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

2011-06-03T17:56:00.000-07:00

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 Pobanz 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. Pobanz or visit the article for tips on how to break a nail biting habit.

Good luck!

Your friends at Pobanz Orthodontics

Dr. Pobanz and team, wishing you a relaxing and memorable Memorial Day Weekend!

2011-05-27T09:53:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day weekend is a time when Americans everywhere stop and remember all those men and women who bravely gave their lives for our country.

Memorial Day also marks the unofficial start of summer 2011, and for many folks in South Ogden and Pleasant View, getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the office or in the classroom means sweet, sweet relief. At Pobanz Orthodontics, we also know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. After all, it’s a season of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, hitting the great open roads or hanging out in your backyard this weekend, we want to know about it!

Have a nice and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

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

2011-05-20T15:31:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work, says Dr. John Pobanz. 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. Pobanz 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.

Foods to Avoid During Your Orthodontic Treatment

2011-05-13T15:52:00.000-07:00

There are a variety of foods Dr. John Pobanz 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 Pobanz Orthodontics a call or ask our staff during your next visit.

What’s on your reading list?

2011-05-06T11:11:00.000-07:00

With the school year close to winding down for a lot of our patients at Pobanz 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. John Pobanz 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!

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

2011-04-29T14:50:00.000-07:00

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 Pobanz Orthodontics!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment with Dr. John Pobanz. 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 Pobanz Orthodontics a call, so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs.

Pobanz Orthodontics, Taking Steps to Reduce Our Environmental Impact

2011-04-22T10:15:00.000-07:00

We are living in an age with a renewed commitment to conservation, and are frequently reminded to recycle, reduce and reuse. Earth Day is today, April 22nd, and we thought this would be a great time to discuss everything that Pobanz Orthodontics does to conserve our natural resources and the environment.

Did you know that we offer patients account access 24 hours a day, seven days a week? We offer convenient and secure online services with our Patient Login system. You can view all of your account information, and even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages. Since this information is submitted electronically, we eliminate the use of large amounts of paper and printing materials.

Dr. John Pobanz and our team would love to hear how you minimize your impact on the environment. Leave us a comment below or you can also visit our Facebook page and post something on our wall.

Happy Earth Day!

Flossing with Braces 101, with Dr. Pobanz

2011-04-15T11:33:00.000-07:00

Dr. John Pobanz 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 Pobanz Orthodontics a call if you have more questions about flossing. Enjoy!

April is National Facial Protection Month!

2011-04-07T16:24:00.000-07:00

With spring here, many children, teens and adults in South Ogden and Pleasant View 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. John Pobanz 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 Pobanz Orthodontics. Stay safe and have fun!

A great braces-friendly spring recipe! From Pobanz Orthodontics

2011-04-01T16:04:00.000-07:00

Winter is over, and the weather is finally starting to get warmer. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) made an appetizing (and braces-friendly!) spring 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.

Soy Simmered Chicken Wraps

Ingredients:
• 3 boneless chicken breast halves
• 2 large onions, chunked
• Small flour tortillas (pkg. of ten) wheat or white
• (optional: 10-16 oz. of cooked chopped broccoli)
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup water
• 2 Tablespoons honey
• 1/8 teaspoon ginger
• 2 Tablespoons peach or apricot jam
• 1 Tablespoon cornstarch

Directions

In a slow cooker, or a large pan on the stove, layer the onions and the chicken breast. Allow at least three hours in the slow cooker on medium, or at least one hour on the stove—the longer the better, but you don’t have to do anything to it while it cooks. Spoon out the chicken onto a cutting board, and with a knife and fork, shred the chicken as finely as you’d like. In a small saucepan, stir all sauce ingredients together over medium heat until the mixture starts bubbling, then let it simmer for five minutes on low heat to thicken. In a serving bowl, stir sauce and onion into chicken; if you’d like, add cooked chopped broccoli. Makes about six to eight servings.

Enjoy this great spring dish and have a great week!

--From Dr. John Pobanz and staff

What Will YOUR Smile Look Like After Orthodontic Treatment?

2011-03-25T13:52:00.000-07:00

It is sometimes hard to believe the transformation your smile undergoes during orthodontic treatment. Pobanz Orthodontics loves to see our patients’ smiles light up when they see their new smile in the mirror for the first time. For those of you who haven’t yet started or finished your orthodontic treatment with Dr. John Pobanz, have you ever wondered what your new smile might look like after treatment?

The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO for short, has recently launched a new tool called “Virtual Smiles”, which shows what your smile might look like after orthodontic treatment.

Check out the Virtual Smiles tool, and call Pobanz Orthodontics to get started on improving your smile today!

A Festive and Braces-Friendly Recipe to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T15:39:00.001-07:00

If you're planning to spend St. Patrick's Day celebrating your Irish heritage, or just enjoying the festivals, food and "wearing of the green"- we've got a treat for you! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have a tasty and braces-friendly recipe that is perfect for today. Corned Beef Casserole presents a twist on the traditional St. Patrick's Day corned beef and cabbage, and will surely become a family favorite!

Corned Beef Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 (8-ounce) package medium egg noodles, uncooked
• 1 (12-ounce) can corned beef
• 1 (10.5- to 14-ounce) can cream of celery soup, undiluted
• ¾ cup milk (use just ½ cup if using larger soup can)
• 1 Tablespoon dried minced onion
• ¼ cup bread crumbs (seasoned or toasted plain)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°. In a saucepan, cook the noodles just until tender; drain. In a large bowl, chop the corned beef into a coarse crumbly texture.

Stir in soup, milk and onion. Grease a 2-quart casserole. Add the noodles and the corned beef mixture and stir together well. Sprinkle the bread crumbs on top.

Bake covered at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

Serves 6-8 people.

Try serving the casserole with petite whole green beans from the freezer…or add 1 cup of finely chopped purple cabbage, 1/4 cup diced onion and 2 teaspoons fennel seed or powder for some true Irish flavor.

Happy St. Patrick's Day, from all of us at Pobanz Orthodontics!

Visualize your new smile with the Brace Painter!

2011-03-11T10:07:00.000-08:00

Braces at Pobanz Orthodontics 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. John Pobanz know if you have any questions about the Brace Painter, or your orthodontic treatment at Pobanz Orthodontics.

Have a great weekend!

What, exactly, is malocclusion?

2011-03-04T15:33:00.000-08:00

Malocclusion, or what Dr. John Pobanz 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. Pobanz 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 Pobanz Orthodontics, 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.

Which toothbrush should my child use?

2011-02-25T15:34:00.000-08:00

Dr. John Pobanz will tell you that brushing your teeth is one of the easiest methods of cavity prevention. But which type of toothbrush should your 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. Also, look for 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 can 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 Pobanz Orthodontics a call and we'll try to answer any question you may have about keeping your child's mouth as healthy as possible!

Smile, and you might just live longer!

2011-02-18T14:04:00.000-08:00

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. John Pobanz 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 Pobanz Orthodontics on a regular basis? If not, give us a call!

Ask Dr. Pobanz: When Are Two Phases of Orthodontic Treatment Necessary?

2011-02-11T15:02:00.000-08:00

Usually patients in orthodontic treatment at Pobanz Orthodntics already have their permanent teeth – they are pre-teens, teens and adults. But in some cases we have to start treatment earlier, even before the patient’s permanent teeth come in. We call this “two-phase treatment.”

When we have patients with clear developmental problems at an early age, it’s best to start work when they are young, before the problems get bigger and more difficult to treat.

Examples include:

• An upper or lower jaw that is not growing correctly
• A mouth growing in a way that doesn’t leave enough room for all the permanent teeth to come in
• A severe malocclusion, or bad bite, which means the jaw doesn’t fit together correctly

In these cases we will start early and do one round of treatment – phase one – while the patient still has their baby teeth. Phase one usually does not involve braces, but can include a different type of appliance that helps the jaw grow into place properly. We’ll follow up with phase two usually a few years later, when permanent teeth are in place. Generally phase two involves standard braces.

