Recipe of the Month: Cheesy Chicken in Pablano Sauce

More great recipes! Here is our recipe for Cheesy Chicken in Pablano Sauce. Delicious! We hope you're all having a great holiday season!


Ingredients

2-3 medium pablano peppers,
seeded and stemmed, chopped

1 cup chicken stock

1 small onion

2 cloves garlic, chopped

handful of cilantro leaves

Salt & Pepper

4 Tbls butter divided

2 Tbls flour

1 cup milk

1/2 cup heavy cream or Mexican crema

1 tbls extra virgin olive oil

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 1/2 cup Monterrey jack cheese

1 tbls olive oil

thinly sliced red onions for garnish

Prep

In a blender or food processor, combine the peppers with stock, onions, garlic, cilantro, salt and pepper; puree. In a small sauce pot over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons buter. Whisk in the flour; add the milk and cream and raise the heat a bit. Add the poblano puree and simmer to thicken and cook sauce for 20-25 minutes.

Pre-heat oven to 375.

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in large skillet over med-high heat. Add the 1 remaining tablespoon butter and melt. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and brown for 3-4 minutes on each side. Transfer to casserole dish, spread the sauce over the top and cover with cheese. Bake for 15-20 min.

Serve garnished with cilantro sprigs and red onion.

Enjoy!

From Dr. Jennifer Martin & team

Season's greetings from Dr. Martin and team!

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as our team at the orthodontic office of Dr. Jennifer Martin reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients and readers: What do you love about the holidays this year? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for 2012? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year?

We’d love if you shared with us here, or on our Facebook page, all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets and crunchy foods!

Happy Holidays!

Braces-Friendly December Recipe!

A different take on traditional scalloped potatoes, from Dr. Jennifer Martin and team.

SCALLOPED POTATOES WITH CREME FRAICHE
2 cloves garlic smashed
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 pounds waxy potatoes (such as Yukon gold or Yellow Finn) peeled
3 cups half and half
1/2 cup creme fraiche
2 tablespoons all purpose flour
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon ground mace
salt and freshly ground pepper
1/4 cup chopped chives

Preheat oven 300 degrees. Rub garlic all over the inside of a 3 quart baking dish, then mince it. Grease the dish with about 1/2 tablespoon butter. Slice the potatoes about 1/8 inch thick (a mandoline works well). Combine in a large saucepan with the minced garlic, the remaining 2 1/2 tablespoons butter, the half and half, creme fraiche, flour, thyme, mace, 2 1/2 teaspoons salt, and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil over medium high heat and cook, stirring until the mixture thickens slightly, 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in the chives and transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, shaking it to distribute the potatoes evenly. Bake, uncovered until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 1 hour 5minutes, occasionally spooning some of the liquid over the top. Let cool 10 minutes before serving. Yum Yum!

Happy holidays from all of us at Dr. Martin's office!

Dr. Martin & team, supporting Toys for Tots

In the Spirit of Giving this holiday season, our office will be collecting toys for the Marine's Toys for Tots Foundation. You can drop off a new, unwrapped toy to our office prior to December 16, 2011.

Please stop by our office anytime during regular business hours to drop off your donations.

We are located at:

401 Gregory Lane, Suite 126
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
P: 925-676-8485

Thank you for your generosity and Happy Holidays from all of us at Dr. Martin's office!

Holiday Recipe/Birthdays!

Check out this recipe for chocolate pixies! Happy Monday!
CHOCOLATE PIXIES
1/4 cup margarine or butter
4 oz (4 squares) unsweetened chocolate
2 cups sugar
2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 eggs
powdered sugar

In large saucepan over low heat, melt margarine and chocolate stirring constantly until smooth. Remove from heat, cool slightly. Lightly spoon flour into measuring cup, level off. Stir in flour, sugar, walnut, baking powder, salt and eggs; mix well. Cover with plastic wrap; refrigerate at least 1 hour for easier handling.
Heat oven to 300 degrees, shape dough into 1 inch balls; roll each in powdered sugar, coating heavily. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets. Bake at 300 degrees for 13 to 18 minutes or until set. Immediately remove from cookie sheets. Cool completely.
4 dozen

Also, congrats to the following patients of Dr. Martin who are celebrating birthdays this week!

