Merry Christmas!

Take some time this holiday season to be appreciative of those who work when they should be with family and friends, those who are away from those they love, and those who sacrifice for our needs.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. May this Christmas find you surrounded by those you love, filled with a lot of fun and cheer, and the New Year bring happiness, health, and prosperity.

Questions About Finances?

When you consider the cost of orthodontic treatment, also consider the lifelong benefits of a beautiful, healthy smile. The cost of orthodontic treatment will depend on many factors, including the severity of the problem, its complexity and length of treatment.

For your convenience, we do offer different methods of payment, including interest-free monthly payment plans and credit card payments. We will discuss these payment options and assist in determining the best plan for you.

Our office will assist those who have orthodontic insurance by submitting the necessary information. Insurance companies vary greatly in the type and extent of coverage available. 

Most misunderstandings about insurance can be eliminated if you are familiar with your policy:

• Be sure that you do have orthodontic coverage. Not all dental plans provide orthodontic benefits.
• Inquire if there is an age limitation as some orthodontic plans can expire at age 18.
• Be aware of the percentage which will be paid by your insurance and the amount of lifetime benefits provided by your plan.

What To Eat When You Get Braces

Just get braces? You may notice that your mouth feels a little different after they’re first put on. To make your transition a little smoother, you may want to change your eating habits for the first few days while you get used to your new braces. We at Poser Orthodontics want to make things easier on our new patients, so below you will find some suggestions for the best kinds of foods to eat when you first get braces.

1. Have a smoothie. Smoothies are great option for a delicious meal in a glass, offering a convenient, balanced option. Throw whatever you like in a blender, add protein to make it more filling and even try a handful of spinach— if the smoothie is made right, you won’t even taste it!

2. Think soft. The first day or so of having your new braces on will mean you may not feel like chewing a whole lot. But that’s fine–try something soft but delicious like tender turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy. Soups, chili, pudding, oatmeal and yogurt are all good choices during your first few days with braces.

3. Easy to chew. A steak dinner is not the best thing to have at your “congratulations on getting your braces” dinner. But meat shouldn’t be off the table completely–how about some shaved turkey cold cuts?

4. Try new things. Having to change up what you eat for a few days is the perfect excuse to try some new foods–how about a soft cheese you haven’t had before, like Munster or Brie? How about a new smoothie recipe for breakfast? Baked apples for a snack or dessert? You may end up discovering a new staple for your everyday diet.

5. Stay healthy. Don’t fall into the ice cream trap. Sure, it’s good for a treat, but it won’t give you the nourishment you need to look and feel your best. Eating soft food doesn’t mean eating unhealthy.

Lastly, remember to stay hydrated and drink lots of water throughout the day, avoiding pop and sugary drinks as your teeth are even more susceptible to cavities when you have braces.

Mini Eggnog Cheesecackes | NEW RECIPE ALERT

These Mini Eggnog Cheesecakes are perfect for your holiday party dessert table. Not only are they easy to make and delicious, but they make a beautiful display too.

Cute, creamy, delicious, simple to make, and perfect for your holiday party dessert table.
Ingredients

• 1 cup Graham Cracker Crumbs
• 2 Tbsp Butter, melted
• 12 oz Cream Cheese, softened
• ½ cup Sugar
• ½ cup Eggnog
• 1 Tbsp Flour
• 1 Egg
• ½ tsp Vanilla
• ½ tsp Nutmeg

Instructions:

• Pre-heat oven to 350.
• Place paper liners in 9 cups of muffin pan.
• Combine graham cracker crumbs, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and melted butter. Mix well.
• Divide between the lined cups, pressing gently to flatten.
• Blend the cream cheese and sugar together until creamy.
• Add in the egg, eggnog, flour, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg and vanilla. Mix until blended.
• Divide and spoon into the lined cups to about ¾ full.
• Bake for 20 minutes or until centers are set.
• Allow to cool completely in pan.
• Remove from pan and refrigerate for several hours.
• Top with whipped cream and dust with nutmeg.

Nutrition Information
Serving size: 1 mini cheesecake Calories: 259 Fat: 15g Carbohydrates: 25g Sugar: 16gSodium: 231mg Protein: 5g

Happy Thanksgiving

There is always something to be thankful for, and at Poser Orthodontics we are thankful for you! Thank you to our wonderful patients for letting us work on those gorgeous smiles! Tell us what you are thankful for on our Facebook page! 

