Montano Orthodontics Wants You To Smile!

It's June already! Where does the time go?

Dr. Montano and team are excited to tell you June marks National Smile Month, a great time to remind our patients to brush, floss, practice good nutrition at home (and over the summer) while in orthodontic treatment to avoid cavities and gum disease, among other dental health issues.

After all, there's more and more evidence that suggests folks with gum disease are more at risk for serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and strokes.

Here are a few easy steps that can improve your oral health at home:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth and braces
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during orthodontic treatment.
* Visit your general dentist regularly (usually every six months).

If you have questions about any of the tips here, we encourage you to give us a call at 661-665-7600! Also, don’t forget about our Share A Smile contest to win an iPad. You can see all the details by clicking here!

-Montano Orthodontics of Bakersfield, CA

Share your Smile to win an Apple iPad at Montano Orthodontics!

7 Ways to Enter Our Drawing to Win

-Place a review on: Google, Yelp or Yellow pages - 1 entry for each

-"Like" Montano Orthodontics on Facebook or update your status on our Facebook Page - 1 entry

-Post video testimonial on Montano Orthodontics Facebook 2 entries

-Written testimonial on Montano Orthodontics Facebook - 1 entry

-Send in a video testimonial to montanosmile@arrival.net for us to post- 2 entries

-Sign up to use the patient login features on our web site - 1 entry

-Refer a friend to the office - 2 entries

Please send an email to montanosmile@arrival.net and let us know which tasks have been completed and we will enter you into the drawing. Be sure to include your name!
Drawing takes place August 30th Good Luck!

Give us a call at 661-665-7600 if you have any questions!

Celebrities get braces, too!

Did you know that back in 2002, Tom Cruise had braces? During this time, he was 40 years old and filmed the films Minority Report, Austin Powers 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. Even movie stars need to look their best for the silver screen, and it wouldn't be possible without orthodontists like Dr. Montano. Check out a list of other celebrities who’ve benefited from orthodontic treatment here, courtesy of ABC News.

At Montano Orthodontics, we are working with a local celebrity to Bakersfield, radio personality Inga Barks. Check out the story of her sons’ experience at Montano Orthodontics that we posted a few months back! If you’ve thought about getting the perfect smile you’ve always wanted, please give us a call!

665-7600 or request an appointment at www.montanosmile.com

California State University Cuts 4 Sports Programs, and How It Affects Students

At Montano Orthodontics, we know that Bakersfield and the rest of California have been hit hard with budget crisis, and we've seen cuts everywhere, especially in education. At California State University Bakersfield, the athletics program is being hit especially hard, with four sports being cut by the end of the 2009-2010 season. Check out the full article in the latest issue of CSUB's The Runner. This is tough news to hear!

-Montano Orthodontics

SureSmile – Robotic Braces Featured on the Science Channel

SureSmile’s high tech wires and innovative 3D scanner were featured on the Science Channel last year, and we have found the video on YouTube! The video does a great job of explaining how the system works, and what makes it so much more effective than traditional orthodontic treatment. Check it out, and let us know what you think!

--Montano Orthodontics

The Benefits of Being a Schulman Study Group Member, from Dr. Montano

I'm looking forward to one of the most educational and fun weeks of my year. I'm not talking about vacation even though it will be somewhere nice. I'm talking about my annual trek to spend a week of learning and sharing with my colleagues in the Schulman Study Group (SSG). The SSG is one of the most highly regarded Study Groups in North America. It is limited to 125 of the best practices and is by "invitation only" and even then there is a waiting list. I was honored with this distinction 9 years ago and was elected to a 6 year term on the Board of Directors 4 yrs ago. We spend a week together every year learning from one another. Much of what we learn is shared with the orthodontic profession at our national meetings and in our professional journals. This is a demanding group that continually inspires its members to improve in all aspects of our professional and personal lives. Our motto is "SUCCESS THROUGH SHARING".