Bridgette J
Nazeela R
Samantha R
Neha M
Courtney W
Jocelyn H
David N
Max V
Madeline W
Christopher L
Alyson M
Will R
Jocelyn W
Meghan C
Joseph E
Taylor K
Tiffany A
Drake H
Yuki O
Orazio D
Serena G
Johathan Q
Edward R

Giving thanks this holiday season

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season just around the corner, Dr. Jennifer Martin and our entire staff wanted to stop for a moment to say how thankful we are to have you in our orthodontic family. We realize that our practice thrives because of great patients like you - we are the lucky ones because we not only help keep you healthy, but we also have the pleasure of knowing you and your loved ones.

As always, if you know anyone we can help, just let us know. We promise to give them the same quality 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. Martin: Why are retainers so important, anyway?

If you recently completed treatment at Dr. Jennifer Martin's office, our entire staff would like to congratulate you again! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Martin will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, however, 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. Martin is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for an entire lifetime.

To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment, please visit our website for instructions or give us a call at 925-676-8485!

See you soon!

Happy Birthday from Dr. Martin & team!

Congrats and HAPPY BIRTHDAY to all of the following patients of Dr. Martin's who are celebrating birthdays this week!!!

William C.
Joey H.
Julia V.
Mackie B.
Michael K.
Matthew D.
Liam L.
Michelle L.
Charlie W.
Chelsea E.
Fiorina M.
Taninh C.
Zachery G.
Sam L.
Gino M.
Colin M.
Brianna P.
Kaelin B.
Adriannah H.
Joe P.
Brian V.

Ask Dr. Martin: What's the deal with Halloween candy?

For parents of Dr. Jennifer Martin's patients worried about their kids going overboard on candies this weekend, sugar and other sweets, Halloween is a dreaded annual event (no pun intended).

All those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, but these treats are known to damage teeth, as well as your braces! Did you know sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them?

Dr. Martin and our staff will tell you they can cause tooth decay and cavities! Sour and fruity candy, such as Starburst and Skittles, are the worst for your child’s teeth since these candies have a low pH value, which is known to ruin enamel. In addition, we also want your child to steer clear of sticky, chewy, gummy and nutty goodies.

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists recommend softer treats for those with braces, such as soft chocolate or peanut butter cups, or melt-in-your-mouth foods. Trick-or-treaters who indulge should make sure they brush and floss between teeth, around brackets and at the gum line. If damage occurs, call Dr. Martin or your general dentist in Pleasant Hill as soon as possible.

We wish you a safe, fun and happy Halloween!

Ask Dr. Martin: What can I expect during my son's first visit?

Thank you for the question. At your first visit to our office, Dr. Jennifer Martin will perform an oral examination to assess your orthodontic needs. We will discuss the orthodontic problems, make recommendations and discuss the next steps to pursuing orthodontic treatment with you.

If treatment is indicated at this time, orthodontic or diagnostic records will be gathered by Dr. Martin and team. Complete diagnostic records typically include a medical/dental history, clinical examination, plaster study models of the teeth taken at our office, and photos of the patient’s face and teeth, and x-rays taken at a dental x-ray lab. This information is used to develop a custom treatment plan for each patient. These records are also helpful in tracking the progress of treatment as the teeth move under orthodontic care. If no treatment is indicated at this time for your child, he or she will be put on recall until it is the optimum time for treatment.

Now, for the consultation ...

After Dr. Martin has evaluated your records, we discuss your treatment with you in detail, including the cost for your particular case. A second-generation orthodontist, Dr. Jennifer Martin is dedicated to the practice of orthodontics, and looks forward to sharing her knowledge, experience, and skills. Dr. Martin is deeply involved in the community; she knows and understands her patients, and strives to provide a unique, custom-tailored experience for each individual she treats. Dr. Martin and her team are proud to welcome you and your family, and look forwarding to working with you.

Year-end reminder from Dr. Martin

Do you have a flexible spending account or health savings account that you may be funding for next year?

If you need assistance in planning for next year's ortho expenses, please call us. An appointment is often needed to help determine what treatment may be needed in the next year.

Happy Birthdays at Dr. Martin's office!

Congrats and HAPPY BIRTHDAY to all of the following patients of Dr. Martin's who are celebrating birthdays this week!!!

