A few helpful videos about orthodontics, from Hawks Prairie Orthodontics

Dr. Ehrmantrout and his team at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics would like to point you to a few interesting webisodes about orthodontics, located on the YouTube page of the American Association of Orthodontics, or AAO. There, they post some very pertinent videos about orthodontic treatment, and the new technology in orthodontia. These include "Orthodontic Treatment Basics," "Common Bite Problems Seen in Children" and "Does My Child Need Braces?"

We think you may find these webisodes interesting, as well as enlightening.

If you have any questions about the videos, or your treatment here at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics, please give us a call.

Happy New Year from the entire Hawks Prairie Orthodontics team!!

Dr. Ehrmantrout and team wish you happy holidays!

The holiday season is upon us, and as Dr. Ehrmantrout and his team at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics reflect on the past, we’d like to ask you: What do you love about the holidays? Being with your loved ones? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year?

We’d love if you shared with us all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

--Dr. Ehrmantrout and the team at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics

Updated staff bios and photographs!

Have you recently wondered what Dr. Ehrmantrout's team looks like? With the addition of the new "Meet the Staff" page on our web site, you can view our happy faces and even read short bios about us.

While you're cruising through our site, you may stop by and learn why choosing Dr. Ehrmantrout as your orthodontist is a good call. Or you can read a few testimonials posted by our loyal patients.

Call us if you have any questions! Happy Tuesday!

Patient reviews for Dr. Ehrmantrout!

Dr. Ehrmantrout and his team love getting patient reviews. And lately, Hawks Prairie Orthodontics, serving Lacey, Olympia and surrounding areas of Washington, has been getting some pretty great reviews! We thought we'd share some with you today! Happy Tuesday!

"The employees are very welcoming and patient. I love the technology as well." ~ Sarah W.

"Dr. Ehrmantrout is gentle with our daughter and he takes his time with her. He also is willing to explain things that we dont understand. The staff is great too...." ~ Marc T.

"Max likes your staff and we feel comfortable taking him to a state of the art facility! It's a very comfortable setting!" ~ Janice P.

"He took time to get to know us and was very helpful on explaining what the process for a better smile would be like." ~ George S.

Dr. Ehrmantrout and team want to know: What did you do in November?

Believe it or not, we’re almost in December – and in full holiday mode! But before you go celebrating, Dr. Ehrmantrout and team want to know: Did you do anything exciting this month? Do you have plans for Thanksgiving? If so, we'd love to hear all about it!

You may share your stories with us here, on our social networks or by giving us a call!
--The team at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics

A great fall braces-friendly recipe! From Hawks Prairie Orthodontics

Fall is here, and sometimes we here at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics just feel like a hot delicious meal is in order. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) made an appetizing (and braces-friendly!) fall dish that is sure to delight. Dr. Ehrmantrout would like to remind you that a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps you achieve the best possible result from your orthodontic treatment.

Pasta Pomodorini
Ingredients:
•¾ pound spaghetti or spaghetti
•¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
•¼ cup sliced garlic
•½ teaspoon finely minced Calabrian chilies, or 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
•1 pint small cherry tomatoes, stems removed, crushed between your thumb and forefinger
•Sea salt, preferably gray salt
•½ cup fresh basil leaves, each torn into 2 or 3 pieces
•Wedge of Parmesan cheese

Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta. While the pasta cooks, heat the 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over moderate heat. Add the garlic and cook until the slivers are golden brown and crisp, then add the chilies and cook for about 30 seconds. Raise the heat to high and add the tomatoes. Simmer briskly to soften the tomatoes and thicken the juices, about 3 minutes. Season with salt. When the pasta is al dente, scoop out about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta. Return the pasta to the warm pot off the heat. Add the sauce and the basil and mix well. Add some of the reserved cooking water if the pasta seems dry. Transfer to a warmed serving bowl and grate Parmesan over the top to taste. Drizzle with a little more olive oil. Serve immediately. Makes 4 servings.

Enjoy this great fall dish and have a great rest of the week!
--From the team at Hawks Prairie Ortho

Oral Piercing: Is It Worth It? Dr. Ehrmantrout Has the Answer

Piercing, like tattooing, is one of today’s popular forms of “body art” and self-expression. If you’re thinking about getting a piercing – or if you already have one or more – there are some health risks you should know about.

Your mouth contains millions of bacteria, and infection is a common complication of oral piercing. Just touching your mouth jewelry (tongue barbells and lip and cheek labrettes) can lead to infection. Many people who have piercings tend to regularly touch them – which is a perfect opportunity for bacteria from hands to enter piercing sites. Also, food particles that collect around piercing sites can lead to infection.

Pain and swelling are other possible side effects of piercing. Your tongue – the most popular piercing site in the mouth – could swell large enough to close off your airway! Piercing also can cause uncontrollable bleeding or nerve damage. Damage to the tongue’s blood vessels can cause serious blood loss.

The hoop, ring, stud, and barbell-shaped jewelry can hinder your ability to talk and eat. Some people also develop a habit of biting or playing with their piercings – which can lead to cracked, scratched teeth; gum damage and recession; and sensitive teeth. There may also be a need for restorations, such as crowns or fillings, and additional dental treatment due to piercings.

Consider the potential pitfalls of piercing carefully before getting one. Keep in mind that it will be an added responsibility to your life, and will need regular upkeep. Make sure that you’re committed to the task of taking care of it for the full healing period and beyond.

If you have an oral piercing, pay special attention to it. Clean the piercing with antiseptic mouthwash after eating, and brush the jewelry when you brush your teeth. Of course, let us know if you have any questions.

