At The Hills Orthodontics, we understand that adjusting to life with braces can take time. While modern orthodontic technologies have made braces more comfortable and efficient, there are still a few challenges to navigate. That’s why we’ve compiled our top six hacks for making your braces journey smoother. If you’re looking for expert care and tips from an orthodontist in Anaheim Hills, our team is always here to support you.

1. Use an Electric Toothbrush: Your Superhero Tool

The best way to keep your braces on track is by maintaining excellent oral hygiene. Healthy teeth move more efficiently, helping you avoid delays in your treatment. Braces can trap food and plaque, increasing the risk of cavities and gum issues, which could prolong your treatment. We recommend investing in a high-quality electric toothbrush to remove debris more effectively than a manual brush.

2. Flossing Made Easy: Use a Waterpik

Flossing can feel overwhelming with wires and brackets in the way. That’s where the Waterpik flosser comes to the rescue. It’s an excellent tool for reaching areas between your teeth that traditional floss might miss and is especially helpful after an adjustment, when your gums may feel sensitive.

3. Keep Things Clean with an Interproximal Brush

Braces can make your mouth feel crowded, and sometimes even an electric toothbrush won’t get into those tiny spaces. An interproximal brush—a small, narrow brush designed for cleaning between braces—is the perfect addition to your routine. You can find them in travel-friendly packs, so they’re easy to carry and use throughout the day.

4. Create a Braces Travel Kit

Whether you’re heading to school, work, or on vacation, good oral hygiene should travel with you. Put together a simple travel kit with essentials like a toothbrush, floss, a small mirror, and orthodontic wax to handle any minor discomfort on the go. Keep your kit in your backpack, car, or desk so you’re always prepared to care for your braces no matter where you are.

5. Stick to Braces-Friendly Snacks

Your teeth will likely feel sensitive when you first get your braces or after adjustments, so stock up on soft, braces-friendly foods ahead of time. Some great options include mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, soups, and steamed vegetables. Preparing your snacks in advance will help you avoid cravings for hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage your braces.

6. Protect Your Smile with a Mouthguard

If you play sports, a custom mouthguard is essential to protect your braces and prevent injury to your gums and soft tissues. Without a mouthguard, the metal brackets could cause cuts or sores if you experience a sudden impact. Protect your teeth and braces by wearing your mouthguard every time you hit the field or court.

We’re Here for You Every Step of the Way

At The Hills Orthodontics, we’re dedicated to making your orthodontic experience as smooth and comfortable as possible. These tips will help you manage your braces with confidence and keep your treatment on track. If you have any questions or need additional support, don’t hesitate to contact our office.

Looking for a trusted orthodontist in Anaheim Hills? Schedule your next appointment with The Hills Orthodontics today—we look forward to seeing your smile!

At The Hills Orthodontics, we care about every aspect of your oral health, including the impact your favorite drinks can have on your teeth. While it’s common knowledge that beverages like soda and alcohol can affect your body, many people are unaware of how these drinks can impact their smiles—especially for those with orthodontic appliances such as braces or Invisalign®. If you’re searching for an orthodontist in Anaheim Hills, our team is here to help you maintain a healthy smile throughout your treatment.

Below is a list of common beverages and how to enjoy them responsibly without compromising your oral health.

Soda, Juice, and Energy Drinks

These popular beverages are loaded with sugar, which contributes to tooth decay by feeding bacteria that produce acid. Prolonged exposure to sugar softens enamel, making it easier for cavities to form. Acidic energy drinks are especially harmful, as they erode enamel even more quickly. If you’re wearing braces or clear aligners, sugary beverages can sneak into hard-to-reach areas and cause plaque buildup, so it’s important to limit consumption.

Tip:

• Drink through a straw to reduce contact with your teeth.
• Rinse your mouth with water afterward to wash away any remaining sugar or acid.

Coffee

Whether you enjoy your coffee black or sweetened, it can negatively impact your teeth. Coffee is notorious for staining teeth, especially over time. For orthodontic patients with aligners, wearing your trays immediately after consuming coffee can lock in stains and acids.

Tip:

• Rinse your mouth with water before placing your aligners back in.
• Use a whitening toothpaste, but avoid over-brushing after drinking coffee, as this could weaken enamel.

