Make 2011 the year to improve your oral health

Many folks in Dallas and Coppell, TX consider the beginning of a new year a time to not only reflect on the year that was, but also to set personal goals for the upcoming year. How are you planning to improve your health and happiness in 2011? Drs. Alexander and our team recommend that you make a New Year’s resolution to benefit your oral health!

It is important that New Year’s resolutions are reasonable and attainable, and that they improve your overall quality of life—for example, did you know that flossing every day is the very best way to prevent periodontal, or gum, disease? Using a straw when drinking sugary beverages can also help prevent cavities. There are many small steps that you can take to prevent cavities, oral infections and bad breath.

Be sure to give us a call if you need a few suggestions on ways to improve your oral health, or visit this helpful article from our friends at the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). After all, we know your oral health is about more than just a beautiful smile. Happy New Year!

Understanding cavities

One word nobody wants to hear when they visit the dentist is cavity! That’s right, the dreaded cavity; but what exactly is a cavity and how do you get one? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger.

So, what causes a cavity? A cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)
• Use a proxi brush for those hard to reach spaces around your braces
• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach (use a floss threader or stiff-ended floss)
• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink
• Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up

Be sure to visit our website to view our Oral Care video for more information on how to brush, use a proxi brush, floss, apply plaque gel, and more. As always, don't hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions about caring for your braces. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

With Alexander & Alexander Orthodontics, 24/7 access to your account

At Alexander & Alexander Orthodontics, we embrace new technology, whether it is through the innovative orthodontic treatments that we offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern offices conveniently located in Dallas and Coppell.

Did you know that patients at our office have access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our website? You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, from the comfort of your own home! And, because we know folks sometimes forget, you can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

You can sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button at the top left of our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started!

Alexander & Alexander Orthodontics supports the Salvation Army Angel Tree program

In conjunction with The Salvation Army, our Park Cities Rotary Club is helping provide for a bigger Christmas season for many children and families through the Adopt an Angel program or "Angel Tree".

Dr. Alexander, dentists in the Park Cities Rotary Club and other members serve three hour shifts at Northpark Mall in Dallas, facilitating the selection and collection of gifts for DFW area children. This year, our club will be responsible for one week. We will be busy!

"SERVICE ABOVE SELF" is the Rotary motto, and what a better way to serve and enjoy meaningful fellowship than to help deserving children during the Christmas season. For more information about the Angel Tree program, and our involvement in the community, don't hesitate to give us a call!

Cold and Flu Season is Here - It's Time to Replace Your Toothbrush!

Fall is upon us, and with it comes the dreaded cold and flu season. After recovering from your cold, Drs. Cliff and Moody Alexander will tell you one of the most important steps you can take to avoid becoming reinfected is replacing your toothbrush!

Germs are known to linger on the bristles, and you risk prolonging your sickness by continuing to use the same toothbrush. Be smart - keep a spare, just in case! To protect your toothbrush from bacteria all year long, consider the following tips:

• 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 your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Worn bristles are less effective in properly cleaning your teeth, and can actually be damaging to teeth if used too long!

We hope these tips help! Feel free to call us at Alexander & Alexander Orthodontics if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook.