The Blog of Tod M Hardin DMD, PC

Happy Veterans’ Day from Hardin Orthodontics

2011-11-11T13:26:00.000-08:00

Happy Veterans’ Day! Today is a day to thank all military veterans and the men and women currently on active duty that put their lives on the line for the freedoms we all enjoy.

In celebration of Veterans’ Day, Dr. Tod Hardin and our team would like to share a few fun facts about our flag, this national holiday, and our country’s history!

• Veterans’ Day, a day that was originally called Armistice Day, is a time to thank and honor the men and women who have served in our military.
• President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the official legislation for Veterans’ Day on June 1, 1954, changing the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veterans Day
• There are 23.2 million veterans in the U.S.
• The flag was first approved by Congress on June 14, 1777
• Each of the flag’s colors signify different American values- red is for valor and zeal, white is for hope, purity, and cleanliness of life, and blue is for heaven, loyalty, sincerity, justice, and truth
• Research by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) helped develop the CAT Scan, the cardiac pacemaker, and the “Seattle Foot” to give those hurt the ability to run and jump
• When the flag is displayed next to another flag against a wall, the U.S. flag should be on its own right (on the left side when facing the wall).
• Veterans’ Day is often confused with Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a time for remembering and honoring the men and women who died while serving our country, or as a result of injuries that incurred in battle. Veterans’ Day honors and gives thanks to all veterans who served in our military.
• There are five states with over 1 million veterans in their population – California, Florida, Texas, New York and Pennsylvania

We are so thankful for all who have and are currently serving in the U.S. and overseas!

Happy November from Hardin Orthodontics!

2011-11-04T15:46:00.000-07:00

Happy November, everybody! Believe it or not, we’re almost in full holiday mode! But before we forget about the spooky month that was, we’d like to know how you celebrated Halloween! What did you wear? How much candy did you get? Did you have fun?

If you have any photos or videos that you would like to share with us, please send them our way or feel free to post them on our Facebook page!

We hope you all had a happy and safe Halloween! Also, what are you up to this month? Anything exciting happening in your life? If so, we’d love to hear all about it!

Lastly, have you been in for a dental checkup lately? It’s important that you see your general dentist, as well as visiting Dr. Tod Hardin while you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. If you have questions about your orthodontic treatment or just want some general information, give our Gresham or Sandy office call or ask us during your next visit!

Halloween TIPS from the American Association of Orthodontists

2011-10-28T11:30:00.000-07:00

It’s almost that spooky time of year again and Gresham and Sandy orthodontist, Dr. Tod Hardin, and our team thought we’d share some Halloween tips from our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists.

Trick-or-treating 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

To protect your braces, steer clear of the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

• All hard candies
• All chewy candies
• Caramel
• Nuts
• Licorice
• Taffy
• Jelly beans
• Hard pretzels
• Bubblegum
• Popcorn (including unpopped kernels)
• Ice

Of course, Halloween does not have to be completely treat-less. Braces-friendly Halloween treats can help you enjoy the “spook-ta-cular” holiday. For example, plain chocolate candy is okay, provided you remember to brush and floss afterwards. Bobbing for apples as well as caramel apples are not recommended. However, you can enjoy thinly sliced apples, dipped in yogurt or creamy chocolate sauce.

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

HAPPY HALLOWEEN from the entire team at Hardin Orthodontics!

A Halloween Treat at Hardin Orthodontics!

2011-10-18T15:52:00.000-07:00

This Halloween, October 31st, the Hardin Orthodontics’ team will be decorating our Sandy office to look like the Emerald City and Dr. Tod Hardin and the entire team will be dressed up like characters from Wizard of Oz. We would also like to invite all of you to come by for a Halloween treat between the hours of 8am-1pm and 2pm-4:30pm.

We have a history of going all out when Halloween falls on a work day! If you want proof, here are a couple photos of Halloween a few years ago where we decided on a jungle theme. Can you spot Dr. Hardin?

Do you want to WIN an iPad2?

2011-10-11T09:30:00.000-07:00

Awaken those craft skills and creativity with our new t-shirt contest. All you have to do is decorate a white Hardin Ortho t-shirt as creatively as you can, and then post a photo of your shirt to our facebook page.

Here’s how you can win: after you post a photo of your shirt, you need to get your friends and family to go onto our facebook page and click the “like” button by your photo. The person with the most “likes” by midnight December 19th wins an iPad2!

So stop by the office to pick up a shirt and recruit your friends to vote for you!

At Hardin Orthodontics, October means National Orthodontic Health Month!

2011-10-07T15:24:00.000-07:00

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

Dr. Tod Hardin and our team realize that this is a great opportunity for us to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene. National Orthodontic Health Month also aims to recognize the dedicated work of orthodontists like Dr. Hardin and other dental professionals in Gresham, Sandy, Troutdale, and other East County Oregon areas.

