Katonah Orthodontists

Malocclusion, also known as “bad bite,” is a very common problem for children and adults. The result of severe malocclusion is that your teeth may become worn down, crooked, or protruded if left untreated. Most have some malocclusion, but it usually doesn’t warrant surgery or any corrective procedures. Malocclusion can be further categorized as underbite, overbite, and crossbite, and at Glaser Orthodontics we recognize each type and treat it accordingly. Below you’ll see the difference between each of these three types of malocclusion.

• Underbites occur when the lower teeth stick out past the front teeth. This can be a result of an undergrowth of the upper jaw or an overgrowth of the lower jaw. Underbites can lead to joint and jaw pain, as well as tooth wear.

• Overbites occur when the upper teeth protrude over the lower teeth, and can be the result of an overdeveloped supporting bone, poor oral habits, or genetics. Overbites can cause joint and jaw pain and problems, as well as gum problems and irritation.

• Crossbites occur when a tooth or group of teeth are misaligned, causing the upper teeth to bite into the inside of the lower teeth. Crossbites can occur anywhere in the mouth, and like with overbite and underbite, can result in tooth wear. Crossbites can also lead to bone-loss and gum disease.

The good news is that malocclusion, whether it be underbite, overbite, or crossbite, can be treated by an orthodontist. If you or your child is suffering from malocclusion, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Glaser today and schedule an appointment at his Cortlandt Manor office.

1983 Crompond Road
Cortlandt Manor, New York 10567
Phone: (914) 739-6400
info@glaserortho.com

Here at Glaser Orthodontics, we encourage what people have been taught from a young age — that it is a daily ritual to brush your teeth twice a day, after waking up and before going to sleep. This year, make your smile even brighter by learning why it is so important to keep your teeth healthy and by acting on these ideas at home and with the help of Dr. Glaser.

Your teeth are the focus of your smile — kind of hard to miss when posing for a picture or just laughing with a friend. But that’s not all they do. Healthy teeth are essential to overall health as well. Some research has shown that healthy, or rather unhealthy, teeth are linked to many other, seemingly unrelated, health problems or benefits. For example, brushing and cleaning teeth can prevent heart disease! It has also been found that brushing your teeth can aid weight loss. The mental signal to the brain that eating is finished occurs when you brush your teeth after dinner. So after your next meal, brush your teeth to signal to yourself that eating time is over. Plus, even if you do eat again, the minty fresh feeling in your mouth may make the food less appetizing and cause you to eat less of, or even skip, the meal! Studies have even found that brushing your teeth can improve cognitive function by preventing gum disease, which often has a negative effect on this. According to Dr. Angela Kamer, “people with periodontal inflammation are at an increased risk of lower cognitive function compared to cognitively normal subjects.”

So, not only is a sparkling smile essential to self esteem and taking a good photo for picture day, but it is also great for your bodily health! Be sure to continue brushing twice a day and flossing consistently. Stop by or call Dr. Glaser with any concerns or questions and let us help you reach your best dental health!

1983 Crompond Road
Cortlandt Manor, New York 10567
Phone: (914) 739-6400
info@glaserortho.com

Orthodontic treatments and dental treatments and quite different. Orthodontic treatments, such as those used by Glaser Orthodontics, are used to address issues such as malocclusion, tooth alignment, and jaw spacing, while dental treatments are aimed at maintaining overall tooth health. Because of the specific nature of orthodontic treatments, if can sometimes be tough for parents to know when their child needs to see an orthodontist. Below are some telltale signs for parents for keep an eye out for.

• Asymmetry – If you notice that your child has an asymmetrical face or if their teeth don’t line up, you should probably consult an orthodontist

• Problems with Speaking and Eating – A visit to an orthodontist should be scheduled if you notice your child is having trouble biting or chewing food, speaking, or is experiencing cheek-biting

• Bad Bite – Malocclusion, or bad bite, can begin to develop as the adult teeth grow in and replace the primary teeth. You can usually see the signs of bad bite between middle childhood and the pre-teen years, and an orthodontist should be consulted in order to evaluate and diagnose bad bite.

• Tooth Crowding – If your child’s adult teeth have started to grow in and are already showing signs of crowding, see an orthodontist and discuss braces.

• Tooth Grinding – Many children grinding their teeth either at night or unconsciously, which can lead to tooth damage, TMJ, and headaches.

