Happy New Year!

May the holidays find you surrounded by those you love, filled with a lot of fun and cheer, and the New Year bring happiness, health, and prosperity.

We Wish You A Merry Christmas

Take some time this holiday season to be appreciative of those who work when they should be with family and friends, those who are away from those they love, and those who sacrifice for our needs. Merry Christmas to all!

Types of Braces

All orthodontic appliances work essentially the same way: by employing light, constant force to 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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

NEW RECIPE: Hot chocolate Cookies

There’s nothing better than curling up on the couch on a chilly day with a mug of hot chocolate that’s filled with soft marshmallows...unless it's with Hot Chocolate Cookies! Get the recipe below and enjoy! Happy Holidays from Rhode Island Orthodontic Group. 

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• one 12-ounce bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 1/4 cups light brown sugar, packed
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup unsweetened natural cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• about 8 ounces dark chocolate, diced into 1/2-inch pieces (I used a Trader Joe's Pound Plus Dark Chocolate Bar)
• about 12 large marshmallows, cut in half

DIRECTIONS:

1. To a medium, microwave-safe bowl, add the butter, chocolate chips, and heat on high power to melt for 1 minute. Stop to check and stir. Heat in 15-second bursts, stopping to stir after each burst, until chocolate has melted and can be stirred smooth (You'll likely only need 1 or 2 bursts). Alternatively, melt the chocolate chips and butter in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until just melted. Allow melted chocolate mixture to stand for 5 minutes to cool slightly.
2. To a separate large bowl, add the brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Beat with a handheld electric mixer on medium speed just until blended, about 1 minute.
3. Add the cooled chocolate mixture and beat on medium speed until just until combined, about 1 minute. Stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl.
4. Add the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Beat on low speed just until combined, about 1 minute. Stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours, or until dough has firmed up significantly. If you accidentally over-chill it and it becomes too firm, allow bowl to rest on counter until you can scoop it.
5. Preheat oven to 325F. Line a baking sheet with cooking spray. Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop form dough mounds and place them on the baking sheet, spaced at least 2 inches apart (I bake 8 cookies per sheet). Flatten slightly and bake for 10 minutes, or until edges and tops have just set, even if slightly under cooked and glossy in the center.
6. Remove baking sheet from oven, add 1 piece of dark chocolate to the center of each cookie, pushing down very slightly just so it breaks the surface and sinks down.
7. Place one marshmallow half on the top of each piece of chocolate on all the cookies, pushing down very slightly so the marshmallow adheres.
8. Return baking sheet to oven and bake for about 5 minutes, or just until marshmallows have puffed; don't let them brown and don't over bake. Cookies firm up as they cool. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for about 10 minutes before serving. I let them cool on the baking sheet and don't use a rack.
9. Cookies will keep airtight at room temperature for up to 1 week. Alternatively, unbaked cookie dough can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or in the freezer for up to 4 months, so consider baking only as many cookies as desired and save the remaining dough to be baked in the future when desired.

Dentist Vs. Orthodontist

“They both deal with teeth aren’t they the same thing basically?”…. the answer is NO!

While they both work to keep your mouth nice and healthy, they both specialize in different things. Your dentist helps you keep your teeth clean, checking for cavities, tooth decay and gum disease. On the other hand your orthodontist focuses on development of the face, teeth and jaws which is done by orthodontic appliances; ie braces.

Photo Provided by Femside.com

Here’s the breakdown:

A dentist helps you maintain your overall oral health care which includes,

• Check-up every 6-month
• Removing/ repairing problem teeth
• Filling cavities
• & teeth whitening

Photo Provided By Wikipedia.com

An orthodontist helps with issues such as overbites, underbites, gaps and crowded teeth and determines a treatment that fits your case which is usually fixed by

• Braces
• Wires
• Retainers
• & other appliances

While you visit our orthodontics office to help maintain your braces, you still need to visit the dentist. You’re working hard to get that perfect smile and need to work just as hard to make sure your teeth and gums are healthy. You can still get cavities while having braces so in addition to brushing and flossing, remember to visit the dentist two times a year to keep good oral health. 

Happy Thanksgiving!

There is always something to be thankful for, and at Rhode Island Orthodontic Group we are thankful for you! Thank you to our wonderful patients for letting us work on those amazing smiles!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Invisalign | For A Wide Range Of Smiles

The Invisalign system has been successful in giving hundreds of thousands of amazing smiles to both teens and adults. The Doctors of Rhode Island Orthodontic Group will create your individual treatment plan using Invisalign´s clear, custom-molded aligners to solve a range of issues, including: Overly crowded teeth, Widely spaced teeth, Overbites, Underbites, and Crossbites.

Not everyone is a candidate for the Invisalign aligner system. Please contact our office to schedule a consultation with Rhode Island Orthodontics to see if the Invisalign system is right for you.

Invisalign is effective for a wide range of smiles.

National Sundae Day! NEW RECIPE

Every year, on the 11th of November ice cream lovers celebrate one of the most popular desserts, an ice cream sundae! Ice cream sundaes come in all flavors, shapes, and sizes, but there are always at least 4 ingredients that make the dessert an official sundae: ice cream, flavored sauce, whipped cream, and a cherry on top!

Are you an ice cream sundae lover looking for a new recipe? Well, look no further! We found a delicious mouth-watering recipe sure to satisfy any ice cream sundae appetite.

Try the Banana Split Sundae

HOW TO MAKE THIS SUNDAE: Doesn’t this look a-peel-ing? Create layers with vanilla-chocolate ice cream, fudge sauce, sprinkles, and thinly sliced bananas. Top with tons of whipped cream, more sprinkles and fudge, and a cherry.