Happy Thanksgiving!

Perfect #PoserOrtho Patients

We love sharing our patient photos with you! Scroll down to see more happy Poser Orthodontics patients from November 2016! We are so THANKFUL for you all.

What are Damon Clear Brackets?

Damon® Clear is the passive self-ligating bracket whose beauty is more than skin-deep. Damon® Clear combines the look and comfort image-conscious patients demand with the strength and functionality discriminating clinicians need. Validated by multi-site in vivo studies and third-party university research, Damon® Clear is more than meets the eye.

Contact Poser Orthodontics to learn more about this amazing treatment!

Happy Halloween

Happy Halloween from Poser Orthodontics!

Do You Have Sensitive Teeth?

If hot, cold, sweet or very acidic food and drinks, or breathing in cold air, makes your teeth sensitive then you may have sensitive teeth. It is very common and can come and go.

The most common reason for tooth sensitivity is because the root surfaces of our teeth are exposed to stimulants from the environment, and due to this gum recession, it allows the tooth to feel more than usual.

Now these root surfaces are more porous than the rest of the tooth which is protected by enamel. So in order to help with the sensitivity, many products in the market try to block up these porosities thereby stopping these teeth from feeling any stimulants. Sensitivity could also be a symptom of decay.

There are many products out that say they help with sensitivity but not all of them work for every person. Often times it’s about testing what is out there and whichever product you find works for you is the one that you should use. For more questions regarding sensitive teeth, contact Poser Orthodontics and we will be happy to assist you.

Simpli5 Offered At Poser Orthodontics

Simpli5 is a revolutionary new system of aligners designed to correct minor imperfections in about five to six weeks. Each set of aligners are customized to fit your mouth and to give you the smile you've always wanted. Simpli5 aligners are designed to correct minor crowding or spacing, and to realign teeth that have already received orthodontic treatment.

If you're interested in orthodontic treatment with Simpli5 aligners, please contact Poser Orthodontics. We can answer any questions you might have and provide a comprehensive consultation to determine if Simpli5 is the best treatment for your smile.

Pumpkin French Toast - NEW FALL RECIPE

Do you like pumpkin flavored everything? We do! We've done some searching for new innovative ways to add pumpkin to your favorite meals and found this delicious recipe for Pumpkin French Toast!  Who will be making these this weekend? 

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 4 eggs
• 2 Tbsp packed light-brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 9 slices Texas toast (or other white bread such as Challah or French bread)
• Butter, for griddle

Directions

1. Preheat an electric griddle to 350 degrees (a non-stick skillet set over medium heat also works fine). In a mixing bowl whisk together milk, pumpkin puree, eggs, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger until well combined. Pour into a shallow dish.
2. Butter griddle and dip bread into egg mixture (allowing a few seconds for it to absorb mixture. I also squeeze gently to soak the mixture to center), then rotate and coat opposite side. Transfer to griddle and cook until golden brown on bottom, then lift, butter griddle once more and flip french toast to opposite side and cook until golden brown. Serve warm with butter and maple syrup.

Recipe Source: Cooking Classy

Signs Your Child Needs Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment

If your child exhibits the following signs, he or she may be a good candidate for two-phase orthodontic treatment:

• Losing baby teeth early, before five years of age
• Problems with biting or chewing
• Sucking the thumb after age five
• Evidence of a crossbite, where the teeth don’t come together when opening or closing of the mouth
• Teeth are crowded at age seven or eight
• Protruding teeth on the top or bottom

Not all children need to have early treatment, but if your child shows any of these signs, you should bring him or her to us for a complimentary initial evaluation at Poser Orthodontics.

What is Simpli5?

Today's orthodontic appliances are designed to be comfortable, discreet, and fit the needs of your unique lifestyle. Invisible aligners have become a popular alternative to traditional orthodontic appliances like metal braces and headgear giving patients the beautiful smiles they've always wanted without ever having to wear braces.

Poser Orthodontics is pleased to offer our patients a "clear" alternative to metal braces with Simpli5 invisible aligners.

What Are The Benefits Of Using Simpli5?

