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

Let’s face it- when was the last time you managed to keep a New Year’s resolution? We at Hunt 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 once a day. Good oral hygiene only takes a few minutes a day, and can make a big difference in your oral health and overall health too! 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 Hunt Orthodontics

Smile now, smile later, smile often! From Hunt Orthodontics

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. Hunt 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 Hunt Orthodontics on a regular basis? If not, give us a call!

Top ten tips for keeping your BRACES sparklin’ clean this holiday season

Our team at Hunt Orthodontics understands that with holiday goodies being everywhere you look, keeping your braces clean can be exceptionally difficult this time of year. But with that in mind, properly cleaning your teeth is even more important 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!

Happy Holidays!

-Dr. Hunt and Team

Friday Fun Fact: Fluoride is your friend!

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment. 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.

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!

More happy patients at Hunt Orthodontics!

Hunt Orthodontics, serving Greenville and surrounding areas, has been receiving some great patient reviews lately! Check out what our current patients are saying about Dr. Hunt and team!

"Your reputation in the community is unbelievably good -- I've heard from so many people about this practice, it blows me away -- it's the word of mouth advertising EVERY business should hope for!"

"Great Orthodontist. Very good with Children. Works with you to set up a plan that will work for both you and your child. He offers several payment options. They have a wide variety of appt times to fit your needs. There is usually no big wait. Plenty of staff to handle all the patients. Everyone is very pleasant."

Happy Thanksgiving, from Hunt Orthodontics

Dr. Donald Hunt and team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. Enjoy a day filled of friends, family, and great Thanksgiving food.

We are very thankful for all of our patients and their families. We'd like to know, what are you most thankful for this year? Leave us a comment, or if you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we encourage you to share them on our Facebook page!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Hunt Orthodontics wants to hear your story!

From your very first visit to Hunt Orthodontics our doctor and team strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by the work of Dr. Hunt? 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. You can write a review here on our Google Place Page. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Thank you,

The team at Hunt Orthodontics

A Friendly Reminder to Replace Your Toothbrush- Cold and Flu Season is Here!

Fall is here, and with it the dreaded cold and flu season. After recovering from your cold, one of the most important steps you can take to avoid becoming reinfected is replacing your toothbrush!

Germs can linger on the bristles, and you risk prolonging your sickness by continuing to use the same toothbrush. Be smart - keep a spare, just in case! To protect your toothbrush from bacteria all year long, consider the following tips:

• 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 your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Worn bristles are less effective in properly cleaning your teeth, and can actually be damaging to teeth if used too long!

Hope these tips help! Feel free to call us at Hunt Orthodontics you have any questions.

Dr. Hunt and our team think that braces are pretty cool, do you?

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 Invisalign, advanced computer software, color options, and even popular celebrities—Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Danny Glover, Serena Williams, and Justin Bieber—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. Donald Hunt, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

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

A few tips for staying safe this Halloween, from Hunt Orthodontics

Trick-or-treat! In the spirit of October’s sweet and spooky holiday, Halloween, Drs. Hunt 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 Dr. Hunt and our staff a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone.

A braces-friendly fall recipe, from Hunt Orthodontics

In celebration of National Orthodontic Health Month, Drs. Donald Hunt 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

Top ten tips for keeping your braces sparklin' clean

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!

-The team at Hunt Orthodontics

October is National Orthodontic Health Month!

Did you know that October is National Orthodontic Health Month? Drs. Hunt and our team know how tempting this time of the year can be for your sweet tooth. With all of the hard, sticky, crunchy, and chewy candy that is often passed around to trick-or-treaters, we know that it can sometimes be hard to find orthodontic-friendly options.

However, there is good news! Today, we would like to share a few braces-friendly holiday foods with all of our patients, courtesy of the American Association of Orthodontics, or AAO. These treats are delicious, and provided that you remember to brush and floss after indulging, these foods will not cause damage to your beautiful smile.

Orthodontic-Friendly Treats
• Soft, melt-in-your-mouth chocolates
• Peanut butter cups
• Milk shakes
• Gelatin
• Peeled, thinly sliced apples
• Ice cream

Kids getting braces at a younger age

Drs. Hunt 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 do end up in a second phase of treatment.

Most orthodontic treatment begins between ages nine and 14, and the folks at 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 our team at Hunt Orthodontics to assess what the best age for treatment is.

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

Tackling kids' sport safety with Hunt Orthodontics

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 Hunt Orthodontics is helping spread the word that many facial sports injuries can be prevented simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. Ask us— Drs. Donald Hunt and will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment. 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 that we are trying to achieve.

