Braces Newbie?

At Quest Johnson Orthodontics we are excited you have taken the first step toward a healthier and more beautiful smile, but you are probably wondering what comes next. The first week is the biggest period of adjustment, and there is a lot to learn in this short time. What to eat?  How to brush?  No worries, in a very short time your braces will feel completely natural.

On the first day, your braces will probably feel sort of like a mouthful and it may take time to get used to them. By the second day, you may feel some soreness or discomfort.   If you are going to experience any discomfort, the second and third days are when it will happen. If you do experience discomfort it can be dealt with by taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as Tylenol.

If you have any questions or concerns our team is here to help you! You can call us at our Mooresville office at (317) 834-4933 or our Elwood office at (765) 552-5461. We can also help with a few tips at your next appointment,  just ask! 

The Tooth Truth

Our dedication to providing extraordinary personal service with compassion and consideration to the unique needs of each of our patients is our top priority. We feel open communication is extremely important in creating a positive environment for our patients and ensuring a successful treatment outcome. Here at Quest Johnson Orthodontics, we consider dental health to be an integral part of overall good health. We believe that good dental health can instill a sense of well-being, provide a lifelong smile, and promote good overall health.

To that note, let’s talk about the truth about our teeth. Our bone and gum tissues are supported by our teeth. If this support is lost or is poorly aligned, then our bone and gums can begin to erode. If the teeth are properly aligned the bone and gums are less likely to erode.

Your teeth play an important role in digestion. Before your food ever enters your stomach, it has to be chewed by your teeth. This process is called mastication. The food has to be partially broken down before entering your stomach to be properly digested. Braces straighten your teeth and give you the alignment you need to properly chew your food. 

If you are concerned about your alignment, or simply have questions on how to improve your dental health, let’s talk! Our caring team takes pride in providing exceptional care to patients of all ages. 

December Charity of the Month - Action Against Hunger

For almost 40 years, across nearly 50 countries, Action Against Hunger has led the global fight against hunger. They enable people to provide for themselves, see their children grow up strong, and for whole communities to prosper. Constantly searching for more effective solutions, Action Against Hunger continuously shares their knowledge and expertise with the world while pushing for long-term change.

About 815 million people go to bed hungry every night, and one in three children in low- and middle-income countries suffers from chronic undernutrition. Action Against Hunger works not only to treat acutely undernourished children through a community-based approach, but also to improve child survival and prevent undernutrition by addressing its underlying causes. Their technical expertise is internationally renowned, due to their more than 35 years of operational experience in countries with the highest "burdens" of hunger. They’ve also developed revolutionary nutrition products and field testing treatment protocols that have become international best practice. Action Against Hunger aims to increase the number of children worldwide who are screened and treated for undernutrition and to build the capacity of local health systems to treat undernutrition. 

Each time you check-in at our office during the month of December, a donation is made to benefit this wonderful charity. All of us at Quest Johnson Orthodontics thank you for your continued support. 

Thanksgiving Countdown!

It seems like the month of November has really flown by! Thanksgiving is just a week away and we’re all looking forward to time with family and friends – not to mention all of the delicious food! While some holidays spotlight foods that might traditionally be a challenge to manage when you have braces, Thanksgiving is typically filled with foods that are braces approved!

If you’re looking to add a new side dish or two to your Thanksgiving table this year, we’ve found two contenders that will not only look spectacular but might also become a new favorite for your family. Both of these would be perfect to bring to a potluck meal since they can both be assembled in advance and each takes less than 30 minutes to heat.  

Maple Cranberry Sweet Potatoes

• 4 lbs. sweet potatoes
• 1 cup maple syrup
• 1 ½ cups fresh cranberries
• 3 tbsp. butter
• 1 ½ tsp. salt

Place whole sweet potatoes in a large pot with just enough water to cover and one teaspoon of salt. Heat to a rapid boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer covered about 30 minutes or just until potatoes are fork-tender. Drain. Set aside until cool enough to handle.

Meanwhile, in a saucepan, heat maple syrup to boiling on high. Reduce heat to medium, and boil gently for 10 to 15 minutes or until reduced to 1/2 cup. Stir in cranberries, butter, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook just until cranberries pop, typically about 5 minutes.

When ready to bake:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut cooled sweet potatoes into 1-inch-thick slices and arrange in shallow 3-quart ceramic or glass baking dish, overlapping slices if necessary. Spoon maple-cranberry syrup evenly over potatoes and bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until hot.

