Avoiding Orthodontic Emergencies

At Apple Tree Orthodontics we know that even with the best of care, braces can cause soreness to your mouth. This soreness is the way your body reacts to your teeth as they begin to move. Your braces play an important part in helping to create a healthy and beautiful smile but you may experience a few side effects while wearing them that are common and can be easily treated.

Canker Sores

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. We recommend Canker-X gel and we can provide you with a sample to try.

Loose Brackets

If you have a loose bracket you can 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. Please call the office for an appointment as soon as possible!

Loose Bands

The band will need to be reattached. Please call the office for an appointment and remember to bring the band with you.

Broken or Protruding 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. Please call the office for an appointment to trim or adjust the wire.

Loose Spacers

If a spacer (separator) becomes dislodged it may need to be repositioned and sometimes replaced. Please call the office to see if they need to be replaced.

Remember, braces aren't forever but your smile is! If you ever have any questions or are having discomfort - we're just a call away! (650) 434-0190

The Tooth Truth

Our dedication to providing extraordinary personal service with compassion and consideration to the unique needs of each of our patients is our top priority. We feel open communication is extremely important in creating a positive environment for our patients and insuring a successful treatment outcome. Here at Apple Tree Orthodontics, we consider dental health to be an integral part of overall good health. We believe that good dental health can instill a sense of well-being, provide a lifelong smile, and promote good overall health.

To that note, let’s talk about the truth about our teeth. Our bone and gum tissues are supported by our teeth. If this support is lost or is poorly aligned, then our bone and gums can begin to erode. If the teeth are properly aligned the bone and gums are less likely to erode.

Your teeth play an important role in digestion. Before your food ever enters your stomach, it has to be chewed by your teeth. This process is called mastication. The food has to be partially broken down before entering your stomach to be properly digested. Braces straighten your teeth and give you the alignment you need to properly chew your food. 

If you are concerned about your alignment, or simply have questions on how to improve your dental health, let’s talk! Our caring team takes pride in providing exceptional care to patients of all ages. You can call us at (603) 434-0190 or click here to schedule a complimentary consultation right on our website.

Braces & Your First Days

At Apple Tree Orthodontics we believe you have taken the first step toward a healthier and more beautiful smile but you are probably wondering what comes next. The first week is the biggest period of adjustment, and there is a lot to learn in this short time. What to eat?  How to brush?  No worries, in a very short time your braces will feel completely natural.

On the first day, your braces will probably feel sort of like a mouthful and it may take time to get used to them. By the second day, you may feel some soreness or discomfort. If you are going to experience any discomfort, the second and third days are when it will happen. If you do experience discomfort it can be dealt with by taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as Tylenol.

If you have any questions or concerns the team at Apple Tree Orthodontics is here to help you! We have some great information right on our website - available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Simply click here to access our site. 

A New Smile for the New Year!

Invisalign clear aligners are specifically designed to give you the smile you want without any of the lifestyle changes you don’t. With unique advances such as SmartTrack® material, Invisalign clear aligners can shape your smile more precisely and comfortably than ever before.

So what are you waiting for? Start moving towards the next amazing version of yourself. Ask Dr.'s Timmeny & Polgrean how Invisalign clear aligners can give you the smile you want.

• $400 OFF Invisalign Treatment
• FREE Vivera Retainers with Invisalign Treatment
• Ask About our Patient Referral Program

Space is limited to the first 10 appointments.

Schedule a consultation with Apple Tree Orthodontics today! Call us at 603-434-0190. If you'd like to learn more about treatment with Invisalign, click HERE to head to our website!

Thanksgiving Countdown!

It seems like the month of November has really flown by! Thanksgiving is just a week away and we’re all looking forward to time with family and friends – not to mention all of the delicious food! While some holidays spotlight foods that might traditionally be a challenge to manage when you have braces, Thanksgiving is typically filled with foods that are braces approved!

If you’re looking to add a new side dish or two to your Thanksgiving table this year, we’ve found two contenders that will not only look spectacular but might also become a new favorite for your family. Both of these would be perfect to bring to a potluck meal since they can both be assembled in advance and each takes less than 30 minutes to heat.  

Maple Cranberry Sweet Potatoes

• 4 lbs. sweet potatoes
• 1 cup maple syrup
• 1 ½ cups fresh cranberries
• 3 tbsp. butter
• 1 ½ tsp. salt

Place whole sweet potatoes in a large pot with just enough water to cover and one teaspoon of salt. Heat to a rapid boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer covered about 30 minutes or just until potatoes are fork-tender. Drain. Set aside until cool enough to handle.

