Salins Orthodontics

When should you call Salins Orthodontics?

2012-01-27T09:15:00.000-08:00

Thanks for the question. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Salins Orthodontics. Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with Dr. Salins and team:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you or your child? If so, give our office a call as soon as possible!

The benefits of a beautiful smile

2012-01-22T08:58:00.000-08:00

Dr. Salins and our team know having an attractive smile puts a spring in your step—or two—as well as increases your self-confidence, no matter if you’re 14 or in your late forties. Smiling not only makes people happy and puts them in a good mood, doing it often can even help you live longer, according to previous studies!

If you’ve been hiding your smile because you have crooked teeth or gaps between your teeth, it’s time to consider orthodontic treatment at Salins Orthodontics. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to learn how quickly and efficiently today’s most advanced correction techniques can straighten your smile!

Don’t hide your smile any longer—give us a call today to schedule yours or your child’s orthodontic consultation.

Hey Dr. Salins, How do I prevent tooth decay during my treatment?

2012-01-21T16:53:00.000-08:00

Great question!

If you are brushing and flossing daily during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Sheldon Salins, we think that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist every 3-to-6 months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting Salins Orthodontics, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

Tooth decay, which is caused by sugars left in your mouth, can turn into an acid, which in turn can break down your teeth. Children are at high risk for tooth decay because adolescents tend to be lax in their oral hygiene habits. Proper brushing and flossing routines, combined with regular dental visits, help keep tooth decay away.

If you have any questions, please be sure to keep ask Dr. Salins or our team during your next adjustment appointment, or ask us on Facebook

Always Listen to Mom

2012-01-09T11:39:00.000-08:00

My mom sent me this from a website she found....and I wanted to share it with you all!
=====================

The link to the original article is here

5 Ways Poor Dental Care Makes You Sick
Holly C. Corbett, Prevention
Thu, Dec 08, 2011

Even if you brush your teeth daily, you may still have dangerous bacteria growing inside your mouth. Not only could that lead to periodontitis (an advanced form of gum disease that comes with symptoms such as bleeding when you brush and gum pain), but studies also find a link between poor oral hygiene and major health issues. Here are some ways that missing the mark on oral care could harm your heath.
1. It may hurt your heart.
People with gum disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease compared to those don't have periodontitis. Researchers aren't exactly sure of why this might be, but one theory is that harmful bacteria from your mouth enters your blood stream and attaches to fatty plaques in your heart's blood vessels, leading to inflammation and upping your risk of clots that can trigger heart attacks.

2. Your memory may suffer
Some research suggests there may be a tie between poor oral health and an increased risk of dementia. One study that followed 118 nuns between the ages of 75 and 98 found that those with the fewest teeth were most likely to suffer dementia. Experts think oral bacteria may spread to the brain through cranial nerves that connect to the jaw or through the bloodstream, and may contribute to the type of plaque that's been linked to Alzheimer's.

3. It might worsen your body's control of blood sugar.
People with diabetes are more likely to have periodontal disease than those without diabetes. While this may be because diabetics are more susceptible to infections, there's also been research that finds gum disease could make it harder to control your blood sugar, and that treating it helps improve diabetes symptoms.
4. It may affect your breathing
Gum disease may increase your risk of getting respiratory infections, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pneumonia, according to the Journal of Periodontology. The infections might be caused when bacteria from the mouth are inhaled into your lungs, possibly causing your airways to become inflamed.

5. It could make it harder for you to have a baby.
Women of childbearing age with gum disease took an average of just over seven months to become pregnant – two months longer than the average of five months that it took women without gum disease to conceive, discovered researchers in Western Australia. Other research finds that pregnant women with gum disease might have higher odds of miscarriage.

How can you tell if you're hitting the mark when it comes to good oral care? "Generally, your teeth and gums should not bleed, be painful, or feel rough or sharp to your tongue," says Pam Atherton, RDH, a dental hygienist for Dr. John Carlile, DDS in Skaneateles, NY. "Your breath should be fresh for at least a couple of hours after brushing in the morning and after having eaten breakfast." One of the easiest ways to prevent gum disease is to clean your teeth properly, so try these tricks for a healthier mouth.

1. Rinse your mouth.
If you use mouthwash twice a day, you'll slash your risk of gum disease by 60 percent, says Marjorie Jeffcoat, DMD, Professor of Periodontology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in Philadelphia. Ideally you should aim to rinse for about 30 seconds with a mouthwash that has microbial protection to fight plaque and gingivitis, such as Listerine®.

2. Floss first.
You should floss before you brush your teeth, rather than after, says Jeffcoat. "That way you'll be able to brush away any food that was stuck between your teeth to prevent bacteria from growing." If you find dental floss hard to hold onto, Atherton suggests trying floss picks, such as Plackers® dental flossers, instead.

3. Get the right toothbrush.
Soft or extra soft bristles are best. "Gum tissue can't make a callous; therefore, when a person uses a medium or hard-bristled toothbrush, it literally scratches the tissue away over time, exposes the root surface underneath and leads to possible bone loss," says Atherton.

4. Brush smart.
To really clean your teeth, aim to brush them for a full two minutes. "Make sure you brush both your tongue and cheeks as well as the chewing surfaces to improve the removal of harmful bacteria in the crevices," says Atherton. To get your kids to brush the full two minutes, sing "Happy Birthday To You" or the "Alphabet Song" twice through at a normal speed for each half of your mouth. And be sure to replace your toothbrush about every three months.

SMILE

2012-01-04T08:36:00.001-08:00

This is a great video of the end of the movie “Modern Times” starring Charlie Chaplin in 1936. The comedian brought smiles to the faces of people around the world, which is why it is fitting that he wrote the music you hear playing in the background. In 1936, this theme song was nothing more than a beautiful melody, but in 1954, lyrics and the title “Smile” were given to this popular standard.

The message of the song is that even in the worst of times, you can make it through if you just smile. We all face difficult times, and sometimes, you just don’t have a reason to smile. But even forcing a smile can actually make you start to feel better as endorphins are released when you smile, helping to relieve physical and emotional stress. Just focus on putting happy thoughts into your head, take a few deep breaths, and smile. Smiling will not only make you start to feel better, but it will put others at ease and make them feel good as well. When you are facing a particularly hard time, offer up a smile. You’ll send a message that you are accepting the world around you, and the world will, in turn, smile back at you.

What is your New Year’s resolution?

2012-01-01T17:31:00.000-08:00

Let’s face it- when was the last time you managed to keep a New Year’s resolution? We at Salins Orthodontics believe the key to sticking to a goal is picking one that is both reasonable and attainable. If you haven’t yet picked a New Year’s resolution, consider setting one that will improve your oral health!

For example, resolve to brush twice and floss once a day. Good oral hygiene only takes a few minutes a day, and can make a big difference in your oral health and overall health too! For more oral health-themed resolutions for you and your family, check out this article.

We would love to see what you come up with, share with us by commenting on this post or on our Facebook page. Whatever your New Year’s Resolution, we wish you the very best for 2012!

-Happy New Year, from your friends at Salins Orthodontics

How important is your smile? From Salins Orthodontics

2011-12-28T10:42:00.000-08:00

At Salins Orthodontics, we are dedicated to using the most advanced orthodontic technology in order to provide comfortable, accurate, customized orthodontic treatments. Our office offers a modern, friendly, open environment where patients and their families are encouraged to get involved in their treatment.

The bottom line is, we know your teeth are important.

In fact, in a poll conducted by Glamour Magazine earlier this year, people were asked, “If you had to pick between having perfect teeth, eyesight or hair, which would you choose?

Well, 44 percent of folks out there chose teeth! In addition, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, or AACD, conducted a study and found that 99.7 percent of those polled believed a smile is an important social asset. Respondents said straightness, whiteness, cleanliness, as well as the sincerity and sparkle of a person’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well.

Please contact our practice at 650-952-1010 or 510-475-4153 for a FREE orthodontic consultation. We look forward to working with you and your family! We have proudly served the Daly City, South San Francisco, Millbrae, San Bruno areas and Union City, Fremont, Newark, Hayward (California) areas.

Watch what you eat this holiday season!

2011-12-21T12:19:00.000-08:00

At Salins Orthodontics, we know maintaining a healthy diet over the holiday season can prove a difficult task. After all, who can resist the tasty treats of Christmas? With grandma and everybody else offering you candy, chocolate logs or Christmas pudding, you just can’t say “I’ll pass” each time. But trouble lurks: every time you chow down on that chocolate or candy, the bacteria in your mouth have a feast on the sugar—at your expense. The sugar turns into acid, and the acid eats away at the enamel on your teeth and between your braces. Then, you start getting cavities.

Instead, try fudgy cocoa bites, marvelous molasses cookies, wonderful waffles or other braces-friendly recipes, courtesy of the American Association of Orthodontics, or AAO, and “The Braces Cookbook” by Pamela Waterman.

If you must indulge in chocolaty goodness this Christmas or holiday season, remember to brush your teeth after eating sugary treats. Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!

Happy Holidays!

Loving Your Braces Can Lead to Love

2011-12-09T10:49:00.001-08:00

Love is in the air at Salins Orthodontics. One of my patients was sitting in the chair the other day making a big to-do about the fact that she couldn't go to Vegas and have fun with her girlfriends because she had her braces on. She said she didn't feel comfortable dating. "I'm on a dating hiatus," she said. Another patient a couple of chairs down had overheard her complaining and said, "Are you kidding me? I met my boyfriend this way, and now I know he really likes me for me." Everyone started laughing.

A lot of my single adult patients worry about being able to date with braces. Anxiety can arise with the thought of going through orthodontic treatment. "I'll never be able to date." "Men won't find me attractive." "Women won't think they are sexy." "Braces are going to ruin my game." "I won't be pretty." Some people decide that they aren't going to date at all. Honestly, would a woman kick Tom Cruise out of bed for having ceramic braces? Would a man not be interested in Nikki Taylor or Gwen Stefani because their teeth adorn little brackets? Not so much.

Think of having braces as a time to reform and transform. Carry off a positive attitude, and you'll have no problem carrying off braces. Find someone who is interested in you for being the incredible person you are and put some faith into the fact that you look amazing with or without your braces. If other people can't see past your braces, they aren't even worth your time.

It's been a joke at our office lately that love is in the air because lots of patients are getting braces before weddings or meeting their soul mate with their braces. A couple of patients are getting married with their braces. Some of my women patients in their forties and fifties don't mind keeping their braces on even longer than they need to because the braces give their lips the "botox effect." They love them because it makes their lips feel fuller and they attract younger guys. As for my male patients, braces make them seem like a risk taker and make them look younger - what isn't attractive about that? The truth is, the object of your affection is going to be interested in you regardless of what's in your mouth (unless what's in your mouth is yesterday's breakfast and seriously bad oral hygiene - nothing attractive about that). So put a big smile on your face and your best foot forward, and nothing, not even a mouth full of metal, will stand in your way.

A Happy Marriage: You and Your Retainer

2011-12-02T09:16:00.001-08:00

Retainer, meet patient. Patient, meet retainer. Get to know each other well because you will be seeing a lot of each other. In fact, I now pronounce you patient and retainer til death do you part. Yes, retainers are for life, but the good news is, your teeth are straight for life as well!

Retainers are completely loyal to you as long as you are loyal to them. But if you should decide that you would rather be single for awhile, when you come back to your retainer, the retainer may not be the right fit for you anymore. So what happens when your retainer doesn't fit? Well, it's time to schedule a visit with me. The best case scenario - I'll make you a new retainer. Worst case scenario - you will need to start treatment all over again to get your teeth straight again.

If you have found that you haven't been tried and true to your retainer and it isn't fitting right anymore, schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible. If you think that all hope is lost, it might not be. There are affordable products available that can help make small changes - perhaps that's all you need. Either way, it's best to see an orthodontist just to make sure your bite hasn't shifted and that everything is aligning properly.

After you have finished your treatment and have been in retention (wearing a retainer) for over a year, I always recommend that my patients schedule a yearly appointment to make sure that everything is fitting properly.

There are a few different kinds of retainers. I've highlighted a couple of them below:

Hawley retainers are very common and you probably have seen this type of retainer before. These retainers are removable, and usually gum-colored, but they are available in a number of different colors and patterns. They are a great option for most patients and are a sturdy, reliable retainer.

This is a fixed retainer and is a permanent retainer, so it cannot be removed. It consists of a passive wire bonded to the lingual (tongue) side of the teeth. The wire is thin and barely noticeable. This is a great option for patients who aren't compliant, lose retainers, or don't want to deal with a removable retainer!

For Invisalign and Invisalign Teen patients, Vivera retainers are a good option. They are clear, just like aligners, but are thicker than typical aligners to help hold the teeth in place. These are nice retainers, but for long term, permanent use, I try to encourage other types of retainers.

Spring aligners can serve multiple functions. In addition to being a retainer, they can also be used as a night guard because they are made from a hard acrylic. Spring aligners are also great for making minor adjustments to teeth.

Retainers are essential to keeping your teeth, jaw, and bite in the alignment they were in when you got your braces off and finished your treatment. The key to a happy marriage? Wear your retainer.

Dr. Salins and team wishes you a happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-23T13:43:00.001-08:00

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season knocking at our door, Dr. Sheldon Salins and our entire staff at Salins Orthodontics wanted to stop for a moment and extend our best wishes to you, our patients, referring doctors and families, for a wonderful Thanksgiving.

As always, if you know anyone we can help, just let us know. We promise to give them the same quality orthodontic care that we have given you.

We hope that this Thanksgiving and holiday season brings fond memories. Thank you for being part of our family.

Ask Dr. Salins: “My braces are on…now what?”

2011-11-18T12:40:00.001-08:00

We love when patients ask us that question! Now that you’re wearing braces, it’s just as important to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen as you did before prior to your orthodontic treatment.

