To schedule an appointment with us or learn more about our services, contact us at (806) 79-BRACE. Learn more about what makes Wentz Orthodontics unique.
Friday, December 28, 2018
2018 Wentz Smiles
What an exciting year 2018 has been. We have been creating smiles in an atmosphere that is easy for parents and fun for kids for over 25 years. We want our patients to live life smiling! Check out a few of our patients and their smiles this past year.
To schedule an appointment with us or learn more about our services, contact us at (806) 79-BRACE. Learn more about what makes Wentz Orthodontics unique.
To schedule an appointment with us or learn more about our services, contact us at (806) 79-BRACE. Learn more about what makes Wentz Orthodontics unique.
Wednesday, December 12, 2018
Have Braces? Avoid these Christmas Treats!
The Holidays are here and that means Christmas time, spending time with family, endless sweets and of course no school for kids. The holidays are the perfect time to celebrate with family and also a time where we can slip up on certain foods to avoid, especially if we have braces. From sugar, to cookies to gingerbread houses, there is no end in the sweet treats. Here are three foods to avoid this holiday season.
1. Candy Canes:
These beautiful perfect treats are one to avoid this season if you have braces. The hard candy could damage your braces and the stickiness of the peppermint candy can get stuck in between your orthodontic appliances.
2. Popcorn:
If you string popcorn around your tree, you know this how involves eating the popcorn as well. Popcorn is a great treat, however you may want to stay away from it this year. Popcorn is notorious for getting stuck in between teeth and your braces.
3. Caramel Sweets
Who doesn’t love the sweet caramel treats this time of year. From caramel apple to caramel drizzled on your popcorn to your Starbucks drink, seems like caramel is everywhere this time of year. Be sure to stay away from this sticky treat, because it can be damaging to your teeth and braces.
To schedule an appointment with us or learn more about our services, contact us at (806) 79-BRACE. Learn more about what makes Wentz Orthodontics unique.
Wednesday, November 28, 2018
3 Benefits of Orthodontics
Your thinking about getting braces or invisalign? Congratulations! Did you know there are other benefits to orthodontics, other than a straight smile? No doubt, you will feel confident and smile every chance you get, after treatment. Here are three benefits to orthodontics.
1. Gum Disease:
Out gums are the essential foundation to our teeth. Our gums are also connected to the overall health of our body. Having straight teeth, allows our teeth to be spaced out evenly and prevent tooth decay and cavities by making it easier to brush out teeth, floss and avoid plaque buildup.
2. Improved Speech:
Disproportionately teeth have an impact on our speech and the way we sound out words. Teeth that are not straightened make it harder for someone to pronounce particular sounds, which could cause an effect on our personal or professional life. And just like with the health and aesthetic aspect of having braces, having straightened teeth significantly improves the way you sound out words.
3. Improving Bad Bites:
A bad bite can cause problems with eating, chewing and even speech. All because your teeth do not fit properly together. This also make your jaw tired, which eventually leads to tooth loss. Thanks to orthodontic treatment, it will help to realign these upper and lower parts of your mouth to properly fix any bad bite's you may have.
To schedule an appointment with us or learn more about our services, contact us at (806) 79-BRACE. Learn more about what makes Wentz Orthodontics unique.
Monday, November 26, 2018
Wentz Smiles
Our Lubbock, Plainview and surrounding communities are extraordinary. We love that our job allows us to help our patient's smiles radiate confidently. We also like to share our patients smiles on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for everyone to view.
Wentz Orthodontics has been serving our communities and have been creating smiles in an atmosphere that is easy for parents and fun for kids for over 25 years. We want our patients to live life smiling! Here are a few of our patients this month and their smiles.
To schedule an appointment with us or learn more about our services, contact us at (806) 79-BRACE. Learn more about what makes Wentz Orthodontics unique.
 |
| Goodbye to braces and hello to a new smile! |
 |
| Before and after! Amazing smiles. |
 |
| Kyler's smile is so awesome! |
Wednesday, October 24, 2018
Halloween Candy Spectacular
Halloween is here!
Pumpkins, ghost, costumes and candy all make up this fantastic holiday. The endless amount of free sugar will sure make you extremely happy, however for your teeth, that is another story. These sugary treats can affect your teeth in different ways, especially when it comes to orthodontic treatment and the overall health of your teeth.
Halloween is about having fun, dressing up and eating candy. It’s important to stick to your routines and be sure to brush your teeth, floss and wear your retainer. Here is a rundown to all the types of Halloween candy and their impact on your teeth. Wentz Orthodontics is also having a Candy Buy Back. Stop by either of our Lubbock locations on Thursday 11/1 to sell us your candy! 3:30-5:30.
