The Scott Orthodontic Associates Blog

The benefits of a beautiful smile

2012-01-26T14:11:00.000-08:00

Dr. Gregory Scott and our team know having an attractive smile puts a spring in your step—or two—as well as increases your self-confidence, no matter if you’re 14 or in your late forties. Smiling not only makes people happy and puts them in a good mood, doing it often can even help you live longer, according to previous studies!

If you’ve been hiding your smile because you have crooked teeth or gaps between your teeth, it’s time to consider orthodontic treatment at Scott Orthodontic Associates. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to learn how quickly and efficiently today’s most advanced correction techniques can straighten your smile!

Don’t hide your smile any longer—give us a call today to schedule yours or your child’s orthodontic consultation.

Thanks to Invisalign, you can have a perfect smile without metal wires or brackets!

2012-01-20T13:36:00.000-08:00

At Scott Orthodontic Associates, we know image is everything. For many people, the thought of having metal brackets and wires attached to their teeth for two or more years may be more than enough to delay orthodontic treatment.

If you’ve been considering straightening your teeth but are apprehensive about metal wires and brackets getting in the way of your smile, Invisalign treatment at Scott Orthodontic Associates may be a great solution. Invisalign, which straightens teeth through a series of clear, custom-fit removable aligners, does so in a way that is discreet and hardly noticeable.

If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment at our office, please give us a call to schedule a consultation with Dr. Scott.

Dr. Gregory Scott, reminding you to protect your mouth this winter

2012-01-12T16:13:00.000-08:00

With winter sports under way for a lot of our patients, Dr. Gregory Scott thought it would be a good time to remind our young athletes wearing braces to take care of both their mouth and appliances while participating in contact sports (and non-contact sports) this winter.

More than half of the seven million sports and recreation-related injuries that occur each year are sustained by youth between ages 5 and 24. Sixty-seven percent of parents say their child does not wear a mouth guard, yet, 70 percent say their biggest fear when their child plays is that they will get hurt. Despite the risks, many kids are still not wearing mouth guards and facial protection during games and practices.

Many people think a mouth guard is effective just to protect your teeth. But research has shown mouth guards can also reduce lower jaw impact that causes concussions and other dental injuries. Our staff at Scott Orthodontic Associates encourage you to head over to the American Association of Orthodontists’ website for a quick primer on the importance of mouth guards and facial protection.

We hope this helps you remember to always wear a mouth guard and other forms of protective gear when participating in fall sports! We encourage you to give us a call if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook!

Regular checkups & your oral health

2012-01-05T15:01:00.000-08:00

Are you brushing and flossing daily during your orthodontic treatment? 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 our office, 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, treat oral health problems early and show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth.
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 Lakeland area!

Make 2012 the year to improve your oral health

2011-12-28T13:49:00.000-08:00

Many folks in 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 2012? Our team recommends 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. After all, we know your oral health is about more than just a beautiful smile.

Happy New Year!

-Your friends at Scott Orthodontic Associates

In love with your new smile? Tell the world about it!

2011-12-21T06:10:00.001-08:00

Whether you've visited Scott Orthodontic Associates for a week, months or even years, you'd probably know Dr. Gregory Scott and our highly-trained staff are committed to providing you with the best orthodontic experience in a friendly, fun, and high-tech atmosphere.

We'd love to hear your feedback about how our team is doing! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice with the rest of the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Places page and write a review there.

After all, reviews help Dr. Scott create more beautiful smiles in Lakeland and surrounding communities.

You may write a review here.

Thank you in advance! Happy Holidays!

Beware of those Christmas goodies!

2011-12-15T14:13:00.000-08:00

At Scott Orthodontic Associates , we know maintaining a healthy diet over the holiday season can prove a difficult task. After all, who can resist the tasty treats of Christmas? With grandma and everybody else offering you candy, chocolate logs or Christmas pudding, you just can’t say “I’ll pass” each time. But trouble lurks: every time you chow down on that chocolate or candy, the bacteria in your mouth have a feast on the sugar—at your expense. The sugar turns into acid, and the acid eats away at the enamel on your teeth and between your braces. Then, you start getting cavities.

Instead, try pumpkin pie, marvelous molasses cookies, wonderful waffles or other braces-friendly recipes, courtesy of the American Association of Orthodontics, or AAO, and “The Braces Cookbook” by Pamela Waterman.

If you must indulge in chocolaty goodness this Christmas or holiday season, remember to brush your teeth after eating sugary treats. Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!
Happy Holidays!

Share your winter break plans with us!

2011-12-09T10:03:00.001-08:00

Dr. Gregory Scott and our team at Scott Orthodontic Associates want to know: what do your winter plans look like? Do you have any plans for an exciting family vacation? Are you hanging out around town? Catching up on sleep? Spending time with friends? Let us know!

Please feel free to share your exciting winter plans and experiences with us here or on our Facebook page! We would like to wish all of our patients and their families a safe and fun holiday season!

Do we have your current contact info?

2011-11-30T11:07:00.000-08:00

Happy holidays from all of us at Scott Orthodontic Associates! As you probably know, you can always connect with Dr. Scott and our team on our Facebook page, but we also encourage you to call us and let us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed!

Please contact our office with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so we may be able to reach you. Thank you!

Happy Thanksgiving, from Scott Orthodontic Associates

2011-11-21T11:16:00.000-08:00

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season knocking at our door, our entire team at Scott Orthodontic Associates wanted to stop for a moment and extend our best wishes to you, our patients, referring doctors and families, for a wonderful Thanksgiving.
As always, if you know anyone we can help, just let us know. We promise to give them the same quality orthodontic care that we have given you.
We hope that this Thanksgiving and holiday season brings fond memories. Thank you for being part of our family.

Are you wearing your mouth guard?

2011-11-16T09:31:00.000-08:00

With fall sports close to wrapping up and winter sports right around the corner, many patients here at Scott Orthodontic Associates, will once again pick up the ball, bring the cleats out of seasonal retirement and hit the fields for the return of sports action! During this time, however, Dr. Gregory Scott and our team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this fall and winter, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as basketball, wrestling and hockey
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps! Dr. Scott and team will tell you protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact our office or ask us on Facebook.
Stay safe!

What are your November plans?

2011-11-07T10:31:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, we’re almost in full holiday mode! But before you go celebrating, Dr. Gregory Scott and our team at Scott Orthodontic Associates want to know: What are your plans for November? Do you have plans for Thanksgiving? Are you planning a winter vacation? If so, we’d love to hear all about it!

You may share your stories with us below, or by posting on our Facebook page!

–The team at Scott Orthodontic Associates

Halloween tips from Scott Orthodontic Associates

2011-10-31T11:21:00.000-07:00

Trick-or-treat! In the spirit of today's sweet and spooky holiday, our team at Scott Orthodontic Associates would like to remind all of our patients to be safe while celebrating with friends and family tonight. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists were kind enough to provide trick-or-treaters with some tips for a ghoulishly good time.

• Young children should always be accompanied by an adult
• Carry a flashlight
• Wear a light-colored or reflective costume
• Choose face paint over masks for young ghosts and goblins
• Have an adult inspect all treats before the children dig in

We suggest looking for foods that are soft, such as soft chocolate that can melt in one’s mouth or peanut butter cups. Otherwise, candies that aren’t sticky, chewy, hard or crunchy are generally acceptable.

