Davis & Davis Orthodontics support National Orthodontic Health Month

Can you believe October is already upon us? October is National Orthodontic Health Month, and this month-long event is organized by our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Many hard, sticky, and sugary treats can cause havoc for trick-or-treaters who are undergoing orthodontic treatment, and these treats may cause damage that could prolong treatment time. The AAO recommends patients avoid the following foods:

• Caramel
• Nuts
• Popcorn (including un-popped kernels)
• Taffy
• Jelly beans
• Hard pretzels
• Licorice
• Bubblegum
• Taco chips
• Ice

Drs. Dale and Lisa Davis also recommend that patients drink lots of water and brush after every meal or snack. If you happen to damage your braces, please give Davis and Davis Orthodontics a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone. Loose brackets or wires can usually be made more comfortable by applying some wax until the you can come into our office.

The importance of mouth guards, from Drs. Dale and Lisa Davis

Wouldn’t you believe it, it’s almost springtime! The spring months, however, bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of kids damaging their precious mouths and pearly whites. If you play sports, it's important that you consult Dr. Davis for special precautions. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing spring sports such as baseball and soccer. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements we are trying to achieve.

In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances damaged, please schedule an appointment with Davis & Davis Orthodontics. And don’t forget to ask us—Dr. Davis will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment.

Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Davis & Davis Orthodontics.

Orthodontic fun facts, from the team at Davis & Davis Orthodontics

Everyone loves facts. The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that our team at Davis and Davis Orthodontics thought you might enjoy. Have a great rest of the week!

• There are nearly 4 million people in orthodontic treatment throughout the United States. Three out of four are younger than 18.
• The first mechanical treatment for correcting irregular teeth was suggested by Gaius Plinius Secundus (A.D 23-79).The American Association of Orthodontists is comprised of more than 12,000 members in the United States, Canada and abroad.
• The time required to complete orthodontic treatment ranges from 12 to 36 months depending on the nature and severity of the problem.
• Of the 160,000 dentists in the United States and Canada, 8,000 are practicing orthodontists.
• The cement that attaches the braces to the teeth is now made with a special fluoride-releasing substance.
• Wires activated by body heat used in today's braces originally were developed by NASA for use in the space program.
• In addition to alleviating or preventing physical health problems, orthodontics can boost self-esteem as treatment aligns teeth, jaws and lips.
• Famous orthodontic patients include: Dr. Joyce Brothers, Hale Irwin, Cher, Diana Ross, Phyllis Diller, Chelsea Clinton, Whoopi Goldberg, Daisy Fuentes and Brandi.