--Dr. Ehrmantrout and the team at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics

Keeping you safe this cold & flu season, from Dr. Ehrmantrout and team

Traditionally cold and flu season starts in Fall, but this year it seems to have started much earlier and with the number of patients canceling appointments because of flu and H1N1 symptoms our office is taking additional precautions to help prevent the spread of germs.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, we give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our office at all times as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces.

For the protection of our doctor, other patients and staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

Maintaining and protecting oral hygiene equipment is also important this flu season. To protect your toothbrush from bacteria follow these steps:

• Wash your hands before and after brushing
• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen
• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster
• Replace toothbrush after every cold or flu or every 3-4 months when bristles appear worn

Hope this helps! Stay healthy!

--The staff at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics

November is here, but first: How was your Halloween?

November is here, and—believe it or not—we’re almost in full holiday mode here in the beautiful Pacific Northwest! But before we forget about the spooky month that just wrapped up, we’d like to know how you celebrated Halloween! What did you wear? How much candy did you get? Did you have fun?

If you have any photos or videos that you would like to share with us, please send them our way! We hope you all had a happy and safe Halloween!
Also, what are you up to this month? Anything exciting happening in your life? If so, we’d love to hear all about it.

And, as always, if you have questions about your orthodontic treatment or just want some general information, give us a call or stop by for a visit!

From Dr. Ehrmantrout and team.

Ghosts, Goblins, and a Ghoulish Halloween Recipe!

Trick-Or-Treat! October is National Orthodontic Health Month, and in honor of Halloween, the American Association of Orthodontists has provided trick-or-treaters with some tips and treats for a ghoulishly good time!

Dr. Ehrmantrout thought he'd pass 'em on!

Frightfully Fabulous Cupcake Sandwiches

Ingredients:
1/3 cup cocoa powder
1 cup warm water
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup superfine sugar
2 cups cake flour, sifted
2 teaspoons baking soda
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 can of chocolate frosting or store-bought chocolate mousse
1 container of whipped topping

Assorted “braces-friendly” candy pieces such as chopped peanut butter cups, chocolate bars and melt-in-your-mouth candies.

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Fill a muffin tin with 12 cupcake liners and set aside.

Combine cocoa powder, water, and mix until smooth. Fold in mayonnaise. (Make sure cocoa mixture is not to hot to prevent breaking of mayonnaise). Add vanilla and whisk until smooth.

In mixer, combine sugar, cake flour, baking soda and salt and mix slowly until well incorporated. Add wet cocoa mixture, mix on medium-high until well blended. Scrape down the sides and blend for 30 seconds.

Fill the cupcake liners 3/4 way full of batter. Bake for 30 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool on rack.

Slice each cupcake in half, horizontally, and serve the halves with chocolate mousse or frosting, whipped topping, and assorted candy pieces. Kids build the sandwiches by spreading one-half of a cupcake with mousse/frosting or whipped topping, sprinkling on candy pieces and placing the other half of cupcake on top.

Halloween Safety Tips

•Young children should always be accompanied by an adult
•Carry a flashlight
•Wear a light-colored or reflective costume
•Choose face paint over masks for young ghosts and goblins
•Have an adult inspect all treats before the children dig in

And remember to have a fun and safe Halloween! From Dr. Ehrmantrout and team.

Write a Review of Dr. Ehrmantrout or the Hawks Prairie Orthodontics office!

Whether you have visited Dr. Ehrmantrout for a week or for years, we'd love to hear your feedback about Hawks Prairie Orthodontics office. Now with the Internet, it is 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 may write a review here.

Thank you and have a great weekend!

--Dr. Ehrmantrout and team

Halloween at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics

Come visit us at Hawks Prairie & Olympia Orthodontics during the week before Halloween for our theme days! Our staff will be dressing up for the entire week, and on October 29th we will be holding an open house in which our local dentists will attend. Be sure to give us a call for more information, at 360-464-2502.

Have a spooky and safe Halloween,

--Dr. Ehrmantrout & Team

Invisalign Tips

Many people know that Invisalign is a great solution to braces if you don't want to experience the look and feel of traditional metal braces. What few people know, though, is that just like traditional braces, Invisalign requires proper care to work effectively. Good oral hygiene is highly important, even when you are wearing something in your mouth that you can take out to eat with. It's still likely that your aligners can build up plaque if not treated properly. When wearing your Invisalign aligners, ask yourself the following questions:

1.) Am I eating with my aligners on? - These aligners are removable and should be taken out when you eat.
2.) Am I drinking anything other than water with my aligners on? - Though it's not a necessity for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky a soda is. If you take out your aligners when drinking a soda, you have a better chance of keeping your aligners clean.
3.) Am I brushing before putting the trays on? - The aligners have both an inside and outside. Keeping the outside clean is easy. Keeping the inside clean is also easy: just make sure you've brushed your teeth before putting the trays on.

These are all very simple steps, and ultimately, they help to keep you building good oral habits.

--Dr. Ehrmantrout

Dr. Ehrmantrout's Trip to Costa Rica

Last weekend, Dr. Ehrmantrout visited the Invisalign facility in Costa Rica for the 2nd year in a row, in order to work through several of his cases one on one with his dedicated Invisalign technician.

Dr. Ehrmantrout recently became an Invisalign Premier provider, and as part of this certification, a dedicated technician is assigned to him. This visit was also to attend an Invisalign study club with 15 other Premier Invisalign Providers from around the United States. While he did not get a chance to take any photos while there, be sure to ask Dr. Ehrmantrout about his trip at your next appointment!

