Whether you’re here on vacation or a long-time local, you probably think you know all that New Hampshire has to offer. However even those born in this beautiful state can find new things to do and explore every day!

Everyone loves to go boating on the many lakes, ski and hike the ancient mountains, and splurge a little with the tax-free shopping, and all of that is enough to fill many years, but what if there was just a little bit more? A few things that were just a little different?

Disc Golf
Have you heard of this sport yet? It’s been around for decades, yet still seems to be unheard of (unlike the rise of pickleball!). New Hampshire has 73 courses, many of which are located in wooded area so you can keep in the shade while you play! Loon (Lincoln) and Tenney (Plymouth) Mountains have courses starting at the top, all it takes to start is a gondola ticket up! Franklin, Franconia, and Claremont have really nice public courses with Franklin and Franconia being great for beginners. Local golf courses have started adding trails and baskets to expand their offerings. The added bonus is courses that are pay-to-play have a very low fee, usually around $10, with an optional play all day fee or if you buy a disc from the pro shop you get your round for free!
Check out the top 10 courses in NH: https://udisc.com/best-disc-golf-courses/united-states/new-hampshire

A Hidden Gem
Lately when chatting with patients and parents we're amazed at how many haven't heard of Lost River Gorge in North Woodstock. It's a wonderful hike (lots of stairs!) through part of Kinsman Notch, following the paths and caves formed by glaciers millions of years ago that lead mountain waters south to the Pemigewasset River.
Along the way you'll learn the history of the area, how the caves were discovered, and be able to take in some amazing views of the White Mountains. And don't worry, the caves are totally optional (that lemon squeeze is tight!).
Check out their website to learn more: https://lostrivergorge.com/

Our Office Locations
We are blessed to call three beautiful areas of NH home.
Our Laconia office is perfectly situated in the Lakes Region, with Lake Winnipesaukee and Lake Winnisquam on our doorstep. But while you're boating or playing at a local beach don't forget to check out the down town area! Laconia's main street has locally owned eateries, shops, and the acclaimed Colonial Theater (did you know at one time the Colonial was a 3 screen movie theater?).
Our Plymouth office not only enjoys the close Squam and Newfound Lakes, but is also at the entrance to the stunning White Mountains. Locals and frequent visitors can plan on summiting our 48 4,000 footers, but there are so many trails that are suited to beginners and first time vacationers. While hiking the trails you'll discover hidden waterways and breathtaking views, and when you're back in you car take the time to drive through the nearby small towns that so many trails start from. You may just find the juiciest burger you've ever had, the best pizza north of Boston, or the biggest ice cream sundae your kids have ever seen!
Our northern most location is in Littleton, the Glad Town! Why is it so glad? Well, it was the home of author Eleanor H. Porter and her classic children's novel heroine, Pollyanna! And you too will be glad walking around town- find wonderful things to pass a rainy day or time at the beach at Little Village Toys and Books, enjoy lunch at one of the many spots along the Ammonoosuc River, and satisfy your sweet tooth at Chutter's (home of the worlds longest candy counter- 112 feet!).

We hope that, even if you're a long time resident, you get to enjoy ALL that our wonderful state has to offer, and always feel free to ask the team what their favorite thing is that New Hampshire has to offer!

Happy June and happy summer! We've all waited for this, especially since this past winter was extra long and extra cold! But before you jump all in to swimming, campfires, cookouts, and starry nights we at Kennell Ortho want to make sure you can enjoy everything without having to call us for that dreaded broken bracket or lost Invisalign tray.

Hard or sticky and chewy foods can break a bracket by getting up and under the bracket or applying too much pressure to the wire, causing the bracket to pop off your tooth. Lots of yummy food at that family or neighborhood BBQ falls in this category. You'll want to make sure of the following:

•Make sure any meat is off the bone and cut up into smaller pieces

•Fruits and vegetables should be broken into smaller chunks, and sorry, you’ll have to take that corn off the cob

•Break up any cookies, granola, sub rolls, and crackers

•Be careful with trail mix or anything similar, nuts and popcorn love to pop brackets off

•Avoid sticky, chewy candies like starburst and taffy, and hard to chew foods like slim jim’s and jerky

We all hope you have the best summer, and we’ll see a lot of you soon!

What does Orthodontics have to do with your mental health?

A LOT!

Having orthodontic treatment is more than just straightening your teeth to help with your overall oral health, or helping correct any problems with your bite. The smile you leave our office with at the end of treatment will have you walking a little taller and socializing more. Smiling is linked to dopamine and serotonin, which help lift you mood, and smiling has also been known to lower stress levels!

But what happens when you don't like your smile- you hate how your teeth overlap or you have a big gap that you just *know* people stare at while you're talking? When you're self conscious about something that is so front and center, lots of things can happen. You end up participating in conversations less and less, and you may seek out situations and jobs where you have limited or no contact with the public (like a work from home possibility). Not liking your smile and how you see yourself can also lead to lowered confidence in other aspects of your life. This can really start to impact your overall mental health and potentially lead to depression.

If you're noticing your smile is impacting your daily life because you feel self conscious about your teeth, give our office a call to schedule a complimentary consult with Dr. Kennell. He, along with our amazing team, can help you start your journey to a more healthy, confident you!

If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health dial 988 or text "HOME" to 741741 for 24/7 support.

As we approach the end of 2025, here are a few highlights of our year at Kennell Orthodontics!

Super exciting, we started a few cases of LightForce. LightForce is ceramic 3D-printed brackets that are customized to each tooth. Patients like the aesthetic of the brackets because it blends well with the natural tooth color. We even got to visit the headquarters in Wilmington, Massachusetts where they print the brackets which was super cool to see!

We also had new photo-op signs made! We have "In my Kennell Ortho Era", "In my Braces Era", "Feelin' Groovy with my KOsmile." Next time you are in the office you will have to check them out! We made LIMITED TIME ONLY "In My Kennell Ortho Era" T-shirts. Get yourself one before they sell out (You can trade in your points to get one or when you start treatment you can pick one as your prize!)

We had a really fun Labubu Contest entailed patients designing their own Labubu for a chance to win a CUSTOMIZED Labubu with REAL braces! We hope to have another contest like this in the future, so keep your eye out for the next one! We love staying trendy with what our patients are into so that we can make coming to the orthodontist fun!

Dr. Kennell won "Best of the Lakes Region" for another year! Congratulations to the Best Orthodontist, our team and patients are so lucky!

We look forward to what 2026 will bring, stay tuned and have a Happy New Year!

What are Elastics? Elastics are the very tiny rubber bands that hook up to certain brackets on your teeth or slots/buttons of your Invisalign aligners.

What do Elastics do? Elastics are placed on certain brackets to apply force to the teeth in order to fix your bite. The way in which you will wear them depends on whether you have an overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite, etc. It is super important for you to wear the elastics because it means your teeth need to move in a way that braces alone cannot fix. This is also a responsibility that you as a patient have to do on your own when you leave the office. If you want to finish treatment on time or have a more comfortable bite then we NEED your help!

How do I care for my Elastics? You will be given a few bags of elastics, usually containing about 100 each. Make sure to keep these in safe places where you will remember. Maybe one at home, one in your school bag, or even one in your car. Any of the places you will be the most. If you do keep them in the car, make sure to keep them out of direct sunlight because that will effect the elasticity.

Elastics will lose their elasticity anyways, so we usually recommend changing them once a day. Elastics can also be changed anytime you take them out to eat/brush. We want you to stay hygienic even with orthodontic care. You should be washing your hands before putting them in your mouth, and then washing again after putting the new set of elastics. Especially with the sick season among us, it is just a good rule of thumb to wash before/after putting your hands near your mouth.

If you are allergic to latex, please remind your Orthodontist/Orthodontic assitants as they will provide you with latex-free elastics instead!

Try your best to wear your elastics even if it is uncomfortable to start, it will get easier! It will only help your Orthodontic Journey!

If you ever need more elastics please call and let us know, we also have an Emergency Box outside of all of the offices that you are welcome to at anytime!

The start of the new school year is approaching whether we like it or not! For any newbies that got their braces, or started Invisalign treatment this summer, this post is especially for YOU!

For Invisalign aligners - wear them all day at school. Only take them out to eat and have any drinks that are not water. Make sure you have your aligner case with you so that you do not leave them laying on a paper towel (they will get thrown away or damaged!)

After lunch, you will want to brush your teeth before putting your Invisalign aligners back in! Bringing a hygiene kit with you to school might be a really good idea. This will be useful for patients with braces as well! Your hygiene kit for Invisalign should include a tooth brush and toothpaste, floss, a removal tool, and "chewies" to ensure you can take out and put in your aligners seamlessly.

For your hygiene kit for braces, it should include both a toothbrush and toothpaste, floss, proxy brushes for to get the bigger chunks of food under your wire, maybe some wax incase your brackets are starting to bother your lips or cheeks, and definitely ChapStick as your lips will get dry with braces or Invisalign.

If anything is ever broken or bothering you, make sure to give us a call! We are open after school hours and can be available for you to make sure your treatment is progressing in the most efficient way possible!

Taking care of your teeth is a big responsibility and can be forgotten along with the other responsibilities during school too. Just remember how important it is to maintain having healthy teeth while in treatment! If you follow these steps you should be just fine!

Kennell Orthodontics wishes you a great school year!

Social media and the internet are the best and fastest ways to get our information these days. But, what we see is not always TRUE. Here are some fads that have surfaced on the internet that you should not believe or follow.

• DIY Braces. There has been a trend of doing your own braces for a fraction of the cost and a fraction of the time. As much as that sounds tempting it will also be a fraction of the quality and a fraction of the knowledge that you will have from a trusted orthodontist. Please do NOT participate in this. This will only cause more problems to your overall dental health.

• Mewing. This is the practice of doing chewing exercises to maintain proper positioning of the tongue and strengthen the jaw muscles. This is more of a holistic kind of treatment that is believed to change facial shape and creates more space for teeth to align. Unfortunately there is no way to prove that this actually works. You are better off saving your time and energy by visiting your local trusted orthodontist for a consult!

• Removing your brackets with a spoon or any other at-home tools has been trendy on Tik Tok. Whatever you do, NEVER remove your brackets on your own. This can cause extreme damage to your teeth in many ways. Orthodontists use special tools in office to remove the brackets and to also remove glue in a specific way.

To conclude, do not believe everything you see online. Unfortunately it can be so easy to want to follow a trend. A short video doesn't always show the aftermath or damage that happens in reality! Stay safe and leave it to your orthodontist! It will be worth it in the end!

If you want to stay connected with what's happening at Kennell Orthodontics make sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Tik Tok!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KennellOrtho

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kennellortho/

TikTok: kennellortho

There are weekly posts sharing our patients getting their braces on and braces off or starting/ending their Invisalign treatment! We also post the monthly activity so that our patients can keep up with their rewards points! We always make sure to share pictures from any trips Dr. Kennell takes his team on, any fun celebrations going on at the office, the desserts and fun treats that Dr. Kennell makes, and so much more - you'll have to check it out!

While you're at it, if you had a great experience at our office, make sure to leave us a Google or Facebook review at any point! This will also earn you 50 bonus points! We truly appreciate your feedback! Thank you - The Kennell Ortho Team.

You may be coming to the end of your orthodontic treatment and wondering what comes next? For both braces and Invisalign, it all comes to an end with a retainer to keep the retention of your new, beautiful smile. The most common question we get asked is "How long do I have to wear this for?" and our answer is always the same: "For as long as you want your teeth to be straight." This truly is a lifetime commitment if you would like to preserve the treatment you went through.

Of course, one retainer will not last you a lifetime just due to wear and tear overtime. Thankfully the Invisalign retainers that you receive once treatment is finished are a plastic that is 30% thicker than normal Invisalign aligners. They should last you around 2-3 years but all depends on each individual and how well they are taken care of.

For our patients coming out of braces, we recommend wearing your retainers for the first 3 days full time (taking them out to eat/brush/drink sugary drinks) and then it is just to bed every night from there on out.

For Invisalign patients, directions are slightly different, instead we recommend wearing your retainers for 14 hours a day for the first 3 months, then just to bed every night after that.

The first set of retainers is always included in the cost of your whole treatment. Any set after that will be for a fee. We just started offering a promotion for our patients nearing the end. At the appointment that you get your scan done, you can choose to get a SECOND set of retainers for $100 off, OR get a free Invisalign whitening kit that can be used with your retainers!!

We also offer a retainer subscription through the Invisalign app, which allows you to order your retainers whenever you need without having to come into the office. If you are interested, let us know and we will send you the link at your last visit with us!

Lastly, if you ever get away from your retainers for too long and they do not fit anymore and you've noticed some shifting please get in contact with us ASAP! It could be a simple fix for a fee, but will be better than letting it getting even worse!

There are many exciting things the Kennell Ortho team accomplished during the year 2024. Now it is already coming to an end! Let us do a quick recap for you on some of our favorite highlights!

The first thing that comes to mind is our trip to the AAO meeting in New Orleans, Louisiana. This was a great experience for the KO team to bond and to learn how to become a better office collectively. We learned communication skills, how to use our materials effectively, how to keep our ourselves and our patients safe, and got up to speed on what's new in the orthodontic world.

After the trip to the AAO conference, we were influenced to buy the latest i-Tero scanner which is much faster and much more efficient!

We updated our Rewards Program by adding a $10 Walmart gift card as one of our prizes.

We tried our first Invisalign Palate Expander that went very well (read more in our blog from November, "What is an Invisalign Palate Expander"). We have also had lots of our patients starting Phase I Invisalign treatment in general. We have had great results and have been impressed by how responsible our younger patients are.

Along with the Phase I Invisalign, there are now stickers that patients can stick on their aligners to add some fun!

We now offer Croc charms to any of our patients that come into our offices wearing their Crocs. We just got new ones in for the Holiday season!

Dr. Kennell attended the Invisalign Study Club in Costa Rica. He got to see how they actually create the Invisalign aligners and so much more!

Dr. Kennell took the KO team to see Mamma Mia Live in Boston! Then we enjoyed a delicious dinner at Nico Ristorante!

The whole KO team celebrated Halloween by dressing up as the different emotions from the movie Inside Out 2! So fun! The KO team also attended the annual Lakes Region Dental and Oral Surgery Halloween Party!

We delivered yummy pies to our referring dental offices to show our appreciation!

The front porch at the Laconia office was completely redone with new steps and railings! We hope you like it as much as we do!

Before we are off for the holidays, the KO team got together for a Christmas party at Gusto. Dr. Kennell bought personalized tote bags for everyone. Katie made personalized ornaments. All of us swapped gifts and played fun games! Good times had by all!

We hope you all have safe, happy, and healthy holidays. We can't wait to see what this New Year brings!

The newest appliance we have tried at Kennell Orthodontics is the the Invisalign Palatal Expander. The expander does the same kind of expanding that a regular Hyrax or Quad Helix, metal appliances, would do. It is just a new type of system made by Invisalign.

***Unfortunately not every patient qualifies for the Invisalign Palatal Expander***

But for those who might be eligible for this kind of expander. Let us tell you about it!

First of all, the Invisalign Palatal Expanders are 3D-printed, this makes for a custom fit to our patients teeth and palate. There are a series of multiple expanders that are to be changed everyday that slightly widen the palate creating room for adult teeth to come in.

The expander is easy enough for patients of any age to insert and remove on their own. This also makes it easier for patients to brush and floss because they can remove the appliance. There are no food restrictions because it is removable.

Here is the before, during, and after of our first patient to try the Invisalign Palatal Expander. She had great results and gave us great feedback on the experience.

Ask us about the Invisalign Palatal Expander if you come for a consultation, it just might be the perfect fit for your child's Phase I treatment!

October is National Orthodontic Health Month and Halloween is right around the corner! We have compiled a list of treats you can still have with braces on. We want to make sure your braces stay in tact, but we also want your teeth to stay healthy as well. Candy and sweets are okay in moderation, just make sure to brush and floss very well after!

Good Treats:

• Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
• Kit Kats
• 3 Musketeers
• Plain M&M’s
• Oreo’s & Soft Cookies
• Plain Hershey Bars & Hershey Kisses
• Peppermint Patties
• Pixy Stix

Candy to trade off to your friends/family:

• Taffy
• Bubblegum
• Chewy candies (Tootsie Rolls, Sugar Daddies, Sugar Babies)
• Caramel or candy apples
• Snickers, Mounds, Almond Joys, Twix
• Popcorn and popcorn balls
• Hard candies (Nerds, Jolly Ranchers, Lollipops)
• Jelly candies (Dots, Swedish Fish, Any kind of Gummies)

Have a Happy and Safe Halloween!

Summer is here and its a hot one! What’s better than a delicious treat to cool you down after a long day in the summer sun! Luckily, we have just the thing, homemade Orange Creamsicles! The perfect treat for kids and adults to enjoy, braces-friendly too! You can find the complete recipe below:

Ingredients:

1 cup orange juice (fresh or frozen)
1 cup heavy cream or full fat coconut milk (or melted/very soft vanilla ice cream)
3 tablespoons honey
¼ teaspoon orange extract
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk all the ingredients together.
2. Pour the mixture into a popsicle mold.
3. Let set in freezer for 30 – 60 minutes before adding popsicle sticks.
4. Freeze for another 4 – 6 hours.
5. Run warm water along the outside of the mold to loosen the popsicles before serving.

Have a great Summer!

As most orthodontic patient's might remember, getting alginate impressions of their teeth was never an enjoyable experience. The ooey-gooey material would take what felt like forever to set up and always made everyone want to gag! It was something you wouldn't forget and that you hoped you'd never have to do again!

Thankfully, technology has advanced so much over the years that alginate impressions are not as common in orthodontic offices. Digital intraoral scanners, such as the I-Tero, have been created to capture every nook and cranny of the teeth in a much easier and efficient way. The scanner is capturing hundreds of pictures per minute to create a 3D impression of the teeth. This 3D impression can now be used for the orthodontist to create a treatment plan. It can also be used to send to the lab to have retainers and other appliances made. So much easier than having to mail out an actual plaster model of the teeth!! It used to take forever!

Here are some of the benefits of using the I-Tero intraoral scanner instead of alginate impressions:

• Patient Comfort - One of the most important things that matters to our office is that our patients are comfortable during treatment. The I-Tero scanner is much quicker, easier, and much more comfortable than traditional impressions.

• No more mess or wasted materials - With traditional impressions, you need to size the impression tray meaning you would have to take time to clean the ones not used. Then, you have to quickly mix the alginate material with water really fast to then load it in the impression tray. It gets EVERYWHERE, all over the sinks, all over the assistants, all over the patients. If the impression did not come out good the first time, you have to keep trying until it is right. This means many wasted supplies and materials. With the I-Tero scanner, the only material being switched out for every patient is the wand tip. It is quick and easy to clean the device and put a new one on.

• Patient Involvement - It is so important for patients to be involved in treatment and understand why we recommend the things we do. With traditional impressions, patients most likely don't get to see their plaster models after they have the impressions done. The I-Tero scanner allows patients to see their teeth as a 3D model, right in front of them. Not many people get to see their teeth from that perspective. It also allows patients to point out their concerns and ask questions!

• Faster and More Accurate - Traditional impressions may have taken up to 10 minutes to do both top and bottom, but could be longer depending on if you had to re-do them and set-up time. Dr. Kennell's Orthodontic office averaged just over 4 minutes to scan the upper and lower arches with a bite scan. Way faster! The I-Tero scanner is so much more accurate and precise compared to traditional impressions that could have bubbles and voids.

• Efficiency - After impressions were done, they were made into plaster models of the teeth and had to be mailed to labs and also took up a lot of space to store them. Now, with the click of a button the 3D models can be sent to the lab in seconds. Then they are 3D printed to make appliances, aligners, and or retainers out of! Super efficient!

All three of Dr. Kennell's offices, Laconia, Littleton, and Plymouth are equipped with one or more I-Tero scanners of the newest model. After recently going to the AAO conference in Louisiana, the Kennell Orthodontics team was able to try out the newest I-Tero wand. Being able to physically try out the wand convinced Dr. Kennell and his team that they needed it in their offices!!

The I-Tero "Lumina" intraoral scanner has even more benefits:

• Takes high-quality, photorealistic scans
• Has a wider field of view, making it easier to capture
• Ergonomically easier on the assistants
• More comfortable for patients since the wand is 50% smaller than the older version
• 2x the speed to capture the entire mouth

Dr. Kennell's orthodontic office is excited to share this new technology with their patients to make for an even better experience! He will continue to stay up to date with the newest technology, who knows what will be created next!!

With the new year starting, getting your teeth fixed might be, or should be part of your New Years Resolutions! Whether it is for your child or for yourself it could be a good idea to see an orthodontist. Knowing the difference between Phase I and Phase II treatment can help give you a better understanding of how soon to have your child looked at and the importance of it.

Let's start with Phase I, or early age orthodontics. This phase of treatment can be very useful in cases when patients have crowding, misaligned bites, jaw discrepancies, and or protruding teeth. Phase I treatment usually starts in young patients between 7 to 10 years old. A child is still growing and developing with a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth during this age range. This gives the perfect advantage to start correcting dental issues before they can get worse.

Some options for Phase I treatment include retainers, palate expanders, space maintainers, braces, and in some cases Invisalign. Removable retainers can help teeth stay in place to prevent shifting, guiding adult teeth into place, and even help with jaw development. Space maintainers will aid in maintaining the space needed to allow the adult teeth to grow and erupt correctly. Palate expanders help with correcting jaw growth problems in patients with narrow palates. Expanding the palate will make teeth less crowded and make room for the proper alignment of adult teeth. The use of limited braces is typically for cases when patients have overcrowding or issues with their bite.

All in all, Phase I orthodontics will do the early work in guiding the adult teeth in the right direction, whether its making space or maintaining the space for them to develop.

This now leads us into the next phase of treatment, Phase II orthodontics. Some patients who were in Phase I treatment will still need Phase II treatment later on, but less work is needed. Other patients do not need Phase I treatment and will just begin with Phase II.

Depending on how severe the misalignment of the teeth are, or if there are any jaw discrepancies or impacted teeth, it would be important for the patient to begin their treatment sooner than later.

The most common treatments in Phase II orthodontics include braces, traditional or clear brackets, and clear aligners, usually Invisalign. Both treatments can succeed in fixing misalignment or malocclusions based on what the patients needs are. It also depends on preferences, if you do not prefer to have the braces showing, maybe clear brackets or clear aligners would suit you best. In certain cases, extractions may be a necessity to make room for overcrowded teeth. If a patient has impacted teeth they may need surgery to expose the tooth and guide it in the right direction. The orthodontist will develop a treatment plan that will go over all of the expectations throughout your treatment.

To conclude, the main difference between Phase I and Phase II orthodontic treatment, is the desired result. Phase I aims to fix urgent issues that cannot wait until the permanent teeth develop. Whereas Phase II is important in making sure the adult teeth come together in proper alignment.

Setting up a consultation with your local orthodontist would be a good idea, especially when it comes to whether your child will need Phase I treatment or not. Dr. Kennell of Laconia, Plymouth, and Littleton, NH offers free consultations and will inform you if Phase I treatment is needed or if there is still time to wait!

The holiday season is all about spending time with family and friends, giving gifts, and of course eating plenty of food. Unfortunately not all of the foods during the holidays are braces friendly. We want to make sure you are aware because our office will be closed from Christmas until after the new year. Nobody wants to spend their holiday break with broken brackets!

Let's see what is on the Naughty and Nice lists this year!

Naughty List of Foods:

• Candy Canes are a Christmas classic, but are very hard. If you do choose to have them make sure you only lick/suck on them!
• Caramel is usually included during some holiday desserts, unfortunately it is so gooey and sticky that it will be stuck all over your braces.
• Snack Mix usually has nuts and or other hard, crunchy ingredients that you'll want to avoid.
• Popcorn is a typical holiday treat that comes in all different flavors, but the kernels will get stuck in your braces, especially the caramel corn. Steer clear even though its tempting!

Nice List of Foods:

• Pie in flavors like pumpkin, apple, cherry or any other fruit will do!
• Ice Cream is a great side to have with your pie!
• Fudge is a nice, soft dessert to have as long as it doesn't have caramel or nuts.
• Deviled Eggs are a great snack that is so easy to overeat, but were not judging!
• Veggie Platters are a healthy choice to have just make sure your carrots and crunchy vegetables are chopped up smaller before you eat them.
• Meat is usually the main course for holiday dinners, whether its turkey or ham you should be good. If you're enjoying a prime rib just make sure to cut it up into smaller pieces!

So, if you want to stay on Santa and Dr. Kennell's nice list, you will do your best to avoid naughty foods this Holiday season! It is totally fine to still indulge in some wonderful sweet treats, but don't forget to keep up with your brushing and flossing too!

We wish you a merry and bright holiday season this year from Dr. Kennell's Orthodontic Office!

When we think of October, Halloween is usually the first thing we think of! That is why it is the perfect month to also be thinking of orthodontic oral health. This is the month to celebrate healthy, beautiful smiles, while also taking the precautions to keep them that way.

Everyone gets excited to get all dressed up and go trick-or-treating! Patients with braces should absolutely still go out and enjoy Halloween, but just be careful with certain candy! Some of the candies you should trade with your friends are things that are going to be sticky, ooey-gooey, crunchy or too hard on your braces.

Candy to avoid:

• Caramels, Taffy, Jellybeans, Bubblegum
• Jolly Ranchers, Twizzlers, Starbursts
• Popcorn and Nuts

In return, the candies your friends can trade you back with are anything that is soft, or could melt in your mouth.

Candies you can eat safely:

• Chocolate (without caramel or nuts)
• Peanut butter cups
• Kit-Kats
• 3 Musketeers
• Pixy Stix

Equally important, Dr. Kennell, along with other orthodontists, would appreciate you taking the initiative to care for your braces this Halloween season. Although it is acceptable to eat certain candy, candy still contains sugar. It will be crucial for you to make sure you are brushing your teeth after you enjoy your sweet treats. The best way to do this is by brushing for at least 2 minutes, twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing at least once a day, and finishing up with a fluoride mouth rinse. Alongside, broken brackets only lead to elongating the time you are in treatment, so keep away from the hard/sticky candies.

Have a fun, healthy, and safe Halloween! Don't forget to celebrate Orthodontic Health month this month and throughout the year!

These days we’re seeing more dental offices offering some form of orthodontic treatment, especially options such as Invisalign or other clear aligner brands. At first glance this may seem convenient – you already have a relationship and are at that office for visits. But if you look further, you’ll realize you should trust your orthodontic treatment to a well-trained orthodontist. 

Let’s look at the differences between orthodontists and dentists for a better understanding. 

Dentists 

Dentists first go to college to earn a bachelor’s degree, then they go on to dental school. After completing their four-year doctoral program, they can go on to begin practicing general dentistry.  

Dentists provide regular check-ups, diagnose and treat cavities and gum disease, as well as other oral hygiene issues. They can extract teeth when necessary, and provide cosmetic or restorative treatments, such as veneers, crowns or bridges. Dentists also check for oral disease and provide education on maintaining your oral health. 

Dentists who offer orthodontic treatment have had minimal orthodontic training, usually a weekend hotel course where they learn the basics of braces or Invisalign. 

Orthodontists 

Orthodontists begin the same way as dentists – they obtain a bachelor’s degree before going on to an accredited dental school for a four-year doctoral program. After graduating, he or she is a dentist and could choose to begin practicing.  

However, some graduates opt for a dental specialty. Orthodontics is one of those specialties. In order to call oneself an orthodontist, one must be accepted into and complete an additional two-to-three-year orthodontic residency program. This is where the orthodontist studies the intricacies of dental malocclusions and gains the knowledge and skill necessary to treat orthodontic patients. 

Every orthodontist is a dentist, however, not every dentist is an orthodontist.  This is an extremely important distinction, especially as we are seeing more dentists offering treatment options such as Invisalign in their offices. 

Orthodontists have unique training in the science of moving teeth safely that a general dentist just doesn’t have. Moving teeth is what an orthodontist does each and every day. Most orthodontists see upwards of 60-80 patients per day while a typical general dentist may see 15-20 patients per day with only one or two being an orthodontic case. 

Orthodontists are trained to guide teeth to their ideal positions, as well as ensuring a bite is strong and jaws are properly aligned, in order to create a stable, harmonious and beautiful smile. Orthodontists offer a variety of treatment plans and options, rather than just one, for an important reason – not every treatment is right for every patient. 

Invisalign is the typical orthodontic treatment option that dentists receive training on. But these clear aligners aren’t always the most ideal option for every patient. Some patients have malocclusions that are too severe to be properly treated with it while others may just not respond well to treatment. 

If your provider is only trained on one type of treatment, what happens if that treatment doesn’t work and needs to be changed? Will your provider recognize that a change needs to happen? 

If your dentist [or your child’s dentist] is recommending orthodontic treatment, insist on seeing an orthodontic specialist – why trust your smile to anyone else? 

Call today to set up your complimentary initial appointment with Dr.Kennell today!

(603) 524-7404

It’s that time of year again and if you're just starting out in Ortho treatment or need a quick reminder, here are some ideas on what to pack in your lunchbox for school!

Soft foods are easier and more comfortable to eat and are less likely to be caught in braces.  However choices like gummies, fruit roll ups, taffy etc. will stick like glue!

Some other brace friendly suggestions:

• Banana slices, grape halves, and thinly cut (peeled) apples (dip them all in a bit of lemon juice to keep them from browning)
• Canned peaches or pears, fruit cocktail and Mandarin orange slices
• Applesauce or any of the mixed fruit “sauces” in individual servings
• Thin carrot-curls made with a scraper, plus a small container of grated cheese or hummus, with torn-up fresh pita bread for scooping
• Individual pudding and yogurt cups
• Avocadoes sliced or mashed

The goal is to be soft enough to chew, healthy and filling to keep your mind and teeth strong. 

Monthly rewards: Don't forget to fill out & bring your monthly rewards to your next appointment! An easy 20 patient rewards points! Keep your eyes out for our September monthly rewards!

September back to school contest!!!!

Have you entered our back to school contest?

Guess how many Invisalign aligners are in the jar! One lucky winner will receive a backpack full of school supplies!!!

-We hope you had a fantastic summer, and have an easy transition back to school!