Sticky Gummy Candies:
Sticky, gummy type candies are the worst type of candy for your teeth. It is harder to remove and stay longer on your teeth. This is especially bad for those who just received orthodontic treatment such as braces.
Hard Candies:
You want to watch out for hard candies on Halloween and beyond. These can break your teeth and can be damaging if you have braces. On top of that, hard candies can cause the sugar to wash all over your teeth. This is due to having the hard candy for longer periods in your mouth.
Sour Candy:
It’s no secret how important the enamel on your tooth is. Acidic foods are harmful to your enamel and can cause it to erode, exposing your tooth to being more vulnerable to cavities. You can pass on sour candy because of the acidity.
Popcorn Balls:
These are often a big hit on Halloween night. You may find a couple of these in your child’s Halloween bucket. Have some floss on hand after enjoying these treats. Please be aware, if you have braces, these are probably not an ideal treat.
Friday, October 5, 2018
World Smile Day
"Smile, it is the key that fits the lock of everybody's heart."
Today is #WorldSmileDay and we love that our job is to create beautiful smiles and share them with everyone. Here are a few of our fantastic smiles this month, perfectly fitting for World Smile Day.
Wednesday, September 26, 2018
#WentzOrthodontics Smiles
We love what we do at Wentz Orthodontics. We love that everyday, we get to see smiles transformed in our offices. We love that every smile is someone feeling more confident and radiantly smiling to the world. We approach everything we do with one goal in mind - to make a positive difference in people's lives and to honor God in the process. We have been blessed with a great team that shares our single-minded goal, and we couldn’t be more thankful! From the initial stages of your orthodontic treatment to the moment where you see your completed smile, we love that we get to be there every step of the way. Check out a few of our amazing patients and their smiles this month, and be sure to follow us on Instagram and share your orthodontic journey with us.
Thursday, September 13, 2018
Common Questions to Orthodontics
The overall dental health of each patient is our primary concern at Wentz Orthodontics. We approach your health care by working closely with each patient's family dentist as well as other specialists when treatment calls for interdisciplinary care. We will work together to remove the barriers that are preventing you from having the smile you deserve! With that said, you might have a few questions about orthodontics if you’re considering orthodontic treatment. Here are a few of our common questions we get asked.
What is an Orthodontist?
An Orthodontist is much different from a dentist. While all orthodontist are dentist, not all dentist are orthodontist! An orthodontist is a dental specialist in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists must successfully complete an additional two to three-year residency program of advanced dental education in orthodontics.
What age should my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that your child be evaluated by age seven. This allows orthodontist to detect and evaluate problems that exist, advise if treatment will be necessary, and determine the best time for the treatment. Early detection of any orthodontic problems is important in order to take early corrective action and avoid more difficult treatment later.
How long does orthodontic treatment last?
Every patient varies on how long orthodontic treatment will last, it depends on the orthodontic treatment plan and patient. However, braces may be on between 6 to 30 months or, in rare instances, longer. This depends on the development of the dentition, the severity of the problem, patient cooperation, and the degree of tooth movement required.
Does it hurt?
Thanks to technology and our expertise, orthodontic treatment has improved dramatically. As a rule, braces make your teeth tender and sore for a few days, but it is not painful. Today’s braces are more comfortable and use technology that reduces the discomfort
Monday, August 27, 2018
#WentzOrthodontics Smiles
We love what we do at Wentz Orthodontics. Here you’re treated like family and we want our patients to live life smiling!
For some people, life is compartmentalized into neat, little boxes; one for work, one for faith, one for family, and so on. For us work is a natural extension of our families’ lives, our faith in God and a pretty good measure of fun. We approach everything we do with one goal in mind - to make a positive difference in people's lives and to honor God in the process. We have been blessed with a great team that shares our single-minded goal, and we couldn’t be more thankful!
From the beginning of your orthodontic treatment to the moment where you see your completed smile, we love that we get to be there every step of the way. Check out a few of our amazing patients and their smiles.
Monday, August 20, 2018
Adult Orthodontics
Braces aren't just for kids anymore! Numerous technological advances have made braces less noticeable, less painful and even less time-consuming. As America's baby boomers have become more health conscious, they're rejecting the notion that loosing teeth and dentures are a routine part of growing older.
It's Never Too Late:
Braces are not just for kids. Teeth can be straightened at any age. The biological process involved in tooth movement is the same for both children and adults. There are different types of braces that fit anyone’s lifestyle and orthodontic treatment.
