Holiday Treats that are not Braces Friendly

The holidays are here and whether you are cozying up with hot chocolate or baking cookies, you may be wondering if there are any types of treats you should steer clear from, especially if you have braces. The answer is yes! Here are a few holiday treats that are not braces-friendly.

• Candy Canes
• Fudge
• Popcorn 
• Peanut Brittle 
• Anything with nuts or crunchy crusts
• Caramel - avoid this sticky treat that can easily get caught up in your braces

Steer Clear of Candy Canes

The holidays are just around the corner and Christmas is less than a month away! Certain holiday treats can damage braces and cause wires to come loose. It's best to stay away from, candy canes. Whether you love them or don’t, candy canes are everywhere during the holidays. However you feel about candy canes, if you have braces, you may want to avoid candy canes this holiday season.

Candy canes are one of the worst foods for teeth. Candy canes, are 100% sugar. Sugar can lead to cavities, tooth decay and loss. Candy canes are also one of the hardest treats to eat. One of the types of foods you should stay away from if you have braces (during orthodontic treatment) are hard foods and candies and candy canes fit the criteria perfectly.

Candy canes also take a while to eat, which give the sugar a reason to linger around longer and form into bacteria, leading to cavities. Here are other treats to stay away from this holiday season that are harmful to our teeth.

Importance of Retainers

Congratulations! You are near the end of your smile journey and your braces are about to be off! Nothing like that feeling. Even long after our braces are off, teeth shift and it is natural as we grow older. There is one thing you can do to ensure your smile remains the best it can be and that is wearing retainers.

No matter your situation, it’s almost a guarantee you will be wearing some form of a retainer after having your braces are removed. It might be a removable retainer, which is removed for eating and cleaning or a bonded retainer, placed discreetly behind your teeth.

There might be a minor adjustment period when you first put your retainer on. Don’t worry, this is completely normal and will pass soon enough.

Retainers are essential for helping your teeth stay in place in their new positions after wearing braces.

Foods to Avoid this Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a great time for family, reflecting on what we are thankful for and of course, celebrating around food. Our goal is to enhance the quality of life for those who come to us for their orthodontic health care. Whether it is braces, Invisalign or preventive care, you should always take care of your smile.

If you have braces, there are a few foods you may want to stay away from during Thanksgiving.

1. Uncooked Vegetables - uncooked vegetables, in their raw form are too hard to bite and chew and may damage braces. Instead, cook or steam your vegetables, which will be much softer for your teeth.

2. Corn on the Cob - on the cob, corn can do some damage to braces, but there is no problem if it is cut off. Just be sure to floss, so it does not get stuck to your teeth.

3. Nuts - nuts is an obvious food to avoid because it can damage brackets and cause wires to come loose. Watch out for nuts, often found in pies and other desserts.

4. Caramel - caramel is another obvious dessert to stay away from on Thanksgiving (and beyond during the holidays). It is sticky and can get easily stuck to your braces.

Quest Johnson Orthodontics: 2 Facts about 2 Phase Treatment

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a very specialized process that encompasses jaw and facial changes and tooth straightening. The major advantage of two-phase treatment is to maximize the opportunity to accomplish the ideal healthy, functional, aesthetic and comfortable result that will remain stable. In some cases, interceptive treatment prevents adult tooth extractions or major jaw surgery.

Second phase treatment begins once most of the adult teeth have erupted. This phase usually requires 12 months with braces on all of the teeth. After the second phase of treatment retainers will be worn in order to hold the teeth in the correct position.

Moving baby teeth is not done for the sake of their appearance.
While baby teeth can move during Phase One orthodontic treatment, their movement is part of the process to ensure sufficient space for permanent teeth.

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is for kids, but it’s not for all kids.
Most orthodontic problems can be treated in one phase of comprehensive treatment, however there are a few exceptions.

Our goal is to allow you to be seen on time for your appointment, do all necessary scheduled treatments, make appointments as stress free for you as possible and to minimize interruptions to your busy schedule. We understand that everyone has important obligations throughout the day and that your time is very valuable. Schedule an appointment today. 

The #1 Summer Tip to Take into Fall in Mooresville

Summer is officially over and as a new season approaches, we are excited for new smiles and new seasons. We shared some great tips for a bright summer smile. As fall rolls in to our Mooresville and surrounding communities, here is the #1 tip to take into fall.

Switch out Your Toothbrush:
Switching out your toothbrush is an often overlooked tip that can make a difference in our smile. It is recommended to switch out your toothbrush every 3-4 months. As a new season rolls around, this is a perfect opportunity to switch out toothbrushes for the whole family.

