When Should Treatment Start?

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends an orthodontic evaluation at the age of 7. This is the recommended age because typically the first of the adult teeth appear, and when some of the more important problems of dental development can require treatment. Treatment for young children is usually aimed at dealing with functional problems that immediately threaten the health of the teeth. The conditions that we treat in early childhood are problems of tooth eruption, crossbite, overcrowding, jaw growth problems, snoring, thumb sucking, tongue thrust and open bite.

Orthodontic issues can develop very early in childhood, which is why early treatment is important for a number of specific conditions to prevent damage to the adult teeth or to limit the effects of a developing growth problem. One of our guiding principles at Bailey Orthodontics is to keep the amount of treatment required to produce a great smile to an absolute minimum. For more information on orthodontic treatment for children, click here to visit our website or give us a call.

Healthy Habits For Your Teeth

Seeking orthodontic treatment is a great way to make sure your oral health is in good shape. However, there are other factors that affect the status of healthy teeth. Brushing, flossing and eating habits are just as important.

When treating your teeth Bailey Orthodontics staff want to be sure they are working with healthy teeth; developing healthy habits starts at a young age.

Did you know that the baby teeth that appear in the first 3 years of a child's life have been there since birth, in the baby’s jaw-bones? Those baby teeth are key for chewing, speaking, and appearance. They also hold space in the jaws for upcoming adult teeth. Even though they fall out, baby teeth are important and you need to take good care of them.

For healthier teeth, good breath and fewer cavities kids need to remember to brush their teeth for 2 minutes, twice a day. Adopting these healthy brushing habits can help save children from a lifetime of tooth pain.

Helpful Brushing Tips

•     Brush with a fluoride toothpaste.
•     Place the toothbrush at an angle against the gums.
•     Make sure to move the toothbrush back and forth, gently, in short strokes.
•     Brush the tongue to remove germs and freshen breath.

At Bailey Orthodontics we care about the overall oral health of all of our patients. If you have any questions about your oral health, please contact our office today.

The Bitter Truth About Sweets

Not only is maintaining proper oral hygiene important to your dental health while having braces but what you eat is important too. Sugar is the ingredient for all sweet treats, and as good as that sounds it is actually harmful to your teeth.

How is sugar harmful?

Sugar particles spark overproduction of acid in our mouths and creating tooth decay. Acid breaks down enamel in teeth causing erosion that can cause pain and cause teeth to become very sensitive. The more sugar in your mouth, the more acid that is produced, and the bigger problem you have.

In addition to being harmful oral health, when eating lots of sweet treats while having braces you may find that your teeth have white spots. Those whites sports are  called decalcification. When sugar is left on the teeth you can be left with a buildup of grim under your braces, thus causing white spots called decalcification. And those white spots may take a while to fade away. So it is important to limit the sugar in your diet, which includes candy, treats and sugary drinks.

Examples of sugary treats and drinks:

Remember you want healthy teeth after your braces are off, so consume sugar moderately and always brush your teeth or rinse your mouth with water after the consumption of sugar.

Can Adults Wear Braces?

Braces do the job of straightening teeth, regardless of age. More common than ever these days, you see adults wearing braces, and when you do, one question instantly pops into your head - do braces work for adults? The answer is YES. In fact, adults aged 20 to 40 years represent at least 40 percent of the population of people wearing braces. The reason why so many current adults skipped wearing braces during their youth is that they often feared of being bullied and teased because back in the 80's and 90's, braces we not as aesthetically pleasing as they are now. Trust us, braces have evolved since then now more than ever adults are wearing braces or aligners to get a picture perfect smile.

Nowadays, wearing braces has become more socially acceptable, affordable, and routine for our adult patients. We even have patients with close to straight teeth that want to try out braces just too perfect minor flaws. Adults can skip the traditional metal braces and opt for Invisalign clear aligners, ceramic braces, or other less obvious orthodontic treatment when being seen at Bailey Orthodontics.

For more information about braces for adults, you can always contact Bailey orthodontics located in Surprise and Buckeye, AZ.

Are You Going Back To School With Braces?

Caring for braces especially for students in school can be quiet hectic due to the restrictive devotions to maintain the braces and for this reason, Bailey Orthodontics has decided to put up an article which will make caring for orthodontic braces easy in school. As a student who just had an orthodontic treatment, you should be rest assured that it is the best that can happen to give you the perfect smile again but the care for your teeth and gums help make it very effective. Take a look at your new braces, you can notice a lot of nooks and crannies that can trap food and plaque and that means a great risk of tooth decay is imminent if not properly cared for, therefore you need to pay special attention to cleaning your teeth. This might look hectic but right here the team of Bailey Orthodontics has few great tips to keep your braces in top condition.

1. WATCH YOUR DIET
As an orthodontic patient with braces, it is very important for you to select your diet with caution. We know that there are several foods in school which tastes great but don't look great in your braces. Certain foods can either break a bracket or some foods are sugary and can have negative effects on the natural ability to brush behind the bracket. Be sure to make decisions on foods based on what is healthy, tasty, and won't harm your brackets.

