Have a Fun and Braces Safe Halloween with these Candy Tips From Your "Favorite Hometown Orthodontist"

Did you know nearly 600 million pounds of candy is purchased each year for Halloween? Between sticky caramels, sugary candy corn and gooey taffy, Halloween can be a frightful time for people with braces! To help you avoid severely damaging wires and brackets this candy-filled season, we at Sanborn Orthodontics have put together the below tips: 

§  Choose softer, melt in your mouth candies—as opposed to hard, sticky, sugary ones. While caramel apples and peanut brittle can be enticing, it’s important to avoid such treats, as they can loosen brackets and wires. Opt for smoother choices like small chocolates or low-sugar peanut butter cups.

§  As an alternative to candy, consider making homemade milkshakes and smoothies with fresh fruits. These blended delights are easy on your braces and still delicious!

§  Remember that excess sugar can get trapped in-between brackets and teeth. Brushing and flossing regularly after eating Halloween sweets will help prevent sugar and plaque build-up.

§  Consider Halloween candy an indulgence! Monitor and limit sugar intake by treating yourself just once a day, rather than consuming sweets throughout the day.

§  Talk with an expert! Get more information on Halloween candy dos and don’ts by speaking with your favorite hometown orthodontist, Dr. Robert Sanborn.

October is also National Orthodontic Health Month and National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  To bring awareness to this, Sanborn Orthodontics is teaming up with local cancer awareness centers to donate up to $500 for every LIKE and SHARE of our Facebook page during the month of October.  So make sure to check us out on Facebook and our website for more information and Happy Halloween!!!

8 Fun and Interesting Facts About Your Braces

IMPROVING YOUR SMILE through orthodontic treatment is serious business… But there’s a fun side too! So, for today’s post, here’s a list of fun, interesting facts about orthodontics. Enjoy!!!

Did You Know…?

#1 – NASA Wiring?

The nickel titanium in some braces wire was developed by NASA with shape memory properties (meaning it keeps its shape) that are activated by body heat and/or pressure.

#2 – 1728? You’re Kidding!

The first braces were designed in 1728, consisting of a flat piece of metal connected to the teeth by thread. Orthodontic brackets were invented in 1915.

#3 – How Does It Do That?

Some cements used to attach brackets to your teeth include a fluoride-releasing substance.

#4 – Only A Select Few

100% of all orthodontists are dentists. About 6% of all dentists are orthodontists.

#5 – You Won’t Be One Of Them, Right?!

Nearly 25% of orthodontic patients have to get braces again because they didn't wear their retainers!

#6 – Never Too Old

Adults want straight teeth too! In fact, MILLIONS of people over age 18 are currently in orthodontic treatment.

#7 – Myth Breaking

Braces are not magnetic. Braces don’t set off metal detectors. Braces don’t pick up radio transmissions. Braces don’t increase your odds of being hit by lightning.

#8 – Famous Orthodontic Patients

> Check them ALL out! Emma Watson, Tom Cruise, Katy Perry, Prince Harry, Justin Bieber, Gwen Stefani, Drew Barrymore, Dakota Fanning, and more.

Do YOU Know Any Others?

Do you know any interesting orthodontic facts we've missed? Please share them with us in the comments below or on our Facebook page!!!

Toothbrushing Mistake No.1: "Not Using the Right Toothbrush"

Using the right toothbrush to maintain  is important, it allows you to clean hard to reach areas of your mouth therefore minimizing the risks of plague and cavity build up. On the other hand, not using the right toothbrush can have detrimental effects on your oral health since tooth decay is likely to occur with poorly maintained teeth. So the question is; how to choose the right toothbrush?

It’s not an exact science but you should choose appropriately sized brush in relation to the size of your mouth. If you are having a hard time opening your mouth when brushing due to the size of the brush, then it is probably too big, so choose an alternative smaller sized toothbrush.

Small headed toothbrushes can reach the back of the end teeth easily for a thorough cleaning. When choosing a toothbrush, also check if it has soft bristles or hard bristles. Soft bristles are more appropriate for removing debris from the mouth as well as plaque. Hard bristles can damage your gums and cause them to bleed.

The type of toothbrush handle also matters. Choose the one with which you are comfortable just like “when you’re holding a fork whilst eating” says Richard H. Price, DMD (the consumer advisor for the American Dental Association). He also added that the more comfortable your brush is with your mouth, the more likely you are going to use it and use it properly. Lastly, no matter how good a fit your toothbrush is within your mouth, the key to well-maintained teeth is brushing them properly.