If you are using an electric toothbrush, switching out the toothbrush head is recommended.

Our goal is to allow you to be seen on time for your appointment, do all necessary scheduled treatments, make appointments as stress free for you as possible and to minimize interruptions to your busy schedule. We understand that everyone has important obligations throughout the day and that your time is very valuable. Schedule an appointment today. 

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It's a new year! Remember to change out your toothbrush. 😃 #QuestJohnsonOrtho #HealthTip

A post shared by Quest Johnson Orthodontics (@questjohnsonorthodontics) on Jan 18, 2019 at 5:30am PST

Thankful for our Mooresville Community

Thankful for our Mooresville community and all of our patients. We are incredibly grateful for the kind words and reviews. Welcome to the office of Drs. William J. Quest and Diane Johnson, a respected provider of orthodontic care in the communities of Mooresville, Plainfield/Avon, Camby, Monrovia, Martinsville, and Danville.

Quest Johnson Orthodontics Celebrates National Mouth Guard Day

Today is #NationalMouthGuardDay! As everyone has gone back to school and fall sports are about to begin, it is a perfect opportunity to remind our Mooresville community the importance of wearing a mouthguard during activities, especially during orthodontic treatment!

Wearing a mouthguard ensures our teeth and overall smile is protected. During the ages of 7 to 11 years old children are most vulnerable to sports related mouth injuries. 67% of parents surveyed by the American Association of Orthodontists said their child does not wear a mouthguard, yet 70% said their biggest fear is their child getting hurt when playing sports.

2 Health Consequences of Gapped Teeth

Our practice's top priority is to provide you with the highest quality orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment. We recognize that every patient has different needs, and we pride ourselves in the courteous service we deliver to each person who walks through our doors.

Gap teeth are a common reason some people are unhappy with their smile. Also referred to as spacing issues, “gap teeth” refers to instances in which a person has extra space between at least two of their teeth.

Gapped teeth can cause you to have gums that are tender, sore and uncomfortable. Over time, people will spacing issues may also suffer from gum disease as a result of their gapped teeth.

Gapped teeth can also cause problems with speech, especially in young children.

Check-in 4 Charity: August

At Quest Johnson Orthodontics, we believe in a world where putting good out in the universe is beautiful because the good always comes back and that giving and kindness starts with ourselves. This month, every time you Check-in on Facebook from our office, a donation is made on your behalf. It’s that simple, you check-in with a photo, status update or review and we make the donation on your behalf.

5 Reasons Why Summer is the Perfect Time to get Braces.

1.) There is more time to learn how to care for braces.
2.) Dealing with the soreness of new braces is more manageable at home.
3.) It's helpful to be home when adjusting to eating with new braces.
4.) It's easier to schedule appointments with more flexibility.
5.) It's helpful to adjust to braces before school starts.

Summer will be over before you know it! Call to schedule your appointment today. New Patient consultations are always complementary.

Quest Johnson Orthodontics Celebrates National Fresh Breath Day

Happy National Fresh Breath Day! Today is National Fresh Breath Day, are you keeping your smile fresh and healthy?

One incredible way to keep your smile healthy is by switching up your toothbrush. Most homes often forget to replace toothbrushes. The simple act of replacing your toothbrush can have a valuable impact. The Academy of Dental Association, recommends switching out your toothbrush every 3-4 months for health reasons and because the bristles can become too stiff, which can be too hard for your teeth and enamel. This simple step will keep your mouth and teeth feeling healthy and your breath fresh.

Welcome to the office of Drs. William Quest and Diane Johnson, a respected provider of orthodontic care in your community for over 20 years. Our top priority is to provide you the highest quality orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment. We utilize the latest technological advances in the industry, such as clear ceramic braces and Invisalign, along with the latest in computer technology to ensure that you receive the most effective care possible.

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Today is #NationalFreshBreathDay! 😀 How are you keeping your smile fresh and healthy? 🦷 What is your oral hygiene routine?

A post shared by Quest Johnson Orthodontics (@questjohnsonorthodontics) on Aug 6, 2019 at 5:01am PDT

Your First Visit at Quest Johnson Orthodontics

Welcome to the office of Drs. William Quest and Diane Johnson, a respected provider of orthodontic care in your community for over 20 years. Our top priority is to provide you the highest quality orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment. We utilize the latest technological advances in the industry, such as clear ceramic braces and Invisalign, along with the latest in computer technology to ensure that you receive the most effective care possible.

