Thank You 2018

It has been another fantastic year at Apple Tree Orthodontics. We treated so many wonderful people and transformed many beautiful smiles. 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 are excited for another fantastic year ahead in 2019 and can’t wait to see all the amazing smiles in the new year.

3 Sweets to Avoid this Christmas if You have Braces

The Holidays are here and that means snow, endless sweets and of course no school for kids. The holidays are the perfect time to celebrate with family and also a time where we can slip up on certain foods to avoid, especially if we have braces. From sugar, to cookies to gingerbread houses, there is no end in the sweet treats. Here are three foods to avoid this holiday season.

1. Candy Canes: 
These beautiful perfect treats are one to avoid this season if you have braces. The hard candy could damage your braces and the stickiness of the peppermint candy can get stuck in between your orthodontic appliances.

2. Popcorn:
If you string popcorn around your tree, you know this how involves eating the popcorn as well. Popcorn is a great treat, however you may want to stay away from it this year. Popcorn is notorious for getting stuck in between teeth and your braces.

3. Caramel Sweets
Who doesn’t love the sweet caramel treats this time of year. From caramel apple to caramel drizzled on your popcorn to your Starbucks drink, seems like caramel is everywhere this time of year. Be sure to stay away from this sticky treat, because it can be damaging to your teeth and braces.

Pass Along Project Apple Tree Orthodontics

We all are happy to announce that today we officially received The Pass Along Project donation bin. In December and January we are accepting new and gently used winter outerwear. Coats, snow pants, and boots. Feel free to stop by or even invite friends and family to drop off. We have created an event to keep you updated and posted.

Each year, nearly, 1,200 NH children enter foster care with nothing... The Pass Along Project has them covered! Get involved!

Common Questions for those Thinking about Braces

We are so happy to serve our communities in Londonderry, Derry, Hudson, Salem, Manchester, Litchfield, Windham, Candia, Raymond, Hooksett, and surrounding areas for over 25 years. Smiles are what makes us unique and while there is no right age for orthodontics, going through treatment is a big decision. From braces to aligning your jaw to invisalign, the ultimate goal is a confident smile you will be happy with.

If you have been exploring the possibility of getting braces, here are 3 common questions we hear all the time.

1. Is Treatment Painful? 

Orthodontic treatment has improved so much and technology has come a long way. As a rule, braces make your teeth tender and sore for a few days, but it is not painful. This annoyance can be relieved with an over-the-counter medication. Today's braces are more comfortable and use technology that reduces the discomfort, such as dental wax. We use the latest in biocompatible braces, the advanced technique with light force and the highest quality of orthodontic materials, in order to reduce discomfort and treatment time.

2. I’m an Adult! Can I get Braces? 

Orthodontists today can successfully correct most problems regardless of the patient’s age. Age is not a factor in considering orthodontic treatment for adults. Any adult in good general health with healthy gums and good bone support for the teeth is a candidate for orthodontic treatment. About 30% of our orthodontic patients are adults, and that number is still growing! Our community in Londonderry and the surrounding areas will help to serve you, no matter where you live.

3. Will there be Food Restrictions? 

Yes! Because of your treatment and your health, there are certain foods one should stay away with braces. For most situations, common sense will tell you what to avoid. Hard foods, sticky foods and foods high in sugar must be avoided. Hard foods can break or damage wires and brackets. Sticky foods can get caught between brackets and wires. You can view our list here on our website.

Dentist vs Orthodontist

A question you may be wondering is, "can my dentist give me braces?" The answer is a big NO! There is a major difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. We recognize that each patient has unique needs, and we pride ourselves in tailoring our treatment to meet these requirements.


At Apple Tree Orthodontics we utilize the latest technological advances in the profession to achieve unsurpassed results for our patients. In addition to “clear” braces, Invisalign clear aligners, and Teen Invisalign clear aligners, we offer low radiation digital radiography, and a “no impression” intra-oral scanner eliminating the need for traditional impressions. We have extensive experience in treating more complex cases which may require orthodontics in conjunction with jaw surgery. Our team works closely with several oral surgeons in the Boston area.


Dr. Polgrean and her highly trained staff have been creating beautiful smiles in Londonderry, Derry, Hudson, Salem, Manchester, Litchfield, Windham, Candia, Raymond, Hooksett, and surrounding areas for over 25 years.

What is Dental Wax?

