What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment and Does My Child Need It?

young family

Thinking about early orthodontic treatment for your child? If so, you are not alone. As many as 20 percent of the patients in some orthodontic practices are ages 7 to 10.  The truth is, many developing orthodontic problems can be intercepted and corrected if diagnosed and treated at an early age. Dr. Kevin Horner and Dr. Keri Barrow, along with the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) and many other orthodontists and dental professionals, recommend children have their first orthodontic evaluation no later than age seven, or younger if the front four permanent teeth have replaced the baby teeth. Early treatment, also known as Phase I treatment (or interceptive treatment), provides timely detection of problems and a greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Early intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later.

You may want to consider early orthodontic treatment if any of the following issues apply to your child:
• Early or late loss of baby teeth (a child typically starts losing baby teeth around age five or six, and will have all their permanent teeth in by age 12 to 13)
• Sucking his or her thumb
• Difficulty chewing and/or biting
• Mouth breathing
• Speech impediment
• Protruding teeth (the top teeth and the bottom teeth extend away from each other)
• Crowded front teeth
• Teeth that don’t come together in a normal manner, or even at all

Early intervention can reduce the severity of your child’s case, and therefore reduce the length of treatment time and cost for a second phase of treatment when all of his or her permanent teeth have erupted.  The orthodontists and the staff at Horner Barrow Orthodontics can evaluate your child and determine if his or her dental and skeletal growth is proceeding properly, or if interceptive treatment is needed. In many instances, a more severe problem can be corrected using sophisticated removable appliances instead of traditional orthodontic treatment.

To schedule an appointment in our Sioux Falls, SD office, please contact us. We will be happy to  consult with you regarding any next steps deemed necessary toward caring for your child’s smile and dental health.

At Horner Barrow Orthodontics, we are committed to delivering excellent quality orthodontic treatment to each and every one of our patients. To provide a friendly, caring, and pleasant atmosphere that will ensure our patients feel relaxed and confident about placing their orthodontic care in our hands.

Now That I Have Braces, How Often Should I Brush My Teeth?

BracesGirlHBO

Braces can help you have that beautiful, straight teeth smile you’ve dreamed of, but you will need to practice good oral hygiene to keep your mouth healthy. Orthodontic treatment is most successful when paired with proper oral hygiene. It may take a little more time and effort than you are used to, but the end results will definitely be worth the extra work. Once the braces come off, you and those around you will notice that beautiful, healthy smile right away!

Plaque is a problem. Every day, plaque forms in your mouth, but with thorough cleanings several times a day, you can remove it. When you have braces, removing plaque is even more important because the wires give the plaque more places to hide in your mouth. Saliva, food, and bacteria combine to create the plaque that will deposit on the brackets of your braces, and if not removed, it can cause various dental problems, such as halitosis (bad breath), cavities, swollen gums and teeth staining.

How do I clean my teeth with braces? At Horner Barrow Orthodontics, we have many teenagers ask us this question. You should still brush your teeth for a full two minutes each time you brush. Instead of replacing your toothbrush every three months, you should replace it sooner as the bristles tend to wear out more quickly due to the rougher surfaces of the brackets and wires.

The right toothbrush. Now that your child has braces, you will need to find the right toothbrush. You can still use a regular toothbrush, but there are different toothbrushes designed specifically for people with braces. These toothbrushes make it easier to clean around the wires and brackets, reaching those hidden places where plaque forms. When searching for toothbrushes that are more effective at cleaning around braces, keep these points in mind:
• Interdental toothbrushes. This is the best type of brush to use because it has an angled head and brush that fits around the braces with ease. Most of these cleaning instruments come with a replaceable brush that is triangular and can reach all sides of the teeth.
• Regular toothbrushes. If you choose this option, the bristles will need to be angled up as you brush upwards and downwards in order to clean the teeth thoroughly over the braces.
• Electric toothbrushes. The bristles can get caught in the braces, which will cause this cleaning instrument to wear down. This also makes an electric or sonic toothbrush hard to maneuver in your mouth due to the braces.

