With winter sports right around the corner, many patients here at Reed Orthodontics will once again pick up the ball, bring the cleats out of seasonal retirement and hit the fields and courts for the return of sports action! During this time, however, Dr. Charles Reed and our team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this fall and winter, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as basketball, wrestling and hockey
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps! Dr. Reed and team will tell you protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact our office or ask us on Facebook. Stay safe!

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season knocking at our door, Dr. Charles Reed and our entire staff at Reed Orthodontics wanted to stop for a moment and extend our best wishes to you, our patients, referring doctors and families, for a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Our office also wanted to take this opportunity to remind you of our holiday food drive. Please bring non-perishable food donations to our office from now until December 22. When you drop off your donation, your name will be placed in a drawing to win a SuperTarget gift card!

We hope that this Thanksgiving and holiday season brings fond memories. Thank you for being part of our family.

It's getting closer to Halloween and trick-or-treating, and that means lots of CANDY! Dr. Charles Reed and our team at Reed Orthodontics thought that this would be a great time to remind you about our Cash for Candy program with Cody Dental Group.

The Cody Dental Group coordinates with Channel 9 and Operation Gratitude, and they are offering patients $1 per pound of candy (for up to 6 pounds per person)! Be sure to visit Cody Dental Group or Reed Orthodontics' Aurora office from 1pm-5pm on November 2nd and 3rd, and from 9am-12pm on November 4th and 5th to exchange your extra candy for cash.

Happy Haunting!

At Reed Orthodontics, we know nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth. Here are five other ways you can avoid that dreaded enemy of the teeth during orthodontic treatment, courtesy of WebMD.

Let’s start with brushing regularly. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste is vital to a healthy mouth. Make sure you softly brush all the surfaces of your teeth.

Next on the list is flossing daily: a simple daily flossing between teeth clears away plaque before it can cause damage and can also clean plaque at the gum line. Plaque is known to reach the spaces between teeth.

Also, evading a trip to the dentist is probably not a great idea. Let’s say you brush and floss daily. You’re still at risk for plaque. With time, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar. Consider visiting your general dentist at least twice a year or as recommended by your dentist, and you have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your teeth while wearing braces.

You’ll also want to stop avoiding those fruits and veggies. Believe it or not, there are foods out there that play a key role in keeping plaque off our teeth. They include apples, carrots, cucumbers and other raw fruits and vegetables. You can still eat these types of fruits and veggies if you have braces, but be sure to cut them up into bite sized pieces to avoid breaking off brackets.

Finally, before you pick up that candy bar, remember to not give in to your sweet tooth. Consuming sugary drinks or eating candy or other junk food allows sugar to stick to our teeth. The bacteria, then, becomes plaque, which turns into acid and damages our teeth. Avoiding these five bad habits keeps your plaque in check and your mouth as healthy as can be during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Charles Reed. If you have any questions, give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Did you know that candy sales in the U.S. for Halloween average $2 billion annually? And over 19% of children ages 2-19 have untreated cavities? This October, Dr. Reed and our team are partnering with the Cody Dental Group to help you exchange your candy for cash! The Cody Dental Group coordinates with Channel 9 and Operation Gratitude, offering patients $1 per pound of candy (for up to 6 pounds per person)!

Be sure to visit Cody Dental Group or Reed Orthodontics' Aurora office from 1pm-5pm on November 2nd and 3rd and from 9am-12pm on November 4th and 5th to exchange your extra candy for cash. Trick-or-treat!

Congratulations to our new iPad winner! We truly appreciate the referral of your friends and family, and we do consider it the highest compliment that our team could receive. All of us at Reed Orthodontics strive to provide you, our wonderful patients, with an experience that you're excited to share with others. Thanks so much to everyone who entered the Reed Orthodontics iPad Contest.

Dr. Reed and our team are thrilled to announce that we've selected the four winners for our "Where in the World is Dr. Reed?" patient contest. Thank you to everyone who submitted photos - we were overwhelmed by your creativity!

Be sure to check out the Reed Orthodontics Facebook page to view all of the photos from our contest winners.

Thanks again!

-Dr. Reed and team

Here at Reed Orthodontics, we know that it can sometimes be difficult for our orthodontic patients to avoid foods that are sticky, crunchy or chewy. That's why we wanted to share a braces-friendly recipe for Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, which was submitted to us by Constandina A. These cookies are delicious, and they only take 10-12 minutes to bake. Let us know what you think!

Ingredients
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup butter flavored shortening
1 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp. ground cloves
1/2 tsp. salt
3 cups rolled oats
1 cup raisins

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, butter flavored shortening, brown sugar, white sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves and salt; stir into the sugar mixture. Stir in the oats, soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt; stir in the oats and raisins. Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets.

Bake 10-12 minutes until light and golden. Do not over bake. Cool 2 minutes before removing from cookie sheets.

Did you know one in every five orthodontic patients is an adult? We’re living longer and technology is improving, making orthodontic treatment an appealing and safe option for patients of all ages. As the trend toward treatment later in life grows, we’re seeing braces on parents as well as children – and even adult celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Gwen Stefani and Nicholas Cage have shown off their braces. It’s never too late to look and feel your best with Reed Orthodontics!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment with Dr. Reed. The physical process for moving teeth is the same, young or old, which means it’s never too late to address issues such as an overbite or underbite, crooked or crowded teeth, or jaw disorders.

How Do I Get Started?

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, we’ll make a consultation appointment with you. During this meeting we will perform a general assessment of your oral health, discuss options for treatment, and answer any questions you may have. We will also discuss matters of cost and insurance. The next step is an orthodontic records appointment in which we take x-rays, photos, and an impression of your teeth. This information drives your unique treatment plan.

What Are the Benefits?