Wine, Beer, and Liquor

It’s not just red wine that can stain your teeth—all types of wine can impact your enamel. Both red and white wines contain acid that softens enamel, and darker beers can gradually stain teeth. While straight liquor may be less harmful, the mixers often paired with it—like soda or juice—introduce acids and sugars that can lead to enamel damage and decay.

Tip:

• Drink water between alcoholic beverages to minimize the staining and acid exposure.
• Avoid brushing immediately after drinking wine or beer; instead, wait at least 30 minutes to allow enamel to re-harden.

How to Protect Your Teeth

Your first instinct after drinking a sugary or acidic beverage might be to brush your teeth immediately, but doing so could do more harm than good. Acids soften your enamel temporarily, and brushing right away can wear it down further. Instead, follow these steps to protect your smile:

1. Rinse with water right after drinking to wash away sugars and acids.
2. Wait 30 minutes before brushing to allow enamel to re-harden.
3. Maintain a regular oral care routine that includes brushing, flossing, and using a fluoride rinse.

Keep Your Smile Healthy During Orthodontic Treatment

Watching what you drink benefits not just your teeth but your overall health. For orthodontic patients, it’s especially important to take extra care of your teeth and appliances to avoid plaque buildup and discoloration. Moderate consumption of these beverages won’t harm your smile as long as you practice good oral hygiene and schedule regular cleanings.

Looking for an experienced orthodontist in Anaheim Hills to help you maintain a healthy smile during and after treatment? The Hills Orthodontics is here to support you every step of the way.

Contact us today to schedule your next appointment and keep your teeth strong, healthy, and beautiful—no matter what’s in your glass!

We all know that a great smile can make a lasting first impression, whether you’re heading into a job interview or going on a first date. However, years of wear and tear can leave many feeling less than confident about their smiles. If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, don’t fret! There are numerous options available to help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

At The Hills Orthodontics, our experienced team is dedicated to helping you look and feel your best. Here are eight effective ways to improve your smile:

1. Teeth Whitening

Brightening your smile is one of the simplest ways to boost your confidence. Professional teeth whitening can remove stains and discoloration, giving you a radiant smile.

2. Dental Crowns

If you have damaged or decayed teeth, dental crowns can restore their shape, size, and function while enhancing their appearance.

3. Veneers

For a more dramatic transformation, dental veneers can cover imperfections like chips, gaps, and discoloration, providing a flawless look.

4. Tooth Bonding

This is a quick and affordable option to repair minor imperfections. Tooth bonding uses a tooth-colored resin to fix chips, cracks, or gaps.

5. Braces or Invisalign®

For those with alignment issues, braces or Invisalign® can help straighten your teeth and improve your bite, resulting in a more attractive smile.

6. Dental Implants

If you’re missing teeth, dental implants can restore your smile and functionality. They look and feel like natural teeth, providing a long-term solution.

7. Brushing and Flossing

A strong oral hygiene routine is essential for maintaining a beautiful smile. Regular brushing and flossing help prevent decay and gum disease.

8. Regular Dental Visits

Routine check-ups with your orthodontist in Anaheim Hills are crucial for keeping your smile healthy. These visits allow for early detection of any potential issues and professional cleanings.

At The Hills Orthodontics, we offer a variety of treatments tailored to meet your individual needs and budget. Whether you’re considering an extensive procedure or just looking for tips on enhancing your oral health routine at home, our dedicated team is here to assist you.

Don’t wait to start your journey toward a brighter smile! To schedule a professional cleaning or to discuss a personalized treatment plan, contact our office today. Your perfect smile awaits!

Recently, there has been a wave of news reports questioning the necessity of flossing for oral health. At The Hills Orthodontics, we want to set the record straight: the answer is a resounding YES! Cleaning between your teeth is crucial for maintaining the health of your gums and teeth.

Whether you prefer traditional string dental floss, a water flosser, or interdental brushes, the key is to incorporate some form of interdental cleaning into your daily routine. It’s essential to do this correctly and consistently.

The Myths vs. The Facts

In the pursuit of catchy headlines, many media outlets have shared incomplete and misleading information about flossing. The truth is that regular flossing effectively removes plaque and bacteria that accumulate between your teeth.

Why is this significant? The build-up of plaque in these areas is one of the leading causes of periodontal disease. This condition doesn’t just impact your oral health; it has been linked to serious systemic health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and even Alzheimer’s disease.

How to Floss Effectively

To get the most out of your flossing routine, it’s important to use the right technique. When you visit us at The Hills Orthodontics, don’t hesitate to ask our hygienist to demonstrate the most effective way to clean between your teeth. Proper technique can make all the difference in preventing plaque buildup and ensuring your oral health.

