How important is your smile? From Parker Orthodontics

With state-of-the-art technology in a comfortable, friendly environment, Dr. Jeff Collins and our team at Parker Orthodontics are committed to providing you with an outstanding orthodontic experience. The bottom line is, we know having a beautiful smile is important to you. It’s important to us, too.

And speaking of smiling, in a poll conducted by Glamour Magazine earlier this year, people were asked, “If you had to pick between having perfect teeth, eyesight or hair, which would you choose?”

Well, 44 percent of folks out there chose teeth! In addition, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, or AACD, conducted a study and found that 99.7 percent of those polled believed a smile is an important social asset. Respondents said straightness, whiteness, cleanliness, as well as the sincerity and sparkle of one’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well.

Take the next step toward a healthier, brighter smile! Please contact our Parker, Castle Rock or Elizabeth orthodontic office and schedule a complimentary initial consultation. See you soon!

Giving thanks this holiday season

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season knocking at our door, Dr. Collins and our entire staff at Parker Orthodontics wanted to stop for a moment and extend our best wishes to you, our patients, referring doctors and families, for a wonderful Thanksgiving.

As always, if you know anyone we can help, just let us know. We promise to give them the same quality orthodontic care that we have given you.

We hope that this Thanksgiving and holiday season brings fond memories. Thank you for being part of our family.

Do we have your current contact info?

There is nasty weather ahead this fall and winter here in Colorado! Please help us get prepared by calling us and letting us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed!

At times of power outages and bad weather, we need to be able to get a hold of you. Please contact us at (303) 841-5500 with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so we may be able to reach you. Thank you and Happy Holidays from Dr. Collins and our entire team at Parker Orthodontics!

"Hey Dr. Collins! What's the deal with retainers?"

If you recently completed treatment at Parker Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Jeff Collins will provide—or has provided you at this point—with your own set of retainers.

After braces are removed, your teeth may shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Our team at Parker Orthodontics, however, will always tell you that retainers help 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. Collins 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. Collins, please read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth. You may also give us a call!

Halloween safety tips from Parker Orthodontics

Trick-or-treat! In the spirit of today's sweet and spooky holiday, Dr. Collins and team would like to remind all of our patients to be safe while celebrating with friends and family tonight. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists were kind enough to provide 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 us a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone.

Dr. Collins & our entire team at Parker Orthodontics wish you all a safe, fun and happy Halloween! Don't forget about our our Halloween Candy Buy-Back!

Year-end insurance reminder from Dr. Collins

Now that holiday season is almost upon us, we wanted to send you a friendly reminder to take full advantage of any flex spend, health savings or insurance benefits that you may have before the end of the year. Our team at Parker Orthodontics realize enrollment deadlines are sometimes a concern. If so, please call our office.

And don't forget ... October marks National Orthodontic Health Month! Straight teeth are important because they are functional, letting you chew and digest food that your body can use. Straight teeth are easier to clean and floss, preventing bacteria from collecting in your mouth. Straight teeth look great in addition to these other positive qualities.

We recommend an initial evaluation of patients at age 7. Dr. Collins can evaluate your child's dental growth and follow their development.

Halloween Candy Buy Back at Parker Orthodontics!

This Halloween season, would you like to turn your Halloween candy into cash? Dr. Collins would like to invite our patients to participate in the Parker Orthodontics Annual Halloween Candy Buy Back.

Halloween is just 2 weeks away and Dr. Collins knows lots of treats will be coming your way and he would like to take them off your hands. Bring in your extra candy and Parker Orthodontics will give you $1.00 per pound up to 10 pounds. Your friends and family can join in the fun!

We will be collecting candy in our Parker office starting on November 1st through the 7th, and in our Elizabeth office only on November 7th.

Candy that is collected from the Halloween Candy Buy Back will be donated to the Parker Food Bank.

For more information on the Halloween Candy Buy Back, don't hesitate to give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

"I just turned 36 - am I too old for braces?"