When it comes to braces, your first few days may be uncomfortable. It may even feel as if your braces are sticking out. Your gums may be sore and tender, but that does not have to stop you from living your life.

An important item to use for relief is dental wax. Dental wax is “a soft, harmless gum protector for children and adults with braces that can be used in a pinch to cover brackets and protruding wires with a smooth surface,” according to Colgate. Dental wax can provide relief when a wire breaks and pokes out. Just add some dental wax on your gums and can help prevent pain while your wait for your next appointment.

Dental wax is completely safe.

Step 1: Be sure you have dental wax, you can ask us for recommendations on which we feel is best.
Step 2: Wash your hands.
Step 3: Brush your teeth, where you want to apply the dental wax
Step 4: Pinch off a piece of wax about the size of a small pea
Step 5: Squeeze until it softens and roll it into a ball, then flatten the ball slightly
Step 6: Gently push the wax onto the problem area of the braces


If you want to remove the dental wax, you can use floss. Be gentle, not to damage your teeth or gums. If you have any questions over dental wax, or any other orthodontic questions, please feel free to call us at (603) 434-0190

2 Smoothie Flavors for those with Braces

Congratulations on getting braces! Your on your way to a healthier beautiful smile. At first you may notice that your teeth and mouth feel a little tender or sore. This is perfectly normal and we promise your mouth will not be sore forever! The discomfort and soreness you are feeling is perfectly normal. Your teeth may be tender to biting pressures, which can make it tough to chew and eat solid food. Here are 2 delicious smoothie recipies that are delicious, healthy and filling.

1. Delicious Red Fruits and Oats Smoothie

This delicous smoothis will make it easy for you to consume, especially in your first few days after getting braces. The added oats, will fill you up.

1 cup sliced strawberries
1 sliced banana
1/4 cup raw almonds
1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
1 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt
1 teaspoon maple syrup

2. Peanut Butter, Banana and Flax Smoothie
This delicious combination will have you feeling full of creamy goodness. The yogurt and peanut butter will have you feeling full and the honey combined with bananas will leave you craving for more.

1/2 cup 1% low-fat milk
1/2 cup vanilla fat-free yogurt
2 tablespoons ground golden flaxseed
1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter
1 teaspoon honey
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ripe banana, sliced

Right Age for Orthodontics:

Orthodontists today can successfully correct most problems regardless of the patient’s age. But that does not mean that the orthodontic treatment starting age does not matter. In fact it may play a significant role in the total time and expenses required for the completion of the orthodontic treatment.

Children: The magic number is 7! The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that all children have a check-up with an orthodontist by the time they reach age 7, for early detection of any potential problems. At this stage, we can spot potential orthodontic problems related to jaw growth and eruption of adult teeth.

Teenagers: Most orthodontic problems are ideally treated during this time. Usually, all or most permanent teeth are present and patients are at one of their most active phases of growth. This is a great time to correct most problems, as the jaws are actively growing and their growth can be most easily modified during this time.

Adult: As we grow older, our teeth may shift and it may be necessary for an improved smile through orthodontic treatment. Healthy teeth can be moved at any age, and it is never too late to improve your smile.

Learn more about the right age for orthodontics, and give us a call if you have any questions at (603) 434-0190

Halloween Recipes for a Fun Night

If you just received braces or looking for something different to try this Halloween, here are two incredibly delicious alternative to sweet treats and hard candy that can harm your teeth if you have braces.

Halloween Parfait:
What You Need:

• 3 boxes instant vanilla pudding 
• 1 teaspoon red food coloring  
• 1/2 teaspoon yellow food coloring 
• one 9-ounce package plain chocolate wafers  
• 6 cups milk chocolate syrup to taste  
• One 8-ounce can mandarin oranges, drained 

Directions:

• Combine pudding mix and milk in a large bowl as directed on the package. 
• Refrigerate until firm. 
• Crush chocolate wafers into crumbs, using a food processor, or put the wafers into a plastic food storage bag and crush with a rolling pin. 
• Combine red and yellow food coloring in a small bowl. 
• Stir into pudding thoroughly, until pudding is orange. 
• Alternate layers of pudding with layers of chocolate crumbs in a parfait cup or glass for a total of three layers of pudding. 
• Top each layer of crumbs with chocolate syrup to taste before adding the next pudding layer.
• Top each parfait with mandarin oranges and additional chocolate wafer crumbs. Makes eight 8-ounce servings.

