The R. Scott Smith Orthodontics Blog

Ask Dr. Smith: "How do I prevent tooth decay during my treatment?”

2012-01-25T16:05:00.000-08:00

Great question!

If you are brushing and flossing daily during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. R. Scott Smith, we think 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 R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

Tooth decay, which is caused by sugars left in your mouth, can turn into an acid, which in turn can break down your teeth. Children are at high risk for tooth decay because adolescents tend to be lax in their oral hygiene habits. Proper brushing and flossing routines, combined with regular dental visits, help keep tooth decay away.

If you have any questions, please be sure to keep ask Dr. Smith or our team during your next adjustment appointment, or ask us on Facebook!

Thanks to Invisalign, you can have a perfect smile without metal wires or brackets!

2012-01-17T16:13:00.000-08:00

At R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, we know image is everything. For many people, the thought of having metal brackets and wires attached to their teeth for two or more years may be more than enough to delay orthodontic treatment.

If you’ve been considering straightening your teeth but are apprehensive about metal wires and brackets getting in the way of your smile, Invisalign treatment at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics may be a great solution. Invisalign, which straightens teeth through a series of clear, custom-fit removable aligners, does so in a way that is discreet and hardly noticeable.

If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment at our office, please give us a call to schedule a consultation with Dr. Smith.

The benefits of a beautiful smile

2012-01-12T11:54:00.000-08:00

Dr. Scott Smith and our team know having an attractive smile puts a spring in your step—or two—as well as increases your self-confidence, no matter if you’re 14 or in your late forties. Smiling not only makes people happy and puts them in a good mood, doing it often can even help you live longer, according to previous studies!

If you’ve been hiding your smile because you have crooked teeth or gaps between your teeth, it’s time to consider orthodontic treatment at R Scott Smith Orthodontics. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to learn how quickly and efficiently today’s most advanced correction techniques can straighten your smile!

Don’t hide your smile any longer—give us a call today to schedule yours or your child’s orthodontic consultation.

Make 2012 the year to improve your oral health

2012-01-05T13:54:00.000-08:00

Many folks consider the beginning of a new year a time to not only reflect on the year that was, but also to set personal goals for the upcoming year. How are you planning to improve your health and happiness in 2012? Dr. R. Scott Smith and our team recommend that you make a New Year’s resolution to benefit your oral health!

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

Be sure to give us a call if you need a few suggestions on ways to improve your oral health—we want to hear from you! After all, we know your oral health is about more than just a beautiful smile.

Happy New Year!

—Your friends at Dr. R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

Happy New Year! From R Scott Smith Orthodontics

2011-12-30T10:09:00.001-08:00

The year is almost over, so we wanted to ask what was memorable about 2011 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2012? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Have a safe and happy New Year, from R Scott Smith Orthodontics!

Season's Greetings from Dr. Smith and team

2011-12-21T11:20:00.000-08:00

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as our team at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: 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 all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

--Dr. Smith and team

Emergency care with Dr. R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

2011-12-15T14:09:00.000-08:00

At R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, we know orthodontic emergencies are never convenient nor timely. If you are a patient of record, Dr. Scott Smith and our team are committed to your dental health and are more than willing to see you after hours or over the weekend. As a general rule, you should call the office when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can’t take care of yourself. We’ll be able to schedule an appointment to resolve the problem. If you have a orthodontic emergency after regular office hours, please give us a call. If you are calling us after hours, please follow the emergency prompts to learn how you may be able to solve the problem yourself, or, if you cannot, how to contact Dr. Smith and team.

Common issues include:

*Broken Brace
*Broken Wires
*Tie has come off of a Brace
*Loose Expander
*Poking Wire Tie
*Sharpness Felt on the Tongue Side of a Brace
*Loss of a Separator
*Initial Soreness
*Wire Poking

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you visit our office.

Do we have your current contact info at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics?

2011-12-07T15:22:00.000-08:00

Happy holidays from all of us at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics! As you probably know, you can always connect with Dr. Scott Smith and our team on our Facebook page, but we also encourage you to call us and let us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed!http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif

Please contact our office with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so that we may be able to reach you. Thank you!

- The team at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

Answering your burning Invisalign questions, with Dr. R. Scott Smith

2011-12-01T16:33:00.000-08:00

Are you wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you're in treatment? You're not alone in your concerns! Dr. R. Scott Smith and our team thought we’d share this list of questions and answers for anyone pondering Invisalign treatment at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics.

How exactly does Invisalign work?

Using 3-D computer imaging technology, Invisalign creates a series of custom-made, clear aligners exclusively for your teeth, based on the treatment plan that we specify for you. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.

Will I experience pain during treatment?
Most people experience temporary discomfort for a few days after a new aligner is placed. This feeling of pressure is normal and is a sign that Invisalign is working by sequentially moving your teeth to their final destination.

Can other people see that I'm in treatment?

One of the benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.

Can I smoke during treatment?

We discourage smoking while wearing the aligners as they may become discolored.

Are there any foods I shouldn’t eat while in treatment?

You can eat normally during the entire course of treatment. One of the advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. Simply take the aligners out before each meal, brush when you're finished eating, then reinsert the aligners afterward.

What about chewing gum?

We recommend removing your aligners for all meals and snacks, as gum and other chewy substances can stick to the aligners.

How often must I wear my aligners?

Aligners should be worn all day, except when eating, brushing, and flossing.

Will my speech be affected by the aligners?

As with any orthodontic treatment, aligners may temporarily affect your speech. If this does happen, your tongue will adjust within a day or two and your speech should return to normal.

How do I clean my aligners?

The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water.

How often must I visit the office during treatment?

For most patients, visits every 4-6 weeks are frequent enough for us to determine that your treatment is progressing properly. We will provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan.

If you have additional questions about the Invisalign treatment, please give our office a call.

Happy Thanksgiving from R Scott Smith Orthodontics!

2011-11-22T15:48:00.000-08:00

Dr. R. Scott Smith and our team at R Scott Smith Orthodontics 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 post them on our Facebook page.

Gobble Gobble!

Ask Dr. Smith: "I just got my braces. Now what?"

2011-11-18T12:39:00.000-08:00

We love when patients ask us that question! Now that you’re wearing braces, it’s just as important to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen as you did before prior to your orthodontic treatment.

Braces are known to trap food particles and make it difficult to brush or remove plaque, which is why Dr. R. Scott Smith and our team at R Scott Smith Orthodontics recommend that you brush and floss after every meal. We also encourage you to use a proxabrush to help with the smaller areas where your toothbrush doesn’t reach. We encourage the use of fluoride rinse as well; just ask us for a recommendation!

When your braces are initially placed, your teeth are likely to be very sensitive. You may experience discomfort for up to 3 or 5 days, which is why we encourage you to eat soft foods during that time. Remember, the less pressure you put on your teeth, the less discomfort you will have.

You may also be thinking, “Okay, so what can I eat?” We would encourage you to avoid eating sticky, hard, crunchy or chewy snacks that can stick to your teeth.

Dr. Smith and team will tell you it’s crucial to regularly check your braces for bent or loose wires and brackets. In the event of a loose/broken wire or bracket, please call our office immediately to schedule an appointment for repair.

Lastly, in addition to visiting R Scott Smith Orthodontics during your orthodontic treatment for adjustments, you should visit your dentist for professional check-ups and teeth cleaning appointments about every six months, or as recommended by your dentist.

Questions? Please let us know below or on our Facebook page. You may also give us a call!

Happy Veterans’ Day from R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

2011-11-11T13:49:00.001-08:00

Happy Veterans’ Day! We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the veterans and those currently on active duty who have put their lives on the line for the freedoms we all enjoy.

Thanks to all of you who have given us so much.

- Dr. Scott Smith and team at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

Emergency care with Dr. R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

2011-11-03T14:39:00.000-07:00

Dr. R. Scott Smith knows orthodontic emergencies are never convenient nor timely. If you are a patient of record, Dr. Smith and our team are committed to your dental health and are more than willing to see you after hours or over the weekend. As a general rule, you should call the office when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can’t take care of yourself. We’ll be able to schedule an appointment to resolve the problem. If you have a orthodontic emergency after regular office hours, please give us a call. If you are calling us after hours, please follow the emergency prompts to learn how you may be able to solve the problem yourself, or, if you cannot, how to contact Dr. Smith and team.