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

Looking for a delicious braces-friendly fall dessert? We’ve got a great recipe!

You have braces, 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 as the weather begins to get colder for fall in Greenville, SC.

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.

Thanks to Invisalign®, mom and dad can have a perfect smile, too!

Hey parents! Focusing on your kids' teeth and oral health so much that you're neglecting your own? If you've been thinking wistfully about having your own set of perfect teeth, our staff at Hunt Orthodontics can help! We are specially trained to offer an adult-friendly option for straightening teeth called Invisalign.

This course of treatment consists of a set of clear aligners that are molded to fit your teeth using a proprietary technology. You wear them all day and night, except for meals, brushing, and flossing – when you can easily slip them out to make eating and cleaning a snap!

Because they're clear, your teeth will be steadily straightening – and no one will know it but you!

Please give us a call to set up a consultation, so we can discuss the specifics of your treatment.

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. Hunt.


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 Hunt Orthodontics a call.

Tell Hunt Orthodontics what’s on your mind!

Week after week, our doctors and team at Hunt Orthodontics blogs about important topics pertinent to orthodontic treatment care and your well-being, including innovative orthodontic techniques we offer. This week, we thought we’d step back and ask you, our wonderful patients and readers: What’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the always-changing field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog in the coming months? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask us for a while now? Let us know by posting here or on our interactive Facebook fan page!

So… take it away and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have!

What are patients saying about Hunt Orthodontics?

Drs. Hunt and team love getting patient reviews. And lately, Hunt Orthodontics, serving Greenville, SC and surrounding communities, has been getting some pretty great patient testimonials! We thought we'd share some with you today!

"All of the people who work there are VERY professional and VERY nice! No one is ever too busy to stop and greet everyone!" ~Jean

"I love the smiles that I was greeted with on each visit. I felt a personal belonging to the Hunt family. Everyone has always been concerned about my progress, especially when I had jaw surgery." ~Sandra

"WE LOVE THE WHOLE TEAM!!! Especially, that Ms. Orias! Ya'll are great! We love each of you so much and appreciate EVERYTHING you have done for our family!" ~Zane

"I like the kindness, friendliness, and professionalsism of Dr. Hunt and his entire staff. They all have a way of making me feel "special!" I also appreciate the promptness with which my appointments are met!" ~Anne

Enjoy a little summer fun with Hunt Orthodontics!

It’s summer here in Greenville, SC at Hunt 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, Drs. Hunt and our team want to hear all about it! Leave a comment on our Facebook fan page and tell us about your summer!

We also encourage you to post any photos from your adventures to our Facebook wall!

Happy travels,

-From Hunt Orthodontics

At Hunt Orthodontics, a pursuit of the highest quality care

At Hunt Orthodontics we make every effort to serve Greenville, SC and surrounding areas with the very best orthodontic treatment. Our doctors and team are committed to providing outstanding care and dedication to every patient. We highly value your decision to become a part of our orthodontic family. There are many things that help Drs. Donald Hunt consistently achieve great results. Some of them are:

1. Using the most up to date and proven technologies available, including Invisalign and Wilckodontics

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 Drs. Hunt: What can Invisalign do for my oral health?

When discussing treatment options, patients often ask us how Invisalign treatment is so different than braces. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign with Hunt Orthodontics than you may know. Invisalign is a series of removable aligners that are nearly invisible. Besides straightening your teeth, did you know that Invisalign can improve your oral health? Here’s how Invisalign can help improve your health, while shaping your beautiful smile:

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 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 Drs. Hunt the next time you’re in for an appointment. Or, you may post your question on our Facebook page or give us a call! You can also read this article for more information on Invisalign and your oral health.

Travel smart this summer, from Drs. Hunt and team

Summer is a very popular time for family vacations, reunions, and trips with friends. Many of us take a long weekend or even a longer vacation during the summer, and often forget to pack the most important of things. Recently, our staff at Hunt Orthodontics came across an interesting article from ParentsAsk.com that outlined five important tips for summer travel with children. We strongly encourage you to give this article a read if you’re heading out with the family this summer. Here are even more tips you can use to ensure your vacation packing—and the traveling itself—goes as smooth as possible!

Do you have any great travel tips? We encourage you to share these tips or any vacation photos on our Facebook page! This is a great way for us to connect with you, our amazing patients, in between office visits.

Happy traveling!

- Drs. Hunt and team

Why are retainers important? Hunt Orthodontics has the answer!

