Are you experiencing bad breath?

We understand bad breath can be uncomfortable to talk about but unfortunately it happens to most people for several different reasons. The important thing to do if you’re experiencing bad breath (or know someone who is) is to determine the root of the problem. Bad breath, or halitosis, can be caused by poor oral hygiene, personal habits such as smoking or eating certain foods, or medical problems. The most common factor for bad breath in patients with braces at Appletree Orthodontics is almost certainly caused by poor oral hygiene.

After getting braces, new patients may develop bad breath from not cleaning their teeth correctly. Brushing your teeth is simply not enough, especially when you wear braces. Bacteria feeds on food particles left in your mouth, and this bacterium creates odor. It’s important to remember to brush, floss, and use mouthwash as tiny bits of food can get stuck in brackets or between teeth which can contribute to bad breath.

Because braces contain so many small spaces to trap food, the habits that worked great for cleaning your teeth before braces may no longer be enough. It's important to brush immediately after every meal or snack or to at least vigorously rinse your teeth with water or mouthwash if you absolutely can't brush. Bad breath-causing odors and bacteria can also cling to removable orthodontics (like a retainer or clear aligners), so be sure to remove them before eating, even if you're only eating a small amount.

For more information on bad breath with braces visit our website or give us a call at 603-434-01900

Do You Know What To Ask At Your First Appointment?

It's completely natural for questions to arise as you consider orthodontic care. Don’t be afraid to ask Appletree Orthodontics questions you might have because our orthodontic team is here to help. Not sure what to ask at your first visit? Here are just a few examples of questions you may want to ask at your first appointment at Appletree Orthodontics. 

• How can I keep my teeth clean with braces? 
• Is there an estimated length of time that I will likely require braces? 
• Is it likely that I will be wearing extra appliances in addition to braces to correct my overbite or other problems? 
• How much should I expect to pay for my treatment? What are the payment options? 
• Does getting braces hurt? Is there anything I can do to prevent or minimize pain? 
• How often will I be expected to come in for check-ups and other appointments?
• Are there specific foods I will need to avoid when I get braces? 
• Will braces prevent me from playing my favorite sport or musical instrument? 

If questions arise after your first appointment, don’t be afraid to ask us. Dr. Timmeny, Dr. Polgrean as well as the entire Appletree Orthodontics team will be here to help throughout the entire process.

Adjusting To Braces

Are you a new patient at Appletree Orthodontics? You may or may not be excited about wearing your braces, but regardless we know you will be thrilled with the result of your new smile.  As with any change, adjusting to something new can be a little confusing and overwhelming sometimes, so we decided to help you out with a few tips on adjusting to your braces.

The first tip is to give yourself some time. Your braces may not be what you expected or wanted, but after a while when your teeth start shifting you will notice how incredible your teeth and smile alignment look. Pain may occur after your appointments, just give it a few days after each adjustment and you should feel more comfortable. 

Another thing to remember is to be confident. Don't worry about how your braces look and don't be afraid or embarrassed to smile with your braces. Depending on the type of braces you're treated with, people may not even know you're wearing braces. Be proud and flash those pearly whites often!

Lastly, be sure you know what to do if you're experiencing pain or problems with your braces. Before you leave checkups, feel for any wires poking out so you can have us correct the agitation and avoid pain. If a problem arises after your appointment, don't be afraid to call us; chances are it's a simple fix. For more information about adjusting to your braces, visit our website or give us a call.

Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches | GET THE RECIPE NOW

These Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches are prepared with an unbaked egg-free chocolate chip cookie dough. Use your favorite ice cream or make it homemade!

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 Cup butter
• 1/2 Cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 Cup granulated sugar
• 3 T milk
• 2 t McCormick® Extra Rich Pure Vanilla Extract
• 1/4 t salt
• 1 1/2 Cup all-purpose flour
• 1 Cup mini chocolate chips
• 2 Cups ice cream, softened

DIRECTIONS:

1. Microwave butter and sugars in large microwavable bowl on HIGH 1 1/2 to 2 minutes, stirring after 1 minute. 
2. Stir until mixture is melted and smooth. Stir in milk, vanilla and salt. Add flour; stir until well blended. Stir in chocolate chips. Refrigerate 15 minutes. 
3. Line 8-inch square pan with parchment paper, with ends of paper extending over sides of pan. Press 1/2 of the dough into pan until smooth and even. Place a second layer parchment paper on top on the dough and repeat with remaining dough. Freeze for 30 minutes up to 1 hour.
4. Remove from freezer. Carefully remove the top layer of cookie dough by lifting the top layer of parchment paper.
5. Gently spread the softened ice cream over the bottom layer of cookie dough still in the pan. Peel the parchment paper from the second layer of cookie dough and place it smooth side up on top of the ice cream. Cover with foil or plastic wrap. 
6. Freeze 2 hours or until firm. Cut into 16 bars. Wrap each in plastic wrap. Store in freezer.

Are You Considering Invisalign?

Whether you’re considering Invisalign treatment for yourself or someone else, knowing more about the entire process can help you be more confident in your decision to choose Invisalign.

During your initial consultation, the doctors at Appletree Orthodontics will discuss your concerns in detail to determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign. We will take x-rays, pictures and impressions of your teeth to help us determine this. From this our doctors will map out a precise treatment plan, including the exact movements of your teeth and tell you the approximate length of treatment. While every case is unique to each patient, treatment typically takes approximately 18 to 24 months.

Based on your individual treatment plan, a series of custom-made, clear aligners is then created specifically for you. These aligners are made of a smooth, comfortable, BPA-free plastic that won't irritate your cheeks and gums. Simply wear your aligners throughout the day and remove them when you eat or brush and floss your teeth. As you wear each set of aligners, your teeth gently and gradually begin to shift into place.

Approximately every two weeks, you will begin wearing a new set of aligners, advancing you to the next stage of your treatment. To monitor your progress, you will also have occasional checkups with our office, usually only every six weeks or so. For best results and a timely outcome, you should wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, throughout your entire treatment.

It's Never Too Late

Braces aren’t just for kids anymore. Tooth alignment can be changed at any age if your gums and bone structure are healthy. At Appletree Orthodontics we offer a variety of treatments that are designed for different age groups; including adults.

Orthodontic treatment at later stages in life can dramatically improve your personal appearance and self-esteem. Improving the health of your teeth and gums is equally important. Crooked teeth and a bad bite can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth decay, abnormal wear of the tooth enamel and surfaces, headaches and jaw joint (TMJ/TMD) pain. 

The new techniques and appliances we use greatly reduce discomfort levels, decrease the frequency of visits, shorten treatment time and may allow you to choose from several options. Your options may include metal braces, translucent braces or transparent aligners that can be worn at night to improve mild cases of misaligned teeth.

A large percentage of our patients are adults, and they agree that it’s never too late to improve their smile. Contact Appletree Orthodontics to learn more or get started now. 

Have You Left A Review?

If you have some time and appreciated your orthodontic treatment, please leave us a review on Google or Facebook! 

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