-The KO team

As much as we love Summer, we know the beginning of August is a reminder in a few short weeks, Back to School activities will be in full swing!  Kennell Orthodontics wants to send your children back to school prepared for school life with braces or new orthodontic treatments. Pack your child their very own "Back to School with Braces" kit - something as simple as a ziplock plastic bag including items such as:  Orthopicks, orthodontic rubber bands, mini toothbrush and toothpaste, orthodontic wax, small mirror, floss, retainer case and tissues. This kit can easily be tucked into their backpack or locker and will help as a reminder of orthodontic care even when at school.  Start the school year off right with these reminders:

• Bring retainer cases to lunch room and keep retainer in it to avoid accidentally throwing it away with lunch trash.
• Always wear protective mouth guard for all fall sports - this will help prevent brackets from breaking and inner lip from rubbing against braces.

Stay ahead of the Back to School shopping rush by preparing these orthodontic kits now.

And enjoy your last few weeks of summer!

-The KO Team

School is out for Summer and we're ready for sunshine and time to relax!

As school ends and you're on Summer break, we still want you to be conscious of the foods you're eating. If you're in Invisalign treatment you may remove your Invisalign trays and consume whatever foods you wish. (Making sure you brush well before putting your trays back in).

Here are a list of brace safe foods and treats!

• Sugar Cookies
• Chocolate Bars without nuts or caramel
• Ice Cream
• Cup Cakes
• Hamburgers
• Hot Dogs
• Fruit
• Potato Salad
• Pasta Salad

Foods to Avoid:

• Corn on the cob
• Smore's
• Hard chips or pretzels
• Popcorn
• Caramel
• Gum

We want you to enjoy your summer and indulge in treats, just make sure you're mindful of the things you're eating!

We hope you enjoy a safe & fun summer! And can't wait to hear all about the trips and fun adventures you were able to go on this summer!

May is National Teen self-esteem month, so what better time to talk about the importance of teen self-esteem. Actually, self-esteem in all ages is really important! National Teen Self-Esteem Month was established to create awareness about the negative effects poor self-esteem causes among the teen population. During this month, parents and guardians are encouraged to act as positive role models, help stop negative self-images, and improve confidence and security among adolescents.

What is self-esteem? The Webster’s dictionary says: Self-Esteem-The esteem or good opinion of oneself. Now let's look at what Esteem is- to set value on, to regard with respect. So, for us to have self-esteem we need to have a good view of ourselves and be respectful to ourselves as well. Why is self-esteem so important? One, we make better decisions for ourselves when we are not lacking self-esteem. We want to value who we are, love who we are and make good decisions for our self, to reinforce our self worth, thereby strengthening our self-esteem.

Treating ourselves with respect is totally in our hands, we have complete control over this one. If you have the choice to do something good or bad for yourself, you have the choice to do what’s good, and no one can stop you. We have to remember that our opinion of ourselves really starts with us, not outside influences - not people, not the media!

Here are a couple quick tips to strengthen and maintain our sense of self and build confidence:

• Learn to love yourself for who you are
• Respect yourself, make good decisions
• Know your opinions of yourself, come from you, not the opinions of others
• Realize what make you shine is on the inside, not what you look like

So, go out in the world and know you are good enough and are perfect just the way you are. And remember, although it might sound cliche, treat others the way you want to be treated!

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends to:
Play it safe!

Wear a mouth guard at every practice and every game!! Mouth guards and other types of protective gear can prevent or reduce injuries that happen during organized and recreational sports.

Mouth guards offer protection by absorbing high-impact energy from potentially traumatic blows.

Mouth Guard Care

• Keep your mouth guard clean - rinse before and after each use
• Store in a perforated container to let your mouth guard dry out
• Avoid chewing on the mouth guard
• Don't wear removable retainers with your mouth guard
• Replace your mouth guard when it shows signs of wear

Wish you could wrap your kids in bubble wrap to protect them?

Good news - mouth guards are better than bubble wrap for facial protection and are much more practical! Check out this video.

What's the best type of mouth guard? The one that's worn.

For athletes currently in orthodontic treatment:

•  Don't use a mouth guard with your braces that you boil first. It may wrap around the braces and get stuck in place, or cause damage to your braces. Also, keep in mind that the teeth are continuing to move, so you do not want to have a mouthguard specifically molded to your teeth as they are changing.
• Contact the office or ask Dr. Kennell directly on what type of mouthguard you can   wear.

Congratulations, your orthodontic treatment is complete! You are now in the retention phase of treatment. This can also be known as the preservation period, because you will actively be working towards preserving your new smile. When treatment is complete and orthodontic appliances are removed, there is a “settling” period in which teeth can adjust as you bite, chew, swallow and speak. These small changes in tooth position are not a failure of orthodontic treatment, but a natural process.

Your orthodontist will give you a set of retainers to be worn as prescribed. If your retainer is not worn as your orthodontist recommends, then you may have large changes in tooth position. This can be disappointing after you dedicate many months to orthodontic treatment. If you are in the retention phase of treatment and you notice any unwanted change, it is important to contact your orthodontist right away.

Retainers are a lifelong commitment. The best way to maintain your beautiful new smile is to wear retainers as prescribed by your orthodontist!

Each February the American Dental Association (ADA) has sponsored National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. Developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.
For kids wearing braces, brushing and flossing can become more difficult, requiring extra time and vigilance to remove food particles that accumulate on and between the teeth and in braces. Other options for braces such as Invisalign, which is removable, make it easier for kids to maintain good oral health during orthodontic treatment.

If the health of your teeth is ignored during treatment with braces, the results can be significantly compromised. Dr. Alan Kennell and his team are available and happy to explain why effective brushing and flossing are some of the most critical actions needed from patients during orthodontic treatment. Have you visited us lately? Give us a call and schedule an appointment!

As 2022 comes to an end, we like to reflect on all of the positive things we were able to achieve as a team!

With the help of our amazing patients we were able to collect & donate food to our local Boys and Girls Club! With donation boxes in each of our office locations, we had donations from Laconia, Plymouth & Littleton!!!

We are also participating in a second food drive for the month of December!!

All donations will be donated to our local Boys and Girls Club.

The Kennell Ortho team also got to celebrate our Christmas party in style this year! In NYC!! Taking a break from our busy work schedule and spending time team building! We attended the Rockettes at Radio City. Also visiting Times Square & Rockefeller Center! An experience of a lifetime!

As we reflect on the year we've had, we are thankful for our wonderful team. As we couldn't make it through the days without such hardworking, dedicated and passionate employees. We are also fortunate to be able to work with so many amazing patients! To be able to create beautiful smiles is everything to us, but to do it laughing and building  those relationships with our patients means the world to us. Thank you all for a wonderful year. We're excited to see what 2023 has in store for us!

Sincerely,

The Kennell Ortho Team

Here at Kennell Orthodontics we look forward to giving back to our community. During the month of November, we will be accepting and donating non-perishable food items to our local Boys and Girls Club! Donations will be accepted until November 15th. Each of our office locations will have their own donation boxes.

Where?

Laconia - 783 North Main Street
Laconia, NH 03246

Plymouth - 94 Boulder Point Dr, Plymouth, NH 03264

Littleton - 81 Bethlehem Rd, Littleton, NH 03561

We would like to thank everyone who has donated and shared the word for this food drive. We appreciate all of your support!

We all know what the month of November also brings us...THANKSGIVING!  

While going through orthodontic treatment there are some limitations of foods you can have. But we still want you to be able to enjoy the holidays with your loved ones. Listed below are some Braces friendly foods!

Soft meats: Ham, Turkey

Bread

Stuffing

Casseroles 

Cooked vegetables 

Desserts: Jell-O, Pudding, Cakes, Pie

AVOID: Sticky, Chewy, Hard, Crunchy foods 

Happy October! For those who don't know, it’s National Orthodontic Health Month. This month-long event is organized by the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Dr.Kennell and our team realize that this is a great opportunity for us to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene.

Brushing and flossing is essential in maintaining good oral hygiene. While in orthodontic treatment you want to make sure you're brushing after every meal and flossing daily. We understand that during the month of October Halloween is a commonly celebrated holiday. We won't want you to miss out on this fun so listed below are braces friendly candy.

• Hershey’s Chocolate Bar
• Hershey’s Kisses
• Peppermint Patties
• 3 Musketeers
• Kit Kat

The AAO recommends patients avoid the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

• Caramel
• Nuts
• Popcorn (including un-popped kernels)
• Taffy
• Jellybeans
• Hard pretzels
• Licorice
• Bubblegum

National Orthodontic Health Month also aims to recognize the dedicated work of orthodontists like Dr. Kennell and other dental professionals in Laconia, NH.

And of course, if you ever have any questions feel free to give us a call at the office or ask at your next appointment.

Rule of thumb is, if you're unsure about being able to eat certain foods or candy. We will ask that you bring it into the office so Dr.Kennell can try said food or candy himself. He will then let you know if it's braces friendly or not!!

As much as we love Summer, we know the beginning of August is a reminder in a few short weeks, Back to School activities will be in full swing!  Kennell Orthodontics wants to send your children back to school prepared for school life with braces or new orthodontic treatments. Pack your child their very own "Back to School with Braces" kit - something as simple as a ziplock plastic bag including items such as:  Orthopicks, orthodontic rubber bands, mini toothbrush and toothpaste, orthodontic wax, small mirror, floss, retainer case and tissues. This kit can easily be tucked into their backpack or locker and will help as a reminder of orthodontic care even when at school.  Start the school year off right with these reminders:

• Bring retainer cases to lunch room and keep retainer in it to avoid accidentally throwing it away with lunch trash.
• Always wear protective mouth guard for all fall sports - this will help prevent brackets from breaking and inner lip from rubbing against braces.

Stay ahead of the Back to School shopping rush by preparing these orthodontic kits now

The Kennell Ortho team would also like to invite you to our end of summer Patient Appreciation night!

When: Friday August 26th

Where: Smitty's Cinema Tilton NH 5pm-8pm

Just RSVP on our Facebook page! We will have food and prizes! 

Kick back and enjoy the last weeks of summer!!

Take a look at this years SPIRIT WEEK Themed Days and get ready to have some summer fun with the Kennell Ortho team!

This is a week you won't want to miss! 

• All patients who participate will receive 25 BONUS rewards points!!!
• Did we mention ice cream?! We will also be handing out ice cream to our patients during this week. From Monday July 11th-Friday July 15th
• Come in and don't miss the fun!!!

We would also like to mention we will be having a patient appreciation night!

(Movie ,Food, Prizes provided) All you have to do is visit our Facebook page and RVSP.

When: Friday August 26th

Where: Smitty's Cinema Tilton NH

Time: 5pm-8pm

We look forward to seeing you there!

Did you know? 

According to the American Dental Association, a person's smile outranked eyes, hair and body as the most important physical feature, which is why it's important for our team at Kennell Orthodontics to support National Smile Month this June!

Here are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Month for many, many years to come:

•  Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Here's a helpful video showing you how to brush with your braces on.
•  Floss every day to clean between your teeth.
• Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Kennell.
•  Visit your dentist regularly (usually every six months apart).

The team at Kennell Orthodontics strives for your satisfaction with every visit and wants you to love your smile!

To schedule an appointment with our office give us a call!

• Laconia: (603) 524-7404
• Plymouth: (603) 536-7404
• Littleton: (603) 444-7403
   

May is a very special month. It's a month closer to summer, flowers are blooming, and our days are a little bit brighter. Another special thing about the month of May is Mother's Day! When you're a patient at Kennell Orthodontics you're not only a patient but you are family. We not only enjoy creating beautiful smiles we like giving you a reason to smile!

Did you know when your a patient with us you automatically receive patient rewards points?! You accumulate points for a variety of different things.

Examples:

Showing up to appointments on time

No broken brackets

Scheduling your next appointment before leaving the office

-And hang in there with me this is where things get good..

*Doing our monthly rewards contest!!!*

These points can be cashed in anytime throughout your treatment and exchanged for a variety of different things.

• Gift cards (DQ, Amazon, DD)
• KO swag apparel
• Water bottles
• etc

We recently did a fun and very moving Mom Hero Contest 

We received some of the most heartfelt, loving, kind entries as to why our patient's Mom Hero inspires them. It was hard to pick just one entry winner! But we hope our lucky winner enjoys her spa basket! 

Today and every day all of you moms inspire us! Thank you for all that you do!

-The Kennell Ortho Team

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends to:
Play it safe!

Wear a mouth guard at every practice and every game!! Mouth guards and other types of protective gear can prevent or reduce injuries that happen during organized and recreational sports.

Mouth guards offer protection by absorbing high-impact energy from potentially traumatic blows.

Mouth Guard Care

• Keep your mouth guard clean - rinse before and after each use
• Store in a perforated container to let your mouth guard dry out
• Avoid chewing on the mouth guard
• Don't wear removable retainers with your mouth guard
• Replace your mouth guard when it shows signs of wear

Wish you could wrap your kids in bubble wrap to protect them?

True orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but when they do occur, we are here to assist you. As a general rule, you should call the office when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can't take care of yourself. We’ll be able to schedule an appointment with our office.

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you get in to see us.

The following solutions may help you relieve your discomfort:

Poking Wire: Using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down or place wax on it to alleviate the discomfort.

Loose Bracket or Band: If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. If the wire comes out entirely, wrap the bracket with a tissue.

Loose Wire: Using tweezers, try to place your wire back into place. If doing this and using wax does not help, as a last resort use a small fingernail clipper to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If your discomfort continues, place wax on it.

Loose Appliance: If your appliance is poking you, place wax on the offending part of your appliance.

Headgear Does Not Fit: Sometimes headgear discomfort is caused by not wearing the headgear as instructed by your orthodontist. Please refer to the instructions provided by your orthodontist. If the facebow is bent, please call our office for assistance. Surprisingly, headgear becomes more comfortable the more it's worn, so be sure you’re getting in the prescribed hours.

General Soreness: When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater mouthwash. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8 ounces of warm water and rinse your mouth vigorously. If the tenderness is severe, take aspirin or what you would normally take for headache or similar pain.

Remember, after alleviating your discomfort, it is still very important that you call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem.

• Laconia: (603) 524-7404
• Plymouth: (603) 536-7404
• Littleton: (603) 444-7403

Each February the American Dental Association (ADA) has sponsored National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. Developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.
For kids wearing braces, brushing and flossing can become more difficult, requiring extra time and vigilance to remove food particles that accumulate on and between the teeth and in braces. Other options for braces such as Invisalign, which is removable, make it easier for kids to maintain good oral health during orthodontic treatment.

If the health of your teeth is ignored during treatment with braces, the results can be significantly compromised. Dr. Alan Kennell and his team are available and happy to explain why effective brushing and flossing are some of the most critical actions needed from patients during orthodontic treatment. Have you visited us lately? Give us a call and schedule an appointment!

With 2021 in our rearview and 2022 under our feet, we're moving forward from one of the most challenging years we've had to face. Although we faced many obstacles throughout the year of 2021 we did have a lot to celebrate as well.

In 2021 the Kennell Ortho team was able to:

• Have a week long patient appreciation Ice cream social
• Celebrate the birthdays of team members and patients
• Give out awesome prizes for some fun rewards contests
• Celebrate the work anniversaries of our wonderful employees
• Celebrate Boss' Day
• Help with a food drive for our local Boys and Girls Club (2 months in a row)
• Enjoy a Christmas party with our team
• Had a world-renowned coach and consultant Rosemary Bray visit our office

Oh..And snacks we survived on LOTS of snacks!!!

We are truly blessed to do what we love every day, and to be able to do it with the best team and group of patients is honestly the greatest blessing!

We look forward to making many more memories with you in 2022!

Happy New Year!!!

-The Kennell Ortho Team

Happy Holidays! 

The Kennell Ortho family would like to wish everyone a happy holiday season! This time of year is about giving, and spending time with your loved ones. If you are a current patient of ours, a previous patient of ours, or join your journey with us in the future. You know how much we enjoy giving to the community. For the month of November we held a food drive for our local Boys and Girls Club. We had an awesome turn out with the help of our wonderful patients!  We enjoyed this so much we decided to extend the food drive into the month of December! 

 How does this work? 

• Drop off a non perishable food item to one of our 3 office locations
• (If you're a current patient) you receive 20 patient rewards points for each donation
• If you're not a patient you can still donate to a good cause!

When do I need to turn in donations? 

• December 16th 2021 is the last day we will be taking donations

Where can I drop off my donations?

• Laconia office- 783 North Main Street
  Laconia, NH 03246
• Plymouth office- 94 Boulder Point Dr, Plymouth, NH 03264
• Littleton office- 81 Bethlehem Rd, Littleton, NH 03561

We would like to thank everyone who has donated and shared the word for this food drive. We appreciate all of your support!

Thanksgiving is meant to be spent with friends and family enjoying the company of those around you. And we can't forget the food!!! We understand that with braces some foods are limited. There are still ways for you to enjoy the foods being served!

Brace friendly foods:

Turkey: Remember to cut the meat off the bone before eating it to avoid damaging the braces.                                                                                                                        Ham: Just like the turkey you should have no issues with this one. Cutting meats into smaller pieces may make it easier to eat.
Stuffing
Vegetables: If you have corn, make sure to cut it off the cob. Mashed potatoes, cornbread, steamed vegetables are great choices because they are soft and easy on your teeth.
Muffins: Rolls or other bread. Just double-check that there are no added nuts!

Foods to avoid: 

• Caramels
• Hard croutons, nuts, or crunchy crusts 
• Raw carrots, apples, or corn on the cob ( unless it's cut off the cob) 

These candies may damage orthodontic appliances and can really set your orthodontic treatment back. Stay away from candies such as;

• Caramels
• Taffy
• Hard candy
• Chewy candy
• Jellybeans
• Licorice
• Bubble gum
• WarHeads
• Popcorn

Candies you can eat with braces include;

Softer candies that don't require the force of biting down hard, and more of the candies that will melt in your mouth.

• Chocolate (without caramel or nuts)
• Peanut butter cups
• KitKats
• 3 Musketeers
• Cookies

Make sure to brush thoroughly around your braces especially after indulging in sugary snacks!
No need to miss out on the trick-or-treating fun but enjoy candy in moderation and snack wisely! If you do find a bracket not attached to the tooth, call your orthodontist as soon as possible to make an appointment to repair the loose bracket so your treatment is not delayed.

Back to School activities are back in full swing!  Kennell Orthodontics wants to send your children back to school prepared for school life with braces or new orthodontic treatments. Pack your child their very own "Back to School with Braces" kit - something as simple as a ziplock plastic bag including items such as:  Orthopicks, orthodontic rubber bands, mini toothbrush and toothpaste, orthodontic wax, small mirror, floss, retainer case and tissues. This kit can easily be tucked into their backpack or locker and will help as a reminder of orthodontic care even when at school.  Start the school year off right with these reminders:

• bring retainer cases to lunch room and keep retainer in it to avoid accidentally throwing it away with lunch trash;
• always wear protective mouth guard for all fall sports - this will help prevent brackets from breaking and inner lip from rubbing against braces.

Here at Kennell Orthodontics, the greatest compliment we can receive is one of our patients referring a friend or colleague to our practice.

A successful practice doesn’t just happen. It is the result of a strong commitment to excellence in our treatment and in our relationships with patients and doctors. We would like to take a moment to thank you for showing your confidence in our practice by recommending us to your friends and colleagues. We’re gratified to find how many new patients regularly call on us based on your words of advice.

To show our appreciation, we are kicking off our 2021 PATIENT REFERRAL PROGRAM!

If Kennell Orthodontics begins a treatment plan with a new patient (child or adult) from your qualified referral, you will receive a $50 AmEx CASH CARD and be entered to win the 2021 GRAND PRIZE!

WHAT IS THE 2021 GRAND PRIZE?!?!

One lucky winner will receive a

SEGWAY NINEBOT S!

Happy New Year! With a new year often comes new goals and routines, but what about oral hygiene? Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve your healthiest smile in the New Year!

Brushing

Brush your teeth for two minutes after every meal with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush the outside and inside surfaces of your teeth using small, gentle, circular motions while positioning the head of the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line. Brush your teeth’s chewing surfaces and the inside surface of your front teeth using short, gentle, back-and-forth motions. Pay close attention to the areas around your brackets or other appliances. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.

Flossing

Flossing after every meal will help keep your teeth and braces clean. To floss with braces, use a floss threader or special orthodontic floss to thread the floss behind each wire. Floss the sides of each tooth beneath the gum line to remove plaque and food particles. A water flosser can also be a helpful tool when removing food particles from your braces or orthodontic appliances!

Regular Dentist Visits

Even the best oral hygiene routine still needs to include seeing your dentist regularly for routine check-ups and cleanings! Your dentist can identify cavities and spot potential issues and offer treatment solutions.

Limit Sugary Foods

Try to limit sugar intake, including sugary sports drinks and soda! Sugar contributes to more bacteria and tooth decay. Instead, try to stay hydrated with water! Water can help produce saliva, which naturally washes out the mouth and helps prevent tooth decay.

Holidays can feel like a challenge with braces, especially if this is your first holiday season with them. With Thanksgiving approaching it may come as a relief to know that you can still enjoy many of the traditional holiday foods that you look forward to each year.

These foods are safe for you to eat with braces:
• Turkey/Ham
• Corn that is cut off the cob
• Sweet Potatoes
• Mashed Potatoes
• Stuffing (as long as there are no nuts or crunchy foods hidden within it)
• Green beans (with the same warning to be on the lookout for crunchy items in casseroles)
• Cooked carrots
• Most desserts are safe to eat with braces as long as they aren’t too crunchy or have anything too sticky, like caramel etc. on them.
Enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving!

We are excited to resume normal operations on May 18, 2020!

We can’t wait to see all of our patients once again!  These past few weeks have been quite challenging for ALL of us, but we’ll make it through and be stronger because if it.  All of our patients’ appointments are currently being confirmed, so rest assured if you have not been contacted, you will be.

While the office has been closed, we’ve been working hard behind the scenes to ensure we can reopen safely and efficiently.  We have always taken pride in the cleanliness of our office and our strict adherence to infection control standards, and we will continue to provide comfortable, safe, and effective orthodontic care as we resume our regular business hours.

Kennell Orthodontics follows the infection control recommendations made by the American Dental Association (ADA), the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA.)  We stay up to date on all new rulings and guidance issued to ensure we’re adhering to the most current information and recommendations.

However, as you might imagine, we are going to be taking additional safety measures to help protect both our patients and our team.

Here are a few changes we have implemented in the office:

We will be calling patients the day before the appointment to confirm the appointment time and ask a few screening questions.  You’ll be asked these same questions again when you enter the office.

*** Please RE-SCHEDULE your appointment if you feel sick, have a fever, or have been in contact with someone who has been sick in the last 14 days. ***

We ask that everyone entering the building please wear a mask or other acceptable facial covering.

Please do your best to arrive at your scheduled appointment time – not too early and [please!] not late.

• If you arrive early, we ask that you wait outside the office until your scheduled appointment time.
• If you are more than 10 minutes late, please call the office to let us know so that we can determine the best time to see you.

The Sign-In screen [and finger scanner] have been temporarily disabled to minimize touching/contamination. Please let the Front Desk Team know when you arrive so they can check you in.

Upon checking-in, a team member will greet you in order to perform a Wellness Screening consisting of a brief Questionnaire, Consent Form, Temperature Check (non-contact), and Hand Sanitizer.

There will also be hand sanitizer available in the reception area and other places around the office for you to use as needed.

Our Team will be wearing enhanced Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including clinical jackets, face shields, enhanced face masks, and safety glasses.  This may vary depending on the risk level of the procedure(s) we are performing.

We have adjusted our schedule as to allow more time between patients in an effort to adhere to social distancing by reducing the number of people in the reception area at one time. This may result in fewer scheduling options for your appointment.

Although sitting in the waiting area will most likely notbe necessary, please do your best to allow ample social distance from others that may also be sitting in the waiting area.

We ask that only 1 adult accompany their child into the office for their scheduled appointment.

Teen and adult patients should come alone, unless a parent/spouse/etc.. has a question for Dr. Kennell about the patient’s treatment.  We ask that everyone else please wait comfortably outside or in your vehicle.

Sadly, the X-Box games and Photo Booth will be off-limits until further notice.

We are no longer offering magazines or other reading materials in the reception area, these items are difficult to keep clean and disinfected.

For now, our Toothbrushing Station is a Handwashing Station.  Please remember to brush your teeth (and floss!) at home, before coming to your appointment.  If you need to brush at the office, we will provide you with a pre-pasted disposable toothbrush to use in the restroom.

Let’s keep all office talk positive and have fun together - safely!

We’re coming up with cool ways to say hello with “virtual hugs” and “virtual handshakes”!

We will still have fun prizes, contests and giveaways! - Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

If you have any questions about your child’s treatment progress or the steps we’re taking to keep you safe, we’re happy to answer them!  You can email us at info@kennellortho.com or give us a call (603) 524-7404.

Thank you for sticking with us through these uncertain times!  You are family to us, and we appreciate you so much.  We can’t wait to see you all in the office again soon!

Keep smiling and stay safe,

Dr. Kennell and The Kennell Ortho Team

It’s that time of year to start thinking about protecting yourself and your family from the flu. Here are some simple steps you can take to help yourself avoid colds and the flu this season.

• 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 toothbrush after every cold or flu or every 3-4 months when bristles appear worn

To promote a healthy and clean environment, our team gives a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our office at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces.

For the protection of other patients and our staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others. We hope this helps and give us a call if you have any questions!

Stay healthy this winter!!

Successful orthodontics is a team effort and YOU are our key player!

We have created a Patient Rewards Program to recognize your accomplishments and congratulate your winning achievements!

As a patient of Kennell Ortho, you're already enrolled in the program. All you have to do is collect points by doing any of the below listed activities.

Our Patient Rewards Program is an incentive program based on your cooperation. You set the bar and every visit is an opportunity to earn points and cool prizes!

Here's how it works...

Check out all the great stuff you could get using your points!

Every time you sign in for your appointment, you can click "Patient Rewards" to see how many points you've earned. Most importantly, have fun and THANK YOU for being

a Kennell Ortho patient.

Did you hear? We have a new friendly face at the office. Lizza is the newest member of the Kennell Orthodontics team!

Lizza comes to us with a wealth of knowledge and experience - she has been working in the dental field for 18 years!! Time flies when you're having fun! We are thrilled to have her join our team. At your next appointment make sure to say "Hi!" :)

Here at Kennell Orthodontics, the greatest compliment we can receive is one of our patients referring a friend or colleague to our practice.

A successful practice doesn't just happen—it is the result of a strong commitment to excellence in our treatment and in our relationships with patients and doctors! We'd like to take a moment to thank you for showing your confidence in our practice by recommending us to your friends and colleagues. We're gratified to find how many new patients regularly call on us based on your words of advice.

To show our appreciation, we are kicking off our
2019 patient referral program!

If Kennell Orthodontics begins a treatment plan with a new patient (child or adult) from your qualified referral, you will receive a $50 VISA cash card and be entered to win the 2019 GRAND PRIZE!

What is the 2019 GRAND PRIZE?!?!

One lucky name will be drawn and the winner will win...

Dr. Alan Kennell and his staff at Kennell Orthodontics are pleased to announce the winner of the 2018 Refer-a-Friend contest – Connor H. of Franconia, NH! Kennell Orthodontics realizes the greatest compliment received is when one of their patients refers a friend or colleague to their practice.

To show appreciation to patients for these referrals, Dr. Kennell developed the Refer-a-Friend campaign. This campaign, which focuses on new patient treatment plans from qualified referrals, rewards Refer-a-Friend participants with a Visa Cash Card and an entry into the grand prize drawing. Connor had multiple entries from his multiple referrals that gave him a greater advantage on having his name picked as the Grand Prize Winner!

As the Grand Prize winner, Connor is the new recipient of an Xbox One X prize package!

Dr. Kennell thanked Connor for being a valued patient and for recommending Kennell Orthodontics to his family and friends. “We are honored to have such loyal patients who continue to refer to us and share their positive experiences here at Kennell Orthodontics with others.”

Our team had a great time during our holiday party last Friday at Osteria Poggio!

The food was delicious and we had a blast playing the Yankee Swap Game where each of us had to roll the dice!

We hope that you have a merry and bright holiday season!

With Thanksgiving almost upon us, it’s a great time to ask ourselves what we’re thankful for. With our friends and family around us, we celebrate the blessings given to us in the past year. Our staff thought we’d ask: What are you thankful for this holiday season? Do you have any Thanksgiving wishes or recipes you would like to share?

Our entire team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. It’s a big food holiday, so be careful what you eat with those braces! If you have any stories or photos to share with us, we’d encourage you to send them along or post them below or on our Facebook page!

Gobble Gobble!

October is National Orthodontic Health Month, and with Halloween this weekend we have compiled a list of specific treats that are okay with braces. As with anything else, always in moderation and make sure to brush and floss very well after!

Good Treats:

• Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
• Kit Kats
• Plain M&M’s
• Oreo’s & Soft Cookies
• Hershey Bars & Hershey Kisses
• Candy Bars without caramel or nuts

Those will keep your braces safe, but don't forget to keep these Trick-or-treating safety guidelines in mind while you are out there filling your candy bags:

• Young children should always be accompanied by an adult
• Carry a flashlight
• Wear a light-colored or reflective costume
• Choose face paint over masks for young ghosts and goblins
• Have an adult inspect all treats before the children dig in
• Have a Happy and Safe Halloween!

We are excited to partner with Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center as the "Big Back Yard" series sponsor.

The "Big Back Yard" series encourages families to get outside and explore the outdoors to search for colorful leaves and tiny insects that roam the forest floor. Kids get to learn about local species and how they prepare for their winter-long hibernation.

This series allows kids and adults to learn more about their natural surroundings with each program covering topics related to the holidays; such as learning about spiders and bats and their importance to our ecosystem and about how turkeys are New Hampshire's largest birds!

To learn more or to register, click here!

Check us out in the local news!

Happy World Smile Day!

"As is well known by now throughout the world Harvey Ball, a commercial artist from Worcester, Massachusetts created the smiley face in 1963. That image went on to become the most recognizable symbol of good will and good cheer on the planet.