If you recently completed treatment at Hunt Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that you're braces free, Drs. Hunt will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. Teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers 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 Drs. Hunt is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime. Here are some things to remember when you receive your retainers:

* Wear your retainers full time, until the doctor instructs otherwise. Wearing your retainers at night ensures that your pearly whites won’t relapse.

* Take your retainers out when eating...and always put retainers in their case! (Most appliances are lost in school lunch rooms or restaurants.)

* Clean retainers thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush and only a small amount of toothpaste. Use warm but not hot water.

* When retainers are not in your mouth they should ALWAYS be in a retainer case.

* Retainers are breakable, so treat them with care. If retainers are lost or broken, give us a call immediately.

* Remove retainers when swimming or during any sporting activity in which the retainers could fall out and get broken or lost (cheerleading, basketball, etc.) or when you should be wearing a mouth guard (football, soccer, etc.).

We hope this helps! You can always give us a call if you have any questions! Or, if you have any tips to share, feel free to write them on our Facebook page.

Hunt Orthodontics Recipe Spotlight: The Perfect Summer Wrap

With Independence Day this weekend, do you need a quick and easy dish to bring to that family picnic or gathering with friends? Hunt Orthodontics would like to introduce a braces-friendly recipe that is perfect for sharing. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) made an appetizing (and braces-friendly!) summer chicken wrap 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)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 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.

Wishing everyone a fun and safe Independence Day!
--From Drs. Donald Hunt and staff

What are you reading this summer?

You may recall that a few weeks ago, we asked you, our fantastic patients, about your summer plans.

With summer here already, some of us at Greenville's Hunt Orthodontics have been thinking increasingly about the importance of reading. Our staff and Drs. Hunt know it’s easier to go play ball or kick back and spend some quality time in front of the television, but reading during the summer is actually a vital step in being prepared for classes in the fall ... and maintaining your skill level! In addition, a new study has found that the number of books at home might predict a child's (educational) future.

Out of ideas for great summer reads? Ask us for suggestions, and our staff would be happy to provide a few titles. You may also ask a local librarian here in Greenville for some ideas or check out these summer reading lists that we came across today, thanks to Barnes & Noble.

Happy reading everyone! Enjoy!

Imagining your life with Invisalign® treatment at Hunt Orthodontics

Perhaps you might be wondering what Invisalign treatment with Greenville orthodontists Drs. Hunt is really like, and what effect - if any - it will have on your life? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you're in treatment? You're not alone in your concerns! Drs. Hunt and our team thought we’d share this short list of questions and answers for anyone thinking about Invisalign treatment at Hunt 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 any 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.

Are there any foods I should avoid 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.

How often must I wear my aligners?

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

How often must I visit Hunt Orthodontics during my treatment?

For most patients, visits every 4-to-6 weeks are frequent enough for us to determine that your treatment is progressing properly. We'll provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan. Give us a call to learn more about Invisalign!

Hollywood stars also struggle with crooked teeth! From Dr. Hunt

Greenville orthodontists Drs. Donald Hunt know people often struggle with small imperfections. Making crooked teeth straight, stained teeth sparkling white and chipped teeth smooth is part of what Drs. Hunt does as an orthodontist. The sense of renewed self confidence that comes to my patients after having some sort of reconstructive work is what makes my job worthwhile.

Consider Katherine Heigl, award-winning actress, and considered by many the Grace Kelly of our day. She describes struggling with crooked teeth her whole life until finally there came a point when she said "enough is enough!" She decided to do something to straighten her teeth.

Our staff at Hunt Orthodontics think you will enjoy this clip. Please feel free to leave comments, and tell us what you think! Have you ever struggled with this same problem? Have you felt the relief of smiling to reveal a straight, bright smile after hiding crooked ones for so long? Contact us so we can hear your story, or share your story on our Facebook page!

Drs. Hunt want to know: What should we blog about this summer?

As summer rapidly approaches, our team at Hunt Orthodontics strive to continue writing about important topics related to orthodontics and your treatment at our office - and are busy planning out our summer blogging schedule.

To help us continue doing that through the course of the summer, however, we'd love your input: Today, we thought we’d step back a bit today and ask you, our patients and readers: What would you like us to focus on our blog in the coming months? What would you like to know about the always-changing and exciting field of orthodontics? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Drs. Hunt for a while? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook page!

We look forward to your thoughts and hope you have a great weekend!

Hunt Orthodontics, wishing all our patients and their families a safe and memorable Memorial Day weekend

The unofficial kickoff to summer—Memorial Day weekend—is here, and once again it's time for Americans everywhere to honor those who gave their lives fighting for our country, and those who lost their loved ones.

