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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!