Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Tuesday Tooth Trivia, from Dr. Underwood

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 Underwood 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.

Thursday, December 23, 2010

Ask Dr. Underwood: Can I benefit from braces?

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Underwood 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!

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Dr. Underwood's top ten tips for keeping your braces clean and cavity free

Our team at Underwood Orthodontics understands that with holiday goodies everywhere you look, keeping your braces clean is exceptionally difficult this time of year. Keep in mind, however, 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!

Happy Holidays!

Dr. Underwood and Team

Thursday, December 9, 2010

What are patients saying about Underwood Orthodontics?

Dr. Underwood and team, serving Powell and Marysville, OH, deliver the highest quality orthodontic care in a personalized environment. We make orthodontic treatment fun and enjoyable. Just see what our patients had to say when they were asked, "What do you like best about our practice?"

"The great quality that Dr. Underwwod delivers." ~Melissa

"Friendly staff & online access" ~Michelle

"Timeliness of appointments, the practice stays on schedule." ~Chris

Friday, December 3, 2010

Patient Question: Does Dr. Underwood customize Invisalign® for each patient?

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work, says Dr. Underwood. 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. Underwood is a certified Invisalign provider in Marysville and Powell. 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.

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

A Season to Give Thanks

Dr. Underwood and team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. Enjoy a day filled of friends, family, and great Thanksgiving food.

We are very thankful for all of our patients and their families. We'd like to know, what are you most thankful for this year? Leave us a comment, or if you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we encourage you to share them on our Facebook page!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Saturday, November 20, 2010

The Underwood Orthodontics Candy Buy Back was a huge success!

Underwood Orthodontics recently held our 3rd annual Treats for Sweets Candy Buy Back Program. We are pleased to share that we collected over 305 pounds of candy! The collected candy will be donated to The Dublin Food Pantry. We will also be making a donation to The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Thanks to everyone for your support of Treats for Sweets!

Friday, November 12, 2010

Dr. Underwood asks: Is your child nearing their seventh birthday?

Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Dr. Underwood for a consultation, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That’s right—seven.

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

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

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and are detrimental to good oral hygiene. So, if your child is nearing his or her seventh birthday, give us a call at Underwood Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Toasty Toes, Warm Hearts!

Help Powell and Marysville, OH orthodontist Dr. Underwood and our team warm the toes of needy families this holiday season. Your donation of new socks will be delivered to the Welcome Warehouse in time for the holidays!

Now through Dec. 4, Underwood Orthodontics encourages our patients to drop off new sock donations at either our Powell or Marysville office. We are accepting both children and adult size socks.

Together, we can help area families stay warmer this winter. Please give us a call if you have any questions!

Friday, October 29, 2010

Trick-or-treat, and then visit Dr. Underwood for Treats for Sweets!

Trick-or-treat! In the spirit of October's sweet and spooky holiday, Halloween, Dr. Underwood would like to remind all of our patients that our 3rd annual Treats for Sweets is next week!

The Candy Buy Back event begins next Wednesday, Nov. 3rd in our Powell office and next Thursday, Nov. 4th in our Marysville office. For every pound of candy that is donated, we'll give you $1 and donate $1 to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation. All candy will be donated to the Dublin Food Pantry.

Don't hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions about the Candy Buy Back program, or if you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Underwood. We look forward to seeing all of our patients next week. Happy Halloween!

Thursday, October 21, 2010

Underwood Orthodontics supports National Orthodontic Health Month

Can you believe October is already more than halfway over? 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.

Many treats can cause havoc for trick-or-treaters who are going through orthodontic treatment, and these treats may cause damage that could prolong your treatment time. The AAO recommends patients avoid the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

• Caramel
• Nuts
• Popcorn (including un-popped kernels)
• Taffy
• Jelly beans
• Hard pretzels
• Licorice
• Bubblegum
• Taco chips
• Ice


If you happen to damage your braces, please give Dr. Underwood and our staff a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone. Loose brackets or wires can usually be made more comfortable by applying some wax until you can come into our office.