At Parker Orthodontics, nobody, and we mean NOBODY, is "too old" for braces! In fact, our staff at Parker Orthodontics read a fascinating statistic: adults getting braces has actually jumped 24 percent since 1996! Of course, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but maybe the 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 teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Dr. Jeff Collins 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 complimentary consultation. Please give us a call to set one up and have yourself a great rest of the week!

Parker Orthodontics, supporting National Orthodontic Health Month!

For our staff at Parker Orthodontics, it's hard to believe October is already upon us! October marks National Orthodontic Health Month, and while month-long event is organized by our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, it gives us a chance to remind our patients which foods they should avoid while wearing braces.

We know there are many treats can cause havoc for trick-or-treaters who are going through treatment with Dr. Collins, and these treats may cause damage that could prolong your treatment time. The AAO recommends our patients avoid the following Halloween treats:

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

If you damage your braces, please give us a call immediately at (303) 841-5500. Typically, minor 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 one of our offices, located in Parker, Castle Rock or Elizabeth.

Happy Monday! Have a wonderful week!

In love with your smile? Tell Dr. Collins & team about it!

With state-of-the-art technology in a comfortable, friendly environment, Dr. Jeff Collins and our team are committed to providing you with an outstanding orthodontic experience. Whether you’ve just come in for a complimentary initial consultation or your family has been visiting our convenient Parker or Castle Rock office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can write a review on our Google Places page!

Your generous reviews help Dr. Collins and our team create more and more beautiful smiles!

Thank you in advance! We hope you all had a wonderful rest of the weekend!

What was your favorite part of Summer 2011?

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. Jeffrey Collins and team

The Great Social Media Adventure

Isn’t social media great? Dr. Jeffrey Collins and team love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our interactive Facebook fan page. For social media to work, conversation is vital, and that’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social media is hugely popular these days, we know it is unpredictable and ever-changing.

While we’re taking a little time to research and decide how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog or Facebook page? Post your thoughts below, on Facebook, or give us a call!

-The team at Parker Orthodontics

20 things that can ruin your smile

At Parker 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. Jeffrey Collins 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 Castle Rock, Parker, or Elizabeth office. For more tips or for general questions about your ongoing dental treatment, we invite you to ask Dr. Collins during your next visit! We also invite you to ask us on Facebook!

Breaking Bad Habits

At Parker Orthodontics, we know good dental health requires only a few minutes a day. We thought we’d provide some practical advice on how to improve your or your child’s smile between your adjustment visits with Dr. Jeffrey Collins.

Start by brushing your teeth twice a day. Proper brushing techniques are an essential part of maintaining good oral health during your orthodontic treatment, as well as preventing gum disease. More care and time are needed to adequately brush your teeth when you are wearing braces. Brushing daily helps remove decay-causing plaque from tooth surfaces. Please consult Dr. Collins if you would like us to review brushing techniques with you or your child. The use of a mechanical toothbrush such as a Sonicare or Oral B can aid in removing plaque around braces. Flossing daily will also prevent plaque to build up between the teeth and prevent stains between your teeth. Research has shown the bacteria of gum disease has been linked to coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes and memory loss. Lastly, we encourage you to throw away old toothbrushes and replace them every 2 or 3 months, or after an illness.

We hope this helps! If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Parker Orthodontics or ask your general dentist during your next scheduled visit! Or, ask us on Facebook!

Ask Dr. Collins: Now that I have braces, what can I eat?

You just got braces at Parker Orthodontics and Dr. Jeffrey Collins 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!

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

When considering treatment options, patients often ask us how Invisalign treatment is so different than traditional braces. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign with Parker Orthodontics than you may know. Invisalign is a series of removable aligners that are nearly invisible, and besides straightening your teeth, can improve your oral health. Here’s how:

Healthy Gums: Straight teeth allow a close fit for gums. This lessens the gum stress that is caused by crowded or widely spaced teeth, thus also reducing red and swollen gums.

