Oyster Orthodontics Blog

A common first step of orthodontic treatment is an expander. Expanders, or palatal expanders, are orthodontic appliances that increase the space between the halves of the upper jaw. While that sounds scary and painful, expanders are very common and relatively painless! Many young, growing orthodontic patients have expanders, and they can help make sure you don’t have to undergo surgery later!   In This Post, We’ll Cover What is an Expander? Do Expanders Hurt? Why

One of our most common questions from patients is “What can I eat with my braces?” or “What foods do I have to give up?” and we have a few simple guidelines to share. Getting braces is a big change, and on top of the wires, brackets, or Invisalign trays, there’s a whole new set of habits you must get used to.  Luckily, we’re here to help and answer any questions you may have during

Parents are usually well-versed in getting their child to the dentist early on. Establishing oral health routines for your toddlers is standard – but many parents have questions about getting their child set up with orthodontic treatment. What about their first visit to the orthodontist? When should they go? Is my child too young for the orthodontist? Is my child too young for braces? Luckily, all these questions have simple answers.    The Lucky Number

Gum Disease Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. The culprit for this disease is usually poor brushing and flossing habits. These poor habits allow plaque – a sticky film of bacteria – to build up on the teeth and harden.Our mouths are full of bacteria. These bacteria help to form plaque on our teeth. Brushing and flossing help to get rid of

Braces can be sharp and restrictive. This makes the dating scene seem daunting and heightens nerves all around. Never fear! There’s no reason your orthodontic treatment should hamper your romantic life. Whether you’re a teen or an adult, dating with braces is possible and still just as fun. Here are a few of our tips and suggestions for a painless date night!  Dates to Avoid with Braces You CAN feel beautiful and have a successful

Have you ever wondered why those tiny, painful sores keep appearing in your mouth? If you’re wearing braces, you might have found the answer. Canker sores are a common issue for many people with braces. They can make eating, drinking, and even talking a painful experience. In this blog post, we’ll explore the connection between braces and canker sores, providing you with valuable insights and practical tips to manage and prevent these pesky sores.  In