Straightening your teeth can improve your smile, your self-esteem, and your dental health. Technologically advanced new treatments make it easier to identify the option that best fits your lifestyle. Modern techniques and materials have made braces and aligners more effective, comfortable and unobtrusive than ever.

If you think you might benefit from orthodontic treatment, give Reed Orthodontics a call, so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs.

Let’s face it: sports-related injuries are common among children, let alone teens with braces. In a recent survey, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, discovered that 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get hurt while playing sports. But 67 percent admitted that their child doesn’t wear a mouth guard when participating in organized sports such as football, basketball, baseball and soccer. That’s why Reed Orthodontics is helping spread the word that many facial sports injuries can be prevented simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. Ask us—Dr. Reed will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment. In addition, the AAO has provided the following tips for keeping your kids safe on the field this fall. Please remind them to:

• Wear mouth guards during contact sports
• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eye wear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant—even as a spectator

All of these can reduce injuries. Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements Dr. Reed is trying to achieve.

Give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Reed Orthodontics.

Just a reminder – If you haven’t already, there’s only a little over two weeks left to submit your contest entries for The Reed Orthodontics iPad Contest. The more entries that you submit, the greater your chance is to take home that brand new iPad! Check out this short video to learn more about how you can enter to win.

Would YOU like to win an iPad? If so, don't forget to enter the Reed Orthodontics iPad Contest. There are less than three weeks left to submit your entry, so please don't delay!

Have you seen this adorable Invisalign Teen video? Dr. Reed and our team recently came across this video, and we thought it was worth sharing with our patients. This video explains a few of the ways that Invisalign Teen is able to straighten teeth without the look and feel of traditional braces. If you have any other video suggestions you think we should share, please let us know!

How many entries have you submitted for the Reed Orthodontics iPad Contest? Don't forget- there is still time to write a review, email a video testimonial or refer a friend to our office! The more entries that you submit, the greater your chance is to take home that brand new iPad. Be sure to check out this great video for all of the contest details. We look forward to receiving your entries!

Dr. Reed and our team at Reed Orthodontics recently returned from the Damon Forum. The conference was held in Orlando, FL this year, so our team was able to learn more about the latest Damon System advances AND visit Disney World!

We encourage everyone to check out our photos from the conference on our Facebook page. If you would like to learn more about the Damon System, or what our team learned at the Damon Forum, please let us know. We always enjoy sharing our passion for orthodontics with our patients.

Don't forget that the "Where in the World is Dr. Reed" contest is still going on at Reed Orthodontics! It is the perfect opportunity for anyone traveling outside of Denver and Centennial, CO, to share their vacation with Dr. Reed and our team.

All you have to do is snap a photo with Dr. Reed's photo on your summer vacation. We already have some great pictures on our Facebook page, but there is always room for more! Don't have Dr. Reed's picture? No problem, you can pick up a Dr. Reed on a stick at your next appointment. Our team will be selecting five winners in the following categories: Most Unusual, Closest to Denver, Farthest Away from Denver and Funniest.

The contest winners will be selected at the beginning of September, so don't delay in submitting your entry! Thank you for all of the great pictures already and we look forward to seeing more! Don't forget to have fun and be creative!

We can't wait to see where Dr. Reed ends up next!

Summer is here! Kids and adults alike will now be spending more time outside being active and enjoying the warmer temperatures. And what’s better to snack on at the picnic table than a tangy and sweet lemon square? This week's Reed Orthodontics Cookie Cookbook recipe comes from Jeri, and it is for lemon squares. Enjoy!

Ingredients
1 cup flour
1/2 cup margarine or butter, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
2 eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp. grated lemon peel, if desired
1/4 tsp. salt
2 Tbsp. lemon juice
1/2 tsp. baking powder
Powdered sugar

Directions
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Mix flour, margarine and 1/4 cup powdered sugar thoroughly. Press evenly in ungreased square pan, 8x8x2 inches, building up 1/2 inch edges. Bake 20 minutes. Beat remaining ingredients except powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Pour over hot crust. Bake just until no indention remains when touched in center, about 25 minutes longer; cool. Sprinkle with powdered sugar. Cut into about 1 1/2 inch squares.

Makes: 25 squares

Would you like to win an iPad from Reed Orthodontics? Our office takes pride in making lasting connections with patients, and we consider it the highest compliment for a patient to refer their friends and family to Dr. Reed. To show our appreciation, Reed Orthodontics will be giving away an iPad to one lucky patient through our iPad Contest.

Here's how to enter our iPad Contest:

2 Contest Entries- Write a favorable review for Reed Orthodontics on our Denver, CO or Centennial, CO Google Place Page!

3 Contest Entries- Email a video testimonial to our office at beg4braces@aol.com.

5 Contest Entries- Refer a friend or neighbor to Reed Orthodontics!

Reed Orthodontics is excited to announce that we will be hosting our "Where in the World is Dr. Reed?" summer contest. This contest is the perfect opportunity for anyone traveling outside of Denver and Centennial, CO, to share their vacation with Dr. Reed and our team!

To enter, simply snap a photo with Dr. Reed's photo on your spring and summer vacations. You can pick up a Dr. Reed on a stick at your next appointment. Our team will be selecting five winners in the following categories: Most Unusual, Closest to Denver, Farthest Away from Denver and Funniest.

Reed Orthodontics will be selecting our contest winners at the beginning of September, so don't delay in submitting your entry! Have fun and be creative!

You have braces, and you’re probably wondering what to eat. You can’t have gum, popcorn or other delicious but braces-unfriendly foods. But fear not! Reed Orthodontics has a delicious spring smoothie recipe that is perfect for those warm, sunny afternoons. Enjoy!