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Underwood Orthodontics attends this year's Chicago Invisalign Training

Underwood Orthodontics offers excellence in orthodontic treatment for children and adults, which is why it is important that our doctor and team attends regular educational conferences. Dr. Underwood and two of our clinical assistants, Jamie and Nicole, recently attended an Invisalign Training in Chicago. Jamie and Nicole enjoyed the speaker, Dr. Mark Perelmuter, and they were able to learn several new techniques. We are all very excited about the new products that will be available soon.

For more information on Invisalign and other orthodontic treatment options, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Underwood.

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Patient spotlight: Why one patient recommends Underwood Orthodontics



Have you ever wondered what it's like to visit the orthodontist? Now you can see for yourself! In this short video, Deanna shares her experience at Underwood Orthodontics with the world. You can also visit the Underwood Orthodontics YouTube channel for more video testimonials about our doctor and team.

Dr. Underwood and our team are committed to creating a beautiful smile for every one of our patients. Feel free to give us a call if you have any questions about your orthodontic treatment at our office, or if you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Underwood.

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Dr. Underwood thanks all of our patients who attended the 2010 Patient Appreciation Picnic!

Dr. Underwood and our team would like to thank all of our patients who attended the 2010 Patient Appreciation Picnic. Be sure to visit our Facebook page, so that you can see all of the event photos, videos, and comments about the event! You can also visit our YouTube channel to watch a few of the videos from our Hula Hoop Contest.

Did you attend the Underwood Orthodontics Patient Appreciation Picnic this year? We would love to hear your feedback about the event!

Thanks to everyone who helped make the picnic a huge success!

-Dr. Underwood and team

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Dr. Underwood asks: Can you hula hoop on one leg? Many of our patients can!



Last Saturday, Dr. Underwood and team hosted our Patient Appreciation Party at the Powell, OH Coffman Park Shelter House West. The event was a huge success! There was a Hula Hoop Contest, as well as a magician, three bounce houses, and face painting. Check out this short video, and visit our YouTube channel to see more great videos from the Hula Hoop Contest this year. Congratulations to our contest winners Hannah, Jaymie, Margaret, Shashana, Brian, Lena and Isabella!

For more information on Dr. Underwood and orthodontic treatment in Powell and Marysville, OH, feel free to give us a call. Thanks to everyone who attended our Patient Appreciation Day!

-Dr. Underwood and team

Monday, September 13, 2010

Underwood Orthodontics invites patients to our 3rd annual Treats for Sweets!

No tricks here! Kids, for each pound of Halloween candy that you bring to Underwood Orthodontics during our Treats for Sweets Candy Buyback Program, we’ll give you $1.00 and donate another $1.00 to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. We'll also donate the candy to The Dublin Food Pantry.

Take out your favorites, that’s okay! Bring the rest of your bounty to our Powell, OH or Marysville, OH office and trade it in for cash. We hope to see all of our patients at this great community event!

You're invited to Treats for Sweets!

Who: You and your family!

What: Treats for Sweets Candy Buyback Program

Where: Our Powell, OH and Marysville, OH offices

When: 7am - 4:30pm Wednesday, Nov. 3rd in Powell, OH
7am - 4:30pm Thursday, Nov. 4th in Marysville, OH

Why: To raise money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, donate candy to the Dublin Food Pantry, and earn cash for your candy!

Friday, September 10, 2010

Ask Dr. Underwood: What can Invisalign® do for my oral health?

When considering treatment options, patients often ask us how Invisalign treatment is so different than traditional braces. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign with Underwood Orthodontics than you may know. Invisalign is a series of removable aligners that are nearly invisible, and besides straightening your teeth, can improve your oral health. Here’s how:

Healthy gums: Straight teeth allow a close fit for gums. This lessens the gum stress that is caused by crowded or widely spaced teeth, thus also reducing red and swollen gums.

Easy cleaning: Invisalign is removable, therefore brushing and flossing is easier and you are able to maintain a healthy mouth. These habits are vital to avoiding tooth decay, plaque and even gum disease.

Improved speech and chewing: Properly-aligned teeth don’t have the discomfort or compound speech impediments that can be caused by crowded teeth or a deteriorating jawbone.