The AAO recommends patients avoid the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

• Caramel
• Nuts
• Popcorn (including un-popped kernels)
• Taffy
• Jelly beans
• Hard pretzels
• Licorice
• Bubblegum
• Ice

If you have any questions, please feel free to give our Gresham or Sandy office a call, ask us on Facebook, or ask Dr. Hardin during your visit this month!

A great braces-friendly fall recipe!

2011-09-29T16:19:00.000-07:00

Fall is here, and sometimes we here at Hardin Orthodontics just feel like a hot delicious meal is in order. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) made an appetizing (and braces-friendly!) fall dish that is sure to delight. Dr. Tod Hardin would like to remind you that a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps you achieve the best possible result from your orthodontic treatment.

Pasta Pomodorini

Ingredients:

• ¾ pound spaghetti or spaghetti
• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• ¼ cup sliced garlic
• ½ teaspoon finely minced Calabrian chilies, or 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 pint small cherry tomatoes, stems removed, crushed between your thumb and forefinger
• Sea salt, preferably gray salt
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, each torn into 2 or 3 pieces
• Wedge of Parmesan cheese

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta. While the pasta cooks, heat the 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over moderate heat. Add the garlic and cook until the slivers are golden brown and crisp, then add the chilies and cook for about 30 seconds. Raise the heat to high and add the tomatoes. Simmer briskly to soften the tomatoes and thicken the juices, about 3 minutes. Season with salt. When the pasta is al dente, scoop out about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta. Return the pasta to the warm pot off the heat. Add the sauce and the basil and mix well. Add some of the reserved cooking water if the pasta seems dry. Transfer to a warmed serving bowl and grate Parmesan over the top to taste. Drizzle with a little more olive oil. Serve immediately. Makes 4 servings.

Enjoy this great fall dish and have a great week!

A few helpful webisodes about orthodontics

2011-09-23T11:18:00.000-07:00

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

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

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

What was your favorite part of Summer 2011?What was your favorite part of Summer 2011?

2011-09-15T15:52:00.000-07:00

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

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

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

-Dr. Tod Hardin and team

When should you call Dr. Hardin?

2011-09-09T11:30:00.000-07:00

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Dr. Tod Hardin.

Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with us:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, give Hardin Orthodontics call as soon as possible!

Hope this helps,

-Dr. Hardin and team

Braces-Friendly Recipes from the American Association of Orthodontists

2011-09-02T11:43:00.000-07:00

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

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

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

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

Enjoy!

20 things that can ruin your smile

2011-08-25T15:41:00.000-07:00

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

These include:

- Sports drinks
- Bottled water
- Tobacco
- Wine
- Soft drinks
- Citrus and acidic foods

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

Hardin Orthodontics Ice Cream Party!

2011-08-18T16:58:00.000-07:00

Hardin Orthodontics is having an Ice Cream Party on Friday, August 26th, from 11am to 2pm at the Baskin Robbins in Gresham on Burnside. Dr. Tod Hardin, will even be scooping the ice cream himself! We will also be giving away a laptop computer, just in time for school. Print out the ticket above and bring it with you to get your free cone! Come have a great time with us! Give our office a call if you have questions.

Ask Dr. Hardin: Who benefits from braces?

2011-08-11T17:32:00.000-07:00

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Tod Hardin will tell you that anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic treatment, whether it’s correcting a problem not treated in your younger years, or catching a problem early.

To ensure the best overall treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, recommends that children receive an orthodontic consultation as early as age seven. If a problem is evident, taking action early can spare a lot of treatment and expense down the road.

If you never received orthodontic treatment when you were young, don’t worry! You’re never too old for a beautiful smile. Set up an appointment for a complimentary consultation and find out how orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

SureSmile Technology with Dr. Hardin

2011-08-04T16:26:00.000-07:00

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, please contact Hardin Orthodontics today!

Why do you choose Hardin Orthodontics?

2011-07-29T11:03:00.000-07:00

Hardin Orthodontics, serving Gresham, Sandy, Troutdale, and other East County Oregon communities, strives to provide exceptional treatment in an informative and friendly environment. Have you had a great experience at our office?

Share your story with the world!

GRESHAM

SANDY

Just select the "Review Us on Google Places" button above to write a review on our Google Places Page. We look forward to receiving your feedback!

Thank you,
-Dr. Tod Hardin and team

Kids Getting Braces at a Younger Age

2011-07-22T11:06:00.000-07:00

Dr. Tod Hardin will tell you that braces were originally considered to be best appropriate for teens. But these days, kids as old as seven are beginning their orthodontic treatment. Because preadolescent kids are typically not self-conscious, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists suggest it could be a good idea to start early.

Experts, however, say it depends on the treatment required. Some children who get braces at an early age end up in a second phase of treatment, and end up having braces well into their teenage years despite starting young.

Most orthodontic treatment begins between ages nine and 14, and the folks at the AAO estimate most orthodontic treatment lasts from one to three years, with two years being the average. It’s important, however, that children be screened no later than age seven for Dr. Hardin to assess what the best age for treatment is.

