Make 2011 the year to improve your oral health

Many folks in Ottawa, ON consider the beginning of a new year a time to not only reflect on the year that was, but also to set personal goals for the upcoming year. How are you planning to improve your health and happiness in 2011? Dr. Adams and our team recommend that you make a New Year’s resolution to benefit your oral health!

It is important that New Year’s resolutions are reasonable and attainable, and that they improve your overall quality of life—for example, did you know that flossing every day is the very best way to prevent periodontal, or gum, disease? Using a straw when drinking sugary beverages can also help prevent cavities. There are many small steps that you can take to prevent cavities, oral infections and bad breath.

Be sure to give us a call if you need a few suggestions on ways to improve your oral health, or visit this helpful article from our friends at the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). After all, we know your oral health is about more than just a beautiful smile.

Happy New Year!

-Your friends at Adams Orthodontics

Season’s Greetings from Adams Orthodontics

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as the team at Adams Orthodontics reflects on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What do you love about the holidays this year? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for 2011? 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!

Write a review for Adams Orthodontics!

Dr. Adams, your Ottawa Orthodontist, strives to offer our patients exceptional orthodontic care in a pleasant, comfortable atmosphere. With an orthodontic treatment plan that is specifically tailored for you, you can be confident that the ending result will be a smile that's good for life. Have you had a great experience with Dr. Adams and team?

Share your story with the world!



Just select the “Review us on Google Places” button to share your story on our Google Place Page. We look forward to receiving your feedback!

Thank you,

-The team at Adams Orthodontics

Dr. Adams top ten tips for keeping your smile healthy and sparklin'

Keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever when you have braces. Food bits have more spots than usual to hide in your mouth, so you must be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. If you remove plaque regularly during treatment, you'll experience better results and shorter treatment time. Keep plaque at bay with these top ten tips:

1. One tooth at a time. When you brush, take time with each individual tooth – at least 10 seconds each – and pay careful attention to the spots where your teeth touch your braces.

2. It’s all about the angles. Brush the tops of your teeth and braces with your brush angled down toward where they meet. Brush the bottoms of your teeth and braces with your brush angled up.

3. The tooth, the whole tooth, nothing but the tooth. While the front surface of your teeth may seem like the most logical to clean, it’s equally important to clean the inner surface of your teeth (tongue side) as well as the chewing surface. And be sure to clean along your gum line – a key spot for plaque buildup.

4. Step 1: eat, step 2: clean. While you’re in treatment, it’s important to brush after every meal. Bits of food can easily get caught between braces and teeth, and these food bits interact with bacteria in your mouth to cause decay. The longer food is in contact with your teeth, the greater opportunity for plaque to form. If you are eating somewhere that you can’t brush, thoroughly rinse your mouth with water.

5. Like a Boy Scout, always be prepared. The easiest way to be sure you can brush after every meal is to get in the habit of taking a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss with you wherever you go. Designate a special container just for your teeth-cleaning tools and keep it in your purse, backpack, or laptop case.

6. Remove the moving parts. If you have elastic bands or headgear, remove these parts before you brush or floss.

7. Fluoride is your friend. Fluoride helps prevent cavities. Be sure to brush with fluoride toothpaste, and rinse with fluoride mouthwash.

8. Pointy brushes reach tiny places. Interproximal brushes (sometimes called proxa brushes or interdental brushes) are cone-shaped and come in very handy for reaching spots around your braces that standard brushes can’t.

9. Find the floss for you. Regular floss works for some patients, but others find it easier to work with a floss threader, which helps you get the floss into tight places. Other patients like an all-in-one product called Superfloss, which comes with a stiff end for easy threading, a spongy section for cleaning wide spaces, and regular floss for narrow spaces.

10. Make time for the pros. It’s your job to take care of the everyday cleaning. But make sure to visit your dentist regularly while in treatment, to get the deep, thorough cleaning that only a professional can provide. If you need help finding the right Dentist for you, feel free to contact our office - we’d love to help!

Patient Question: Am I too old for braces?

Who’s afraid of “metal mouth” and the appearance of braces? Not adults, apparently. Recently, our staff at Adams Orthodontics read a fascinating statistic: the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! Yes, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another reason for the spike in adult braces is this: people want to look and feel great. In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned and sparkling teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing—wisely, we might add—to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Dr. Adams can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. Adams would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

What do you enjoy most about fall in Ottawa?

It’s fall here at Adams Orthodontics, a time when all across the country, the leaves begin to change colors and the air becomes crisp.

Today we wanted to ask you, our wonderful patients, "How are you spending your time this fall?" Our team would love to hear about your favorite places for eating, shopping, and entertainment within the Ottawa area. We are interested in learning about what makes your community “yours.”