Dr. Gregory Scott and team wish you all a safe, fun and happy Halloween!

Join the conversation.

2011-10-24T11:21:00.000-07:00

Whether you just began your orthodontic treatment and have a follow-up question for Dr. Gregory Scott or our team, or if you’d simply like to drop us a quick line, we’d love to hear from you! We love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our interactive Facebook fan page.

Please visit Scott Orthodontic Associates on the following networks:

Facebook: Scott Orthodontic Associates
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/lakelandorthodontics
Yelp: http://www.yelp.com/biz/scott-orthodontic-associates-lakeland

5 tips to avoid plaque, from Scott Orthodontic Associates

2011-10-19T15:38:00.000-07:00

At Scott Orthodontic Associates, we know nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth. Here are five other ways you can avoid that dreaded enemy of the teeth during orthodontic treatment, courtesy of WebMD.

Let’s start with brushing regularly.. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste is vital to a healthy mouth. Make sure you softly brush all the surfaces of your teeth.

Next on the list is flossing daily: a simple daily flossing between teeth clears away plaque before it can cause damage and can also clean plaque at the gum line. Plaque is known to reach the spaces between teeth.

Also, evading a trip to the dentist is probably not a great idea. Let’s say you brush and floss daily. You’re still at risk for plaque. With time, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar. Consider visiting your general dentist at least twice a year or as recommended by your dentist, and you have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your teeth while wearing braces.

You’ll also want to stop avoiding those fruits and veggies. Believe it or not, there are foods out there that play a key role in keeping plaque off our teeth. They include apples, carrots, cucumbers and other raw fruits and vegetables. You can still eat these types of fruits and veggies if you have braces, but be sure to cut them up into bite sized pieces to avoid breaking off brackets.

Finally, before you pick up that candy bar, remember to not give in to your sweet tooth. Consuming sugary drinks or eating candy or other junk food allows sugar to stick to our teeth. The bacteria, then, becomes plaque, which turns into acid and damages our teeth. Avoiding these five bad habits keeps your plaque in check and your mouth as healthy as can be during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Gregory Scott. If you have any questions, give us a cal l or ask us on Facebook!

Cold season is here, from Scott Orthodontic Associates

2011-10-11T11:40:00.000-07:00

Cold and flu season is here - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that a common cold usually includes sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and coughing. Symptoms can last for up to two weeks.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. Gregory Scott and our entire staff give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our Lakeland 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 at Scott Orthodontic Associates, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

And remember to constantly wash your hands and avoid contact with those who are ill! Stay Healthy!

At Scott Orthodontic Associates, October means National Orthodontic Health Month!

2011-10-03T15:25:00.000-07:00

Happy October! For those who don't know, National Orthodontic Health Month. This month-long event is organized by our pals at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Dr. Gregory Scott and our team realize this is a great opportunity for us and to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene. National Orthodontic Health Month also aims to recognize the dedicated work of orthodontists like Dr. Scott and other dental professionals in Lakeland.

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 have any questions, please feel free to give us a call, ask us on Facebook, or ask Dr. Scott during your visit this month!

A few helpful webisodes about orthodontics

2011-09-27T15:21:00.000-07:00

Dr. Gregory Scott and his team at Scott Orthodontic Associates would like to point you to a few interesting webisodes about orthodontics, located on the YouTube page of the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

There, they tend to post some very pertinent videos about orthodontic treatment, as well as state-of-the-art technology in orthodontia. These include "Orthodontic Treatment Basics," "Common Bite Problems Seen in Children" and "Does My Child Need Braces?"

We think you may find these webisodes interesting, as well as enlightening. If you have any questions about the videos, or your treatment here at Scott Orthodontic Associates, please give us a call.

What was your favorite part of Summer 2011?

2011-09-20T11:37:00.000-07:00

The end of Summer and then subsequently the beginning of Fall are just around the corner. Soon the temperatures will cool down, the leaves will start to change, and we’re sure that you’ll be thinking about Halloween costumes and Thanksgiving plans.

But wait! First, we want to know: What were your favorite parts of the Summer of 2011? Did you go on a wonderful family trip? Did you pick up a new hobby? Did you try to spend as much time outside and in the sun as possible?

Share your favorite memories, stories, or photos with us by leaving a comment below or on our Facebook page.

-Dr. Gregory Scott and team

20 things that can ruin your smile

2011-09-13T14:18:00.000-07:00

At Scott Orthodontic Associates, we know your smile is important. And we know you want to keep it sparkling and looking its very best. Recently, we came across an article that suggests at least 20 things can ruin that perfect smile you have.

These include:

- Sports drinks
- Tobacco
- Coffee
- Wine
- Soft drinks
- Citrus and acidic foods

Dr. Gregory Scott and our team encourage you to read the rest of the article and ask us here on our blog or during your next visit to our convenient Lakeland office. For more tips or for general questions about your ongoing dental treatment, we invite you to ask Dr. Scott during your next visit! We also invite you to ask us on Facebook!

When should you call Dr. Scott?

2011-09-06T16:41:00.000-07:00

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Lakeland orthodontist, Dr. Gregory Scott.

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,

-Dr. Scott and team

Ask Dr. Scott: Now that I have braces, what can I eat?

2011-08-30T11:49:00.000-07:00

You just got braces at Scott Orthodontics and Dr. Gregory Scott has informed you that during your orthodontic treatment you will want to avoid eating anything sticky, hard, crunchy, or chewy. What does this leave for you to eat? Lettuce? Nothing?

Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, created a variety of “braces-friendly” recipes that will allow you to enjoy your favorite treats without interfering with your orthodontic care!

Recipes include main dishes, side dishes and even yummy desserts! After all, a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps the patient achieve the best possible results from orthodontic treatment.

If you have any questions about the recipes listed or about the foods you should be avoiding during your orthodontic treatment, please give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Enjoy!

Breaking Bad Habits

2011-08-23T11:57:00.000-07:00

At Scott Orthodontic Associates, we know good dental health requires only a few minutes a day. We thought we’d provide some practical advice on how to improve your or your child’s smile between your adjustment visits with Dr. Gregory Scott.

Start by brushing your teeth twice a day. Proper brushing techniques are an essential part of maintaining good oral health during your orthodontic treatment, as well as preventing gum disease. More care and time are needed to adequately brush your teeth when you are wearing braces. Brushing daily helps remove decay-causing plaque from tooth surfaces. Please consult Dr. Scott if you would like us to review brushing techniques with you or your child. The use of a mechanical toothbrush such as a Sonicare or Oral B can aid in removing plaque around braces. Flossing daily will also prevent plaque to build up between the teeth and prevent stains between your teeth. Research has shown the bacteria of gum disease has been linked to coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes and memory loss. Lastly, we encourage you to throw away old toothbrushes and replace them every 2 or 3 months, or after an illness.

We hope this helps! If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Scott Orthodontic Associates or ask your general dentist during your next scheduled visit! Or, ask us on Facebook!

How to freshen bad breath, from

2011-08-16T09:43:00.000-07:00

Dr. Gregory Scott, your Lakeland orthodontist, recognizes that many of our patients are concerned about bad breath, or halitosis. While some cases of bad breath are persistent (chronic bad breath), generally bad breath is transient, and can be prevented.

