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What is an Orthodontist? | Jennifer L. Martin, DDS

October 14th, 2022

An orthodontist is a specialist in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities.  Orthodontists are required to complete

 college requirements, graduate from an accredited dental school and then successfully complete a minimum of two years of full-time study at an accredited orthodontic residency program. Only those who have completed this education may call themselves “orthodontists.” Orthodontists limit their scope of practice to orthodontic treatment. Only orthodontists may be members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO).

Consult an Orthodontist First

If you are thinking about orthodontic treatment, chances are it could help. Consulting an orthodontist is the best way to know if you need treatment. If you do, an orthodontist like Jennifer L. Martin, DDS, who is a specialist in aligning teeth and jaws for patients of all ages, has the unique expertise adults need to create a beautiful and healthy smile. If your teeth have always bothered you in some way, talk over your concerns with an orthodontist.

In-person Consultations by an Orthodontist Is Best

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to orthodontic treatment, which is why a thorough examination of the teeth, their position in the jaws and the relationship of the upper and lower jaws is imperative to developing a custom treatment plan.

Orthodontists closely study dental records such as panoramic x-rays to evaluate any concerns or potential problems that may be hiding below the surface.

What other transforming medical treatment would you undergo without an in-person, pre-treatment evaluation, or ongoing in-person supervision from a medical professional?

Types of Orthodontic Problems

Adults can have the same kinds of orthodontic problems that children and teens have – crowding or too much space between teeth; overbites or underbites. Front teeth may stick out. In the case of an open bite, the front teeth may not make contact when the back teeth touch, or vice versa. Poorly aligned teeth and jaws can, over time, result in abnormal wearing of tooth surfaces. Your orthodontist is in the best position to recommend the type of appliance for your unique treatment needs. Not every type of appliance is suitable for correcting every kind of orthodontic problem. An AAO orthodontist is qualified to ensure you receive the personalized treatment that is best for you.

Jennifer L. Martin, DDS | Top Pleasant Hill Orthodontist

At Jennifer L. Martin, DDS, everything we do is focused on our patients. Dr. Martin and our team know your needs and concerns are as unique as your smile. That’s why we refuse to use a “one-size-fits-all” approach to orthodontic care. Instead, we will work with you to determine the right treatment for your specific situation.

You will never be another number on a chart or set of teeth in the chair to any of us. We take pride in getting to know each patient as a person, building a long-term relationship with them. We want to learn about interests, celebrate your achievements, and share in your life.

Each of us is a people-person, and we thrive on our conversations with those in our care. We feel fortunate to spend our days creating life-changing smiles for our friends and would love to create such a smile for you!

Jennifer L. Martin, D.D.S.
401 Gregory Lane, Suite 126
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Phone: (925) 676-8485

Email: martinorthodontics@att.net

Eat the Right Treats for Your Braces this October Halloween Season

October 3rd, 2022

 

 

 

 

It’s October! For most or all of us, this month begins with the weather changing, drinking pumpkin spice latte’s, and of course, Halloween! But for your orthodontist, it’s also a month to recognize their patient’s beautiful, healthy smile in honor of National Orthodontic Health Month. This is a perfect time to review a few helpful tips from the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) to embrace October worry-free for orthodontic patients.

Can I still eat Halloween candy?

Yes! Enjoying candy while wearing braces is still an option. But, avoid damaging your braces and risk extending your orthodontic treatment by staying away from certain candy items.  Broken brackets will require a trip to the orthodontist to repair and multiple broken brackets can extend your time in braces

Keep it simple, avoid sticky items:

  • Caramels, Taffy, Jellybeans, Bubblegum
  • Hard Candy, Suckers, Licorice
  • Popcorn and Nuts

Keep in mind, you are not off the hook if you are drinking sugary drinks like soda, sweet tea, energy, and sports drinks. These drinks have added sugar, which causes decalcification (white marks) on teeth. Read more about decalcification here.  You are probably wondering what you can eat or drink? Actually, quite a lot; eat soft, melt-in-your-mouth candies. Those tend to be less risky when keeping your braces intact.