For many folks (and many of our patients) here in Greenville, getting out of town for three days after months in the classroom or office brings sweet relief. After all, Memorial Day means a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories is on the way. Whether you're headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, hitting the great American open roads or hanging out in the backyard, Drs. Hunt and our entire team would like to hear all about it!

Have a safe, happy and memorable Memorial Day weekend!

Share your experience at Hunt Orthodontics with the world!

At Hunt Orthodontics Drs. Donald Hunt and Donald Hunt Jr. and our entire team of orthodontic professionals are committed to providing outstanding care and transforming the lives of their patients. Our practice believes in good communication; and we take special measures to make sure our patients stay informed throughout their treatment and every question is answered.

Whether you've visited our office for a week, months or even a year, we'd love to hear your feedback about how our office is faring! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice with the rest of the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local page and write a review there.

After all, reviews help Drs. Hunt create more beautiful smiles in Greenville and surrounding communities.

You may write a review here.

Thank you and enjoy the rest of your weekend! We look forward to reading your reviews!

Drs. Hunt, reminding you today is Clean Up Your Room Day!

For parents, today - National Clean Up Your Room Day - is a day of opposition. As kids pile up the amount of stuff in their room over the course of a year (or, for many kids, years), parents all over Greenville are happy to see this day finally arrive (many even circle it on their calendars).

Today's a great day to grab those bags and Febreze and clean those messy rooms! Our staff at Hunt Orthodontics came across a helpful article on parents working together with their teens to maintain a clean living environment in the home.

Happy Monday and happy cleaning!

At Hunt Orthodontics, access to your account any day, any time

Access to your patient account any time you wish. Sounds perfect, doesn’t it?

Patients at Hunt Orthodontics enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—through our web site. You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders from our staff through email or text messages!

You, too, may sign up for this convenient service on our web site 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!

Ask Hunt Orthodontics: When is my child due for a visit?

Parents often just assume that they can wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to visit Hunt Orthodontics 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 the Doctors Hunt to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or what our doctors call “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites and open bites can be detected.

When done at an early age, orthodontic evaluation 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 Hunt Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

Fun fact time with Hunt Orthodontics

Relax, it's Friday! (Yes, it really is!) And you know what that means: Fun fact Friday! At Hunt Orthodontics, we know everyone loves fun facts. The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that Drs. Hunt and our team at Hunt Orthodontics thought you might enjoy. Have a fantastic weekend everyone!

• 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.

• Famous orthodontic patients include: Dr. Joyce Brothers, Hale Irwin, Cher, Diana Ross, Phyllis Diller, Chelsea Clinton, Whoopi Goldberg, Daisy Fuentes and Brandi.

Hunt Orthodontics, reminding you April is National Facial Protection Month

With spring here, many children, teens and adults in Greenville will once again pick up the ball, bring the bat out of seasonal retirement, and lace up their cleats to hit the fields for the return of spring sports! April is National Facial Protection Month, and during this time, Drs. Hunt urge our young athletes in treatment to play it safe when out on the field. Beware, though: Nearly 60,000 people injure their faces annually while participating in sports activities, and teenagers account for 80 percent of all sports-related trips to the emergency room.

The above video from our pals at the American Association of Orthodontists outlines five important tips that can help you stay safe out on the field this spring. The doctors Hunt will tell you protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of the tips offered in the video, please contact our staff by calling 864-268-2800.

The importance of regular checkups, from Drs. Hunt

Our team at Hunt Orthodontics want to know: Is your child brushing his or her teeth twice a day? If yes, that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for your child to visit the dentist every six months in addition to brushing their teeth a couple times a day (and coming in to see Dr. Hunt, obviously). If your child will be visiting the dentist for the first time, it’s important to bring them in after their first tooth comes through, and no later than their first birthday. Drs. Hunt will tell you regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can:

• Check for problems that might not be seen or felt
• Detect cavities and early signs of decay
• Treat oral health problems early
• Show your child how to properly brush and floss their teeth

During an oral exam the doctor will check the health of your child’s mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If your child has not visited the dentist the last six months, it’s time for you to schedule an appointment! Have a terrific weekend!

Talking retainers with Hunt Orthodontics

If you recently completed treatment at Hunt Orthodontics, our professional team would like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Drs. Hunt will provide—or have provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized.

Retainers provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes, Drs. Hunt say. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime.

If you have additional questions about retainers or your treatment here at Hunt Orthodontics, please give us a call at 864-268-2800. Our staff would love to hear from you!

