Happy Holidays from Orthodontic Specialists of New England!

During the busy holiday season it is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of shopping, parties and decorating.  We sometimes forget to reflect on the year’s accomplishments, the beauty and meaning of the season and the true gifts of our family, friends and community. Our staff at Orthodontic Specialists of New England consider our patients one of our greatest blessings and we thank you for your patronage, friendship and loyalty. We wish you and your family many joyous holiday moments and a happy and healthy New Year!

The Perfect Holiday Gift, Sonicare Toothbrush!

Your mouth deserves the best oral care for life, so why not give the gift that keeps on giving! We offer Sonicare tooth brushes for every smile at a discounted rate (See Front Desk for Details). Philips Sonicare toothbrushes can help remove plaque, whiten teeth and improve gum health, giving you a clean that you can feel!!! Sonicare is gentle on braces too! Studies show taking good care of your teeth and gums has a significant impact on your well-being. Sonicare Toothbrushes make for great holiday gifts! Be sure and get yours TODAY!

Braces: Myth or Fact

So in order to get things straight, we came up with a list of common orthodontic Myths and Facts.

Myth: Braces are only for kids!

Fact: No way! Actually, two of five orthodontic patients is a full grown adult.

Myth: People wearing braces can magnetize their mouth to the fridge.

Fact: Nope. Braces are made from non magnetic materials, and today there are even clear braces that are made out of plastic.

Myth: Ouch! Braces are painful!

Fact: After a short adjustment period you’ll forget that you even have braces.

Myth: You have to wear braces for years and years.

Fact: Not necessarily. Some patients wear braces for only a couple of months, not years and definitely not years and years!

Myth: Braces look ugly and I’ll be embarrassed in school or at work.

Fact: Braces aren’t what they used to be and there are so many varieties to chose from. Try invisible braces for a subtle look

"Text 2 Like" on FaceBook!

Be sure to become a fan on our Orthodontic Specialists of New England Facebook Fanpage!!! To become a fan, simply Text like newengland4braces to 32665 or log onto our website at www.NewEngland4Braces.com and click on the Facebook icon link. Then click on the “Like” button on our Fanpage and you will instantly become a fan!  This is an easy way to stay up to date on all of the new and exciting features that Orthodontic Specialists of New England has to offer!

Brush your teeth, It's healthy!

Did you know that regularly brushing your teeth can reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes and cancer? Or that washing your hands for 20 seconds could protect you from 80 percent of all infectious diseases? In a nation caught up in fads, it seems Americans have been misdirected about good health and that the real answer lies with the basics. Brush Your Teeth, it is a simple way to stay young and healthy. www.braces.org

Patient Referral Program

To show our appreciation, each time you refer a patient you will receive a credit of one month's payment. This credit will be applied to your account the month after the referred patient is fitted with braces. There is no limit as to how many patients you can refer. The patient referral program still applies for the accounts that are paid in full. Paid in full accounts will receive a $75.00 gift card the month after the referred patient is fitted with braces. *Some exclusions may apply.

New Year's Contest!

Our New Year's Tooth-A-lution needs your slogan solution! We are looking for the most unique slogan. To enter, submit your slogan relating to braces. 

The most unique slogan wins a $50.00 Gift Card!

See the front desk for more information and to pick up your entry form. Entries must be in by January 31^st.

Patient Referral Program

To show our appreciation, each time you refer a patient you will receive a credit of one month's payment. This credit will be applied to your account the month after the referred patient is fitted with braces. There is no limit as to how many patients you can refer. The patient referral program still applies for the accounts that are paid in full. Paid in full accounts will receive a $75.00 gift card the month after the referred patient is fitted with braces. *Some exclusions may apply.

History of Thanksgiving

Most stories of Thanksgiving history start with the harvest celebration of the pilgrims and the Indians that took place in the autumn of 1621. Although they did have a three-day feast in celebration of a good harvest, and the local Indians did participate, this "first Thanksgiving" was not a holiday, simply a gathering.  It is thought that the first Thanksgiving in 1619, was celebrated to give thanks for helping the Pilgrims of Plymouth Colony survive their first brutal winter in New England. Thanksgiving can be traced back to 1863 when President Lincoln became the first president to proclaim Thanksgiving Day as a national holiday. The holiday has been a fixture of late November ever since. Traditionally, it is a time to give thanks for the harvest and express gratitude in general. www.wiki.com

Fall into a Smile

Smiling is contagious, you can catch it like the flu. When someone smiled at me today, I noticed I started smiling too. As I passed around the corner, and someone saw my gleaming grin. When he smiled I realized, I'd passed it on to him. I thought about that smile all day long, and then I realized its worth. A single smile, just like mine, could travel round the earth. www.smile.org

"Text 2 Like" on FaceBook!