Have a FaBOOlous Halloween

Wishing our community a Happy & Safe Halloween today! #RIOrtho

What Not To Eat With Braces

You can use common sense when determining what not to eat with braces. Hard, sticky, and sugary foods are types of foods you want to avoid. Hard foods can break brackets and wires, sticky foods can get caught inside your braces, and sugary foods react with bacteria in your mouth to create enamel-rotting acid.

In honor of National Orthodontic Health Month, we at Rhode Island Orthodontic have compiled a list with some examples of foods you should definitely avoid while you have braces.

Examples of Sticky Foods to Avoid:

• Gum (sugar-free or regular)
• Licorice
• Sugar Daddies
• Toffee
• Tootsie Rolls
• Caramels
• Starburst

Examples of Hard Foods to Avoid:

• Ice
• Nuts
• Hard taco shells
• French bread crust/rolls
• Corn on the cob
• Apples and carrots (unless cut into small pieces)
• Bagels
• Chips
• Jolly Ranchers
• Pizza crust
• Uncooked carrots (unless cut)

Minimize Sugary Foods like:

• Cake
• Ice Cream
• Cookies
• Pie
• Candy

Only Once a Day:

• Soda
• Sweetened tea
• Gatorade
• Kool-Aid
•  Drinks with sugar

Try This Braces Friendly Mummy Pizza Recipe

Fun name, fabulous flavor! Enjoy your favorite pizza toppings, all wrapped up in delectable puff pastry. Also, it's braces friendly!

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 package (17.3 ounces) Pepperidge Farm® Puff Pastry Sheets, thawed
• 6 tablespoons Prego® Traditional Italian Sauce
• 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 18 slices pepperoni
• 12 slices pitted ripe black olives

DIRECTIONS:

• Heat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Beat the egg and water in a small bowl with a fork.
• Sprinkle the flour on the work surface. Unfold 1 pastry sheet on the work surface. Cut the pastry sheet into 3 rectangles along the fold lines. Cut the pastry rectangles in half crosswise, making 6 (about 3x5-inch) rectangles. Place the pastry rectangles onto the baking sheet.
• Spread about 1 tablespoon sauce on each pastry to the edge. Top each with about 2 tablespoons cheese and 3 slices pepperoni.
• Unfold the remaining pastry sheet on the work surface. Cut the pastry sheet into 3 rectangles along the fold lines. Cut each pastry rectangle crosswise into 12 (about 3/4-inch wide) strips, making 36 in all.
• Arrange 6 pastry strips on each pastry, placing them slightly askew over the filling to resemble a mummy's bandages. Brush with the egg mixture. Place 2 olive slices on eachpastry for the eyes.
• Bake for 20 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown. Let the pastries cool on the baking sheet on a wire rack for 10 minutes.

More On National Orthodontic Health Month

There are so many things that come in October. From the obvious Halloween, to Breast Cancer Awareness, National Pizza Month, and National Orthodontic Health Month, there is a lot to recognize. Being that we are orthodontists, we'll be covering some details on National Orthodontic Health Month and what it entails.

National Orthodontic Health Month was organized to help raise awareness about taking care of your teeth beyond your general dentist, as well as emphasizing the importance of taking care of your teeth properly when being treated for braces. If you have any questions regarding orthodontics that you have yet to find answers for, we are here for you! This is a great time to get your questions answered by the Rhode Island Orthodontics team of professionals. Also, if you have never been to an orthodontist before, now would be a great time to have an orthodontic evaluation exam. Children age 7 and up are encouraged to do so, as well as adults.

Minor Problems Can Be a Big Pain

Orthodontic treatment can take some getting use to.You now have an appliance fixed into your mouth you have to worry about. It it common to experience minor discomfort which can be relived by over the counter pain relievers, eating soft food or rinsing with warm salt water. However, there are rare cases of actual orthodontic emergencies. Here are a few common orthodontic problems, along with some tips on what you can do to relieve them at home we here at Rhode Island Orthodontic Group want to share with you.

via aaoinfo.org

Food Caught Between Teeth


This is not an emergency, but can be a little uncomfortable or embarrassing for the braces-wearing
student. It is easily fixed with a piece of dental floss. Try tying a small knot in the middle of the floss to help remove the food. Or use an interproximal brush or toothpick to dislodge food caught between teeth and braces.

Ligatures Come Off


If a rubber ligature should come off, you may be able to put it back in place using sterile tweezers. If a
wire ligature comes loose, simply remove it with sterile tweezers. If the wire ligature is sticking out into the lip but is not loose, it may be bent back down with a Q-tip or pencil eraser to eliminate the irritation. Of course, when one ligature pops off or breaks, others may follow. Be sure to examine all ligatures before sending the student back to class. Missing or broken ligatures should be brought to the attention of the student’s parents, who should then inform the orthodontist.

Irritation in Mouth

Sometimes new braces can be irritating to the mouth, especially when the patient is eating. A small amount of non-medicinal relief wax makes an excellent buffer between metal and mouth. Simply pinch off a small piece and roll it into a ball the size of a small pea. Flatten the ball and place it completely over the area of the braces causing irritation. The patient may then eat lunch more comfortably. Let the student know that if the wax is accidentally ingested it’s not a problem. The wax is harmless.

Protruding Wire

Occasionally the end of a wire will work itself out of place and irritate the patient’s mouth. Use a Q-tip or pencil eraser to push the wire so that it is flat against the tooth. If the wire cannot be moved into a comfortable position, cover it with relief wax. (See Irritation of Cheeks or Lips above for instructions on applying relief wax.) The patient’s parents will need to make the orthodontist aware of the problem.