Braces are known to trap food particles and make it difficult to brush or remove plaque, which is why Dr. Sheldon Salins and our team at Salins Orthodontics recommend that you brush and floss after every meal. We also encourage you to use a proxabrush to help with the smaller areas where your toothbrush doesn’t reach. We encourage the use of fluoride rinse as well; just ask us for a recommendation!

When your braces are initially placed, your teeth are likely to be very sensitive. You may experience discomfort for up to 3 or 5 days, which is why we encourage you to eat soft foods during that time. Remember, the less pressure you put on your teeth, the less discomfort you will have.

You may also be thinking, “Okay, so what can I eat?” We would encourage you to avoid eating sticky, hard, crunchy or chewy snacks that can stick to your teeth.

Dr. Salins and team will tell you it’s crucial to regularly check your braces for bent or loose wires and brackets. In the event of a loose/broken wire or bracket, please call our office immediately to schedule an appointment for repair.

Lastly, in addition to visiting Salins Orthodontics during your orthodontic treatment for adjustments, you should visit your dentist for professional check-ups and teeth cleaning appointments about every six months, or as recommended by your dentist.

Questions? You may also give us a call!

Are you wearing your mouth guard?

2011-11-15T14:26:00.001-08:00

With fall sports close to wrapping up and winter sports right around the corner, many patients here at Salins Orthodontics will once again pick up the ball, bring the cleats out of seasonal retirement and hit the fields for the return of sports action! During this time, however, Dr. Sheldon Salins and our team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this fall and winter, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as basketball, wrestling and hockey
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps! Dr. Salins and team will tell you protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact our office or ask us on Facebook. Stay safe!

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month!

2011-11-15T14:25:00.001-08:00

At Salins Orthodontics, our team knows the way you care for your teeth at home doesn’t just affect your oral health – it can impact your overall health as well. In recent years, researchers have found clear links between the mouth and other parts of the body, and the evidence is especially impactful for people with diabetes.

November marks Diabetes Awareness Month, and a great time to learn about how keeping your mouth healthy is vital to your overall health, too. If you are one of the nearly 26 million Americans currently living with diabetes, there is some good news: you can protect your gums and teeth from the effects of diabetes by visiting our office for regular check-ups and cleanings. Most people should have at least two dental appointments per year, but those folks living with diabetes may require additional visits to make sure their dental health remains in top shape. Many insurance plans provide expanded benefits for diabetic patients.
Dr. Snow and our experts can tell you how often you need to come in for your dental visits.

For more information on how we can help, please give us a call:

Orthodontic Recipes

2011-11-15T14:23:00.001-08:00

I recently came across this great website from an orthodontist in Pennsylvania.

Check it out and let me know your thought
http://www.drmalerman.com/treatment/cookielady.shtml

Ask Salins Orthodontics: “I got my braces. Now what?”

2011-11-09T08:33:00.000-08:00

We love when patients ask us that question! Now that you’re wearing braces, it’s just as important to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen as you did before before orthodontic treatment began.

Braces are known to trap food particles and make it difficult to brush or remove plaque, which is why Dr. Salins recommends that you brush and floss after every meal. We also encourage you to use a proxabrush to help with the smaller areas where your toothbrush doesn’t reach. We encourage the use of fluoride rinse is recommended as well; ask us for a recommendation.

You may also be thinking, “Okay, so what can I eat?” We would encourage you to avoid eating sticky, hard, crunchy or chewy snacks that can stick to your teeth.

Our team at Salins Orthodontics will tell you it’s crucial to regularly check your braces for bent or loose wires and brackets. In the event of a loose/broken wire or bracket, please call our office immediately to schedule an appointment for repair.

Questions? Please let us know by giving us a call!

5 tips for avoiding plaque buildup

2011-10-30T10:29:00.000-07:00

At Salins Orthodontics, we know nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth. Here are five other ways you can avoid that dreaded enemy of the teeth during orthodontic treatment, courtesy of WebMD.

Let’s start with brushing regularly. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste is vital to a healthy mouth. Make sure you softly brush all the surfaces of your teeth.

Next on the list is flossing daily: a simple daily flossing between teeth clears away plaque before it can cause damage and can also clean plaque at the gum line. Plaque is known to reach the spaces between teeth.

Also, evading a trip to the dentist is probably not a great idea. Let’s say you brush and floss daily. You’re still at risk for plaque. With time, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar. Consider visiting your general dentist at least twice a year or as recommended by your dentist, and you have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your teeth while wearing braces.

You’ll also want to stop avoiding those fruits and veggies. Believe it or not, there are foods out there that play a key role in keeping plaque off our teeth. They include apples, carrots, cucumbers and other raw fruits and vegetables. You can still eat these types of fruits and veggies if you have braces, but be sure to cut them up into bite sized pieces to avoid breaking off brackets.

Finally, before you pick up that candy bar, remember to not give in to your sweet tooth. Consuming sugary drinks or eating candy or other junk food allows sugar to stick to our teeth. The bacteria, then, becomes plaque, which turns into acid and damages our teeth. Avoiding these five bad habits keeps your plaque in check and your mouth as healthy as can be during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Snow. If you have any questions, give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

2011-10-23T06:05:00.001-07:00

When is it time to begin orthodontic treatment?

2011-10-21T08:25:00.000-07:00

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Dr Salins. Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with us:

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, give us a call as soon as possible!

Hope this helps,

The team at Salins Orthodontics

Always Smiling Brightly

2011-10-21T08:22:00.001-07:00

Even though this archeological find shows that dentists have been skilled for thousands of years, rest assured that OUR skills have far surpassed our early mentors!!!

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2009/05/090518-jeweled-teeth-picture.html

Don’t skip those regular checkups, especially in October!

2011-10-14T00:09:00.000-07:00

Dr. Salins wants to know: Are you brushing and flossing daily properly during your treatment? If the answer is yes, that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist every 3-to-6 months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting Salins Orthodontics, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

It’s the perfect time for a visit to the dentist. Why? Because not only is October National Orthodontic Health Month, it’s also National Dental Hygiene Month!

Your general dentist can check for problems that might not be seen or felt, detect cavities and early signs of decay, treat oral health problems early and show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth.

During an oral exam your dentist can check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to the dentist in the last six months, let us know during your next visit and we will provide a few great references here in Lakewood or surrounding areas!

October is National Orthodontic Health Month!

2011-10-10T09:36:00.000-07:00

Happy October! For those who don’t know, it’s National Orthodontic Health Month. This month-long event is organized by our pals at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Dr. Salins and our team realize that this is a great opportunity for us to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene. National Orthodontic Health Month also aims to recognize the dedicated work of orthodontists like Dr. Salins and other dental professionals in Northern California.

The AAO recommends patients avoid the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

• Caramel
• Nuts
• Popcorn (including un-popped kernels)
• Taffy
• Jelly beans
• Hard pretzels
• Licorice
• Bubblegum
• Ice

If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call or ask us at Salins Orthodontics during your visit this month!

Parsley and Other Ways To Brighten Your Smile from Salins Orthodontics

2011-10-03T08:26:00.000-07:00

At Salins Orthodontics we see lots of patients concerned about their bad breath. So we want to educate you about what you can do to really keep your chompers clean and breath minty fresh!

Naturally, good oral hygiene is the first set. With proper brushing and regular dental checkups you can keep bad breath (halitosis) in check.

Certain foods, medications, smoking, sinus issues, or even gum disease cause most bad breath. If the stink lingers for longer than 24 hours, you should see us at Salins Orthodontics. It might be something more serious, like dehydration, zinc deficiency, diabetes, liver failure, kidney failure, or even certain kinds of cancers!

In the meantime, here are some home remedies to keep you smiling bright from Salins Orthodontics.

--Spice Up Your Life
Snack on some cloves, fennel, or anise after each particularly odorous snack.

--Don’t forget the tongue
Lots of people brush their teeth regularly, but leave the tongue alone. One of the main causes of bad breath is food and plaque residue on the surface of your tongue. So give it a nice gentle brush-over too!

--Watch your drinking habits
The worst options are coffee, wine, whiskey, and beer.

--Frequent brushing
Carry a toothbrush with you so brushing after each meal is convenient and refreshing! Trust us, you’ll love the way it makes you feel. If you can’t brush, still swish around a couple sips of water to remove any lingering food.

--Make your own Gargle
Gargling with a home mixture of sage, calendula, and myrrh gum extracts four times a day should ward off that bad breath potential.

--Parsley’s there for a reason
Finish your parsley after you finish your dinner and you’ll find a refreshing breath enhancer. Hate the texture? Throw a couple sprigs in a blender to sip after each meal.

--Sugarless Gum
Always a good idea to carry some mints or sugarless gum for that quick spruce up before you meet the boss.

--Don’t cut that cheese
The stronger the cheese, the stinkier your breath can become. Think about blue cheese and Roquefort? They really get the party started in your mouth and it’s hard to make them leave!

Chewing Gum with Braces

2011-10-03T08:25:00.001-07:00

Sugar-Free Polyol Gum/ Nonfluoride Varnishes Help Prevent Cavities

CHICAGO 9/12/11 – A multi-disciplinary expert panel, convened by the ADA Council on Scientific Affairs, issued a report containing clinical recommendations that sugar-free chewing gum, lozenges, hard candy including xylitol or polyol combinations, and a prescription varnish with chlorhexidine and thymol could be beneficial in preventing cavities when used as adjuncts to a comprehensive cavity prevention program which includes the use of fluoride-containing products. The full report is available on the ADA’s Center for Evidence-Based Dentistry (EBD) website.

Love your new smile? Tell the world about it!

2011-10-02T19:50:00.000-07:00

At Salins Orthodontics, we understand not everyone is always thrilled about visiting their orthodontist. But here at our convenient South San Francisco & Union City offices, we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit at Salins Orthodontics. Today, we’d like to know: What is it about our office that makes you comfortable or puts you or your child at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our courteous staff?

Five great snacks for kids, from Salins Orthodontics

2011-09-18T13:54:00.000-07:00

With most schools back in session, our team at Salins Orthodontics know getting kids and teens to eat healthy isn’t always an easy task, especially when they’re busy with school and other school- and social-related activities. At the school cafeteria, it’s just too easy for kids to nosh on French fries, chicken nuggets and other fried foods and unhealthy snacks, so our team thought we’d pass along five delicious and nutritious snacks we know your child will love at the lunch table or after football practice.

1. Cheese – Cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child’s teeth. In addition to providing large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also does its part to fight cavities. Cheese stimulates the body’s salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris and protect them from acids that weaken them, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This means cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque’s ph level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child’s teeth.

2. Blueberries - These tiny nutritional powerhouses are loaded with Vitamin C, as well as folic acid, minerals, fiber and disease-fighting phytochemicals, which have shown to help prevent cancer and diabetes. Kids love them sprinkled with a bit of sugar, topped with whipped cream, added to muffins and pancakes.

3. Whole wheat bread or cereal – With bread, kids get their iron, vitamins, magnesium, and zinc. With vitamins, calcium, and fiber, a bowl of enriched whole grain cereal with milk—and even fruit—is a power-packed snack or healthy start to the day.

4. Oatmeal - Instead of high-sugar, high-fat options from the grocery store, try baking a batch of low-fat oatmeal cookies or oatmeal to-go. Raisins, cranberries, dried apricots and nuts can be a great addition because of their nutritional value & taste.

5. Yogurt - Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Low-fat yogurt is an excellent source of calcium, especially when whipped up in a parfait with berries and granola. Homemade fruity yogurt pop sure beats sugary store-bought frozen treats!

We encourage you to check out the other 15 healthy snacks your child can enjoy at any time of the day! For more information about which foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please post your question here on our blog, give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Breaking bad habits

2011-09-18T13:51:00.000-07:00

Start by brushing your teeth twice a day. Proper brushing techniques are an essential part of maintaining good oral health during your orthodontic treatment, as well as preventing gum disease. More care and time are needed to adequately brush your teeth when you are wearing braces. Brushing daily helps remove decay-causing plaque from tooth surfaces. Please consult our team if you would like us to review brushing techniques with you or your child. The use of a mechanical toothbrush such as a Sonicare or Oral B can aid in removing plaque around braces. Flossing daily will also prevent plaque to build up between the teeth and prevent stains between your teeth. Research has shown the bacteria of gum disease has been linked to coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes and memory loss. Lastly, we encourage you to throw away old toothbrushes and replace them every 2 or 3 months, or after an illness.

We hope this helps! If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Dr. Salins or ask your general dentist during your next scheduled visit! Or, ask us on Facebook!

September is Self-Improvement Month! From Salins Orthodontics

2011-09-14T21:49:00.000-07:00

These days, Americans everywhere are putting greater emphasis on health, fitness and self-improvement, and more people are seeking orthodontic treatment to improve their smile. September happens to be Self-Improvement Month, and our team at Salins Orthodontics know that orthodontic treatment is an investment in self-improvement that will reap benefits for a lifetime. And, recent advances in orthodontia now make orthodontic treatment more palatable for many interested in obtaining that beautiful smile.

Not only does orthodontic treatment give you that beautiful smile, it can also benefit your dental and general health. If teeth are poorly aligned, removing plaque and tartar by brushing and flossing alone may be difficult. A poor bite may result in fractured or excessively worn tooth surfaces, and the extra stress caused by a poor bite may even result in problems with your jaw joints.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, please contact our practice for a FREE orthodontic consultation. We look forward to working with you and your family!

Tips for a successful school year, from Salins Orthodontics

2011-09-11T08:54:00.000-07:00

At Salins Orthodontics, we know a new school year brings a lot of stress for many kids. New classes, new teachers, new friends and new academic challenges can be overwhelming! That’s why we thought we’d provide a few steps for our patients to enjoy their time in school and succeed this upcoming school year!