These are the most common signs that indicate your child should see an orthodontist, but the American Association of Orthodontics suggests parents should bring their children in for an examination either way before the age of seven. This is done because an orthodontist can detect problems that may be more subtle, and come up with an effective treatment plan. If you suspect your child is suffering from any of these symptoms, schedule a visit with Glaser Orthodontics at Northern Westchester, NY, office.

1983 Crompond Road
Cortlandt Manor, New York 10567
Phone: (914) 739-6400
info@glaserortho.com

By now we all know that you’re supposed to be using dental floss on a regular basis. Flossing helps remove debris left behind by food, and helps clear out some of the plaque your toothbrush may miss when brushing. The bottom line is that Dr. Glaser recommends you floss on a daily basis in order to maintain your oral health.

There are different types of dental floss though, so you’ve probably found yourself wondering which one is best. The short answer is that there really isn’t one type of dental floss that’s drastically better than the other: the effectiveness of the floss is determined by whether or not you actually use it. The ADA agrees. However, there are differences in terms of which type of dental floss may be most comfortable for you or which has the most appealing flavor. Let’s review the different types of floss available.

Dental floss can be divided into two categories: multifilament and monofilament. Multifilament floss is the traditional type, and is usually made of nylon or silk. Nylon is the cheapest type, and is the most generic. It’s available in various flavors, such as mint, cinnamon or bubble gum, and various thicknesses.

Monofilament is a newer type of floss, and is usually made of rubber or a sort of plastic. Many users say that it slides between the teeth more easily than traditional nylon floss, and it’s also stronger. Like multifilament floss, monofilament floss comes in multiple flavors and thicknesses.

Now you’ve probably been at the store and seen both waxed and un-waxed floss. So what’s the difference? Well, waxed and un-waxed only refers to nylon floss. Many feel that waxed floss slides in-between the teeth easier and makes for a more comfortable flossing experience. It comes down to a matter of personal preference really, so give both a try and see which one feels better for you.

Finally, there’s dental tape. Dental tape is a wide ribbon of nylon, available in waxed or un-waxed, and essentially does the same thing as dental floss. It’s thinner than traditional floss, and some find it easier to use.

So now you know the difference between the various types of flosses. No one floss is superior to the other, and the most important thing is that you actually use whatever type you buy. It doesn’t hurt to try a couple different types, either, in order to find the one that works best for you. And if you have any questions, feel free to contact Glaser Orthodontics at their Cortlandt Manor office today!

1983 Crompond Road
Cortlandt Manor, New York 10567
Phone: (914) 739-6400
info@glaserortho.com

Braces can straighten and transform your teeth in dramatic ways, and can leave you with a stunning smile. Braces do take some time before the results will show, and there are certain steps you’ll need to take to maintain them during your orthodontic treatment. If you don’t take proper care of your braces, it could result in repairs and orthodontic setbacks, which cost time and money. Here are some helpful tips from Glaser Orthodontics on how to care for braces and your teeth.

Adhere to Food Guidelines

When undergoing an orthodontic treatment, such as braces, you need to be mindful of the type of foods you eat. Avoid foods that are particularly chewy or tough, like taffy and other candies.

Brush After Each Meal

When you have braces, brushing after every meal and before bedtime is a necessity. Try using an interdental toothbrush to get all the hard-to-reach spaces an ordinary toothbrush would miss, along with a fluoride toothpaste.

Floss Multiple Times Per Day

Even if you don’t have braces you should be flossing every day in order to clean in between the teeth and prevent tooth decay and gum disease. If you have braces you should be flossing after you have your lunch and at night before bed. Try using a floss threader to help you get around the braces.

Deal with Damage Right Away

If any damage occurs to your braces, be sure to see an orthodontist right away to have the appliance repaired.

Yes, braces do require some work and maintenance on your part, but the result is ultimately worth it. Consider each of the suggestions above in order to ensure that your orthodontic treatment is as quick and successful as possible, and be sure to contact Dr. Glaser if you have any questions!

1983 Crompond Road
Cortlandt Manor, New York 10567
Phone: (914) 739-6400
info@glaserortho.com

When the day finally comes for you to get your braces removed, you’ll probably be pretty excited…then maybe a little confused. Once the braces come off, its time for a retainer. Retainers are either removable or permanent, and your orthodontist will make recommendations on which option is best for you. At Glaser Orthodontics, we feel it’s important that you know the difference between the two though.