Dental Health is Orthodontic Health

There are major differences between a dentist and an orthodontist. While all orthodontist are dentist, only a small percentage of dentists are also orthodontists. However the dental health benefits are the same for everyone. When you care for your teeth, it benefits your smile and helps your orthodontic treatment go as planned.

• Achieve a balanced diet. This can be achieved by eating a variety of foods preferably from each of the five major food groups: breads, cereals and other grain products; fruits; vegetables; meat, poultry and fish; milk, cheese and yogurt. 
• Limit the number of snacks that you eat. If you do snack, choose nutritious foods, such as cheese, raw vegetables, plain yogurt or a piece of fruit. Each time that you eat foods that contain sugars or starches, brush your teeth. 
• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. 
• Clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaners. 
• Maintain your regularly scheduled check-ups with your dentist.

Two Candies to Avoid this Halloween

Happy Halloween from everyone at Apple Tree Orthodontics!

We believe that Halloween is the perfect opportunity to talk to your child and remind them about the importance of sticking to their health routine. This includes brushing your teeth, flossing, wearing your retainers, using mouthwash and other health tips. If you recently received orthodontic treatment such as braces or in the middle of your treatment, we recommend you avoid these sweet treats.

1. Hard Candies: You want to watch out for hard candies on Halloween and beyond. These can break your teeth and can be damaging if you have braces. On top of that, hard candies can cause the sugar to wash all over your teeth. This is due to having the hard candy for longer periods in your mouth.

2. Sour Candy: It’s no secret how important the enamel on your tooth is. Acidic foods are harmful to your enamel and can cause it to erode, exposing your tooth to being more vulnerable to cavities. You can pass on sour candy because of the acidity.

National Orthodontic Health Month: 3 Benefits of Orthodontics

October is National Orthodontic Health Month! The importance and benefits of Orthodontics exceeds beyond just a beautiful smile. Here are 3 benefits of orthodontics.

1. Prevent Cavities – Orthodontic treatment is the process that straightens teeth through various treatment plans such as braces and Invisalign. Straight teeth are easier to clean and therefore prevent bacteria that can cause cavities. 
2. Prevent Gum Disease – Orthodontic treatment allows your teeth to be spaced out better. This makes it easier for people to floss and clean their teeth. Without straight teeth, it is easier for food to hide between teeth, causing bacteria, turning into gum disease. 
3. Helps Bad Bites – Orthodontic treatment can fix bad bites such as overbites and under bites that make it difficult to eat, chew and sometimes speak.

The Truth about Orthodontic Myths

Myth: I can’t play sports with braces
Truth: Having braces, does not mean you have to stop living your life! As long as you wear a mouthguard, braces should not stop you or your child from playing your favorite sport. Ask our staff for more information on mouthgurads. 

Myth: My teeth will remain straight permanently after treatment
Truth: Orthodontic treatment such as Invisalign and braces are one of the most effective ways to straighten your teeth. However, your teeth will start to drift back to the original position if you do not wear your retainer as recommended by your orthodontist. Or you may notice your teeth begin to shift as you grow older. 

Myth: My dentist says he can give me braces
Truth: Pause and consult with an orthodontist. While all orthodontist are dentist, a very few percentage of dentist are also orthodontist. An orthodontist is a dental specialist in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists must successfully complete an additional two to three-year residency program of advanced dental education in orthodontics. 

Myth: Braces are only for children
Truth: The truth is farther from this myth. As we grow older, our teeth begin to shift in various places. Braces are not just for kids. Check out how an orthodontic treatment for adults can benefit your smile and lead you to a more confident you! 

National Pepperoni Pizza Day

Today is a day for everyone to rejoice! Yes that includes you, who just go braces!

Today is National Pepperoni Pizza Day! Don’t let the beginnings of braces let you not enjoy this day. Getting used to life with braces means learning what you can and can’t eat. When you get braces, you’ll need to change some of your eating habits. Eating certain foods, such as nuts or hard candy, can damage or break your braces. Biting into hard foods can pull away the brackets and wires, which can be painful and prolong the process of getting that beautiful smile.

For National Pepperoni Pizza Day, we’re sharing a healthy recipe that's safe for your teeth and all “brace-wearers” will enjoy!