The "Bracelift" Facelift, an interesting article about the Damon System

Dr. Ehrmantrout recently read an interesting article about the use of the Damon System with adults. This is just another example that braces aren't just for kids! Have a look at this article and let us know what you think! (Article originally from the September Issue of Life after 50)

As we grow older, many of us turn to expensive and invasive cosmetic treatments ranging from lip augmentations to facelifts in an effort to retain a youthful appearance. More and more adults, however, are now turning to less traumatic orthodontic treatments as an anti-aging tool and are gaining not just a beautiful smile, but some remarkable facial aesthetics, as well.“Bracelift” treatments can help you look younger and feel more confident about your appearance than ever before. Of course, most people want a nice smile with straight, white teeth, but properly aligned teeth can do much more than just improve a smile. By enhancing the alignment and widening the arch of the teeth, orthodontic treatment can create better facial balance and aesthetics, lending the appearance of fuller cheeks and lips, smoother and higher cheek contours, and broader smiles, as well as compensate for the inevitable loss of facial muscle over time.

Braces? At my age?
While the thought of braces may conjure up images of a metal-mouth teenager—perhaps you’ve even seen wildly-colored braces on your children or grandchildren—new technology is making treatment faster, more comfortable and more discrete. These advancements are also helping orthodontists achieve remarkable aesthetic results for patients. Bracelift patients often experience a dramatic improvement in their overall appearance. Beyond just straight teeth, they can gain a broader arch, more mid-face support, and a fuller, wider smile with wall-to-wall teeth, resulting in a more youthful look. HOW IT WORKS Unlike traditional braces, the Damon System incorporates “tieless” brackets instead of elastic ligatures to hold the archwire in place. These brackets allow the archwire to slide and move more freely, reducing the friction and tension on the teeth. Patients report the brackets more comfortable than traditional braces, but extremely easy to keep clean. Far more than just a bracket, the Damon System uses archwires made of a unique hi-tech memory-shape alloy that is initially formed into the desired arch shape. Throughout treatment, the wire works to regain its original shape, gently moving the teeth into their optimal arch shape based on the patient’s unique biology. Because the system exerts only gentle pressure, the blood flow to the surrounding gum tissues is not interrupted, and teeth don't have to be extracted to make room as in the past.

No more pulling teeth
When H.H., now in her 40s, first arrived in her orthodontist’s chair in 1990, she suffered from extensive crowding of her teeth, loss of bone structure and tissue, TMJ and other issues. A common practice at the time would have been extractions of at least four teeth to make room to straighten her teeth with traditional braces. Because of the possible negative long-term impact removing teeth could have on the appearance of her face, her doctor initially advised against orthodontic treatment. Several years later, with the availability of more minimally invasive treatment using the Damon System, H.H. returned for treatment and was able to avoid tooth extractions. In addition to straight teeth, she gained a broader arch and wider smile that help accentuate her cheek contours and lip support, giving her a more youthful appearance.

More than good looks
We all know that healthy teeth are important to maintaining overall health, especially as we age and nutritional needs change. But we sometimes overlook the impact our teeth can have on our mental and emotional well-being. Poor alignment cannot only affect your speech and airway, contributing to sleep apnea, but also your self-confidence and poise. A “bracelift” can provide a life-long improvement to your overall appearance and self-confidence at a comparable cost to traditional orthodontic treatment. Of course, when seeking treatment, it’s important to consult a trained professional. And patients with severe periodontal disease should be aware that orthodontic treatment may impact their existing condition -Dr. Tom Pitts

Softly Brushing Your Way to Clean Teeth

Just as there are so many different types of toothbrushes to choose from, each brush also has a different type of bristle! There are generally three different types of bristles; hard, medium, and soft. We always recommend that our patients, especially children and seniors, use a soft bristled toothbrush.

Using a hard and medium bristled brush can actually harm your teeth and gums by stripping the enamel from the teeth and irritating the gums so that they become red and sore, and can even cause gum recession. If you do use a hard or medium bristled brush as a personal preference, we recommend using an electric toothbrush.

Soft bristles are much gentler on your teeth and gums, and while patients of all ages are recommended to use soft bristled brushes, they are particularly great for children, seniors, patients recovering from a dental procedure, and patients wearing braces.

Soft bristles, and even extra-soft bristles are every bit as effective when it comes to cleaning your teeth; in fact, if you currently use a hard or medium bristled brush, try a soft bristled brush next time you buy a toothbrush and we bet you won’t even notice a difference!

--Dr. Ehrmantrout

The Ormco Insignia System at Hawks Prairie & Olympia Orthodontics

Recently Dr. Ehrmantrout has been certified in the patient customized bracket technique called Insignia, from Ormco. This system combines interactive software with custom milled patient specific Damon System brackets, customized wires and precision jigs for optimal placement of your brackets.

This means we can facilitate better, faster treatment results, even in complicated cases!

We are utilizing this on some of our patients now, and plan on implementing the Insignia system with all patients starting in January 2010. For more information, check out this video below, and head to the Ormco site! Ask about this exciting new technology at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics by calling 360-464-2502.

Dr. Zach Ehrmantrout: Now An Invisalign Premier Provider

We are proud to announce that Dr. Ehrmantrout is now an Invisalign Premier Provider! He is now one of only two doctors in the Olympia and Lacey area to achieve this distinction. See for yourself on Invisalign's doctor locator.

What makes an Invisalign Premier Provider so special?