Feel free to post your responses on our Facebook page, or give us a call!

Preparing for Cold and Flu Season, from Adams Orthodontics

To promote a healthy and clean environment, our doctor and team at Adams Orthodontics 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 other patients and our 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 and give us a call if you have any questions! Stay healthy!

Who benefits from braces?

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Adams will tell you that anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic treatment, whether it’s correcting a problem not treated in your younger years, or catching a problem early.

To ensure the best overall treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, recommends that children receive an orthodontic consultation as early as age seven. If a problem is evident, taking action early can spare a lot of treatment and expense down the road.

If you never received orthodontic treatment when you were young, don’t worry! You’re never too old for a beautiful smile. Set up an appointment for a consultation and find out how orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

Patient Question: Do you really customize Invisalign® specifically for me?

Yes, we do, and that’s part of what makes it work, says Dr. Adams. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth.


Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. The best thing about it all? Nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Adams is a certified Invisalign provider in Ottawa, ON. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, please give us a call.

Ask Dr. Adams: What’s so bad about nail biting?

We’ve all heard that biting your nails is an awful habit, but you many wonder- really- what’s so bad about it? Recently, our team at Adams Orthodontics found an interesting article that discusses how biting your nails affect your teeth and oral health.

Nail biting, also known as Onychophagia, is a common habit among various age groups, including primarily children, teens and young adults. Nail biting is generally triggered by stress and most often decreases with age. That being said, nail biting is unsanitary, unattractive, as well as unhealthy for your teeth!

Here’s why:
• It’s unsanitary. Your nails are dirty, almost twice as dirty as your fingers! Hence, biting your nails is just asking for germs and bacteria.

• No good things come to your teeth. Nail biting causes your teeth to constantly be chewing, which is not good for them. This excessive motion wears your teeth down faster than a non-nail biter’s and puts a large amount of stress on your front teeth- contributing to teeth misalignment.

• Braces don’t love it either. Braces already put pressure on teeth, nail biting ads unnecessary pressure, further stressing your teeth and weakening their roots.

• It can be costly. Nail biting can result in up to $4,000 in additional dental bills over one lifetime, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Yikes!

What can you do about it?
Now that you know how harmful nail biting can be, it’s time to take action to break your nail biting habit. Try to be conscious of your fingernails and to keep them looking good- this will help you resist the temptation. Ask Dr. Adams or visit the article for tips on how to break a nail biting habit.

Good luck!
Your friends at Adams Orthodontics

When should you call Dr. Adams?

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Dr. Adams. Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with us:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, give us a call as soon as possible!

Hope this helps,

Adams Orthodontics

Celebrities get braces, too!

Did you know that back in 2002, Tom Cruise had braces? During this time, he was 40 years old and filmed Minority Report, Austin Powers in Goldmember and the Last Samurai. Check out his smile in Jerry Maguire, Rain Man or The Firm and compare to the post-braces Tom Cruise in Valkyrie or Tropic Thunder. The fact is, movie stars need to look their best for the silver screen, and it wouldn't be possible without orthodontists like Dr. Adams.

In fact, lots of Hollywood stars have had orthodontic treatment. Check out this slideshow of famous faces with braces. If you’ve thought about getting the perfect smile you’ve always wanted, please give Dr. Adams a call.

A braces-friendly fall recipe, from Adams Orthodontics

Can you believe October is already upon us? October happens to be National Orthodontic Health Month, and this month-long event is organized by our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Today, our team at Adams Orthodontics would like to share a great braces-friendly Halloween recipe with all of our patients, courtesy of the AAAO and “The Braces Cookbook” by Pamela Waterman. This Spider Bites recipe is delicious, and provided that you remember to brush and floss after indulging, this is a cookie that won’t bite back!

Spider Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 cup shortening
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 Tbsp. water
• 1 Tsp. vanilla
• 2 eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cocoa
• 1 Tsp. salt
• ½ Tsp. baking powder
• 1 package black rope licorice, cut into 1-inch pieces**
• 1 small tube of white (or color of choice) frosting
• Toothpicks

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

In a large bowl, combine shortening, sugar, water, and vanilla. Beat until smooth. Add eggs into the mixture and blend. Slowly mix in flour, cocoa, salt and baking powder using low-medium speed. Drop tablespoon helpings of mixture onto ungreased cookie sheets and roll each helping into a ball.

Bake 9 minutes at 375 degrees. The batch should produce around three dozen cookies.

Let cookies cool for about 10 minutes. Then using a toothpick, create four small holes in either side of the cookie. Still using the toothpick, push one end of a piece of the cut licorice into each hole, creating the “legs” of the spider. Once all eight pieces are in place, create eyes or decorate at will using the white frosting. Then eat and enjoy!

