"Hey, Dr. Nelson: What’s so special about an orthodontist?"

"Dentists, Orthodontists, they're all the same right?" We hear our patients asking this question as they wonder about the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. Before becoming an orthodontist Dr. Nelson started out in dental school and earned a DDS (dental degree), just like your dentist. After dental school however, Dr. Nelson decided he wanted to learn more about orthodontics, which is one of nine specialties within the dental field. He was selected for one of six positions in the Orthodontic Specialty Program to become an expert in orthodontics, which focuses on tooth and jaw alignment and bite problems like overbites and under bites.

Other dental specialties you may have heard of include endodontic (focusing on the soft tissue inside your teeth), periodontic (focusing on the gums and other tissues surrounding your teeth) and prosthodontic (focusing on restoring and replacing damaged teeth).

Isn't it nice to know there's a dental expert here to help you through any type of treatment your teeth, jaw and gums might need?

Preparing for Cold and Flu Season, from Austin Orthodontics

It’s that time of year to start thinking about protecting yourself and your family from the flu. Here are some simple steps you can take to help yourself avoid colds and the flu this season.

• 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

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. Nelson and our team 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.

Hope this helps and give us a call if you have any questions! Stay healthy!

Self-ligating brackets at Austin Orthodontics

At Austin Orthodontics we use self-ligating braces to allow for your teeth to move more comfortably and easily than traditional braces. With self-ligating brackets, achieving that perfect smile will be faster and easier than you ever thought possible.

As we mentioned in our "What we do Wednesday" this week, one of the most significant differences from conventional dental braces is the absence of elastic ligature (bands or ties). These cutting edge braces use a slide mechanism to hold the archwire, which reduces the amount of pressure exerted on your teeth.

Dr. Nelson and our team strive to provide patients with an exceptional orthodontic experience using the most progressive forms of treatment available. Please give us a call to learn more about self-ligating brackets, and schedule a consultation with Dr. Nelson.

Make 2011 the year to improve your oral health

Many folks in Austin, TX 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. Nelson 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 Austin Orthodontics