We recently came across this helpful video about bad breath and thought it was worth sharing with our patients. The video explains what might cause bad breath and some ways that it can be avoided. In most instances, bad breath can be prevented by practicing common oral hygiene techniques that you have probably heard us emphasize during a visit to Scott Orthodontic Associates, such as brushing and flossing daily. We encourage you to watch this video for additional tips on how to keep bad breath at bay. Enjoy!

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

2011-08-09T10:03:00.000-07:00

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 Scott Orthodontic Associates 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. Gregory Scott 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.

Ask Dr. Scott: "Who benefits from braces?"

2011-08-01T17:51:00.000-07:00

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

Straight Teeth and your Oral Health

2011-07-26T16:03:00.000-07:00

Some people wonder why Lakeland orthodontist, Dr. Gregory Scott, and 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 at Scott Orthodontics 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. Dr. Scott can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

What Do You LOVE About Summer?

2011-07-19T14:16:00.000-07:00

Summer is finally here, and the team at Scott Orthodontic Associates thought we’d ask: What’s your favorite part about summer? Is it the warm weather? The free time you get? Spending quality time with friends and family? Grilling barbecue in the backyard?

Dr. Gregory Scott and team would like to know what makes your summer truly special. Let us know by posting a comment below, on our Facebook page, or by giving us a call!

Regular Checkups are Essential in Maintaining Good Oral Health!

2011-07-12T16:37:00.000-07:00

Are you brushing and flossing daily during your orthodontic treatment? If yes, that’s great! But, Lakeland orthodontist, Dr. Gregory Scott, wants to make sure you 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. 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, treat oral health problems early and show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth.

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 Lakeland area!

Stay Cool with a Braces-Friendly Summer Treat!

2011-07-06T11:27:00.000-07:00

Summer is here! Kids and adults alike will now be spending more time outside being active and enjoying the hotter temperatures. What’s better on a hot summer day than a delicious treat that will cool you down after doing something active in the summer sun? Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have just the thing, Watermelon Sorbet! You can find the complete recipe below:

Watermelon Sorbet

Ingredients

• ¾ cup water
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 2 to 3 cups watermelon, diced, no seeds or rind

Directions

In a small saucepan, heat the water, sugar, and lime juice on medium high for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Chill this “syrup” at least 20 minutes. In the meantime, place the watermelon chunks in a food processor or blender and liquefy them. Add the chilled syrup to the watermelon puree and blend. Freeze sorbet in an ice-cream maker according to manufacturer’s directions. Serve immediately.

Happy Summer!

-Dr. Gregory Scott and team

What do you LOVE about Lakeland?

2011-06-28T09:57:00.000-07:00

Dr. Gregory Scott, your Lakeland orthodontist, is situated around some pretty unique neighborhoods. Each is special with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our amazing patients) living within.

Today, Dr. Scott and our team thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about Lakeland? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps a favorite getaway in Florida?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in Lakeland, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods” in Florida.

If you need to schedule your next appointment, give us a call! Have a great week!

Foods to Avoid During Your Orthodontic Treatment

2011-06-21T10:52:00.000-07:00

There are a variety of foods that Lakeland orthodontist, Dr. Gregory Scott, wants you to avoid while you're wearing braces. Some foods can occasionally damage braces, but certain foods can bend the wires or even break the brackets on your braces. If you’re wearing braces, you should avoid starch, sugar and gummy foods, as these foods can be difficult to remove during brushing. Foods that are high in sugar and starch tend to cause plaque, cavities and even tooth decay.

Avoid tough meats, hard breads and raw vegetables such as carrots and celery. Before long, you'll be able to bite a cucumber again. But you'll need to protect your orthodontic appliances when you eat for as long as you're wearing braces.

Foods you should avoid include:

• Chewy foods: bagels, hard rolls, licorice
• Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice, chips
• Sticky foods: caramels, gum
• Hard foods: nuts, candy
• Foods you have to bite into: corn on the cob, apples, carrots

Also, chewing on hard things (for example, pens, pencils or fingernails) can damage the braces. Damaged braces will cause treatment to take longer.

If you have any questions on which foods you should be avoiding and why, we invite you to give Scott Orthodontics a call or ask our staff during your next visit.

June is National Smile Month!

2011-06-14T13:25:00.000-07:00

According to the American Dental Association, a person's smile outranked eyes, hair and body as the most important physical feature, which is why it's important for our team at Scott Orthodontics to support National Smile Month this June.

Show off your pearly whites by posting your favorite smile photos on the wall of our Facebook page. We look forward to seeing what you share!

Orthodontic Emergency Care with Dr. Scott

2011-06-06T16:18:00.000-07:00

True orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but when they do occur we are available to you. As a general rule, you should call the office when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can't take care of yourself. We’ll be able to schedule an appointment with Dr. Gregory Scott.

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you schedule an appointment with Scott Orthodontics.

The following solutions may help you relieve your discomfort:

Poking Wire: Using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down or place wax on it to alleviate the discomfort.

Loose Bracket or Band: If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. If the wire comes out entirely, wrap the bracket with a tissue.

Loose Wire: Using a tweezers, try to place your wire back into place. If doing this and using wax does not help, as a last resort use a small fingernail clipper to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If your discomfort continues, place wax on it.

Loose Appliance: If your appliance is poking you, place wax on the offending part of your appliance.

Headgear Does Not Fit: Sometimes headgear discomfort is caused by not wearing the headgear as instructed by your orthodontist. Please refer to the instructions provided by your orthodontist. If the facebow is bent, please call our office for assistance. Surprisingly, headgear becomes more comfortable the more it's worn, so be sure you’re getting in the prescribed hours.

General Soreness: When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm salt water mouthwash. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously. If the tenderness is severe, take aspirin or whatever you normally take for headache or similar pain.

Remember, after alleviating your discomfort, it is still very important that you call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem.

All the cool kids do it!

2011-06-01T13:22:00.000-07:00

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. 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. Gregory Scott, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

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

Scott Orthodontics, wishing you a safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

2011-05-23T14:01:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day weekend, a time to remember and honor the men and women lost while serving for our country. Memorial Day is also the unofficial start of summer, and for many folks in Lakeland, getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the classroom or the office spells sweet, sweet relief.

What about you? What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend? Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, or just hitting the great American open roads, we’d like to hear all about it!

Our entire team at Scott Orthodontics wishes you a happy, safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

Ask Dr. Scott: Is Invisalign® really customized for each patient?

2011-05-17T14:19:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work, says Dr. Gregory Scott. 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. Scott is a Certified Invisalign® Provider. 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.

You're Never Too Old to Treat Yourself to a New Smile!

2011-05-09T16:35:00.000-07:00

Did you know one in every five orthodontic patients is an adult? We’re living longer and technology is improving, making orthodontic treatment an appealing and safe option for patients of all ages. As the trend toward treatment later in life grows, we’re seeing braces on parents as well as children – and even adult celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Gwen Stefani and Nicholas Cage have shown off their braces. It’s never too late to look and feel your best with Scott Orthodontics!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment with Dr. Gregory Scott. The physical process for moving teeth is the same, young or old, which means it’s never too late to address issues such as an overbite or underbite, crooked or crowded teeth, or jaw disorders.