So, how often to brush? Now that you have braces, start brushing your teeth after every meal. If you are unable to brush, make a point to rinse your mouth with water. Thoroughly swish the water around your mouth before spitting it out. It is a good idea to take a travel toothbrush with you to help you clean your braces.

Practice good oral hygiene. Having braces will not damage your teeth, but poor oral hygiene can. This is why we stress to all of our orthodontic patients at our Sioux Falls, SD office, the importance of brushing and flossing their teeth properly with braces. Maintaining good oral hygiene will enhance the wonderful benefits of orthodontic treatment!

At Horner Barrow Orthodontics, Dr. Kevin Horner, Dr. Keri Barrow, and the entire staff are committed to delivering excellent quality orthodontic treatment to each and every one of our patients. To provide a friendly, caring, and pleasant atmosphere that will ensure our patients feel relaxed and confident about placing their orthodontic care in our hands.

Ways to Pay for Orthodontic Treatment

familyphoto

Paying for braces can be a significant financial investment for many families in the Sioux Falls, SD area. That investment becomes even greater when several family members need braces or orthodontic treatment. Also, some types of orthodontics can be more expensive than others. Understanding the various options available for paying for braces can help to remove some of the financial stress. Drs. Kevin Horner and Keri Barrow want you to have all of the information you need to make an informed decision about how your family will pay for orthodontic treatment.

Dental Insurance. Insurance is one of the most common ways to pay for braces. It is important to understand that not all dental plans offer coverage for braces, but the right plan can help to cover a significant portion of the cost for braces. In choosing a dental insurance package, it is important to focus on finding a package that specifically covers orthodontists. The precise coverage provided will vary from plan to plan, but many dental insurance plans will help to take approximately 50 percent off the total cost of braces. When shopping for a dental plan, it should be understood that most plans will not provide coverage if the patient is already undergoing orthodontic treatment. Also, some plans require a waiting (or grace) period, so it is important that you do not wait until orthodontic treatment is deemed necessary to begin shopping for dental insurance. Otherwise, you may find that treatment is not covered, or that you need to delay treatment until the waiting period has passed.

Our Affordable Payment Plans. The cost of your orthodontic treatment will vary depending on your individual needs and treatment plan. The staff here at Horner Barrow Orthodontics will gladly discuss with you the cost of your treatment, and each available payment plan option, so that you can make the best choice for you and your smile. We will work with you to create a payment plan that fits your budget, and that you will know what to expect before beginning treatment.

For your convenience, we are flexible on our payment plans and we accept payment from insurance companies. Payments are also accepted on Visa and Mastercard. We are happy to assist you and your family whenever possible to choose the best payment plan for you.

At Horner Barrow Orthodontics, we are committed to delivering excellent quality orthodontic treatment to each and every patient. To provide a friendly, caring, and pleasant atmosphere that will ensure our patients feel relaxed and confident about placing their orthodontic care in our hands.

A New Year, A New Smile, A NEW YOU!

ss-2483109sm

Happy 2017 from all of us at Horner Barrow Orthodontics! Every January, millions of people resolve to change their lives for the better in the new year. Often, those resolutions involve losing weight, exercising more, or similar healthy habits. But there is one resolution that could truly improve your health and your life in many ways, with no costly gym membership required. It’s a resolution for good oral health.

The new year is a great time to reevaluate yourself, and make those changes you’ve been thinking about, like a beautiful, healthy smile. Orthodontics can be a solution for many aesthetic dental issues, such as crowding, spacing, or teeth sticking out. A healthy mouth can improve your physical well-being, and it can also give you more confidence to help you achieve other positive changes in your life.

Adults will often ask themselves these questions when they think about traditional orthodontic treatment: “Am I too old?” “What will other people think?” “How will I look?” Remember, it’s never too late to get the new smile you’ve been dreaming of. Thanks to today’s technology, there are more alternatives to traditional braces than ever before. Clear brackets and Invisalign® are less visible, but effective, options to meet your orthodontic treatment needs.