If you have any toothbrush or orthodontic concerns, please visit our website, Or call our office below:

Sanborn Orthodontics  4251-F Arendell St.  Morehead City, NC  28557  252-727-0020

ALL about Orthodontics!

While everyone understands that a dentist takes care of teeth, not everyone is aware of what an orthodontist does. This confusion sometimes leads to misunderstandings about what Sanborn Orthodontics does for our patients and how exactly Dr. Sanborn can help them. Let’s take a closer look at a couple of the myths and misconceptions about orthodontics.

Perhaps the biggest misconception about the orthodontist is that we’re just like your family dentist. The truth is, we’re actually very different. While it’s true that both orthodontists and dentists care about helping you enjoy a lifetime of good dental and oral health, we go about achieving this goal in different ways. For instance, if you need to have a cavity filled, you probably won’t make an appointment to see me. Dentists are the health professionals to see if you’re concerned about a cavity or need a filling. A dentist can also treat gum disease, tooth decay, toothaches, and other common oral health problems.

People see an orthodontist for very particular services. Most of the patients we see on a daily basis are here because they have braces, or they need to be fitted with braces or another form of tooth-straightening device. In other words, they consult an orthodontist when they are concerned about the alignment of their teeth. As a child grows up, his or her teeth may come in crooked. This can happen for a number of reasons, so it’s important for an orthodontist to take a look at a child’s teeth at about seven years of age. At that age, it’s possible to detect any problems that have not become too advanced to treat easily. Your family dentist may also refer your child to an orthodontist once the adult teeth have fully grown in.

Another common misconception about orthodontists is that we only treat children. It’s true that when you visit an orthodontic clinic you’re apt to see a lot of young kids, but you’ll also see teenagers, college students, and adults. Because crooked teeth can be caused by a number of different factors, it’s entirely possible for someone to require orthodontic treatment at any age.

If you want to know more about the practice of orthodontics or what your orthodontist can do for you, then simply ask Dr. Sanborn. It’s best to get answers to your specific questions directly from the person who will be treating you. So check out our Facebookpage or website or call 252-727-0020 for your complimentary consultation appointment in Morehead City, NC.

When Should My Child See An Orthodontist???

THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF ORTHODONTISTS recommends that children first visit the orthodontist at age seven—and we wholeheartedly agree! Even though treatment may not start that young, an early examination allows Dr. Sanborn to evaluate dental development and determine when and if orthodontic treatment is necessary.

One way to determine if a child needs our help is to look for bite and alignment problems.

Some Of The Problems We Look For at Sanborn Orthodontics:

1. Buck Teeth:  Do the upper front teeth stick too far out?

2. Deep Bite:   Do the upper teeth cover the lower teeth?

3. Underbite:  Do the upper teeth fit inside the arch of the lower teeth?

4. Open Bite:  Do only the back teeth touch when biting down?

5. Crowded or overlapped teeth:  Do the teeth have too much or too little space?

6. Misaligned front teeth:  Do the spaces between the upper two front teeth and lower two front teeth not line up?

7. Crossbite:  Do the upper teeth fit inside the lower teeth?

Some Issues May Require Immediate Attention

If a child has any of the following problems, treatment may be necessary before the age of seven.

Speech problems

Difficulty chewing

Abnormal bite development

Clicking or popping in the jaw

Permanent teeth that are coming in crowded or overlapped

A thumb sucking problem

A teeth grinding problem

Issues biting cheeks or biting into the roof of the mouth

There Are Benefits To Early Treatment or Enrollment in our Guppy Grinz Club!!!

Please Share This Important Information

Now, will you help US get the word out? Please share this post with the people you care about—especially those with children. Together, WE can help others start early on the path to beautiful, healthy smiles!

Thank you for helping Sanborn Orthodontics make a difference!!!

How To Protect Your Braces During Sports

Proper mouth protection is recommended by Sanborn Orthodontics when you participate in any sports activities. If you wear braces, this protection becomes essential. Injuries to your mouth can not only damage your teeth, but your braces could break and cut open your lip.

Full Facial Guards

Full facial guards are often used in football and offer protection to your mouth from most injuries. Even with full facial protection, you may benefit from additional mouth protection. While your face is protected from outside impact, you could still suffer from cuts or damage to your braces from internal impact.