• Quicker treatment times - With Simpli5, you can begin your treatment just three to four weeks after your doctor has taken impressions, and most cases are completed within just five months.
• Comfort - The Simpli5 plastic aligners are custom made to fit your mouth. The aligners are made of a unique plastic material that is smooth and invisible! The aligners fit so well that your family and friends may never even know you're wearing braces.
• Convenience - Each aligner is worn for only three to four weeks, for five to six months. After your treatment is complete, you're left with a beautiful, straight smile in less time than with traditional orthodontic appliances.

What's The Right Age To Start Orthodontic Treatment?

Though Dr. Poser can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or around 7 years of age. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.

What are the advantages of interceptive treatment?

• Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
• Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
• Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
• Preserving space for unerupted teeth
• Reducing the need for tooth removal
• Reducing treatment time with braces

Early Evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, Dr. Poser can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal. For more information, call Poser Orthodontics located in Germantown and Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.

Oral Health Benefits of Sesame Oil

Recently a DIY (Do It Yourself) health method has surfaced becoming very popular. This method is used to support oral health and involves the use of sesame oil, which has been found to bring along many health benefits.

Sesame oil is an edible vegetable oil derived from sesame seeds. This popular method using sesame oil is called oil pulling. It’s as simple as rinsing your mouth with oil. Oil pulling is done by swishing a table soon of sesame oil in your mouth for about 10 minutes then spitting it out.

What are the benefits of sesame oil for your oral health:

• Overall strengthening of the teeth and gums and jaws
• Prevention of diseases of the gums and mouth, such as cavities and gingivitis
• Prevention for bad breath
• Potential holistic remedy for bleeding gums
• Prevention of dryness of the lips, mouth and throat
• Possible holistic treatment for TMJ and general soreness in the jaw area

Other possible benefits of sesame oil:

• Migraine headache relief
• Reducing inflammation of arthritis
• May help reduce sinus congestion
• Some people report improved vision
• Reduces the symptoms of allergies

Sesame oil reduces plaque, bacteria to fight gingivitis and it can remineralize tooth enamel. Sesame oil is also used to cook foods like noodles and vegetables.

This method has been discussed for centuries as a way to improve oral health, however you can do your research online to find out if oil pulling is right for you. If you have any questions regarding methods for improving oral health give Dr. Poser’s office a call.

Red, White, & Blue Braces

Are you one of the many people in the Germantown or Wauwatosa area with teeth that just don’t reflect you? Would you like to have perfect teeth in less time than you could imagine? Our new Red, White and Blue clear braces may be right for you! To find out if this revolutionary orthodontic device will help you get the smile you desire, contact Poser Orthodontics today.

Red, White and Blue braces are a fast way to straighten teeth using clear aligners marked with tiny colored dots. Unlike traditional braces, these clear braces get the job done in as little as a few months. Most candidates for these braces need very little movement in order to get their teeth into perfect alignment.

Contact Poser Orthodontics to set up your first appointment and learn more about our orthodontic treatment options.

What is Multi-Phase Orthodontics

Are you aware of Multi-Phased Orthodontics? If not, don’t worry you’re not alone. Multi-Phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized process that involves facial and jaw changes along with straightening teeth. This process allows Poser Orthodontics to create a healthy functional smile with results that remain stable after treatment. One benefit of Multi-Phase orthodontics in certain cases, it can prevent adult tooth extractions or major jaw surgery.

How does it work?

Multi-Phase orthodontics starts with interceptive orthodontic care. This is a process where Poser Orthodontics intercepts an oral problem before it continues to get unmanageable. Typically, treatment starts with younger children in order to manipulate teeth and growth before it’s too late. The best age for this is between 7 and 10-year-old. With interceptive orthodontics, treatment is about 4 to 12 months with monitoring of the child after that to discuss is possible second phase treatment.

Once a majority of the adult teeth have erupted, another phase of treatment can begin. The average treatment time of Multi-Phase is about 12 months of braces on the teeth. Retainers are worn after treatment to hold the correct position of the teeth.

If you are interested in learning more about Multi-Phase Orthodontics, contact Poser Orthodontics to discuss it more. We love answering questions and providing a solid foundation of information to those who are interested in treatment for their children or themselves. Call us at our Germantown office 262-255-6255 or our Wauwatosa office 414-476-2244.

