Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Closed for Christmas



Our offices are currently closed for the Christmas holiday!

We will return on Monday, December 28th.

We apologize for any inconvenience this my cause and thank you for understanding.

Happy Holidays!

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

Know Your Orthodontic Options

With the numerous options we now have to choose from in orthodontic treatment, several patients are confused about what types of orthodontic appliances they should get. All orthodontic appliances work similarly in the way they move teeth into proper alignment. But how we apply these forces can vary, as numerous innovations have become available in recent years. Some of the newer, less visible orthodontic appliances have been designed to blend more easily into an adult's personal and professional lifestyle.

Types of orthodontic appliances include:

Lingual Braces — These metal braces are bonded to the back of your teeth (tongue side) so that no one can see them. That is the plus side. On the minus side, they can be more difficult to get used to wearing, and are more expensive than traditional braces.

Clear Aligners — As an alternative to the fixed type of orthodontic appliances mentioned above, clear aligners are removable. They are actually a series of clear plastic “trays” that fit over your teeth exactly. Each tray is part of a series of trays that move your teeth a little bit at a time until they are in the proper position. Your trays are designed with the help of specialized computer software that generates a virtual model of your bite.

Clear Braces — Instead of highly noticeable metal brackets, you can have clear ones made of ceramic, plastic or a combination of both. They are hardly visible, except for the thin wire running through, but they are more susceptible to breakage than metal braces.

Traditional Metal Braces — This is probably what you think of when you picture someone wearing braces: small metal brackets bonded to the front of the teeth. A thin wire runs through the brackets and is attached on either end to metal bands that go around a back molar.

If you are still confused about which treatment option is the best decision for you, please contact Rhode Island Orthodontic Group for a consultation. We will provide you with a computer stimulation of the treatment options available to you during the consultation portion of your appointment, and answer all of those questions.

Friday, December 11, 2015

Oral Rules to Remember


Whatever your goal for 2016 may be, almost all resolutions are typically promises we make to ourselves as an act of self-improvement for the upcoming year.  For Rhode Island Orthodontic Group patients who are vowing to have a bright and healthy smile in 2016, we’ve gathered some basic rules to remember when caring for your smile.

Rule # 1 Do Your Part
It’s important to take exceptionally good care of your teeth throughout orthodontic treatment. You can keep your teeth and gums in the greatest condition by keeping them clean and making the extra effort to take a little more time on your dental hygiene routine. Remember, the best result from your orthodontic treatment is a result of a team effort among your orthodontist and yourself.

Rule #2 Avoid Plaque                 
Have you ever noticed a sticky, colorless film developing on your teeth? That’s called plaque.  Plaque is composed of bacteria, saliva, and food and can form on your teeth or around your braces. This can cause bad breath, cavities, or swollen gums. Also, plaque can leave permanent marks on your teeth, which no one ever wants. Be sure you avoid this by remembering the basics; brush & floss regularly.

Rule #3 Remember the Basics
We’ve all grown up being told to brush and floss after each meal from our parents and family dentists; well orthodontists follow the same rule when it comes to the basics.  Be sure you brush thoroughly after each meal.  Out on the town, or stuck in class? That’s no excuse! Rinse your mouth with water until you can brush. It’s as easy as that.

Many people have the brushing part down, but tend to leave flossing out of the equation. Be sure you floss at least once a day; we recommend every night before bed so you don’t feel rushed. Flossing may seem a little difficult with braces at first, so don’t forget to use a floss threader if needed.  Also, clean carefully along and under the gumlines. The more you floss, the more routine it will become.

Be sure you follow Rhode Island Orthodontics Group staffs directions on hygiene to avoid any future troubles that may arise. Let us know if you have any questions or difficulties at your next appointment, or give us a call at one of our several offices

Friday, December 4, 2015

Smile As You Walk Down The Aisle



With the holiday season in full effect many couples are taking the next step towards marriage, and giving a new meaning to the term merry and bright. There are several things that go into planning a wedding from the venue, to the dress, to the photos and bridal party. As some see weddings as an end to an era, weddings are really a celebration of new opportunities and new beginnings. A lot of people start new goals when they become engaged, starting a new workout regimen, changing hairstyles, or getting the brightest whitest and straightest smile they’ve always wanted. If you want to have your best smile on your big day in 2016, don’t panic about a metal smile or longevity because we have a program that can help you achieve just that.

Invisalign, approved by the FDA in 1998, has been a wonderful non-invasive alternative to classic braces for almost 20 years.  Not only has it changed smiles, but Invisalign has changed the look of classic braces using state-of-the art technology; no cement or metal used. Rhode Island Orthodontic Group utilizes the Invisalign system providing a series of BPA-free plastic trays that realign your teeth. Patients wear these trays for 20-22 hours a day, and two weeks at a time.  They’re easy to remove making it easy for brushing, eating, drinking, and oral care.  As the trays are clear, they appear to be invisible which makes it even better for those who may be self-conscious about getting braces in adulthood.