An improved smile is just one of the many benefits of orthodontics; there are also many health benefits. Aligning the teeth makes them easier to clean, thus reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Orthodontics can also give you a more balanced bite for overall improved function. Last, but certainly not least, orthodontics can enhance your overall well-being. You may feel more stressed when you are embarrassed to smile because you’re self-conscious about your teeth. Others may view your behavior as aloof or standoffish when you don’t intend it to be. On the other hand, if you are happy with your smile, you’ll feel relaxed and confident when talking with others in professional and personal settings. You’ll be comfortable in business meetings, making a presentation, going on a date, or taking a class. Having a confident smile can mean the difference between achieving positive goals in your life and just sitting on the sidelines for another year.

Don’t wait another day for your new smile! Call our Sioux Falls, SD office today to schedule an orthodontic consultation with Dr. Kevin Horner or Dr. Keri Barrow.

At Horner Barrow Orthodontics, we are committed to delivering excellent quality orthodontic treatment to each and every patient. To provide a friendly, caring, and pleasant atmosphere that will ensure our patients feel relaxed and confident about placing their orthodontic care in our hands.

Wishing You and Yours a Very Merry Christmas

free-merry-christmas-vector

It’s the season for getting together with family, friends, and loved ones to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. Whether you are a current patient, a past patient, or a future candidate for orthodontic treatment — the entire staff at Horner Barrow Orthodontics would like to wish you and your family the very best during this holiday season.

It’s the season for giving — and a great gift to give yourself or your loved ones is the gift of a healthy, beautiful smile! A smile is so important to who you are, and it’s a FACT that others feel better when those around them are smiling. If you are considering braces or orthodontic treatment for you or your family, please consider contacting our Sioux Falls, SD office for a consultation with Dr. Kevin Horner or Dr. Keri Barrow.

At Horner Barrow Orthodontics, we are committed to delivering excellent quality orthodontic treatment to each and every one of our patients. To provide a friendly, caring, and pleasant atmosphere that will ensure our patients feel relaxed and confident about placing their orthodontic care in our hands.

Happy Holidays to you and yours!

Orthodontics for Adults Are More Popular Than Ever Before

ss-2212677sm

With today’s advances in orthodontic technology, a beautiful, healthy smile can now be achieved at any age. Adults, especially, appreciate the benefits of orthodontic treatment. At Horner Barrow Orthodontics, we have a large number of adult orthodontic patients. National studies reveal that one of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over the age of 21. The American Association of Orthodontics (AAO) estimates that approximately 1,000,000 adults in the United States are currently receiving treatment from orthodontists. Today, orthodontic treatment is a viable choice for almost any adult.

One area you might not think of where adult orthodontics can be helpful is in the job market. The current job market is very competitive, especially for young adults, and recent college graduates. Creating a good first impression is extremely important. Serious job hunters know this fact, and many are giving themselves the added bonus of an improved new smile to promote their success. Many hiring professionals will tell you that a confident, beautiful smile during the interview process, no matter what your age, makes a difference when interviewing for a new job. It also helps to bolster your confidence when communicating with others, both professionally and personally, thereby helping you to perform better throughout your life and career.

Orthodontic treatment for adults has several benefits, which can also include:
• Improved health of the teeth and gums
• Increased self-esteem and self-confidence
• Reduction in unwanted wear of the teeth
• Decreased potential jaw joint problems or pain (TMJ/TMD) See our blog article to learn more about this condition.
• Development of the proper bite relationships for long-term function

Dr. Kevin Horner and Dr. Keri Barrow specialize in the latest in orthodontic care for patients of all ages. It is never too late to have a beautiful, healthy smile for a lifetime. Call our Sioux Falls, SD office to schedule your orthodontic consultation and examination, and find out how we can help you have the smile you’ve always dreamed of having!

At Horner Barrow Orthodontics, we are committed to delivering excellent quality orthodontic treatment to each and every patient. To provide a friendly, caring, and pleasant atmosphere that will ensure our patients feel relaxed and confident about placing their orthodontic care in our hands.

A Little History on Thanksgiving

481369201-free-thanksgiving-word-clip-art12770

Thanksgiving is the start of the holiday season. Brimming with good food, and quality time spent with family and friends, Thanksgiving is a joyous holiday for many of us, here in Sioux Falls, SD, and across the United States.