Loose or broken brackets, bands or wires

If the band or bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it as is — but don't connect any elastics to it! You can cover it with orthodontic wax if it's irritating the inside of your mouth. If it has come off, save it. In either case, call our office to let us know what happened, and we will schedule a visit. Be sure to bring any loose parts with you to the appointment!


Fortunately, the vast majority of orthodontic problems are minor compared to these situations — but they may still cause discomfort or irritation. In general, it's best to try and soothe the immediate cause of the discomfort, and then call our office to schedule an appointment.

How Does Two-Phase Orthodontics Work?

Are you aware of two-phased orthodontics? If not, don’t worry you’re not alone. Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized process that involves facial and jaw changes along with straightening teeth. This process allows Rhode Island Orthodontics to create a healthy functional smile with results that remain stable after treatment. One benefit of two-phase orthodontics in certain cases, it can prevent adult tooth extractions or major jaw surgery.

How does it work?

Two-phase orthodontics starts with interceptive orthodontic care. This is a process where Rhode Island Orthodontics intercepts an oral problem before it continues to get our of control. Typically, treatment starts with younger children in order to manipulate teeth and growth before it’s too late. The best age for this is between 7 and 10-year-old. With interceptive orthodontics, treatment is about 4 to 12 months with monitoring of the child after that to discuss is possible second phase treatment.

Once a majority of the adult teeth have erupted, the second phase can begin. The average treatment time of the second phase is about 12 months of braces on the teeth. Retainers are worn after treatment to hold the correct position of the teeth.

If you are interested in learning more about Two-Phase Orthodontics, contact Rhode Island Orthodontics to discuss it more. We love answering questions and providing a solid foundation of information to those who are interested in treatment for their children or themselves.

Maintaining Your Retainer

To stay fresh and germ-free, all retainers need proper cleaning. A Hawley-type retainer can be brushed gently with a regular toothbrush — but a brush may scratch the clear aligner types. Denture cleaners, in powder or tablet form, as well as special retainer cleaners, can be used to clean most removable retainers. Fixed retainers are cleaned by brushing and flossing; a floss threader or interproximal brush can also be a helpful cleaning tool when needed.

Finally, remember to always carry — and use — a retainer case. You'd be surprised how many retainers end up folded in a napkin and accidentally discarded! Also, don't expose your retainer to excess heat by washing it in very hot water or leaving it on a heater: That can cause the retainer to warp and make it unusable. With proper care and conscientious use, a retainer can help you transition from braces to a permanent, healthy smile.

For  more questions or concerns about maintaining your retainer, visit our website or give Rhode Island Orthodontics a call.

Benefits of Braces for Teens

The teenage years are often the best time to have orthodontic treatment.The ages of 12 and 15 are the optimal years to receive treatment as the adult teeth have erupted but facial growth is still occurring. At Rhode Island Orthodontic Group, we strive to keep treatment times as quick as possible while still ensuring amazing results. In general, treatment times are between 12 and 24 months.

Having braces in your teens has a variety of benefits including:

• Growth is ongoing and generally helpful to orthodontic treatment 
• Friends and classmates are often also in braces 
• A confident smile increases self-esteem at a sensitive age 
• Provides a lifelong beautiful smile throughout adult years (with use of retainers) 

If you would like to learn more about orthodontic treatment for teens at Rhode Island Orthodontic Group, visit our website or call us at one of our offices in East Greenwich, Warwick,Wickford, Wakefield, Coventry, Barrington and Westerly, Rhode Island.

#RIOrtho Q & A

What causes orthodontic problems, and how will early prevention benefit my child?

Orthodontic problems such as crowding of the teeth, too much space between the teeth, jaw growth problems, protruding teeth, and bad bites can be inherited or caused by injury to the mouth, early or late loss of baby teeth, or thumb sucking habits.

Most children have lost all their baby teeth by age 13 and by the end of their teen years the jaw bones will harden and no longer continue to grow. Orthodontic procedures for adults often take more time and can involve tooth extraction and the possibility of oral surgery. As a child, receiving early orthodontic treatment can help prevent the need for orthodontics as an adult, leaving little to no chance of extraction or surgery in the future.

If your child is between the ages of seven and eight and shows signs of needing orthodontic care, or if you have been directed by your family dentist to visit the orthodontist, please contact Rhode Island Orthodontic Group and schedule an appointment. Our team will provide your child with an initial exam, and discuss with you the best steps to take toward caring for your child’s smile.

We Use State of the Art Technology

Rhode Island Orthodontic Group understands that crafting a great smile takes time, but with today’s technology we can deliver results faster to our patients by using cutting edge tools such as a digital scanner that allows us to capture digital images of your teeth and bite rather than using uncomfortable, unpleasant-tasting, messy and sometimes inaccurate impressions.Not only does this new technology tool help us get your results faster, but they also make treatment easier on you as a patient.

It’s time to say goodbye to those messy molds associated with beginning orthodontic treatment, and say hello to our digital scanners. Our digital scanning technology allow us to provide a more comfortable procedure while treating patients for orthodontics. We can capture an extremely accurate digital impression of teeth within minutes with the scanners, and print orthodontic appliance parts as we need them.

Another awesome fact about the 3D technology is we can use them with all Invisalign related services.

Orthodontics is a life-changing experience, and we appreciate the opportunity to share in the experience with you as you enhance your smile! The doctors and staff at Rhode Island Orthodontic Group look forward to seeing you soon!