Patients can start to see results fast with Invisalign, usually within a couple of months after beginning a personalized treatment; and in most cases treatment is completed within 1 year.  This is a great treatment for those of you who are ready to say “I Do” in 2016.  Invisalign can produce results in weeks, and still give you a clear smile while taking engagement pictures and celebrating before you walk down the aisle.   

If you are ready to get your best smile in 2016 for your big day, give us a call and we can set up your first visit to get started.

Monday, November 30, 2015

Reasons To See An Orthodontist


Our orthodontic office is not your regular dental facility as we specialize in treatments that you cannot have done at your regular dentist. We help patients with teeth that are misaligned, have eating difficulties, and also treat patients for cosmetic reasons. Almost all age groups need to visit an orthodontist for one reason or another.

Below we at Rhode Island Orthodontic Group have listed the most common reasons each age group might have to visit an orthodontist.

Children
A lot of pediatricians refer children to orthodontists for a variety of reasons. The first and foremost reason is crooked teeth, leading to 'bad bites' or difficulty in chewing. However the age by which referred to an orthodontist is considered is usually after 7 years as the jaw is still developing and teeth are setting in accordingly.

Another reason is crooked or overlapping teeth, which can cause the child to be bullied in school, and thus lead to a lot of distress. This is when we start to consider what interventions should be taken and at what age.

Adults
Adults up to the age of 60 and sometimes even up to 70 years are treated by orthodontists. Here the presenting complaint may either be chronic misaligned teeth since childhood, or smaller issues like recurring mouth ulcers or gum diseases among others.

The most popular reason for most adults is cosmetic as many people wish for their teeth to be straightened, and the growing gaps to be lessened. Other reasons adults seek orthodontists is due to over-biting due to crowded teeth resulting in oral injuries, gingivitis and miscellaneous issues presented at times of adulthood.


Do you want to know more about getting started at the orthodontist? Make sure you visit us at Rhode Island Orthodontic Group as we have good reviews about our treatments and friendly staff.

Tuesday, November 24, 2015

Tips For Your Teeth On Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with friends and family to show our appreciation of all things we are thankful for. It's a day we focus on the importance of those we care about most, and let's admit it, we're there for the food too!  With only a few days left before we feast, Rhode Island Orthodontic Group wants to give you some teeth tips for Thanksgiving!

Tip #1
Avoid teeth staining foods - Did you know that cranberries and certain types of pies can stain your teeth? Try to limit yourself when eating foods with strong coloring to them.  These same colors will eventually end up on your teeth, so brushing after your meal is important to help avoid unwanted stains on your teeth. 

Tip #2
Drink plenty of water - Nibbling on food all day is a given when you celebrate Thanksgiving. This year, make sure you drink plenty of water between meals to help flush out bacteria that can come when constantly snacking.  Water can help flush out food particles that would otherwise lay stagnant on your teeth. 

Tip #3 
Just say NO to soda - With all the desserts and side dishes you will have to choose from, adding more sugar to the mix with soda is not a good idea.  Soda has sugars that are unkind to your teeth, and for those with braces those sugars can cause decay around your brackets.  We suggest drinking water and milk instead to spare your teeth stains and decay.

Try to keep these steps in mind before you feast this Turkey Day, and you can give thanks for more years of healthy teeth.  


Thursday, October 1, 2015

October Is About Orthodontics

Is it just one of the greatest coincidence that the month children are ecstatic about celebrating Halloween, is the same month over 17,000 orthodontist spread awareness about orthodontic health?


Being that sugary sweet treats are prevalent during Halloween, it gives our orthodontist here at Rhode Island Orthodontist Group a great opportunity to share tips on how to protect your teeth by maintaining great oral health.

Keeping your teeth clean with braces is a lot harder with braces. The best way to ensure a clean and healthy smile is brushing and flossing. Food particles can accumulate on teeth and in braces, and over time, turn into plaque. The bacteria that results from this accumulation can lead to gum disease, tooth decay and even loss of teeth. To avoid these problems while you are in orthodontic treatment, take special care of your braces, teeth and gums to ensure you will have the best possible result.


Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small strip of fluoride toothpaste. When you brush your teeth, move the brush in small, circular motions to reach food particles that may be under your gum line. Hold the toothbrush at an angle and brush slowly and carefully, covering all areas between teeth,
between braces and the surface of each tooth. It will take you several minutes to thoroughly brush your teeth. Brush up on the lower teeth, down on the upper teeth and the outside, inside and chewing surface of your front and back teeth. Brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth before you rinse.

Especially during orthodontic treatment, brush your teeth four times daily to avoid the accumulation of food particles in your teeth and braces:
  • In the morning after breakfast
  • After lunch or right after school
  • After supper
  • At bedtime
If you have any questions about tips for maintaining great oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment, feel free to ask during your next visit! For more information contact a office nearest you click here

Thursday, August 13, 2015

August Is National Picnic Month

August is National Picnic Month, so it’s time to pack up some food, grab those blankets and a meal outside in the fresh air.

rhode island ortho


As summer comes to an end we must take time to enjoy the warm weather and sunny skies with our family and friends. You don’t have to go far, with this it’s cheaper and more enjoyable alternative to dining out. We have 5 things to consider when planning the best end of summer picnic.

