Ask Dr. B: What's the deal with Halloween candy?

Happy Halloween! For parents in St. Clair & St. Clair Shores worried about their kids going overboard on candies, sugar and other sweets, Halloween is a dreaded annual event (no pun intended).

Dr. Philip Badalamenti and our staff 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 can 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 Dr. Badalamenti as soon as possible.

We hope that everyone has a safe and scary Halloween!

What's going on at Dr. B's office?

We enjoy celebrating holidays and special events with our patients. We have “Theme Week” at the end of October, and patients that dress in Halloween attire can earn extra “Smile Rewards” and draw from the “OrthoBox”.

We have been sponsoring a pumpkin decorating contest for the past couple of weeks, see above photos, and head to our Facebook page to see more amazing decorations!!

Our patients are invited to share their candy from Halloween and have it sent to our troops. We have a flyer at our front desk that gives the information. Please be sure to stop by and pick up the flyer-it will explain about “Operation Gratitude”.

Remember to stay away from those hard and sticky candies-trade them for “brace friendly” candy.

Thanks to all our great patients who participate in our fun events.

Ask Dr. B: "What do you love about being an orthodontist?"

Recently, Dr. Altherr was asked, "What does your job mean to you—and what makes it so special day after day?"

Here is his response!

An orthodontist enjoys creating beautiful smiles for great patients. But a little known plus that I treasure is that every day you get "The Happy Ending". Every day someone says "Thank-You". I tell my children "Do something that contributes to the well being of others, and you will achieve happiness as well as financial reward."

Year-end insurance reminder from Dr. Badalamenti

Now that October is 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. We 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. Badalamenti can evaluate your child's dental growth and follow their development.

At Dr. B's office, October marks National Orthodontic Health Month!

Happy Monday! October is National Orthodontic Health Month, and our staff at the orthodontic practice of Dr. Philip Badalamenti wanted to remind our patients to be careful when they bite into their treats this Halloween season. Remember, caramels, taffy, nuts, bubble gum, popcorn kernels and suckers are some of the foods you should be avoiding! Indulging in these foods can break your braces and lengthen your treatment time!

Of course, Halloween doesn’t have to be completely treat-less. Check out these delicious braces-friendly recipes, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists.

If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call at (623) 566-4800, ask us on Facebook or ask Dr. Philip Badalamenti during your next visit at our convenient St. Clair Shores office!