Ingredients
• 2 ½ cups (about 1 pound) strawberries, fresh or frozen
• 1 Tablespoon lime juice
• 1 ½ cups crushed ice
• 1 ½ cups club soda
• 3 Tablespoons vanilla syrup (sold as a coffee flavoring)
• ½ cup sugar or more, to taste
• 1 can whipped cream

Directions
Wash and drain strawberries. Remove stems and slice. Put lime juice in blender, and then add batches of strawberries, about a half-cup at a time, blending until liquefied. Strain the strawberries through a fine sieve to remove most of the seeds and some pulp. Place back in blender, and blend with the crushed ice. Pour into a 2-liter pitcher and stir in club soda, vanilla syrup and sugar. Serve in six tall glasses with a swish of whipped cream on top.

Everyone has a favorite childhood recipe, or a treat that reminds them of mom, dad or grandma's baking. Peanut butter and jelly are no longer just for sandwiches – today's recipe will redefine your favorite childhood snack. Nikki's recipe for PB&J Cookies is one of the originals from the Reed Orthodontics staff and patient Cookie Cookbook. What great recipes we’ve received from everyone!
Dr. Reed would like to pass on a big thank you to all of you who shared your favorites with us. We also encourage patients and staff to share more of their favorite recipes on our Facebook page. Enjoy this tasty treat!

PB&J Cookies

Mix 3 cups flour, 1 Tbsp. baking soda, a pinch of salt and 1 tsp. cinnamon in a bowl and set aside.

In a large bowl mix 2 eggs, 1 cup milk, 1 1/2 cups sugar, 2 Tbsp. Butter and 1 tsp. vanilla.

Mix dry and wet ingredients. Roll dough into a ball and put peanut butter and jelly in the middle of the dough ball.

Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes. Let cool and serve with milk!

Hey parents! Focusing on your kids' teeth and oral health so much that you're neglecting your own? If you've been thinking wistfully about having your own set of perfect teeth, our staff at Reed Orthodontics can help! We are specially trained to offer an adult-friendly option for straightening teeth called Invisalign.

This course of treatment consists of a set of clear aligners that are molded to fit your teeth using a proprietary technology. You wear them all day and night, except for meals, brushing, and flossing – when you can easily slip them out to make eating and cleaning a snap!

Because they're clear, your teeth will be steadily straightening – and no one will know it but you!

Please give us a call to set up a consultation, so we can discuss the specifics of your treatment.

At Reed Orthodontics, our patients want to get as much out of their treatment as possible. That includes asking a lot of questions and making sure they take care of both their appliances and oral health.

Would you like to learn more about what to expect during orthodontic treatment, from someone with firsthand experience? Well, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recently developed the Braces Brigade blog, where past, present, as well as future orthodontic patients from coast to coast document their (or their child’s) orthodontic journeys. The blog will serve as a source of guidance for others as the patients undergo orthodontic care.

Our team at Reed Orthodontics encourages you to visit the Braces Brigade blog to read these great and informative blogs—who knows, maybe you’ll learn a thing or two! As always, don’t hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions about the Braces Brigade or your own orthodontic treatment with Dr. Reed!

There are a variety of foods Dr. Reed wants you to avoid while you're wearing braces. Some foods can occasionally damage braces, but certain foods can bend the wires or even break the brackets on your braces. If you’re wearing braces, you should avoid starch, sugar and gummy foods, as these foods can be difficult to remove during brushing. Foods that are high in sugar and starch tend to cause plaque, cavities and even tooth decay.

Avoid tough meats, hard breads and raw vegetables such as carrots and celery. Before long, you'll be able to bite a cucumber again. But you'll need to protect your orthodontic appliances when you eat for as long as you're wearing braces.

Foods you should avoid include:

• Chewy foods: bagels, hard rolls, licorice
• Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice, chips
• Sticky foods: caramels, gum
• Hard foods: nuts, candy
• Foods you have to bite into: corn on the cob, apples, carrots

Also, chewing on hard things (for example, pens, pencils or fingernails) can damage the braces. Damaged braces will cause treatment to take longer.

If you have any questions on which foods you should be avoiding and why, we invite you to give Reed Orthodontics a call or ask our staff during your next visit.

With 101 Facebook "likes," Cherokee Trail senior Jace O. is the winner of the Reed Orthodontics' Senior Photo Contest. He received $100 cash as the first place prize. Erica is our second place contest winner, and she will be receive a great dinner certificate. Congratulations Jace and Erica!

Thank you to all of our patients who participated in the Senior Photo Contest. We enjoyed seeing all of your senior photos, and reading your comments. Stay tuned for another contest soon!

If you recently completed treatment at Reed Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Reed will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, however, always provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed by Dr. Reed is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime.

To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Reed, please read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth or give us a call!

Braces at Reed Orthodontics are more fun than ever! With the Brace Painter, parents and children are able to “paint their braces,” and visualize how teeth will look with different colors of bands.

Would you like to try out green and gold bands this March, without the commitment of an all-out St. Patrick's Day look? The Brace Painter allows for you to select different colors, and then assign those colors of bands to certain teeth. Now, you can visualize your braces before you even come in for your appointment!

As always, please let Dr. Reed know if you have any questions about the Brace Painter, or your orthodontic treatment at Reed Orthodontics. Have a great week!

Dr. Reed wants to know: Is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, it should be! A 2008 study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can actually lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). Results of the study also showed that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease.

Cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth. In addition to providing large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also does its part to fight cavities. Cheddar, Swiss, Mozzarella, and Monterey Jack all stimulate the body's salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris and protect them from acids that weaken them, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This means cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's ph level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis.

Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

For more information about which dairy foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please give us a call.

