Bad Breath & Braces

Photo provided by dentistrytoday.com

After getting braces, new patients may develop bad breath from not cleaning their teeth properly. 

Simply doing a quick job brushing your teeth is not enough to keep bad breath at bay, especially when you wear braces. Bacteria feeds on food particles leftover after you eat, and this bacteria creates an unpleasant odor. 

We understand that bad breath can be an uncomfortable thing to talk about, but it happens to the best of us. The important thing to do if you’re experiencing bad breath is to determine the root of the problem. The most common factor for bad breath is almost always caused by poor oral hygiene.   

It's important to brush immediately after every meal or snack or at least rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash if you aren’t able to brush. Bad breath-causing odors and bacteria can also cling to removable appliances (like a retainer or clear aligners), so be sure to remove them before eating, even if you're only having a snack. 

If you need a few pointers on how to keep your Spannhake Orthodontics smile looking it's very best, ask us at your next appointment! We're here to help!

What Age For Orthodontics?

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends an orthodontic evaluation at the age of 7. This is the recommended age because typically the first of the adult teeth appear, and when some of the more important problems of dental development can require treatment. Treatment for young children is usually aimed at dealing with functional problems that immediately threaten the health of the teeth. The conditions that we treat in early childhood are problems of tooth eruption, crossbite, overcrowding, jaw growth problems, snoring, thumb sucking, tongue thrust and open bite.

Orthodontic issues can develop very early in childhood, which is why early treatment is important for a number of specific conditions to prevent damage to the adult teeth or to limit the effects of a developing growth problem. One of our guiding principles at Spannhake Orthodontics is to keep the amount of treatment required to produce a great smile to an absolute minimum. For more information on orthodontic treatment for children, click here to visit our website or give us a call.

Just Say No

Spannhake Orthodontics and the American Association of Orthodontists have a prompt announcement for consumers about “DIY” orthodontic treatment. It is with great urgency that we emphasize to you all to be cautious about the trending “DIY” orthodontic treatment because straightening your teeth on your own can lead to lifelong dental problems.

Do-It-Yourself videos and websites are popular among today’s culture, and while so many great ideas come from several of these outlets, there are some things that you just shouldn’t do yourself! Straightening your teeth or attempting to move your teeth as a “DIY” project is definitely one of the things you should not be doing.  Moving and straightening teeth is a medical procedure that needs to be supervised by an orthodontist.  It’s important for you all to be wary of any videos or websites that advise you to use objects such as rubber bands, dental floss, or anything else in order to get straight teeth.  According to the American Association of Orthodontists, “Moving teeth without a thorough examination of the overall health of the teeth and gums could result in the permanent loss of teeth, which may result in expensive and lifelong dental problems.”

If you have any further questions regarding “DIY” orthodontics, or are curious about straightening your teeth, please contact us at (410) 857-4700.

Seniors Can Get Braces Too

It's National Senior Health and Fitness day! Every year on the last Wednesday in May, it is estimated that 100,000 senior adults participate in health and fitness activities put on by several organizations nationwide. As we encourage senior citizens to be active today, we also want to remind you to stay current on your health visits and check-ups. This includes dental and orthodontics.

Are you a senior who has considered orthodontic treatment? You may be surprised to know that seniors can benefit from adult braces.  Keep reading to find out more.

If you are retired and considering adult braces in the Westminster, Mt. Airy and Towson areas, we encourage you to visit Spannhake Orthodontics. You may not be aware but retirement age is the perfect time to do things you’ve always wanted to do, including getting braces. If your smile has been something that’s bothered you throughout the years, the time to change that is now.

When you compare getting braces as an adult to getting them as a child or adolescent, there are benefits. One example is children typically must use metal braces due to restrictions and the simple fact that a child’s jaw hasn’t solidified. When you’re an adult, you have a much wider variety of treatment options from traditional braces to clear aligners.

If you are a senior and you’re interested in straightening your teeth, visit our office for a consultation to discuss adult braces. At Spannhake Orthodontics, we can help you understand all of the benefits that you will take away, aside from a picture perfect smile.