Hope this helps! Give Hardin Orthodontics a call if you have any questions about your child’s treatment!

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

2011-07-15T13:16:00.000-07:00

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 Hardin Orthodontics!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

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

Hardin Orthodontics “Know Your Community” Contest!

2011-07-05T15:46:00.000-07:00

We are proud of our community and want to encourage all of our patients to get out and experience the wonderful place we live! In doing so, you could have a chance to win an iPad!

Here’s how it works:

2 entries per photo with a Hardin Ortho t-shirt on
1 entry per photo without a Hardin Ortho t-shirt on

Go to hardinortho.com, under the CONTESTS tab, check out the photos of our team in our community. Figure out where we are, and bring your Hardin Ortho t-shirt with you to those places. Snap a photo and email a picture of yourself to sheri@hardinortho.com.

If you don’t have a Hardin Ortho t-shirt, stop by the office and grab one. Good Luck! One lucky winner will be chosen September 1, 2011.

What are your 4th of July plans?

2011-06-30T16:04:00.000-07:00

This coming Monday, July 4th, is Independence Day and the United States of America will be turning 235 years old! It’s a day to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence and also a time for every American to pay homage to our soldiers, past and present, who have placed themselves in harm’s way so that we may continue to enjoy our freedom.

Dr. Tod Hardin and team will be celebrating this Monday and we would like to know, what are your plans for the 4th of July? Will you be out in the sun? Have you stocked up on fireworks? Are you going to grill up your favorite summer foods? Are you staying in town or heading somewhere else? If you have a 4th of July tradition, we would love to hear about it.

Whatever you plan to do, Hardin Orthodontics hopes you have a fun and safe holiday! Feel free to upload your 4th of July photos to our Facebook page and let us know how your Independence Day turned out this year.

Summer fun with Hardin Orthodontics!

2011-06-24T11:26:00.000-07:00

It’s summer here at Hardin Orthodontics, a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, hitting America’s open roads or just having fun in the backyard, Dr. Tod Hardin and our team want to hear all about it! We also encourage you to post any photos from your adventures to our Facebook wall!

Happy travels!

June is National Smile Month!

2011-06-16T15:18:00.000-07:00

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

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

Orthodontic Emergency Care with Hardin Orthodontics

2011-06-09T10:25:00.000-07:00

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

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

The following solutions may help you relieve your discomfort:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don't forget about your pal Fluoride!

2011-06-03T13:14:00.000-07:00

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Tod Hardin. 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 orthodontists’ 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!

Hardin Orthodontics, wishing you a safe and relaxing Memorial Day Weekend!

2011-05-26T11:27:00.000-07:00

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

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

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

Why the Damon System?

2011-05-20T12:43:00.000-07:00

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 why Damon® is better:

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. Tod Hardin is a certified Damon System provider. To learn more about the Damon System or your treatment here at Hardin Orthodontics, please give us a call.

Top ten tips for keeping your BRACES sparklin’ clean

2011-05-13T13:35:00.000-07:00

Dr. Tod Hardin 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 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. Hardin and Team

A Great Braces-Friendly Spring Recipe! From Dr. Hardin

2011-05-05T16:07:00.001-07:00

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. Tod Hardin and staff

A Diagram of Your Braces, from Hardin Orthodontics

2011-04-28T16:57:00.000-07:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sports and Orthodontics

2011-04-21T14:06:00.000-07:00

Wouldn’t you believe it, it’s already springtime! The spring months bring an increase in outdoor activities which means a greater chance of kids damaging their precious mouths and pearly whites. If you have braces and you play sports, it's important that you consult orthodontist Dr. Tod Hardin for special precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing spring sports such as baseball, soccer, lacrosse and others. Be sure, however, 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 Hardin Orthodontics.

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 at Hardin Orthodontics.

The Importance of Retainers, from Dr. Hardin

2011-04-14T15:26:00.000-07:00

If you recently completed treatment at Hardin Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Tod Hardin 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. Hardin 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 with Dr. Hardin, please read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth or give us a call!

Flossing with Braces 101

2011-04-07T11:52:00.000-07:00

What Will YOUR Smile Look Like After Orthodontic Treatment?

2011-03-31T11:38:00.000-07:00

It is sometimes hard to believe the transformation your smile undergoes during orthodontic treatment. Hardin 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. Tod Hardin, 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 Hardin Orthodontics to get started on improving your smile today!

Smile, and you might just live longer!

2011-03-24T09:07:00.000-07:00

Folks with big smiles may actually live longer than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. Dr. Tod Hardin 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 the orthodontic office of Dr. Tod M. Hardin DMD PC on a regular basis? If not, give us a call!

Foods to Avoid during your Orthodontic Treatment

2011-03-17T10:44:00.000-07:00

There are a variety of foods Dr. Tod Hardin 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 the office of Tod M. Hardin DMD PC a call or ask our staff during your next visit.

