As an orthodontist, you're committed to helping your patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. But did you know that orthodontic treatment can also have a significant impact on their overall oral health? In this podcast, Orthodontic Products Chief Editor Alison Werner talks to Kami Hoss, DDS, MS, author of the book, If Your Mouth Could Talk: An In-Depth Guide to Oral Health and Its Impact on Your Entire Life, who shares his insights into the connection between oral health and orthodontics, and how you can help your patients achieve optimal outcomes.

The link between orthodontics and oral health is clear. Misaligned teeth can make it difficult to clean properly, leading to a buildup of plaque and bacteria that can cause cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems. By correcting these issues with orthodontic treatment, you can help your patients maintain good oral hygiene and reduce their risk of developing these conditions. 

But orthodontics is about more than just straightening teeth. As Hoss explains in this podcast, it's also important to consider the impact of orthodontic treatment on the entire craniofacial complex. This includes the jaw, the airway, and other structures that can affect breathing, speech, and other aspects of oral health. 

By taking a comprehensive approach to orthodontic treatment, you can help your patients achieve optimal results that improve both their oral health and overall quality of life. This may include using advanced techniques such as digital scanning and 3D modeling to create customized treatment plans that address their unique needs. 

Of course, orthodontic treatment is only part of the equation. As Hoss emphasizes in this podcast, it's also important to educate your patients about the importance of good oral hygiene habits and regular dental checkups. By working together, you can help your patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles that last a lifetime. 

The fact is oral health and orthodontics are closely linked, and, as an orthodontist, you have a critical role to play in helping your patients achieve optimal outcomes, says Hoss. By taking a comprehensive approach to treatment, using advanced techniques, and emphasizing the importance of good oral hygiene, you can help your patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles that last a lifetime. OP