Last year I presented our newly launched Smile For a Lifetime Foundation on the first day of our meeting. The response was what I expected. Pure enthusiasm and support. Our goal of setting up 25 new Chapters by year end was surpassed with a year end tally of
44 chapters up and running! We have moved beyond that and are now in over 35 states. This, all in less than a year. I am so inspired by my colleagues in the SSG that we stay in contact throughout the year. These are some of the most innovative and technologically advanced orthodontists in North America. Last year's family vacation included a visit to an SSG orthodontist in Calgary, Canada.

The advantage of SureSmile® at Montano Orthodontics!

Does the thought of having braces bring you down? The team at Montano Orthodontics understands that one of the biggest concerns for orthodontic patients with braces is the length of their treatment.

But you’re in luck, because Dr. Montano specializes in SureSmile, high-tech braces that are revolutionizing the orthodontic industry. SureSmile, which combines digital 3-D imaging, has computer-aided treatment planning and customized archwires to straighten teeth about 40 percent faster than traditional braces. The SureSmile program calculates the exact shape and pattern of the teeth and bends and cuts the braces wires, with more precision than traditional braces.

There are three steps. First, Dr. Montano identifies the initial tooth position with the patented OraScanner, a wand with a tiny camera attached. The OraScanner creates a precise 3-D digital model of your mouth, which is then uploaded into software that lets Dr. Montano view your mouth and teeth from any angle. Next, the SureSmile system allows us to create your entire treatment plan prior to treatment, using special computer software to analyze the 3-D model of your mouth and develop a custom archwire treatment. Finally, SureSmile’s robotic technology bends Shape Memory Alloy archwires, which can “remember” your prescription.

Results

With SureSmile’s specially programmed archwires, your teeth move more directly into their intended positions. The result for our patients is shortened treatment time and a more comfortable experience in braces.

Once the braces are on it’s only a matter of time before they are taken off revealing beautiful, straight, healthy teeth. With traditional braces a patient is expected to schedule 18 to 20 office visits over two years. With SureSmile, patients average seven to 10 visits and can have their braces off within half the time.

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, and braces are on the horizon, please contact Montano Orthodontics today!

Happy Friday!

Here are the winners of the "Where is Your Montano Orthodontics T-Shirt?" contest!

Montano Orthodontics is proud to announce the winners of our "Where is your Montano Orthodontics T-Shirt?" contest. The goal was to obtain photographic proof of all the places the contestants wore their t-shirts.

Taylor Sanders won 1st place, and won a Nintendo Wii!!

Sarah Ciota won 2nd place, and won a Sony PSP!!

For more pictures, head over to our Facebook page!

--The team at Montano Orthodontics

A Thank You, from Dr. Montano

Dr. Montano would like to thank those who sent birthday wishes last week. It was great to hear from all of you and I look forward to seeing you soon!

How is Dr. Montano doing? Let us know!

Whether you have visited Montano Orthodontics for a week or for years, we’d love to hear your feedback about your experience with Dr. Montano and the staff! Now with the Internet, it’s even easier to write your thoughts and share them with the world. We'd want to encourage you to write a review of us. It only takes a moment!

You can write a review here.

Thank you and have a great rest of the week!

--Dr. Montano and team

Montano Orthodontics Hosts Dr. Ron Jackson

On October 20, Montano Orthodontics hosted a meeting titled, "Replacing Congenitally Missing Laterals in Young People." The meeting was presented by Dr. Ron Jackson, who has published many articles on esthetic, adhesive dentistry and has lectured across the United States and abroad.

During the meeting, Dr. Jackson discussed conservative, durable and esthetic techniques for replacing missing incisors when implants are contraindicated or not desired by the patient.

Dr. Jackson also discussed the need to understand clinical situations where implants may not be the best method for replacing missing incisors, having the appreciation for an interdisciplinary approach when replacing congenitally missing lateral incisors in young people and the need to be able to conservatively and predictably replace missing laterals using bonded fiber reinforced indirect composite.

Dr. Montano and staff were extremely happy to have Dr. Jackson speak. In attendance were all local Bakersfield dentists.