The Oral Health Effects of Smoking

2011-03-10T14:55:00.000-08:00

Everybody knows that smoking causes lung cancer, but did you also know that smokers and tobacco users are susceptible to a variety of oral health problems at a faster rate than non-smokers?

It’s true! Smoking is responsible for almost 75 percent of gum disease in adults; and, similar to smokers, adults who smoke pipes and cigars, as well as those using smokeless tobacco, are just as susceptible to gum disease and other tobacco related health problems.

As soon as you use tobacco products, you become more likely to experience any of these oral health problems:

• Oral cancer
• Gum disease
• Tooth loss
• Loss of bone in the jaw
• Gum recession
• Delayed/impaired healing process after oral surgery or any other treatment
• Decreased success rate of dental implant (tooth replacement) procedures
• Mouth sores
• Loss of your sense of taste and smell
• Bad breath
• Tooth and tongue stains

If you are interested in protecting your oral health, we strongly recommend you quit using tobacco products! The following steps are recommended by the Surgeon General to help you quit smoking and using tobacco:

• Get ready – set a quitting date and remove all materials from your home, car and office
• Get support
• Learn new skills and behaviors
• Get medication and use it correctly
• Be prepared for relapse or difficult situations

For support, start with the office of Tod M. Hardin DMD PC! We can help by recommending different options to help you quit, and above all we will support you throughout the quitting process. We are dedicated to helping you protect your oral health – and quitting smoking is significant step in the right direction.

Age 7 is the magic number for an orthodontic check-up

2011-03-04T10:59:00.000-08:00

Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Dr. Tod Hardin for a consultation, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That’s right—seven.

Ok, so what’s so great about age seven, you ask? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for Dr. Hardin to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites and open bites can be detected.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age provides one of two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, a healthy prognosis will provide immediate peace of mind.

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and are detrimental to good oral hygiene. So, if your child is nearing his or her seventh birthday, give us a call at Hardin Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

What puts you at ease at Hardin Orthodontics?

2011-02-25T10:03:00.000-08:00

Hardin Orthodontics and team understand not everyone enjoys visiting their orthodontist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know:

What is it about Hardin Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or Dr. Hardin?

Let us know by posting here, on our Facebook page, or by giving us a call!

Now that I have braces, what can I eat?

2011-02-18T09:48:00.000-08:00

You just got braces at Hardin Orthodontics and Dr. Tod Hardin has informed you that over the next several months you will want to avoid eating anything sticky, hard, crunchy, or chewy. What does this leave for you to eat? Lettuce? Nothing?

Luckily, there was someone else wondering the same thing when she first got braces! Brenda Waterman, 13, decided she was going to find a way to have her cake and eat it too, so she created a variety of “braces-friendly” recipes that allow you to enjoy your favorite treats without interfering with your orthodontic care! Her cookbook, “The Braces Cookbook: Recipes you (and your Orthodontist) will Love,” gives patients a variety of delicious recipes, safe to eat with braces; plus additional tips and advice for packing lunches, what to eat at parties, and braces-friendly restaurant dishes! There’s even a section with tips for dealing with the soreness that can occur when your braces or appliance are adjusted. Enjoy the foods you love – even with braces!

Here is a delicious, sneak peek recipe from “The Braces Cookbook:”

Wonderful Waffles

Forget the recipe that came with your waffle iron – this recipe will redefine fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. The secret to delicious waffles is letting the batter "sit" for five minutes before pouring into the waffle iron. Top cooked waffles with syrup, jam, fresh fruit or even whip cream. Makes about 5 servings!

Preheat your waffle iron according to the directions. You may want to lightly spray it with vegetable oil before heating.
• 3 cups flour
• 2 Tbl + 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 Tbl sugar
• 4 cups milk
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
In a large bowl, whisk (or use electric mixer on low) together all ingredients. Let batter sit for about five minutes to activate the baking powder.

When waffle iron is ready, pour about 1/3 cup of batter onto each of the four squares (experiment with your iron – you don't want the batter overflowing). Gently close the cover and set your timer as the manufacturer suggests. Do not lift the cover while they bake. When done, carefully lift one edge with a flat spatula and pull the waffle away from the iron. Keep waffles warm on a plate under a clean dishtowel while the others bake.

Enjoy!

-Dr. Hardin and Team

Visualize your new smile with the Brace Painter!

2011-02-11T09:19:00.000-08:00

Braces with Dr. Tod M. Hardin DMD, PC 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 pink and purple bands this February, without the commitment of an all-out Valentine’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. Tom Hardin know if you have any questions about the Brace Painter, or your orthodontic treatment with our office. Have a great week!

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month!

2011-02-03T16:07:00.000-08:00

With February being National Children's Dental Health Month, our team at Hardin Orthodontics thought we'd share a few good oral hygiene tips with our patients, courtesy of the American Dental Association, or ADA.

