Benson Orthodontics Asks: What are your 4th of July plans?

This coming Monday, July 4th, is Independence Day and the United States of America will be turning 235 years old! It’s a day to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence and also a time for every American to pay homage to our soldiers, past and present, who have placed themselves in harm’s way so that we may continue to enjoy our freedom.

Dr. Benson and team will be celebrating this Monday and we would like to know, what are your plans for the 4th of July? Will you be out in the sun? Have you stocked up on fireworks? Are you going to grill up your favorite summer foods? Are you staying in town or heading somewhere else? If you have a 4th of July tradition, we would love to hear about it.

Whatever you plan to do, Benson Orthodontics hopes you have a fun and safe holiday! Feel free to upload your 4th of July photos to our Facebook page and let us know how your Independence Day turned out this year.

Regular checkups are essential in maintaining good oral health

Are you brushing and flossing daily properly during your orthodontic treatment? If 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 Dr. Benson, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

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 in the Lebanon, Mount Juliet, Hermitage, TN areas.

More happy patients at Benson Orthodontics!

Last week, we asked you, our wonderful patients, what you most liked about your experience at Benson Orthodontics. We thought we'd share some with you today! Have a great weekend!

"April, the assistant who works on my braces, has been very helpful in answering my questions. Her kindness has also made this process a lot easier for me." ~Carol

"The entire team does an amazing job! I enjoy each visit in your office. The authentic personal touch is appreciated." ~Pamela

"I think Dr. Benson and all of the ladies that help us at the front desk, and those who work with her braces, go out of their way to help us feel like valued patients and always seem happy to give treatment." ~Sarah

"All of the ladies that have ever worked on me have been fabulous!!!" ~Rebecca

Happy Thanksgiving!

Dr. Benson and team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. It's a big food holiday, so be careful what you eat with those braces! If you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we'd encourage you to send them along or call our office and ask how.

Gobble Gobble!

Moooooove over gum disease!

Dr. Benson wants to know: Is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, it should be! A 2008 study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can actually lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). Results of the study also showed that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease.

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. Cheddar, Swiss, Mozzarella, and Monterey Jack all stimulate 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.

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis.

Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

For more information about which dairy foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please give us a call.

Dr. Benson selected as a case finalist at the Invisalign Summit

Dr. Benson recently attended the Invisalign Summit in Las Vegas. He was recognized at the conference as a case finalist for his use of Invisalign to correct a patient's crooked teeth along with the anterior crossbite that was wearing down the facial surfaces of the maxillary anterior.

This year, Dr. Benson was one of only 11 Invisalign cases that were presented at the conference. He was very honored to have his case showcased among those of the most skilled and experienced Invisalign doctors. There were approximately 3,000 event attendees, including both orthodontists and their staff.

Dr. Benson is a certified Invisalign® Premier Provider in Mt. Juliet and Lebanon. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, please give us a call.

Ask Dr. Benson: Who benefits from braces?

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Benson 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 orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

A braces-friendly fall recipe, from Benson Orthodontics

Dr. Benson and our team know how tempting Halloween can be for your sweet tooth. With all of the hard, sticky, crunchy, and chewy candy that is often passed around to trick-or-treaters, we realize that it can sometimes be difficult to find orthodontic-friendly options.

However, there is good news! Today, we would like to share a great braces-friendly Halloween recipe with all of our patients, courtesy of the American Association of Orthodontics, or AAO. This Spooktacular Pumpkin Cake is delicious, and provided that you remember to brush and floss after indulging, this treat will not cause damage to your beautiful smile.

Spooktacular Pumpkin Cake

Ingredients:

1 pkg. yellow or white cake mix
½ cup vegetable oil
4 eggs
1 cup canned pumpkin
¾ cup sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon
Dash of nutmeg
¼ cup water (add 2 tbl. of water if eggs are small)

Directions:

Put cake mix in a large bowl. Make an indentation in the center and pour in the oil and one egg. Mix using mixer, then add the rest of the eggs one at a time, beating after each one.

Add pumpkin, sugar, spices, and then water.

