Braces the most traditional and well known form of modern orthodontics

14/01/202118/11/2015 by Mark Vaughn

Braces are the traditional and most well known form of modern orthodontics. However, there are many things you may not know about braces. The team at Chapman Orthodontics wants to brush you up on a few cool braces facts:

1. There is no age limit for dental braces

When most people think of orthodontic braces, they think of teenagers. But an increasing amount of adults in Avon, IN. are getting braces, too. As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, Chapman Orthodontics says you could benefit from getting your teeth straightened.

Adults get braces for many reasons. It could be that they had braces as a child, but failed to wear a retainer and their teeth have shifted. Or it could be that they have never had braces before, and wish to realign and straighten their smile. Whatever the reason, the team at Chapman Orthodontics will work with our adult patients to create a customized braces treatment plan.

2. Your “bite” is as important as the straightness and aesthetics of your teeth

Many people think that braces only make teeth straight. In fact, they accomplish a lot more than that. Dr. Chapman will evaluate a lot of things when you go in for your consultation. Are your teeth straight? Do they meet properly? Does your tongue stick out of your front teeth? Do you have a lot of crowding or large gaps? Are your teeth and gums healthy? One of the most important things that Dr. Chapman evaluates is your “bite.” This is the way that your top and bottom teeth meet when you open and close your mouth. Chapman Orthodontics is just as concerned with how your mouth functions as it is with making your teeth look great. After all, what good are straight teeth if you can’t chew or speak properly? Orthodontic braces are the best way to correct any bite or other functional problems, and Chapman Orthodontics will work with you to ensure that your mouth comes out better than ever.

3. Cost and treatment times vary

Everyone knows braces can be costly. However, what you maybe did not know is that braces don’t have to be out of your reach just because of their cost, and economic worries are no reason to avoid or delay treatment. Chapman Orthodontics accepts many different insurances. If braces are not covered by your insurance, Chapman Orthodontics will work with you and put together a payment plan that you are comfortable with. Contact our office near Avon, IN. to learn more about available payment options.

Additionally, many people tend to think that braces are a long process that can take years. In reality however, that depends on each individual case. While the average treatment is two years (24 months), the staff at Chapman Orthodontics will evaluate each individual and create a treatment plan that is specific to the complexity of the work required. That way, you spend just the right amount of time in treatment.

Chapman Orthodontics in Brownsburg, IN. is always here to help you with your braces. If you have any concerns or questions, contact us at (317) 852-5566 our office in Brownsburg, IN.

How to Make Wearing Braces More Fun

14/01/202111/11/2015 by Mark Vaughn

As a parent, getting your child to do anything they don’t want to do can be a daunting task. And let’s face it, properly caring for their braces is probably not something your child wants to do. However, it is extremely important that braces are properly cared for, or treatment will not go as planned. The trick to getting them to want to take proper care of their orthodontic systems is to make it fun! So, Chapman Orthodontics has come up with a list of fun ways to get your child to take care of his or her braces.

Brushing dance party- Chapman Orthodontics recommends brushing at least twice a day all the time, but especially when children are undergoing treatment with braces. Proper brushing entails a full two minutes of thorough cleaning, something that many children fail to do. To get your child excited about brushing, make a playlist or CD with their favorite songs and set up a speaker by the sink. Play this song when they start brushing and dance around with them as they clean for the full two minutes. This will make brushing fun, and will help them keep their teeth spotless!
Braces-friendly baking- Dr. Chapman says that unfortunately, braces can restrict kids from eating certain foods. Taking hard candies away from kids can cause quite a fight, but these foods can be extremely dangerous to braces, and it is very important to follow the rules. So, Chapman Orthodontics suggests having a braces friendly recipe bake-a-thon. Go online and find sweets that won’t damage braces, such as gooey brownies, fruity cupcakes, or creamy ice cream sundaes, and set aside time to make these sweets with your child. Then, let him or her eat them as a reward for flossing well, for example. This is a great way to help your child stay optimistic about braces and make sure they are caring for their appliances properly.
Colored bands- Chapman Orthodontics offers the option of adding colored bands to traditional metal braces. These have been a huge hit among kids, as they allow them to customize their experience in a fun way! To make colored bands even more effective for kids, use them to incentivize your child. For example, for every 2 months they go without a break in their wires or brackets, or for every 25 times they properly brush or floss, promise them that you will set up an appointment with Dr. Chapman to have their colors changed. Then, when they have switched to new colors, have a photo shoot of their new, beautiful braces. At the end of orthodontic treatment, use these pictures to make a fun “Before, During, and After” scrapbook!

