Author: Michael Zetz

Skilled Orthodontists in Nexton on Caring for Your New Braces

Posted on December 12, 2022 by Michael Zetz - Orthodontist Service

When you come to Crescent Moon Orthodontics for braces, our skilled orthodontists in Nexton do everything possible to make the process as smooth and beneficial as we can. This includes detailed instructions on caring for your braces, oral hygiene, foods to avoid, and even eating tips to protect your oral hardware. Below, we share some tips for caring for your new braces.

Brush Regularly

Our orthodontic team at Crescent Moon Orthodontics recommend that patients with braces brush twice a day for two minutes each time. Choose fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush. Remove any rubber bands or other removable accessories, then beginning at the top, use a gentle circular motion to move the brush across each tooth. Move the brush below the wires to get everything above and below. After completing all the top teeth, move to the bottom and repeat the process.

Floss & Mouthwash

Brushing alone cannot remove all the food and debris from between teeth, and brace hardware makes things even more difficult. Flossing and rinsing with mouthwash is now even more important. Floss with a threader or water pick to remove all debris from between the teeth. Rinsing can help remove loose particles for an extra clean treatment.

Check the Mirror

A visual inspection after each brushing is recommended to determine if anything is left between teeth. You should also inspect your braces for anything that appears to be out of place, such as wires that stick out our loose brackets. When you are satisfied with your oral care routine, reattach any rubber bands or other accessories.

Foods to Enjoy and Avoid

Certain foods can be bad for your braces and hardware, causing breaks and repeated trips to the orthodontist in Nexton for repairs. Choose to enjoy some of the following foods:

Cooked vegetables
Soft breads
Yogurt and milk
Soft fruits
Lean meats
Tofu
Soft nut butters, such as peanut butter

Foods to avoid include:

Popcorn
Hard or extremely crusty bread
Hard candy
Crunchy chips
Hard fruits
Whole nuts or seeds
Meat from a bone

Mealtime Tips

Even how you eat is important when it comes to protecting your braces. Cut food into smaller bites that are easily eaten from a fork or spoon and avoid taking bites directly from food. When your mouth is sore after adjustments, try eating soft, cold foods to ease discomfort.

Experienced Orthodontists in Nexton

The experienced orthodontists in Nexton at Crescent Moon Orthodontics are long-time specialists at orthodontic treatment to straighten your smile. If you need oral care for a straight and bright smile, contact us today to schedule an exam and consultation.

An Orthodontist in Summerville Explains the Stages of Braces

Posted on December 6, 2022 by Michael Zetz - Orthodontist Service

Visiting an orthodontist in Summerville for braces doesn’t need to be scary. Dr. Michael R. Zetz, Jr. at Crescent Moon Orthodontics is a renowned specialist in straightening smiles throughout the Low Country, with plenty of experience putting patients at ease. Here, he shares what you can expect when you come to our clinic for orthodontic treatment with braces.

Orthodontic Consultation

Dr. Zetz meets with every patient (and their parents if a minor) for a complete orthodontic consultation. During this meeting, you can expect a complete dental evaluation, including 3D imaging to obtain digital impressions of your teeth. From these scans, Dr. Zetz can evaluate the problems with your bite and smile and design a solution, which will be explained to you in detail.

As an experienced orthodontist in Summerville, Dr. Zetz knows the concerns most patients and parents have, and is quick to address these with transparency and compassion. He will discuss:

Treatment options and costs
Insurance benefits and claims
Treatment timeframes
Your questions

You can expect this initial consultation to last anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour.

Placement of Brace Hardware

During this appointment, Dr. Zetz will place the brackets, wires, and other necessary hardware on the patient’s teeth. There are choices for color elastics for personalization, and we will discuss proper care of braces and oral hygiene practices to keep them clean. We will also send every patient home with tools and instructions for caring for their braces, and when to return for adjustments or if problems arise.

Adjustments

About every 4-6 weeks, Dr. Zetz will need to monitor how your teeth are moving and make adjustments to the hardware. Wires are tightened, elastics are changed, any problems are handled, and you are free to go until the next scheduled adjustment appointment. As time goes on, you may space appointments up to 8 weeks apart, as Dr. Zetz directs. You may also call and come in for any problems, such as loose or broken wires or brackets.