At your first visit, you will be greeted by our one of our staff members and given a tour of the office. Initial paperwork will be completed and an orthodontic exam will be done. During this time, we evaluate many things relating to the face, the smile, the fit of the teeth and the amount of room for all of the teeth. This important visit will address your orthodontic needs to determine if this is the proper time to begin treatment.

We will provide a complete clinical diagnosis regarding the nature of the problem, a written summary of the findings and a detailed plan that outlines your treatment, goals and estimated fees

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During the summer, is a perfect time to come in for a check up or check on concerns over your orthodontic treatment.

A post shared by Quest Johnson Orthodontics (@questjohnsonorthodontics) on Jun 27, 2019 at 10:12am PDT

2 Facts about 2 Phase Treatment

Welcome to the office of Drs. William Quest and Diane Johnson, a respected provider of orthodontic care in your community for over 20 years. Our top priority is to provide you the highest quality orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment. We utilize the latest technological advances in the industry, such as clear ceramic braces and Invisalign, along with the latest in computer technology to ensure that you receive the most effective care possible.

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a very specialized process that encompasses jaw and facial changes and tooth straightening. The major advantage of two-phase treatment is to maximize the opportunity to accomplish the ideal healthy, functional, aesthetic and comfortable result that will remain stable. In some cases, interceptive treatment prevents adult tooth extractions or major jaw surgery.

• Second phase treatment begins once most of the adult teeth have erupted. This phase usually requires 12 months with braces on all of the teeth. After the second phase of treatment retainers will be worn in order to hold the teeth in the correct position.

• Moving baby teeth is not done for the sake of their appearance. While baby teeth can move during Phase One orthodontic treatment, their movement is part of the process to ensure sufficient space for permanent teeth.

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is for kids, but it’s not for all kids.
Most orthodontic problems can be treated in one phase of comprehensive treatment, however there are a few exceptions.

Pool Safety and our Smile

Summertime is always a great time for family, fun in the sun and lounging by a pool in Indiana. While the season is filled with good times, it can also present certain risks such as mouth/facial injuries. Pool safety is important to know how to keep our smiles healthy. Pool related tooth injuries are very common in the summer. Be sure to stay safe.

Many of the summer oral injuries are due to a pool accident. Running on a slippery pool decks, diving into shallow waters or bumping the pool ledge with their mouth causes many children to either chip or knock a tooth loose.

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Be sure you're prepared this summer. 🦷

A post shared by Quest Johnson Orthodontics (@questjohnsonorthodontics) on Jul 11, 2019 at 6:00am PDT

2 Benefits of Fixing an Openbite

If your upper and lower teeth don't touch when your mouth is closed, your doctor calls this an open bite. An open bite affects the way we eat food. With orthodontic treatment this can be corrected. Here are three benefits of fixing an open bite.

1. Your teeth will be cleaner. When your teeth become straighter, it is easier to clean in between teeth and keep your smile healthy.
2. In many cases, red and swollen gums are a direct result of teeth that are too widely spaced or too crowded, which can be minimized by straightening your smile.

Choosing to straighten your teeth is a big decision that affects not only your appearance, but your lifestyle as well and the benefits of having properly aligned teeth extend far beyond a confident smile. Straightening your teeth can significantly affect your overall dental health. Schedule an appointment today.

3 Random Facts You Didnt Know about Orthodontics:

Orthodontists today can successfully correct most problems regardless of the patient’s age. Here at Quest Johnson Orthodontics, our practice's top priority is to provide you with the highest quality orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment. Here are three random facts you may not know of orthodontics.


1. The word “orthodontics” is of Greek origin.
“Ortho” means straight or correct. “Dont” (not to be confused with “don’t”) means tooth. Put it all together and “orthodontics” means straight teeth.

2. Teeth move in response to pressure over time.
Some pressure is beneficial, however, some is harmful. Actions like thumb-sucking or swallowing in an abnormal way generate damaging pressure. Teeth can be pushed out of place; bone can be distorted.

Orthodontists use appliances like braces or aligners to apply a constant, gentle pressure on teeth to guide them into their ideal positions

3. Gold was the metal of choice for braces circa 1900.
Gold is malleable, so it was easy to shape it into an orthodontic appliance. Because gold is malleable, it stretches easily. Consequently, patients had to see their orthodontist frequently for adjustments that kept treatment on track.

What Does Two Phase Treatment Fix?

Two-phase orthodontic treatment can be used to: Help the jaws develop to ensure adequate space for all of the permanent teeth, especially the permanent canines.

