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Did you get your copy of our most recent newsletter? We mentioned a few travel destinations in it that we'd highly recommend checking out this summer! Millions of Americans are now cycling for transportation, exercise and fun.  In response, many U.S. cities have special paved bike paths.  The following are a list of the top five areas in the U.S. according to the “BottomLinePublications.com”. Do you know of any bike paths we missed mentioning? Leave your suggestions in the comments below!

• MIDTOWN GREENWAY; Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis has 85 miles of off-street bike lanes that connects with other paths, including the Chain of Lake Trail and paths that run along the Mississippi River.

www.MidtownGreenway.org

• SILVER COMET TRAIL, Georgia

One of the longest paved paths in the U.S., it follows the old railroad right away once traveled by the Silver Comet train.  It stretches 61 miles outside of Atlanta to the Alabama state line.

www.SilverCometGa.com

• MOUNT VERNON TRAIL, Virginia

One of the most scenic paths in the U.S., it begins in northern Virginia, following the Potomac River near downtown Washington, D.C. for 18 miles to George Washington’s estate, Mount Vernon.

www.bikeWashington.org

• CHICAGO LAKEFRONT TRAIL; Chicago, Illinois

The 18.5 mile asphalt bike path along the edge of Lake Michigan will get your a view of the city's famous historic landmarks.

www.ChicagoBikes.org

• MANHATTAN WATERFRONT GREENWAY; New York, New York

This 32 mile paved pathway will bring you full circle around the entire island of Manhattan. There are plenty of stops to take during your ride so many riders do the trip in several days.

www.NYCGoParks.org

Now that you have braces, it is more important than ever to maintain good oral hygiene during your treatment, as Dr. Meehan will tell you. While we trust you will continue brushing and flossing on a regular basis throughout your treatment at Michael P. Meehan, D.D.S., M.CI.D., P.C., you also have to mindful of what you eat. While all those sweet, sour, and sticky candies may taste great, these treats can actually damage your teeth and braces!

Sour candies  can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them, resulting in tooth decay and cavities. If you do indulge in eating these candies at some point during your treatment, be sure to wash your mouth out with water, drink milk or eat a few slices of cheese. These foods will help neutralize the acid in your mouth.

Besides cavities and tooth decay, many people do not realize that good oral health and hygiene are important to your overall health, too; researchers have discovered the connection between periodontal disease and other major health concerns, such as heart disease. Therefore, it is important to maintain a good oral hygiene routine just as you did before your braces. This includes visiting your dentist here in Palos Heights, IL every six months, brushing and flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash, as well as visiting Dr. Meehan for your regular adjustment appointments.

For more questions about foods you should avoid while wearing braces, or if you have any general questions about your treatment, we encourage you to give us a call, ask us at your next adjustment appointment or ask us on Facebook!

The number one goal of orthodontic treatment is to give you or your child a beautiful, healthy smile that will last a lifetime. One of the first things people notice about others is their smiles so take the first step towards getting the smile you’ve always wanted and make your initial consultation at Michael P. Meehan, D.D.S., M.CI.D., P.C.

A good bite not only makes it easier to eat and speak, but will enhance your dental and overall health as well. Straight teeth aren’t just pretty, they’re healthy as well. Teeth that are properly aligned are easier to clean reducing the risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease. 

Let your smile express yourself! Give us a call at our convenient Palos Heights, IL office to schedule your consultation today!

Are you pet lover like we are here at Meehan Orthodontics? If you read our newsletter earlier this month, you're probably aware that we're participating in a donation drive to benefit P.A.W.S! Beginning this Wednesday, May 15th drop off any items mentioned on the P.A.W.S wishlist below, and they'll go straight to animals in need.

Wondering how much time you've got to donate? We're participating in this drive from May all the way through August! So, stop by once or stop by once a month! Not able to stop by the pet store to pick up an item or two before your appointment? We'll also be collecting cash donations to go straight to P.A.W.S.! Want more information? Visit the P.A.W.S. website here, and check out the Wish List below for some guidelines as to what's needed!