Breaking down myths about orthodontics with Drs. Hunt

Drs. Hunt are both well-aware that there are a lot of myths flying around the topic of orthodontics. But, before you buy into those myths, our doctors think you should get the facts first! We came across a great site the other day that helps set the record straight. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information 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 at Hunt Orthodontics, feel free to give us a call at our convenient Greenville office.

Patient question for Drs. Hunt: Am I too old for braces?

Absolutely not. Recently, our staff at Hunt Orthodontics read a fascinating statistic: adults getting braces has jumped 24 percent from just 14 years ago! In fact, did you know one of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over the age of 21?

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—wisely—in orthodontics. While orthodontic treatment is often associated with teens, adult orthodontics and braces at our Greenville office can achieve amazing results for adult patients. With treatments such as Invisalign, you can have your teeth straightened less noticeably. In addition to Invisalign, there is an exciting new orthodontic treatment for adults and adolescents called "Wilckodontics" or Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics (AOO) that Dr. Hunt, Jr. has brought to our patients that can move the teeth 3-4 times faster than conventional orthodontic treatment. Average treatment times can be anywhere from 3-8 months for completely aligning the teeth and bite.

After the initial examination and diagnostic records, the Doctors Hunt will be able to determine the best possible treatment for your individual needs. At your consultation, we can outline the treatment plan, time of treatment expected, and financial arrangements. A large percentage of our patients are adults, and they agree that it's never too late to improve their greatest asset: THEIR SMILE!

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Drs. Hunt and our team would love to have you visit for a consultation. Give us a call to set one up!

This March, what are you up to? From Hunt Orthodontics

It’s almost springtime! The daffodils and buttercups are on their way, the birds are chirping, the sun is warming up and the smell of freshly-cut grass is wafting from baseball fields all across Greenville. Drs. Hunt and our staff thought this would be a good time to ask: What are your plans for March?

Are you ready for spring? Are you participating in school sports this year? Do you have exciting plans? We’d love to know them all! You may share your stories or plans with our team here, on our Facebook fan page or by giving us a call!

P.S. While you’re on our Facebook page, become a fan of Hunt Orthodontics! Have a terrific weekend!

Ask Hunt Orthodontics: Now that I have braces, what can I eat?

You just got braces and Drs. Hunt have 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! From Hunt Orthodontics

Hunt Orthodontics, supporting National Children’s Dental Health Month

With February being National Children's Dental Health Month, our team at Hunt 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. Hunt, you should visit your dentist regularly (approximately every six months).

National Children's Dental Health Month, now in its 60th 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 at Hunt Orthodontics, please feel free to give us a call!

Hunt Orthodontics want to know: What do you love about Greenville?

Hunt Orthodontics, located in Greenville and serving nearby communities, is situated around some pretty unique neighborhoods. Each is special with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our great patients) living within.

Today, Drs. Hunt and our entire team thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about your community? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps a favorite South Carolina getaway? Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in Greenville, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods.”

And, who knows, we might post your response on our social networks! Have a great rest of the week!

Hunt Orthodontics, helping tackle sports injuries

At Hunt Orthodontics we know how important it is to protect your face while playing sports. The spring months bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of damaging your precious mouth and pearly whites. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get hurt while playing sports.

That’s why our team at Hunt Orthodontics are doing our part to spread the word that facial sports injuries can be avoided simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. Ask us—Drs. Hunt may recommend the best mouth guard for you.

In addition, the AAO has provided the following tips for keeping your kids safe on the field. 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 we are trying to achieve. Lastly, please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Hunt Orthodontics.

Hunt Orthodontics shares a few helpful Invisalign® tips

The team at Hunt Orthodontics have blogged about the benefits of Invisalign treatment with Drs. Hunt in the past, and today thought we'd share a few helpful Invisalign tips with our patients. Many people know that Invisalign is a great solution to braces if you don't want to experience the look and feel of traditional metal braces. What few people know, though, is that just like traditional braces, Invisalign requires proper care to work effectively.

When wearing your Invisalign aligners, Drs. Hunt want you to ask yourself the following questions:

1. Am I eating with my aligners on? - These aligners are removable and should be taken out when you eat.

2. Am I drinking anything other than water with my aligners on? - Though it's not a necessity for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky a soda is. If you take out your aligners when drinking a soda, you have a better chance of keeping your aligners clean.

3. Am I brushing before putting the trays on? - The aligners have both an inside and outside. Keeping the outside clean is easy. Keeping the inside clean is also easy: just make sure you've brushed your teeth before putting the trays on.

These are all very simple steps, and ultimately, they help to keep you building good oral habits. If you have any questions about Invisalign or your treatment here at Hunt Orthodontics, please give us a call!