Food to avoid: As an orthodontic patient we would advise that you desist from:

• Sticky or gooey foods 
• Hard foods 
• Sugary foods 
• Acidic drinks 

2. WEAR A MOUTHGUARD
With braces on your teeth, you might be wondering if you should desist from sports or retire from being the captain of your favorite sports team, but the truth is orthodontics does not affect your ability to play sports. You can keep on with your braces and sports if and only if you have your mouth guard on. Mouth guards are safety measures that can mean the difference between just a bruised, fat lips and thousands spent in orthodontics repair work. While you are in any kind of physical activity (including gym classes), it is advisable that you wear a mouth guard which can protect your teeth and braces from flying sports balls, swinging elbows or an accidental fall or hit.

3. BRUSH AND FLOSS REGULARLY
Braces can easily trap food, and this trapped food can lead to other inimical dental problems. Because of this, it is very important to brush your teeth after every meal and to floss at least once a day.

4. DON'T CHEW ON PENCILS
Pencils, pen, and rulers are all hard objects and most times when you get bored, anxious or plainly destructive you are tempted to chew on them in class. Obviously, this can be destructive in the moment and can be grossly inimical over time. It is important that you don't practice these habits while wearing braces.

We know that maintaining braces in school is can be tough. That is why we ensure to give you the best plans of action to help you out.

For more questions and inquiries that you may have, we are always at your service. You can always contact Bailey Orthodontics.

Early Evaluations For A Perfect Smile

Orthodontics deals with the correction of teeth and jaws that are not in the right position. Bailey Orthodontics has been a versatile help in creating a straight and healthy smile to patients who are affected with crooked teeth and other oral problems such as:

• Overbite: In which the front teeth lie so much far forward, protruding quite the lower teeth.

• Underbite: In which the lower teeth lie too far forward, sticking out more than the upper teeth.

• Crossbite: In which there is a wide opening between the upper teeth and the lower teeth in front.

• Crowding: This is when there are too many teeth growing on a dental ridge more than it can accommodate.

These problems are easily solved with orthodontics through the use of Invisalign aligners, traditional braces, and various appliances to mention a few.  It is factual that orthodontics effectively manages oral problems when discovered early, especially when the patient is a child and yet to develop a permanent tooth. A recommendation from the American Association of Orthodontists, the ideal age for a child’s first orthodontic exam is age seven when the orthodontist is fortunate enough to monitor closely the eruption of their permanent teeth and follow the growth of the jaws through its critical years of development. It is obvious that early evaluation enables us to catch the problem while it is at its metamorphosing stage, rather than after the patient has already developed, thus making it much more effectively managed with imminent invasive treatment needed in the future avoided.

When orthodontic problems are left undiagnosed and untreated, many of these issues can result in severe and permanent oral health problems. These may include abnormal wear of the tooth surface or enamel, inefficient chewing, and even excessive stress on gum tissues and supporting bones which can lead to gum recession or bone loss. Early treatment of these problems not only protects the teeth but can be more cost effective to fix the problems before they cause damages

Early treatment phase is provided from ages 7 and older when the treatment is majorly aimed at eliminating bite problems which can damage the teeth or gum tissues, treating down the road less invasive thus minimizing tooth extraction or jaw surgery.

Orthodontics patients of Bailey Orthodontics are advised to see Dr. Bailey early so that they can attain the best oral health and have a nice straight, healthy smile with a strategized treatment plan.

For more questions and information, you can contact Bailey Orthodontics today.

New Summer Recipe | Strawberry Dole Whip

At Bailey Orthodontics we believe nutrition and a healthy smile go hand in hand. From snacking and eating on the go, to making sure kids have access to healthy snacks at home, Bailey Orthodontics wants to help you keep your snack choices healthy this summer with braces-friendly healthy summer snack recipes.

By avoiding sticky sweets and sugary beverages, we will provide you with snack choices that are fit for orthodontic patients and promote overall wellness and health! All summer long, check here for healthy new summer snack recipes! 

Learn how to make STRAWBERRY DOLE WHIPS

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sliced frozen strawberries 
• 1 cup frozen raspberries or more strawberries 
• 1/4 cup milk of choice or canned coconut milk 
• Pinch stevia OR 1 1/2 tsp sugar or sweetener of choice
• 2 tsp lemon juice (lemon might sound strange, but it really makes the recipe!)
• 1/16 tsp salt

Strawberry Dole Whip Recipe: 

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. 
2. Scoop out and eat OR put in a plastic bag and freeze ten minutes, then cut a hole in the bag’s edge and squeeze out in a swirl.

For more braces-friendly recipes, tips, and tricks LIKE Bailey Orthodontics on Facebook and follow @baileyorthoaz on Instagram. 

Donation Drive At The Annual Pool Party

Bailey Orthodontics has made it a point to help contribute to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Phoenix every year at our annual patient appreciation pool party! This year, we are asking that you join just once again in giving back to the community. During our annual pool party, we will be hosting a donation drive collecting items for the Ronal McDonald House.