Green Bean Cheddar Casserole

• 3 lbs. green beans
• 2 cups stale bread
• 3 tbsp. olive oil
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 3 tbsp. cornstarch
• 2 ½ cups milk
• ¼ tsp. nutmeg
• 1 cup cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
• Salt & Pepper to taste

Bring a large saucepot of salted water to boil. Add green beans to the boiling water and cook for 2 minutes. Drain well and set aside.

In a food processor, pulse bread into coarse crumbs. Transfer to a bowl and add olive oil and sliced green onions. Toss to combine and set aside.

In a saucepan, whisk cornstarch and 1/2 cup milk until all cornstarch is dissolved. Add nutmeg and a little salt and pepper. Heat slowly over medium heat, and slowly whisk in remaining 2 cups of milk. Allow sauce to boil for 2 minutes, keep whisking! Reduce heat to low, and add in cheeses one handful at a time, waiting until cheese melts before adding the next handful. Once all cheese has been added and the sauce is smooth, remove from heat. Toss with green beans until well coated with sauce. Transfer mixture to a 3-quart baking dish until ready to bake.

When ready to bake:

Sprinkle reserved breadcrumb mixture over green beans. Bake at 375 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes or until breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Recipe Swaps:

·         To save time, purchase fresh green beans in a microwaveable bag and skip the boiling all together!

·         Use your favorite store-bought breadcrumbs to save additional time in lieu of making them yourself. Panko breadcrumbs are also an excellent substitution, adding even more crunch to the topping of this dish.

We hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving! All of us at Quest Johnson Orthodontics are thankful for each and every patient we’ve had the pleasure of serving. Now, what are you going to make with all of the leftovers?

Out With the Old & In With The New

With cold and flu season starting, germs seem to be lurking everywhere! While it’s difficult to avoid catching the office cold or flu bug, you can help keep your number one oral hygiene accessory in great shape by replacing your toothbrush regularly. Toothbrushes help keep your teeth and mouth clean, but how long should you a keep a toothbrush? It is recommended that you switch out that old toothbrush for a fresh new one every 3 to 4 months, and directly after any cold or flu. Replacing your toothbrush is essential since they are constantly being exposed to germs and bacteria. If you notice the bristles of your toothbrush have become worn, that is a clear sign that you need a new toothbrush. People who wear braces will likely need to replace their toothbrushes frequently, as braces break down and fracture bristles which makes the toothbrush lose its effectiveness.

It's helpful to keep a pack of toothbrushes available in the house at all times for easy replacement. You may be thinking "My toothbrush is fine, I have it broken in just the way I like it”. While that could be true, did you know that your old toothbrush could actually be harming your mouth?

3 Reasons to Change Out Your Old Toothbrush

1.     Bacteria - Your toothbrush is a tool for removing bacteria from your teeth…but it doesn’t actually kill bacteria. Some of the bacteria from your teeth stay on your toothbrush after you are done brushing. Now, this isn’t a problem initially, but imagine three to four months of bacteria build up on your toothbrush. That old bacteria ridden toothbrush is in your mouth at least twice a day…yuck.

2.     Bristles - Like any tool, a toothbrush wears down. Worn bristles are tough on your enamel and can wear it away over time. Not only that… an old, worn toothbrush can be up to 95 percent less effective at removing plaque.

3.     Illness - Always change your toothbrush after you’ve been sick, even if it’s not “technically” time to switch out your toothbrush. Germs and bacteria in your mouth require you to brush twice a day, every day.

If you feel like changing your toothbrush every three months is wasteful, we’ve got a solution! Put that old toothbrush to work doing odd jobs around the house. Old toothbrushes are great for cleaning around facet fixtures and tile grout. They can even be used to clean tools, computer keyboards, and tennis shoes! Make sure to mark your calendar as a reminder to replace your toothbrush at least every 3 to 4 months. If you need a few tips on keeping your smile in tip-top shape, make sure to ask at your next appointment at Quest Johnson Orthodontics. 

November Charity of the Month - International Fund for Animal Welfare

We hope you all had a wonderful Halloween! It seems like just yesterday that the school year began, and now here we are with Thanksgiving just around the corner! We’re so thankful for the opportunity we have this month to support another wonderful charity, the International Fund for Animal Welfare.

ABOUT THE CHARITY
For more than 40 years, the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) has saved animals in need all around the world. Their work strives to connect animal welfare and conservation, demonstrating that healthy populations, naturally sustaining habitats, and the welfare of individual animals are intertwined.

While their scope is international, they also have local expertise and leadership in each of their field offices. Through strong international coordination, the IFAW leverages regional campaigns and projects to achieve global influence and impact.

The IFAW team is comprised of rescue workers, conservation specialists, rural community development experts, wildlife crime prevention and enforcement professionals, veterinarians, policy experts, campaigners, scientists, and educators all driven by a determination to help animals in need.