· Get plenty of sleep every night. Eight hours is recommended.

· Eat a healthy breakfast as it’s the most important meal of the day.

· Pack a healthy lunch or make healthy choices when selecting your school lunch. Try to avoid the vending machine and limit your intake of junk food.

· Stay on top of your homework and reading assignments.

· Stay active. Limit the time in front of the TV or playing video games. Instead, try to get outside to get some exercise—go for a walk or ride your bike.

· Ask for help. When you are having a hard time understanding a concept, ask your teacher or your peers for guidance.

· Always have a positive attitude and a smile on your face!

Our entire team at Salins Orthodontics hope everyone has a productive and fun school year!

20 things that can ruin your smile, from Dr. Salins and team

2011-09-11T08:51:00.000-07:00

At Salins Orthodontics, we know your smile is important. And we know you want to keep it sparkling and looking its very best. Recently, we came across an article that suggests at least 20 things can ruin that perfect smile you have.These include:
- Sports drinks
- Tobacco
- Coffee
- Wine
- Soft drinks
- Citrus and acidic foods

Dr. Salins and our team encourage you to read the rest of the article and ask us here on our blog or during your next visit to our South San Francisco or Union City location. For more tips or for general questions about your ongoing orthodontic treatment, we invite you to ask Dr. Salins and our team during your next visit!

Keeping your mouth healthy with Salins Orthodontics

2011-09-06T10:04:00.000-07:00

At Salins Orthodontics, we know good dental health requires only a few minutes a day. We thought we’d provide some practical advice on how to improve your or your child’s smile between your adjustment visits with Dr. Sheldon Salins.Start by brushing your teeth twice a day. Proper brushing techniques are an essential part of maintaining good oral health during your orthodontic treatment, as well as preventing gum disease. More care and time are needed to adequately brush your teeth when you are wearing braces. Brushing daily helps remove decay-causing plaque from tooth surfaces. Please consult Dr. Salins if you would like us to review brushing techniques with you or your child. The use of a mechanical toothbrush such as a Sonicare or Oral B can aid in removing plaque around braces. Flossing daily will also prevent plaque to build up between the teeth and prevent stains between your teeth. Research has shown the bacteria of gum disease has been linked to coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes and memory loss. Lastly, we encourage you to throw away old toothbrushes and replace them every 2 or 3 months, or after an illness.We hope this helps! If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Salins Orthodontics or ask your general dentist during your next scheduled visit! Or, ask us on Facebook!

pH Balancing Act

2011-09-01T08:51:00.000-07:00

The article below was written by Dr. Arthur Glosman in his blog. The information in his post is very valuable. The ideal pH of the human body is 7.365 and the closer your body is to this value, the better off you will feel. A body that is too acidic can lead to inflammation of the arteries or corrosion of body tissue. Long-term acidity can lead to several diseases including cancer. The body prefers a slightly basic pH, but a body that is too basic can suffer from slowed respiration and digestive problems. Overall, working to maintain an ideal pH by eating basic foods, exercising, and taking appropriate dietary supplements for your body will yield significant health benefits including improved cardiovascular health, digestion, immune function, stamina, mental function, and yes, even dental health.

What You Can Do To Help Prevent Tooth Decay
"Visiting our practice regularly has probably turned you into a cavity prevention expert, right? Well, there’s always more than meets the eye—especially when it comes to the little things we can do to keep our mouths healthy. Even those of us who are diligent brushers and flossers sometimes find ourselves with some tooth decay. Here’s one more little snippet of information that may help you.

While it is true that things like flossing, brushing for at least 2 minutes twice a day, coming in to our practice for regular checkups, using mouthwash, and avoiding sugary foods DO help prevent cavities, there are other things we can do. New discoveries show that the pH levels in our mouths actually have A LOT more to do with tooth decay than we may realize, and maintaining normal pH levels can be helpful in fighting off cavities and gum disease.

Exactly What Is pH?

To put it simply, pH is a measure of acidity… The lower the pH, the higher the acidity, and the higher the pH, the higher the alkaline levels. The pH scale runs from 1 to 14, and in the middle of the scale is the neutral number 7, being most like water.

This is where we want our mouths to be. While we know that sugar feeds the bacteria that produces acids and turns into cavities, it is actually prolonged acidic oral pH that can cause tooth decay and a demineralization of your enamel.

Confused? Let us break this down…

Heading off the domino effect means intercepting those pH levels before they get out of hand. Ever heard of a pH test strips? They’re like the sticks you dip into your swimming pool, except they’re for your mouth. You can buy them at your local pharmacy and then try these remedies at home!

Fresh Lemon and/or Lime Juice: Lemons and limes are acidic until they react with the sodium bicarbonate released by the pancreas. Upon entering the intestinal tract lemon and lime juice have alkaline properties. However, since both lemons and limes can erode tooth enamel, if you spice up your water with these delicious flavor accents, make sure you drink with a straw placed at the back of your mouth!

Take your multivitamins: Take a high quality multivitamin that contains both the essential vitamins and minerals.

Eat those leafy greens: Dark green vegetables and “green drinks” contain a high abundance of chlorophyll—a strong detoxifier and immunity–building agent.

Avoid refined carbohydrates and sugar: Eliminate all processed foods, and when you opt for grains, make sure they’re 'whole.'"

Are you wearing your mouthguard? From Salins Orthodontics

2011-08-22T20:04:00.000-07:00

With fall sports almost here for a lot of our patients at Salins Orthodontics, we thought today would be a great time to remind all our young athletes in treatment to take care of both their mouth and appliances while participating in sports – especially contact sports – this fall.
One of the most important

pieces of sports equipment you can wear on the field is a mouthguard. A well-fitted mouthguard, which we’re happy to provide, allows you to breathe and speak more clearly, in addition to protecting your mouth and braces. Only by using a mouth guard can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. The next time you’re in for a visit at our office, we encourage you to ask us for a mouthguard! In addition, the American Association of Orthodontists has five quick tips for keeping kids safe during sport activities.
• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eyewear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant, even as a spectator
We hope you’re enjoying your summer, and invite you all to share your summer photos on our Facebook page!

Ask Salins Orthodontics: “I’m 34 – am I too old for braces?”

2011-07-22T16:35:00.000-07:00

Thanks for the question. At Salins Orthodontics, nobody, and we mean NOBODY, is “too old” for braces! In fact, our staff read a fascinating statistic recently: adults getting braces has actually jumped 24 percent in the last 14 years! Of course, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but maybe the reason for the spike in adult braces is this: people want to look and feel great. In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Dr Salins can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.
If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, we would love to have you visit for a FREE consultation. Please give us a call to set one up and have yourself a great rest of the week!

Five reasons to visit Salins Orthodontics for a complimentary consultation this summer

2011-07-15T19:24:00.000-07:00

With the country still in a recession, many folks in South San Francisco, Daly City, Union City, Newark, Fremont, Hayward and surrounding areas are putting off visiting the orthodontist for a consultation. At Salins Orthodontics, we hear all the reasons – vacations, chores, emergencies, etc. Today, Dr. Sheldon Salns and our staff thought we’d give you five reasons to visit our office this summer for an orthodontic consultation.

1. Kids do not need to miss school to get their braces on
2. It is easier for kids to adjust to their braces during the summertime while out of school
3. Fewer scheduling conflicts with homework or organized sports
4. Open enrollment (for Insurance and Flex Plans) usually occurs in the Fall
5. Summer Rewards for starting treament before the end of August

And here’s another reason to visit: did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive an orthodontic consultation as early as age seven? Give us a call at 650-952-1010 OR 510-475-4153 to schedule a complimentary consultation!

Interested in Invisalign: Daly City, South San Francisco, Union City, Fremont, Hayward, Newark?

2011-07-14T17:54:00.000-07:00

If you are interested in Invisalign and live in Northern California - This article is a definite MUST READ!!

Specialist in Orthodontics Dr. Ted Rothstein Alerts Public to Rising Levels of Substandard Invisalign Treatment by Insufficiently Trained General Dentists
PRWeb - Tue, Jul 12, 2011

An orthodontist since 1976, Dr. Rothstein, has composed a list of "due diligence" hard-hitting questions for the would-be Invisalign patient to ask the dental professional--forewarned is forearmed.

Brooklyn, NY (PRWEB) July 12, 2011
Invisalign orthodontic treatment is becoming extremely popular. General dentists are competing fiercely with the specialists in orthodontics for their share of this market. Never mind that most of them are insufficiently trained and experienced in orthodontics, and lack the temperament to provide this service. Dr. Rothstein has compiled a list of questions that every consumer can use when deciding to undergo teeth straightening.

Invisalign is a type of orthodontic treatment that can be used in place of typical "train-track" braces, depending on the severity of the bite/smile problem. Keep in mind the dentist must first accurately diagnose in detail the problem(s) of the bite condition, decide how and which teeth are to be moved then send the lab rubber impressions of the teeth to make the "aligners" with exact instructions. Finally, the dentist places "attachments" on the teeth and dispenses the aligners to the patient who must wear them 22-hours each day for 2-3 week before changing to the next aligners in the treatment series.

AlignTech created this method of treatment specifically for orthodontists, but when general dentists sued for the right to provide the service, they won the case. In 2009 Invisalign mandated that general dentist and orthodontists were henceforth required to take 10 continuing education units and submit ten cases as minimum requirements for being an Invisalign provider presumably to stem the tide of inferior treatment results. That mandate was rejected in 2010 after widespread objection from both groups (Leiszler DDS and Styger DDS v. Align Technology ,United States District Court for the Northern District of California Case No. 3:10-cv:2010-MMC)

At present a general dentist can become a provider by taking a one day eight-hour course.

Consider that there are 120,000 general dentists in the US while there are a mere 6,500 orthodontic specialists. These overwhelming odds insure that more and more consumers are choosing providers who lack sufficient training and experience to provide their patients quality results. Worse yet, the patients may never find out that the results are sub par.

Dr. Rothstein poses the key question: when preparing to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime trip that is going to take on average more than a year with as many stopovers (office visits): isn't the consumer better served by the orthodontic specialist even though having to pay a higher fee? Indeed when the consumer pays more to engage the services of the specialist isn't he receiving more in the way of experience and wisdom that far outweighs the additional fees the consumer may have to pay?

Remember the general dentist is a professional who practices "general” dentistry; this means their training and expertise lies in his ability to do a variety of dental procedures well, unlike the orthodontist who may often take as many as 15-25 office visits devoted to your one smile/bite problem, sometimes making delicate and tiny adjustments, and sometimes simply to effectuate the movement of a single tooth toward its correct position. The specialist has only one art--moving teeth. The generalist is therefore less temperamentally suited to this often tedious long drawn-out kind of bite correction.

Dr. Rothstein reports that he is seeing in recent years a growing number of patients on consultation in treatment with Invisalign by the generalist who simply lacked an understanding of the limitations of the Invisalign appliance.

General dentists are not fully trained to recognize the many nuances associated with effective treatment, or even foresee the potential problems lying in wait as they proceed. Training and experience really do make a difference.

There are also cases in mid-course where the general dentist had no idea how to handle the problem that the patient was encountering. and cases where the end result of the Invisalign treatment were so lacking that the only recourse was to finish the case with fixed braces.

Due diligence questions to ask when choosing an Invisalign provider:

Are you certified specialist in orthodontics besides being a general dentist?

Do you have an orthodontist to whom you regularly refer other cases?

Do you do the train-track braces also?

When did you begin providing Invisalign?

How many Invisalign patients do you have under treatment?

How many Invisalign patients have you completed?

Are you certain my case can be completed with Invisalign?

How many months will I be in treatment (typically two aligners/month)

Is the fee you are quoting all-inclusive?

Can you provide me with the contact information of two of your completed Invisalign patients?

Does the doctor himself personally provide my treatment?

What are some of the typical problems you have seen since you are providing Invisalign?

Dr. Rothstein's final word of advice is always seek a second opinion with a provider who is a specialist, and let them know exactly what the general dentist recommended. It's worth the additional fee (many orthodontists offer a free second opinion). Indeed, Dr. Rothstein readily maintains that when he is in a quandary related to treatment of his own patients he encourages them to obtain a second opinion.

# # #
Dr. Ted Rothstein

2011-07-06T23:02:00.001-07:00

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2011-07-06T11:12:00.001-07:00

Stay Cool with a Braces-Friendly Summer Treat!

2011-06-24T09:38:00.000-07:00

Summer is here! Kids and adults alike will now be spending more time outside being active and enjoying the hotter temperatures. And what’s better on a hot summer day than a delicious treat that will cool you down after doing something active in the summer sun? Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have just the thing, Watermelon Sorbet! You can find the complete recipe below:

Watermelon Sorbet

Ingredients
• ¾ cup water
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 2 to 3 cups watermelon, diced, no seeds or rind

Directions
In a small saucepan, heat the water, sugar, and lime juice on medium high for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Chill this “syrup” at least 20 minutes. In the meantime, place the watermelon chunks in a food processor or blender and liquefy them. Add the chilled syrup to the watermelon puree and blend. Freeze sorbet in an ice-cream maker according to manufacturer’s directions. Serve immediately.

Happy Summer!

-The Salins Orthodontics Team

Orthodontic Emergency Care with Dr. Salins & Team

2011-06-17T07:45:00.000-07:00

True orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but when they do occur we are available to you. As a general rule, you should call the office 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 with Salins Orthodontics.

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you schedule an appointment with Salins Orthodontics.

The following solutions may help you relieve your discomfort:
Poking Wire: Using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down or place wax on it to alleviate the discomfort.

Loose Bracket or Band: If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. If the wire comes out entirely, wrap the bracket with a tissue.

Loose Wire: Using a tweezers, try to place your wire 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.