Senior photos are only taken once, and our team at Reed Orthodontics would love to see yours! Dr. Reed invites patients to share their photos on our Facebook page, or by emailing them to beg4braces@aol.com, for a chance to win $100 in our Senior Photo Contest.

The contest ends April 1, 2011, so don't delay in submitting your entry! The more people you invite to "like" your photo on our Facebook page, the better your chances are for winning $100. Say cheese!

One in four parents say their child has had an injury during an organized sport resulting in a trip to the emergency room, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO. That why Dr. Reed and our team at Reed Orthodontics thought February—also known as National Children’s Dental Health Month—would be great time to remind our patients to be mindful of their braces and pearly whites while playing sports. Here are a few tips to stay safe on the field this spring, courtesy of the AAO:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Reed Orthodontics. Stay safe and have fun!

Are you brushing and flossing daily properly during your orthodontic treatment? If yes, that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist every 3-to-6 months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting Reed Orthodontics, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

Your general dentist can check for problems that might not be seen or felt, detect cavities and early signs of decay, treat oral health problems early and show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth.

During an oral exam your dentist can check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to the dentist in the last six months, let us know during your next visit and we will provide a few great references in the greater Denver and Centennial, CO areas!

The activism of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was integral to the U.S. civil rights movement of the 1950s and ‘60s. As the social justice leader once said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: ‘What are you doing for others?’” There are many ways that you may answer this question, whether it is by participating in a environmental impact project, volunteering through an education program, or serving veterans and military families. Are you in search of a Day of Service project? You can always ask Dr. Charles Reed, or visit the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service website.

All of us here at Reed Orthodontics would love to hear what you’re doing for others in the Centennial, CO and Denver, CO areas. We encourage you to share any pictures, videos, or information about your Day of Service project on our Facebook page. Happy MLK Day!

Hey Seniors! Are you excited to show off your fabulous smile in senior pictures? Reed Orthodontics invites you to share your senior photo on our Facebook page, or by emailing them to beg4braces@aol.com, for a chance to win $100 in our contest.

Invite your friends to vote for your photo on our Facebook page as the most FABULOUS! The more people you invite to "like" your photo, the better your chances to win $100. Good luck!

When considering treatment options, patients often ask us how Invisalign treatment is so different than traditional braces. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign with Reed Orthodontics than you may know. Invisalign is a series of removable aligners that are nearly invisible, and besides straightening your teeth, can improve your oral health. Here’s how:

Healthy gums: Straight teeth allow a close fit for gums. This lessens the gum stress that is caused by crowded or widely spaced teeth, thus also reducing red and swollen gums.

Easy cleaning: Invisalign is removable, therefore brushing and flossing is easier and you are able to maintain a healthy mouth. These habits are vital to avoiding tooth decay, plaque and even gum disease.

Improved speech and chewing: Properly-aligned teeth don’t have the discomfort or compound speech impediments that can be caused by crowded teeth or a deteriorating jawbone.

If you have any questions about Invisalign, just ask Dr. Reed the next time you’re in for an appointment. Or, you may post your question on our Facebook page! You can also read this article for more information on Invisalign and your oral health.

Let’s face it- when was the last time you managed to keep a New Year’s resolution? We at Reed Orthodontics believe the key to sticking to a goal is picking one that is both reasonable and attainable. If you haven’t yet picked a New Year’s resolution, consider setting one that will improve your oral health!

For example, resolve to brush twice and floss once a day. Good oral hygiene only takes a few minutes a day, and can make a big difference in your oral health and overall health too! For more oral health-themed resolutions for you and your family, check out this article.

We would love to see what you come up with, share with us by commenting on this post or on our Facebook page. Whatever your New Year’s Resolution, we wish you the very best for 2011!

-Happy New Year, from your friends at Reed Orthodontics

Dr. Reed and our team are excited to announce that Jordan is the winner of the Reed Orthodontics Cute Pet Contest. His Chihuahua received 52 Facebook "likes" and 9 comments. Congratulations Jordan!

Jordan said that he would like to use the $100 Visa gift card to buy food, blankets, and toys for the Dumb Friends League. Be sure to visit our Facebook page for pictures in the upcoming weeks!

Happy Holidays, from our entire team at Reed Orthodontics!

Everyone loves fun facts. Fun, fun, fun! The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that our team at Reed Orthodontics thought you might enjoy.

• There are nearly 4 million people in orthodontic treatment throughout the United States. Three out of four are younger than 18.
• The first mechanical treatment for correcting irregular teeth was suggested by Gaius Plinius Secundus (A.D 23-79).
• The American Association of Orthodontists is comprised of more than 12,000 members in the United States, Canada and abroad.
• The time required to complete orthodontic treatment ranges from 12 to 36 months depending on the nature and severity of the problem.
• Of the 160,000 dentists in the United States and Canada, 8,000 are practicing orthodontists.
• The cement that attaches the braces to the teeth is now made with a special fluoride-releasing substance.
• Wires activated by body heat used in today's braces originally were developed by NASA for use in the space program.
• In addition to alleviating or preventing physical health problems, orthodontics can boost self-esteem as treatment aligns teeth, jaws and lips.
• Famous orthodontic patients include: Dr. Joyce Brothers, Hale Irwin, Cher, Diana Ross, Phyllis Diller, Chelsea Clinton, Whoopi Goldberg, Daisy Fuentes and Brandi.

From your very first visit to Reed Orthodontics our doctors and team strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. Have you had a great experience at our office?

Share your story with the world!

Just select the "Write a Review" button above to write a review on our Google Place Page. We look forward to receiving your feedback!

Thank you,

The team at Reed Orthodontics

Here at Reed Orthodontics, we are very thankful for all of our amazing patients! Our doctor and team would like to wish everyone a fun and safe Thanksgiving. We also want to remind everyone to brush and floss after indulging in the big meal.