Bake in greased and floured tube pan in 350 degree oven for 60-70 minutes (depending on oven calibration). Cool before removing from pan.

Benson Orthodontics supports National Orthodontic Health Month

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 Dr. Benson and 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.

A few helpful webisodes about orthodontics, from Benson Orthodontics

Dr. Benson and our team at Benson Orthodontics makes it our personal goal to help you achieve a smile that makes you feel comfortable, confident, and happy! Today, we would like to point you to a few interesting webisodes about orthodontics, which are located on our YouTube channel.

Here, you will find several pertinent videos about orthodontic treatments, as well as state-of-the-art technology in orthodontia. These videos include "Kathy Describes Her Invisalign Treatment at Benson Orthodontics," "Sherry, a patient at Benson Orthodontics, describes her experience with Invisalign," and "Benson Orthodontics - An Uncommon Orthodontic Experience!"

We think you may find these webisodes interesting, as well as enlightening. If you have any questions about the videos, or your treatment here at Benson Orthodontics, please give us a call.

The advantage of Invisalign Teen™ at Benson Orthodontics

Dr. Benson knows that image can be everything for teens. At an age when image is so important, the thought of having metal brackets and wires constantly attached to teeth may intensify the already-delicate confidence of today's teens. But... not to worry! There is a clear alternative to traditional braces! The team at Benson Orthodontics thought we'd remind you that Invisalign Teen™ gives you a whole new way to wear braces for a "clearly" amazing smile!

So how does Invisalign Teen work, you ask? Much in the same fashion as Invisalign, but with a few added characteristics tailored specifically to teenagers’ lifestyles. For instance, Invisalign Teen is designed with “compliance indicators” that fade from dark to light during the two week period that particular tray is used and once it has faded teens know to change trays. Each aligner comes with up to six free individual replacement aligners in case the original aligner ends up lost or broken. Another big benefit for the patient!

The treatment period for Invisalign Teen varies from nine to 18 months. If your teen is considering orthodontic treatment, please contact us and we’ll answer any questions you may have about Invisalign Teen.

Braces: All the cool kids do it!

Braces today are “cool” and—many would say—even “fun.” These were among the findings of a 2010 nationwide survey of moms whose children are going through or have had orthodontic treatment. New technologies such as Invisalign and the Damon System, advanced computer software, color options, and even popular celebrities—Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Danny Glover, Serena Williams—sporting stylish braces are making orthodontic treatment more comfortable, fashionable and cool for today’s teens.

The study, conducted on behalf of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists for February’s National Children’s Dental Health Month, found 86 percent of moms reporting that braces are cooler today than when they were children. Sixty-nine percent of moms also said wearing braces makes their children feel cool, and 81 percent reported their children’s experience with orthodontic treatment as either positive or extremely positive.

Different color options and the ability to change colors, for example, provide exciting ways for young patients to customize appearances. That enthusiasm helps them to feel good about their orthodontic treatment with Dr. Benson, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

Has your child or teen visited Benson Orthodontics for a consultation? If not, please give us a call and let us help your child begin the journey to a gorgeous smile!

The importance of mouth guards, from Benson Orthodontics

The team at Benson Orthodontics understands the importance of participating in outdoor activities. This week we talk about mouth guards, what they are, when to use them, the works. If you have any additional questions, give us a call at Benson Orthodontics. We'd love to hear from you!

Q: What are athletic mouth protectors?

A: Athletic mouth protectors, or mouth guards, are made of soft plastic. They are adapted to fit comfortably to the shape of the upper teeth.

Q: Why are mouth guards important?

A: Mouth guards hold top priority as sports equipment. They protect not just the teeth, but the lips, cheeks, and tongue. They help protect children from such head and neck injuries as concussions and jaw fractures. Increasingly, organized sports are requiring mouth guards to prevent injury to their athletes. Research shows that most oral injuries occur when athletes are not wearing mouth protection.

Q: When should my child wear a mouth guard?