Headgear Does Not Fit: Sometimes headgear discomfort is caused by not wearing the headgear as instructed by your orthodontist. Please refer to the instructions provided by your orthodontist. If the facebow is bent, please call our office for assistance. Surprisingly, headgear becomes more comfortable the more it’s worn, so be sure you’re getting in the prescribed hours.

General Soreness: When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm salt water mouthwash. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously. If the tenderness is severe, take aspirin or whatever you normally take for headache or similar pain.

Remember, after alleviating your discomfort, it is still very important that you call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem.

June is National Smile Month!

2011-06-10T17:59:00.001-07:00

According to the American Dental Association, a person’s smile outranked eyes, hair and body as the most important physical feature, which is why it’s important for our team at Snow Orthodontics to support National Smile Month this June.

Show off your pearly whites by posting your favorite smile photos on the wall of our Facebook page. We look forward to seeing what you share!

Salins Orthodontics, wishing you a relaxing and memorable Memorial Day weekend

2011-05-27T16:00:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day weekend is a time when Americans everywhere stop and remember all those men and women who bravely gave their lives for our country.

Memorial Day also marks the unofficial start of summer 2011, and for many folks in Northern California getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the office or in the classroom means sweet, sweet relief. At Salins

Orthodontics, we also know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. After all, it’s a season of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, hitting the great open roads or hanging out in your backyard this weekend, we want to know about it!

Have a nice and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

“My son is turning 7 – when should we visit for a consultation?”

2011-05-25T11:23:00.000-07:00

Great question! Our team at Salins Orthodontics will tell you that braces were originally considered to be best appropriate for teens. But these days, kids as old as seven are beginning their orthodontic treatment. Because preadolescent kids are typically not self-conscious, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists suggest it could be a good idea to start early.

Experts, however, say it depends on the treatment required. Some children who get braces at an early age end up in a second phase of treatment, and end up having braces well into their teenage years despite starting young.

Most orthodontic treatment begins between ages 9 and 14, and the folks at AAO estimate most orthodontic treatment lasts from one to three years, with two years being the average. It’s important, however, that children be screened at our convenient Union City and South San Francisco offices no later than age seven for Dr. Salins to assess what the best age for treatment is.

We hope this helps! We invite you to give us a call 650-952-1010/ 510-475-4153 if you have any questions about your child’s treatment and have yourself a relaxing and wonderful weekend!
You may also ask our team at Salins Orthodontics on Facebook!

Foods to Avoid During Your Orthodontic Treatment

2011-05-22T08:04:00.000-07:00

There are a variety of foods we at Salins Orthodontics want you to avoid while you’re wearing braces. Some foods can occasionally damage braces, but certain foods can bend the wires or even break the brackets on your braces. If you’re wearing braces, you should avoid starch, sugar and gummy foods, as these foods can be difficult to remove during brushing. Foods that are high in sugar and starch tend to cause plaque, cavities and even tooth decay.

Avoid tough meats, hard breads and raw vegetables such as carrots and celery. Before long, you’ll be able to bite a cucumber again. But you’ll need to protect your orthodontic appliances when you eat for as long as you’re wearing braces.

Foods you should avoid include:

• Chewy foods: bagels, hard rolls, licorice
• Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice, chips
• Sticky foods: caramels, gum
• Hard foods: nuts, candy
• Foods you have to bite into: corn on the cob, apples, carrots

Also, chewing on hard things (for example, pens, pencils or fingernails) can damage the braces. Damaged braces will cause treatment to take longer.

If you have any questions on which foods you should be avoiding and why, we invite you to give us a call or ask our staff during your next visit.

Salins Orthodontics at the 2011 AAO Annual Session

2011-05-10T22:05:00.000-07:00

At Salins Orthodontics, our greatest goal is to help you achieve a healthier, happier, more confident smile. Dr. Salins is a lifelong learner, and spend countless hours every year to acquire and share the knowledge, skills, and expertise that directly benefits you, a member of our patient family.

One of the ways we provides a “complete” orthodontic treatment experience for our patients is by attending important seminars and conferences. One of these gatherings — the American Association of Orthodontists’ Annual Session in Chicago this May– is an educational event that is one of the largest orthodontic conventions in the world – and one that allows us to stay up-to-date on all the latest technologies and orthodontic treatment options available. This, in turn, allows us to give you, our wonderful patients, the best treatment experience possible. Our team will be attending the event this year, which runs from May 13th- 17th. We are excited to attend, and look forward to sharing news and photos from the event once we return!

May is National Teen Self-Esteem Month

2011-05-09T11:50:00.000-07:00

At Salins Orthodontics, we know image is everything. At an age when image is so important, the thought of having braces may intensify the already-delicate confidence of today’s teens. Well, May is National Teen Self-Esteem Month, and during this time, parents are encouraged to act as positive role models, help stop negative self-images, and improve confidence and security among teenagers.

One of the great ways to improve your confidence is to improve your smile. And that begins with a free consultation to Salins Orthodontics. After all, what better time to avoid having crooked teeth in your adulthood than coming in for a consultation?

We proudly provide traditional braces and Invisalign Teen for today’s image-conscious teens.
We invite you to give us a call to schedule a free consultation or ask us on Facebook!

Our QR Code

2011-04-24T17:26:00.000-07:00

Flossing with Braces 101

2011-04-15T07:44:00.000-07:00

Our team at Salins Orthodontics will tell you that keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever when you have braces. Food bits have more spots than usual to hide in your mouth, so you must be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. If you remove plaque regularly during treatment, you’ll experience better results and could possibly reduce your treatment time.

Here is a very concise video explaining the proper way to floss your teeth with braces. Give us a call if you have more questions about flossing. Enjoy!

Salins Orthodontics asks: How important is your smile?

2011-04-01T08:28:00.000-07:00

You work hard, you care about your health and you want to look your very best. Your teeth are an important part of your health, your appearance and your self-confidence. Why leave your oral health in the hands of anyone other than a skilled qualified specialist with years of experience? Dr. Sheldon Salins and team have been creating beautiful, healthy smiles in the California area since 2004, and have gained a reputation for providing the highest quality and most modern orthodontic treatment available.

And speaking of smiling, in a new poll conducted by Glamour Magazine, people were asked, “If you had to pick between having perfect teeth, eyesight or hair, which would you choose?

Well, 44 percent of folks out there are choosing teeth! In addition, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, or AACD, conducted a study and found that 99.7 percent of those polled believed a smile is an important social asset. Respondents said straightness, whiteness, cleanliness, as well as the sincerity and sparkle of a person’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well.

Please contact us at Salins Orthodontics for your complimentary consultation, and start smiling!

Ask Dr. Salins: What’s so bad about nail biting?

2011-03-28T07:45:00.000-07:00

We’ve all heard that biting your nails is an awful habit, but you many wonder- really- what’s so bad about it? Recently, our team at Salins Orthodontics found an interesting article that discusses how biting your nails affect your teeth and oral health.

Nail biting, also known as Onychophagia, is a common habit among various age groups, including primarily children, teens and young adults. Nail biting is generally triggered by stress and most often decreases with age. That being said, nail biting is unsanitary, unattractive, as well as unhealthy for your teeth!
Here’s why:

• It’s unsanitary. Your nails are dirty, almost twice as dirty as your fingers! Hence, biting your nails is just asking for germs and bacteria.
• No good things come to your teeth. Nail biting causes your teeth to constantly be chewing, which is not good for them. This excessive motion wears your teeth down faster than a non-nail biter’s and puts a large amount of stress on your front teeth- contributing to teeth misalignment.
• Braces don’t love it either. Braces already put pressure on teeth, nail biting ads unnecessary pressure, further stressing your teeth and weakening their roots.
• It can be costly. Nail biting can result in up to $4,000 in additional dental bills over one lifetime, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Yikes!

What can you do about it?

Now that you know how harmful nail biting can be, it’s time to take action to break your nail biting habit. Try to be conscious of your fingernails and to keep them looking good- this will help you resist the temptation. Ask us for tips on how to break a nail biting habit.
Good luck!

Your friends at Salins Orthodontics

You’re Never Too Old to Treat Yourself to a New Smile!

2011-03-19T16:35:00.000-07:00

Did you know one in every five orthodontic patients is an adult? We’re living longer and technology is improving, making orthodontic treatment an appealing and safe option for patients of all ages. As the trend toward treatment later in life grows, we’re seeing braces on parents as well as children – and even adult celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Gwen Stefani and Nicholas Cage have shown off their braces. It’s never too late to look and feel your best with Salins Orthodontics!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment with our team. The physical process for moving teeth is the same, young or old, which means it’s never too late to address issues such as an overbite or underbite, crooked or crowded teeth, or jaw disorders.

How Do I Get Started?

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, we’ll make a consultation appointment with you. During this meeting we will perform a general assessment of your oral health, discuss options for treatment, and answer any questions you may have. We will also discuss matters of cost and insurance. The next step is an orthodontic records appointment in which we take x-rays, photos, and an impression of your teeth. This information drives your unique treatment plan.

What Are the Benefits?

Straightening your teeth can improve your smile, your self-esteem, and your dental health. Technologically advanced new treatments make it easier to identify the option that best fits your lifestyle. Modern techniques and materials have made braces and aligners more effective, comfortable and unobtrusive than ever.

If you think you might benefit from orthodontic treatment, give us a call at Salins Orthodontics, so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs.

What Will YOUR Smile Look Like After Orthodontic Treatment?

2011-03-11T07:52:00.000-08:00

It is sometimes hard to believe the transformation your smile undergoes during orthodontic treatment. We love to see our patients’ smiles light up when they see their new smile in the mirror for the first time. For those of you who haven’t yet started or finished your orthodontic treatment, have you ever wondered what your new smile might look like after treatment? The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO for short, has recently launched a new tool called “Virtual Smiles”, which shows what your smile might look like after orthodontic treatment. Using the tool will also earn you a free orthodontic consultation coupon, which can be redeemed at Snow Orthodontics by yourself, a family member or friend. Check out the Virtual Smiles tool, and call us to get started on improving your smile today!

Distinguishing the myths and facts about orthodontics

2011-03-05T12:05:00.000-08:00

Trust us, we know there are quite a few myths about orthodontics floating around these days. But before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists set the record straight (no pun intended) and have provided some information that sheds some light on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at Salins Orthodontics, feel free to give us a call.

Working on that Summer Smile!

2011-02-21T06:19:00.001-08:00

Well here we are… finally enjoying a taste of warmer weather. Fret not friends who love the wonder of winter, for it is not over yet. Looks like temperatures may plummet yet again prior to committing to a full on spring fling.

So for those of you who long for April showers and May flowers, here’s a way to keep you smiling until Mother Nature delivers. From an article written by Sharon Liao for Bright Smile Beautiful You is a list of foods that will help increase your energy, reduce your stress and keep that grin gorgeous!

1. Salmon
"The omega-3s found in salmon have been proven to boost mood," says Lauren Slayton, a registered dietitian and the director of FoodTrainers, a nutrition center in New York City. These healthy fats not only put a smile on your face, but they can also help keep it there: A recent study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that people who consistently consumed more omega-3s were 30 percent less likely to develop gum disease than those who got less. Don't like seafood? Reach for other sources like flax and walnuts.

2. Avocado
Even if you're not a guacamole fan, this green fruit can bring you happiness. "Avocados contain serotonin, a type of feel-good neurotransmitter in the brain," says Slayton. Try using a few slices as a creamy substitute for mayo in sandwiches, or toss some cubes into your lunchtime salad.

3. Raisins
Although they're known as nature's candy, raisins are one sweet treat that won't cause cavities. In fact, researchers from the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry found that the healthy antioxidants in raisins helped slow the growth of two types of bacteria that set the stage for tooth decay and gum disease. Snack on a handful for an instant hit of energy.

4. Dark chocolate
It's no wonder that many women consider chocolate comfort food. "Chocolate is high in magnesium, a mineral that calms muscles and can relieve anxiety," says Slayton. For an even bigger dose of the mineral, try satisfying your sweet tooth with chocolate-covered almonds.

5. Cereal
The next time you pick up a box, check to make sure it's fortified with vitamin D. Over 60 percent of Americans don't get enough of this "sunshine" nutrient, which has been shown to fend off the blues -- especially during the dark days of winter. Pair those puffs of flakes with low-fat milk for a dose of bone- and teeth-fortifying calcium.

6. Green tea
Feeling stressed? Brew some soothing tea. These green leaves contain L-theanine, an antioxidant that has been linked with relaxation. Sip a mug before that big meeting, and you'll score another benefit: fresher breath. According to research from Pace University in New York City, green tea's polyphenols can destroy bacteria that lead to bad breath and tooth decay.

7. Yogurt
Scoop up a better mood with this calcium-rich snack. Yogurt contains probiotics, friendly bacteria that have been shown to ease depression. Plus, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology reveals that probiotics may reduce inflammation in the mouth, lowering your risk of gum disease and even oral cancer.

8. Popcorn
When you're grumpy or sluggish, chances are you crave bread and pasta. "That's because carbs increase serotonin levels in the body, which can put you in a better mood," explains Slayton. But before you twirl up that spaghetti, snack on some popcorn. The whole-grain treat has the same beneficial effect and, at just 31 calories per cup, won't wreck your waistline.

Sharon Liao is an award-winning health editor and writer who has been on staff at Prevention, Fitness, and Reader's Digest magazines. She has contributed to Seventeen and Weight Watchers Magazine, as well as The Intellectual Devotional: Health.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month!

2011-02-04T18:32:00.000-08:00

One in four parents says their child has had an injury during an organized sport resulting in a trip to the emergency room, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO. That why the Salins Orthodontics team thought February—also known as National Children’s Dental Health Month—would be great time to remind our patients to be mindful of their braces and teeth while playing sports. Here are a few tips to stay safe on the field this spring, courtesy of the AAO:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse. 2. Wear a helmet 3. Wear protective eyewear 4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin 5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact us. Stay safe and have fun!