Make It a Habit

Incorporating flossing into your daily routine is key. It doesn’t take much time, and the benefits are immense. Not only will you be promoting better oral health, but you’ll also be taking proactive steps to safeguard your overall well-being.

If you have any questions about flossing, interdental cleaning, or your oral health in general, please reach out to our dedicated team. As your trusted orthodontist in Anaheim Hills, we’re here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.

To schedule your next appointment or learn more about effective oral care techniques, contact The Hills Orthodontics today! Your dental health is our priority!

At The Hills Orthodontics, we know that achieving a straight, beautiful smile with braces is a significant milestone—but the journey doesn’t end when your braces come off. Maintaining the alignment of your teeth requires diligent care and the proper use of retainers. Retainers are essential for preserving the results of your orthodontic treatment, ensuring your smile stays just as perfect as the day your braces were removed. If you’re searching for an orthodontist in Anaheim Hills, we’ve got you covered with this comprehensive guide on retainers and how to care for them.

Understanding Retainers

Once your braces are removed, retainers take on the important job of keeping your teeth in place. Custom-made to fit your mouth, these devices help prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Regular follow-up appointments with your orthodontist in Anaheim Hills will ensure your retainers are fitting well and doing their job effectively.

Types of Retainers

There are various types of retainers that may be recommended based on your unique orthodontic needs:

• Clear Retainers: These are nearly invisible plastic trays that fit snugly over your teeth. They’re removable, comfortable, and offer the benefit of discretion.
• Traditional Retainers: Made of acrylic and wire, these retainers sit on the front of your teeth and are time-tested for effectiveness. They are removable, making them easy to clean.
• Bonded Retainers: For a more permanent solution, a thin wire is bonded to the back of your teeth. Bonded retainers require minimal maintenance and offer continuous support.

More Than Just Straight Teeth

Retainers do more than keep your teeth straight. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing plaque buildup and lowering the risk of cavities. In some cases, retainers can help with other issues like improving breathing or reducing snoring, and even assist in correcting speech impediments by adjusting the position of the tongue.

Caring for Your Retainer

To ensure your retainer remains effective, it’s important to clean it daily. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste to gently clean the entire surface, paying extra attention to any wires. Avoid bending or damaging the retainer, as this can affect its performance.

Your Retention Phase

The retention phase begins the moment your braces are removed, and it’s crucial for maintaining the results of your orthodontic treatment. By wearing your retainer as directed, you can keep your teeth in their new positions for years to come. Retainers can even address other concerns, such as helping with breathing or speech issues.

If you have any questions about retainers or want to explore orthodontic options, don’t hesitate to reach out to The Hills Orthodontics. Our experienced orthodontist in Anaheim Hills can help you keep your smile flawless. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get personalized care tailored to your lifestyle!

At The Hills Orthodontics, we are committed to providing the latest advancements in orthodontic care to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. Invisalign® is one of the most popular solutions for straightening teeth due to its discreet design and personalized treatment process. Whether you’re a teen or an adult, Invisalign® can transform your smile without the hassle of traditional braces. If you’re looking for an orthodontist in Anaheim Hills, here’s why Invisalign® might be the perfect option for you.

A Discreet Way to Straighten Your Teeth

One of the biggest advantages of Invisalign® is its nearly invisible appearance. Made from clear, smooth material, these aligners allow you to straighten your teeth without anyone noticing. This makes Invisalign® a great choice for those who prefer a more subtle orthodontic treatment.

Faster Results

Invisalign® aligners offer quicker results compared to traditional metal braces. The average treatment time is between 12 to 24 months, whereas metal braces can take 2 to 3 years. This means you’ll spend less time in treatment and more time enjoying your beautifully aligned smile.

Freedom with Your Diet

Unlike traditional braces, which come with food restrictions, Invisalign® aligners are removable, allowing you to eat your favorite foods without worry. Since the aligners are taken out during meals, you won’t have to avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could damage braces. Simply remove the aligners, enjoy your meal, and put them back in after brushing.

Easy Oral Hygiene

One of the biggest challenges with braces is maintaining good oral hygiene. With Invisalign®, this is no longer an issue. You can remove your aligners to brush and floss your teeth, ensuring that you keep up with your dental hygiene routine. This reduces the risk of cavities and gum problems during treatment.