Katie E.
Eric F.
Joseph H.
Payton J.
Kaitlyn J.
Cheyenne L.
Isabel N.
Jeffrey Y.
Jack D.
Isabel G.
Lois B.
Amanda D.
Madeline H.
Paul M.
William M.
Anna P.
Katelynn C.
Sasha K.
Madison S.
McKenzie A.
Nicholas B.
Olivia G.
Sean G.
Maya O.
Noelle H.
Christine Q.
Alina T.
Matthew B.
Zoe B.

October marks National Orthodontic Health Month!

We hope you're enjoying your Monday! For those who don't know, October is National Orthodontic Health Month. This month-long event is organized by our pals at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Dr. Jennifer Martin and our team realize this is a great opportunity for us and to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene. National Orthodontic Health Month also aims to recognize the dedicated work of orthodontists like Dr. Martin and other dental professionals in Pleasant Hill & surrounding areas.

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, ask us on Facebook or ask Dr. Martin during your visit!

Ask Dr. Martin: “Where can I get more info about braces?”

Great question! Besides on Dr. Jennifer Martin’s website, which provides you with a plethora of information about all things braces and Invisalign, we would like to point you to a helpful website: Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, have provided lots of important information about everything braces, including myths and facts of orthodontics, tips for a better orthodontic experience and cool webisodes about orthodontics.

We encourage you to check out AAO today and feel free to contact us if you have any questions here on our blog or on our Facebook page.

Hope this helps,

Dr. Martin & Team

In love with your new smile? Tell the world about it!

Has your experience at the office of Dr. Jennifer Martin been GREAT?

Would you like to let others know?

Then we invite you to write a review on our Google Places Page! Do you already have a Google account? Great! Just click "write a review" to leave your message.

Don’t have an account? Sign up for one–it’s easy and takes only a minute or two!

Thank you very much for taking the time to share your experience! We really appreciate it!

September is Self-Improvement Month!

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 the orthodontic office of Dr. Jennifer Martin know that orthodontic treatment is an investment in self-improvement that will reap benefits for a lifetime. And, recent advances in orthodontia, such as Invisalign and more effective brackets and wires, 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, Dr. Martin would love to have you visit for a complimentary consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

Back to school with Dr. Martin

At the office of Dr. Jennifer Martin, 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!

We hope everyone has a productive and fun school year!

Are you wearing your mouthguard? From Dr. Martin

With fall sports almost here for a lot of our patients at Dr. Jennifer Martin’s office, 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 such as soccer and football – 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 an adjustment visit with Dr. Martin, 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 this fall.

• 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 last days of summer, and invite you all to share your summer photos on our Facebook page!

Ask Dr. Martin: Now that I have braces, which foods should I avoid?

Great question. There are a variety of foods our team at the office of Dr. Jennifer Martin 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
• 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 one of our team members during your next adjustment visit with Dr. Martin! We also encourage you to ask us on Facebook!

Finally, we would like to say good luck to all the students heading back to school in the coming days and weeks! Learn a lot and have FUN! And if you're planning on participating in fall sports, come in to get a mouthguard!!

Tell Dr. Martin about your summer!

The dog days of summer are upon us, and what better time for Dr. Jennifer Martin & team to ask our patients about their summer!

Whether you visited our nation’s capitol, went on a camping trip, visited the state fair or just stayed in town and hung out with friends, we want to know how you’re all spending your summer! Please feel free to share your summer plans and experiences with us below or on our Facebook page as the summer comes to an end soon for a lot of our patients at Dr. Martin's office! We invite you to post your photos as well!

We look forward to hearing all about your adventures! Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Smile wide! It's National Smile Week!

We hope you're all having a great week so far! It’s National Smile Week, and a GREAT time to remind our patients at Dr. Martin's office to practice good oral hygiene to keep those teeth shining during your orthodontic treatment!

Here are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Week for many, many years to come:

* 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 your orthodontic treatment
* Visit your dentist regularly (every 6 months or as recommended by your dentist)!

And remember to smile at people you come across throughout the week, whether you know them or not. Smiles are contagious, and are a good thing to give and to get. We hope you’re all having a relaxing summer!

- Dr. Jennifer Martin and team

Ask Dr. Martin: “I’m 31 – am I too old for braces?”

Of course not! There is no such thing as "too old" for braces!

Dr. Jennifer Martin will tell you orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, however we know that adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. One of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over 21.