How Do I Get Started?

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, we’ll make a consultation appointment with you. During this meeting we will perform a general assessment of your oral health, discuss options for treatment, and answer any questions you may have. We will also discuss matters of cost and insurance. The next step is an orthodontic records appointment in which we take x-rays, photos, and an impression of your teeth. This information drives your unique treatment plan.

What Are the Benefits?

Straightening your teeth can improve your smile, your self-esteem, and your dental health. Technologically advanced new treatments make it easier to identify the option that best fits your lifestyle. Modern techniques and materials have made braces and aligners more effective, comfortable and unobtrusive than ever.

If you think you might benefit from orthodontic treatment, give Scott Orthodontics a call, so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs.

What’s on your reading list?

2011-05-02T16:34:00.000-07:00

With the school year close to winding down for a lot of our patients at Scott Orthodontics, we wanted to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year, but reading is a vital step in brain development and literacy. And if you needed any more reason to read, May marks “Get Caught Reading Month.”

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great reads? Ask us for suggestions, and Dr. Gregory Scott and our team would be happy to provide a few. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas on what to read next!

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your book picks or your all-time favorite novels or literature on our Facebook page!

Why do you choose Scott Orthodontics?

2011-04-26T14:55:00.000-07:00

Scott Orthodontics Associates, serving Lakeland FL and surrounding areas, strives to provide exceptional treatment in an informative and friendly environment. Have you had a great experience at our office?

Share your story with the world!

To write a review, you can visit our Google Place Page. We look forward to receiving your feedback!

Thank you,

The team at Scott Orthodontics Associates

What's the difference between a Dentist and an Orthodontist?

2011-04-18T13:50:00.000-07:00

"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. Gregory Scott started out in dental school and earned a dental degree, just like your dentist. After dental school however, Dr. Scott decided he wanted to learn more about orthodontics, which is one of nine specialties within the dental field. So he stayed in school for a few more years and became 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 at Scott Orthodontics to help you through any type of treatment your teeth, jaw and gums might need?

Flossing with Braces 101, with Scott Orthodontics

2011-04-12T10:34:00.000-07:00

Dr. Gregory Scott will tell you that 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 could possibly reduce your treatment time.

Here is a very concise video explaining the proper way to floss your teeth with braces. Give Scott Orthodontics a call if you have more questions about flossing. Enjoy!

April is National Facial Protection Month

2011-04-05T10:38:00.000-07:00

With spring here, many children, teens and adults in Lakeland will once again pick up the ball, bring the bat out of seasonal retirement, and lace up their cleats to hit the fields for the return of spring sports! April is National Facial Protection Month, and during this time, Dr. Gregory Scott and our dedicated team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. 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.

Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this spring, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Scott Orthodontics. Stay safe and have fun!

Braces 101 with Scott Orthodontics

2011-03-28T14:25:00.000-07:00

If you ever sustain damage to your braces and need to call Scott Orthodontic Associates, we can help you more effectively if you can tell us exactly which piece is in trouble! Here’s a handy diagram and corresponding list of all the parts that make up your braces.

Elastic Tie: Tiny rubber band that fits around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Archwire: The main wire that acts as a track to guide the teeth along. It's changed periodically throughout treatment, as teeth move to their new positions.

Loop in Archwire: Frequently used for closing space left by an extraction. Many archwires don't have a loop.

Bracket: Small attachment that holds the archwire in place. Most often, a bracket is cemented directly onto the tooth's surface, eliminating the need for a band.

Headgear Tube: Round, hollow attachment on the back bands. The inner bow of the headgear fits into it.

Coil Spring: Fits between brackets and over archwire to open space between teeth.

Tie Wire: Fine wire that is twisted around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Band: A thin ring of metal fitted around a tooth and cemented in place. The band provides a way to attach the brackets to the tooth.

Hook: Welded or removable arm to which elastics (rubber bands) are attached.

Elastic (Rubber Band): Small rubber band that is hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth.

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!

What, exactly, is malocclusion?

2011-03-21T13:24:00.000-07:00

Malocclusion, or what Dr. Gregory Scott calls “bad bite,” is the improper alignment of teeth and/or jaws. When your teeth and jaws are not properly aligned, it may impact your bite, the ability to properly care for your teeth, your gum tissue health and even your appearance.

Most people experience some degree of malocclusion, but it generally is not severe enough to require corrective measures. If your malocclusion is serious enough, however, treatment may be necessary to correct the issue.

Dr. Scott will tell you that untreated malocclusion can lead undesirable mouth problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, or chipped and cracked teeth. The most common solution for malocclusion, of course, is orthodontic treatment. The actual course of treatment, including the length of time you will require braces, will be determined by severity of your malocclusion. The goal of your treatment is to move your teeth into the proper position and correct any misalignment in the jaw.

At Scott Orthodontic Associates, we use the most advanced technology in the field in order to ensure that you receive the best possible results. If you have any questions about malocclusion, please give us a call and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have.

Smile, and you might just live longer!

2011-03-14T14:12:00.000-07:00

Folks with big smiles may actually live longer than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. Dr. Gregory Scott has known for quite some time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers at the university did something quite interesting: they looked at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity (ranging from big smile, no smile or partial smile). The players' smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers then took into account other factors that impact life longevity, including body mass index, career length and even college attendance.

The results? Researchers found that players who weren't smiling in the photos died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be 79.9 years old.

The take-away from the new study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting Scott Orthodontic Associates on a regular basis? If not, give us a call!

Orthodontic Fun Facts, from Dr. Scott

2011-03-08T09:32:00.000-08:00

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 Scott 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.

Is it time for your next visit to Scott Orthodontics? Give our office a call and we'll schedule you for your next appointment. Have a great week!

Visualize your new smile with the Brace Painter!

2011-03-01T16:16:00.000-08:00

Braces at Scott Orthodontic Associates are more fun than ever! With the Brace Painter, parents and children are able to “paint their braces,” and visualize how teeth will look with different colors of bands.

Would you like to try out green and gold bands this March, without the commitment of an all-out St. Patrick's Day look? The Brace Painter allows for you to select different colors, and then assign those colors of bands to certain teeth. Now, you can visualize your braces before you even come in for your appointment!

As always, please let Dr. Gregory Scott know if you have any questions about the Brace Painter, or your orthodontic treatment at Scott Orthodontic Associates. Have a great week!

Kids getting braces at a younger age

2011-02-23T13:21:00.000-08:00

Dr. Gregory Scott 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 fourteen, and the folks at the 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. Scott to assess what the best age for treatment is.
Hope this helps! Give Scott Orthodontic Associates a call if you have any questions about your child’s treatment!

At Scott Orthodontics, what puts you at ease?

2011-02-16T14:29:00.000-08:00

Dr. Gregory Scott and team at Scott Orthodontics 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 Scott Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or Dr. Scott?

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

Connect with the Braces Brigade!

2011-02-08T14:37:00.000-08:00

At Scott Orthodontics, our patients want to get as much out of their treatment as possible. That includes asking a lot of questions and making sure they take care of both their appliances and oral health.