Peanut Butter S'mores Recipe

If you want to celebrate National S'mores Day today, we encourage you to do so! Take our s'mores challenge and try something different by adding some flare to your s'mores! Try out this new s'more recipe and let us know what you think!

Do you have a s'more recipe you'd like to share with us? Post it on our Facebook wall!

Peanut Butter S'mores Recipe

Ingredients

• 8 large chocolate chip cookies
• 4 teaspoons hot fudge ice cream topping
• 4 large marshmallows
• 4 peanut butter cups

Directions

• Spread the bottoms of four cookies with fudge topping.
• Using a long-handled fork, grill marshmallows 6 in. from medium-hot heat until golden brown, turning occasionally. Carefully place a marshmallow and a peanut butter cup on each fudge-topped cookie; top with remaining cookies. Serve immediately. Yield: 4 servings.

Poser Ortho Smiles of the Week

At Poser Orthodontics, we pride ourselves in providing the best care to the best patients in the Wauwatosa and Germantown areas. As we celebrate with our patients who just got braces put on, or just finished their braces and enter into retention, we love capturing every moment throughout the process and all the moments in between if we can!

Check out a few patients who flashed their #PoserOrtho this week at the office.

Do you want to be showcased on our blog? Take a picture at your next appointment at Poser Orthodontics and we will share it on our Facebook page or post it on our blog!

Cool Down With This Recipe

Enjoy the rest of the summer with this tasty homemade snack that's sure to be a hit at any age. You probably have all the ingredients you need already! Skip store-bought popsicles and opt for a DIY version with this delicious BRACES FRIENDLY Greek Yogurt Berry Smoothie Pops!

Ingredients
½ cup Greek yogurt (I use Chobani Vanilla)
½ cup milk
1 cup frozen berries

Instructions
Blend ingredients until smooth.
Pour into 3 oz paper cups.
Let pops set up until almost firm and insert popscicle stick.
Continue freezing until solid.
Gently tear off paper cup and enjoy immediately.
Makes 5 pops.

You Have Braces...So Why Do You Still Need To See Your Dentist?

So you have a mouth full braces, you see your orthodontist for an examination and adjustment every 6-8 weeks and your hygienist has a poke around too….so why do you need to visit the dentist?

When we work on your braces, we are not looking specifically for any cavities and anything we do notice is a by-product of monitoring your oral health from an orthodontic perspective. Even if we did find something suspicious we don’t have the facilities to deal with it.

For this reason, we advise you to maintain your regular dental checkup schedule. Ideally, a visit to your general dentist once every 6 months is good.

The other important thing to remember is that your oral hygiene needs to be flawless. The appliances that are in your mouth are a magnet for plaque buildup, unfortunately. If you are a bit lax with brushing and rinsing out your mouth after eating, you may just find that you have a beautiful straight smile with stained teeth.

While having braces does not increase the risk of cavities, not caring for your teeth and having braces does.

Remember to brush or rinse after eating.  Just swishing water around your mouth if you can’t brush during the day is better than leaving food debris in your braces or appliances. Then, brush thoroughly morning and night the way you were shown at your appointment.

If you can’t remember, ask for a brushing refresher next time you visit and one of our handy mirror clings. Or, you can always visit our website for more information. Click here to view it now.

Summer Tip #1: How to Pack With Braces

If you are wearing braces and are planning a vacation, our team at Poser Orthodontics would suggest that you be prepared. We put together a list of items that will be handy to have with you at all times while you are out of town.

They include:

• Toothpick, flosspick, or other interdental cleaners
• Travel toothbrush
• A water bottle or a mini bottle of mouth rinse
• Orthodontic wax to help with discomfort from protruding wires
• A small mirror for examining any possible issues in your mouth

Putting these items together in a “braces/oral hygiene kit” may be wise. You may even buy pre-made braces kits. Please ask us for more information.

Why Choose Damon Braces?

You may have heard that Damon braces can straighten your teeth faster, with fewer appointments, and without extractions or expanders. What is the Damon System and is it better than regular braces?