In order to catch early problems, we recommend that children have an orthodontic check-up with Dr. John Pobanz no later than age seven (and so does the American Association of Orthodontists). However, if your dentist or pediatrician sees any sign that early treatment might be necessary, he or she may recommend your child visit our office even sooner.

Give our office a call if you have any questions.

Straight Teeth and Your Oral Health

2011-02-01T13:30:00.000-08:00

Some people wonder why South Ogden and Pleasant View orthodontist Dr. John Pobanz and our 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 Pobanz Orthodontics 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. Pobanz can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

January's Case of the Month - Jessica

2011-01-24T15:49:00.000-08:00

Jessica, a patient at Pobanz Orthodontics, recently completed a 21 month orthodontic treatment with temporary anchorage devices which ended up saving Jessica $7,500! The pictures below contain before and after photos of Jessica's treatment with Dr. John Pobanz.

If you are considering orthodontic treatment, give Pobanz Orthodontics a call.

Safety first this winter! From Dr. Pobanz

2011-01-17T13:39:00.000-08:00

Winter is officially here, and with it comes unpredictable and inclement weather. This week, Dr. John Pobanz and our team would like to share a few winter safety tips that we found on the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry website. These tips include everything from what to wear outdoors to tips for winter snow sports. Enjoy!

• Older babies and young children should generally be dressed in one more layer of clothing than an adult would wear in the same conditions
• Several thin clothing layers will keep an infant or child dry and warm. Warm boots, gloves, mittens, and a hat are necessities!
• A cold air humidifier, saline nose drops, and petrolatum will help a child that suffers from winter nosebleeds.
• It is important for children to wash their hands frequently, and to use the bend of their elbow if they need to sneeze or cough to prevent the spread of colds and flu.
• Never ski or snowboard alone. Adults should supervise young children participating in winter sports.
• When sledding, it is preferable to separate young children from older children, and to avoid crowded areas.
• The AAP recommends that children under age 16 not operate snowmobiles and that children under age 6 never ride on snowmobiles.

We hope that these tips help keep you and your loved ones stay safe and sound this winter season. Please give us a call if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your next appointment at Pobanz Orthodontics.

What are patients saying about Pobanz Orthodontics?

2011-01-14T15:17:00.000-08:00

Dr. Pobanz and our team love getting patient reviews. And lately, Pobanz Orthodontics, serving South Ogden, Pleasant View UT and surrounding communities, has been getting some pretty great patient testimonials! We thought we'd share some with you today! Have a great weekend!

"I always enjoy coming to see Dr. Pobanz. He is fantastic and so are all of those around him."

"I feel so lucky to have found Dr. Pobanz. I tell everyone I know how awesome his practice is. Thank You Dr. John!"

"Dr. Jon definitely keeps the kids' enthusiastic about keeping good oral hygiene and ortho process."

"The gals at the front desk (Shannon and Susie) are outstanding. They both are very friendly and helpful. They are always on the ball and make for a welcoming experience when you enter the office. They deserve a pat on the back...."

Thank you everyone for the kind words. We appreciate all of our patients so much!!

Connect with the Braces Brigade!

2011-01-07T15:11:00.000-08:00

At Pobanz 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 Pobanz 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. Pobanz!

What is your New Year’s Resolution?

2010-12-27T14:04:00.000-08:00

The 2010 holiday season is upon us, and our team at Pobanz Orthodontics would like to wish all our patients and their families the merriest of holidays and best wishes for the New Year.

We thought we’d 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?

Let us know by commenting below this post or you can leave us a comment on our Facebook page.

Have a safe and happy New Year, from all of us at Pobanz Orthodontics!

Looking for a delicious braces-friendly winter dessert? We’ve got a great recipe!

2010-12-23T11:42:00.000-08:00

You have braces, and you’re probably wondering what to eat. Pobanz Orthodontics will tell you that you can’t have gum, popcorn or other delicious but braces-unfriendly foods. But fear not! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have a delicious recipe that will satisfy both your sugar craving and hunger when the weather gets cold.

Apple Bombolini
Ingredients:

Rustic dough
• 9 ounces cake flour (about 3 cups)
• ½ cup all purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• Pinch sea salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into large pieces
• 1 tablespoon vanilla
• 2 tablespoon cold water

Apple sauce filling
• 4 Granny Smith apples
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 vanilla bean, or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon water

Diced apples:
• 4 Granny Smith apples
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla
• ½ lemon, juiced

Directions:

For the dough: In a mixing bowl with a paddle attachment, add the dry ingredients and mix for 5 seconds to blend. Add the butter and vanilla and mix until the butter is about the size of peas. Add the cold water and blend until the dough just comes together. Form the dough into a roughly shaped ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.

Applesauce filling: Peel, core, and slice the apples. Put the apples with the rest of the ingredients into a saucepan. Bring to a boil, turn down the heat, and cook until the apples are very soft, about 20 minutes. Remove from the heat, cool, and refrigerate.

Diced apples: Peel, core, and cut the apples into large slices. Toss with the sugar, vanilla and lemon juice and set aside.

Assemble the bomboloni: Remove the dough from the refrigerator. Roll out to1/4-inch thick round. Cut into 6-inch rounds. Place about 1/4 cup of the Apple Sauce Filling onto the center of each round. Top with a few pieces of the Diced Apples. Pull the sides up towards the center to form a bundle, pinching the dough together towards top. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour before baking

Bake the bombolonis: Heat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Remove the bombolonis from the refrigerator and place them on a greased or parchment paper lined baking sheet. Bake until golden brown, about 25 to 30 minutes. Makes 5 servings.

Enjoy this delicious treat, and HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!

--Dr. Pobanz and Team

Top ten tips for keeping your BRACES Sparklin’ Clean

2010-12-17T17:11:00.000-08:00

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 ten 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!

Hope this helps!

Dr. Pobanz and Team

Celebrities get braces, too!

2010-12-10T17:05:00.000-08:00

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. Pobanz.

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 Pobanz Orthodontics a call.

Cold and Flu Season is Here - Replace Your Toothbrush!

2010-12-03T16:57:00.001-08:00

Fall is upon us, and with it comes the dreaded cold and flu season. After recovering from your cold, Dr. Pobanz will tell you one of the most important steps you can take to avoid becoming reinfected is replacing your toothbrush!

Germs are known to 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!

We hope these tips help! Feel free to call us at Pobanz Orthodontics if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

Dr. Pobanz and team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. It's a big food holiday, so be careful what you eat with those braces! If you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we'd encourage you to send them along or call our office and ask how.

Gobble Gobble!

Dr. Pobanz Answers: Top 10 Questions to Ask a Utah Orthodontist

2010-11-17T08:00:00.000-08:00

In the last post we went over questions you should ask before choosing a Utah
Orthondontist. We asked Dr. John to answer the questions, here's what he said:

1) Costs of getting braces varies, depending on the time and type of
treatment the doctor recommends. Pobanz offers many payment options with no interest and sometimes with no down payments.

2) The fee will include records, photos and x-rays before during and
after treatment, all braces and attachments that will be needed, retainers and follow up.

3) Our hours are Monday Thursday 7:30-5:00, Fridays 7:30-12:00
clinical and clerical staff are available to take care of any problems. Cell phone is available 24 hours a day for any emergency.

4) Treatment time depends on type of correction and type of
appliances the Dr. recommends.

5) Retainers will be upper and lower clear trays worn at night time
only, can also be used for whitening teeth. Bonded upper and lower wires will be placed on inside of teeth. Follow up appointments are included.

6) We accept most insurance plans, we can call for you to determine
what they will pay, most plans will make monthly or quarterly payments over the length of treatment time.

7) Dr. Pobanz has been in practice for 12 years. Dr. Pobanz is a
Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, the only board recognized by the American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists. Being a Diplomate is a credential that only 20% of all orthodontists attain.