If you have any questions about Invisalign, just ask Dr. Underwood the next time you’re in for an appointment. Or, you may post your question on our Facebook page! You can also read this article for more information on Invisalign and your oral health.

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Mark your calendars for the Underwood Orthodontics Patient Appreciation Party!

This September, Dr. Underwood and our team will be hosting our Patient Appreciation Party! We will have a magician, contests and prizes, three bounce houses, and face painting! City BBQ and Dairy Queen will both be served. Please RSVP by September 5th. We look forward to seeing everyone at our Patient Appreciation Party!

Underwood Orthodontics Patient Appreciation Party

Who: All of our patients and their families & all of the DDS we work with and their staff and families!

What: Underwood Orthodontics Patient Appreciation Party

Where: Coffman Park Shelter House West

When: Sunday, September 19 from 1:00-4:00pm

Why: To have a great afternoon with all of our amazing patients!

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Moooooove over gum disease!

Dr. Underwood wants to know: Is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, it should be! A 2008 study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can actually lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). Results of the study also showed that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease.

Cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth. In addition to providing large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also does its part to fight cavities. Cheddar, Swiss, Mozzarella, and Monterey Jack all stimulate the body's salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris and protect them from acids that weaken them, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This means cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's ph level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

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

Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

For more information about which dairy foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please give us a call.

Monday, August 16, 2010

Underwood Orthodontics, supporter of the AAO Style 'N Smile fashion show!

The Style 'N Smile fashion show, sponsored by the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, promotes self esteem, while displaying the newest back to school fashions. Most importantly, the fashion show emphasizes how beautiful and healthy smiles never goes out of style. To learn more about the Style 'N Smile fashion show, take a look at this short video clip from 90210 pop culture icon Jennie Garth. In the video, she shares how being self conscious is a rite of passage, and that’s why giving younger (and older) people the opportunity to improve their smile goes hand in hand with improving self esteem.

With SureSmile and Invisalign treatment options, Underwood Orthodontics has what it takes to make you smile! Give us a call today if you have any questions about the Style 'N Smile fashion show, or if you would like to schedule your complimentary consultation!

Friday, August 13, 2010

Distinguishing the myths and facts about orthodontics, from Dr. Underwood

Trust us when we say Dr. Underwood and our professional staff knows there are quite a few myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) floating around these days. But before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists set the record straight (no pun intended) and have provided some information that sheds some light 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 Underwood Orthodontics, feel free to give us a call.

Friday, August 6, 2010

The importance of retainers, from Underwood Orthodontics

If you recently completed treatment at Underwood Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Underwood will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, however, always provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed by Dr. Underwood is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime.

To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment with Underwood Orthodontics, please read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth or give us a call!

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

All the cool kids are wearing 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 Invisalign, 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. Underwood, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

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

Friday, July 23, 2010

Ask Dr. Underwood: How do I know if Invisalign® is right for me?

Invisalign is customized for each patient, which is part of why it is so effective, says Dr. Underwood. To find out if you are a 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 are able to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning to the end of your treatment. 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. Underwood is a certified Invisalign provider in Powell, OH and surrounding areas. 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.

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

SureSmile® 3-D imaging technology at Underwood Orthodontics

Our team at Underwood Orthodontics recently came across a very interesting New York Times article, which discusses the benefits of 3-D imaging technology. Dr. Underwood and our office uses 3-D imaging technology through the SureSmile® treatment. SureSmile technology is revolutionizing the orthodontic industry because it orchestrates clearer patient diagnosis, allows doctors to specifically tailor appliances to a patient's individual needs, and it gives the patient the ability to see exactly what their mouth will look like post-treatment. The treatment is estimated to be almost 40% faster than conventional braces. This allows for overall fewer office visits, less discomfort, and higher quality results.

For more information on SureSmile technology, check out our website or give our office a call! Dr. Underwood is a certified SureSmile provider and would be happy to meet with you to discuss treatment options.

Friday, July 9, 2010

Dr. Underwood presents the perfect braces-friendly summer dessert

Summer is finally here in Powell and Marysville, OH , meaning it's time for a fruity dessert recipe! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) made an appetizing (and braces-friendly!) summer treat that is sure to delight. Remember, a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps you achieve the best possible result from your orthodontic treatment.