• Teeth brushing techniques: It takes only two minutes to properly brush, using short, gentle strokes and devoting extra attention to the gumline, areas around fillings and hard-to-reach areas such as the back teeth.

• Flossing: hold the floss snugly between thumbs and index finger and place between each of the teeth, making sure to go beneath the gumline and curving the floss around the base of each tooth.

• Snack wisely: choose healthy snacks such as vegetables, fruits and cheese and avoid sticky, chewy candies that can stick to the teeth. If you eat these snacks, make sure to brush after doing so.

• Carbonated or sugary drinks: these beverages create acids that can damage the teeth when mixed with saliva, so they should be avoided altogether. When drinking one of these beverages, avoid sipping on it throughout the day. Rather, have a drink and then brush your teeth.

• Regular dental visits: in addition to seeing Dr. Tod Hardin, you should visit your dentist regularly (approximately every six months).

National Children's Dental Health Month, now in its 61st year, aims to increase awareness about the importance of kids' oral health. If you have any questions about keeping your mouth healthy, or about your treatment with Hardin Orthodontics, please feel free to give us a call!

When Are Two Phases of Treatment Necessary?

2011-01-28T08:56:00.000-08:00

Usually patients in orthodontic treatment at Hardin Orthodontics 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 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 additional questions.

-Dr. Tod Hardin and team

Ask Dr. Hardin: What, exactly, is Malocclusion?

2011-01-18T12:16:00.000-08:00

Malocclusion, or what orthodontist Dr. Hardin, serving Gresham and Sandy OR, 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. Hardin 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 Hardin 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.

Preparing for Cold and Flu Season, from Hardin Orthodontics

2011-01-14T14:29:00.001-08:00

It’s that time of year to start thinking about protecting yourself and your family from the flu. Here are some simple steps you can take to help yourself avoid colds and the flu this season.

• 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 toothbrush after every cold or flu or every 3-4 months when bristles appear worn

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. Hardin and our team 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 our staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

Hope this helps and give us a call if you have any questions! Stay healthy!

Connect with the Braces Brigade!

2011-01-06T07:31:00.000-08:00

At Hardin 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 Hardin 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!

This Year, Make a New Year’s Resolution to Smile About!

2010-12-29T08:00:00.000-08:00

Let’s face it- when was the last time you managed to keep a New Year’s resolution? We at Hardin Orthodontics believe the key to sticking to a goal is picking one that is both reasonable and attainable. If you haven’t yet picked a New Year’s resolution, consider setting one that will improve your oral health!

For example, resolve to brush twice and floss daily. Good oral hygiene only takes a few minutes a day, and can make a big difference in your oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment! For more oral health-themed resolutions for you and your family, check out this article.

We would love to see what you come up with, share with us by commenting on this post or on our Facebook page. Whatever your New Year’s Resolution, we wish you the very best for 2011!

-Happy New Year, from your friends at Hardin Orthodontics

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

2010-12-22T10:02:00.000-08:00

Who’s afraid of “metal mouth” and the appearance of braces? Not adults, apparently. Recently, our staff 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, we would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

Have a Hard Rockin' Holiday, from your friends at Hardin Orthodontics!

2010-12-17T11:17:00.001-08:00

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

Holiday Orthodontic Gift Certificate Offer

2010-12-01T14:28:00.001-08:00

Hey patients- be sure to share this holiday gift certificate with friends and family- they can receive a $200 credit towards orthodontic treatment started on or before December 29th here at Hardin Orthodontics. Thanks for helping spread the word!

Happy Thanksgiving, from Hardin Orthodontics

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

Dr. Hardin 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!

Orthodontic fun facts, from Dr. Hardin & Team

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

Everyone loves fun facts. Fun, fun, fun! The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that our team at Hardin Orthodontics thought you might enjoy.

• There are nearly 4 million people in orthodontic treatment throughout the United States. Three out of four are younger than 18.
• The first mechanical treatment for correcting irregular teeth was suggested by Gaius Plinius Secundus (A.D 23-79).
• The American Association of Orthodontists is comprised of more than 12,000 members in the United States, Canada and abroad.
• The time required to complete orthodontic treatment ranges from 12 to 36 months depending on the nature and severity of the problem.
• Of the 160,000 dentists in the United States and Canada, 8,000 are practicing orthodontists.
• The cement that attaches the braces to the teeth is now made with a special fluoride-releasing substance.
• Wires activated by body heat used in today's braces originally were developed by NASA for use in the space program.
• In addition to alleviating or preventing physical health problems, orthodontics can boost self-esteem as treatment aligns teeth, jaws and lips.
• Famous orthodontic patients include: Dr. Joyce Brothers, Hale Irwin, Cher, Diana Ross, Phyllis Diller, Chelsea Clinton, Whoopi Goldberg, Daisy Fuentes and Brandi.

What do you enjoy most about fall?

2010-11-12T15:33:00.000-08:00

It’s fall here at Hardin 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 Sandy and Gresham 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!