Removable Retainers

Removable retainers are fairly easy to use and care for. The retainer is placed in at night and worn while you sleep, and taken out in the morning. Retainer schedules may vary from individual to individual, but there are generally times during the day where you won’t have to wear it, which is nice. This can lead to forgetfulness though, and if you don’t remember to wear the retainer you won’t be benefiting from it completely.

Removable retainers also make brushing and flossing easier and more comfortable. And while removable retains can be effective, they may not be as effective as permanent retainers if not used properly.

Permanent Retainers

Permanent Retainers are a great option for patients who don’t want to have to worry about retainer schedules, and who just want to get something done that they can forget about. When the retainer is placed in the mouth, it’s permanently fixed to the teeth.

Permanent retainers are often the more effective option because they’re much better at dealing with the shifting in the teeth that occurs with age. Many also prefer permanent retainers because they like the fact that they don’t have to worry about putting the retainer in.

The only thing you should be mindful of when using a permanent retainer is that it may be more difficult to floss. Some find that permanent retainers make flossing harder, but an orthodontist can help show you how to quickly and effectively do so.

In some cases your orthodontist may recommend a combination of removable and permanent retainers, with a permanent retainer on the bottom and removable one on top. No matter what the situation is, you should be sure to always follow your Dr. Glaser’s advice when using and caring for a retainer.

1983 Crompond Road
Cortlandt Manor, New York 10567
Phone: (914) 739-6400
info@glaserortho.com

The discouraging connotation surrounding braces that implies their sole use in the mouths of kids and teens has kept the idea of adult orthodontic treatments, through braces or Invisalign, on the outskirts of many adult minds. Invisalign, however, is becoming increasingly popular within the adult demographic. At Glaser Orthodontics, we encourage adult orthodontic treatment. Whether going with braces or Invisalign, here are a few key points to keep in mind in preparing for all that comes with orthodontic treatment:

• • If you have sensitive teeth, brush with Sensodyne or a similar toothpaste to help desensitize your teeth.
  • Practice excellent oral hygiene to prepare your gums for braces! Ask Dr. Glaser for suggestions!
  • Lips tend to get chapped in the process of putting on braces, so make sure to have a trusted lip balm application every night before bed.
  • It may hurt or feel uncomfortable at first, this will go away and the feeling of the braces behind your lips will disappear and become very natural.
  • Chewing may be difficult and consumption of certain foods may be impossible; ask Dr. Glaser for a list of foods to avoid.
  • Finally, your brushing routine may need to be amped up a bit or altered to fit more often into your schedule.

All of these points are just a few of the commitments one must make when deciding to live with braces. However, all of the discomfort will pass, and eventually the routine will feel natural and comfortable. Think of these as small bumps in the road to achieving better-looking teeth! There are many benefits that come with adult braces including improved self-esteem and better dental health. And, thanks to Invisalign, braces can be invisible and removable, making your experience more pleasant and easy. Visit Dr. Glaser, at his Cortlandt Manor office, for a free consultation to discuss your adult braces. Allow us to help your smile reach its wonderful potential through Invisalign or braces!

1983 Crompond Road
Cortlandt Manor, New York 10567
Phone: (914) 739-6400
info@glaserortho.com

We all have been told how important it is to brush our teeth regularly. Every day, there are naturally hundreds of microorganisms in our mouth. This is fine, as long as there doesn’t become an unhealthy balance of bacteria in your mouth. When you brush your teeth, the toothbrush’s job is to get rid of plaque and plaque is bacteria. So, you’re putting bacteria on your toothbrush every time you brush your teeth.

Fortunately, the human body regularly fights bacteria and your body’s natural defenses make it highly unlikely that that you’ll catch something simply from brushing your teeth. But, there are ways to make sure your toothbrush stays as bacteria free as possible.

• Store it as far away as possible from the toilet — Every toilet flush sends a spray of bacteria into the air. You don’t want the toilet spray anywhere near your open toothbrush. Better yet, store it in the medicine cabinet.
• Keep it rinsed — Rinse off your toothbrush thoroughly with water after using it.
• Keep it dry — Bacteria love a moist environment. Make sure your brush has a chance to dry thoroughly between brushings. Avoid using toothbrush covers, which can create a moist enclosed breeding ground for bacteria.
• Keep it upright — Store your toothbrush upright in a holder, rather than lying it down.
• Keep it to yourself – Don’t use other family members’ toothbrushes. Don’t even store your toothbrush side-by-side in the same cup with other people’s brushes. Toothbrushes can swap germs when they touch.

