Smoking and Vaping Versus Dental Health

Smoking and Vaping Versus Dental Health

A SMOKING HABIT damages every organ and system in the body, including teeth and gums. We usually think of lung cancer first when it comes to the harm smoking can do, but it can cause a wide variety of problems for oral health. Tobacco and Oral Cancer Four out of every...
What’s in Toothpaste?

What’s in Toothpaste?

MOST OF THE TIME, the only toothpaste ingredient that really gets talked about is fluoride, the active ingredient that helps remineralize tooth enamel and protects teeth from decay. The American Dental Association calls fluoride “nature’s cavity fighter,” and...
Preparing for Orthodontic Emergencies

Preparing for Orthodontic Emergencies

DO YOU HAVE an orthodontic emergency plan? It’s a good idea for anyone who has braces or whose teenager has braces to be prepared in case something goes wrong with their orthodontic appliance between adjustments. Not addressing a problem quickly could lead to delaying...
How to Take Care of Your Retainer

How to Take Care of Your Retainer

THE SAME KIND of bacteria, plaque, and tartar that accumulates on our teeth can also build up on our retainers. That’s why our retainers need to be cleaned as often as our teeth to keep them in good condition (and not full of funky smells). Daily Retainer Cleaning...
Broken Brackets Don’t Know it’s a Holiday Break

Broken Brackets Don’t Know it’s a Holiday Break

Warning! All parents, you are now officially entering the “School Break Zone.” This time of year, of course, brings family gatherings, parties, and treats! It’s hard to turn away from the ooey-gooey treats which is why your American Association of Orthodontists (AAO)...
Have an Orthodontist-Approved Halloween!

Have an Orthodontist-Approved Halloween!

Top image used under CC0 Public Domain license. Image cropped and modified from original. SPOOKY SEASON HAS been lots of fun this year, and Halloween is just around the corner. As much as we love indulging in the fall activities, the spooky decorations, the fun...