Xylitol Chewing Gum Can Prevent Cavities And Gum Disease?

2011-01-23T18:50:00.000-08:00

Early childhood caries (ECC), a severe deterioration of infants’ teeth due to bacterial infection, is a major global public health concern and its prevalence is rising, mostly within poor populations. Children with ECC are three times more likely than children without ECC to develop tooth decay in their permanent teeth, and ECC has a negative effect on oral health in general.1

Xylitol Acts as an Antibacterial Agent

Xylitol, a five-carbon sugar alcohol commonly used as a sweetener in foods, gum, and oral health products,2 reduces plaque formation and bacterial adherence by exerting a selective antibacterial action against mutans streptococci, the main bacterial species in human tooth decay.1 However, the concentrations of xylitol in these products are generally too low to have anticariogenic effects.

Efficacy of Xylitol Shown in a Randomized Clinical Trial

A study by Milgrom and colleagues was the first to assess the efficacy of xylitol pediatric topical syrup in the reduction of the incidence of tooth decay.1 Children at high risk for ECC, aged from 15 to 25 months, were followed for 12 months in a double-blind randomized clinical trial. A total of 94 children were randomized to one of three groups, two active groups each receiving oral xylitol (8 g/day) divided into 2 or 3 doses, and a control group receiving a single subtherapeutic dose of 2.67 g xylitol. Dose frequency was controlled by dummy doses of sorbitol, a polyol sweetener which has not demonstrated protective effects against caries.

The number of decayed teeth was evaluated and results are shown in the table. Compared to the control group, significantly fewer decayed teeth were observed in the xylitol-2X group and the xylitol-3X group (51.6% vs. 24.25% vs. 40.6%, respectively). There was no significant difference between xylitol treatment groups (p-value = 0.22).

The results of this trial suggest that exposure to xylitol (8 g/day) in a twice-daily topical syrup during primary tooth eruption prevents up to 70% of tooth decay. Dividing 8 g xylitol into 3 doses daily did not significantly change the efficacy of treatment.3,4 The results confirm the position of the National Institutes of Health and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry supporting the importance of xylitol for the prevention of dental carries.1

Adverse Effects and Long-Term Consequences

The most common adverse events of xylitol, such as loose stools and diarrhea, are those most frequently seen after the consumption of polyol sweeteners. There is no published evidence of long-term negative consequences related to the consumption of a specific sweetener during childhood. However, xylitol-based products have been widely available for many years and consumed in several countries with no undesirable effects noted so far.

Xylitol as a Public Health Measure

Xylitol syrup could potentially be a cost-effective measure for the prevention of ECC, especially in high-risk populations. However, further studies are required to establish xylitol effectiveness in real life practice before it can be recommended as a public health measure.

Gummy Tummy? From Salins Orthodontics

2011-01-12T22:26:00.000-08:00

At Salins Orthodontics, we know the rumors going around – mostly among young people – that once you swallow a piece of chewing gum it will stake a claim and take up residency in your stomach for at least seven years! We really hate to take all the fun out of the mystery, but the truth is that chewing gum, when swallowed, will enter the stomach and move through the digestive system just like any other piece of food and leave the body long before seven years! So, if you ever have accidentally swallowed a piece of gum, there is no need to worry!

This being said, gum does not have any dietary benefits, so while it’s not harmful to swallow, you still want to avoid swallowing it. If you are a gum-chewer, make sure you chew sugarless gum, because gum with sugar can lead to cavities. Sugarless gum still has the same amount of flavor, but with less cavity causing ingredients. You see, when the bacterium in your mouth breaks down sugar, what’s left behind is acid. This acid eats away at the enamel coating of your teeth, causing holes that we call cavities. Cavities can lead to other long term mouth problems if they are not treated in time, so it is best to try and avoid overexposing your teeth to too many harmful substances!

Happy (sugar-free) gum chewing!

Connect with the Braces Brigade!

2011-01-08T19:39:00.000-08:00

At Salins Orthodontics, our patients want to get as much out of their treatment as possible. That includes asking a lot of questions and making sure they take care of both their appliances and oral health.

Would you like to learn more about what to expect during orthodontic treatment, from someone with firsthand experience? Well, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recently developed the Braces Brigade blog, where past, present, as well as future orthodontic patients from coast to coast document their (or their child’s) orthodontic journeys. The blog will serve as a source of guidance for others as the patients undergo orthodontic care.

Our staff at Salins Orthodontics encourages you to visit the Braces Brigade blog to read these great and informative blogs—who knows, maybe you’ll learn a thing or two! As always, don’t hesitate to give us a call at our South San Francisco or Union City offices if you have any questions about the Braces Brigade or your own orthodontic treatment with Dr. Salins!

Happy New Year!

What is your New Year’s Resolution?

2010-12-30T06:44:00.000-08:00

2010 is almost over—and what a year it was for us at Salins Orthodontics! Today, we thought we’d ask: what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you most looking forward to in 2011? Do you have a new year’s resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

We hope all our patients, friends, family and all our dental and medical colleagues in the San Francisco Bay Area have a safe and happy New Year!!

Smile wider, live longer, from Salins Orthodontics

2010-12-22T17:31:00.000-08:00

Folks with big smiles may actually live longer than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. Our team has known for quite some time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers at the university did something quite interesting: they looked at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity (ranging from big smile, no smile or partial smile). The players’ smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers then took into account other factors that impact life longevity, including body mass index, career length and even college attendance.

The results? Researchers found that players who weren’t smiling in the photos died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be 79.9 years old.

The take-away from the new study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you been perfecting your smile with Salins Orthodontics? If not, give us a call!

Share your smile with the world

2010-12-17T09:31:00.000-08:00

Check out this new link if you are thinking of getting braces!!

http://bracesbrigade.ws-wr.com/

Staying connected with Salins Orthodontics

2010-11-18T08:50:00.000-08:00

At Salins Orthodontics, we embrace technology, whether it’s through the innovative treatments we offer, our high-tech web site or our Facebook page. As you can probably tell, we love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our fan page. For social media to work, we understand that conversation is vital, and that’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social networks are hugely popular these days, we know they’re unpredictable and ever-changing.

While we take a little time to research how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog? Please post your thoughts or give us a call!

The common cold is back

2010-10-18T10:28:00.000-07:00

Here we go again: it's officially cold and flu season, and once again time to remind our patients at Salins Orthodontics to try and steer clear of that cold that's been going around lately.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, we give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our offices at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces.

For the protection of other patients, Dr. Salins and our staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

Maintaining and protecting oral hygiene equipment is also important this flu season. To protect your toothbrush from bacteria follow these steps:

• Wash your hands before and after brushing

• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen

• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster

• Replace toothbrush after every cold or flu or every 3-4 months when bristles appear worn

Hope this helps! Stay healthy!

October is National Orthodontic Health Month

2010-10-15T13:22:00.000-07:00

Can you believe October is already upon us? October happens to be National Orthodontic Health Month, and this month-long event is organized by our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Many treats can cause havoc for trick-or-treaters who are going through orthodontic treatment, and these treats may cause damage that could prolong your treatment time. The AAO recommends patients avoid the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

• Caramel
• Nuts
• Popcorn (including un-popped kernels)
• Taffy
• Jelly beans
• Hard pretzels
• Licorice
• Bubblegum
• Taco chips
• Ice

If you happen to damage your braces, please give our staff a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone. Loose brackets or wires can usually be made more comfortable by applying some wax until the you can come into our office.

Tongue piercings linked to gap between teeth

2010-09-24T13:13:00.000-07:00

by British Dental Health Foundation
Playing with a pierced tongue stud could lead to a gap between the front teeth. A new study suggested that tongue piercings could be a major cause of unnecessary orthodontic issues. The report claimed that those with tongue piercings were likely to push the metal stud up against their teeth and consequently cause gaps and other problems to arise.
The research was carried out at the University at Buffalo in New York.
Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, said the study highlighted the risks that tongue piercings have on oral health.
“It’s certainly something to think about before going out to get a tongue piercing. The temptation of playing with the stud in the mouth would be very high and in time this could lead to hundreds of pounds worth of corrective treatment,” Dr Carter said. “The results of this study stress the risks that are associated with tongue piercings. As well as causing an apparent gap, oral piercings can also lead to chipped teeth and infection.”
“In order to avoid such health problems in the future, along with the spiraling costs of any related treatment, I would advise people to stay clear of tongue piercings,” Dr Carter said.
Sawsan Tabbaa, lead author of the study, said that “force, over time, moves teeth” and that the results are caused by people playing with their studs crop up in a “very high percent of the cases.”
A professor of orthodontics at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, Tabbaa, explained that tooth damage was common in both past and current case studies.
The current study featured a 26 year-old female patient and showed that a space between the upper front teeth had appeared during a period of seven years, as the metal bar was pushed against and between the teeth.
The patient provided researchers with photographs to show that she had no diastema before having her tongue pierced. It was strongly thought that positioning of the tongue stud between the maxillary central incisors caused the midline space between the front teeth.
The only solution was for the patient to wear a fixed brace for an extensive period of time.
The author concluded that tongue piercings could result in serious injuries, not just to teeth but said they have also been associated with haemorrhages, infections, trauma to the gums and, in the worst cases, brain abscesses.
The results of the study were published in the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics

Orthodontist uses brackets to treat injured tortoise

2010-09-16T12:14:00.000-07:00

A tortoise in Charlotte County, Fla, has a local orthodontist to thank for its new lease on life. After getting clipped by a car, the tortoise was left with a cracked shell that left it in pain every time it moved its legs, according to WINK News.

Robin Jenkins, DVM, at the Peace River Wildlife Center in Punta Gorda, Fla, called his daughter’s orthodontist, Kay O’Leary, DDS, Port Charlotte, Fla, for help. Turns out, the acrylic used for retainers also sticks to shells.

“It took four of us to hold the pieces, there were four pieces, to get the pieces all lined back up so we could actually apply some brackets to hold some wires to pull those pieces together,” said O’Leary.

The brackets added stability and held the shell together, which should speed up the healing process. They also allow the injury to breathe so bacteria can be washed out more easily.

In honor of O’Leary’s help, the tortoise, who is still recovering, has been named O’Leary. Eventually the tortoise will be set free. According to O’Leary, the braces will fall off on their own.

How to brush your teeth

2010-09-08T10:02:00.000-07:00

Most of our patients maintain a twice-daily brushing routine; however, not everyone knows the professionally recommended technique. Help to avoid cavities and gum disease by watching this short brushing video.

http://www.colgateprofessional.com/patienteducation/How-to-Brush/video

What Is the Right Way to Brush?
Proper brushing takes at least two minutes — that's right, 120 seconds! Most adults do not come close to brushing that long. To get a feel for the time involved, try using a stopwatch. To properly brush your teeth, use short, gentle strokes, paying extra attention to the gumline, hard-to-reach back teeth and areas around fillings, crowns or other restoration. Concentrate on thoroughly cleaning each section as follows:

Clean the outer surfaces of your upper teeth, then your lower teeth
Clean the inner surfaces of your upper teeth, then your lower teeth
Clean the chewing surfaces
For fresher breath, be sure to brush your tongue, too
Click here for information on Colgate toothbrushes

Tilt the brush at a 45° angle against the gumline and sweep or roll the brush away from the gumline. Gently brush the outside, inside and chewing surface of each tooth using short back-and-forth strokes. Gently brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.

What Type of Toothbrush Should I Use?
Most dental professionals agree that a soft-bristled brush is best for removing plaque and debris from your teeth. Small-headed brushes are also preferable, since they can better reach all areas of the mouth, including hard-to-reach back teeth. For many, a powered toothbrush is a good alternative. It can do a better job of cleaning teeth, particularly for those who have difficulty brushing or who have limited manual dexterity. To find the right Colgate toothbrush for you, click here.

How Important is the Toothpaste I Use?
It is important that you use a toothpaste that's right for you. Today there is a wide variety of toothpaste designed for many conditions, including cavities, gingivitis, tartar, stained teeth and sensitivity. Ask your dentist or dental hygienist which toothpaste is right for you. To find the right Colgate toothpaste for you, click here.

How Often Should I Replace My Toothbrush?
You should replace your toothbrush when it begins to show wear, or every six months, whichever comes first. It is also very important to change toothbrushes after you've had a cold, since the bristles can collect germs that can lead to reinfection.

Researchers say the best teeth whitener is fruit

2010-08-22T09:38:00.000-07:00

A recent study by Harvard University revealed that eating fruit daily is the best way to whiten teeth. Through a three-month clinical study, it was determined that strawberries, orange peels, and lemon juice are the most effective teeth whiteners in the world.

Strawberries can be made into a puree and smothered on the teeth.
Strawberries have a natural enzyme that removes tooth stains, according to TeethWhitener.net. Orange peels can be used to remove tooth stains, just by rubbing the inside of a peel against tooth surfaces.
A little lemon juice and salt work very well to remove stains just wash your mouth out with this, or even rock salt and warm water will work at night to remove stains.

Baking soda has long been known to work wonders for smiles. It may taste awful, however adding baking soda on a toothbrush along with mouthwash can help alleviate the negative taste. Also a strawberry mixture added to baking soda/peroxide not only adds a sweet taste to the concotion, but is yet another effective whitener.
It is best to not drink coffee, tea, colas or red wine, which are all known to stain teeth and cause some decay of the enamel. Apples and potatoes can cause discoloration, but they also tend to clean off the teeth. Mouth washing is important after eating apples.

Also, stop or slow down tobacco use, as both dipping and smoking can cause tooth discoloration. Avoid mouthwash, as it sometimes will stain teeth. Finally, remember that an ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure. Going to the dentist once or twice a year for a cleaning and checkup is strongly suggested.

