Author: Rosie Townsend

Herniated Disc – What You Need to Know

In the cervical (neck) and lumbar spine (low back), the vast majority of herniated discs improve with time. This improvement is typically due to over-the-counter pain medications, ice and heat, activity modification, and physical therapy.

The best test for a herniated disc is an MRI scan. X-rays and a myelogram are also sometimes used, but these tests are less commonly ordered. Contact Herniated Disc now!

A herniated disc may cause pain, numbness and weakness in your arms, hands, legs or feet. It can also affect your bladder and bowel. A herniated disk can occur in the lower back (lumbar area), neck (cervical area) or upper-to-mid spine (thoracic area). The most common symptoms of a slipped disc are leg pain, arm pain and back pain. In most cases, herniated discs are not a serious medical condition, but they do require treatment.

Disk herniation usually occurs because of a gradual, age-related wear and tear process in the spinal disks called disk degeneration. This causes the disks to become less flexible, and it is more likely that one of the outer disk edges will slip out of place. Herniation can also be caused by a traumatic event, such as a fall or blow to the back that causes a twist or strain.

When a herniated disk occurs, the jelly-like center of the disk pushes against the outer disk rings and causes pain in the area where the spinal nerves pass through. The herniated disk material may also cause a chemical irritation of the spinal nerves, which can produce symptoms such as tingling or numbness.

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and do a physical examination. Your doctor will want to know if your pain goes away when you sit on an exam table and lift your leg straight up, which can help determine where the problem is in the lower back. The doctor may prescribe a pain reliever, muscle relaxant or cortisone injections to reduce the pain and swelling from a herniated disk.

If your herniated disc is in the area of the spine where the nerves that control the bowels and bladder travel, you could have a more serious complication known as cauda equina syndrome. This happens when a large fragment of the ruptured disk herniates into the spinal canal where the nerves that control the bowels go before they leave the spine. This can lead to loss of control over the bowels and bladder, which is a medical emergency.

The backbone, or spine, is made of 26 bones called vertebrae. In between each bone are soft disks that cushion the vertebrae and keep them in place. If a disc ruptures or bulges, it can cause pain and numbness. Your doctor will diagnose a herniated disk with a physical exam and, often, imaging tests. He or she will ask questions about when you first noticed symptoms, what makes them better or worse and where the pain is felt. The location of your pain helps your doctor figure out which nerves are affected by the herniated disc.

Usually, a herniated disk causes pain only in the areas that are served by the involved spinal nerves. Symptoms from herniated discs in the lower back (lumbar spine) are most common, but can occur anywhere in the back or neck (cervical spine). Pain from herniated disks in the upper-to-mid spine is rarer.

A single excessive strain or injury can cause herniated discs, but they also may develop slowly as the outer layer of the disk degenerates over time, allowing the jelly-like center to leak out. Smoking increases your risk of a herniated disk by speeding up the degeneration of the outer disc layers and the nucleus pulposus.

MRI, which uses radio waves and magnetic fields to create detailed images of the spine, can locate the herniated disc and determine its shape and size. It can also show whether the spinal nerves are being compressed by the herniated disk. Your doctor might also use an electromyogram to record the tiny electrical impulses that muscle cells make when they are stimulated. Your doctor can then see whether any nerves are being affected by the herniated disc and its pressure on them.

Herniated discs can lead to a condition called cauda equina syndrome, which occurs when a large fragment of the herniated disk ruptures into the area where the nerves that control your bladder and bowels travel before they leave the spine. This can be very serious and requires surgery to relieve the pressure on the nerves. Even after surgery, there is a 10-15 percent chance that the same disc will herniate again.

A herniated disc can cause pain, but nonsurgical treatment can help. The first step is to reduce activity, if possible, until pain starts to ease. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask questions about your pain, weakness and other symptoms. They will check for the location of your pain and how it changes when you move, lift or twist your back. Your doctor may also want to know whether you have trouble with urinating or having bowel movements because this could indicate that the herniated disk is pushing on nerves that control those functions.

Your doctor may order an imaging test to help diagnose a herniated disc. Regular X-rays don’t detect herniated disks, but they can show other causes of back pain such as spinal alignment problems, a tumor, a broken bone or infection. A computed tomography (CT) scan uses a series of X-rays taken from different angles and combines them to create cross-sectional images of your spinal column and the structures around it. This test can find indentations in the spine caused by herniated discs and may reveal bone spurs that might be pressing on your spinal cord or nerves.

An magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is the preferred diagnostic tool for herniated discs. It uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field to create detailed images of the tissues inside your body, including the spinal cord and nerves. MRI can detect indentations in the spinal cord and other tissues that might be causing pain. An interventional radiologist, an expert in pain management procedures, usually performs this test.

Your health care professional might suggest you take pain medicines to control your herniated disk pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most common and are effective in most cases. If these don’t relieve your pain, your doctor might prescribe short-term use of opioid medicines such as oxycodone or an acetaminophen-opioid combination (Percocet). These medicines can make you sleepy and can have serious side effects, including addiction.

If your pain doesn’t respond to nonsurgical treatments, your doctor might consider steroid injections into the area of the herniated disc. NYU Langone pain specialists and radiologists use X-ray guidance to inject the medication into the epidural space, which is the fluid-filled area that surrounds your spinal cord. The injected medicine will reduce swelling around the spinal nerve and might relieve your pain for weeks or months.

There are a number of factors that can affect how quickly you heal from herniated disc. Some of these factors include the severity of your injury, your age, and your overall health. A more severe herniated disc will generally take longer to heal than a less severe one. Your recovery may also depend on your body’s natural ability to heal. Younger people tend to recover from injuries more quickly than older individuals.

Herniated discs can be treated with rest, pain medications and spinal injections. With these treatments, most people feel better within six weeks and are able to return to their normal activities. However, if your symptoms do not improve with these treatments, surgery may be necessary.

If you are diagnosed with a herniated disc, your doctor will conduct a physical exam to determine the source of the pain and test for muscle weakness or numbness. Your doctor will also review your medical history to understand your symptoms and find out what activities seem to trigger your pain.

In most cases, your doctor will recommend that you rest for a few days and then gradually begin your regular activities again. You will be advised to avoid lifting anything over a few pounds, twisting your back at exaggerated angles or partaking in any other activity that could trigger your pain. Your doctor may also advise you to get regular spinal injections that contain a steroid medication. These shots reduce the inflammation in the area of the herniated disc and can control your pain for months at a time.

After you have recovered from your herniated disc, your doctor will recommend that you engage in core exercises to strengthen the muscles that support your spine. This will help to reduce the risk of further herniations in the future. However, if your doctor has recommended that you do core exercises, be sure to only engage in exercises that do not place pressure on the spine. Exercises that involve Russian twists, bending at the waist or bicycle crunches are not a good idea as they can put too much strain on the spine. Instead, do isometric core exercises that are not abrasive on the spine.

Carlsbad Massage – A Variety of Techniques to Help You Feel Your Best!

Carlsbad Massage offers various massage techniques to help you feel your best. From relaxation to pain relief, there’s a style for everyone!

Swedish massage is a classic technique that promotes relaxation and reduces muscle tension. It incorporates long gliding strokes, kneading, friction, and tapping. It’s great for beginners and those with chronic tension.

A Swedish massage is a relaxation massage that relieves muscle tension and stiffness. It also increases oxygen flow in the blood and flushes toxins from the muscles. It uses techniques such as kneading, stroking, friction, tapping, and vibration to help the body release stress. It can also improve circulation, balance the musculoskeletal system, and increase flexibility.

Carlsbad is known for its incredible year-round weather and picturesque beaches. It is a top destination for surfers, sun worshippers, and nature enthusiasts. While there are many things to do in the city, one thing should always be noticed: a great massage.

Whether visiting the famous Carlsbad Premium Outlets or enjoying a day of window shopping in downtown Carlsbad, be sure to stop by Happy Head Massage for a great massage. The staff at Happy Head Massage can help you unwind after a long day of shopping and relaxing with one of their premier massages. They can also provide various spa services to pamper you from head to toe.

The coastal city of Carlsbad, known as the Village by the Sea, is a hot spot for surfing and outdoor activities. But after a long day of shopping at the nearby Carlsbad Premium Outlets, browsing the boutique small businesses, or dining out at charming cafes and restaurants, nothing beats a relaxing massage from Happy Head Massage!

Thai massage is based on the curative theory of internal energy channels, referred to as SEN, which supplies the body with life energy. By bending, stretching, and extruding these energy points, this massage is designed to harmonize the mind and body, leading to self-healing.

Our therapists use their hands, knees, feet, and elbows to release tension. During a session, the client wears loose clothing and remains covered by a sheet. A session may include a hot stone massage, where polished stones are placed directly on the muscles. This method increases blood flow, releasing toxins and relaxing the muscles. It may also include cupping, in which special cups are placed on or moved on the skin to create suction.