Pepperoni Spinach Pizza:

• Prepare a batter of spinach. Keep it aside.
• Boil some spinach and drain it.
• In a pan, cook onion and green chilies for a minute.
• Add the boiled spinach to this mixture, with salt to taste.
• Add paneer and cream.
• Take pizza bread, spread the mixture on it and grate cheese.
• Cook it in pre heated oven for 10 minutes.

Mushroom Pepperoni Pizza:

• Take a non-stick pan and sauté garlic and onion for 2 minutes and then add capsicum to it.
• Cook for a while.
• Add tomato puree and bring to a boil. Now add boiled pasta and macaroni mix them well; add salt to taste.
• Spread the ready mixture on pizza bread, grate cheese on top of it and bake for 10 minutes.

Which Mouthwash?

Mouthwash is an essential part of a good oral hygiene routine, that often goes unnoticed. But did you know there are multiple types of mouthwash? Each also has a different function and works in different ways to help your teeth.

Fluoride Mouthwash: 
You’ve heard how fluoride helps your teeth. Well fluoride in mouthwashes, does just that and helps protect your teeth from cavities and tooth decay. Be careful when using this type of mouthwash because an intake of too much fluoride is not good.

Antiseptic Mouthwash:
This is the most common type of mouthwash, you probably have some in your cabinet. This type of mouthwash contains alcohol and used to eliminate bad breath and fight infections in your mouth. Along with brushing your teeth and flossing, all three work together to fight bad breath and bacteria.

Cosmetic Mouthwash:
The only benefit of this mouthwash, to your oral health care is to mask bad breath.

Natural Mouthwash:
Natural mouthwash has the same functions of all the other mouthwash, except their ingredients are natural. It is the popular alternative to alcohol-free mouthwash.
If you have any questions about what type of oral hygiene products to use during and after your orthodontic treatment, please do not hesitate to ask us.

Adult Orthodontics

Dr. Polgrean and her highly trained staff have been creating beautiful smiles in Londonderry, Derry, Hudson, Salem, Manchester, Litchfield, Windham, Candia, Raymond, Hooksett, and surrounding areas for over 25 years. Our doctor and staff attend numerous continuing education courses throughout the year as part of our commitment to providing you with the highest quality of care

When it comes to orthodontic treatment, there is no one-size-fits-all approach and there is not limit in age. As we grow older, our teeth start to shift and do not look the same as they once were. Even if you had braces as a teenager, orthodontic treatment should not be seen as a barrier to a more confident smile.

Numerous technological advances have made braces less noticeable, less painful and even less time-consuming. As America's baby boomers have become more health conscious, they're rejecting the notion that loosing teeth and dentures are a routine part of growing older, and we love that!

Teeth can be straightened at any age. The biological process involved in tooth movement is the same for both children and adults. At Appletree Orthodontics, we have various services when it comes to adult orthodontic treatments. Schedule a complimentary consultation to see which orthodontic treatment is for you.

Invisalign for Teens: Apple Tree Orthodontics

Invisalign has remained a top choice for people seeking orthodontic treatment because of its functionality. Aligners are removable and virtually invisible, which means you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing. You can still eat and drink what you want. There are no wires, metal or bracket!

Now teens don’t have to worry about embarrassing metal braces in their yearbook photos or Instagram selfies! Invisalign Teen is the clear way to straighten teeth without metal braces, using aligners.

What is Invisalign Teen?

• A clear way to straighten your teeth without braces.
• Series of clear, removable, custom-made aligners.
• Uses no metal wires or brackets.
• Custom-made for comfort.

How does Invisalign Teen work?

• Wear each set of aligners for 1 to 2 weeks.
• Remove only to eat, drink, brush and floss.
• Your teeth will move gradually each week.
• Visit us every 6-10 weeks.
• Elastics may be used with the clear aligners to align the bite.
• Most cases require 1-3 refinements or fine tuning of the final alignment and bite.

Utilizing Invisalign, we can treat a broad range of dental and orthodontic conditions such as, overly crowded teeth, widely spaced teeth, crossbite, overbite and underbites. Give us a call to schedule your complimentary appointment 603-434-0190

Back to School: Apple Tree Orthodontics

Back to school season is officially here! 

Kids are back in school and the abnormal summer routines are no more. As summer comes to an end and fall season returns, it can be a busy time for parents and their children. New activities and new routines, it’s easy to forget simple check-ups to the orthodontist (and other health related appointments).