Starting treatment early is a great way to ensure a lifetime of beautiful smiles. But getting your child to properly care for his or her braces can be tough. By using some of these tips, you can get your child excited about caring for their orthodontic treatment in Brownsburg, IN. And, make sure to continue to schedule them for regular appointments at Chapman Orthodontics. Call us at (317) 852-5566 to set up your child’s next appointment with Dr. Chapman, or for some more fun ideas!

Protecting Your Smile With Halloween Around the Corner

11/12/201930/10/2015 by Mark Vaughn

Halloween is around the corner and we all like to indulge a bit. Here at Chapman Orthodontics we have a few recommendations to help care for your teeth when eating sugary sweets. The danger of sweets is that it can lead to tooth decay if not treated properly. Both Dr. Peter Chapman and the American Dental Association encourage proper care of your teeth all year long, but with the abundance of candy available this time of year, it’s time to be extra vigilant.

Sour and Fruity Candies: The downside of sour candies is the large amount of acid contained in them. Starburst and Skittles are the worst for your child’s teeth since these candies have a low pH value, which is known to ruin enamel. It’s the low pH, or acid, that makes you pucker and it’s also what wears down the enamel on your teeth! Without the enamel coating, your teeth can get brittle and nerves can be exposed. Chapman Orthodontics recommends that you brush, or at a minimum, rinse your teeth after indulging in these candies.

Hard Candies: If hard candies are your favorite, keep this in mind. Hard candies take longer to dissolve so it’s like bathing your teeth in sugar and acid. The sugar stays in your mouth longer and the longer the sugar is in your mouth, the more vulnerable your teeth are to cavities and tooth erosion. Sugar creates an environment perfect for cavity and bad breath causing bacteria to flourish. Again, Chapman Orthodontics encourages its patients to brush or rinse with a fluoride mouthwash.

Sticky, Chewy Candies: Love those sticky, chewy candies? Guess what, your braces and teeth are not a fan. Candies that include taffy, caramels, peanuts or nuts leave a sticky residue on your teeth and gums. This acts like an adhesive for bacteria which leads to tooth decay. These ingredients can also cause damage to your orthodontia, breaking your wires and brackets.

To protect your braces, avoid the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients: All hard candies, All chewy candies,Caramel, Nuts, Licorice, Taffy, Jelly beans, Hard pretzels, Bubble gum, Popcorn (including unpopped kernels), Ice.

Some Halloween goodies that are brace friendly include treats such as plain chocolate candies, milkshakes, pudding, cakes, and thinly sliced apples dipped in creamy chocolate sauce. For more information, a consultation, or quote, contact Dr. Peter Chapman and his team. Call Chapman Orthodontics at (317) 852-5566 or visit our office in Pittsboro, IN today!

While trick or treating this Halloween, Chapman Orthodontics wants to remind you to be safe and wear light colored or reflective costumes and bring a flashlight. After an adult checks over your candy, we recommend limiting your sweet intake and, most importantly, brush your teeth after indulging. We wish all of our patients a fun and safe Halloween!

Learn the Lingo of an Orthodontist

20/12/201706/09/2015 by Mark Vaughn

How many orthodontic terms do you know? Like any medical specialists, orthodontists have their own terminology they use to describe dental issues that can be treated with braces and the latest orthodontic technology, like Invisalign. Dr. Peter Chapman, a top orthodontist near Danville, Indiana, said understanding the terms doctors use can help alleviate the anxiety some patients have before a consultation.

Dr. Chapman tells future patients in Danville, Indiana, to learn 8 common terms before visiting an orthodontist:

1. Open-bite is when the upper and lower teeth do not touch because they thrust forward. Dr. Chapman attributes the condition to thumb-sucking, thrusting your tongue against your teeth when you swallow or sleep, underdeveloped teeth or an abnormal jaw structure.