Damon brackets are a type of bracket known as self-ligating. To “ligate” means to bind or tie. With conventional braces, the wires are held in place by ligatures or o-rings that secure them to the brackets (which are the metal pieces attached to the teeth). With self-ligating braces, part of the bracket itself holds the wire in place without the need for o-rings or steel ties. Some brackets have doors or “slides.” Others have clips. The Damon bracket was not the first self-ligating bracket, but we believe it is the best.

Some of the claims about Damon brackets are that they won’t cause pain as they move your teeth, you won’t need to have an expander or have permanent teeth removed, you won’t need headgear or rubber bands to fix your overbite, and that your treatment will be much shorter than with regular braces.

If you’d like to know more about Damon braces and if they’re right for you, come see Dr. Poser or give us a call at 262-255-6255. We know you'll be impressed!

Smile More This Summer

If you are considering straightening your teeth with orthodontic work, this summer is a great time to get started on your journey toward a beautiful smile. While you can straighten your teeth at any time, upcoming barbecues, Fourth of July celebrations, and beach parties make the summer months a great time to improve the appearance and function of your teeth. Orthodontics are appropriate for patients of all ages, and there are many reasons that you should finally take the steps to straighten your teeth.

Improve Your Appearance
With the summer months approaching, you may be working on how to improve your physical appearance. Tanning, exercising, and eating right are likely on your agenda for getting a beach-ready body, but don't forget your smile. A straight smile is a beautiful smile, and straightening your teeth can go a long way in improving your appearance. Straighten your teeth over the summer and be prepared to show off a straighter, more beautiful smile during this year's wedding season.

Straight Teeth are Healthy Teeth
If you choose to straighten your smile this summer, you will be left with healthier teeth. Straight teeth are less likely to experience discoloration, fractures, and uneven wear, and they are less likely to develop cavities. The gums that support straight teeth are healthier than those that support crooked teeth, meaning you can chew and eat anything that you want. Straight teeth are less likely to experience cold or heat sensitivity, and they also lower your risk of developing expensive and painful dental problems.

Boost Your Self Confidence
A great smile is usually the first thing that someone new will notice about you. If you have crooked teeth or an improper bite, you may feel self-conscious of your smile and might try to hide it. Studies have shown that the better you feel about your looks, the better you will also feel about yourself as a whole. This improved self-esteem and confidence can benefit your life in a variety of ways, from dating and socialization to greater career opportunities at work, so consider straightening your teeth this summer.

If you are ready to get that straight smile you deserve, call Poser Orthodontics today at
262-255-6255 to make your appointment today!

The Skinny On Eating With Damon Braces

Damon braces are a unique type of self-ligating braces that allow you to eliminate the rubber bands that cause so much trouble for traditional braces wearers. These braces use a steady pattern of pressure to correct your teeth, and they can shift your teeth more rapidly than traditional braces can.

The unique design of Damon braces helps to reduce the buildup of food particles and debris that can tend to get lodged in the brackets of traditional metal braces. Thus, eating with Damon braces can actually be easier because your cleaning job is simpler.

There are several different foods that you might want to focus on during your early days with Damon braces. The most important thing to remember is that you need to focus on soft foods and non-chewy foods immediately after you get your Damon braces. Remember to chew carefully and evenly as you start to adjust to your new braces.

As you become comfortable with the braces, consider gradually re-introducing the crunchier and harder foods that you usually enjoy. Most Damon braces patients are able to eat virtually anything that they usually can, as long as caution is used. However, particularly chewy foods, for example taffy, are something that you might want to avoid in general.

Some patients tell us that they are successful in eating all the same foods they did prior to braces! Overall, you can expect a very smooth transition into wearing braces, and you will be able to enjoy remarkably fast smile correction at the same time.

If you are curious about Damon braces or if you have specific questions about how they can help you, please feel free to contact our Poser Orthodontics Germantown or Wauwatosa, WI office anytime!

Braces Friendly Breakfast Recipe

Whether you're new to wearing braces or have had them for a while, you probably noticed that certain foods are hard to enjoy while being treated for orthodontics. Instead of loading up a list of things you can't eat, we suggest creating a list of new foods and recipes you can eat. This makes wearing braces a pleasurable experience that will leave your smile, and your tummy, very happy!

To help you start this positive orthodontic experience Poser Orthodontics found a new recipe that is braces friendly and taste buds approved! Check it out below.