Why is it important for a check-up during back-to-school season? This is the time to schedule an appointment to measure the progress of your child’s orthodontic treatment. This will ensure your child's treatment is on schedule. If your child is playing fall sports, be sure to get a mouth guard specifically designed for your child. This is the perfect time to ensure your child is on the road to a healthy beautiful smile.

Whether you are an adult, adolescent or child, our knowledgeable team is committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve – a healthy, beautiful, self-confident one that will last a lifetime

#ThrowbackThursday to twinning smiles😀! #appletreeortho

A post shared by Apple Tree Orthodontics (@appletreeortho) on Jul 19, 2018 at 5:30am PDT

Summer Smiles: Tips for a Healthy Smile

Summer's officially here! Summer time in Londonderry are great and beautiful. Spending time with family, friends, BBQ’s and pool parties. With all the greatness summer brings, it could be easy to forget a few things that will help you have a healthy summer smile.

Common Questions - Apple Tree Orthodontics

What are the early signs of orthodontic problems?

Although determining if treatment is necessary is difficult for you to assess, the following signs may help in prompting you to seek orthodontic advice: crowded or overlapping teeth, gaps between the teeth, front top teeth not lining up with the bottom teeth, top front teeth not meeting with bottom teeth, and top front teeth covering more than 50% of the bottom teeth. If you see any misalignment or shifting of the jaw, your child may have a skeletal problem, which may require early orthodontic treatment. These are only some of the obvious symptoms of orthodontic problems.

How do I know if my child needs orthodontic treatment?

It is usually difficult for you to determine if treatment is necessary because there are many problems that can occur even though the front teeth look straight. Also, there are some problems that look intimidating and complex which will resolve on their own. Asking your general dentist is a good reference, but we are your best resource since orthodontics is all we do. Our initial exam is comprehensive and informative, and we would be more than happy to see your child and make any recommendations necessary.

At what age should my child see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child be evaluated by age seven. The majority of children will not require orthodontic treatment at age seven, but can instead wait to be treated one time when they are older. Early detection of any orthodontic problems is important in order to take early corrective action and avoid more difficult treatment later.

Here at Apple Tree Orthodontics, we recognize that each patient has unique needs, and we pride ourselves in tailoring our treatment to meet these requirements. Whether you are an adult, adolescent or child, our knowledgeable team is committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve – a healthy, beautiful, self-confident one that will last a lifetime!" 

Congratulations to Brooke on getting her braces off. She has a beautiful smile!

A post shared by Apple Tree Orthodontics (@appletreeortho) on Nov 9, 2016 at 10:02am PST

Common Questions - Apple Tree Orthodontics

What is orthodontics? 

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The technical term for these problems is “malocclusion,” which means bad bite. The practice of orthodontics requires professional skill in the design, application, and control of corrective appliances, such as braces, to bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment to achieve facial balance. 

What is an orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a dental specialist in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists must first attend college, followed by a four-year graduate dental program at a university level dental school accredited by the American Dental Association (ADA). They must then successfully complete an additional two to three-year residency program of advanced dental education in orthodontics accredited by the ADA. Only dentists who have successfully completed this advanced specialty education may become an orthodontist.

What causes orthodontic problems?

Most malocclusions are inherited, and some are acquired. Inherited problems include crowding of teeth, too much space between teeth, extra teeth, congenitally missing teeth, and a wide range of discrepancies of the jaws, teeth, and face. Acquired problems can be caused by trauma, thumb or finger sucking, airway obstruction by tonsils and adenoids, dental diseases, and premature loss of baby or adult teeth. Many of these problems affect not only the alignment of teeth but also facial development and appearance as well.

Our dedication to providing extraordinary personal service with compassion and consideration to the unique needs of each of our patients is our top priority. Whether you are an adult, adolescent or child, our knowledgeable team is committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve – a healthy, beautiful, self-confident one that will last a lifetime!

#FlashbackFriday Alan has that #FridayFeeling when your braces are off! #AppleTreeOrtho 😀

A post shared by Apple Tree Orthodontics (@appletreeortho) on May 25, 2018 at 11:03am PDT

Braces and Cavities

If you’re a patient at Appple Tree 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 Apple Tree Orthodontics at our office. 