As the years passed Harvey Ball became concerned about the over-commercialization of his symbol, and how its original meaning and intent had become lost in the constant repetition of the marketplace. Out of that concern came his idea for World Smile Day®. He thought that we, all of us, should devote one day each year to smiles and kind acts throughout the world. The smiley face knows no politics, no geography, and no religion.  Harvey’s idea was that for at least one day each year, neither should we.  He declared that the first Friday in October each year would henceforth be World Smile Day®. Ever since that first World Smile Day® held in 1999, it has continued every year in Smiley's hometown of Worcester, MA and around the world."

Get out there and show off your beautiful smile today (and every day)! :)

Source - https://www.worldsmileday.com/index.php/article-index/item/373-about-world-smile-day

By golly, did we have a boot-stompin' fabulous time at our Texas BBQ!

Our patients make it easy to come to the office every day! As a way to thank them for making our jobs so fun and rewarding, we wanted to show them how much we really appreciated them! Team Kennell Ortho partnered with Prescott’s Farm Environmental Education Center in Laconia, to host a private Texas style BBQ on Sunday, September 16, 2018. Over 200 of our patients came out that day to enjoy some delicious BBQ food and country festival inspired activities!

Patients of all ages were able to enjoy playing lawn games like giant Jenga, corn hole, and giant ring toss! The hayrides that went around the farm gave views of the beautiful New Hampshire mountains that surround the Lakes Region.

DJ Nazzy was an awesome host that made the line dancing and pie eating contest memorable for everyone—even the parents got up to bust a move! From the food to the photo magic mirror, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Congratulations to patient Kim R, who won a Fujifilm instant camera with a contest presented by Invisalign partner Align Technologies!

The service provided by Magic Foods Catering, from Moultonborough, only added to this spectacular event with their friendly servers and finger-lickin' Texas BBQ inspired preparations.

It was a special day to have the Kennell Orthodontics family all together to enjoy the beautiful weather and great activities. No one went home with an empty stomach!

To view the full whole album of all the awesome photos from our BBQ, click here!

So we all know that school keeps getting closer and closer, but there's some fun stuff going on here at Kennell Orthodontics to make the school year fun!

Have you tried guessing the weight of our backpack yet? Stop by our office and try on the backpack for yourself! One lucky winner will get an awesome new Dell laptop in our Back to School contest! How cool would a free new laptop be for a new school year?!

The winner will be announced at our Texas BBQ on Sept. 16th!!!

Well August is here, and that means going back to school and September are right around the corner.

Thoughts of sunscreen, swimming in the lake, and vacation is on your mind just as much as school shopping, homework, and the cool crisp air of fall are. How can you fully enjoy the few weeks remaining of summer with school and going to bed early in the near future?!

Well, my friend, here are some great tips for you to make the most of the last bit of summer weather:

1. Dessert for Dinner! Check out your favorite, local ice cream parlor and see if they have any new flavors! If you’re not too hungry, share a sundae with a loved one! Load it up with all your favorite toppings that you’ve been craving all summer long (and that is safe to eat with your snazzy, new braces). When it’s too hot to cook dinner for the family, ice cream is a great problem solver!

   

2. Campfire in the Backyard! This is a classic New England get-together (along with s'mores of course). Get some tunes going and enjoy the beautiful New Hampshire night sky with a gooey, sticky treat in hand. You can even get creative with what you put into your s'mores like, peanut butter cups, Oreos, or Nutella! Make sure you brush your teeth thoroughly after enjoying a sweet s'mores when you have braces! Try to name off some constellations or capture some fireflies and see who can get the most!

   

3. Take a hike! We’re in one of the best states in New England to hike, swim, and surf all in the same day! With almost 50 4,000 footers in our backyard, why not check one off your list?! Going on a weekday could help you stay away from too many hikers and have the trail mostly to yourselves!

   

These are just a few of the many great activities that you and your family and friends can enjoy in the Granite State before the school year comes around.

Why not spend some time out in the sun and share with us how you make the most of your summer 2018!

Hurry in for our Invisalign Promotion!

Has August got you thinking of school and homework yet? Well, to help out with some of the expenses that the school year can bring, we are offering a great deal to get your teeth sparkling for the new school year!

In honor of school starting up for the new year we are running an Invisalign promotion - SAVE $350 off the records fee!! Make an appointment for a FREE consultation to see if you are an Invisalign candidate!

Refer a friend for a chance to be entered into our referral contest!

This great deal is only available from August 1st- August 31st, 2018! Don't miss your chance!!

Did you know a simple smile can affect self-esteem?

Did you know it takes 12 muscles to smile and 113 muscles to frown?

When you smile at another person, a warm, genuine smile, you tell that other person that he or she is likeable, attractive, pleasant, safe and secure in your estimation. A single smile is so powerful that it can often transform a person with low self-esteem, jolting them from negativity to a person with a positive attitude.

When you smile at another person, the physical action releases endorphins in your brain. Endorphins are called nature’s “happy drug.” They make you feel happy and raise your self-esteem. When you smile, you feel and act in a more personable way to everyone around you and exude a feeling of positive attitude.

Every time you smile, you not only make other people feel better about themselves, but you raise your self-esteem, increase your level of positive attitude and feel better about yourself as well.

All it takes is the intentional decision by you to smile at the people around you, and to express to them that you are genuinely happy to see them.

Attention Current and Past Patients!

We want to know how we are doing. Review our practice and one monthly winner will be chosen to receive a $25 Gift Card to Tanger Outlets and a Professional Photo Shoot to appear in our next Print Advertisement.

Fill out the Star us form in any of our 3 locations, or let us know how we are doing in your Facebook or Instagram posts by tagging us and using #myKOsmile.

We will choose a winner every month. We can't wait to hear from you!

Add flossing to your routine and you'll experience a cleaner, healthier smile. Brushing cleans the surface of your teeth. You need to floss in order to clean out the gaps between your teeth, where bacteria often reside. If you don't floss, you're more likely to have plaque build-up, which can lead to cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease. In addition, bacteria can cause bad breath and having food or debris between your teeth can make them look less clean or white. Thus, flossing can help improve the appearance of your mouth as well as your dental hygiene and overall health.

If you or your child currently wears braces, flossing is even more important. Food and bacteria can easily lodge underneath braces and cause permanent damage to teeth. However, you have to be careful when flossing so that you don't damage your braces.

The greatest compliment that we could receive is having our patients refer their friends and coworkers to our practice. To show our appreciation, we are giving away a MacBook Air this year!

For each qualified referral you send our way, your name will be automatically entered into the Grand Prize contest and you will also receive a $50 Visa cash card.

Just a reminder that the Grand Prize deadline is December 22, 2018.  We will be announcing the MacBook Air winner at the end of December!

Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for complete program details.

Check out the chair the Kennell Ortho team painted for the Children's Auction! Here's a behind the scenes look at the making of the chair...

The Greater Lakes Region Children's Auction is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization to benefit caregivers in the Greater Lakes Region of New Hampshire. This year's Auction will take place at the Belknap Mall in Belmont, NH. Broadcasting Live on 104.9 The Hawk and WEEI 101.5 Sports Radio, also streaming at www.childrensauction.com and locally on Metrocast Channel 12 and LRPA Channel 25.

Kennell Orthodontics is offering an end-of-year Invisalign special running now through the end of December 2017!  If you begin Invisalign treatment with us during this time, we will discount the $350 records fee off of your treatment fee- call us for details!

With our new iTero scanner and the Treatment Simulator, you can see what your teeth might look like at the end of your orthodontic treatment! 

At Kennell Orthodontics we now take all of our records for our patients using our new iTero scanner.  This means no more goopie impression material!  The iTero also has a feature that allows us to show you what your teeth could look like once your orthodontic treatment is complete.  How awesome is that?!

Once braces come off we know it is exciting to see how great your new smile looks.  And you want to keep it that way, right?  However, some patients forget how important it is to wear their retainers to maintain that beautiful smile after orthodontic treatment is complete.  At Kennell Orthodontics, we give specific instructions to all of our patients on how to properly wear retainers.  Typically, retainers are worn 24/7 for the first three days after braces are removed, then just during sleep thereafter.

Retainers must be worn for life in order to maintain the teeth in position.  Minor tooth movement can occur throughout life, which is why we strongly encourage our patients to always wear their retainers.  Oh - and remember to keep those retainers away from the dog.  Dogs don't just eat your homework, they eat retainers too!

Happy Halloween! Learn what treats you can and can't eat with braces to avoid a SPOOKY smile tonight :)

Good Treats:

• Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
• Kit Kats
• Plain M&M’s
• 3 Musketeers
• Oreo’s & Soft Cookies
• Hershey Bars & Hershey Kisses
• Candy Bars without caramel or nuts

Bad Treats:

• Caramel
• Bubblegum
• Hard Candy
• Taffy
• Licorice
• Nuts
• Jelly Beans
• Candy Corns
• Popcorn
• Chewy Candy
• Caramel/Candy Apples

Five orthodontic-friendly recommendations by the Lakes Regions orthodontist, Dr. Alan Kennell

October is National Orthodontic Health Month. And each October, thousands of kids have one thing on their mind: Halloween candy!  For orthodontists, the Halloween season is all about helping patients avoid potentially sticky situations.

October is the perfect time of year to learn about orthodontic health and how an orthodontist helps patients achieve beautiful, healthy smiles. Besides, everyone knows that Halloween candy can give any orthodontist a scare!

The Lakes Region and White Mountains orthodontist Dr. Kennell of Kennell Orthodontics offers these five timely tips to help protect braces, aligners and other orthodontic “appliances” while protecting teeth from decay.

1. Let sticky foods RIP. If it’s hard, sticky, chewy or crunchy, stay away! Avoid caramel, taffy, bubblegum, licorice, gummies or any snack that can damage brackets or wires. Also, be sure to say “boo” to hard-shelled peanut candies, nuts or nut-filled candies, taco chips and popcorn (especially unpopped kernels).
2. Choose “spooktacularly” soft foods. Opt for soft chocolates, peppermint patties, peanut butter cups or other melt-in-your-mouth varieties.
3. Dare to take extra care. Sweets can cause cavities, which is why brushing and flossing are even more important than ever during the Halloween season. Orthodontic patients should be especially vigilant about brushing and flossing immediately after eating sugary or starchy foods.
4. Set yourself up for success. Kennell encourages parents to keep acceptable treats on hand to substitute for “off limits” candies for trick-or-treating. Parents can also find free, Halloween-themed recipes such as Quirky Quesadillas for Halloween, Delightfully Devilish Deviled Eggs, Mummy Pizza Biscuits, Spooky Spider Web Bean dip and others, on the American Association of Orthodontists’ website at https://www.mylifemysmile.org/recipes.
5. Commit to oral health. Deciding to avoid hard and chewy sweets before the Halloween season increases your rate of success – and reduces the likelihood that you’ll break wires.

“We want kids to have fun on Halloween,” says Dr. Kennell. “And there’s no need to feel left out. Patients are free to enjoy acceptable treats in moderation. The payoff is a healthy, beautiful smile. It’s always worth it in the end!”

Nail Biting and Your Oral Health

We’ve all heard that biting your nails is an awful habit, but you many wonder- really- what’s so bad about it? This interesting article discusses how biting your nails affect your teeth and oral health.

Nail biting, also known as Onychophagia, is a common habit among various age groups, including primarily children, teens and young adults. Nail biting is generally triggered by stress and most often decreases with age. That being said, nail biting is unsanitary, unattractive, as well as unhealthy for your teeth!

Here’s why:

• It’s unsanitary. Your nails are dirty, almost twice as dirty as your fingers! Hence, biting your nails is just asking for germs and bacteria.

• No good things come to your teeth. Nail biting causes your teeth to constantly be chewing, which is not good for them. This excessive motion wears your teeth down faster than a non-nail biter’s and puts a large amount of stress on your front teeth- contributing to teeth misalignment.

• Braces don’t love it either. Braces already put pressure on teeth, nail biting ads unnecessary pressure, further stressing your teeth and weakening their roots.

• It can be costly. Nail biting can result in up to $4,000 in additional dental bills over one lifetime, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Yikes!

What can you do about it?

Now that you know how harmful nail biting can be, it’s time to take action to break your nail biting habit. Try to be conscious of your fingernails and to keep them looking good- this will help you resist the temptation.

Ask Dr. Alan Kennell or visit the article for tips on how to break a nail biting habit.

SPOTLIGHT on ALLY

Ally is the newest member of the Kennell Orthodontics team. She grew up in Massachusetts and moved to New Hampshire last year after living in North Carolina for three years. Ally and her husband, Nick recently celebrated four years of marriage. Ally and Nick enjoy spending time outside, kayaking and going to the ocean. Ally graduated this year from NHTI’s Dental Assisting program and was grateful to be given the opportunity to  work at Kennell Orthodontics after completing her final externship.

SPOTLIGHT on TORI

Tori grew up in the lakes region of NH with her Mom, Dad and sister Sydney. Now she owns her own home with her boyfriend Mike, Brodie (the dog), Opie, and Jax (the cats). Tori and Mike enjoy fishing, hiking, gardening, and spending time on the lake.

Tori graduated from NHTI’s dental assisting program in 2016. She did her last externship with Kennell Orthodontics and started right after graduation.

BACK TO SCHOOL

It is the season of Back-to-School, with all the excitement and anxieties that come with it. This can also be true for children, and parents of children undergoing orthodontic treatment.

One way to put both parents and children at ease when it comes to orthodontics at school is to discuss a “Plan of Action”. If you and your child understand the plan ahead of time, it will help ensure a successful (orthodontic!) school year!

Here are some recommendations for your Orthodontic “Back-to-School Action Plan”

• Bring a toothbrush to school – It’s always best to brush your teeth after you eat lunch. A quick brushing doesn’t take long and will help keep your teeth and braces free of food, which helps to avoid cavities and/or permanent staining on your teeth, as well as bad breath!
• Drink Water – Bring a water bottle to school and drink throughout the day. This helps to keep your mouth clean by rinsing away large food particles stuck in your braces after eating. Keep a toothbrush in your locker in a toothbrush case along with some toothpaste, and you will never have to remember to bring it to school.
• Packing your lunch and snacks – When packing lunches and snacks, avoid foods that are hard, sticky, chewy or crunchy to prevent bending wires or breaking braces. If you like hard fruits and vegetables, such as apples and carrots, cut them into smaller pieces before you leave for school. Biting into hard fruits and veggies can damage your braces, which can cause discomfort and could lengthen your time in braces.
• Retainers – Bring your retainer case with you to school. Make sure to always place the retainer in the case whenever it is out of your mouth, and make sure your retainer case is labeled or has a unique marking or pattern on it, to avoid accidentally mixing it up with your friend’s. Many patients who need retainers replaced have forgotten to bring their case to school and left their retainers on a lunch tray or in their lunch bag where it’s likely to disappear in the garbage. Replacement retainers can be quite costly and it’s no fun to look in the trash to look for your lost retainer! Ewwwwwww…
• Rubber bands – Don’t forget to change your rubber bands and bring a supply with you to keep in your desk, backpack or locker! A great idea is to have an orthodontic baggie in your locker that has everything you need to take care of your orthodontic appliances, and to make sure your mouth stays clean and comfortable while you’re at school.
• Do you play a Sport? – Protecting your braces during sports not only protects your teeth from accidents but also protects your braces!!
• Lastly, Don’t forget to SMILE! – Show off your beautiful smile to your friends and teachers!

We’re close to the end of summer vacation, and the summer months 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 our office for special precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing school sports such as baseball, soccer, lacrosse and others. Be sure, however, 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 the office. And don’t forget to ask us about how you can get a mouth guard for yourself.

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 our office.

When coming to our office to have braces put on, you may find yourself feeling a bit intimidated and nervous about the experience. We hope to help you feel more at ease by explaining exactly what the different parts of braces are, and what they do.

Parts of Braces

• Elastic Tie — This is a very small rubber band, and it holds the archwire in place.
• Archwire — This is the main part of the braces. It is a wire guide that tracks the teeth. The wire may be moved from time to time during treatment to continue straightening a patient's teeth.
• Loop in Archwire — This is not in all braces. If it is used, it is to close a gap left from a tooth extraction.
• Bracket — This piece of equipment holds the archwire in place. Formerly, many patients used colored rubber bands to keep the brackets in place, but now since most brackets are cemented on, this is no longer necessary.
• Headgear Tube — This is a hollow area near the back bands, which allows the headgear to fit into the braces. This is only used on patients who require headgear.
• Coil Spring — If needed, this would fit between a bracket and the main archwire. Its purpose is to open up the space between the teeth. This is not necessarily used on all patients.
• Tie Wire — This is another piece of equipment that is used to keep the archwire in place. It is a thin wire that wraps around the bracket.
• Band — This is a metal band that fits completely around a tooth. It is used to help adhere brackets to the tooth.
• Hook — This is the piece of equipment that is used to attach the elastics, also known as rubber bands, around the bracket.
• Elastic — These elastics are used to connect one point of the appliance to another. The purpose is to apply pressure, and encourage the teeth to move into the proper positioning.

By defining each appliance we hope you or your child will be less apprehensive about getting braces put on. At the end of your treatment, you will have a bright, straight smile to show off to all of your friends.

Keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever when you have braces! Food bits have more spots than usual to hide in your mouth, so you must be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. If you remove plaque regularly during treatment, you'll experience better results and shorter treatment time. Keep plaque at bay with these top ten tips:

1. One tooth at a time. When you brush, take time with each individual tooth – at least 10 seconds each – and pay careful attention to the spots where your teeth touch your braces.
2. It’s all about the angles. Brush the tops of your teeth and braces with your brush angled down toward where they meet. Brush the bottoms of your teeth and braces with your brush angled up.
3. The tooth, the whole tooth, nothing but the tooth. While the front surface of your teeth may seem like the most logical to clean, it’s equally important to clean the inner surface of your teeth (tongue side) as well as the chewing surface. And be sure to clean along your gum line – a key spot for plaque buildup.
4. Step 1: eat, step 2: clean. While you’re in treatment, it’s important to brush after every meal. Bits of food can easily get caught between braces and teeth, and these food bits interact with bacteria in your mouth to cause decay. The longer food is in contact with your teeth, the greater opportunity for plaque to form. If you are eating somewhere that you can’t brush, thoroughly rinse your mouth with water.
5. Like a Boy Scout, always be prepared. The easiest way to be sure you can brush after every meal is to get in the habit of taking a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss with you wherever you go. Designate a special container just for your teeth-cleaning tools and keep it in your purse, backpack, or laptop case.
6. Remove the moving parts. If you have elastic bands or headgear, remove these parts before you brush or floss.
7. Fluoride is your friend. Fluoride helps prevent cavities. Be sure to brush with fluoride toothpaste, and rinse with fluoride mouthwash.
8. Pointy brushes reach tiny places. Interproximal brushes (sometimes called proxa brushes or interdental brushes) are cone-shaped and come in very handy for reaching spots around your braces that standard brushes can’t.
9. Find the floss for you. Regular floss works for some patients, but others find it easier to work with a floss threader, which helps you get the floss into tight places. Other patients like an all-in-one product called Superfloss, which comes with a stiff end for easy threading, a spongy section for cleaning wide spaces, and regular floss for narrow spaces.
10. Make time for the pros. It’s your job to take care of the everyday cleaning. But make sure to visit your dentist regularly while in treatment, to get the deep, thorough cleaning that only a professional can provide. If you need help finding the right Dentist for you, feel free to contact our office - we’d love to help!

We hope this helps, and remember to give our team a call if you ever have any questions!

See Chocorua's Beauty:
The 3,480-foot Mount Chocorua in Albany appears as you round a bend on Route 16. The picturesque mountain is steeped in legend, and happens to be one of the most heavily hiked mountains in the region. From the bare summit, you'll spot the Presidential Range and the majestic Mount Washington to the north, and the Sandwich Range to the west. The views are simply breathtaking all around.

Stand Beneath the Arch:
Tilton's Arch, also known as the Memorial Arch, sits atop a hillside in Northfield. The arch, a replica of a Roman Arch, was built in the late 1800's as a memorial to the ancestors of Charles E. Tilton — who, as the town's wealthiest citizen, also donated several other statues throughout town. The arch, which is made of Concord Granite, stands 50 feet tall, and 40 feet wide. Take in the surrounding views from the arch, and marvel at its size.

Ride the Rails:
From spring through fall, the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad takes visitors on excursions around Lake Winnipesaukee, leaving from Meredith Bay to Weirs Beach and onto Paugus Bay before making a return trip to Weirs and back to Meredith. The train offers one and two hour trips, carrying passengers on a 7-mile waterfront journey. In the fall, foliage trains offer visitors different routes, including a four-hour trip from Meredith to Livermore Falls and an all-day excursion to Lincoln. Jump on board for an exciting ride 'round the lake or all the way into the White Mountains.

Feed Your Sweet Tooth:
Kellerhaus is the oldest candy shop in New Hampshire. Stop by and choose from their vast collection of chocolates, traditional candy shoppe favorites, fudge, nuts and maple products. Located at Weirs Beach, Kellerhaus also makes ribbon candy by hand, one of the few places in the world to still make it that way. During the summer months, the shop is well-known for their ice cream sundae buffet. Pile on the toppings and enjoy this one-of-a-kind treat.

Newfound, Long Lost Lake:
Newfound Lake has a hidden beauty all its own. Located in the town of Bristol, the lake is the more peaceful of its cousin to the east. Newfound has some distinctive features too, including a lighthouse that can be viewed from the roadway, adjacent to Paradise Lodge on Route 3A. Take a ride over to Profile Falls in Bristol, enjoy a dip in the pool and a waterfall shower.

Go to Gunstock:
Where else can you go mountain biking, hiking, fishing, tubing, and ziplining all in one place? Gunstock Mountain Resort, located in Gilford, has it all. Watch the boarders at the skate park, take a scenic lift ride, rent a paddle boat, do a Segway tour, or enjoy New England's largest aerial obstacle course at their Mountain Adventure Park. Their many hiking trails will take you through the Belknap Range and lead you to stunning views of the surrounding Presidential and Sandwich Ranges, Lake Winnipesaukee and the Ossipee Mountain Range. You definitely can't squeeze it all into one day, so plan to spend some time on the mountain.

Drive IN:
The Weirs Beach Drive In, one of only 4 still existing in New Hampshire today, is a popular Weirs Beach attraction during the summer. It's been in operation since 1949 during the heyday of Drive-In Theaters.

Explore the caves:
Polar Caves in Rumney is a unique geological spot. Formed by massive boulders nearly 50,000 years ago when the third continental glacier moved southward over New Hampshire's White Mountains, the Polar Caves features naturally-made caves, passages and trails. The nature trails are (sometimes) man-made, as you'll walk through a pine forest to get to the caves. There is a covered bridge, a maple sugar shack and museum, and even a sluice and mines where you can pan for gold, gems or fossils on the premises.

A spot of fun:
Funspot, at Weirs Beach, is the largest arcade in the world. 'Nuff said. Ok, we'll elaborate a bit more. It has over 500 games for all ages, include skee-ball, pinball, bingo, and all of your favorite video games from the 80s. They are the site of an annual International Classic Video Game Tournament each year. It's the coolest "spot" on the list, if you're a kid, or simply remember being a kid!

Take a look at this years SPIRIT WEEK Themed Days and get ready to have some summer fun with the Kennell Ortho team!

This is a week you won't want to miss! 

• All patients who participate will receive 25 BONUS rewards points!!!
• Did we mention ice cream?! We will also be handing out ice cream to our patients during this week. From Monday July 11th-Friday July 15th
• Come in and don't miss the fun!!!

We would also like to mention we will be having a patient appreciation night!

(Movie ,Food, Prizes provided) All you have to do is visit our Facebook page and RVSP.

When: Friday August 26th

Where: Smitty's Cinema Tilton NH

Time: 5pm-8pm

We look forward to seeing you there!

SPOTLIGHT on KATIE

Katie is originally from the Lakes Region who has spent half of her life in TN and traveled.  She re-planted her roots back in the Lakes Region two years ago when she joined the awesome Kennell Ortho Team!  Katie graduated the Dental Assisting Program in Chattanooga, TN in 2007.  She has since worked as an assistant, treatment coordinator and office manager in general, periodontics, oral surgery and orthodontic offices.

Katie enjoys spending time with family, traveling, painting, camping, hiking, skiing and being at the beach any chance she can get.  She has two beautiful daughters who are the light of her life! Berylin is soon to be five and full of life… and sass. Aribella is nine months old and happy as can be.

Katie is extremely honored and grateful to be a part of this fantastic team!

The number one goal of orthodontic treatment is to give you or your child a good bite, meaning straight teeth that work well with the teeth in the opposite jaw. A good bite makes it easier for you to eat, chew and speak. It can enhance your dental health and overall health, and may well improve your self-esteem. As a part of your comprehensive dental health care plan, orthodontic treatment can help you retain your teeth—and your smile—for a lifetime.

Let your smile express yourself! Nothing can show the world how happy you are quite like a beautiful smile. In fact, it’s one of the first things others notice about you, too. With orthodontics, you can be proud to flash your smile, because you’ll know that your smile truly represents your positive attitude.

Make your mouth healthy! Straight teeth aren’t just pretty, they’re healthy as well. Teeth that are properly aligned are easier to clean, reducing the amount of plaque buildup and risk for gingivitis. The cleaner you keep your teeth, the longer they’ll last!

Feel free to live your life! Orthodontics is easier today than ever before, with treatment options that fit your lifestyle and schedule. We can personalize your treatment to suit all of your needs!

Do you ever look in the mirror and wonder if your smile could be straighter? Do you wonder how your bite would benefit from orthodontic treatment? With spring in full swing, Kennell Orthodontics hopes that you’ll see the new season as a fresh start for your dental health!

It's National Teen self-esteem month in the month of May, so what better time to talk about the importance of teen self-esteem. Actually self-esteem in all ages is really important! National Teen Self-Esteem Month was established to create awareness about the negative effects poor self-esteem causes among the teen population. During this month, parents and guardians are encouraged to act as positive role models, help stop negative self-images, and improve confidence and security among adolescents.

What is self -esteem? The Webster’s dictionary says: Self-Esteem-The esteem or good opinion of oneself. Now lets look at what Esteem is- to set value on, to regard with respect. So, for us to have self-esteem we need to have a good view of ourselves and be respectful to ourselves as well. Why is self-esteem so important? One, we make better decisions for ourselves when we are not lacking self-esteem. We want to value who we are, love who we are and make good decisions for our self, to reinforce our self worth, thereby strengthening our self-esteem.

Treating ourselves with respect is totally in our hands, we have complete control over this one. If you have the choice to do something good or bad for yourself, you have the choice to do what’s good, and no one can stop you. We have to remember that our opinion of ourselves really starts with us, not outside influences - not people, not the media!

Here are a couple quick tips to strengthen and maintain our sense of self and build confidence:

• Learn to love yourself for who you are
• Respect yourself, make good decisions
• Know your opinions of yourself, come from you, not the opinions of others
• Realize what make you shine is on the inside, not what you look like

So, go out in the world and know you are good enough and are perfect just the way you are. And remember, although it might sound cliche, treat others the way you want to be treated!

MYTH: Braces are for kids.
FACT: One in five orthodontic patients is an adult.

MYTH: Braces are painful and take two years or more for the desired result.
FACT: After the adjustment period, like breaking in a new pair of shoes, braces are comfortable. Some may be worn for months, it all depends on your situation and the type of braces that are chosen.

MYTH: There are signals sent from braces link to the Internet to download songs.
FACT: This is an interesting idea, but its not possible at the moment. Maybe it's a feature they could work on?

MYTH: Braces are ugly, call attention to themselves and would be embarrassing in business settings.
FACT: Today's braces can be nearly invisible, there are lots of options and Kennell Orthodontics can work with you to find the best solution for you.

The bottom line is there are a lot of rumors and stories that go around about braces, but come in for a consultation and let us walk you through the process and figure out what will work best for you and your orthodontic health.

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends to:
Play it safe!
Wear a mouth guard at every practice and every game!!Mouth guards and other types of protective gear can prevent or reduce injuries that happen during organized and recreational sports.

Mouth guards offer protection by absorbing high-impact energy from potentially traumatic blows.

Mouth Guard Care

• Keep your mouth guard clean - rinse before and after each use
• Store in a perforated container to let your mouth guard dry out
• Avoid chewing on the mouth guard
• Don't wear removable retainers with your mouth guard
• Replace your mouth guard when it shows signs of wear

Wish you could wrap your kids in bubble wrap to protect them?

Here at Kennell Orthodontics, the greatest compliment we can receive is one of our patients referring a friend or colleague to our practice.

A successful practice doesn't just happen. It is the result of a strong commitment to excellence in our treatment and in our relationships with patients and doctors. We'd like to take a moment to thank you for showing your confidence in our practice by recommending us to your friends and colleagues. We're gratified to find how many new patients regularly call on us based on your words of advice.

To show our appreciation, we are kicking off our
2017 patient referral program!

If Kennell Orthodontics begins a treatment plan with a new patient (child or adult) from your qualified referral, you will receive a $50 VISA cash card and be entered to win the 2017 GRAND PRIZE!

What is the 2017 GRAND PRIZE?!?!

One lucky name will be drawn and the winner will win a brand new

Apple MacBook Air!

*Selected winner to be notified in December 2017. Restrictions may apply.

Product delivery in 2018.

Spotlight on Tara!

Meet the newest edition to the Kennell Orthodontics Team - Tara!

Tara is a New Hampshire native, who recently moved back home from North Carolina to be closer to her LARGE family! Along with her adorable three year old daughter AVERY, (She's the one with the yellow flower in her hair  - Adorable!), Tara has FOUR brothers and THREE sisters! (That's a lot of babysitters:)

Tara has lots of nieces and nephews.
Avery loves being close to her cousins and being goofy with them!

Avery is learning to ski this year and Tara likes to pamper her with occasional Mani & Pedis to celebrate her bravery:)

Tara and Avery enjoy 4- wheeling, fishing, hiking, sledding, reading books, painting, cooking and drinking hot cocoa together!

Tara was introduced to Kennell Orthodontics at a routine dental appointment for her daughter at Dr. Missy Kennell's office, and the rest is history! Tara is currently taking classes to further her education in orthodontics.

Make sure to introduce yourself to Tara at your next appointment!