About the Ronald McDonadl House of Phoenix
Ronald McDonald House of Phoenix (RMHC) is truly “the House that Love Built,” thanks to the outstanding commitment of volunteers and the generosity of donors.” Through the generous support of our community, RMHC has been able to serve more than 37,000 families since 1985. The families who benefit from RMHC travel far from home to receive treatment for their child at world-renowned pediatric centers located in Phoenix. Their child’s treatment may last a day, a month, or even longer. It’s a long time to be away from home or to divide a family, and often times commuting or staying at a hotel is either impossible or financially challenging for a family. RMHC is able to help families overcome these obstacles by providing low-cost, temporary housing that is near their child’s hospital. (source: www.rmhcphoenix.com/ronald-mcdonald-house)

What Donation Items Should You Bring?

We are asking that when you come out to enjoy the pool party you please try to bring at least one of these items. All items donated must be new, for any questions regarding the annual pool party or our donation drive contact our office. Can't wait to see you there!

Causes of Crooked Teeth

There are a number of reasons that cause crooked teeth, ranging from genetics to mouth deformities and serious oral diseases. When extra teeth or abnormally large teeth create a malocclusion (crookedness), it’s usually genetic in nature. Other inherited traits involve jaws that are too small to accommodate a full set of teeth and misaligned jaws that did not form properly in the womb.

Can crooked teeth be prevented?
In most cases, underbites, overbites, and crooked teeth are genetically derived and can’t be avoided. Orthodontic treatment with braces will be necessary to correct the condition once the child is old enough to wear them. However, certain early childhood behaviors may also contribute to the development of crooked teeth that can be avoided. These include:

• Thumb sucking and tongue thrusting
• Losing baby teeth to decay before permanent teeth have naturally pushed them out of their sockets
• Allowing pacifier use to continue after front teeth have erupted

Permanent teeth underneath baby teeth are directly affected by the health of baby teeth. If baby teeth are prematurely lost due to decay or trauma, permanent teeth will shift when they start moving upward. Baby teeth are like anchors for permanent teeth that help guide them as they erupt through the gums.

When to Start Orthodontic Treatment for Crooked Teeth
Dr. Bailey and our staff suggest that parents bring their child to Bailey Orthodontics around age seven to rule out potential issues with permanent teeth eruption. If problems are discovered, it is not unusual to begin orthodontic treatment at that age. In fact, specific conditions such as crowding and gaps between teeth are easier to correct at an early age.

Early treatment also benefits from the growth process of the jaw, which helps move teeth to normal positions.

REVIEW US & WIN!

We will be giving away $5 Dutch Bros gift cards to the first 5 people to leave us a review on Google every Friday this Summer! It's simple to enter, check our Facebook page on Friday's to see what time the contest begins! We will be announcing the winners on the following Monday right here on Facebook! 

ENTER AS SOON AS YOU SEE THE POST ON FACEBOOK! To make your life a little easier, WE'VE INCLUDED THE LINK to our Google review page! 

READY, GO! https://goo.gl/maps/xFMf9ZvRRG42

4 Easy Smoothies For New Braces

One of the most common questions we get from new patients is “what can I eat after I get my braces?”  Aside from the typical checklist of approved and nonapproved foods to eat during your orthodontic treatment at Bailey Orthodontics, we like to go above and beyond and provide you with recipe ideas, too.  We want to show you that eating healthy, delicious food is still possible after you’ve started your braces journey.  Yes, there are certain points in your treatment process when your mouth might be more sensitive than usual, but that doesn't mean you don't get to enjoy a delicious meal or snack. Smoothies are the perfect solution for when chewing just doesn’t sound all that fun!

Here are 4 office-approved smoothie recipes that taste great and help you get the nutrients you need. You can prep and freeze these 4 super quick and easy smoothie recipes. Choose your own base of yogurt, juice, milk, tea, or water and some ice to blend these ingredients up into something spectacular for your tastebuds!

BERRY BLAST

1C Raspberries

1C Blueberries

1C Strawberries

1C Spinach

SWEET SUNRISE

1C Raspberries

1 Orange

1/2 Banana

1C Mango

KIWI REFRESH

1 Kiwi

1& 1/2C Watermelon

1 &1/2C Grapes

GREEN MONSTER

1 Grapefruit

1 Banana

1C Pineapple

1C Spinach

More On Wisdom Teeth And Braces

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that usually come in anywhere from 17 to 25 years old. Coincidentally, this age bracket is a popular time for orthodontic work, and many people are in braces or will soon have them taken off. It can be disconcerting in this time period to see completely new teeth emerging.

Wisdom teeth are a leftover trait from when humans had larger jaws and chewed hearty leaves. Wisdom teeth tend to overcrowd already corrected molars or emerge only half way. In fact, wisdom teeth statistically have the highest chance of growing in sideways, an issue known as an impacted wisdom tooth, which can affect the nearby teeth. However, wisdom teeth cannot cause front teeth to become crooked. From the back of the mouth, the pressure they exert on the other molars is not strong enough to reach the front.

This has led people to believe that wisdom teeth can ruin their current or previous dental work. There are a number of other factors that have led to this. Around 20 years old, the jaw performs its last growth spurt, which can leave teeth crooked. This is also the age when many former braces wearers begin to neglect their retainers at night.