Would you like to learn more about what to expect during orthodontic treatment, from someone with firsthand experience? Well, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recently developed the Braces Brigade blog, where past, present, as well as future orthodontic patients from coast to coast document their (or their child’s) orthodontic journeys. The blog will serve as a source of guidance for others as the patients undergo orthodontic care.

Our team at Scott Orthodontics encourages you to visit the Braces Brigade blog to read these great and informative blogs—who knows, maybe you’ll learn a thing or two! As always, don’t hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions about the Braces Brigade or your own orthodontic treatment with Dr. Gregory Scott!

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month!

2011-02-02T13:39:00.000-08:00

One in four parents say their child has had an injury during an organized sport resulting in a trip to the emergency room, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO. That why Dr. Gregory Scott and team at Scott Orthodontic Associates thought February—also known as National Children’s Dental Health Month—would be great time to remind our patients to be mindful of their braces and pearly whites while playing sports.

Here are a few tips to stay safe on the field this spring, courtesy of the AAO:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Scott Orthodontic Associates. Stay safe and have fun!

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

2011-01-25T11:19:00.000-08:00

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 Scott 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. Gregory Scott or visit the article for tips on how to break a nail biting habit.
Good luck!

Your friends at Scott Orthodontics

A great BRACES-FRIENDLY recipe! From Dr. Scott

2011-01-20T14:34:00.000-08:00

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) made an appetizing (and braces-friendly!) 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 with Scott Orthodontics.

Best Baked Spaghetti
Ingredients
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped or 1 Tablespoon dried onion
• 1 clove garlic, chopped
• 3 (8 oz.) cans tomato sauce
• ½ cup Burgundy or merlot wine (Burgundy gives a deeper flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 Tablespoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup grated American cheese, about 4 slices, or ½ cup grated mild cheddar cheese
• ½ lb. dry spaghetti, broken in half

Directions
Preheat oven to 350°. In a large no-stick frying pan or Dutch oven, sauté meat, onion and garlic. Add tomato sauce, wine, oregano, sugar and salt. Simmer, cover, 1 hour, stirring occasionally. (It really makes a difference if you can take this amount of time! Otherwise 20 minutes will serve to heat everything.) Cook spaghetti and drain. Put half the spaghetti in a greased 3-quart casserole, and then add half the sauce and ¼ cup of the grated cheese. Add the remaining spaghetti and sauce, and stir everything with a large spoon. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Best if baked for 45 minutes at 350°. Makes about six to eight servings.

Enjoy!
--From Dr. Scott and staff

Scott Orthodontic Associates, a Pursuit of Excellence

2011-01-10T14:49:00.000-08:00

At Scott Orthodontic Associates we make every effort to provide you with the best orthodontic treatment. For us that means achieving consistently great results. There are many things that help Dr. Scott do that. Some of them are:

1. Using the most up to date and proven technologies available

2. Spending time and resources on continuing education to stay current and relevant

3. Training our entire team on new techniques

4. Educating our patients about the pursuit of excellence

If you or a family member has been thinking about orthodontic treatment, please give us a call. We look forward to seeing you.

What parts make up your Braces?

2011-01-04T10:00:00.000-08:00

If you ever sustain damage to your braces, you should call Scott Orthodontic Associates right away. We will be able to help you more effectively if you can tell us exactly which piece is in trouble! Here’s a handy diagram and corresponding list of all the parts that make up your braces.

Elastic Tie: Tiny rubber band that fits around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.
Archwire: The main wire that acts as a track to guide the teeth along. It's changed periodically throughout treatment, as teeth move to their new positions.
Loop in Archwire: Frequently used for closing space left by an extraction. Many archwires don't have a loop.
Bracket: Small attachment that holds the archwire in place. Most often, a bracket is cemented directly onto the tooth's surface, eliminating the need for a band.
Headgear Tube: Round, hollow attachment on the back bands. The inner bow of the headgear fits into it.
Coil Spring: Fits between brackets and over archwire to open space between teeth.
Tie Wire: Fine wire that is twisted around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.
Band: A thin ring of metal fitted around a tooth and cemented in place. The band provides a way to attach the brackets to the tooth.
Hook: Welded or removable arm to which elastics (rubber bands) are attached.
Elastic (Rubber Band): Small rubber band that is hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth.

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!

Happy New Year from Scott Orthodontic Associates!

2010-12-28T14:41:00.000-08:00

The year is almost over, so we wanted to ask what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2011? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Have a safe and happy New Year, from Scott Orthodontic Associates!

Carmel, Candy Canes, and Chocolate..Oh MY!! Tips to Keep your BRACES Sparklin' Clean This Holiday.

2010-12-23T08:47:00.000-08:00

With holiday candy around every corner, Scott Orthodontics knows that it can be particularly hard this time of year to keep your braces clean. But, you should remember that 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 10 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!

We hope this helps. Happy Holidays!

Dr. Scott and Team

Thanks to Invisalign, you can give the gift of a "clearly" amazing smile this holiday!

2010-12-15T09:58:00.000-08:00

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 Scott Orthodontic Associates 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

Celebrities get braces, too!

2010-12-07T15:21:00.000-08:00

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. Scott.

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 Scott Orthodontic Associates a call to schedule a consultation.

Staying connected with Scott Orthodontic Associates

2010-12-03T15:47:00.000-08:00

Dr. Scott and our team at Scott Orthodontic Associates love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our interactive 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, Dr. Scott knows it is unpredictable and ever-changing. Today, 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 on Facebook or give us a call!

Giving thanks this holiday season

2010-11-24T09:37:00.000-08:00

Dr. Scott and our entire orthodontic staff at Scott Orthodontic Associates extend our best wishes to you, our patients and referring doctors, for a wonderful Thanksgiving.

We appreciate the opportunity to work together with you in the creation of your ideal smile, and would like to know: what are you most thankful for this year? Leave us a comment, or if you have any photos or stories to share with us, we encourage you to post them on our Facebook page.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone.

Dr. Scott wants to know: Are you wearing your mouth guard?

2010-11-19T15:35:00.000-08:00

Let’s face it: sports-related injuries are common among children, let alone teens with braces. In a recent survey, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, discovered that 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get hurt while playing sports. That’s why we are helping spread the word that many facial sports injuries can be prevented simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. Ask us—Dr. Gregory Scott will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment. In addition, 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. Scott and team are trying to achieve.

Give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment with Dr. Scott or ask us on Facebook.

Ask Dr. Scott: Do cold germs live on toothbrushes?

2010-11-10T12:58:00.000-08:00

Great question. With fall season upon, we know the dreaded cold and flu season is, too. After recovering from your cold, Dr. Gregory Scott and our team will tell you one of the most important steps you can take to avoid becoming reinfected is replacing your toothbrush.

Germs can linger on the bristles, and you risk prolonging your sickness by continuing to use the same toothbrush. Be smart - keep a spare, just in case! To protect your toothbrush from bacteria all year long, consider the following tips:

• 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 your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Worn bristles are less effective in properly cleaning your teeth, and can actually be damaging to teeth if used too long!

Hope this tip helps! Feel free to call Scott Orthodontic Associates at (863) 709-1941 if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook.

Love your smile? Then we invite you to review us on Google!