Thanksgiving is a day meant for giving thanks, and though this may seem like a natural celebration, the United States is one of a relative few countries to officially celebrate with a holiday.

Unlike many holidays, Thanksgiving is a secular holiday; celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November in the United States. Our northern neighbor, Canada, celebrates Thanksgiving on the second Monday in October, which is actually much closer to the time when harvests were typically gathered. In addition to the different celebration dates, the origins of the two holidays are also different.

Thanksgiving in the United States
Giving thanks for a bountiful harvest is not new, however; the modern day Thanksgiving in this country can be traced back to a celebration at Plymouth in Massachusetts in 1621. This first feast of thanksgiving was inspired by a good harvest, and the tradition was carried on. At first, the colony at Plymouth didn’t have enough food to feed everyone present, but the Native Americans helped by providing seeds and teaching the colonists how to fish, and soon enough, they were able to hold a feast worthy of the name. The tradition spread, and by the 1660s, most of New England was hosting a Thanksgiving feast in honor of the bountiful harvest.

Thanksgiving in Canada
Martin Frobisher, an explorer of early Canada, is given credit for the idea of the first Canadian Thanksgiving. He survived an arduous journey from England through harsh weather conditions and rough terrain, and after his last voyage from Europe to what is now known as Nunavut, he held a formal ceremony, giving thanks for his good fortune and for his survival. As time went on and more settlers arrived, a feast was added to what had already became a yearly tradition. Samuel de Champlain, another explorer, is linked to the first actual Thanksgiving celebration in honor of a successful harvest. Settlers who arrived with him in New France celebrated their harvest with a bountiful feast.

Thanksgiving in the 21st Century
Today, Thanksgiving is traditionally celebrated with all things Americana, from elaborate meals, parades, parties and football games, to kicking off the Christmas holiday shopping season. To many of us, Thanksgiving is roast turkey, stuffing (or dressing), mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie. No matter how you and your loved ones celebrate this special holiday, take a moment to give thanks for your friends, family, and all the bountiful blessings you’ve received.

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Horner Barrow Orthodontics. We are truly thankful for you, our wonderful orthodontic patients!

At Horner Barrow Orthodontics, we are committed to delivering excellent quality orthodontic treatment to each and every patient. To provide a friendly, caring, and pleasant atmosphere that will ensure our patients feel relaxed and confident about placing their orthodontic care in our hands.

 

Veterans Day, November 11, 2016

Arlington

Today is Veterans Day, also known as Armistice Day or Remembrance Day. On this special day, here in Sioux Falls, SD, and all across the country, we pause and salute all who have served. From the veterans of World Wars I and II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, to the wars in Iraq and in Afghanistan, we remember and honor the tremendous sacrifices made by those members of the United States armed forces (and their families’ sacrifices) to preserve our country’s freedom.

What is Veterans Day?

Veterans Day is celebrated on the eleventh minute of the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.

United States President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed Armistice Day on November 11, 1919 by saying, “To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with lots of pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations.”

A Veterans Day Poem by Robert G. Ingersoll

These heroes are dead. They died for liberty—they died for us. They are at rest. They sleep in the land they made free, under the flag they rendered stainless, under the solemn pines, the sad hemlocks, the tearful willows, and the embracing vines. They sleep beneath the shadows of the clouds, careless alike of sunshine or of storm, each in the windowless Place of Rest. Earth may run red with other wars—they are at peace. In the midst of battle, in the roar of conflict, they found the serenity of death. I have one sentiment for soldiers living and dead: cheers for the living; tears for the dead.

Dr. Kevin Horner, Dr. Keri Barrow, and the entire staff at Horner Barrow Orthodontics would like to humbly say “thank you” to our veterans.

(Photo is from Arlington National Cemetery’s website.)

What Halloween Treats are Safe for Braces?