2. Cross-bite, commonly called under-bite, is when the lower teeth overlap the upper teeth. Dr. Chapman said the issue often causes gum loss and uneven wear on teeth in some patients in Danville, Indiana.

3. Over-bite is when the upper teeth overlap the bottom teeth, which is fairly common. But a deep-bite, where the lower teeth are completely covered by the uppers, can be quite unhealthy, according to Dr. Chapman. Deep-bite often leads to gum loss and will create excessive wear on the top front teeth.

4. Spacing is a significant gap between teeth, which is caused by teeth that are missing or small or when the dental arch is very wide. Dr. Chapman has observed the condition leading to uneven wear on teeth in patients in Danville, Indiana.

5. Crowding, a common dental misalignment, is caused by a dental arch that is too small or when the teeth are too large. The teeth bunch together, forming a crooked smile. Dr. Chapman said the issue is more than unsightly. Crowding may cause gums to recede and weaken and lead to impacted teeth. Impacted teeth grow beneath the gum line but never push through the surface, according to the American Association of Orthodontists.

6. Appliance describes anything orthodontists like Dr. Peter Chapman attach to teeth that helps reposition the teeth or changes the shape of the jaw.

7. Retainers are appliances patients wear after braces are removed. Orthodontists attach the retainer to a patient’s teeth to hold them in place. Some retainers are removable, and others are bonded to the tongue side of several teeth.

8. Invisalign is a popular alternative to braces in Danville, Indiana. The relatively new technology straightens teeth with a series of clear, custom-molded aligners. The removable aligners, which are nearly invisible, are worn throughout the day but can be removed to eat and clean the teeth, according to Dr. Chapman.

Questions to Ask Your Orthodontist During a Consultation near Danville

27/12/201731/08/2015 by Mark Vaughn

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR ORTHODONTIST DURING YOUR CONSULTATION

An orthodontist can help you straighten your teeth and improve your overall dental health. Orthodontists like Dr. Peter Chapman near Danville, Indiana, are specialists who complete four years of dental school and then study the practice of orthodontics for an additional two to three years.

Here are some questions you should ask an orthodontist when you schedule an appointment for an initial consultation:

What are my treatment options?

Dr. Peter Chapman, a top orthodontist in the Danville area, works with patients to help them match orthodontics to their lifestyles. People now have a variety of treatment options, including traditional metal braces and clear braces. Invisalign retainers, which are virtually invisible, have become a popular choice for adults because they are removable and easy to clean.

How much pain can I expect?

Orthodontics work is relatively painless. Some patients do experience discomfort through the process, especially if braces rub against the inside of the mouth. Options like Invisalign, which doesn’t contain wire or brackets, may be more comfortable for some clients.

How many visits will it take?

Treatment plans for Invisalign and other braces are individualized. Orthodontics is a long-term commitment that can take anywhere from 12 months to 2 1/2 year of active treatment. During that period, Dr. Chapman schedules regular visits for adjustments and check ups. An additional 1 to 2 years of retention follow-up might be required.

Will I have to change the way I brush my teeth?

People with metal and clear braces need to brush by tilting the toothbrush bristles at an angle to get up under the wires of the braces and reach the tooth surface. Improper brushing causes tooth decay and gum disease and also leads to decalcification, or white spots, on the enamel of teeth when the braces are removed.

How much will braces cost?

Talk with your orthodontist about the total cost of your care, whether you choose traditional braces or Invisalign, and inquire about any possible hidden fees or charges for replacement parts. Most dental insurance programs include orthodontic care. Dr. Chapman and his staff work closely with patients to help them understand their total out-of-pocket expenses and to find affordable budgeting options, including financing.

Will I have to limit physical activities or diet?

Active people will still be able to play sports, although Dr. Chapman suggests they wear a mouth guard for activities like football, soccer, basketball and wrestling. The consumption of hard, sticky and sugary foods should be kept to a minimum, and sugary drinks, like soda or punch, should be limited.