Easy cleaning: Invisalign is removable, therefore brushing and flossing is easier and you are able to maintain a healthy mouth. These habits are vital to avoiding tooth decay, plaque and even gum disease.

Improved speech and chewing: Properly-aligned teeth don’t have the discomfort or compound speech impediments that can be caused by crowded teeth or a deteriorating jawbone.

If you have any questions about Invisalign, just ask Dr. Jeffrey Collins the next time you’re in for an appointment. Or, you may post your question on our Facebook page! You can also read this article for more information on Invisalign and your oral health.

Why do you choose Parker Orthodontics?

Parker Orthodontics, serving Parker, Castle Rock, and Elizabeth, 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!

PARKER OFFICE

CASTLE ROCK OFFICE

ELIZABETH OFFICE

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. Jeffrey Collins and team

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

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 Parker Orthodontics!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

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

Kids Getting Braces at a Younger Age

Dr. Jeffrey Collins 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. Collins to assess what the best age for treatment is.

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

Orthodontic Emergency Care with Dr. Collins

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. Jeffrey Collins.

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

What Do You LOVE About Summer?

Summer is here! The team at Parker Orthodontics thought we’d ask: What’s your favorite part about summer? Is it the warm weather? The free time you get? Spending quality time with friends and family? Grilling barbecue in the backyard?

Dr. Jeffrey Collins and team would like to know what makes your summer truly special.

Let us know by posting a comment below or on our Facebook page, Happy Summer!

Dr. Jeffrey Collins, Practicing Orthodontics For 25 Years!

This last Wednesday, July 6th, the Parker Orthodontics team celebrated Dr. Jeffrey Collins being in practice for 25 YEARS!!!

Our team would like to tell Dr. Collins: YOU'RE THE BEST!!

If you'd like to congratulate Dr. Collins or share a great moment that you have had with Dr. Collins and our team, please post your comments on our Facebook page.

BEACH WEEK at Parker Orthodontics!!

Summer is finally here! Come celebrate the beginning of this beautiful season during BEACH WEEK at Parker Orthodontics!!

BEACH WEEK is July 5th to July 15th. We will be dressed for the beach, our office will be transformed with decorations, there will be several FUN giveaways for our patients to participate in, and much more. We invite you to join us by wearing your favorite beach attire to our office during BEACH WEEK! If need to schedule your next appointment with Dr. Jeffrey Collins, give us a call.

Happy Summer!

Stay Cool with a Braces-Friendly Summer Treat!

Summer is here! Kids and adults alike will now be spending more time outside being active and enjoying the hotter temperatures. What’s better on a hot summer day than a delicious treat that will cool you down after doing something active in the summer sun? Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have just the thing, Watermelon Sorbet! You can find the complete recipe below:

Watermelon Sorbet

Ingredients

• ¾ cup water
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 2 to 3 cups watermelon, diced, no seeds or rind

Directions

In a small saucepan, heat the water, sugar, and lime juice on medium high for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Chill this “syrup” at least 20 minutes. In the meantime, place the watermelon chunks in a food processor or blender and liquefy them. Add the chilled syrup to the watermelon puree and blend. Freeze sorbet in an ice-cream maker according to manufacturer’s directions. Serve immediately.

Happy Summer!

-Dr. Jeffrey Collins and team

June is National Smile Month!

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 Parker 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!

Dr. Collins and Team attend the 2011 American Association of Orthodontists Annual Session in Chicago

To better serve our patients at Parker Orthodontics with the highest quality orthodontic care available, our entire team is committed to continuing education into the exciting world of orthodontics.

One of the ways we improve our service is by attending conferences, meetings and seminars. Dr. Jeff Collins and staff attended the 2011 American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) Annual Session in Chicago that took place May 13th-17th. The AAO Annual Session is an educational event that is one of the largest orthodontic conventions in the world – and one that allows us to consult with orthodontists and current partners from around the country and stay up-to-date on all the latest technologies and orthodontic treatment options available. This, in turn, allows us to give you the best treatment experience possible.