Every doctor who wishes to offer Invisalign treatment must undergo training with the makers of Invisalign, and can then become a certified Invisalign provider. To reach Premier Provider status however, the doctor must complete many successful cases of Invisalign treatment each year. Dr. Ehrmantrout has achieved this distinction through extensive experience using Invisalign, and works with many patients each year to create beautiful smiles.

If you have been considering Invisalign treatment, know that you are in great hands at Hawks Prairie & Olympia Orthodontics! Give us a call at 360-491-4884 to schedule your free consultation for Invisalign or Invisalign Teen.

Braces 101 From Hawks Prairie & Olympia Orthodontics

Should you need to call Dr. Ehrmantrout 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.

--Hawks Prairie & Olympia Orthodontics

The Myths and Facts of Orthodontics From Hawks Prairie & Olympia 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,

--Dr. Ehrmantrout

Hawks Prairie Orthodontics Around the Web

If you've ever visited us at Hawks Prairie & Olympia Orthodontics, you already know that Dr. Ehrmantrout and the rest of the team love connecting with their patients. We love the ability to communicate with all of you online too! Besides our web site and our blog, Hawks Prairie & Olympia Orthodontics are on several other networks too!

* Share a video with us, or watch one of ours on YouTube

* Become a "fan" of Hawks Prairie & Olympia Orthodontics on Facebook

* View and comment on our photos on MySpace

See you around the web!

--Hawks Prairie & Olympia Orthodontics

Summer Fun with Hawks Prairie & Olympia Orthodontics!

Its summer here at Hawks Prairie & Olympia Orthodontics, a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbeque, a camping trip, or just having fun in the sun, we want to hear about it! Leave a comment on our blog and tell us about your summer!

Happy Travels,

-From Hawks Prairie & Olympia Orthodontics

Bottled Water May Be Behind Tooth Troubles from Hawks Prairie Orthodontics

We at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics want you to know that as more families turn to bottled water and away from the tap, they may be missing out on one important ingredient that most brands of bottled water fail to include: fluoride!

As of 2005, bottled water is second only to soft drinks as the most popular drink in the United States, beating out milk, juice, and – more significantly – tap water. Between 2001 and 2006, the amount of bottled water sold in the U.S. rose an average of 10% per year. And many dental health specialists point to bottled water’s increased popularity as the culprit behind rising rates of cavities.

Because fluoride helps strengthen teeth, it is an important component of maintaining good oral health. The benefits of fluoride were noticed in the early part of the twentieth century, when researchers found communities with low levels of tooth decay. It turned out that these towns had measurable levels (around 1 part per million) of fluoride in their drinking water.

Beginning in the 1940s, communities have fluoridated their water supplies, and dentists have seen a significant decline in cavities ever since. The American Dental Association endorses both community water fluoridation and the use of fluoride-containing products as a safe means of preventing tooth decay. Between tap water and toothpaste, most of us get sufficient amounts of fluoride.

But if your family avoids fluoridated tap water in favor of ever-more-popular bottled water, you could be missing out on the levels of fluoride necessary to make a difference in your oral health.

If bottled water is your water of choice, check the label to make sure that your brand contains fluoride. As of a 2006 decision, the FDA allows bottled water containing .6 to 1.0 milligrams per liter of fluoride to carry a label stating that fluoridated water may reduce the risk of dental cavities or tooth decay. The ADA has backed this decision.

Of course, simply drinking fluoridated water is not a magic ticket to perfect teeth. To keep your choppers in tip-top shape, it’s important to brush and floss daily and avoid sugary sweets, in addition to maintaining your fluoride intake and visiting us at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics regularly.

Continuing Education At Hawks Prairie Orthodontics

When not working with patients at our Lacey and new Olympia offices, Dr. Ehrmantrout and staff are working to continue their education in the field of orthodontics through forums, study groups, and seminars.

Quarterly Invisalign Study Clubs

Every quarter, Hawks Prairie Orthodontics hosts an Invisalign study club for dental hygienists in the community. The next study club will be held at our new Olympia office on July 29th. Our hope with these events is to educate the dental and orthodontic community on the best practices of one of the most talked about treatments in the field, Invisalign. Dr. Ehrmantrout has treated many Invisalign cases the community, and will soon be receiving his Invisalign Premier Provider certification.

Annual Damon Forum

Each year, the entire team attends the Damon Forum, a yearly educational gathering for orthodontists offering the Damon System. We learn about new technologies and treatments to serve our patients better.

Levin Group Practice Management Seminar

Hawks Prairie Orthodontics is not just about Dr. Ehrmantrout and the clinical assistants. Our front office staff help our day to day operations, and help make your experience at our office enjoyable and worry-free. Therefore we are participating in a practice management seminar this week to find new and better ways to run both of our orthodontic offices.

All of these educational opportunities mean when you visit us at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics, you can rest assured that we are keeping up with the cutting edge of orthodontic technologies and practice, and providing you the highest level of service.

Hawks Prairie Orthodontics New Location in Olympia, Washington!

This week is a very exciting day for Hawks Prairie Orthodontics; our Olympia office has officially opened! Dr. Ehrmantrout is an Olympia native, and the addition of this new office will allow us to serve you, the Olympia and surrounding communities, better than ever before!

Please note that with the opening of the new office, the hours of both offices have changed!

New Lacey Office Hours

Monday & Tuesday: 8:30am - 6:00pm

Wednesday & Thursday: 8-30am-6:00pm

Friday: By Appointment Only

New Olympia Office Hours

Monday & Tuesday: 8:30am - 6:00pm

Wednesday & Thursday: Closed

Friday: By Appointment Only

Come see our new Olympia office today!