Meanwhile, in a saucepan, heat maple syrup to boiling on high. Reduce heat to medium, and boil gently for 10 to 15 minutes or until reduced to 1/2 cup. Stir in cranberries, butter, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook just until cranberries pop, typically about 5 minutes.

When ready to bake:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut cooled sweet potatoes into 1-inch-thick slices and arrange in shallow 3-quart ceramic or glass baking dish, overlapping slices if necessary. Spoon maple-cranberry syrup evenly over potatoes and bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until hot.

Green Bean Cheddar Casserole

• 3 lbs. green beans
• 2 cups stale bread
• 3 tbsp. olive oil
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 3 tbsp. cornstarch
• 2 ½ cups milk
• ¼ tsp. nutmeg
• 1 cup cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
• Salt & Pepper to taste

Bring a large saucepot of salted water to boil. Add green beans to the boiling water and cook for 2 minutes. Drain well and set aside.

In a food processor, pulse bread into coarse crumbs. Transfer to a bowl and add olive oil and sliced green onions. Toss to combine and set aside.

In a saucepan, whisk cornstarch and 1/2 cup milk until all cornstarch is dissolved. Add nutmeg and a little salt and pepper. Heat slowly over medium heat, and slowly whisk in remaining 2 cups of milk. Allow sauce to boil for 2 minutes, keep whisking! Reduce heat to low, and add in cheeses one handful at a time, waiting until cheese melts before adding the next handful. Once all cheese has been added and the sauce is smooth, remove from heat. Toss with green beans until well coated with sauce. Transfer mixture to a 3-quart baking dish until ready to bake.

When ready to bake:

Sprinkle reserved breadcrumb mixture over green beans. Bake at 375 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes or until breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Recipe Swaps:

·         To save time, purchase fresh green beans in a microwaveable bag and skip the boiling all together!

·         Use your favorite store-bought breadcrumbs to save additional time in lieu of making them yourself. Panko breadcrumbs are also an excellent substitution, adding even more crunch to the topping of this dish.

We hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving! All of us at Apple Tree Orthodontics are thankful for each and every patient we’ve had the pleasure of serving. Now, what are you going to make with all of the leftovers?

Out With the Old & In With the New

With cold and flu season starting, germs seem to be lurking everywhere! While it’s difficult to avoid catching the office cold or flu bug, you can help keep your number one oral hygiene accessory in great shape by replacing your toothbrush regularly. Toothbrushes help keep your teeth and mouth clean, but how long should you a keep a toothbrush? It is recommended that you switch out that old toothbrush for a fresh new one every 3 to 4 months, and directly after any cold or flu. Replacing your toothbrush is essential since they are constantly being exposed to germs and bacteria. If you notice the bristles of your toothbrush have become worn, that is a clear sign that you need a new toothbrush. People who wear braces will likely need to replace their toothbrushes frequently, as braces break down and fracture bristles which makes the toothbrush lose its effectiveness.

It's helpful to keep a pack of toothbrushes available in the house at all times for easy replacement. You may be thinking "My toothbrush is fine, I have it broken in just the way I like it”. While that could be true, did you know that your old toothbrush could actually be harming your mouth?

3 Reasons to Change Out Your Old Toothbrush

1.     Bacteria - Your toothbrush is a tool for removing bacteria from your teeth…but it doesn’t actually kill bacteria. Some of the bacteria from your teeth stay on your toothbrush after you are done brushing. Now, this isn’t a problem initially, but imagine three to four months of bacteria build up on your toothbrush. That old bacteria ridden toothbrush is in your mouth at least twice a day…yuck.

2.     Bristles - Like any tool, a toothbrush wears down. Worn bristles are tough on your enamel and can wear it away over time. Not only that… an old, worn toothbrush can be up to 95 percent less effective at removing plaque.

3.     Illness - Always change your toothbrush after you’ve been sick, even if it’s not “technically” time to switch out your toothbrush. Do we need to say it again? Germs and bacteria in your mouth twice a day, every day.

If you feel like changing your toothbrush every three months is wasteful, we’ve got a solution! Put that old toothbrush to work doing odd jobs around the house. Old toothbrushes are great for cleaning around facet fixtures and tile grout. They can even be used to clean tools, computer keyboards, and tennis shoes! Make sure to mark your calendar as a reminder to replace your toothbrush at least every 3 to 4 months. If you need a few tips on keeping your smile in tip-top shape, make sure to ask at your next appointment at Apple Tree Orthodontics. 