Common issues include:
*Broken Brace
*Broken Wires
*Tie has come off of a Brace
*Loose Expander
*Poking Wire Tie
*Sharpness Felt on the Tongue Side of a Brace
*Loss of a Separator
*Initial Soreness
*Wire Poking

If you are experiencing a dental emergency, you may also send an email to LynnS@gotsmiles.net including the patient's name, telephone number and a description of your emergency.

Halloween TIPS from the American Association of Orthodontists

2011-10-27T09:29:00.000-07:00

It’s almost that spooky time of year again and Dr. R. Scott Smith and our team thought we’d share some Halloween tips from our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists.

Trick-or-treating safety guidelines:

• Young children should always be accompanied by an adult
• Carry a flashlight
• Wear a light-colored or reflective costume
• Choose face paint over masks for young ghosts and goblins
• Have an adult inspect all treats before the children dig in

To protect your braces, steer clear of the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

• All hard candies
• All chewy candies
• Caramel
• Nuts
• Licorice
• Taffy
• Jelly beans
• Hard pretzels
• Bubblegum
• Popcorn (including unpopped kernels)
• Ice

Of course, Halloween does not have to be completely treat-less. Braces-friendly Halloween treats can help you enjoy the “spook-ta-cular” holiday. For example, plain chocolate candy is okay, provided you remember to brush and floss afterwards. Bobbing for apples as well as caramel apples are not recommended. However, you can enjoy thinly sliced apples, dipped in yogurt or creamy chocolate sauce.

Dr. Smith suggest(s) looking for foods that are soft, such as soft chocolate that can melt in one’s mouth or peanut butter cups. Overall, candies that aren’t sticky, chewy, hard or crunchy are generally acceptable.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN from the entire team at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics!

Visualize your new smile with the Brace Painter!

2011-10-19T14:08:00.000-07:00

Braces at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics are more fun than ever! With the Brace Painter, parents and children are able to “paint their braces,” and visualize how teeth will look with different colors of bands.

The Brace Painter allows for you to select different colors, and then assign those colors of bands to certain teeth. Now, you can visualize your braces before you even come in for your appointment!

As always, please let Dr. Smith know if you have any questions about the Brace Painter, or your orthodontic treatment at Dr. R. Scott Smith Orthodontics. Have a great week!

From Dr. R. Scott Smith Orthodontics: The advantage of Invisalign Teen™

2011-10-10T16:13:00.000-07:00

Drs. Smith and Raney know image is everything. 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! Drs. Smith and Raney 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 call us or tell us on Facebook and we’ll answer your questions about Invisalign Teen.

October is National Orthodontic Health Month!

2011-10-04T08:50:00.000-07:00

Happy October! For those who don't know, it's National Orthodontic Health Month. This month-long event is organized by our pals at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Dr. R. Scott Smith and our team realize that this is a great opportunity for us to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene. National Orthodontic Health Month also aims to recognize the dedicated work of orthodontists like Dr. Smith and other dental professionals.

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 have any questions, please feel free to give us a call, ask us on Facebook or ask Dr. Smith during your visit this month!

The importance of retainers

2011-09-27T08:08:00.000-07:00

If you recently completed treatment at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Scott Smith 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, always 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. Smith is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime.

To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Smith, please read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth or give us a call!

Emergency Care at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

2011-09-19T16:52:00.000-07:00

At R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, we know orthodontic emergencies are never convenient nor timely. If you are a patient of record, Drs. Scott Smith and Jason Raney and our team are committed to your dental health and are more than willing to see you after hours or over the weekend. As a general rule, you should call the office when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can’t take care of yourself. We’ll be able to schedule an appointment to resolve the problem. If you have a orthodontic emergency after regular office hours, please give us a call. If you are calling us after hours, please follow the emergency prompts to learn how you may be able to solve the problem yourself, or, if you cannot, how to contact Drs. Smith, Raney and team.

Common issues include:

*Broken Brace
*Broken Wires
*Tie has come off of a Brace
*Loose Expander
*Poking Wire Tie
*Sharpness Felt on the Tongue Side of a Brace
*Loss of a Separator
*Initial Soreness
*Wire Poking

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you visit our office.

Ask Dr. Smith: What can I eat with my braces?

2011-09-15T15:03:00.001-07:00

You just got braces at Dr. R. Scott Smith's office and Drs. Smith and Raney have informed you that during your orthodontic treatment you will want to avoid eating anything sticky, hard, crunchy, or chewy. What does this leave for you to eat? Lettuce? Nothing?

Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, created a variety of “braces-friendly” recipes that will allow you to enjoy your favorite treats without interfering with your orthodontic care!

Recipes include main dishes, side dishes and even yummy desserts! After all, a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps the patient achieve the best possible results from orthodontic treatment.

If you have any questions about the recipes listed or about the foods you should be avoiding during your orthodontic treatment, please give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Enjoy!

A few helpful webisodes about orthodontics, from Dr. Smith

2011-09-09T15:32:00.000-07:00

Dr. Smith and his team at R Scott Smith Orthodontics would like to point you to a few interesting webisodes about orthodontics, located on the YouTube page of the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

There, they tend to post some very pertinent videos about orthodontic treatment, as well as state-of-the-art technology in orthodontia. These include "Orthodontic Treatment Basics," "Common Bite Problems Seen in Children" and "Does My Child Need Braces?"

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 R Scott Smith Orthodontics, please give us a call.

When should you call R. Scott Smith Orthodontics?

2011-09-02T15:52:00.000-07:00

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Drs. Scott Smith. Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with us:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, give us a call as soon as possible!

Hope this helps,

The team at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

Breaking bad habits

2011-08-26T16:22:00.000-07:00

At R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, we know good dental health requires only a few minutes a day. We thought we’d provide some practical advice on how to improve your or your child’s smile between your adjustment visits with Dr. Smith.

Start by brushing your teeth twice a day. Proper brushing techniques are an essential part of maintaining good oral health during your orthodontic treatment, as well as preventing gum disease. More care and time are needed to adequately brush your teeth when you are wearing braces. Brushing daily helps remove decay-causing plaque from tooth surfaces. Please consult Dr. Smith if you would like us to review brushing techniques with you or your child. The use of a mechanical toothbrush such as a Sonicare or Oral B can aid in removing plaque around braces. Flossing daily will also prevent plaque to build up between the teeth and prevent stains between your teeth. Research has shown the bacteria of gum disease has been linked to coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes and memory loss. Lastly, we encourage you to throw away old toothbrushes and replace them every 2 or 3 months, or after an illness.

We hope this helps! If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact R. Scott Smith Orthodontics or ask your general dentist during your next scheduled visit! Or, ask us on Facebook!

The Go-To Mom Talks Invisalign

2011-08-18T17:04:00.000-07:00

Our team at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics found a great video that discusses the advantages of Invisalign. In the video, Kimberley Clayton Blaine, "The Go-To Mom," discusses the Invisalign and Invisalign Teen treatment and her personal experience with Invisalign.

To determine if Invisalign is right for you, schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Smith. Have a great week!

Top ten tips for keeping your BRACES sparklin’ clean

2011-08-12T09:38:00.000-07:00

Dr. Smith will tell you that keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever when you have braces. Food bits have more spots than usual to hide in your mouth, so you must be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. If you remove plaque regularly during treatment, you'll experience better results and shorter treatment time. Keep plaque at bay with these top ten tips:

1. One tooth at a time. When you brush, take time with each individual tooth – at least 10 seconds each – and pay careful attention to the spots where your teeth touch your braces.

2. It’s all about the angles. Brush the tops of your teeth and braces with your brush angled down toward where they meet. Brush the bottoms of your teeth and braces with your brush angled up.

3. The tooth, the whole tooth, nothing but the tooth. While the front surface of your teeth may seem like the most logical to clean, it’s equally important to clean the inner surface of your teeth (tongue side) as well as the chewing surface. And be sure to clean along your gum line – a key spot for plaque buildup.

4. Step 1: eat, step 2: clean. While you’re in treatment, it’s important to brush after every meal. Bits of food can easily get caught between braces and teeth, and these food bits interact with bacteria in your mouth to cause decay. The longer food is in contact with your teeth, the greater opportunity for plaque to form. If you are eating somewhere that you can’t brush, thoroughly rinse your mouth with water.

5. Like a Boy Scout, always be prepared. The easiest way to be sure you can brush after every meal is to get in the habit of taking a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss with you wherever you go. Designate a special container just for your teeth-cleaning tools and keep it in your purse, backpack, or laptop case.

6. Remove the moving parts. If you have elastic bands or headgear, remove these parts before you brush or floss.

7. Fluoride is your friend. Fluoride helps prevent cavities. Be sure to brush with fluoride toothpaste, and rinse with fluoride mouthwash.

