What to Expect From Your First Week of Braces

What to Expect From Your First Week of Braces You’re getting your braces put on for the first time and you’re not sure what to expect. One thing is for sure; your oral hygiene practices will definitely change. To help prepare you for what’s in store and make the most of your orthodontic treatment, we at Gardner and […]

Protect Your Braces While Playing Sports

Protect Your Braces While Playing Sports Getting braces doesn’t mean giving up the sports you love! Luckily, braces will not keep you from any sport or physical activity. However, the price you pay for a beautiful smile is taking a little extra care of your mouth while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Play Safe, Play All Season In general, it […]

What To Ask At An Orthodontic Consultation

What To Ask At An Orthodontic Consultation Orthodontic consultations are oftentimes a complimentary introduction for orthodontists, like Dr. Graham Gardner, Dr. Natalie La Rochelle, and Dr. Dana Tang, to get to know you and your oral health concerns. The best thing you can do to make the most of your consultation is to prepare a list of questions […]

What is the Value of Orthodontic Treatment?

What is the Value of Orthodontic Treatment? Did you know that orthodontic treatment is more than just straightening teeth? The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) states, “The goal of orthodontic treatment is a beautiful smile and a good bite—meaning straight teeth that mesh well with the teeth in the opposite jaw and look great.” A straighter smile isn’t […]

The Top 3 Best Drinks For Your Teeth

The Top 3 Best Drinks For Your Teeth While it may seem like water is your only beverage option, fear not. There are a few drinks still available to quench your thirst without affecting your orthodontic treatment. Milk  Not only can it help build strong bones, but milk is a great source of calcium. Calcium helps to repair […]

Rubber Bands for Braces, Explained

Elastics for Braces, Explained. Whether you’ve had orthodontic treatment or not, you’ve seen people wearing elastics or rubber bands as part of the process. But do you know what they’re used for? To help give you a better idea of why rubber bands are used with metal or clear braces, we’ll explain what they are, why they’re used, […]

Custom vs. Store-bought Mouthguards

Should My Mouthguard Be Custom or Store Bought? Anyone participating in a sport should wear a mouthguard to protect their teeth. This is especially important for anyone undergoing orthodontic treatment. Braces and wires can damage the mouth if you receive a ball to the face. Many people ask whether it is necessary to invest in a custom-fit mouthguard […]

Gag Reflex and Orthodontic Treatment

6 Orthodontic Tips for a Sensitive Gag Reflex Having a sensitive gag reflex is nothing to be embarrassed about. Additionally, it is not something that should deter you from seeking orthodontic treatment. Those with a sensitive gag reflex can get frustrated, but it is certainly something that can be worked with while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Orthodontists, like Dr. […]

It’s More Than Cosmetics

We see plenty of folks who are simply looking to improve their smile. They may, perhaps, have a small gap between their incisors. Most people won’t even notice or care, but there it is, staring back at them every morning in the mirror. Maybe their canines are slightly forward, giving them a sort of “fanged” look. Again, it’s […]

A Clean Smile is a Beautiful Smile

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Getting braces can offer many benefits: It’s easier to chew food; it creates a healthier bite for a lifetime; it can help boost self-esteem. But achieving that beautiful smile begins and ends at the same place: Good Dental Hygiene.