Four Fall Flavorful Smoothies

With Fall in full swing and with it the hectic holidays just a step further down the road, we thought we’d put together a list of a few fall-themed smoothies that can serve as a great (and easy!) breakfast or after school snack.

Pumpkin Banana Smoothie
If you’re a pumpkin fan, this smoothie is for you! While pumpkin is a trendy item, especially this time of year, what you might not know is pumpkin has both fiber and protein which makes for a healthy and filling smoothie.

2 tablespoons canned pure pumpkin

5 tablespoons milk

2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt

1 banana, frozen

½ teaspoon honey

⅛ teaspoon cinnamon

pinch of nutmeg

¼ cup ice

Helpful tip: If you’re finding that you have several over ripened bananas that you aren’t able to eat in time, toss them in a freezer bag! Frozen bananas are the perfect addition to smoothies and help make preparation even easier for those hectic weekday mornings. 

Cranberry, Pear, & Orange Smoothie
That’s quite a mouthful, and trust us, you’ll love this nutrient-packed smoothie!  It chocked full of filling fiber from the pear, Vitamin C from the orange, and antioxidants from the cranberries. If you’re using whole cranberries for the first time, this smoothie might be a bit tart! Add a bit of extra honey to tone down the tart zing.

¾ cup cranberries (fresh or frozen)

1 pear, core removed & chopped

1 small orange

½ cup low-fat plain yogurt (or Greek yogurt)

1 teaspoon honey

Feeling adventurous? Add in any of the items below to give this smoothie even MORE flavor!

A handful of fresh spinach

A frozen or fresh banana

A few frozen strawberries, blueberries, mango, or pineapple

1 teaspoon of chia seeds

Caramel Apple Smoothie
This smoothie is a great alternative to the traditional sticky treat and delivers all of the delicious flavor! Smoothie staples Greek yogurt and almond milk add filling protein and frozen banana adds plenty of sweetness.

1 cup almond milk

1 frozen banana

½ cup vanilla Greek yogurt

½ cup applesauce

¼  tsp caramel extract

Caramel sauce & cinnamon for topping

Recipe swap: This recipe is very adaptable - the trick is to use what you have! Experiment with different types of milk and yogurt. If you don’t have caramel extract on hand, add a bit of caramel sauce right to the blender! Many of the applesauce pouches that are so popular with kids come in fun flavors too. The options are endless, have some fun with it!

Green Monster Smoothie
When you are ready to move on from using spinach in your green smoothies, Swiss chard is a great next step. Swiss chard has a delicate flavor and softer leaves that blend well in most blenders. It is actually in the same family (amaranthaceae) as spinach and beets!

2-3 cups Swiss chard, destemmed and chopped

2-3 ripe bananas, fresh or frozen

1 tart green apple, chopped

1 medium whole grapefruit, peeled and chopped

1 cup white cranberry juice or water

2 cups ice

This recipe makes plenty, so freeze individual portions for those extra hectic mornings!

More On Invisalign

Invisalign is a way to straighten teeth without traditional braces. Invisalign works best for adults but can be suitable for teenagers too. Invisalign uses a series of clear plastic aligners that are nearly invisible, and almost no one can tell you’re wearing them.

How Does Invisalign Work?

You wear each set of aligners for about 2 weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. As you replace each aligner with the next in the series, your teeth will move little by little, week by week until they have straightened to the final position Dr. Timmeny or Dr. Polgrean has prescribed. You’ll visit Appletree Orthodontics about once every 6 weeks to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned. Total treatment time averages 9-15 months and the average number of aligners worn during treatment is between 18 and 30, but both will vary from case to case.

How to start Invisalign

STEP 1Following your initial consultation, Appletree Orthodontics will advise how Invisalign can work for you. A full treatment plan with all the alternative methods available will be provided. Once you are happy to proceed the working impression of your teeth is obtained and submitted to Invisalign.

STEP 2
Invisalign creates a virtual model of your teeth and carefully translates the treatment prescription into a sequence of stages. We then show you the planned tooth movements on the computer before finalizing the manufacture of your custom aligners to make your teeth straight.

STEP 3
You then wear each set of aligners for two to three weeks, moving your teeth gradually. We check you every 6-8 weekly to ensure your progress matches the predicted plan

2 Minutes & Twice A day

Seeking orthodontic treatment is a great way to make sure your oral health is in good shape. However, there are other factors that affect the status of healthy teeth. Brushing, flossing and eating habits are just as important.

When treating your teeth Apple Tree Orthodontics staff want to be sure they are working with healthy teeth...and developing healthy habits start at a young age.