**Licorice can sometimes stick to braces; parents should monitor

At Adams Orthodontics, what puts you at ease?

Dr. Adams and team understand not everyone enjoys visiting their orthodontist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about Adams Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or Dr. Adams?

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call!

Invisalign® tips, from Dr. Adams

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, Dr. Adams wants you to 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 necessary for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky 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 simple: 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. If you have any questions about Invisalign or your treatment here at Adams Orthodontics, give us a call!

Cool kids get braces!

Braces today are “cool” and—many would say—even “fun.” These were among the findings of a 2010 nationwide survey of moms whose children are going through or have had orthodontic treatment. New technologies such as SureSmile and the Damon System, advanced computer software, color options, and even popular celebrities—Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Danny Glover, Serena Williams—sporting stylish braces are making orthodontic treatment more comfortable, fashionable and cool for today’s teens.

The study, conducted on behalf of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists for February’s National Children’s Dental Health Month, found 86 percent of moms reporting that braces are cooler today than when they were children. Sixty-nine percent of moms also said wearing braces makes their children feel cool, and 81 percent reported their children’s experience with orthodontic treatment as either positive or extremely positive.

Different color options and the ability to change colors, for example, provide exciting ways for young patients to customize appearances. That enthusiasm helps them to feel good about their orthodontic treatment with Dr. Adams, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

Has your child or teen visited Adams Orthodontics for a consultation? If not, please give us a call and let us help your child begin the journey to a gorgeous smile!

Regular checkups are essential in maintaining good oral health

Are you brushing and flossing daily properly during your orthodontic treatment at Adams Orthodontics? If yes, that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist every 3-to-6 months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting Adams Orthodontics, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

Your general dentist can check for problems that might not be seen or felt, detect cavities and early signs of decay, and treat oral health problems early.

During an oral exam your dentist can check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to the dentist in the last six months, let us know during your next visit and we will provide a few great references in the greater Ottawa, ON area!

Orthodontic fun facts, from Adams Orthodontics

Everyone loves fun facts. Fun, fun, fun! The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that our team at Adams Orthodontics thought you might enjoy.

• There are nearly 4 million people in orthodontic treatment throughout the United States. Three out of four are younger than 18.

• The first mechanical treatment for correcting irregular teeth was suggested by Gaius Plinius Secundus (A.D 23-79).The American Association of Orthodontists is comprised of more than 12,000 members in the United States, Canada and abroad.

• The time required to complete orthodontic treatment ranges from 12 to 36 months depending on the nature and severity of the problem.

• Of the 160,000 dentists in the United States and Canada, 8,000 are practicing orthodontists.

• The cement that attaches the braces to the teeth is now made with a special fluoride-releasing substance.

• Wires activated by body heat used in today's braces originally were developed by NASA for use in the space program.

• In addition to alleviating or preventing physical health problems, orthodontics can boost self-esteem as treatment aligns teeth, jaws and lips.

• Famous orthodontic patients include: Dr. Joyce Brothers, Hale Irwin, Cher, Diana Ross, Phyllis Diller, Chelsea Clinton, Whoopi Goldberg, Daisy Fuentes and Brandi.

Kids getting braces at a younger age

Dr. Adams will tell you that braces were originally considered to be best appropriate for teens. But these days, kids as old as seven are beginning their orthodontic treatment. Because preadolescent kids are typically not self-conscious, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists suggest it could be a good idea to start early.

Experts, however, say it depends on the treatment required. Some children who get braces at an early age end up in a second phase of treatment, and end up having braces well into their teenage years despite starting young.

Most orthodontic treatment begins between ages nine and 14, and the folks at AAO estimate most orthodontic treatment lasts from one to three years, with two years being the average. It’s important, however, that children be screened no later than age seven for Dr. Adams to assess what the best age for treatment is.

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions about your child’s treatment!

Thanks to Invisalign® with Adams Orthodontics, mom and dad can have a perfect smile, too!

Hey parents! Focusing on your kids' teeth and oral health so much that you're neglecting your own? If you've been thinking wistfully about having your own set of perfect teeth, our staff at Adams Orthodontics can help! We are specially trained to offer an adult-friendly option for straightening teeth called Invisalign.

This course of treatment consists of a set of clear aligners that are molded to fit your teeth using a proprietary technology. You wear them all day and night, except for meals, brushing, and flossing – when you can easily slip them out to make eating and cleaning a snap!

Because they're clear, your teeth will be steadily straightening – and no one will know it but you!

Please give us a call to set up a consultation, so we can discuss the specifics of your treatment.

