tysons_ortho

Why Adults Should Consider Orthodontics

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 05:02:53 GMT

A Confident Smile is Ageless – Straighten Your Teeth, Elevate Your Life!

It’s Never Too Late for a Straighter Smile

When people think of orthodontics, they often picture teenagers with metal braces. However, more adults than ever are choosing orthodontic treatment to enhance their smiles and improve their oral health. Whether you missed out on braces as a child or your teeth have shifted over time, modern orthodontics offers discreet and effective solutions tailored for adults.

It is never too late to see an orthodontist to align your teeth, to correct your bite, and to have a beautiful smile. Although more and more adults are seeking orthodontic treatment, there is still a persisting myth that orthodontics is only for children and adolescents.

The Benefits of Adult Orthodontics

Boosted Confidence and Self-Esteem: Your smile is one of the first things people notice. Straight, well-aligned teeth can make a lasting impression in both personal and professional settings. Whether you're giving a presentation, attending a social event, or taking photos, feeling confident about your smile can enhance your self-esteem.
Better Oral and General Health: Misaligned teeth are more than just a cosmetic issue—they can lead to serious dental health problems. Crowded or crooked teeth make it harder to clean properly, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. A straighter smile allows for better oral hygiene and can help prevent future dental complications. Adult orthodontics can also positively impact life longevity by allowing individuals to maintain their natural teeth for a longer period of time as life expectancy increases, making it a valuable investment in overall well-being throughout one's life.
Reduced Jaw Pain and Headaches: Misaligned teeth can contribute to issues like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, teeth grinding (bruxism), and chronic headaches. Orthodontic treatment can help correct your bite, reducing strain on your jaw and preventing long-term discomfort.
Preventing Future Dental Costs: Investing in orthodontics now can save you from costly dental procedures later. Teeth that are properly aligned experience less wear and tear, reducing the likelihood of cracked teeth, excessive enamel erosion, and gum recession.

Discreet and Convenient Treatment Options for Adults

Different methods are used by an orthodontist to move your teeth to their ideal positions. The choice of appliances can only be determined after a thorough examination associated with photographs, and special X-rays. A detailed diagnosis will pinpoint what are the problems that need to be corrected. Only then, the orthodontist who is the best trained for this, will create a detailed treatment plan and will choose a customized appliance that will take in consideration the preference of the patient but more importantly he or she will choose the most appropriate treatment modality to get the best optimal result.

Advancements in orthodontics have made treatment more accessible and aesthetically appealing. Adults can choose from options like:

Clear Aligners (e.g., Invisalign, Angel Aligners, and Spark) – Nearly invisible and removable, making them a popular choice for professionals. These are perfect for those for those concerned about the appearance of their orthodontic treatment, there have been many advances in the field that have made treatment more comfortable and less noticeable than ever before.
Ceramic Braces – Tooth-colored brackets blend in with your teeth for a more subtle appearance.
Lingual Braces – Placed behind the teeth, making them completely hidden from view.

Overcoming the Common Concerns

Many adults hesitate to get orthodontic treatment because they worry about the time commitment, appearance, or discomfort. However, today’s options are designed with comfort and convenience in mind. Most treatments last between 12 to 24 months, and clear aligners allow for minimal disruptions to your daily routine.

It’s Time to Invest in Your Smile

Your smile is a lifelong asset, and orthodontic treatment is one of the best investments you can make in yourself. With modern solutions available, there's no reason to let misaligned teeth hold you back. If you’ve ever considered straightening your teeth, now is the perfect time to explore your options and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.

Ready to transform your smile? All adults, including you, deserve the self-confidence obtained after achieving a healthy and functional beautiful smile. Call Tysons West Orthodontics at 703-821-2222 to schedule a complimentary full orthodontic consult with Dr Alhussain. Dr Al, who is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, is an orthodontic expert who possesses great skills and extensive experience to give you the smile you always wanted.

Protect Your Child's Smile During Sports: The Importance of Mouth Guards & Emergency Dental Care

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 18:05:51 GMT

Dear Parents,

As we approach another exciting sports season, it's important to keep your child’s health and safety top of mind—especially when it comes to protecting their teeth. Dental injuries are common in contact sports, but the good news is that many can be prevented with a simple, effective tool: a mouth guard.

