Celebrate National Senior Health & Fitness Day

Today is National Senior Health and Fitness day! As we encourage senior citizens to be active today, we also want to remind you to stay current on your health visits and check-ups. This includes dental and orthodontics. Are you a senior who has considered orthodontic treatment? You may be surprised to know that seniors can benefit from adult braces.Keep reading to find out more.

If you are retired and considering adult braces in the Morristown, Livingston, Parsippany, Morris Plains and all of Morris and Essex Counties, we encourage you to visit Dr. Wadhwa of Morristown Orthodontics. You may not be aware but retirement age is the perfect time to do things you’ve always wanted to do, including getting braces. If your smile has been something that’s bothered you throughout the years, the time to change that is now.

When you compare getting braces as an adult to getting them as a child or adolescent, there are benefits. One example is children typically must use metal braces due to restrictions and the simple fact that a child’s jaw hasn’t solidified. When you’re an adult, you have a much wider variety of treatment options from traditional braces to clear aligners.

If you are a senior and you’re interested in straightening your teeth, visit our office for a consultation to discuss adult braces. At Morristown Orthodontics, we can help you understand all of the benefits that you will take away, aside from a picture perfect smile.

Would you wear 2 different colored shoes?

Each year on May 3 it is National Two Different Colored Shoes Day. This is a day to be different from the other 364 other days of the year. On May 3rd you can show your uniqueness.

National Two Different Colored Shoes Day, an “unofficial” National holiday was created by Dr. Arlene Kaiser. Kaiser created this day to recognize and celebrate human diversity. According to Kaiser, “the simple act of wearing two different colored shoes proclaims your individuality. By taking this “positive risk,” you can demonstrate your willingness to be different, and show your appreciation for the unique people in your life”.

Clarity Braces Offered At Morristown Orthodontics

Clarity braces are an aesthetic alternative for Morristown Orthodontic patients who want to keep their appearance appealing during treatment. Although Clarity braces work similarly to metal braces, using brackets and wires, their construction involves ceramic that is less visible compared to the metal associated with conventional braces. Because Clarity braces are also more resistant to stains from foods and beverages, patients can more easily maintain their looks while their teeth are being corrected with this form of orthodontic treatment from Dr. Wadhwa, our Clarity braces expert.

Clarity braces claim excellent aesthetic value as one of their key advantages over alternative options. However, this treatment also offers superior strength and comfort over other types of braces. For example, patients who choose Clarity braces enjoy increased resistance against breakage due to foods that are cold or hard. In addition, wearers of Clarity braces enjoy more comfort while their teeth are being corrected. If you are interested in Clarity braces, contact Morristown Orthodontics today.

Palette Pleasure

It's been a while since we've posted some new and delicious braces friendly meal ideas. We know finding meals that are fit for your braces and your appetite can be tricky, so we've done a little research to find some new meal plans to give your palette a little pleasure. 

Click the link below the picture of the meal for all ingredient lists and recipe directions.

Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese

Click here for the recipe. 

PB&J Sushi Rolls

Click here for the recipe.

Loaded Mashed Potato Balls

Click here for the recipe. 

These 3 meals aren’t just delicious, they’re braces friendly. Do you have any braces friendly recipes or dinner ideas to share with us? Leave a comment below or post one on our Facebook wall!

The Damon System

The Damon System is not just about revolutionary braces and wires, it's an entirely new way of treating patients. Traditional treatment often requires removal of healthy teeth and the use of palatal expanders to make space. This approach is often uncomfortable, takes longer and can leave a narrower arch and a flat profile.

Damon smiles are full, natural smiles achieved with light force specifically designed to improve the overall facial result of each patient. Traditional braces are tied in with elastics, which cause friction and pressure, making treatment slower and less comfortable. Damon braces use a slide mechanism to hold the wire, which allows teeth to move more freely quickly and comfortably.

At Morristown Orthodontics, we combine three key components, which when used together, deliver faster treatment, fewer appointments, greater comfort, and consistent high-quality results:
Damon passive self-ligating braces that eliminate the need for elastic or metal "ties".   Ask us about this new clinically proven treatment approach that aligns your teeth and enhances your facial aesthetics-usually without extractions or rapid palatal expanders.