A few reviews for Dr. Adams and team

Adams Orthodontics, serving Ottawa, ON and surrounding areas, has been receiving some great patient reviews lately! Check out what our current patients have to say about Dr. Adams and team!

"Dr. Adams is always positive, he's a very nice guy and treats his patients great. What a well organized practice." ~Lance

"Dr. Adams is very friendly and although there are numerous patients, when it is your turn, he gives you his 100% and makes you feel special and important." ~Kathy

"This whole office is full of friendly, helpful and responsive people who answer questions fully and promptly. Each member of the staff, from the receptionist to the orthodontist, gives you personalized attention in a totally professional yet relaxed atmosphere. It's a pleasure to come in for an appointment." ~Eric

Dr. Adams presents: A delicious braces-friendly summer wrap!

Now that summer is here in Ottawa, ON, Dr. Adams and our team know that you're probably spending more time outside at picnics, potlucks, and barbecues with friends. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) made an appetizing (and braces-friendly!) summer dish that is sure to delight. Remember, a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps you achieve the best possible result from your orthodontic treatment.

Soy Simmered Chicken Wraps

Ingredients:

• 3 boneless chicken breast halves
• 2 large onions, chunked
• Small flour tortillas (pkg. of ten) wheat or white
• (optional: 10-16 oz. of cooked chopped broccoli)
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup water
• 2 Tablespoons honey
• 1/8 teaspoon ginger
• 2 Tablespoons peach or apricot jam
• 1 Tablespoon cornstarch

Directions

In a slow cooker, or a large pan on the stove, layer the onions and the chicken breast. Allow at least three hours in the slow cooker on medium, or at least one hour on the stove—the longer the better, but you don’t have to do anything to it while it cooks. Spoon out the chicken onto a cutting board, and with a knife and fork, shred the chicken as finely as you’d like. In a small saucepan, stir all sauce ingredients together over medium heat until the mixture starts bubbling, then let it simmer for five minutes on low heat to thicken. In a serving bowl, stir sauce and onion into chicken; if you’d like, add cooked chopped broccoli. Makes about six to eight servings.

Enjoy this great recipe!

-From Dr. Adams and staff

SureSmile makes the rounds on ABC’s “The Doctors”

On a recent episode of ABC's "The Doctors," Dr. Thomas Lee of Oxnard, California, was interviewed in front of a live audience and demonstrated SureSmile technology and discussed treatment benefits for orthodontists and their patients. Dr. Lee's 14-year-old patient, Nina, who had just completed SureSmile treatment, was part of the segment as well, and spoke positively about her SureSmile treatment experience.

SureSmile is a software program that facilitates the precise positioning of a patient’s teeth placement for orthodontic braces. Did you know that Dr. Adams is a certified SureSmile provider? Give us a call and ask for more information!

Oral health and your body, from Dr. Adams

Your oral health relates to more than just having perfectly aligned pearly whites. Our team at Adams Orthodontics knows that even more so now that you have braces, it is important to maintain proper oral health. According to a recent study by the British Columbia Dental Hygienists' Association, periodontal disease is linked to not only your oral health, but also the health of other body functions.

It is commonly known that proper oral health is important for many everyday functions, such as eating, talking, and kissing. New correlations have now been found linking poor oral health and cardio-vascular disease, diabetes, respiratory problems, and other systemic diseases. "Patients who have had previous infections of the heart valve may need antibiotics before having dental work done," says Cardiologist Dr. Nisha D'Mello of the University of Ottawa Heart Institute.

Have you been brushing, flossing, and visiting Adams Orthodontics regularly? If not, give us a call! Also, be sure to visit your dentist every six months for an oral exam to check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue.

Have a great week!

-Adams Orthodontics

Why the Damon® System?

Big things are happening in the orthodontics world, and the Damon System is at the forefront of these revolutionary changes. With the Damon System, achieving a perfect smile is easier and faster than ever before with braces!

Damon® is a better option:

With the new Damon braces, you are able to achieve amazing results and finish treatment faster. Depending on your case, this could potentially save you months of treatment! After reviewing your specific needs, Adams Orthodontics and our staff will be able to provide you with a treatment plan that will have you smiling soon! Because Damon braces are very precise and effective, we can reduce the need for many of the time-consuming and complicated procedures that are used with traditional braces. Because Damon braces work more efficiently, fewer adjustments are required. As a result, your appointments will be faster and fewer in number. Due to the unique design of this new braces system, we can move your teeth into their correct positions with much less discomfort than traditional braces. Also, Damon braces are small, very comfortable, and easy to keep clean.