Why Are Mouth Guards Essential?

Mouth guards help cushion the teeth and jaw, protecting them from impacts that can lead to broken, chipped, or even knocked-out teeth. They also help prevent soft tissue injuries like lip and cheek lacerations. We recommend that all young athletes wear a properly fitted mouth guard during practices and games to reduce the risk of dental trauma.

What to Do if a Tooth is Knocked Out

If a permanent tooth is knocked out:

Find the tooth immediately.

Gently rinse it with water (do not scrub). Hold the tooth by the crown, not the root!

If possible, try to place the tooth back in the socket. If not, keep it in a container of (this is in the order of best solution to less desirable): milk Hanks Balanced Salt solution, saline solution, contact solution, or saliva to preserve it.

Seek emergency dental care right away . Call the office immediately!

The key to saving a tooth that has been knocked out of the socket is to have it re-implanted ASAP!

If a primary (baby) tooth is knocked out, do not attempt to reinsert it. Instead, bring your child to the dentist to check for any potential damage to the underlying permanent teeth

Handling a Tooth Fragment After a Fracture

If your child’s tooth is fractured during a game and you find a fragment, please save it! Place the fragment in milk, Hanks Balanced Salt solution, saline solution, contact solution, or saliva, and take your child to the dentist as soon as possible. While it may not always be possible to reattach the fragment, preserving it can help the dentist assess the best course of treatment. Please call the office right away to have the fractured tooth addressed.

Your child’s smile is precious, and with proper care and protection, we can help keep it safe throughout their sports adventures.

Stay safe and have a great season!

Warm regards,

Jacqueline Liu DMD, MPH

Associate Pediatric Dentist

Tysons West Orthodontics & Children’s Dentistry

Early Orthodontic Treatment

Fri, 31 May 2024 19:18:08 GMT

Most orthodontists have encountered anxious parents who are concerned about putting their young children through extensive orthodontic treatment. "Isn't eight years old too soon to

wear braces? Will it affect my child's development?" Early treatment can seem unnecessary when a child's permanent teeth have not grown in, but orthodontists may utilize this option in order to correct dental problems before they become more serious.

Although healthy teeth can be straightened at any age, every case is different and your orthodontist will choose the best timing and the most efficient treatment plan that fits your needs.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends parents to take their children for an orthodontic check-up at age seven. That is important because some orthodontic problems are easier to correct if found early. This doesn't mean that all those children needing braces should start at that time.

Advantages of Early Treatment

Although it is better to wait to have almost all the permanent teeth present, nevertheless some dental anomalies may benefit from an early diagnosis and treatment;

• Guiding permanent teeth into the proper position.

• Preventing injuries to protruding teeth.

• Regulating growth to improve the relationship between the upper and lower jaw.

• Preventing future teeth extractions or orthognathic surgery (jaw correction).

• Building self-esteem by improving physical appearance early

Stages involving Early Treatment

In cases of early orthodontic treatment, younger patients undergo two phases instead of one comprehensive stage.

Phase I involves interceptive treatment in the mixed dentition (the period during which a child has both baby and permanent teeth). The objective of this phase is to "intercept" an orthodontic problem before it becomes more difficult to treat. We treat the jaws more than the teeth.

In Phase II , braces are used to facilitate optimal alignment of the teeth and bite. Occurring at around age 11, this phase of the treatment occurs when almost all permanent teeth have developed. Phase II may range from 12 to 24 months.

The length of each phase is determined by your orthodontist. Phase II can immediately follow Phase I or commence after a maintenance stage lasting 12 to 24 months. A retainer is worn during the maintenance phase and the patient should be seen at least every six months.

Before moving forward with any treatment plan, your orthodontist will analyze your child's dental growth and use photos, study models, and X-rays to understand the benefits and risks of proceeding with early interceptive methods. When a diagnosis is reached, the orthodontist can assist you in taking the right steps to improve your child's oral health by choosing the best option for his or her specific situation.

Read next month's article for information on "Orthodontic Retention."

Care of Sealants

Fri, 31 May 2024 19:18:07 GMT

At T.W.O., we believe preventing cavities is far more important than treating them.