• May reduce the need to pull permanent teeth in the future. 
• Some problems that can be treated quite well in a growing child but may require corrective surgery if treatment occurs after growth ends. 
• Normalize the relationship of the upper jaw to the lower jaw, especially in the case of an underbite. 
• Intervene in a child’s prolonged sucking or abnormal swallowing. 
• Damaging pressure can move teeth in the wrong directions and/or change the shape of the bone that supports teeth. 
• Tuck in upper front teeth that stick out to reduce the risk of those teeth being broken or knocked out.

National Oral Health Month

June is Oral Health Month. A good oral hygiene routine is the foundation to a healthy smile, especially for young children. For parents, leading by example, should establish healthy habits like brushing, cleaning between your teeth and seeing your dentist. This ultimately leads to the big difference in the health and happiness of your entire family and in children, less fears about visiting their dentist.

Here are 2 tips from the American Dental Association that are a great reminder to enforce.

Start a Routine and Stick to It:
You may be tempted to let your child skip brushing after a long day or during times when your normal schedule is off (like vacation), but keep at it. The more second nature brushing becomes the easier it will be to make sure your child is brushing twice a day for two minutes.

Kids Need to Floss: 
It doesn't matter if you clean between ​your child's teeth before or after they brush as long as you clean between any teeth that touch. You can use child-friendly plastic flossing tools to more easily clean between your child’s teeth until your child learns to do it.

The Invisalign Process at Quest Johnson Orthodontics

Whether you’re considering Invisalign treatment for yourself or someone else, knowing more about the entire process can help you be more confident in your decision to choose Invisalign.

During your initial consultation, we will discuss your concerns to determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign. We will take x-rays of your teeth, which will be used to create digital 3-D images. From these images, Drs. Quest and Johnson will map out your treatment plan and tell you the approximate length of treatment.

While every case is unique to each patient, treatment typically takes approximately 12 to 18 months. Based on your individual treatment plan, a series of clear aligners will be created specifically for you. These aligners are made of a smooth, comfortable, BPA-free plastic that won't irritate your cheeks and gums. You will begin wearing your aligners throughout the day and remove them when you eat or brush and floss your teeth. As you wear each set of aligners, your teeth gently and gradually begin to shift into place. To monitor your progress, you will also have occasional checkups with our office, usually only every six weeks or so.

For best results and a timely outcome, you should wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, throughout your entire treatment.

What is Two Phase Orthodontic Treatment?

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a very specialized process that encompasses jaw and facial changes and tooth straightening. The major advantage of two-phase treatment is to maximize the opportunity to accomplish the ideal healthy, functional, aesthetic and comfortable result that will remain stable. In some cases interceptive treatment prevents adult tooth extractions or major jaw surgery.

Interceptive orthodontic care is one of the most rewarding treatment options that we offer to our patients. Interceptive care is exactly that, intercepting a problem before it gets out of hand. Treatment occurs at a younger age than conventional orthodontic care and is not typically as long. The idea is to shift teeth, manipulate growth, create space for unerupted teeth, break habits and prevent trauma before it is too late. Children between the ages of 7 and 10 are best suited for this sort of treatment. They are flexible, compliant and their growth potential is still at a maximum. Treatment usually lasts 4 to 12 months after which the child is monitored and the decision as to the need for a second phase is made. Most children will require a second, more comprehensive, phase of treatment in order to create a completely stable, functional and aesthetic occlusion.

Second phase treatment begins once most of the adult teeth have erupted. This phase usually requires 12 months with braces on all of the teeth. After the second phase of treatment retainers will be worn in order to hold the teeth in the correct position.

First Day in Braces

The adhesive used to attach the braces to your teeth cures rapidly, but takes several hours to completely cure. You can eat any time after leaving our office, however, we ask that you remember the list of foods that may be harmful to your braces. Until you become accustomed to eating with your new braces, you may find it beneficial to follow a diet consisting of all soft foods.

Initially, the braces feel like they stick out. This is normal. As you become accustomed to your braces and tooth alignment improves, this sensation will cease to be a concern. Although the brackets have been rounded and smoothed, until the cheek tissues have toughened, you may find it helpful to use a small piece of orthodontic wax around the bracket that is creating the irritation. If your supply of wax runs out, call our office for more. The wax may also be purchased at a local drug store.