Make S'mores on a Stick for National S'mores Day

Did you know today is National S'mores Day? If you're not familiar with this delicious treat, traditionally s'mores is a popular dessert amongst campers. Typically, you camp, sit around a fire, and toast marshmallows that you use to create a gooey scrumptious sandwich combined with chocolate bars and graham crackers.

If you want to celebrate National S'mores Day today, we encourage you to do so! Want to try something different? Add some flare to your s'mores! Try out this new s'more recipe and let us know what you think!

S'mores on a Stick Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk, divided
• 1 cup miniature marshmallows
• 1-1/2 cups miniature semisweet chocolate chips, divided
• 24 whole graham crackers, broken in half
• Assorted sprinkles
• 24 Popsicle sticks

Directions

1. In a small microwave-safe bowl, microwave 2/3 cup milk on high for 1-1/2 minutes. Add marshmallows and 1 cup chips; stir until smooth. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto 24 graham cracker halves; spread evenly. Top with remaining graham cracker halves; press down gently.
2. Microwave remaining milk for 1-1/2 minutes. Add remaining chips; stir until smooth. Drizzle over cookies; decorate with sprinkles. Let stand for 2 hours before inserting a Popsicle stick into the center of each. Yield: 2 dozen.

DIY Banana Split Pudding Pops

Enjoy the rest of the summer with this tasty homemade snack that's sure to be a hit at any age. You probably have all the ingredients you need already! Skip store-bought popsicles and opt for a DIY version with this delicious BRACES FRIENDLY Banana Split Pudding Pops!

INGREDIENTS

• 1 banana
• 2 tbsp pineapple juice
• 1 cup chopped strawberries
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 tbsp thick chocolate fudge sauce
• 1 box instant vanilla pudding mix (4 serving size)
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup frozen whipped topping, thawed

INSTRUCTIONS

• Prepare your fruit. In a medium bowl, mash together the banana and pineapple juice.
• Stir together your strawberries and sugar and let sit 5 minutes. Puree, and then strain into a second medium bowl.
• In a third medium bowl, add the chocolate fudge sauce.
• In a large bowl, combine the vanilla pudding mix and milk and stir only until combined (don’t mix too long or the pudding will thicken too quickly!). Quickly stir in whipped topping.
• Divide pudding mixture between the 3 bowls and stir to combine (try not to stir too much or the pudding will become thick and harder to pour).
• Divide strawberry pudding mixture between 6-8 popsicle moulds. Divide banana pudding mixture between the popsicle moulds, pouring on top of the strawberry pudding. Divide chocolate pudding mixture between the moulds, pouring on top of the banana pudding. Freeze 6-8 hours until firm. To unmould, run briefly under luke warm water.

We are Rhode Island's TOP ORTHODONTISTS

We're happy to inform you that all 4 of our Rhode Island Orthodontics doctors were named winners of Rhode Island Monthly's Top Dentists - in the category of Orthodontics!

Here's what Rhode Island Monthly had to say about how the doctors were nominated and determined to be the TOP DENTISTS (orthodontists) in Rhode Island.

"Professional Research Services contacted more than 1,000 licensed general dentists and dental specialists in Rhode Island and nearby Connecticut and Massachusetts. PRS asked which dentists they would recommend across Rhode Island and outlying areas. Each dentist recommended up to three colleagues in each specialty. Once the ballots were complete, each nominee was evaluated based on the survey results, the legitimacy of their license and their current standing with the Rhode Island Department of Health. Dentists who received the highest number of votes in each specialty are reflected in alphabetical order by specialty. Some dentists have more than one location. Call their office for additional information." - Rhode Island Monthly Website Excerpt

Braces & Facial Piercings...What You Need To Know

Facial piercings in lips, tongue and cheeks have become popular forms of self-expression however we strongly advise you to think carefully about the oral health risks associated, especially if you are considering orthodontic treatment.

Lip rings rub against your teeth and scratch the surface, over time they may even wear a groove in them. For patients with braces, there is a chance that oral piercing jewellery can catch on the brackets causing discomfort or damage to the orthodontic appliances, which could lengthen your treatment time.

Other problems associated with oral piercing jewellery include increased risk of infection from touching them or getting food caught around the piercing site, tooth sensitivity, gum damage and gum recession.

If you have oral piercings and you are considering orthodontic treatment, it is advisable to take the opportunity to remove the jewellery and allow the piercing site to heal over. If you are investing time and money in improving your smile, it is equally important to invest in the health of your teeth and gums.

Look Good, Feel Good

Did you know braces aren’t just for straightening teeth? Most people don’t know this, but braces can actually improve the shape and structure of your entire face. This can take years off of your appearance and is a great alternative to cosmetic surgery. A lot of adults are starting to utilize orthodontics for altering their facial structure, or simply to help reduce wrinkles, as it is less invasive and more affordable.

Facial tissues and bone structures determine the shape of our faces, this includes your teeth. As the facial tissue loses elasticity throughout the years, and teeth sink in towards the tongue naturally, orthodontic treatment can help reverse these natural gravity changes. When teeth start to lean in, orthodontists can use braces to help correct alignment and provide support for the lips. Ultimately, this can eliminate the fine lines around the mouth, depending on the treatment.

Obviously, the more orthodontic treatment you have done, the more visible and dramatic effect your appearance will have. Simple, regular procedures such as straightening a few teeth will not result in the same effect as those who have more extensive work done. Basic treatments, too, can greatly impact your appearance. Whitening and rebuilding worn teeth can give you a big leap in your overall appearance and are less drastic.