8) Braces are placed on the front surface of the teeth after a sealant
material is used to protect them from decay and stains while they are on your teeth. The Doctor also uses a fluoride releasing cement that is safe for the teeth and designed to stay there until the Doctor removes the braces.

9) Dr. Pobanz uses the latest technology to straighten teeth resulting
in fewer visits to the office. Dr Pobanz and his team strives to make your experience pleasant and fun (have you seen our Utah braces off
celebrations?) His staff is highly trained and dedicated to continuing their education on a regular basis.

10) Dr Pobanz uses self-ligating braces (Damon) which helps to create less friction when moving teeth and is more comfortable and healthier for the gums and bone that surround the teeth. There is also clear version of Damon braces. He uses a Herbst appliance that replaces headgear to correct overbites. You may also be a candidate for Invisalign or Sure Smile.

See what others are saying about Pobanz Orthodontics in Utah.

Do you have any questions to ask Dr. John about getting braces? Please leave them in the comments!

10 Questions to Ask before Choosing a Utah Orthodontist

2010-11-12T13:56:00.000-08:00

Are you looking for an orthodontist for your kids or yourself? We recommend that you do your research before choosing an orthodontist.

One of the most common questions is how much your braces will cost and how long it will take before you get them off. It's also important to ask about follow-up care because once you have straight teeth you want to keep them that way!

Here are 10 questions you should ask your Utah Orthodontist.

1) How much will it cost to get braces? / What are the payment options?

2) What does the fee include?

3) Hours? Emergency times?

4) How long will I have braces?

5) What type of retainers will be used? Are follow up appointments
included?

6) Do you accept my insurance? How do they pay you?

7) How long has Dr. been in practice? Does he have his Board
Certification?

8) How do you put braces on my teeth? Will it hurt?

9) What sets your office apart from the other Doctors I may see?

10) What Type of braces and appliances does the Doctor use?

Pobanz Orthodontics is located in Ogden Utah. In our next post, we will answer these questions for you.

What do you enjoy most about fall?

2010-11-04T16:17:00.001-07:00

It’s fall here at Pobanz Orthodontics, a time when all across the country, the leaves begin to change colors, the air becomes crisp, and families begin to make plans for Thanksgiving.

Today we wanted to ask you, our wonderful patients, "How are you spending your time this fall?" Our team would love to hear about your favorite places for eating, shopping, and entertainment within the Pleasant View and South Ogden areas. We are interested in learning about what makes your community “yours.”

Feel free to post your responses on our Facebook page, or give us a call!

A few Halloween safety tips

2010-10-29T14:07:00.001-07:00

Trick-or-treat! In the spirit of October’s sweet and spooky holiday, Halloween, all of us at Pobanz Orthodontics would like to remind all of our patients to be safe while celebrating with friends and family. The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has provided trick-or-treaters with some tips for a ghoulishly good time.

A few Halloween safety guidelines:
• 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

Many treats can cause havoc for trick-or-treaters who are going through orthodontic treatment. If you happen to damage your braces, please give our staff a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone.

We wish you all a happy, safe, and spooky Halloween!

Candy Buy Back Program and Halloween Fun at Pobanz Orthodontics

2010-10-23T14:34:00.000-07:00

We are pleased to be hosting our annual candy buy back program once again here at Pobanz Orthodontics. After Halloween, bring by any unwanted candy and we will buy it back, pound for pound! If you stop by the office next week, you'll see our staff dressed up for Halloween. Patients voted on what they'd like to see us dress up as, and this year we will be Sesame Street characters.

Also stay tuned for next month, when we hold our annual Toy and Food Drive.

Call the office if you have any questions!

Congratulations Team Pobanz!

2010-10-15T14:50:00.000-07:00

Dr. John recently sponsored the Xterra team in a triathlon. Two patients were on our team, and took home medals for their performance! Congratulations to the winners!

Orthodontist Ogden, UT- Braces off for the month of September!

2010-09-29T16:10:00.001-07:00

Check out this deband video from September, or any of the previous months of fun on our YouTube channel!

Ask Dr. Pobanz: Am I too old for braces?

2010-09-23T15:03:00.000-07:00

Who’s afraid of “metal mouth” and the appearance of braces? Not adults, apparently. Recently, our staff at our South Ogden and Pleasant View, UT orthodontic offices read a fascinating statistic: the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! Yes, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another reason for the spike in adult braces is this: people want to look and feel great. In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned and sparkling teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing—wisely, we might add—to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. Pobanz would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

Braces off for August!

2010-09-17T14:54:00.000-07:00

Congratulations on all the new smiles for August. Great work!

We Have an iPad Winner!

2010-09-08T07:47:00.000-07:00

We are pleased to announce that a winner has been chosen for our summer-long iPad contest. This patient won a brand new Apple iPad from Pobanz Orthodontics! Thank you to everyone who participated in our contest, you are all awesome! Stay tuned for new and exciting contests from Dr. Pobanz and the team here on all our social networks!

Back to School Braces Tips

2010-09-02T13:58:00.000-07:00

This summer has come and gone so fast! We hope you had a great past few months, but now its time to begin the school year anew. We have a few tips to keep in mind this school year while wearing braces:

1) Leave your retainers in your locker at lunch.
2) Remember to wear your elastics, it can make a big difference in getting your braces off on time.
3) Don't forget wax for pokies and your travel toothbrush.
4) Stay away from hard candy and foods, emergency appointments are generally taken care of during school hours.
5) Sign up for Text Message appointment reminders on our web site. How cool!

We hope everyone is having a great year back at school so far!

-Your friends at Pobanz Orthodontics

The importance of retainers, from Pobanz Orthodontics

2010-08-27T11:46:00.001-07:00

If you recently completed treatment at Pobanz Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Pobanz will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, however, always provide that stabilization. They 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. Pobanz is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime.

To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment at our South Ogden or Pleasant View offices, please give us a call!

Regular checkups are essential in maintaining good oral health

2010-08-19T14:41:00.001-07:00

Are you brushing your teeth twice a day during your orthodontic treatment? If yes, that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your dentist every six 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.

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 Ogden and Pleasant View areas!

Congratulations to our Referral Contest Winner!

2010-08-10T16:05:00.000-07:00

We consider it the highest compliment when you refer friends, family, and colleagues to our office. And to say thank you, anyone who refers someone to our office (and starts treatment) will be entered into a seasonal contest. Our summer winner, pictured, won a bicycle, but this winter one lucky recipient will win a snowboard! Its just one way that we like to say "thank you" to our patients.

--Pobanz Orthodontics of South Ogden & Pleasant View, UT

Distinguishing the myths and facts about orthodontics, from Pobanz Orthodontics

2010-08-06T11:47:00.000-07:00

Trust us when we say Dr. Pobanz and our staff know there are quite a few myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) floating around these days. But before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists set the record straight (no pun intended) and have provided some information that sheds some light 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 Pobanz Orthodontics, feel free to give us a call.

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

2010-07-29T16:37:00.000-07:00

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 Dr. Pobanz 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. Pobanz 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.

All the cool kids do it!

2010-07-23T10:58:00.000-07:00

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. New technologies such as SureSmile and the Damon System, 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. Pobanz, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

Has your child or teen visited Pobanz Orthodontics in Pleasant View & South Ogden, UT for a consultation? If not, please give us a call and let us help your child begin the journey to a gorgeous smile!

What’s on your summer reading list?

2010-07-16T09:41:00.001-07:00

With summer in full swing, some of us at Pobanz Orthodontics wanted to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading during the summer, but reading during the summer is a vital step in brain development and warding off the dreaded “summer slide”—and it's fun!

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 our staff (and Dr. Pobanz) would be happy to provide a few suggestions. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas or check out these summer reading ideas that we came across today, courtesy of Barnes & Noble.

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your summer picks or your all-time favorites on our Facebook page!