12 Early Signs of Orthodontic Problems in Children

Because orthodontists can spot subtle problems with jaw growth or teeth while a child still has primary or “baby” teeth present, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends all children get a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age seven.



Some problems are not so subtle, and you may notice them early on. If you see any of the following signs in your child, please make an appointment with Dr. Ehrmantrout immediately. (If your child is younger than seven, it is not necessary to wait till his or her seventh birthday to visit our office.) We want to identify any problems as early as possible so that we can implement the appropriate treatment at the appropriate time for your child’s individual needs.

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty in chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth
6. Speech difficulty
7. Jaws that shift or make sounds
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Teeth that stick out too far
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don't meet at all
11. Upper and lower jaws that don’t line up
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

If your child is displaying any of these signs, contact us and set up an appointment!

Cardiodontics: The Heart Mouth Connection from Hawks Prairie Orthodontics

If you have been told you have periodontal disease (also known as gum disease or periodontitis), you're not alone. An estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of the disease! Periodontal diseases range from simple gum inflammation to serious disease that results in major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. In the worst cases, teeth are lost.

Gum disease is a threat to your oral health. Research is also pointing to health effects of periodontal diseases that go well beyond your mouth. So we at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics want to let you know some interesting facts and ways to treat the disease.

What is Periodontal Disease?

"Perio" means around, and "dontal" refers to teeth. Periodontal disease is an infection of the structures around the teeth, including the gums and the bones that hold the teeth. The earliest stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis – an infection of the gums. In more severe forms of the disease, all of the tissues are involved, including the bone. Bacteria that live and reproduce on the teeth and gums cause periodontal disease.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Symptoms may include the following:
--redness or bleeding of gums while brushing teeth or using dental floss
--halitosis, or bad breath
--gum recession, resulting in apparent lengthening of teeth
--"pockets" between the teeth and gums indicating that the bone which holds the teeth in the mouth is dissolving
--loose teeth
Gum inflammation and bone destruction are largely painless. Hence, people may wrongly assume that painless bleeding after teeth cleaning is insignificant, although this may be a symptom of progressing periodontitis. If your hands bled when you washed them, you would be concerned. Yet, many people think it's normal if their gums bleed when they brush or floss.

Periodontal Disease Affects Your Health

Periodontal disease is a putrid, festering infection of the mouth. Bacteria and inflammatory particles can enter the bloodstream through ulcerated and bleeding gums and travel to the heart and other organs. In recent years, gum disease has been linked to a number of health problems. Researchers are studying possible connections between gum disease and:
--Heart disease: Gum disease may increase the risk of heart disease. Gum disease also is believed to worsen existing heart disease.
--Stroke: Gum disease may increase the risk of the type of stroke caused by blocked arteries
--Diabetes: People with diabetes and periodontal disease may be more likely to have trouble controlling their blood sugar than diabetics with healthy gums.
--Premature births: A woman who has gum diseases during pregnancy may be more likely deliver her baby too early and the infant may be more likely to be of low birth weight.

Combating Periodontal Disease

--See your dentist! See your dentist every six months for a checkup! Regular professional cleanings and checkups make you feel good, look good, and could be a lifesaver!
--Brush and floss daily. Take your time and do it right!
--Use an anti-bacterial mouthwash. Daily use of an anti-bacterial mouthwash helps to disinfect the teeth and gums, and reduces the number of bacteria.
--Straighten your teeth. Crowded teeth are nearly impossible to keep clean. Orthodontic treatment can greatly reduce inflammation and periodontal disease.

--Hawks Prairie Orthodontics

How To Stay Young And Healthy from Hawks Prairie Orthodontics

Whether you’re 5 or 50, your health depends on your awareness of what’s good for you. But in a world filled with fad diets, blaring advertisements, and unintelligible ingredient lists, we at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics know it can be difficult to determine exactly what is good for you – and what’s not.

For straightforward guidance on how to live a long, healthy life, we recommend Brush Your Teeth! And Other Simple Ways to Stay Young and Healthy by Dr. David Ostreicher. The book sums up good health in six fundamental principles: hygiene, diet, attitude, exercise, sleep and personal safety.

Drawing on nearly three decades of experience as an orthodontist and professor of health and nutrition, Dr. Ostreicher definitively answers age-old debates, like the best way to prevent colds and flu (your mom was right: wash your hands). He provides straight talk on a variety of diet choices including salt, fats, carbs and organic food, and he documents the importance of regular sleep, stress reduction and positive thinking to your overall health. His suggestions throughout are simple, clear, and inexpensive.

Dr. Ostreicher advocates a back-to-basics, common-sense approach to staying young and healthy. We at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics couldn’t agree more, and we’d like to repeat the title of his book as our favorite piece of advice: don’t forget to Brush Your Teeth!

Parsley and Other Ways To Brighten Your Smile from Hawks Praire

At Hawks Prairie 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 set. 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, you should see us at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics. 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 Hawks Prairie 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!

It’s no secret that sweet, sugary candies and drinks have an adverse effect of the health of your smile, but what about sour or tart candies? We at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics thought you might want to know what kind of an effect does eating or drinking something sour have on my smile?

Recent research from the Minnesota Dental Association suggests that the amount of acid in sour candies is enough to eat away at tooth enamel and cause cavities. Here are a few souring facts about sour candies, and some helpful tips on how to protect your teeth from Hawks Prairie Orthodontics(even if you cannot give up sour candies all together).

Facts

-Sour candies can be very acidic, and may actually burn the gums and cheeks, while weakening and wearing down the enamel on your teeth. (Check the acid levels in some of your favorite candies)

-It can take almost 20 minutes for the acid in sour candies to become neutral. Holding the acid in your mouth by sucking on sour hard candies or chewing sour gummies can keep the acid active for more than 20 minutes.

