Our Blog

Are Your Braces Triggering Your Canker Sores?

A few weeks into orthodontic treatment, you notice a tingling or burning sensation in your mouth. A few days later, canker sores appear. Fortunately, canker sores are not often a serious issue, but they sure can be annoying! These small ulcers can pop up in your mouth and on the inside of your lips and take days to

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6 Orthodontic Tips for a Sensitive Gag Reflex

Having a sensitive gag reflex is nothing to be embarrassed about. Additionally, it is not something that should deter you from seeking orthodontic treatment. Those with a sensitive gag reflex can get frustrated, but it is certainly something that can be worked with while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Orthodontists, like Dr. Kevin Theroux and Dr. Brooks Barefoot at Total

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5 Ways to Eat Your Way To A Healthy Smile

All of us here at Total Orthodontics have heard the expression “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. Taking this to heart can make our teeth stronger and brighter if we eat the right foods to support that healthy smile. Even though Veneers, crowns, and fillings, along with professional whitening can make your teeth stronger

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Is Juicing Bad for Your Teeth?

At the start of every new year, most of us begin to reevaluate our waistlines and opt for a healthier lifestyle. With the growing popularity of juicing in recent years, more of our patients have been turning to this diet as a means of increasing their fruit and vegetable intake. While blending veggies, fruits, and other nutrients together

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Surviving Date Night with Braces

Date night can be a nerve-wracking experience. From what to wear, where to go, what to talk about, the numerous variables of date night can wreak havoc on what should be a fun experience. You don’t want your braces to be another source of worry on this evening, and they don’t have to be! With a few simple

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4 Dieting Tips to Keep Your Smile Healthy

Just like the rest of your body, your mouth and teeth need to be well-nourished and taken care of in order to keep your smile radiant. Orthodontist Dr. Kevin Theroux and Dr. Brooks Barefoot at Total Orthodontics has four tips for keeping the beautiful and healthy smile you deserve!   Brush and Floss The American Dental Association recommends

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Diabetes and Orthodontics: What You Need to Know

Although diabetes has become a fairly common disease in recent years, it is still very serious and should be managed properly to avoid damaging effects to the body. These damaging effects include threats to your oral health that can greatly influence your orthodontic treatment.   Diabetes and Gum Disease The connection between diabetes and periodontal disease is closer

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Are You Too Old For Braces?

When you think of braces, who do you picture wearing them? If you’re like most Americans, children and teens come to mind. If you’re unhappy with your smile, you probably think you missed your chance for straight teeth, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Thanks to advances in technology, orthodontic treatment for adults has become more

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Should My Mouthguard Be Custom or Store Bought?

Anyone participating in a sport should wear a mouthguard to protect their teeth. This is especially important for anyone undergoing orthodontic treatment. Braces and wires can damage the mouth if you receive a ball to the face. Many people ask whether it is necessary to invest in a custom-fit mouthguard or will an over-the-counter one work just as

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Protect Your Braces While Playing Sports

Getting braces doesn’t mean giving up the sports you love! Luckily, braces will not keep you from any sport or physical activity. However, the price you pay for a beautiful smile is taking a little extra care of your mouth while undergoing orthodontic treatment.   Play Safe, Play All Season In general, it is not uncommon for an

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