointment by contacting our friendly team at (402) 330-5913. We hope to see you soon!

How To Brush With Braces

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Posted on 10/31/2019

Brushing Your Teeth With Braces

At Pedodontics, P.C., we believe everyone deserves a healthy smile. That’s why we’re committed to helping our patients achieve one by providing high-quality dental treatment as well as orthodontic treatment like traditional metal braces. But in addition to in-office treatment, how you care for your teeth at home is fundamental to your orthodontic success, and part of that is using the proper technique for brushing with braces.

How to Brush with Braces

Brushing your teeth while wearing braces is still the same fundamental process as normal, but there are a few tweaks you’ll need to make in terms of technique. We recommend using a soft-bristle toothbrush while wearing braces, as this is effective in removing plaque and bacteria but won’t cause damage to the gums. You can also use an electric toothbrush to make things a little easier, but remember to keep it at a moderate setting and not to let the back of the brush head hit your brackets, as this can damage them. When brushing, you’ll use the same basic technique as you would when brushing your teeth normally: use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and brush your teeth with small, circular motions, being careful to cover every exposed area of tooth surface. The main difference is that when brushing the front side of teeth, you’ll want to alternate tilting the bristles upwards and downwards. This allows you to clean the spaces behind the brackets on the top and bottom side, which are magnets for trapping food, debris, and plaque.

Contact Your Omaha, NE Orthodontists

We hope this guide helps you ensure you’re using proper technique when brushing your teeth during orthodontic treatment, and if you still have questions on maintaining oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment, we’re always here to help. Contact us today to ask any questions you still have about brushing technique or to schedule a check-up at our Omaha orthodontic office. We can’t wait to hear from you, and we’re excited to help you achieve your dream smile!

Braces vs Invisalign

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Posted on 04/29/2019

Braces vs. Invisalign In Omaha, NE

There are more orthodontic options than ever today! At Pedodontics in Omaha, NE, you have the choice of braces or Invisalign to straighten your teeth and correct your smile. Both treatment options are an excellent orthodontic choice and, it really comes down to which you prefer and why. Our orthodontist, Dr. Lisa Strunk, and friendly staff will help you choose the best and most appropriate option for you. To do so, we’ve made it even easier. To assist all of our patients in Omaha, NE, we’ve put together a comprehensive pro-con list for braces and Invisalign. Choosing an orthodontic option has never been easier!

The Traditional Way: Braces

Metal braces are a traditional and time-tested form of orthodontic treatment. To give patients a straighter smile, our braces use metal brackets that are cemented to the front of your teeth along with a wire that runs through them to gently guide the teeth into better positions. We believe these are the most important pros and cons when choosing braces:

Pros

  • Braces are incredibly effective and able to treat some of the most complex orthodontic problems
  • You won’t have to worry about remembering to wear them as they’re cemented to your teeth
  • Braces are inexpensive compared to other types of orthodontic treatments
  • There are several different types of braces with a few of them offering a more discreet treatment, like ceramic braces (clear braces) or lingual braces

Cons

  • Metal braces don’t offer the most aesthetically pleasing form of treatment
  • You’ll have to avoid certain foods because they can potentially break the wires and brackets of your braces
  • It can be difficult to clean around the brackets and wires, meaning braces care can be more time consuming
  • Metal braces don’t always offer the most comfort to a patient

The More Discrete Method: Invisalign

Invisalign is considered to be the alternative to braces. Instead of using brackets and wires to shift a patient’s teeth, Invisalign and Invisalign teen use clear, removable aligners to do the job. Dr. Lisa Strunk and her staff believe Invisalign has its own separate pros and cons, as followed:

Pros

  • Invisalign offers a nearly invisible orthodontic treatment due to its clear aligners
  • Invisalign aligners are removable, meaning you won’t have to stop eating your favorite foods for fear of breaking your orthodontics
  • You won’t have to struggle to clean around wires and brackets when you brush or floss
  • The polyurethane plastic aligners offer more comfort than a traditional braces treatment.
  • The aligners can act like a night-guard to protect against any nighttime teeth grinding

Cons

  • Not every patient is going to be a suitable candidate for Invisalign in Omaha, NE, as it won’t work on many complex orthodontic problems
  • You must wear your aligners for at least 22 hours per day or else your treatment will not work properly
  • Since they’re not cemented inside your mouth, you have to be careful not to misplace or lose them
  • Invisalign is typically more expensive than metal braces

The Choice Is Yours, Call Your Omaha Orthodontist Today!