-The acid in sour candies can cause cavities and severe tooth decay.

Protect your teeth

-Limit the amount of sour candies that you eat on a daily basis, and if you do indulge, remember not to suck or chew on sour candies for long periods of time.

-After eating sour candies, rinse your mouth out with water, drink milk, or eat a couple slices of cheese. This 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)

-If tooth erosion has already begun, ask your dentist about ways you can help reduce sensitivity and continue to protect your teeth.

Hope this helps! From Hawks Prairie Orthodontics.

Take the Fun New Soda Pop Quiz From Hawks Prairie Orthodontics

Hawks Prairie Orthodontics 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 Hawks Prairie 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! From Hawks Prairie Orthodontics.

Nifty "Eggs"periment from Dr. Ehrmantrout and Hawks Prairie Orthodontics

Summer is drawing near. If the little ones aren’t going to camp, you may run out of ideas to keep them occupied. Why not use a fun and simple science experiment to focus their attention for a while? At Hawks Prairie Orthodontics, we found one that includes a lesson about why it’s important to brush teeth to make plaque go away.

Gather the items you will need for this experiment:

--1 hard-boiled egg with the shell on
--12 ounces of Coke, Pepsi or other dark-colored cola
--1 container large enough to hold the cola and egg
--1 plastic bowl
--1 toothbrush
--1 drop of fluoride toothpaste
--Clean-up supplies

Explain to your child that plaque is a sticky layer of germs that collects on her teeth. If she doesn’t brush, plaque can cause serious problems for her teeth, for example holes in the teeth (cavities) or swollen gums (gingivitis). Tell her that you are going to do an experiment to see how plaque coats her teeth, and why brushing twice a day is important for healthy teeth and gums.

Conduct the experiment:

1. Make the comparison between the white color of the egg and the white color of your child's teeth.

2. Place the egg into the container and pour the cola over it, so that it completely covers the egg.

3. Let the egg sit in the cola for 24 hours.

4. Remove the egg from the cola. The egg will be stained and yellowish.
5. Explain to your child that the colored layer that has appeared on top of the eggshell is just like the layer of plaque that occurs on her teeth.

6. Place the egg in the plastic bowl and give your child the toothbrush with the drop of toothpaste on it.

7. Let her brush the "plaque" off of the egg. The yellowish film will disappear, exposing the white eggshell. Explain that the same thing happens when she brushes her teeth.

Enjoy from Hawks Prairie Orthodontics!

Baby Teeth and Gums Need Special Care

One question we hear all the time at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics is “When should I start brushing my baby’s teeth?”

You should begin regular cleanings even before your baby has teeth. After each breast feeding – or bottle-feeding – use a clean, damp washcloth to gently rub your baby’s gum tissue. You can wrap the material around one finger to make it easier to remove any food bits from your baby’s mouth.

When your baby’s first tooth comes in switch to a baby toothbrush. Look for special baby toothbrushes in your drugstore – they have just a few bristles and are very soft. There are even brushes shaped like finger puppets that fit over the tip of your pointer finger! All you need at this point is water – no toothpaste yet.

After a few more teeth appear, you can start using toothpaste, but you only need a tiny bit, and make sure it doesn’t contain fluoride for the first three years. From the beginning, have your little one practice spitting the toothpaste out after brushing. That way, he or she will already have the good habit of spitting when you switch to fluoride toothpaste, which should never be swallowed.

If you have any questions about caring for your baby’s teeth, please contact Dr. Ehrmantrout.

Gummy Tummy--Hawks Prairie Orthdontics

We know the rumors going around – mostly among young people – that once you swallow a piece of chewing gum it will stake a claim and take up residency in your stomach for at least seven years! We really hate to take all the fun out of the mystery, but the truth is that chewing gum, when swallowed, will enter the stomach and move through the digestive system just like any other piece of food and leave the body long before seven years! So, if you ever have accidentally swallowed a piece of gum, there is no need to worry!

This being said, gum does not have any dietary benefits, so while it’s not harmful to swallow, you still want to avoid swallowing it. If you are a gum-chewer, make sure you chew sugarless gum, because gum with sugar can lead to cavities. Sugarless gum still has the same amount of flavor, but with less cavity causing ingredients. You see, when the bacterium in your mouth breaks down sugar, what’s left behind is acid. This acid eats away at the enamel coating of your teeth, causing holes that we call cavities. Cavities can lead to other long term mouth problems if they are not treated in time, so it is best to try and avoid overexposing your teeth to too many harmful substances!

Happy (sugar-free) gum chewing from Hawks Prairie Orthodontics!

Good Breath Gone Bad -- Hawks Prairie Orthodontics

Bad breath can be a real downer, especially when you are out on a date with that girl or boy you’ve had a crush on all semester! However, bad breath can be prevented and Hawks Prairie Dental!

Bad breath, or as your doctor may call it “halitosis,” is caused by odor-producing bacteria that grows in your mouth. This bacteria gathers on bits of food in your mouth and between your teeth and release sulfur compounds making your breath smell. Some foods, like garlic and onions, may contribute more to bad breath because of oils the food the food releases, and smoking is also a major cause of bad breath.

There are several myths around bad breath. Here are some common myths and the truth behind it all:

Myth #1: Mouthwash will make my breath smell better

Mouthwash will make your breath smell better, but it is only a temporary fix. If you use mouthwash, just know that you will still need to brush and floss when you get the chance as mouthwash alone will not kill all of the bacteria producing germs in your mouth. When choosing a mouthwash, pick an antiseptic with plaque-reducing compounds. Also make sure any dental products you choose comes with the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of approval!