3 Super Quick Smoothie Recipes

One of the most common questions we get from new patients is “what can I eat after I get my braces?”  Aside from the typical checklist of approved and nonapproved foods to eat during your orthodontic treatment at Spannhake Orthodontics, we like to go above and beyond and provide you with recipe ideas, too.  Yes, there are certain points in your treatment process when your mouth might be more sensitive than usual, but that doesn't mean you don't get to enjoy a delicious meal or snack. Smoothies are the perfect solution for when chewing just doesn’t sound all that fun!

You can prep and freeze these 3 super quick and easy smoothie recipes. Choose your own base of yogurt, juice, milk, tea, or water and some ice to blend these ingredients up into something spectacular for your tastebuds!

BERRY BLAST

• 1C Raspberries
• 1C Blueberries
• 1C Strawberries
• 1C Spinach

SWEET SUNRISE

• 1C Raspberries
• 1 Orange
• 1/2 Banana
• 1C Mango

GREEN MONSTER

• 1 Grapefruit
• 1 Banana
• 1C Pineapple
• 1C Spinach

Braces & Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that usually come in anywhere from 17 to 25 years old. Coincidentally, this age bracket is a popular time for orthodontic work, and many people are in braces or will soon have them taken off. It can be disconcerting in this time period to see completely new teeth emerging.

At Spannhake Orthodontics in Westminster and Towson, we offer orthodontic treatment to patients of all ages. Whether you’re looking for braces, Invisalign or other orthodontic options, we can help you get the smile you want. Contact Spannhake Orthodontics today to schedule your consultation. We can answer any questions you may have, including how wisdom teeth affect your treatment.

Wisdom teeth are a leftover trait from when humans had larger jaws and chewed hearty leaves. Wisdom teeth tend to overcrowd already corrected molars or emerge only half way. In fact, wisdom teeth statistically have the highest chance of growing in sideways, an issue known as an impacted wisdom tooth, which can affect the nearby teeth. However, wisdom teeth cannot cause front teeth to become crooked. From the back of the mouth, the pressure they exert on the other molars is not strong enough to reach the front.

This has led people to believe that wisdom teeth can ruin their current or previous dental work. There are a number of other factors that have led to this. Around 20 years old, the jaw performs its last growth spurt, which can leave teeth crooked. This is also the age when many former braces wearers begin to neglect their retainers at night.

Many people have their wisdom teeth emerge as healthy, effective back molars. In this case, the tooth has grown in straight and is not affecting the person’s bite and any dental work will be unaffected. There is nothing stopping a person with healthy wisdom teeth from getting braces either.

Each set of braces are unique for the wearer, as is the decision on what to do about wisdom teeth. Talk with Dr. Spannhake as soon as you notice any discomfort or wisdom teeth appearing. While they may not affect your braces, wisdom teeth can change your overall oral health.

Funfetti Dessert Pizza | SPRING RECIPE

This Funfetti dessert pizza is a giant sprinkle cookie pizza with a marshmallow buttercream and topped with sprinkles and fruit. Try it out this Memorial weekend!

INGREDIENTS
For the cookie:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated Sugar
• 1 large eggs
• ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tarter
• ½ cup sprinkles

For the frosting:

• ½ c (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 4 oz marshmallow cream
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
• 2 teaspoons clear vanilla
• Toppings:
• Sprinkles
• Strawberries

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Combine butter with sugar and beat on medium speed until well creamed together.
2. Add the egg, and vanilla extract. Mix into butter and sugar until egg is well beaten.
3. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda and cream of tartar. Slowly add the dry ingredients into the batter and beat on medium low speed until well combined and dough forms. Add the sprinkles last and continue beating until the sprinkles are incorporated.
4. Refrigerate dough for a minimum of 30 minutes and up to 1 hour.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F
6. Roll out the cookie dough onto a lightly floured surface. It’s helpful to use parchment paper on the top and bottom so the dough does not stick. Roll the dough into a circle until it’s about a ¼” thick.
7. Bake at 350°F for 15 to 18 minutes until the edges just start to turn golden brown. The center will still be a little bit soft but that’s okay.
8. Allow the cookie to cool completely.