8. Pointy brushes reach tiny places. Interproximal brushes (sometimes called proxa brushes or interdental brushes) are cone-shaped and come in very handy for reaching spots around your braces that standard brushes can’t.

9. Find the floss for you. Regular floss works for some patients, but others find it easier to work with a floss threader, which helps you get the floss into tight places. Other patients like an all-in-one product called Superfloss, which comes with a stiff end for easy threading, a spongy section for cleaning wide spaces, and regular floss for narrow spaces.

10. Make time for the pros. It’s your job to take care of the everyday cleaning. But make sure to visit your dentist regularly while in treatment, to get the deep, thorough cleaning that only a professional can provide. If you need help finding the right Dentist for you, feel free to contact our office - we’d love to help!

Hope this helps!

All the cool kids do it!

2011-08-05T16:07:00.000-07:00

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 Invisalign Teen, 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. Scott Smith, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

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

Five reasons to schedule a summer consultation at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

2011-07-20T16:04:00.000-07:00

Are you considering scheduling an orthodontic consultation with Dr. R. Scott Smith this summer? Now is the ideal time for you to get started on perfecting your smile!

Here are our top five reasons why summer is the ideal time to schedule an orthodontic consultation:

#1 School is out - no need to miss school for your appointment
#2 It's easier to take time off from work during the summer. Often work schedules are more relaxed.
#3 Summer Hours - we start seeing patients at 7:00am during the summer months. Get in early and still have your whole day ahead of you!
#4 As always, we have the most flexible payment plans. Start now and payments start in September.
#5 It's ALWAYS a good time to take care of your oral health.

How to keep your breath fresh, with R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

2011-07-15T16:23:00.000-07:00

Drs. Scott Smith, your Springfield and South Hadley orthodontist, recognizea that many of our patients are concerned about bad breath, or halitosis. While some cases of bad breath are persistent (chronic bad breath), generally bad breath is transient, and can be prevented.

We recently came across this helpful video about bad breath and thought it was worth sharing with our patients. The video explains what might cause bad breath and some ways that it can be avoided. In most instances, bad breath can be prevented by practicing common oral hygiene techniques that you have probably heard us emphasize during a visit to R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, such as brushing and flossing daily. We encourage you to watch this video for additional tips on how to keep bad breath at bay. Enjoy!

Orthodontic Emergency Care with Dr. R. Scott Smith

2011-07-08T12:53:00.000-07:00

True orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but when they do occur we are available to you. As a general rule, you should call the office when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can't take care of yourself. We’ll be able to schedule an appointment with Dr. Smith.

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you schedule an appointment with R Scott Smith Orthodontics.
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The following solutions may help you relieve your discomfort:

Poking Wire: Using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down or place wax on it to alleviate the discomfort.

Loose Bracket or Band: If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. If the wire comes out entirely, wrap the bracket with a tissue.

Loose Wire: Using a tweezers, try to place your wire back into place. If doing this and using wax does not help, as a last resort use a small fingernail clipper to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If your discomfort continues, place wax on it.

Loose Appliance: If your appliance is poking you, place wax on the offending part of your appliance.

Headgear Does Not Fit: Sometimes headgear discomfort is caused by not wearing the headgear as instructed by your orthodontist. Please refer to the instructions provided by your orthodontist. If the facebow is bent, please call our office for assistance. Surprisingly, headgear becomes more comfortable the more it's worn, so be sure you’re getting in the prescribed hours.

General Soreness: When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm salt water mouthwash. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously. If the tenderness is severe, take aspirin or whatever you normally take for headache or similar pain.

Remember, after alleviating your discomfort, it is still very important that you call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem.

Happy Social Media Day, from R. Scott Smith Orthodontics!

2011-06-30T13:13:00.000-07:00

It seems like in today’s world, every day feels like social media day. However, June 30th is officially Social Media Day, “a day to celebrate the revolution of media becoming social.” Much like the use of cell phones, checking and updating social media has become a daily routine for many people. We here at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics are particularly grateful for social media because we are able to interact with patients like you.

Recently we found a very interesting study about social media that was presented on May 25, 2011 by Edison Research and Arbitron that presents some very interesting statistics about social media use in America today. One fascinating highlight is that approximately 46 million Americans who are the age of 12 or older check their social media sites and services several times a day. Check out the full study for more interesting information about social media and social networking.

As you might have noticed, we love engaging in conversation with our patients online. It’s a great way to connect with our patients. It also helps us share news, photos, ideas, and upcoming events at the office. We have found that our Facebook fan page and blog are great tools for making this connection.

Dr. Smith and our team want to continue to improve our social networking presence. Let us know how you would like us to be using our social media or what you would like to see posted on the blog.

Happy Social Media Day!

Stay cool with a braces-friendly summer treat

2011-06-24T14:04:00.000-07:00

Summer is here! Kids and adults alike will now be spending more time outside being active and enjoying the hotter temperatures. What’s better on a hot summer day than a delicious treat that will cool you down after doing something active in the summer sun? Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have just the thing, Watermelon Sorbet! You can find the complete recipe below:

Watermelon Sorbet

Ingredients
• ¾ cup water
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 2 to 3 cups watermelon, diced, no seeds or rind

Directions
In a small saucepan, heat the water, sugar, and lime juice on medium high for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Chill this “syrup” at least 20 minutes. In the meantime, place the watermelon chunks in a food processor or blender and liquefy them. Add the chilled syrup to the watermelon puree and blend. Freeze sorbet in an ice-cream maker according to manufacturer’s directions. Serve immediately.

Happy Summer!

-Dr. R. Scott Smith and team

Smile! June is National Smile Month!

2011-06-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

Now that we’re in June, it’s once again time to remind our patients to smile wide! After all, June is National Smile Month, and a great time for our team at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics to promote good dental habits such as brushing, flossing and visiting the dentist, in addition to taking care of your braces, of course.

When you are packing for that summer vacation, remember to include wax and sugarless chewing gum so you can handle those "braces emergencies." A long wire can be pretty annoying. Put a pinch of wax or some softened sugarless gum over the end of the wire to get you through until you can come in to see us.

Here 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. Here's a helpful video showing you how to brush with your braces on.
* Floss every day to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Smith.
* Visit your dentist regularly (usually every six months apart).

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call.

Massachusetts Tornado Relief

2011-06-07T13:19:00.000-07:00

Hello,

We hope you are all well and safe following last week's storms. Like many of you, our Springfield office was without power. Our computer and telephone system were both down and we moved many of our patients to our Enfield location. We are sorry for any inconvenience. If you need to schedule an appointment, please give one of our offices a call.

Our thoughts are with those of you who suffered a loss from the tornadoes. Please call if there is something that we can do to help.

We are gathering the following necessities to help those in need:

New packages of socks & underwear, new or gently used sheets, towels, & blankets, Toiletries such as shampoo, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and antibacterial hand cleaners and diapers.

These items can be dropped off at any one of our three office locations. Everything will be brought to the Springfield YMCA for distribution.

Be Well,

The Staff of R. Scott Smtih, DMD

Flossing with braces 101

2011-06-03T14:19:00.000-07:00

Your summer smile questions, answered!

2011-05-25T09:31:00.000-07:00

Summer is just around the corner, which for many people means vacations, baseball season, days spent at the beach, and fun in the sun! Now that you have braces, it’s important to take special precautions to prevent facial injuries and preserve your healthy smile for a lifetime. That’s why Dr. R. Scott Smith and our team wanted to answer a few of the common questions that we often receive from patients and their parents during the summer months.

How can I help prevent my teeth from becoming chipped or broken while I play sports this summer?

The best way to protect your smile is by wearing a mouthguard. If you do not have braces on, we can take an impression and make you a custom-fit mouthguard in your choice of colors. Dr. Smith does not charge for this valuable service, because he believes that everyone should wear a mouthguard when playing sports, and cost should not stand in the way.

If I’m hit in the mouth, and a tooth gets knocked out, what can/should I do? What should I do if I am injured on a weekend when the office is closed?

If you should receive a sports injury to your smile, call one of our offices. Follow the emergency prompt and you will be connected to Lynn, our practice manager.

3. Are sports drinks bad for my teeth? What can I drink to stay hydrated and keep my teeth healthy?

Most sports drinks contain sugar. Water is a great alternative. If you do drink sugary sports drinks, do it in moderation, and remember to brush your teeth afterward.

If I wear Invisalign aligners, will they help protect my teeth, or do I still need to wear a mouth guard?