Myth #2: I brush my teeth; I will never have bad breath

Brushing your teeth will save you from having breath, but the truth is most people only brush their teeth for about 30-45 seconds! You need to brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes, twice a day to give your teeth a thorough cleansing. It’s also important to brush your tongue, which is where a majority of odor causing bacteria like to hang out. Lastly, flossing to remove food and plaque between the teeth will also help reduce your chances of having bad breath!

Myth #3: If I don’t smell it, then my breath is fresh

This is a false assumption in every sense of the word! The truth is that the breath you breathe out is not the same breath coming out when you talk to someone. When you breathe you are not using your throat as you do when you are talking; and when you talk more breath moves over the back of your mouth where bacteria is causing bad breath.

#1 TRUTH: Brush your teeth twice a day (for at least 2 minutes), floss at least once and visit your dentist every six months…this way your breath will always be fresh! Not letting your nerves get the best of you on your date? That’s up to you!!!

And for all your orthodontic needs, visit us at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics.

Patient of the Month Contest at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics

At Hawks Prairie Orthodontics, we know how important it is to have a fun time with your orthodontic treatment. That is why we like to have frequent contests and prizes. One of the contests that we have is a Patient of the Month Contest
Once a month, Dr. Ehrmantrout draws one name from our raffle basket of fantastic patients. In order to be entered into the drawing, you have to earn a raffle ticket by following these rules:

1. No broken or failed appointments
2. No loose, broken, or missing brackets, bands, wires, appliances.
3. Have exceptionally clean teeth and gums
4. Wear rubber bands as instructed

Every patient should have the opportunity to enter the raffle several times throughout treatment, and there is no limitation to the number of times you can win.

The patient of the month will receive a prize which is different each month.

So come in now, maybe you could be April's lucky winner at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics.

((In the photo is our February winner Jazz with our staff member, Laurie. Congratulations Jazz!))

Soft Drinks -- Trouble For Your Teeth from Hawks Prairie Orthodontics

At Hawks Prairie Orthodontics, we know that when you sit down to dinner or grab a sandwich for lunch, you wouldn’t have a side of nine teaspoons of sugar. But that’s exactly what you’re taking in when you pair a meal with a 12-ounce can of soda pop.

Soft drinks are a poor choice for your overall health, since they have no nutritional value, and they contain sugar and caffeine. And when it comes to your teeth, soft drinks can cause big trouble. The steep servings of sugar create the perfect condition for cavities to form, while the phosphoric and citric acids in soda pop can erode and weaken your enamel – the outer coating on your teeth – making it tougher for your teeth to withstand the onslaught of sugar.

Both the Canadian and American Dental Associations recommend limiting your intake of soft drinks. And if you do occasionally indulge in a fizzy beverage, it’s a good idea to drink it with a straw, to reduce exposure to your teeth. Brushing your teeth afterward, or at least swishing with water, can help remove the sugar from your teeth.

Having trouble cutting back? Try these tricks to help wean yourself from a steady diet of soft drinks:

--Don’t quit cold turkey: Start by swapping one soda each day with an alternate drink, preferably water. Gradually increase your swaps until you’re down to one soft drink a day, then one every two days, then one a week, and so on.
--Switch to tea: If you’re looking for a source of caffeine, tea is much healthier than soda pop. Just remember not to add nine teaspoons of sugar to it.
--Switch to seltzer: If it’s the fizz or the flavor you’re after, try a sugar-free flavored water or seltzer.
--Remember your goals: If you’re wavering in your commitment to cut back on soda pop, remember the health problems it can cause.
--Be patient: Adjusting a habit doesn’t happen overnight. Give yourself a reasonable amount of time to change your diet.

Have more questions? Give us a call at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics!

Everybody's Brushing with Dr. Ehrmantrout!

Everybody's brushing with Hawks Prairie Orthodontics! Watch this fun video and show your kids to get them excited about oral hygiene!

Mooooove Over Gum Disease -- Hawks Prairie Orthodontics

Is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, it should be! A recent study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease).

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis.

Results of the study show that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease. Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

For more information about keeping your teeth healthy, call us at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics.

Patient Referrals -- Thank You From Hawks Prairie Orthodontics

We’d like to share a big THANK YOU with all of our patients for passing along the word about Hawks Prairie Orthodontics to your friends, families, and colleagues year after year. You’re part of the reason we’re able to keep doing what we love to do!

Unlike dentists, who often share a lifetime relationship with their patients, we complete our work in a short time frame. Most orthodontic patients are only in active treatment for two years or less. In many cases, our new patients come from our old patients!

Many people come to us seeking treatment based on recommendations from people like you, who know us and trust us after enjoying positive experiences with our office and our orthodontic treatment. All health care professionals depend on the confidence of their patients; referrals are the best illustration of our patients’ satisfaction with our work.

THANK YOU for your continued support. At Hawks Prairie Orthodontics we want you to know that we really appreciate it!

Imagining Your Life With Invisalign -- Hawks Prarie Orthodontics

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. We will provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan. Give us a call today at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics to come in for an Invisalign consultation.

Setting the Stage: Orthodontic Treatment in Two Stages -- Hawks Prairie Orthodontics

When most people hear the phrase "orthodontic treatment" they picture a pre-teen in braces. At Hawks Prairie Orthodontics, we tailor your treatment plan to your individual needs and in some special cases, we may recommend starting earlier, sometimes even when a child still has his baby teeth?

