What is Invisalign & Why Should You Consider It?

Invisalign uses a series of invisible, removable, and comfortable aligners that no one can tell you're wearing. So, you can smile more during treatment as well as after. Invisalign is made with 3D computer imaging technology and has been proven effective. More than 70% of orthodontists in the US and Canada are certified to treat with Invisalign, including Dr. Spannhake. 

Why should you consider it?
Not only are the aligners invisible, they are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment. Plus, brushing and flossing are no problem. They are also comfortable, with no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment. And no metal and wires usually means you spend less time in your doctor's office getting adjustments. Invisalign also allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan when you start so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete. Curious about Invisalign for your teens? Ask us about Invisalign Teen at Spannhake Orthodontics. 

How To Handle Soreness Caused from Braces

When you first get your braces at Spannhake Orthodontics, 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! To relieve the pain, we recommend dissolving one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of lukewarm water. Swish and gargle this solution in your mouth for just a couple of minutes (do not swallow the saltwater).

If the pain is more severe and does not go away after rinsing, you can also try taking a pain reliever. It is also not uncommon for your lips, cheeks, and tongue to become irritated for one to two weeks as they toughen and become used to the braces. We would be happy to give you some wax that you can put over the braces to lessen the tenderness. If you need some wax, please let us know.

Banana Smoothie Recipe

Your kid’s diet should have fruits and veggies for complete nutrition. But when he does not eat them in their solid form, you might want to consider smoothies. Smoothies are great for both kids and adults, and even better for new patients being treated at Spannhake Orthodontics as they are braces friendly. The trick is to make the idea of smoothies exciting – get your children involved in the process. Let them make smoothies with fruits of their choice, on the condition that they will drink it.

To help get you started on your smoothie journey, we're sharing a delicious recipe with you below! Try it out this weekend and let us know how you liked it!

Banana Smoothie

One of the simplest fruit smoothies you can make for your kid, the banana smoothie is rich in potassium and Vitamin C.

You Will Need:

• 2 bananas
• 1 cup milk, preferably low-fat
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• Water for consistency
• Ice cubes (optional)
• Cinnamon powder (optional)

How To:

• Blend banana and milk until the fruit is sliced or chopped.
• Add the brown sugar and water and blend again for 10 seconds.
• Add ice if you want and blend the mixture again for a minute.
• Top it with cinnamon powder and serve chilled.

You can replace regular milk with soy milk or almond milk if you want a dairy-free smoothie.

NEW JANUARY CONTEST

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