Start the New Year off Right- Enter for a Chance to Win a Flip Camera!

2010-11-05T10:40:00.000-07:00

Gather friends or family to help you make a 30 second video or commercial telling us what you love most about braces.

There are several ways to enter:

1. Post your video to our Facebook page
2. Email a youtube link to sheri@hardinortho.com
3. Write it to a CD and drop it by our office.

You can enter as many times as you like, but each entry must be a different video!

The deadline for your entries is December 29, 2010, and we will announce the winner on
January 4, 2011.

GOOD LUCK!

A few Halloween safety tips

2010-10-28T16:56:00.001-07:00

Trick-or-treat! In the spirit of October’s sweet and spooky holiday, Halloween, Dr. Hardin & team 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!

A Great Braces Friendly Halloween Recipe

2010-10-22T07:15:00.001-07:00

Our team know how tempting this time of the year can be on our sweet tooth. With all of the caramel, candy corn, and lollipops that are often passed around to trick-or-treaters, we realize that it can sometimes be hard to find hard, chewy, sticky, and crunchy candy alternatives.

However, there is good news! Today, we would like to share a great braces-friendly Halloween recipe with all of our patients, courtesy of the American Association of Orthodontics, or AAO, and “The Braces Cookbook” by Pamela Waterman. This Spider Bites recipe is delicious, and provided that you remember to brush and floss after indulging, this is a cookie that won’t bite back!

Spider Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 cup shortening
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 Tbsp. water
• 1 Tsp. vanilla
• 2 eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cocoa
• 1 Tsp. salt
• ½ Tsp. baking powder
• 1 package black rope licorice, cut into 1-inch pieces**
• 1 small tube of white (or color of choice) frosting
• Toothpicks

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

In a large bowl, combine shortening, sugar, water, and vanilla. Beat until smooth. Add eggs into the mixture and blend. Slowly mix in flour, cocoa, salt and baking powder using low-medium speed. Drop tablespoon helpings of mixture onto ungreased cookie sheets and roll each helping into a ball.

Bake 9 minutes at 375 degrees. The batch should produce around three dozen cookies.

Let cookies cool for about 10 minutes. Then using a toothpick, create four small holes in either side of the cookie. Still using the toothpick, push one end of a piece of the cut licorice into each hole, creating the “legs” of the spider. Once all eight pieces are in place, create eyes or decorate at will using the white frosting. Then eat and enjoy!

**Licorice can sometimes stick to braces; parents should monitor

October is National Orthodontic Health Month

2010-10-14T16:13:00.000-07:00

Can you believe October is already upon us? October happens to be National Orthodontic Health Month, and this month-long event is organized by our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Many treats can cause havoc for trick-or-treaters who are going through orthodontic treatment, and these treats may cause damage that could prolong your treatment time. The AAO recommends patients avoid the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

• Caramel
• Nuts
• Popcorn (including un-popped kernels)
• Taffy
• Jelly beans
• Hard pretzels
• Licorice
• Bubblegum
• Taco chips
• Ice

If you happen to damage your braces, please give Dr. Hardin and our staff a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone. Loose brackets or wires can usually be made more comfortable by applying some wax until the you can come into our office.

Ask Dr. Hardin: Why is it so important to have straight teeth?

2010-10-08T12:08:00.000-07:00

Some people wonder why Dr. Hardin 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 Hardin 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. Hardin can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

October Marks the National Orthodontic Health Month!

2010-10-01T09:34:00.000-07:00

October symbolizes the transition into the Fall season and of course, Halloween! For our team at Hardin Orthodontics, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), and orthodontic patients around the country, October also marks the National Orthodontic Health Month. This month is a great time to remind patients of the importance of strong oral hygiene and a braces-friendly diet, especially since many of the sticky and sweet Halloween treats can be harmful to braces and other orthodontic appliances.

Candy remains a huge part of Halloween for tens of millions of American kids each year. The National Confectioners Association says 93 percent of children in the United States go trick-or-treating, and estimates candy sales will be higher this year than ever. Candy is not all bad in moderation, but can lead to big problems in excess! It can lead to tooth decay, broken or chipped teeth, and delayed orthodontic treatment time due to broken or loose appliances and braces. Get the facts about Halloween candy and orthodontics by asking us! You can also learn more on the AAO’s National Orthodontic Health Month website. We also appreciate your help in spreading the word!

Continuing Education Event with Dr. Hardin and team

2010-09-24T13:50:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, Dr. Hardin & team held a dental continuing education event at the Riverview Resturant in Troutdale, Oregon. Several local dental offices were in attendance, and were treated to an hour seminar detailing current orthodontic techniques and advances.

We then held a very special lunch prepared by Dr. Hardin and the Executive Chef of the Riverview Resturant (Check out the video we produced with Chef Ryan). Finally, a few staff, patients and friends put on a fashion show sponsored by Elegantly Funky, a high end clothing boutique in downtown Gresham. They had their hair and makeup done at no charge by Salon Ambiance, a hair salon also located in downtown Gresham. We had a great time at the event overall, and we hope you get a chance to view the video we created, it has a few great tips for all the parents out there!