Our 3D Process

Morristown Orthodontics eliminates impressions in our office. We use open source intraoral scanners to take extremely accurate and high resolution digital impressions of your patients. Within minutes have a beautiful 3D digital model for archiving, diagnosis, treatment planning and appliance fabrication.

Check out the process below:

3D Scan


We use open source intraoral scanners to take extremely accurate and high resolution digital impressions of your patients.

Design

With O3D's Core Software Suite in our office, there are no limits to what we can create. We use it for archiving, diagnosis, treatment planning, appliance design and fabrication.

Print

After we scan and design, our models are ready to be sent to the 3D Printer.  The digital file goes to the 3D printer to produce physical models; in-house appliance fabrication.

What is In-Ovation?

In-Ovation system braces are different! With a special free-sliding technology, little to no pressure is placed on teeth as they are gently guided into place.

With In-Ovation system braces, achieving a beautiful, healthy smile is fast and comfortable. The patient-friendly design means that you spend less time in the chair, experience less discomfort and need fewer office appointments than with older style braces.

Why’s In-Ovation different?

Free-sliding technology means you have less discomfort and a faster treatment than with traditional style braces.

Traditional braces use elastics and ties. This puts pressure and friction on your teeth, which slows down your treatment and causes discomfort in many patients.

With In-Ovation You Can Have...

• Faster results
• Shorter appointments
• Fewer office visits
• Greater comfort
• Improved facial proportion and appearance

Are you interested in learning more about orthodontic treatment from Morristown Orthodontics? Contact us now and schedule an appointment with Dr. Wadha.

March 3rd is National Anthem Day

March 3rd is National Anthem Day! On this day, we celebrate and honor the national anthem of the United States of America, the Star Spangled Banner. The Star Spangled Banner was written by Fancis Scott Key while serving in the Georgetown Light Field Artillery during the War of 1812. It wasn’t until March 3rd, 1931 that The Star Spangled Banner was officially the national anthem of the USA.

To celebrate this great anthem of our nation, we thought it would be fun to share some videos of different famous artists and people singing the National Anthem!

Watch these videos to see some wonderful performances of The Star Spangled Banner!

Do you know 3 or more verses of the song? As a challenge, take some time to sing the National Anthem today and see how many lines you know! Then, try memorizing all of the lyrics! There is a great honor that comes with knowing the words and singing them whole heartedly. Morristown Orthodontics recognizes National Anthem Day & hopes you will too!

National Chocolate Mint Day

Did you know February 19th is National Chocolate Mint day? This was declared by the U.S. National Confectioners Association, and this holiday celebrates everything that is chocolate-mint flavored.

While we appreciate the unique taste combination of mint and chocolate, and we think there is something to be said for the dynamic taste combination of a refreshing mint green and rich chocolate brown, we do understand that this is not always a favorite to everyone.

That is why, in honor of Chocolate Mint day, we thought we would present some fresh ideas for new recipes for you to try, all in a chocolate minty palette! Perhaps after trying these new recipes you will become of this fan of this tasty holiday!

Check out 2 delicious recipes guaranteed to make you love National Chocolate Mint day!

Mint Chocolate Swirl Bark

Easy chocolate bark swirled with mint flavored white chocolate. Click here for the recipe!

Mint-Chip Ice Cream Brownie Squares 

A creamy mint-green swirl of soft serve and brownies combined for a mouth-watering dessert. Click here for the recipe.

Let us know which recipe you try, and share some of your favorites with us too!

Don't Forget To Thank Your Mailman!

February 4th is recognized as National Thank A Mailman Day! Don’t forget to say thank you to your mail carrier when they stop by to deliver your mail. Unfortunately, we sometimes forget the process of mail and all the hard work it takes to get from point A to point B, so take time to thank your mail person because they deliver in various weather conditions 6 days a week.

Here are some fun facts provided by the USPS.

• In 1775, the Second Continental Congress established the Constitutional Post–the first organized mail service in America.
• 
  
• As the nation’s first Postmaster General, Benjamin Franklin established many of the conventions we are accustomed to today.
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• Postage stamps were invented in 1847.
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• On April 3, 1860 the famous Pony Express officially took off.
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• In 1863, free city delivery started and in 1896, free rural delivery began.
• 
  
• In 1963, the Zip Code began.

Happy New Year from Morristown Orthodontics

Morristown Orthodontics would like to wish you and yours a very happy holiday season as we approach the New Year! We hope that you are able to spend time with your friends and loved ones while enjoying full meals, big hugs, and lots of love and laughs.