Good options:

  • Chocolate (without caramel or nuts)
  • Peanut butter cups
  • Marshmallows
  • Soft Cookies

Eating Halloween candy in excess can cause more than a bad stomach-ache. Any type of sugary snacks can accumulate around braces and lead to cavities or gum disease (gingivitis). Establish an oral care regimen that involves preventive measures, it can help avoid tooth decay and promote healthier gums.

Checklist for success: Brush for two minutes, two times a day with fluoride toothpaste with the seal of approval from the American Dental Association.  Fluoride helps to strengthen the enamel and decrease cavities..

  • Switch to an electric toothbrush, which has been shown to remove more plaque than manual toothbrushes.
  • Floss at least once a day to remove plaque and debris that brushing alone can leave behind.
  • Rinse with a mouthwash containing fluoride to strengthen the enamel and decrease the bacteria in the mouth.

And finally, remember to trust an AAO orthodontist. An orthodontist is an expert in orthodontics; they possess the skills, education and experience to give you your best smile.  

Do I Need Orthodontic Treatment?

If you are thinking about orthodontic treatment, chances are it could help. Consulting an orthodontist is the best way to know if you need treatment. If you do, an orthodontist like Jennifer L. Martin, DDS, who is a specialist in aligning teeth and jaws for patients of all ages, has the unique expertise adults need to create a beautiful and healthy smile. If your teeth have always bothered you in some way, talk over your concerns with an orthodontist.

In-person Consultations by an Orthodontist Is Best

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to orthodontic treatment, which is why a thorough examination of the teeth, their position in the jaws and the relationship of the upper and lower jaws is imperative to developing a custom treatment plan.

Orthodontists closely study dental records such as panoramic x-rays to evaluate any concerns or potential problems that may be hiding below the surface.

What other transforming medical treatment would you undergo without an in-person, pre-treatment evaluation, or ongoing in-person supervision from a medical professional?

Jennifer L. Martin, DDS | Top Pleasant Hill Orthodontist

At Jennifer L. Martin, DDS, everything we do is focused on our patients. Dr. Martin and our team know your needs and concerns are as unique as your smile. That’s why we refuse to use a “one-size-fits-all” approach to orthodontic care. Instead, we will work with you to determine the right treatment for your specific situation.

You will never be another number on a chart or set of teeth in the chair to any of us. We take pride in getting to know each patient as a person, building a long-term relationship with them. We want to learn about interests, celebrate your achievements, and share in your life.

Each of us is a people-person, and we thrive on our conversations with those in our care. We feel fortunate to spend our days creating life-changing smiles for our friends and would love to create such a smile for you!

Jennifer L. Martin, D.D.S.
401 Gregory Lane, Suite 126
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Phone: (925) 676-8485

Email: martinorthodontics@att.net

 

Do I Need Orthodontic Treatment?

July 28th, 2022

Do I Need Orthodontic Treatment?

If you are thinking about orthodontic treatment, chances are it could help. Consulting an orthodontist is the best way to know if you need treatment. If you do, an orthodontist like Jennifer L. Martin, DDS, who is a specialist in aligning teeth and jaws for patients of all ages, has the unique expertise adults need to create a beautiful and healthy smile. If your teeth have always bothered you in some way, talk over your concerns with an orthodontist.

In-person Consultations by an Orthodontist Is Best

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to orthodontic treatment, which is why a thorough examination of the teeth, their position in the jaws and the relationship of the upper and lower jaws is imperative to developing a custom treatment plan.

Orthodontists closely study dental records such as panoramic x-rays to evaluate any concerns or potential problems that may be hiding below the surface.

What other transforming medical treatment would you undergo without an in-person, pre-treatment evaluation, or ongoing in-person supervision from a medical professional?

