Happy Fourth of July!

Happy Independence Day from Dr. Gass and team! The Fourth of July celebrations in America may have changed a lot over the years, but there is no doubt that we Americans love to celebrate the anniversary of our country’s independence! Today we’re devoting the Gass Orthodontics blog to some fun facts about the Fourth! My, how we have grown! This …

What is dentofacial orthopedics?

You may have noticed that we specialize in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. And while most people we talk to have heard of orthodontics, many are confused by the dentofacial orthopedics part of the title. Today, Dr. Gass and our team thought we would explain the difference. While orthodontics entails the management of tooth movement, dentofacial orthopedics involves the guidance of …

Questions, questions…

When beginning orthodontic treatment, most patients ask Dr. Gass and our team a lot of questions about what to expect, while others choose to just “go with the flow” and leave it to us to build for them a beautiful smile. And for our team at Gass Orthodontics, that’s understandable. But for those who do ask questions, two of the …

How do I know if I have dry mouth?

Dry mouth, also medically known as xerostomia, is the condition of not having enough saliva, or spit, to keep your mouth wet. There are many ways to keep dry mouth at bay, including: Brushing your teeth after every meal with a fluoride toothpaste Flossing every day after a meal Avoiding tobacco, as well as drinks containing alcohol or caffeine Avoiding …

Going on vacation? Remember these simple tips!

If you are wearing braces and are planning a vacation, our team at Gass Orthodontics would suggest that you be prepared. We put together a list of items that will be handy to have with you at all times while you are out of town. They include: Toothpick, flosspick, or other interdental cleaners Travel toothbrush A water bottle or a …

Braces-Friendly Recipe: Lunch

Getting braces comes with a lot of rules. No sticky candies, watch out for popcorn, and steer clear of chips. These rules leave many braces-wearers wondering what they can still eat without hurting their teeth or their expensive orthodontic appliances. Fortunately, constructing a braces-friendly lunch is straightforward once you know which foods to avoid. Foods to Avoid When Wearing Braces …

Memorial Day and Getting Ready for Summer

Memorial Day didn’t become an official holiday until 1971, but Americans started gathering annually in the spring to remember those who lost their lives in war during the 1860s, right after the Civil War. Celebrated on the last Monday in May, people still decorate the grave sites of war veterans and hold memorial services, but Memorial Day has also evolved …

How to Protect Your Braces During Sports Activities

Proper mouth protection is recommended by Gass Orthodontics when you participate in any sports activities. If you wear braces, this protection becomes essential. Injuries to your mouth can not only damage your teeth, but your braces could break and cut open your lip. Full Facial Guards Full facial guards are often used in football and offer protection to your mouth …

Summer is Almost Here: Tips for a bright, white smile!

Summer is almost here, which means a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories is just around the corner for our patients at Gass Orthodontics. Everyone wants a glowing and radiant white smile when the sun comes around and we have a few reminders to keep your pearly whites healthy and beautiful over the summer! Try to stay away …

What is orthognathic surgery?

Orthognathic surgery is surgery to correct a wide variety of abnormalities of our patients’ jaw and teeth. The surgery is often done in conjunction with orthodontic treatment. While the patient’s appearance may be significantly improved as a result, the primary purpose of the surgery is to correct functional problems including but not limited to: Unbalanced facial appearance Protruding jaw Open …