In fact, we read a fascinating statistic recently: the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent in just 14 years! While it's true that braces help make your teeth strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, perhaps another reason for the spike in adult braces is this: people want to look and feel great.

In an age when your looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when an evenly-aligned set of teeth might be the difference between getting a job or that promotion you've been looking for, adults are choosing to invest in orthodontics. Treatment with Pleasant Hill orthodontist Dr. Martin can be successful at any age, and we know that you adults especially appreciate the benefits of a warm and healthy smile.

If you’ve been thinking about getting the perfect smile you've wanted for years, Dr. Martin would love to have you visit for a complimentary consultation! Please give us a call at 925-676-8485 to set one up!

We hope you're all having a great summer!

Does Dr. Martin have your current contact info?

We hope you’re off to a great summer so far! If you are planning on traveling with family this summer or think you might not be able to make it to your scheduled adjustment appointment at our Pleasant Hills office, please let us know ahead of time so that we may be able to accommodate you, as well as schedule another patient with Dr. Jennifer Martin at that appointment time.

Also, we ask that you give us a call and let us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed! Please call us with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so we may be able to reach you. Thank you! Enjoy the rest of your week!

What’s on your mind?

As the summer progresses, our team at Dr. Jennifer Martin’s office strive to continue writing about important topics related to orthodontics and your treatment at our office.

To help us continue doing that through the course of the summer, Dr. Martin and team would like to ask you, our readers: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the always-changing and exciting field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog in the summer months? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Dr. Martin for a while? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook page!

We hope you’re having a great week!

Five reasons to visit Dr. Martin this summer

With the U.S. still mired in a recession, we know many folks around the country are putting off visiting the orthodontist for a consultation. We hear all the reasons - vacations, chores, emergencies, et cetera. Today, Dr. Jennifer Martin and our staff thought we'd give our prospective patients five reasons to visit our office this summer.

1. It's free!
2. Life is more flexible during the summer
3. Flex plan (HSA or MSA) planning
4. Patients can get used to their appliances before school starts
5. No need to miss school for an appointment

And here's another reason: Kids can reconnect with friends from school that they haven't seen for awhile - they are at the office having their braces checked too!

Lastly, 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 925-676-8485 to schedule a complimentary consultation!

Happy Birthday!

Congrats and HAPPY BIRTHDAY to all of the following patients of Dr. Martin who are celebrating birthdays this week!!!

7/4
Sara C.
Sierra E.
Stephanie P.
Maddie S.

7/5
Rachael M.
Kyle S.
Peter T.

7/6
Molly D.


7/7
Gabriella W.


7/8
Kevin A.
Dylan F.
Mason L.

7/9
Graydon B.
Adriana C.
Sarah H.
Kevin S.

7/10
Julia M.
Madison O.

Brushing with Dr. Martin

Congratulations to all our patients who have done such a great job on the their brushing! We have few helpful hints to help everyone be great brushers:

- Use a timer - it should take at least 2 minutes to really brush your teeth well.
- Look in the mirror when you are finished. Pull your lip up or down so that you can really see below the brackets.
- Focus on brushing the gums, not just the teeth.
- Try Agent Cool Blue (by Listerine) to help the plaque show more.
- Change your toothbrush more frequently. When the bristles start to splay, it's time for a new brush.

Hope you find these tips helpful!

Share your summer adventures with Dr. Martin!

As the school year comes to an end for a lot of our patients at Dr. Jennifer Martin's office, the days get longer and the hot California sun begins to warm up, there’s no better way to beat the heat than jump into a pool or chill under the shade with a cool beverage.

For most of our patients, summer brings a chance to get away from it all and escape everyday life, if only for a week or two. For others, it means a season of relaxation and relief from homework and studying, among other activities.

How about you?

What are your summer plans? Do you have any interesting plans for a summer vacation? Our entire staff (as well as Dr. Martin) would be interested in how you are all spending your summer vacations. If you’re headed to an exotic destination, awesome! If you're going camping, we'd like to hear about it! Going to a Giants game? Tell us! Even if you're staying at home and hanging out here in Pleasant Hill, let us know!

Please feel free to share your summer plans and adventures on our Facebook page as the summer rolls along!

Smile wide! June marks National Smile Month!