Apple-Maple French Toast

Ingredients 

• Vegetarian 
• Produce 
• 3 Apples 
• Refrigerated 
• 6 Eggs 

Condiments 

• 1/2 cup Maple syrup 
• Baking & Spices 
• 1 Cinnamon, Ground 
• 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract 
• Bread & Baked Goods -6 slices Bread 

Dairy

• 2 tbsp Butter 
• 1 cup Milk 

Liquids

• 2 tbsp Water 

Directions:
1. Whisk the eggs, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of ground cinnamon in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Add the bread in a single layer, turning until all the egg is absorbed.

2. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter, and add apples, stirring to coat until starting to caramelize. Add the water, cooking until water has evaporated and apples are tender, about 4 minutes.

3. Pour in the maple syrup and a dash of ground cinnamon; simmer for a minute to combine.

4. In a large, heated nonstick skillet, melt about 1 tablespoon butter and saute the soaked bread until golden brown on each side, about 4 minutes. Place French toast on a plate and top with apple-maple mixture, plus more butter if you'd like!

Don't "DIY" Orthodontics

Poser Orthodontics and the American Association of Orthodontists have a prompt announcement for consumers about “DIY” orthodontic treatment. It is with great urgency that we emphasize to you all to be cautious about the trending “DIY” orthodontic treatment because straightening your teeth on your own can lead to lifelong dental problems.

Do-It-Yourself videos and websites are popular among today’s culture, and while so many great ideas come from several of these outlets, there are some things that you just shouldn’t do yourself! Straightening your teeth or attempting to move your teeth as a “DIY” project is definitely one of the things you should not be doing. Moving and straightening teeth is a medical procedure that needs to be supervised by an orthodontist. It’s important for you all to be wary of any videos or websites that advise you to use objects such as rubber bands, dental floss, or anything else in order to get straight teeth. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, “Moving teeth without a thorough examination of the overall health of the teeth and gums could result in the permanent loss of teeth, which may result in expensive and lifelong dental problems.”

If you have any further questions regarding “DIY” orthodontics, or are curious about straightening your teeth, please contact us at 262-255-6255.

Tips To Remember During Retention

Our goal at Poser Orthodontics is to help your smile stay beautiful and healthy for a lifetime. Your cooperation is essential in order to achieve this goal.

Here Are A Few Things To Remember During The Years Of Retainer Wear

1. Wear your retainers as prescribed by Dr. Poser.

2. The safest place for your retainer is in your mouth. When retainers are not in your mouth, ALWAYS keep them in your retainer case.

3. Do not wrap retainers in a paper towel or napkin, this is the easiest way to lose them.

4. Do not place loose retainers in your pocket, this is the easiest way to break them.

5. Keep retainers away from pets — dogs LOVE them.

6. Clean your retainers by brushing them with toothpaste and water or with antibacterial soap. NEVER soak your retainers, this causes them to rust and/or break. Be sure to brush your teeth without your retainers in. Do not boil your retainer or put it in hot water.

7. Do not place retainers in the dishwasher, microwave or in boiling water — they will melt or warp.

8. Your lower retainer may be a fixed retainer bonded onto your teeth. It is not considered permanent and can be broken or detached from your teeth, if you are not careful with it.

9. Bring your retainers to your check-up appointment. If anything happens to your retainers (i.e. it doesn't fit, it's broken, or it's lost) please call us ASAP. If your lower bonded retainer wire comes out, keep it and bring it in at your next appointment for rebonding.

10. The first set of retainers is included in your treatment fee. Any repair, replacement of your retainer, or rebonding of your lower retainer will be additional and charged to your account.

The benefits of orthodontic treatment will last a lifetime if you keep these important patient responsibilities in mind. If you have any further questions regarding retention contact Poser Orthodontics at your earliest convenience.

What is Orthodontics?

There are a rising number of adults nowadays seeking orthodontic treatment for a wide variety of reasons. Ranging from the same reasons children and teenagers are being treated, to some important differences which adults are faced with.  Several adults assume orthodontics provides only the solution of straightening out crooked teeth. Though this is a major factor as to why a majority of our patients seek treatment, there are several other important reasons why you may need to be treated by an orthodontist. 

