Are Braces Triggering Your Canker Sores?

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 heal. However, they are quite easy to prevent, especially once you understand what triggers them! See below for more advice Read More

Why Do I Need to Wear Elastics?

Elastics, also known as rubber bands, are a very normal part 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 your orthodontist has you wearing elastics because they are essential to the completion of the patient’s orthodontic Read More

Contouring and Reshaping Teeth

Wondering if tooth reshaping and/or contouring is the right option for you? Read on to find out what it’s all about. Teeth reshaping is one of the most convenient and cost-effective options for fixing chipped, uneven, or poorly aligned teeth to create a more attractive smile. Dentists may combine shaping or contouring teeth with a Read More

A Checklist for Your Next Dental Visit

Regular dental check-ups are a crucial part of oral health maintenance. You should see your dentist twice a year for maintenance. But, for most people, finding the time in your schedule for an appointment tends to be the hardest part. Be sure to find the time though, as your oral health depends on it.  Once Read More

Date Night with Braces – What to Order

Date night can be a nerve-wracking experience. From what to wear, where to go, to 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 during your night out, and they don’t have to Read More

Foods that Naturally Whiten Your Teeth

Everyone is always chasing after the elusive shiny white smile. However, coffee, tea, red wine, and even some sodas can stain your teeth and darken your smile. Luckily, there are several cost-effective options to help bring your teeth back to their pearly glory. There are even some foods that whiten your teeth naturally. To learn Read More

Daily Habits to Improve Your Oral Health

Your oral health is always extremely important, whether you’re in braces or not! If you’re looking for some simple ways to boost your oral health, you’re in luck. Keep reading for some daily habits that you can incorporate into your routine from Dr. Joseph Porter at Porter Orthodontics. Some of the easiest ways to keep Read More

How to Take Care of Your Retainer

Wrapping up your orthodontic treatment is an exciting time! Your hard work is rewarded with a beautiful smile. However, the work doesn’t end here. It is crucial that you continue to take great care of your teeth in order to maintain your new smile. This includes wearing your retainer, which allows your smile to last Read More

Are Dental X-Rays Safe

It is quite common that when you go to the dentist, they will take X-rays of your teeth. Dental X-rays are images of your teeth that your dentist will use to evaluate your oral health. These X-rays may seem complex, but they’re actually very common tools that are just as important as getting your teeth Read More

The Connection Between Athletes & Poor Oral Health

Athletes are typically praised for their high level of wellness and health. However, did you know athletes tend to have more teeth-related issues than most? A recent study found that untreated tooth decay and gum inflammation was still prevalent among elite athletes despite regular brushing and flossing. Keep reading for some athlete related dental advice Read More

Can I Still Wear My Retainer if it Feels Tight?

Wearing your retainer is a crucial part of maintaining your new smile after your braces treatment is completed. However, your teeth can shift over time, especially if you neglect wearing your retainer. If you stop wearing your retainer and want to start again or it begins to feel tight, you can still wear it – Read More

What to Expect at an Orthodontic Evaluation

Orthodontics is a great way to get the smile of your dreams! Beyond cosmetic improvements, orthodontics can help correct jaw conditions, bite dysfunctions, and crooked teeth. If you or your child are experiencing any of these issues, an orthodontist may be able to help. Additionally, oral health is very important and an orthodontist can help Read More

What Goes on Below the Surface In Your Mouth

Two-thirds of what goes on in your mouth is below the surface. Most people are just concerned about having straight teeth and pearly whites, however, oral health goes far beyond that. That is why orthodontists use x-rays. Orthodontists use x-rays to check below the surface of the mouth to look for extra teeth, missing teeth, Read More

Why Do Straight Teeth Matter?

Straight teeth help to create a beautiful smile. However, straight teeth actually do so much more than provide a great smile. Teeth are made to fit together in a certain way. If they don’t fit together properly, they can’t function properly, which can lead to a variety of oral health problems. To learn more about Read More

Should I Floss or Brush First?

Most likely you’ve heard that you should be brushing and flossing your teeth daily. However, should brushing come before flossing or vice versa? According to recent studies, researchers have found that flossing before brushing may be the most effective way to remove dental plaque. This sequence also makes your tooth enamel stronger by increasing the Read More