Location: The basis of any great picnic starts off with the location. The best thing about a picnic is that they can take place anywhere, just has to be an outdoor setting. A beach, lake, local park or any other outdoor setting. The location sets the tone for your picnic, so be sure to pick the right site for a great time.

Guest: Invite family and friends out for a day of fun. Picnics parties can be as small or large as you please.

When: Pick a date that your local weather person says will be the right temperature for you. Some summer days can be really hot, so make sure the date you pick is good for you and your guest. But remember, "you can plan a pretty picnic but you can't predict the weather."

Seating: Being that you are outdoors you must make the setting comfortable for you and your guest. Depending on your location this could be a blanket, quilt or a beach towel. Table cloths are also an option; some locations may have picnic tables available. You want to have fun in nature, but since there is going to be food involved you don’t want dirt, sand or grass added to your meals.

Food: Depending on your guest you can either go with nice dishes for adults or finger foods for children. But, you can never go wrong with picnic favorites. Favorites include sandwiches, potato salad and fruit salads. You could even bring a portable grill and turn things up on the grill.

The summer season isn’t over just yet so you still have time to plan the perfect summer picnic.

Friday, July 31, 2015

The Advanced Braces Option

Have you heard about clarity braces? Traditional metal braces are becoming a thing of the past. Clear braces are the choice kids and young adults are making today!



The brackets used with Clarity Advanced are designed to blend in with one's natural tooth color. These brackets are resistant to staining and discoloration throughout the treatment process. The durable brackets are created using an injection-molding process and they feature ample under tie-wing space for flexible treatment and ligation.

Here’s a quick break down of Clarity Advanced Braces:

Aesthetics
  • Ultra-small translucent brackets
  • Made of innovative new, ceramic material for an attractive appearance
  • Designed to blend with one's natural tooth color
  • Resist staining and discoloration throughout treatment


Strength
  • Offer trusted strength in a small size and profile
  • Made using fine-grained ceramic material
  • Created through an injection-molding process
  • Ample under tie-wing space for flexible treatment and ligation
  • Deliver on your treatment preferences from innovative materials to remarkable durability

Comfort
  • Patient-focused, dome-shaped design
  • Smooth rounded corners from injection-molding process
  • Small bracket minimizes soft tissue contact
  • Rounded bi-directional ball hook angled for patient comfort

Our offices offers faster, invisible orthodontic treatment options to get you the smile that you deserve up to 50% faster, using AcceleDent and Clarity braces. For more information contact a office nearest you click here

Tuesday, July 14, 2015

Vibrating Toward Faster Treatment

Did you know that there is a faster way to get the smile you have always wanted? It's true you can actually speed up your treatment time by 38 to 50%!

You're not going to believe it when we tell you, but there is new technology designed to decrease the time you are in braces or Invisalign by increasing the rate of your tooth movement and all you have to do is wear a mouthpiece for 20 minutes a day! We know, you don't believe it.

This new technology is called AcceleDent and we are excited to be one of the first practices in Rhode Island to offer this revolutionary new treatment to our patients.

AcceleDent is an easy-to-use, hands-free device that uses gentle micropulses to accelerate bone remodeling and move teeth faster than with just braces or Invisalign alone.
rhode island orthodontics
And the best part is that AcceleDent is both non-invasive and non-surgical! You can continue to do your regular daily activities while wearing AcceleDent including: watching TV, doing homework or even while reading our Blog.

Wearing AcceleDent means that you can get your braces off faster and you'll feel more comfortable during treatment.

Tuesday, June 30, 2015

Firework Fun Throughout Rhode Island



Every year on the 4th day of July we celebrate a great American holiday, Independence Day. The colors of bright red, white and blue have began appear all around town. As a holiday tradition that has been practiced over 200 years, people gather to celebrate and be joyous. A popular 4th of July tradition are fireworks. You can go out and purchases your own fireworks, but many suggest for safety reasons it is better to just leave it to the professionals.

Here's a complied list a fireworks shows going on in Rhode Island: details provided by visitri.com

Baseball and Fireworks at McCoy Stadium - Pawtucket, RI
Jul 2, 2015 - Jul 3, 2015
McCoy Stadium, 1 Columbus Avenue Pawtucket, RI
The region’s beloved AAA team for the Boston Red Sox hosts night home games vs. the Scranton Wilkes-Barre Rail Riders. A gigantic fireworks display follows each game. The “Paw Sox” are well known for giving fans an up-close perspective of America’s favorite sport in a family friendly atmosphere.
Time: Games starts 6:15 p.m.; fireworks follow the game
Telephone: 401-724-7300