Adults Considering Braces in Indianapolis

13/01/202114/08/2015 by Mark Vaughn

For adults who are considering braces, orthodontic treatment often seems like a major hassle. But it shouldn’t have to be! Chapman Orthodontics believes that all patients should have a positive experience with orthodontics that goes smoothly and painlessly, and that they should never feel like orthodontic treatment is weighing them down. That is why we at Chapman Orthodontics have made a list of ways that you can maximize your treatment with braces for adults near Indianapolis.

Pick a treatment plan that works for your lifestyle. The first step in making sure that your adult orthodontic treatment goes well is selecting a treatment plan that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle. At Chapman Orthodontics, our adult patients have many treatment options, including traditional metal braces, clear braces, or Invisalign near Indianapolis. Each of these has their own pros and cons, but the most important thing to think about when picking which system to use, is which one you will best be able to care for, clean, and monitor. For example, clear braces sometimes require more careful care, as they are easier to stain and break. So, if you are patient who does not have time to devote to this, it may be best to choose a more flexible option, such as Invisalign, which is removable and easy to clean. On the other hand, if you are extremely busy and tend to lose things or have a lot on your plate, Invisalign may not be the best option for you, as its removable nature makes it easy to misplace or forget. Dr. Chapman will meet with you and discuss each system to help you determine what is right for you.

Make sure to keep your adjustment appointments. When undergoing orthodontic treatment near Indianapolis, you will need to come by the Chapman Orthodontics office a few times for adjustment appointments. During these appointments, Dr. Chapman will check on your progress and make any adjustments to your appliance that are needed to keep your teeth moving correctly. It is crucial that you attend all of these appointments, and avoid postponing them if possible. This way, your treatment will always be running on time and will likely finish earlier. Any setback in treatment, even if it is small, may compromise the timing of your treatment.

Use appliances as directed. Sometimes, with braces for adults near Indianapolis, appliances need to be added to get the perfect desired result. These can include things like rubber bands or retainers. If you are trying to get the best possible result, always wear these appliances exactly as Dr. Name directs. To ensure that you don’t forget, make them part of your routine. Allot time daily (at the same time, perhaps after lunch or right when you wake up) to care for your braces and appliances properly so that eventually it feels second nature, not only guaranteeing that you are always following the proper care directions, but also eliminating the stress of finding time in the day to worry about orthodontics.

For patients with adult braces near Indianapolis, there is often a concern that braces will not fit well into their busy schedules, and that orthodontic care will become a burden. By following these simple steps above, adults can ensure that they have an enjoyable orthodontic treatment that will result in a perfect and beautiful smile at the end! If you have any questions, Contact Dr. Chapman at 317-852-5566.

Preventing Orthodontic Emergencies in Plainfield, IN

11/12/201907/07/2015 by Mark Vaughn

Accidents happen. No matter what age you are or stage of treatment you are in, you are at risk of an orthodontic emergency in Plainfield, IN. The best thing to do is not only to try to avoid them, but to learn how to care for them once they happen as well. That is why Chapman Orthodontics wants to help you through every step of orthodontic emergencies:

Avoiding Orthodontic Emergencies

The first step in making sure that your orthodontic treatment in Plainfield, IN goes smoothly is taking measures to avoid accidents and potentially harmful emergencies. This can be done by following the exact care instructions given to you by Dr. Chapman. For example, make sure not to eat any extremely hard or sticky foods, as these can cause breakages in some braces parts. Additionally, make sure that you are protecting your braces when participating in physical activities such as sports. Chapman Orthodontics highly recommends wearing a mouth guard, as this will block any harm to the braces and keep your entire mouth safe from injury. Finally, be sure that you are brushing and flossing properly throughout the entire length of treatment. Doing so is crucial to oral health but also to the prevention of emergencies because using the right products will help to clean the teeth without harming braces in Plainfield, IN.