Orthodontics involves the movement of the teeth within the jaw bones to straighten them and help them to bite more evenly together. Treatment is about making the best of your teeth; and improving the coordination of your mouth and jaws. It’s important to be treated by a certified orthodontist, rather than a general dentist, because orthodontists are fully qualified in this field completing further training and studies to specialize in orthodontics.

Dr. Poser and his team utilize state of the art orthodontic technology and techniques to ensure that you will enjoy optimal results, maximum comfort and the shortest treatment time possible. If you are ready to learn more about orthodontic treatment at Poser Orthodontics, give us a call at our Germantown office, 262-255-6255 or our Wauwatosa office, 414-476-2244.

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Common Friday the 13th Superstitions

Today is Friday the 13th! Did you know Friday the 13th is the most feared day in the United States? It's estimated that 17-20 million people actually fear this day and have tons of superstitions about it. Whether you believe it's unlucky or not, it is still fun to give into they hype and play along with some of these superstitions. We thought we would step back from our usual orthodontic related blog and have a little fun today! There is nothing that brings more joy to us at Poser Orthodontics than putting a smile on your face!

Keep reading to learn about 3 popular Friday the 13th Superstitions!

Common Friday the 13th Superstitions:

1. A rabbit's foot will bring you luck. Talismans and amulets are a time-honored way of fending off evil; consider the crosses and garlic that are supposed to keep vampires at bay. Rabbit feet as talismans may hark back to early Celtic tribes in Britain.
2. Beware of black cats crossing your path.  So why keep a black cat out of your path? Most likely, this superstition arises from old beliefs in witches and their animal familiars, which were often said to take the form of domestic animals like cats. 
3. Careful with that mirror.  According to folklore, breaking a mirror is a surefire way to doom yourself to seven years of bad luck. The superstition seems to arise from the belief that mirrors don't just reflect your image.

We hope you have a safe & lucky Friday the 13th! Do you know of any funny or outrageous superstitions? Post them below or on our Facebook wall! 

How To Floss With Braces

When you have braces, it's very important to brush and floss after every meal in order to keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout your treatment. If you need help choosing the right toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss, please ask us at Poser Orthodontics and we can help you choose the right products for your teeth and your appliance.

Step 1: Using a piece of floss about 18 inches long, carefully thread the end between braces and wire. You may find a floss threader helpful.

Step 2: Carefully floss around the braces.


Step 3: Carefully floss around the gum areas.


Step 4: Carefully floss around each tooth.

What is the Damon 3 bracket?

Poser Orthodontics is pleased to offer our patients passive self-ligating Damon Smile braces. Damon braces use a slide mechanism to hold the archwire, reducing the amount of pressure exerted on the teeth and allowing the teeth to move more freely, quickly, and comfortably. Thanks to these innovative new braces, achieving your perfect smile can be faster and easier than you ever thought possible!

What is the Damon 3 bracket?

The Damon 3 bracket offers several benefits for patients. It is made from stainless steel for stability and a clear material for aesthetics. The rounded structure improves patient comfort while maintaining overall performance.

The Damon 3 System uses a self-ligation technique using lighter wires and lower friction brackets to move teeth, resulting in faster treatment times. Its slide mechanism, strong mechanical base, bonding and solid wall structure control tooth movement with speed and efficiency.

In addition to greater comfort, the Damon System makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene because the brackets are easier to keep clean. This contributes to greater overall health, happiness and physical attractiveness for the duration of treatment at Poser Orthodontics.

Comfort Food

Do you have a hard time finding meals that are fit for your braces and your appetite? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. More than four million children and adults wear braces, and they also understand the difficulty of eating certain meals with braces. Because of this, we decided to find a few recipes that will give a new meaning to comfort food if you wear braces.

Click the picture of the meal to be linked to the ingredients list and recipe directions.

Basil & Mozzarella Grilled Cheese

Click here for the recipe. 

Buffalo Bacon Chicken Macaroni & Cheese

Click here for the recipe. 

Pizza Rigatoni

Click here for the recipe. 

These 3 meals aren’t just delicious, they’re braces friendly. Do you have any braces friendly recipes or dinner ideas to share with us? Leave a comment below or post one on our Facebook wall!