Teeth grinding and the recession, from Pobanz Orthodontics

2010-07-08T14:11:00.000-07:00

Grind, grind, grind. If you live with a teeth grinder, you may be familiar with this unpleasant sound, especially recently. A study published in the journal Head & Face Medicine suggests that people—adults and kids—faced with stress tend to cope by grinding their teeth. In addition, the Chicago Dental Society suggests that since the recession began in 2007, teeth grinding, or bruxism, has been on the rise.

The Chicago Dental Society surveyed more than 250 members about the connection between stress and oral health. Nearly 75 percent of dentists said their patients reported increased stress over the past year, largely due to the economic recession. During stressful times, teeth grinding can be a nuisance that causes headaches and sleep problems, but it also can cause lasting problems for your teeth and gums, including chipped teeth, worn enamel, chronic pain, or even TMJ, a painful jaw disorder.

The first step of recovering from teeth grinding is noticing the problem. Symptoms of teeth grinding include:

• Sensitivity in the teeth
• Tightness or pain in the jaw
• Dull headaches, earaches, or facial pain
• Chipped, worn down, or loose teeth

An important thing to remember is that people frequently grind their teeth in response to stress, and taking measures to reduce or eliminate stress can help solve the problem. If the teeth-grinder in your house can’t stop, schedule an appointment to see us by giving us a call. Dr. Pobanz and our team can help determine the cause of the problem.

Pobanz Orthodontics Wishing You a Happy Fourth!

2010-07-01T15:58:00.001-07:00

This Sunday, our team will celebrate America's 234th birthday. For most people, Independence Day is a time to celebrate, as well as commemorate, the anniversary of the signing of America's Declaration of Independence. It's also a time for most Americans to pay homage to all our soldiers - past and present - who lost their lives in battle - and those soldiers who continue to place themselves in danger every day so that Americans everywhere may celebrate our freedom.

Today, we thought we'd ask: what are your Fourth of July weekend plans? Are you heading to a barbecue? Hitting the great American open road with family?

We invite you to post your responses on our Facebook page! Please feel free to post photos as well!

Whatever you end up doing over Independence Day weekend, our entire staff hope you have a safe and happy Fourth of July weekend!

With Pobanz Orthodontics, 24/7 access to your account

2010-06-25T11:20:00.000-07:00

At Pobanz Orthodontics, we embrace new technology, whether it is through the innovative orthodontic treatments that we offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern offices conveniently located in South Ogden & Pleasant View, UT.

Did you know that patients at our office have access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our website? You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

You, too, can sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button at the top of our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started!

Invisalign in South Ogden, UT - How it Works

2010-06-18T14:27:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered how Invisalign manages to straighten teen without using braces at all? The Invisalign system is a state-of-the-art system of clear, removable aligners that we proudly offer at our South Ogden and Pleasant View, UT orthodontic offices. We also have plenty of resources on our web site to check out about Invisalign, or give our office a call today to learn if this revolutionary new treatment option is right for you!

--Dr. Pobanz & team

Your pal, fluoride

2010-06-11T13:50:00.001-07:00

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment. You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and protect your mouth and appliances from being damaged. But did you know there is another, often forgotten about, way to keep your teeth clean and healthy during your treatment? Fluoride – a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay – can 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 used in the dentist's office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask your doctor how to purchase professional strength fluoride). A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. After the treatment patients may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. Depending on your oral health or doctor’s recommendation, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six or 12 months. Your doctor 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 acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and have met the criteria of the ADA for safety and effectiveness. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

--Dr. John Pobanz and the Pobanz Orthodontics Team

Smile for National Smile Month At Pobanz Orthodontics!

2010-06-03T18:37:00.001-07:00

It’s June already! Can you believe it?

Dr. Pobanz and team are excited to tell you June marks National Smile Month, a great time to remind our patients to brush, floss, practice good nutrition at home (and over the summer) to avoid cavities and gum disease, among other dental health issues.

After all, there’s more and more evidence that suggests folks with gum disease are more at risk for serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and strokes.

Here are a few easy steps you can improve your oral health at home:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth and braces
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during orthodontic treatment.
* Visit your general dentist regularly (usually every six months apart).

If you have questions about any of the tips here, we encourage you to give us a call! We hope you had a relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

–Pobanz Orthodontics in South Ogden and Pleasant View, UT

Putting Patients at Ease at Pobanz Orthododontics

2010-05-28T08:40:00.000-07:00

At Pobanz Orthodontics, we strive to make your orthodontic treatment a pleasant and enjoyable one. That is why we take so many steps to ensure patients are at ease while in our office. For example, We have WiFi in the office for patients and the families of patients, and we serve warm chocolate chip cookies, a great braces-friendly treat!

We also know how important oral hygiene is during orthodontic treatment, so we have a program called "Partners in Prevention" where patients take a card to the dentist and the hygienist signs the card if the cleaning was a success. The card is entered into a quarterly drawing and the patient and hygienist can win $50!

We offer the newest technology and provide the best patient care possible. In terms of treatment, we use the Damon System and Suresmile to effectively reduce discomfort and time in braces. In general, we are an energetic office and want to be the best part of our patient's day!

SureSmile makes the rounds on ABC’s “The Doctors”

2010-05-21T09:44:00.000-07:00

On a recent episode of ABC's "The Doctors," Dr. Thomas Lee of Oxnard, California, was interviewed in front of a live audience and demonstrated SureSmile technology and discussed treatment benefits for orthodontists and their patients. Dr. Lee's 14-year-old patient, Nina, who had just completed SureSmile treatment, was part of the segment as well, and spoke positively about her SureSmile treatment experience.

SureSmile is a software program that facilitates the precise positioning of a patient’s teeth placement for orthodontic braces. Did you know Dr. Pobanz is a certified SureSmile provider? Give us a call and ask for more information!

Pobanz Orthodontics is Going Green!

2010-05-14T10:43:00.000-07:00

At Pobanz Orthodontics, we care about making the world a better, happier place, and we know that you do too. We want to take this opportunity to share the many approaches we take to ensure that we have a healthy and safe environment both in our practice and outside in the world.

Within the last year, we have gone paperless! This has not only made our process more efficient, we no longer have any paper waste! We also use digital x-rays, which are greener and faster than traditional X-rays. Besides this, we tend to use scratch paper whenever possible instead of simply tossing it out. Finally, we are using our web site, social networks, and email to communicate as much as possible, instead of "snail mail". What efforts have you taken in your own life to be greener and more sustainable? We'd love to hear about them!

Contest and Event Updates from Pobanz Orthodontics

2010-05-07T13:09:00.001-07:00

Did you know about the Helping Hands for Haiti initiative that we are holding here at Pobanz Orthodontics? If you decide to donate to the Haiti relief effort in our office, Dr. John will match any donation! Our most recent contest has a chance for one lucky patient to win an iPad. Ask us in the office how you can enter!

Ask Dr. Pobanz: What can I expect during my consultation?

2010-04-30T10:58:00.000-07:00

When you first come in for your initial consultation, Dr. Pobanz will conduct a comprehensive examination to assess your oral health. This will better enable us to determine the best treatment method for you.

Your orthodontic evaluation will consist of an oral and facial examination to assess your oral health. We will have you take intraoral and facial photographs as well as panoramic and cephalometric X-rays to help determine the proper orthodontic treatment method. Then, an impression of your teeth and bite will be taken to construct a model of your mouth. (This will help us when examining your diagnostic records).

At your second appointment, Dr. Pobanz will discuss your options with you. Our team feels it’s important to take the time to carefully examine your diagnostic records after your consultation so that we can more thoroughly prepare for your treatment at Pobanz Orthodontics. This additional preparation will ensure that you receive the best orthodontic care possible. At this time, we encourage you to ask us any questions you may have about your treatment.

If you are seeking orthodontic treatment for your child, our staff asks that both you and your child attend the initial consultation. We feel it is important that both you and your child completely understand Dr. Pobanz’s recommendations before we proceed with treatment.

Give us a call today and schedule a consultation! We look forward to hearing from you!