Warwick Independence Day Fireworks 2015 - Warwick, RI
Jul 3, 2015 - Jul 3, 2015
Oakland Beach Seawall, Oakland Beach Avenue Warwick, RI
Due to the volume of traffic expected at the seawall, expect heavy delays on Oakland Beach Avenue and seek alternate routes to the seawall area, such as Sea View Drive or Pequot Avenue. The fireworks can also be viewed from City Park, which offers fantastic, unobstructed views of the display along the shoreline. Rain date is July 5
Time: 9-9:40 p.m.
Telephone: 401-738-2000

Block Island Fireworks Show 2015 - New Shoreham (Block Island), RI
Jul 3, 2015 - Jul 3, 2015
Town Beach, 7 Corn Neck Road New Shoreham (Block Island), RI
Kick off the Fourth of July with a bang! The Block Island fireworks display will be launched at the Town Beach Pavilion at sundown (approximately 9 p.m.). Fireworks can be viewed easily from all points on the island.
Time: 9 p.m.

North Providence Fireworks 2015 - North Providence, RI
Jul 3, 2015 - Jul 3, 2015
Governor John A. Notte Jr. Park, off Douglas Avenue (Route 7) North Providence, RI
Food court and live entertainment by Reminisce from 6 to 9 p.m., followed by fireworks. Rain date is July 5.
Time: 6-9 p.m.; Fireworks at 9 p.m.

Newport's Fourth of July Fireworks 2015 - Newport, RI
Jul 4, 2015 - Jul 4, 2015
Newport Harbor Newport, RI
The fireworks show begins after dark, around 9:15 p.m. Prime viewing locations are Newport Harbor, Fort Adams, Kings Park, all along the waterfront, the Deck, on the docks, 41 North, and Sky Bar at The Clarke Cook House. Parking at Fort Adams and the Visitor's Center.
Time: 9:15 p.m.
Telephone: 401-845-5437

July 4th Parade & Steak Fry 2015 on Block Island - Block Island, RI
Jul 4, 2015 - Jul 4, 2015
New Harbor, Ocean Avenue Block Island, RI
If you love the traditions of a simpler time, don’t miss the annual Block Island July 4 parade, starting at 11 a.m. from Veterans Park, just south of Great Salt Pond. Come early and and watch the floats, bands, clowns, and kids marching in formation .
After the parade ends, head over to the Fire Barn on Beach Avenue for the annual Steak Fry benefiting the Block Island Fire Department. From 12:30 to 2, they’ll be serving up an All-American feast of steak, corn on the cob, watermelon and salad.
Time: Parade starts at 11 a.m.; steak fry, 12:30 to 2 p.m.

We hope all of our patients go out and have a great time. Share your fun times with us on Facebook wall!

Tuesday, June 23, 2015

4 Surprising Dental Health Lessons You Can Learn From Your Car

Blog provided by MouthHealthy.org

rhode island ortho group

Getting oil changes, stopping for gas and going through the car wash are the things you do without a second thought to keep your car in tip-top shape. So what are you doing for your teeth? Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to taking care of the things you depend on most. Get the most mileage out of your mouth by using these strategies in your dental care routine.

Watch What Gets In Your Grill
A grill on a car keeps harmful things from getting under the hood. Think of your own grill as a filter system for your entire body. Everybody’s mouth is full of germs—some good, some bad. The bad ones can cause cavities and gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss. Severe gum disease is also associated with other medical problems, like diabetes, heart disease and stroke.

Keep Your Fuel Tank Full
You wouldn’t put just anything in your fuel tank, so be aware of what you're putting in your mouth. Keep your engine running with a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables.

Practice Preventative Maintenance
Your car won’t get very far without fresh oil and proper tire pressure. Your teeth also need regular care. Daily brushing and flossing are the best ways to keep your mouth healthy.

Get a Tune Up
Taking your car in for a tune up can extend the life of your vehicle and catch small repairs before they turn into big fixes. Regular visits to your dentist and good dental habits can prevent many dental diseases and will keep you smiling for years to come.

While under orthodontic treatment it is vital that you maintain great oral hygiene habits. At Rhode Island Orthodontic Group were all about creating beautiful and healthy smiles.

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

Ready, Set, SELFIE!


Every one is taking selfies to show off their smiles and posting them online. But did you know that taking selfies is a great way to show off your personality and confidence?

Taking a selfie is an art form in and of itself. A great selfie is more than just point a click…a great selfie takes skill. But no worries, after practicing these few simple techniques, we just know you’ll be a selfie master in no time at all.

Capture Your Best Angle. Instead of taking the picture head-on turn, your head a little to the right or left or maybe hold your camera a little higher.  Try different angles to show off your best features.

Show Off Something New. If you decide to take a selfie to show off something new, like oh we don’t know, maybe your braces, make sure that you frame the photo in a way that highlights the new accessory that has you so excited.

Have Expression. You can never go wrong with smiling! Play around with different smiles…but know that no matter what, a smile is the best expression you can wear.

Focus on Lighting. A great light source is an essential part of taking any photograph. Natural light is best, so start taking those selfies near a window or outdoors.

