Ask Dr. Burns: Now that I have braces, what can I eat?

You just got braces at Westfield Braces and Dr. Thomas Burns has informed you that during your orthodontic treatment you will want to avoid eating anything sticky, hard, crunchy, or chewy. What does this leave for you to eat? Lettuce? Nothing?

Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, created a variety of “braces-friendly” recipes that will allow you to enjoy your favorite treats without interfering with your orthodontic care!

Recipes include main dishes, side dishes and even yummy desserts! After all, a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps the patient achieve the best possible results from orthodontic treatment.

If you have any questions about the recipes listed or about the foods you should be avoiding during your orthodontic treatment, please give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Enjoy!

Breaking Bad Habits

At Westfield Braces, we know good dental health requires only a few minutes a day. We thought we’d provide some practical advice on how to improve your or your child’s smile between your adjustment visits with Dr. Thomas Burns.

Start by brushing your teeth twice a day. Proper brushing techniques are an essential part of maintaining good oral health during your orthodontic treatment, as well as preventing gum disease. More care and time are needed to adequately brush your teeth when you are wearing braces. Brushing daily helps remove decay-causing plaque from tooth surfaces. Please consult Dr. Burns if you would like us to review brushing techniques with you or your child. The use of a mechanical toothbrush such as a Sonicare or Oral B can aid in removing plaque around braces. Flossing daily will also prevent plaque to build up between the teeth and prevent stains between your teeth. Research has shown the bacteria of gum disease has been linked to coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes and memory loss. Lastly, we encourage you to throw away old toothbrushes and replace them every 2 or 3 months, or after an illness.

We hope this helps! If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Westfield Braces or ask your general dentist during your next scheduled visit! Or, ask us on Facebook!

Ask Dr. Burns: What can I expect during my consultation?

When you first come in for your initial consultation, Dr. Thomas Burns will conduct a comprehensive examination to assess your oral health. This will better enable us to determine the best treatment method for you.

Your orthodontic evaluation will consist of an oral and facial examination to assess your oral health. Dr. Burns will have you take intraoral and facial photographs as well as X-rays to help determine the proper orthodontic treatment method.

At your second appointment, Dr. Burns will discuss your options with you. Our team feels it’s important to take the time to carefully examine your diagnostic records after your consultation so that Dr. Burns can more thoroughly prepare for your treatment at Westfield Braces. This additional preparation will ensure that you receive the best orthodontic care possible. At this time, we encourage you to ask us any questions you may have about your treatment.

Give us a call today and schedule a consultation! We look forward to hearing from you!

Ask Dr. Burns: Who benefits from braces?

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Thomas Burns will tell you that anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic treatment, whether it’s correcting a problem not treated in your younger years, or catching a problem early.

To ensure the best overall treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, recommends that children receive an orthodontic consultation as early as age seven. If a problem is evident, taking action early can spare a lot of treatment and expense down the road.

If you never received orthodontic treatment when you were young, don’t worry! You’re never too old for a beautiful smile. Set up an appointment for a consultation and find out how orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

Why do you choose Westfield Braces?

Westfield Braces, serving Westfield as well as the surrounding communities of Scotch Plains, Cranford, Garwood, and Clark, strives to provide exceptional treatment in an informative and friendly environment. Have you had a great experience at our office?

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Thank you,
-Dr. Thomas Burns and team