For the frosting: 

1. Allow the butter to come to room temperature so it is soft but not melted. Beat butter in mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the marshmallow creme and containing mixing for another 2 minutes.
3. Slowly add powdered sugar 1 cup at a time while continuing to beat on medium speed and then add the heavy whipping cream and clear vanilla extract. Beat until all ingredients are well combined.
4. Spread the frosting over the cookie, leave about 1-inch around the outside edge. You may have a little leftover frosting.
5. Top the pizza with sprinkles and strawberries and your toppings of choice. 

Fluoride During Orthodontic Treatment | Is It Important?

Spannhake Orthodontics wants you to know that there are several ways you can protect your smile throughout your orthodontic treatment. If you follow the rule of thumb and brush your teeth twice a day, floss often, and protect your appliances from damage, your treatment should be very successful.

One thing we’d like to add, is did you know there is another way to keep your teeth healthy and bright during your treatment with braces?

How is this possible? One word: fluoride. Fluoride is the mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay. This mineral also helps keep your teeth strong. Fluoride comes in two varieties: topical and systemic. Depending on your oral health or the recommendation of Dr. Spannhake, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six, or 12 months.

If you have any other questions about fluoride or your orthodontic treatment, please don’t hesitate to give Spannhake Orthodontics a call!

Protect Your Braces

Mouthguards can be custom made for your mouth by your dentist or orthodontist. However, if you can’t afford a custom-made mouthguard, you should still wear a stock mouthguard or a boil-and-bite mouthguard from the drugstore.

Protect Your Braces

A properly fitted mouthguard may be especially important for people who wear braces. A blow to the face could damage the brackets or other fixed orthodontic appliances. A mouthguard also provides a barrier between the braces and your cheek or lips, which will help you avoid injuries to your gums and cheeks.

If you're an athlete and a patient at Spannhake Orthodontics, talk to Dr. Spannhake about selecting a mouthguard that will provide the right protection for you. Although some mouthguards only cover the upper teeth, Dr. Spannhake may suggest that you use a mouthguard on the lower teeth if you have braces on these teeth.

Also, be sure to remember if you have a retainer or other removable appliance, do not wear it during any contact sports. For more information give us a call at 410-857-4700 for our Westminster office or 410-321-5004 for our Towson office.

#SPANNHAKESPRINGBREAK SELFIE CONTEST DETAILS

Enter now until April 30th for a chance to win a mystery prize!

Click here to LIKE Spannhake Orthodontics on Facebook & upload your #SpannhakeSpringBreak selfie. 

Easy Home-Made Pretzel Recipe | Braces Friendly

INGREDIENTS

• 1 package (1/4 oz.) active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110° to 115°)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 4 to 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 8 cups water
• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon cold water
• Coarse salt, optional

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the sugar, butter, salt and 2 cups flour. Beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough (dough will be sticky).
2. Turn dough onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
3. In a large saucepan, bring 8 cups water and baking soda to a boil. Punch dough down; divide into 12 portions. Roll each into a log and then make into a regular pretzel shape. Add to boiling water, a few at a time, for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon; drain on paper towels.
4. Place on greased baking sheets. Lightly beat egg yolk and cold water; brush over pretzels. Sprinkle with the salt. Bake 425° for 9-11 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pans to wire racks.

Learn More On Adjusting To Braces

Are you a new patient at Spannhake 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.

New UNICORN ICE CREAM Recipe

Are you ready for the most magical Ice Cream recipe you’ll ever find? Not only is it cute, but it’s great for all ages. Best of all, it's braces friendly & taste buds approved! Unicorn Ice Cream is magic on a cone!

UNICORN ICE CREAM

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups whipping cream
• One 14 sweetened condensed milk

Gel food coloring:

• Electric Blue
• Electric Green
• Egg Yellow
• Magenta
• Purple
• Star Sprinkles
• Purple Disco Dust (optional)
• Green Disco Dust (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the whipping cream until medium peaks form.
2. Pour the can of sweetened condensed milk into the whipped cream, and fold the whipped cream and condensed milk together until completely combined.
3. Separate the ice cream base into 5 bowls. Add 2-4 drops of food coloring to each bowl (1 color per bowl). Use a spoon to mix in the food coloring until it is evenly distributed in the ice cream base. You can add more food coloring as needed to reach your desired color.
4. Using a standard loaf pan, layer the ice cream. Place ½ of each color in the pan in big dollops. (I layered the blue, green, and purple first, and then the yellow and pink on top of that.) Then repeat the color layering.
5. Run a butter knife through the ice cream a few times in each direction to swirl the colors together. You don't want to completely mix the colors, just swirl them a bit.
6. Top the ice cream with star sprinkles and sprinkle with disco dust. Because everyone knows unicorns are glittery.
7. Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and freeze for 8 hours to overnight, or until the ice cream has set up.