Removal of Braces

Also called the debonding stage, this is when the brace hardware is removed from your teeth. The straightening work has been achieved, and after removing the brackets and hardware, your teeth are polished and a net set of 3D images are obtained for a baseline. This will also be used to construct a custom retainer if this is required for further orthodontic therapy.

Wearing Your Retainer

In most cases, patients will be required to wear a custom retainer to maintain the progress made by wearing braces. Dr. Zetz will provide instructions on how and when to wear your retainer, as well as care and cleaning instructions. Future appointments will be set to monitor your progress and to make necessary adjustments to keep your smile straight.

Braces from an Orthodontist in Summerville

Wearing braces to straighten your smile is not a huge ordeal, but it does require a time commitment and discipline. Certain foods must be avoided and particular care must be taken to maintain oral hygiene. Your talented orthodontist in Summerville at Crescent Moon Orthodontics will do everything possible to make the process as smooth as possible, and you will be pleased with your results.

What Is Included in Treatment from an Orthodontist in Summerville?

Posted on December 6, 2022 by Michael Zetz - Summerville Orthodontist

Orthodontic treatment is an advanced form of dental care that focuses on aligning crooked, gapped, or misaligned teeth for a straight, better-functioning smile. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect when you schedule treatment from an orthodontist in Summerville at Crescent Moon Orthodontics.

Superior Technology

A premier aspect of your treatment from an orthodontist in Summerville at Crescent Moon Orthodontics is superior technology. We use state-of-the-art orthodontic therapies and technological tools to guarantee the smoothest and best orthodontic treatments possible for straightening your smile.

The advanced technology we use to produce highly efficient traditional braces and modern clear aligners includes:

Digital Imaging
Digital Modeling
3D Printing
Invisalign® Software and Technology
SureSmile® Aligner Manufacturing
Advanced Refinements for Pain Mediation

Modern Options

Crescent Moon Orthodontics offers only the very latest modern options in orthodontic treatment, including clear aligners and traditional braces. Dr. Zetz, our talented orthodontist in Summerville, will determine which options are the best fit to meet every patient’s needs.

Invisalign Clear Aligners

The Invisalign System is a series of clear overlay aligners that are custom designed and produced by computer technology using advanced 3D imaging. Each set of custom clear aligners gradually moves the teeth toward the predetermined goal of perfect alignment. Made from BPA-free plastic, the clear aligners are virtually invisible, making them a top choice for adults who wish to undergo orthodontic treatment without the stigma of visible braces. Crescent Moon Orthodontics is a Preferred Invisalign Provider in Charleston and Summerville.

Invisalign Teen

Invisalign® Teen is ideal for teens looking to enhance their smile, but are concerned about the appearance of traditional braces. Invisalign appeals to teens because they are easy to use, easily removable to allow eating all their favorite foods. Invisalign clear aligners for teens work the same way as for adults; teens receive a new set of custom clear aligners every few weeks that move their teeth closer to a predetermined straight smile.

SureSmile Clear Aligners

Similar to Invisalign, SureSmile clear aligners are also made from clear plastic, in this case Essix, to be nearly invisible. They are custom designed right in our office using 3D imaging and modeling and the specialized SureSmile software. These advanced clear aligners are another popular option for both adults and teens wanting discreet orthodontic treatment.

Traditional Braces

Traditional braces are often a better choice for many patients, due to certain orthodontic problems or issues of cost. Many dental insurance plans do not cover clean aligners but will cover most if not all the cost of traditional braces. At Crescent Moon Orthodontics, we offer traditional metal braces with both clear and rhodium-coated options.

Recognized Expertise from a Skilled Orthodontist in Summerville

Dr. Michael R. Zetz, Jr. is our talented orthodontist in Summerville at Crescent Moon Orthodontics. Extensively educated at St. Louis University, Ohio State University, and the Medical University of South Carolina, Dr. Zetz and our skilled team of orthodontic specialists bring over 70 years of combined experience and recognized expertise to our patients.

Since 2003, the team at Crescent Moon Orthodontics have brought straight smiles to youth and adults throughout the Low Country of Charleston and Summerville, using the most advanced technology and techniques available in the industry. Contact us today for superior orthodontic care from a skilled orthodontist in Summerville.