2010-11-02T16:12:00.000-07:00

Whether you've visited Scott Orthodontic Associates for a week, months or even years, you'd probably know Dr. Gregory Scott and our highly-trained staff are committed to providing you with the best orthodontic experience in a friendly, fun, and high-tech atmosphere.

We'd love to hear your feedback about how our team is doing! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice with the rest of the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local page and write a review there.

After all, reviews help Dr. Scott create more beautiful smiles in Lakeland and surrounding communities.

You may write a review here.

Thank you in advance! We hope you had a wonderful Halloween!

Facebook Halloween contest through Nov. 8!

2010-10-25T09:24:00.000-07:00

Okay guys, Halloween is officially one week away, so don't forget to post a picture of yourselves in your Halloween costume so you can be entered in the contest to win the iPod touch or some gift cards!! Post your pic by November 8th!!!

We're looking forward to seeing those creative costumes!

Scott Orthodontic Associates, helping you understand cavities

2010-10-14T10:22:00.000-07:00

Dr. Gregory Scott and our team at Scott Orthodontic Associates know one word nobody wants to hear when they visit the dentist is Cavity! That’s right, the dreaded cavity; but what exactly is a cavity and how do you get one? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger.

So, what causes a cavity? A cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

Yes, cavities can be repaired by your general dentist, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)
• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach (this is especially important since you're wearing braces)
• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink
• Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up

Hope this helps! Questions? Give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

At Scott Orthodontic Associates, October is National Orthodontic Health Month!

2010-10-06T15:22:00.000-07:00

October is National Orthodontic Health Month, and we wanted to remind our patients in braces to be careful when they bite into their treats. Remember, caramels, taffy, nuts, bubble gum, popcorn kernels and suckers are some of the foods you should be avoiding this Halloween Season! Indulging in these foods can break your braces and lengthen your treatment time at Scott Orthodontic Associates!

Of course, Halloween doesn’t have to be completely treat-less. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists put a great deal of effort into creating some delicious (and braces-friendly) recipes you can enjoy this Halloween season! Enjoy!

- Dr. Scott and team

Halloween contest at Scott Orthodontic Associates!

2010-09-28T16:45:00.000-07:00

BOO! Our Halloween contest is underway! Here's how it works: Post a photo of yourself in your Halloween costume on our Facebook wall, and you could be the winner of a free iPod Touch or a gift card for the best costume!

We're looking forward to seeing those creative costumes!

"My daughter is seven years old - when should I bring her in for a consultation?"

2010-09-21T16:08:00.000-07:00

Great question! Dr. Gregory Scott 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. Scott and our staff to assess what the best age for treatment is.

We encourage you to give us a call if you have any questions about your child’s treatment!

Tell Dr. Scott what’s on your mind!

2010-09-13T10:42:00.000-07:00

Week after week, Dr. Gregory Scott and our creative team at Scott Orthodontic Associates blog about important topics pertinent to orthodontic treatment care and your well-being, including innovative orthodontic techniques we offer.

This week, though, we thought we’d step back and ask you, our wonderful patients and readers: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the always-changing field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog in the coming months? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask us for a while now? Let us know by posting here or on our interactive Facebook fan page!

So… take it away and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have!

September is National Childhood Injury Prevention Month

2010-09-06T15:49:00.000-07:00

Fall is almost upon us, which means it's a great time for Dr. Gregory Scott and our staff to remind our patients (especially you athletes) to take care of both your mouth and appliances while participating in contact sports, as well as leisure sports this fall. Let's face it: this is a busy time of year sports-wise, whether you're playing soccer in the local park or preparing for high school football.

With September being National Childhood Injury Prevention Month, our entire staff at Scott Orthodontic Associates want you to know that only by using a mouth guard can athletes with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. So, the next time you're in for a visit at our convenient Lakeland office, we encourage you to ask Dr. Scott for a mouth guard, and we will provide one! For more info on sports injuries and how to avoid them, check out this article.

We hope you've had a wonderful and safe Labor Day weekend!

Invisalign and your oral health, from Dr. Gregory Scott

2010-08-27T17:28:00.000-07:00

When considering treatment options here in Lakeland, patients often ask Dr. Gregory Scott how Invisalign treatment is so different than wearing traditional braces. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign 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:

*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.

*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.

*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, please give us a call at (863) 709-1941. We look forward to hearing from you - have a great weekend.

Connect with us on Facebook!

2010-08-20T16:56:00.000-07:00

At Scott Orthodontic Associates, we value the relationships we have developed with our patients in Lakeland and surrounding communities. Well, hey, we also enjoy connecting with them online. Even if you only see us for your appointment on a regular basis, did you know that you can now connect with Dr. Scott and staff on our Facebook page?

We invite you to “like” us at Facebook.com/LakelandOrthodontics. We share office news and updates on our Fan Page, so be sure to check it out! By Liking our page, you will receive updates from our office automatically in your news feed!

Happy Friday! Enjoy the weekend!

National Smile Week at Scott Orthodontic Associates

2010-08-10T08:17:00.000-07:00

It’s National Smile Week, and a GREAT time to remind our patients at Scott Orthodontic Associates to practice good oral hygiene to keep those teeth shining during your orthodontic treatment! This includes brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding foods that can stain your teeth such as tea and coffee and visiting your general dentist as recommended.

There are two main reasons to maintain good oral hygiene during your treatment:

• To keep the teeth and gums clean so the teeth won't rot and the gums won't recede away (you'd want to keep your teeth clean for this reason whether or not you are having orthodontic treatment).

• Clean teeth and healthy gums will promote better tooth movement with a healthier result. It may sound absurd, but your body has only so much energy to spend on your mouth so when it is busy fighting decay and periodontal disease, tooth movement slows down considerably.

Another great reason to smile is this: smiling can actually help you live longer according to a new study! So keep smiling and have a great rest of the summer!

“Hey, Dr. Scott! Any truth to those rumors about orthodontics?”

2010-08-02T12:21:00.000-07:00

Lakeland orthodontist Dr. Gregory Scott and our team know there are many myths circulating about orthodontics lately. However, before you buy into these myths, we think you should get the facts! Our staff came across a great site recently that helps set the record straight - literally. The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has some great information on the myths and facts of orthodontics, and we encourage you to check them out!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at Scott Orthodontic Associates, please feel free to give us a call at (863) 808-0126!

We hope you had a relaxing weekend!

Tell us: what's on your reading list this summer?

2010-07-29T15:36:00.001-07:00

With summer 2010 in full swing, Dr. Scott and staff wanted to remind all our patients about the importance of reading and keeping your mind sharp. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year, but reading during the summer is a vital step in brain development and warding off the dreaded “summer slide.” Plus, reading is always fun!

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR summer reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great summer reads? Ask us for suggestions, and we'd be happy to provide a few suggestions. You may also ask a local librarian here in Lakeland for some ideas or check out these summer reading ideas that we came across today, courtesy of Barnes & Noble.

Happy reading! We encourage you to share with us your summer picks or your all-time favorites on our Facebook page!

The Braces Brigade - be a part of it this summer! From Dr. Scott

2010-07-23T09:45:00.000-07:00

Calling all past and current patients of Dr. Scott's! Have you ever thought about sharing your experience in braces in writing, then we've got the perfect opportunity for you! This summer, the American Association of Orthodontists is proud to offer its first annual Braces Brigade campaign, where you can blog about your experience in orthodontic treatment with millions of people and come away with a $100 American Express gift card!

