our blog

The myths and facts about braces

January 25th, 2013


Some folks believe your chances of being struck by lightning increases when you have braces, while other folks believe having braces interferes with romance, and even metal detectors as you try to make your way through the airport for a much-needed vacation. Trust us when we say we know there are quite a few myths about braces out there these days. But before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts first! To set the record straight, here is some great information on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about braces or your orthodontic treatment, please feel free to give us a call or ask us on Facebook! Smile bright!

Green Monster Smoothie!

January 21st, 2013

Was your resolution a few weeks ago to eat healthy and take better care of yourself? Us too! Try this recipe for our Green Monster Smoothie!

Ingredients: 

  • 2 cups loosely packed trimmed kale(about 2 oz.)
  • Coarsely chopped
  • 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 Granny Smith Apple, halved, cored, cut into large chunks
  • 1 3-in. piece fresh ginger, peeled, coarsely chopped
  • 1 Tbsp. honey
  • 1 cup of ice
Directions: 
  1.  Place 1 cup kale in a blender, pack down with handle of a large spoon
  2. Add 1/2 cup water
  3. Pulse several times to chop more finely
  4. Add remaining kale and 1/2 cup water and pulse to chop
  5.  Stir and pulse again
  6. Add parsley, apple, ginger and honey
  7. Blend, stopping and stirring often, until smooth. Add ice and blend until smooth

Patient Question: What Can I Eat With Braces?

January 18th, 2013

We love when patients ask us that question! Now that you’re wearing braces, it’s just as important to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen as you did before your orthodontic treatment began. The first few days in braces are going to be more difficult to eat than normal. There will be a slight discomfort when you first get your braces on, so the act of chewing will make it more painful.

Here are a few soft foods that do not require you to do much chewing and are easy to chew on when your teeth are sore.
Ice cream, yogurt, pudding, cool soups, Jell-O, scrambled eggs, cream of wheat, baked potatoes, soft cooked pasta, soup, bananas, cottage cheese, smoothies, macaroni and cheese, pancakes, soft cheeses, and milk are all foods you can eat safely without having to worry about pain or breaking your brackets.

Be sure to always check with us if you have questions about a particular food item by either giving us a call or asking us on Facebook!

Do germs really live on my toothbrush?

January 10th, 2013

The dreaded cold and flu season is here again! After recovering from your cold, one of the most important steps you can take to avoid becoming reinfected is replacing your toothbrush!

Germs can linger on the bristles, and you risk prolonging your sickness by continuing to use the same toothbrush. Be smart - keep a spare, just in case! To protect your toothbrush from bacteria all year long, consider the following tips:

• Wash your hands before and after brushing
• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen
• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster
• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Worn bristles are less effective in properly cleaning your teeth, and can actually be damaging to teeth if used too long!

We hope these tips help! Feel free to give us a call or ask us on Facebook if you have any questions!

12505 S. Ridgeland Ave., Ste. 1
Palos Heights, IL 60463
(708) 448-3131
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