Mouth Guards

Mouthguards referred to as boil-and-bites can be purchased at many retail stores. As the name implies, these guards are boiled in water to heat and soften the material. While the guard is still warm, you place it in your mouth and bite down gently. This causes the guard to form to the shape of your mouth for the best protection or fit.

No matter what type of sport you participate in, a mouthguard can protect your braces. Even an activity as seemingly harmless as table tennis can result in a contact injury. The Academy for Sports Dentistry states that a properly fitted mouthguard should not interfere with any athletic activity.

Sanborn Orthodontics will provide you with properly fitting mouth protection to ensure the safety of your braces and your teeth. We will be glad to answer any questions you have so you can continue the activities you enjoy with little concern. If you do suffer any injuries to your mouth or braces during sporting activities, please contact us immediately. The sooner we can care for your mouth, the better the results will be.

How Long After My Braces Come Off Should I Wear My Retainer?

Braces are an investment in your smile. When your teeth reach a desired straightness, you’ll have a beautiful smile, but it’s important to keep it that way! You can accomplish this with a retainer provided by Sanborn Orthodontics.

A retainer is a small, custom-fit device that reinforces the new position of your teeth after your braces are removed. But for many patients, especially the youngest ones, wearing a retainer may seem like an annoyance. So exactly how long after your braces come off should you wear your retainer?

Graduation of Wear Time

When we remove your braces, Dr. Robert Sanborn will evaluate the condition of the bone structure surrounding your teeth and determine how well it is adjusting to the new position of your teeth. For the first few months, we may require you to wear your retainer both day and night, except during meal times and for brushing and flossing.

As the bone and gum tissues adjust to your new smile, we may determine that you need to wear your retainer only at night. After about one year of wearing the retainer every night, you may be able to take a couple of nights off each week.

However, we do not recommend ever stopping permanently. To best secure the position of the teeth, especially through future extractions and oral health changes, wearing your retainer a few nights a week will be necessary for many years.

Considerations

If you are concerned about your appearance when you wear a retainer, there are many that can be worn discreetly. You could choose a clear plastic one that is less obvious during the months immediately following removal of your braces. When you change to night wear only, clear wire retainers are available for minimal visibility as well.

Another option is a lingual retainer. It is placed on the back sides of your teeth so no one will ever know it is there! Lingual retainers are also permanent, so there’s no risk of losing them.

Remember, wearing your retainer is an investment in your smile. If you fail to wear it consistently, the tissues that support your teeth will be unsupported, and you may begin to experience noticeable shifting. You’ve worked hard to get that beautiful smile — your retainer will let you keep it! Remember to call our Morehead City office if you have any questions about your retainer!

Orthodontic Emergency Care

Although major orthodontic emergencies are relatively rare, when they do happen it is important to seek immediate attention. By comparison, a minor orthodontic issue is something you can usually take care of yourself, or wait until your next scheduled appointment for care. Here are some guidelines to help you understand the difference between an orthodontic emergency and a minor issue.

ORTHODONTIC EMERGENCIES

Acute, Direct Injury to the Mouth, Jaw, or Teeth

Whether undergoing orthodontic care or not, if you injure your mouth, jaw, or teeth, you should see a doctor or dentist immediately. You may need an X-ray to determine the extent of your injury. If the injury affects the orthodontic appliances, they will need adjustment or possibly replacement, depending upon the extent of the injury.

Infected Teeth

It is possible for teeth to become infected following orthodontic treatment. This may or may not be related to your orthodontic appliances. If you experience pain or swelling around a tooth that gets progressively worse, seek professional care as soon as possible.

MINOR ORTHODONTIC ISSUES

While true orthodontic emergencies are rare, minor issues are much more common. Here are some examples of minor orthodontic issues that can be remedied on your own and/or fixed at your next office visit:

• Poking wire
• Loose bracket
• Loose elastic band
• Loose wire
• Loose appliance
• Headgear does not fit
• Lost or broken elastic band
• General soreness

Any of the above issues can happen as a result of normal usage, shifting, and wear of your braces. Eating unusually hard or sticky foods can cause or exacerbate these problems. Vigorous brushing of the teeth can also be a factor. None of these issues are emergencies unless they are accompanied by acute or prolonged pain or discomfort.