To complete your Braces Brigade application, you'll need to provide the AAO with your:

* Name
* Age – Must be 14 years of age or older
* E-mail
* Phone number
* Stage of orthodontic treatment
* A photo of your braces/smile
* A sample blog post – picture yourself as a member of Braces Brigade and show off your writing skills! (100-word minimum)

In your blog, you may answer questions such as:

• Why did you decide to get orthodontic treatment at Scott Orthodontic Associates?
• What advice would you share with other orthodontic patients?
• What does it feel like to get braces on?
• What foods do you miss the most?
• What new foods have you discovered?
• Do your friends have braces or retainers?
• Where is the first place you’re going to show off your new, beautiful smile?
• How has your new smile changed your life?

All applicants must either be an orthodontic patient at Scott Orthodontic Associates or the parent of a patient (pre- and post- treatment stages are fine). If you happen to be under 18, your parents must fill out a consent form along with your official entry, giving you permission to enter the contest.

We encourage you to apply for the Braces Brigade today! GOOD LUCK and have a GREAT weekend!

Ask Dr. Scott: How do I know when I have an emergency?

2010-07-13T21:52:00.000-07:00

Dr. Gregory Scott will tell you true orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but they do occur - especially during the summer when patients are out and about more frequently. When they do happen, we want you to know our dedicated staff at Scott Orthodontic Associates are always available to you. As a general rule, you should call our office when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can't take care of yourself. We'll be able to schedule an appointment to resolve the problem.

Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with Dr. Scott and staff:

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, please give us a call as soon as possible! We hope you're having a GREAT summer so far!

Ask Dr. Scott: How, exactly, does Invisalign work? [Video]

2010-06-30T10:41:00.000-07:00

Perhaps you've wondered recently how Dr. Gregory Scott's use of Invisalign treatment at our convenient Lakeland office manages to straighten teeth without using traditional metallic braces at all? The Invisalign system is a state-of-the-art system of clear, removable aligners that we proudly offer at Scott Orthodontic Associates.

We also have plenty of resources on our website to check out about Invisalign, or give our office a call at (863) 709-1941 to learn if this revolutionary new treatment option is right for you!

Have a GREAT Fourth of July weekend!

Dr. Scott and Scott Orthodontic Associates, easing your child's fear of the dentist (and orthodontist)

2010-06-22T11:14:00.000-07:00

Lakeland orthodontist Dr. Gregory Scott knows that many children have fear when it comes to visiting the dentist or orthodontist. Our staff at Scott Orthodontic Associates found a great article on how to help kids overcome fears of the dentist, courtesy of our friends at WebMD.

Making your child feel comfortable when they visit our office is a priority for us, and our team excels at making children feel comfortable during their treatment. Dr. Scott and our highly trained staff are committed to providing you with the best orthodontic experience in a friendly, fun, and high-tech atmosphere. In fact, most of our patients look forward to their next visit!

Are regular checkups important? You bet.

2010-06-14T19:49:00.000-07:00

Have you been brushing your teeth twice a day during your treatment? You have? That’s awesome. But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your dentist every six months in addition to your treatments here at Scott Orthodontic Associates. Brushing your teeth a couple times a day is vital to maintaining good oral health as well.

The advantage of seeing your dentist regularly is that they can check for problems that might not be seen or felt, detect cavities and early signs of decay, treat oral health problems early and show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth.

During an oral exam, dentists are able to check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Regular checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing.

And, as always, if you have any questions about your treatment with Lakeland orthodontist Dr. Gregory Scott, feel free to give us a call at (863) 808-0126 or visit our web site.

Scott Orthodontic Associates want to know: what are your summer plans?

2010-06-08T20:09:00.000-07:00

As the school year wraps up for a lot of our patients at Scott Orthodontic Associates, the days get longer and the sun begins to heat up in Lakeland and surrounding Polk County, there’s no better way to beat the heat than jump into a pool or cool off under the shade with a nice beverage (non-sugary, of course). For most of our patients, the summer brings a chance to get away from it all and escape everyday life, if only for a week or two (or three). For others, it means a season of relaxation and relief from homework and studying.

How about you?

What are your summer plans? Do you have any interesting plans for a summer vacation? Does your family have a reunion planned? Our staff would be interested in how you are all spending your summer vacations. If you’re going somewhere exotic, let us know! If you're going camping, we'd like to hear about it! Even if you're staying at home here in Lakeland, let us know!

Please feel free to share your summer plans on our Facebook page as the summer rolls on!

Dr. Scott and team, supporting National Smile Month!

2010-06-02T14:52:00.000-07:00

At Scott Orthodontic Associates, we can't believe it's already June! As it turns out, today is a great day for Dr. Scott and team to remind our patients that June is National Smile Month, which means it's not a bad time to get serious about practicing good oral hygiene between your visits to our office.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Month for many, many years:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Here's a helpful video showing you how to brush with your braces on.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment.
* Visit your dentist regularly (usually every six months apart) in addition to visiting Dr. Scott.

We hope these tips help! We hope you have yourself a great rest of the week!

Talking retainers with Dr. Gregory Scott

2010-05-25T10:18:00.000-07:00

If you've recently completed your treatment at Scott Orthodontic Associates, fantastic! We’d like to congratulate you again! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Gregory Scott will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, you see, provide that stabilization. Retainers 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. Scott is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime. Here are some things to remember when you receive your retainers:

* Wear your retainers full time, until Dr. Scott 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 at (863) 709-1941 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.).

We hope this helps! You can always contact our staff at Scott Orthodontic Associates if you have any questions!

Fluoride, your buddy throughout orthodontic treatment

2010-05-20T16:27:00.000-07:00

There are so many ways you protect your teeth during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Gregory Scott. You brush twice a day, floss regularly and protect your appliances from being damaged. But did you know there's another way to keep your teeth clean and healthy during your treatment? Fluoride – yes, fluoride - helps prevent cavities and tooth decay and can fight to 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.

Fluoride that we use at Scott Orthodontic Associates is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask Dr. Scott how to purchase professional-strength fluoride). He may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses 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.

Share your experience at Scott Orthodontic Associates with the world!

2010-05-11T14:20:00.000-07:00

Whether you've visited Scott Orthodontic Associates for a week, months or even years, you'd probably know Dr. Gregory Scott and our highly-trained staff are committed to providing you with the best orthodontic experience in a friendly, fun, and high-tech atmosphere.

We'd love to hear your feedback about how our team is doing! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice with the rest of the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local page and write a review there.

After all, reviews help Dr. Scott create more beautiful smiles in Lakeland and surrounding communities.

You may write a review here.

Thank you and enjoy the rest of the week!

Happy Mother's Day, from Scott Orthodontic Associates

2010-05-06T20:03:00.000-07:00

Our entire staff at Scott Orthodontic Associates would like to take this time thank all the wonderful moms out there for being so great during your child's orthodontic treatment. Whether it's driving their kids to regularly scheduled appointments or for "being there" while their child is treatment, the moms who come to our office are all great, and we'd like you to know that we appreciate you all! Happy Mother’s Day to you all!