BracesPumpkinHalloween is almost here. Just in time for this spooky (and sweet) holiday, Dr. Kevin Horner and Dr. Keri Barrow, and the team at Horner Barrow Orthodontics would like to remind all our orthodontic patients to use caution when indulging in those Halloween treats. While all those sweet, sour, and sticky candies may taste great, these treats are known to damage teeth, as well as break braces, and may also delay overall orthodontic treatment time.

Hard candies, chewy or sticky candies such as taffies and caramels, nutty goodies, jelly beans, licorice, bubble gum, lollipops, and sour candies are some of the Halloween goodies that can spell trouble for trick-or-treaters who are wearing braces or orthodontic appliances. Fruity and sour candies, like Starburst or Skittles, are terrible for your child’s teeth since these candies have a low pH value, which can erode the enamel that protects the teeth. This can lead to tooth decay and cavities.

So, what are the alternatives?
Dark chocolate, sugar-free gum, or anything that contains xylitol (a sugar substitute) is not as damaging to your teeth as hard, chewy, or sticky sweets. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends softer treats or melt-in-your-mouth foods, such as:

• Soft chocolates, such as Meltaways
• Peanut butter cups
• Gelatin (Jell-O) treats
• Apple cider
• Ice cream
• Smoothies
• Root beer floats

Still looking for other braces-friendly, and healthier alternatives? We recommend cutting up easy-to-eat fruits and vegetables such as an apple, banana or celery stalk filled with peanut butter. It might surprise you how much eating a banana or sipping a glass of water can help curb those sweet snack cravings!

We know that trick-or-treating is a fun tradition, and if you’re one of those folks who just can’t say no to Halloween sweets, we encourage our patients to brush and floss their teeth immediately after eating (including around the brackets and at the gum line) as well as swish water around in your mouth.

While sugar is known to sit on the teeth and in between and under brackets and wires after food consumption, it is important to know that sugar is not the only cavity-causing culprit. Carbohydrates, starches, acids, and any food that is chewy or sticky breaks down into sugar, and can cause tooth decay.

Remember, if you do damage your braces, please give our Sioux Falls, SD office a call as soon as possible. In most cases, small problems can be resolved with a quick trip to our office. If you have any questions about sugary foods or drinks, please give us a call or ask us during your next adjustment visit.

At Horner Barrow Orthodontics, we are committed to delivering excellent quality orthodontic treatment to each and every patient. To provide a friendly, caring, and pleasant atmosphere that will ensure our patients feel relaxed and confident about placing their orthodontic care in our hands.

 

Orthodontics for Adults—You CAN Have a Beautiful Smile!

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. At Horner Barrow Orthodontics, we treat a large number of adult patients. National studies of orthodontic patients reveals that one out of every five patients in braces or other orthodontic treatment is over the age of 21. The American Association of Orthodontics estimates that approximately 1,000,000 adults in the United States are currently receiving treatment from orthodontists. Today, orthodontic treatment is a viable option for almost any adult.

Job SeekerAdult orthodontics can be especially helpful when looking for a new job. The job market is tight right now, especially for recent college graduates and young adults. First impressions are everything and serious job hunters are giving themselves the gift of an improved new smile to promote their success. Many hiring professionals say that a beautiful, healthy smile during the interview process, no matter what your age, makes a difference when interviewing for a new job. It also helps to boost your confidence when communicating with others on all levels, both professionally and personally, thereby helping you to perform better throughout your life and career.

 

Orthodontic treatment for adults has several benefits which might include:

• Increased self-esteem and self-confidence

• Improved health of your teeth and gums

• Reduction in unwanted wear of the teeth

• Decreased potential jaw joint problems or pain (TMJ/TMD)

• Development of the proper bite relationships for long-term function

Dr. Kevin Horner and Dr. Keri Barrow specialize in the latest in orthodontic care for patients of all ages. It’s never too late to have a beautiful, healthy smile for a lifetime. Call our Sioux Falls, SD office for your complimentary orthodontic examination.

At Horner Barrow Orthodontics, we are committed to delivering excellent quality orthodontic treatment to each and every patient. To provide a friendly, caring, and pleasant atmosphere that will ensure our patients feel relaxed and confident about placing their orthodontic care in our hands.