Finally- don't miss all the great photos from the event on our Facebook Page!

Easy, Healthy Cooking with Dr. Tod Hardin & Chef Ryan

2010-09-17T07:23:00.001-07:00

Easy, Healthy Cooking with Dr. Tod Hardin & Chef Ryan from Dave Proehl on Vimeo.

We have a treat for you all today. In this video, Dr. Hardin uses his iPhone to summon a chef (Ryan Hampton, Executive Chef at the Riverview Restaurant in Troutdale, OR) and together they prepare a quick, healthy meal, focusing on easily available ingredients and capitalizing on great NW flavors.

This video will debut at Hardin Orthodontics' fall training event at the Riverview Restaurant September 17, 2010. At the event, participants will even be served the identical menu items demonstrated in this cooking segment!

Enjoy your weekend everyone,

Dr. Hardin & Team

All the cool kids do it!

2010-09-09T16:11:00.001-07:00

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, 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. Hardin, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

Has your child or teen visited Hardin Orthodontics in Sandy & Gresham, OR for a consultation? If not, please give us a call and let us help your child begin the journey to a gorgeous smile!

Celebrities get braces, too!

2010-09-01T15:55:00.000-07:00

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. Hardin.

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 us a call at our Sandy or Gresham, OR.

Tackling sports injuries with Hardin Orthodontics

2010-08-27T11:58:00.001-07:00

Let’s face it: sports-related injuries are common among children, let alone teens with braces. In a recent survey, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, discovered that 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get hurt while playing sports. But 67 percent admitted that their child doesn’t wear a mouth guard when participating in organized sports such as football, basketball, baseball and soccer. That’s why we are helping spread the word that many facial sports injuries can be prevented simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. In addition, the AAO has provided the following tips for keeping your kids safe on the field this spring. Please remind them to:

• Wear mouth guards during contact sports
• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eye wear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant—even as a spectator

All of these can reduce injuries. Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements Dr. Hardin is trying to achieve.

Give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment with us.

Regular checkups are essential in maintaining good oral health

2010-08-20T07:15:00.000-07:00

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 Gresham and Sandy, OR!

Distinguishing the myths and facts about orthodontics, from Hardin Orthodontics

2010-08-12T16:12:00.000-07:00

Trust us when we say Dr. Hardin 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 Hardin Orthodontics, feel free to give us a call.

Patient Appreciation Party Photos!

2010-08-05T16:28:00.000-07:00

If you missed the 2010 Hardin Orthodontics patient appreciation party, don't miss the great photos of the fun on our Facebook page! We had a blast and want to thank everyone who was able to attend. We also wanted to send out a special thank you to all the patients who contributed to our fundraiser at the party for the Northwest Autism Foundation. We raised over $600!

The advantage of SureSmile®

2010-07-29T15:05:00.000-07:00

Does the thought of having braces bring you down? The team at Hardin 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. Tod Hardin 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. Hardin 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, please contact us for a consulatation today!

What’s on your summer reading list?

2010-07-23T13:27:00.001-07:00

With summer in full swing, some of us at Hardin Orthodontics 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 during the summer is a vital step in brain development and warding off the dreaded “summer slide.” Plus, it's fun!

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR summer reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great summer reads? Ask us for suggestions, and our staff (and Dr. Hardin) 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!

Win a Netbook from Hardin Orthodontics!

2010-07-15T09:31:00.000-07:00

Start the school year off right! Here’s your chance to win a new Dell-Inspirion Mini Netbook. All you have to do is tell us what you like about our office, or a good experience that you’ve had with us. There are several ways to enter:

1. Go to our Facebook page and post it as a comment.
2. Send it to us in an email at sheri@hardinortho.com.
3. Go to our website and fill out a satisfaction survey.
4. Write it down on a piece of paper and drop it by our office.

Enter as many times as you like! The deadline for your entries is August 31, 2010. The drawing will be held September 1, 2010.

Good Luck!

Happy Independence Day from Hardin Orthodontics

2010-07-02T07:44:00.000-07:00

This upcoming Sunday - which happens to be Independence Day, of course - Dr. Hardin and our staff will celebrate our nation's 234th birthday. For most folks, the Fourth of July is a chance to celebrate and commemorate America's Declaration of Independence. It's also a time for every American to pay homage to all our soldiers, past, present and future - who lost their lives in battle - and the brave servicemen- and women who place themselves in harm's way every day so that we may continue enjoy our freedoms.

Today, we thought we'd ask: what are your Fourth of July weekend plans? Are you heading to a barbecue? A picnic? Hitting the open road with family? Having fun in the sun?

Whatever you might be doing over Independence Day weekend, our entire staff hope you have a great week and a safe and happy Fourth of July weekend! Feel free to post your Independence Day photos on our Facebook page!

