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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!