Remember, when you feel good you smile more, and when you smile more you look younger. #RiOrtho

Providing the Best Service to the Best Patients

Did you know that not every Invisalign provider is the same? All dentists and orthodontists who offer this revolutionary treatment are trained by the makers of Invisalign to become a certified provider. However, there are different doctor designations based on overall experience and success with treating patients using the clear teeth aligners.

Rhode Island Orthodontics is excited to announce we have received the Top 1% Provider designation for Invisalign! Our expertise in treating greater difficulty level cases and the extensive experience working with the Invisalign system to produce amazing smiles truly sets us apart. To reach the Top 1% designation, orthodontists must treat 800-lifetime cases and continue to perform 200 cases a year.

What This Means for You
If you are considering Invisalign to achieve the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted, you want the orthodontist with the most experience. Rhode Island Orthodontics is in the top 1% of ALL Invisalign providers in North America. 

The top 1% of Invisalign providers offer:

• A proven track record of successfully treating patients of all ages.
• Rhode Island Orthodontics has been treating people with Invisalign for several years.
• An Invisalign provider patients can trust.
• Knowledge and experience to create healthier, straighter smiles.
• The highest level of Invisalign case experience.

We are so pleased that our doctors have achieved the highest level of experience with the Invisalign system. Call for your consultation today (401) 884-650.

Orthodontics Is Great For Your Dental Health

Orthodontics can help children, teens, and adults of all ages look better throughout their lifetime. Adults today are much more aware than in the past of the importance of creating and maintaining a beautiful smile.

With longer life expectancy, a healthy, beautiful smile is as important at age 70 as it is at age 16. Rhode Island Orthodontics specializes with the education, experience and expertise to help patients of all ages attain properly aligned teeth and jaws for a lifetime of dental health.

Today’s orthodontic treatment options are not as noticeable and treatment time is much less than in the past. Traditional braces are small and sleek, whether metal or a tooth-colored ceramic. Some braces are not braces at all, but are clear, removable “aligners,” called Invisalign. They are used to nudge teeth toward their ideal positions for a younger look.

Whether you are self-conscious about wearing braces or not. Our team at Rhode Island Orthodontics will guide you through the process and help you reach your goal of a beautiful, healthy, and radiant smile to last a lifetime.

Tips To Prevent White Spot Lesions

As you may have discovered, braces can make it extra-challenging to keep your teeth really clean, because the brackets and wires may get in the way of your brush and floss. That’s why Rhode Island Orthodontics always stresses how important it is to make the extra effort. While you’re wearing braces, there are several things that can be done to prevent white spots. First, keep up a high level of oral hygiene. In addition to normal brushing and flossing, there are special brushes that can be used to clean around orthodontic brackets and wires, and floss threaders to help you work with dental floss. You can also try using a “water flosser” to flush material from between teeth and beneath the gums. This works by pulsating water at high pressure through a handheld device that looks something like a power toothbrush.

There are also some professional therapies that may help if you are at high risk for developing white spot lesions. These include at-home use of prescription fluoride toothpastes or rinses, or in-office application of fluoride gels, sealants or varnishes. While these methods can produce improvement, the effectiveness of particular treatments is still being studied.

There’s yet another way to keep white spots from forming, and even potentially reverse their damage: Keep the environment of your mouth healthy! It’s well known that acidic and/or sugary foods and beverages cause demineralization and erode tooth surface enamel. If you choose to consume these products at all, it’s essential to limit them to mealtimes and avoid between-meal snacking. That gives your saliva — nature’s own acid neutralizer — enough time to do its work. You can help here, too: Keep your mouth moist by drinking plenty of water, and by avoiding tobacco, alcohol and caffeine. If your mouth does get dry, try mints that contain xylitol; these promote salivation, and can help reduce the risk of tooth decay.

Did You Know...We're a Top 1% Invisalign Provider

Rhode Island Orthodontics is a top 1% Invisalign Provider, meaning that we are in the top 1% in the area for providing Invisalign treatment.
Not only is Invisalign aligners virtually invisible, they are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment. Plus, brushing and flossing are no problem. They are also more comfortable than traditional braces, with no metal or wires, which also usually means you spend less time in your doctor's office getting adjustments. Invisalign treatment also allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan when you start so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.

How does it work?
You wear each set of aligners for about two weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. As you replace each aligner with the next in the series, your teeth will move — little by little, week by week — until they have straightened to their final positions. You'll visit us about once every six weeks to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned. Total treatment time averages nine to 15 months and the average number of aligners worn during treatment is between 18 and 30, but both will vary from case to case.

For more information on Invisalign, you can visit the Rhode Island Orthodontics website and click the Invisalign tab.

The Reality of Retainers

Our goal at Rhode Island Orthodontics is to help your smile stay beautiful and healthy for a lifetime. Your cooperation is essential in order to achieve this goal.

Here Are A Few Things To Remember During The Years Of Retainer Wear

1. Wear your retainers as prescribed by Rhode Island Orthodontics.

2. The safest place for your retainer is in your mouth. When retainers are not in your mouth, ALWAYS keep them in your retainer case.

3. Do not wrap retainers in a paper towel or napkin, this is the easiest way to lose them.

4. Do not place loose retainers in your pocket, this is the easiest way to break them.

5. Keep retainers away from pets — dogs LOVE them.

6. Clean your retainers by brushing them with toothpaste and water or with antibacterial soap. NEVER soak your retainers, this causes them to rust and/or break. Be sure to brush your teeth without your retainers in. Do not boil your retainer or put it in hot water.