Enjoy Favorite Summer Eats with Braces | Summerville Orthodontist

Posted on July 10, 2022 by Michael Zetz - Summerville Orthodontist

When you have braces, a Summerville orthodontist may recommend that you stay away from specific summer snacks. Let’s look at some popular eats and what you can do to eat them safely.

What to Eat: Summertime with Braces

When you think about your favorite summer snacks, what comes to mind? So whether you are escaping the heat for a movie during a sweltering afternoon or having a barbecue with friends by the lake, consider summer treat tips with braces:

Corn on the Cob: Slice the corn kernels off the cob in order to enjoy corn on the cob with braces. You can still use butter and salt to get that fresh summer taste that you seek. Also, it’s a fun spin on eating corn, trying to keep the corn in sections. Even though the corn is cut from the cob doesn’t mean it will taste like canned corn. You’ll get the best of both worlds, the fresh taste of corn mixed with keeping your braces clean and secure.
Popsicles: A Summerville orthodontist will say the trouble with eating popsicles with braces is the high level of food coloring in the popsicles. The sugar can also get stuck around brackets and lead to more tooth decay. Look for popsicles that do not use food dye and use more natural sugars. The 100% fruit popsicles are a great alternative to having a cool, sweet treat without damaging your teeth.
Cotton Candy: There is nothing better than a baseball game or summer fair with cotton candy. If you choose to eat cotton candy, take time to brush your teeth shortly after. If you are away from a sink, you can vigorously swish water around your mouth to free any crystalized sugar stuck between your braces.

At Crescent Moon Orthodontics, we want you to enjoy summer fun with braces. You don’t have to put your life on hold while you have braces. Find ways to partake in your summer eats while getting your teeth straightened. Contact us today to schedule your first appointment with your Summerville orthodontist.

Are Dental Visits Required During Orthodontic Care? | Summerville Orthodontist

Posted on July 6, 2022 by Michael Zetz - Summerville Orthodontist

If you are visiting your Summerville orthodontist frequently for orthodontic care, it may seem redundant to see another teeth specialist. However, you have a professional examine your teeth every few weeks, so why would you need to schedule your regular dentist appointments?

Orthodontist Care Vs. Dental Care

Visit your Summerville orthodontist to straighten your teeth. This includes taking impressions, putting on brackets and wires, and adjusting the wires to stay on track with the treatment plan. In addition, they can provide you with tools to help with cleaning your teeth while you are wearing braces. But orthodontists do not check for cavities.

A dentist focuses on cleaning your teeth. They clean the teeth thoroughly, check for cavities, and work on any restructuring or cosmetic dental work. The deep cleaning appointments are vital in preventing buildup and cavities.

A dentist does not have anything to do with straightening your teeth. Similarly, a Summerville orthodontist has nothing to do with checking for cavities or cleaning your teeth. While you have braces, regular dental checkups and orthodontist visits are required.

Keep Up with Regular Teeth Cleaning

A dentist does not need you to remove your braces in order to check for cavities and perform teeth cleaning. They can work around the braces and even take x-rays while you have the braces on. Schedule your dental appointments every 6 months as recommended. No matter the situation with your teeth, you should never skip a dental checkup.

At Crescent Moon Orthodontics, we will work hand-in-hand with your dentist to ensure that your teeth are in the best condition while you have braces. Your teeth are important and detailed cleaning by professionals will always decrease your chances of getting cavities, with or without braces. Contact us today to learn about your braces timeline.

Summerville Orthodontist | What to Expect from Life with Braces

Posted on June 27, 2022 by Michael Zetz - Summerville Orthodontist

If you run into issues while you have braces, most are easily resolved. Let your Summerville orthodontist know what happened, and the team will work swiftly to remedy any problem you encounter.

Living Life with Braces

Before identifying all the ways that your life will be different while wearing braces, think about all of the improvements that straight teeth from a Summerville orthodontist will bring to your life. You will enjoy the benefits of a dazzling smile, easy-to-brush teeth, and evenly spaced teeth that do not trap food.