Regular visits to the dentist, use of fluoride, daily brushing and flossing, and limiting the number of times sugar-rich foods are eaten contributes to good oral health. If these measures are followed and sealants are used on a child’s teeth, the risk of decay can be reduced dramatically or may even be eliminated!

A dental sealant is a material that is put on the chewing surfaces of the back of the teeth. We usually do this as soon as the first molar erupts at around age 6 and again when the second molar erupts at around age 12. The sealant material acts like a barrier, protecting enamel by keeping the bacteria and bits of food out of the pits and grooves.

By forming a thin covering over the pits and fissures, sealants keep out plaque which decreases the risk of decay. Since, the covering is only over the biting surface of the tooth, areas on the side and between teeth cannot be coated with sealant. Good oral hygiene and nutrition are still very important in preventing decay next to these sealants or in areas unable to be covered.

Good News- Sealing a tooth is fast and painless!

How to Maintain and Increase the Longevity of your Sealant?

Your child should refrain from eating ice or sticky/hard candy. This tends to fracture the sealant.

Normal retention of a sealant is up to 3 years.

Sealants that become displaced in the first 12 months will be replaced at no charge at TWO.

Handling Orthodontic Emergencies

Fri, 31 May 2024 19:18:05 GMT

We know orthodontic emergencies are never convenient nor timely. As a general rule, you should call the office when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can’t take care of yourself. Common issues include broken brackets or appliances, poking or sharpness from brackets and wires, and general soreness. While we always recommend you consult us if you experience these issues, you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you visit our office.

The following solutions may help you relieve discomfort:

General soreness:

When you get your braces on, it is very common for you to feel general soreness in your mouth, and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days.

This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm salt water mouthwash.

Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously. If the tenderness is severe, take over the counter Tylenol or other headache/pain relief medication.

Poking wire:

Placing wax on the poking edge of the wire is a great way to alleviate the discomfort.

Loose bracket or band:

If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. If the wire comes out entirely, wrap the bracket in a tissue, and call our office immediately.

Loose or poor fitting appliance:

For those patients, it is important to use the appliance as instructed for the prescribed hours. If it is loose or poor fitting, the progression of the treatment may be delayed. If a part of the appliance is bent or it is no longer fitting well, please call our office for assistance.

Remember, after alleviating your discomfort, it is still very important that you call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem so we do not delay the progression of your treatment.

If you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, you or your child, during after hours, do not hesitate to text our after hour emergency line at 703 821 2222 . Someone will get back to you as soon as possible .

Regards,

Tysons West Orthodontics and Children's Dentistry

Corona Virus prevention

Tue, 17 Mar 2020 19:17:37 GMT

To our valued patients, staff, and families

As we are all aware of the increased impact of COVID-19 (coronavirus), the safety and well being of our patients and employees is our most important concern. We feel it is important to give you our recommendations to follow and share with you the extra steps we are taking to ensure your safety.

Our office already adheres to strict standard hygiene and universal infectious disease precaution protocols. We will continue following these rules, but we will also increase the frequency with which we disinfect and clean our facility including the frequently touched surfaces. We will take the effort to frequently sanitize the entire office including doorknobs/handles, sinks, tables and countertops.
We are closely and diligently monitoring updates from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), WHO, ADA, and Public Health Agencies relating to Covid-19.
During this period our office hours will continue as usual.

However we need you to assist us in this effort and we ask you:

To limit to one family member accompanying the nonadult patient
To reschedule your appointment if you are ill or have any symptoms of a cold.
To wait fourteen days before coming to our office if you or someone you are in close contact with, have recently travelled to one of these countries (China, Italy, Iran, or South Korea); Or, if you have been exposed to a person who was diagnosed with Coronavirus or who was quarantined.
To use hand sanitizers when not able to wash hands. Hand sanitizer stations are available throughout the office, and on most staff’s desks.
To refrain from using the brushing station in order to respect the golden rule of Social Distancing. We will replace brushing by giving you Peroxyl to rinse your mouth while you’re in the chair.

We have removed our coffee station, magazines, and closed the Kids Zone area with iPads to help avoid the spread of the virus.