If you are currently being treated and wear an orthodontic appliance, please be sure to make the proper choices when enjoying holiday treats that are sticky or chewy. Should you have any questions, please visit our website for common questions and answers regarding appliances.

Remember New Year's celebrations tend to have treats we don't usually indulge it, so be sure to brush and floss after your special countdown!

Happy New Year!

What are your holiday plans? Share your holiday activities with us by commenting below or by sharing on our Facebook page.

Holiday Hours

Morristown Orthodontics is closed for the holidays!

We will reopen on Tuesday, January 5, 2016!

Happy Holidays!

Cutting Edge Technology At Morristown Orthodontics

Morristown Orthodontics understands that crafting a great smile takes time, but with today’s technology we can deliver results faster to our patients by using cutting edge tools such as our 3D oral scanners and 3D printers.  Not only do these new technology tools help us get your results faster, but they also make treatment easier on you as a patient.

With the digital advances in the high-tech orthodontic tools at Morristown Orthodontics, we can take a 3D oral scan of your teeth instead of using those uncomfortable impressions. With the 3D scans, Dr. Wadhwa can use the image to plan appliances for your treatment.

The 3D scans are also used to create the model of your teeth.   It’s a pretty simple process of a few clicks to send the 3D oral scan file to our 3D printer. Our 3D printer is beyond incredible. It jets thin layers of material until it forms the full model. Using the new model, we can create the full range of orthodontic appliances you will need for treatment.  This makes the process significantly faster than it has ever been for our patients, and provides unbeatable precision.

Another great thing about our 3D scanner and 3D printer is we can create more than just models for our patients. We can also create orthodontic appliances, delivery and positioning trays, clear aligners, and retainers.  These are all created faster and more accurately than they have ever been processed before.

We offer a complimentary exam to determine what treatment plan is best for your clinical needs and lifestyle. Contact our Morris County or Essex County orthodontic office to schedule your consultation today. 

Get Your Teeth Wedding Ready For 2016

With the holiday season in full effect many couples are taking the next step towards marriage, and giving a new meaning to the term merry and bright. There are several things that go into planning a wedding from the venue, to the dress, to the photos and bridal party. As some see weddings as an end to an era, weddings are really a celebration of new opportunities and new beginnings. A lot of people start new goals when they become engaged, starting a new workout regimen, changing hairstyles, or getting the brightest whitest and straightest smile they’ve always wanted. If you want to have your best smile on your big day in 2016, don’t panic about a metal smile or longevity because we have a program that can help you achieve just that.

Invisalign, approved by the FDA in 1998, has been a wonderful non-invasive alternative to classic braces for almost 20 years.  Not only has it changed smiles, but Invisalign has changed the look of classic braces using state-of-the art technology; no cement or metal used. Morristown Orthodontics utilizes the Invisalign system providing a series of BPA-free plastic trays that realign your teeth. Patients wear these trays for 20-22 hours a day, and two weeks at a time.  They’re easy to remove making it easy for brushing, eating, drinking, and oral care.  As the trays are clear, they appear to be invisible which makes it even better for those who may be self-conscious about getting braces in adulthood.

Patients can start to see results fast with Invisalign, usually within a couple of months after beginning a personalized treatment; and in most cases treatment is completed within 1 year.  This is a great treatment for those of you who are ready to say “I Do” in 2016.  Invisalign can produce results in weeks, and still give you a clear smile while taking engagement pictures and celebrating before you walk down the aisle.   

If you are ready to get your best smile in 2016 for your big day, give us a call and we can set up your first visit to get started.

The Details On Elastic Bands

Braces are often the main line of treatment for most orthodontic problems and nearly always need to be augmented by elastic bands to help achieve perfect results. Elastic bands help move your teeth so as to minimize the teeth gaps and cure the 'over-biting' complain.

Elastics are fitted by your orthodontist and may leave your teeth and gums slightly sore after the fitting. Do not worry though, this goes away in a few days. These elastic bands need to be worn 24 hours a day, for as long as your orthodontist advises. You may, however, remove them during meal times and when brushing your teeth only to wear them again as soon as possible. Also, don’t forget to  wear new fresh bands after removing the previous ones.