If you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we encourage you to post them on our Facebook page or give us a call!

Gobble Gobble!

At Reed Orthodontics, we embrace technology, whether it’s through the innovative treatments we offer, our high-tech web site or our Facebook fan page. As you can probably tell, we love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas and pictures from our Cash For Candy event on our Facebook fan page. For social media to work, we understand that conversation is vital, and that’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social networks are hugely popular these days, we know they’re unpredictable and ever-changing.

While Dr. Reed and our staff take a little time to research how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog? Please post your thoughts or give us a call!

Dr. Reed and team, serving Denver and Centennial, deliver the highest quality orthodontic care in a personalized environment. We make orthodontic treatment fun and enjoyable. Just see what our patients have to say!

"Great Orthodontist. I had a very complicated case with two jaw surgeries involved. Dr. Reed and his team went out of their way to make my expereince as comfortable as possible. They really do whatever it takes for you!"

"The friendly place of smiles! My experience with Dr. Reed and his staff over the last few years has been wonderful! They are always friendly, compassionate, helpful, and cheerful. I always look forward to going!"

"My daughter started seeing Dr. Reed seven years ago, when we were looking into preventative orthodontics. He is terrific. I would recommend him to anyone."

Would you like to turn your Halloween candy into cash? With Halloween only two weeks away, Dr. Reed knows that there will soon be many tricks and treats! That's why we would like to invite all of our young trick-or-treaters to join us and the Cody Dental Group at our Denver, CO office for our Cash for Candy event.

You're invited:
Who: All of our friends, family, and neighbors
What: Cash for Candy
Where: 4301 E. Amherst Ave., Denver, CO 80222
When: 9am - 1pm on Nov. 6, 2010
Why: To receive $1 per pound of wrapped Halloween candy for up to 10 pounds of candy. All of the candy collected will be sent to our active duty troops by Operation Gratitude.

Don't hesitate to give Dr. Reed or our team a call or visit the Cody Dental Group website if you have any questions about Cash for Candy. We look forward to seeing you there!

Did you know that October is National Orthodontic Health Month? Dr. Reed and our team would like to share a braces-friendly Halloween recipe with all of our patients, courtesy of the American Association of Orthodontics and celebrity chef Michael Chiarello. This Green Goo Slimedoo recipe is delicious, and provided that you brush and floss after indulging, it will not damage your beautiful smile.

Green Goo Slimedoo

Ingredients:

2 cups heavy cream
2 ounces sugar
2 ounces butter
2 pounds white chocolate
6 to 12 drops green food coloring
2 bags of thin pretzel sticks
Strawberries, bananas and thinly sliced apples for dipping
Candy sprinkles

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C).
2. In a non-reactive double boiler set over medium-low heat, bring the cream, sugar, and butter to a boil. Meanwhile, chop the chocolate into small chunks - a serrated knife works best for this.
3. Add the chocolate chunks to the cream mixture in the double boiler, whisking, until it is melted and incorporated into the cream. Finally, add the food coloring until it is the desired shade of green.
4. Keep mixture warm in a fondue pot. Set out the fruit and the pretzels for dipping with long wooden skewers next to the fondue pot. Guests can dip their pretzels or fruit into the fondue and then roll them in the candy sprinkles, if desired.

Our team at Reed Orthodontics loves interacting with our patients online through our social networks. This fall, Dr. Reed is excited to announce our Pet Contest. Now through mid-December, we would like to encourage our patients to share their pet photos with our office, their friends, and family, for a chance to win a $100 Visa gift card.

There are three simple ways that you can enter our Pet Contest:

1) "Like" the Reed Orthodontics Facebook page and upload your pet photo onto the Facebook page wall.

2) Email your pet photo to beg4braces@aol.com, and we will share the photo on the Reed Orthodontics Facebook page wall.

3) Stop by one of our offices and drop off your pet photo. We will share the photo on the Reed Orthodontics Facebook page wall.

Now that you've entered your pet photo, invite all of your friends and family to "like" the Reed Orthodontics Facebook page and "like" your pet photo.The pet photo that receives the most "likes" on our Facebook page will win the $100 Visa gift card! This contest is open to all of our patients, as well as those that are not are patients.

Please give us a call if you have any questions about the contest, or if you would like to schedule an appointment.

Reed Orthodontics, serving Centennial and Denver, CO and surrounding areas, has been receiving some great patient reviews lately! Check out what our current patients are saying about Dr. Reed and team!

"I just love my smile. Dr. Reed fixed by jaw prolems. I had a lot of pain and now I am pretty much pain free. I get some many compliments on my smile, that I have to carry Dr. Reed's buisness cards around. Dr. Reed is awesome. Thank you Dr. Reed and staff.‎"

"Dr. Reed did my orthodontic treatment and the results are amazing. He does beautiful work. And the office is so much fun. They do these theme days where everyone dresses up and it makes it very enjoyable to go to your appointment.‎"

"Reed Orthodontices has a great reputation in the area, and they definitely live up to it. I was so impressed with the service that I received at this office! The staff is very friendly and welcoming, and they were even patient with my baby who got fussy at the end of the appointment. Dr. Reed is genuinely kind and very knowledgeable and took the time to answer all of my questions. I highly recommend them!‎"

This week, our team at Reed Orthodontics is showing our college spirit. The girls have each decorated their units to show their college spirit for "Support Your Favorite College" week at Reed Orthodontics.

Be sure to let Dr. Reed and our staff know what you think of the office decor this week!

Have you seen this great patient testimonial video for Dr. Reed and our team? Kerri, who has been a patient of our office for ten years, shares her story of receiving at our office. Thanks for sharing your experience with the world, Kerri!