Reflexology is an ancient form of massage that involves pressing specific points on the feet. These points are believed to correspond to the entire body, and pressing them can heal problems in other parts of your body. The benefits of reflexology include reduced stress, increased energy, and better sleep. It also reduces pain and inflammation in the body.

Reflexologists use their fingers to squeeze specific pressure points on the feet, hands, and ears. They believe the life force or qi can block these areas. Sometimes, a reflexology session can be combined with a massage to improve results.

Before choosing a reflexology session, it is important to find a qualified practitioner. Look for one who is licensed and insured. You should also check whether your state has a database where you can confirm their licensing information.

Carlsbad is a beautiful coastal city that offers an array of outdoor activities. Whether surfing, boating, or hiking, taking care of your body with regular massages is important. Luckily, Happy Head Massage has several locations in San Diego County to help you unwind after your adventures.

A hot stone massage is a relaxing and soothing therapeutic experience. This treatment uses warm and smooth basalt stones to soothe the tense muscles and damaged soft tissues. The heat from the stones helps to loosen the muscles and improve circulation. This allows the therapist to apply deep tissue techniques with ease.

During the session, your therapist will place the smooth, heated stones on various body parts to relieve tension and stimulate blood flow. The heat from the rocks also promotes relaxation and reduces stress and anxiety. It’s a great treatment for those who have trouble relaxing.

Relax and recharge with this 60-minute hot stone massage. This gift card is the perfect treat for yourself or someone else. Located in Carlsbad Village, Jessica Buuck offers various massage services to address clients’ needs and goals with lasting results. With over 20 years of therapeutic massage experience, she utilizes different modalities to create customized treatments that target and alleviate chronic pain and tension throughout the body.

Originally developed to help athletes perform at their best during competition, sports massage can benefit anyone who exercises regularly. It reduces muscle soreness and stiffness, increases range of motion, and boosts overall health and well-being. It also helps prevent and heal injuries caused by intense physical activity. Whether a casual athlete or an Olympic contender, a regular sports massage can enhance your training and help you avoid injury.

Myofascial release therapy is a therapeutic approach to soft tissue manipulation that targets the fasciae, the connective tissues throughout the body. The massage therapist uses various techniques to release tension and tightness, resulting in increased flexibility and pain relief.

Carlsbad’s beautiful beaches, delicious restaurants, and great shopping attract people from all over the world. But even the most active person can feel beat after a long day of sightseeing, shopping, and hiking. Luckily, Happy Head Massage is here to provide the relaxation you deserve. Our therapists are expertly trained in various massage modalities to meet your needs.

Prenatal massage is therapeutic bodywork that addresses the special needs of a woman’s body during this dramatic time of life. It enhances the function of muscles and joints, improves circulation, and relieves mental and physical fatigue. It is especially helpful in decreasing the pain of swollen feet, legs, back, and neck and reducing stress on weight-bearing joints.

This specialized form of massage can also help in the prevention of common problems associated with pregnancy, such as back pain, stiff neck and shoulders, leg cramps, headaches, and swelling. It also helps reduce overall stress and improve sleep and mood. Ideally, the massage should be done after the first trimester of pregnancy.

This Carlsbad massage location offers a variety of pregnancy and foot reflexology services. They offer a 60- or 90-minute session customized to your specific needs. Their therapists are experts in Myofascial Release Therapy, a specialized form of massage that targets the fascia, a connective tissue that covers the muscle and organs. This technique is very safe for expectant mothers and their babies.

Lymphatic drainage massage is a gentle form of bodywork that can reduce painful swelling caused by lymphedema. It involves massage to move lymph fluid from your tissues back toward your heart. Lymphedema can occur when your lymphatic system is damaged or if you have too much fat in your tissues.

Your therapist can use manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) to improve lymph flow, clear inflammation, and redirect lymph fluid away from compromised or blocked areas. It can help oncology clients, people recovering from surgery or trauma, and those dealing with chronic venous disease. It can also be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and migraine and sinus headaches.

Bio Lymphatic Drainage is a painless, accelerated form of manual lymphatic drainage that moves the lymph 50x faster than traditional Manual Lymphatic Massage. It breaks up congestion, rebalances cells, and enhances your immune system. It can help with bruising, swelling, and inflammation. Sessions are customizable and individualized for each client. Yvonne also offers the Graston Technique, which is an evidence-based soft tissue mobilization therapy that helps identify and treat areas of fascial restriction.

What Is Botox?