Dr. Alan Kennell and his staff at Kennell Orthodontics are pleased to announce the winner of the 2016 Refer-a-Friend contest – Holly Phillips!  Kennell Orthodontics realizes the greatest compliment received is when one of their patients refers a friend or colleague to their practice.

In an effort to show appreciation to patients for these referrals, Dr. Kennell developed the Refer-a-Friend campaign. This campaign, which focuses on new patient treatment plans from qualified referrals, rewards Refer-a-Friend participants with a Visa Cash Card and an entry into the grand prize drawing.

Holly had multiple entries from her multiple referrals – this gave her a greater advantage on having her name picked as the Grand Prize Winner!

As the Grand Prize winner, Holly & her family will spend a FUN OVERNIGHT ADVENTURE IN BOSTON which includes hotel accommodations, dinner, and 4 tickets to BLUEMAN GROUP!

Dr. Kennell thanked Holly for being a valued patient and for recommending Kennell Orthodontics to her family and friends.  “We are honored to have such loyal patients who continue to refer to us and share their positive experiences here at Kennell Orthodontics with others.”

Spotlight on Linda!

Linda is a NH Native who loves spending time with her beautiful family! Linda & her husband, Keith, have been married for 27 years! (What a lucky guy:)

Linda & Keith have 3 children & 2 grandchildren - soon to be 3! Her daughter Olivia is expecting another baby anytime!

Olivia & her husband, Dalin, met & married at BYU. They have two children named Tenley & Declan - they are excited to welcome a new bother or sister! Linda loves traveling to Utah to snuggle with them!

Linda's oldest son, Payson, is 24 & studies coding at School "42" in California. Her youngest son, Donovan, is 17 - a junior in high school who loves skiing, fishing & hunting.

Linda's hobbies include playing tennis, sewing quilts for Tenley & Declan, searching for seaglass at the ocean and, of course, hanging out on Lake Winnipesaukee!  She enjoys traveling to Utah & Florida to visit family & soak up the sunshine!

In 1986 Linda graduated from NHTI & has been with Dr. Kennell part time for over TEN amazing years!

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!

Hope this tip helps! Feel free to give us a call or ask us on Facebook if you have any questions!

Keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever when you have braces. Food bits have more spots than usual to hide in your mouth, so you must be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. If you remove plaque regularly during treatment, you'll experience better results and shorter treatment time. Keep plaque at bay with these top ten tips:

1. One tooth at a time. When you brush, take time with each individual tooth – at least 10 seconds each – and pay careful attention to the spots where your teeth touch your braces.

2. It’s all about the angles. Brush the tops of your teeth and braces with your brush angled down toward where they meet. Brush the bottoms of your teeth and braces with your brush angled up.

3. The tooth, the whole tooth, nothing but the tooth. While the front surface of your teeth may seem like the most logical to clean, it’s equally important to clean the inner surface of your teeth (tongue side) as well as the chewing surface. And be sure to clean along your gum line – a key spot for plaque buildup.

4. Step 1: eat, step 2: clean. While you’re in treatment, it’s important to brush after every meal. Bits of food can easily get caught between braces and teeth, and these food bits interact with bacteria in your mouth to cause decay. The longer food is in contact with your teeth, the greater opportunity for plaque to form. If you are eating somewhere that you can’t brush, thoroughly rinse your mouth with water.

5. Like a Boy Scout, always be prepared. The easiest way to be sure you can brush after every meal is to get in the habit of taking a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss with you wherever you go. Designate a special container just for your teeth-cleaning tools and keep it in your purse, backpack, or laptop case.

6. Remove the moving parts. If you have elastic bands or headgear, remove these parts before you brush or floss.

7. Fluoride is your friend. Fluoride helps prevent cavities. Be sure to brush with fluoride toothpaste, and rinse with fluoride mouthwash.

8. Pointy brushes reach tiny places. Interproximal brushes (sometimes called proxa brushes or interdental brushes) are cone-shaped and come in very handy for reaching spots around your braces that standard brushes can’t.

9. Find the floss for you. Regular floss works for some patients, but others find it easier to work with a floss threader, which helps you get the floss into tight places. Other patients like an all-in-one product called Superfloss, which comes with a stiff end for easy threading, a spongy section for cleaning wide spaces, and regular floss for narrow spaces.

10. Make time for the pros. It’s your job to take care of the everyday cleaning. But make sure to visit your dentist regularly while in treatment, to get the deep, thorough cleaning that only a professional can provide. If you need help finding the right Dentist for you, feel free to contact our office - we’d love to help!

Hope this helps!

Dr. Kennell and Team

When the holiday season comes around, there's no need for kids with braces to miss out on the traditional treats! Some candies can damage braces, but there are plenty of safe and tasty snacks to satisfy young taste buds without interfering with orthodontic treatments. In fact, when preparing fun holiday treats with your child, you can include numerous healthy options that build strong teeth at the same time.

Treats to Avoid:

When supermarket shelves are full of brightly packaged treats for the holidays, it's hard not to fill your cart. But for the sake of your child's braces, you still need to scoot past the hard, chewy and sticky foods. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) advises that children with braces should avoid caramel, licorice, lollipops, bubblegum, popcorn, taffy, jelly beans and hard pretzels. Those types of food can easily bend or loosen the brace brackets.

Kids can enjoy the holidays without risking their braces by sticking to soft snacks and by paying extra attention to oral hygiene. The AAO suggests chocolate, peanut butter, milkshakes, gelatin-based candies and ice cream are all fun holiday treats that won't damage braces. Brushing twice a day is especially important during the holidays.

For added assurance that the food you serve is safe on braces, consider making your own!

The Colgate Oral Care Center has some great recipe ideas:

Strawberry Santas:

Slice the bottom off the large end of a strawberry so that it stands upright, and cut off the top quarter. Squirt some whipped cream onto the strawberry's top flat surface, and add two chocolate sprinkles to make the eyes of Santa's face. Place the top quarter of the strawberry back onto the whipped cream to form Santa's hat, and dab some cream on the very top of the strawberry to give his hat its white bobble.

Marshmallow Snowmen:

Melt some white chocolate candy coating in the microwave, and push a stiff straw or wooden skewer through three marshmallows for the three parts of the snowman's body. Dip the marshmallows in the candy coating, and before it sets, press chocolate chips into the top marshmallow to make the snowman's eyes. Add a tiny piece of carrot for his nose – but not too big that one crunch can damage a braces bracket.

Reindeer Cheese:

Cut strips of yellow bell pepper to the shape of antlers with a sharp knife, and push them into the wide end of a soft cheese triangle. Use two pieces of olive to make the reindeer's eyes, and half a cherry tomato to make Rudolph's nose.

Christmas Tree Brownie Lollipops:

Not every lollipop needs to be hard or sticky. Cut brownies into triangles, and decorate them with lines of frosting for tinsel and sprinkles for baubles. Push a brightly colored, stiff straw into one edge of the triangle, as far as it will go without poking out the other side. Snip off the end of the straw to form your lollipop stick.

Sometimes it's hard for kids to understand why they have to endure the fuss and bother of wearing braces, and it can be especially difficult during the holiday season when they can't eat the same treats their friends enjoy. By offering your child enticing alternatives, he or she can have just as much fun as everyone else while benefiting from the long-term bonus of beautifully straight, pearly white teeth.

Happy Holidays!!

Spotlight on Pam!

Pam is originally from Franklin, NH & now lives in Effingham, NH with her boyfriend, Michael & their adorable daughter Hope (aka Hopie or Peanut:)

Last April they took their 1st family trip to the Florida Keys to celebrate Hope's First Birthday! Hope got the chance to swim with PAX the Dolphin at the Research Center in Marathon - how fun is that?!

Pam graduated from NHTI as an orthodontic assistant in 1996 & joined the Kennell Orthodontic Team in January 2014. When not at work; Pam, Michael and Hopie spend lots of time enjoying the outdoors - hiking, fishing & swimming. This winter they are going to teach "Peanut" how to ski - if they an get her to stop dancing - her favorite thing to do!

Just Look at that face - what a cutie!

This is a video great presentation on what you should be asking your potential Orthodontist during your initial consultation - before entering into a treatment program - you should know the answers to these 6 simple questions!

https://vimeo.com/187370642

Spotlight on Mona!!

Mona grew up in Northern Maine way up by the Canadian border, with 2 sisters and SIX brothers! Mona has lived in Laconia with her significant other, Walter,  for over 13 years! That's him with the chicken on his head:)

Mona has 2 beautiful daughters. Candice lives in Maryland with her husband Dwight and Krystal lives in Northfield with her husband Steve.  Mona has FOUR grandchildren: Kaelyn (the princess) and Liam, Kyle, and Kurtis (her 3 princes!)

Mona has worked for Dr. Kennell for 12 wonderful years! When she's not at work, she enjoys GOLFING (her favorite!!), TRAVELING (she's been to Rome, Sicily, Malta, Hawaii, California, Neveda, and Maryland!), KAYAKING, FISHING, READING, LISTENING TO MUSIC and COOKING!

Fall is one of our favorite times of year! With the beautiful New England fall foliage in full bloom, it's no wonder why the Lakes Region is a wonderful place to live, work and play! With lots to do, who doesn't love this season.

The Lakes Region offers lots of fun places for all ages. A majority of our patients are between the ages of 12-16 and now that we are treating adults, we've realized that this is the perfect area to live! Here are just a few things our patients and our staff love to do during this time of year.

If you're looking for a great view of the fall foliage, Mount Major, in Alton, NH is a wonder hike for the whole family. This small mountain weighing in at an elevation of 1,786 feet, is near the Belknap Range and to the South of Lake Winnipesaukee.

It is also that time of year for apple and pumpkin picking. With lots of wonderful local farms to choose from too! Beans and Greens in Gilford, NH offers a fun corn maze and hay maze for the little ones. The beautiful town of Gilford also offers another popular mountain, Gunstock Mountain Resort. Offering mountain biking, hiking, fishing and ziplining at this time of year.

For those of you that love to shop, the Tanger Outlets in Tilton offers a great shopping experience. And we can't forget about Funspot, at Weirs Beach, which is the largest arcade in the world. These are just a few of our favorites. We hope you enjoy this time of year as much as we do!

October is National Orthodontic Health Month, and with Halloween on Monday, we have compiled a list of specific treats that are ok with braces.  As with anything else, always in moderation and make sure to brush and floss very well after!

Good Treats:

• Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
• Kit Kats
• Plain M&M’s
• Oreo’s & Soft Cookies
• Hershey Bars & Hershey Kisses
• Candy Bars without caramel or nuts

Those will keep your braces safe, but don't forget to keep these Trick-or-treating safety guidelines in mind while you are out there filling your candy bags:

• Young children should always be accompanied by an adult
• Carry a flashlight
• Wear a light-colored or reflective costume
• Choose face paint over masks for young ghosts and goblins
• Have an adult inspect all treats before the children dig in

Have a Happy and Safe Halloween!

The second annual PumpkinFest is this weekend! There are so many fun events for the whole family to participate in! Keep posted on the latest information by visiting the official Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/NHPumpkinFestival/.

Tell Dr. Kennell and the staff what you did this weekend to be part of the fun!

SPOTLIGHT ON MARIANNE!

Marianne is a "Jersey Girl" and has lived in N.H. with her husband Steve, since 1978.

She, Steve and their three grown children

and three grandchildren spend as much

time together as they can.

When not working at Dr. Kennell's office, Marianne is busy in the kitchen making baklava and in her sewing room till midnight!

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Dr. Alan Kennell. Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with us:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, give us a call as soon as possible!

Hope this helps,

The team at Kennell Orthodontics

SPOTLIGHT ON VALERIE

Valerie grew up here in Laconia and graduated from Laconia High School. She attended NHTI in Concord and completed the Dental Assisting Program.

Valerie has been an orthodontic assistant for 15 years.

Valerie was recently married last November to her husband Steve and they have two beautiful teenage daughters, Bella and Samantha, and her adorable shorkie-poo named Tank.

Valerie and her family enjoy golfing, hiking, and vacationing in Maine.

Did you know one in every five orthodontic patients is an adult? We’re living longer and technology is improving, making orthodontic treatment an appealing and safe option for patients of all ages. As the trend toward treatment later in life grows, we’re seeing braces on parents as well as children – and even adult celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Gwen Stefani and Nicholas Cage have shown off their braces. It’s never too late to look and feel your best!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment. The physical process for moving teeth is the same, young or old, which means it’s never too late to address issues such as an overbite or underbite, crooked or crowded teeth, or jaw disorders.

How Do I Get Started?

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, we’ll make a consultation appointment with you. During this meeting we will perform a general assessment of your oral health, discuss options for treatment, and answer any questions you may have. We will also discuss matters of cost and insurance. The next step is an orthodontic records appointment in which we take x-rays, photos, and an impression of your teeth. This information drives your unique treatment plan.

What Are the Benefits?

Straightening your teeth can improve your smile, your self-esteem, and your dental health. Technologically advanced new treatments make it easier to identify the option that best fits your lifestyle. Modern techniques and materials have made braces and aligners more effective, comfortable and unobtrusive than ever.

If you think you might benefit from orthodontic treatment, give our team a call, so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs.

As much as we hate to admit it, the beginning of August is a reminder in a few short weeks, Back to School activities will be in full swing!  Kennell Orthodontics wants to send your children back to school prepared for school life with braces or new orthodontic treatments. Pack your child their very own "Back to School with Braces" kit - something as simple as a ziplock plastic bag including items such as:  Orthopicks, orthodontic rubber bands, mini toothbrush and toothpaste, orthodontic wax, small mirror, floss, retainer case and tissues. This kit can easily be tucked into their backpack or locker and will help as a reminder of orthodontic care even when at school.  Start the school year off right with these reminders:

• bring retainer cases to lunch room and keep retainer in it to avoid accidentally throwing it away with lunch trash;
• always wear protective mouth guard for all fall sports - this will help prevent brackets from breaking and inner lip from rubbing against braces.

Stay ahead of the Back to School shopping rush by preparing these orthodontic kits now - kick back and enjoy the last weeks of summer!!

Visibly crooked teeth are not the only reason to take your child into the orthodontist. There are some subtle things to look for as well, which may indicate the onset of more serious orthodontic issues. Many orthodontic issues are much easier to address if treated and corrected during a child's development.

Waiting until facial development is complete or until the permanent teeth have come in can make correction of many orthodontic issues more challenging. Both children and adults can benefit from orthodontic care at any age, but addressing issues early is almost always the ideal choice.

If you're wondering if you or your child might have need for orthodontic care, there are some things you can be on the lookout for. Here are some of the most common warning signs of orthodontic issues:

• Difficulty when chewing or biting
• Chronic mouth-breathing
• Sucking the thumb, the fingers, or any other oral sucking habits that continue after the age of six
• Overbite - when the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth by more than 5mm
• Top front teeth that cover more than 25% of the bottom teeth while biting
• Underbite - when the top front teeth go behind the bottom row of teeth when biting
• Crowded, crooked, overlapped, misshapen, misplaced teeth or extra teeth of any size
• Crossbite - when one or more teeth tilt toward the cheek or toward the tongue causing excessive stress on the jawbone
• The center of the top and bottom teeth don't line up
• Uneven teeth-wearing
• Baby teeth coming out too early for the child's age
• Pain in jaws
• Clicking in the jaw joints
• The jaw shifts off-center while chewing or biting
• A jaw that protrudes, or recedes, too much
• Difficulty speaking or enunciating clearly
• Chronic biting of the inner cheek or roof of the mouth
• Asymmetrical facial structure
• Grinding or clenching of the teeth

If you notice that either you or your child has one or more of these conditions, they could be signs that there is a risk of orthodontic or health problems. The sooner these problems are addressed, the wider and brighter you will be able to smile going forward!

SPOTLIGHT on Dr. Kennell

Dr. Kennell grew up in Frankfort, NY – a small town in central New York. He is the youngest of 4 children (3 older sisters). Dr. Kennell spent many summers picking (and eating) strawberries and corn on his uncle’s farm.

He attended Frankfort-Schuyler Central High School (go Knights!) and graduated in 1993. He was a smarty pants in school and was the valedictorian of his class. After high school Dr. Kennell attended Union College – a small liberal arts college in Schenectady, NY. He really liked science (OK - so he was a little geeky…) so he decided to major in Biology and minored in Chemistry. Dr. Kennell loved being in school so much that he decided to go to dental school after college.

He attended The State University of New York at Buffalo Dental School (or “UB” to central NY folks!) While at dental school in Buffalo, Dr. Kennell got to explore all aspects of dentistry (and hot wings) including extracting rotten teeth (yuk!) and even doing root canals and making dentures (boring). But one area that fascinated him the most was orthodontics.

After graduating from dental school he decided to specialize in orthodontics. Orthodontics is one of the hardest (and coolest) specialties to get acceptance into – fortunately Dr. Kennell was still somewhat of a smarty pants and graduated in the top 1% of his dental school class. He was accepted into UB Dental’s Orthodontic program and stayed in Buffalo for another 30 months (more hot wings) to complete the orthodontic program.

In his first year of his orthodontic residency at UB, Dr. Kennell met Dr. Missy Kennell (Scarpino at the time…) – who happened to be in her first year of dental school! A couple years later they were engaged, and married shortly after that!

In 2006 the Kennells moved to the Lakes Region of NH – a long-time vacation spot for Dr. Missy’s family. The Kennells have 2 kids -Vivian & Preston, and a Bernedoodle named Isla (that’s “eye-la”). The Kennell household is a hectic one - with both doctors running off to manage their practices and the kids involved in activities including figure skating, skiing, music, swimming, tennis, golf and summer camps. But they still manage to find time for fun on the lake, traveling and staying healthy together. Their favorite activities are working out, hiking, skiing, and of course anything on Lake Winnipesaukee!

In the coming months, we'll be spotlighting our other Kennell Orthodontics team members in our Blog posts.  We thought this would give our patients a chance to get to know us a little better.  Please check back - you never know who our next team member is!

SPOTLIGHT August. Dr Kennell

We love when patients ask us that question! Now that you’re wearing braces, it’s even more important to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen as you begin your orthodontic treatment.

Braces are known to trap food particles and make it difficult to brush or remove plaque, which is why our team at Kennell Orthodontics recommends that you brush and floss after every meal.

When your braces are initially placed, your teeth are likely to be very sensitive. You may experience discomfort for up to three to five days, which is why we encourage you to eat soft foods during that time. Remember, the less pressure you put on your teeth, the less discomfort you will have.

You may also be thinking, “Okay, so what can I eat?”

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:

In the first couple of days, stick to liquid-based foods like yogurts, pudding and soups. Mashed potatoes are a good option as well. You can also cook fruits and vegetables to make them softer. Ice cream, cool soups, Jell-O, scrambled eggs, cream of wheat, oatmeal, 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.

It’s crucial to regularly check your braces for bent or loose wires and brackets. In the event of a loose/broken wire or bracket, please call our office immediately to schedule an appointment for repair.

Lastly, in addition to visiting Kennell Orthodontics during your orthodontic treatment for adjustments, you should visit your dentist for professional checkups and teeth cleaning appointments about every six months, or as recommended by your dentist.

Here are some helpful tips for anyone with braces:

There are many options for straightening teeth and the decision of one treatment over another can be overwhelming.  Which treatment is best?  Which will fit your lifestyle?  Which can you afford and maximizes treatment time?  All these questions can be answered by Dr. Kennell and his Kennell Orthodontics team!  One type of treatment offered by Dr. Kennell is Invisalign.  This revolutionary approach uses aligners that are clear, smooth and plastic - versus brackets and wires bonded to your teeth.  This treatment offers the convenience of an orthodontic treatment without interfering with your appearance.  Check out bracesinfo.com/invisalign for more information and contact Kennell Orthodontics today to discuss whether Invisalign is right for you!!!

The number one goal of orthodontic treatment is to give you or your child a good bite, meaning straight teeth that work well with the teeth in the opposite jaw. A good bite makes it easier for you to eat, chew and speak. It can enhance your dental health and overall health, and may well improve your self-esteem. As a part of your comprehensive dental health care plan, orthodontic treatment can help you retain your teeth—and your smile—for a lifetime.

Let your smile express yourself! Nothing can show the world how happy you are quite like a beautiful smile. In fact, it’s one of the first things others notice about you, too. With orthodontics, you can be proud to flash your smile, because you’ll know that your smile truly represents your positive attitude.

Make your mouth healthy! Straight teeth aren’t just pretty, they’re healthy as well. Teeth that are properly aligned are easier to clean, reducing the amount of plaque buildup and risk for gingivitis. The cleaner you keep your teeth, the longer they’ll last!

Feel free to live your life! Orthodontics is easier today than ever before, with treatment options that fit your lifestyle and schedule. We can personalize your treatment to suit all of your needs!

Call Dr. Kennell today to set up your consultation!

Summer is right around the corner!  There's no better time to make sure you have a safe and healthy summer.  Pool parties, BBQ's, summer camps, vacations galore!  With summer comes a time to slow down, take a break and soak up a little extra family time.  That being said...Summer is NOT the time to skimp on your dental care routines.  Whether your child is heading off to summer camp with new orthodontics or you, yourself, have transitioned into a new retainer - Don't take a vacation from your healthy smile!

Make an appointment with Dr. Kennell today for a quick check up before heading out on your summer trips.  Remembering good orthodontic care during your summer activities, caring for your braces and avoiding sugary drinks and sticky, chewy or hard foods, are all part of a smart plan for maintaining your healthy Summer Smile!

It's National Teen self-esteem month in the month of May, so what better time to talk about the importance of teen self-esteem. Actually self-esteem in all ages is really important! National Teen Self-Esteem Month was established to create awareness about the negative effects poor self-esteem causes among the teen population. During this month, parents and guardians are encouraged to act as positive role models, help stop negative self-images, and improve confidence and security among adolescents.

What is self -esteem? The Webster’s dictionary says: Self-Esteem-The esteem or good opinion of oneself. Now lets look at what Esteem is- to set value on, to regard with respect. So, for us to have self-esteem we need to have a good view of ourselves and be respectful to ourselves as well. Why is self-esteem so important? One, we make better decisions for ourselves when we are not lacking self-esteem. We want to value who we are, love who we are and make good decisions for our self, to reinforce our self worth, thereby strengthening our self-esteem.

Treating ourselves with respect is totally in our hands, we have complete control over this one. If you have the choice to do something good or bad for yourself, you have the choice to do what’s good, and no one can stop you. We have to remember that our opinion of ourselves really starts with us, not outside influences - not people, not the media!

Here are a couple quick tips to strengthen and maintain our sense of self and build confidence:

• Learn to love yourself for who you are
• Respect yourself, make good decisions
• Know your opinions of yourself, come from you, not the opinions of others
• Realize what make you shine is on the inside, not what you look like

So, go out in the world and know you are good enough and are perfect just the way you are. And remember, although it might sound cliche, treat others the way you want to be treated!

You're engaged, you're planning your wedding, and you couldn't be happier-except for one thing… Your smile!  Maybe your teeth are a little crooked, or you have a gap-but you're an adult now and you don't want braces!  Rest easy- Dr. Kennell has several esthetic, or invisible treatment options for you to choose from.

If your teeth are only moderately crooked and you have three or four months till the big day, you can see drastic improvements using clear aligners, such as Invisalign.  Believe it or not, if your case is mild enough, your treatment time may be as little as 10 weeks!

If you're not familiar with the Invisalign technology, Dr. Alan Kennell can (in appropriate cases) use clear aligners to move your teeth, rather than the traditional wires and brackets.  Invisalign trays are almost invisible-unless someone is very close to you, they won't even notice you are wearing them! You take the trays out to eat and brush your teeth, and while your teeth will feel sore and may even throb periodically for the first few days, after that you'll hardly notice when the trays are in. (While wearing the trays you won't be able to drink anything but water, which will also help with that wedding day diet!)

If you are not a candidate for Invisalign, Dr. Kennell has another “invisible” option for you – lingual braces.  These are actually braces that go behind your teeth!  The Harmony system is a custom set of behind the teeth braces that will get your teeth straight without having to show metal braces and wires.  Dr. Kennell is proud to be the only Harmony provider in the entire state of New Hampshire!

Call Dr. Kennell today to make your appointment for beautiful, straight teeth for your upcoming wedding and get ready to Smile Down the Aisle!

Like you, we are seeing and hearing a lot of promotion for the 2016 Spring Sports season that is about to begin. Registration sign ups for lacrosse, baseball, softball and more are posted all around the Lakes Region.  This means we need to do our job to remind our valued patients that proper mouth protection is recommended when you participate in any sports activities. If you wear braces, this protection becomes essential. Injuries to your mouth can not only damage your teeth, but your braces could break and cut open your lip.

Mouth Guards
Mouth guards referred to as boil-and-bites can be purchased at many retail stores. As the name implies, these guards are boiled in water to heat and soften the material. While the guard is still warm, you place it in your mouth and bite down gently. This causes the guard to form to the shape of your mouth. Unfortunately, these guards do not necessarily offer the best protection or fit.

The custom fitting of a mouth guard ensures you of better protection and a comfortable fit. Custom guards are also built in layers for durability. The American Dental Association recommends custom guards for orthodontic patients. Your mouth guard will be designed to provide proper protection for both your teeth and your braces.

No matter what type of sport you participate in, a mouth guard can protect your braces. Even an activity as seemingly harmless as table tennis can result in a contact injury. The Academy for Sports Dentistry states that a properly fitted mouth guard should not interfere with any athletic activity.

Custom-fitted mouth protectors are individually designed and made in a dental office or a professional laboratory based on your dentist's instructions. First, your dentist will make an impression of your teeth and a mouth guard is then molded over the model using a special material. Due to the use of the special material and because of the extra time and work involved, this custom-made mouth guard is more expensive than the other types, but it provides the most comfort and best fit and protection.

Who Needs a Mouth Guard?

Mouth guards should be used by anyone -- both children and adults -- who play contact sports such as football, boxing, soccer, ice hockey, basketball, lacrosse, and field hockey. However, even those participating in non-contact sports (for example, gymnastics) and any recreational activity (for example, skateboarding, mountain biking) that might pose a risk of injury to the mouth would benefit from wearing a protective mouth guard.

Adults and children who grind their teeth at night should have a nocturnal bite plate or bite splint made to prevent tooth damage.

Why Use a Mouth Guard When Playing Sports?

Because accidents can happen during any physical activity, the advantage of using a mouth guard is that it can help limit the risk of mouth-related injuries to your lips, tongue, and soft tissues of your mouth. Mouth guards also help you avoid chipped or broken teeth, nerve damage to a tooth or even tooth loss.

Our office will be glad to answer any questions you have so you can continue the activities you enjoy with little concern. If you do suffer any injuries to your mouth or braces during sporting activities, please contact us immediately. The sooner we can care for your mouth, the better the results will be.

If you ever sustain damage to your braces and need to call Kennell Orthodontics, we can help you more effectively if you can tell us exactly which piece is in trouble! Here’s a handy diagram and corresponding list of all the parts that make up your braces.

Elastic Tie: Tiny rubber band that fits around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Archwire: The main wire that acts as a track to guide the teeth along. It's changed periodically throughout treatment, as teeth move to their new positions.

Loop in Archwire: Frequently used for closing space left by an extraction. Many archwires don't have a loop.

Bracket: Small attachment that holds the archwire in place. Most often, a bracket is cemented directly onto the tooth's surface, eliminating the need for a band.

Headgear Tube: Round, hollow attachment on the back bands. The inner bow of the headgear fits into it.

Coil Spring: Fits between brackets and over archwire to open space between teeth.

Tie Wire: Fine wire that is twisted around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Band: A thin ring of metal fitted around a tooth and cemented in place. The band provides a way to attach the brackets to the tooth.

Hook: Welded or removable arm to which elastics (rubber bands) are attached.

Elastic (Rubber Band): Small rubber band that is hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth.

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!

We are excited to introduce the next Kennell Orthodontics contest!

A scavenger hunt to win tickets to Cirque du Soleil - OVO!

TO ENTER: Answer all the questions on the Kennell Orthodontics Entry Form. Forms can be picked up at our office or downloaded here.  All entries must be returned to our office (or emailed to contests@kennellortho.com) by AUGUST 22, 2016.

Only entries with ALL answers correct will be entered into the contest. You must be a patient to enter - so if you're not yet - make your appointment today to see Dr. Kennell!

Winner will receive a 4-pack of show tickets to the 8/27/16 7:30pm Show AND a pre-show dinner with the Kennell Orthodontics crew! GOOD LUCK!!

OVO is a story about insects working, playing, fighting and looking for love in a non-stop riot of energy in motion. Their home is filled with biodiversity, beauty, action and moments of quiet emotion. The awestruck insects are intensely curious when a mysterious egg appears, representing the enigma and cycles of their lives.

Cirque du Soleil Entry form.

Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Dr. Kennell for a consultation, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That’s right—seven.

Ok, so what’s so great about age seven, you ask? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for Dr. Kennell to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites and open bites can be detected.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age provides one of two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, a healthy prognosis will provide immediate peace of mind.

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and are detrimental to good oral hygiene. So, if your child is nearing his or her seventh birthday, give us a call at Kennell Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

A New Year means a NEW REFERRAL CONTEST!!

Here at Kennell Orthodontics, the greatest compliment we can receive is one of our patients referring a friend or colleague to our practice.

A successful practice doesn't just happen. It is the result of a strong commitment to excellence in our treatment and in our relationships with patients and doctors. We'd like to take a moment to thank you for showing your confidence in our practice by recommending us to your friends  and colleagues. We're gratified to find how many new patients regularly call on us based on your words of advice.

To show our appreciation, we are kicking off our 2016 patient referral program!

If Kennell Orthodontics begins a treatment plan with a new patient (child or adult) from your qualified referral, you will receive a $50 VISA cash card and be entered to win the 2016 GRAND PRIZE!

What is the 2016 GRAND PRIZE?!?!

One lucky name will be drawn and the winner will have the luxury of choose one of the following

Overnight Boston Family Adventure including FOUR BlueMan Group Tickets

Or

$1000 Credit towards an existing or future treatment plan.

Did you know that even in ancient times, people wanted to improve the look and functionof their smiles? We think of modern orthodontic appliances as sleek, efficient technology, but this was not always so! Take a look at the highlights in the evolution of braces.