JOIN US IN SUPPORTING THE INTERNATIONAL FUND FOR ANIMAL WELFARE
Quest Johnson Orthodontics takes part in the Check-In 4 Charity program. Whenever you check-in at our office on Facebook, a donation will be generated for the charity of the month. Be sure to check-in at your next appointment and together we can give back to this amazing charity during the month of November.

If you’d like to learn more about the International Fund for Animal Welfare, click here to head to their website.

Four Fall Flavorful Smoothies

With Fall in full swing and with it the hectic holidays just a step further down the road, we thought we’d put together a list of a few fall-themed smoothies that can serve as a great (and easy!) breakfast or after school snack.

Pumpkin Banana Smoothie
If you’re a pumpkin fan, this smoothie is for you! While pumpkin is a trendy item, especially this time of year, what you might not know is pumpkin has both fiber and protein which makes for a healthy and filling smoothie.

• 2 tablespoons canned pure pumpkin 
• 5 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
• 1 banana, frozen
• ½ teaspoon honey
• ⅛ teaspoon cinnamon
• pinch of nutmeg
• ¼ cup ice 

Helpful tip: If you’re finding that you have several over ripened bananas that you aren’t able to eat in time, toss them in a freezer bag! Frozen bananas are the perfect addition to smoothies and help make preparation even easier for those hectic weekday mornings. 

Cranberry, Pear, & Orange Smoothie
That’s quite a mouthful, and trust us, you’ll love this nutrient-packed smoothie!  It chocked full of filling fiber from the pear, Vitamin C from the orange, and antioxidants from the cranberries. If you’re using whole cranberries for the first time, this smoothie might be a bit tart! Add a bit of extra honey to tone down the tart zing.

• ¾ cup cranberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 pear, core removed & chopped
• 1 small orange
• ½ cup low-fat plain yogurt (or Greek yogurt)
• 1 teaspoon honey 

Feeling adventurous? Add in any of the items below to give this smoothie even MORE flavor!

• A handful of fresh spinach
• A frozen or fresh banana
• A few frozen strawberries, blueberries, mango, or pineapple
• 1 teaspoon of chia seeds

Caramel Apple Smoothie
This smoothie is a great alternative to the traditional sticky treat and delivers all of the delicious flavor! Smoothie staples Greek yogurt and almond milk add filling protein and frozen banana adds plenty of sweetness. 

• 1 cup almond milk
• 1 frozen banana
• ½ cup vanilla Greek yogurt
• ½ cup applesauce
• ¼  tsp caramel extract
• Caramel sauce & cinnamon for topping

Recipe swap: This recipe is very adaptable - the trick is to use what you have! Experiment with different types of milk and yogurt. If you don’t have caramel extract on hand, add a bit of caramel sauce right to the blender! Many of the applesauce pouches that are so popular with kids come in fun flavors too. The options are endless, have some fun with it!

Green Monster Smoothie
When you are ready to move on from using spinach in your green smoothies, Swiss chard is a great next step. Swiss chard has a delicate flavor and softer leaves that blend well in most blenders. It is actually in the same family (amaranthaceae) as spinach and beets!

• 2-3 cups Swiss chard, destemmed and roughly chopped
• 2-3 ripe bananas, fresh or frozen
• 1 tart green apple, chopped
• 1 medium whole grapefruit, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup white cranberry juice or water
• 2 cups ice 

This recipe makes plenty, so freeze individual portions for those extra hectic mornings!

Spotlight on This Months Check-In 4 Charity: Breast Cancer Research Foundation

This month with your help, we are supporting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

The mission of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) is to prevent and cure breast cancer by advancing the world's most promising research. The only way to achieve this goal is through research. Research is revolutionizing our understanding of cancer. Research is leading us to the core of this insidious disease. Research is transforming lives every day as women and men get the help they need. They believe research—and research alone—has the power to bring an end to cancer. They have more than 275 researchers urgently working on solutions to one of the world’s greatest problems.

Since their founding in 1993 by Evelyn H. Lauder, BCRF has raised more than half a billion dollars for lifesaving research. Through a unique and streamlined grants program, they seek out the brightest minds in science and medicine and give them the necessary resources to pursue their best ideas. As a result, researchers are able to make discoveries and design new approaches to address all aspects of breast cancer—and do so in record time.

Breast cancer knows no age, gender, or race. As the most common cancer in women worldwide and the second most common cancer overall, it remains a fact of life. The thousands of women and men suffering from breast cancer today depend on us. No institution can conquer this disease alone. Together, we can. 