Many people have their wisdom teeth emerge as healthy, effective back molars. In this case, the tooth has grown in straight and is not affecting the person’s bite and any dental work will be unaffected. There is nothing stopping a person with healthy wisdom teeth from getting braces either.

Each set of braces is unique for the wearer, as is the decision on what to do about wisdom teeth. Talk with Dr. Bailey as soon as you notice any discomfort or wisdom teeth appearing. While they may not affect your braces, wisdom teeth can change your overall oral health.

At Bailey Orthodontics in Buckeye and Surprise, we offer orthodontic treatment to patients of all ages. Whether you’re looking for braces, Invisalign or other orthodontic options, we can help you get the smile you want. Contact Bailey Orthodontics today to schedule your consultation. We can answer any questions you may have, including how wisdom teeth affect your treatment.

Tips For Invisalign Patients

Invisalign straightens your teeth without wires and brackets, using a series of clear, customized, removable appliances called aligners. It's virtually undetectable, which means hardly anyone will know that you're straightening your teeth. To ensure the best possible results we decided to compile a list of a few tips for our patients currently using Invisalign.

• Wear your aligners for a minimum of 2 weeks, before moving into the next aligner. 
• Sharp or rough edges can be smoothed with an emery board. 
• Change into your next aligner before going to bed so they settle in overnight. 
• Keep your aligners in their case while eating to avoid losing them. Keep the out of reach of any household pets, especially dogs! 
• If you need to, you can soak your Invisalign aligners in a mix of 50/50 white vinegar and cold water to brighten them.
• Wear your aligners for at least 20 hours a day.
• Always carry a toothbrush. 
• Only drink water when you're wearing your aligners. 
• Don't put your aligners in hot water.
• Don't use toothpaste to clean your aligners.

If you have any further questions about Invisalign please don’t hesitate to call us at our convenient Buckeye or Surprise offices. 

Spring Recipe Alert: Sugar Cookie Fruit Pizzas

Sugar cookie fruit pizzas are delicious and fun to make. Start with a soft sugar cookie and top it with a cheesecake layer! Finish with some fresh fruit of your choice.

SUGAR COOKIE FRUIT PIZZAS

Ingredients
For the Sugar Cookies

• ½ cup butter
• ½ cup shortening
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• 3 egg yolks
• ½ teaspoon vanilla
• 2 and ½ cups all-purpose flour

For the Cheesecake Spread

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• ½ powdered sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon vanilla
• Fresh fruit for topping the cookies. Anything you like, we recommend raspberries, blueberries, kiwi and mango.

Directions

1. To make the cookies, preheat the oven to 300 F. In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat together the butter and shorting. Cream in the sugar, baking powder and salt until fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla and beat in well. Stir in the flour.
2. Roll the dough into 1 inch balls and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 12-14 min. Do not let them brown. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes. Remove from the tray and let cool completely.
3. Meanwhile, make the cheesecake spread. Beat the cream cheese with the sugar until light and smooth. Pour in the heavy cream. Beginning with the mixer on slow speed, start to beat in the cream. Increase the speed of the mixer gradually until the mixture thickens.
4. Spread the cookies with a bit of the cream cheese and top with fresh fruit. These are best within a day or two of making them.

Review Us!

At Bailey Orthodontics we remain committed to giving all our patients the care and comfort that make them feel special all year round. Our team strives each day to provide all our patients with the finest personal services and treatment as we combine our clinical expertise and the latest high technology with a warm, caring, and skilled staff.

Since we work hard each day to make our patients feel that their experience with our office is remarkable, we always appreciate the occasions when our patients take the time to tell us that they recognize the special level of care and treatment they receive at Bailey Orthodontics. Do you love being a patient at Bailey Orthodontics as much as we love having you as a patient? If you do, then would you take just a moment to let us hear about your experience by leaving a review.

Where can you leave a review for Bailey Orthodontics?
GOOGLE

Leaving a review on Google is easy. Simply type in the Google search tab “Bailey Orthodontics Surprise” or "Bailey Orthodontics Buckeye" depending on the office you're seen at. Under the maps option on the right hand of the screen, click “write a review” to leave your comments and rate us. Google makes it a fast and easy process. It is so easy you can leave a review using your smartphone or tablet.

Ready to leave a review right now? 

CLICK THIS LINK TO REVIEW OUR SURPRISE OFFICE!

CLICK THIS LINK TO REVIEW OUR BUCKEYE OFFICE!

FACEBOOK

Are you connected with Bailey Orthodontics on Facebook? LIKE our page and leave a review and rating. It’s easy, fast, and you can share it with all of your Facebook friends. Click here to LIKE us on Facebook right now.

We appreciate all reviews and look forward to seeing the positive things you have to say about Bailey Orthodontics.

Do You Still Need To See A Dentist?

If you’re a patient at Bailey Orthodontics you are used to visiting us for your regular adjustment appointment every 6-8 weeks. While our hygienist is in your mouth making those adjustments, it’s important for you to remember our team is working on your braces and trips to your general dentist are still very much needed.