As for on-the-spot remedies, covering a loose bracket or wire with wax can be a quick fix to alleviate discomfort until your next orthodontist visit. Poking or protruding wires can be moved with a cotton swab or tweezers, or clipped down with nail clippers. Be sure to sterilize the tweezers or clippers in alcohol first. Cover any clipped wire ends with a small ball of wax.

Some soreness or small abrasions in the mouth are normal, especially with recent orthodontic work. Rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution comprised of eight ounces or warm water and one teaspoon of salt.

When in doubt, be sure to contact our Morehead City, NC office with any questions, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Rob Sanborn at Sanborn Orthodontics.

All Orthodontists are Dentists, but Only 5% of Dentists are Orthodontists



People oftentimes interchange the terms “dentist” and “orthodontist”. This is the reason why most of the patients schedule appointments on the wrong clinics and thus, they end up being referred to other specialists. To make things clear, dentists and orthodontists are not the same. Orthodontists specialized in the field of orthodontics after they graduated from dentistry. This means that all orthodontists are dentists but only 5% of dentists are orthodontists. In order to have a clearer point of view with the two terms being discussed, read below for their detailed comparison and descriptions.

Dentistry

Dentistry is a wide branch of medicine that involves the study as well as diagnosis and prevention of different diseases and conditions pertaining to oral health. The coverage of dentistry also includes the maxillofacial area, its adjacent structures, and the impact or effects they have on the human body. Dentistry is an essential part in achieving a good overall health of every person thus oral health concerns should not be taken lightly. The one who practices dentistry is called a dentist and the dentist’s supporting team consists of dental hygienist, dental assistants, dental therapist, and dental technicians.

The most common dental treatments in which dentists attend to includes tooth decay (dental carries) and gum disease (periodontal disease). They are commonly treated by extractions, dental fillings, or root canals. In severe cases, tooth extractions require surgery.

In order to become a dentist, you must complete at least two years of undergraduate studies or a bachelor’s degree. Once these requirements are completed, you must then undergo four years of dental schooling in order to qualify as a Doctor of Dental Medicine or Doctor of Dental Surgery. Furthermore, to be able to perform more complex treatments, one must undergo additional training in sedation, dental implants, and maxillofacial surgery.

Orthodontics

On the other hand, orthodontics refers to the specialty of dentistry that involves the treatment, study, and diagnosis of tooth irregularity, malocclusions, or disproportionate jaws. Orthodontic treatments deal with modification and control of facial growth as well as dental displacements. Orthodontic treatments commonly utilized different appliances in order to correct teeth misalignments or jaw problems. Among these devices are palatal expanders and braces. Palatal expanders are used to correct disproportionate jaws. Basically, it helps in creating more space on the upper jaw for the crowded teeth to align properly and fit into the lower jaw teeth. Braces on the other hand focus on correcting the positions of teeth. It works by applying gentle pressure on the teeth through the appliances which moves the teeth over the course of the treatment.

Aside from the cosmetic benefits of orthodontic treatments, it can also help patients improve the functionality of their teeth in order to chew their food properly, speak fluently, or smile flawlessly. Coupled with the latest technology of clear and ceramic aligners, surely you can improve your smile without someone noticing you are undergoing an orthodontic treatment. Put into simple words, patients won’t have to sacrifice the look of their current smile in order to have a perfect one in the future.

Dentists vs. Orthodontists

Comparing dentists and orthodontists can be done easily as each of them has clear boundaries. Since orthodontics is a specialty in dentistry, this means that orthodontists can do everything that a dentist can do however dentists can’t do everything that orthodontists can do.

Hence, if you are looking for someone who can take care of both of your overall oral health as well as some teeth alignment problems, then orthodontists are the ones to approach. Always remember, all orthodontists are dentists but only 5% of dentists are orthodontists. 

To see an orthodontist today, call 252-727-0020 or visit www.sanbornorthodontics.com for a complimentary consultation!!!

Happy Earth Day 2013

The idea for Earth Day was the brainchild of Gaylord Nelson, a senator from Wisconsin. He envisioned an Earth Day that would be a kind of environmental teach-in. The first Earth Day celebration took place on April 22, 1970, and a surprising 20 million people participated on that day. Ultimately, it became the largest organized celebration in US history.