7. Do not place retainers in the dishwasher, microwave or in boiling water — they will melt or warp.

8. Your lower retainer may be a fixed retainer bonded onto your teeth. It is not considered permanent and can be broken or detached from your teeth, if you are not careful with it.
9. Bring your retainers to your check-up appointment. If anything happens to your retainers (i.e. it doesn't fit, it's broken, or it's lost) please call us ASAP. If your lower bonded retainer wire comes out, keep it and bring it in at your next appointment for rebonding.

10. The first set of retainers is included in your treatment fee. Any repair, replacement of your retainer, or rebonding of your lower retainer will be additional and charged to your account.

The benefits of orthodontic treatment will last a lifetime if you keep these important patient responsibilities in mind. If you have any further questions regarding retention contact Rhode Island Orthodontics at your earliest convenience.

Finances Should Never Be An Obstacle When It Comes To Your Smile

When you consider the cost of orthodontic treatment, also consider the lifelong benefits of a beautiful, healthy smile. The cost of orthodontic treatment will depend on many factors, including the severity of the problem, its complexity and length of treatment.

For your convenience, Rhode Island Orthodontic Group accepts cash, personal check, money orders and all major credit cards. We also offer in-house payment plans so you can spread the cost of your treatment over several months. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions concerning our payment options or your account.

If your insurance covers orthodontic treatment, you will receive the benefit of reduced personal costs. Many insurance policies have a lifetime orthodontic benefit that is distinct from regular dental insurance. This benefit is usually paid as a percentage of the orthodontic fee until the maximum has been reached. The orthodontic fee includes diagnostic records, initial fee, monthly payments, etc. Mostly likely, insurance will not cover the cost for lost or broken appliances.  Insurance policies vary, so we will review your insurance to determine the appropriate course of action.

Please remember that orthodontic insurance is a benefit for you or your child. Be aware of your benefits before treatment begins. Contact your insurance provider if you are unsure of your exact coverage. 

 Most misunderstandings about insurance can be eliminated if you are familiar with your policy:

• Be sure that you do have orthodontic coverage. Not all dental plans provide orthodontic benefits. 
• Inquire if there is an age limitation as some orthodontic plans can expire at age 18. 
• Be aware of the percentage which will be paid by your insurance and the amount of lifetime benefits provided by your plan. 

At Rhode Island Orthodontic Group, we believe that finances should never be an obstacle when it comes to a beautiful, healthy smile. Therefore, we offer convenient payment options to help you keep from worrying about the cost of braces and allow you focus on what matters most – your smile!

Do you have an Orthodontic Emergency?

True orthodontic emergencies are very rare; but when they do occur, we are available to you. As a general rule, you should call Rhode Island Orthodontics when you experience severe pain, or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can’t take care of yourself. We’ll be able to schedule an appointment to resolve the problem.

You might be surprised to learn that you can temporarily solve many problems yourself until you can get in the office to get the situation resolved.

The following are some common orthodontic problems and solutions:

Poking Wire: By using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down or place wax on it to alleviate the discomfort.

Loose Bracket: If your bracket is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. If the wire bracket comes off completely, place it in a ziploc bag, and save it to bring to your next appointment.

Loose Wire: Using tweezers, try to place it back into place. If doing this and using wax does not help, as a last resort use a small fingernail clipper to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If your discomfort continues, place wax on it.

Loose Appliance: If your appliance is poking you, place wax on the offending part of your appliance.

General Soreness: When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth and your teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater rinse. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8oz of warm water and rinse your mouth vigorously. Placing an oral numbing gel may also help. If the tenderness is severe, take ibuprofen or what you generally take for aches and pains.  The lips, cheeks and tongue may also become irritated for one to two weeks as they toughen and become accustomed to the surface of the braces. You can put wax on the braces to lessen this. 

We are always happy to show you how!

3 Friday the 13th Facts

Happy Friday the 13th! For many people, fear overcomes them on this day as well as so many superstitions. We thought it would be in good humor to go over some popular Friday the 13th facts. The superstition surrounding Friday the 13th is actually a combination of two separate fears — the fear of the number 13, called triskaidekaphobia, and the fear of Fridays.

Keep reading to learn about 3 Friday the 13th Facts!

1. Friday the 13th  have been considered an unlucky day since the medieval times.
2. It is generally considered bad luck to start anything on a Friday - a new journey, job, marriage, business project, giving birth, moving house
3. It is unlucky to cut fingernails and hair on Friday the 13th.

Whether you believe these superstitions or not, Rhode Island Orthodontic Group is crossing our fingers that you all have a very safe and lucky Friday the 13th today!

The Floss Awakens

Every year on May 4 most of us observe National Star Wars Day. “May the Fourth Be With You” is a popular term often used on this day, in correlation with ”May the Force Be With You”.  At Rhode Island Orthodontics, we like to say "May the Floss Be With You" to remind you to floss those teeth!

This May 4th, remember to avoid the dark side and keep those pearly whites bright and clean by brushing and flossing! Check out the fundamentals of flossing below for additional insight to keep your oral hygiene at its best.

Flossing Fundamentals



To keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy, you need to floss at least once per day. But how do you get floss under the archwire of your braces? It's not so hard with the help of a floss threader. Using this device is somewhat like threading a needle: You pull one end of floss through the threader, and then push the threader — carrying with it the free end of the floss — under the archwire. Now grasp the floss on each end and slide it up and down the sides of both teeth, and all the way under the gums until you hear a squeaky sound. Finally, pull it out and use a new section of floss for the next area.

What is AcceleDent?

You want to improve the look of your smile, but does the thought of spending months, or even years, in braces sound like too much of a hassle? At Rhode Island Orthodontics, we offer AcceleDent.  With the AcceleDent System, you can now reduce the time of your orthodontic treatment by 38 to 50%! Using this pain-free, easy appliance, you'll achieve your most perfect smile in no time at all.