Types of Orthodontic Problems

Adults can have the same kinds of orthodontic problems that children and teens have – crowding or too much space between teeth; overbites or underbites. Front teeth may stick out. In the case of an open bite, the front teeth may not make contact when the back teeth touch, or vice versa. Poorly aligned teeth and jaws can, over time, result in abnormal wearing of tooth surfaces. Your orthodontist is in the best position to recommend the type of appliance for your unique treatment needs. Not every type of appliance is suitable for correcting every kind of orthodontic problem. An AAO orthodontist is qualified to ensure you receive the personalized treatment that is best for you.

Jennifer L. Martin, DDS | Top Pleasant Hill Orthodontist

At Jennifer L. Martin, DDS, everything we do is focused on our patients. Dr. Martin and our team know your needs and concerns are as unique as your smile. That’s why we refuse to use a “one-size-fits-all” approach to orthodontic care. Instead, we will work with you to determine the right treatment for your specific situation.

You will never be another number on a chart or set of teeth in the chair to any of us. We take pride in getting to know each patient as a person, building a long-term relationship with them. We want to learn about interests, celebrate your achievements, and share in your life.

 

Each of us is a people-person, and we thrive on our conversations with those in our care. We feel fortunate to spend our days creating life-changing smiles for our friends and would love to create such a smile for you!

 

Jennifer L. Martin, D.D.S.
401 Gregory Lane, Suite 126
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Phone: (925) 676-8485

Email: martinorthodontics@att.net

Web: https://www.drjennifermartin.com/

Specialist in Orthodontic and Invisalign Treatment for Adults

July 27th, 2022

Straighten Your Teeth for Health and Appearance

[caption id="attachment_1107" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Dr Jennifer L. Martin, DDS | Pleasant Hill, CA Orthodontist[/caption]

On-camera meetings are here to stay. A big part of looking healthy may include straightening your teeth. According to a recent study conducted by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), adult (18 years+) patients now outweigh teens/kids in treatment. Common misperceptions that you may be too old for orthodontic treatment, or your situation is too difficult, but this is not the case. The deciding factor on whether a patient is a good candidate for treatment is the health of their teeth and gums not their age. The perceived convenience of taking a selfie and receiving your orthodontic treatment by mail may sound attractive at first, but you should be aware of the mail-order treatment process and the potential hidden dangers of a one-size-fits-all treatment plan.

In-person Orthodontics Consultations are the Best

At Jennifer L. Martin, DDS we believe in-person consultations are the best way for you to get the proper diagnosis and treatment which will be customized just for you. Also, being actively monitored by a AAO orthodontic specialist like Dr. Martin throughout your treatment will help to ensure that your treatment goes smoothly and you will be able to have the opportunity to have your questions answered by the treating doctor. Your health history and habits should be discussed with the doctor so that you receive the best treatment possible.  Items to think about when meeting with us include information on:

  • Fillings
  • Missing Teeth
  • Misshapen or worn teeth
  • Dental disease
  • Periodontal disease
  • Medications
  • Habits like smoking, clenching or grinding teeth, or tongue thrusting

Orthodontic Treatment for Adults Requires Individual Care

All of these items can affect the outcome of your treatment.  Plus, for some adults to reach optimal dental health, your dentist and orthodontist will work in partnership and may need to call in other dental specialists such as oral surgeons, periodontists, and endodontists.

At Jennifer L. Martin, DDS, everything we do is focused on our patients. Dr. Martin and our team know your needs and concerns are as unique as your smile. That’s why we refuse to use a “one-size-fits-all” approach to orthodontic care. Instead, we will work with you to determine the right treatment for your specific situation.

You will never be another number on a chart or set of teeth in the chair to any of us. We take pride in getting to know each patient as a person, building a long-term relationship with them. We want to learn about interests, celebrate your achievements, and share in your life.

Each of us is a people-person, and we thrive on our conversations with those in our care. We feel fortunate to spend our days creating life-changing smiles for our friends and would love to create such a smile for you!

Jennifer L. Martin, D.D.S.
401 Gregory Lane, Suite 126
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Phone: (925) 676-8485

Email: martinorthodontics@att.net

Website: www.drjennifermartin.com/

 

Creating generations of smiles through a legacy of personal care and heartfelt service!