A: Whenever he or she is in an activity with a risk of falls or of head contact with other players or equipment. This includes football, baseball, basketball, soccer, hockey, skateboarding, even gymnastics. We usually think of football and hockey as the most dangerous to the teeth, but nearly half of sports-related mouth injuries occur in basketball and baseball.

Q: How do I choose a mouth guard for my child?

A: Any mouth guard works better than no mouth guard. So, choose a mouth guard that your child can wear comfortably. If a mouth guard feels bulky or interferes with speech, it will be left in the locker room. Dr. Benson can advise you on what type of mouth guard is best for your child.

Ask Dr. Benson: What can Invisalign® do for my oral health?

When considering treatment options, patients often ask us how Invisalign treatment is so different than traditional braces. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign with Benson Orthodontics than you may know. Invisalign is a series of removable aligners that are nearly invisible, and besides straightening your teeth, can improve your oral health. Here’s how:

Healthy gums: Straight teeth allow a close fit for gums. This lessens the gum stress that is caused by crowded or widely spaced teeth, thus also reducing red and swollen gums.

Easy cleaning: Invisalign is removable, therefore brushing and flossing is easier and you are able to maintain a healthy mouth. These habits are vital to avoiding tooth decay, plaque and even gum disease.

Improved speech and chewing: Properly-aligned teeth don’t have the discomfort or compound speech impediments that can be caused by crowded teeth or a deteriorating jawbone.

If you have any questions about Invisalign, just ask Dr. Benson the next time you’re in for an appointment. Or, you may post your question on our Facebook page! You can also read this article for more information on Invisalign and your oral health.

Summer fun with Benson Orthodontics!

It’s summer here at Benson Orthodontics in Mt. Juliet and Lebanon, TN, a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, hitting America’s open roads or just having fun in the backyard, Dr. Benson and our team want to hear all about it! Leave a comment on our Facebook fan page and tell us about your summer!

We also encourage you to post any photos from your adventures to our Facebook wall!

Happy travels,

-From Benson Orthodontics

What do you love about Benson Orthodontics?

Benson Orthodontics serving Mt. Juliet and Lebanon, TN, would to hear about your experience with Dr. Bartley Benson and staff! From your very first visit to Benson Orthodontics, our doctor and team strive to provide the very best orthodontic care with the latest technology. That's why we thought that we would ask you today, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by Dr. Benson's work? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with your new smile?

You may write a review for one of our offices on Google Places, or you can connect with us on our Facebook page!

Thank you,

-Dr. Benson and team

Tell Dr. Benson and team: What should we blog about this summer?

As the summer approaches, our staff at Benson Orthodontics strive to continue writing about important topics related to braces and your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Bartley Benson.

To help us continue blogging through the course of the long, hot summer, however, we'd love your opinion: What would you like us to focus on our blog over the summer months? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Dr. Benson for a while and just haven't found the time or opportunity? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook page!

We hope you have a great rest of the weekend!

Mother's Day is just around the corner!

Dr. Benson and team know that Mother's Day - which falls on this coming Sunday, May 9 - is special to each and every one of us. Everybody looks forward to Mother's Day to let our mom know how special she is to us. The day is observed by giving gifts, visiting our moms or taking them out to celebrate.

Tell us, what are you planning on mom's special day this upcoming Sunday?

If you happen to be out of ideas, check out this helpful video about clever, inexpensive Mother's Day gift ideas, courtesy of Good Morning America . Whatever you come up with, Dr. Andersen and team are sure mom will love it!

Smile now, smile later, smile often! From Dr. Benson

Great news to report this Tuesday afternoon! Those with big smiles may live than those who don’t, according to a new study at Wayne State University. Dr. Benson has known for a long time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers there used information from the Baseball Register to look at photos of 230 ball-players who began their baseball careers before 1950.

The players' photos were enlarged, and researchers looked at their smile intensity was made (big smile, no smile or partial smile). The players' smile ratings were then compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers then corrected their analysis to account for other factors associated with longevity, including body mass index, career length and yes, even college attendance.

The researchers found that players who weren't smiling 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 by visiting Benson Orthodontics regularly? If not, give us a call!