Let’s take a look at what life is like with braces:

Change the Way You Eat Certain Foods: While most Summerville orthodontists warn you to stay away from sticky and hard foods, you can eat many foods if you are conscious of the way you eat them. For example, eat corn on the cob by first cutting the corn from the cob. Eat apples by cutting them up into thin slices. Stay away from hard caramel and toffee that would be too sticky to enjoy, even in small pieces.
Brush Teeth Soon After Eating: If you do have sticky taffy or drink caramel-colored soda or coffee, brush your teeth right away to avoid teeth decay or stains. Having the brackets on your teeth serves the purpose of straightening your teeth but also provides more surfaces for food to get stuck and cause decay.
Use Additional Tools for Teeth Cleaning at Home: Instead of brushing and flossing two times per day, you will find that you need more tools to get between brackets. For example, use a floss threader to work around the wires while flossing. You can also use dental picks or proxa brushes to clear out the food that is stuck between brackets.

When you implement these easy habits, you will find the most success with your Summerville orthodontist.

At Crescent Moon Orthodontics, we want you to continue life as normal as you are straightening your teeth. Braces do not require a significant life change. After learning about these tips, you will see that braces aren’t all that bad. Contact us to learn more about your treatment plan.

Best Tips for Preventing Cavities with Braces | Summerville Orthodontist

Posted on April 15, 2022 by Michael Zetz - Orthodontist Service

Good oral hygiene is a topic that your Summerville orthodontist will discuss with every patient who has braces. You know it’s essential to keep your teeth clean, but this daily habit is a bit more challenging when you have brackets and wires on your teeth. Brushing and flossing are crucial throughout this treatment and require a little more work. But it’s worth the effort to prevent cavities and gum disease during this time.

Does the Risk of Cavities Go Up with Braces?

Braces don’t cause cavities. But the placement of the brackets on your teeth can increase the likelihood of food getting stuck. If these food particles are left on the surface of the teeth, then plaque starts to develop, and the acids can result in the development of tooth decay.

Braces create more places where food particles can build up and cause cavities. However, there is nothing to worry about if you practice good oral hygiene habits because the food and acid are quickly removed from your teeth.

Proper Teeth Cleaning While Wearing Braces

It takes more effort to clean your teeth while wearing braces. Your Summerville orthodontist can provide recommendations for your oral hygiene habits, such as:

Brush your teeth multiple times a day: in the morning, after eating, and before bed
Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen your teeth
Minimize your consumption of sugary and starchy foods, including candy, soda, and desserts
Floss at least once a day using a floss threader to get the floss under the braces and between the teeth
Consider using a Waterpik to dislodge food from the brackets
If you are prone to cavities, talk to your Summerville orthodontist about using a fluoride mouthwash
Maintain regular dental cleanings and exams while you are wearing braces

Learn More About Braces

What questions do you have about oral hygiene while wearing braces? Our team at Crescent Moon Orthodontics is here to help. Contact us at your convenience to learn more about available treatment options to straighten your smile.

What You Need to Know Before Getting Braces | Summerville Orthodontist

Posted on April 7, 2022 by Michael Zetz - Orthodontist Service

Are you ready to straighten your smile, but you aren’t sure what to expect with braces? The first step is to schedule a consultation with a Summerville orthodontist to learn more about this process and access personalized recommendations.

Here are a few things to keep in mind if you are thinking about braces for yourself or a child:

Braces Are Uncomfortable in the Beginning

There isn’t a way to sugar-coat the experience: it is a bit uncomfortable in the first few days of wearing braces. You’ll be at the Summerville orthodontist’s office for a few hours for the placement of the brackets and wires. Then, in the next few days, you will feel pressure and minor pain as the teeth start to move. So take it easy with your favorite movie and soft foods after you are done with the first appointment.

It Gets Better with Time

Within the first few weeks, you will get used to the feeling of having braces on your teeth. After that, the uncomfortable feeling starts to become “normal,” and you will be more comfortable talking and eating.

Oral Hygiene is Essential

Brushing and flossing are more important than ever, mainly because it’s easy for small bits of food to get caught in the braces. In addition, cleaning your teeth is a crucial step to prevent cavities in the areas where the food particles are collected.

Not only do you need to brush twice a day, but use flossing threaders to ensure you can clean between your teeth. Your Summerville orthodontist and their office staff will offer tips for cleaning your teeth with braces.