Now that June is here, our team at the office of Dr. Jennifer Martin thought we’d tell you June is National Smile Month, and a good time to remind all our patients to practice good oral hygiene between your visits to our convenient Pleasant Hill office, as well as your general dentist to avoid cavities and gum disease, among other dental health issues.

That means you too, parents! 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.

Below are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Month for many, many years to come:

* 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 your orthodontic treatment
* Visit your dentist regularly (every 6 months or as recommended by your dentist)!

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call, ask Dr. Martin during your next visit or ask us on Facebook!

We proudly offer complimentary consultations!

At the orthodontic practice of Dr. Jennifer Martin, we know and understand our patients, and strive to provide a unique, custom-tailored experience for each individual Dr. Martin treats.

One of our commitments is meeting with you to help you explore all or the options available to you or your child. We offer complimentary consultations for those interested in orthodontic treatment. During this time, you'll have time reserved with Dr. Martin, who will assess your particular needs as well as discuss treatment options available and answer any questions you may have. We place a high value on making sure you have complete information before beginning treatment.

If you have been thinking about obtaining the dazzling smile you’ve always wanted, we invite you to give us a call or schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Martin online.

See you soon!

Dr. Martin wants to know: Are you wearing your mouth guard?

Let’s face it: sports-related injuries are common this time of year, with kids getting more involved in sports activities such as touch- or tackle football, soccer and baseball. In a 2010 survey, the American Association of Orthodontists discovered that 70 percent of parents said their biggest fear is that their child will get hurt while playing organized sports, and that’s why Dr. Jennifer Martin and our staff are helping spread the word that many facial sports injuries can be prevented simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards.

Here are some common questions Dr. Martin and our team get about mouth guards and facial protection:

How do I prevent teeth from being chipped or broken?

Wear a mouth guard that you boil and bite into, however remember to re-boil the mouth guard ever 2 weeks to accommodate the movement that has occured from the braces.

What happens if a tooth gets knocked out?

Save the tooth! Put under tongue or place in glass of milk or saline solution. Don't scrub tooth. Call Dentist immediately, then call us after you have seen dentist so we can check all braces and wires. You can always reach a staff member in an emergency. Our numbers are on our voice message when you call our office.

How do I fix my teeth if I suffer an injury?

Your teeth can be fixed by your dentist. Give us a call to let Dr. Martin know as well.

Are sports drinks bad for my teeth?

Sports drinks are not "bad" for your teeth as long you are not drinking them on a daily basis. Water is the best drink for your teeth and to stay hydrated!

What if I'm wearing Invisalign? Should I still protect my teeth with a mouth guard?

Yes. While the invisalign aligners can help protect your teeth, but a mouth guard is the best to use when playing contact sports.

What about wearing my retainer while playing sports?http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif

We recommend wearing your retainers only during practice. Take retainers out for games and remember to place them in your retainer case. Never put in sports bags or wrap them in tissue or napkins. They will either break or they will get thrown away!

Can I still wear a mouth guard with braces?

Yes, but please re-boil every two weeks. Sports stores also sell mouth guards specifically for braces that do not need to be boiled to accommodate braces.

Give us a call if you have any questions, or ask us on Facebook!

"My son is turning 7 - when should we visit for a consultation?"

Great question! Dr. Jennifer Martin 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 nine 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 no later than age seven for Dr. Martin to assess what the best age for treatment is.

We hope this helps! We invite you to give us a call if you have any questions about your child’s treatment and have yourself a relaxing and wonderful weekend!

You may request an appointment by filling out this form.

Have a wonderful weekend!

May is National Teen Self-Esteem Month

At Dr. Jennifer Martin's office, 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 Dr. Martin's office. After all, what better time to avoid having crooked teeth in your adulthood than coming in for a consultation with Dr. Martin?

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!

What's going on at Dr. Martin's office?

We hope you're having a great week! A couple of things we wanted our patients to know about:

To help the children in Japan who were affected by the earthquake and tsunami, we are asking our patients and families to donate their Martin Money, which Dr. Martin and our team will then convert to real money and make a donation to World Vision's Japan relief fund.

Also, as you might already know, every summer we ask our patients to send in fun postcards. The cards can be from anywhere - vacations, WaterWorld, local trips, even a picture of something the kids did during the summer. At the end of the summer we will hold a drawing.

So, with school concluding soon for a lot of our patients, it's time to start thinking about those family vacations! Please send us those postcards as the summer progresses!