If you’ve got an appointment scheduled with us soon, we invite you to ask Dr. Collins about his Chicago trip, including what we learned and how continuing education and acquisition of new technology helps us treat you more effectively.

Visit our Facebook Page to check out our photos from the event.

Braces-Friendly Recipe: Watermelon Sorbet

With the weather starting to heat up, what would be better than a cold (braces-friendly) treat? You're in luck! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have just the thing for you. Below you'll find the complete recipe for Watermelon Sorbet. Enjoy!

Watermelon Sorbet

Ingredients

¾ cup water
¼ cup sugar
1 teaspoon lime juice
2 to 3 cups watermelon, diced, no seeds or rind

Directions
In a small saucepan, heat the water, sugar, and lime juice on medium high for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Chill this “syrup” at least 20 minutes. In the meantime, place the watermelon chunks in a food processor or blender and liquefy them. Add the chilled syrup to the watermelon puree and blend. Freeze sorbet in an ice-cream maker according to manufacturer’s directions. Serve immediately.

-Dr. Jeff Collins and team

Vote for Parker Orthodontics in the 2011 Best of Parker

The team at Parker Orthodontics is committed to providing you with an outstanding orthodontic experience. With state-of-the-art technology in a comfortable, friendly environment, we look forward to helping you achieve the beautiful, confident smile you have always wanted.

Votes are now being accepted for the 2011 Best of Parker and we would like to ask you for your support. To vote, CLICK HERE and enter "Dr. Jeffrey Collins" in the box labeled Orthodontist in the Medical, Health & Wellness section.

Thank you so much for you continued confidence in Parker Orthodontics. We hope you visit our office soon!

Dr. Collins received the 2011 Top Orthodontist Award!

We are proud to announce that Dr. Jeffrey Collins of Parker Orthodontics, serving Parker, Castle Rock, Elizabeth and the surrounding communities, has been named a 2011 Top Orthodontist by 5280 Magazine. 5280 Magazine also named Dr. Collins a Top Orthodontist in 2010.

5280 Magazine’s Top Orthodontists are decided upon through the peer evaluations of more than 500 dental professionals in Colorado. Respondents were asked to consider experience, continuing education, manner with patients, use of new techniques and technologies, and results.

The entire Parker Orthodontics team would like to say THANK YOU to everyone for your continued support and confidence!

If you are considering orthodontic treatment and would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Collins, please give one of our convenient office locations a call.

Visualize your new smile with the Brace Painter!

Braces at Parker Orthodontics are more fun than ever! With the Brace Painter, parents and children are able to “paint their braces,” and visualize how teeth will look with different colors of bands.

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. Jeff Collins know if you have any questions about the Brace Painter, or your orthodontic treatment at Parker Orthodontics. Have a great week!

What’s on your reading list?

With the school year close to winding down for a lot of our patients at Parker Orthodontics, we wanted to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year, but reading is a vital step in brain development and literacy. And if you needed any more reason to read, May marks “Get Caught Reading Month.”

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great reads? Ask us for suggestions, and Dr. Jeffrey Collins and our team would be happy to provide a few. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas on what to read next!

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your book picks or your all-time favorite novels or literature on our Facebook page!

Imagining your life with Invisalign® at Parker Orthodontics

Are you wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you're in treatment? You're not alone in your concerns! Dr. Jeff Collins and our team thought we’d share this list of questions and answers for anyone pondering Invisalign treatment at Parker Orthodontics.

How exactly does Invisalign work?

Using 3-D computer imaging technology, Invisalign creates a series of custom-made, clear aligners exclusively for your teeth, based on the treatment plan that we specify for you. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.

Will I experience pain during treatment?

