THE NO-NO LIST!

STICKY, CHEWY FOODS

TAFFY
GUMMI BEARS
CARAMELS
NOW-N-LATERS
STARBURST
TOOTSIE ROLLS
*** ABSOLUTELY NO CHEWING GUM ***
SKITTLES
SUGAR DADDY
LICORICE

The suction from chewing on these types of foods will wash away the cement that holds the bands on your back teeth. Even if you do not notice loose bands right away, decay could develop under the bands where the cement has washed away.

HARD, CRUNCHY FOODS

PRETZELS
DORITOS
COMBOS
NUTS
PEANUT BRITTLE
POPCORN
ICE
TACO SHELLS
CORN CHIPS

These types of food will bend archwires, loosen bands and pop off brackets. Popcorn is not allowed. Even though it is not hard, the husks can get lodged between the bands and the gums and can cause inflammation, soreness and could lead to an infection. We also ask that you stay away from mints, and suckers because biting down on them just once could cause damage.

A few more words of advice… Cut or tear foods such as raw vegetables, pizza crust, candy bars, pickles, etc. into bite-size pieces before eating them. Also, don’t bite your fingernails or chew on pens or pencils. Be careful when eating fried chicken and cut corn on the cob off of the cob.

While you are in treatment you are allowed three loose or broken appliances. After the third there will be a charge for each appliance. If you notice that anything is loose or broken, notify us before your appointment so that we can allow for time to repair your appliances or reschedule as necessary.

Although it may seem that “all the good things in life” are on this list, don’t feel deprived! If you will follow our directions your treatment will go smoothly and you will be out of braces before you know it! And remember, our patients are special to us. If you have any questions along the way, feel free to ask – that’s what we are here for.
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Braces aren’t just for kids anymore. Tooth alignment can be changed at any age if your gums and bone structure are healthy. We offer a variety of treatments that are designed for different age groups – including adults. A new smile can begin today.

Orthodontic treatment at later stages in life can dramatically improve your personal appearance and self-esteem. Improving the health of your teeth and gums is equally important. Crooked teeth and a bad bite can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth decay, abnormal wear of the tooth enamel and surfaces, headaches and jaw joint (TMJ/TMD) pain.

Good news! The new techniques and appliances we use greatly reduce discomfort levels, decrease the frequency of visits, shorten treatment time and may allow you to choose from several options. Your options may include metal braces, translucent braces or transparent aligners that can be worn at night to improve mild cases of misaligned teeth.

During the initial examination, we will be able to determine the best possible treatment for your individual needs. During this initial examination, we can outline the treatment plan, time of treatment expected and the approximate cost.

A large percentage of our patients are adults, and they agree that it’s never too late to improve their greatest asset – their smile.

When is the best time to begin orthodontics?
Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.

What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation?
Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.

Why is age 7 considered the optimal time for screening?
By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. For example, the presence of erupting incisors can indicate possible overbite, open bite, crowding or gummy smiles. Timely screening increases the chances for an incredible smile.

What are the advantages of interceptive treatment?
Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are:

Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
Preserving space for unerupted teeth
Reducing the need for tooth removal
Reducing treatment time with braces
Are you a candidate for orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontics are not merely for improving the aesthetics of the smile; orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions). Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment. Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile.

Why should malocclusions be treated?
According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems. Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease. Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping. Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear. Openbites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments. Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile—it creates a healthier you.