Evolution Dental Blog

Have you become more self-conscious about your teeth over the years? They might’ve been crooked since you were younger, or they started to shift more as you got older, but braces are a great way to correct them. You might be excited to start your orthodontic journey toward a balanced smile, but there are a few things you should know beforehand. Here are three to help you feel more confident choosing them.

Many people assume that wearing Invisalign aligners automatically protects teeth from cavities. While aligners do provide a thin barrier, they aren’t a substitute for proper oral hygiene. In fact, it’s still possible for decay to develop if teeth aren’t cleaned thoroughly or if sugary and acidic foods are left trapped under the aligners. Understanding how cavities can form and what steps to take can help keep your smile healthy throughout treatment.

One of the biggest keys to success with Invisalign is consistency. Unlike traditional braces that stay on your teeth 24/7, clear aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, and cleaning your teeth. While this flexibility is one of the biggest advantages of Invisalign, it also means the responsibility is in your hands to wear them as directed.

Most treatment plans require wearing your aligners for about 22 hours a day. That leaves just two hours daily for meals and oral hygiene. At first, this might sound challenging, but with a few simple habits, it can quickly become part of your normal routine.

Loose teeth are a normal and even exciting occurrence for kids, but as an adult, that feeling of looseness can be alarming! You may be especially concerned if you recently started orthodontic treatment, and now your teeth feel a bit wiggly. Why is that happening? Are loose teeth with braces normal, or should you be concerned? This blog post shares what you should know.

What can you give your partner this Valentine’s Day to show that you care? There are plenty of popular ideas such as chocolate and flowers. But if your partner snores, then they might appreciate the gift of quieter, more restful nights – especially if the noise is a side effect of a serious sleep disorder. Below is a closer look at what might be causing your partner’s snoring and how you can help them find a solution.

Everyone loves gum! It can be a fun snack, a satisfying way to freshen up your breath, and even a good memory device that helps engage the brain. If you have a TMJ disorder that causes chronic jaw pain, however, the cons of chewing gum far outweigh the pros. You’re better off avoiding it until you receive TMJ treatment, and here’s why!

If you get frequent migraines, you’ve probably heard it all before. “Just relax and do some yoga!” “Maybe you need to drink more water?” “Let’s switch to a different medication and see if that helps.” Nothing seems to work. Migraines are a complex medical problem made even more complicated by the fact they can have many different causes. One that often gets overlooked, however, is TMJ disorder.

If you can’t get to the bottom of your migraines, keep reading. Your dentist in Portland might just be able to help!

Oral appliances are amazing alternatives to CPAP machines that require no electricity, tubing, or awkward masks. But just because they’re easier to wear doesn’t mean you don’t need to take care of them. Thankfully, keeping your custom device clean is very easy. Here’s a closer look at how to maintain your appliance, and why it’s so important!

TMJ disorder (TMD) is a fairly common condition among adults; it is especially prevalent in women of child-bearing age. However, other groups are not immune to this condition. It can affect anyone of any age or gender — and children are no exception! How can you tell if your young one is a victim of TMD? This blog post explores some signs that you should look for.

November is TMJ Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to pay attention to symptoms that may be coming from your jaw joint. Many people experience jaw pain, headaches, or teeth grinding without realizing these issues may be signs of TMJ disorder. Because the symptoms can vary widely, TMJ problems often go unnoticed or untreated, leading to long-term complications. Understanding what is TMJ disorder and when to seek help can make a major difference in your comfort and overall health.