How Important Is Orthodontics For Your Health?

We know how important it is to regularly visit the dentist to stay on top of our dental and oral health and goals. Dental treatment not only keeps teeth clean, fresh and cavity free, it also helps to monitor the health of the mouth and gums to note issues quickly should they arise.

Just as important as preventative dental treatment, however, is corrective orthodontic treatment – and orthodontics involves much more than a purely cosmetic undertaking.

Did you know...
Orthodontics was the first specialty to arise in the field of dentistry and there is evidence that people even used a version of this more than 2000 ago; ancient mummified remains have been found with metal bands wrapped around individual teeth.

What does orthodontics involve?

Orthodontic treatment involves the correction of misaligned jaws and crooked teeth, and not only ultimately results in a beautiful smile, but also maximizes your overall health and well-being. Misalignment of the bite and teeth, while not a disease in itself, can regardless lead to an array of health problems that over time become chronic and can impact much further throughout the body than just within the mouth.

As well as correcting dental displacement, orthodontics can also be employed to control and modify the growth of the facial bones in order to manage craniofacial abnormalities that may be present from birth or acquired through accident or misadventure.

Orthodontics can benefit you for a healthier, happier life.

Call Poser Orthodontics today for a complimentary evaluation with Dr. Poser and start the New Year with a New Smile!

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!

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

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.

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.

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 to do with a loose or poking wire

During the first few months of orthodontic treatment with braces, the very light flexible wires that are used may occasionally be displaced.

If a wire causes irritation, push the wire away from the area using the eraser end of a pencil or a Q-tip. If the wire cannot be tucked away, cover the end of the wire with a small piece of wax or a cotton ball until you can see Dr. Poser for an appointment.

If the main wire has come out of the tube on the back tooth, attempt to reinsert the wire with a pair of needle-nose pliers or tweezers. As a last resort, if you cannot come into our office, the wire can be cut with a small wire cutter or fingernail clipper close to the back of the last brace (bracket).

Advantages of Damon System

The advantages of a self-ligating system over standard braces are significant. Aesthetically, metal Damon system brackets are less noticeable than the brackets of traditional metal braces.  Damon system braces now come in clear versions for the image conscious, which is another advantage in itself.

What can't be easily overlooked, however, is the reduced treatment time that can be experienced using the Damon system. Studies show Damon patients had treatment times that were more than a half a year shorter than patients with traditional metal braces. Damon patients had 47.8 percent fewer appointments as compared to the metal braces group in order to get their smiles looking great.

Because no friction is involved by using elastic or metal ligatures, teeth can slide more freely, thus shortening the treatment time, as well as causing less pain during treatment.

Lastly, the Damon system can lead to better oral health during orthodontic treatment, making your smile that much healthier when the braces come off.  For more information on Damon Braces, or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at Poser Orthodontics located in Germantown & Wauwatosa for your convenience. 

Who Likes Shamrock Shakes?

Do you know what today is? Why, it's St. Patrick's Day lads! Today is a nationally celebrated day famously known for encouraging you to wear green to avoid getting pinched; receive a kiss for being Irish (or for not being Irish); and to have fun with the kids by eating green food and having talks of lucky pots of gold and leprechauns.

We know we're your orthodontic practice and St. Patrick's Day may be a little out of the spectrum of our expertise, but when it comes to our patients we love to encourage you to have fun and try new things! That's because Poser Orthodontics genuinely cares about our patients.

Check out this delicious recipe we hope you will try out today. Shamrock shakes are always a hit on St. Patty's Day!

Shamrock Shakes

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cups vanilla ice cream
• 1 1/4 cups milk
• 1/4 teaspoon mint extract, or more to taste
• 9 drops green food coloring
• 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup, or to taste (optional)
• 2 tablespoons whipped cream, or to taste (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon green decorator sugar, or to taste (optional)

Directions:

• Blend ice cream, milk, mint extract, and food coloring together in a blender until smooth.
• Drizzle chocolate syrup around inside walls of 2 tall glasses; pour shake into glass. Top with whipped cream and green decorator sugar.

If you make these at home, please take some pics and share them with us on our Facebook wall! Feel free to tag us on our Instagram pictures too, using @poser_orthodontics and hashtag #poserortho.

What is the Damon System?

Dr. Poser specializes in Damon Braces offered at both Poser Orthodontic practices. The Damon System is a new way of treating patients in comparison to traditional metal braces.  Damon smiles are full, natural 10-tooth smiles achieved with light biologically-sensible forces, and are specifically designed to improve the overall facial result of each patient.

With Damon Braces, there are 3 main components which provide faster treatment and better results:

1. Damon passive self-ligating braces that eliminate the need for elastic or metal "ties". With Damon tie-less braces you can experience treatment without tightening.
2. Light high-technology shape-memory wires that move teeth faster and require fewer adjustments.
3. A new clinically proven treatment approach that aligns your teeth and enhances your facial aesthetics—usually without extractions or rapid palatal expanders.

Damon Braces are also offered in clear brackets too helping our patients be discreet with their orthodontic treatment.  

Not all doctors can offer Damon braces, but Dr. Poser is certified in offering the Damon System to his patients, and can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.  Contact us now to set up a complimentary consultation.

National Pound Cake Day

This may sound a little odd, but today is National Pound Cake Day.National Pound Cake Day is annually observed in the United States on March 4th. Pound cake lovers, near and far, can celebrate with a slice (or two) of this delicious rich delight.

Traditionally, the name Pound Cake comes from the recipe itself. The recipe for pound cake makes a cake much larger than most families can consume, as it calls for a pound each of flour, butter, eggs and sugar.  You mix these ingredients together and bake to create a delicious moist cake ready for any toppings you'd like to add!

Check out this awesome video we found showing you how to make a pound cake using a blender!

We hope you enjoy this video. Do you have a good pound cake recipe you would like to share? Post it on our Facebook page & we will share it with our Facebook fans!

You have questions, Poser Orthodontics has answers

Poser Orthodontics understands that you may questions regarding orthodontic treatment, and we want to assure you that we have the answers. As we continue to provide the best of services to you, we decided to share some popular questions many of our patients have asked. Expand your knowledge about orthodontics and learn the facts about common treatment questions.

Q: Will I Need To Have Permanent Teeth Extracted For Braces?

A: Dr. Poser uses the latest orthodontic technology: The Damon System, which greatly reduces the need for extraction of permanent teeth.

Q: Do Braces Hurt?

A: Generally braces do not "hurt" but they do feel foreign at first and take about a week to get used to. Dr. Poser utilizes the latest orthodontic technology: The Damon System, which straightens teeth with less discomfort. After certain visits, teeth may be sore for a few days and an over the counter pain reliever such as Tylenol (acetaminophen)will provide relief.

Q: Can I Still Play Sports?

A: Yes, but we do recommend the wearing of a mouth guard for all contact sports. We have special mouth guards for our patients to protect your teeth, braces and jaw joints. Just ask and we will be happy to fit you with a mouth guard.

Q: Why Should I Choose An Orthodontic Specialist?

A: An orthodontist is a specialist in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. All orthodontists are dentists, but only about six percent of dentists are orthodontists. Admission to an orthodontic postgraduate program is extremely competitive and selective.  It takes many years to become an orthodontist and the educational requirements are demanding.

Are you ready to get started with orthodontic treatment at Poser Orthodontics? Call us now at our Germantown office or Wauwatosa office and let's get started with your first visit.

Your Smile Is A Lifelong Investment

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.