Don't Use a Mirror. Just stretch your arm out, point the camera toward your face and click. It may take some practice, but eventually you'll know exactly where to position the camera to make sure you capture your whole face.

No your selfie ready! Upload those selfies to all of your feeds Instagram, Facebook, even share you photos with us.

Wednesday, June 10, 2015

What's a Cavity?

What is a cavity?

rhode island braces The term cavity is used often within dentist offices. It is very likely that you have heard the term used before, but do you know what it actually means?

A cavity develops when a tooth begins to decays. A cavity is a hole that can grow bigger and deeper over time. But why would your tooth develop a hole? This is because of plaque. That's a sticky, slimy substance made up bacteria that causes tooth decay. The bacteria in your mouth make acids and when plaque clings to your teeth, the acids can eat away the enamel of your teeth.

If you have a cavity, it's important to visit your dentist to get it fixed, but more importantly it’s important to avoid getting cavities. Here are 5 tips for providing cavities.

  • Visit your dentist twice a year
  • Brush your teeth twice a day
  • Floss to remove food particles and plaque not captured by brushing
  • Avoid treats loaded with sugar
  • Drink a sufficient amount of water daily

While under orthodontic treatment it is vital that you maintain great oral hygiene habits. At Rhode Island Orthodontic Group were all about creating beautiful and healthy smiles.

Wednesday, June 3, 2015

It's Family Fun Time!

It’s June so you know what that means, summer is upon us. Schools are beginning to go on summer break and the children are now home during the week.  This is the perfect time to plan a family vacation.

Rhode Island

A family vacation should be fun and exciting for everyone. Vacation time is when you and your family can bond and enjoy each other’s company. You may be thinking “how are we going to get this trip together?” well, the best vacations are those that are thoughtfully planned out.

Here are a few tips you can use to plan a memorable family vacation this summer.

Tip 1:
Get together as a family and agree on a place where you would like to travel. You want to make sure this is a trip the entire family will enjoy, so get together just pick a vacation theme before you choose your destination. For example, if the family picks an amusement park themed vacation then you know you don’t have to look at national park destinations. It would be no fun if you got to a location and not everyone was happy.

Tip 2:
Set a date in advance. Although the kids are out of school, mom and dad are still working. Select a date that you know works well with everyone in your family. You want to be sure that everyone is able to make the trip of the year.

Tip 3: 
Set your budget. Set a budget and stick to it, you want to make sure the trip is feasible and won’t put a financial damper on the entire summer. Fun doesn't have to break the bank. There are many affordable vacations for families. For more information on affordable vacation destinations click here.

We hope that all of our patients enjoy their summer to the fullest. Before you go on vacation remember before you go on vacation, summer time is the best time for your child to visit the orthodontist and dentist to check up on their oral health. Schedule your appointment with Rhode Island Orthodontic Group today!

Thursday, May 21, 2015

Let's Celebrate Memorial Day


Memorial Day, an American holiday observed on the last Monday of May, honors men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades. (source: History.com)

At Rhode Island Orthodontics we believe it is important to remember and honor those that have served our country. Being that we have patients throughout the West Bay area we want to let you all know where you can celebrate Memorial Day with us.

Memorial Day parades in Rhode Island:

Barrington
When: May 25, 9 a.m.
Where: Lincoln Avenue to Upland Way, Barrington and Maple aves. and County Road.

East Greenwich
When: May 25, 10 a.m.
Where: Academy Field, 111 Peirce St., over to the World War II memorial on Cliff Street, then down Main Street and ending with a ceremony at the town hall. The Leap Frogs US Navy parachute team will jump onto Academy Field to open the parade.

Glocester
When: May 25, 10 a.m.
Where: Chepachet Free Will Baptist Church, Putnam Pike, and continues down Route 44.

North Kingstown
When: May 25, 10 a.m.
Where:  West Main to Brown and Phillips sts., then over to Tower Hill Road for a Memorial Day ceremony at Elm Grove Cemetery. Don't miss a pre-parade concert by the the Lafayette Band in Updike Park. Parade will be canceled in the event of rain.


North Providence
When: May 25, 1 p.m.
Where: North Providence High School, Mineral Spring Avenue, to Douglas Avenue and Governor John A. Notte Jr. Park, where a festival of food vendors, music and more will take place until 6 p.m.

Scituate
When: May 25, 10 a.m.
Where: Berkander Field on Institute Lane to Main Street, Silk Lane and Greenville Road.

South Kingstown
When: May 25, 10 a.m.
Where: Holly Street to Main Street, ending at Saugatucket Park on High Street.

West Greenwich
When: May 25, 1 p.m.
Where: Coventry line, Route 102, to the town hall, where a memorial service will be held directly following the parade.

Westerly
When: May 25, 9:30 a.m.
Where: Pawcatuck Shopping Center, West Broad Street, Connecticut, to Westerly's High Street and Wilcox Park.

For other Memorial Day events in Rhode Island click here.