Did you know that the baby teeth that appear in the first 3 years of a child's life have been there since birth, in the baby’s jawbones? Those baby teeth are key for chewing, speaking, and appearance. They also hold space in the jaws for upcoming adult teeth. Even though they fall out, baby teeth are important and you need to take good care of them.

For healthier teeth, good breath and fewer cavities kids need to remember to brush their teeth for 2 minutes, twice a day. Adopting these healthy brushing habits can help save children from a lifetime of tooth pain.

Helpful Brushing Tips

•     Brush with a fluoride toothpaste.
•     Place the toothbrush at an angle against the gums.
•     Make sure to move the toothbrush back and forth, gently, in short strokes.
•     Brush the tongue to remove germs and freshen breath.

At Apple Tree Orthodontics we care about the overall oral health of all of our patients. If you have any questions about your oral health, please contact our office today.

August Recipe For Patients With Braces

Here is everything you need to know to make your own rainbow smoothie! Enjoy!

Ingredients:

RED LAYER
1 frozen banana
1/2 cup greek yogurt, vanilla or plain
1/2 cup frozen raspberries
1/2 cup frozen strawberries
water or liquid for blending

ORANGE LAYER
1 frozen banana
1/2 cup greek yogurt, vanilla or plain
1/2 cup frozen peaches
1 small orange
1/4 cup frozen mango
water or liquid for blending

YELLOW LAYER
2 frozen bananas
1/2 cup greek yogurt, vanilla or plain
1 cup frozen pineapple
water or liquid for blending

GREEN LAYER
2 frozen bananas
1/2 cup greek yogurt, vanilla or plain
1 handful (or more) spinach
1 cup frozen pineapple
water or liquid for blending

BLUE LAYER
2 frozen bananas
1/2 cup greek yogurt, vanilla or plain
1 cup frozen pineapple
small amount of blue food coloring
water or liquid for blending

PURPLE LAYER
1 frozen banana
1/2 cup greek yogurt, vanilla or plain
1 cup frozen mixed berries
water or liquid for blending

MAGENTA LAYER
1 frozen banana
1/2 cup greek yogurt, vanilla or plain
1/2 cup sliced beets
1 cup frozen strawberries or raspberries

FOR EACH SMOOTHIE

• Place all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Add more liquid to help it blend if it's too thick. 
• Transfer the smoothie to a bowl or container, rinse the blender and prep the next smoothie. 

TO ASSEMBLE THE RAINBOW SMOOTHIE
Carefully layer each color smoothie in glasses in rainbow order. If desired, blend the smoothie using a straw or stir stick. Top each smoothie with a toothpick filled with leftover fruit.

Age Is Just A Number

Braces do the job of straightening teeth, regardless of age. More common than ever these days, you see adults wearing braces, and when you do, one question instantly pops into your head - do braces work for adults? The answer is YES. In fact, adults aged 20 to 40 years represent at least 40 percent of the population of people wearing braces. The reason why so many current adults skipped wearing braces during their youth is that they often feared of being bullied and teased because back in the 80's and 90's, braces we not as aesthetically pleasing as they are now. Trust us, braces have evolved since then now more than ever adults are wearing braces or aligners to get a picture perfect smile.

Nowadays, wearing braces has become more socially acceptable, affordable, and routine for our adult patients. We even have patients with close to straight teeth that want to try out braces just too perfect minor flaws. Adults can skip the traditional metal braces and opt for Invisalign clear aligners, ceramic braces, or other less obvious orthodontic treatment when being seen at Apple Tree Orthodontics.

For more information about braces for adults, you can always contact Apple Tree Orthodontics located in Londonderry, NH.

Tips For Going Back To School With Braces

Caring for braces especially for students in school can be quiet hectic due to the restrictive devotions to maintain the braces and for this reason, Appletree Orthodontics has decided to put up an article which will make caring for orthodontic braces easy in school. As a student who just had an orthodontic treatment, you should be rest assured that it is the best that can happen to give you the perfect smile again but the care for your teeth and gums help make it very effective. Take a look at your new braces, you can notice a lot of nooks and crannies that can trap food and plaque and that means a great risk of tooth decay is imminent if not properly cared for, therefore you need to pay special attention to cleaning your teeth. This might look hectic but right here the team of Appletree Orthodontics has few great tips to keep your braces in top condition.

1. WATCH YOUR DIET
As an orthodontic patient with braces, it is very important for you to select your diet with caution. We know that there are several foods in school which tastes great but don't look great in your braces. Certain foods can either break a bracket or some foods are sugary and can have negative effects on the natural ability to brush behind the bracket. Be sure to make decisions on foods based on what is healthy, tasty, and won't harm your brackets.