Sd Botox is a popular cosmetic treatment for smoothing out facial wrinkles and fine lines. It is made from a toxin from the bacteria Clostridium botulinum and works by blocking nerve signals that cause muscle contraction.

It’s a non-invasive procedure that consists of tiny injections that freeze targeted muscles. The results typically last for three to four months.

Botox is an FDA-approved and extremely safe cosmetic treatment used for generations. It works by blocking the nerve signals that cause muscles to contract and wrinkle the skin. The injections are quick, painless, and relatively risk-free. However, working only with licensed and experienced healthcare professionals is important to avoid complications.

The injections are made of a purified form of botulinum toxin. This is the same toxin that, in large amounts, causes botulism – a life-threatening type of food poisoning that weakens or paralyzes muscles. The toxin in botox is injected into specific muscle areas, interrupting the muscle’s ability to contract and produce a wrinkle.

One of the most common problems people experience as they get older is the formation of dynamic wrinkles around their eyes and forehead. The movement of muscles causes dynamic wrinkles, which can be very hard to eliminate with other cosmetic treatments. However, by using a neurotoxin like Botox to stop muscle movement, you can smooth out these wrinkles and look younger.

Before the procedure, your healthcare professional will cleanse your face and mark the area that will be injected. They will also apply a topical anesthetic to prevent any discomfort. Once they’re ready, they’ll inject the neurotoxin with a small needle. The needles are very thin, and most patients do not describe the injections as painful.

Once the Botox is injected, it will take effect almost immediately. Some people may see a bump under the skin where the injection was done, but this should disappear within an hour. The injections can also cause bruising in some cases, but this is rare and usually only happens when the needle is inserted by someone who is not an experienced healthcare professional.

Several types of botulinum toxin are available, but type A is the most commonly used for cosmetic purposes. This is a purified form of the toxin that was first developed as a medicine in the 1970s for eye conditions. The FDA has since approved it to treat various medical conditions, including limb spasticity and excessive salivation. It is also known to help reduce the symptoms of overactive bladder.

Botox is an FDA-approved treatment for wrinkles and fine lines. It works by blocking the nerves that cause muscle movements that lead to lines and creases. This weakens the muscles and stops them from contracting, resulting in smoother skin. It can also be used as a preventive measure, helping you avoid wrinkles in the future. This injectable drug is made from a purified protein, botulinum toxin. It can be injected into small face areas, making it less invasive than other facial cosmetic treatments.

The procedure is quick and painless; most people can return to work and other activities immediately. A topical numbing cream is applied to the affected area before administering injections. You should also avoid getting your face flushed before a Botox treatment, as this may wash out some of the effects before they have time to settle. You should also avoid drinking alcohol before a treatment.

Choosing a reputable clinic with experienced staff and doctors is also important. A good doctor will be able to understand your medical history and goals, and they will know how much to inject to achieve the best results. Choosing a clinic that uses clean equipment and a hygienic environment is also important.

The most common use of Botox is for dynamic wrinkles such as crow’s feet and forehead creases. It can also treat headaches, neck pain, and excessive sweating. There are other neuromodulators, however, that may be better suited for specific medical conditions.

You should be aware that Botox is not safe for pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers. It is also not recommended for people who have certain neurological disorders. Discussing your health history with a dermatologist before having the treatment is important.

It is also important to understand that the results of a Botox treatment can wear off in about a month. You should schedule regular appointments if you want to keep your results longer. During these sessions, the practitioner will adjust the amount of Botox injected to get the most effective results.

If you’re looking to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, botox injections can help. It’s an affordable option that can make you look younger and boost your self-confidence, a priceless benefit. However, finding a trusted practitioner with the right experience is important to avoid unwanted side effects. The cost of Botox varies by doctor and facility, but the average healthcare provider fee was $466 per treatment in 2020. It is often offered as part of a package, and the number of units you receive determines how much you will pay.

Before you get a Botox treatment, be sure to discuss the fees with your provider. Many providers charge a base fee that includes the time and supplies (gloves, needles, anesthetics, etc.) In addition, they may have a unit-based fee or a flat fee for each treatment area. It would be best to ask how much the injector charges for each Botox injection and whether they offer discounts on repeat treatments or touch-ups.

While Botox costs are expensive, it is still affordable compared to other cosmetic procedures. In addition, it is a safe and effective option for medical conditions such as neck spasms, excessive sweating, or eye twitching. It is also available in lower doses to treat smaller areas of the face.