Meet Jannae, the newest member of our Reed Orthodontics family! Today, she wanted to share a little bit about herself with all of our wonderful patients.

A few words from Jannae
"I have been in the orthodontic field for a year and a half. I love it because of the personal connections that I get to make with our patients.I was born and raised in Denver, CO, but my husband and I moved to California for three years. We recently moved back, and we plan to never leave again! In my free time I like to spend time with family, friends, and our dog."

Next time you're in for an appointment, be sure to say hello to Jannae!

Thank you,

-Reed Orthodontics

At Reed Orthodontics, serving Denver, Aurora and Centennial, CO, we love sharing braces-friendly recipes with our patients. Our recipe this week is for Twisty Soft Pretzels, which are perfect to pack in kids' lunches or as a yummy snack at home. As always, feel free to share your all-time favorite recipes with us by posting them on our Facebook page.

Twisty Soft Pretzels

Ingredients:

3/4 Cup of warm water
1/2 Envelope yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
2 Cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg, beaten
Pinches of salt or cinnamon-sugar

Directions:

Preheat oven to 425. In a large bowl, stir together warm water, yeast & sugar. Mix in salt and flour with a larger spoon. Shape dough into pretzel shapes. Brush them with the beaten egg. Sprinkle salt or cinnamon-sugar. Bake for 12 minutes.

Something big is happening in the orthodontics world, and it’s no other than Damon braces, which allow your teeth to move more comfortably and easily than traditional braces. With the Damon System, achieving that perfect smile will be faster and easier than you ever thought possible.

Here’s why Damon® is better:

With the new Damon braces, we can achieve terrific results and finish your treatment faster. Depending on your case, this may mean saving many months of treatment! After analyzing your specific needs, we will be able to provide you with a treatment plan that will have you smiling soon! Because Damon braces are very precise and effective, we can reduce the need for many of the time-consuming and complicated procedures that are used with traditional braces. Because Damon braces work more efficiently, fewer adjustments are required. As a result, your appointments will be faster and fewer in number. Due to the unique design of this new braces system, we can move your teeth into their correct positions with much less discomfort than traditional braces. Also, Damon braces are small, very comfortable, and easy to keep clean.

Dr. Reed is a certified Damon System provider. To learn more about the Damon System or your treatment here at Reed Orthodontics, please give us a call.

Dr. Reed, serving Centennial and Denver, CO, often receives questions from patients about the differences between Invisalign and other treatment options. That's why, we wanted to share this great video on Invisalign from a patient's perspective. Invisalign is a series of removable aligners that are nearly invisible, and besides straightening your teeth, can improve your oral health. Just see what patients have to say!

If you have any questions about Invisalign, just ask Dr. Reed the next time you’re in for an appointment. Or, you may post your question on our Facebook page!

From your very first visit to Reed Orthodontics, we strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by Dr. Reed's work? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with your new smile?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Thank you,
The team at Reed Orthodontics of Centennial & Denver, CO

"Dentists, Orthodontists, they're all the same right?" We hear our patients asking this question as they wonder about the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. Before becoming an orthodontist Dr. Reed started out in dental school and earned a DDS (dental degree), just like your dentist. After dental school however, Dr. Reed decided he wanted to learn more about orthodontics, which is one of nine specialties within the dental field. So he stayed in school for a few more years and became an expert in orthodontics, which focuses on tooth and jaw alignment and bite problems like overbites and under bites.

Other dental specialties you may have heard of include endodontic (focusing on the soft tissue inside your teeth), periodontic (focusing on the gums and other tissues surrounding your teeth) and prosthodontic (focusing on restoring and replacing damaged teeth).

Isn't it nice to know there's a dental expert here to help you through any type of treatment your teeth, jaw and gums might need?

With summer in full swing, some of us at Reed Orthodontics wanted to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading during the summer, but reading during the summer is a vital step in brain development and warding off the dreaded “summer slide”—and it's fun!

What's on YOUR summer reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great summer reads? Ask us for suggestions, and our staff (and Dr. Reed) would be happy to provide a few suggestions. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas or check out these summer reading ideas that we came across today, courtesy of Barnes & Noble.

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your summer picks or your all-time favorites on our Facebook page!

Grind, grind, grind. If you live with a teeth grinder, you may be familiar with this unpleasant sound, especially recently. A recent study published in the journal Head & Face Medicine suggests that people—adults and kids—faced with stress tend to cope by grinding their teeth. In addition, the Chicago Dental Society suggests that since the recession began in 2007, teeth grinding, or bruxism, has been on the rise.

The Chicago Dental Society surveyed more than 250 members about the connection between stress and oral health. Nearly 75 percent of dentists said their patients reported increased stress over the past year, largely due to the economic recession. During stressful times, teeth grinding can be a nuisance that causes headaches and sleep problems, but it also can cause lasting problems for your teeth and gums, including chipped teeth, worn enamel, chronic pain, or even TMJ, a painful jaw disorder.

The first step of recovering from teeth grinding is noticing the problem. Symptoms of teeth grinding include:

• Sensitivity in the teeth
• Tightness or pain in the jaw
• Dull headaches, earaches, or facial pain
• Chipped, worn down, or loose teeth

An important thing to remember is that people frequently grind their teeth in response to stress, and taking measures to reduce or eliminate stress can help solve the problem. If the teeth-grinder in your house can’t stop, schedule an appointment to see us by giving us a call. Dr. Reed and our team at can help determine the cause of the problem.

Access to your account, 24/7. Sounds simple and convenient, doesn’t it?

Patients at our Centennial & Denver offices enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our website. You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

You, too, can sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button at the top of our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started!

It’s June already! Where does the time go?

Dr. Reed and team are excited to tell you June marks National Smile Month, a great time to remind our patients to brush, floss, practice good nutrition at home (and over the summer) to avoid cavities and gum disease, among other dental health issues.