Wear your Invisalign when you play sports but you should also wear a "brace friendly" mouthguard.

Can I still wear a mouth guard with braces?

We will give you a "braces friendly" mouthguard to wear over your braces.

May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month!

2011-05-20T16:05:00.000-07:00

Did you know the month of May is designated National Physical Fitness and Sports Month? In 1983, President Ronald Reagan encouraged Americans to incorporate more physical activity into their lives, and the reminder is even more significant in this day and age, as kids everywhere are distracted more and more by television, social networking and video games. Kids living an active lifestyle can improve their health, productivity and overall well-being, and best of all? It doesn’t have to take a lot of time!

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has provided these public health guidelines for your convenience. The guidelines call for children and teens to exercise for at least one hour each day of moderate intensity physical activity (such as playing sports or brisk walking) or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity (jogging, dancing and jumping rope).

At R Scott Smith Orthodontics, we always encourage our patients to stay fit by exercising or participating in sports. However, we want to remind you to always wear a mouth guard or other forms of facial protection when playing sports. To learn more about how often your child should exercise, we recommend you check out this series of helpful articles about kids and exercise, courtesy of our friends at KidsHealth.org.

At R Scott Smith Orthodontics, what puts you at ease?

2011-05-13T13:49:00.000-07:00

Dr. Smith and team understand not everyone enjoys visiting their orthodontist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about R Scott Smith Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or R Scott Smith Orthodontics?

Let us know by posting here, on Facebook or by giving us a call!

May is National Teen Self-Esteem Month

2011-05-06T15:45:00.000-07:00

At R Scott Smith Orthodontics, 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 R Scott Smith Orthodontics. After all, what better time to avoid having crooked teeth in your adulthood than coming in for a consultation with Dr. Smith and Dr. Raney?

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!

You're Never Too Old to Treat Yourself to a New Smile!

2011-04-27T17:04:00.000-07:00

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 R Scott Smith Orthodontics!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment with Dr. Smith and Dr. Raney. 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 R Scott Smith Orthodontics a call, so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs. We always offer a "parent discount" and we will work with our adult patients to create an affordable payment plan.

Five tips to avoid plaque, from Dr. Smith and Dr. Raney

2011-04-21T17:16:00.000-07:00

Dr. R. Scott Smith, Dr. Jason Raney and our team know nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth, much less hearing the word 'plaque.' Here are five other ways you can avoid that dreaded enemy of the teeth, courtesy of our friends at WebMD.

Let’s start with not brushing regularly. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste is vital to a healthy mouth. Make sure you softly brush all the surfaces of your teeth.

Next on the list is not flossing daily: a simple daily flossing between teeth and braces clears away plaque before it can cause damage and can also clean plaque at the gum line. Please let us know if you need any tips for flossing with braces!

Dr. R. Scott Smith and Dr. Jason Raney recommend that you visit your dentist every 6 months (or as recommended) for regular checkups. Let’s say you brush and floss daily. You’re still at risk for plaque. With time, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar. If you visit your dentist at least twice a year (in addition to visiting R. Scott Smith Orthodontics) you will have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your teeth.

You’ll also want to stop avoiding those fruits and veggies. Believe it or not, there are foods out there that play a key role in keeping plaque off our teeth.

Finally, before you pick that candy up, remember to not give in to your sweet tooth. Consuming sugary drinks or eating candy or other junk food allows sugar to stick to our teeth. The bacteria, then, becomes plaque, which turns into acid and damages our teeth. Avoiding these five bad habits keeps your plaque in check and will help ensure the success of your orthodontic treatment. If you have any questions, please give us a call or schedule an appointment!

Celebrities get braces, too!

2011-04-14T13:29:00.001-07:00

Did you know that back in 2002, Tom Cruise had braces? During this time, he was 40 years old and filmed Minority Report, Austin Powers in Goldmember and the Last Samurai. Check out his smile in Jerry Maguire, Rain Man or The Firm and compare to the post-braces Tom Cruise in Valkyrie or Tropic Thunder. The fact is, movie stars need to look their best for the silver screen, and it wouldn't be possible without orthodontists like Dr. Smith and Dr. Raney.

In fact, lots of Hollywood stars have had orthodontic treatment. Check out this slideshow of famous faces with braces. If you’ve thought about getting the perfect smile you’ve always wanted, please give R Scott Smith Orthodontics a call.

Play it safe this spring, from R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

2011-04-07T17:48:00.000-07:00

With spring here, many children, teens and adults in Springfield, South Hadley and Enfield will once again pick up the ball, bring the bat out of seasonal retirement, and lace up their cleats to hit the fields for the return of spring sports! April is National Facial Protection Month, and during this time, our doctors and team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. According to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, children, high-school athletes and adults will have more than 5,000,000 teeth knocked out in sporting events this year.

Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this spring, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact R. Scott Smith Orthodontics. Stay safe and have fun!

How important is your smile? From R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

2011-03-30T17:04:00.000-07:00

At the orthodontic practice of Dr. Scott Smith, we provide our patients with well-rounded orthodontic care in a relaxed, comfortable setting. Our doctors and staff are dedicated to making sure that you and your family receive the treatments and care that you deserve. Seeing your smile is the most important part of our day!

And speaking of smiling, 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.

Please contact R. Scott Smith Orthodontics for your complimentary new patient consultation. We look forward to working with you!

Now that I have braces, what can I eat?

2011-03-24T13:32:00.000-07:00

You just got braces at the practice of Dr. Scott Smith and Dr. Smith and Dr. Raney 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!

Foods to Avoid During Your Orthodontic Treatment

2011-03-18T15:34:00.000-07:00

There are a variety of foods Dr. Smith and Dr. Raney 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

Also, 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 our staff during your next visit.

The "Parent Discount" at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

2011-03-09T08:15:00.000-08:00

As parents, we tend to put the needs of our children before our own. Very often, Dr. Smith and Dr. Raney treat multiple children in the family, and we get to know our parents very well. Once the last child has completed treatment, we frequently hear, "I'm going to miss all of you", from a parent. This is also the time when parents often say, "Maybe the time is right for me," or "It's my turn now." They're right, it is the right time, and with so many choices, adults can now customize their treatment.

One of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over 21. At R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, adults can opt for traditional braces or Invisalign. Dr. Smith always offers a "parent discount" and we will work with our adult patients to create an affordable payment plan.

Is it your turn for a healthy and perfectly-aligned smile? Please take this opportunity to set up an appointment at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics today!

Talkin' retainers with Dr. Smith and Dr. Raney

2011-03-03T15:47:00.000-08:00

If you recently completed treatment at R Scott Smith Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Smith and Dr. Raney will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers 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. Smith and Dr. Raney is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime. Here are some things to remember when you receive your retainers:

* Wear your retainers full time, until the doctor instructs otherwise. Wearing your retainers at night ensures that your pearly whites won’t relapse.
* Take your retainers out when eating...and always put retainers in their case! (Most appliances are lost in school lunch rooms or restaurants.)
* Clean retainers thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush and only a small amount of toothpaste. Use warm but not hot water.
* When retainers are not in your mouth they should ALWAYS be in a retainer case.
* Retainers are breakable, so treat them with care. If retainers are lost or broken, give us a call immediately.
* Remove retainers when swimming or during any sporting activity in which the retainers could fall out and get broken or lost (cheerleading, basketball, etc.) or when you should be wearing a mouth guard (football, soccer, etc.).

We hope this helps! You can always contact our team if you have any questions!

Visualize your new smile with the Brace Painter!

2011-02-25T14:18:00.000-08:00

Braces at R Scott Smith Orthodontics are more fun than ever! With the Brace Painter, parents and children are able to “paint their braces,” and visualize how teeth will look with different colors of bands.

Would you like to try out green and gold bands this March, without the commitment of an all-out St. Patrick's Day look? The Brace Painter allows for you to select different colors, and then assign those colors of bands to certain teeth. Now, you can visualize your braces before you even come in for your appointment!

As always, please let Dr. R. Scott Smith and Dr. Jason Raney know if you have any questions about the Brace Painter, or your orthodontic treatment at R Scott Smith Orthodontics. Have a great week!

Thanks to Invisalign®, mom and dad can have a perfect smile, too!

2011-02-17T14:04:00.000-08:00

Hey parents! Focusing on your kids' teeth and oral health so much that you're neglecting your own? If you've been thinking wistfully about having your own set of perfect teeth, our staff at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics can help! We are specially trained to offer an adult-friendly option for straightening teeth called Invisalign.