When we work on your braces, we are not looking specifically for any cavities and anything we do notice is a by-product of monitoring your oral health from an orthodontic perspective. Even if we did find something suspicious we don’t have the facilities to correct it.

For this reason, we tell you to maintain your regular dental checkup schedule of once every 6 months.

Another important thing to remember is that your oral hygiene needs to be flawless. The appliances that are in your mouth are, unfortunately, a magnet for plaque buildup. If you are a bit lax with brushing and rinsing out your mouth after eating, you may just find that you have a beautiful straight smile with stained teeth.

While having braces does not increase the risk of cavities, not caring for your teeth and having braces does. If you have any questions regarding your oral hygiene click here to visit our website or contact Bailey Orthodontics at our Surprise or Buckeye locations.

More On Fluoride

The team at Bailey Orthodontics wants you to know that there are several ways you can protect your smile throughout your orthodontic treatment. If you follow the rule of thumb and brush your teeth twice a day, floss often, and protect your appliances from damage, your treatment should be very successful.

One thing we’d like to add, is did you know there is another way to keep your teeth healthy and bright during your treatment with braces?

How is this possible? One word: fluoride. Fluoride is the mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay. This mineral also helps keep your teeth strong. Fluoride comes in two varieties: topical and systemic. Depending on your oral health or the recommendation of Dr. Bailey, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six, or 12 months.

If you have any other questions about fluoride or your orthodontic treatment, please don’t hesitate to give Bailey Orthodontics a call! Conveniently located in Buckeye and Surprise, Arizona.

Are You Ready For Spring Sports?

Spring break has passed and once again our patients are ready to begin the spring sports season! April is National Facial Protection month and because many of our patients are active athletes in the Surprise, Arizona area, the staff at Bailey Orthodontics encourages spring sports safety. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or parent we want to remind everyone to play it safe during organized sports to help prevent serious facial injuries that can take the fun out of the game.

Here are 4 pieces of equipment you can add to your sports bag to stay safe during the sports season.

1. Remember to wear a mouth guard. A mouth guard is less expensive than an injury, and not painful to your mouth or wallet. Keep your smile safe and prevent your orthodontic appliances from injury by habitually wearing a mouth guard during sports.

2. Wear a helmet when needed. Helmets can greatly prevent damage to the head so be sure to always wear one when necessary.

3. Protective eyewear can make a difference. Keep your 20/20 vision with sports eyewear that will keep your vision clear and your game at its best.

4. Face shields may be necessary. If you are a hockey, football, or baseball player face shields can prevent severe damage to your face.

For more information on facial protection, ask Dr. Bailey or a staff member at Bailey Orthodontics. We are conveniently located in Buckeye and Surprise, Arizona. 

5 Fun Spring Activities

Spring is in the air! As the flower buds are peeking out and birds are starting to chirp, it's time to leave those thoughts of snowstorms behind. Spring can be a wonderful time in Surprise, Arizona to explore the outdoors or go for a walk around town. Get your family moving together and establish some healthy habits, away from the electronics indoors.

We have 5 fun ideas to get you in the mood for the loveliest season of the year.

1. Dust off the sports gear. Find a kick a ball, throw a Frisbee, shoot hoops, whatever sports activity that you and your family enjoy doing.

2. Get dirty in the yard. Mow the grass. Pull weeds. Till flower beds. Replant. Cut back. Find the fun in getting sweaty, and teach your kids how to manage the landscaping while you do it.

3. Explore the outdoors. Hike a trail and check out the plants budding out of the ground.

4. Go to a baseball game. The beginning baseball season is one of the annual markers that warm weather is just around the corner. If you don't have it in your budget for pricey pro tickets, look into local league games, college, or even high school games to watch.

5. Make Something. Whether you're experimenting with a new recipe or creating a new craft, making something new will give your kids a sense of satisfaction.

After being cooped up all winter, everyone's ready for some fresh Spring air. Bailey Orthodontics hopes you will step into the warm weather with suggestions of fun activities for the entire family.

Play It Safe, Protect Your Face

A mouthguard is an essential piece of athletic gear that should be part of your standard equipment from an early age when it comes to protecting your mouth

Contact and collision sports such as boxing and martial arts are higher-risk sports for the mouth. Any athlete can experience a dental injury in non-contact activities too, such as gymnastics and skating.

Types of Mouthguards

Mouthguards can be custom made for your mouth by your dentist or orthodontist. However, if you can’t afford a custom-made mouthguard, you should still wear a stock mouthguard or a boil-and-bite mouthguard from the drugstore.

Protecting Your Braces

A properly fitted mouthguard may be especially important for people who wear braces. A blow to the face could damage the brackets or other fixed orthodontic appliances. A mouthguard also provides a barrier between the braces and your cheek or lips, which will help you avoid injuries to your gums and cheeks.

If you're an athlete and a patient at Bailey Orthodontics, talk to Dr. Bailey about selecting a mouthguard that will provide the right protection for you. Although some mouthguards only cover the upper teeth, Dr. Bailey may suggest that you use a mouthguard on the lower teeth if you have braces on these teeth.