Most people experience temporary discomfort for a few days after a new aligner is placed. This feeling of pressure is normal and is a sign that Invisalign is working by sequentially moving your teeth to their final destination.

Can other people see that I'm in treatment?

One of the benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.

Can I smoke during treatment?

We discourage smoking while wearing the aligners as they may become discolored.

Are there any foods I shouldn’t eat while in treatment?

You can eat normally during the entire course of treatment. One of the advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. Simply take the aligners out before each meal, brush when you're finished eating, then reinsert the aligners afterward.

What about chewing gum?

We recommend removing your aligners for all meals and snacks, as gum and other chewy substances can stick to the aligners.

How often must I wear my aligners?

Aligners should be worn all day, except when eating, brushing, and flossing.

Will my speech be affected by the aligners?

As with any orthodontic treatment, aligners may temporarily affect your speech. If this does happen, your tongue will adjust within a day or two and your speech should return to normal.

How do I clean my aligners?

The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water.

How often must I visit Parker Orthodontics during treatment?

For most patients, visits every 4-6 weeks are frequent enough for us to determine that your treatment is progressing properly. Dr. Collins will provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan.

Dr. Collins is a Certified Invisalign® Provider in the greater Denver area. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, please give us a call.

Parker Orthodontics, Taking Steps to Reduce Our Environmental Impact

We are living in an age with a renewed commitment to conservation, and are frequently reminded to recycle, reduce and reuse. Today is Earth Day, and we thought this would a great time to discuss the things that Parker Orthodontics does to conserve our natural resources and the environment.

Did you know that we offer patients account access 24 hours a day, seven days a week? Our office has convenient and secure online services with Sesame 24-7™. Patients can also receive appointment reminders through email or text messages. Since this information is submitted electronically, we eliminate the use of large amounts of paper and printing materials.

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

Happy Earth Day!

HOW TO: Floss with braces

Dr. Jeff Collins will tell you that keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever when you have braces. Food bits have more spots than usual to hide in your mouth, so you must be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. If you remove plaque regularly during treatment, you'll experience better results and could possibly reduce your treatment time.

Here is a very concise video explaining the proper way to floss your teeth with braces. Give Parker Orthodontics a call if you have more questions about flossing. Enjoy!

Celebrities get braces too!

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. Jeffrey Collins.

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 Parker Orthodontics a call.

A great BRACES-FRIENDLY spring recipe! From Parker Orthodontics

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. Jeff Collins and team

Baby Contest at Parker Orthodontics!

There’s a baby on the way!

Matt and Sarah, a Parker Orthodontics clinical assistant, are expecting their first baby this May! We thought this would be a great opportunity to have a contest.

Here’s how it will work: The next time you visit Parker Orthodontics, submit you guesses for the due date, the baby’s weight, and whether they'll have a boy or a girl. You could WIN a Best Buy Gift Card! Good luck everyone!

Foods to Avoid during your Orthodontic Treatment

There are a variety of foods Dr. Jeffrey Collins 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 Parker Orthodontics a call or ask our staff during your next visit.

Your pal, fluoride

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your treatment with Parker Orthodontics. 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!

At Parker Orthodontics, what puts you at ease?

Dr. Jeffrey Collins 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 Parker Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or Dr. Collins?

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call!

Braces 101 with Parker Orthodontics

If you sustain any damage to your braces and need to call Parker 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!

Parker Orthodontics is helping Mountain View Elementary “Win a $100,000 Green School Makeover”

Robyn, a Parker Orthodontics patient, recently asked us if we were interested in helping Mountain View Elementary compete for a “$100,000 Green School Makeover.” Dr. Jeffrey Collins and the entire Parker Orthodontics team are proud to support Mountain View Elementary in this pursuit.

The school is trying to collect the most empty drinking containers and bottles with UPC codes. They must be non-alcoholic containers and please NO GLASS. Please help support Mountain View Elementary by bringing in your empty containers to our office, we will be collecting them until the end of March.