We thank you for your consideration and cooperation in keeping our office a healthy workplace; and we are confident that together as a community we will prevail safely.

Sincerely,

Drs. Alhussain & Alhussain

Tysons West Orthodontics & Children’s Dentistry

There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.

The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.

Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

Older adults and people who have severe underlying chronic medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness

Take steps to protect yourself:

1) Clean your hands often

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

2) Avoid close contact

Avoid close contact with people who are sick
Put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community. This is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick .

Take steps to protect others

Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
Throw used tissues in the trash.

Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
If you are sick: You should wear a facemask when you are around other people (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) and before you enter a healthcare provider’s office. If you are not able to wear a facemask (for example, because it causes trouble breathing), then you should do your best to cover your coughs and sneezes, and people who are caring for you should wear a facemask if they enter your room.
If you are NOT sick: You do not need to wear a facemask unless you are caring for someone who is sick (and they are not able to wear a facemask). Facemasks may be in short supply and they should be saved for health providers.
Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
If surfaces are dirty, clean them: Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.

To disinfect:
Most common EPA-registered household disinfectants will work. Use disinfectants appropriate for the surface.

Options include:

Diluting your household bleach.
To make a bleach solution, mix:
5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water
OR
4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water

Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Check to ensure the product is not past its expiration date. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted.

Alcohol solutions.
Ensure solution has at least 70% alcohol.
Other common EPA-registered household disinfectants.
Products with EPA-approved emerging viral pathogens are expected to be effective against COVID-19 based on data for harder to kill viruses. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products (e.g., concentration, application method and contact time, etc.).

Athletes Are More Likely to Have Poor Oral Health - Here’s why

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 20:10:55 GMT

This may sound shocking but a recent study, published in the British Dental journal found that despite the normal brushing and flossing routine, untreated tooth decay and gum inflammation was more common in athletes.

Why?

It was found that the reason behind why athletes are more susceptible to tooth decay is because they regularly refuel with highly acidic drinks, and energy bars which can weaken tooth enamel. The study that was conducted found that 49% of athletes had untreated tooth decay, and the majority of them had signs of gum inflammation. It was found that 94% of the athletes with teeth issues also admitted that they brush their teeth at least twice. This statistic proves that even with average brushing an athlete could get early signs of tooth decay if excessively taking highly acidic foods and sugary protein snacks.

What is the reason behind this?

“The acid in sports drinks and gels dissolves tooth enamel, a process called decalcification, and can lead to cavities. Once enamel dissolves, it does not come back. The loss and decay are permanent.” These sports drinks are also loaded with sugar which automatically doubles the chances of tooth decay. Can you believe that one 20-ounce Gatorade contains a whopping 34 grams of sugar? Often hydrating with these drinks cause an overload of sugar which weakens the tooth enamel and allows plaque to build up. It’s important to remember not to excessively drink Gatorade and other energy drinks but one with activity won’t hurt!

How does this concern orthodontic patients?

Athletes who receive orthodontic treatment should be aware to limit these things especially when wearing braces or aligners. For athletes wearing braces, visible white marks can gather around your brackets if gathered plaque is not removed. For athletes wearing aligners, the damage can occur because the acidic liquids and some sugars can stick into the aligners and sit against your teeth upon wearing them.

To Wrap Up

When in need for hydration, water is always the better choice. If not an option drinks with less acidic choices and sugars are way less aggressive on your teeth. Listerine, ACT, and other brands can also help with fluoride wash which has been found to be helpful for many. It is always important to visit your dentist or specialist twice a year to guarantee that your mouth stays clean and healthy. It is important for us to be aware with what we drink and if we stay active and need to hydrate water is the key to hydrate our bodies and not harm our bodies. Remember that soda, sweet tea, and some juices can have the same negative effects. Due to these effects it is necessary to restrict the amount of times we drink them.