Also, be sure to remember if you have a retainer or other removable appliance, do not wear it during any contact sports. For more information give us a call at 623-977-0707 or visit our website.

NEW RECIPE ALERT | BANANA BREAD DONUTS

BANANA BREAD DONUTS WITH BROWNED BUTTER GLAZE

Donuts

• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup canola or vegetable oil (liquid-state coconut oil may be substituted)
• 1/4 cup cup sour cream (lite is okay; or Greek yogurt may be substituted)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, optional and to taste

Glaze

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, browned (half of 1 stick)
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 3 tablespoons half-and-half or cream, plus more as necessary for consistency
• 2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted (must be sifted)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, optional and to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1. Donuts - Preheat oven to 350F. Spray one 6-count non-stick donut pan and two mini muffin pans with floured cooking spray, or grease and flour the pans; set aside. Alternatively, use the pans you have available including mini donuts, full-size muffins, etc. and adjusting baking times accordingly.
2. To a large bowl, add the the egg, sugars, oil, sour cream, vanilla, and whisk to combine.
3. Add the bananas and stir to combine.
4. Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and fold with spatula or stir gently with a spoon until just combined; don't overmix.
5. Turn batter out into prepared pans, filling each cavity about 2/3 to 3/4 full. I dollop the batter into the donut pan with a spoon but you can transfer to a large ziptop back, seal, cut one of the corners with a scissors, and pipe into the pans if that's easier. For the donut holes, I use a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop filled with about 1 heaping tablespoon batter.
6. Bake for about 13 to 14 minutes, or until donuts and donut holes are cooked through, set, and springy to the touch. Both the donuts and donut holes each baked for about 13 1/2 minutes in my oven but all pans, climates, ovens, etc. vary so bake until done. Allow donuts and donut holes to cool in the pans while you make the glaze.
7. Glaze - This is a fast moving recipe. Have everything in place before beginning. Brown the butter (click for a detailed tutorial) by cooking butter over medium heat in a medium saucepan until it's amber to brown in color, about 5 minutes depending on pan size. I swirl the pan in the last minute or so to make sure I can really see the color changes. Butter will go through stages of hissing, sputtering, and making noise until the water cooks off at which point the browning occurs. Butter will smell nutty and aromatic.
8. Turn the heat to medium-low, add the brown sugar, and cook for about 1 minute, stirring nearly continuously.
9. Remove the pan from the heat, allow it to cool for about 1 minute, and add 3 tablespoons cream, vanilla, and salt, taking caution because the mixture will bubble vigorously. Whisk aggressively to incorporate the cream and calm the bubbling.
10. Add the confectioners’ sugar and whisk to combine. I absolutely recommend using sifted sugar so the glaze whisks up smooth, silky, and free from lumps. As necessary, add additional cream (or confectioners' sugar) to reach desired glaze consistency.
11. Dip the top of each donut and donut hole in glaze and allow to cool momentarily before enjoying. The glaze sets up fairly fast so you'll want to dip fairly quickly, adding a splash of additional cream if necessary to thin it out. Donuts and donut holes are best warm and fresh but will keep airtight at room temp for up to 4 days. Extra glaze will keep airtight in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Reheat gently before using.

STAY FLOSSY with braces

Similar to several oral hygiene products, choosing the best dental floss to use is dependent on the consumer's preference. The fact is there is a ton of different floss options on the market with a variety of flavors, coatings, and other variations. Essentially, they all do the same thing and the most important thing to remember is to buy the most functional floss for your teeth, and use it daily. If you want to know what the best dental floss is, the answer is the kind that enables you to successfully and regularly clean the areas between your teeth. To help you find the right type of floss for you, here are some options.

Flossers
Flossers usually consist of a plastic instrument with a floss strip and a pick on the opposite end. This option can be both effective at cleaning the areas in between your teeth and scraping off plaque. These flossers also come flavored in mint and various other varieties.

Gentle Dental Floss
Some people will find that dental floss is too harsh on their gums. For that reason, some companies make floss with soft coatings that are less abrasive on the gums. Typically, these types of floss are just as effective as regular floss and ideal for those looking for a more sensitive approach to flossing.

Flavored Dental Floss
Most regular flossers buy a flavored dental floss because it will freshen their breath even more than unscented floss. The latter can also take on the smells associated with bacteria in your mouth which can be pretty bad from case to case. We suggest if flavored dental floss is what you prefer, and it allows you to floss your teeth regularly, then it is automatically best for your mouth.

Of the options, it is difficult to name an absolute best type of floss because the answer varies from patient to patient. However, Dr. Bailey, and our team say that the type of floss that works best for you, giving you the greatest chance of succeeding at regular flossing, is the best choice. For more information on floss, or flossing with braces, contact Bailey Orthodontics located in Surprise, AZ.

All You Need To Know About #BAILEYHUNTERGAMES

This Spring Break you can volunteer as tribute for the Bailey Orthodontics Hunter Games starting Monday, March 20th.