JOIN US IN SUPPORTING THE BREAST CANCER RESEARCH FOUNDATION

Quest Johnson Orthodontics takes part in the Check-In 4 Charity program. Whenever you check-in at our office on Facebook, a donation will be generated for the charity of the month. Be sure to check-in at your next appointment and together we can give back to this amazing charity during the month of October.

Spotlight on This Months Check-In 4 Charity: Smile for a Lifetime

Just like that the warm summer months are winding down and September is here! For all of us at Quest Johnson Orthodontics, this also means a new charity of the month! With your help we will be supporting Smile for a Lifetime.

ABOUT THE CHARITY
The Smile for a Lifetime Foundation is a charitable non-profit organization that provides orthodontics to individuals, ages 11-18, who may not have the opportunity to acquire assistance any other way. Launched in 2008, Smile for a Lifetime aims to reach individuals with financial challenges, special situations, and orthodontic needs. The Foundation sponsors the orthodontic care of hundreds of patients each year through local chapters. To date, they have donated services totaling more than $35 million dollars.

JOIN US IN SUPPORTING SMILE FOR A LIFETIME
Quest Johnson Orthodontics takes part in the Check-In 4 Charity program. Whenever you check-in at our office on Facebook, a donation will be generated for the charity of the month. Be sure to check-in at your next appointment and together we can give back to this amazing charity during the month of September.

Healthy Habits For Our Patients

Seeking orthodontic treatment is a great way to make sure your oral health is in good shape. However, there are other factors that affect the status of healthy teeth. Brushing, flossing and eating habits are just as important.

When treating your teeth Quest Johnson Orthodontics staff wants to be sure they are working with healthy teeth; developing healthy habits starts at a young age.

Did you know that the baby teeth that appear in the first 3 years of a child's life have been there since birth, in the baby’s jaw-bones? Those baby teeth are key for chewing, speaking, and appearance. They also hold space in the jaws for upcoming adult teeth. Even though they fall out, baby teeth are important and you need to take good care of them.

For healthier teeth, good breath and fewer cavities kids need to remember to brush their teeth for 2 minutes, twice a day. Adopting these healthy brushing habits can help save children from a lifetime of tooth pain.

Helpful Brushing Tips

•     Brush with a fluoride toothpaste.
•     Place the toothbrush at an angle against the gums.
•     Make sure to move the toothbrush back and forth, gently, in short strokes.
•     Brush the tongue to remove germs and freshen breath.

At Quest Johnson Orthodontics we care about the overall oral health of all of our patients. If you have any questions about your oral health, please contact our office today.

Achieve A Straight Smile Without Metal Braces

Is your teen bummed out about the thought of having braces? Invisalign Teen aligners give adolescents a whole new way to wear braces for a clearly amazing smile!

Scenarios in high school like, the team game on Friday nights, homecoming dances, and yearbook pictures can leave many teens stressed about their smile Don't let your teenager stress; during Invisalign Teen treatment teens can achieve a straight smile without metal braces and without detection! 

Invisalign Teen aligners are a perfect fit for every lifestyle because aligners are:

• Clear 
• Removable 
• Super comfortable 
• Customized 

Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign Teen aligners are removable, which means you can go ahead and eat all the things you love without worrying about breaking a bracket or losing a rubber band.

Invisalign aligners are really comfortable and very durable. They fit in with any of your extracurricular activities. So whether you're swimming the 50-meter race, throwing the football out on the field, or playing the clarinet with the school band, you don't have to worry about your braces getting in the way! Give Quest Johnson Orthodontics a call to schedule a consultation just in time for the new school year.

Please Don't Do This Yourself

Quest Johnson 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 our Mooresville or Elwood office. Click here to visit our website for additional information.

Meet The Charity Of The Month

August is here! For many, this means the end of summer vacation and back to school, but for Quest Johnson Orthodontics, this means a new charity of the month. This month, with your help, we will be supporting Doctors Without Borders.

ABOUT THE CHARITY
Doctors Without Borders is an international humanitarian organization founded in 1971. This charity is known to respond to emergencies around the world, saving and impacting lives daily. The funds allow the organization to impact those in need of help; they go where patients are. They generally work in conflict zones after natural disasters, epidemics, long-term care settings, and more. Funding is a crucial part of this charity as the crew works on so many projects worldwide, we want to help.

JOIN US IN SUPPORTING DOCTORS WITHOUT BORDERS
Quest Johnson Orthodontics is a Check-in 4 Charity Member. That means, whenever you check-in at our office on Facebook, a donation will be generated for the charity of the month. Check-in at your next appointment and together we can join forces to give back to this amazing charity during the month of August.