Earth Day Over the Years
Over the years, the recognition of the day, and the number of people celebrating it all over the world, turned Earth Day into an international celebration. Because it is celebrated throughout the world, it is not only the largest international environmental observation, but it is also more widely celebrated than any other environmental event in the world. Today, Earth Day is celebrated in 175 countries where over 500 million people participate in celebrations.

The Earth Day Movement
The Earth Day movement is credited with developing the idea that people should “think green”. It encouraged congress to enact laws, including one that resulted in the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency. It also inspired the passage of the Endangered Species Act.

The Five R's and Their Importance

• Reduce – Reduce by avoiding unnecessary purchases. Reduce your use of materials that wind up in landfills. Reduce the use of chemicals around your house. Reduce your use of disposable bags, plates, cups, eating utensils, and batteries.
• Reuse – Instead of using plastic bags for your groceries or purchases, bring your own reusable bags. When you go to buy coffee at Starbucks, take a travel mug so you don't have to get your coffee in a disposable paper cup. Instead of storing food in disposable refrigerator containers, buy containers that can be washed and reused. Don't use regular batteries. Whenever possible, opt for rechargeable batteries that you can reuse.
• Recycle – Most cities offer a recycling program to collect used bottles, cans, and newspapers. Recycling includes collecting recyclable materials that would otherwise be considered waste, sorting and processing recyclables into raw materials such as fibers and manufacturing raw materials into new products.
• Re-buy – Make an effort to purchase things that are made through recycling. When purchasing furniture, look for items that are made from reclaimed wood. When buying paper for kids school work, computer printer paper, holiday cards, or anything else, make a point of purchasing recycled paper products. Instead of buying clothing at full retail price, shop for second hand clothing. You will save a lot of money by doing so!
• Rethink – Rethink the way you do things so that you do them in an eco-conscious way at all times. Instead of driving to work alone, consider taking the bus or going in a carpool. Walk or ride your bike when you're only going a short distance. Plan your shopping trips and errand runs so that you can do everything on one day, and do it in a way where you can save time and gas.

Other ways to "think green" include growing your own food, composting yard waste and food scraps, or by participating in local recycling programs. Join a group like Freecycle so you can share your unneeded and unwanted possessions with people who can use them. Likewise, you'll be able to get things you need or want for free.

Earth Day teaches people that the planet belongs to everyone, so everyone is equally responsible for protecting it. Although Earth Day is an environmental celebration, the orthodontic of team at Sanborn Orthodontics wants to remind you that you don't have to wait until then to make changes that will allow you and your family to live a greener life.

Happy Earth Day from the team at Sanborn Orthodontics!!!

Ask Dr. Robert Sanborn: "What should I ask during my orthodontic consultation?"

If you have been thinking about undergoing orthodontic treatment to straighten teeth or correct jaw alignment, the first step is scheduling an orthodontic consultation at Sanborn Orthodontics. During the consultation we will actively listen to your concerns and address all of your questions, as well as discuss a treatment options that would best suit you or your child's situation.

Here are your top five questions that most patients want answered during their initial orthodontic consultation:

• Can I benefit from orthodontic treatment, and if so, how long will it take?
• How frequently will my appointments be scheduled?
• Can I expect any pain when getting braces? (Ask Dr. Robert Sanborn about the ways we address pain management).
• Will I need to have teeth extracted, headgear, expansion appliance, etc. ?
• How much will it cost and what payment options do you offer?

Visit our website for more answers to your questions prior to your initial consulation.
Dr. Robert Sanborn and our team at Sanborn Orthodontics are happy to answer all your questions and concerns, and we are happy to explain all aspects of your treatment plan, as well as the expected outcome. We believe your orthodontic experience should be comfortable, hassle-free, and most importantly, leave you with the smile you've always wanted!!!

Happy New Year from Sanborn Orthodontics

2012 has just ended and now is the time when we all make our new year resolutions.  As we reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask all our patients: what was memorable about 2012 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2013? Do you have a New Year’s resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

We know that we are looking forward to serving our amazing patients with even more great care in 2013!  This year will bring new and exciting things to Sanborn Orthodontics...such as new 3-D technology, "New" Invisalign aligners, website development and of course, more exciting contests!!!

Speaking of contests, don't forget to enter our current Sanborn Scavenger Hunt contest! Here are the details:

Good luck with your Snowman hunting and have a safe and happy New Year from our family to yours!!!

Dr. Robert Sanborn