Start 2017 With A New Smile

Straightening your smile with orthodontic treatment imparts a host of functional benefits! You'll find that your teeth are easier to keep clean, your bite function will improve, and you'll experience a reduction in pain and discomfort from TMJ (jaw joint) issues. The real benefits, though, are psychological. That's because a new smile creates a boost of happiness, confidence, and self-esteem that radiates through every area of your life. Just think how much easier that upcoming presentation at work, neighborhood barbecue, or first date would be if you had a smile you were proud of and not afraid to show off!

Are you ready to start the new year with a new smile? Contact Spannhake Orthodontics to get started!

NEW CONTEST ALERT | Christmas Tree Selfie

New Contest Alert! Here are all the details on our Christmas Tree Selfie Contest! Enter for a chance to win an Astoria VR Headset perfect for ANY SMARTPHONE! #SpannhakeSelfie

Click here to post your photo on our Facebook page! 

NEW RECIPE for National Sundae Day!

November 11th is National Sunday Day! Celebrate with us by adding s'more to your sundae! Check out this new recipe you MUST try!

HOW TO MAKE THIS: Before you start building the sundae, drizzle the glass with fudge sauce warmed up in the microwave. Then stack alternating layers of vanilla ice cream, marshmallow fluff, crumbled graham crackers, mini marshmallows, and of course more fudge sauce. If you have a kitchen torch, toast a few big marshmallows to take this to the next level. Enjoy!

Halloween Patient Photo Fun

Happy Halloween from Spannhake Orthodontics!

The ULTIMATE BRACES Food List

Here is the ultimate list you need to have if you are a patient at Spannhake Orthodontics. Remember to stick to this as best you can throughout Halloween and the holiday seasons ahead!

Examples of Sticky Foods to Avoid:

• Gum (sugar-free or regular)
• Licorice
• Sugar Daddies
• Toffee
• Tootsie Rolls
• Caramels
• Starburst

Examples of Hard Foods to Avoid:

• Ice
• Nuts
• Hard taco shells
•  French bread crust/rolls
• Corn on the cob
• Apples and carrots (unless cut into small pieces)
• Bagels
• Chips
• Jolly Ranchers
• Pizza crust
• Uncooked carrots (unless cut)

Minimize Sugary Foods like:

• Cake
• Ice Cream
• Cookies
• Pie
• Candy

Only Once a Day:

• Soda
• Sweetened tea
• Gatorade
• Kool-Aid
• Drinks with sugar

It's National Orthodontic Health Month

For so many people the month of October brings to mind pumpkins, the color orange, Halloween and spooktacular festivities, but to us at Spannhake Orthodontics it means a little more. October has been designated as National Orthodontic Health Month. This means, officially, October is a month that orthodontists promote orthodontic services, exams, and encourage current patients to practice healthy habits when wearing braces and orthodontic appliances.

National Orthodontic Health Month was organized to help raise awareness about taking care of your teeth beyond your general dentist, as well as emphasizing the importance of taking care of your teeth properly when being treated for braces. If you have any questions regarding orthodontics that you have yet to find answers for, we are here for you! This is a great time to get your questions answered by the Spannhake Orthodontics team of professionals. Also, if you have never been to an orthodontist before, now would be a great time to have an orthodontic evaluation exam. Children age 7 and up are encouraged to do so, as well as adults. 

For questions regarding orthodontic health, or how to care for braces, give us a call or post them on our Facebook wall.

New Contest Alert!

Guess & Win! To post your guess on Facebook, click here. 

#SpannhakeSmiles #SpannhakeOrthodontics #GuessAndWin