Food to avoid: As an orthodontic patient we would advise that you desist from:

• Sticky or gooey foods 
• Hard foods 
• Sugary foods 
• Acidic drinks 

2. WEAR A MOUTHGUARD

With braces on your teeth, you might be wondering if you should desist from sports or retire from being the captain of your favorite sports team, but the truth is orthodontics does not affect your ability to play sports. You can keep on with your braces and sports if and only if you have your mouth guard on. Mouth guards are safety measures that can mean the difference between just a bruised, fat lips and thousands spent in orthodontics repair work. While you are in any kind of physical activity (including gym classes), it is advisable that you wear a mouth guard which can protect your teeth and braces from flying sports balls, swinging elbows or an accidental fall or hit.

3. BRUSH AND FLOSS REGULARLY

Braces can easily trap food, and this trapped food can lead to other inimical dental problems. Because of this, it is very important to brush your teeth after every meal and to floss at least once a day.

4. DON'T CHEW ON PENCILS

Pencils, pen, and rulers are all hard objects and most times when you get bored, anxious or plainly destructive you are tempted to chew on them in class. Obviously, this can be destructive in the moment and can be grossly inimical over time. It is important that you don't practice these habits while wearing braces.

We know that maintaining braces in school is can be tough. That is why we ensure to give you the best plans of action to help you out.

For more questions and inquiries that you may have, we are always at your service. You can always contact Appletree Orthodontics.

Tips For Retention

Our goal at Appletree Orthodontics is to help your smile stay beautiful and healthy for a lifetime. Your cooperation is essential in order to achieve this goal.

Here Are A Few Things To Remember During The Years Of Retainer Wear

1. Wear your retainers as prescribed by Appletree Orthodontics.

2. The safest place for your retainer is in your mouth. When retainers are not in your mouth, ALWAYS keep them in your retainer case.

3. Do not wrap retainers in a paper towel or napkin, this is the easiest way to lose them.

4. Do not place loose retainers in your pocket, this is the easiest way to break them.

5. Keep retainers away from pets — dogs LOVE them.

6. Clean your retainers by brushing them with toothpaste and water or with antibacterial soap. NEVER soak your retainers, this causes them to rust and/or break. Be sure to brush your teeth without your retainers in. Do not boil your retainer or put it in hot water.

7. Do not place retainers in the dishwasher, microwave or in boiling water — they will melt or warp.

8. Your lower retainer may be a fixed retainer bonded onto your teeth. It is not considered permanent and can be broken or detached from your teeth, if you are not careful with it.

9. Bring your retainers to your check-up appointment. If anything happens to your retainers (i.e. it doesn't fit, it's broken, or it's lost) please call us ASAP. If your lower bonded retainer wire comes out, keep it and bring it in at your next appointment for rebonding.

10. The first set of retainers is included in your treatment fee. Any repair, replacement of your retainer, or rebonding of your lower retainer will be additional and charged to your account.

The benefits of orthodontic treatment will last a lifetime if you keep these important patient responsibilities in mind. If you have any further questions regarding retention contact Appletree Orthodontics at your earliest convenience.

What Look Is Right For You?

Orthodontic technology has brought us many options with regards to braces. These days, there are many types of braces, from metal braces to ceramic braces even clear braces. But what braces are right for you?

Metal Braces 
When it comes to braces, metal braces are the most commonly used. Metal braces involve bracketsthat are glued onto the front side of each individual tooth. You may have heard the words “self-ligating" when people talk about metal braces. Self-ligating is an innovative technology that uses high-tech, light-force wires to achieve tooth movement with less pressure on your teeth for more comfortable treatment.

Ceramic Braces
Like metal braces, ceramic braces are glued onto the front of each tooth but are crystal-clear and blend with the natural color of your teeth so they are not as visible as metal braces. They are made of a strong, polycrystaline alumina that is more comfortable on your lips and cheeks.

Invisalign
A series of alignment trays are created from molds and can be removed for brushing and flossing. Each aligner works to straighten your teeth in small incremental movements until the desired results are achieved. Invisalign aligners are made of lightweight, clear plastic in the shape of your dental arches and are virtually invisible.

Basically when you get right down to it, there are 2 basic types of braces. Those that are attached to the teeth and those that are removable. The type of braces you will need will be dependent on your specific orthodontic problem. Because each individual’s case is different, we cannot use the same treatment or braces on every person. However, if you are considering orthodontic treatment and have a specific type of bracket in mind, don’t be afraid to voice your opinion.  You never know what braces will be right for you until you ask.

