Dr. Gardner & Piedmont Orthodontics with the 411 on Halloween treats

For moms and dads in Spartanburg who are worried about their kids going overboard on candies this weekend, sugar and other sweets, Halloween is a dreaded annual event (no pun intended).

Dr. Gardner will tell you all those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, but these treats are known to damage teeth, as well as braces! Did you know sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them? This can cause tooth decay and cavities! Sour and fruity candy, such as Starburst and Skittles, are the worst for your child’s teeth since these candies have a low pH value, which is known to ruin enamel. Also, we also want your child to steer clear of sticky, chewy, gummy and nutty goodies this Halloween.

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists recommend softer treats, such as soft chocolate or peanut butter cups, or melt-in-your-mouth foods. Trick-or-treaters who indulge should make sure they brush and floss between teeth, around brackets and at the gum line. If damage occurs, call Dr. Gardner and our staff as soon as possible.

We hope everyone has a fun, safe and scary Halloween!

Straight talk with Dr. Gardner

Some people wonder why Dr. Ernie Gardner and our staff at Piedmont Orthodontic Associates 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 at Piedmont Orthodontic Associates 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!

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 at our convenient office here in Spartanburg. Dr. Gardner can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Questions? Give us a call at 864-641-3369 or ask us on Facebook!

Welcome to the Piedmont Orthodontic Associates blog!

Thank you for taking the time to visit the Piedmont Orthodontic Associates blog. Please check back often for weekly updates on fun and exciting events happening at our office, important and interesting information about orthodontics and the dental industry, and the latest news about our practice.

Feel free to leave a comment or question for Dr. Gardner and staff here or on our Facebook page – we hope this will be a valuable resource for our patients, their families, and friends!

Enjoy your weekend!

October Marks National Orthodontic Health Month!

October symbolizes the transition into the Fall season and of course, Halloween! For our team at Piedmont Orthodontic Associates, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), and orthodontic patients around the country, October also marks the National Orthodontic Health Month. This month is a great time to remind patients of the importance of strong oral hygiene and a braces-friendly diet, especially since many of the sticky and sweet Halloween treats can be harmful to braces and other orthodontic appliances.

Candy remains a huge part of Halloween for tens of millions of American kids each year. The National Confectioners Association says 93 percent of children in the United States go trick-or-treating, and estimates candy sales will be higher this year than ever. Candy is not all bad in moderation, but can lead to big problems in excess! It can lead to tooth decay, broken or chipped teeth, and delayed orthodontic treatment time due to broken or loose appliances and braces. Get the facts about Halloween candy and orthodontics by asking us! You can also learn more on the AAO’s National Orthodontic Health Month website. We also appreciate your help in spreading the word!