Although it’s known for its anti-aging benefits, Botox was originally developed as a medical treatment for a range of conditions, including migraines and muscle spasms. As a result, it has been approved by the FDA for many situations, including cervical dystonia, chronic migraines, laxity of the jawline, hyperhidrosis, and lazy eyes.

Botox is an extremely safe procedure, and you should always seek a qualified practitioner. They should be a licensed medical practitioner and on a register that shows they meet set training, skill, and insurance standards. The most expensive injectors will likely have the best talents, but you can save money by choosing a less experienced one.

Choosing an injector who follows the FDA’s rules regarding the product’s sale and uses a reputable brand is important. Black market providers may offer counterfeit, diluted, or unapproved Botox.

Botox is a safe and effective way to reduce wrinkles and soften facial lines. It is an injectable that blocks the nerve signals to the muscles. It is used in several areas, including forehead lines, crow’s feet, and frown lines. It also helps with glabellar lines (the lines between the eyebrows) and can be used with other cosmetic procedures such as microdermabrasion or dermal fillers.

The procedure is quick and relatively painless. The needle is very small, and your provider may use numbing agents to minimize discomfort. Some people may experience bruising after the injections, but it usually goes away in 24 hours. It is important to avoid rubbing the area, as it can cause the botulinum toxin to migrate to other regions.

You can get a botox treatment at your doctor’s office or a medical spa. However, it is important to choose a qualified practitioner. Look for a licensed practitioner in your state, and ask them about their training and experience. They should be on a register to show that they meet set training, skill, and insurance standards.

During the procedure, your provider will inject the botulinum toxin into the targeted area with a very fine needle. The process is quick and usually takes less than five minutes. Your provider will also numb the area with ice or other methods before the injections.

The effects of botox last from 3 to 6 months. After that, the muscle action returns, and the lines and wrinkles reappear. This is why talking with your provider about how long you want the results to last is important.

Botox is a great option for adults of all ages. It’s especially beneficial for young adults starting to see signs of aging. It can help prevent these wrinkles from getting worse in the future. However, it is not recommended for pregnant women or those who have a history of neuromuscular disease. It is also not a good idea to have the injections if you are taking blood thinners or if you’re breastfeeding.

How Braces Can Improve Your Life

While the main purpose of braces is to straighten teeth for a better appearance, they have numerous long-term medical benefits. For example, crooked teeth can cause digestive complications, and bite issues can stress the jaw and joints. If you want to know more about braces, you can visit Braces Las Vegas to proceed.

Properly aligned teeth can make it easier to brush and floss, reducing the risk of gum disease. Other oral health benefits of braces include:

  1. Straight Teeth

Whether you were born with crooked teeth or your crowded, protruding teeth were caused by genetics, thumb sucking, tooth loss, or injuries, the fact is that you probably don’t have a perfect smile. Having straight teeth has many benefits that can improve your daily life and help you maintain a healthy mouth and jaw.

Crooked teeth can be difficult to keep clean, making them more prone to cavities and gum disease. They can also make it difficult to chew your food, leading to digestive issues. Straightening your smile can reduce these problems and allow you to enjoy your favorite foods again.

The main purpose of orthodontic treatment is to correct a bad bite (also known as malocclusion). Malocclusion can be caused by crooked or crowded teeth, teeth that do not grow correctly, and even jaws that do not meet properly.

Braces use constant pressure to straighten the teeth and jaws. They consist of small metal brackets glued to the teeth and an archwire, which helps guide the teeth into their proper position. Today’s brackets and archwires are smaller, less noticeable, and more comfortable than ever. Your orthodontist will recommend the best braces based on your unique needs.

Many people with crooked teeth are self-conscious about their smiles, which can affect their feelings. This can cause a lack of confidence in social situations and may keep you from enjoying your life to its fullest. Straightening your smile can give you a more confident appearance that can boost your self-esteem and open up many new opportunities in your life.

  1. Better Oral Hygiene

Oral hygiene isn’t just about your teeth – it’s an important aspect of overall health. Studies have shown that poor oral hygiene is linked to conditions such as heart disease and stroke.

Braces help improve the alignment of your bite, creating better oral health and a healthier smile for life. They can fix problems like crooked teeth, crowded teeth, and gaps in your teeth. They can also correct issues with your jaw misalignment, which is called malocclusion (say: mal-uh-KLOO-shun).

Traditional metal braces use small brackets holding a wire containing an archwire. This archwire puts pressure on the teeth and slowly shifts them into place over time. On the corners of each bracket are tie wings, where elastic bands or ligatures attach to help with this process. These ligatures can be clear or tooth-colored, allowing you to customize your braces to suit your lifestyle.