Caring for your teeth while wearing braces or Invisalign is very important. Doing a thorough job brushing your teeth, with a healthy toothbrush, should be at the top of the list. Contact Dr. Glaser at his Cortlandt Manor office if you have any additional questions about your toothbrush during your orthodontic treatment.

For a free consultation in our Northern Westchester Orthodontist Office, please call for an appointment today!

1983 Crompond Road
Cortlandt Manor
New York New York 10567
Phone: (914) 739-6400
info@glaserortho.com

Periodontal Disease

If you have been diagnosed with periodontal (gum) disease, you’re not alone. An estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of gum disease, ranging from simple gum inflammation to serious disease which results in major damage to the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth. Not only is gum disease a threat to your oral health that can lead to tooth loss, but research also points to health effects of periodontal disease that go well beyond your mouth.

The Correlation Between Misaligned Teeth and Periodontal Disease

Did you know that a major cause of periodontal disease is poorly-aligned teeth? This is because the bacteria living in the gums around crowded teeth are much more toxic and destructive than the normal bacteria found in healthy mouths! In fact, the misalignment that leads to periodontal disease continues to remain one of the most overlooked risk factors by the General Practitioner’s office.

Research has shown that mouth infections and inflammation caused by periodontal disease can play havoc throughout the body. There is a proven association between periodontal disease and other chronic inflammatory conditions, such as:

Diabetes

People with diabetes are more likely to have periodontal disease than people without diabetes, probably because diabetics are more susceptible to contracting infections. In fact, periodontal disease is often considered the sixth complication of diabetes. Diabetics who don’t have their diabetes under control are especially at risk.¹

• Stroke
  Additional studies have pointed to a relationship between periodontal disease and stroke. In one study that looked at the causal relationship of oral infection as a risk factor for stroke, people diagnosed with acute cerebrovascular ischemia were found more likely to have an oral infection when compared to those in the control group. PROVIDE LINK TO STUDY.
• Respiratory Infections
  Bacteria in your mouth can be aspirated into the lungs to cause respiratory diseases such as pneumonia, especially in people with gum disease.
• Severe Osteopenia
  Osteoporosis may lead to tooth loss because the density of the bone supporting the teeth may be decreased.
• Pre-term or Low Birthweight Babies
  Pregnant women who have periodontal disease may be seven times more likely to have a baby that is born too early and too small. PROVIDE LINK TO STUDY.

Treatment is Key

If your teeth are misaligned, it could be more than a cosmetic issue. Undergoing orthodontic treatment to straighten your teeth may be a critical part of ensuring your overall health.

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment option that allows doctors to straighten teeth using a series of clear, removable, nearly invisible, plastic appliances called aligners. Since Invisalign is removable, you can brush and floss normally, which helps prevent periodontal disease and tooth decay. In fact, clinical studies have shown that gingival health may improve with the use of Invisalign during orthodontic treatment.²

Straighter teeth are Healthier Teeth

Straight teeth are healthier teeth and can lead to:

Healthier Gums

Properly positioned teeth are easier to brush and floss than teeth that are crowded, crooked, or spaced too far apart. Properly aligned teeth can help gums “fit” tighter around them, which may lead to better periodontal health³.

Easier Cleanings

With maintenance of good oral hygiene, the chances of having plaque retention, tooth decay, and periodontal disease can be reduced.

If your teeth are misaligned, Invisalign should be considered to straighten your teeth and help prevent periodontal disease—all without the hassle of brackets and wires.

Straighten your teeth and protect your health with Invisalign!

1. Journal of Periodontology, November 1999, Vol. 70, No. 11, Pages 1313-1321. Heightened Gingival Inflammation and Attachment Loss in Type 2 Diabetics with Hyperlipidemia. Christopher W. Cutler, MD, Robert L. Machen, Ravi Jotwani, Anthony M. Iacopino.

2.   Presented at the AADR in San Antonio, Effect of Invisalign^® Aligners on Periodontal Tissues, Taylor, MG; McGorray, SP; Durrett, S; Pavlow, S; Downey, N; Lenk, M; Oxford, E; Dolce, C; Wheeler, TT.

3.   Ong et al., 1998 Boyd and Baumrind. 1992. Zachrisson and Zachrisson, 1972.

For a free consultation in our Northern Westchester Orthodontist Office, please call for an appointment today!

1983 Crompond Road
Cortlandt Manor
New York New York 10567
Phone: (914) 739-6400
info@glaserortho.com