In certain circumstances, diagnostic records make it evident very early on that developmental problems are in the works. Some examples include an upper or lower jaw that is growing incorrectly, or a situation in which there is not enough room in the mouth for all the teeth to erupt, or a severe malocclusion (the orthodontic word for "bad bite" which means the jaws don't come together properly).

Some patients with these special conditions will benefit from "two-phase treatment" which consists of two distinct periods of orthodontic treatment, the first occurring prior to the eruption of permanent teeth, and the second taking place some time later, after permanent teeth have come in.

Orthodontic work is best performed during stages of rapid growth. Should your child be a candidate for two-phase treatment, we will schedule the two phases based on typical patterns of dental development for your child's age group.

Phase One treatment generally does not involve braces, though in particular cases it may. More common is the use of other appliances, such as a palatal expander, which helps direct the growth of the jaw. In most cases, Phase One treatment serves to prevent or intercept a problem that could otherwise cause trouble in a child's future development. If the child's teeth are in an extreme state, this phase can also improve self-esteem. The ultimate objective of Phase One treatment is to provide a well-aligned, healthy environment within the jaw and mouth, into which the permanent teeth can erupt.

Phase Two treatment most often takes place quite a bit later than Phase One, after permanent teeth have erupted. This phase usually consists of more conventional treatment with braces, and serves to align the teeth properly in the mouth, building upon the foundation that was established during Phase One.

Remember that every patient is unique, and thus every treatment plan is unique. At Hawks Prairie Orthodontics, we carefully examine x-rays, photographs, and diagnostic records to determine the optimum treatment for your child's individual needs. Give us a call today to come in for an orthodontic consultation.

Age Seven 7 is the Magic Number for an Orthodontic Check-up

Many parents assume they must wait until a child has all of his or her permanent teeth, only to find that treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Some orthodontic problems are easier to correct while the jaw is still growing. Consequently, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven.

What’s so great about age seven? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for an orthodontist to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites, and open bites can be detected.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age provides one of two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, a healthy prognosis will provide immediate peace of mind.

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and detrimental to good oral hygiene. Contact us today at Hawks Prairie Orthodontics to schedule a consultation.

Hawks Prarie Ortho Patient Reviews

Hawks Prarie Orthodontics have a state-of-the-art facility to provide the latest in orthodontic treatment to their Olympia patients. Just see what their patients have to say!Dr. Ehrmantrout is very easy to work with and down to earth. I would recommend him to everyone!
-Breann H.

We love the friendly office staff and Dr. Ehrmantrout and his assistants are very professional. My son, Chase, and I feel very comfortable in their care.
-Lisa J.

He and his entire staff take the time to answer any questions we have. Even though my son is a new patient, I refer other patients to his practice because of his high patient care.
-Dan W.

The doctor is right to the point and doesn’t make you get the most expensive option.
-Susan J.

They are very helpful when my daughter needs to get in right away. They are very nice and very informative and my daughter really likes every one in the office. They make her feel very comfortable, and they get you right in and out.
-Al A.

He is gentle with our daughter and he takes his time with her. He explains things that we don’t understand.
-Marc T.

Dr. Zach knew my name, which made me feel like I was important. I was able to carry on a conversation with my "helper" and they answered any questions I had. There have been a couple of occasions where I did something to my brackets or wire and they were able to fix it right away without any hesitance.
-Erica M.

Max likes your staff and we feel comfortable taking him to a state of the art facility! It's a very comfortable setting!
-Janice P.

How much they use the latest technology with their orthodontics as well as their website and online patient profiles.
-Crystal H.

Smoke Screen Hawks Prarie Ortho

Everybody knows that smoking causes lung cancer, but did you also know that smokers and tobacco are susceptible to a variety of oral health problems at a faster rate than non-smokers?

It’s true! Smoking is responsible for almost 75% of gum disease in adults; and, similar to smokers, adults who smoke pipes and cigars, as well as those using smokeless tobacco, are just as susceptible to gum disease and other tobacco related health problems.

As soon as you use tobacco products, you become more likely to experience any of these oral-health problems:

• Oral cancer
• Gum disease
• Tooth loss
• Loss of bone in the jaw
• Gum recession
• Delayed/impaired healing process after oral surgery or any other treatment
• Decreased success rate of dental implant (tooth replacement) procedures
• Mouth sores
• Loss of your sense of taste and smell
• Bad breath
• Tooth and tongue stains

If you are interested in protecting your oral health we strongly recommend you quit using tobacco products! The following steps are recommended by the Surgeon General to help you quit smoking and using tobacco:

• Get ready – set a quitting date and remove all materials from your home, car and office
• Get support
• Learn new skills and behaviors
• Get medication and use it correctly
• Be prepared for relapse or difficult situations

For support, start with Hawks Prarie Ortho! We can help by recommending different options to help you quit, and above all we will support you throughout the quitting process. We are dedicated to helping you protect your oral health – and quitting smoking is significant step in the right direction.

Damon Forum Offers Great New Information

Recently my staff and I attended the Damon Forum in Phoenix, AZ (Arizona) where we were able to learn more about the Damon product and the benefits it has for our patients. As you may already know, Damon provides patients with a more comfortable braces experience. Treatment times are shorter and Damon braces will straighten teeth with fewer extractions.

If you would like to learn more about the Damon System, please visit our web site, or contact our practice at 360-491-4884. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have. If you’ve been treated with the Damon System, or are currently receiving treatment, let us know about your experience.

Don’t forget to check out our great pictures from the Damon Forum!