When Is The Best Time To Begin Orthodontics?

It seems like braces and teenagers go together like peanut butter and jelly. But did you know that children should really be seen by an Orthodontist as early as age seven for an evaluation?

We know seven sounds crazy and way too early to be thinking about braces. However, early diagnosis and treatment by Dr. Patricia B. Timmeny and Dr. Rachel J. Polgrean can help guide facial development and tooth eruption, thereby preventing more serious problems from occurring later in your child's life. And treating children during these early growth stages allows Dr. Patricia B. Timmeny and Dr. Rachel J. Polgrean to achieve results that may not be possible once facial bones have fully developed.

A check-up may reveal that your child’s bite is fine. Or it may determine that early treatment is indicated to prevent or intercept more serious problems from developing as Dr. Patricia B. Timmeny and Dr. Rachel J. Polgrean can detect subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while some baby teeth are still present. While your child’s teeth may appear to be straight, there could be a problem that only Dr. Patricia B. Timmeny and Dr. Rachel J. Polgrean can detect.

Through an early orthodontic evaluation, you will be giving your child the best opportunity for a beautiful, healthy smile.

Don't worry if your child is older than seven because it's not too late for a check-up, especially if you or your family dentist notice a problem.

All patients differ in both physiological development and treatment needs, at Apple Tree Orthodontics, our goal is to provide each patient with the most appropriate treatment at the most appropriate time.

Don't Say No To A Straight Smile

Orthodontics can help children, teens, and adults of all ages look better throughout their lifetime. Adults today are much more aware than in the past of the importance of creating and maintaining a beautiful smile.

With longer life expectancy, a healthy, beautiful smile is as important at age 70 as it is at age 16. Appletree Orthodontics specializes with the education, experience and expertise to help patients of all ages attain properly aligned teeth and jaws for a lifetime of dental health.

Today’s orthodontic treatment options are not as noticeable and treatment time is much less than in the past. Traditional braces are small and sleek, whether metal or a tooth-colored ceramic. Some braces are not braces at all, but are clear, removable “aligners,” called Invisalign. They are used to nudge teeth toward their ideal positions for a younger look.

Whether you are self-conscious about wearing braces or not. Our team at Appletree Orthodontics will guide you through the process and help you reach your goal of a beautiful, healthy, and radiant smile to last a lifetime.

Invisalign Tips

Invisalign straightens your teeth without wires and brackets, using a series of clear, customized, removable appliances called aligners. It's virtually undetectable, which means hardly anyone will know that you're straightening your teeth. 

To ensure the best possible results we decided to compile a list of a few tips for our patients currently using Invisalign.

• Wear your aligners for a minimum of 2 weeks, before moving into the next aligner. 
• Sharp or rough edges can be smoothed with an emery board. 
• Change into your next aligner before going to bed so they settle in overnight. 
• Keep your aligners in their case while eating to avoid losing them. Keep the out of reach of any household pets, especially dogs! 
• If you need to, you can soak your Invisalign aligners in a mix of 50/50 white vinegar and cold water to brighten them. 
• Wear your aligners for at least 20 hours a day. 
• Always carry a toothbrush. 
• Only drink water when you're wearing your aligners. 
• Don't put your aligners in hot water. 
• Don't use toothpaste to clean your aligners. 

If you have any further questions about Invisalign please don’t hesitate to call us at our convenient Londonderry location at 603-434-0190.

3 Smoothies For New Braces

Here are 3 Appletree Orthodontics office-approved smoothie recipes that taste great and help you get the nutrients you need. We want to show you that eating healthy, delicious food is still possible after you’ve started your braces journey. Yes, there are certain points in your treatment process when your mouth might be more sensitive than usual, but that doesn't mean you don't get to enjoy a delicious meal or snack. Smoothies are the perfect solution for when chewing just doesn’t sound all that fun!

You can prep and freeze these 3 super quick and easy smoothie recipes. Choose your own base of yogurt, juice, milk, tea, or water and some ice to blend these ingredients up into something spectacular for your taste buds!

SWEET SUNRISE

• 1C Raspberries
• 1 Orange
• 1/2 Banana
• 1C Mango

KIWI REFRESH

• 1 Kiwi
• 1& 1/2C Watermelon
• 1 &1/2C Grapes

GREEN MONSTER

• 1 Grapefruit
• 1 Banana
• 1C Pineapple
• 1C Spinach

Curious About Wisdom Teeth & Braces?

