Good dental hygiene is always important, but it is especially critical when you are undergoing orthodontic treatment. Without it, plaque and food can accumulate around your braces, forming bacteria and leading to unsightly white marks, cavities, or even gum disease. Brushing and flossing regularly is...
You’ve heard that poor oral health can lead to cavities and gingivitis, but did you know that health issues in other parts of your body can stem from gum disease caused by poor oral care? Dozens of studies show the negative effects of periodontal disease...
Whether we like oranges better than grapefruits, tacos better than burritos, or manual toothbrushes better than electric ones— life is all a matter of preference. Have you taken a walk down the toothbrush aisle lately? There is sensitive toothpaste, whitening toothpaste, alcohol or alcohol-free mouthwash,...
There is nothing better than the feeling of accomplishing a successful DIY project. Whether you have refinished your floors, painted your house, or built you own bookshelf, DIY projects tap into our desire to use our own hands, and of course do it all with...
Here at Shaw Orthodontics, we want every part of your treatment process to go as smoothly as possible. Be aware, though, that patients wearing braces have a greater tendency to collect food and plaque on their teeth. If plaque isn’t removed daily through an effective...
Dr. Shaw and his orthodontic team take your comfort very seriously. Although true orthodontic emergencies are rare, you may encounter a problem with your appliance that causes mild to severe pain. Most problems can be resolved at home giving you immediate relief and eliminating extra trips to the...
If orthodontic treatment is just over the horizon for you or your child, you likely have a lot of questions and concerns. What treatments are available? Which would be most effective for your particular case? Which one is the most affordable? What is the difference...
It’s not uncommon for both dentists and orthodontists to field patient questions regarding the difference is between our two professions. In fact, many people mistakenly assume that the two are more or less the same, with only a few differences that make them distinctive. For...
Although orthodontics are for patients of every age, they tend to be most commonly associated with teenagers in braces -- that old “braceface” stereotype is one that just won’t quit. We rarely consider young children when talking orthodontics, so it can be surprising to learn...
School just started, and that means school sports are about to become a big part of after-school activities! Many of our newer patients dread getting braces at this time of year for fear that they won’t be able to play sports like their peers. At...