Dr. Adams is a certified Damon System provider. To learn more about the Damon System or your treatment here at Adams Orthodontics, please give us a call. We look forward to meeting you!

Hey, Moms! Have you signed the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge?

At Adams Orthodontics, we care about your beautiful smile, and we want to help keep you protected from sports injuries that can be damaging to your pearly whites. As a way of ensuring that children are using proper facial protection equipment the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO) has introduced the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge.

Mouth guards are vital to protecting your teeth from sports related injuries while participating in sports, such as football, soccer, baseball, hockey, and basketball, to name a few. The Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge is a way for moms nationwide to make a commitment to protecting their child’s smile from facial injuries.

In past entries, we’ve discussed the importance of using facial protection when exercising to prevent injury. Today, we at Adams Orthodontics we are inviting moms to take action by visiting the Moms for Mouth Guards website and taking the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge.

Have a safe week everyone!

- Your friends at Adams Orthodontics

Share your summer plans with Doctor Adams

It’s summer here at Adams Orthodontics, a season full of vacations, adventures and fond memories. Whether you are headed to the beach, a hiking trip, hitting Canada's open roads or just having fun in the backyard, Dr. Blair Adams and our team would love to hear all about it! Leave a comment on our blog or Facebook fan page and tell us about your plans this summer!

We also encourage you to post any photos to our Facebook wall!

Happy travels,

-From Adams Orthodontics

Adams Orthodontics want to know: what do you love about Ottawa?

Adams Orthodontics, located in Ottawa and serving surrounding communities, is situated around some pretty unique neighborhoods. Each community is special with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our fantastic patients of all ages) living within.

Today, Dr. Blair Adams and our team thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about Ottawa? What do you love most about our amazing city? Is there a local event you MUST attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery in town? Perhaps a favorite summer getaway?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods” on our Facebook page!

Enjoy the rest of the week, and we look forward to seeing you at your next appointment!

At Adams Orthodontics, easy access to your account information

Access to your account, 24/7. Sounds simple, convenient and great, doesn’t it?

Patients at Ottawa's Adams Orthodontics enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our website. You may look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages! Just see what some of our patients are saying about this helpful service:

"Confirmation of appointment times, account balance and as a 'nice to have' abiltiy to view photos and X-rays. Great." ~ Carol S.

"Viewing my daughters Xrays was very interesting and gave me more insight into her care." ~ Sara P.

"To have the pictures available just in a few seconds is awsome. Also I love that I can see my next appointment." ~ Nadine S.

"Other doctors should have this service because it is easier to get information and the contact between the office and the patient is consistent. Makes finding information much easier between visits as well." ~ Karen L.

You, too, may sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please give us a call at 613-748-1252 if you have any questions about getting started!

Relax! Hollywood stars also struggle with crooked teeth!

Ottawa orthodontist Dr. Blair Adams know people often struggle with small imperfections. Making crooked teeth straight, stained teeth sparkling white and chipped teeth smooth is part of what Dr. Adams does as an orthodontist. The sense of renewed self confidence that comes to my patients after having some sort of reconstructive work is what makes my job worthwhile.

Consider Katherine Heigl, award-winning actress, and considered by many the Grace Kelly of our day. She describes struggling with crooked teeth her whole life until finally there came a point when she said "enough is enough!" She decided to do something to straighten her teeth.

Our staff at Adams Orthodontics think you will enjoy this clip. Please feel free to leave comments, and tell us what you think! Have you ever struggled with this same problem? Have you felt the relief of smiling to reveal a straight, bright smile after hiding crooked ones for so long? Contact us so we can hear your story, or share your story on our Facebook page!

Tell Adams Orthodontics: What should we blog about?

As summer rapidly approaches and our patients get ready to unwind, Dr. Blair Adams and team at Adams Orthodontics strive to continue writing about important topics related to orthodontics and your treatment at our office - and are busy planning out our summer blogging schedule.

To help us continue doing that through the course of the summer, however, we'd love your input: Today, we thought we’d step back a bit today and ask you, our readers: What would you like us to focus on our blog in the coming months? What would you like to know about the always-changing and exciting field of orthodontics? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Dr. Adams for a while about your treatment? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook page!

We look forward to getting your thoughts and hope you have a fantastic weekend!

Fluoride, your buddy during orthodontic treatment

There are many ways you protect your teeth throughout your treatment at Adams Orthodontics: You brush your pearly whites twice a day, floss often and protect your appliances from being damaged. But did you know there's another way to keep your teeth sparkling and healthy during your treatment?