You're never too old to treat yourself to a new smile!

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 Dr. Jennifer Martin!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment with Dr. Martin. 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 Dr. Martin a call, so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs.

Ask Dr. Martin: "Now that I have braces, what can I eat?"

You just got braces and Dr. Jennifer Martin has informed you that over the next several months you will want to avoid eating anything sticky, hard, crunchy, or chewy. What does this leave for you to eat? Lettuce? Nothing?

Luckily, there was someone else wondering the same thing when she first got braces! Brenda Waterman, 13, decided she was going to find a way to have her cake and eat it too, so she created a variety of “braces-friendly” recipes that allow you to enjoy your favorite treats without interfering with your orthodontic care! Her cookbook, “The Braces Cookbook: Recipes you (and your Orthodontist) will Love,” gives patients a variety of delicious recipes, safe to eat with braces; plus additional tips and advice for packing lunches, what to eat at parties, and braces-friendly restaurant dishes! There’s even a section with tips for dealing with the soreness that can occur when your braces or appliance are adjusted. Enjoy the foods you love – even with braces!

Here is a delicious, sneak peek recipe from “The Braces Cookbook:”

Wonderful Waffles

Forget the recipe that came with your waffle iron – this recipe will redefine fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. The secret to delicious waffles is letting the batter "sit" for five minutes before pouring into the waffle iron. Top cooked waffles with syrup, jam, fresh fruit or even whip cream. Makes about 5 servings!

Preheat your waffle iron according to the directions. You may want to lightly spray it with vegetable oil before heating.

• 3 cups flour
• 2 Tbl + 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 Tbl sugar
• 4 cups milk
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

In a large bowl, whisk (or use electric mixer on low) together all ingredients. Let batter sit for about five minutes to activate the baking powder.

When waffle iron is ready, pour about 1/3 cup of batter onto each of the four squares (experiment with your iron – you don't want the batter overflowing). Gently close the cover and set your timer as the manufacturer suggests. Do not lift the cover while they bake. When done, carefully lift one edge with a flat spatula and pull the waffle away from the iron. Keep waffles warm on a plate under a clean dishtowel while the others bake.

Enjoy!

Straight talk with Dr. Jennifer Martin

Some people wonder why Pleasant Hill orthodontist Dr. Jennifer Martin and our dedicated team work tirelessly to give our patients straight teeth. Of course it’s nice to have a smile full of evenly aligned teeth, but did you know that straightening your teeth at Jennifer L. Martin DDS can keep them healthier? Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime!

Straight teeth are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque—the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to tooth decay; and they are easier to keep clean! A second-generation orthodontist, Dr. Martin is dedicated to the practice of orthodontics, and looks forward to sharing her knowledge, experience, and skills. Dr. Martin is deeply involved in the community; she knows and understands her patients, and strives to provide a unique, custom-tailored experience for each individual she treats

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, please give us a call to set up a complimentary consultation. Dr. Martin can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Ask Dr. Martin: What's the deal with retainers?

If you recently completed treatment at Dr. Martin's office, our entire staff would like to congratulate you again! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Jennifer Martin will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, however, 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. Martin is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for an entire lifetime.

To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment, please visit our website for instructions and read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth. You may also give us a call at 925-676-8485!

Happy Monday!

How important is your smile? From Dr. Martin

At the orthodontic office of Dr. Jennifer Martin, we are dedicated to using the most advanced orthodontic technology in order to provide comfortable, accurate, customized orthodontic treatments. Dr. Martin and our talented staff have been creating beautiful smiles in Pleasant Hill and Contra Costa County for years.

The bottom line is, we know having a beautiful smile is important to you. It’s important to us, too.

In fact, 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.

When you’re ready to take the next step toward a healthier, straighter smile, please contact our practice and schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Martin.

Get to know your braces! From Dr. Jennifer Martin

We hope you're having a great weekend! Should you need to call our Pleasant Hill, CA office in case you sustain any damage to your braces, we can help you more effectively if you can tell us exactly which piece is in trouble! Here’s a handy diagram and corresponding list of all the parts that make up your braces.



Elastic Tie: Tiny rubber band that fits around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Archwire: The main wire that acts as a track to guide the teeth along. It's changed periodically throughout treatment, as teeth move to their new positions.