After all, there’s more and more evidence that suggests folks with gum disease are more at risk for serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and strokes.

Here are a few easy steps you can improve your oral health at home:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth and braces
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during orthodontic treatment.
* Visit your general dentist regularly (usually every six months apart).

If you have questions about any of the tips here, we encourage you to give us a call!

–Reed Orthodontics of Centennial & Denver, CO

Usually patients in orthodontic treatment already have their permanent teeth – they are pre-teens, teens and adults. But in some cases we have to start treatment earlier, even before the patient’s permanent teeth come in. We call this “two-phase treatment.”

When we have patients with clear developmental problems at an early age, it’s best to start work when they are young, before the problems get bigger and more difficult to treat.

Examples include:
• An upper or lower jaw that is not growing correctly
• A mouth growing in a way that doesn’t leave enough room for all the permanent teeth to come in
• A severe malocclusion, or bad bite, which means the jaw doesn’t fit together correctly

In these cases we will start early and do one round of treatment – phase one – while the patient still has their baby teeth. Phase one usually does not involve braces, but can include a different type of appliance that helps the jaw grow into place properly. We’ll follow up with phase two usually a few years later, when permanent teeth are in place. Generally phase two involves standard braces.

In order to catch early problems, we recommend that children have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven (and so does the American Association of Orthodontists). However, if your dentist or pediatrician sees any sign that early treatment might be necessary, he or she may recommend your child visit our office even sooner.

Questions? Give us a call and set up your initial consultation to learn more about orthodontics and two phase treatment in our Centennial or Denver, CO offices.

The American Association of Orthodontists sets the record straight on some of the biggest myths surrounding braces and orthodontic treatment. Currently more than four million children and one million adults in North America wear braces. Below are the answers to some of the most popular-and strange- questions orthodontists across the country have received from their patients recently:

If two people with braces kiss, can their braces become locked together?

With today's smaller, sleeker braces it is extremely difficult, almost impossible, to lock braces while kissing. Also braces are not magnetic, which means any "attraction" felt is on the part of the wearers, so pucker up!

Will my braces set off the metal detectors in the airport?

You are cleared for takeoff -- the lightweight materials used in braces will not affect metal detectors.

Can braces rust?

No. Today's braces are made of new stronger materials, like titanium alloy, and will not rust.

Will my braces interfere with radio signals or electronic devices?

No. Radio-loving gadget fanatics can rest easy.

Can I play a musical instrument?

Yes-- that is if you could play a musical instrument before you got braces.

Will braces increase my chance of being struck by lightning?

No. With or without braces the chances of a lightning strike remain the same which, in the US in any one year, according to National Geographic, is one in 700,000.

Now that I have braces, can I still play sports?

Yes, but be sure to wear a mouth guard. Mouth Guards are one of the least expensive pieces pf protective equipment available. Not only can mouth guards save teeth, they may also protect against jaw fractures. Mouth guards are advisable for anyone, whether they wear braces or not.

Will my braces attract unwarranted attention from fish?

Scuba aficionados take heart: there is no need to cancel your next dive. The small brackets used in today's braces, especially the ceramic or tooth-colored brackets, will not attract attention from unsavory fish or sea life.

Once braces are removed, my teeth will remain straight forever, right?

Wrong. Teeth move throughout one's lifetime, therefore it is important to hold on to retainers as prescribed by your orthodontist to maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.

One of the leading causes of extended orthodontic treatment is the slow eruption of permanent teeth. Often, we have waited up to twelve additional months for these reluctant teeth to come in, which means you/ your child’s time in braces is extended due to no fault of their own. To reduce this waiting time, we have added Laser uncovering of these teeth, which has little operative discomfort and a rapid healing time. We will also be using the Laser to remove excessive gum tissue which may remain after the braces are removed.

The procedure is done in our office and takes very little time. Dr. Reed uses a strong topical or local anesthetic which makes the procedure very comfortable. The area numbs very quickly and Dr. Reed will remove the tissue. Because it is a laser, there is no bleeding and the area will heal very quickly.

After the laser procedure is completed, there are a few rules to follow. It is most important that patients brush very well at least three times daily with the new toothbrush they are given. Special attention should be made to brushing the area Dr. Reed has treated. Rinse at least twice daily with warm salt water. This can be made by adding a teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water.

You will notice that the area is slightly discolored for about three to four days. It will look better each day following the laser procedure. Discomfort is usually limited to just a very slight amount when the numbing feeling has worn off. Advil or Tylenol is very effective for the minimal discomfort. Continuing the Tylenol or Advil for the first twelve hours has proven to be very effective.

As always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office at 303-617-3333.

What are TADs (temporary anchorage devices)?
TADs are titanium-alloy mini-screws, ranging from 6 to 12 millimeters in length and 1.2 to 2 millimeters in diameter. They are fixed to bone temporarily to enhance orthodontic anchorage. Titanium alloys have been used as joint replacements and for dental implants for many years. These alloys are not rejected by the body.

Where are TADs placed?
TADs are placed in the bone between the roots of the teeth and can be placed in the bone in the roof of the mouth as well.

How is a TAD placed and does it hurt?
Placement is minimally invasive and often completed using topical anesthetic. TADs are inserted directly into the bone using a special instrument. There is little or no discomfort because there are no nerve endings in the bone tissue. Once placed, Dr. Reed is able to use the TAD as orthodontic anchorage immediately. Because of the possibility that TADs can loosen or fall out, patients should avoid picking or pulling at the TAD. If the TAD does become loose or come out, call Dr. Reed as soon as possible.

Who places the TAD?
Dr. Reed will refer you to one of our oral surgeons that we work closely with. Because of the ease of the procedure, the procedure is able to be done in office. The procedure is complete in a matter of minutes and relatively painless.