With Hardin Orthodontics, 24/7 access to your account

2010-06-25T14:41:00.000-07:00

At Hardin 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 Gresham & Sandy, OR.

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!

Adult Orthodontic Treatment in Sandy & Gresham, OR

2010-06-18T15:23:00.000-07:00

After treating thousands of orthodontic patients, it still amazes me when I hear adults say “there is nothing you could do for my teeth” as they subconsciously hide their smile. For all those adults that have thought this at one time or another, I say let the facts speak for themselves.

Across America, adults make up 25% or more of the patients having orthodontic treatment. What’s even more amazing is that this number is climbing. Realizing this, many of the orthodontic technology advancements that have arrived in the last 10 years specifically target adult orthodontic problems.

Suresmile: braces combined with computer aided design allow for average adult treatment times to be reduced by as much as 40%. Braces for 12 to 18 months sounds a whole lot better than braces for 3 years.

Clear Aligner Therapy: mild orthodontic problems can now be treated with a series of very thin clear trays that fit over the teeth. These trays are nearly invisible, and unless someone looks real close at your teeth, they will think that your smile is somehow “magically” getting better over time.

Damon Braces: their have been great advancements in the actual types of braces we use for treatment. Damon Braces have been designed to be very specific in treating many of the crowding and dental bite problems that adults feel are untreatable. I personally have treated several adults with Damon Braces that thought they would need teeth pulled or jaw surgery to be able to get orthodontic treatment, and they couldn’t have been more far off from the truth.

So?……What are you waiting for? At Hardin Orthodontics, we are changing the lives of our adult patients by giving them the smile they always wanted. It is your turn!!! As an extra incentive, please click here and print out this coupon. All you need to do is start by September 15, 2010.

Hey! June is national smile month, isn’t it time to take the leap!?

Patient Appreciation Party

2010-06-10T16:18:00.000-07:00

Come join Dr. Hardin & Team at the Mt. Hood Lanes for our Annual Patient Party, for outdoor activities, food, prizes and LOADS OF FUN! You won't want to miss it! The event is on Saturday, July 24th at 10am, and goes until 1pm. You can RSVP to this fun event by emailing Sheri@hardinortho.com

In the meantime, be sure to check out the fun photo slideshow we made of last year's party.

Smile--June is National Smile Month!

2010-06-03T16:53:00.000-07:00

We hope you enjoyed the long holiday weekend! Now that we’re in June, it’s once again time to remind our patients to smile wide! After all, June is National Smile Month, and a great time to promote good dental habits such as brushing, flossing and visiting the dentist, in addition to taking care of your braces!

We would like to hear about things that make you smile. As an example, going to the beach over Memorial Day Weekend with my family and catching razor clams sure makes me smile. In fact, any time I get to spend with my wife and children gets me grinning from ear to ear!

I also find myself turning my frown upside-down when I have a drink from the “lemon” water that Nan makes for our patients all summer long (occasionally you will find limes, or cucumbers, but it all tastes great).

FACEBOOK CONTEST: When you get a chance, we are asking our patients and their families to please post a picture or write a small entry on our Facebook page, letting us know what makes you smile. We will give the winning entry an Oral-B electric toothbrush valued at over $100, to be awarded the first week of July. Good Luck and Spread the Word!!!

What do you love about Dr. Hardin & team?

2010-05-26T15:16:00.000-07:00

From your very first visit to the orthodontic office of Dr. Tod Hardin, We strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: What did you think about your experience? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with your new smile?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Thank you,
Dr. Hardin & team

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

2010-05-17T13:18:00.000-07:00

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. Hardin is a certified SureSmile provider? Give us a call and ask for more information!

Meet Our Orthodontist

2010-05-06T11:55:00.001-07:00

I married my high school sweetheart in 1988, and we have four wonderful children. Nothing is more important to me than their well being. I have built my practice around the values, ethics, integrity, and experience that I would expect out of a health care professional rendering service to my own family members.

I have been practicing orthodontics in the Gresham and Sandy areas since 1996. As a third generation dental professional, I take the job of straightening teeth and creating beautiful smiles very seriously and very personally. I have surrounded myself with staff members that share this same desire. During your orthodontic treatment, we will do our best to create a fun and lighthearted environment for you to receive your care. It is important to us for you and your family to have the best possible experience in our practice. We strive to blend our desire for beautiful results with an office atmosphere that is receptive and warm.

I have pretty much been an Oregonian my whole life. I went to Sam Barlow High School, followed by Western Oregon State University and Portland State University for my college education. I then attended Oregon Health Sciences University for both my dental school education and my orthodontic residency. I am very proud and happy to be back in the Gresham community. Gresham was a great place for my wife and I to grow up, and we wanted nothing more than to come back to Gresham to work and raise our family.

When I am not straightening teeth, I enjoy golfing, skiing, fishing, and pretty much anything in the outdoors. I am very active in my church, and I love to spend time with my wife and children.