Comfortable and Custom-Fit

Invisalign® aligners are custom-made for your teeth, offering a comfortable fit without the irritation that metal braces can sometimes cause. There are no brackets or wires, meaning you won’t have to deal with discomfort from poking wires or abrasions on your cheeks and gums.

Achieve Your Ideal Smile with Invisalign®

Invisalign® offers a convenient, discreet, and effective way to straighten your teeth and improve your smile. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, contact The Hills Orthodontics to schedule a consultation with an experienced orthodontist in Anaheim Hills. We’ll help you determine if Invisalign® is the right solution for your orthodontic needs.

Why Choosing Professional Orthodontic Care at The Hills Orthodontics Matters

Your smile is one of your most valuable assets, influencing not only your confidence but also your overall health. Correcting crooked or misaligned teeth is crucial for achieving optimal oral health and a beautiful smile. However, a recent trend in orthodontic care—promising lower costs and no in-office visits—has left many patients with disappointing results. At The Hills Orthodontics, we believe in the importance of professional, personalized care to ensure the best outcomes for your smile.

The Rise of Remote Orthodontic Care

The trend of remote orthodontic care, primarily through mail-order aligners, has gained popularity in recent years. Companies advertise online, claiming to offer the same high-quality clear aligners that you would receive from an orthodontist, but at a lower cost and without the need for office visits. While this may sound appealing, the reality is often far less promising.

The Risks of Mail-Order Aligners

Problems with remote orthodontic care can arise at various stages of treatment. In a professional setting, such as at The Hills Orthodontics, aligners are crafted based on a comprehensive digital scan of your mouth. This technology ensures that each aligner is custom-made to fit your teeth precisely, guiding them into the correct position over time.

With mail-order aligners, the process begins with a mold that you take at home, without the oversight of a trained professional. These molds are generally less accurate than digital scans, leading to aligners that may not fit correctly. This improper fit can compromise the effectiveness of your treatment, leading to unsatisfactory results.

The Importance of In-Person Monitoring

At The Hills Orthodontics, we provide a series of in-person visits throughout your treatment. During these appointments, our team monitors your progress, addresses any concerns, and ensures that your treatment is on track. This personalized care is essential for catching any potential issues early, allowing us to adjust your treatment plan as needed for optimal results.

In contrast, remote orthodontic treatment lacks this level of oversight. Your care is managed by a doctor you never meet in person, and communication is often limited to email. This places the responsibility on you to recognize when something is wrong, which can be challenging without professional guidance. By the time you notice an issue, it may require complex and costly treatment to correct.

Invest in Your Smile with Confidence

When it comes to straightening your teeth, don’t be swayed by promises of cheap, convenient alternatives. Your smile deserves the best care possible, and that means working with a skilled orthodontist who can provide the personalized treatment you need. At The Hills Orthodontics, we are committed to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile through professional, in-office care.

Schedule a consultation with The Hills Orthodontics today and take the first step toward a smile you can be proud of. Trust us to guide you through your orthodontic journey with expertise, care, and a commitment to your long-term oral health.

It seems like there is a new headline nearly every week featuring someone who swears their teeth are whiter and brighter due to their natural home remedy for stain removal. These articles showcase the idea that whitening can be cheap and easy, if in some cases unpleasant. It can be tempting to consider trying for brighter, whiter teeth without investing time and money on in-office or at-home whitening under a dentist’s care. However, before you pin your hopes on one of these “natural whitening” methods, take a look at the truth behind some of the recent fads.

Fad 1: Oil Pulling

Oil pulling has been cropping up in headlines for months with claims of a wide variety of potential health benefits. It is a very old folk remedy in which a person swishes a tablespoon of edible oil, such as coconut, sunflower, olive, etc., in their mouth and between teeth for up to 20 minutes daily.

Despite the number of years this practice has existed and the number of health issues it purports to treat, there is no evidence that oil pulling whitens teeth or improves health.

Fad 2: Fruits

Due to celebrity endorsement, some people have begun to try rubbing mashed strawberries on their teeth to try to achieve a whiter smile. Others are using lemon or orange peels, and still others tout the virtues of eating pineapple or swishing apple cider vinegar.

However, there is no science to support any of these claims. In fact, one recent study found that brushing with a mixture of baking soda (which is known to have whitening effects on teeth) and strawberries did not whiten teeth. Even worse, the citric acids found in all of these fruits and vinegars can actually be harmful to the enamel on your teeth.