Early Evaluation For A Healthy Smile

Orthodontics deals with the correction of teeth and jaws that are not in the right position. Quest Johnson Orthodontics has been a versatile help in creating a straight and healthy smile to patients who are affected with crooked teeth and other oral problems such as: 

• Overbite: In which the front teeth lie so much far forward, protruding quite the lower teeth.

• Underbite: In which the lower teeth lie too far forward, sticking out more than the upper teeth.

• Crossbite: In which there is a wide opening between the upper teeth and the lower teeth in front.

• Crowding: This is when there are too many teeth growing on a dental ridge more that it can accommodate

These problems are easily solved with orthodontics through the use of aligners, traditional braces, and various appliances to mention a few. It is factual that orthodontics effectively manages oral problems when discovered early, especially when the patient is a child and yet to develop a permanent tooth. A recommendation from the American Association of Orthodontists, the ideal age for a child’s first orthodontic exam is age seven when the orthodontist is fortunate enough to monitor closely the eruption of their permanent teeth and follow the growth of the jaws through its critical years of development. It is obvious that early evaluation enables us to catch the problem while it is at its metamorphosing stage, rather than after the patient has already developed, thus making it much more effectively managed with imminent invasive treatment needed in the future avoided.

When orthodontic problems are left undiagnosed and untreated, many of these issues can result in severe and permanent oral health problems. These may include abnormal wear of the tooth surface or enamel, inefficient chewing, and even excessive stress on gum tissues and supporting bones which can lead to gum recession or bone loss. Early treatment of these problems not only protects the teeth but can be more cost effective to fix the problems before they cause damages

Early treatment phase is provided from ages 7 and older when the treatment is majorly aimed at eliminating bite problems which can damage the teeth or gum tissues, treating down the road less invasive thus minimizing tooth extraction or jaw surgery.

Orthodontics patients of Quest Johnson Orthodontics are advised to see Dr. Quest or Dr. Johnson early so that they can attain the best oral health and have a nice straight, healthy smile with a strategized treatment plan.

For more questions and information, you can contact Quest Johnson Orthodontics today.

Back to School With Braces Tips

Caring for braces especially for students in school can be quiet hectic due to the restrictive devotions to maintain the braces and for this reason, Quest Johnson Orthodontics has decided to put up an article which will make caring for orthodontic braces easy in school. As a student who just had an orthodontic treatment, you should be rest assured that it is the best that can happen to give you the perfect smile again but the care for your teeth and gums help make it very effective. Take a look at your new braces, you can notice a lot of nooks and crannies that can trap food and plaque and that means a great risk of tooth decay is imminent if not properly cared for, therefore you need to pay special attention to cleaning your teeth. This might look hectic but right here the team of Quest Johnson Orthodontics has few great tips to keep your braces in top condition.

1. WATCH YOUR DIET
As an orthodontic patient with braces, it is very important for you to select your diet with caution. We know that there are several foods in school which tastes great but don't look great in your braces. Certain foods can either break a bracket or some foods are sugary and can have negative effects on the natural ability to brush behind the bracket. Be sure to make decisions on foods based on what is healthy, tasty, and won't harm your brackets.

Food to avoid: As an orthodontic patient we would advise that you desist from:

• Sticky or gooey foods 
• Hard foods 
• Sugary foods 
• Acidic drinks 

2. WEAR A MOUTHGUARD
With braces on your teeth, you might be wondering if you should desist from sports or retire from being the captain of your favorite sports team, but the truth is orthodontics does not affect your ability to play sports. You can keep on with your braces and sports if and only if you have your mouth guard on. Mouth guards are safety measures that can mean the difference between just a bruised, fat lips and thousands spent in orthodontics repair work. While you are in any kind of physical activity (including gym classes), it is advisable that you wear a mouth guard which can protect your teeth and braces from flying sports balls, swinging elbows or an accidental fall or hit.

3. BRUSH AND FLOSS REGULARLY
Braces can easily trap food, and this trapped food can lead to other inimical dental problems. Because of this, it is very important to brush your teeth after every meal and to floss at least once a day.

4. DON'T CHEW ON PENCILS
Pencils, pen, and rulers are all hard objects and most times when you get bored, anxious or plainly destructive you are tempted to chew on them in class. Obviously, this can be destructive in the moment and can be grossly inimical over time. It is important that you don't practice these habits while wearing braces.

We know that maintaining braces in school is can be tough. That is why we ensure to give you the best plans of action to help you out.

For more questions and inquiries that you may have, we are always at your service. You can always contact Quest Johnson Orthodontics.

Learn About Wisdom Teeth & Braces

Wisdom teeth are a 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.

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.

At Quest Johnson Orthodontics 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 Quest Johnson Orthodontics today to schedule your consultation. We can answer any questions you may have, including how wisdom teeth affect your treatment.

