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!