Fluoride's your friend. Yes, the mineral that helps your mouth avoid cavities and tooth decay, can also help keep your teeth strong! Fluoride comes in two varieties: topical and systemic. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth. Topical fluoride includes toothpastes and mouth rinses. Systemic fluorides are swallowed in the form of a dietary supplement. Dentists and orthodontists use in-office fluoride treatments to help protect the oral health of adults and children undergoing dental/orthodontic procedures.

Fluoride used in Dr. Adams' office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask your doctor how to purchase professional strength fluoride). A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. After the treatment patients may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. Depending on your oral health or doctor’s recommendation, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six or 12 months. Dr. Adams may also prescribe a fluoride product such as a mouthwash, gel or an antibacterial rinse for at-home treatment.

When choosing your own fluoride product, be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of approval. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and have met the criteria of the ADA for safety and effectiveness.

"How Orthodontics Changed My Life" video contest at Adams Orthodontics!

Dr. Blair Adams and staff have some exciting news to share this Sunday night! The American Association of Orthodontists, which Dr. Adams is a proud member of, is offering a $2,500 academic scholarship to two lucky winners of their "How Orthodontics Changed My Life" video contest.

All patients at Adams Orthodontics 18 years of age or younger are eligible to enter, and entries are due by June 1st! You can learn more about the contest on the AAO's web site, but here are a few subjects to think about while making your short video:

• What were you like before you had orthodontic treatment at Adams Orthodontics? How have you changed?

• How proud are you of your new smile?

• When did you notice changes in yourself? What kinds of changes have you noticed?

• What would you say to others whose smiles make them self-conscious?

• What does your new smile mean to you?

We think this is a great opportunity and our entire staff at Adams Orthodontics encourage you to enter. If you have additional questions, please give us a call! GOOD LUCK!

Write a review of Adams Orthodontics!

Whether you have visited Adams Orthodontics for a week, month or for years, we’d love to hear your feedback about your experience with Dr. Blair Adams! Now with the Internet, it’s even easier to write your thoughts and share them with the world. Our staff would like to encourage you to write a review of us. It only takes a moment!

You may write a review on our Google Local page.

Thank you! And Happy Mother's Day Weekend!

Dr. Adams at the AAO Annual Session in Washington D.C.!

To better serve our patients at Adams Orthodontics with highest quality orthodontic care available, Dr. Blair Adams continues to pursue a very active interest in orthodontic advances and always strives to bring his patients the “best of the newest” technologies.

One of the ways Dr. Adams improves our service is by attending important conferences, meetings and seminars, and this past weekend, he was in Washington D.C. attending the 110th AAO Annual Session, an educational event that is one of the largest orthodontic conventions in the world - and one that allows him to consult with orthodontists from around the country and stay up-to-date on all the latest technologies and orthodontic treatment options available. This, in turn, allows Dr. Adams to give you, our wonderful patients, the best treatment experience possible.

Besides being a proud member of the American Association of Orthodontists, Dr. Adams is a member of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada, the Canadian Orthodontic Association, Northeastern Society of Orthodontists, Ontario Association of Orthodontists, Ontario Dental Association, Ottawa Dental Society, Progressive Orthodontic Study Group and the Ottawa Orthodontic Study Group.

If you've got an appointment scheduled with Dr. Adams soon, we encourage you to ask him about his trip, including what he learned and how continuing education and acquisition of new technology helps us treat you more effectively at Adams Orthodontics.

Get those checkups! From Adams Orthodontics

Are you brushing your teeth twice a day? If yes, that’s fantastic! But, don’t forget that it’s also important to visit the dentist every six months in addition to brushing your teeth a couple times a day and flossing (and visiting Adams Orthodontics, of course). Dr. Adams will tell you that regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can:

• Check for problems that might not be seen or felt
• Detect cavities and early signs of decay
• Treat oral health problems early
• Show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth

During an oral exam the doctor will check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. He or she will also screen you for oral cancer. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to the dentist in the last six months, it’s time for you to schedule an appointment - there are some terrific dentists here in Ottawa!

Don't forget about those retainers, from Dr. Adams

If you've recently completed your treatment at Adams Orthodontics, our staff would like to take this time to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Adams will provide—or has provided you—with retainers.

Retainers are important because after braces are removed, teeth may shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers provide that stabilization, and are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes.

Here are some things to remember when you receive your retainers:

* Wear your retainers full time, until the doctor instructs otherwise. Wearing your retainers at night ensures that your pearly whites won’t relapse.
* Take your retainers out when eating...and always put retainers in their case! (Most appliances are lost in school lunch rooms or restaurants.)
* Clean retainers thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush and only a small amount of toothpaste. Use warm but not hot water.
* When retainers are not in your mouth they should ALWAYS be in a retainer case.
* Retainers are breakable, so treat them with care. If retainers are lost or broken, give us a call immediately.
* Remove retainers when swimming or during any sporting activity in which the retainers could fall out and get broken or lost (cheerleading, basketball, etc.) or when you should be wearing a mouth guard (football, soccer, etc.).