Fad 3: Hydrogen Peroxide

While it is true that many forms of in-office and over-the-counter teeth whitening make use of hydrogen peroxide, there is more to consider before opening a bottle. The hydrogen peroxide used in professional teeth whitening, whether in-office or at-home, is mixed with other substances and provided in a form designed for use in teeth whitening.

Simply swishing from a bottle of hydrogen peroxide will have little or no effect on the whiteness of your teeth, but may cause irritation to your gums and mouth and can be dangerous if accidentally ingested.

If you want whiter, brighter teeth, there are safe and effective ways to achieve your goal. Talk with our doctor for a recommendation for what kind of whitening will be best for your needs. For more information about whitening, contact our office.

Resources:

http://www.webmd.com/

Your smile is one of the first things that people notice about you. One way to make a lasting impression is to have a healthy-looking smile. Over the years, teeth whitening has become immensely popular. People turn to in-office whitening, over-the-counter whitening, and home-made whitening techniques. Did you know that there are ways to keep your smile white with just small changes to your daily routine? Read the tips below to keep your smile looking pearly white. 

1. Brush and Floss  

To keep your mouth clean, healthy, and stain-free, brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day. Brush your teeth after drinking coffee, tea, soda, or red wine to help fight discoloration.  

2. Diet 

Some of the food and drinks you are consuming may cause your teeth to look dull or stained. Wine, coffee, tea, soft drinks, and berries all contain substances that stain teeth. Chromogens are molecules found in all of these items that stick to the enamel of your teeth causing a dull look. 

3. Quit Smoking 

Smoking is not only bad for your heart and lungs, it is also bad for your mouth and teeth. Smoking causes tooth discoloration, increased plaque buildup, gum disease and more. 

4. Visit Your Dentist 

Dental cleanings and exams are an important part in keeping your teeth healthy and bright. You may need frequently follow up visits based on your oral health care. Don’t forget to schedule an appointment twice a year. 

Even if you do use in-office whitening or over-the-counter products, your teeth need extra care to keep up with the initial results. By flossing, lifestyle changes, and regular dental visits your teeth will be looking bright. 

Call our office to schedule your dental cleaning today. 

A Journey Through the History of Orthodontics: Insights from Dr. Brian Luong

Did you know that the quest for a perfect smile dates back thousands of years? Dentistry, including orthodontics, has ancient roots, with early practices emerging as far back as 400-300 BC. Even then, pioneers like Hippocrates and Aristotle were contemplating ways to straighten teeth and address dental issues. Archaeological discoveries have revealed mummies with what appear to be metal bands wrapped around their teeth—an ancient precursor to the orthodontic braces we know today.

Ancient Orthodontics: A Glimpse into the Past

One fascinating example of early orthodontic innovation involved the use of “catgut,” a cord made from natural fibers found in animal intestines. This material was used in a manner similar to the wires in modern braces, helping to close gaps between teeth. This primitive yet ingenious solution laid the groundwork for future advancements in orthodontic care.

The Etruscans, a powerful ancient civilization in Italy, took a unique approach to orthodontics. They believed in maintaining dental health even in the afterlife, burying their dead with dental appliances to preserve the space between teeth and prevent collapse. Archaeologists have also discovered a Roman tomb containing teeth bound by a gold wire, known as a “ligature wire,” which served a similar purpose to today’s arch wires in braces.

Even Cleopatra, the last pharaoh of Egypt, is believed to have worn gold brackets to enhance her smile. These early examples of orthodontics show that the desire for straight teeth is as old as civilization itself.

The Evolution of Orthodontic Techniques

The earliest documented method of attempting to straighten teeth involved simple finger pressure. However, it wasn’t until the 17th century that significant advancements in dentistry and orthodontics began to take shape. As dental practices evolved, so did our understanding of how to effectively straighten teeth and improve oral health.

Modern Orthodontics at The Hills Orthodontics

Today, thanks to centuries of innovation, we enjoy the benefits of advanced orthodontic care. At The Hills Orthodontics, Dr. Brian Luong and our team are committed to providing you with the latest treatments to achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. Our modern techniques and personalized care ensure that you receive the best possible results.

If you’re ready to explore your orthodontic options, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let Dr. Brian Luong guide you on your journey to a stunning smile, built on the foundation of ancient wisdom and modern science.