Some people require their wisdom teeth to be removed following orthodontic treatment with braces. Often the timing of the eruption of wisdom teeth coincides with the removal of braces. It is often difficult to determine if someone will have space in their mouth for their wisdom teeth to erupt or if the wisdom will become impacted.

Many people have their wisdom teeth emerge as healthy, effective back molars. In this case, the tooth has grown in straight and is not affecting the person’s bite and any dental work will be unaffected. There is nothing stopping a person with healthy wisdom teeth from getting braces either.

Wisdom teeth are a leftover trait from when humans had larger jaws and chewed hearty leaves. Wisdom teeth tend to overcrowd already corrected molars or emerge only half way. In fact, wisdom teeth statistically have the highest chance of growing in sideways, an issue known as an impacted wisdom tooth, which can affect the nearby teeth. However, wisdom teeth cannot cause front teeth to become crooked. From the back of the mouth, the pressure they exert on the other molars is not strong enough to reach the front.

This has led people to believe that wisdom teeth can ruin their current or previous dental work. There are a number of other factors that have led to this. Around 20 years old, the jaw performs its last growth spurt, which can leave teeth crooked. This is also the age when many former braces wearers begin to neglect their retainers at night.

Each set of braces is unique for the wearer, as is the decision on what to do about wisdom teeth. Talk with the doctors of Appletree Orthodontics as soon as you notice any discomfort or wisdom teeth appearing. While they may not affect your braces, wisdom teeth can change your overall oral health.

Perfect Spring Recipe| Fruit Pizza

Making fruit pizza during this time of year is the best because it embraces the Spring. The bright colors of the fresh fruit seem to brighten menus as well as spirits. Fruit pizza seems to say, “Summer is on it’s way!” Get the details and make your version of a fruit pizza this Memorial weekend!

INGREDIENTS

• (1) 17.5 oz sugar cookie mix pouch
• ½ C butter at room temperature
• 1 egg
• (1) 8 ounce block cream cheese at room temperature
• (1) 7 oz package marshmallow cream
• 2-3 C fruit of your choice, chopped into small pieces

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Prepare the sugar cookie dough according to package directions, mixing in the butter and egg.
3. Using your hands, spread the dough evenly on a cookie sheet. Dot the dough with a fork to prevent air bubbles.
4. Bake until lightly browned, about 12 minutes. Remove from oven, and cool completely.
5. Mix the marshmallow cream and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
6. Frost the cookie dough "crust" with the marshmallow cream mixture.
7. Cover the pizza with fruit. Refrigerate until serving. Slice into squares.
8. Enjoy!

Reasons You Should Still See A Dentist During Orthodontic Treatment

If you’re a patient at Appletree Orthodontics you are used to visiting us for your regular adjustment appointment every 6-8 weeks. While our hygienist is in your mouth making those adjustments, it’s important for you to remember our team is working on your braces and trips to your general dentist are still very much needed.

When we work on your braces, we are not looking specifically for any cavities and anything we do notice is a by-product of monitoring your oral health from an orthodontic perspective. Even if we did find something suspicious we don’t have the facilities to correct it.

For this reason, we tell you to maintain your regular dental checkup schedule of once every 6 months.

Another important thing to remember is that your oral hygiene needs to be flawless. The appliances that are in your mouth are, unfortunately, a magnet for plaque buildup. If you are a bit lax with brushing and rinsing out your mouth after eating, you may just find that you have a beautiful straight smile with stained teeth.

While having braces does not increase the risk of cavities, not caring for your teeth and having braces does.  If you have any questions regarding your oral hygiene click here to visit our website or contact Appletree Orthodontics at our new Londonderry office, 603-434-0190.

OUR NEW ADDRESS

We are excited to announce our new office is located at:

1F Commons Drive, Suite #36

Londonderry, NH

OPENING DAY IS MAY 22, 2017!

Learn What To Eat With Braces

Just get braces? You may notice that your mouth feels a little different after they’re first put on. To make your transition a little smoother, you may want to change your eating habits for the first few days while you get used to your new braces. We at Appletree Orthodontics want to make things easier on our new patients, so below you will find some suggestions for the best kinds of foods to eat when you first get braces.

1. Have a smoothie. Smoothies are great option for a delicious meal in a glass, offering a convenient, balanced option. Throw whatever you like in a blender, add protein to make it more filling and even try a handful of spinach— if the smoothie is made right, you won’t even taste it!

