"Hey, Dr. O'Leary! What is malocclusion?"

Malocclusion, or what Dr. O'Leary calls “bad bite,” is the improper alignment of your teeth and/or jaws. When your teeth and jaws are not properly aligned, it may impact your bite, the ability to properly care for your teeth, your gum tissue health and, yes, even your appearance.

If untreated, Dr. O'Leary will tell you malocclusion can lead to undesirable mouth problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, or chipped and cracked teeth. The most common solution for malocclusion, of course, is orthodontic treatment. The actual course of treatment, including the length of time you will require braces, will be determined by severity of your malocclusion. The goal of your treatment is to move your teeth into the proper position and correct any misalignment in the jaw. If overcrowding is causing the problem, Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda orthodontist Dr. Kay O'Leary may need to have you get one or more teeth removed as part of treatment.

At O'Leary Orthodontics, we use the most advanced technology in the field in order to ensure that you receive the best possible results from your orthodontic treatment. If you have any questions about malocclusion, please give us a call and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have.

Patient question for Dr. O'Leary: Is oral piercing worth it?

Dr. O'Leary and our team know that piercing, like tattooing, is one of today’s popular forms of “body art” and self-expression. If you’re thinking about getting a piercing – or if you already have one or more – there are definitely some health risks you should know about.

Your mouth contains millions of bacteria, and infection is a common complication of oral piercing. Just touching your mouth jewelry (tongue barbells and lip and cheek labrettes) can lead to infection. Many people who have piercings tend to regularly touch them – which is a perfect opportunity for bacteria from hands to enter piercing sites. Also, food particles that collect around piercing sites can lead to infection.

There's also a chance for pain and swelling. You see, your tongue – the most popular piercing site in the mouth – could swell large enough to close off your airway! Piercing also can cause uncontrollable bleeding or nerve damage. Damage to the tongue’s blood vessels can cause serious blood loss.

In addition, the hoop, ring, stud and barbell-shaped jewelry can hinder your ability to talk and eat. Some people also develop a habit of biting or playing with their piercings – which can lead to cracked, scratched teeth; gum damage and recession; and sensitive teeth. There may also be a need for restorations, such as crowns or fillings, and additional dental treatment due to piercings. Consider the potential pitfalls of piercing carefully before getting one. Keep in mind that it will be an added responsibility to your life, and will need regular upkeep. Make sure that you’re committed to the task of taking care of it for the full healing period and beyond.

If you have an oral piercing, pay special attention to it. Clean the piercing with antiseptic mouthwash after eating, and brush the jewelry when you brush your teeth. Of course, give us a call if you have any questions.

What puts you at ease at O'Leary Orthodontics?

Trust us when we say Dr. Kay O'Leary knows not everyone is always thrilled about visiting their orthodontist. But at O'Leary Orthodontics, we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. Dr. O'Leary and our team offer excellent, quality orthodontic treatment in a caring and gentle environment. We provide a fun and enjoyable experience while creating your new smile.

Today, we’d like to know: What is it about O'Leary Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff? Perhaps it's something about Dr. O'Leary

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call!

Dr. O'Leary, reminding you that April is National Facial Protection Month

With spring here, many children, teens and adults will once again pick up the ball, bring the bat out of seasonal retirement, and lace up their cleats to hit the fields for the return of spring sports! April is National Facial Protection Month, and during this time, Dr. O'Leary and our dedicated team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this spring, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact O'Leary orthodontics. Stay safe and HAVE FUN!