Our Blog

4 Surprising Foods that can Cause Bad Breath

Everyone knows that garlic and onions are the usual culprits for bad breath. But do you know what other foods may be causing your stinky breath? For some people, bad breath can be genetic. However, whether you’re wearing braces or not, certain foods in your daily routine could be to blame. Read on to find out what Dr. Kevin Theroux and Dr. Brooks Barefoot at Total Orthodontics has to say about some bad breath causing foods!Read More

Why I Do Need To Wear Elastics?

Elastics, also known as rubber bands, are a very normal art of orthodontic treatment. However, we know that people sometimes find them to be a nuisance or difficult to adjust to wearing. It is important to know that Dr. Kevin Theroux and Dr. Brooks Barefoot at Total Orthodontics has you wearing elastics because they are essential to the completion of the patient’s orthodontic treatment.

The elastics are supposed to be worn approximately 20-22 hours a day and should only be removed to eat and then to brush and floss their teeth. Additionally, elastics should be changed out for new ones about three times a day.

Elastics allow for the jaw and bite alignment to occur. But they are also the patient’s responsibility, and if the patient does not choose to wear them as directed, it may prolong treatment or affect the final result. Before leaving the office, the patient needs to make sure they understand where and when to wear their rubber bands.

Additionally, not wearing your elastics are directed will actually prolong the soreness one feels when adjusting to rubber bands. Also, never double your rubber band wear unless Dr. Kevin Theroux and Dr. Brooks Barefoot told you to do so!

Patients should carry extra elastics with them at all times. This way if one breaks you have a replacement ready! If you ever have any questions regarding your elastics or braces treatment, don’t hesitate to contact our office – we’re here to help you achieve the beautiful smile you deserve!

5 Home Care Hacks for Clear Aligners

At Total Orthodontics, we do our best to remain available for orthodontic emergencies. Please call our office if you think you are experiencing an orthodontic emergency. We don’t want you to feel like you’re on your own when it comes to your orthodontic treatment.

 

That being said, sometimes our patients run into problems or experience discomfort at a time when we can’t see them right away. We wanted to equip our orthodontic patients with some tricks and hacks that you can do at home, so you can ease discomfort and keep treatment on track until you are able to visit our office.Read More

Is Sparkling Water Bad for My Teeth?

We all know that sugary carbonated drinks do more harm than good to the teeth, but what about sparkling water? In most carbonated beverages, the acidity levels are very high – which can weaken tooth enamel.

If you’re not familiar with tooth enamel, it is the hard outer shell of your teeth where cavities first form. When left on the teeth for too long, the acid and sugar from carbonated beverages can cause significant tooth decay, stained teeth or, in some cases, gum disease. This is often discussed in association with sodas, but what about sparkling water? 

 

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ORTHODONTIST ACCEPTING SMILE DIRECT CLUB PATIENTS IN DENVER

Total Orthodontics: Where Your Smile Journey Takes a Joyful Turn for the Better

 

Facing the closure of Smile Direct Club? No worries, Board Certified Orthodontists Dr. Brooks Barefoot and Dr. Kevin Theroux are here to guide you back on the right orthodontic path! With two locations in Lone Tree and Greenwood Village in the Denver area, we’re the beacon of hope and excellence you are looking for to complete your Smile Direct Club treatment.Read More

5 Tips for Teaching Kids How to Brush

Good oral hygiene is a crucial part of a person’s health. Thus, it is imperative that parents help teach their kids not only to brush their teeth twice a day but also how to do so effectively. Rather than making it a chore, try to make cleaning their teeth a fun and enjoyable experience. To help, Dr. Kevin Theroux and Dr. Brooks Barefoot at Total Orthodontics shares some tips for teaching kids how to properly clean their teeth.Read More