How are You Helping Our Planet For Earth Day?

2010-04-22T14:57:00.001-07:00

Earth Day, designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth's environment, marks its 40th anniversary today. Earth Day was founded by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson on April 22, 1970 and is observed every April 22nd on virtually every country on Earth.

Whether lending a helping hand to plant trees or getting out to volunteer in the Pleasant View and South Ogden communities, today is your opportunity to get started in making your impact year-round. Tell us, what are you up to? Are you making a difference today? How long have you participated in helping our planet? You can reply here or on our Facebook fan page!

Happy Earth Day!

Hollywood Braces Off Day at Pobanz Orthodontics

2010-04-16T15:25:00.000-07:00

If you've ever been to our office on a "deband day", then you know we love to celebrate our patients getting their braces off. Yesterday was our Hollywood theme day, and everyone dressed up and our office was decorated for the red carpet. Check out all the fun photos on our Facebook page, and leave a comment!

Check Out Our Latest Deband Days Videos on YouTube!

2010-04-09T11:59:00.000-07:00

At Pobanz Orthodontics, we like to have fun, and part of that fun is when you get your braces off! Check out our latest patient deband day videos, and view all the past ones on our YouTube channel!

Office Updates From Pobanz Orthodontics!

2010-03-18T13:08:00.000-07:00

We have a few exciting new programs going on at Pobanz Orthodontics that we wanted to let everyone know about.

Helping Hands for Haiti: Dr. John will match dollar for dollar any donations made, which we will then donate to the Haitian Roots Charity! Consider donating next time you are in the office!

"Best of the Rest" Scholarship Program: Five $1,000 scholarships will be awarded! Open to past and present patients that graduate High School in 2010 and haven't received any other scholarships. Selection is based upon merit and need.
Applications will be reviewed by a committee independent of the orthodontic practice. Applications accepted until April 15, 2010, see our office for details!

In office contest: Match the Foot to the employee and win a chance for a
$25 gift certificate to the shoe store of your choice.

Another Fun Deband Day Video at Pobanz Orthodontics

2010-03-05T16:04:00.000-08:00

We love to celebrate when our patients get their braces off at Pobanz Orthodontics!

Dr. John Pobanz and his talented orthodontic team serving South Ogden and Pleasant View, Utah (UT). We strive to offer the highest quality treatment possible with innovative treatment options including SureSmile, the Damon System, and Invisalign invisible braces.

Call us today to schedule your free, complimentary orthodontic consultation, and visit our web site!

Why the Damon™ System?

2010-02-26T16:23:00.000-08:00

Something big is happening in the orthodontics world, and it’s no other than Damon braces, which allow your teeth to move more comfortably and easily than traditional braces. With the Damon System, achieving that perfect smile will be faster and easier than you ever thought possible.

Here’s what the Damon System is all about:

With the new Damon braces, we can achieve terrific results and finish your treatment faster. Depending on your case, this may mean saving many months of treatment! After analyzing your specific needs, we will be able to provide you with a treatment plan that will have you smiling soon! Because Damon braces are very precise and effective, we can reduce the need for many of the time-consuming and complicated procedures that are used with traditional braces. Because Damon braces work more efficiently, fewer adjustments are required. As a result, your appointments will be faster and fewer in number. Due to the unique design of this new braces system, we can move your teeth into their correct positions with much less discomfort than traditional braces. Also, Damon braces are small, very comfortable, and easy to keep clean.

Dr. Pobanz is a certified Damon System provider. If you have any questions about the Damon System or your treatment here at Pobanz Orthodontics, please give us a call.

Mouth guards, orthodontics and sports with Pobanz Orthodontics

2010-02-19T16:13:00.001-08:00

Wouldn’t you believe it, it’s almost springtime! The spring and summer months, however, bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of kids damaging their precious mouths and pearly whites. If you play sports, it's important that you consult us for special precautions. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing spring sports such as baseball and soccer. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements we are trying to achieve.

In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances damaged, please schedule an appointment with Pobanz Orthodontics. And don’t forget to ask us—we will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment.

Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment with us.

The SureSmile Advantage

2010-02-12T14:50:00.000-08:00

Does the thought of having braces bring you down? The team at Pobanz Orthodontics understands that one of the biggest concerns for orthodontic patients with braces is the length of their treatment.

But you’re in luck, because Dr. Pobanz specializes in SureSmile, high-tech braces that are revolutionizing the orthodontic industry. SureSmile, which combines digital 3-D imaging, has computer-aided treatment planning and customized archwires to straighten teeth about 40 percent faster than traditional braces. The SureSmile program calculates the exact shape and pattern of the teeth and bends and cuts the braces wires, with more precision than traditional braces.

There are three steps. First, Dr. John identifies the initial tooth position with the patented OraScanner, a wand with a tiny camera attached. The OraScanner creates a precise 3-D digital model of your mouth, which is then uploaded into software that lets us view your mouth and teeth from any angle. Next, the SureSmile system allows us to create your entire treatment plan prior to treatment, using special computer software to analyze the 3-D model of your mouth and develop a custom archwire treatment. Finally, SureSmile’s robotic technology bends Shape Memory Alloy archwires, which can “remember” your prescription.

Results

With SureSmile’s specially programmed archwires, your teeth move more directly into their intended positions. The result for our patients is shortened treatment time and a more comfortable experience in braces.

Once the braces are on it’s only a matter of time before they are taken off revealing beautiful, straight, healthy teeth. With traditional braces a patient is expected to schedule 18 to 20 office visits over two years. With SureSmile, patients average seven to 10 visits and can have their braces off within half the time!

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, and braces are on the horizon, please call us at 801-452-7155 today!

Deband Days at Pobanz Orthodontics

2010-01-29T13:31:00.001-08:00

Getting your braces off is an exciting moment! All the visits to our office and the months of hard work to care for and clean your braces has finally paid off! If you've ever been in for an appointment during one of our "deband days", then you know Dr. John and the team love to celebrate the big day with our patients. We have posted a few videos of the celebration on our YouTube channel, so don't miss them!

“When Do I Get My Braces Off?” — The Straight Answer

2010-01-22T15:36:00.000-08:00

Dr. Pobanz was recently published in the Local Healthcare Today magazine, describing treatment time and the time-saving benefits of the SureSmile system offered at our practice.

Be sure to check out the article on the Local Healthcare Today web site:

“When Do I Get My Braces Off?” — The Straight Answer

Tell us what you think about the SureSmile system, and how it has affected your orthodontic treatment time! Share a comment here on our blog, or head to our Facebook Fan Page and share your thoughts with all of our fans!

Top Ten Tips for Keeping Your Braces Clean

2010-01-15T11:45:00.000-08:00

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 ten tips:

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Remove the moving parts. If you have elastic bands or headgear, remove these parts before you brush or floss.
Fluoride is your friend. Fluoride helps prevent cavities. Be sure to brush with fluoride toothpaste, and rinse with fluoride mouthwash.
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.
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.
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.

Hope this helps!

-Dr. Pobanz

New Contests for 2010 at Pobanz Orthodontics

2010-01-08T12:52:00.000-08:00

All of us at Pobanz Orthodontics are excited about the new year, and we wanted to let you know about our latest contest!

Bring in a picture of you and your snowman to get entered to win ski passes!

We will be announcing other exciting contests soon, so be sure to head to our Facebook Fan Page and "Become a Fan" to get the latest updates!

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T13:25:00.001-08:00

The year is almost over, so we wanted to ask what was memorable about 2009 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2010? Do you have a new years resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Have a safe and happy New Year, from all of us at Pobanz Orthodontics!

Happy Holidays

2009-12-23T14:15:00.000-08:00

The holiday season is upon us, and as the team at Pobanz Orthodontics reflects on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What’s your favorite part about the holidays? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for the new year? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year?

We’d love if you shared with us all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from too many of those sweets!