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Mother's Day Sweet Treats

rhode island orthodontics

Are you ready for Mother’s Day? One of your Mom’s favorite holidays is only 4 days away! Have you figured out how you’re going to show appreciation for the number 1 lady in your life? Mother’s Day is the when we take time to say “Thank You Mom” in an extra special way. Cards and flowers are just fine, but how about a new way to show Mom you care. Let your mom know she’s the sweetest by serving her a sweet treat. 

Check out these 3 sweet treat recipes for the #1 Mom: (click the dessert name for recipe info)





These desserts will be great for Mom to enjoy after a day of appreciation. We want to wish a Happy Mother’s Day to our patients and parent of patients, we appreciate you all! Let us know how you spent your Mother’s Day, share your photos on our Facebook page!

Tuesday, April 28, 2015

Ceramic Braces, the Clear Choice

Your smile is an important part of who you are and you want to make sure it looks great. Now that you have decided to perfect your smile you must pick an option that is best for you. Yes, there is more than one option. Technology within the dental world continues to advance, and with advancements your options for treatment is expanding.

rhode island bracesCurrent options:

  • Traditional Metal Braces
  • Ceramic Braces
  • Lingual Braces 
  • Invisalign

Which option is the most popular?

We are beginning to see a trend among teens and adults choosing clear ceramic braces.

dr kacewicz

We are seeing clear braces become more and more popular among young adults, and now you can take the clear route at Rhode Island Orthodontic Group with Dr. John S. Kacewicz. Dr. Kacewicz is now offering Clarity Ceramic Brackets. Clarity Ceramic Brackets work like traditional metal braces, but they are better. Ceramic braces blend in with your teeth for a less noticeable look during treatment. “They are the perfect combination of strength and beauty.”


rhode island orthodontic groupBenefits include:

  • Less noticeable than metal braces 
  • Designed to blend into the natural tooth color
  • Resistant to staining and discoloration
  • Brackets are very comfortable
  • Brackets are made of innovative new ceramic materials


Want braces but not feeling the metal look? Going for a discreet look during treatment? Try clear braces! Give Dr. John S. Kacewicz a call at 401-884-6500 to further discuss the clear option.

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

Happy Earth Day!


Earth Day is an annual event celebrated on April 22nd. This day is used to spread environmental awareness and show support for environmental protection. The Earth and its natural resources are important to allowing all living organism, from plants to humans, to thrive in the world. However, the environment isn’t going to protect itself. We must take action to make sure Earth is in a clean and healthy state. Since Earth Day was launched in 1970 we have made process with legal acts being put in place to support environmental safety.

Here are 5  Earth Day Facts (Source: dosomething.org)
  • Earth Day originated in the US but became recognized worldwide by 1990.
  • On Earth Day 2009, Disney released a documentary film called Earth that followed the migration paths of four animal families.
  • Every year on April 22, men, women, and children collect garbage, plant trees, clean up coral reefs, show movies, sign petitions, and plan for a better future for our planet.
  • Some schools and communities celebrate Earth Day for a whole week to expand the time frame that people focus on the earth and how they can preserve it.
  • On Earth Day 2012, more than 100,000 people rode bikes in China to reduce CO2 emissions and save fuel.

Let’s celebrate this Earth Day by "Going Green". Going green simply means implementing certain lifestyle changes designed to help you live in a more eco-friendly way. It means becoming more environmentally aware and changing your behavior and lifestyle to reduce the amount of pollution and waste you generate.

Every little action you take to protect the Earth helps, start today and help save the planet. To learn more about Earth Day visit Earthday.org

Wednesday, April 8, 2015

April is National Facial Protection Month!

National Facial Protection Month focuses on spreading awareness about the importance of protecting children and adults from oral and facial injuries. Many injuries that do occur during sporting activities could have been prevented had the proper protective gear had been worn. An estimated 12 million people between the ages of 5 and 22 years suffer a sport-related injury annually.  A recently published study by the University of Alabama at Birmingham analyzed data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS), a database of injuries treated at hospital emergency departments, for the period 2001-2008. Researchers found the five most common causes of childhood injuries were, in order of frequency, basketball, football, bicycling, playgrounds and soccer.

For our patients we want to remind you that it is important for you to protect your mouth during treatment. For protection you must wear a mouth guard. A mouth guard can help prevent injury to the teeth, mouth and even jaw. Mouth guards are made of flexible material that is fitted to protect your upper and lower teeth. You can buy a stock mouth guard or get a custom guard made. The right fit mouth guard will act as cushions protecting your mouth from hits and preventing serious injury.


To learn more about National Facial Protection Month please visit AAOMS.org

Wednesday, April 1, 2015

Easter Day Fun!



Bunnies and eggs popping up everywhere, well that’s because Easter Day is coming. Easter is this Sunday, April 5th and with the beautiful weather that spring has brought on it is a perfect time to get outside with your family and get involved in Easter themed activities.

Easter Day activities are fun for kids, but can bring joy to the family as a whole. And the great part about these activities is that you can pick up supplies at your local store for a round of DIY fun!