Ancient Times: From Greece to Rome

• According to The Angle Orthodontist, Aristotle and Hippocrates first thought about methods for straightening teeth between 400 and 300 BC.
• The Etruscans, in what we now know as Italy, buried their dead with appliances that maintained spaces and prevented collapse of their teeth and jaws during life. Archaeologists have discovered mummified remains in various locations that have metal bands wrapped around the teeth.
• A Roman tomb has also been discovered in which the teeth were bound with gold wire, including documentation on the wire’s use as a dental device.

18th Century: A French Development

• The French dentist Pierre Fauchard is acknowledged as the father of modern dentistry. In 1728 he published a book that described various methods for straightening teeth. Fauchard also used a device known as a “blandeau” to widen the upper palate.
• Louis Bourdet was another French dentist who published a book in 1754 that discussed tooth alignment. Bourdet further refined the blandeau and was the first dentist to extract bicuspids, or the premolar teeth between canines and molars, for the purpose of reducing tooth crowding.

19th Century: Orthodontics Defined
• Orthodontics started to become a separate dental specialty during the early 19th century. The first wire crib was used in 1819, marking the beginning of modern orthodontics.
• During this period, gold, platinum, silver, steel, gum rubber, vulcanite, and occasionally wood, ivory, zinc, and copper were used — as was brass in the form of loops, hooks, spurs, and ligatures.
• Edward Maynard first used gum elastics in 1843 and E. J. Tucker began making rubber bands for braces in 1850.
• Norman W. Kingsley published the first paper on modern orthodontics in 1858 and J. N. Farrar was the first dentist to recommend the use of force over timed intervals to straighten teeth.

20th Century: New Materials Abound
• Edward Angle developed the first classification systems for malocclusions (misaligned teeth) during the early 20th century in the United States, and it is still in use today. Angle founded the American Society of Orthodontia in 1901, which was renamed the American Association of Orthodontists in the 1930s.
• By the 1960s, gold was universally abandoned in favor of stainless steel.
• Lingual braces were the “invisible” braces of choice until the early 1980s, when tooth-colored aesthetic brackets made from single-crystal sapphire and ceramics became popular.

Today
As we arrive in the present, you need only look at your own braces to see how far we’ve come. Your treatment plan was probably created with a 3D digital model, and we’ve likely used a computerized process to customize your archwires. Perhaps you have clear aligners, self-ligating brackets, or highly resilient ceramic brackets with heat-activated wires.

Orthodontics has come a long way from the days of Aristotle, and even the bulky wrap-around braces of just 60 years ago. Regardless of your specific treatment plan, the development of high-tech materials and methods has made it possible for your orthodontic experience to be as effective, efficient, and comfortable as possible.

Sources: Angle.org, ArchWired

Dr. Alan Kennell and his staff at Kennell Orthodontics are pleased to announce the winner of the 2015 Refer-a-Friend contest – Sophia J.!  Kennell Orthodontics realizes the greatest compliment received is when one of their patients refers a friend or colleague to its practice.  In an effort to show appreciation to patients for these referrals, Dr.Kennell developed the Refer-a-Friend campaign.  This campaign, which focused on new patient treatment plans from qualified referrals, awarded Refer-a-Friend participants with a Visa Cash Card and an entry into the grand prize drawing.  A patient since 2011, Sophia had multiple entries from her multiple referrals – this gave her a greater advantage on having her name picked as the Grand Prize Winner!

As the Grand Prize winner, Sophia received four 3-day hopper passes to Walt Disney World!!

Dr. Kennell thanked Sophia for being a valued patient family and for recommending Kennell Orthodontics to her family and friends.  “We are honored to have such loyal patients who continue to refer to us and share their positive experiences here at Kennell Orthodontics with others.  We are looking forward to Sophia sharing some fun pictures of Mickey Mouse with us!!”

Check back  - Dr. Kennell will be announcing his 2016 Refer-A-Friend campaign soon!!

It’s that time of year to start thinking about protecting yourself and your family from the flu. Here are some simple steps you can take to help yourself avoid colds and the flu this season.
• 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 toothbrush after every cold or flu or every 3-4 months when bristles appear worn

To promote a healthy and clean environment, our team gives a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our office at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces.

For the protection of other patients and our staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others. We hope this helps and give us a call if you have any questions!

Stay healthy this winter!!

At Kennell Orthodontics, we know nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth. Here are five other ways you can avoid that dreaded enemy of the teeth during orthodontic treatment, courtesy of WebMD.

Let’s start with brushing regularly. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste is vital to a healthy mouth. Make sure you softly brush all the surfaces of your teeth.

Next on the list is flossing daily: a simple daily flossing between teeth clears away plaque before it can cause damage and can also clean plaque at the gum line. Plaque is known to reach the spaces between teeth.

Also, evading a trip to the dentist is probably not a great idea. Let’s say you brush and floss daily. You’re still at risk for plaque. With time, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar. Consider visiting your general dentist at least twice a year or as recommended by your dentist, and you have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your teeth while wearing braces.

You’ll also want to stop avoiding those fruits and veggies. Believe it or not, there are foods out there that play a key role in keeping plaque off our teeth. They include apples, carrots, cucumbers and other raw fruits and vegetables. You can still eat these types of fruits and veggies if you have braces, but be sure to cut them up into bite sized pieces to avoid breaking off brackets.

Finally, before you pick up that candy bar, remember to not give in to your sweet tooth. Consuming sugary drinks or eating candy or other junk food allows sugar to stick to our teeth. The bacteria, then, becomes plaque, which turns into acid and damages our teeth. Avoiding these five bad habits keeps your plaque in check and your mouth as healthy as can be during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Alan Kennell. If you have any questions, give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

The year is almost over, and we reflect on the year that was. We are looking forward to serving our amazing patients with even more great care in 2016!

A new year can mean a new you! It is never too late to get that beautiful smile you have always wanted. Nothing is as important as a genuine and heartfelt smile. Whether in your professional life or when you are out socializing, an attractive smile can make you feel happier and more relaxed –as well as making the right impression.

A beautiful smile is an amazing asset. It contributes to self esteem and positive self image – important qualities for any age group. As well as having teeth that look nice, orthodontic treatment can also improve the function of your jaw and aid chewing efficiency of your teeth by enhancing the way your teeth bite together. Crowded teeth can be very difficult to clean. They provide areas for bacteria to grow and food to stagnate and therefore require a rigorous oral hygiene routine. Straight teeth are much easier to clean as there are no awkward gaps to get between and improved accessibility, making oral hygiene routines straight-forward.

So go on... treat yourself this new year with a beautiful, bright, straight smile! Schedule your consultation today!

Have a safe and happy New Year from our family to yours!

You've just heard the three words that every teen dreads: “YOU NEED BRACES!”

Not everyone is born with a perfect smile. So for many teens, wearing braces is inevitable. Don't worry! The good news is that today's image-conscious teens now have a choice for straightening their teeth. Braces aren't nearly as scary as you may think. In fact, braces today come in a variety of styles, materials, and colors, making life with braces much easier, more comfortable, and even more stylish than ever before. There are proven alternatives such as clear, removable braces, like Invisalign Teen, that meet teens' desire for aesthetic treatment and are a better fit for their busy lifestyles filled with sports, music and other activities.

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, patients age 12 to 17 years represent more than half of the over two million orthodontic case starts in the U.S. each year. And that includes your favorite teen celebrities who wear braces! Did you see the cover of People magazine this week? Kate Gosselin's daughters, Mady and Cara, are showing off their great smiles wearing metal braces!

Call us today to schedule your consultation. You, too, can have a beautiful, healthy and straight smile!

There are so many fun things going on in the Lakes Region this holiday season! Here are just a FEW things that sound FUN and FESTIVE and will make you SMILE!

Santa Express - Hobo Railroad  - Lincoln, NH

Enjoy hot chocolate and holiday cookies on the train! All children receive a gift from Santa!

Starts November 27 and runs through December 20th, 2015.

$20 coach, $25 First Class. Children 2 and under FREE.

www.hoborr.com

Kenny Rogers  - Christmas & Holiday Hits at the Capitol Center for the Arts- Concord, NH

Sunday December 20^th at 7:30pm

www.ccanh.com

Festival of Trees 2015! Franklin Opera House – Franklin, NH

Enjoy holiday music and entertainment while viewing hand-crafted wreaths, wall-hangings and other crafts. Raffles and prizes!!

Saturday December 5-7, 2015

www.franklinoperahouse.org

Sleigh Bells Swing – Winnipesaukee Playhouse

Enjoy holiday music and beautiful vocals!

December 2^nd and 3^rd at 2pm.

Tickets: $15 Balcony $25 Orchestra

www.winnipesaukeeplayhouse.org

Sleeping Beauty – Winnipesaukee Playhouse

Enjoy an original English “Panto”!

December 19^th – January 2nd

Tickets: $12 Balcony $19 Orchestra

www.winnipesaukeeplayhouse.org

Holidays can feel like a challenge with braces, especially if this is your first holiday season with them.

With Thanksgiving coming up next week we made a short list of holiday food favorites that are safe for you to eat; as well as ones to avoid when you have braces.

These should be safe for you to eat with braces:

• Ham and/or Turkey
• Corn: this can be tricky, while you shouldn’t have corn on the cob, cream corn is fine
• Sweet Potatoes
• Mashed Potatoes
• Stuffing (as long as there are no nuts or crunchy foods hidden within it)
• Green beans (with the same warning to be on the look out for crunchy items in casseroles)
• Most desserts are safe as long as they aren’t too crunchy or have anything to sticky like caramel etc on them.

Here are some foods to avoid this holiday season, and the rest of the year!

• Caramel (as mentioned above)
• Popcorn
• Chips
• Nuts

Braces have come all way for both children AND adults. Ask Dr. Kennell about our Invisalign line of braces.

At Kennell Orthodontics, we embrace new technology, whether it is through the innovative orthodontic treatments that we offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern office conveniently located in Laconia.

Beginning this January, did you know that patients at our office can receive appointment reminders through text messages and emails? Dr. Kennell knows that many patients prefer texts and emails rather than phone calls, which is why he wants to make appointment reminders convenient and fun for patients!

If you haven't already, you may sign up for this convenient service at your next appointment, or by giving our office a call. 

Kennell Orthodontics would like to wish you all a Happy Halloween! We hope it is filled with (braces friendly) treats, tricks, and lots of fun!

Good Treats:

• Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
• Kit Kats
• Plain M&M’s
• 3 Musketeers
• Oreo’s & Soft Cookies
• Hershey Bars & Hershey Kisses
• Candy Bars without caramel or nuts

Bad Treats:

• Caramel
• Bubblegum
• Hard Candy
• Taffy
• Licorice
• Nuts
• Jelly Beans
• Candy Corns
• Popcorn
• Chewy Candy
• Caramel/Candy Apples

The LET IT SHINE Pumpkin Festival Parade is coming to Laconia! Kennell Orthodontics wants to help make you a part of the FUN! Have you or a loved one dreamed of riding in Cinderella's Pumpkin Coach?! All the details can be found here! http://ow.ly/T8sx5

Columbus Day, which is annually on the second Monday of October, remembers Christopher Columbus’ arrival to the Americas on October 12, 1492. He sailed with a 90 man crew on three ships which were called the Santa Maria, the Nina, and the Pinta. They sailed for two long months that were filled with sickness, famine, and exhaustion. The first commemoration of Columbus took place in 1792. In 1968, Columbus Day was declared a federal public holiday on the second Monday in October by President Lyndon B. Johnson.

Kennel Orthodontics hopes you all had a wonderful Columbus Day Weekend! Why not your day off from work or school by going for a hike to take in the lovely foliage, or by checking out the local Sandwich Fair!

http://www.thesandwichfair.com/html/general_information.html

The LET IT SHINE Pumpkin Festival Parade is coming to Laconia! Kennell Orthodontics wants to help make you a part of the FUN! Have you or a loved one dreamed of riding in Cinderella's Pumpkin Coach?! All the details can be found here! Deadline to enter is October 19th.      http://ow.ly/T8sx5

Patients of all ages are now smiling with confidence. With Invisalign®, you can get the beautiful, straight smile you deserve without the hassle of metal braces!

What is Invisalign and how does it work?

Invisalign uses a series of clear and removable aligners to straighten your smile. Invisalign is made with highly effective 3D computer imaging technology to show you exactly how your orthodontic treatment will progress.

You will wear your aligners around the clock, removing them only during mealtimes and to brush and floss your teeth. As you move on to each aligner with the next in the series, your teeth will move slowly until they have straightened to their final positions. You'll visit us at Kennell Orthodontics about once every six weeks to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned. Total treatment time typically lasts nine to 15 months, and the number of aligners worn during treatment is between 18 and 30, but both numbers will vary from case to case.

Why would I want Invisalign?

Not only are the aligners invisible, they are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment. Plus, brushing and flossing are no problem. They are also comfortable, with no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment. And no metal and wires usually means you spend less time here at Kennell Orthodontics in Laconia getting adjustments. Invisalign also allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan when you start so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.

Request a complimentary consultation with Dr. Alan Kennell to see if Invisalign is right for you.

Happy World Smile Day!

As is well known by now throughout the world Harvey Ball, a commercial artist from Worcester, Massachusetts created the smiley face in 1963. That image went on to become the most recognizable symbol of good will and good cheer on the planet.

As the years passed Harvey Ball became concerned about the over-commercialization of his symbol, and how its original meaning and intent had become lost in the constant repetition of the marketplace.  Out of that concern came his idea for World Smile Day®. He thought that we, all of us, should devote one day each year to smiles and kind acts throughout the world.  The smiley face knows no politics, no geography and no religion.  Harvey’s idea was that for at least one day each year, neither should we.  He declared that the first Friday in October each yearwould henceforth be World Smile Day®. Ever since that first World Smile Day® held in 1999, it has continued every year in Smiley's hometown of Worcester, MA and around the world.

October is known as National Orthodontics month! Do you know the difference between dentistry and orthodontics? Check out the info graphic below to learn the differences between dentists and orthodontists!

Did you know that Dr. Kennell is the only orthodontist in New Hampshire that offers HARMONY?!  HARMONY offers a great new invisible solution for straightening your teeth!

HARMONY's digitally customized system for straightening teeth provides orthodontics with advanced technology to invisibly treat patients of all ages. For teens and adults of any age seeking invisible orthodontics, HARMONY offers a solution for even the most challenging cases.

Dr. Kennell designs your personal treatment through  HARMONY’S advanced technology using computer-assisted treatment.  The 3D image shows how each tooth will be moved for your desired smile. CAD/CAM technologies produce a customized system that adapts seamlessly to the shape and contour of your teeth.  The computer robotically forms arch wires for each phase of your treatment,  creating a high level of orthodontic precision and accuracy in tooth correction.

HARMONY System

Do you feel self-conscious about smiling and laughing in public because your smile isn’t as straight as you’d like?  Having teeth that are correctly aligned not only improves the look of your smile; it provides real health benefit, allowing ease of hygiene, optimal function and an ideal bite.

Lingual braces, placed on the tongue side of the teeth, are the completely invisible orthodontic option for patients who want to improve their smile without sacrificing comfort and aesthetics. With HARMONY System lingual braces, we are able to give you the beautiful smile you've always wanted, and no one will be able to tell you're undergoing orthodontic treatment!

The Benefits of HARMONY

• Orthodontic care with the HARMONY System results in faster treatment times, shorter appointments, and amazing results!

• Proprietary CAD/CAM technology ensures highly accurate treatment of all orthodontic cases, regardless of severity.

• Small, smooth brackets are designed to help you adapt quickly to your orthodontic treatment. Plus, the low profile of each bracket makes brushing and flossing easier than with traditional braces.

• Self-ligating brackets give your orthodontist more control over your precise tooth movement and provide a more comfortable overall experience for you.

It's never too late to get the smile and confidence you deserve. Ask if HARMONY brackets are right for you! For more information, visit www.myharmonysmile.com or ask Dr. Kennell about HARMONY's unique benefits.

It's back to school time, and that means it's time for school sports to start and a greater chance of kids damaging their precious mouths and pearly whites. If you play sports, it's important that you consult our office for special precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing spring sports such as baseball, soccer, lacrosse and others. Be sure, however, 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 the office. And don’t forget to ask us about how you can get a mouth guard for yourself.

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 our office.

We’ve all heard that biting your nails is an awful habit, but you many wonder- really- what’s so bad about it? This interesting article discusses how biting your nails affect your teeth and oral health.

Nail biting, also known as Onychophagia, is a common habit among various age groups, including primarily children, teens and young adults. Nail biting is generally triggered by stress and most often decreases with age. That being said, nail biting is unsanitary, unattractive, as well as unhealthy for your teeth!

Here’s why:

• It’s unsanitary. Your nails are dirty, almost twice as dirty as your fingers! Hence, biting your nails is just asking for germs and bacteria.

• No good things come to your teeth. Nail biting causes your teeth to constantly be chewing, which is not good for them. This excessive motion wears your teeth down faster than a non-nail biter’s and puts a large amount of stress on your front teeth- contributing to teeth misalignment.

• Braces don’t love it either. Braces already put pressure on teeth, nail biting ads unnecessary pressure, further stressing your teeth and weakening their roots.

• It can be costly. Nail biting can result in up to $4,000 in additional dental bills over one lifetime, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Yikes!

What can you do about it?

Now that you know how harmful nail biting can be, it’s time to take action to break your nail biting habit. Try to be conscious of your fingernails and to keep them looking good- this will help you resist the temptation.

Ask Dr. Alan Kennell or visit the article for tips on how to break a nail biting habit.

It’s that time of year and if you are new to the brace world or need a refresher here are some ideas and thoughts to keep in mind when packing lunch for someone with braces:

Soft foods are always easier and more comfortable to eat and are less likely to be caught in braces.  However choices like gummies, fruit roll ups, taffy etc. will stick like glue!

If you/your child has just had their braces tightened, their mouth may be sore so providing pre-sliced fruit (thinly sliced), yogurt, pudding may be better options for these days.

Some other brace friendly suggestions:

• Banana slices, grape halves, and thinly cut (peeled) apples (dip them all in a bit of lemon juice to keep them from browning)
• Canned peaches or pears, fruit cocktail and Mandarin orange slices
• Applesauce or any of the mixed fruit “sauces” in individual servings
• Thin carrot-curls made with a scraper, plus a small container of grated cheese or hummus, with torn-up fresh pita bread for scooping
• Individual pudding and yogurt cups
• Avocadoes sliced or mashed

The goal is to be soft enough to chew, healthy and filling to keep their mind and teeth strong.  Happy School Days!

It’s that time of year and if you are new to the brace world or need a refresher here are some ideas and thoughts to keep in mind when packing lunch for someone with braces:

Soft foods are always easier and more comfortable to eat and are less likely to be caught in braces.  However choices like gummies, fruit roll ups, taffy etc. will stick like glue!

If you/your child has just had their braces tightened, their mouth may be sore so providing pre-sliced fruit (thinly sliced), yogurt, pudding may be better options for these days.

Some other brace friendly suggestions:

• Banana slices, grape halves, and thinly cut (peeled) apples (dip them all in a bit of lemon juice to keep them from browning)
• Canned peaches or pears, fruit cocktail and Mandarin orange slices
• Applesauce or any of the mixed fruit “sauces” in individual servings
• Thin carrot-curls made with a scraper, plus a small container of grated cheese or hummus, with torn-up fresh pita bread for scooping
• Individual pudding and yogurt cups
• Avocadoes sliced or mashed

The goal is to be soft enough to chew, healthy and filling to keep their mind and teeth strong.  Happy School Days!

At Kennell Orthodontics, we know good dental health requires only a few minutes a day. We thought we’d provide some practical advice on how to improve your or your child’s smile between your adjustment visits with Dr. Alan Kennell.

Start by brushing your teeth twice a day. Proper brushing techniques are an essential part of maintaining good oral health during your orthodontic treatment, as well as preventing gum disease. More care and time are needed to adequately brush your teeth when you are wearing braces. Brushing daily helps remove decay-causing plaque from tooth surfaces. Please consult Dr. Kennell if you would like us to review brushing techniques with you or your child. The use of a mechanical toothbrush such as a Sonicare or Oral B can aid in removing plaque around braces. Flossing daily will also prevent plaque to build up between the teeth and prevent stains between your teeth. Research has shown the bacteria of gum disease has been linked to coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes and memory loss. Lastly, we encourage you to throw away old toothbrushes and replace them every 2 or 3 months, or after an illness.

We hope this helps! If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Kennell Orthodontics or ask your general dentist during your next scheduled visit! Or, ask us on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/KennellOrtho

It is the season of Back-to-School, with all the excitement and anxieties that come with it. This can also be true for children, and parents of children undergoing orthodontic treatment.

One way to put both parents and children at ease when it comes to orthodontics at school is to discuss a “Plan of Action”. If you and your child understand the plan ahead of time, it will help ensure a successful (orthodontic!) school year!

Here are some recommendations for your Orthodontic “Back-to-School Action Plan”

• Bring a toothbrush to school – It’s always best to brush your teeth after you eat lunch. A quick brushing doesn’t take long and will help keep your teeth and braces free of food, which helps to avoid cavities and/or permanent staining on your teeth, as well as bad breath!

• Drink Water – Bring a water bottle to school and drink throughout the day. This helps to keep your mouth clean by rinsing away large food particles stuck in your braces after eating. Keep a toothbrush in your locker in a toothbrush case along with some toothpaste, and you will never have to remember to bring it to school.

• Packing your lunch and snacks – When packing lunches and snacks, avoid foods that are hard, sticky, chewy or crunchy to prevent bending wires or breaking braces. If you like hard fruits and vegetables, such as apples and carrots, cut them into smaller pieces before you leave for school. Biting into hard fruits and veggies can damage your braces, which can cause discomfort and could lengthen your time in braces.

• Retainers – Bring your retainer case with you to school. Make sure to always place the retainer in the case whenever it is out of your mouth, and make sure your retainer case is labeled or has a unique marking or pattern on it, to avoid accidentally mixing it up with your friend’s. Many patients who need retainers replaced have forgotten to bring their case to school and left their retainers on a lunch tray or in their lunch bag where it’s likely to disappear in the garbage. Replacement retainers can be quite costly and it’s no fun to look in the trash to look for your lost retainer! Ewwwwwww…

• Rubber bands – Don’t forget to change your rubber bands and bring a supply with you to keep in your desk, backpack or locker! A great idea is to have an orthodontic baggie in your locker that has everything you need to take care of your orthodontic appliances, and to make sure your mouth stays clean and comfortable while you’re at school.

• Do you play a Sport? – Protecting your braces during sports not only protects your teeth from accidents but also protects your braces!!

• Lastly, Don’t forget to SMILE! – Show off your beautiful smile to your friends and teachers!

Did you know one in every five orthodontic patients is an adult? We’re living longer and technology is improving, making orthodontic treatment an appealing and safe option for patients of all ages. As the trend toward treatment later in life grows, we’re seeing braces on parents as well as children – and even adult celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Gwen Stefani and Nicholas Cage have shown off their braces. It’s never too late to look and feel your best with Dr. Kennell!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment with Dr. Kennell. The physical process for moving teeth is the same, young or old, which means it’s never too late to address issues such as an overbite or underbite, crooked or crowded teeth, or jaw disorders.

How Do I Get Started?

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, we’ll make a consultation appointment with you. During this meeting we will perform a general assessment of your oral health, discuss options for treatment, and answer any questions you may have. We will also discuss matters of cost and insurance. The next step is an orthodontic records appointment in which we take x-rays, photos, and an impression of your teeth. This information drives your unique treatment plan.

What Are the Benefits?

Straightening your teeth can improve your smile, your self-esteem, and your dental health. Technologically advanced new treatments make it easier to identify the option that best fits your lifestyle. Modern techniques and materials have made braces and aligners more effective, comfortable and unobtrusive than ever.

If you think you might benefit from orthodontic treatment, give Kennell Orthodontics a call, so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs.

With the 2015-16 school season just around the corner, you may want to consider some ABC’s of Orthodontics.  A-Age, B-Braces varieties, and C-Cost.

AGE: For younger children, usually, it is best to wait until all of the permanent teeth have arrived but in some cases, a complimentary evaluation by age 7 can provide ideas which could prevent problems in the future that may become much more challenging to resolve. It is not required to have an orthodontic referral from your dentist to obtain an orthodontic evaluation.

BRACES: There are an ever increasing array of new and improved orthodontic techniques that are far superior than the classic braces that we adults all new as kids. Orthodontics has become a fast changing specialty with many new techniques and products.  Specialists in Orthodontics have far more education and training in this specialty and should be able to educate you as to the best choices available to meet your needs.

With many cosmetic choices available there is no reason that at any age, adults should not consider orthodontics for themselves or for their children.  Roughly half of all new start orthodontic patients today are adults and a fair percentage are older.

COST: Another important thing to consider is cost of the work needed.  Although fees for treatment can vary greatly depending upon the treatment necessary, Orthodontic practices typically offer convenient payment plans without interest. Health savings accounts are another way to provide a pre-tax source of funding for treatment.  In addition, there are several lenders that provide funding for orthodontics and are able to schedule convenient repayment plans.  Orthodontic practices should have an insurance specialist in their office to assist you with any of these.  They should be able to look into your insurance for you and assist in filing the proper paperwork to receive your benefit.

A beautiful and straight smile is one of those things in life that can improve overall health and help to provide better self-confidence, motivation, and acceptance.

Having braces can present some new challenges when it comes to oral hygiene. Preventing tooth decay can be a big challenge simply because of the tendency for braces to trap food under the wires and between the teeth and the brackets. Here are a few tips to keep your teeth healthy while wearing your braces:

1.Eat Braces-Safe Foods
Keeping your teeth from decay starts with a proper diet. Foods that are high in sugar or starch can cause more plaque, which is difficult to remove during your brushing. There are certain foods that should be avoided while wearing your braces. First, sticky foods like caramel or gum can get stuck in your braces and be difficult to remove during brushing. Next, hard foods such as nuts and candy could bend wires or even break a bracket. Foods that are firm or hard to bite into like apples, carrots, or corn on the cob should be avoided. As much as we like to snack on them, those crunchy treats can harm your braces. Things like chips, ice, and popcorn can also bend or break your braces. On the other hand, bananas, mangoes, milk, water, poultry, and pasta all tend to be low in enamel-busting acids.

2. Proper Brushing
You want to place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gums in order to clean the whole tooth, and brush gently in the area between the wiring and the teeth. Use a softer toothbrush with fluoride paste for best results. Rinsing every day will help, too. Rinsing is important regardless, but especially important when you have braces as you need to disinfect the entire mouth, including those spots under the braces where your brush can't always reach.

3. Ask About Special Cleaning Tools
There are also special brushes, or other tools, to get under and clean your braces. You can find many of these items at your local pharmacy.

4. Regular Teeth Cleaning
It's important to keep your routine appointments with your dentist and dental hygienist for a thorough cleaning twice a year or as directed. The exact frequency of these visits will be up to your dentist as some types of braces are more demanding of a regular cleaning than others.
As long as you practice good oral hygiene and follow these basic tips, you should have no problem keeping your teeth from decaying while you wear braces.

Some great family friendly events happening in August around the Lakes Region:

Fireworks!!
Date: Every Friday night from July 10 - August 21
Time: 10:00 PM
Play some old school video games then stay and watch fireworks on Wiers Beach! www.weirsbeach.com

Family Party Night aboard the M/S Mount Washington
Date: Every Wednesday Night in August
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Children 12 and under cruise free aboard the M/S Mount Washington Wednesday evenings. Bring the whole family for a fun evening of dancing and dining on Lake Winnipesaukee. Special entertainment and dancing for children. A great time for all. Limit 2 free children per family. Adults $48, Children 13--16 and additional children pay $38. Buffet dinner is included in the cruise price. Every Wednesday June 25--August 27.
From Weirs beach 6--8 PM.

Laconia Farmers' Market

Date: Every Saturday in August!
Time: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Meet your local farmers and shop from a wonderful selection of produce, baked goods, cheese, meats, soaps and crafts!Experience a beautiful outdoor market right here in Downtown Laconia!

Keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever when you have braces. Food bits have more spots than usual to hide in your mouth, so you must be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. If you remove plaque regularly during treatment, you'll experience better results and shorter treatment time. Keep plaque at bay with these top ten tips:

1. One tooth at a time. When you brush, take time with each individual tooth – at least 10 seconds each – and pay careful attention to the spots where your teeth touch your braces.

2. It’s all about the angles. Brush the tops of your teeth and braces with your brush angled down toward where they meet. Brush the bottoms of your teeth and braces with your brush angled up.

3. The tooth, the whole tooth, nothing but the tooth. While the front surface of your teeth may seem like the most logical to clean, it’s equally important to clean the inner surface of your teeth (tongue side) as well as the chewing surface. And be sure to clean along your gum line – a key spot for plaque buildup.

4. Step 1: eat, step 2: clean. While you’re in treatment, it’s important to brush after every meal. Bits of food can easily get caught between braces and teeth, and these food bits interact with bacteria in your mouth to cause decay. The longer food is in contact with your teeth, the greater opportunity for plaque to form. If you are eating somewhere that you can’t brush, thoroughly rinse your mouth with water.

5. Like a Boy Scout, always be prepared. The easiest way to be sure you can brush after every meal is to get in the habit of taking a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss with you wherever you go. Designate a special container just for your teeth-cleaning tools and keep it in your purse, backpack, or laptop case.

6. Remove the moving parts. If you have elastic bands or headgear, remove these parts before you brush or floss.

7. Fluoride is your friend. Fluoride helps prevent cavities. Be sure to brush with fluoride toothpaste, and rinse with fluoride mouthwash.

8. Pointy brushes reach tiny places. Interproximal brushes (sometimes called proxa brushes or interdental brushes) are cone-shaped and come in very handy for reaching spots around your braces that standard brushes can’t.

9. Find the floss for you. Regular floss works for some patients, but others find it easier to work with a floss threader, which helps you get the floss into tight places. Other patients like an all-in-one product called Superfloss, which comes with a stiff end for easy threading, a spongy section for cleaning wide spaces, and regular floss for narrow spaces.

10. Make time for the pros. It’s your job to take care of the everyday cleaning. But make sure to visit your dentist regularly while in treatment, to get the deep, thorough cleaning that only a professional can provide. If you need help finding the right Dentist for you, feel free to contact our office - we’d love to help!