Other types of orthodontic appliances, such as removable aligners and clear or ceramic retainers, can be used to treat more minor concerns. Ask your orthodontist in Carmel for more information about these options.

If you wear braces, avoiding foods that may damage or stain them is important. Sticky foods like caramels and gummy candy should be avoided because they can pull on the wire or cause it to break. Hard or crunchy foods should also be avoided, as these can damage the brackets or irritate your gums. In addition, a diet high in sugar can cause plaque build-up that leads to tooth decay, so it’s best to limit these foods while you have braces. Additionally, using a Waterpik or other flossing device to remove food between teeth and under the brackets can help prevent this build-up.

  1. Reduced Risk of Tooth Decay

By the time many adults reach adulthood, they have grown accustomed to crooked teeth and other dental issues. But a straight smile is not only more attractive, but it can make a big difference in your daily life as well.

Among other things, it makes it less likely to get food stuck between your teeth or gums. It also reduces the likelihood of receding gums, which can lead to infections and tooth loss.

Teeth misalignment puts extra pressure on certain teeth during chewing and biting, which can damage the jaw bone over time. In addition, overly crowded teeth can harbor bacteria and food particles in areas that toothbrush bristles cannot easily reach. Correcting these problems with braces can prevent serious dental health problems in the future.

A properly aligned bite can also help you speak more clearly. It can ease a lisp or other speech irregularities, more common in adults than children.

It can also help you reduce your risk of injuries from playing sports or falling. If your teeth stick out too far, it is more likely that you will chip or break a tooth in an accident. If your teeth are more evenly aligned, they are less likely to protrude and are more difficult to knock loose or chip.

Although keeping your teeth clean while wearing braces takes a little more effort, the benefits are well worth it in the long run. If you are ready to enjoy a straighter smile and improved oral health, contact us for a consultation today!

  1. Increased Self-Esteem

Having a beautiful smile can improve self-esteem and confidence. People with crooked teeth or bite issues may be self-conscious about smiling and speaking in public. These concerns can lead them to cover their mouth when they laugh or avoid talking altogether in social situations. Straightening their teeth and correcting their bite with braces can alleviate these concerns, making them feel more comfortable in their appearance and public.

The process of getting braces can be difficult, especially for young teens. They might be worried about how their peers will react to their new look, which can make them uncomfortable and prone to bullying or ridicule. The discomfort and the need for regular adjustments can also drain their self-esteem. However, those who persevere through the treatment will increase their confidence and self-esteem as they see their dazzling smile.

When teeth are crooked, cleaning them properly can be difficult. This can lead to gum disease and cavities. It can also cause problems with the chewing process, which can impact oral health and cause jaw pain. People with crooked teeth also often struggle with low self-esteem, as they feel others are judging them negatively due to their smiles. This can lead them to avoid public activities, hide their face when laughing or smiling, or eat a poor diet that harms oral and physical health.

Braces can help correct these issues and improve their smile, boosting self-esteem and confidence. Patients comfortable with their appearance may be more likely to take risks and go after their goals. This newfound confidence can positively impact their lives, whether in their career or their relationships.

  1. Reduced Stress

Getting braces as an adult may seem superficial, but it can improve your life in countless ways. Straight teeth can give you a more attractive smile, which in turn helps boost your confidence and self-esteem. In addition, it can make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene habits and reduce the risk of certain diseases. Finally, it can help you masticate food more efficiently, improving digestion and decreasing stomach issues.

Teeth crooked, overcrowded, or gaps and spaces between them can be more difficult to brush and floss properly. Over time, this can lead to bacterial build-up that causes bad breath. By correcting these problems with orthodontics, you can avoid a host of health issues down the road.

Traditional braces use small metal brackets affixed to each tooth’s front. An archwire holds these tightened each time you visit the orthodontist for adjustments. The wire applies pressure to the teeth, gradually shifting them into the proper position. Today’s braces are made from more comfortable materials and use fewer metal parts. Some have a special nickel-titanium wire that can shape itself around the bone and ligaments. This can apply more pressure in one area than another, helping to speed up treatment and make it more comfortable.

Regardless of the type of braces you have, it’s important to be patient and follow your orthodontist’s instructions for care. If you have discomfort, try taking a pain reliever or eating soft, cool foods to ease the pain. You can also use a piece of soft wax to cover the part of the wire or bracket irritating you.

Navigation