This course of treatment consists of a set of clear aligners that are molded to fit your teeth using a proprietary technology. You wear them all day and night, except for meals, brushing, and flossing – when you can easily slip them out to make eating and cleaning a snap!

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 consultation, so we can discuss the specifics of your treatment.

Access your account—anywhere, any day, any time—at R Scott Smith Orthodontics

2011-02-11T07:45:00.000-08:00

Access to your account, 24/7. Sounds simple and convenient, doesn’t it?

Patients at our offices enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our website. You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

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!

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month

2011-02-02T15:15:00.000-08:00

With February being National Children's Dental Health Month, our team at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics thought we'd share a few good oral hygiene tips with our patients, courtesy of the American Dental Association, or ADA.

• 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 place 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 vegetables, fruits and cheese and avoid sticky, chewy candies that can stick to the teeth. If you eat these snacks, make sure to brush after doing so.
• Carbonated or sugary drinks: these beverages create acids that can damage the teeth when mixed with saliva, so they should be avoided altogether. When drinking one of these beverages, avoid sipping on it throughout the day. Rather, have a drink and then brush your teeth.
• Regular dental visits: in addition to seeing Dr. R. Scott Smith and Dr. Jason Raney, you should visit your dentist regularly (approximately every six months).

National Children's Dental Health Month, now in its 61st year, aims to increase awareness about the importance of kids' oral health. If you have any questions about keeping your mouth healthy, or about your treatment at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, please feel free to give us a call!

R. Scott Smith Orthodontics offers flexible payment options to fit your family

2011-01-25T11:33:00.000-08:00

With the slow recovery of the U.S. and global economy, Dr. Smith and Dr. Raney know that many of our patients are still trying to conserve money while putting off necessary treatments. We understand that this is a difficult time for many families, and it is a priority of our practice to offer very flexible payment options to fit the needs of our patients.

Our office has made every effort to meet the financial challenges of this economy head-on by creating payment plans to meet our patients' budgets, accepting lower down payments and stretching out monthly payments over two and three years in an effort to make orthodontics affordable for most everyone.

Our team at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics know that parents want to do what's best for their children, and we will work with them to make this happen. Please give us a call today to schedule an orthodontic consultation, and let us help your child begin the journey to a gorgeous smile!

Orthodontic fun facts, from R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

2011-01-19T16:57:00.000-08:00

Everyone loves fun facts. Fun, fun, fun! The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that our team at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics thought you might enjoy.

• There are nearly 4 million people in orthodontic treatment throughout the United States. Three out of four are younger than 18.
• The first mechanical treatment for correcting irregular teeth was suggested by Gaius Plinius Secundus (A.D 23-79).The American Association of Orthodontists is comprised of more than 12,000 members in the United States, Canada and abroad.
• The time required to complete orthodontic treatment ranges from 12 to 36 months depending on the nature and severity of the problem.
• Of the 160,000 dentists in the United States and Canada, 8,000 are practicing orthodontists.
• The cement that attaches the braces to the teeth is now made with a special fluoride-releasing substance.
• Wires activated by body heat used in today's braces originally were developed by NASA for use in the space program.
• In addition to alleviating or preventing physical health problems, orthodontics can boost self-esteem as treatment aligns teeth, jaws and lips.
• Famous orthodontic patients include: Dr. Joyce Brothers, Hale Irwin, Cher, Diana Ross, Phyllis Diller, Chelsea Clinton, Whoopi Goldberg, Daisy Fuentes and Brandi.

Connect with the Braces Brigade!

2011-01-13T11:59:00.000-08:00

At R Scott Smith Orthodontics, our patients want to get as much out of their treatment as possible. That includes asking a lot of questions and making sure they take care of both their appliances and oral health.

Would you like to learn more about what to expect during orthodontic treatment, from someone with firsthand experience? Well, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recently developed the Braces Brigade blog, where past, present, as well as future orthodontic patients from coast to coast document their (or their child’s) orthodontic journeys. The blog will serve as a source of guidance for others as the patients undergo orthodontic care.

Our team at R Scott Smith Orthodontics encourages you to visit the Braces Brigade blog to read these great and informative blogs—who knows, maybe you’ll learn a thing or two! As always, don’t hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions about the Braces Brigade or your own orthodontic treatment with Dr. Smith and Dr. Raney!

Happy Birthday Marion, our Dental Hygienist and Clinical Supervisor!

2011-01-06T14:06:00.000-08:00

Dr. R. Scott Smith, Dr. Jason Raney and our team would like to wish Marion a very happy birthday!

She has been with R Scott Smith Orthodontics for over 21 years as a Dental Hygienist and Clinical Supervisor. Most likely, she is one of the friendly faces that you have come to recognize at our practice. Thank you so much for your hard work and commitment, Marion! We hope that you're have a great day with friends and family.

Make 2011 the year to improve your oral health

2010-12-27T14:30:00.000-08:00

Many folks in Springfield, South Hadley, and Enfield consider the beginning of a new year a time to not only reflect on the year that was, but also to set personal goals for the upcoming year. How are you planning to improve your health and happiness in 2011? Dr. R. Scott Smith, Dr. Raney and our team recommend that you make a New Year’s resolution to benefit your oral health!

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

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

Happy New Year!

-Your friends at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

Safety first this winter! From R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

2010-12-22T11:35:00.000-08:00

Winter is officially here, and with it comes not only the holiday season, but also sometimes unpredictable and inclement weather. This week, Dr. Smith, Dr. Raney and our team would like to share a few winter safety tips that we found on the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry website. These tips include everything from what to wear outdoors to tips for winter snow sports. Enjoy!

• Older babies and young children should generally be dressed in one more layer of clothing than an adult would wear in the same conditions
• Several thin clothing layers will keep an infant or child dry and warm. Warm boots, gloves, mittens, and a hat are necessities!
• A cold air humidifier, saline nose drops, and petrolatum will help a child that suffers from winter nosebleeds.
• It is important for children to wash their hands frequently, and to use the bend of their elbow if they need to sneeze or cough to prevent the spread of colds and flu.
• Never ski or snowboard alone. Adults should supervise young children participating in winter sports.
• When sledding, it is preferable to separate young children from older children, and to avoid crowded areas.
• The AAP recommends that children under age 16 not operate snowmobiles and that children under age 6 never ride on snowmobiles.

We hope that these tips help keep you and your loved ones stay safe and sound this winter season. Please give us a call if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your next appointment at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics.

More smiling patients at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics!

2010-12-14T14:11:00.000-08:00

Dr. Scott Smith and Dr. Jason Raney and team love getting patient reviews. And lately, R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, serving Springfield and South Hadley, MA, and Enfield, CT, has been getting some pretty great patient testimonials! We thought we'd share some with you today! Happy Tuesday!

"Very friendly atmosphere, my son feels very at ease with the practice." ~William

"EVERYONE is so friendly and immediately made us feel welcome. Besides, my son LOVED Dr. Smith and his tricks!" ~Vanessa

"Very friendly service, professional atmosphere, high quality outcome." ~John

"Very accommodating... goes above & beyond! Wonderful staff!" ~Kerry

R. Scott Smith Orthodontics supports Operation Elf and Operation Tribute this holiday season

2010-12-08T09:36:00.000-08:00

Our Springfield, South Hadley, and Enfield orthodontic offices always try to give back to the community in some way, especially during the holiday season.

This year, Dr. Smith, Dr. Raney, and team are collecting coins for military families who have a parent deployed. Our staff and patients have been really generous and our jars are filling up in each of our three offices. We have a family at our Enfield office who has combined all of their "change" and plans to deposit it soon into our Enfield jar.

The funds will be donated to "Operation Elf" (Embracing Lonley Families), an organization that is collecting contributions to pay for a fleet of buses to ship our troops home and then back to their training camps during their break. Operation Home for the Holidays will allow for our troops to see their loved ones at no expense to the family.

R. Scott Smith Orthodontics also plans to make a donation to their partner organization, Operation Tribute, which was founded in Maine and offers services throughout New England and New York. The organization will be providing gifts to military children this holiday season.

Thank you for helping us support these great organizations this holiday season.

Happy Holidays!

Patient Question: Can I benefit from braces?

2010-12-01T13:40:00.000-08:00

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Smith and Dr. Raney 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!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-24T10:23:00.000-08:00

Here at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, we are very thankful for all of our amazing patients! Our doctor and team would like to wish everyone a fun and safe Thanksgiving. We also want to remind everyone to brush and floss after indulging in the big meal.