July Charity of the Month

Each month, Quest Johnson Orthodontics gives back to different charities with our Check-in 4 Charity membership. We believe strongly in supporting meaningful causes in our community and worldwide to help raise awareness and work together with our patients to donate funds monthly. This month, we are excited to announce our efforts are going to benefit July’s featured charity, the SPCA International.

Learn More About the SPCA International
Quest Johnson Orthodontics is excited to encourage patients to check-in at our office this month to support the SPCA International. This charity has a mission to improve the lives of animals around the world and advance the safety and well-being of animals. With generous donations the SPCA International works to save animals from cruelty and neglect. Won’t you check-in to help us support this cause?

Need Help Checking-In?
If you have any questions about checking-in on Facebook at Quest Johnson Orthodontics, please ask us at your next orthodontic appointment. Also, don’t forget to LIKE us on Facebook, and follow @questjohnsonorthodontics on Instagram.

Invisalign Compared To Clarity Ceramic Braces

Clarity ceramic braces and Invisalign are two treatments with the same mission, to make orthodontic treatment more difficult to detect than traditional metal braces. Many patients of Quest Johnson Orthodontics seek our help to straighten their smiles, but want to make a less noticeable statement while they commit to a healthier, straighter smile. Both Clarity ceramic braces and Invisalign treatments can provide this solution for many patients.

While the two treatments have the same mission, there are stark differences between them.

Invisalign can be removed: Like traditional braces, ceramic braces can make brushing and flossing teeth more difficult, as well as eating. Invisalign can be easily removed for both of these necessities, keeping your mouth healthy throughout the entire treatment process.

Removable aligners do have their perks, however this does result in one downside of Invisalign, and it takes discipline. You must remove the aligner trays when you are eating or drinking. Other than that, as well as brushing and flossing, the aligners must be worn for at least 22 hours per day.

Invisalign is more transparent: One of the most favorite things about Invisalign is its virtual transparency. Most people don’t notice someone is wearing Invisalign until they are told.

While ceramic braces blend into the patient’s teeth, the brackets are more noticeable than Invisalign’s transparent retainer.

Adjustment time is different: For Invisalign, trays must be changed every two weeks, compared to four weeks for adjustments with ceramic braces.

Ceramic braces can treat more extensive cases: Invisalign has been developed to treat a wide variety of cases, provided they aren’t extremely severe.

Here are the common cases that Invisalign can treat:

• Crowded (crooked) teeth 
• Gapped teeth 
• Overbite, underbite and open bite 

The only difference between metal and ceramic braces is the material used for the bonding brackets. Therefore, ceramic braces can treat many of the same cases, including more severe cases that Invisalign cannot handle. 

Here are some additional issues that ceramic braces can treat:

• Crossbites 
• Malocclusions 
• Very crooked teeth 
• Various other flaws of teeth and the jaw 

Straightening your teeth to improve your oral health and smile is a big step for many patients at Quest Johnson Orthodontics. If you need help deciding whether Clarity Advanced Braces or Invisalign makes more sense for you or your child, consult Dr. Quest or Dr. Johnson at our Mooresville or Elwood locations. Give us a call to schedule a complimentary exam today, or click here to schedule online.

Healthy DIY Summer Treat

At Quest Johnson Orthodontics we believe nutrition and a healthy smile go hand in hand. From snacking and eating on the go, to making sure kids have access to healthy snacks at home, Quest Johnson Orthodontics wants to help you keep your snack choices healthy this summer with braces-friendly healthy summer snack recipes.

By avoiding sticky sweets and sugary beverages, we will provide you with snack choices that are fit for orthodontic patients and promote overall wellness and health! All summer long, check here for healthy new summer snack recipes!

Grapefruit & Pink Lemonade Pops

Ingredients:

• Grapefruit Juice 
• Pink Lemonade (or Fruit Punch) 
• Fresh Grapefruit

How-To:

1. Slice fresh grapefruit into thin slices and place a slice or two into each popsicle mold.

2. Mix together equal parts of pink lemonade (or fruit punch) with grapefruit juice.

3. Pour the juice mixture into the popsicle molds, over the grapefruit slices.

4. Add popsicle sticks and freeze until hardened; typically takes 3-4 hours. Enjoy!

Braces Aren't Just For Cosmetic Purposes

Did you know orthodontic treatment is not just for cosmetic purposes?

Having a good bite not only makes it easier to eat and speak but will enhance your dental and overall health as well. Straight teeth aren’t just pretty, they’re healthy too. Teeth that are properly aligned are easier to clean reducing the risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease.