Schedule a Consultation with a Summerville Orthodontist

If you want more information, then it’s time to schedule a consultation with a local orthodontist. Reach out to our experienced team at Crescent Moon Orthodontics to learn more about your options. Our goal is to help you create a smile that you can proudly share with everyone you meet. Contact us for a consultation to see if you are a good candidate for braces.

School Lunch Ideas for Kids with Braces | Charleston Orthodontist

Posted on April 2, 2022 by Michael Zetz - Orthodontist Service

Is your child finding it challenging to enjoy lunch at school because braces limit the types of foods they can eat? Here are a few tips from a Charleston orthodontist about planning healthy school lunches that are easy to eat with braces. Your child will enjoy these tasty meals they can pack for lunchtime.

Ideal Foods to Eat with Braces| Charleston Orthodontist

What are the best types of foods to eat while wearing braces? A Charleston orthodontist will recommend soft foods, especially in the first few days after getting braces or visiting for the monthly orthodontics checkup and tightening.

Focus on soft foods that are high in nutrition, like:

Smoothies
Protein shakes
Mashed potatoes
Yogurt
Soup
Scrambled eggs
Oatmeal

Foods to Avoid with Braces

Additionally, certain types of foods should be avoided while wearing braces. Stay away from anything that can get caught in the braces, such as:

Chips
Bubble gum
Popcorn
Nuts
Hard candy
Sticky foods (caramel, taffy, etc.)
Beef jerky
Hard bread, like bagels

Foods that Require Special Preparation

Certain foods are difficult to eat without special preparation, including:

Corn on the cob
Whole apples
Carrot sticks
Meat on the bone

These foods can be prepared in a way that is easier to eat. For example, use a knife to cut the corn off the cob or thinly slice vegetables and fruit, so they are easy to bite. Before ruling out a food, think about how it can be prepared to make it easier to eat with braces.

School Lunch Ideas

Here are popular menu items you might include in a lunch for your child to take to school:

Pasta
Macaroni and cheese
Bananas
Sandwiches on soft bread
Hard-boiled eggs
Applesauce
Steamed vegetables
Soup
Pancake
Yogurt

Charleston Orthodontist: Personalized Recommendations

Rest assured knowing that you have the support of a Charleston orthodontist throughout the treatment process. If you need recommendations for meal planning, oral hygiene habits, or anything else relating to the care and upkeep of braces, then call our knowledgeable team at Crescent Moon Orthodontics. Also, contact us for information about how you and your loved ones can enjoy the many benefits of a straight, beautiful smile.

Braces in Summerville | Solutions for Common Issues with Braces

Posted on February 16, 2022 by Michael Zetz - Uncategorized

Are you considering braces but afraid of possible discomfort associated with braces in Summerville? Let’s talk about your fears and discuss a solution for each one. Then, you won’t have anything holding you back from making yourself a priority and correcting your smile.

4 Solutions to Common Issues with Braces

It’s okay to be nervous about getting braces. But once you understand how easy they are to manage without pain, your worries can be put to rest.

#1: Mouth Soreness

Solution: Switch to Soft Foods

If you have heard about people with braces dealing with a sore mouth after adjustments, the good news is that means the braces are working. They are slowly moving your teeth into the position that is most beneficial to the function and appearance of your teeth. Eat soft foods for the day while your teeth adjust to the new position, and the pain will be minimized.

#2: Food Getting Stuck

Solution: Avoid Certain Foods and Brush Often

Food can get stuck in your braces. You will quickly learn which foods to avoid while you have braces. When you have braces in Summerville, brush your teeth after each meal, and the food will loosen up and wash away as your rinse.

#3: Stains on Your Teeth

Solution: Brush and Floss Each Day

Some people are worried about stains on their teeth after wearing braces for so long. If you are diligent about brushing and flossing your teeth each day, the teeth on the outside of your braces will stay just as clean as the teeth under the brackets.

#4: Wires Poking Your Mouth

Solution: Communicate with Your Orthodontist

You should not have to live with the discomfort of poking wires in your mouth. When you get braces in Summerville, your orthodontist will address the pain and adjust the wires so that you are comfortable and happy.

At Crescent Moon Orthodontics, we want you to have a smile that you happily show off to the world. So stop hiding your smile and putting off orthodontic procedures. You can learn about the many options and pick the best for your lifestyle. Contact us today for your first consultation.