Murray & Iszkula Orthodontics Blog

DIY Braces Put Your Teeth at Risk

SOCIAL MEDIA HAS a way of making dangerous things look simple. Somewhere between the satisfying before-and-after videos and the promise of saving thousands of dollars, DIY braces have found an audience. Mail-order teeth straightening kits, rubber bands looped around teeth, paper clips bent into wires, even fishing line, people have tried all of it. And orthodontists everywhere are seeing the damage up close. If you’ve been tempted to try straightening your teeth at home, here’s what you need to know before you do.

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Are You Getting Regular Oral Cancer Screenings?

APRIL IS ORAL CANCER Awareness Month, and there’s no better time to ask yourself a simple but important question: when was the last time you were screened for oral cancer?

Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, yet it remains one of the least talked about. Every year, tens of thousands of Americans are diagnosed with cancers of the mouth, tongue, lips, throat, and surrounding tissues. The good news is that when caught early, oral cancer is highly treatable. The challenge is that many people don’t know they should be screened regularly or that their dental provider is often the first line of defense.

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Getting Straight Teeth Has No Age Limit

IF YOU’VE EVER caught yourself hiding your smile in photos or thinking “I wish I’d gotten braces when I was younger,” here’s something worth knowing: it is never too late to straighten your teeth. Adult orthodontic treatment is more common than ever, and the options available today make it easier, more comfortable, and more discreet than anything that existed a generation ago.

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3 Legendary Women of Dental History

MARCH IS WOMEN’S History Month, and there’s no better time to celebrate the remarkable women who shaped the field of dentistry. Long before women were welcomed into professional schools or medical institutions, a handful of determined trailblazers fought their way in anyway. Here are three women who changed dentistry forever.

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The Advantages of Properly Aligned Teeth

MANY PEOPLE ASSUME the point of orthodontic treatment is the cosmetic result. And while that beautiful, straight smile is certainly worth celebrating, the benefits of properly aligned teeth go far deeper than appearances. From your long-term oral health to your overall quality of life, getting your teeth into proper alignment is one of the best investments you can make in yourself.

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How Eating Disorders Can Harm Your Teeth

EATING DISORDERS AFFECT millions of Americans, and while much attention focuses on their impact on overall health, the damage they cause to oral health is often overlooked. Understanding the connection between eating disorders and dental problems is crucial for patients, families, and healthcare providers alike.

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What to Expect From the Initial Consultation

TAKING THE FIRST step toward a healthier, more confident smile is an exciting decision. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment for yourself or your child, understanding what happens during the initial consultation can help ease any nervousness and ensure you make the most of this important appointment.

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Tips For Sensitive Teeth

TOOTH SENSITIVITY AFFECTS millions of people, causing sharp, sudden pain when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages. While this common dental concern can be frustrating, understanding its causes and implementing the right strategies can help you manage discomfort and protect your teeth.

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Answering the Questions Orthodontists Hear Most

AS ORTHODONTISTS, WE KNOW that starting treatment can feel overwhelming. Patients and parents often have similar concerns and questions when considering braces or aligners. Here are the answers to some of the most common questions we hear in our practice.

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Tobacco: Dangerous to Teeth in Any Form

WHEN PEOPLE THINK about the dangers of tobacco, lung cancer and heart disease typically come to mind first. However, tobacco products pose serious and immediate threats to oral health, regardless of how they’re consumed. Whether smoked, chewed, or vaped, tobacco damages teeth and gums in ways that can lead to painful, expensive, and sometimes irreversible consequences.

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