Be sure to become a fan on our Orthodontic Specialists of New England Facebook Fanpage!!! To become a fan, simply Text like newengland4braces to 32665 or log onto our website at www.NewEngland4Braces.com and click on the Facebook icon link. Then click on the “Like” button on our Fanpage and you will instantly become a fan!  This is an easy way to stay up to date on all of the new and exciting features that Orthodontic Specialists of New England has to offer!

Insurance Benefits Reminder

The holiday season is fast approaching and the 2012 year is quickly coming to an end, so we would like to take this opportunity to address some insurance related issues that a new calendar year always brings up. Whether you have an individual or employer sponsored Health Insurance plan, a Life insurance policy, Dental and Vision plan, or some combination thereof, here are a few things to keep in mind as we close out 2012 and usher in 2013.

Now is the time to be thinking about using your flex spend, health savings and/or insurance benefits before they may expire at the end of the year, so before the end of the year be sure to take advantage of your remaining insurance benefits. If you have Dental insurance, your deductible and annual benefit maximum(s) will most likely reset January 1, 2013. These are some things you may want to keep in mind as appointment times are limited around the holidays, so don’t wait to give us a call to utilize those benefits or to get a jump start on starting treatment for the new year!

Fun Fall Outdoor Activities!

The Fun Harvest Dash

Set up a fall relay with the kids. Fill large containers with sunflower seed bird feed. Have smaller, clear containers at the opposite end. Kids fill up a cup with seed and race to dump it in the empty container. They sprint back to the start and hand-off the cup to the teammates. Goal of the race is to be the first team to fill up the small container with the seeds. As an extra challenge, give the kids an over-sized soup ladle instead of a cup. Don't worry if the seeds spill; that's part of the fun! The birds will easily find them later. Try a dollar store for inexpensive clear containers. They usually stock plastic ones in apple or pumpkin shapes in the fall. Popcorn or candy corn also can be used in place of seeds!!!!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

ORTHODONTIC SPECIALISTS OF NEW ENGLAND WISHES YOU A SAFE HALLOWEEN!

Afraid of the Dark:

A Halloween Poem by Miss MerFaery 2010

A Halloween Rhyme.... Eeepity, creepity, oh what a fright! 

Hiding from things that go BUMP in the night. 

Eeekity, squeakity, oh such a lark! 

I wish I wasn't afraid of the dark. 

Jack O'Lantern, trick or treat. 

Scary costumes out on the street. 

Ghosts and ghoulies in the air. 

Stay inside, beware, beware! 

Eeepity, creepity, oh what a scare! 

Constantly wondering "who goes there?" 

Eeekity, squeakity, turn on the light. 

I don't like the dark on Halloween night!

Pumpkin Poptarts

Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin puree, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 egg, 1 package refrigerated pie crust

Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoon milk, 1 tablespoon light corn syrup, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Directions: In a large bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, sugar, and egg. Unroll pie crusts, cut the edges off to make a large square, then cut the pie crust into three equal rectangles (about 2″ x 3″). Spoon a small amount of pumpkin mixture into the center of one of the rectangles, taking care to not let the filling ooze near the edges. Use a small paring knife to carve jack-o-lantern faces into a second rectangle. Gently lay the carved piece over the pumpkin filling, then press the edges firmly together with a fork. Transfer to a cookie sheet and bake in an oven preheated to 400 degrees for 8-10 minutes, or just until the edges of the poptart begin to turn golden brown.

In a large bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, milk, corn syrup, and vanilla. Drizzle glaze over hot pumpkin poptarts. Allow to cool on a cooling rack before serving.