Give us a call if you have any questions and again, congratulations on being braces-free!

Ask Dr. Adams: What can I expect during my consultation?

At your initial consultation, Dr. Blair Adams will conduct a comprehensive examination to assess your oral health. This will better enable him and our staff to determine the best treatment method for you.

Your orthodontic evaluation will consist of an oral and facial examination to assess your oral health. Dr. Adams will have you take intraoral and facial photographs and some X-rays to help determine the proper orthodontic treatment method. An impression of your teeth and bite will also be taken to construct a model of your mouth.

At your second appointment, Dr. Adams will discuss your options with you. Our team feels it’s important to take the time to carefully examine your diagnostic records after your consultation so that Dr. Adams can more thoroughly prepare for your treatment at Dr. Adams. This additional preparation will ensure that you receive the best orthodontic care possible. At this time, we encourage you to ask us any questions you may have about your treatment.

If you are seeking orthodontic treatment for your child, our staff asks that both you and your child attend the initial consultation. We feel it is important that both you and your child completely understand Dr. Adams' recommendations before we proceed with treatment.

Give us a call today and schedule a consultation! We look forward to hearing from you!

Dr. Blair Adams, helping you save face this spring

April, also known as National Facial Protection Month, is upon us, and for Dr. Adams and our staff at Adams Orthodontics that only means one thing: it’s once again time to remind our dear patients to protect their faces and pearly whites. Above is a helpful video from our friends at the AAO about staying safe on the ball field this spring.

According to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, children, high-school athletes and adults will have more than 5,000,000 teeth knocked out in sporting events this year.

Simply put, that's unacceptable. And that's why we're doing our job to spread the word on mouth injuries.

We hope the above video helps. If you have any further questions about any of the tips offered in the video, please contact our staff, and we’ll try to answer any question you may have. And remember to have fun and stay safe!

Parsing through the myths and facts about orthodontics, from Dr. Adams

Dr. Blair Adams knows there are quite a few myths about orthodontists (and orthodontics) floating around these days. But before you buy into those myths, he thinks 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 orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at Adams Orthodontics, feel free to give us a call at 613-748-1252.

Happy Tuesday!

Dr. Adams wants to know: What are you up to in March?

It’s springtime. The daffodils and buttercups are on their way, the birds are chirping, the sun is warming up and the smell of freshly-cut grass is wafting from sports fields nearby. Dr. Adams thought this would be a good time to ask: What are your plans for March?

Are you ready for spring? Are you participating in school sports this year? Do you have exciting plans? We’d love to know them all!

You may share your stories or plans with our team here, on our Facebook fan page or by giving us a call!

P.S. While you’re on our Facebook page, become a fan of our page!

Talking mouth guards with Dr. Blair Adams

Spring may be a time for sports, sun and fun, but it's also a time when you have to be careful if you play sports. At Adams Orthodontics, we know how important it is to protect your face and pearly whites while participating in sports activities. With spring around the corner, Dr. Blair Adams know the spring months bring an increase in outdoor activities—and a greater chance of damaging your precious pearly whites. Our dedicated team at Adams Orthodontics also know sports-related injuries are common among children. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get injured while playing sports.

That’s why our team at Adams Orthodontics is doing its part to spread the word that facial sports injuries can be avoided simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. If you play sports, it's important that you consult us for special precautions. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing contact sports. In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are your discomfort as you would treat any general soreness.

And, ask us—Dr. Adams will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment. The AAO has provided the following tips for keeping your kids safe on the field this spring. Please remind them to:

• Wear mouth guards during contact sports
• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eye wear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant—even as a spectator

All of these can reduce injuries. Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements Dr. Adams is trying to achieve. Lastly, please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Adams Orthodontics.

The SureSmile® advantage at Adams Orthodontics

Does the thought of having braces bring you down? The team at Adams Orthodontics understands that one of the biggest concerns for orthodontic patients with braces is the length of their treatment.

But you’re in luck, because Dr. Blair Adams specializes in SureSmile, high-tech braces that are revolutionizing the orthodontic industry. SureSmile, which combines digital 3-D imaging, has computer-aided treatment planning and customized archwires to straighten teeth about 40 percent faster than traditional braces. The SureSmile program calculates the exact shape and pattern of the teeth and bends and cuts the braces wires, with more precision than traditional braces.