By inserting the AcceleDent Mouthpiece – also fitted around existing orthodontics – and turning on the Activator for 20 minutes every day, AcceleDent Aura can speed up tooth movement by using SoftPulse Technology. Faster tooth movement may decrease the duration of your orthodontic treatment and can even help to make your orthodontics more comfortable.

Watch this video to learn more about AcceleDent and how it works.

Is Orthodontic Care Expensive?

When orthodontic treatment is implemented at the proper time, treatment is often less costly than the dental care required to treat the more serious problems that can develop years later. Orthodontic fees have not increased as fast as many other consumer products. Financing is usually available, and our offices offer many payment programs that will meet your needs. In addition, many insurance plans now include orthodontics.

Our team of four experienced doctors and professional staff at #RiOrtho are equipped to serve you and your family at each of our six offices conveniently located throughout the West Bay area. We proudly offer the latest orthodontic braces for children, teens and adults at our offices in East Greenwich, Warwick,Wickford, Wakefield, Coventry, Barrington and Westerly, Rhode Island.

Suffering from a poking wire?

As the teeth start to move, the wire that connects them (archwire) may begin poking near the back of the mouth or irritating the cheeks. You can try moving the wire into a better position with a pencil eraser or a Q-Tip. If the wire won't move, you may be able to cut the end off with a nail clipper sterilized in alcohol — but before doing so, please call our office for our guidance or instructions. Often, you can also use tweezers to gently move a misplaced wire or a tie that's causing problems.

When wires or brackets cause irritation, covering the metal parts with wax will often help ease the discomfort. As with any of these types of problems, call us at Rhode Island Orthodontics and we'll schedule a time to see you.

Heads Up From #RiOrtho

April is National Facial Protection Month, so #RiOrtho wants to give you a heads up on concussions in youth sports. As your orthodontic provider, we understand that head concussions are a little out of our area of expertise. However, we feel it is our duty to provide you with as much information for your overall health as we can, when we see fit. That being said, let’s talk about concussions.

Did you know…

• Most concussions occur without loss of consciousness.
• Athletes who have, at any point in their lives, had a concussion have an increased risk for another concussion.
• Young children and teens are more likely to get a concussion and take longer to recover than adults.

A concussion is a form of a traumatic brain injury that changes the way the brain normally works. Typically, a concussion is caused by a blow, bump, or jolt to the head or body that causes the brain to move rapidly back and forth. Even minor blows or bumps to the head can be serious.

Signs and symptoms can occur suddenly, or may not be noticed for days or weeks until after the injury. If one or more signs are noticed, it is advised to seek help from a health care professional. Check out some signs and symptoms of concussions observed by coaching staff and reported by athletes.

Remember, concussions affect people differently. While most athletes with a concussion recover quickly and fully, some will have symptoms that last for days, or even weeks. A more serious concussion can last for months or longer. Rest is the key to helping an athlete recover from a concussion.

Easter Bunny Cake Recipe

Easter is just around the corner, and as you gear up to host or attend a festive gathering, we know you’re all browsing for yummy treats for your events. Though Orthodontics is our area of expertise, we decided to change it up a little this week and provide you with a delicious and cute Easter Bunny Cake recipe.

This Easter Bunny Cake recipe is scrumptiously satisfying for every-bunny!

Remember old-fashioned cutout cakes? This cute bunny is easily made from carrot cake mix frosted and covered with mouthwatering coconut.

Ingredients

• 1boxSuperMoist carrot cake mix
• Water, vegetable oil and eggs called for on cake mix box
• Tray or cardboard covered with wrapping paper and plastic food wrap or foil
• 1 container Whipped fluffy white frosting 
• 1cup shredded coconut
• Construction paper
• Jelly beans or small gumdrops, as desired
• 1cup shredded coconut
• Green food color

Directions

1. Heat oven to 350°F (325°F for dark or nonstick pans). Make, bake and cool cake as directed on box for two 8-inch or 9-inch round pans.
2. Reserve 1 layer for another use or to make a second bunny. Cut 1 layer in half as shown in diagram. Put halves together with frosting to make body. Place cake upright on cut edge on tray.
3. Cut out a notch about one-third of the way up one end of body to form head (small end) as shown in diagram (template can be found under the Tips below). Attach half of cutout piece from tail with toothpicks. Frost with remaining frosting, rounding body on sides. Sprinkle with 1 cup coconut. Cut ears from construction paper; wrap ends that will be inserted into cake with plastic food wrap. Press into notch on top. Use jelly beans for eyes and nose.
4. Shake 1 cup coconut and 3 drops food color in tightly covered jar until evenly tinted. Surround bunny with tinted coconut. Add additional jelly beans if desired. Remove ears, plastic wrap and toothpicks before serving. Store loosely covered.

To make it a little easier for you, check out this template you can follow to cut the cake shapes properly.

Poking Archwire, Bracket, Or Tie?

The vast majority of orthodontic problems our patients face are very minor. Though they are minor, they may still cause discomfort or irritation. In general, it's best to try and soothe the immediate cause of the discomfort, and then call our office to schedule an appointment; that way, we can allot sufficient time to take care of you.

Here is one of the most common orthodontic problems our patients have, along with some tips on what you can do to relieve them this particular problem at home.

Misplaced or poking archwire, bracket or tie

As the teeth start to move, the wire that connects them (archwire) may begin poking near the back of the mouth or irritating the cheeks. You can try moving the wire into a better position with a pencil eraser or a Q-Tip. If the wire won't move, you may be able to cut the end off with a nail clipper sterilized in alcohol — but before doing so, please call our office for our guidance or instructions.