Hope this helps!

Dr. Kennell and Team

Some people wonder why Laconia orthodontist Dr. Kennell and his team work tirelessly to give our patients straight teeth. Of course it’s nice to have a smile full of evenly-aligned teeth, but did you know that straightening your teeth at Kennell Orthodontics can keep them healthier? Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime!

Straight teeth are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque—the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to tooth decay; and they are easier to keep clean!

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, please give us a call to set up a consultation. Dr. Kennell can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

1. Bake cookies for yummy ice cream sandwiches.
2. Make a family yearbook!
3. Have a luau in the backyard.
4. Visit the beach and collect shells.
5. Make a fort out of cardboard boxes.
6. Visit a farmer's market.
7. Stage an A to Z scavenger hunt, where you have to find something that starts with every letter.
8. Pick berries.
9. Have a picnic at a state park
10. BRUSH & FLOSS those braces EVERYDAY :)!!

Tell Kennell Orthodontics in the COMMENT section how many of these you've already done so far! We know EVERYONE has done #10 routinely:) We know this because we have the best patients ever!!

What makes I scream and you scream! We all scream for ice cream of course! July is national ice cream month, and what a perfect time to cool off with a scoop of your favorite flavor.  President Ronald Reagan designated July as National Ice Cream Month! Enjoy a scoop today! Remember to brush and floss after those sweet treats!!

The 4th of July holiday is the perfect time to test out new recipes for a chance to win an awesome BBQ gift basket!

Kennell Orthodontics is looking for current patients to share their creative cooking ideas while in orthodontic treatment. The contest winner will receive a BBQ gift basket full of goodies including a gift certificate to Wine'ing Butcher! Email your entries to contests@kennellortho.com to submit your recipes. Or stop by in person at our Laconia or Plymouth offices!

Photos of you in 'cooking' action are encouraged!

Deadline for submission is July 30th!

In case you needed ANOTHER reason to smile this June...SCHOOL'S OUT FOR THE SUMMER!!! Kennell Orthodontics wants you to have the best summer ever...just remember to BRUSH, FLOSS, REPEAT and SMILE!!!

Trust us when we say Dr. Kennell and our staff know there are quite a few myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) floating around these days. But before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts!

Myth: Only kids can wear braces.

Fact: This is a misconception based on the idea that once you reach adulthood, you cannot get orthodontic treatment such as straightening your teeth. The fact however, is that of the every five people orthodontists treat is an adult.

Myth: If a giant magnet is brought overhead, it will attract anyone who is wearing braces towards itself and the person will fly right out of his chair and get stuck to the magnet on the ceiling.

Fact: The braces these days are made of materials which are non-magnetic in nature. Therefore such a thing is highly unlikely to ever happen.

Myth: Braces are extremely painful and the treatment period is many years.

Fact: People easily get used to braces once the adjustment period is over and find them quite comfortable. The treatment period varies from person to person. Some people may be required to wear braces for just a few months.

Myth: You can download songs onto your iPod, iPad, or smartphone by connecting to the Internet using the signals from your braces.

Fact: Although it is an extremely attractive prospect, it is not yet possible.

Myth: Braces are very unattractive, and draw attention and embarrassment in a business setting.

Fact: Clear ceramics is being used to make braces, which makes them nearly invisible. Furthermore, in some cases braces can be placed on the inside of the teeth so they are not even visible from the front.

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at Kennell Orthodontics, feel free to give us a call.

Summer is here! Kids and adults alike will now be spending more time outside being active and enjoying the hotter temperatures. What’s better on a hot summer day than a delicious treat that will cool you down after doing something active in the summer sun? Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have just the thing, Watermelon Sorbet! You can find the complete recipe below:

Watermelon Sorbet

Ingredients
• ¾ cup water
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 2 to 3 cups watermelon, diced, no seeds or rind

Directions
In a small saucepan, heat the water, sugar, and lime juice on medium high for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Chill this “syrup” at least 20 minutes. In the meantime, place the watermelon chunks in a food processor or blender and liquefy them. Add the chilled syrup to the watermelon puree and blend. Freeze sorbet in an ice-cream maker according to manufacturer’s directions. Serve immediately.

Happy Summer!

-Dr. Kennell and team

Running late to practice and forgot your mouth guard? Or maybe you just need more rubber bands... Just stop by our office anytime and grab what you need out of our supply box!

It's also NATIONAL CANDY MONTH!!! Indulge in your favorite sweet treat in honor of June having 2 awesome reasons to smile! JUST REMEMBER TO BRUSH, FLOSS, SMILE...REPEAT!

Graduation for patients of all ages is just around the corner! Make sure your smile is as awesome as you are! Kennell Orthodontics is positive our patients can smile with confidence at graduation!

National Teen Self-Esteem Month was designed to focus more attention on the importance of teens having a healthy outlook of themselves! A great smile and healthy teeth are the best confidence builders you can have!

Click here for  more information!

Do you ever look in the mirror and wonder if your smile could be straighter? Do you wonder how your bite would benefit from orthodontic treatment? With spring in full swing, Kennell Orthodontics hopes that you’ll see the new season as a fresh start for your dental health!

Did you know there is a direct correlation between your bite and your overall health? When your teeth and jaws are not properly aligned, it may affect your breathing, speech, and, in extreme cases, even affect the appearance of your face and profile. As a result of a bad bite, formally referred to as “malocclusion,” your teeth may become crooked, worn down, or protrude over time. Most people experience some degree of malocclusion, and if it is serious enough, orthodontic treatment may be necessary to correct the issue.

Some types of malocclusion include crossbites, overbites, and underbites. So, what exactly, is the difference between the three?

· Crossbites, which can involve a single tooth or a group of teeth, and usually causes one or more upper teeth to bite on the inside of the lower teeth. Crossbites usually correlate to a narrow upper jaw. A crossbite can happen in the front and/or the sides of the mouth, and is known to cause wear of the teeth, gum disease and bone loss.

Overbite is often confused with the term “overjet.”  Overbite refers to the vertical overlap of the upper front teeth over the lower front teeth.  A shallow or deep overbite are types of malocclusion, and either end of the spectrum can result in a variety of problems.

Overjet refers to the horizontal distance between the upper front teeth and lower front teeth.  If the upper teeth stick way out past the lower teeth, this is called excess overjet.  This can lead to gum irritation, wear on the lower teeth, and can even cause painful jaw and joint problems. Problems with overbites and/or overjets can usually be traced to genetics, bad oral habits, or overdevelopment of the bone that supports the teeth.

Underbites occur when the lower teeth protrude past the upper front teeth, and are caused by undergrowth of the upper jaw, overgrowth of the lower jaw, or both.  This in turn can lead to tooth wear and pain in your joints and jaw. Underbites can also be an esthetic concern for the patient, and can even leadto speech and articulation problems.

Check out these 10 Frequently Asked Questions. If you have any questions, that are not answered below just ask us!

1. What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities.

2. What is an orthodontist?

All orthodontists are dentists, but only about 6 percent of dentists are orthodontists. An orthodontist is a specialist in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Only dentists who have successfully completed an advanced specialty education may call themselves orthodontists.

3. At what age can people have orthodontic treatment?

Children and adults can both benefit from orthodontics, because healthy teeth can be moved at almost any age. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have an orthodontic screening no later than age 7. Some orthodontic problems may be easier to correct if treated early. An orthodontic evaluation at any age is advisable if a parent, family dentist or the patient's physician has noted a problem.

4. Why is orthodontic treatment important?

Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain. This may contribute to conditions that cause not only tooth decay but also eventual gum disease and tooth loss. Other orthodontic problems can contribute to abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, inefficient chewing function, excessive stress on gum tissue and the bone that supports the teeth, or misalignment of the jaw joints, which can result in chronic headaches or pain in the face or neck.

5. How long will orthodontic treatment take?

In general, active treatment time with orthodontic appliances (braces) ranges from one to three years. Mild problems usually require less time, and some individuals respond faster to treatment than others. Interceptive, or early treatment procedures, may take only a few months.

6. What are orthodontic study records?

Diagnostic records are made to document the patient's orthodontic problem and to help determine the best course of treatment. Complete diagnostic records typically include a medical/dental history; plaster study models of the teeth, photos of the patient's face and teeth, and appropriate radiographic films. This information is used to plan the best course of treatment, help explain the problem, and propose treatment to the patient and/or parents.

7. How have new "high tech" wires changed orthodontics?

In recent years, many advances in orthodontic materials have taken place. Braces are smaller and more efficient. The wires now being used are no longer just stainless steel. Some of the new wires are heat-activated. These new kinds of wires cause the teeth to continue to move during certain phases of treatment, which may reduce the number of appointments needed to make adjustments to the wires.

8. How do braces feel?

Most people have some discomfort after their braces are first put on or when adjusted during treatment. After the braces are on, teeth may become sore and may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. Patients can usually manage this discomfort well with whatever pain medication they might commonly take for a headache. The lips, cheeks and tongue may also become irritated for one to two weeks as they toughen and become accustomed to the surface of the braces. Overall, orthodontic discomfort is short-lived and easily managed.

9. Do teeth with braces need special care?

Patients with braces must be careful to avoid hard and sticky foods. They must not chew on pens, pencils or fingernails because chewing on hard things can damage the braces. Damaged braces will almost always cause treatment to take longer, and will require extra trips to the orthodontist's office.

Keeping the teeth and braces clean requires more precision and time, and must be done every day if the teeth and gums are to be healthy during and after orthodontic treatment. Patients who do not keep their teeth clean may require more frequent visits to the dentist for a professional cleaning.

The orthodontist and staff will teach patients how to best care for their teeth, gums and braces during treatment. The orthodontist will tell patients (and/or their parents) how often to brush, how often to floss, and, if necessary, suggest other cleaning aids that might help the patient maintain good dental health.

10. How important is patient cooperation during orthodontic treatment?

Successful orthodontic treatment is a "two-way street" that requires a consistent, cooperative effort by both the orthodontist and patient. To successfully complete the treatment plan, the patient must carefully clean his or her teeth, wear rubber bands or appliances as prescribed by the orthodontist, and keep appointments as scheduled. Damaged appliances can lengthen the treatment time and may undesirably affect the outcome of treatment.

At Kennell Orthodontics, we know nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth. Here are five other ways you can avoid that dreaded enemy of the teeth during orthodontic treatment, courtesy of WebMD.

Let’s start with brushing regularly. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste is vital to a healthy mouth. Make sure you softly brush all the surfaces of your teeth.

Next on the list is flossing daily: a simple daily flossing between teeth clears away plaque before it can cause damage and can also clean plaque at the gum line. Plaque is known to reach the spaces between teeth.

Also, evading a trip to the dentist is probably not a great idea. Let’s say you brush and floss daily. You’re still at risk for plaque. With time, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar. Consider visiting your general dentist at least twice a year or as recommended by your dentist, and you have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your teeth while wearing braces.

You’ll also want to stop avoiding those fruits and veggies. Believe it or not, there are foods out there that play a key role in keeping plaque off our teeth. They include apples, carrots, cucumbers and other raw fruits and vegetables. You can still eat these types of fruits and veggies if you have braces, but be sure to cut them up into bite sized pieces to avoid breaking off brackets.

Finally, before you pick up that candy bar, remember to not give in to your sweet tooth. Consuming sugary drinks or eating candy or other junk food allows sugar to stick to our teeth. The bacteria, then, becomes plaque, which turns into acid and damages our teeth. Avoiding these five bad habits keeps your plaque in check and your mouth as healthy as can be during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Alan Kennell. If you have any questions, give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment. You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and protect your mouth and appliances from being damaged. But did you know there is another, often forgotten about, way to keep your teeth clean and healthy during your treatment? Fluoride – a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay – can help keep your teeth strong! Fluoride comes in two varieties: topical and systemic. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth. Topical fluoride includes toothpastes and mouth rinses. Systemic fluorides are swallowed in the form of a dietary supplement.

Fluoride used in the orthodontists’ office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask your doctor how to purchase professional strength fluoride). A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. After the treatment patients may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. Depending on your oral health or doctor’s recommendation, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six or 12 months. Your doctor may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses for at-home treatment.

When choosing your own fluoride product, be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and have met the criteria of the ADA for safety and effectiveness. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

When you visit Kennell Orthodontics for your orthodontic consultation, you’ll probably have a lot of questions. We want you to be prepared for your appointment and feel in charge of your orthodontic treatment decisions, so keep these questions in mind to ask when you come in for your appointment:

• How long will I have to wear braces?
• Will getting braces hurt?
• Will I have to wear additional appliances to correct jaw problems while I have braces?
• What can I eat when I have braces?
• Are there certain things, like playing sports or playing an instrument, which I won’t be able to do?
• How can I make sure my teeth stay clean and healthy while I have braces?
• How often will I need to come in for appointments?
• How much will my orthodontic treatment cost?

The team at Kennell Orthodontics is here to answer all your questions and concerns, and we’re happy to explain all aspects of your treatment plan and expected outcome. Your orthodontic experience should be comfortable, hassle-free, and most importantly, leave you smiling!

We Are Officially Kicking Off Refer-A-Friend 2015!

Here at Kennell Orthodontics, the greatest compliment we can receive is one of our patients referring a friend or colleague to our practice.

A successful practice doesn't just happen. It is the result of a strong commitment to excellence in our treatment and in our relationships with patients and doctors. We'd like to take a moment to thank you for showing your confidence in our practice by recommending us to your friends, family, and colleagues. We're gratified to find how many new patients regularly call on us based on your words of advice.

To show our appreciation, we are kicking off our 2015 patient referral program!

If Kennell Orthodontics begins a treatment plan with a new patient (child or adult) from your qualified referral, you will receive a $50 VISA cash card and be entered to win the 2015 GRAND PRIZE!

What is the 2015 GRAND PRIZE?!?!

One lucky name will be drawn and the winner will have the luxury of choosing one of the following theme park family passes.

FOUR 3-day passes to Universal Studios (2 adults/2 children)

or

FOUR 3-day Park Hopper passes to Disney World.

Click here for more details.

Did you know there is a direct correlation between your bite and your overall health? When your teeth and jaws are not properly-aligned, it may affect your breathing, speech, and, in extreme cases, even affect the appearance of your face. As a result of malocclusion, also commonly referred to as “bad bite,” your teeth may become crooked, worn or protruded over time. Most people experience some degree of malocclusion, but it is generally not severe enough to require corrective measures. If your malocclusion is serious enough, however, orthodontic treatment may be necessary to correct the issue.

Malocclusion may also be referred to as an underbite, crossbite or overbite. So, what, exactly, is the difference between the three?

• Crossbites, which can involve a single tooth or a group of teeth, occur when your upper and lower jaws are both misaligned, and usually causes one or more upper teeth to bite on the inside of the lower teeth. Crossbites can happen on both the front and/or the sides of the mouth, and are known to cause wear of the teeth, gum disease and bone loss.
• Overbites, also known as “overjet,” occurs when your upper teeth overlap considerably with the lower teeth. Overbites can lead to gum issues or irritation and even wear on the lower teeth, and are known to cause painful jaw and joint problems. Overbites can usually be traced to genetics, bad oral habits, or overdevelopment of the bone that supports the teeth.
• Underbites, which occur when the lower teeth protrude past the front teeth, are caused by undergrowth of the upper jaw, overgrowth of the lower jaw, or both. Underbites can also be caused by missing upper teeth, which can prevent the normal function of front teeth ( molars). This in turn leads to tooth wear and pain in your joints and jaw.

Fortunately, we are able to treat bite problems. If you suspect you or your child has a bite misalignment, we encourage you to be examined at our office as early as possible. By starting early, you can make sure you or your child avoid years of pain and self-consciousness.

Harmony system is an advanced digitally customized, invisible solution. The Harmony System attaches to the interior or lingual side of your teeth, so no one will notice you are wearing braces.

Dr. Kennell designs your personal treatment through Harmony’s advanced technology in computer assisted treatment. The 3D image shows how each tooth will be moved for your desired smile. CAD/CAM technologies produce a customized system that adapts seamlessly to the shape and contour of your teeth. The computer robotically forms arch wires for each phase of your treatment which creates a high level of orthodontic precision and accuracy in tooth correction.

• Fast and Comfortable Treatment.

• See your new smile before you even start treatment.

• Fewer appointments and less treatment time.

For more information, visit www.myharmonysmile.com.

Valentine's Day is approaching quickly, are you ready? Here are some fun facts and a couple of braces-friendly recipes for your special Valentine.




Did you know....?

• More than 36 million heart-shaped boxes of chocolate are sold for Valentine's Day each year.
• On average, men shell out $130 each on candy, cards, jewelry, flowers and dates. That’s more than double what women commit to spending.
• About 1 billion Valentine's Day cards are exchanged in US each year. That's the largest seasonal card-sending occasion of the year, next to Christmas.
• Worldwide, over 50 million roses are given for Valentine's Day each year.

Valentine's is a holiday to celebrate those you care about and special treats.

Here are some braces-friendly recipes for the special person in your life.

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Shake
Ingredients:
2/3 cup milk
2/3 cup strawberry ice cream
2/3 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and stems removed
2 Tablespoons hot fudge ice cream topping, warmed
Whipped cream and a cherry for garnish

Directions:
In a blender, mix up the ice cream and strawberries until smooth
Pour the hot fudge topping into a glass
Fill glass with shake mixture
Top with whipped cream and a cherry

Heart Shaped Egg in a Basket
Ingredients:
1 piece of bread
1 egg, separated
1 Tablespoon margarine or butter

Directions:
Butter one side of the bread. Separate the egg white from the yolk. Place the bread buttered side down in a frying pan on medium heat. Cook until golden brown, then remove.
Using a knife or even a cookie-cutter, cut out a heart shape in the bread. Lower the heat a bit and then return the bread to the pan.
Add just enough of the egg white to fill the empty heart-shaped center. Next, carefully place the egg yolk in the center and allow to cook.
When the egg is fully cooked, remove from pan and enjoy!

Visibly crooked teeth are not the only reason to take your child into the orthodontist. There are some subtle things to look for as well, which may indicate the onset of more serious orthodontic issues. Many orthodontic issues are much easier to address if treated and corrected during a child's development.

Waiting until facial development is complete or until the permanent teeth have come in can make correction of many orthodontic issues more challenging. Both children and adults can benefit from orthodontic care at any age, but addressing issues early is almost always the ideal choice.

If you're wondering if you or your child might have need for orthodontic care, there are some things you can be on the lookout for. Here are some of the most common warning signs of orthodontic issues:

• Difficulty when chewing or biting
• Chronic mouth-breathing
• Sucking the thumb, the fingers, or any other oral sucking habits that continue after the age of six
• Overbite - when the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth by more than 5mm
• Top front teeth that cover more than 25% of the bottom teeth while biting
• Underbite - when the top front teeth go behind the bottom row of teeth when biting
• Crowded, crooked, overlapped, misshapen, misplaced teeth or extra teeth of any size
• Crossbite - when one or more teeth tilt toward the cheek or toward the tongue causing excessive stress on the jawbone
• The center of the top and bottom teeth don't line up
• Uneven teeth-wearing
• Baby teeth coming out too early for the child's age
• Pain in jaws
• Clicking in the jaw joints
• The jaw shifts off-center while chewing or biting
• A jaw that protrudes, or recedes, too much
• Difficulty speaking or enunciating clearly
• Chronic biting of the inner cheek or roof of the mouth
• Asymmetrical facial structure
• Grinding or clenching of the teeth

If you notice that either you or your child has one or more of these conditions, they could be signs that there is a risk of orthodontic or health problems. The sooner these problems are addressed, the wider and brighter you will be able to smile going forward!

Keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever when you have braces. Food bits have more spots than usual to hide in your mouth, so you must be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. If you remove plaque regularly during treatment, you'll experience better results and shorter treatment time. Keep plaque at bay with these top ten tips:

1. One tooth at a time. When you brush, take time with each individual tooth – at least 10 seconds each – and pay careful attention to the spots where your teeth touch your braces.

2. It’s all about the angles. Brush the tops of your teeth and braces with your brush angled down toward where they meet. Brush the bottoms of your teeth and braces with your brush angled up.

3. The tooth, the whole tooth, nothing but the tooth. While the front surface of your teeth may seem like the most logical to clean, it’s equally important to clean the inner surface of your teeth (tongue side) as well as the chewing surface. And be sure to clean along your gum line – a key spot for plaque buildup.

4. Step 1: eat, step 2: clean. While you’re in treatment, it’s important to brush after every meal. Bits of food can easily get caught between braces and teeth, and these food bits interact with bacteria in your mouth to cause decay. The longer food is in contact with your teeth, the greater opportunity for plaque to form. If you are eating somewhere that you can’t brush, thoroughly rinse your mouth with water.

5. Like a Boy Scout, always be prepared. The easiest way to be sure you can brush after every meal is to get in the habit of taking a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss with you wherever you go. Designate a special container just for your teeth-cleaning tools and keep it in your purse, backpack, or laptop case.

6. Remove the moving parts. If you have elastic bands or headgear, remove these parts before you brush or floss.

7. Fluoride is your friend. Fluoride helps prevent cavities. Be sure to brush with fluoride toothpaste, and rinse with fluoride mouthwash.

8. Pointy brushes reach tiny places. Interproximal brushes (sometimes called proxa brushes or interdental brushes) are cone-shaped and come in very handy for reaching spots around your braces that standard brushes can’t.

9. Find the floss for you. Regular floss works for some patients, but others find it easier to work with a floss threader, which helps you get the floss into tight places. Other patients like an all-in-one product called Superfloss, which comes with a stiff end for easy threading, a spongy section for cleaning wide spaces, and regular floss for narrow spaces.

10. Make time for the pros. It’s your job to take care of the everyday cleaning. But make sure to visit your dentist regularly while in treatment, to get the deep, thorough cleaning that only a professional can provide. If you need help finding the right Dentist for you, feel free to contact our office - we’d love to help!

Hope this helps!

Dr. Kennell and Team

Q: Is Invisalign® really custom-made for each patient?

A: Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work, says Dr. Kennell. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. The best thing about it all? Nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Kennell is a certified Invisalign and Invisalign Teen provider in Laconia, NH. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, please give us a call.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

As we reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask all our patients: what was memorable about 2014 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2015? Do you have a New Year’s resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

We know that we are looking forward to serving our amazing patients with even more great care in 2015!

Have a safe and happy New Year from our family to yours!

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as our team at Kennell Orthodontics reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What do you love about the holidays this year? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for 2015? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year?

We’d love if you shared with us all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

All of us at Kennell Orthodontics would like to wish everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday!

-- Dr. Alan Kennell and team

Wishing that your Thanksgiving is full of love,warmth and extra special moments.
Have a happy Thanksgiving!

Here at Kennell Orthodontics, the greatest compliment we can receive is one of our patients referring a friend or colleague to our practice.

October is National Orthodontic Health Month, and with Halloween this weekend we have compiled a list of specific treats that are ok with braces.  As with anything else, always in moderation and make sure to brush and floss very well after!

Good Treats:

• Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
• Kit Kats
• Plain M&M’s
• Oreo’s & Soft Cookies
• Hershey Bars & Hershey Kisses
• Candy Bars without caramel or nuts

Those will keep your braces safe, but don't forget to keep these Trick-or-treating safety guidelines in mind while you are out there filling your candy bags:

• Young children should always be accompanied by an adult
• Carry a flashlight
• Wear a light-colored or reflective costume
• Choose face paint over masks for young ghosts and goblins
• Have an adult inspect all treats before the children dig in

Have a Happy and Safe Halloween!

Do you think you know your celebrities?  Then take the Kennell Orthodontics Celebrity Smile challenge!  See if you can match the celeb to their dazzling smile.

Get them all correct and you will be entered to win an awesome movie gift basket with lots of goodies including an iTunes gift card - and movie tickets of course!

Entries must be received by Dec. 15, 2014 and you must be a patient of Kennell Orthodontics to enter.

Entry forms are available in our office, or download one right here!

Did you know one in every five orthodontic patients is an adult? We’re living longer and technology is improving, making orthodontic treatment an appealing and safe option for patients of all ages. As the trend toward treatment later in life grows, we’re seeing braces on parents as well as children – and even adult celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Gwen Stefani and Nicholas Cage have shown off their braces. It’s never too late to look and feel your best!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment. The physical process for moving teeth is the same, young or old, which means it’s never too late to address issues such as an overbite or underbite, crooked or crowded teeth, or jaw disorders.

How Do I Get Started?

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, we’ll make a consultation appointment with you. During this meeting we will perform a general assessment of your oral health, discuss options for treatment, and answer any questions you may have. We will also discuss matters of cost and insurance. The next step is an orthodontic records appointment in which we take x-rays, photos, and an impression of your teeth. This information drives your unique treatment plan.

What Are the Benefits?

Straightening your teeth can improve your smile, your self-esteem, and your dental health. Technologically advanced new treatments make it easier to identify the option that best fits your lifestyle. Modern techniques and materials have made braces and aligners more effective, comfortable and unobtrusive than ever.

If you think you might benefit from orthodontic treatment, give our team a call, so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs.

Happy October! For those who don't know, it’s National Orthodontic Health Month. This month-long event is organized by our pals at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Dr. Alan Kennell and our team realize that this is a great opportunity for us to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene. National Orthodontic Health Month also aims to recognize the dedicated work of orthodontists like Dr. Kennell and other dental professionals in Laconia, NH.

The AAO recommends patients avoid the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

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

If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call, ask us on Facebook, or ask us at Kennell Orthodontics during your visit this month!

It’s fall which also means it is apple picking season!
The problem is biting into an apple with braces is a no-no, it is best to cute it up into smaller pieces …or better yet, find some great braces friendly recipes to cook those apples into!

We have included some great recipes to try out!  Let us know your favorite!

Warm Apple Pie Smoothie
1 apple, cored and cut into chunks (peeled if you don’t have a high-powered blender)
½ cup / 120 ml water (for a creamier smoothie you can use yogurt)
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon maple syrup (or raw organic honey)
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
A pinch of nutmeg
A pinch of allspice
1 scoop protein powder (optional)

Combine apple, water, vanilla, maple syrup and spices in a blender. Blend until smooth. Pour into a mug and microwave on high for about 2 minutes.
Sprinkle with cinnamon, and if you’re feeling particularly daring, add a bit of whipped cream on top. Serve!

Apple Peanut Butter Muffins
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar, divided
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups shredded apples (about 2 medium)
1 cup low fat buttermilk
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup coconut or canola oil
1 egg, slightly beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.; line a 12 cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, 3/4 cup sugar, baking powder, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and salt. In another bowl, stir together the shredded apples, buttermilk, peanut butter, oil, egg, and vanilla. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry, stirring until just mixed, being careful to not over beat. Spoon the batter into the muffin tins. Combine the remaining sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle evenly over the muffin tops.
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the tops spring back when lightly touched. Cool on a wire rack.

Crescent Roll Apple Pies
1 Apple sliced (tart)
3 heaping tbsp. brown sugar
2 tbsp. cinnamon
1 tbsp. melted butter
1 Pkg. of Crescent Rolls

Preheat Oven to 350 degrees.
Roll out the dough on a cooking surface, brush with butter and sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon.
Roll up 2 or 3 apple slice in the dough forming a crescent, place on an ungreased cookie sheet.
Brush each crescent roll with remaining melted butter and top with cinnamon.
Bake for 12-15 mins until golden brown.
Remove from oven, serve and enjoy!

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Dr. Alan Kennell. Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with us:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you or someone in your family? If so, give us a call as soon as possible!

At Kennell Orthodontics, we know good dental health requires only a few minutes a day. We thought we’d provide some practical advice on how to improve your or your child’s smile between your adjustment visits with Dr. Alan Kennell.

Start by brushing your teeth twice a day. Proper brushing techniques are an essential part of maintaining good oral health during your orthodontic treatment, as well as preventing gum disease. More care and time are needed to adequately brush your teeth when you are wearing braces. Brushing daily helps remove decay-causing plaque from tooth surfaces. Please consult Dr. Kennell if you would like us to review brushing techniques with you or your child. The use of a mechanical toothbrush such as a Sonicare or Oral B can aid in removing plaque around braces. Flossing daily will also prevent plaque to build up between the teeth and prevent stains between your teeth. Research has shown the bacteria of gum disease has been linked to coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes and memory loss. Lastly, we encourage you to throw away old toothbrushes and replace them every 2 or 3 months, or after an illness.

We hope this helps! If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Kennell Orthodontics or ask your general dentist during your next scheduled visit! Or, ask us on Facebook!

“Jennifer found herself planning her wedding and regretting her lack of follow-up from having braces as a child.  Upon meeting with Jennifer I presented her with an Invisalign treatment option to straighten her twisted front incisor.  Both Jennifer and I were pleased with the results!” – Dr. Alan Kennell

“As I began planning my wedding and anticipating all the photographs sure to be taken, I started to regret the lack of follow-up I had after having braces as a kid.  Dr. Kennell and his staff assisted me with an Invisalign treatment plan and gave me back my confidence.  The Kennell Orthodontics office is friendly and fun and made visiting “the orthodontist” a pleasurable experience.  Upon completion of my treatment, I am more confident in myself.  I smile all the time and my fears of wedding pictures with my “crooked tooth” disappeared!!  Dr. Kennell and Kennell Orthodontics gave me back the smile I had worked so hard to have.” - Jennifer Taylor

Much as we hate to admit it, the beginning of August is a reminder in a few short weeks, Back to School activities will be in full swing!  Kennell Orthodontics wants to send your children back to school prepared for school life with braces or new orthodontic treatments. Pack your child their very own "Back to School with Braces" kit - something as simple as a ziplock plastic bag including items such as:  Orthopicks, orthodontic rubber bands, mini toothbrush and toothpaste, orthodontic wax, small mirror, floss, retainer case and tissues. This kit can easily be tucked into their backpack or locker and will help as a reminder of orthodontic care even when at school.  Start the school year off right with these reminders:

• bring retainer cases to lunch room and keep retainer in it to avoid accidentally throwing it away with lunch trash;
• always wear protective mouth guard for all fall sports - this will help prevent brackets from breaking and inner lip from rubbing against braces.

Stay ahead of the Back to School shopping rush by preparing these orthodontic kits now - kick back and enjoy the last weeks of summer!!

