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New Year, New You! | Why Braces Are Popular For Adults

Orthodontics has evolved enormously in the last two decades and there is now less pain, time and cosmetic detriment when having orthodontic treatment. This is one reason we are seeing so many adult patients getting braces. Are you considering orthodontic treatment as an adult? If so, keep reading to find out why your timing is right.

Why do adults choose to get braces?

• Overcrowding of teeth
• Shifting of teeth
• Poor bite
• Jaw pain
• Headaches
• Self-consciousness
• Align teeth before crown and bridge work
• Improve gum and teeth health
• A beautiful smile they have always dreamed of

What are the benefits of having braces in your adult years?

• You are having treatment by your own choice and on your own terms.
• Maximize function and health of your gums and teeth.
• Improve your bite and alleviate issues such as grinding and headaches.
• Straight teeth help to provide a beautiful smile and a boost in confidence.
• Alignment options are vastly improved on what they were when you were a child.

The bottom line is, it is never too late for braces or to achieve the smile you've always wanted. If you are ready to learn more about treatment and live in Rhode Island, contact Rhode Island Orthodontic Group, click here for contact info.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

It Pays To Share A Smile

Do you know about our referral program?  At #RiOrtho when you refer a friend, you will receive $100 off your account when they begin treatment!  We have had such great referrals we decided it is time to start rewarding you for being so kind to us!

If you have someone in mind, just print out the card below and have your friend or family member turn it in at their first appointment. When they begin treatment, we will take off $100 from your account with us! It's easy, free, and saves you money!

It's National Chocolate Cake Day!

Today we can all rejoice because it’s National Chocolate Cake Day. If you’re typically not the type to get excited over random food holidays, today might be a little different because really, who doesn’t love chocolate cake? The smooth creamy dark frosting drizzled over a fluffy, moist rich chocolate cake is appealing to almost every taste bud; and we’re not resisting this dessert today here at #RiOrtho! If you happen to be a fan of chocolate cake, and want to celebrate by baking your own tonight, check out these delicious recipes we found to give your cake a little flare.

Keep reading for your new favorite chocolate cake recipes:

One Bowl Chocolate Cake 

This cake needs no introduction, as it’s been around forever. If you’ve never made it, you’re in for a treat.

Click here for the recipe.


Nutella Chocolate Cake

Do you love chocolate? Do you love nutella? Do you love cake?

If you answered “YES” to all 3 questions above, Nutella Chocolate Cake is for you!

Click here for the recipe.

Don’t miss out on your chance to celebrate chocolate cake, try out one of these recipes tonight! Do you have a yummy recipe to share? Post it below or post it on our Facebook wall!

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!

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. 

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.

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.  

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.

Current 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.

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.”


Benefits 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.

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