You will probably notice some discomfort beginning a few hours after your braces are placed. Some teeth, usually the front teeth, may be tender and sensitive to pressure. Occasionally, patients report that they experience no discomfort, but most patients have some soreness beginning during the first few hours and dissipating within a day or two. Exactly when the discomfort ceases is impossible to predict and differs with each patient. Non-prescription pain remedies are recommended for discomfort. For maximum effectiveness, it may be best to take such medications before the discomfort begins.

3 Summer Health Tips for Your Smile

Summer is officially here! That means summer vacation, kids are at home and some free time for your family. Summer is the perfect time to schedule orthodontic appointments or to begin treatment. Summer can also be a hard time to keep up with oral hygiene routines. According to a nationwide survey by Delta Dental, nearly 30% of parents say summer vacation is the most difficult time to get their children to keep up good oral health.

Here are three tips to help keep your smile and teeth healthy all summer long.

• Replace Your Toothbrush - Toothbrushes should be replaced every 3-4 months, so summer is the perfect opportunity to get a new one. A new toothbrush will help you ensure your teeth are being brushed and cleaned properly. 
• Stock Healthy Snacks - With kids at home and some free time, sugary treats are bound to end up in our diet. Stay ahead of the curve and stock some healthy snacks such as fruits and vegetables already cut up and within reach. Additionally, avoid sugary drinks such as soda, lemonade and sports drinks which can damage your teeth. 
• Travel Set: Grab a travel size toothbrush, toothpaste and floss to keep handy for vacations, slumber parties and day trips.

Protect Your Smile

April is National Facial Protection Month! National Facial Protection Month serves as a reminder over the importance of wearing mouth guards during sports, protecting your beautiful smile.

67% of parents surveyed by the American Association of Orthodontists said their child does not wear a mouth guard, yet 70% said their biggest fear is their child getting hurt when playing sports. The most effective way to protect your childs teeth and prevent injuries is to wear a mouthguard.

About 80% of traumatic dental injuries occur to the two front teeth. Injuries can happen at any age and any skill level. So when should you wear a mouth guard? Here are just a few.

• Basketball
• Baseball
• Football
• Soccer
• Skiing
• Rugby
• Softball
• Tennis 

National Facial Protection Month

Did you know from the ages of 7 to 11 years old, children are most vulnerable to sports related mouth injuries? The importance of protecting our smile should be stressed enough and should remind our friends and community how easy it is to protect our teeth.

Wearing a mouthguard is the safest way to protect your teeth while playing sports or just enjoying sports related activities. Athletes are 60 times more likely to suffer a teeth related injury if they’re not wearing a mouth guard.

Here are the three types of mouth guards you can wear, especially if you are currently in orthodontic treatment.

• Custom fitted mouth guards - these are made by your dentist and can be molded to fit your smile perfectly 
• Stock mouth guards - these type of mouth guards are  performed and may be a bit bulky
• Boil and bite mouth guards - are mouth guards that are softened by boiling water and then insert your mouth, to form to the shape of your mouth. 

Smiles at Quest Johnson Orthodontics

Our practice's top priority is to provide you with the highest quality orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment. We recognize that every patient has different needs, and we pride ourselves in the courteous service we deliver to each person who walks through our doors. Whether you're an adult, adolescent or child, our knowledgeable doctors and staff are committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve - a healthy, beautiful one!

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Spring Cookie Day at Quest Johnson Orthodontics!!! Special thanks to Joanie's Cupcakes and More for the Fantastic Flower Cookies!!👍👏🌸 #questjohnsonortho

A post shared by Quest Johnson Orthodontics (@questjohnsonorthodontics) on Apr 15, 2019 at 7:18am PDT

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Thanks to Joanie's Cupcakes and More for the Fabulous Spring Cookies!! Our patients are enjoying this special treat today!! #QuestJohnsonOrtho #springs here

A post shared by Quest Johnson Orthodontics (@questjohnsonorthodontics) on Apr 15, 2019 at 7:15am PDT

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Spring Cookie Day!! Thanks to Joanie's Cupcakes and More for the Wonderful Cookies our patients are enjoying today!! #questjohnsonortho #springishere

A post shared by Quest Johnson Orthodontics (@questjohnsonorthodontics) on Apr 15, 2019 at 7:34am PDT

National Nutrition Month: Foods for Your Teeth Strength

Shine by keeping your teeth healthy and white. Nutrition plays a key role in the health of your smile, and often an easy adjustment to make that can have positive effects.