Congratulations again to Cassie Smith - our 2013 Refer-a-Friend contest winner!!  This is the weekend Cassie and her family to head to York, Maine to spend a fun-filled, family adventure by the sea!  Our fingers are crossed for beautiful weather and we thank you again for being a valued patient family and for recommending Kennell Orthodontics to family and friends!!   Kennell Orthodontics realizes the greatest compliment received is when one of our patients refers a friend, family member or colleague to our office.

Don't miss your chance to be part of the 2014 Refer-a-Friend contest and have your name entered to win this year's grand prize, an LG 50" Plasma HD TV!

One of the first questions most new patients with braces have - "What can I eat?"  A patient with traditional braces may want to avoid certain foods that can cause damage to the braces, brackets or your teeth themselves!  As summer kicks into high gear, with farm fresh fruits and vegetables, ice cream stands on every corner and local fairs brimming with cotton candy and caramel apples....here's a quick list of what to stay away from and what can be enjoyed in moderation (of course):

• Watermelon  (a must-have at any age)
• Corn-on-the-Cob (just remember to cut it off the cob before taking a bite!)
• Ice Cream (metal is an excellent conductor of temperature - so be sure to take       small bites - braces will make a regular "brain freeze" seem much longer!!)
• Fresh Lemonade (limit sugary or acidic drinks like fresh lemonade - the acid and sugar can weaken bonding on the brackets)
• Cotton Candy (again in Moderation....but limit sugary snacks that can lead to decay around braces and between teeth)
• Candy/Caramel Apples (a "NO-NO" from the word go!!  Stay away from these summertime sweets!)

Enjoying the summer months and all that come with them means keeping good dental practices in place!!  On behalf of everyone at Kennell Orthodontics - Happy Summer!!

July is here already!!  The time to enter our Spring into Summer Testimonial Contest is coming to a close.  Don't miss your opportunity to show off your new Beats by Dr. Dre headphones at your end of summer events!!

Here's how it works:  1.  Submit a video testimonial on our Facebook page about why you love our office and why you love your smile!  Be creative, have fun and don't forget to talk about your experience with us!  - or - 2.  Post a favorable review on our Facebook page or Google+ page with a photo of your smile!

All testimonial entries must be made by August 8th and you must be a patient of Kennell Orthodontics to enter.  Enter today!!

Smile with Confidence....at any age!!

It's never too late to show your beautiful smile.  These days, adults make up nearly half of all orthodontic patients.  Whether trying to obtain your perfect smile or hoping to simply correct a bite issue, adult orthodontic treatments are available to you!  Check out Michelle Diana's success story as she completes her journey with Kennell Orthodontics.  Start your journey today by contacting Dr. Kennell to discuss your options!!

There are many reasons for braces. Most importantly, they improve your smile and confidence. Braces also correct bites allowing easier chewing and better speech, they eliminate tooth interferences that can cause TMD or joint problems; they align teeth so patients can clean between teeth, and they eliminate harmful wear patterns that destroy your teeth and gums. Braces can also be used to open or close spaces for implants, crowns, or bridges. Kennell Orthodontics offers a pressure-free environment, so that you can comfortably explore your options without any commitments. Braces are a wonderful way to improve your oral presentation and health, but getting braces is a decision you have to make. We love helping people reach their goal of a fantastic new smile!

My dentist does braces, why do I need an orthodontist?

Because we are specifically trained to serve you! After 4 years of dental school, an orthodontist completes another 2-3 years of specialized orthodontic training at an accredited university. An orthodontist does not do fillings, crowns, or cleanings. Instead, we are specially trained to deal with problems of tooth alignment and bite functioning. We work closely with pediatric dentists, family dentists, cosmetic dentists and other dental specialists on every case to create an efficient dental team. If you have questions about why you are seeing a licensed orthodontist for your treatment, please ask us or you can visit the American Association of Orthodontists website at http://mylifemysmile.org

Braces generally have two components: brackets and wires. Today’s brackets can be made of metal or of tooth-colored ceramic. They are usually attached to the front of your teeth, but some can be “hidden” behind your teeth. Wires, which do the work of moving your teeth, are threaded through slots in the brackets. You will need to see Kennell Orthodontics periodically to adjust your wires.

What age of people get braces?

Braces and other treatment options are available for ALL ages, from elementary school through retirement, people are enjoying the benefits of a beautiful, more comfortable smile. Kennell Orthodontics can work with you to give you a smile that fits your style, so why limit yourself to one treatment option, Kennell Orthodontics also offers treatments using new technology like braces with brackets that go behind your teeth and clear aligners, like Invisalign.

Food for thought.

Check out this website for recipes tailored for individuals with braces. Lots of ideas for healthy meals and snacks. What is your favorite food to eat while wearing braces? Let us know! Just because you have braces, doesn't mean you have to miss out on your favorite summer fruits and vegetables. Make sure to slice your apples very thin and simply cut the corn off the cob!

Bright, Beautiful, Healthy Smiles!

Summer is the best time to explore orthodontics for your children!  The 1st day of Summer is just around the corner, bringing lazy beach days, backyard BBQ's and endless sunshine. Along with days of summer fun, parents may wish to consider an orthodontics exam for their children and get a head start on better oral health.  When it comes to orthodontics for children, summer is by far the most convenient time to begin treatment.  Summer appointments steer clear of school year scheduling and extracurricular activities - leaving children over a quarter of their treatment time before the new school year even begins. They can begin a new year well on the way to a straighter and healthier smile.  As stated, beginning orthodontic treatments in summer months avoids a host of scheduling issues and gives children plenty of time to adapt to their braces before heading back into the classroom.  Contact Dr. Kennell today to schedule your child's summer appointment.  Let Kennell Orthodontics friendly team work with you and jump start your child's treatment plan this Summer!

Spring into Summer Testimonial Contest!  Enter to win Beats by Dr. Dre headphones today! Here's how you can win:  1.  Submit a video testimonial on our Facebook page about why you love our office and why you love your smile!  Be creative, have fun and don't forget to talk about your experience with us!  - or - 2.  Post a favorable review on our Facebook page or Google+ page with a photo of your smile!

All testimonial entries must be made by August 8th and you must be a patient of Kennell Orthodontics to enter.

Don't miss your chance to enjoy the summer sun with your new pair of Beats by Dr. Dre headphones - enter today!

Technology does not just change in computers and cell phones…

In the ever changing world of technology, downloads of today require upgrades tomorrow!  Kennell Orthodontics and Harmony®’s invisible solution to straight teeth can help you show the world your Perfect Smile…not your braces!  The Harmony® system attaches to the interior side of your teeth, so no one even knows you’re wearing braces.  Harmony® provides teens and adults of any age a solution for even the most challenging cases.

Let Kennell Orthodontics design your perfect smile with state of the art CAD/CAM technology.  Dr. Kennell starts with a digital scan of your teeth and customizes a treatment plan just for you.  Harmony® technology achieves the highest level of precision including using robotics to accurately bend arch wires for each individual case.  Its small, smooth features help you adapt quickly and comfortably to your new treatment; all while Dr. Kennell works to precisely align your teeth.

With Harmony® and Kennell Orthodontics, you’ll receive fast treatment, short follow-up office visits and an amazing result.  Give us a call today to schedule your appointment to see if Harmony® is right for you!

Last April, the AAPD posted an article and it was so great, we want to share it again with you!

April is National Facial Protection Month and the Academy for Sports Dentistry (ASD), the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS), the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), and the American Dental Association (ADA) are teaming up to remind parents, coaches and athletes to play it safe as they prepare to suit up for recreational and organized sports.

The mouth and face of a child or young adult can be easily injured if the proper precautions are not used while participating in sports or recreational activities. In fact, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than half of the 7 million sports- and recreation-related injuries that occur each year are sustained by children as young as 5 years old. Last year, the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation (NYSSF) forecasted that more than 3 million teeth would be knocked out in youth sporting events. They also reported that athletes who don’t wear mouth guards are 60 times more likely to damage their teeth.

An effective mouth guard holds teeth in place, resists tearing and allows for normal speech and breathing. It should cover the teeth and, depending on the patient’s bite, also the gums. Your dental professional can recommend the best mouth guard for every sports activity.  A properly fitted mouth guard can prevent many accidents and traumatic injuries.

The dental experts at the ASD, AAPD, AAOMS, AAO and ADA urge athletes, parents/caregivers and coaches to be proactive as they head out this spring and stay safe on the field.  The ASD, AAPD, AAOMS, AAO, and ADA dental experts offer these important tips:

• Wear a mouth guard when playing contact sports. Mouth guards can help prevent injury to a person’s jaw, mouth and teeth and they are significantly less expensive than the cost to repair an injury.  Dentists and dental specialists can make customized mouth guards, which provide the best fit. Other less-expensive options are the boil and bite mouthguards, which are softened in boiling water to fit the mouth, and stock mouth guards, which are ready-to-wear but often don’t fit well.
• Wear a helmet. Helmets absorb the energy of an impact and help prevent damage to the head.
• Wear protective eyewear. Eyes are extremely vulnerable to damage, especially when playing sports.

·         Wear a face shield to avoid damage to the delicate bones around the eyes, nose and jaw. Hockey pucks, basketballs and racquetballs can cause severe facial damage at any age.

Dr. Kennell and staff are pleased to announce the winner of the 2013 Refer-a-Friend contest – Cassie Smith!  Kennell Orthodontics realizes the greatest compliment received is when one of their patients refers a friend, family member or colleague to its practice.  In an effort to show appreciation to patients for these referrals, Dr. Kennell developed the 2013 Refer-a-Friend campaign.  This campaign, which focused on new patient treatment plans from qualified referrals, awarded refer-a-friend participants with a Visa Cash Card and an entry into the weekend getaway grand prize drawing.

Cassie Smith, chosen as the grand prize winner, was recently awarded an exciting summer weekend getaway to the Anchorage Inn in York, Maine.  Dr. Kennell and his staff presented Mrs. Smith with a canvas tote full of goodies, including embroidered beach towels and summer-time essentials, along with her itinerary for this fun-filled, family getaway.

Dr. Kennell thanked Cassie for being a valued patient family and for recommending Kennell Orthodontics to her family and friends.  “We are more than honored to have you as one of our Lakes Region fans”, Dr. Kennell stated as he wished Mrs. Smith a wonderful weekend at the beach.

You could be the next Refer-A-Friend 2014 patient referral program winner! Check out this link and find out how you could be the next winner and what the grand prize is!!!

There is a lot of excitement at Kennell Orthodontics! If you haven’t visited our office recently, we now have a cool new way to sign-in when you arrive for your next visit! Just touch the finger scanner at the reception desk and it will recognize you and sign you right in! Of course, we would have to introduce your finger to our computer, so if you have not used the Finger Scanner before, let us know and we’ll get you registered.  If you would rather just type in your name, that’s fine too, just use the touchscreen.

BUT don’t worry Mom and Dad, our finger scanner is very safe!  This is how it works: DigitalPersona software never stores fingerprint images. DigitalPersona software creates a fingerprint template, which is a highly compressed and digitally encoded mathematical representation of fingerprint features. This template is created when a user registers a finger and is stored in an encrypted file. When the patient later touches the fingerprint reader to authenticate, a new template is created and compared to the 'registered' template. If there is a match, the authentication is successful.  It is a one-way conversion that cannot be reversed. This means that fingerprint templates cannot be used to recreate the fingerprint image.

The finger scan is not the only new technology we have in our office. Our new software, Ortho2 EDGE, provides the latest in orthodontics software technology designed to provide us with the most effective practice management tools to increase efficiency, provide smoother workflow so you receive only the very best care and service.

Having braces can present some new challenges when it comes to oral hygiene. Preventing tooth decay can be a big challenge simply because of the tendency for braces to trap food under the wires and between the teeth and the brackets.

Here are a few tips to keep your teeth healthy while wearing your braces:

1. Eat Braces-Safe Foods
Keeping your teeth from decay starts with a proper diet. Foods that are high in sugar or starch can cause more plaque, which is difficult to remove during your brushing. There are certain foods that should be avoided while wearing your braces. First, sticky foods like caramel or gum can get stuck in your braces and be difficult to remove during brushing. Next, hard foods such as nuts and candy could bend wires or even break a bracket. Foods that are firm or hard to bite into like apples, carrots, or corn on the cob should be avoided. As much as we like to snack on them, those crunchy treats can harm your braces. Things like chips, ice, and popcorn can also bend or break your braces. On the other hand, bananas, mangoes, milk, water, poultry, and pasta all tend to be low in enamel-busting acids.

2. Proper Brushing
You want to place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gums in order to clean the whole tooth, and brush gently in the area between the wiring and the teeth. Use a softer toothbrush with fluoride paste for best results. Rinsing every day will help, too. Rinsing is important regardless, but especially important when you have braces as you need to disinfect the entire mouth, including those spots under the braces where your brush can't always reach.

3. Ask About Special Cleaning Tools
There are also special brushes, or other tools, to get under and clean your braces. You can find many of these items at your local pharmacy.

4. Regular Teeth Cleaning
It's important to keep your routine appointments with your dentist and dental hygienist for a thorough cleaning twice a year or as directed. The exact frequency of these visits will be up to your dentist as some types of braces are more demanding of a regular cleaning than others.

As long as you practice good oral hygiene and follow these basic tips, you should have no problem keeping your teeth from decaying while you wear braces.

Visibly crooked teeth are not the only reason to take your child into the orthodontist. There are some subtle things to look for as well, which may indicate the onset of more serious orthodontic issues. Many orthodontic issues are much easier to address if treated and corrected during a child's development.

Waiting until facial development is complete or until the permanent teeth have come in can make correction of many orthodontic issues more challenging. Both children and adults can benefit from orthodontic care at any age, but addressing issues early is almost always the ideal choice.

If you're wondering if you or your child might have need for orthodontic care, there are some things you can be on the lookout for. Here are some of the most common warning signs of orthodontic issues:

• Difficulty when chewing or biting
• Chronic mouth-breathing
• Sucking the thumb, the fingers, or any other oral sucking habits that continue after the age of six
• Overbite - when the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth by more than 5mm
• Top front teeth that cover more than 25% of the bottom teeth while biting
• Underbite - when the top front teeth go behind the bottom row of teeth when biting
• Crowded, crooked, overlapped, misshapen, misplaced teeth or extra teeth of any size
• Crossbite - when one or more teeth tilt toward the cheek or toward the tongue causing excessive stress on the jawbone
• The center of the top and bottom teeth don't line up
• Uneven teeth-wearing
• Baby teeth coming out too early for the child's age
• Pain in jaws
• Clicking in the jaw joints
• The jaw shifts off-center while chewing or biting
• A jaw that protrudes, or recedes, too much
• Difficulty speaking or enunciating clearly
• Chronic biting of the inner cheek or roof of the mouth
• Asymmetrical facial structure
• Grinding or clenching of the teeth

If you notice that either you or your child has one or more of these conditions, they could be signs that there is a risk of orthodontic or health problems. The sooner these problems are addressed, the wider and brighter you will be able to smile going forward!

Life after braces…what happens when the wires have all been clipped?

You’ve been marking your calendar for days, months even, to celebrate the day when your teeth are free and your new, beautiful and straight smile is finally all yours!

Did you know the time period immediately after having your braces removed is as critical as the entire length of your treatment?  First and foremost, give your mouth time to heal!  Your teeth are going to be weak and may even be a little looser than you are used to.  Most patients are fitted for a retainer at this time.  Your teeth can shift once all the wires and brackets are removed.  It is key to wear the retainer you’ve been fitted for, exactly as your orthodontist tells you.  It takes about nine (9) months for your new smile to “remember” it’s new position.

There are various types of retainers.  If you’re wondering about your life “after braces” contact Dr. Kennell for answers to all your questions.  Remember, wearing your retainer after braces, as instructed, helps to ensure your smile will remain in place for years to come.  You’ve worked hard for it – so SMILE…SMILE BIG…and SMILE OFTEN!

Spring is right around the corner! And that means the start of Spring Sports! Spring months bring an increase in outdoor and indoor activities and a greater chance of kids damaging their precious mouths and pearly whites. If you or your child play sports, it's important that you consult our office for special precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing spring sports such as baseball, soccer, lacrosse and others. Be sure, however, 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 the office. And don’t forget to ask us about how you can get a mouth guard for yourself.

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 our office.

Check out this article about a Newport, NH basketball team that has everyone on guard about mouth guards.

As you may have read in our recent blogs, Dr. Kennell is the only orthodontist in New Hampshire that offers HARMONY. HARMONY offers a great new invisible solution for straightening your teeth!

The HARMONY System attaches to the interior side of your teeth, so no one knows you are wearing braces but you. For teens and adults of any age seeking invisible orthodontics, HARMONY offers a solution for even the most challenging cases.

Dr. Kennell and his team have been working with 2 Lakes Region patients, each outfitted with their own custom HARMONY Braces. Take a look at the photos below that show the before and after. We are so excited to offer this new application; we will showcase the progress with patient, Jodie S., as she progresses to the smile she has been after for years.

We last saw Jodie on 1-21-14 and she is in the home stretch!  Only one wire to go and she will be done with her HARMONY treatment! She has had a great experience with HARMONY and hasn’t minded it at all!  Go Jodie!!!

It's never too late to get the smile and confidence you deserve. Ask if HARMONY brackets are right for you! For more information, visit www.myharmonysmile.com or ask us about HARMONY's unique benefits.

Here at Kennell Orthodontics, the greatest compliment we can receive is one of our patients referring a friend or colleague to our practice.

Although National Orthodontics Month is in October each year, each February, the American Dental Association (ADA) sponsors National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health.

Dr. Kennell and his team want to remind parents that their children can avoid cavities. A balanced diet, limiting snacks, brushing and flossing each day and regular dental check-ups are the keys to a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

Cleaning Your Teeth & Gums

Taking care of your mouth is simple. The ADA recommends the following for good oral hygiene:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste. Replace your toothbrush every three or four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. A worn toothbrush won't do a good job of cleaning your teeth.
• Clean between teeth daily with floss or an inter dental cleaner. Tooth decay–causing bacteria still linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. This helps remove the sticky film on teeth called plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.
• Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks.
• Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.

To learn more about ADA's National Children's Dental Health Month, visit www.ada.org.

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!

Hope this tip helps! Feel free to give us a call or ask us on Facebook if you have any questions!

Patients of all ages are now smiling with confidence. With Invisalign®, you can get the beautiful, straight smile you deserve without the hassle of metal braces!

What is Invisalign and how does it work?

Invisalign uses a series of clear and removable aligners to straighten your smile. Invisalign is made with highly effective 3D computer imaging technology to show you exactly how your orthodontic treatment will progress.

You will wear your aligners around the clock, removing them only during mealtimes and to brush and floss your teeth. As you move on to each aligner with the next in the series, your teeth will move slowly until they have straightened to their final positions. You'll visit us at Kennell Orthodontics about once every six weeks to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned. Total treatment time typically lasts nine to 15 months, and the number of aligners worn during treatment is between 18 and 30, but both numbers will vary from case to case.

Why would I want Invisalign?

Not only are the aligners invisible, they are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment. Plus, brushing and flossing are no problem. They are also comfortable, with no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment. And no metal and wires usually means you spend less time here at Kennell Orthodontics in Laconia getting adjustments. Invisalign also allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan when you start so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.

Request a complimentary consultation with Dr. Alan Kennell to see if Invisalign is right for you.

The year is almost over, and we reflect on the year that was. With a new office coming this spring to Plymouth's Boulder Point (in addition to our Laconia office), we know that we are looking forward to serving our amazing patients with even more great care in 2014!

A new year can mean a new you! It is never too late to get that beautiful smile you have always wanted. Nothing is as important as a genuine and heartfelt smile. Whether in your professional life or when you are out socializing, an attractive smile can make you feel happier and more relaxed –as well as making the right impression.

A beautiful smile is an amazing asset. It contributes to self esteem and positive self image – important qualities for any age group. As well as having teeth that look nice, orthodontic treatment can also improve the function of your jaw and aid chewing efficiency of your teeth by enhancing the way your teeth bite together. Crowded teeth can be very difficult to clean. They provide areas for bacteria to grow and food to stagnate and therefore require a rigorous oral hygiene routine. Straight teeth are much easier to clean as there are no awkward gaps to get between and improved accessibility, making oral hygiene routines straight-forward.

So go on... treat yourself this new year with a beautiful, bright, straight smile!  Schedule your consultation today!

Have a safe and happy New Year from our family to yours!

Meredith NH – After months of planning and preparation, Dr. Alan Kennell of Kennell Orthodontics, Laconia, and his team hosted “Kennell Orthodontics' Red Carpet Movie Premiere” on Saturday, November 23, 2013 at Barn Z’s Cinema in Meredith. This patient appreciation event was a fabulous time enjoyed by almost 300 VIP patients and their guests.

Kennell Orthodontics presented The Hunger Games: Catching Fire and Free Birds at this VIP All Access event.  Moviegoers found themselves captured on the Red Carpet with lights, balloons and even paparazzi!  VIP guests were greeted by Dr. Alan Kennell in his tuxedo and his beautiful staff in their evening gowns. “It’s just our way to show our patients that we appreciate and value them at a fun event for all ages,” said Dr. Alan Kennell.  Kennell Orthodontics was thrilled to partner with Tim Barnes, owner of the local Meredith cinema. “Barn Z’s Cinema was a perfect fit to host our honored patients and their guests. I always find it valuable to develop great local business-to-business connections.”

Check out the Kennell Orthodontics Facebook page to see all the Red Carpet Movie Premiere photos.

Our Holiday Wish For You

Good times with family
Laughter and joy
Memories with friends
The latest toy

Joy and fulfillment
In all that you do
Passionate journeys
Success for you, too

A season of love
A new year so bright
Dreams that come true
With each word you write

Happy Holidays from Our Family to Yours!

We had a great time volunteering at the WLNH Children's Auction this Tuesday, manning the phones. The place is a buzz with The Lakes Region Holiday Magic! WOW! Bid high and Bid Often! 527-0999! What a great fun program to volunteer at!

It's not too late to donate- They are always accepting items to auction and donations! A great Holiday feel good opportunity to support the Children's Auction that supports the Lakes Regions! Check out the WLNH Children's Auction webpage to find out how you can help!

After weeks of planning and preparation, this past Saturday, November 22nd was our Red Carpet Movie Premiere at Barn Z's Cinema in Meredith, NH. It was a fabulous time enjoyed by our 292 guests! We hope everyone enjoyed themselves and their choice of movie, we sure did! We would like to thank each and everyone one of our guests for coming!

For those of you that couldn't make it, here are just a couple photos of Saturday's event. More photos can be found on our Facebook page.

With Thanksgiving almost upon us, it’s a great time to ask ourselves what we’re thankful for. With our friends and family around us, we celebrate the blessings given to us in the past year. Our staff thought we’d ask: What are you thankful for this holiday season? Do you have any Thanksgiving wishes or recipes you would like to share?

Our entire team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. It’s a big food holiday, so be careful what you eat with those braces! If you have any stories or photos to share with us, we’d encourage you to send them along or post them below or on our Facebook page!

Gobble Gobble!

While braces play an important part in helping to create a healthy mouth and teeth, you might experience a few side effects while wearing them that are common and can be easily treated.

Even with the best of care, braces can cause soreness to your mouth. As your teeth begin to move, it is natural for your teeth to feel aches and your jaw to develop soreness.

If there are broken wires or loose bands on your braces, a sore tongue, mouth, or canker sore will occur. Canker sores are a common occurrence when braces rub inside the mouth. There are ointments available to reduce the pain and irritation associated with mouth sores. If you experience a sore mouth or any of the following problems, call our office to schedule an appointment.

· Loose brackets: Apply a small amount of orthodontic wax to the bracket temporarily. You might also apply a little between the braces and the soft tissue of your mouth.

· Loose bands: These must be secured in place by our dentist. Try to save the band for repair.

· Protruding or broken wires: The eraser end of a pencil can be used to move the wire carefully to a less painful spot. If you are unable to move it, apply orthodontic wax to the tip. If a mouth sore develops, rinse with warm salt water or antiseptic rinse.

· Loose spacers: These will need to be repositioned and sometimes replaced.

Wishing everyone a fun and safe Halloween!!! Be sure to stop by and meet our crew of swashbuckling buccaneers - we might even straighten a tooth or two! Argh! And while you're here, don't forget to reserve your seat(s) by picking up your tickets for our Red Carpet Movie Premiere of The Hunger Games-Catching Fire and Free Birds!!!

Tomorrow, Nov. 1st is the deadline for The Music Match Trivia Contest! You could be the lucky winner of a NEW iPod Nano!!!

So many awesome things going on in our office today!!! You don't want to miss this!!!

It’s almost that spooky time of year again and Laconia, NH orthodontist, Dr. Alan Kennell, and our team thought we’d share some Halloween tips from our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists.

Trick-or-treating safety guidelines:

• Young children should always be accompanied by an adult
• Carry a flashlight
• Wear a light-colored or reflective costume
• Choose face paint over masks for young ghosts and goblins
• Have an adult inspect all treats before the children dig in

To protect your braces, steer clear of the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

• All hard candies
• All chewy candies
• Caramel
• Nuts
• Licorice
• Taffy
• Jelly beans
• Hard pretzels
• Bubblegum
• Popcorn (including unpopped kernels)
• Ice

Of course, Halloween does not have to be completely treat-less. Braces-friendly Halloween treats can help you enjoy the “spook-ta-cular” holiday. For example, plain chocolate candy is okay, provided you remember to brush and floss afterwards. Bobbing for apples as well as caramel apples are not recommended. However, you can enjoy thinly sliced apples, dipped in yogurt or creamy chocolate sauce.

Dr. Kennell suggests looking for foods that are soft, such as soft chocolate that can melt in one’s mouth or peanut butter cups. Overall, candies that aren’t sticky, chewy, hard or crunchy are generally acceptable.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN from the entire team at Kennell Orthodontics!

Dr. Alan Kennell and his team will be hosting “Kennell Orthodontics' Movie Premiere." A patient appreciation "Red Carpet" Movie Premiere at Barnz Cinemas in Meredith, NH. If you are a current patient we encourage you to join us!

You and a Guest are formally invited to Kennell Orthodontic’s Movie Premiere of The Hunger Games-Catching Fire and Free Birds.

Saturday, November 23rd, 9:30 am
at Barnz Cinemas, Meredith, NH

Guest Arrivals Welcome at 8:45am
Movies will begin at 9:30am

Reservations Required. Seating is limited. To reserve your seat and movie choice, please stop by our office to pick up your ticket(s). Unfortunately, we are not accepting reservations over the phone, please stop by our office! Tickets are required for entry at the event.

For more details, check out the Movie Premiere Event on our Facebook page!

Our patient appreciation tubing event at Gunstock Mountain in January was such a success and great time, we would like to announce our next patient appreciation event!

Save the Date!!!

Dr. Alan Kennell and his team will be hosting “Kennell Orthodontics' Movie Premiere." A patient appreciation "Red Carpet" Movie Premiere at Barnz Cinemas in Meredith, NH. If you are a current patient we encourage you to join us!

For more details, check out the Movie Premiere Event on our Facebook page! And stay tuned for more information to come!!!

We love when patients ask us that question! Now that you’re wearing braces, it’s even more important to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen as you begin your orthodontic treatment.

Braces are known to trap food particles and make it difficult to brush or remove plaque, which is why our team at Kennell Orthodontics recommends that you brush and floss after every meal.

When your braces are initially placed, your teeth are likely to be very sensitive. You may experience discomfort for up to three to five days, which is why we encourage you to eat soft foods during that time. Remember, the less pressure you put on your teeth, the less discomfort you will have.

You may also be thinking, “Okay, so what can I eat?”

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:

In the first couple of days, stick to liquid-based foods like yogurts, pudding and soups. Mashed potatoes are a good option as well. You can also cook fruits and vegetables to make them softer. Ice cream, cool soups, Jell-O, scrambled eggs, cream of wheat, oatmeal, 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.

It’s crucial to regularly check your braces for bent or loose wires and brackets. In the event of a loose/broken wire or bracket, please call our office immediately to schedule an appointment for repair.

Lastly, in addition to visiting Kennell Orthodontics during your orthodontic treatment for adjustments, you should visit your dentist for professional checkups and teeth cleaning appointments about every six months, or as recommended by your dentist.

Here are some helpful tips for anyone with braces:

Can you believe it's already October? For those who don't know, it’s National Orthodontic Health Month. This month-long event is organized by our pals at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Our team realizes that this is a great opportunity for us to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene. National Orthodontic Health Month also aims to recognize the dedicated work of orthodontists and other dental professionals.

The AAO recommends patients avoid the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:
• Caramel
• Nuts
• Popcorn (including un-popped kernels)
• Taffy
• Jelly beans
• Hard pretzels
• Licorice
• Bubblegum
• Ice

Trick-or-treating safety guidelines:

• Young children should always be accompanied by an adult
• Carry a flashlight
• Wear a light-colored or reflective costume
• Choose face paint over masks for young ghosts and goblins
• Have an adult inspect all treats before the children dig in

If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call or ask us on Facebook. Have a fun and safe Halloween!

We know September is a busy month with school and fall sports, so today's blog is to keep you up to speed with our super fun office! So much to smile about!!!

Last weekend our office participated in WOW Fest 2013! Check out our Facebook page for more photos! For those of you that are not familiar, The WOW Trail is a multi-use, non-motorized recreational pathway in the City of Laconia.  The proposed pathway is just over 9 miles long, stretching the length of the City to the Meredith and Belmont town lines.  The WOW Trail will be constructed adjacent to the railroad tracks used by the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad. The trail will be 10 feet wide and paved.

One of our favorite holidays is approaching! Halloween is right around the corner and this peeping Tom just won't leave us alone! Maybe you'll see him at your next appointment!

And don't forget about our contests!!!

Refer-A-Friend 2013 To show our appreciation, we kicked off a new patient referral program for 2013! If Kennell Ortho begins a treatment plan with a new patient (child or adult) from your qualified referral, you will receive a $50 VISA cash card and be entered to win the 2013 GRAND PRIZE DRAWING.The lucky grand prize winner will select ONE (1) Winter or Summer New England Get-A-Way of their choice to be scheduled in 2014!

Music Match Trivia Contest! Enter our music trivia contest and you could be the lucky winner a NEW iPod Nano. Click here for more details!