Here are 3 EGG-cellent Do It Yourself activities:

Dying Eggs
Traditionally eggs are off-white, but with beautiful colors blossoming from nature why not add a little life and color to our eggs on this holiday. The main things you need are eggs are food coloring. For detailed instructions on dying eggs click here.



Easter Egg Hunting
The day of Easter is the perfect time to invite family and friends over so kids can enjoy a fun-filled Easter egg hunt. What you’ll need is plastic eggs and mini treats. You’ll need to put the treats inside the plastic eggs, after you fill the eggs it is time to strategically hide the eggs in your yard. Let the kids run wild and find the hidden eggs. To make the hunt more fun you can pick a grand prize for the child who finds the most eggs!



Bunny Crafts
Since Easter is synonymous with bunnies having your kids create bunny crafts can be fun! Here are some ideas for bunny crafts.




Click here for more fun ideas

Share your Easter day fun with us on Social Media:

Post pictures on our Facebook wall
Tag us on Instagram @RIOrtho #RIortho
or Tweets Us @PoserOrtho

Wednesday, March 25, 2015

Develop Good Habits Early

Are you looking to get the kids in your household excited about oral hygiene? Well we have some great tips for you.



Although it is not recommended that children see an Orthodontist until age 7, children should begin a oral health routine by age 3. If your child does need to receive orthodontic treatment when they are older is it best that we are to able to work on healthy teeth and gums.

Here are a few tips:

Listen to fun songs that promote brushing: Kids love a catchy songs, search YouTube for fun songs like "Teach Me How to Brushy".



Play oral health related mobile apps: Mobile gaming applications like "Toothsavers" promote healthy brushing habits as kids work to save a fairy tale kingdom.

DIY Home activities: There are many fun activities that you create with kids to promote habits like flossing. Colgate has a site dedicated to family activities, click here.

Character themed dental products: Oral B has introduced new Frozen themed toothbrushes and toothpaste! This a great way to get kids excited about oral hygiene.

Lead by example: Brush with your child and show them the proper way to brush their teeth for two minutes, two times a day.

For more information on oral hygiene and early treatment visit our site riortho.com 

Wednesday, March 18, 2015

Keep Up With Oral Hygiene While On the Road

It's spring time so we all know what that means... SPRING BREAK


rhode island orthodontics


It's Spring Break season so this means vacation traveling. Even when you are not in the comfort of your own home don’t let your healthy teeth habits fall to the wayside. Having a clean mouth is important. It gives you fresh breath and a nicer-looking smile. Brushing and flossing removes a thin sticky film of bacteria that grows on your teeth. This sticky film, called plaque, is the main cause of tooth decay and gum disease.

The best way to keep your teeth healthy while on the road you must keep a kit with you to make sure everything you need is on hand while under Orthodontic treatment.

Here are some of the items that need to be in your kit:

  • Travel Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Mouthwash
  • Threader floss
  • Rubber bands
  • Mini Mirror

& in case of a dental emergency

  • Dental wax
  • Cold pack
  • Over the counter pain killers



Putting together a mini dental travel kit is the easiest way to support your healthy habits while on the road. Get a small bag that can easily fit in your carrier and fill it with all the items you need. Also, make sure you keep a Rhode Island Orthodontics Group contact card inside your kit just in case you have an emergency and need to contact our office.

Wednesday, March 11, 2015

It's National Frozen Food Month!!!

March is National Frozen Food Month!!!




Pioneers in food preservation and frozen food brands are recognized for their contributions to this revolutionary industry during this month. Charles Birdeye is heavily acknowledge this month as he is credited with inventing frozen foods. Frozen foods include healthy produce, portioned meals and a variety of cuisines and dishes. Freezing is ultimately the best way to preserve foods. Frozen foods make the world of cooking much easier, keeping food safe and fresh.

Frozen Foods Facts (source: easyhomemeals.com)
  • The bestselling frozen food is ice cream.
  • Freezing acts as a natural preservative so many of your favorite foods contain no preservatives.
  • Flash freezing (quickly freezing foods at extremely cold temperatures) was introduced in the 1900s by Clarence Birdeye.
  • Frozen fruits and veggies that are properly packaged can be stored for up to a year!
  • The freezer aisle in most grocery stores comprise of about 3,700 different foods.


Frozen foods can be used to make some of the best meals. From breakfast to dinner, from lunch to snacks, frozen foods help you create meals you and your family love. For frozen meal recipes easyhomemeals.com


Remember, whether cooking for yourself or someone else who is under orthodontic treatment be sure to check out our foods to avoid list to make sure your food wont harm your braces. 

Wednesday, March 4, 2015

National Dentist Day is Coming

March 6th is National Dentist Day! 