What is #BaileyHunterGames?
#BaileyHunterGames is the ultimate Spring Break scavenger hunt in Suprise, Arizona. Bailey Orthodontics will be hiding 8 signs around the community at local hotspots and it's your job to find them!

Who Can Enter?
Anyone and everyone are invited to participate in #BaileyHunterGames! This is a fun community scavenger hunt for kids and adults of all ages!

How To Enter:
STEP 1: Get the clues! The first thing you need to do is head to our website and click on "Our Office." From there, you will scroll down to "Practice Events" and be taken to the page with the contest flyer & all the clues to help you find the hidden signs! You can download the clues & print them out if you'd like or screen shot them on your phone! CLICK HERE TO SEE THE CLUES NOW.

STEP 2: Search for 8 signs that look like the one above posted at some of your favorite local businesses and strike a pose with each of them for a picture!
STEP 3: Share your picture on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter with the tag #BAILEYHUNTERGAMES for a chance to WIN $100 CASH! The more signs you find, the more drawing entries you get. Each photo will count as one entry; up to 8 entries per person.

There Is A Bonus Prize?
That's right everyone, we added a little twist to give you an opportunity to WIN MORE! When you post your picture on our Facebook wall and tag #BaileyHunterGames, get your friends to LIKE your picture. The picture with the most LIKES will WIN $100 CASH!

Do you have more questions about #BaileyHunterGames? Check out the flyer below, visit our website, or give us a call! Please share this with your family and friends and lets get the entire community involved!

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE CLUES NOW!

MAY THE ODDS BE EVER IN YOUR FAVOR!

Need Advice On Adjusting To Your Braces?

Are you a new patient at Bailey Orthodontics? You may or may not be excited about wearing your braces, but regardless we know you will be thrilled with the result of your new smile. As with any change, adjusting to something new can be a little confusing and overwhelming sometimes, so we decided to help you out with a few tips on adjusting to your braces.

The first tip is to give yourself some time. Your braces may not be what you expected or wanted, but after a while when your teeth start shifting you will notice how incredible your teeth and smile alignment look. Pain may occur after your appointments, just give it a few days after each adjustment and you should feel more comfortable.

Another thing to remember is to be confident. Don't worry about how your braces look and don't be afraid or embarrassed to smile with your braces. Depending on the type of braces you're treated with, people may not even know you're wearing braces. Be proud and flash those pearly whites often!

Lastly, be sure you know what to do if you're experiencing pain or problems with your braces. Before you leave checkups, feel for any wires poking out so you can have us correct the agitation and avoid pain. If a problem arises after your appointment, don't be afraid to call us; chances are it's a simple fix. For more information about adjusting to your braces, visit our website or give us a call.

New Recipe Alert: UNICORN ICE CREAM

Are you ready for the most magical Ice Cream recipe you’ll ever find? Not only is it cute, but it’s great for all ages.  Best of all, it's braces friendly & taste buds approved! Unicorn Ice Cream is magic on a cone! 

UNICORN ICE CREAM

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups whipping cream
• One 14 sweetened condensed milk

Gel food coloring:

• Electric Blue
• Electric Green
• Egg Yellow
• Magenta
• Purple
• Star Sprinkles
• Purple Disco Dust (optional)
• Green Disco Dust (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the whipping cream until medium peaks form.
2. Pour the can of sweetened condensed milk into the whipped cream, and fold the whipped cream and condensed milk together until completely combined.
3. Separate the ice cream base into 5 bowls. Add 2-4 drops of food coloring to each bowl (1 color per bowl). Use a spoon to mix in the food coloring until it is evenly distributed in the ice cream base. You can add more food coloring as needed to reach your desired color.
4. Using a standard loaf pan, layer the ice cream. Place ½ of each color in the pan in big dollops. (I layered the blue, green, and purple first, and then the yellow and pink on top of that.) Then repeat the color layering.
5. Run a butter knife through the ice cream a few times in each direction to swirl the colors together. You don't want to completely mix the colors, just swirl them a bit.
6. Top the ice cream with star sprinkles and sprinkle with disco dust. Because everyone knows unicorns are glittery.
7. Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and freeze for 8 hours to overnight, or until the ice cream has set up.

Be More Confident With Invisalign

Whether you’re considering Invisalign treatment for yourself or someone else, knowing more about the entire process can help you be more confident in your decision to choose Invisalign.

During your initial consultation, Dr. Bailey will discuss your concerns in detail to determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign. Our team will take x-rays, pictures and impressions of your teeth to help us determine this. From this Dr. Bailey will map out a precise treatment plan, including the exact movements of your teeth and tell you the approximate length of treatment. While every case is unique to each patient, treatment typically takes approximately 18 to 24 months.

Based on your individual treatment plan, a series of custom-made, clear aligners is then created specifically for you. These aligners are made of a smooth, comfortable, BPA-free plastic that won't irritate your cheeks and gums. Simply wear your aligners throughout the day and remove them when you eat or brush and floss your teeth. As you wear each set of aligners, your teeth gently and gradually begin to shift into place.