We've got so much going on, what's not to Smile about!!!

The doctors are in! That's right, Dr. Kennell and Dr. Who! Everyone is talking about BBC America's hot show, Dr. Who! So stop by our office to check out Dr. Who!

Celebrating it’s 50th year on BBC America, the Doctor’s greatest secret will at last be revealed! If this wasn’t already their most exciting year it would be anyway! ”Look what’s going on! They’re up in the sky and under the sea! They’re running round the rings of an alien world and then a haunted house. There’s new Cybermen, new Ice Warriors and a never before attempted journey to the centre of the TARDIS.

“Doctor Who” returns with a modern day urban thriller, “The Bells of Saint John,” written by lead writer and executive producer Steven Moffat (“Sherlock”). Set in London against the backdrop of new and old iconic landmarks – The Shard and Westminster Bridge – “The Bells of Saint John” introduces a new nemesis, the Spoonheads, who battle the Doctor as he discovers something sinister is lurking in the Wi-Fi. The premiere will be followed by seven epic episodes written by Steven Moffat, acclaimed writer Neil Gaiman (“Coraline,” “Beowulf”), Mark Gatiss (“Sherlock”), Neil Cross (“Luther”) and Stephen Thompson (“Sherlock”).

The Doctor (Matt Smith) is joined by his new companion Clara (Jenna Coleman) for the latest set of incredible adventures through space and time. The duo finds new adversaries and familiar friends around every corner as they journey from the bottom of the ocean in a submarine to the center of the TARDIS and beyond. The Cybermen make a thunderous return and the Ice Warrior arrives in an unexpected place.

Stretchy, fun and clever - BRACED-LETs are the next wave in cool accessories for all ages! Here's the scoop about these awesome Braced-Lets! Braced-Lets are fun, durable and wearable stretchy bracelets for all ages, crafted entirely out of brand new, authentic orthodontic materials.  Colorful power chains are accented with metal brackets and contrasting elastic rubber bands and are designed to be mixed and matched, creating countless combinations.  Braced-Lets are the brainchild of Dr. Marc Lemchen and Dr. Jennifer Salzer, two top New York City orthodontists, and Jennifer’s sister, Lulu Frost jewelry designer Lisa Salzer.

Catch Katy Perry and her child co-star in her WIDE AWAKE Video from June 2012, at 2:06 when she meets hands with the little girl they are both sporting the BRACED-LET's that are now available for sale in our Office...Proceeds to benefit the National Hemophilia Association.

“Like” Braced-Lets on our Facebook page and feel free to post pictures of yourself, family and friends wearing these unique Braced-Let color combinations. Collect, trade and share Braced-Lets!

Don't forget to get your BRACED-LETs when you're here for your appointment. Proceeds to benefit the National Hemophilia Association. They make a great gift!

Did you know one in every five orthodontic patients is an adult? We’re living longer and technology is improving, making orthodontic treatment an appealing and safe option for patients of all ages. As the trend toward treatment later in life grows, we’re seeing braces on parents as well as children – and even adult celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Gwen Stefani and Nicholas Cage have shown off their braces. It’s never too late to look and feel your best!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment. The physical process for moving teeth is the same, young or old, which means it’s never too late to address issues such as an overbite or underbite, crooked or crowded teeth, or jaw disorders.

How Do I Get Started?

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, we’ll make a consultation appointment with you. During this meeting we will perform a general assessment of your oral health, discuss options for treatment, and answer any questions you may have. We will also discuss matters of cost and insurance. The next step is an orthodontic records appointment in which we take x-rays, photos, and an impression of your teeth. This information drives your unique treatment plan.

What Are the Benefits?

Straightening your teeth can improve your smile, your self-esteem, and your dental health. Technologically advanced new treatments make it easier to identify the option that best fits your lifestyle. Modern techniques and materials have made braces and aligners more effective, comfortable and unobtrusive than ever.

If you think you might benefit from orthodontic treatment, give our team a call, so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs.

Now that many of the schools in the Lakes Region are back in session, Kennell Orthodontics would like to remind all of our patients about the importance of scheduling appointments in advance. With school, clubs, sports, and family duties to consider, we know that it can be challenging to find time to visit for a routine visit or even a consultation. In order to accommodate all of our patients’ busy schedules, it is important that you plan ahead for your appointments so that we are able to provide you with a convenient appointment time.

As always, please remember to give us advanced notice if you’re unable to make your regularly scheduled appointment with Dr. Kennell and our team. Feel free to give us a call if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your fall appointment.

We hope you and your family had a wonderful summer and we look forward to seeing you soon!

We're Excited To Announce Our New Contest!

Music Match Trivia!

It's back to school and time for the Kennell Orthodontics' Music Match Trivia contest.  You could win an awesome iPod Nano!  Pick up a contest entry form in our office, or click below for the Trivia form.  All entries must be received by November 1st, and you must be a patient of Kennell Orthodontics to enter.  Good luck!

Christopher F. is the grand prize winner of our Summer Facebook Cover Photo Collage Contest.  Looks like you have a great time living in the Lakes Region!  Thank you for showing us the great fun you have!

Christopher F. and his brother Ben, celebrate his win with the Kennell Ortho Team! Christopher is excited to take his family to the game next month, they are all huge Sox Fans!

The orthodontic years can be a tough time for some and our team at Kennell Orthodontics certainly understands that.  To keep our patients in a positive frame of mind and welcome them into our friendly office atmosphere we often organize patient contests.  Trying to think outside the box and give the young, tech-savvy, social media-frenzied friends an engaging contest to participate in, Kennell Orthodontics launched a Facebook Photo Collage Contest in May 2013. Check out Christopher's winning entry!

Dr. Alan Kennell and the Kennell Orthodontics team are excited to announce the winner, Christopher F., a local Laconia Middle School student.  Christopher won 4 Box Seat Tickets to the August 4, 2013 Red Sox vs. Diamondback game at Fenway Park, as well as an autographed baseball and a Red Sox gift basket.  The winner could not be a better choice as Christopher shared his commitment to being one of the biggest Sox fans in the Lakes Region!  Check out the Kennell Orthodontics Facebook page to see Christopher’s winning photo collage – facebook.com/KennellOrtho.

Thank you to all our entrants!

Take a look at the great collages submitted below. Living with Braces in the Lakes Region looks like a great time!

Summer is here! Kids and adults alike will now be spending more time outside being active and enjoying the hotter temperatures. What’s better on a hot summer day than a delicious treat that will cool you down after doing something active in the summer sun? Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have just the thing, Watermelon Sorbet! You can find the complete recipe below:

Watermelon Sorbet

Ingredients
• ¾ cup water
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 2 to 3 cups watermelon, diced, no seeds or rind
Directions
In a small saucepan, heat the water, sugar, and lime juice on medium high for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Chill this “syrup” at least 20 minutes. In the meantime, place the watermelon chunks in a food processor or blender and liquefy them. Add the chilled syrup to the watermelon puree and blend. Freeze sorbet in an ice-cream maker according to manufacturer’s directions. Serve immediately.

Happy Summer!

Did You Know?!

1. July 4 is not technically our day of independence: On the most semantic level, the 13 original colonies were legally liberated from England’s rule on July 2, 1776 in a closed session of Congress.

It took the Second Continental Congress two more days to revise the most famous of American documents; July 4 was the day the Declaration of Independence was given final approval.

2. The first Independence Day was celebrated on July 8, 1776: Although the Declaration of Independence was approved on July 4, 1776, it was not made public until July 8. The bells of Philadelphia -- the Liberty Bell included -- rang to summon citizens to Independence Hall for the very first public reading of the document.

The Declaration of Independence was read that day by Colonel John Nixon, who, less than a year later, would be made a brigadier general of the Continental Army.

Contrary to popular belief, the Liberty Bell did not ring on July 4, 1776 to mark the nation’s independence because the Declaration was not yet made public -- and wouldn’t be for another four days.

3. Three Presidents died on the Fourth of July: Three U.S. presidents actually died on July 4. Two of them passed away within hours of each other on July 4, 1826: John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. The two had been political rivals and then friends later in life. The other to share the distinction was James Monroe, who died July 4, 1831.

4. The signers of the Declaration of Independence did not sign on July 4, 1776: The idea of the 56 signers being in the same room at the same time on our day of independence is, unfortunately, a myth.

The official signing event took place on August 2, 1776 when 50 men signed the document. It took several months before all 56 finally signed; the last, Thomas McKean, signed in January of 1777, some seven months after the document was approved by Congress.

Even after signing, the names of the signers were withheld from the public for more than six months to protect their identities. The Revolutionary War was still going on, and if the signers were discovered, the treasonable act could have resulted in their deaths.

It's official! School is out and the official start of summer starts Friday, June 21 at 1:04am! And it looks like Mother Nature shares our excitement with a beautiful, 4 day forecast to start the summer off right!

Did you know we have 273 lakes and ponds in our own backyard, the Lakes Region?! We do! We have so many great places, events and attractions at our finger tips. Check out lakesregion.org for ideas this summer! From the lakes, to the mountains to the outlets and so much more in between! How lucky are we to hike, swim, play, shop, boat, camp and more, all in a beautiful area we call home. When you come in for your visit, tell us what you are doing this summer!

Now that there is no school and no homework to do, we highly encourage all of our patients to participate in the Facebook Photo Collage Cover contest! It's fun and easy, and not to mention the winner will win 4 tickets to watch their favorite Boston baseball team at Fenway Park in August. What a great way to start off summer with a fun project, collect photos of you, your family and friends, smiling-having a great time this summer at all your favorite places and all the fun stuff you love to do in a photo collage! Click this link and check out the details and tips! Just 3 weeks left. All entries must be entered by Friday, July 12th and the winner will be announced Monday, July 15th. Check out these two entries, they both did a great job!

Great question! When you first come in for your initial consultation your doctor will conduct a comprehensive examination to assess your oral health. This will better enable us to determine the best treatment method for you.
Your orthodontic evaluation will consist of an oral and facial examination to assess your oral health. We will have you take intraoral and facial photographs as well as panoramic and cephalometric X-rays to help determine the proper orthodontic treatment method. Then, an impression of your teeth and bite will be taken to construct a model of your mouth. (This will help us when examining your diagnostic records).
At your second appointment, the doctor will discuss your options with you. Our team feels it’s important to take the time to carefully examine your diagnostic records after your consultation so that we can more thoroughly prepare for your orthodontic treatment. This additional preparation will ensure that you receive the best orthodontic care possible. At this time, we encourage you to ask us any questions you may have about your treatment.
If you are seeking orthodontics for your child, our staff asks that both you and your child attend the initial consultation. We feel it is important that both you and your child completely understand the doctor’s recommendations before we proceed with treatment.
Give us a call today and schedule a consultation! We look forward to hearing from you!

Don’t miss out on the chance to win 4 Red Sox tickets to see your favorite baseball team play at Fenway Park against the Diamondbacks on Sunday, August 4, 2013 at 1:35PM.

Design a photo collage for our Facebook page and you could win!

It's really easy!!! Just take your favorite pictures and make a collage! There are lots of free collage apps to download on your smart phone and lots of free Facebook collage apps for your computer. Simply search "photo collage" on your smart phone and you'll see lots of free apps pop up, like Photo Collage, Pic Collage, Instaframe, FrameUrLife, Pic-Frame... There are so many! Or you could use your Instagram App! Just be sure to incorporate the following into the collage: Kennell Ortho, Lakes Region Living, Braces (or retainers), Smiles, Summer, Friends, Having Fun!

Check out what we did using the Smilebox App on our facebook page!

The Spring Contest ends Friday, July 12, 2013.

The winner will be selected the week of July 15, 2013.

If you have questions, just ask us! We are really excited to see everyone's entries!

Entry Submission

You must be a patient of Kennell Orthodontics to enter.

Just submit your creative collage by using one of the following and be sure to include

your name and contact information.

Email: contests@kennellortho.com

Bring in a hard copy to our office: 783 North Main Street Laconia

Post on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KennellOrtho

Memorial Day is a day of remembering the men and women who died while serving our country. Yes, for many Memorial Day is a day off.  And sadly, that's how a majority of American's view this holiday.  That's a shame as it's time set aside to remember the fallen; the brave men and women who have fought to provide us with the freedoms we enjoy in this country. So teach your kids about Memorial Day! This Monday, find a Memorial Day observation of some sort.  Seek out your local VFW, or your local VVA chapter and see what's going on and make sure you explain to your kids....why this holiday is more than just a day off for Mom and Dad. So, when you're out enjoying your Monday off from work and school, whether you're barbecuing with friends and family, at the lake or relaxing, take a moment to give thanks!

Kennell Orthodontics wishes you a happy and safe Memorial Day weekend!

Here at Kennell Orthodontics, the greatest compliment we can receive is one of our patients referring a friend or colleague to our practice.

A Winter Weekend at NESTLENOOK FARM in Jackson NH

A Summer Weekend at ANCHORAGE INN in York ME

Kennell Orthodontics’s Spring Contest has officially kicked off!

Don’t miss out on the chance to win 4 Red Sox tickets to see your favorite baseball team play at Fenway Park against the Diamondbacks Sunday, August 4, 2013. at 1:35PM EDT.

Design a photo collage for our Facebook page and you could win tickets to a Red Sox game this summer!

The Spring Contest kicks off Monday, April 15th through Friday, July 12, 2013.

The winner will be selected the week of July 15, 2013.

Be Creative!  Create a Photo Collage for our Facebook!

The following elements need to be incorporated into the collage:

Kennell Ortho, Lakes Region Living, Braces (or retainers), Smiles, Summer, Friends, Having Fun!

There are lots of free Facebook Cover Collage apps you can download!

Check out what we did using the Smilebox App on our facebook page!

Here are the details:

Specs for collage should be the following:

851 pixels wide and 315 pixels tall, less than 100 kilobytes

4 inches wide x 1.5 inches high

JPG format preferred

Entry Submission

You must be a patient of Kennell Orthodontics to enter.

Just submit your creative collage by using one of the following and be sure to include your name and contact information.

Email: contests@kennellortho.com

Bring in a hard copy to our office: 783 North Main Street Laconia

Post on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KennellOrtho

Technology advances daily, the app you download today on your smart phone is likely to receive an upgrade tomorrow.  It does not stop there...

Share the Love contest winners:
Amanda L
Jessica T
Anthony A
Tim G

Congratulations and thanks to everyone who participated in our Share the Love food drive.  We were able to collect over 200 items for people in need.

Did you know one in every five orthodontic patients is an adult? We’re living longer and technology is improving, making orthodontic treatment an appealing and safe option for patients of all ages. As the trend toward treatment later in life grows, we’re seeing braces on parents as well as children – and even adult celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Gwen Stefani, Nicholas Cage, and more recently Faith Hill have shown off their braces. It’s never too late to look and feel your best with Dr. Kennell!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment with Dr. Kennell. The physical process for moving teeth is the same, young or old, which means it’s never too late to address issues such as an overbite or underbite, crooked or crowded teeth, or jaw disorders.

How Do I Get Started?

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, we’ll make a consultation appointment with you. During this meeting we will perform a general assessment of your oral health, discuss options for treatment, and answer any questions you may have. We will also discuss matters of cost and insurance. The next step is an orthodontic records appointment in which we take x-rays, photos, and an impression of your teeth. This information drives your unique treatment plan.

What Are the Benefits?

Straightening your teeth can improve your smile, your self-esteem, and your dental health. Technologically advanced new treatments make it easier to identify the option that best fits your lifestyle. Modern techniques and materials have made braces and aligners more effective, comfortable and unobtrusive than ever.

If you think you might benefit from orthodontic treatment, give Kennell Orthodontics a call, so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs.

Thanks to all of our patients, parents and friends for making our Gunstock Tubing Event a huge success!!!  This was our very first large-scale patient appreciation event and we are so glad it went without a hitch.  Be sure to check out some photos on our Facebook album.  And congratulations to our lucky raffle winners – enjoy those prizes!

The orthodontic years can be a tough time for some of our patients and we certainly understand that.  Hey, I had braces myself – TWICE!  I hope that having office contests and events like these help to lighten the mood a bit and make the “braces years” a little more enjoyable.  I have to admit I am very fortunate to have an awesome office community of patients, parents and staff – it makes my job so much more rewarding.

Thanks again - and I’m already looking forward to planning our next event!  If you have some cool ideas of events that would interest you, please let us know.

Dr. Kennell

Dr. Alan Kennell and his team will be hosting
“Brace Yourself”

A Patient Appreciation Tubing Party at Gunstock Resort tubing hill!

If you are a current patient or recent patient in a retainer we encourage you to join us!

Sunday March 10, 2013

4-7 p.m.

Stop in and hit the hill, mingle, and allow us to show you our appreciation for choosing Kennell Orthodontics as your ortho provider!

Warm up with some hot cocoa, enjoy a nice warm fire along with s'mores and some great music.

We will even have some AWESOME raffle prizes - like a 2013/14 SEASON PASS to GUNSTOCK!...and so much more... for those who join us! Come for an hour or stay the whole time.

Please RSVP to the Facebook Event.

Everyone will be meeting just under the bridge by the welcome center. You will see the Kennell Orthodontics tent setup, check in for your tubing pass and a small gift.

Happy Valentine's Day to you from US!

We LOVE that you chose Kennell Ortho for your ortho treatments!

So…for you, we have found some fun links that may highlight some of your interests…

How are the STARS celebrating Valentine’s Day this year?

A Valentine’s Day Song for you!

Valentine’s Day treats for kids – YOUNG and OLD !

Although National Orthodontics Month is in October each year, each February, the American Dental Association (ADA) sponsors National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health.

Dr. Kennell and his team want to remind parents that their children can avoid cavities. A balanced diet, limiting snacks, brushing and flossing each day and regular dental check-ups are the keys to a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

Cleaning Your Teeth & Gums

Taking care of your mouth is simple. The ADA recommends the following for good oral hygiene:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste. Replace your toothbrush every three or four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. A worn toothbrush won't do a good job of cleaning your teeth.
• Clean between teeth daily with floss or an inter dental cleaner. Tooth decay–causing bacteria still linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. This helps remove the sticky film on teeth called plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.
• Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks.
• Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.

Check out our latest patient testimonial. We love to hear from our fabulous patients on the day their braces come off and their smile is ready for the world.

Check out Emily G.!

She was so excited, we are thrilled to be a part of her joy!

http://youtu.be/foJZEwCYxX8

Dr. Kennell is excited to announce that he now offers this great new invisible solution for straightening your teeth!

Harmony system is an advanced digitally customized, invisible solution.  The Harmony System attaches to the interior or lingual side of your teeth, so no one will notice you are wearing braces.

Dr. Kennell designs your personal treatment through Harmony’s advanced technology in computer assisted treatment.  The 3D image shows how each tooth will be moved for your desired smile. CAD/CAM technologies produce a customized system that adapts seamlessly to the shape and contour of your teeth.  The computer robotically forms arch wires for each phase of your treatment which creates a high level of orthodontic precision and accuracy in tooth correction.

• Fast and Comfortable Treatment.

• See your new smile before you even start treatment.

• Fewer appointments and less treatment time.

For more information, visit www.myharmonysmile.com.

Dr. Alan Kennell and his team will be hosting
“Brace Yourself”

A Patient Appreciation Tubing Party at Gunstock Mountain’s tubing hill!

If you are a current patient or recent patient in a retainer we encourage you to join us!

Sunday March 10, 2013

4-7 p.m.

Stop in and hit the hill, mingle, and allow us to show you our appreciation for choosing Kennell Orthodontics as your ortho provider!

Warm up with some hot cocoa, enjoy a nice warm fire along with smore’s and some great music.

We will even have some AWESOME raffle prizes for those who join us! Come for an hour or stay the whole time.

Please RSVP to the Facebook Event.

Everyone will be meeting just under the bridge by the welcome center. You will see the Kennell Orthodontics tent setup, check in for your tubing pass and a small gift.

This year’s flu is the worst it has been in ten years and we are in the peak season.

Check out this article posted this week in NY DAILY NEWS -

Here are some simple steps you can take to help yourself avoid colds and the flu this season.
Be sure to get yourself and your family protected from the flu

• Get vaccinated
• 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 toothbrush after every cold or flu or every 3-4 months when bristles appear worn

To promote a healthy and clean environment, our team gives a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our office at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces.

For the protection of other patients and our staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others. We hope this helps and give us a call if you have any questions! 

Spread the Cheer this time of year!

1 in 7 U.S. households don't know where their next meal is coming from. (Shocking, right?)

You can do something about this...
“Share the Love” is back! Leaving the Holiday Season of giving to those you love and those less fortunate does not need to stop. Together we can SPREAD THE CHEER THIS TIME OF YEAR!
Giving makes us all feel good, and the 2012 “Share the Love” program was a large success filling the shopping cart with non-perishable foods for the Laconia Area Food Pantry. With the winter season upon us, and the fresh load of snow dropped right after Christmas reminds us that it is important to keep our local community healthy through the season.

• When most people think about hunger, they think of a starving child in a third-world country. Or perhaps they think of a long line of homeless people waiting outside an inner-city soup kitchen.
• The truth is that hunger in United States is a huge problem. In a country known for its wealth and prosperity, 50 million Americans struggle to find their next meal.
• Did you know 17 million children go to bed hungry every night?
• The face of hunger has changed. No longer is it just the homeless man on the street reaching out for a helping hand, but millions of everyday people struggling to feed their families. No one is a stranger to the economic hardships of today.

Dr. Kennell and the Kennell Ortho Team are once again kicking off a non-perishable food drive program, when you bring in a non-perishable food item; you will be entered in the 2013 “Share the Love” prize drawing. 4 lucky winners will be announced on Wednesday March 27th!

Share this post with your Kennell Ortho friends and family so together we can SPREAD THE CHEER THIS TIME OF YEAR!.

The year is almost over, and as we reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask all our patients: what was memorable about 2012 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2013? Do you have a New Year’s resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

We know that we are looking forward to serving our amazing patients with even more great care in 2013!

Have a safe and happy New Year from our family to yours!

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as we reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What do you love about the holidays this year? Being with your loved ones? Hitting the slopes? A clean slate for 2013? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food?

Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year? We’d love if you shared with us all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to limit the amount of sweets you eat!

Happy holidays from our family to yours!

2013 is almost here, and it’s a great time of year to get started on achieving a straight, dazzling and confident smile that will last you a lifetime. We are proud to offer some of today’s most innovative orthodontic technologies that can straighten your smile in less time than you ever imagined. Not only do today’s braces and other orthodontic treatments straighten your teeth quicker, they also offer greater comfort for you, and require fewer visits to our office.

So if obtaining a healthy, beautiful smile is one of your New Year’s resolutions, we invite you to give us a call to schedule an initial orthodontic consultation. Happy holidays!

Did you know that even in ancient times, people wanted to improve the look and function of their smiles? We think of modern orthodontic appliances as sleek, efficient technology, but this was not always so! Take a look at the highlights in the evolution of braces.

Ancient Times: From Greece to Rome

• According to The Angle Orthodontist, Aristotle and Hippocrates first thought about methods for straightening teeth between 400 and 300 BC.
• The Etruscans, in what we now know as Italy, buried their dead with appliances that maintained spaces and prevented collapse of their teeth and jaws during life. Archaeologists have discovered mummified remains in various locations that have metal bands wrapped around the teeth.
• A Roman tomb has also been discovered in which the teeth were bound with gold wire, including documentation on the wire’s use as a dental device.

18th Century: A French Development

• The French dentist Pierre Fauchard is acknowledged as the father of modern dentistry. In 1728 he published a book that described various methods for straightening teeth. Fauchard also used a device known as a “blandeau” to widen the upper palate.
• Louis Bourdet was another French dentist who published a book in 1754 that discussed tooth alignment. Bourdet further refined the blandeau and was the first dentist to extract bicuspids, or the premolar teeth between canines and molars, for the purpose of reducing tooth crowding.

19th Century: Orthodontics Defined
• Orthodontics started to become a separate dental specialty during the early 19th century. The first wire crib was used in 1819, marking the beginning of modern orthodontics.
• During this period, gold, platinum, silver, steel, gum rubber, vulcanite, and occasionally wood, ivory, zinc, and copper were used — as was brass in the form of loops, hooks, spurs, and ligatures.
• Edward Maynard first used gum elastics in 1843 and E. J. Tucker began making rubber bands for braces in 1850.
• Norman W. Kingsley published the first paper on modern orthodontics in 1858 and J. N. Farrar was the first dentist to recommend the use of force over timed intervals to straighten teeth.

20th Century: New Materials Abound
• Edward Angle developed the first classification systems for malocclusions (misaligned teeth) during the early 20th century in the United States, and it is still in use today. Angle founded the American Society of Orthodontia in 1901, which was renamed the American Association of Orthodontists in the 1930s.
• By the 1960s, gold was universally abandoned in favor of stainless steel.
• Lingual braces were the “invisible” braces of choice until the early 1980s, when tooth-colored aesthetic brackets made from single-crystal sapphire and ceramics became popular.

Today
As we arrive in the present, you need only look at your own braces to see how far we’ve come. Your treatment plan was probably created with a 3D digital model, and we’ve likely used a computerized process to customize your archwires. Perhaps you have clear aligners, self-ligating brackets, or highly resilient ceramic brackets with heat-activated wires.

Orthodontics has come a long way from the days of Aristotle, and even the bulky wrap-around braces of just 60 years ago. Regardless of your specific treatment plan, the development of high-tech materials and methods has made it possible for your orthodontic experience to be as effective, efficient, and comfortable as possible.

Sources: Angle.org, ArchWired

Proper mouth protection is recommended when you participate in any sports activities. If you wear braces, this protection becomes essential. Injuries to your mouth can not only damage your teeth, but your braces could break and cut open your lip.

Full Facial Guards

Full facial guards are often used in football and offer protection to your mouth from most injuries. Even with full facial protection, you may benefit from additional mouth protection. While your face is protected from outside impact, you could still suffer from cuts or damage to your braces from internal impact.

Mouth Guards
Mouthguards referred to as boil-and-bites can be purchased at many retail stores. As the name implies, these guards are boiled in water to heat and soften the material. While the guard is still warm, you place it in your mouth and bite down gently. This causes the guard to form to the shape of your mouth. Unfortunately, these guards do not necessarily offer the best protection or fit.

The custom fitting of a mouthguard ensures you of better protection and a comfortable fit. Custom guards are also built in layers for durability. The American Dental Association recommends custom guards for orthodontic patients. Your mouthguard will be designed to provide proper protection for both your teeth and your braces.

No matter what type of sport you participate in, a mouthguard can protect your braces. Even an activity as seemingly harmless as table tennis can result in a contact injury. The Academy for Sports Dentistry states that a properly fitted mouthguard should not interfere with any athletic activity.

Our office will be glad to answer any questions you have so you can continue the activities you enjoy with little concern. If you do suffer any injuries to your mouth or braces during sporting activities, please contact us immediately. The sooner we can care for your mouth, the better the results will be.

Don't forget to enter our "Back to School" Trivia Contest for your chance to win an awesome Kindle Fire!

You can enter by picking up an entry form in our office, or print one out at home by clicking the form below:

Contest ends December 1st. Must be a patient of Kennell Orthodontics to enter. Good luck!!

Everyone wants a naturally aligned and beautiful smile, and it is no secret that orthodontic braces can help deliver one. However, there are greater benefits to wearing braces than just having straight teeth. You’ll gain many oral health benefits in addition to the cosmetic ones.

Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

Crooked or crowded teeth may overlap each other and create tight spaces in between. These can make it very difficult to brush and floss effectively, allowing bacteria and plaque to build up, and eventually leading to tooth decay and gum disease. With orthodontic treatment, your teeth will become properly aligned and spaced, which allows for more effective brushing.

Difficulties with Speech

Your teeth play an essential role in speech. When they are out of line or lean too far forward or backward, this can affect your speaking patterns, and possibly cause embarrassment and frustration. Braces can readjust the positioning of the teeth to allow for clearer, more professional speech.

Bone Erosion

Bone and gum tissues begin to erode when there are no teeth to support. This is also true for poorly aligned teeth that leave gaps and spaces or place too much pressure on the jawbone due to a bad bite. With braces, the bones and tissues are less likely to erode and can continue to support the teeth in their new alignment.

Digestion

Your teeth play an important role in digestion. Before food ever enters your stomach, it has been partially digested by the teeth. If teeth are severely out of line, however, they may not play their role in breaking down food as effectively as they should. With braces, your teeth will be straightened into optimal alignment for eating and chewing.

One exciting part about wearing braces is getting to choose the colors of your rubber bands. Orthodontists place elastic bands, or ligatures, over each bracket to secure the archwire in place. These rubber bands may be individual or connected, depending on your mouth’s needs. You have the option of choosing the color of your elastics, which are changed about once every month at every visit. Our offices keep a color wheel handy to help you choose which ones suit you best!

Children and teens often enjoy picking different colors each month to express their creativity and coordinate their braces with outfits. Decorating your mouth with your favorite colors is fun for kids and takes some of the stress out of wearing braces. Adults who wish for subtlety have color options that blend in with the metal brackets and archwire. Common choices for adults include silver, clear, and gray tones.

Common Color Combinations for Rubber Bands

With individual ligatures for each bracket, you may choose different color combinations for special events. You can have alternating colors or place an entire rainbow over your teeth. Here are a few options to consider:

• School spirit colors
• Favorite sports team colors
• Patriotic colors
• Holiday themes

Some patients choose only one color to match their mood, personality, or favorite outfits. The palette of choices allows you to make bold statements with your braces or go for subtler tones that blend in with the metal structures. Keep in mind that bright colors make your teeth look whiter, while lighter shades, such as yellow and white, may cause your teeth to appear less bright.

What Your Rubber Band Color Says About You

• Red tones indicate that you are ready for action and take charge of your life with aggressive, forward-thinking steps.
• Blue tones are calm and relaxing. You are conservative and exhibit integrity when dealing with situations.
• Green tones represent growth and balance. You are level-headed and look for opportunities to grow emotionally and spiritually.
• Purple tones attract creative energies. You like to have fun and use your imagination in every aspect of your life.
• Orange tones indicate that you are optimistic and thrive in social situations where communication is open.
• Pink is a romantic color that represents a caring personality. You also enjoy having fun with silly games and endless laughter.