Here are some examples of what you can bring:
Monster cans, Rock Star cans, Red Bull cans, Starbucks cans, Gatorade bottles, water bottles, and anything else that fits the guidelines above.

Thank you for your participation in advance! Please visit the “Help Mountain View win a 100k Green School Makeover” Facebook Page and the Dream Machine Recycle Rally Website to learn more about this journey.

Getting braces, all the cool kids are doing it!

Braces today are “cool” and—many would say—even “fun.” These were among the findings of a 2010 nationwide survey of moms whose children are going through or have had orthodontic treatment. New technologies such as In-Ovation and the Damon System, advanced computer software, color options, and even popular celebrities—Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Danny Glover, Serena Williams—sporting stylish braces are making orthodontic treatment more comfortable, fashionable and cool for today’s teens.

The study, conducted on behalf of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists for February’s National Children’s Dental Health Month, found 86 percent of moms reporting that braces are cooler today than when they were children. Sixty-nine percent of moms also said wearing braces makes their children feel cool, and 81 percent reported their children’s experience with orthodontic treatment as either positive or extremely positive.

Different color options and the ability to change colors, for example, provide exciting ways for young patients to customize appearances. That enthusiasm helps them to feel good about their orthodontic treatment with Dr. Jeff Collins, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

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

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, from Parker Orthodontics

Each February for the past 61years, the American Dental Association (ADA) has sponsored National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. Developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

For kids wearing braces, brushing and flossing can become more difficult, requiring extra time and vigilance to remove food particles that accumulate on and between the teeth and in braces.

If the health of your teeth is ignored during treatment with braces, the results can be significantly compromised. Dr. Jeff Collins is available and happy to explain why effective brushing and flossing is one of the most critical actions needed from patients during orthodontic treatment. Have you visited us lately? Give us a call and schedule an appointment!

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

Some people wonder why Parker, Elizabeth and Castle Rock CO orthodontist Dr. Jeff Collins 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 Parker 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. Collins can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

At Parker Orthodontics, a pursuit of excellence

At Parker Orthodontics we make every effort to provide you with the best orthodontic treatment. For us that means achieving consistently great results. There are many things that help Dr. Collins do that. Some of them are:

1. Using the most up to date and proven technologies available

2. Spending time and resources on continuing education to stay current and relevant

3. Training our entire team on new techniques

4. Educating our patients about the pursuit of excellence

If you or a family member has been thinking about orthodontic treatment, please give us a call. We look forward to seeing you.

Ask Dr. Collins: What, exactly, is malocclusion?

Malocclusion, or what Dr. Collins 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. Collins 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 Parker 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.

Looking for a delicious braces-friendly winter dessert?

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

Apple Bombolini
Ingredients:

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

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

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

Directions:

For the dough: In a mixing bowl with a paddle attachment, add the dry ingredients and mix for 5 seconds to blend. Add the butter and vanilla and mix until the butter is about the size of peas. Add the cold water and blend until the dough just comes together. Form the dough into a roughly shaped ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.
Applesauce filling: Peel, core, and slice the apples. Put the apples with the rest of the ingredients into a saucepan. Bring to a boil, turn down the heat, and cook until the apples are very soft, about 20 minutes. Remove from the heat, cool, and refrigerate.
Diced apples: Peel, core, and cut the apples into large slices. Toss with the sugar, vanilla and lemon juice and set aside.
Assemble the bomboloni: Remove the dough from the refrigerator. Roll out to1/4-inch thick round. Cut into 6-inch rounds. Place about 1/4 cup of the Apple Sauce Filling onto the center of each round. Top with a few pieces of the Diced Apples. Pull the sides up towards the center to form a bundle, pinching the dough together towards top. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour before baking.
Bake the bombolonis: Heat the oven to 350 degrees F.

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

We hope you enjoy this great winter dish!
--Your friends from Parker Orthodontics