National Orthodontic Health Month

Celebrate National Orthodontic Health Month This October!
 

We love October, and not just for the changing weather
and Halloween excitement! It’s National Orthodontic Health Month.

Every year, the
American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recognizes October as a time to
raise awareness of the benefits of orthodontic treatment. The AAO is the
largest, oldest professional association for orthodontists in North America,
and is comprised of more than 16,000 members.

In a month full
of hard, sticky, crunchy, and chewy treats, it’s more important than ever to
encourage patients to be kind to their teeth during treatment. If you have
braces, try to avoid caramel, taffy, bubblegum, and candy with nuts. If you
can’t keep yourself away from the sugar, opt for softer candy such as peanut
butter cups or other melt-in-your-mouth treats.

As always,
remember to brush and floss after consuming sugary foods. Exposing your teeth
to sweets increases your risk of cavities, and allowing it to sit there can
lead to decalcification, the loss of calcium from the teeth.

If you have any
questions about what foods are best and worst during orthodontic treatment,
feel free to ask during your next visit!

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