Smoke Screen with Dr. Salins

2010-08-09T07:20:00.000-07:00

Everybody knows that smoking causes lung cancer, but did you also know that smokers and tobacco are susceptible to a variety of oral health problems at a faster rate than non-smokers?

It’s true! Smoking is responsible for almost 75% of gum disease in adults; and, similar to smokers, adults who smoke pipes and cigars, as well as those using smokeless tobacco, are just as susceptible to gum disease and other tobacco related health problems.

As soon as you use tobacco products, you become more likely to experience any of these oral-health problems:

• Oral cancer
• Gum disease
• Tooth loss
• Loss of bone in the jaw
• Gum recession
• Delayed/impaired healing process after oral surgery or any other treatment
• Decreased success rate of dental implant (tooth replacement) procedures
• Mouth sores
• Loss of your sense of taste and smell
• Bad breath
• Tooth and tongue stains

If you are interested in protecting your oral health we strongly recommend you quit using tobacco products! The following steps are recommended by the Surgeon General to help you quit smoking and using tobacco:

• Get ready – set a quitting date and remove all materials from your home, car and office
• Get support
• Learn new skills and behaviors
• Get medication and use it correctly
• Be prepared for relapse or difficult situations

For support, start with Salins Orthodontics We can help by recommending different options to help you quit, and above all we will support you throughout the quitting process. We are dedicated to helping you protect your oral health – and quitting smoking is significant step in the right direction.

YUCK!? The GROSS Truth about Morning Breath!

2010-06-30T10:05:00.000-07:00

Well doesn’t this article just want to make you brush your teeth…again and again and again. Written by Howard Bennett for “KidsPost”, it gives some insight as to why we all get “morning breath”. Don’t knock anyone over trying to get to the sink to freshen up tomorrow morning. Hope you are all having a wonderful day!

Monday, June 28, 2010
It's a cozy Sunday morning as you sneak into your parents' bedroom for some snuggle time. You carefully slip between your mom and dad, feeling the warmth of their bodies. Then your mom turns over, smiles gently and pulls you close for a little kiss. However, instead of the inviting smell you normally associate with your mom, you are enveloped in the foulest breath that has ever left a human body!
How could someone who looks so good on the outside smell so bad on the inside? When you complain about your mom's breath, she tries to convince you that yours is just as bad. You're sure she's wrong. After all, when you exhale into your hands and sniff, your breath smells fine.
Is your mom right? Does your morning breath smell just as bad as hers? If it does, whose idea was it to turn the human mouth into a garbage can after a night of blissful sleep?
Sorry to burst your bubble, but your mom is right. It's a fact that people are unable to smell their own breath.
The human mouth is home to billions of bacteria. These microscopic organisms don't make you sick, but they grow like weeds on every structure in your mouth: tongue, teeth, gums, cheeks, etc. And like all living things, bacteria produce waste products. It is their waste products that give your parents (and you) such horrible breath in the morning.
People can have bad breath during the day as well, but something happens at night that makes the problem much worse when you wake up. Because you don't eat or drink when you sleep, huge numbers of bacteria that would normally be washed down your throat have the opportunity to "party" til dawn. And as those bacteria gorge themselves and reproduce, they foul the air around them.
However, instead of being mad at these invisible fiends, you should pity them. As soon as you wake up, eat breakfast and brush your teeth, most of them will be swallowed and killed by the acids in your stomach.
-- Howard Bennett

Howard Bennett, a Washington pediatrician and author of health-related books for kids, writes about gross things for KidsPost

Top ten tips for keeping your braces, and teeth clean!

2010-06-19T08:45:00.000-07:00

Keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever when you have braces. Food bits have more spots than usual to hide in your mouth, so you must be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. If you remove plaque regularly during treatment, you'll experience better results and shorter treatment time. Keep plaque at bay with these top ten tips:

1. One tooth at a time. When you brush, take time with each individual tooth – at least 10 seconds each – and pay careful attention to the spots where your teeth touch your braces.

2. It’s all about the angles. Brush the tops of your teeth and braces with your brush angled down toward where they meet. Brush the bottoms of your teeth and braces with your brush angled up.

3. The tooth, the whole tooth, nothing but the tooth. While the front surface of your teeth may seem like the most logical to clean, it’s equally important to clean the inner surface of your teeth (tongue side) as well as the chewing surface. And be sure to clean along your gum line – a key spot for plaque buildup.

4. Step 1: eat, step 2: clean. While you’re in treatment, it’s important to brush after every meal. Bits of food can easily get caught between braces and teeth, and these food bits interact with bacteria in your mouth to cause decay. The longer food is in contact with your teeth, the greater opportunity for plaque to form. If you are eating somewhere that you can’t brush, thoroughly rinse your mouth with water.

5. Like a Boy Scout, always be prepared. The easiest way to be sure you can brush after every meal is to get in the habit of taking a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss with you wherever you go. Designate a special container just for your teeth-cleaning tools and keep it in your purse, backpack, or laptop case.

6. Remove the moving parts. If you have elastic bands or headgear, remove these parts before you brush or floss.

7. Fluoride is your friend. Fluoride helps prevent cavities. Be sure to brush with fluoride toothpaste, and rinse with fluoride mouthwash.

8. Pointy brushes reach tiny places. Interproximal brushes (sometimes called proxa brushes or interdental brushes) are cone-shaped and come in very handy for reaching spots around your braces that standard brushes can’t.

9. Find the floss for you. Regular floss works for some patients, but others find it easier to work with a floss threader, which helps you get the floss into tight places. Other patients like an all-in-one product called Superfloss, which comes with a stiff end for easy threading, a spongy section for cleaning wide spaces, and regular floss for narrow spaces.

10. Make time for the pros. It’s your job to take care of the everyday cleaning. But make sure to visit your dentist regularly while in treatment, to get the deep, thorough cleaning that only a professional can provide. If you need help finding the right dentist for you, feel free to contact our office - we’d love to help!

Hope this helps!

The most wasted of all days is one without laughter. - e.e. cummings

2010-06-11T09:33:00.000-07:00

Salins Orthodontics Reminding You To Smile This June! National Smile Month

2010-06-07T12:20:00.000-07:00

It’s June already! Where does the time go? We know our patients have plenty to smile about, with graduations, and summer just around the corner, but we are excited to tell you June marks National Smile Month! This is a great time to remind our patients to brush, floss, practice good nutrition at home (and over the summer) to avoid cavities and gum disease, among other dental health issues.

After all, there’s more and more evidence that suggests folks with gum disease are more at risk for serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and strokes.

Here are a few easy steps you can improve your oral health at home:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth and braces
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during orthodontic treatment.
* Visit your general dentist regularly (usually every six months apart).

If you have questions about any of the tips here, we encourage you to give us a call! Congratulations to all the recent grads!

Salins Orthodontics supporting National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

2010-05-07T09:22:00.000-07:00

Did you know the month of May is observed as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month? In 1983, President Reagan encouraged people to incorporate more activity into their lives, and the reminder is even more important today as kids are distracted more and more by television, social networking and video games. Kids living an active lifestyle can - and do - improve their health, productivity and overall well being, and best of all? It doesn’t have to take a lot of time!

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has provided some public health guidelines for your reference. The guidelines call for children and teenagers to exercise one hour every day of moderate intensity physical activity (such as playing sports or brisk walking) or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity (jogging, dancing and jumping rope).

At Salins Orthodontics we encourage our patients to stay fit by exercising or participate in sports. However, we want to remind you to always wear a mouth guard or other forms of facial protection when playing sports. To learn more about how often you should exercise, we recommend you check out this series of helpful articles about kids and exercise, courtesy of our friends at KidsHealth.org.

Ask Dr. Salins: What, exactly, is malocclusion?

2010-04-29T15:18:00.000-07:00

Malocclusion, or what Dr. Salins call “bad bite,” is the improper alignment of teeth and/or jaws. When your teeth and jaws are not properly aligned, it may impact your bite, the ability to properly care for your teeth, your gum tissue health and, yes, even your appearance.

Dr. Salins will tell you that untreated malocclusion can lead undesirable mouth problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, or chipped and cracked teeth. The most common solution for malocclusion, of course, is orthodontic treatment. The actual course of treatment, including the length of time you will require braces, will be determined by severity of your malocclusion. The goal of your treatment is to move your teeth into the proper position and correct any misalignment in the jaw.

At Salins Orthodontics, we use the most advanced technology in the field in order to ensure that you receive the best possible results. If you have any questions about malocclusion, please give us a call and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have.

Smile now, smile later, smile often!

2010-04-20T14:54:00.000-07:00

Great news! People with big smiles may actually live than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. Researchers there looked at photos of 230 baseball players who began their careers prior to 1950 - and studied their smile intensity (ranging from big smile, no smile or partial smile). The players' smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers of course then took into account other factors that impact life longevity, including body mass index, career length and, YES, even college attendance.

The results? Researchers found that players who weren't smiling in the photos died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be almost 80 years old!

So smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting Salins Orthodontics on a regular basis? If not, give us a call and schedule an appointment!

Celebs get braces, too! From Salins Orthodontics

2010-04-17T14:36:00.000-07:00

Yep, it's true. Back in 2002, Hollywood megastar Tom Cruise had braces, and during this time he was 40 years old! During this time, Cruise filmed the films Minority Report, Austin Powers in Goldmember and the Last Samurai. Check out Cruise's smile in Jerry Maguire, The Firm or Rain Man and compare to the post-braces Tom Cruise in Valkyrie or Tropic Thunder. The fact is, movie stars need to look their best for the silver screen, and it wouldn't be possible without help from orthodotnists

In fact, lots of Hollywood stars have had orthodontic treatment. Check out this list of famous names, courtesy of ABC News. If you’ve thought about getting the perfect smile you’ve always wanted, please call Salins Orthodontics. We're waiting to have you LIVE LIFE SMILING!

Mom's For Mouthguards

2010-04-07T09:27:00.000-07:00

At Salins Orthodontics, we want you and your family to Live Life Smiling. I see too many front teeth damaged, broken and/or knocked out during summer sports such as basketball, football, and karate. We want all out families and children to have mouthguards to protect their teeth as they are growing in.

Please have your friends and children's friends contact the office for a Free Custom Made Mouthguard they can use. (this offer is only good for children between the ages of 9-14).

http://www.momsformouthguards.org/
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Facts About Kids and Sports Safety

Former football great and father of four, Emmitt Smith has teamed up with the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) to provide tips and information on how to best protect athlete’s smiles during recreational and organized sports.

* Injuries can happen at any age or skill level – More than half of the seven million sports and recreation-related injuries that occur each year are sustained by youth between ages 5 and 24. *

o Collision and contact sports have higher injury rates. Baseball, soccer, basketball and football account for about 80% of all sports-related emergency room visits for children between 5 and 14 years of age.*

* Mouth guard use is very low – 67% of parents say their child does not wear a mouth guard – yet, 70% say their biggest fear when their child plays is that they will get hurt.**

o One out of every four (27%) parents say their child has sustained an injury during an organized sport resulting in a trip to the emergency room.**

* Most coaches and leagues are not advising the use of mouth guards – Of the parents whose children do not wear a mouth guard, 84% say it's because the league or coach does not require it.**

* Hard hits occur no matter what the sport – The average high school baseball pitcher can throw a fast ball between 75-85 miles per hour. This compares to being hit in the mouth by a speeding car.***

o Cheerleading is one of the most dangerous sports, accounting for 65% of all injuries in high school girls' athletics.****

* Children with braces need to wear mouth guards – One out of every three (31%) parents say their child has orthodontic treatment or braces while playing an organized sport.*

o Lacerations can occur if an orthodontic patient´s mouth is not properly protected.

* Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
** American Association of Orthodontists
*** eFastball.com
**** MSNBC.com

Retainers and You - By Salins Orthodontics

2010-03-31T10:33:00.000-07:00

If you recently completed treatment at Salins Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Salins will provide—or has provided you—with retainers.

After braces are removed, teeth have the ability to shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed by Dr. Salins is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime. Here are some things to remember when you receive your retainers:

* Wear your retainers full time, until the doctor instructs otherwise. Wearing your retainers at night ensures that your pearly whites won’t relapse.
* Take your retainers out when eating...and always put retainers in their case! (Most appliances are lost in school lunch rooms or restaurants.) OUT OF YOUR FACE - IN YOUR CASE!
* Clean retainers thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush and only a small amount of toothpaste. Use warm but not hot water.
* When retainers are not in your mouth they should ALWAYS be in a retainer case.
* Retainers are breakable, so treat them with care. If retainers are lost or broken, give us a call immediately.
* Remove retainers when swimming or during any sporting activity in which the retainers could fall out and get broken or lost (cheerleading, basketball, etc.) or when you should be wearing a mouth guard (football, soccer, etc.).

We hope this helps! You can always contact our team if you have any questions!

EARTH HOUR

2010-03-28T15:49:00.000-07:00

Three years ago in Sydney, Australia, 2.2 million homes and businesses disconnected from the modern world by turning off cell phones, televisions, computers, video games AND the lights for one hour. This was a stand against climate change and marks the very first Earth Hour. One year later, Earth Hour became a global movement with more than 50 million people across 35 countries participating. Major global landmarks such at the Sydney Harbor Bridge, The CN Tower in Toronto, The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and Rome’s Coliseum, all braved the darkness as a symbol of hope for our earth’s future.

In March of 2009, Earth Hour had grown and hundreds of millions of people participated. Over 4000 cities in 88 countries took a one hour time out to pledge their support for the planet. This was the world’s largest global climate change initiative.