If you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we encourage you to post them on our Facebook page or give us a call!

Gobble Gobble!

Regular checkups are essential in maintaining good oral health

2010-11-20T11:16:00.000-08:00

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 our office, 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 Springfield, South Hadley, and Enfield areas!

Dr. Smith and Dr. Raney announce the lucky winners of our Halloween Contest

2010-11-12T10:32:00.000-08:00

Our doctors and team at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics are excited to share that we have determined the winners of our Candy Corn Halloween Contest. The winers are the patients from each of our offices that guessed the closest number of candy corn in the jar. Thanks to everyone who participated in our Halloween Contest.

Contest Winers:

Springfield- Eric
Enfield- Amber
South Hadley- Megan

Congratulations Eric, Amber, and Megan! If you haven't already, we encourage all of our patients to "like" the R. Scott Smith Orthodontics Facebook page, which is where you can receive all of the latest news from our office-all through the news feed. Have a great weekend everyone!

A few Halloween safety tips, from R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

2010-10-28T11:24:00.000-07:00

Trick-or-treat! In the spirit of October’s sweet and spooky holiday, Halloween, Dr. Smith and Dr. Raney would like to remind all of our patients to be safe while celebrating with friends and family. The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has provided trick-or-treaters with some tips for a ghoulishly good time.

A few Halloween safety guidelines:
• Young children should always be accompanied by an adult
• Carry a flashlight
• Wear a light-colored or reflective costume
• Choose face paint over masks for young ghosts and goblins
• Have an adult inspect all treats before the children dig in

Many treats can cause havoc for trick-or-treaters who are going through orthodontic treatment. If you happen to damage your braces, please give our doctors and staff at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone.

Invisalign® and your oral health, from R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

2010-10-20T16:25:00.000-07:00

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 R. Scott Smith 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. Smith or Dr. Raney 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.

A braces-friendly recipe, in celebration of National Orthodontic Health Month!

2010-10-14T18:11:00.000-07:00

Did you know that October is National Orthodontic Health Month? Dr. Scott Smith and Dr. Jason Raney and our team know how tempting this time of the year can be for your sweet tooth. With all of the caramel, candy corn, and lollipops that are often passed around to trick-or-treaters, we know that it can sometimes be hard to find hard candy alternatives.

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, and “The Braces Cookbook” by Pamela Waterman. This Spider Bites recipe is delicious, and provided that you remember to brush and floss after indulging, this is a cookie that won’t bite back!

Spider Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 cup shortening
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 Tbsp. water
• 1 Tsp. vanilla
• 2 eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cocoa
• 1 Tsp. salt
• ½ Tsp. baking powder
• 1 package black rope licorice, cut into 1-inch pieces**
• 1 small tube of white (or color of choice) frosting
• Toothpicks

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

In a large bowl, combine shortening, sugar, water, and vanilla. Beat until smooth. Add eggs into the mixture and blend. Slowly mix in flour, cocoa, salt and baking powder using low-medium speed. Drop tablespoon helpings of mixture onto ungreased cookie sheets and roll each helping into a ball.

Bake 9 minutes at 375 degrees. The batch should produce around three dozen cookies.

Let cookies cool for about 10 minutes. Then using a toothpick, create four small holes in either side of the cookie. Still using the toothpick, push one end of a piece of the cut licorice into each hole, creating the “legs” of the spider. Once all eight pieces are in place, create eyes or decorate at will using the white frosting. Then eat and enjoy!

**Licorice can sometimes stick to braces; parents should monitor

What do you love about R. Scott Smith Orthodontics?

2010-10-07T15:38:00.001-07:00

R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, serving Springfield and South Hadley, MA and Enfield, CT, strives to provide our patients with one-of-a-kind smiles that last a lifetime. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by Dr. Smith and Dr. Raney's work? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with your new smile?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. We encourage you to head to our Google Places page and write a review there. Or, you can review us on Yelp if you'd like.

We look forward to hearing your story!

Thank you,

-R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

October is National Orthodontic Health Month

2010-10-01T14:40:00.000-07:00

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 R. Scott Smith Orthodontics 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.

Drs. Scott and Raney get ready for the annual Big E - Eastern States Explosion!

2010-09-23T14:51:00.000-07:00

Our West Springfield, Massachusetts community is gearing up for the annual Big E - Eastern States Exposition. Our team at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics is excited for this very popular country fair, which runs for several weeks. People come from far and wide to see the animals, rides, the New England state buildings, unusual products being demonstrated and sold, and the craziest fair food! The country fair is famous for Cream Puffs, Baked Potatoes, the CrazE Burger (cheeseburg on a glazed donut!), and Fried Jellybeans!

What is your favorite thing about the Big E? We hope to see all of our patients at the country fair this year!

Thank you,

-R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

Age 7 is the magic number for an orthodontic check-up

2010-09-21T16:14:00.000-07:00

Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Dr. Scott Smith for a consultation, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That’s right—seven.

Ok, so what’s so great about age seven, you ask? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for Dr. Scott Smith to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites and open bites can be detected.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age provides one of two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, a healthy prognosis will provide immediate peace of mind.

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and are detrimental to good oral hygiene. So, if your child is nearing his or her seventh birthday, give us a call at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

The advantage of Invisalign Teen™ at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

2010-09-15T12:26:00.000-07:00

Drs. Smith and Raney know that image is everything. 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 R. Scott Smith 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.

Have you seen all of the great "Show Us Your Smile" summer photos?

2010-09-08T13:39:00.000-07:00

As the R. Scott Smith Orthodontics "Show Us Your Smile" summer contest finishes, Drs. Smith and Raney want to remind everyone to take a look at all of the great patient photo entries! Prizes will be awarded for the silliest, most imaginative, farthest away, and friendliest smile. We will be announcing contest winners in the upcoming weeks, so be sure to check back to our Facebook page.

Thanks to everyone that submitted a summer photo! We loved seeing your smiles, whether you were flying overseas, headed to the beach, or playing outdoors.

Have a great week!

- R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

Drs. Smith and Raney support the Children's Miracle Network!

2010-08-31T13:30:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, September 12th, our team at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics will be participating in the IT GIRL GALA at the 350 Grill at 350 Worthington Street in Springfield, MA. It's a great girl's night out to shop "All Things Body and Beauty" and a terrific way to raise money for the Children's Miracle Network. The event runs from 4:00 to 7:00 pm. Join us along with Visual Changes Salon & Spa, Dr. Glen Brooks, Dr. Lisa Emerzian, Robert Charles Photography, Added Attractions, It's All About Me, Bling Blings, and more. Step outside the box and get a "Streak for Kids" or a "Glitz for Kids"! It's for a great cause.

Feel free to give us a call if you have any questions about the IT GIRL GALA, or if you would like to schedule your next appointment. We look forward to seeing everyone at this great community event!

Thank you,

-R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

Your pal, fluoride

2010-08-25T10:33:00.000-07:00

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment with R. Scott Smith Orthodontics. You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and protect your mouth and appliances from being damaged. But did you know there is another, often forgotten about, way to keep your teeth clean and healthy during your treatment? Fluoride – a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay – can help keep your teeth strong! Fluoride comes in two varieties: topical and systemic. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth. Topical fluoride includes toothpastes and mouth rinses. Systemic fluorides are swallowed in the form of a dietary supplement.

Fluoride used in the orthodontists’ office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask your doctor how to purchase professional strength fluoride). A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. After the treatment patients may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride.

When choosing your own fluoride product, be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and have met the criteria of the ADA for safety and effectiveness. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

Your turn! From R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

2010-08-18T09:48:00.000-07:00

Week after week, Dr. Smith and Dr. Raney blog about important topics pertinent to orthodontic treatment care and your well-being, including innovative orthodontic techniques we offer. This week, we thought we’d step back and ask you, our wonderful patients and readers: What’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the always-changing field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog in the coming months? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask us for a while now? Let us know by posting here or on our interactive Facebook fan page!

So… take it away and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have!

5 Reasons why you should visit R. Scott Smith Orthodontics this summer!

2010-08-09T09:16:00.000-07:00

At the orthodontic practice of Dr. Scott Smith serving Springfield, South Hadley, MA and Enfield, CT and surrounding areas, we provide our patients with well-rounded orthodontic care in a pleasant atmosphere. Drs. Smith and Raney know that summer is often a time when folks are putting off scheduling their orthodontic consultation due to the nice weather and vacations. That being said, we have 5 important reasons why you should schedule an appointment with R. Scott Smith Orthodontics today!