Be sure to stay connected with us and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

Your First Visit with Apple Tree Orthodontics

Fear of the unknown is human nature and some nervousness is to be expected prior to starting orthodontic treatment. Your first visit to our office is a time for us to get to know you and determine what your main concerns are. 

We will ease your fears by giving you as much information as needed to help you feel comfortable. Each member of our team is friendly and accessible and we encourage our patients or parents to ask questions. We believe that patients will feel more comfortable if they know what to expect and are well informed of a procedure before it occurs.

We try to avoid any unexpected surprises and let each patient know everything we are going to do, before we do it. 

At your first visit, you will be greeted by one of our staff members and given a tour of the office. Initial paperwork will be completed and a complimentary, no obligation orthodontic exam will be done. During this time, we evaluate many things relating to the face, the smile, the fit of the teeth and the amount of room for all of the teeth. From this initial visit, if a patient is ready for treatment, diagnostic records may be taken or scheduled at a later date per patient preference. If indicated, treatment fees, general payment options and insurance benefits are discussed. 

If a patient is still developing and is not yet ready for treatment, we will recommend the patient be placed into an observation phase where we will follow growth and development to determine the appropriate time for treatment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call us at (603) 434-0190. We hope to see you soon! 😃

Guard That Smile

Does your child play a contact sport? 

Photo provided by www.oralanswers.com

Appletree Orthodontics wants to remind patients, coaches and athletes to play it safe when suiting up for recreational and organized sports.  

Since April is National Facial Protection Month, we wanted to share some information with you about a small piece of safety equipment that can make a big difference in preventing head or facial injuries...a Mouth Guard. 

While we encourage everyone to play sports, we also want to encourage everyone to stay safe. Appletree Orthodontics hopes that if you are playing sports this year, that you guard your goal of a healthy straight smile by wearing a mouth guard. Each year, more than 2.6 million children 19 years of age and younger are treated in hospital emergency departments for sports and recreation-related injuries. This fact alone should tell you just how important it is to protect your teeth and your orthodontic appliances with a mouth guard. 

Mouth guards are made of flexible material that is fitted to protect your upper and lower teeth. Mouth guards help cushion a blow to the face, minimizing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to your lips, tongue or jaw. 

We want all of our patient athletes to be equipped with the proper mouth guard to ensure they are protected and comfortable. Please contact Appletree Orthodontics if you have any further questions regarding protecting your smile or purchasing mouth guards.  

Mouth guards are a smart investment for your health, so be sure to make the use of a mouth guard a routine.

The Breakfast Club

Photo Provided by crackerbarrel.com

Waking in the morning is already be a daunting task, not to mention the fact that you have to try and muster up the energy to prepare for the full day ahead. 

There is one sure fire way to get an extra boost in the morning…eat breakfast.  

They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Who are “They”? And why do they say this? Well…”They" are those doctors and scientists who have spent their life’s work figuring out ways to help us be a healthier society…so it’s probably safe to say that we can trust them. 

When they say that Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, it’s because eating breakfast not only provides you with the energy you need for a productive day, but it is also helps in maintaining a healthy weight. Some people skip breakfast in an effort to lose weight, but did you know that skipping meals, especially breakfast, can actually make weight control more difficult? People who skip breakfast tend to eat more food than usual at the next meal or they eat high-calorie snacks when they get hungry throughout the day. 

While adults need to eat breakfast each day to perform at their best, kids need it even more. Their growing bodies and developing brains need regular refueling often. When kids skip breakfast, they don't get what they need to be at their best. Studies show that children who skip breakfast are tardy and absent from school more often than children who eat breakfast on a regular basis. Preparing a good breakfast can be as quick and easy as splashing some milk over cereal or making oatmeal or a healthy smoothie. 

Feeling short on time in the morning? Enroll your children in a school breakfast program or pack a breakfast that they can eat on their way to school. 

3 Tips for Starting Your Day the Healthy Way 

• Purchase portable breakfast items such as fruit, yogurt or breakfast bars. 
• Get up 10-15 minutes earlier than you usually do in the morning to eat breakfast. Waking up earlier will allow you to make sure you have time to set and eat in the morning. And when you think about it…15 minutes is not that big of a deal, it’s like 1 less hit of the snooze button. 
• Replace drinking a cup of coffee with drinking a glass of milk or orange juice as both are proven to provide natural energy. 

Always remember…make sure that the foods you are consuming for breakfast are healthy and good for your body and your oral health.