Caring for Emergencies

Even after taking all these steps to prevent injuries, orthodontic emergencies do still occur. Common examples of orthodontic emergencies in Plainfield, IN include:

– Broken or lost retainer

– Poking wires

– Loose or broken brackets

– Cuts in the mouth

– Pain or discomfort

If you are experiencing any of these, the first step to take is to create a temporary solution. For example, place wax on a prodding wire, or rinse your mouth with hot water if you have cuts. This way, you will feel much more comfortable and prevent the injury from getting worse. Then, the next most important thing to do is Contact Chapman Orthodontics immediately. Orthodontic emergencies in Plainfield, IN that go untreated will not only cause more pain and discomfort, but can also be a huge setback to treatment. Therefore, it is crucial that you make an appointment to come in to our office in Plainfield, IN as soon as possible. Dr. Chapman will examine your case and work quickly to repair and correct the damage. The team will also give you more tips on how to prevent this from happening again in the future.

At Chapman Orthodontics, we get it. Braces in Plainfield, IN can easily break, retainers can get lost, and injuries can happen. Patients in Plainfield, IN should always try to care for their braces as best as they can, and follow the tips listed above to prevent accidents, but most importantly, patients should come in to Chapman Orthodontics any time there may be something wrong with a part or appliance, as well as for consistent regular checkups. If you would like to learn more about prevention, or are having your own orthodontic emergency, Contact Dr. Chapman and the team at Chapman Orthodontics at (317) 839-6533.

Tips for Fun Braces Care in Speedway, IN

11/12/201923/06/2015 by Mark Vaughn

1. Brushing dance party – Chapman Orthodontics recommends brushing at least twice a day all the time, but especially when children are undergoing treatment with braces near Speedway, IN. Proper brushing entails a full two minutes of thorough cleaning, something that many children fail to do. To get your child excited about brushing, make a playlist or CD with their favorite songs and set up a speaker by the sink. Play this song when they start brushing and dance around with them as they clean for the full two minutes. This will make brushing fun, and will help them keep their teeth spotless!

2. Braces-friendly baking– Dr. Chapman says that unfortunately, braces can restrict kids from eating certain foods. Taking hard candies away from kids can cause quite a fight, but these foods can be extremely dangerous to braces, and it is very important to follow the rules. So, Chapman Orthodontics suggests having a braces friendly recipe bake-a-thon. Go online and find sweets that won’t damage braces, such as gooey brownies, fruity cupcakes, or creamy ice cream sundaes, and set aside time to make these sweets with your child. Then, let him or her eat them as a reward for flossing well, for example. This is a great way to help your child stay optimistic about braces in Speedway, IN, and make sure they are caring for their appliances properly.

3. Colored bands – Chapman Orthodontics offers the option of adding colored bands to traditional metal braces. These have been a huge hit among kids, as they allow them to customize their experience in a fun way! To make colored bands even more effective for kids, use them to incentivize your child. For example, for every 2 months they go without a break in their wires or brackets, or for every 25 times they properly brush or floss, promise them that you will set up an appointment with Dr. Chapman to have their colors changed. Then, when they have switched to new colors, take a photo shoot of their new, beautiful braces. At the end of treatment, use these pictures to make a fun “Before, During, and After” scrapbook!

Starting treatment early is a great way to ensure a lifetime of beautiful smiles. But getting your child to properly care for his or her braces can be tough. By using some of these tips, you can get your child excited about caring for their orthodontic treatment in Speedway, IN. And, make sure to continue to schedule them for regular appointments at Chapman Orthodontics. Call us at (317) 852-5566 to set up your child’s next appointment, or for more fun ideas!

Orthodontic Consultation in Brownsburg, IN

11/12/201909/06/2015 by Mark Vaughn

Let’s face it: teeth aren’t naturally perfect. They are crooked, misaligned, discolored, or even painful. Did your teeth grow in crooked, or spaced? Have you struggled with the appearance of your smile for a long time? Now is the chance to correct that by taking your first step. What’s a better first step than a free orthodontic consultation at your local Brownsburg orthodontist office!? During the consultation, Dr. Chapman will address your questions, concerns, and talk about a treatment plan that will best suit your specific case. But, it’s always a good idea to come to a consultation with your own questions, so that you get the most out of your appointment.