5 Reasons to visit R. Scott Smith Orthodontics today:

1. Summer at Dr. Smith's office means extended hours. We start seeing patients at 7:00am, so you can get your appointment done nice and early and still have the whole day to play!

2. Summertime appointments mean you don't have to miss school.

3. Come in and share your vacation plans with the staff....and enter our SMILE contest to win Visa Gift Cards!

4. Along with everything else during the summer, our payment plans are more flexible. (Must be because we are in summer vacation mode, happy and relaxed :)

5. You'll get to see Dr. Smith wearing his Hawaiian shirt - now that's incentive!! Schedule soon, summertime fills up fast.

A few Invisalign® tips, from R. Scott Smith Orthodontics!

2010-08-03T16:28:00.000-07:00

Many people know that Invisalign is a great solution to braces if you don't want to experience the look and feel of traditional metal braces. What few people know, though, is that just like traditional braces, Invisalign requires proper care to work effectively. Good oral hygiene is highly important, even when you are wearing something in your mouth that you can take out to eat with. It's still likely that your aligners can build up plaque if not treated properly. When wearing your Invisalign aligners, Drs. Smith and Raney want you to ask yourself the following questions:

1. Am I eating with my aligners on? - These aligners are removable and should be taken out when you eat.

2. Am I drinking anything other than water with my aligners on? - Though it's not necessary for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky soda is. If you take out your aligners when drinking a soda, you have a better chance of keeping your aligners clean.

3. Am I brushing before putting the trays on? - The aligners have both an inside and outside. Keeping the outside clean is easy. Keeping the inside clean is also simple: just make sure you've brushed your teeth before putting the trays on.

These are all very simple steps, and ultimately, they help to keep you building good oral habits. If you have any questions about Invisalign or your treatment here at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, give us a call!

What is new with Drs. Smith and Raney this summer?

2010-08-02T11:36:00.000-07:00

Drs. Smith and Raney and our team serving Springfield and South Hadley, MA and Enfield, CT has been enjoying their Fridays off with their families. Long hot weekends in the summer, what more can you ask for?! It's even worth all the hard work Monday through Thursday!

Our team at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics has been busy planning for the fall, which will include a "Back To School" Trivia Contest. We are also busy planning our semi-annual Invisalign Days. Watch for more information, which will be posted on the social networks in weeks to come!

We hope everyone enjoys August. Thanks to our patients who shared their smiles on vacation. Keep sending us your pictures. We will be choosing lucky winners in early September. All winners will receive a $25.00 Visa Gift Card to spend on something fun! For more details, visit our Show us your smile! blog entry.

Have a great week,

The team at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, supporting Moms for Mouth Guards

2010-07-27T09:55:00.000-07:00

Hey, Moms! Have you signed the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge?

Here at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics in Springfield, MA, we care about your pearly whites, and we want to help keep you protected from sports injuries that can be damaging to your beautiful smile. As a way of ensuring that children are using proper facial protection equipment, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontics have introduced the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge.

Drs. Smith and Raney will tell you that mouth guards are vital to protecting your teeth from sports related injuries while participating in sports, such as football, soccer, baseball, hockey and basketball, just to name a few. The Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge is a way for moms nationwide to make a commitment to protecting their children’s smile from facial injuries.

We’ve discussed the importance of using facial protection in the past. Today, we thought we’d invite moms to take action by visiting the Moms for Mouth Guards website and taking the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge.

Have a safe week everyone!

Show us your smile!

2010-07-21T09:28:00.000-07:00

Our team at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics knows that summer is the perfect time for families to travel and spend time together on vacation. That's why we would like to introduce our newest summer contest, Show Us Your Smile! Bring your smile on vacation and enter your photo for a chance to WIN.

Are you headed somewhere fun this summer?
Then don't forget to bring your smile with you! Whether you are flying overseas, going away to camp, or just hanging out with friends, Dr. Scott Smith & Staff want you to share a smile with us.

You may be wondering, how do I enter my smile?
To enter, take a picture and email it to us at lynns@gotsmiles.net. We'll post your picture on our Facebook page and you'll automatically be entered into a drawing to win a $25.00 Visa Gift Card. Prizes will be awarded for the silliest, most imaginative, farthest away, and friendliest smile.

May the brightest smile win!

-Your friends at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

What are patients saying about R. Scott Smith Orthodontics?

2010-07-16T11:02:00.000-07:00

R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, serving Springfield, MA and surrounding areas, has been receiving some great patient reviews lately! Have you been considering orthodontic treatment at our office? Check out what our current patients are saying about Dr. Smith and Dr. Raney and our team!

"Very friendly atmosphere, my son feels very at ease with the practice." ~William

"EVERYONE is so friendly and immediately made us feel welcome. Besides, my son LOVED Dr. Smith and his tricks!" ~Vanessa

"My daughter had her orthodontics done in Dr. Smith's office. She just had her braces off recently and her teeth are beautiful. The whole staff is wonderful, very knowledgeable and friendly." ~Anonymous

"Dr. Scott and his staff came highly recommended before we sought his services for our child's braces. A daunting decision was broken down in steps, and it made it easier to understand what we were undertaking. Feedback at each visit let know how we were progressing. Reminders are called in the day before, which is a nice touch... Dr. Smith and the staff understand how sports are part of many children's lives, and also helped us out with mouth guards. We are now on "phase 2", and are very satisfied." ~Daniel

Have you had a great experience at our office? Let us know by writing a review here. You may also post on our Facebook page, or give us a call!

Have a great weekend,

-R Scott Smith & Associates

Drs. Scott and Raney present: Most Frequent Questions

2010-07-06T09:18:00.000-07:00

At R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, we recognize that each orthodontic patient has unique needs, and wants treatment customized for them. There are many questions that new patients might ask, so how do you respond to some of the more common questions? Here are the answers to the most common questions Drs. Smith and Raney receive from patients:

“How will keeping my smile healthy keep me healthy as a whole?”

Straight teeth contribute to healthy teeth and gums, making them less prone to decay and injury.

“I have always been afraid of having work done to my teeth, what do you do to ease patients’ fears?”

Our office is set up with an "open operatory," one big room with the dental chairs arranged in a semi-circle. Since everyone is here for the same reason, no one is afraid. This makes it a fun, relaxed atmosphere. We do offer private rooms as well, but they are rarely requested!

“I don’t see a list of insurance companies on your website, so what is the best way I can find out if you work with my insurance provider?”

We are participating providers with most Delta Dental plans. Kelly, our financial coordinator will take care of the paperwork for all other plans so that the subscriber will be reimbursed.

Another very common question that we are asked is "What payment options does your office offer?" The answer is, in today's uncertain financial world we recognize that our payment arrangements need to be flexible. We do offer a discount for payment in full. We also work with both Care Credit and Chase Health Advance, offering no down payment and interest free payment plans. An additional option is to have our office do the financing. No finance fees are ever charged for this service. Our treatment coordinators will assist with creating a payment plan to fit individual budgets. We are "flex plan friendly" and will design a payment plan to allow the employee to take best advantage of benefits.

At R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, access to your patient account 24/7

2010-06-27T01:05:00.000-07:00

Did you know that at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, patients have access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week - all through our website. Patients can look up their appointments and all their account details at a time of their choosing and convenience, all from the comfort of their own home! Patients can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

If you're a recent patient of ours, you too may sign up for this convenient service known as Ortho Sesame on our website by clicking the "Patient Login" button at the top of our homepage. Please give us a call at our convenient Springfield, South Hadley or Enfield locations if you have any questions about getting started with Ortho Sesame!

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Sleep disorders and treatment options in Springfield, from R. Scott Smith Orthodontics

2010-06-19T22:27:00.000-07:00

Drs. Smith and Raney want to know: Are you drowsy during the day with no explanation? Do you snore loudly, or wake up breathless in the middle of the night? If so, you may be one of more than twelve million Americans affected by sleep apnea.

If you notice one or more of the below symptoms. there may be a presence of sleep apnea. Please give us a call if you experience:

* Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
* Loud snoring at night
* Waking up at night short of breath
* Snorting or choking sounds during the night (indicating a restart of breathing)
* Headaches upon waking in the morning
* Falling asleep unintentionally during the day
* Extreme drowsiness throughout the day

We hope you have a great rest of the weekend and Happy Father's Day to all you dads out there!

"Hey, Dr. Smith! What's the deal with retainers?"