When it really comes down to it, you have the ability to choose which orthodontic treatment option is best for you. Braces and Invisalign in Omaha, NE will both do a wonderful job straightening your teeth and delivering a smile that you can be proud and confident of. If you have further questions about the differences between braces and Invisalign, please call our office. Pedodontics is conveniently located in Omaha, Nebraska to serve the entire surrounding area with Invisalign and braces. Schedule your appointment with our orthodontist or call our office directly. We look forwarding to transforming your smile with braces or Invisalign!

Should I Brush Or Floss First?

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Posted on 01/08/2019

Omaha orthodontists and dentists everywhere will give impassioned speeches imploring their braces patients to floss around their braces every day. Too much research confirms the advantages of taking the time to floss as a strategy for avoiding plaque build up which can lead to tooth decay – an act made even more critical for patients with braces. And brushing at least twice a day is a standard for any oral hygiene program. But have you ever wondered if you should floss or brush first? Does it matter? What are the advantages of one over the other? Our exceptional doctors at Pedodontics P.S. offer some food for thought on this question.

What Does Flossing Do?

To floss first, or to brush first? That is the question on many of our Omaha braces patients’ minds these days. Everyone knows the benefits of brushing your teeth. But, to answer that question, it might be a good idea to clear up what flossing actually does. Why floss at all? Clearly many Americans either don’t believe flossing is important or simply don’t take the time needed to floss. In fact, according to a recent survey, only 40 percent of Americans floss at least once a day, and 20 percent never floss.

Flossing actually is quite important, especially for those with braces, because:

1. It loosens the small pieces of plaque that usually grow between your teeth. If you don’t get rid of plaque it will cause decay, and your oral health will undoubtedly suffer.

2. It removes the food that your toothbrush can’t reach. It is often stuck around and under your braces wires so it does’t have time to combine with your saliva to form plaque.

3. Eliminating plaque and bacteria from your mouth is proven to affect your overall health and well-being.

The Floss-First Thought

This is the most traditional approach to oral hygiene. The thoughts or, proof, if you will, surrounding the “floss-first” camp is that flossing will loosen and, in some cases, remove the small particles between your teeth. And after these particles are loosened up, brushing your teeth can whisk them away. Makes sense, right?

The Brush-First Thought

Not so fast. Others will argue that brushing your teeth first with a soft-bristled brush will automatically remove move of the plaque on your teeth. Then, when you floss after brushing you can push the fluoride from the toothpaste down in between all your teeth where your brush was unable to get into.

So… Brush First Or Floss First?

By now you may have figured out that the answer to the whether you should brush or floss first is a trick question. You should use BOTH strategies for the most effective oral hygiene. You can ask your friends, parents, or Omaha orthodontist for advice, but in the end it comes down to your individual choice. Whichever one works best for you to do first, go with that. If you’re not sure which will work best, try brushing then flossing and see how that goes for a week. Then, switch it up and try flossing first before you brush. You’re bound to have a preference about which one works best for you.

Visit Your Omaha Orthodontist Today!

Do you have more pressing questions that aren’t answered on our FAQ page? Don’t hesitate to call our Omaha, NE, Orthodontist office at (402) 330-5913 and we’ll do our best to answer any questions you have about dental or orthodontic treatments. We may even talk you in to making an appointment for your first visit. Only then can you experience all the qualities that make Pedodontics P.S. the best orthodontist in the Omaha area. See for yourself and welcome to our family!