Lime-Graham Cheesecake Nibbles

Ingredients:

Crust:
• 1½ cups graham-cracker crumbs (about 9 double-square crackers, crushed)
• 3 Tablespoons margarine, melted
• – or –
• 1½ cups gingersnap crumbs (about 24 to 30 gingersnap cookies, crushed)
• 3 Tablespoons margarine, melted
Filling:
• 2 eggs, separated
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup sugar
• 3 drops green food coloring
• 2 Tablespoons lime juice
• 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
Directions:

Preheat oven to 325°. Line two muffin tins with 24 cupcake papers. In a medium bowl, stir together the crumbs and margarine. Spoon 1 Tablespoon of the crumb mixture into each paper. Press down the mixture firmly with the bottom of a small juice glass. In a medium bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together egg whites and the salt until the mixture forms soft peaks. Set aside. In a large bowl, use the mixer to beat together the cream cheese, sugar, food coloring, lime juice and flour, until fluffy. Add the yolks until well mixed, then use a spoon to fold in the whites. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the lime mixture into each paper. Bake at 325 degrees for 25 minutes. Cool on the counter for 20 minutes, then keep refrigerated. Makes two dozen.

Enjoy this great summer dessert and have a great week!

--From Dr. Underwood and staff

Friday, July 2, 2010

Summer fun with Underwood Orthodontics

It's summer here at Underwood Orthodontics in Marysville and Powell, Ohio, a season full of vacations, adventures, and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, hitting America's open roads or just having fun in the sun, Dr. Underwood and our team want to hear all about it! Leave a comment on our blog or Facebook page and tell us about your summer!

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

Have a fun & safe Independence Day weekend!

-Underwood Orthodontics

Friday, June 25, 2010

Invisalign® tips, from Underwood Orthodontics

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. Underwood 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 Underwood Orthodontics, give us a call!

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Underwood Orthodontics Celebrating the National Smile Month

It's June already! Where does the time go?

Dr. Underwood and team are excited to tell you June marks National Smile Month, a great time to remind our patients to brush, floss, practice good nutrition at home (and over the summer) to avoid cavities and gum disease, among other dental health issues.

After all, there's more and more evidence that suggests folks with gum disease are more at risk for serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and strokes.

Here are a few easy steps you can improve your oral health at home:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth and braces
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during orthodontic treatment.
* Visit your general dentist regularly (usually every six months apart).

If you have questions about any of the tips here, we encourage you to give us a call!

Friday, June 11, 2010

What do you love about Underwood Orthodontics?

From your very first visit to Underwood Orthodontics, our dedicated staff and Dr. Kent Underwood strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by Dr. Underwood? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with your smile?

Our staff at Underwood Orthodontics is committed to creating a beautiful smile for every patient. Our goal is to provide you with the highest level of orthodontic treatment and an enjoyable experience. We offer excellence in orthodontic treatment for children and adults, and has what it takes to make you smile!

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Friday, June 4, 2010

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 Dr. Underwood is a certified SureSmile provider? Give us a call and ask for more information!

Monday, May 24, 2010

Meet Our Orthodontist

Growing up in a small town in upstate New York, Dr. Underwood learned at an early age the importance of family and community. He works hard to incorporate his personal values into his work as an orthodontist. As a patient of Dr. Underwood's, you'll be treated like family, because he feels that every person he treats deserves the same respect and level of care that he would give to his own spouse and children.

Dr. Underwood is pleased to welcome you and your family to his practice, and he looks forward to sharing his knowledge and experience with you as you work together toward achieving a beautiful new smile.

Originally from New York, Dr. Underwood enjoys living, and raising his family, in Ohio. When he's not at the practice, Dr. Underwood and his wife, Amy, are very involved in their church and with the PTO organizations at their children's, Annie and Ricky, school. In his free time, Dr. Underwood enjoys running, fly fishing, kayaking, and spending time outdoors. He is also a long-time member and board member of the Dublin A.M. Rotary Club.