Tongue Piercing...Not The Best For Teeth!!

Tongue piercing can result in serious injury not just to teeth but has also been associated with hemorrhage, infection chipped and fractured teeth, and trauma to the gums.

The University at Buffalo performed a study and revealed that the presence of a barbell implant/stud caused damage to the teeth. The study subjects pushed the metal stud up against and between their upper front teeth. This habit is often referred to as "playing."

The repeated "playing" with the stud may result in a gap between the two front teeth. The barbell is never removed because the tongue is extremely vascular, and when left out can result in healing of the opening in the tongue. This constant pushing of the stud against the teeth, all day every day will move the teeth apart.

The best way to protect your health, your teeth and your money is to avoid tongue piercing completely.

*Courtesy of The University at Buffalo, School of Dental Medicine

October is National Orthodontic Health Month

Make it a Safe Halloween for your Teeth

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) offers these tips to keep teeth safe from decay, and protect braces, clear aligners and other orthodontic "appliances" during the Halloween season...

• Avoid sticky situations with your braces. Stay away from hard, sticky, crunchy or chewy candy and snacks. These include hard or chewy candies, caramel, licorice, taffy, bubblegum, and jelly beans. Nuts, taco chips and popcorn can cause problems with your appliances too!
• There are great alternatives which include; Soft chocolates, peanut butter cups or other melt-in-your-mouth varieties.
• If you consume sweets, do so in moderation. Avoid the temptation to grab another handful from the bowl filled with treats. Parents should monitor children by setting a specific time where eating candy is allowed. Once the time is over, no more candy for the day.
• Brushing and flossing are more important than ever during the Halloween season, when teeth may receive more exposure to sweets that can cause cavities. Orthodontic patients should be especially conscientious about brushing and flossing after consuming sugary or starchy foods.

*Courtesy of the American Association of Orthodontists

Dr. Dale Kates, Kates Orthodontics

Kalahari!

If you are a patient at Kates Orthodontics, make sure you enter your name into our drawing:

Dr. Kates' Family of Four Kalahari Give Away!
You must enter to win!
Drawing to take place July 31, 2010

Discomfort from Braces

Q: My braces hurt. What should I do?

Susie G. - Chagrin Falls

A: Check for sharp edges, use wax, make an appointment. Pain from braces should be taken very seriously.

Unviversal Sisters

Please join us at the Seventh Annual Universal Sisters Convention!

Saturday, August 14, 2010
8:30 am - 4:30pm
InterContinental Hotel
9801 Carnegie Avenue
Cleveland, Ohio 44106

Free parking
Cleveland Clinic's garage at E. 100th St and Carnegie Ave
(connected to the InterContinental Hotel via skyway).

Tickets are on sale now!
$30 paid in advance - no ticket sales at the door.
You may purchase tickets online @ clevelandclinic.org/universalsisters or call 888.410.0904.
Space is limited.

Sport Safety

The American Association of Orthodontists and football great Emmitt Smith are encouraging kids to "Play It Safe" during organized and recreational sports.

Young athletes can protect their face and smile while playing with the following tips from the AAO:

• Wear a mouth guard. Mouth guards can help prevent jaw, mouth and teeth injuries caused by a collision or fall. For athletes with braces, discuss with your orthodontist the best type of mouth guard for your sport.
• Wear a helmet. Helmets absorb the energy of an impact, and should be worn for activities like biking, skateboarding, and in-line skating. Visit the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety website to learn helmet laws in your state.
• Wear protective eye wear. Eyes are extremely vulnerable to injury during sports like soccer, baseball and hockey.
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin. Hockey pucks, basketballs and racquetballs can do severe damage.

*Courtesy of the American Association of Orthodontists