Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. 1 out of every 5 orthodontic patients are over the age of 21. The most common reasons for adults to seek orthodontic care is because of relapse from previous treatment as a child. Other reasons for treatment include: a bad bite (malocclusion); crowding or spacing that could be causing gum disease or tooth decay; worn or missing teeth that require movement for dental restorations. In more severe cases, jaw surgery or extractions may be necessary for adults because their jaws are not growing.
Our self-ligating ceramic brackets are made of a clear, translucent material that resist staining during treatment. They are usually used on older teenagers and adult patients who have cosmetic concerns. While visually less prominent, they are more brittle than their metal counterparts and tend to be used on upper teeth more than the lower teeth.
Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces straighten your teeth using metal brackets and archwires. Lots of kids wear their braces with pride and enjoy showing off their in-progress smile with Dr. Karas brightly colored elastics. We also offer self-ligating or tie-less brackets, reducing pressure on your teeth for more efficient movement. In addition to greater comfort, self-ligating brackets make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene, decrease frequency of visits, and shorten treatment time.
Yes, in fact its even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places your toothbrush cant reach. This causes bacteria to build up and can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. We will work closely with your dentist to make sure your teeth stay clean and healthy while wearing braces.
Braces do not often hurt; however, you may feel a small amount of discomfort for a couple days as your teeth, gums, and mouth gets used to your new braces. We will give you wax to place on your brackets or wires. If sores or ulcers develop, we recommend dissolving 1 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of lukewarm water and swishing several times a day. For sore teeth you can try taking a pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or Tylenol.
During your treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar (sugar increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth causing more plaque and possibly cavities). Avoid sticky and chewy foods (caramel, chewing gum, taffy, gummy bears), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes, carrots) or any foods that could possibly get stuck in your braces (corn on the cob, apples, soft bagels)
Born and raised in Portland, Dr. Kara is proud to be practicing close to her friends and family, and giving back to her community by creating beautiful smiles that last forever. She received a B.S. in Biology and graduated Cum Laude from Santa Clara University before entering the University of Washington, School of Dentistry. She attended a General Practice Residency at University of San Francisco and then returned home to pursue a Master of Science in Orthodontics at OHSU. Continued education and involvement in the field of orthodontics are an important part of Dr. Karas commitment to her patients and her career. She is a member of the American Association of Orthodontics, Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontics, and the Pacific Northwest Angle Society.
Born and raised in Hood River, Karina has been in the medical field since 2013. She enjoys getting to know her patients and making sure they feel welcome and cared for. She spends her free time with her husband and two children.
Amy has worked in the dental field since high school. She completed the dental assistant program at Portland Community College. She enjoys helping her patients have their best smile! She loves living in Oregon with her husband, two teenage boys and their dog Lola who keep her busy.
Dahlia started working for Dr. Kara in 2007. She fell in love with orthodontics while attending school. Dahlia and her husband have three children. They enjoy hiking, sightseeing and being outdoors especially in the Gorge. She also enjoys running, bike riding and yoga.