This year Earth Hour is on Saturday, March 27th at 8:30 pm (local time). This is your chance to stand up, take responsibility, get involved and lead the way towards a sustainable future for all mankind. So sign up now and make 2010’s Earth Hour the BIGGEST yet!

Dr. Salins Answers, "Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?"

2010-03-24T07:29:00.000-07:00

No one is "too old" for treatment. A few weeks ago, we blogged about who benefits from braces and thought we'd get a bit more specific and discuss adult orthodontics. Recently, there was an article that reported adults getting braces has jumped 24 percent from just 14 years ago! In fact, did you know one of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over the age of 21?

In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing to invest—rather wisely—in orthodontics. While orthodontic treatment is often associated with teens, adult orthodontics and braces at our Manhattan Beach and El Segundo offices can achieve amazing results for adult patients. With treatments such as Invisalign, you can have your teeth straightened less noticeably. Orthodontic treatment at Salins Orthodontics can be successful at any age, and our staff knows adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. Salins would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

Ask Salins Orthodontics: Who benefits from braces?

2010-03-04T08:30:00.000-08:00

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Salins will tell you that anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic treatment; whether it’s correcting a problem not treated in your younger years, or catching a problem early.

To ensure the best overall treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, recommends that children receive an orthodontic consultation as early as age seven. If a problem is evident, taking action early can spare a lot of treatment and expense down the road.

If you never received orthodontic treatment when you were young, don’t worry! You’re never too old for a beautiful smile. Set up an appointment for a consultation and find out how adult orthodontics will transform your smile, and your life!

Dr. Salins supporting National Children’s Dental Health Month

2010-02-23T21:15:00.000-08:00

Each February, the American Dental Association (ADA) sponsors National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. Developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

For kids wearing traditional braces, brushing and flossing can become more difficult, requiring extra time and vigilance to remove food particles that accumulate on and between the teeth and in braces. New options for braces such as Invisalign Teen, which is removable, make it easier for kids to maintain good oral health during orthodontic treatment.

If the health of your teeth is ignored during treatment with braces, the results can be significantly compromised. Dr. Salins is available to explain why effective brushing and flossing is one of the most critical actions needed from patients during orthodontic treatment. Have you visited Salins Orthodontics lately? Give us a call!

Mouth guards and sports injuries, with Salins Orthodontics

2010-02-17T12:30:00.000-08:00

At Salins Orthodontics we know how important it is to protect your face. The spring months bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of damaging your precious mouth and pearly whites. We also know sports-related injuries are common among children. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get hurt while playing sports. That’s why the team at Salins Orthodontics are doing our part to spread the word that facial sports injuries can be avoided simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. Ask us—Dr. Salins may recommend the best mouth guard for you.

In addition, the AAO has provided the following tips for keeping your kids safe on the field. Remind them to:

• Wear mouth guards during contact sports
• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eye wear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant—even as a spectator

All of these can reduce injuries. Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements we are trying to achieve. Lastly, please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Salins Orthodontics.

Wake Up!! It's Thursday! SMILE!

2010-01-28T07:04:00.000-08:00

This is AWESOME - Some people are so talented!!! Hope you enjoy too...

NO SMILE FOR YOU!

2010-01-22T07:47:00.000-08:00

Well here is something interesting! Can you imagine NOT smiling when you get your picture taken for you driver license? Sure…you just stood in a long line and more likely so than not brought the wrong paperwork with you to the DMV… BUT there is a camera in your face and for most, it’s impossible not to flash your pearly whites.

However, despite our natural need to say “CHEESE”, the authorities “Down Under” and now in four states are asking applicants NOT to smile! Such a change as we head into an even more technological world. Check it out…
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Why You Won't Smile For Your Future Driver's LicenseWhen Science Hits Your ID
Posted: Jan, 22 2010
by Jonathon Ramsey
To see the original article, please click here.

It seems that it won't be long before you'll find facial recognition technology when you apply for a driver's license. And as a result, you better wipe that smile off your face.

In fact, the technology is already in place in Australia. When Aussie drivers apply for licenses they'll have their pictures taken, and the new software will then measure three distances: the spaces between the eyes, nose, and mouth.

License applicants won't notice a drastic difference in the process, but they'll notice they are asked not to smile while the photo is being taken. The machines require a "neutral expression" in order to pick up the correct measurements. According to creators of the facial recognition software, two photos of the same person can be mismatched if there is a strong expression in one versus the other.

Why all the fancy technology? Australia is using the calculations in comparison to the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) database, and if it appears that an applicant is trying to get a license under a different name the system will flag the authorities.

Although it's stated that the "system is designed to prevent people who have had their license taken away from applying for a second one," stopping "license cheats" is only the skin-deep argument.

The deeper issue is identity theft. According to David Borger, the state of New South Wales' assistant transport minister, "Identity fraud costs Australia more than $3.5 billion a year." That's about a third of a percent of the nation's entire gross domestic product, almost as much as New South Wales spends on its entire road system in a year.

If it sounds like things are getting all Minority Report in the land Down Under, well, that's nothing compared to what could potentially happen in the U.S.

In fact, four states already implement the "no smiling" rule, including Arkansas, Indiana, Nevada and Virginia. Over 30 in the U.S. have a digital photography capture for their identification cards.

Between the security measures states are adding, the trials of Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDLs), the federal government's Real ID program, and corporations actively planning for higher security, a mere RFID chip is going to look like the 19th century when you could just write an "X" to sign your name.

And unsurprisingly, a number of people aren't exactly happy about it.

To be honest, though, this isn't just about gathering information. Just with the records currently stored by your driver's license, cell phone and wireless carrier, Internet Service Provider, credit card companies, Facebook, and even your Amazon Kindle, the authorities only need a few phone calls to build a good profile and history on you.

Wisconsin started comparing digital driver's license photos to those in its database back in 2005. In 2008, New Mexico began comparing photos to its own database and to a national database called the Problem Driver Pointer System. Last year Virginia began taking photos at the beginning of the application process so it can figure out if you're who you say you are before any paperwork gets shuffled. It also began issuing licenses from one central location instead of passing them over-the-counter at regional DMV offices.

On the national level, the Department of Homeland Security's Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) is encouraging institution and study of Enhanced Driver's Licenses that will allow border crossings in North America. More than an ID but less than a passport, it is currently available in some border states and only to U.S. citizens. In fact, even the people who issue the EDL must be American citizens. The EDL must contain an RFID chip, and some, like New York's EDL, have additional machine readable zones (MRZs) that contain license information.

But the grandaddy is the Real ID, another Homeland Security program, which has been delayed a few times as individuals, states, and even Congressional representatives have fought it. Final nationwide implementation set for 2014 or 2017 depending on when you were born, and while there is no reason it couldn't get pushed back again, there is every reason to believe that its adoption is inevitable.

The Real ID, effectively a national identity card, will require issuers will go through background checks and all information will be centrally stored.

The expected pockets of opposition to all of this come from various corners, from those worried about privacy to those worried about gun rights, terrorism, and even identity fraud.

Thankfully, there is an out: about a dozen states still allow you to get driver's licenses that don't even have photos on them.

10 Reasons to Smile:

2010-01-08T11:14:00.000-08:00

Hello faithful Salins Orthodontics friends and fans! A very happy New Year to you and yours. All of us here at Salins Orthodontics hope that you had a warm and happy holiday season and are as excited about 2010 as we are!

Optimism is in the air and it smells good…

So this is just a note to all of you… and those curious folks in cyber world that have stumbled upon our fun little blog… a note that will hopefully make you smile now and encourage you to do so each and every day of the year that lies ahead.

I found this article on the website about.com. Here is the link if you would like to read it in its entirety: http://longevity.about.com/od/lifelongbeauty/tp/smiling.htm

1. Smiling Makes You More Attractive
People are drawn to other people who smile. It is instinct to want to know a smiling person and to try and figure out what’s so good.

2. Smiling Changes Your Mood
Next time you are feeling down, try putting on a smile! Chances are your mood will change for the better. Smiling can trick the body into helping you change your mood.

3. Smiling Is Contagious
Don’t spread germs…spread smiles! When someone is smiling they lighten up the room, change the moods of others and make things generally happier. A smiling person brings happiness with them!

4. Smiling Relieves Stress
Stress has a habit of showing up on your face. Smiling can help to prevent you from looking tired, worn down and overwhelmed. When you feel the stress coming on, put on a smile!

5. Smiling Boosts Your Immune System
Smiling can help the immune system to work better. When you smile, immune function improves. This could possibly be because you are more relaxed and surrounded by happy people. Prevent the cold and flu and by smiling!

6. Smiling Lowers Your Blood Pressure
When you smile, there is a measurable reduction in your blood pressure. Give it a try! If you have a blood pressure monitor at home take a reading. Then smile for about a minute and take another reading while you are still smiling…do you see a difference?

7. Smiling Releases Endorphins, Natural Pain Killers and Serotonin
Smiling is a natural drug that will make you feel good!

8. Smiling Lifts Your Face And Makes You Look Younger
The muscles we use to smile lift the face and therefore can make you look younger. Don’t go for a face lift, just try smiling your way through the day! It’s a great way to look younger and feel better!

9. Smiling Makes You More Successful
Smiling people appear more confident, are more likely to be promoted and more approachable. When the doors to your bright future open, great it with a smile! Put on a smile at meetings and appointments and people will react to you differently.

10. Smiling Helps You Stay Positive
Try this simple test: Smile. Now, try to think of something negative without loosing your smile. It’s a difficult thing to do. When our mouths are smiling, our brain is sending out the message “Life is Good!” Stay away from depression, stress and worry by simply smiling.

So as 2010 makes itself comfortable in your life, remember this: You can be a super hot, happy, stress free, healthy, successful, positive person that spreads good cheer, enjoys a natural high and generally rocks if you just SMILE!

Read more: http://smilesaroundthebay.blogspot.com/

Faces of 2009 holiday season | Superior Telegram | Superior, Wisconsin

2009-12-02T13:09:00.000-08:00

Alright everyone…the Holiday Season has officially arrived! As we head into this glorious time, I ask that you make a simple decision. But first…please read this article:

Faces of 2009 holiday season | Superior Telegram | Superior, Wisconsin

If you want a print copy of this article, please let us know

OK...the question now is what kind of Holiday Cheer are YOU going to send? Are you going to put that smile on and spread as much "Merry" as you can? Or...are you going to join the Grinch and be in a mad rush to start hunting for Whos? Me? I pushing for the smile!

Helping you prepare for cold and flu season, from Salins Orthodontics

2009-11-20T06:58:00.000-08:00

Traditionally cold and flu season starts in Fall, but this year it seems to have started much earlier and with the number of patients canceling appointments because of flu and H1N1 symptoms. Salins Orthodontics is taking additional precautions to help prevent the spread of germs.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, we give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our office at all times as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces.

For the protection of other patients and our staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

Maintaining and protecting oral hygiene equipment is also important this flu season. To protect your toothbrush from bacteria follow these steps:

• Wash your hands before and after brushing
• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen
• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster
• Replace toothbrush after every cold or flu or every 3-4 months when bristles appear worn

Hope this helps! Stay healthy!

- The Team at Salins Orthodontics

CHEEEEESE!

2009-11-12T20:15:00.000-08:00

Well Hello Hello to the cyber world! Can you believe the weather we are having here around San Fran right now? That’s about the only thing that would make you smile when you look outside on a day like this. So we know that the weather can have a direct effect on our smiles right? What else can?

I found this very interesting article on the “Language of Smiles”. It gives some insight on the natural way the language you speak can make you smile. Give it a read and let me know what you think.

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October 27, 2009, 9:30 pm
A Language of Smiles
Olivia Judson

Say “eeee.” Say it again. Go on: “eeee.”

Maybe I’m easy to please, but doing this a few times makes me giggle. “Eeee.”

Actually, I suspect it’s not just me. Saying “eeee” pulls up the corners of the mouth and makes you start to smile. That’s why we say “cheese” to the camera, not “choose” or “chose.” And, I think, it’s why I don’t get the giggles from “aaaa” or “oooo.”

The mere act of smiling is often enough to lift your mood; conversely, the act of frowning can lower it; scowling can make you feel fed up. In other words, the gestures you make with your face can — at least to some extent — influence your emotional state.

(The notion that facial expressions affect mood isn’t new. Edgar Allan Poe used it in his story “The Purloined Letter”: one character reports that when he wishes to know someone’s mind, he attempts to compose his face to mimic the expression of that someone — then waits to see which emotions arise. And the idea was developed, in different ways, by both Charles Darwin and William James. But telling stories and developing arguments is one thing. Showing, experimentally, that making a face can make a mood is harder; it’s only in the past 30 years or so that data have started to accumulate.)

Exactly how frowns and smiles influence mood is a matter of debate. One possibility is classical conditioning. Just as Ivan Pavlov conditioned a dog to associate the sound of a bell with the expectation of food, the argument goes, so humans quickly come to associate smiling with feeling happy. Once the association has been established, smiling is, by itself, enough to generate happy feelings. Another possibility is that different facial gestures have intrinsic properties that make them more or less pleasant, perhaps by altering the way that blood flows to the brain.

But here’s what interests me. As anyone who has tried to learn a foreign language will know, different languages make you move your face in different ways. For instance, some languages contain many sounds that are forward in the mouth; others take place more in the throat. What’s more, the effects that different languages have on the movements of the face are substantial. Babies can tell the difference among languages based on the speaker’s mouth movements alone. So can computers.

Which made me wonder: do some languages contain an intrinsic bias towards pulling happy faces? In other words, do some languages predispose — in a subtle way — their speakers to be merrier than the speakers of other languages?