Bracket Friendly Halloween Candies

During the Halloween season, the most frequently asked question of people in braces is, “What candy am I allowed to eat at Halloween?” To avoid breaking the braces, steer clear of the following treats, or recipes  with these ingredients, as they could lengthen treatment time: Hard candies, Chewy candies, Caramel, Nuts, Licorice, Taffy, Jelly beans, Hard pretzels, Bubblegum and Popcorn.

For alternatives, look for foods that are softer, such as soft chocolate or peanut butter cups.  Candies that are not sticky, chewy, hard, or crunchy are generally OK. Of course, as usual, it is vital to keep your teeth, gums, and braces clean in order to maintain good oral hygiene. Remember to floss and brush after any Halloween treats!

Pumpkin Chocolate-Chip Softies

Nothing says October like PUMPKIN....and chocolate! 

Here is a braces-friendly treat that will bring the fragrance of Fall into your kitchen with nutmeg, cinnamon and ginger by combining the moisture of PUMPKIN and the fun of CHOCOLATE chips!

Don't forget to share with your family & friends!

Recipe courtesy of the American Association of Orthodontics, or AAO, and “The Braces Cookbook” by Pamela Waterman.

October is National Orthodontic Health Month.

October is National Orthodontic Health Month. October also winds up with Halloween, one of our favorite holidays. Kids with braces need to be careful when they bite into treats. Eating these “off limits” foods will break your braces and lengthen treatment time. Bobbing for apples is not recommended for braces. Orthodontic patients can enjoy thinly sliced apples, dipped in yogurt or creamy chocolate sauce.  Of course, Halloween does not have to be completely treat-less. Plain chocolate candy is OK, provided you remember to brush and floss after wards.

Check back all month long for tips and recipes to celebrate National Orthodontic Health Month with Orthodontic Specialists of New England!

Fall Ortho Contest

It's the Braces Crossword Puzzle! Entries must be received by October 31st, 2011 to qualify to win a $50 gift card! Get your entry form from the front desk and complete for a chance to win! Please see the Front Desk for details!

“Text 2 Like” on Facebook!

Be sure to become a fan on our Orthodontic Specialists of New England Facebook Fanpage!!! To become a fan, simply Text like newengland4braces to 32665 or log onto our website at www.NewEngland4Braces.com and click on the Facebook icon link. Then click on the “Like” button on our Fanpage and you will instantly become a fan!  This is an easy way to stay up to date on all of the new and exciting features that Orthodontic Specialists of New England has to offer!

9/11 National Day of Remembrance

Our Nation Pauses To Reflect 

11 Years After Terrorist Attacks

In the United States, Patriot Day occurs on September 11 of each year, designated in memory of the September 11th terrorists attacks. On every anniversary, in New York City, the names of the victims who died there are read out against a background of somber music. The President of the United States attends a memorial service at the Pentagon,and asks Americans to observe Patriot Day with a moment of silence.

Across the country,  thousands of Americans will honor the memory of the victims and heroes of 9/11 by engaging in services in their communities. The idea of making 9/11 a day of service and remembrance started with 9/11 family members eleven years ago. Events will be taking place in all 50 states, and many are focused on supporting veterans, soldiers, and first responders. WE WILL NEVER FORGET! (en.wikipedia.org)

Patient Referral Program

To show our appreciation, each time you refer a patient you will receive a credit of one month's payment. This credit will be applied to your account the month after the referred patient is fitted with braces. There is no limit as to how many patients you can refer. The patient referral program still applies for the accounts that are paid in full. Paid in full accounts will receive a $75.00 gift card the month after the referred patient is fitted with braces. *Some exclusions may apply.

National Read A Book Day is September 6th!

Reading is an active mental process: Unlike sitting in front of the TV, reading makes you use your brain. While reading you would be forced to reason out many things which are unfamiliar to you. In this process you would use the grey cells of your brain to think and become smarter.

Reading improves your vocabulary: While reading books, especially challenging ones, you will find yourself exposed to many new words you wouldn’t be otherwise.

Improves concentration and focus: It requires you to focus on what you are reading for long periods. Unlike magazines, Internet posts or e-Mails that might contain small chunks of information, books tell the whole story. Since you must concentrate in order to read, like a muscle, you will get better at concentration.

Builds self-esteem: The more you read, the more knowledgeable you become. With more knowledge comes more confidence. More confidence builds self-esteem. Since you are so well read, people look to you for answers. Your feelings about yourself can only get better.