Approximately every two weeks, you will begin wearing a new set of aligners, advancing you to the next stage of your treatment. To monitor your progress, you will also have occasional checkups with our office, usually only every six weeks or so. For best results and a timely outcome, you should wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, throughout your entire treatment.

This Valentine's Day, Live Happily EverSmile

Whether you're planning a romantic night with your significant other or going out on the town with the girls, we know looking good on Valentine's Day is a must! If you're getting ready for Valentine's Day next week and want a kissable smile under your clear aligners, Bailey Orthodontics has the perfect solution for you! We recommend using EverSmile White Foam to keep your teeth fresh, clean, and sparkling white.

What is EverSmile White Foam?

EverSmile White Foam is the only aligner cleaner you wear all day long that cleans and gradually whitens your teeth, all while keeping your breath minty fresh. Using EverSmile White Foam is easy, just pump the foam into your clear aligners and pop the trays into your mouth. You can use EverSmile all day, up to four times a day. It kills bacteria while whitening your teeth.

Pick up your EverSmile White Foam at Bailey Orthodontics in Surprise, Arizona and start whitening your teeth just in time for Valentine's Day!

Invisalign Special Event

Invisalign is virtually undetectable, which means hardly anyone will know that you're straightening your teeth. Get started with Invisalign at Bailey Orthodontics and take advantage of our February special! Call us now to schedule your FREE CONSULTATION.

Contact us at 623.977.0707.

Looking for An Invisalign Premier Provider In Surprise, AZ?

Do you want to straighten your teeth without spending years with traditional metal braces on? Well at Bailey Orthodontics in Surprise, Arizona it is possible with the Invisalign system. Invisalign uses clear plastic trays rather than traditional metal brackets and wires to reposition your teeth.

In comparison to standard orthodontic treatment, Invisalign offers patients a great deal of convenience, as the trays can be removed at mealtime so that you don’t have to forego your favorite foods while straightening your smile! Furthermore, it’s easier for patients to keep their smiles clean and healthy with Invisalign because there are no appliances blocking access to your gumline. Patients can brush and floss normally with Invisalign rather than using extra tools to navigate around archwires.

Additionally, Invisalign is easier on your smile’s appearance during treatment. You can smile with confidence, and it’s unlikely that a casual observer will even notice that you’re wearing the trays. You also can begin to see some progress in just a few months since you don’t have to wait for any appliances to be removed.

As an Invisalign Premier Provider, our practice is well-positioned to help you achieve your smile goals with this treatment option. Stay connected with us to learn about a special Invisalign promotion coming this February. Call 623.977.0707 for more information.

Meet Alyssa!

We asked our Bailey Orthodontics team some quick, fun questions to show a little spotlight on the staff that makes you smile. Meet Alyssa, our treatment coordinator! ‪#‎baileyorthoaz‬

Spinach Apple Smoothie | NEW RECIPE

Your kid’s diet should have fruits and veggies for complete nutrition. But when he does not eat them in their solid form, you might want to consider smoothies. Smoothies are great for both kids and adults, and even better for new patients being treated at Bailey Orthodontics as they are braces friendly. The trick is to make the idea of smoothies exciting – get your children involved in the process. Let them make smoothies with fruits of their choice, on the condition that they will drink it.

To help get you started on your smoothie journey, we're sharing a delicious recipe with you below! Try it out this weekend and let us know how you liked it! 

Spinach Apple Smoothie
If someone in your household hates spinach, disguise its flavor with apple and banana with this recipe.

You Will Need:

• 1 cup chopped spinach leaves
• 1 ripe banana
• 1/2 apple, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup grapes, preferably seedless
• 1 tub vanilla yogurt

How To:

• Slice the banana (without peel) and remove the seeds from the grapes, if any.
• Put the banana, chopped spinach leaves, grapes, yogurt, and apple in a blender and blend for two minutes, or until you achieve a smooth mixture.
• Serve fresh.

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes
Servings: 2
Nutritional Value: calories – 205, carbohydrates – 45g, protein – 6.1mg, fat – 1.9g, cholesterol -4mg

Find Out Why Adults Are Getting Braces In 2017

Orthodontics has evolved enormously in the last two decades and there is now less pain, time and cosmetic detriment when having orthodontic treatment. This is one reason we are seeing so many adult patients getting braces. Are you considering orthodontic treatment as an adult? If so, keep reading to find out why your timing is right.

Why do adults choose to get braces?

• Overcrowding of teeth
• Shifting of teeth
• Poor bite
• Jaw pain
• Headaches
• Self-consciousness
• Align teeth before crown and bridge work
• Improve gum and teeth health
• A beautiful smile they have always dreamed of

What are the benefits of having braces in your adult years?

• You are having treatment by your own choice and on your own terms.
• Maximize function and health of your gums and teeth.
• Improve your bite and alleviate issues such as grinding and headaches.
• Straight teeth help to provide a beautiful smile and a boost in confidence.
• Alignment options are vastly improved on what they were when you were a child.

The bottom line is, it is never too late for braces or to achieve the smile you've always wanted. If you are ready to learn more about treatment and live in the Suprise, AZ or surrounding areas, give Bailey Orthodontics a call at 623-977-0707.