As far as I can tell, no one has looked at this. (It doesn’t mean no one has; it just means I haven’t been able to find it.) But I did find a smidgen of evidence to suggest the idea’s not crazy. A set of experiments investigating the effects of facial movements on mood used different vowel sounds as a stealthy way to get people to pull different faces. (The idea was to avoid people realizing they were being made to scowl or smile.) The results showed that if you read aloud a passage full of vowels that make you scowl — the German vowel sound ü, for example — you’re likely to find yourself in a worse mood than if you read a story similar in content but without any instances of ü. Similarly, saying ü over and over again generates more feelings of ill will than repeating a or o.

Of course, facial gestures aren’t the whole story of emotions; moreover, languages can potentially influence emotions in many other ways. Different languages have different music — sounds and rhythms — that could also have an emotional impact. The meanings of words may influence moods more than the gestures used to make them. And just as the words a language uses to describe colors affects how speakers of that language perceive those colors, different languages might allow speakers to process particular emotions differently; this, in turn, could feed into a culture, perhaps contributing to a general tendency towards gloom or laughter.

Separating these various factors will be difficult, and the overall impact on mood through the facial gestures of a language may well be small, if indeed it exists at all. Nevertheless, I’d love to know whether some languages, by the contortions they give the mouth, really do have an impact on their speakers’ happiness. If it turns out that there is a language of smiles, I’d like to learn it. In the meantime: have a giggle with “meeeeeee.”
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So now tell me...what do you say to make yourself smile when in front of the camera?

Turn that Frown Upside Down FAST!

2009-11-05T07:29:00.000-08:00

Well here is something VERY interesting for this dreary Thursday morning. Feeling down? Maybe it’s the weather! Perhaps you should try the “Happiness Hat”. That’s right…this little number is not only stylish BUT it will also help you to remember to keep a smile on your face…despite what you may be feeling inside.
How you ask? Well…there is a sensor arm that comes down from the hat (looks almost like a microphone) that can feel the muscles in your cheek. When those muscles are working and there is a smile on your face, then all is good. However, wipe that smile off your face and you will be poked with a metal prod in the back of your head.
Think I am kidding? Check it out...

For more information on the “Happiness Hat” and the artist behind this invention, click here.

One thing I can promise you is that at Salins Orthodontics you will NOT find our patients sporting this devilish hat. Having a beautiful smile is reason enough to…well…smile!

What do you think of this hat? Is this something that you would consider wearing or is this just an interesting artistic expression?

Have a great day, smile lots and don’t make us put this hat on you!

The Truth About Halloween and Sour Candy - Dr. Salins

2009-10-31T07:33:00.000-07:00

It's almost Halloween, and Dr. Salins and team understand sour candy is a part of any Halloween celebration. But while sour candies can be delicious, they are arguably as unhealthy for your teeth as sweet candy. The reason is, sour candies tend to be very acidic, and are capable of burning your cheeks and gums while wearing down the enamel on your teeth.

In 2008, the Minnesota Dental Association released a study which suggested the amount of acid in sour candies may eat away at tooth enamel and cause cavities. We at Snow Orthodontics would like to remind you that if you should experience a craving for sour candies on Halloween or in the future, please:

1. Remember to rinse your mouth with water immediately after consuming candy, drink milk, or eat a couple pieces of cheese.

2. Do not brush immediately after consuming sour candy. The candy's acidic nature tends to soften tooth enamel. Brushing your teeth can mean abrading the enamel.

3. Limit the amount of sour candies that you consume on a daily basis. If you do indulge, remember not to suck or chew on sour candies for long periods of time.

If tooth erosion has already begun, ask us about ways to reduce sensitivity and continue to protect your teeth.

Hope this helps! Salins Orthodontics wishes you a happy and safe Halloween!

Halloween Recipe

2009-10-20T15:36:00.000-07:00

Halloween is just around the corner! YEAH! I still have no idea what I am going to dress up as… let me know if you have any suggestions. This glorious candy crammed day is wicked busy for orthodontists. Why you ask! It is because all that witchtastically chewy, ghoulishly gooey, scary sticky and gobbling goodness can be damaging to your braces. TRY and remember to stay away from the temptations of these treats and have “brace friendly” goodies.
To help you along, I am going to post some great looking recipes that we have found and KNOW are safe to have with your braces.

==============================================
This one is from the American Association of Orthodontics and is called “Scary Jigglers”:

Adapted from Kraft Foods Kitchen

SCARY JIGGLERS
Ingredients:
• 2 ½ cups boiling water (do NOT add cold water)
• 2 pkg. gelatin (any flavor, but we recommend Orange, Grape or Lime for Halloween)
• Halloween-shaped cookie cutters

Directions:
Stir boiling water into gelatin in a large bowl 3 minutes until completely dissolved. Pour into 13 X 9 inch pan. Refrigerate at least 3 hours or until firm (meaning that the gelatin does not stick to finger when touched).

Dip bottom of pan in warm water for about 15 seconds. Cut into 24 decorative shapes using 2-inch cookie cutters, making sure to cut all of the way through the gelatin to the bottom of the pan. Remove from pan. Store in tightly covered container in refrigerator.

=========================
We hope that you enjoy!
If you have any great recipe ideas for our many faces with braces out there, please feel free to share them. I would love to post them up here. email me at salinsortho@gmail.com.
Have a happy day!!

Preventing Gum Disease and Protecting your Teeth!

2009-10-20T15:29:00.000-07:00

It is estimated that around 80 percent of American adults are currently diagnosed with some form of gum disease. Also known as, periodontal disease or periodontitis, gum disease starts with gum inflammation and can end with major damage to the bone and tissue holding the teeth in place, resulting in tooth loss and irreversible damage to the gums. Many doctors and researchers have also found gum disease to be the cause of several other health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and complications for women during pregnancy. Gum disease is a serious dental health condition, and by understanding how gum disease is caused, what symptoms to look for, and how you can prevent it, you will be able to keep your smile healthy for many years to come.

What causes gum disease?

Your mouth is full of bacteria, and when the bacteria are left in your mouth, it can cause a sticky, colorless film over your tooth surface called plaque. Brushing your teeth regularly and flossing can help to remove much of the plaque build-up on your teeth; however, if you do not brush and floss regularly, the plaque on your teeth can harden and turn into tartar. Tartar cannot be removed by a toothbrush, only your dentist has the special tools needed to remove tartar from your tooth’s surface.

Eventually, if left untreated, the tartar and plaque on your teeth will cause gingivitis. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and is usually curable if caught early enough. Signs of gingivitis include:

• Red, swollen gums
• Gums that bleed when you brush and floss
• Gums that pull away from your teeth
• Pockets between your teeth and gums where food gets caught
• Persistent bad breath

If you have gingivitis, and it is left untreated, you may end up with gum disease. Gum disease causes the gums to pull completely away from the teeth and form infected pockets. The bacteria in your mouth and on your teeth will start to break down the tissue and bone that supports your teeth and holds them in place. Gum disease that is left untreated will lead to the extraction or loss of teeth. Most people do not show signs of gingivitis and gum disease until they are in their 30s, 40s, or older. Certain risk factors can increase your chance of getting gum disease, including:

• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Stress
• Certain prescription medications
• Illness
• Genetics

How can I prevent gum disease?

You can help your chances of never getting gingivitis or gum disease simply by taking care of your teeth and gums on a regular basis. Here are some of the ways you can help keep your smile healthy:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste approved by the ADA.
• Floss at least once every day to remove food stuck between your teeth and along the gum line.
• Visit your dentist for routine, general checkups and teeth cleaning every six months.
• Eat a well balanced diet, including fruits and vegetables.
• Stay away from using tobacco products of any kind.

Gingivitis and gum disease are both preventable and treatable. If you would like a list of recommended dental health care products, or have any questions about gingivitis, gum disease, and how to keep your teeth and gums healthy, please ask Dr. Salins at your next appointment. Our practice is happy to answer any questions you may have, and provide you with accurate information to help you maintain the health of your smile in between office visits. If you think you may have any form of gingivitis or gum disease, please contact our practice at 650-952-1010 or 510-475-4153 to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

National Dental Hygiene Month

2009-10-10T10:01:00.000-07:00

Did you know that October is National Dental Hygiene Month? Fall is here, and Halloween is coming soon, but now it is more important than ever to maintain good oral hygiene.

All those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, but these treats can damage your teeth and braces too! Did you know sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them? This can cause tooth decay and cavities! After eating these candies, be sure to wash your mouth out with water, drink milk or eat a few slices of cheese. These will help neutralize the acid in your mouth (wait at least one hour before brushing your teeth with toothpaste, as this can actually increase the effects of acid on your teeth)

Besides cavities and tooth decay, many people do not realize that good oral health and hygiene are important to your overall health too! Research is discovering the connection between periodontal disease and other major health concerns, such as heart disease! Therefore, it is important to maintain a good oral hygiene routine: see your dentist every six months, brush and floss daily and use an antibacterial mouthwash.

Make a resolution to improve your oral health for October, the National Dental Hygiene Month!

-Dr. Salins

Sight restored by her TOOTH?!

2009-09-28T13:13:00.000-07:00

That’s right! This is amazing and true. Talk about yet another reason you want to keep you teeth healthy. Check out this article and let me know what you think. Everyday I am amazed at the advances that science is making. What could possibly be next?

Blind Woman Sees With 'Tooth-in-Eye' Surgery
Doctors in Florida Restore Sharron Kay Thornton's Vision by Implanting a Tooth in Her Eye

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Article from ABCnews.go.com

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Forget about an eye for an eye -- doctors in Florida have taken a blind woman's tooth, and used it to help restore her vision.
A team of specialists at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine announced Wednesday that they are the first surgeons in the United States to restore a person's sight by using a tooth. The procedure is formally called modified osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis (or MOOKP).
Sharron "Kay" Thornton, 60, went blind nine years ago from a rare disorder called Stevens-Johnson syndrome. The disorder left the surface of her eyes so severely scarred she was legally blind. But doctors determined the inside of her eyes were still functional enough that she might one day see with the help of MOOKP.
"This is a patient where the surface of the eye is totally damaged -- no wetness, no tears," said Dr. Victor L. Perez, the ophthalmologist at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute at the University of Miami who operated on Thornton. "So we kind of recreate the environment of the mouth in the eye."
The three-phase operation started with University of Miami dentist, Dr. Yoh Sawatari, who removed a tooth from Thornton's mouth and prepared an implant of her own dental tissue for her most severely damaged eye. The tissue would be used to make a new cornea to replace the damaged one.
Doctors then removed a section of Thornton's cheek that would become the soft, mucus tissue around her pupil. Finally, Perez and his team implanted the modified tooth -- which had a hole drilled through the center -- to support a prosthetic lens.
"We use that tooth as a platform to put the optical cylinder into the eye," explained Perez. Perez said doctors often use less risky and less invasive techniques to replace corneas, but the damage from Thornton's Stevens-Johnson syndrome ruled those out.
Using a tooth might sound strange, but it also offers an advantage. Because doctors used Thornton's own cheek and tooth tissue she faces less risk that her immune system will attack the tooth and reject the transplant. Patients getting a cornea transplant from a deceased donor, on the other hand, face chances that their immune system will reject the new tissue.
This Labor Day, Thornton was able to take off the bandages and she immediately saw the light.
"From the first day, she's been able to see 20/70," said Perez. "She cannot drive legally (yet), but she can see her hands, see TV, see the sky, see the clouds."
At the moment, Thornton has nothing covering the cheek tissue on her eye, an aesthetic drawback MOOKP patients must face.
"Her eye looks different but, the goal is once she heals more we can put on a cosmetic eye shield," said Perez.
The technique was developed in Italy in the early 1960s, but the original procedure has been modified over the years by doctors in Europe. Hundreds of people in Japan, England and Italy have regained vision through the technique, but most eye specialists in the U.S. don't foresee MOOKP catching on in America.
"It's a complicated and rare procedure that a few people use in desperate situations [and] some patients benefit when the alternative is blindness," said Dr. Stanley Chang, an ophthalmologist at the Columbia University Medical Center in New York City.
While OOKP is used more often in Europe, doctors U.S. typically choose a less tedious technique called the Boston Keratoprosthesis, which is similar to MOOKP but uses a prosthetic cornea instead of one grown from dental tissue and does not require cheek tissue to surround the implant.
The Boston technique, experts say, can save patients time and give them a more natural looking eye.
Doctors may use MOOKP for some uncommon situations -- including people with Stevens-Johnson syndrome, or who were chemical burn victims -- but not always.
"These conditions, although rare or uncommon, are still important because the patients may have little or no vision, and because there have not been very effective treatments to restore their vision," said Dr. James Chodosh, a cornea specialist at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary.
However, Chodosh added, "The [MOOKP] procedure is unlikely to be very commonly used because of the difficulty, length, and invasiveness of the surgery and the cosmetic appearance after surgery."
Dr. Uyen Tran, associate professor of ophthalmology at the Vanderbilt Eye Institute, agrees that "these types of patients are not common" and says that "we probably see about 20 cases a year at our center."
Yet, while the number of patients for MOOKP may never reach the number of patients getting the Boston Keratoprosthesis, Perez said he hopes to perform more of these procedures for those in need.
"Absolutely there are a lot of patients like her (Thornton), and also patients with chemical burns… we also want to work with the Department of Defense to help with soldiers who are scarred," said Perez.

Click here to see the original article on the ABC News Webpage
ABC's Courtney Hutchison contributed to this report.

Day In The Park Photos 2009

2009-09-19T17:35:00.001-07:00

Thanks for everyone who came out and joined us at Day In The Park in Orange Park. Please click on the link to see some of the photos taken with our patients, families, friends and of course ELMO!!

Day In The Park

Do not hesitate to contact us if you or anyone you know want to be on your way to a Beautiful Healthy Smile! We are Specialists in Braces & Invisalign

Enjoy a few pictures of these beautiful Smiles Around The Bay!

Day In the Park 2009

2009-09-19T17:32:00.001-07:00