How long are TADs left in?
Dr. Reed will advise you about how long a TAD will be needed. It may be required only for a few months, or it may be needed throughout your orthodontic treatment. TADs are versatile and may be used in different parts of treatment.

Can TADs be used for patients at any age?
TADs are placed on patients who have permanent teeth. Patients with active periodontal (gum) disease may not be candidates for TADs.

At Reed Orthodontics, our goal is to provide you with a beautiful smile. This can only be accomplished if the braces stay attached to your teeth. We do not want to interfere with your nutritional intake, but we do ask that you watch the types of foods you eat. Some types of foods are capable of breaking your bands or brackets, bending your wires, and breaking the cement under your bands or brackets. All these things prolong treatment time.

A careful patient can eat a nutritionally balanced diet and do no harm to their braces. We hope that you will strive to be this type of patient. The foods listed below are the ones that we have found to be the most common cause of loose bands, brackets and broken appliances.

Hard Foods

1. ice (no crunching, please)
2. hard edges of pizza
3. peanuts (all nuts)
4. popcorn (hard kernels)
5. hard candy
6. carrots & apples (may be eaten if cut into small pieces)
7. Corn-on-the cob (may be eaten if sliced off the cob)

Sticky & Chewy Foods

1. caramels
2. taffy
3. gum
4. “Now or Later” candy
5. Gummy Bears
6. Milk Duds
7. “Snickers” candy bars
8. Jelly Beans
Sweet Foods

Although they may not cause damage to your appliances, care should be taken to brush your teeth immediately after eating very sweet foods. If you cannot brush at least rinse your mouth out with clear water.

1. cake
2. pie
3.candy
4. ice cream
5. cookies
6. sweet drinks (cokes, lemonade)

Be a good “brace watcher”. Please notify our Centennial or Denver offices if appliances become loose or broken in order that we might minimize prolonged treatment time.

Brushing is important at all times-but especially now that you have braces. Work hard to keep your braces just as shiny as the day they were placed. Then when your treatment is complete and your braces are removed you will be proud to smile, because a smile is forever!

Should you need to call Dr. Reed in case you sustain any damage to your braces, we can help you more effectively if you can tell us exactly which piece is in trouble! Here’s a handy diagram and corresponding list of all the parts that make up your braces.

Elastic Tie: Tiny rubber band that fits around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Archwire: The main wire that acts as a track to guide the teeth along. It's changed periodically throughout treatment, as teeth move to their new positions.

Loop in Archwire: Frequently used for closing space left by an extraction. Many archwires don't have a loop.

Bracket: Small attachment that holds the archwire in place. Most often, a bracket is cemented directly onto the tooth's surface, eliminating the need for a band.

Headgear Tube: Round, hollow attachment on the back bands. The inner bow of the headgear fits into it.

Coil Spring: Fits between brackets and over archwire to open space between teeth.

Tie Wire: Fine wire that is twisted around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Band: A thin ring of metal fitted around a tooth and cemented in place. The band provides a way to attach the brackets to the tooth.

Hook: Welded or removable arm to which elastics (rubber bands) are attached.

Elastic (Rubber Band): Small rubber band that is hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth.

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions, at either our Centennial or Denver, CO orthodontic offices!

There are so many questions about orthodontics that we never ask, so Dr. Reed took some time to explain the most common concerns.

At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?

Orthodontic treatment can be started at any age. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected at an early age before jaw growth has slowed. Early treatment may mean that a patient can avoid surgery and more serious complications. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child first visit an orthodontist by age seven or earlier if a problem is detected by parents, the family dentist or the child's physician.

What is Phase I and Phase II treatment?

Phase I, or early interceptive treatment, is limited orthodontic treatment (i.e. expander, Herbst, Facemask, headgear, or partial braces) before all of the permanent teeth have erupted. Such treatment can occur between the ages of six and ten. This treatment is sometimes recommended to make more space for developing teeth, correction of crossbites, overbites, underbites, or harmful oral habits. Phase II treatment is also called comprehensive treatment, because it involves full braces when all of the permanent teeth have erupted, usually between the ages of eleven and thirteen.

Would an adult patient benefit from orthodontics?

Absolutely!! Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age. Everyone wants a beautiful and healthy smile. Between 30-40% of our patients are adults.

How does orthodontic treatment work?

Braces use steady gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into their proper positions. The brackets that are placed on your teeth and the arch wire that connects them are the main components. When the arch wire is placed into the brackets, it tries to return to its original shape. As it does so, it applies pressure to move your teeth to their new, more ideal positions.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Treatment times vary on a case-by-case basis, but the average time is from one to two years. Actual treatment time can be affected by rate of growth and severity of the correction necessary. Treatment length is also dependent upon patient compliance. Maintaining good oral hygiene and keeping regular appointments are important in keeping your treatment time on schedule.

Do braces hurt?

The placement of bands and brackets on your teeth does not hurt. Once your braces are placed and connected with the arch wires, you may feel some soreness of your teeth for one to four days. Your lips and cheeks may need one to two weeks to get used to the braces on your teeth.

Will braces interfere with playing sports?

No. It is recommended, however, that patients protect their smiles by wearing a mouth guard when participating in any sporting activity. Mouth guards are inexpensive, comfortable, and come in a variety of colors and patterns.

Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?

No. However, there may be an initial period of adjustment. In addition, brace covers or wax can be provided to prevent discomfort.

Should I see my general dentist while I have braces?

Yes, you should continue to see your general dentist every six months for cleaning and dental checkups, or more frequently as recommended.

Got more questions? Give us a call at Reed Orthodontics in Centennial and Denver, CO. We'd love to hear from you.