--Dr. Pobanz & Team

Orthodontic Treatment Basics

2009-12-18T15:52:00.000-08:00

Check out this great video from the American Association of Orthodontists about the basics of orthodontic treatment. Have you ever wondered what the difference is between a dentist and an orthodontist? Did you know orthodontic treatment works for all ages? Watch the video to learn more about what makes orthodontic treatment important!

Have a great weekend,

-The Pobanz Orthodontics Team

December is Here!

2009-12-11T10:07:00.000-08:00

December is here, and, believe it or not, we’re almost in full holiday mode! We want to know: What are you doing in December? Any big holiday plans? Anything exciting in your life?

If you have any photos or videos that you would like to share with us, please send them our way or call our office and ask how! We also hope you all had a happy and safe Thanksgiving!

Have a great rest of the week!

Annual Toy and Food Drive

2009-12-04T13:32:00.000-08:00

Just in time for the holidays, the Pobanz Orthodontics team wanted to let you know about the two contests we are currently having. Check out the details below, and give us a call if you have any questions!

Our Annual Toy and Food Drive has begun! Bring in a toy or non-perishable food item and be entered to win a $250 Visa gift card!

If you have a letter to write to Santa, we will mail it to the North Pole for you!
One letter will be drawn for a $25 Target Gift Card. Contest ends Dec 22nd.

Hurry, both of these contests end on December 22nd!

Happy Holidays,

From Dr. John Pobanz & Team

Five habits that lead to teeth plaque

2009-11-25T13:38:00.001-08:00

Nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth. Here are five other ways you can avoid that dreaded enemy of the teeth, courtesy of our friends at WebMD.

Let’s start with not 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 not 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 your 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 dentist at least twice a year, and you have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your teeth.

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 that candy up, think about giving 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. If you have any questions, visit our web page on oral hygiene, or contact our office at 801-452-7155.

Hope this helps, and Happy Thanksgiving!
Pobanz Orthodontics

What are you thankful for?

2009-11-20T13:56:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving is almost here, and we at Pobanz Orthodontics are thankful for all our wonderful patients and friends that make our each day extraordinary!

Since the holiday season is about to begin, what are you thankful for?

Share a response in the comments here, or head over to our Facebook Fan Page to join the conversation!

Have a wonderful weekend,

--Dr. Pobanz

Holiday Food and Toy Drive at Pobanz Orthodontics now through Dec. 22!

2009-11-10T09:39:00.000-08:00

This holiday season—from now through December 22—Pobanz Orthodontics is collecting food and toys for Weber County Family Services. Donors who bring in a toy and a non-perishable food item will be eligible for a $250 Visa gift card.

In addition, kids will also get a chance to write a letter to Santa and win a $25 Target gift card. To find out more about the toy drive or how you can make a donation please stop by our South Ogden or Pleasant View office or give us a call.

--Dr. Pobanz and team

Preparing for Cold and Flu Season, from Dr. Pobanz

2009-11-06T11:55:00.000-08:00

Traditionally cold and flu season starts in Fall, but this year it seems to have started much earlier and with the number of patients canceling appointments because of flu and H1N1 symptoms our practice is taking additional precautions to help prevent the spread of germs.

To promote a healthy clean environment, we give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our office at all times as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces.

For the protection of other patients and staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

Maintaining and protecting oral hygiene equipment is also important this flu season. To protect your toothbrush from bacteria follow these steps:

•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

Hope this helps! Stay healthy!

--Dr. Pobanz and team.

The Faces of Pobanz Orthodontics

2009-10-30T14:39:00.001-07:00

We just had a great photo taken of our entire staff, and we wanted to share it with you! Have a happy and safe Halloween from all of us at Pobanz Orthodontics!

Halloween and Sour Candies

2009-10-23T15:23:00.000-07:00

It's almost Halloween, and we understand sour candy is a part of any Halloween celebration. But while sour candy can be delicious, they are arguably as unhealthy for your teeth as sweet candy. The reason is, sour candies tend to be very acidic, and are capable of burning your cheeks and gums while wearing down the enamel on your teeth.

In 2008, the Minnesota Dental Association released a study which suggested the amount of acid in sour candies may eat away at tooth enamel and cause cavities. We at Pobanz Orthodontics would like to remind you that if you should experience a craving for sour candies on Halloween or in the future, please:
1. Remember to rinse your mouth with water immediately after consuming candy, drink milk, or eat a couple pieces of cheese.
2. Do not brush immediately after consuming sour candy. The candy's acidic nature tends to soften tooth enamel. Brushing your teeth can mean abrading the enamel.
3. Limit the amount of sour candies that you consume on a daily basis. If you do indulge, remember not to suck or chew on sour candies for long periods of time.
If tooth erosion has already begun, ask us about ways to reduce sensitivity and continue to protect your teeth.
Hope this helps! Dr. Pobanz wishes you a happy and safe Halloween!

Invisalign Tips

2009-10-16T15:11:00.000-07:00

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, ask yourself the following 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.
--Dr. Pobanz

National Dental Hygiene Month

2009-10-08T15:11:00.000-07:00

Did you know that October is National Dental Hygiene Month? Fall is here, and Halloween is coming soon, but now it is more important than ever to maintain good oral hygiene.

All those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, but these treats can damage your teeth and braces too! Did you know sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them? This can cause tooth decay and cavities! After eating these candies, be sure to wash your mouth out with water, drink milk or eat a few slices of cheese. These will help neutralize the acid in your mouth (wait at least one hour before brushing your teeth with toothpaste, as this can actually increase the effects of acid on your teeth)

Besides cavities and tooth decay, many people do not realize that good oral health and hygiene are important to your overall health too! Research is discovering the connection between periodontal disease and other major health concerns, such as heart disease! Therefore, it is important to maintain a good oral hygiene routine: see your dentist every six months, brush and floss daily and use an antibacterial mouthwash.

Make a resolution to improve your oral health for October, the National Dental Hygiene Month!

--Dr. Pobanz

Answering all your burning questions about mouthwash

2009-10-01T16:07:00.000-07:00

While mouthwash is not an alternative to regular brushing and flossing, it can help keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. There are several different types of mouthwashes available, and all of them will help do different things for your smile. The most common types of mouthwashes are:

• Fluoride - fluoride is the most used type of mouthwash available, and is used to strengthen the enamel of the teeth while preventing cavities and tooth decay.

• Antiseptic - an antiseptic mouthwash is used to kill bacteria and germs in the mouth. Most commonly used before and after a dental surgery, antiseptic mouthwashes can also help to fight gum disease, and halitosis (chronic bad breath). Antiseptic mouthwashes can affect your sense of taste and may stain the teeth, so it is recommended that you consult your dentist before using this type of mouthwash.

• Combination - a combination mouthwash is designed to help prevent tooth decay, freshen the breath, and maintain the health of your smile.

• Prescription - for patients with gum disease, or any signs of gum disease, you may need a prescription mouthwash. Prescription mouthwashes, like Peridex of PerioGard, are used to treat gingivitis, and other forms of decay.

There are also many different brands of mouthwash. Some common brands include:

• Scope
• Listerine
• Act
• Crest
• Tom’s of Maine (all-natural)
• Plax (anti-plaque rinse)
• Breath Rx
• Orajel
• Targon (special mouthwash made for smokers)
• Rembrandt (whitening mouthwash)

If you are curious about which kind of mouthwash would work best for you, be sure to ask Dr. Pobanz at your next dental appointment. If you have a favorite mouthwash, let us know by posting a comment for others to read!

Imagining Your Life With Invisalign

2009-09-24T15:00:00.000-07:00

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! Following are a list of questions and answers for anyone pondering Invisalign treatment.

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 4-6 weeks are frequent enough for us to determine that your treatment is progressing properly. Dr. Pobanz will provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan.

Deband Days at Pobanz Orthodontics

2009-09-18T10:48:00.000-07:00

At Pobanz Orthodontics, we know that completing the braces portion of your orthodontic treatment is a major milestone on your path to a beautiful smile. We try to make these "deband days" a celebration. We are always excited to see the end product, and that is why we try to make every deband day fun! This photo is from a recent Western-themed deband bay. We all dressed up in cowboy gear and took everyone's braces off! Enjoy!