We want you to feel prepared and in charge of your orthodontic treatment decisions, so keep these questions in mind when you come in to Chapman Orthodontics:

If my goal is to _____, what kinds of options do I have? What types of braces are offered? Could alternatives to traditional metal braces be right for me? – Asking this is important because it helps Dr. Chapman get an idea of your goals, and helps you discern which treatment options will work to help you accomplish your goals.
What kind of preparation is needed to get braces? How many visits will it take? – It is always a good idea to ask a question like this at your free consultation so that you can guarantee that your orthodontic treatment will fit comfortably and conveniently into your schedule.
Can I expect any pain when getting braces? – This is a common concern, and one that you should bring up if it is worrying you. Chapman Orthodontics will explain exactly what to expect, and can reassure you that any pain will be short term and minimal.
What determines how long I have to wear braces? – This is another very common concern, especially for adults looking to straighten their teeth in Brownsburg, IN. The length of treatment will vary from patient to patient. During your consultation we can evaluate your teeth and jaw alignment to determine the correct course and length of treatment.
How will braces affect my lifestyle? Foods I can eat? Activities I can do? – Unfortunately, it is inevitable that braces will cause some lifestyle changes. It is important to know what you will have to do to get the most out of your treatment ahead of time, so that you can prepare. And don’t worry, Chapman Orthodontics will give you all the help you need to make for a smooth transition.
Who will be involved in the orthodontic work? Whom can I expect to see during my adjustment visits? – Many patients are hesitant when it comes to later appointments, because they want to ensure that they are in good hands. Here at Chapman Orthodontics, you can be sure that no matter who you are speaking with, they are well educated and trustworthy, with their only goal being to make sure that your treatment goes well. However, Dr. Chapman will always be available for you when you come into the office, so there’s no need to worry! But, it is still a good idea to ask this and get acquainted with the whole Chapman Orthodontics team.
What will my orthodontic work cost? What is the “average” cost and what could be the maximum? – Everyone’s cost is different, just like everyone’s treatment in different. It is crucial to discuss this prior to treatment, so that the Chapman Orthodontics team can help craft a payment plan you feel comfortable with. Let us know what insurance you have and what your goals are for addressing any costs that are not covered.

And, of course, these are just a few of the questions we recommend. If you have any other questions or concerns, no matter how small, it is important to address them during your first visit. Dr. Chapman will be happy to answer them!

Your initial orthodontic consultation is just the first step towards that perfect smile that awaits you. Going in with the right questions will help you to understand the entire process and prepare you to do your part for your orthodontic experience. Be sure to bring a list of your questions! To schedule a consultation with Chapman Orthodontics, please contact our orthodontist office in Brownsburg today! Call 317 – 852 – 5566, and get started on your path to a healthy and happy smile!

Bad Breath Can Spoil a Romantic Moment on Valentine’s Day

13/01/202126/05/2015 by Mark Vaughn

Dr. Chapman of Chapman Orthodontics in Brownsburg, IN wants his patients to know that saliva is an important part of a healthy body. You make saliva when you chew, and the harder you chew, the more saliva you make. You may also find that you make saliva when you suck on sugar-free candy and/or cough drops. It is the clear, watery liquid made by your salivary glands that:

Keeps your mouth moist and comfortable
Helps you chew, taste and swallow
Fights germs in your mouth
Prevents bad breath
Has proteins and minerals that protect tooth enamel and prevents tooth decay and gum disease
Helps keep dentures securely in place

Moving through tubes called salivary ducts, the body normally makes up to 2 to 4 pints of saliva a day, making the most saliva in the late afternoon and the least amount at night. But what happens when the body makes too little saliva? Too little saliva leads to dry mouth (xerostomia) which causes the gums, tongue and other tissues in the mouth to become swollen and uncomfortable. Germs thrive in this type of setting, and a germy, dry mouth leads to bad breath. Moreover, saliva helps clear food particles from your teeth reducing the risk of cavities, therefore dry mouth also makes you more likely to develop rapid tooth decay and even gum (periodontal) disease.

If you have too little saliva or dry mouth Dr. Chapman offers these tips:

Drink plenty of water
Chew sugar-free gum
Suck on sugar-free candy
Rinse your mouth with artificial saliva

If you find that your body creates too little saliva often please don’t hesitate contact Dr. Chapman at 317.484.6388 or visit Chapman Orthodontics when and if you are in the Avon, IN area. Happy Valentine’s Day!