Dr. Jackson, who has a private practice in Middleburg, West Virginia, is a Fellow in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, a Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry, a Diplomat in the American Board of Aesthetic Dentistry and is the Director of the Advanced Adhesive Dentistry and Anterior Direct Resin programs at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies.

Take Dr. Montano's soda POP QUIZ!

Dr. Montano wants to know, where does all that soda pop go?

On average, the typical person consumes over 50 gallons of soda pop per year! The amount of acid and sugar found in a can of soda can cause serious tooth decay and lead to cavities, gum disease, and even tooth loss!

We at Montano Orthodontics know that you don’t want to lose your teeth, so take the soda pop quiz, presented by the Minnesota Dental Association, and learn more about how to keep your smile healthy.

It’s a fun interactive quiz, so enjoy... and happy Wednesday!

Dr. Montano’s Annual Halloween Skating Party

It's that time of the year again! Don't miss Dr. Montano's annual Halloween Skating Party on October 31st from 10AM to 12PM. We will hold the event in the Rollerama West on 7850 Brimhall Rd. We will also be awarding prizes for the best costume in each age group. Don't miss it! Check out a few photos from last year's event on our Facebook page!

National Dental Hygiene Month

Did you know that October is National Dental Hygiene Month? Fall is here, and Halloween is coming soon, but now it is more important than ever to maintain good oral hygiene.

All those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, but these treats can damage your teeth and braces too! Did you know sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them? This can cause tooth decay and cavities! After eating these candies, be sure to wash your mouth out with water, drink milk or eat a few slices of cheese. These will help neutralize the acid in your mouth (wait at least one hour before brushing your teeth with toothpaste, as this can actually increase the effects of acid on your teeth)

Besides cavities and tooth decay, many people do not realize that good oral health and hygiene are important to your overall health too! Research is discovering the connection between periodontal disease and other major health concerns, such as heart disease! Therefore, it is important to maintain a good oral hygiene routine: see your dentist every six months, brush and floss daily and use an antibacterial mouthwash.

Make a resolution to improve your oral health for October, the National Dental Hygiene Month!

--Montano Orthodontics

Imagining Your Life With Invisalign

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! Following are a list of questions and answers for anyone pondering Invisalign treatment.

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 cannot 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 can 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 your office during treatment?

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

More About Orthodontics From Dr. Montano

There are so many questions about orthodontics that we never ask, so Dr. Montano took some time to explain the most common concerns.

At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?

Orthodontic treatment can be started at any age. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected at an early age before jaw growth has slowed. Early treatment may mean that a patient can avoid surgery and more serious complications. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child first visit an orthodontist by age seven or earlier if a problem is detected by parents, the family dentist or the child's physician.

What is Phase I and Phase II treatment?

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

Would an adult patient benefit from orthodontics?

Absolutely!! Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age. Everyone wants a beautiful and healthy smile. Between 30-40% of our patients are adults.

How does orthodontic treatment work?

Braces use steady gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into their proper positions. The brackets that are placed on your teeth and the arch wire that connects them are the main components. When the arch wire is placed into the brackets, it tries to return to its original shape. As it does so, it applies pressure to move your teeth to their new, more ideal positions.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Treatment times vary on a case-by-case basis, but the average time is from one to two years. Actual treatment time can be affected by rate of growth and severity of the correction necessary. Treatment length is also dependent upon patient compliance. Maintaining good oral hygiene and keeping regular appointments are important in keeping your treatment time on schedule.

Do braces hurt?

The placement of bands and brackets on your teeth does not hurt. Once your braces are placed and connected with the arch wires, you may feel some soreness of your teeth for one to four days. Your lips and cheeks may need one to two weeks to get used to the braces on your teeth.

Will braces interfere with playing sports?

No. It is recommended, however, that patients protect their smiles by wearing a mouth guard when participating in any sporting activity. Mouth guards are inexpensive, comfortable, and come in a variety of colors and patterns.

Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?

No. However, there may be an initial period of adjustment. In addition, brace covers or wax can be provided to prevent discomfort.

Should I see my general dentist while I have braces?