With locations in Mooresville and Elwood, our practices’ top priority is to provide you the highest quality orthodontic care. We utilize the latest technological advances in the industry, such as Clarity Ceramic Braces and Invisalign, along with the latest in computer technology to ensure that you receive the most effective care possible. Give us a call at our convenient locations to schedule your complimentary consultation today!

Check-In This June For Strides To Success

Check-in at our office this June to help us support Strides to Success.  Check-in on Facebook at Quest Johnson Orthodontics in June to help support Strides to Success!

What is Strides to Success?
Strides to Success is a non-profit organization that is committed to positively impact the emotional, mental, behavioral and social challenges of both adults and children that have at-risk behaviors or have need of special support services.

Strides to Success creates custom programs to meet the needs of the community by incorporating specific goals that support learning that help people make significant changes in their lives through fun, interactive activities partnered with horses. 

What is Check-in 4 Charity?

Check-in 4 Charity is a program designed for companies to make a difference in lives with the help of their customers or patients. Quest Johnson Orthodontics is a check-in 4 charity member, which means we encourage our patients to check-in at our office to generate donations every month. The idea is, if people check-in at our office, we will donate to the designated charity of the month! You can learn about the different charities every month when you visit our office or stay connected with on on Facebook!

 Check-in on Facebook at Quest Johnson Orthodontics in June to help support Strides to Success!

All You Need To Know About Mouthwash

Mouthwash is an essential part of your oral hygiene routine, especially when being treated by an orthodontist. The process of using mouthwash seems pretty simple: swig, swish, gargle and spit. But, what most people misunderstand is not all mouthwash is created equal. In fact, do you know if you’re using the right kind of mouthwash while being treated at Quest Johnson Orthodontics?

Mouthwash Differences
The next time you’re ready to buy mouthwash, make sure you know your mouthwash and the differences between cosmetic mouthwashes and therapeutic mouthwashes. Just like toothpaste, there are different types of mouthwashes to do different things for your mouth. This is why it’s important to know the key differences between cosmetic & therapeutic mouthwashes.

Cosmetic mouthwashes act as a mask for bad breath or help whiten teeth. Similar to a mint, cosmetic mouthwashes will merely cover your bad breath and give you a more agreeable taste in your mouth. Aside from that, there are also some cosmetic mouthwashes that help give you a brighter whiter smile.

Therapeutic mouthwashes, however, have clinical purposes for oral hygiene that go beyond masking the smell of your breath. Therapeutic mouthwashes serve to fight plaque, attack bacteria, and strengthen teeth with fluoride making them a better choice for our patients at Quest Johnson Orthodontics.

What to Look For
When buying therapeutic mouthwash, be sure to look for the American Dental Association “Seal of Acceptance” logo on the bottle. All products that feature this logo have been evaluated by experts and approved to meet the safety and standards of effectiveness. Also, be sure to read the instructions very thoroughly and choose the best one for your specific needs.

Fluoride-based mouthwash: Fluoride exists in most toothpaste and in some tap water. For this reason, it is usually an unnecessary ingredient. Nevertheless, it protects against cavities and strengthens enamel.

Alcohol–based mouthwash: Alcohol kills bacteria and viruses harshly. It dries out the mouth, aggravates cuts or burns, and exacerbates inflammation. Anyone with sensitivities should avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes and seek natural ingredients like aloe.

Antibacterial mouthwash: Without alcohol—or with a smaller quantity—antibacterial mouthwash fights infections and minimizes the risk of gum disease. Some patients will receive a prescription for such rinses after surgery.

If you are uncertain what therapeutic mouthwash applies to your needs, ask Dr. Quest or Dr. Johnson for help at your next appointment and they will give you a recommendation. Making sure you gargle and rinse with mouthwash as an additional part of your oral hygiene routine is an essential step to getting the smile of your dreams.

Dentist VS Orthodontist

Recently there has been a lack of understanding about who should be providing your orthodontic care. Most patients contemplate on whether they should seek treatment for braces or clear aligners from their general family dentist, or a certified orthodontic specialist. Making the decision to get orthodontic treatment is an important one that will affect your dental health for a lifetime, so it’s important that consumers are informed of the significant differences in care between a certified orthodontist and a general dentist.

In reality, just like not all doctors are the same, the same fact is true when it comes to dentistry. Did you know that all orthodontists are dentists, but only 7% of dentists are orthodontists? This is determined by training, as all general dentists complete 8,000 hours of dental training for their dental degrees, orthodontists start with this same training and continue on with over 4,000-6,000 hours in an accredited residency program to learn orthodontic basics. A general dentist is wonderful for routine dental work, but the scope of their practice is preventive, cosmetic, and restorative. Orthodontists, on the other hand, are trained specialist and have the expertise in smile and facial esthetics, jaw function, facial growth and development, tooth movement, alignment of teeth and jaws, and straightening of teeth. Thus, orthodontists have the best experience, judgment, and certifications to give the best orthodontic treatment for all patients with braces.