Loop in Archwire: Frequently used for closing space left by an extraction. Many archwires don't have a loop.

Bracket: Small attachment that holds the archwire in place. Most often, a bracket is cemented directly onto the tooth's surface, eliminating the need for a band.

Headgear Tube: Round, hollow attachment on the back bands. The inner bow of the headgear fits into it.

Coil Spring: Fits between brackets and over archwire to open space between teeth.

Tie Wire: Fine wire that is twisted around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Band: A thin ring of metal fitted around a tooth and cemented in place. The band provides a way to attach the brackets to the tooth.

Hook: Welded or removable arm to which elastics (rubber bands) are attached.

Elastic (Rubber Band): Small rubber band that is hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth.

Hope this helps! Let Dr. Martin know if you have any questions during your next visit or on Facebook!

Access your account—any day, any time, anywhere!

Access to your account, whenever you want, wherever you want it. Sounds perfect and convenient, right?

Patients at Jennifer Martin DDS enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week! You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, all from the comfort of your own home - anytime!

You, too, may sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started! We'd love some feedback about this helpful service!

Invisalign patient testimonial [Video]

Dr. Martin and team came across this video last week, and realized that it's just what folks considering Invisalign need to see. Invisalign gets a ton of promotion online (including here on our blog), but people rarely get the see a clear cut, unbiased, point of view from someone who actually has chosen to straighten their teeth with Invisalign.

At the orthodontic office of Dr. Jennifer Martin, we get quite a lot of requests for Invisalign. We always let our patients know about the stages of Invisalign, as well as how one might first react to it. But, to hear it from someone actually wearing these clear aligners is something else.

Check out this video of a patient who has been wearing her aligners for only 10 minutes! Because they’re clear, your teeth will be steadily straightening – and no one will know it but you! Please give us a call to set up a free initial consultation, so Dr. Martin can discuss the specifics of your treatment.

Presidents' Day Fun Facts!

Today marks Presidents’ Day, a day known for celebrating both George Washington’s and Abraham Lincoln’s combined February birthdays. Presidents’ Day was created in 1971, when President Richard Nixon combined the birthdays of two of our most well-known presidents into one single federal holiday. Presidents’ Day also marks a hard-earned day off from work and school for a lot of our patients at Dr. Jennifer Martin's office.

Here are a few fun facts about our nation’s presidents we thought you might enjoy:

*Ulysses S. Grant, our 18th president, got a speeding ticket ... on a horse. Grant was given a $20 speeding ticket for riding his horse too fast down a Washington street.

*George Washington is the first president to be featured on a postage stamp.

*President Obama collects "Spiderman" and "Conan The Barbarian" comic books, and has even read every "Harry Potter" book.

*Ronald Reagan, our 40th president, broke the so-called “20-year curse,” in which every president elected in a year ending in 0 died in office.

*Harry S. Truman was the first president to have his Inauguration and speeches televised.

*Not only was James A. Garfield the first president to be ambidextrous, but it was said he could write a sentence in Latin with one hand and write it in Greek with the other hand.

*Fourteen presidents served as vice presidents: J. Adams, Jefferson, Van Buren, Tyler, Fillmore, A. Johnson, Arthur, T. Roosevelt, Coolidge, Truman, Nixon, L. Johnson, Ford, and George H.W. Bush.

*Abraham Lincoln was the tallest of the U.S. presidents measuring 6’ 4” tall.

*Virginia is the birthplace of more United States presidents than any other state, followed by Ohio and Massachusetts.

Complimentary Consultations at Dr. Martin's office

At the orthodontic practice of Dr. Jennifer Martin, we know and understand our patients, and strive to provide a unique, custom-tailored experience for each individual Dr. Martin treats.

One of our commitments is meeting with you to help you explore all or the options available to you or your child. We offer complimentary consultations for those interested in orthodontic treatment. During this time, you'll have time reserved with Dr. Martin, who will assess your particular needs as well as discuss treatment options available and answer any questions you may have. We place a high value on making sure you have complete information before beginning treatment.

If you have been thinking about obtaining the dazzling smile you’ve always wanted, we invite you to give us a call or schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Martin online.

See you soon!

Ask Dr. Martin: When are two phases of treatment necessary?