There are three steps. First, Dr. Adams identifies the initial tooth position with the patented OraScanner, a wand with a tiny camera attached. The OraScanner creates a precise 3-D digital model of your mouth, which is then uploaded into software that lets Dr. Adams view your mouth and teeth from any angle. Next, the SureSmile system allows us to create your entire treatment plan prior to treatment, using special computer software to analyze the 3-D model of your mouth and develop a custom archwire treatment. Finally, SureSmile’s robotic technology bends Shape Memory Alloy archwires, which can “remember” your prescription.

Results

With SureSmile’s specially programmed archwires, your teeth move more directly into their intended positions. The result for our patients is shortened treatment time and a more comfortable experience in braces.

Once the braces are on it’s only a matter of time before they are taken off revealing beautiful, straight, healthy teeth. With traditional braces a patient is expected to schedule 18 to 20 office visits over two years. With SureSmile, patients average seven to 10 visits and can have their braces off within half the time!

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, and braces are on the horizon, please contact Adams Orthodontics today!

What are patients saying about Dr. Blair Adams and Adams Orthodontics?

Last week, we asked you, our wonderful patients, what you most liked about Adams Orthodontics. Well, we received some pretty great reviews, and thought we’d share a few with you today. Please feel free to contribute your own thoughts about our office! Dr. Blair Adams and our team love getting patient testimonials!

"The attention and care given from him and his great staff!" ~ Alia M.

"They always have a smile or something positive to say. I am also seeing great results!" ~ Joyce W.

"Very Modern, fun office that takes care of the patient and their family and I know that my daughter is getting the absolute best care that there is available." ~ Sara P.

"This whole office is full of friendly, helpful and responsive people who answer questions fully and promptly. Each member of the staff, from the receptionist to the orthodontist, gives you personalized attention in a totally professional yet relaxed atmosphere. It's a pleasure to come in for an appointment." ~ Eric B.

What do you love about Adams Orthodontics?

Some people wonder why Dr. Blair Adams and our team work tirelessly to give our patients straight teeth. Of course it’s nice to have a smile full of evenly aligned teeth, but did you know that straightening your teeth can keep them healthier? Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime!

Straight teeth are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque—the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to tooth decay; and they are easier to keep clean! With an orthodontic treatment plan specifically tailored for you, you can be sure that the ending result will be a smile that’s good for your life. Dr. Adams and our talented staff work hard to bring you the latest orthodontic options including Invisalign® “invisible” braces and ceramic braces, as well as TMD treatment.

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, please give us a call to set up a consultation. Dr. Adams can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment at Adams Orthodontics.

Talking orthodontics and social media with Dr. Blair Adams

At Adams Orthodontics, we embrace new technology, whether it's through the innovative orthodontic treatments that we offer, our high-tech web site or our social networks. Dr. Adams and our entire staff know social media is a great tool, and that's why we love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our Facebook fan page. For social media to work, conversation is vital, and that’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social media is hugely popular these days, it is unpredictable and ever-changing.

While we’re taking a little time to research how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog? Send us your thoughts or give us a call!

Ask Dr. Blair Adams: Why is it so important to have straight teeth?

People wonder why Dr. Adams and our team work tirelessly to give our patients straight teeth. Of course it’s nice to have a smile full of evenly aligned teeth, but did you know that straightening your teeth can keep them healthier? Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime.

Straight teeth are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque—the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to tooth decay; and they are easier to keep clean! With an orthodontic treatment plan specifically tailored for you, you can be confident that the ending result will be a smile that’s good for your life. Dr. Adams, and our talented staff work hard to bring you the latest orthodontic options including Invisalign® “invisible” braces and ceramic braces, as well as TMD treatment.

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, give us a call to set up a consultation. Dr. Adams can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment at Adams Orthodontics.

Meet Our Orthodontist

Dr. Blair Adams grew up in Ottawa and has been practicing orthodontics here since 1982. After receiving an Honours B.Sc. in Biology from Carleton University, he attended dental school at the University of Western Ontario. At Western, Dr. Adams met and fell in love with a certain Kinesiology student named Joselyn. They were married in Joselyn’s hometown of Oakville the day after he received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree.

The newlyweds migrated to Vancouver, where Dr. Adams practiced general dentistry for three years. He was then accepted into the orthodontic school at Tufts University in Boston. While they were living in Boston, their daughter, Nicola, was born.

Dr. Adams graduated first in his class from Tufts with a Diploma in Orthodontics. He was granted the status of Certified Specialist in Orthodontics by the Province of Ontario and returned to his hometown to open his practice. Dr. Adams became a member of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and is also a member of many other dental and orthodontic professional associations.

He continues to pursue a very active interest in orthodontic advances and always strives to bring his patients the “best of the newest” technologies.