2010-06-14T20:24:00.000-07:00

Have you recently completed treatment at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics? Our entire team would like to congratulate you again! Now that your braces have been removed, Drs. Smith or Raney will provide—or have provided you by now—with retainers. After braces are removed, our staff will tell you that teeth may shift out of position if they're not stabilized.

Retainers, however, provide that stabilization, and are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until your bones and gums adapt to treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed by our team is the best way to make sure your treatment lasts a lifetime.

If you have additional questions about retainers or your treatment at our office, please give us a call and we'll try to answer any question you may have.

Have a great week everyone!

This summer, bring your smile on vacation!

2010-06-07T12:26:00.000-07:00

Headed somewhere fun this summer? Then don't forget to bring your smile with you! Whether you're flying overseas, going to camp or just hanging out with friends, our staff at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics want you to take a picture and send it to us!

There will be prizes awarded for the silliest, most imaginative, farthest away and friendliest photos!

We look forward to seeing your beautiful smiles!

Write a review of R. Scott Smith Orthodontics!

2010-05-31T18:01:00.000-07:00

Warm, caring, professional - at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, we provide our patients with well-rounded orthodontic care in a relaxed, comfortable setting. Our practice works with patients of all ages and lifestyles to create one-of-a-kind smiles that last a lifetime.

Whether you've visited our office for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about how our practice is faring! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice with the rest of the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local page and write a review there. Or, you may review us on Yelp if you'd like. After all, reviews help Drs. Smith and Raney create more beautiful smiles in Springfield, South Hadley, Enfield, CT and surrounding areas!

You may write a review here. Thanks in advance and enjoy the rest of your Memorial Day weekend! We look forward to reading your reviews!

R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, bridging the gap between the myths and facts of braces

2010-05-25T11:46:00.000-07:00

Trust us, we know there are lots of myths about orthodontics (and also orthodontists) floating around these days. But before you buy into those myths, Drs. Smith and Raney think you should get the facts! We came across a great site that helps set the record straight. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, feel free to give us a call.

Ask Drs. Smith and Raney: Am I just too old for orthodontic treatment?

2010-05-20T11:58:00.000-07:00

At R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, nobody - and we mean NOBODY - is "too old" for braces. As a matter of fact, our staff read an interesting statistic not too long ago: the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! Of course, braces help make your teeth strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another reason more adults are getting braces is this: people want to look and feel great.

In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned and sparkling teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing—wisely, we might add—to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Drs. Smith or Raney can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Drs. Smith or Raney would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

"Hey, Dr. Smith! Who benefits from Invisalign®?

2010-05-12T13:42:00.000-07:00

One of the greatest features about Invisalign treatment is that its clear aligners are customized for pretty much anyone's pearly whites. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, the first thing Dr. Smith will do is take an impression of your teeth as they are now - and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth, and compare it to the way your pearly whites should look.

Next, Dr. Smith uses special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment all the way to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. The best thing about it all? Nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Smith is an Elite Premier Certified Invisalign Provider. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, please feel free to give us a call.

May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month!

2010-05-05T08:04:00.000-07:00

Did you know the month of May is designated National Physical Fitness and Sports Month? In 1983, President Ronald Reagan encouraged Americans to incorporate more activity into their lives, and the reminder is even more significant today as kids are distracted more and more by television, social networking and video games. Kids living an active lifestyle can improve their health, productivity and overall well being, and best of all? It doesn’t have to take a lot of time!

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has provided these helpful public health guidelines for your information. The guidelines call for children and teenagers to exercise one hour every day of moderate intensity physical activity (such as playing sports or brisk walking) or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity (jogging, dancing and jumping rope).

At R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, we always encourage our patients to exercise or participate in sports. However, we want to remind you to always wear a mouth guard or other forms of facial protection - there are plenty - when playing sports. To learn more about how often your child should exercise, we recommend you check out this series of helpful articles about kids and exercise, courtesy of our friends at KidsHealth.org.

Happy Wednesday!

Ask Drs. Smith and Raney: Why is it so important to have straight teeth?

2010-04-27T16:15:00.000-07:00

Some people wonder why our team at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics 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 with Drs. Smith or Raney 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! We are pleased to offer a variety of treatment options, including clear brackets, Invisalign, and Invisalign Teen, as well as traditional metal braces. Our practice works with patients of all ages and lifestyles to create one-of-a-kind smiles that last a lifetime.

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 consultation. Drs. Smith or Raney can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Meet Dr. Raney!

2010-04-20T08:40:00.000-07:00

You had the pleasure of "meeting" Dr. Smith a couple of weeks back. Today, our staff thought we'd introduce you to Dr. Raney!

Dr. Raney is passionate about his work as an orthodontist. He has years of training and experience, and enjoys sharing his knowledge with his patients. Dr. Raney strives to maintain a professional office atmosphere, while creating a fun, comfortable, unique experience for each individual patient.

Dr. Raney completed his undergraduate studies at The Pennsylvania State University receiving his bachelor’s degree in biology with a minor in business. He continued his education at The University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine where he was near the top of his graduating class which ranked #1 in the nation among all dental schools based on national board scores. With orthodontics being a highly specialized and competitive field of dentistry, Dr. Raney was chosen to attend Nova Southeastern University in Florida where he received his orthodontic certificate. After years of hard work and training, Dr. Raney is able to provide you with the best and most advanced orthodontic care.

Dr. Raney is an active and upstanding member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the Northeast Society of Orthodontists, the American Dental Association, the Connecticut State Dental Association, as well as the Middlesex Dental Society where Dr. Raney recently served as vice president.
In 2007, Dr. Raney received the highest honor given to an orthodontist when he became board certified by The American Board of Orthodontics. Currently, only about 20% of all orthodontists are board certified.

Dr. Raney has earned many honors such as the Gustave Pearl Award which he was awarded for outstanding original research while in dental school. He also received a community service award for his volunteer help with the Connecticut Special Olympics. Dr. Raney is continuously trying to stay current on all the latest technology by attending multiple continuing education courses throughout the year.
Dr. Raney grew up in Durham, Connecticut and has a large family in the area. While not in the office, Dr. Raney enjoys outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, golf, and saltwater fishing.

A little bit about R. Scott Smith Orthodontics...

2010-04-16T16:33:00.000-07:00

R. Scott Smith Orthodontics, serving Springfield, South Hadley and and Enfield, Connecticut, Drs. Scott Smith and Jason Raney provide our patients with well-rounded orthodontic care in a relaxed, comfortable setting. We are dedicated to making sure that you and your family receive the treatments and care that you deserve. Seeing your smile is the most important part of our day!

We are pleased to offer a variety of treatment options, including clear brackets, Invisalign, and Invisalign Teen, as well as traditional metal braces. Our staff at R. Scott Smith Orthodontics works with patients of all ages and lifestyles to create one-of-a-kind smiles that last a lifetime. If you've been thinking about getting that perfect smile, please contact one of our convenient practice locations to schedule a complimentary consultation. Drs. Smith and Raney look forward to working with you!

Meet Our Orthodontist

2010-01-28T15:44:00.000-08:00

Dr. R. Scott Smith grew up locally. He attended schools in the Springfield area and graduated from Longmeadow High School. Dr. Smith received his Bachelors of Science degree at Fairleigh Dickinson University where he was inducted into Beta Beta Beta Biologic Honor Society. He graduated from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. He received his certificate in orthodontics upon completion of a residency at Tufts University.

While in high school, Dr. Smith attained the rank of Eagle in the Boy Scouts of America, qualified as a Distinguished Expert Rifleman with the National Rifle Association, won the Massachusetts Junior Rifle Championship, and placed twelfth in the United States Junior Rifle Championships. Dr. Smith is still currently a member in good standing of the National Eagle Scout Association.

Dr. Smith has held a position as a Clinical Instructor in the Department of Restorative Dentistry at Tufts University and has been the Director of Orthodontics at the Tufts Facility for the Handicapped in Palmer since 1982. Dr. Smith has served on the Advisory Board for Springfield Technical Community College School of Dental Hygiene in Springfield, Massachusetts. He is a Premier Provider for Invisalign and frequently conducts round table discussions, sharing his knowledge of Invisalign with fellow orthodontists.

Dr. Smith is very active civically. He serves on the Executive Board of the Pioneer Valley Council of the Boy Scouts of America, Board of Trustees of City Stage, the Membership Board of the Springfield Library and Museum Society and is a member of the Society of William Rice and the President's Foundation for Springfield Technical Community College.

Most importantly, Dr. Smith is the proud father of two sons, Scotty age 16 and Spencer age 14. Together they enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, golfing, tennis, baseball, basketball and just hanging out together!