Yes, you should continue to see your general dentist every six months for cleaning and dental checkups, or more frequently as recommended.

Got more questions? Give us a call at Montano Orthodontics. We'd love to hear from you.

Answering all your burning questions about mouthwash

While mouthwash is not an alternative to regular brushing and flossing, it can help keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. There are several different types of mouthwashes available, and all of them will help do different things for your smile. The most common types of mouthwashes are:

• Fluoride - fluoride is the most used type of mouthwash available, and is used to strengthen the enamel of the teeth while preventing cavities and tooth decay.

• Antiseptic - an antiseptic mouthwash is used to kill bacteria and germs in the mouth. Most commonly used before and after a dental surgery, antiseptic mouthwashes can also help to fight gum disease, and halitosis (chronic bad breath). Antiseptic mouthwashes can affect your sense of taste and may stain the teeth, so it is recommended that you consult your dentist before using this type of mouthwash.

• Combination - a combination mouthwash is designed to help prevent tooth decay, freshen the breath, and maintain the health of your smile.

• Prescription - for patients with gum disease, or any signs of gum disease, you may need a prescription mouthwash. Prescription mouthwashes, like Peridex of PerioGard, are used to treat gingivitis, and other forms of decay.

There are also many different brands of mouthwash. Some common brands include:

• Scope
• Listerine
• Act
• Crest
• Tom’s of Maine (all-natural)
• Plax (anti-plaque rinse)
• Breath Rx
• Orajel
• Targon (special mouthwash made for smokers)
• Rembrandt (whitening mouthwash)


If you are curious about which kind of mouthwash would work best for you, be sure to ask Dr. Montano at your next appointment. If you have a favorite mouthwash, let us know by posting a comment for others to read!

The Myths and Facts of Orthodontics

There are quite a few myths about orthodontists circulating around. Before you buy into those myths, 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 orthodontists, check them out today!

Hope this helps,

--Montano Orthodontics

Braces 101 From Dr. Montano

Should you need to call Montano Orthodontics in case you sustain any damage to your braces, we can help you more effectively if you can tell us exactly which piece is in trouble! Here’s a handy diagram and corresponding list of all the parts that make up your braces.



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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Parsley and Other Ways To Brighten Your Smile, From Dr. Montano

At Montano Orthodontics we see lots of patients concerned about their bad breath. So we want to educate you about what you can do to really keep your chompers clean and breath minty fresh!

Naturally, good oral hygiene is the first step. With proper brushing and regular dental checkups you can keep bad breath (halitosis) in check.

Certain foods, medications, smoking, sinus issues, or even gum disease cause most bad breath. If the stink lingers for longer than 24 hours, it might be something more serious, like dehydration, zinc deficiency, diabetes, liver failure, kidney failure, or even certain kinds of cancers!

In the meantime, here are some home remedies to keep you smiling bright from Montano Orthodontics.

--Spice Up Your Life
Snack on some cloves, fennel, or anise after each particularly odorous snack.
--Don’t forget the tongue
Lots of people brush their teeth regularly, but leave the tongue alone. One of the main causes of bad breath is food and plaque residue on the surface of your tongue. So give it a nice gentle brush-over too!
--Watch your drinking habits
The worst options are coffee, wine, whiskey, and beer.
--Frequent brushing
Carry a toothbrush with you so brushing after each meal is convenient and refreshing! Trust us, you’ll love the way it makes you feel. If you can’t brush, still swish around a couple sips of water to remove any lingering food.
--Make your own Gargle
Gargling with a home mixture of sage, calendula, and myrrh gum extracts four times a day should ward off that bad breath potential.
--Parsley’s there for a reason
Finish your parsley after you finish your dinner and you’ll find a refreshing breath enhancer. Hate the texture? Throw a couple sprigs in a blender to sip after each meal.
--Sugarless Gum
Always a good idea to carry some mints or sugarless gum for that quick spruce up before you meet the boss.
--Don’t cut that cheese
The stronger the cheese, the stinkier your breath can become. Think about blue cheese and Roquefort? They really get the party started in your mouth and it’s hard to make them leave!