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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!

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!

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.