1. Dairy: Dairy can have health benefits for your teeth. Choose low-fat or fat-free dairy foods most often. 
2. Fruits and Vegetables: It's not secret these foods can keep you healthy overall, but fruits and vegetables can aid you in keeping your smile healthy. Your mouth, teeth, and gums are more than just tools for eating. They’re essential for chewing and swallowing—the first steps in the digestion process. Fruits and vegetables are good choices for a healthy smile since they are high in water and fiber, which balance the sugars they contain and help to clean the teeth. 
3. Nuts: Foods containing calcium — such as cheese, almonds and leafy greens — and foods high in phosphorous — such as meat, eggs and fish — can help keep tooth enamel strong and healthy, according to the American Dental Association.

Check In 4 Charity - World Wildlife Fund

This month we are supporting the World Wildlife Fund through our Check-in 4 Charity program. We are part of the Check-in 4 Charity program where every month, we feature a charity either locally or nationally to support. All you have to do is check-in with an image or status update on Facebook and a donation is made on your behalf from us.

The World Wildlife Foundation (WWF) is the world’s leading conservation organization, working in 100 countries and is supported by more than one million members in the United States and close to five million globally. WWF's unique way of working combines global reach with a foundation in science, involves action at every level from local to global, and ensures the delivery of innovative solutions that meet the needs of both people and nature.

Together, in partnership with foundations, governments, businesses, communities, individuals and our more than six million members, we can conserve many of the world’s most ecologically important regions.

Clarity Braces

We love serving our Moorseville communities. Thanks to technology and advancement in orthodontics, we can successfully correct most problems regardless of the patient’s age. But that does not mean that the orthodontic treatment starting age does not matter. One of the ways we achieve a straight smile for our patients is through ceramic clear braces.

Ceramic braces are the perfect combination of strength and beauty, so you can keep smiling during, and after your treatment. This is perfect for teens wanting to live freely during orthodontic treatment or adults who are a bit shy to smile during orthodontic smiles.

Clear braces are a popular choice for teens and adults who want to make a less noticeable statement with their commitment to a healthier smile. The natural look of these smooth, sculpted and completely clear ceramic braces are strong and will not stain or discolor.

These ceramic brackets offer our patients the look they want, with all of the functionality of traditional metal brackets. Their comfortable, sculptured design and attractive translucent appearance help provide the self-confidence that comes from wearing braces that look as good as they perform. They are the perfect combination of strength and beauty, so you can keep smiling during, and after your treatment.

Gum Disease Awareness Month

February is Gum Disease Awareness Month. More than 80 percent of Americans are living with periodontal or gum disease, which most often than not, goes unnoticed. Because the symptoms are barely noticeable at first and there is no pain involved, it can be tough

According to the American Association of Periodontology (AAP), you may have gum disease, even if it's in its early stages, if:

• your gums are red, swollen and sore to the touch.
• your gums bleed when you eat, brush or floss.
• you see pus or other signs of infection around the gums and teeth.
• your gums look as if they are "pulling away" from the teeth.
• you frequently have bad breath or notice a bad taste in your mouth.
• or some of your teeth are loose, or feel as if they are moving away from the other teeth.

A great oral hygiene routine and regular dental visits are the absolute best way to take a preventative measure against gum disease. The American Dental Association (ADA) site recommends brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush that fits your mouth comfortably, so it reaches every tooth surface adequately. Be sure to floss everyday to ensure your gums are healthy and pink.

Check-in 4 Charity: UNICEF

At Quest Johnson Orthodontics, we believe in a world where kindness can impact lives and change futures. We are part of the Check-in 4 Charity program where every month, we feature a charity either locally or nationally to support.

All you have to do is check-in with an image or status update on Facebook and a donation is made on your behalf from us. This month were donating to UNICEF.

Braces Friendly Foods for You

If you just received braces any holiday, especially The Super Bowl could be tough, finding which foods you can and can not eat. If you are heading to a Super Bowl watch party try to stay away from these foods and enjoy these Superbowl friendly foods below.

First thing’s first, which foods are off limits? Stay off and avoid these types of foods.

• Hard nuts, candies, hard fruits (like apples and pears)
• Hard vegetables (like carrots and corn on the cob)
• Chips
• Taco shells
• Pizza crust
• Pretzels
• Sticky stuff like taffy, gum and caramels
• Foods high in acidity that could cause discoloration like lemons, limes and sodas.

Superbowl Friendly Foods:

• Burger Sliders
• Mashed Potatoes 
• Guacamole
• Meatballs 
• Smooth potato salad
• Cole slaw
• Soft Tacos
• Ice cream
• Cupcakes
• Cream-pies
• Soft pastries
• Soups
• Pasta