Great question. Phase I, or early interceptive treatment, is limited orthodontic treatment (i.e. expander or partial braces) before all of the permanent teeth have erupted. Such treatment can occur between the ages of six and ten. This treatment is sometimes recommended to make more space for developing teeth, correction of crossbites, overbites, underbites, or harmful oral habits. Phase II treatment is also called comprehensive treatment, because it involves full braces when all of the permanent teeth have erupted, usually between the ages of eleven and thirteen.

When we have patients with clear developmental problems at an early age, it’s best to start work when they are young, before the problems get bigger and more difficult to treat.

Examples include:
•An upper or lower jaw that is not growing correctly
•A mouth growing in a way that doesn’t leave enough room for all the permanent teeth to come in
•A severe malocclusion, or bad bite, which means the jaw doesn’t fit together correctly

Has your child visited our Pleasant Hill, CA office for a complimentary consultation? If not, please give us a call and let Dr. Jennifer Martin help your child begin the journey to a gorgeous smile.

February Marks National Children's Dental Health Month

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), tooth decay is one of the most common chronic infectious diseases among U.S. children, which is why Dr. Jennifer Martin and our staff are doing our part to spread the word that good oral hygiene starts at home.

February is National Children's Dental Health Month, as well as National Dental Health Month, and Dr. Martin and team thought we’d promote good oral hygiene among our patients with a few tips and tricks, courtesy of the American Dental Association.

• Teeth brushing techniques: It takes only two minutes to properly brush using short, gentle strokes and devoting extra attention to the gumline, areas around fillings and hard-to-reach areas such as the back teeth.

• Flossing: hold the floss snugly between thumbs and index finger and insert it between each of the teeth, making sure to go beneath the gumline and curving the floss around the base of each tooth.

• Snack wisely: choose healthy snacks such as cheese, fruits and vegetables and avoid crunchy, sticky, chewy candies that can stick to the teeth. If you eat these snacks, be sure to brush after doing so.

• Carbonated or sugary drinks: these drinks create acids that can damage the teeth when mixed with saliva, so they should be avoided altogether. If you’re going to drink one of these beverages, don’t sip on it throughout the day. Rather, drink it and then brush your teeth.

• Regular dental visits: in addition to visiting our Pleasant Hill, CA office during your orthodontic treatment, you should visit your dentist for professional check-ups and teeth cleaning appointments about every six months.

National Dental Health Month aims to increase awareness about the importance of our patients' oral health. If you have any questions about keeping your mouth healthy, or about your treatment with Dr. Martin, please feel free to give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Gum disease and your orthodontic treatment

At the office of Dr. Jennifer Martin, we know it's easy to tell when you have a cavity; but unfortunately, gum disease can exist in your mouth without you even knowing. In fact, you can have the beginning stages of gum disease without noticing any pain or discomfort, even while you're wearing braces. Since gum disease can be undetectable, it’s important to watch for warning signs in order to prevent the disease from worsening!

Signs to watch for:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent halitosis, or bad breath
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position

If you or someone in your family is showing these signs, schedule an appointment right away by calling our office, serving Pleasant Hill and central Contra Costa County. We can refer you to a specialist and begin treatment to give you back a healthy mouth!

More than just a day off from school

Today, our country celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who was a thinker, leader and civil rights champion. In the 1950s and ’60s, Dr. King recognized the need to bring about social justice, and worked tirelessly to instill tolerance in our nation, strengthen America’s communities and move the nation forward. This weekend, thousands of people of all ages and races in the Bay Area and across the California spent their time building, giving and renovating our communities to help celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend. Do you have the day off today? If so, what do you plan to do to help your local community?

We’d love to know about your activities and events this MLK Jr. Day. If you have any video or pictures you’d like to share, please pass them along! If you’re not sure how, give us a call!

Dr. Jennifer Martin and our entire team are proud of all our patients, families and colleagues who continue to make a difference in our community!

Are those rumors about swallowing bubble gum true?

At Dr. Martin's office, we know the rumors going around that once you swallow a piece of chewing gum it will 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!

Give us a call at our convenient Pleasant Hill office if you have any questions or if sugarless gum is recommended during your specific treatme

Happy (sugar-free) gum chewing from Dr. Martin and our entire staff!

What is your New Year's Resolution?

2011 is here—and what a year 2010 was at the office of Dr. Jennifer Martin! Today, we thought we’d ask: what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you most looking forward to this year? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

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 2011!