Don’t hesitate to ask Dr. Al or Dr. Reem any questions you may have about your oral health! We are always here to ensure that you have the best oral health care as well as enjoying your hobbies, sports, and living moderately☺

Sincerely,

Dr. Al, Dr. Reem and your T.W.O Team

Why Retainers After Orthodontic Treatment are VERY IMPORTANT

Wed, 06 Nov 2019 20:05:00 GMT

The truth is your teeth will never ever stop moving. Actually, they will when you’re no longer alive! Since braces obviously are temporary when they are removed, teeth can move apart very quickly. The quick shifts are the reason why wearing retainers are necessary after ortho treatment. Although the teeth shifting is a natural phenomenon, we must wear retainers to prevent teeth from going back to their old positions.

So why are retainers extremely important? Retainers are prescribed for two reasons:

First, to let the bone that holds teeth restructure after they move.
Second, to maintain the healthy new positions of teeth after active orthodontic treatment ends. Like your body, your teeth will change over the years, and with the help of retainers your perfect smile will never change.

Are there different retainer options?

There are 2 different types of retainers which are removable or fixed retainers. Both retainers work very similarly and do the job of holding your teeth together. Your orthodontist will let you know which retainer would work best for your situation. Fixed retainers are recommended for patients who are prone to having spaces between their teeth. Fixed retainers are also recommended for patients who have extreme crowding on their front teeth. Also, if you do not want to go through the hassle of taking your retainers on and off- a fixed retainer may be a great option for you. However, keep in mind with fixed retainers, you really have to be on top of your hygiene!

Clear removable retainers are the most common type of retainers that are the transparent trays for your upper and lower rack that you must take off before every meal. Those are more esthetically pleasing but remember they only work if you actually wear them and not just toss them in your nightstand drawer!

How long do you have to wear retainers for?

This is the question that many people ask. The answer for this question is: you should wear your retainers “as long as you want to keep your teeth straight.” Unfortunately, that is the truth, whenever you stop wearing your retainer your teeth can begin to shift in the matter of a couple weeks. Your perfect smile after taking off your braces should not be something temporary and the use of retainers will guarantee a beautiful smile for the rest of your lifetime.

Stop the Sugar! Staying Healthy with Moderation

Tue, 09 Jul 2019 18:59:44 GMT

Have you noticed that children are, well...a lot larger now compared to the past? Can you believe that 14 percent of kids 2 to 5 years old are now considered overweight or obese?!

Of course, many factors contribute to children's weight problems, but nothing compares to sugar. It's not the natural sugars in milk and fruit that are worrisome; it's the sugars added to other foods and drinks. A survey indicates that toddlers 19 to 23 months old consume an average of over seven teaspoons of added sugar each day which is more than the limit that the American Heart Association recommends for 18 year olds. If you believe your child is overdoing sweets here are ways to help them cut back.

The saying, "out of sight, out of mind" can apply to the sugary snacks that we should limit ourselves from. If your pantry lacks mini-muffins, toaster pastries, and bite-sized doughnuts, kids are far less likely to ask for them, it’s that simple! And when your child really just wants a snack, offer alternatives like animal crackers. With only 7g of sugar per serving.

So what is considered healthy? Water and organic low-fat milk. What's not? Soda, fruity punches, sports/energy drinks. Can you believe that a 16 ounce bottle of some drinks contain up to 16 teaspoons of added sugar! With this discovery it has been figured out that sugary beverages are the primary reason of child obesity. “According to a study in Pediatrics, if a child drinks one additional sugary drink every day it increases her chance of being obese by 60 percent! The scary thing is that 44 percent of toddlers and 70 percent of kids 2 to 5 years old routinely drink these unhealthy drinks. It is very important to make sure that sugary drinks are saved for special occasions. ”

One-hundred-percent fruit juice is definitely healthier than fruit punch. But don’t forget, fruit generally contains sugar, too. But, sugar in a cup of juice is more concentrated than in a piece of whole fruit, which means your child consumes way more sugar rather than actual fruity nutrients. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends only a cup of juice a day for all children. However if you are a parent who is against juice or wish to reduce sugar, water is always the best alternative!

The most important thing when discussing eating habits is moderation. Sweets is not something you should prohibit your child from but is something you should make sure is monitored. The easiest way to monitor your child’s sweets intake is to create a rule that makes it clear to the child that he/ she only has a certain time and limit to enjoy sweets. Rules like this make it easier for your child to accept and get used to this healthy lifestyle allowing them to completely forget about these unhealthy foods and drinks.