Having straight teeth is important not only for children, but for adults as well. As we grow older, our teeth tend to grow inward, creating crowding - a common problem for many teens and adults. As a result, it may be difficult to keep teeth clean and healthy. Straightening your teeth with the Invisalign system can treat the crowding and thereby help you maintain your dental health. It can also help you get the smile you've always wanted!
Schedule a complimentary appointment or ask us additional questions at (806) 79-BRACE
Tuesday, July 3, 2018
Your Questions Answered: Wentz Orthodontics
What Is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The technical term for these problems is “malocclusion,” which means bad bite. The practice of orthodontics requires professional skill in the design, application, and control of corrective appliances, such as braces, to bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment to achieve facial balance.
What Causes Orthodontic Problems?
Most malocclusions are inherited, and some are acquired. Inherited problems include crowding of teeth, too much space between teeth, extra teeth, congenitally missing teeth, and a wide range of discrepancies of the jaws, teeth, and face. Acquired problems can be caused by trauma, thumb or finger sucking, airway obstruction by tonsils and adenoids, dental diseases, and premature loss of baby or adult teeth. Many of these problems affect not only the alignment of teeth but also facial development and appearance as well.
How Do I Know If My Child Needs Orthodontic Treatment?
It is usually difficult for you to determine if treatment is necessary because there are many problems that can occur even though the front teeth look straight. Also, there are some problems that look intimidating and complex which will resolve on their own. Asking your general dentist is a good reference, but we are your best resource since orthodontics is all we do. Our initial exam is comprehensive and informative, and we would be more than happy to see your child and make any recommendations necessary.
At What Age Should My Child See An Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that your child be evaluated by age seven. An orthodontic screening no later than age seven enables the orthodontist to detect and evaluate problems that exist, advise if treatment will be necessary, and determine the best time for the treatment. Early detection of any orthodontic problems is important in order to take early corrective action and avoid more difficult treatment later.
Monday, July 2, 2018
The Dangerous Trend of DIY Braces
There is a growing dangerous trend that is increasing in popularity with social media and among young teens. This trend is do-it-yourself (DIY) braces. These DIY braces are dangerous and can lead to gum damage and tooth loss, among other consequences.
What are DIY Braces?
DIY Braces are braces people make out of household items such as rubber bands, dental floss, fishing line, paper clips and others that people think will get their teeth to move. People take these items and put them in their mouth, where they think their teeth will shift.
“Straightening teeth isn’t just about closing gaps between your teeth; braces align the upper and lower teeth to reduce pressure on the jaw and keep teeth from wearing on each other over time. If kids try to move their own teeth, they are not taking into consideration other areas of the mouth that professional braces correct.” - Dental Associates Blog
Unhealthy Consequences:
“Braces involves slowly and cautiously moving teeth through bone and influencing bone growth.” There are ligaments that hold your teeth to your bone and when moved, these ligaments begin to break. DIY braces can damage your enamel, cause tooth loss, damage to your gums and bacteria from the household items can affect your overall health.
Give us a call to set up your appointment and be on the road to a healthier beautiful smile.
Thursday, June 28, 2018
A Healthy Foundation: Inflamed Gums
Before you visit an orthodontist, there are several health factors you need to have checked out. If you have swollen, inflamed gums, you know they can lead to serious discomfort. The most common cause of inflammation is gum disease, but improper brushing or flossing, tobacco use, chemotherapy, hormone changes, and irritation from dental hardware can also play a role.
With more than 50 percent of American adults experiencing early gum disease, inflamed gums are a common ailment. Depending on the severity of inflamed gums, you may be suffering from one of two types of gum disease.
Wednesday, June 20, 2018
Summer Smiles #WentzOrthodontics
Summer is officially here! Summers in Texas are HOT! But they also mean BBQ’s, spending time with friends and family, family vacations and tons of fun for everyone. With all the adventurous excitement of summer, it might be easy to forget a few of our regular simple tips that keep your smile healthy.
Stay on Routine:
Summer screams vacation and fun times for children. It is also the time where it is easy for routines to slip and forget. Don’t forget the nightly and morning routines from simply brushing your teeth to flossing to getting check up from both your dentist and orthodontist, if it falls during the summer.
Resist Sugary Drinks:
Say no to the sugary drinks that have a high volume of sugar. Not only is it bad for your teeth, it is also bad for your health. Instead stay hydrated with water. This summer watch your intake of lemonade, soda and sports drinks - which are summer staples.
Traveling: Brush with Bottled Water:
Summer means family vacations for most families. If you’re traveling outside of the country or are out in the wilderness - brush your teeth with bottled water. It will reduce your chances of getting sick and keep your smile healthy beyond summer.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)