2. Think soft. The first day or so of having your new braces on will mean you may not feel like chewing a whole lot. But that’s fine–try something soft but delicious like tender turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy. Soups, chili, pudding, oatmeal and yogurt are all good choices during your first few days with braces.

3. Easy to chew. A steak dinner is not the best thing to have at your “congratulations on getting your braces” dinner. But meat shouldn’t be off the table completely–how about some shaved turkey cold cuts?

4. Try new things. Having to change up what you eat for a few days is the perfect excuse to try some new foods–how about a soft cheese you haven’t had before, like Munster or Brie? How about a new smoothie recipe for breakfast? Baked apples for a snack or dessert? You may end up discovering a new staple for your everyday diet.

5. Stay healthy. Don’t fall into the ice cream trap. Sure, it’s good for a treat, but it won’t give you the nourishment you need to look and feel your best. Eating soft food doesn’t mean eating unhealthy.

Lastly, remember to stay hydrated and drink lots of water throughout the day, avoiding pop and sugary drinks as your teeth are even more susceptible to cavities when you have braces.

More On Fluoride

Our team at Appletree Orthodontics knows that there are several ways you can protect your smile throughout your orthodontic treatment. If you follow the rule of thumb and brush your teeth twice a day, floss often, and protect your appliances from damage, your treatment should be very successful.

One thing we’d like to add, is did you know there is another way to keep your teeth healthy and bright during your treatment with braces?

How is this possible? One word: fluoride. Fluoride is the mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay. This mineral also helps keep your teeth strong. Fluoride comes in two varieties: topical and systemic. Depending on your oral health or the recommendation of Dr. Polgrean or Dr. Timmeny, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six, or 12 months.

If you have any other questions about fluoride or your treatment, please don’t hesitate to give Appletree Orthodontics a call!

Try This New Spring Recipe

No-Bake Strawberry & Cream Pie

Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ⅓ cup butter, melted

Strawberry Pie Filing:

• 1 (3 oz.) package strawberry jello
• ⅔ cup boiling water
• ½ cup cold water
• ½ cup ice cubes
• 1 (8 oz.) container Cool Whip topping
• 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

Instructions

1. Using a food processor, pulse graham crackers until crumbly. Mix in sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until crust forms.
2. Press graham cracker crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Place pie crust in refrigerator.
3. In a large bowl, add boiling water and gelatin powder. Stir gelatin powder until completely dissolved.Then, add ½ cup cold water and ½ cup ice cubes, stir until gelatin is slightly thickened. TIP: Let the gelatin mixture sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly before you add the cool whip otherwise it won’t set up.
4. Add cool whip topping to gelatin mixture and whisk together until light and fluffy. Stir in sliced strawberries. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or until mixture has thickened.
5. Add strawberry pie filling to pie crust. Refrigerate for up to 6 hours or until firm. Top with cool whip and a slice strawberry. Serves 8.

BAKING TIP: When making the gelatine mixture: add the hot water to the gelatin and let it dissolve, then add your cold water and ice cubes, let it sit for about 5 MINUTES to let it thicken slightly before you add the cool whip otherwise it won’t set up and it will be runny/soupy.

For more braces-friendly recipes subscribe to the Appletree Orthodontics blog and connect with us on Facebook!

Spring Activities For The Family

Spring is in the air! As the flower buds are peeking out and birds are starting to chirp, it's time to leave those thoughts of snowstorms behind. Spring can be a wonderful time to explore the outdoors or go for a walk around town. Get your family moving together and establish some healthy habits, away from the electronics indoors. We have 5 fun ideas to get you in the mood for the loveliest season of the year.

1. Dust off the sports gear. Find a kick a ball, throw a Frisbee, shoot hoops, whatever sports activity that you and your family enjoy doing.

2. Get dirty in the yard. Mow the grass. Pull weeds. Till flower beds. Replant. Cut back. Find the fun in getting sweaty, and teach your kids how to manage the landscaping while you do it.

3. Explore the outdoors. Hike a trail and check out the plants budding out of the ground.

4. Go to a baseball game. The beginning baseball season is one of the annual markers that warm weather is just around the corner. If you don't have it in your budget for pricey pro tickets, look into local league games, college, or even high school games to watch.

5. Make Something. Whether you're experimenting with a new recipe or creating a new craft, making something new will give your kids a sense of satisfaction.


After being cooped up all winter, everyone's ready for some fresh Spring air. We hope you will step into the warm weather with suggestions of fun activities for the entire family.

APRIL CONTEST ALERT!

Click to enter our April contest! Do you know how much a tooth moves in a month? #AppletreeOrtho