--Dr. John Pobanz & Team

Photos from Flat Dr. John's Travels!

2009-09-11T13:45:00.000-07:00

Many of you took Dr. John to some pretty amazing places. Take a look at a few of our favorites!

The Pobanz Orthodontics Patient Appreciation Swim Party

2009-09-04T09:07:00.000-07:00

Check out a few of the great pictures from our patient appreciation day at Layton Surf N' Swim!

Thanks to all that attended!

--The Pobanz Orthodontics Team

Braces 101 From Pobanz Orthodontics

2009-08-28T10:38:00.000-07:00

Should you need to call Pobanz Orthodontics in case you sustain any damage to your braces, 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.

--Pobanz Orthodontics

Softly Brushing Your Way to Clean Teeth, from Dr. Pobanz

2009-08-20T11:00:00.000-07:00

Just as there are so many different types of toothbrushes to choose from, each brush also has a different type of bristle! There are generally three different types of bristles; hard, medium, and soft. We always recommend that our patients, especially children and seniors, use a soft bristled toothbrush.

Using a hard and medium bristled brush can actually harm your teeth and gums by stripping the enamel from the teeth and irritating the gums so that they become red and sore, and can even cause gum recession. If you do use a hard or medium bristled brush as a personal preference, we recommend using an electric toothbrush.

Soft bristles are much gentler on your teeth and gums, and while patients of all ages are recommended to use soft bristled brushes, they are particularly great for children, seniors, patients recovering from a dental procedure, and patients wearing braces.

Soft bristles, and even extra-soft bristles are every bit as effective when it comes to cleaning your teeth; in fact, if you currently use a hard or medium bristled brush, try a soft bristled brush next time you buy a toothbrush and we bet you won’t even notice a difference!

--Pobanz Orthodontics

Pobanz Orthodontics Around the Web

2009-08-14T10:01:00.000-07:00

If you've ever visited us at Pobanz Orthodontics, you already know that Dr. Pobanz and the rest of the team love connecting with their patients. We love the ability to communicate with all of you online too! Besides our web site and our blog, Pobanz Orthodontics is on many other networks too!

* Share a video with us, or watch one of ours on the Pobanz Orthodontics Youtube Channel

* Become a "fan" of Pobanz Orthodontics on Facebook

See you around the web!

--Pobanz Orthodontics

Summer Fun with Pobanz Orthodontics!

2009-08-07T11:57:00.000-07:00

Its summer here at Pobanz Orthodontics, a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbeque, a camping trip, or just having fun in the sun, we want to hear about it! Leave a comment on our blog and tell us about your summer!

Happy Travels,

-From Pobanz Orthodontics

Brush Your Teeth! From Dr. Pobanz

2009-07-31T09:31:00.000-07:00

At Pobanz Orthodontics, we agree with your dentist's advice: brush your teeth! Take a look at this fun video we found about brushing your teeth below:

--Pobanz Orthodontics

The Damon System: Better Results in Less Time at Pobanz Orthodontics

2009-07-23T08:44:00.000-07:00

A lot of our patients, (especially you parents!) come to the orthodontist thinking traditional braces are the only answer. Here at Pobanz Orthodontics, we offer the Damon System, a revolutionary new braces system that can give you better results in less time!

Am I right for the Damon System?

Pobanz Orthodontics will evaluate your eligibility for the Damon System, and the procedure can be performed for children and adults alike!

What makes Damon braces better?

Probably the biggest advantage of Damon braces over traditional brackets is the amount of time and effort involved. Pobanz Orthodontics can often cut months off of the total treatment time for patients using the Damon System, and less visits to our office are necessary to make adjustments.

In addition, the Damon System brackets are:

• Cleaner- Damon brackets don’t have the elastic of traditional brackets, and are less prone to all the plaque buildup that your dentist warns you about!

• Discreet- Damon braces are smaller and have fewer parts than traditional brackets, making them less noticeable and more comfortable.

• No tightening- With the Damon system, Dr. Pobanz can position your teeth and avoid frequent adjustments. This also reduces the need for complicated tooth extractions or surgery.

If you have been thinking about an orthodontic procedure, come see us at Pobanz Orthodontics for an assessment to see if the Damon System is right for you!

Bottled Water May Be Behind Tooth Troubles

2009-07-16T10:23:00.000-07:00

We at Pobanz Orthodontics want you to know that as more families turn to bottled water and away from the tap, they may be missing out on one important ingredient that most brands of bottled water fail to include: fluoride!

As of 2005, bottled water is second only to soft drinks as the most popular drink in the United States, beating out milk, juice, and – more significantly – tap water. Between 2001 and 2006, the amount of bottled water sold in the U.S. rose an average of 10% per year. And many dental health specialists point to bottled water’s increased popularity as the culprit behind rising rates of cavities.

Because fluoride helps strengthen teeth, it is an important component of maintaining good oral health. The benefits of fluoride were noticed in the early part of the twentieth century, when researchers found communities with low levels of tooth decay. It turned out that these towns had measurable levels (around 1 part per million) of fluoride in their drinking water.

Beginning in the 1940s, communities have fluoridated their water supplies, and dentists have seen a significant decline in cavities ever since. The American Dental Association endorses both community water fluoridation and the use of fluoride-containing products as a safe means of preventing tooth decay. Between tap water and toothpaste, most of us get sufficient amounts of fluoride.

But if your family avoids fluoridated tap water in favor of ever-more-popular bottled water, you could be missing out on the levels of fluoride necessary to make a difference in your oral health.

If bottled water is your water of choice, check the label to make sure that your brand contains fluoride. As of a 2006 decision, the FDA allows bottled water containing .6 to 1.0 milligrams per liter of fluoride to carry a label stating that fluoridated water may reduce the risk of dental cavities or tooth decay. The ADA has backed this decision.

Of course, simply drinking fluoridated water is not a magic ticket to perfect teeth. To keep your choppers in tip-top shape, it’s important to brush and floss daily and avoid sugary sweets, in addition to maintaining your fluoride intake and visiting us at Pobanz Orthodontics regularly.

Gummy Tummy

2009-07-09T11:30:00.000-07:00

We at Pobanz Orthodontics know the rumors going around – mostly among young people – that once you swallow a piece of chewing gum it will stake a claim and take up residency in your stomach for at least seven years! We really hate to take all the fun out of the mystery, but the truth is that chewing gum, when swallowed, will enter the stomach and move through the digestive system just like any other piece of food and leave the body long before seven years! So, if you ever have accidentally swallowed a piece of gum, there is no need to worry!

This being said, gum does not have any dietary benefits, so while it’s not harmful to swallow, you still want to avoid swallowing it. If you are a gum-chewer, make sure you chew sugarless gum, because gum with sugar can lead to cavities. Sugarless gum still has the same amount of flavor, but with less cavity causing ingredients. You see, when the bacterium in your mouth breaks down sugar, what’s left behind is acid. This acid eats away at the enamel coating of your teeth, causing holes that we call cavities. Cavities can lead to other long term mouth problems if they are not treated in time, so it is best to try and avoid overexposing your teeth to too many harmful substances!

--Dr. Pobanz

Patient Testimonials

2009-07-02T15:24:00.000-07:00

Pobanz Orthodontics is a local favorite for orthodontics in the South Ogden and Pleasant View areas. Check out what our patients have to say!

I like the friendly service at Pobanz Orthodontics. I feel that we are valued and appreciated at your office. ~ Kailey B.

I love his staff. He makes me feel so comfortable, I love that. ~ Brittani Johnson

Wow. Dr. John Pobanz is upbeat and caring, and the entire office environment and staff reflect this. I've recommended Dr. John's service to friends. And Jessica's teeth have been moving into place far faster than we had anticipated. ~ Stephen W.

