The 411 on Halloween treats, from Hallman Orthodontics

For parents worried about their kids going overboard on candies, sugar and other sweets, Halloween is a dreaded annual event (no pun intended).

Dr. Linda Hallman and our team will tell you all those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, but these treats are known to damage teeth, as well as braces! Did you know sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them? This can cause tooth decay and cavities! Sour and fruity candy, such as Starburst and Skittles, are the worst for your child’s teeth since these candies have a low pH value, which is known to ruin enamel. In addition, we also want your child to steer clear of sticky, chewy, gummy and nutty goodies.

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists recommend softer treats, such as soft chocolate or peanut butter cups, or melt-in-your-mouth foods. Trick-or-treaters who indulge should make sure they brush and floss between teeth, around brackets and at the gum line. If damage occurs, call Hallman Orthodontics as soon as possible.

Staying healthy this cold season, from Hallman Orthodontics

It's fall, and the cold and flu season is once again upon us. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, says that a common cold usually includes sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and coughing. Symptoms are known to last for up to two weeks, according to the CDC.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. Linda Hallman and our staff at Hallman Orthodontics give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our Chevy Chase 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.

To protect your toothbrush from bacteria, follow these steps:

• Wash your hands before and after brushing

• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen

• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster

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

Hope this helps! Stay healthy!

Hallman Orthodontics, supporting breast cancer research!

Last Friday, our staff at Hallman Orthodontics participated in Lee National Denim Day. We wore our jeans to work to help raise money for breast cancer research. Thank you to everyone who participated! Wearing your jeans helped support a great cause!

Read more about Lee National Denim Day and have a wonderful week!

Ask Dr. Hallman: Why are regular checkups so important?

In addition to October being National Orthodontic Health Month, as we discussed last week, did you know this month also marks National Dental Hygiene Month? Fall is here, and Halloween is coming soon, but now it is more important than ever to maintain good oral hygiene during your treatment at Hallman Orthodontics.

Our staff will tell you - especially this month - that while all those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, these treats can damage your teeth and braces as well! Sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them - this can cause tooth decay and cavities! After eating these candies, be sure to wash your mouth out with water, drink milk or eat a few slices of cheese. These will help neutralize the acid in your mouth.

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

Hope this helps! Enjoy your weekend!

- Dr. Hallman and team

Hallman Orthodontics, supporting National Orthodontic Health Month!

We hope you're having a great Friday!

October is National Orthodontic Health Month, and our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have included information on protecting your braces, including tips for trick-or-treaters, braces-friendly Halloween recipes, facts about braces and treats you should avoid while wearing braces.

Dr. Linda Hallman and our staff recommend you check out the AAO's website as well for helpful tips on keeping your braces in tip-top shape. If you have any follow-up questions about keeping your braces in tip-top shape, please feel free to give us a call at 301.654.7910, ask us on Facebook or ask Dr. Hallman during your visit at our convenient Chevy Chase office!

Have a great weekend!