You will notice today several general dentists are advertising orthodontic care such as Invisalign, as well as offering special discounts for these treatments. We urge you to recognize that these general dentists are not orthodontic specialists recognized by the American Dental Association.

At Quest Johnson Orthodontics we understand that your smile is priceless and want you to be confident in knowing that our orthodontic office is the clear choice for braces.

Braces & Oral Health

If you’re a patient at Quest Johnson Orthodontics you are used to visiting us for your regular adjustment appointment every 6-8 weeks. While our hygienist is in your mouth making those adjustments, it’s important for you to remember our team is working on your braces and trips to your general dentist are still very much needed.

When we work on your braces, we are not looking specifically for any cavities and anything we do notice is a by-product of monitoring your oral health from an orthodontic perspective. Even if we did find something suspicious we don’t have the facilities to correct it.

For this reason, we tell you to maintain your regular dental checkup schedule of once every 6 months.

Another important thing to remember is that your oral hygiene needs to be flawless. The appliances that are in your mouth are, unfortunately, a magnet for plaque buildup. If you are a bit lax with brushing and rinsing out your mouth after eating, you may just find that you have a beautiful straight smile with stained teeth.

While having braces does not increase the risk of cavities, not caring for your teeth and having braces does.

If you have any questions regarding your oral hygiene click here to visit our website or contact Quest Johnson Orthodontics at our Mooresville or Elwood office.

Tips To Avoid Crooked Teeth

There are a number of reasons that cause crooked teeth, ranging from genetics to mouth deformities and serious oral diseases. When extra teeth or abnormally large teeth create a malocclusion (crookedness), it’s usually genetic in nature. Other inherited traits involve jaws that are too small to accommodate a full set of teeth and misaligned jaws that did not form properly in the womb.

Can crooked teeth be prevented?
In most cases, underbites, overbites, and crooked teeth are genetically derived and can’t be avoided. Orthodontic treatment with braces will be necessary to correct the condition once the child is old enough to wear them. However, certain early childhood behaviors may also contribute to the development of crooked teeth that can be avoided.

These include:

Thumb sucking and tongue thrusting
Losing baby teeth to decay before permanent teeth have naturally pushed them out of their sockets
Allowing pacifier use to continue after front teeth have erupted.  Permanent teeth underneath baby teeth are directly affected by the health of baby teeth. If baby teeth are prematurely lost due to decay or trauma, permanent teeth will shift when they start moving upward. Baby teeth are like anchors for permanent teeth that help guide them as they erupt through the gums.

When to Start Orthodontic Treatment for Crooked Teeth

Our team suggests that parents bring their child to Quest Johnson Orthodontics around age seven to rule out potential issues with permanent teeth eruption. If problems are discovered, it is not unusual to begin orthodontic treatment at that age. In fact, specific conditions such as crowding and gaps between teeth are easier to correct at an early age.

Early treatment also benefits from the growth process of the jaw, which helps move teeth to normal positions. For more information or to schedule your first visit, give us a call at our Mooresville location 317-834-4933 or our Elwood location 765-552-5461. 

SAVE FACE! Get The Word Out

It’s still National Facial Protection Month so we’re spreading the word to our patients to remind everyone to protect faces this spring. As many children and adults gear up to start a new sports season, it’s important to keep faces and heads protected from injuries that can potentially be deadly. 

Did you know spring is one of the busiest times in emergency rooms for mouth and facial injuries? Several of these injuries happen in the spring because they are sports-related accidents that can be easily prevented with the use of sports safety equipment. By utilizing equipment like helmets and mouth guards, children and adults can avoid serious facial injuries.

Just by wearing a mouth guard or helmet, patients can reduce the risk of concussions, knocking out teeth, or breaking jaw bones. Most coaches recommend a mouth guard or helmet, but unfortunately, several athletes stay away from these two very important pieces of equipment because they don’t comprehend the importance of wearing them.

Facial injuries aren’t just painful for patients, they’re also costly. Repairs for injuries can cost up to thousands of dollars, which we understand many people don’t have. As so many of these injuries can be easily prevented, we can’t stress enough the importance of simply wearing a mouth guard or helmet during organized sports and activities. Lastly, this is a good rule of thumb to abide by all year long, and not just in the springtime. If you have any questions regarding facial protection, please contact Quest Johnson Orthodontics at our Mooresville office or our Elwood office.