At Morristown Orthodontics we advise wearing the elastic bands in the following way:

From upper right canine to lower right first molar and from upper left canine to first lower left molar. You might face problems in placing these correctly initially, but don’t worry we will teach and help you accordingly.

You can follow this guide unless you are personally instructed  to do yours a little differently.

Elastic bands might get broken at one point, it is advisable to replace both jaws' elastic bands. This is because with time the bands' elasticity decreases, so when one jaw's band is changed, it will have a stronger elasticity than the old one. Also, replace your elastic bands routinely to make sure the traction they apply on their teeth remains of a good strength as elasticity is lost through wear and tear.

Depending on the quality of elastics you use, you may be instructed when you should change the elastic bands, but mostly we advise changing them twice a day; once in the morning and once before bedtime. Keep extra bands with you at all times as they might break unexpectedly. You may pick up as many elastic bands as you want from your our office, it would only make us happier as it means you would be using them regularly.

The most important thing you need to take care of when wearing elastics is the regularity. Do not wear them for a part of the day and then not for some other times of the day as it will greatly affect your results. This irregular use of elastic bands will it move your teeth adequately, resulting in persistence of your problem. Furthermore, your teeth and gums will remain tender and sore as they will not grow accustomed to the force of elastic bands, and it might actually move your progress a bit backwards each time you take the elastic bands off for a long duration.

So when you visit our office for the setting of your elastic bands, make sure you ask any questions that come to mind, and pick up a few extra bands to play it safe.

Shopping Secrets For Black Friday Sales

Everyone knows the biggest day for the best shopping deals is the day after Thanksgiving! Black Friday has become an unofficial holiday for smart shoppers looking to save on holiday gifts.  If you’re one of those smart shoppers, you’re in luck because we have a few secrets to help you in your hunt for the best deals this year.

Rule #1 Be Prepared

Many stores give early bird Black Friday ads to customers on their email list. Check out your favorite stores online and subscribe to their e-mail list so you can start finding the deals before the stores open!

Rule#2 Get Bonus Discounts

If you get a thrill from shopping at the crack of dawn, you will love the rewards that may come with it. Many stores do giveaways to those who are in line to shop on Black Friday. Last year, Sports Authority gave the first 80 customers to walk in gift cards worth up to $500.

Rule# 3 Split Up

It’s fun to shop with family and friends, but with so many deals and so little time you can play it smart by dividing up the shopping. Compare your lists with your closest pals, and split up the stores and items!

Rule# 4 Stay Within Your Budget

Make a list of what you need and a set budget on what you have to spend.   Make sure you stay strict to the list and don’t purchase items you don’t need.  Sometimes it’s the things that aren’t on the list that blow your budget.

2 Healthy Turkey Day Foods For Your Teeth

It’s pretty safe to say the words Thanksgiving and Healthy don’t pair up when you think about the delicious foods flowing around the table on Turkey Day.  But, believe it or not, you’ll have reason to feel less guilty when you indulge in the feast this season because of the benefits some of these traditional foods will have on your teeth.

At Morristown Orthodontics, we want you to know you can now be extra thankful for turkey and pumpkin pie!

Turkey

Not only is turkey the main attraction at the table on Thanksgiving Day, but it benefits your body and teeth in several ways due to the high protein content. Protein helps build strong bones and healthy teeth; just another reason to keep smiling!

Pumpkin

Not only are pumpkins decorative and delicious, but they’re filled with magnesium too! Magnesium is a nutrient known for strengthening teeth. Also, pumpkin pulp is a good source of Vitamin A, potassium, and fiber, all which help build enamel. 

So when it’s time to sink your teeth into your holiday meal, go ahead and grab a big helping of turkey and an extra slice of pumpkin pie, as these are great foods in achieving a healthy smile.

Time To Toss Your Toothbrush?

The toothbrush is your number one oral hygiene accessory.  Toothbrushes help keep your teeth and mouth clean, but how long should you a keep a toothbrush?

It is recommended that you switch out that old toothbrush for a fresh new one ever 3 to 4 months. Replacing your toothbrush is essential since they are constantly being exposed to germs and bacteria. If you notice the bristles of your tooth brush have become worn that's a clear sign you need a new toothbrush. People who wear braces should change their toothbrushes frequently because braces break down and fracture bristles which makes the toothbrush lose its effectiveness.

