Murray & Iszkula Orthodontics Blog

Sugar Versus Teeth in Elizabethan England

WHEN SUGAR FIRST arrived in England, it was considered an exotic luxury. By the Elizabethan era in the late 1500s, the sugar trade was thriving, and the country’s wealthy elite had embraced this costly import as a symbol of status. Imported primarily from the colonies, sugar was rare, expensive, and often displayed as a sign of wealth and sophistication. Unfortunately, this indulgence came with a hidden cost: a dramatic decline in dental health, particularly among the nobility.

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Braces-Wearers, We Don't Ban Foods To Hurt You

IF YOU OR YOUR child recently got braces, you may have been handed a list of foods to avoid. Sticky candies, hard snacks, popcorn, and chewing gum often top the list. Understandably, this can feel a little frustrating — especially if your favorite treat made the “do not eat” section. But here’s the truth: we don’t ban these foods to hurt you or take away your fun. We do it to protect your treatment, your smile, and your progress.

Let’s take a closer look at why these guidelines exist and how they help you get the best possible results from your orthodontic journey.

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Can Swimming Impact Oral Health?

SWIMMING IS A FANTASTIC way to stay active and healthy, especially during the warmer months. It promotes cardiovascular fitness, builds endurance, and provides low-impact exercise for people of all ages. But while you may be focused on protecting your skin from the sun or your hair from chlorine, it’s also important to think about your teeth. Believe it or not, regular swimming (especially in pools) can have an impact on your oral health.

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How Do Crooked Teeth Affect Clear Speech?

WHEN MOST PEOPLE think about the reasons for straightening teeth, appearance and oral health are usually the first things that come to mind. However, orthodontic treatment can also play a critical role in improving speech. Crooked teeth, bite issues, and jaw misalignment can all interfere with the way you pronounce certain words or sounds. For children learning to speak or adults struggling with unclear speech, orthodontic care may offer a solution that improves both confidence and communication.

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Dealing With Bad Breath: Then and Now

HAVE YOU EVER wondered how people in the past dealt with something as common as bad breath? In Medieval England, even without the toothbrushes, toothpaste, and dentists we rely on today, people still cared about having fresh breath, but their understanding of dental health and what caused bad breath was quite different from ours.

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Orthodontic Treatment and Wisdom Teeth

ONE OF THE MOST common questions orthodontists hear is, “Will my wisdom teeth affect my straight smile?” Whether you are preparing to begin orthodontic treatment or are already wearing braces or aligners, it is important to understand how wisdom teeth may relate to your orthodontic care. Although every patient is different, there are several key facts to know about how wisdom teeth and orthodontics work together.

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Chewing Ice Can Ruin Your Teeth

IT MAY SEEM HARMLESS, crunching on the leftover ice cubes at the bottom of your drink, but chewing ice is one of the most damaging habits for your teeth. Many people do it out of boredom or as a way to cool down, and some even find it satisfying. However, what might feel like a harmless treat can actually lead to serious dental problems over time. Here’s why chewing ice is bad for your dental health and what you can do instead.

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Don't Be Fooled By Braces Myths!

IF YOU OR YOUR CHILD are starting the journey toward a straighter smile, you’ve likely heard all kinds of advice — some helpful, and some, not so much. Unfortunately, myths about braces can make the process seem scarier or more complicated than it really is. At our practice, we believe that the more you know, the more confident you’ll feel about your treatment. Let’s bust some of the most common braces myths so you can approach your orthodontic care with peace of mind!

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Interested in a Dental Career?

THE DENTAL FIELD offers a variety of rewarding career paths beyond the familiar role of the dentist. From clinical roles that require direct patient care to supportive administrative positions, the dental office is a dynamic environment with opportunities for people with different skills and interests. Additionally, for those drawn to specialized areas of care, dentistry offers several specialized fields of study. Here’s a closer look at the diverse job opportunities within a dental office and the specialties you might consider pursuing.

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Crooked Teeth: Genes or Bad Habits?

ORTHODONTIC ISSUES LIKE crooked teeth are not only a concern for aesthetics but also for overall dental health. While genetics play a role in determining the alignment of teeth, certain childhood habits can significantly influence how teeth develop and position themselves. Understanding these habits can help parents prevent potential orthodontic problems in their children’s future.

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