Often, you can also use tweezers to gently move a misplaced wire or a tie that's causing problems.When wires or brackets cause irritation, covering the metal parts with wax will often help ease the discomfort. As with any of these types of problems, call Rhode Island Orthodontics and we'll schedule a time to see you.

Mouth Burn: How to Help it Heal Correctly

Have you ever rushed into a hot meal too soon only to burn your mouth? If you answered yes, you're not alone.  Almost all of us have suffered from burning our mouths after biting into a hot slice of pizza, or from digging into hot soup before it was cool enough to eat.  Burns may be a little out of the orthodontists’ league, we wanted to take a second anyway and give you some helpful tips to get you through the mouth burn pain. When it comes to your mouth, Rhode Island Orthodontic Group has you covered.

Check out these important steps to take to soothe your mouth next time you have this accident, and help it heal correctly. 

• Applying or sucking on ice can relieve the stinging. Gargling cold water or eating ice cream are other options.
• An over-the-counter pain reliever can help, if the pain is really distracting.
• Squeezing Vitamin E from a capsule over the wound can speed up healing. It will regenerate new tissue and heal the wound.
• Resist touching the burned area. This may be difficult, but by touching the affected area, the lesion may become irritated further.
• Drinking milk can coat the scorched area.
• Avoid acidic, crunchy, and other hot foods, or even very salty and spicy dressings. This will stop the burn from getting irritated further.
• Maintain good oral hygiene while your mouth is burnt, keeping it as clean as possible to promote healing and prevent further infection.

Make sure you allow your burn to heal; it usually takes about a week for soreness and blistering to pass. Also, let us know if you have any home remedies that we didn’t list, or any interesting stories about a time you burned your mouth. Leave a comment or post it on our Facebook wall!

Don't forget to Hug A G.I. Today

Today is a day we can all embrace, every March 4th we recognize National Hug A G.I. Day. Around 1944 President Franklin Roosevelt signed a bill that became known as the G.I. Bill; Servicemen’s Readjustment Act. From there, there was no straying away from the initials as Hasbro trademarked their G.I. Joe action figure based off the comic strip in the 60’s.

History of the G.I. initials:

G.I. is a well know term referring to those serving in the Armed Forces of the United States. Sometime during World War 1, the initials G.I. referred to soldiers in short for “Government Issue” or “General Issue;” followed by the birth of the G.I. Joe comic strip issued in Yank magazine on June 17, 1942.

#RiOrtho encourages you to participate:

To recognize our brave soldiers, National Hug A G.I. Day was created to show thanks for their dedication and bravery. Do you know a G.I. ? If so, be sure to take a moment to give them a hug and say thank you today! Don’t forget to post a picture & tag us in it if you do! Won’t be able to see the G.I. you know in person? That’s ok! Send him or her a virtual hug via email or text!

Important Tips About Your Appliance

Removable appliances are designed to move or hold your teeth, so it is important to wear them as instructed to ensure you receive optimum results.  Rhode Island Orthodontic Group does understand that caring for your appliance can be a bit confusing at first, so we decided to make it a little easier for you. Below you will find some handy tips about your appliance.

Important Tips About Your Appliance

• Wear your appliance at all times, even when sleeping. The only time your appliance should be removed is while you're eating, brushing your teeth, swimming or playing vigorous activities.
• After you first receive your appliance, it will take a few days for you to adjust to speaking with it.
• You may also experience some soreness for the first few days, but this will also subside. If the discomfort continues or if you have a sore spot in your gums, contact our office.
• It is important to avoid flipping your appliance with your tongue as this can cause damage to not only your appliance, but your teeth as well.
• Clean your appliance daily with toothpaste or denture cleanser.
• Never wrap your appliance in a napkin or tissue and set it on the table.
• Don't store your appliance in your pocket.
• Your appliance should always be stored in its plastic container.
• Keep your appliance away from pets as they like to chew on them.
• Do not try to sterilize your appliance in boiling water. Just bring it to our office to be disinfected if needed.
• Do not soak your retainer in mouthwash.

Please bring your appliance to all of your appointments, and keep in mind that additional charges may be applied for broken appliances. If you have any questions, or need more help, contact us today!

Are you new to the world of braces?

Are you new to the world of braces? If you answered yes, this blog is for you.  We have noticed that several of our new patients are curious about their treatment and the appliances we use to help them achieve the smile of their dreams. For that reason, we've decided to share the definitions of the appliances, or parts, that make up braces.

Check out these 6 parts of braces and learn more about how they create perfect smiles.

Bands
Bands are a ring of metal that fit around the molars and sometimes premolars. The bands are selected from a range of sizes in order to find the tightest-fitting band. The bands are sealed in position using dental cement that contains fluoride to prevent any decalcification during treatment.

Brackets
The brackets hold the archwire against each tooth. The archwire fits into a slot in the bracket. Brackets may be attached directly to each tooth or to a band.

Archwire
The main wires, or archwires, are shaped specifically to fit around the arch into the bracket slots. Teeth move from the pressure that is applied by the braces. That pressure comes from the archwire, which guides the direction of the movement.

Elastics
An elastic is the tiny rubber ring that ties the archwire into the bracket.

Hooks
Hooks are small attachments on the brackets used to attach elastics (rubber bands).

Coil Spring
The coil spring fits between brackets and over the archwire.

Rhode Island Orthodontic Group is a unique practice offering its patients 7 convenient locations throughout the West Bay area. If you have any further questions regarding your braces, please contact us today!