It's helpful to keep a pack of toothbrushes available in the house at all times for easy replacement.

So mark those calendars for every 3 to 4 months and it’s out with the old and in with the new. 

After reading the above you're probably thinking ”My toothbrush is fine, I have it broken in just the way I like it.” And maybe that’s true, but did you know that your old toothbrush could actually be harming your mouth?

3 Reasons to Change Out Your Old Toothbrush:

1. Bacteria - Your toothbrush is a tool for removing bacteria from your teeth…but it doesn’t actually kill bacteria. Some of the bacteria from your teeth stay on your toothbrush after you are done brushing. Now, this isn’t a problem initially, but imagine three to four months of bacteria build up on your toothbrush. That old bacteria ridden toothbrush is in your mouth at least twice a day…yuck.

2. Bristles - Like any tool, a toothbrush wears down. Worn bristles are tough on your enamel and can wear it away over time. Not only that… an old, worn toothbrush can be up to 95 percent less effective at removing plaque.

3. Illness - Always change your toothbrush after you’ve been sick, even if it’s not “technically” time to switch out your toothbrush. Do we need to say it again? Germs and bacteria in your mouth twice a day, every day.

Having a clean mouth is important. It gives you fresh breath and a nicer-looking smile. Brushing your teeth helps maintain your oral health and you must do this with a clean toothbrush. For tips on brushing your teeth with braces please visit http://www.morristownorthodontics.com/brushing-and-flossing.php

Morristown Orthodontics

161 Washington Street, Morristown, NJ 07960-3772 

202 South Orange Avenue, South Orange, NJ 07079

(973) 538-2171

Pumpkin Cookie Pops

In a month full of sweet treats, it’s more important than ever to be mindful of your braces and/or your orthodontic appliances. As an alternative to Halloween candies that may be sticky, chewy and hard we have a fun recipe provided by the American Association of Orthodontist that you and your family will love.

Pumpkin Cookie Pops

(Adapted from www.pumpkinnook.com)

Ingredients:

• ¾ C unsalted butter, softened
• ½ C brown sugar, firmly packed
• ½ C canned or fresh cooked pumpkin
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tsp pure vanilla
• 2 ¼ C all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• Pinch salt
• 20 wooden sticks (tongue depressors or Popsicle sticks work best)

Directions:

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine with electric mixer the butter, brown sugar and orange zest. Add the pumpkin, egg yolk, and vanilla. Mix. 
• Gradually add the flour and spices. Mix with your hands to create a soft dough. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
• Divide dough into two pieces. Roll out each piece to
• 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut into pumpkin shapes with cookie cutters.
• Place on ungreased baking sheet and securely insert a wooden stick into the bottom half of each pumpkin cookie.

Bake for 12-15 minutes.

Decorate with favorite frosting

During Halloween it's important to stay away from hard, sticky, crunchy or chewy candy and snacks. These include caramel, gummies, licorice, taffy, bubblegum (even the sugarless kind), jelly beans and soft drinks. Sweets can cause cavities, which means brushing and flossing are more important than ever during the Halloween season. Orthodontic patients should be especially vigilant about brushing and flossing after consuming sugary or starchy foods. 

Morristown Orthodontics

161 Washington Street, Morristown, NJ 07960-3772 

202 South Orange Avenue, South Orange, NJ 07079

(973) 538-2171

October is Orthodontic Health Month!

When you think October, you naturally think Halloween.
But did you know that October is also a time for celebrating Orthodontics?

Every year, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recognizes October as a time to raise awareness of the benefits of orthodontic treatment.

If you have never been to an orthodontist before, you might not know what to expect. Meeting with Dr. Wadhwa and her staff is a great way to find out what kind of people you’ll be seeing during your treatment. This is also a time to get your questions answered and to learn more about what an orthodontist can do for you and your family.

Facts About Orthodontics:

• 100% of all orthodontists are dentists. About 6% of all dentists are orthodontists.
• Adults care about straightening their teeth too! Millions of people over age 18 are currently in orthodontic treatment.
• Approximately 4 million people in the United States have braces on their teeth right now!
• The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) suggests children should be seen by the age of 7?  Early intervention is sometimes needed to help guide growth and development of permanent teeth and jaw alignment.

If you have any questions about what foods are best during orthodontic treatment, feel free to ask during your next visit.We look forward to seeing you and your family this October!