Improves memory: Many studies show if you don’t use your memory, you lose it. Reading helps you stretch your memory muscles in a similar way. Reading requires remembering details, facts and figures and in literature, plot lines, themes and characters.

Improves creativity: Reading about diversity of life and exposing yourself to new ideas and more information helps to develop the creative side of the brain as it imbibes innovation into your thinking process.

Happy Labor Day!

Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country. It is appropriate, therefore, that the nation pay tribute on Labor Day to the creator of so much of the nation's strength, freedom, and leadership — the American worker.  (www.dol.gov)

Dental Cleaning Reminder

Good oral hygiene is important, not only for looks, but for general health as well. Regular check ups and cleanings can prevent problems as well as provide you with good oral hygiene. Developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. "For a Sparkly Smile, Brush & Floss Every Day!"  So, remember to get your dental cleanings every 6 months!

Patient Referral Program

To show our appreciation, each time you refer a patient you will receive a credit of one month's payment. This credit will be applied to your account the month after the referred patient is fitted with braces. There is no limit as to how many patients you can refer. The patient referral program still applies for the accounts that are paid in full. Paid in full accounts will receive a $75.00 gift card the month after the referred patient is fitted with braces. *Some exclusions may apply.

My Dog Ate My Homework!

* Create an environment that is conducive to doing homework. Youngsters need a work space in their bedroom or another part of the home that offers privacy. 

* Set aside ample time for homework. Establish a household rule that the TV set stays off during homework time AND supervise computer and internet use.

* Be available to answer questions and offer assistance, but never do a child's homework for them. 

* Take steps to help alleviate eye fatigue, neck fatigue and brain fatigue while studying. It may be helpful to close the books for a few minutes, stretch, and take a break periodically when it will not be too disruptive. 

* If your child is struggling with a particular subject, and you aren't able to help her yourself, a tutor can be a good solution. Talk it over with your child's teacher first

School Physicals & Immunizations

Routine exams and screenings help you and your kids prevent, identify, and treat health problems when they arise. Vaccines greatly reduce your child's risk of serious illness (particularly when more and more people use them) and give diseases fewer chances to take hold in a population. Unfortunately, misinformation about vaccines could make some parents decide not to immunize their children, putting them and others at a greater risk for illness.

Back to School Time!

Backpack Safety: Choose a backpack with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back  and remember to pack light. Organize the backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the center of the back. The backpack should never weigh more than 10 to 20 percent of the your child’s body weight and have child always use both shoulder straps. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles so consider a rolling backpack. This type of backpack may be a good choice for students who must tote a heavy load.

Save Money on Back to School Shopping

Back to school shopping can take a toll on your family's budget, and can be a stressful time for many parents. But these smart money saving tips can help ease the financial strain of getting ready for back to school. 

Take stock of what you already have. Sort through your child’s things to see what can be reused. Search out store brands. Office supply stores such as Staples often feature their own brand of notebooks, paper, and other school supplies at a lower price. Arrange a back to school swap. Gather your friends and relatives with kids of approximately similar ages and have them bring fairly-new or unused school supplies and clothes that can be exchanged. Take advantage of back to school sales tax breaks. Many states offer sales tax breaks on back to school supplies. (www.backtoschool.about.com)

“Text 2 Like” on Facebook

Be sure to become a fan on our Orthodontic Specialists of New England Facebook Fanpage!!! To become a fan, simply Text like newengland4braces to 32665 or log onto our website at www.NewEngland4Braces.com and click on the Facebook icon link. Then click on the “Like” button on our Fanpage and you will instantly become a fan!  This is an easy way to stay up to date on all of the new and exciting features that Orthodontic Specialists of New England has to offer!

Don't forget to enter our Crossword Puzzle contest!

Get A Gold Winning Smile!

Summer Contest!

Enter our summer SUDOKU Contest. Winner receives a $50 gift card. See front desk for details and to request your entry form. Contest ends July 31^st!

Did you know...

Watermelon is actually a VEGETABLE! It is from the botanical family Cucurbitaceae and is most closely related to cucumbers, pumpkins and squash. The watermelon is composed of 92% water! It is a great SUMMERTIME snack! 

Patient Referral Program

To show our appreciation, each time you refer a patient you will receive a credit of one month's payment. This credit will be applied to your account the month after the referred patient is fitted with braces. There is no limit as to how many patients you can refer. The patient referral program still applies for the accounts that are paid in full. Paid in full accounts will receive a $75.00 gift card the month after the referred patient is fitted with braces. *Some exclusions may apply.

"Text 2 Like" on Facebook

Be sure to become a fan on our Orthodontic Specialists of New England Facebook Fanpage!!! To become a fan, simply Text like newengland4braces to 32665 or log onto our website at www.NewEngland4Braces.com and click on the Facebook icon link. Then click on the “Like” button on our Fanpage and you will instantly become a fan!  This is an easy way to stay up to date on all of the new and exciting features that Orthodontic Specialists of New England has to offer!

Happy Independence Day!

In the United States, Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain. Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, political speeches and ceremonies, and various other public and private events celebrating the history, government, and traditions of the United States. Independence Day is the national day of the United States. Wikipedia.com

July 4th Fireworks Safety

Please treat fireworks with respect, read all of the cautions and warnings and use common sense. Lighting fireworks indoors, throwing them from automobiles and lighting multiple devices at the same time can lead to accidents and are not how fireworks are intended to be used.  Always obey all local laws pertaining to the use of fireworks. If you see someone misusing fireworks, stop them. Show them the correct way to use consumer fireworks and do not ever use professional fireworks or illegal explosives. Do your part and everyone will be safer.  Wikipedia.com

• Use fireworks outdoors only.
• Obey local laws. If fireworks are not legal where you live, do not use them.
• Always have water handy. (A hose or bucket).
• Only use fireworks as intended. Don't try to alter them or combine them.
• Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• Use common sense. Spectators should keep a safe distance from the shooter and the shooter should wear safety glasses.
• Only persons over the age of 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers of any type.

July is National Ice Cream Month!

Ronald Reagan designated July as National Ice Cream Month in 1984.[1] He also appointed the third Sunday in July as National Ice Cream Day. Reagan recognized the popularity of ice cream in the United States (90% of the nation's population consumes ice cream) and stated that these two events should be observed with "appropriate ceremonies and activities." Ice cream is also the perfect summer time treat for patients in braces!

“Text 2 Like” on Facebook

Be sure to become a fan on our Orthodontic Specialists of New England Facebook Fanpage!!! To become a fan, simply Text like newengland4braces to 32665 or log onto our website at www.NewEngland4Braces.comand click on the Facebook icon link. Then click on the “Like” button on our Fanpage and you will instantly become a fan!  This is an easy way to stay up to date on all of the new and exciting features that Orthodontic Specialists of New England has to offer!

Patient Referral Program

To show our appreciation, each time you refer a patient you will receive a credit of one month's payment. This credit will be applied to your account the month after the referred patient is fitted with braces. There is no limit as to how many patients you can refer. The patient referral program still applies for the accounts that are paid in full. Paid in full accounts will receive a $75.00 gift card the month after the referred patient is fitted with braces. *Some exclusions may apply.

Water Safety

 This summer, take steps to stay safe around water. Swimming is the most popular summer activity. The best thing you can do to help your family stay safe this summer is to enroll in age-appropriate swim lessons. Swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards. Always swim with a buddy; do not allow anyone to swim alone. Even at a public pool or a beach with a lifeguard, use the buddy system! Ensure that everyone in the family learns to swim well. Be sure to teach any child to always ask permission to go near water. (www.redcross.org/watersafetytips)

Summer Camping Safety Tips

Orthodontic Specialist of New England wants you to be safe this summer. Here are a few Summer camping safety tips:

*Never approach wild animals. They may look cute and harmless enough but they are very unpredictable and can be very territorial and protective.

*Look out for snakes, spiders and other critters. Watch where you are walking, be careful when picking up sticks or rocks and look around before taking a seat.

*Wear sunscreen and sunglasses. You can get sunburn in a very short period of time even on overcast days.

*Pay attention to weather conditions. It can change very quickly.

*Bring a First Aid Kit. Keep supplies in a well marked, durable, waterproof container.

*Practice good fire safety. NEVER leave fire unattended and ALWAYS have a bucket of water, a shovel and a fire extinguisher nearby and ready to put out a fire.  (nationaloutdoors.com)

Fathers Day is June 17th

At its heart, Fathers Day is about family with the focus on dad. It should not be about expensive gifts but rather family values and a recognition of Dad’s contribution to the family. Fathers Day is about honoring Dad, for all that he has given and continued to contribute to the family.

Orthodontic Specialists of New England would like to thank and honor Dad's everywhere for their care,  love and support they give to us, or families and the community. Happy Father's Day!

Do you SUDOKU- Enter Our Summer Contest!

Enter our summer SUDOKU Contest. Winner receives a $50 gift card. See front desk for details and to request your entry form. Contest ends July 31^st!

Call Orthodontic Specialists of New England at 1-855-BRACES-4-U or visit www.NewEngland4Braces.com!

Check-in with us on Foursquare

Orthodontic Specialists of New England is excited to announce that we are now on Foursquare so be sure to check-in with us TODAY!

June is National Outdoors Month

June is an especially active time for recreation in America, with millions of us commencing summertime activities and hundreds of annual events. June 2012 will be the 9th Great Outdoors Month celebration to highlight the benefits of active time outdoors to people, to families, to communities and to the nation. Outdoor recreation is a valuable means for education, and that volunteerism is a great gift – to the nation and to volunteers themselves. It is also a great time for summer camping!!!! (nationaloutdoors.com)

Get outdoors and start enjoying our BEAUTIFUL weather. And for a BEAUTIFUL smile, give Orthodontic Specialists of New England a call at 1-855-BRACES-4-U or www.NewEngland4Braces.com. And don't forget to like us on Facebook! www.Facebook.com/newengland4braces

Readers Digest, May 2012 issue

Readers Digest, May 2012 issue:
As a new parent, I've come to appreciate the sacrifices my mother and father made for me. For example, not long ago, I thanked my mother for all the time and money that was spent on me for orthodontics. "We had to," she said, "or you would still be living at home." Kris Boedigheimer, Marshall, Minnesota.

Patient Referral Program

To show our appreciation, each time you refer a patient you will receive a credit of one month's payment. This credit will be applied to your account the month after the referred patient is fitted with braces. There is no limit as to how many patients you can refer. The patient referral program still applies for the accounts that are paid in full. Paid in full accounts will receive a $75.00 gift card the month after the referred patient is fitted with braces. *Some exclusions may apply.

Celebrate Earth Day

On April 22, celebrate by starting a new Earth-friendly habit. Spread the word! The more people who treat the Earth well, the safer all its inhabitants will be.

Plant a tree. Trees help clean the air we breathe. They produce oxygen and reduce carbon dioxide. Participate in cleanup days at a beach or park. Use those outdoor trash cans! Never litter. Keep our waterways clean. When you visit a park or beach, be sure you deposit your trash in containers and volunteer at some state and national cleanups.

Don't kill that spider! There are an estimated 40,000 species of spiders, and they all eat insects. They're an important part of the food web and provide natural pest control.

Ban all drips. If you have a dripping faucet in the house, ask your parents to replace the washer inside it. If you stop a faucet from leaking one drop each second, you can save 2,700 gallons of water a year.

Safeguard storm drains. Don't litter. Trash tossed carelessly outside often washes into storm drains, which empty into rivers and streams that eventually flow to the oceans. Pollution is a growing problem for all the Earth's oceans and its wildlife. www.kids.nationalgeographic.com

Play It Safe With Mouth Guards

With spring here, many children, teens and adults in the surrounding communities 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, Orthodontic Specialists 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:

Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse. Wear a helmet. Wear protective eye wear. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin. Be alert, even as a spectator! Hopeful these tips will keep you and your mouth safe this spring sports season. www.aao.org


If you have any additional questions about mouth guard safety and protecting your smile, give your local office a call at 1-855-BRACES-4-U!

Word Search Contest

Don't forget to enter our Word Search Contest!

See front desk for entry form. Submit your completed word search entry form for a chance to win a $50.00 Gift Card! Entries must be received by April 30^th to apply!

If you are not an existing Orthodontic Specialists of New England client, then what are you waiting for! Call us today for your FREE exam & consultation! 1-855-BRACES-4-U or www.NewEngland4Braces.com! Then don't forget to enter the Word Search Contest.....and if you miss it, don't worry, more contests to follow!