This day is used to recognize your dentist and show a little appreciation. Although you've chosen Rhode Island Orthodontic Group to provide your orthodontic care you must visit your dentist every 6 months (twice a year). Your dentist helps you maintain your overall oral health care which includes:

  • Teeth cleaning
  • Removing/ repairing problem teeth
  • and Filling cavities

Here are 10 interesting facts about dentistry:

1) The average human produces 25,000 quarts of saliva in a lifetime. That is enough spit to fill 2 swimming pools!

2) You are should not keep your toothbrush near a toilet. The airborne particles from the flush can travel up to a distance of 6 feet. Yuck!

3) People who drink 3 or more glasses of soda each day have 62% more tooth decay, fillings and tooth loss than others. Put down the pop and sports drinks and pick up some nice fresh water instead.

4) In 1994, a prison inmate in West Virginia braided dental floss into a rope, scaled the wall and escaped. (We suggest that you use floss to clean between your teeth instead of climbing prison walls! If you don’t you are missing around 35% of your teeth’s surfaces.)

5) You should replace your toothbrush at least every three months, and always after you have an episode of flu, cold or other viral infections. Notorious bacteria can implant themselves on the toothbrush bristles leading to re-infection.

6) Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body. However, we do not recommend that you use your pearly whites to open bottle caps!

7) The standard advice to “see your dentist twice a year” was actually invented by an ad agency for Pepsodent toothpaste! Your dental professional should recommend the correct schedule for your regular dental visits.
 A recent poll has shown that health professionals (physicians, dentists and nurses) were among the most trusted people in The United States. The least trusted? Lobbyists and congressmen of course!

9) According to a recent survey done by Time Magazine, 59% of Americans would rather have a dental appointment than be sitting next to someone talking on a cell phone. Maybe some of us should take a hint!

10) Over three out of four people in the United States suffer from some form of gum disease. It is the leading cause of tooth loss in people over age 35. The good news is, in most cases gum disease can be prevented or controlled!

Without regular dental examinations and necessary treatment, it is possible to end up with straight teeth and good bite, but with decayed teeth and unhealthy gums. And who wants that? Be sure to make your scheduled dentist appointments.

Thursday, February 26, 2015

Tips from National Children's Dental Health Month

It’s still February so and you know what that means… IT’S STILL NATIONAL CHILDREN’S DENTAL HEALTH MONTH and dental professional all over the world are promoting health oral hygiene habits for children.

When good habits are developed early on it is more likely that the child will able to look forward to a lifetime of health teeth gums. Here are 5 healthy tips to keep in mind for children’s dental health.

Brush and floss: Brushing and flossing is essential all that all ages, but good habits start early. Your child should be brushing twice a day to remove plaque, bacteria and food particles in their mouth. Also flossing two a day to remove anything left behind after brushing.

Visit the dentist regularly: Visiting the dentist every 6 months, twice a year is important. Even if your child is under orthodontic treatment and make all scheduled appointments with our Doctors here at Rhode Island Orthodontic Group and be sure that you are visiting the dentist they check for your cavities and make sure teeth are healthy.

Drink water: Make sure that your children's drinking water is fluoridated, fluoride is a natural mineral found in water and Earth's crust. Helps prevent cavities by hardening the enamel.

Eat well balanced meals: Eat a well-balanced diet that limits starchy or sugary foods, which produce plaque acids that cause tooth decay.

Early intervention: The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.

At Rhode Island Orthodontic Group we are constantly promoting healthy teeth and habits for all of our patients, especially our younger patients. We strive to provide the best care for your child and help create good habits. Please visit ADA.org National Children’s Dental Health Month For more information.

Thursday, February 19, 2015

3 Benefits of Braces Besides Straightening Teeth


When seeking orthodontic care the goal is to achieve a beautifully aligned smile and here at Rhode Island Orthodontic Group we work hard to help you get the smile you deserve. On the other hand, what many people don’t realize is that there are benefits with braces beyond having straight teeth. By having braces you’ll receive oral health benefits along with cosmetic change.

3 Benefits of Braces Besides Straightening Teeth

TMJ Prevention: TMJ (Temporomanibular Joint) can be prevented by receiving braces as orthodontic treatment. TMJ can occur from stress on the jaw joint in people that have an incorrect bit pattern or misalignment of the bite. Teeth that have been aligned by braces also have a better bite pattern and this helps with chewing.

Tooth Decay and Gum Disease: Having braces can correct the position of teeth helping prevent tooth decay and gum disease. When teeth are overlapping or crooked it can be hard to reach certain areas, which can lead food and bacteria build up. With braces, as your teeth become more aligned it is then easier to brush and floss effectively.

Speech Impediments: Did you know that your teeth can affect the way you speak? There are certain malocclusions that cause speech problems. When teeth are in the incorrect position speaking patterns are affected. When braces correct your alignment you speech can be corrected as well.

If you have any questions regarding braces as orthodontic treatment feel free to contact us today. We believe that good orthodontic care begins with open communication. We promise to speak candidly with you about our diagnosis and recommendations, any alternative treatments, and any symptoms present that may require further treatment. Working together, we can achieve a true partnership, with one common goal – helping you achieve a beautiful, confident smile!