Dr. Pobanz is so warm, friendly, and most importantly KID-friendly. Love his office and staff--they are wonderful. Love the encouragement and incentives he gives kids to maintain good oral health. ~ Dakota S.

Cardiodontics: The Heart Mouth Connection from Pobanz Orthodontics

2009-06-29T11:16:00.000-07:00

If you have been told you have periodontal disease (also known as gum disease or periodontitis), you're not alone. An estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of the disease! Periodontal diseases range from simple gum inflammation to serious disease that results in major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. In the worst cases, teeth are lost.

Gum disease is a threat to your oral health. Research is also pointing to health effects of periodontal diseases that go well beyond your mouth. So we at Pobanz Orthodontics
want to let you know some interesting facts and ways to treat the disease.

What is Periodontal Disease?

"Perio" means around, and "dontal" refers to teeth. Periodontal disease is an infection of the structures around the teeth, including the gums and the bones that hold the teeth. The earliest stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis – an infection of the gums. In more severe forms of the disease, all of the tissues are involved, including the bone. Bacteria that live and reproduce on the teeth and gums cause periodontal disease.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Symptoms may include the following:
--redness or bleeding of gums while brushing teeth or using dental floss
--halitosis, or bad breath
--gum recession, resulting in apparent lengthening of teeth
--"pockets" between the teeth and gums indicating that the bone which holds the teeth in the mouth is dissolving
--loose teeth
Gum inflammation and bone destruction are largely painless. Hence, people may wrongly assume that painless bleeding after teeth cleaning is insignificant, although this may be a symptom of progressing periodontitis. If your hands bled when you washed them, you would be concerned. Yet, many people think it's normal if their gums bleed when they brush or floss.

Periodontal Disease Affects Your Health

Periodontal disease is a putrid, festering infection of the mouth. Bacteria and inflammatory particles can enter the bloodstream through ulcerated and bleeding gums and travel to the heart and other organs. In recent years, gum disease has been linked to a number of health problems. Researchers are studying possible connections between gum disease and:
--Heart disease: Gum disease may increase the risk of heart disease. Gum disease also is believed to worsen existing heart disease.
--Stroke: Gum disease may increase the risk of the type of stroke caused by blocked arteries
--Diabetes: People with diabetes and periodontal disease may be more likely to have trouble controlling their blood sugar than diabetics with healthy gums.
--Premature births: A woman who has gum diseases during pregnancy may be more likely deliver her baby too early and the infant may be more likely to be of low birth weight.

Combating Periodontal Disease

--See your dentist! See your dentist every six months for a checkup! Regular professional cleanings and checkups make you feel good, look good, and could be a lifesaver!
--Brush and floss daily. Take your time and do it right!
--Use an anti-bacterial mouthwash. Daily use of an anti-bacterial mouthwash helps to disinfect the teeth and gums, and reduces the number of bacteria.
--Straighten your teeth. Crowded teeth are nearly impossible to keep clean. Orthodontic treatment can greatly reduce inflammation and periodontal disease.

--Pobanz Orthodontics

How To Stay Young And Healthy from Pobanz Orthodontics

2009-06-22T09:39:00.000-07:00

Whether you’re 5 or 50, your health depends on your awareness of what’s good for you. But in a world filled with fad diets, blaring advertisements, and unintelligible ingredient lists, we at Pobanz Orthodontics know it can be difficult to determine exactly what is good for you – and what’s not.

For straightforward guidance on how to live a long, healthy life, we recommend Brush Your Teeth! And Other Simple Ways to Stay Young and Healthy by Dr. David Ostreicher. The book sums up good health in six fundamental principles: hygiene, diet, attitude, exercise, sleep and personal safety.

Drawing on nearly three decades of experience as an orthodontist and professor of health and nutrition, Dr. Ostreicher definitively answers age-old debates, like the best way to prevent colds and flu (your mom was right: wash your hands). He provides straight talk on a variety of diet choices including salt, fats, carbs and organic food, and he documents the importance of regular sleep, stress reduction and positive thinking to your overall health. His suggestions throughout are simple, clear, and inexpensive.

Dr. Ostreicher advocates a back-to-basics, common-sense approach to staying young and healthy. We at Pobanz Orthodontics couldn’t agree more, and we’d like to repeat the title of his book as our favorite piece of advice: don’t forget to Brush Your Teeth!

Oral Piercing: Is It Worth It? Pobanz Orthodontics Explains

2009-06-14T23:42:00.000-07:00

Piercing, like tattooing, is one of today’s popular forms of “body art” and self-expression. If you’re thinking about getting a piercing – or if you already have one or more – we at Pobanz Orthodontics want to share some health risks you should know about.

Your mouth contains millions of bacteria, and infection is a common complication of oral piercing. Just touching your mouth jewelry (tongue barbells and lip and cheek labrettes) can lead to infection. Many people who have piercings tend to regularly touch them – which is a perfect opportunity for bacteria from hands to enter piercing sites. Also, food particles that collect around piercing sites can lead to infection.

Pain and swelling are other possible side effects of piercing. Your tongue – the most popular piercing site in the mouth – could swell large enough to close off your airway! Piercing also can cause uncontrollable bleeding or nerve damage. Damage to the tongue’s blood vessels can cause serious blood loss.

The hoop, ring, stud, and barbell-shaped jewelry can hinder your ability to talk and eat. Some people also develop a habit of biting or playing with their piercings – which can lead to cracked, scratched teeth; gum damage and recession; and sensitive teeth. There may also be a need for restorations, such as crowns or fillings, and additional dental treatment due to piercings.

Consider the potential pitfalls of piercing carefully before getting one. Keep in mind that it will be an added responsibility to your life, and will need regular upkeep. Make sure that you’re committed to the task of taking care of it for the full healing period and beyond.

If you have an oral piercing, pay special attention to it. Clean the piercing with antiseptic mouthwash after eating, and brush the jewelry when you brush your teeth. Of course, let us know at Pobanz Orthodontics if you have any questions.

Parsley and Other Ways To Brighten Your Smile from Pobanz Orthodontics

2009-05-29T15:01:00.000-07:00

At Pobanz Orthodontics we see lots of patients concerned about their bad breath. So we want to educate you about what you can do to really keep your chompers clean and breath minty fresh!

Naturally, good oral hygiene is the first set. With proper brushing and regular dental checkups you can keep bad breath (halitosis) in check.

Certain foods, medications, smoking, sinus issues, or even gum disease cause most bad breath. If the stink lingers for longer than 24 hours, you should see us at Pobanz Orthodontics. It might be something more serious, like dehydration, zinc deficiency, diabetes, liver failure, kidney failure, or even certain kinds of cancers!

In the meantime, here are some home remedies to keep you smiling bright from Pobanz Orthodontics.

--Spice Up Your Life
Snack on some cloves, fennel, or anise after each particularly odorous snack.
--Don’t forget the tongue
Lots of people brush their teeth regularly, but leave the tongue alone. One of the main causes of bad breath is food and plaque residue on the surface of your tongue. So give it a nice gentle brush-over too!
--Watch your drinking habits
The worst options are coffee, wine, whiskey, and beer.
--Frequent brushing
Carry a toothbrush with you so brushing after each meal is convenient and refreshing! Trust us, you’ll love the way it makes you feel. If you can’t brush, still swish around a couple sips of water to remove any lingering food.
--Make your own Gargle
Gargling with a home mixture of sage, calendula, and myrrh gum extracts four times a day should ward off that bad breath potential.
--Parsley’s there for a reason
Finish your parsley after you finish your dinner and you’ll find a refreshing breath enhancer. Hate the texture? Throw a couple sprigs in a blender to sip after each meal.
--Sugarless Gum
Always a good idea to carry some mints or sugarless gum for that quick spruce up before you meet the boss.
--Don’t cut that cheese
The stronger the cheese, the stinkier your breath can become. Think about blue cheese and Roquefort? They really get the party started in your mouth and it’s hard to make them leave!