And kids? If you happen to be out of Mother's Day gift ideas, check out this helpful video about clever, inexpensive Mother's Day gift ideas, courtesy of a recent segment on Good Morning America. Whatever you come up with, Dr. Scott and team know your mom will love it!

A few helpful Invisalign® Tips, from Scott Orthodontic Associates

2010-04-28T10:14:00.000-07:00

We've blogged about our Invisalign treatment before, and today thought we'd share a few helpful Invisalign tips.

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. Gregory Scott wants you to ask yourself the following three 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 a necessity for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky a 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 easy: 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 Scott Orthodontic Associates, please give us a call!

Ask Scott Orthodontic Associates: Which toothbrush should my child use?

2010-04-23T14:44:00.000-07:00

Dr. Scott will tell you that brushing your teeth is one of the easiest methods of cavity prevention. But which type of toothbrush should a child use? When choosing a toothbrush, look for round-ended (polished) bristles that clean while being gentle on the gums. Choose one that is specifically designed for children's smaller mouths and hands and one that has large handles that can help children control the toothbrush. Lastly, throw out a toothbrush after three months or sooner if the bristles are fraying. Frayed bristles have the ability to harm your gums, and are not as effective in cleaning teeth.

As far as which toothpaste is best? It doesn't matter as long as it has fluoride in it. However, for small children who tend to swallow toothpaste, do not use fluoridated toothpaste. Make sure to touch each tooth and every side of that tooth. Also, you do need to gently brush on your gums.

To learn more about choosing the right toothbrush and toothpaste for your child, we encourage you to read this helpful article from Parenthood.com. Or, you may give us a call at Scott Orthodontic Associates and we'll try to answer any question you may have about keeping your child's mouth as healthy as possible!

What helps you relax at Scott Orthodontic Associates?

2010-04-16T09:58:00.000-07:00

Trust us when we say that we completely understand that not everyone always enjoys visiting their orthodontist. But at Scott Orthodontic Associates, we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about Scott Orthodontic Associates that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff? Perhaps it has something to with Dr. Scott's professionalism or demeanor?

Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook page ... or by giving us a call! Have a terrific weekend!

This spring, play it safe! From Scott Orthodontic Associates

2010-04-05T15:32:00.000-07:00

With spring here, many children, teens and adults will once again pick up the ball, bring the bat out of seasonal retirement, and lace up their cleats to hit the fields for the return of spring sports! April is National Facial Protection Month, and during this time, Dr. Scott and our dedicated team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field.

Above is a helpful video from our friends at the AAO about staying safe on the ball field this spring. If you have any further questions about any of the tips offered in the video, please contact Scott Orthodontic Associates. And remember to have fun and stay safe!

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

2010-03-30T14:30:00.000-07:00

Dr. Gregory Scott 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 Scott Orthodontic Associates, feel free to give us a call.

Age seven, the magic number for your child's first visit to Scott Orthodontic Associates

2010-03-22T14:50:00.000-07:00

Many parents in Lakeland and surrounding communities just assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to visit Scott Orthodontic Associates, only to discover that treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. But did you know that the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That's right: seven.

OK, you're thinking: what’s so great about age seven, Dr. Scott? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for Dr. Scott to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or what Dr. Scott calls “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 two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, however, 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 detrimental to good oral hygiene. So if your child is nearing age seven, please give us a call at Scott Orthodontic Associates to schedule an appointment.

Happy Monday!

Ask Dr. Gregory Scott: Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?

2010-03-17T13:45:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks back, we posted a blog on the benefits of braces. This week, we thought we'd get a little more specific and delve into adult braces. Recently, our staff at Scott Orthodontic Associates read a fascinating statistic: adults getting braces has jumped 24 percent from just 14 years ago!

In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing to invest in orthodontics. While orthodontic treatment is often associated with teens, adult orthodontics and braces at Lakeland office can achieve amazing results for adult patients. With treatments such as Invisalign® and others, you can have your teeth straightened less noticeably. Treatment at Scott Orthodontic Associates can be successful at any age, and Dr. Scott knows adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. Scott and our entire team would love to have you visit for a consultation. Give us a call to set one up!

Staying connected with Scott Orthodontic Associates

2010-03-11T10:06:00.000-08:00

Dr. Scott and our team at Scott Orthodontic Associates love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our interactive 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, Dr. Scott knows it is unpredictable and ever-changing. 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. Gregory Scott: Who benefits from Invisalign®?

2010-03-04T14:59:00.000-08:00

Part of what makes Invisalign "work" is that the treatment is customizable for pretty much anybody. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment at Scott Orthodontic Associates, the first Dr. Gregory Scott does, 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. And since the aligners are virtually invisible, nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Scott is a certified Invisalign provider. 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.

Talking sports and mouth guards with Dr. Gregory Scott

2010-02-25T10:30:00.000-08:00

Let’s face it: sports-related injuries are common among children, let alone teens with braces. In a recent survey, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, discovered that 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get hurt while playing sports.

That’s why our staff at Scott Orthodontic Associates is helping spread the word that many facial sports injuries can be prevented simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. Ask us—Dr. Gregory Scott will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment. In addition, the AAO has provided the following tips for keeping your kids safe on the field. 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, says Dr. Scott. 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. Scott is trying to achieve.

If you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Scott Orthodontic Associates, please give us a call.

Ask Dr. Gregory Scott: Why are straight teeth important?

2010-02-18T09:04:00.000-08:00

People wonder why Dr. Scott and our dedicated 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, you see, 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. Dr. Scott can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment at Scott Orthodontic Associates. Enjoy the rest of your week!

Imagining your life with Invisalign® at Scott Orthodontic Associates

2010-02-12T09:30:00.000-08:00

Are you wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you're in treatment? You're not alone in your concerns! Our team thought we’d share this list of questions and answers for anyone pondering Invisalign treatment at Scott Orthodontic Associates.

How exactly does Invisalign work?

Using 3-D computer imaging technology, Invisalign creates a series of custom-made, clear aligners exclusively for your teeth, based on the treatment plan that we specify for you. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.

Will I experience pain during treatment?

Most people experience temporary discomfort for a few days after a new aligner is placed. This feeling of pressure is normal and is a sign that Invisalign is working by sequentially moving your teeth to their final destination.

Can other people see that I'm in treatment?

One of the benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.

Can I smoke during treatment?

We discourage smoking while wearing the aligners as they may become discolored.

Are there any foods I cannot eat while in treatment?

You can eat normally during the entire course of treatment. One of the advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. Simply take the aligners out before each meal, brush when you're finished eating, then reinsert the aligners afterward.

What about chewing gum?

We recommend removing your aligners for all meals and snacks, as gum and other chewy substances can stick to the aligners.

How often must I wear my aligners?

Aligners should be worn all day, except when eating, brushing, and flossing.

Will my speech be affected by the aligners?

As with any orthodontic treatment, aligners may temporarily affect your speech. If this does happen, your tongue will adjust within a day or two and your speech should return to normal.

How can I clean my aligners?

The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water.

How often must I visit your office during treatment?

For most patients, visits every 6 weeks are frequent enough for us to determine that your treatment is progressing properly. Dr. Scott will provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan.