The Main Street Orthodontics Blog

Cold season is here, stay healthy!

2011-11-01T11:27:00.000-07:00

Cold and flu season is here - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that a common cold usually includes sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and coughing. Symptoms can last for up to two weeks.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. Edmund Guyer and our entire staff give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our Niles and Stevensville, MI offices at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces. For the protection of other patients and our staff at Main Street Orthodontics, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

And remember to constantly wash your hands and avoid contact with those who are ill! Stay healthy!

Dr. Guyer in the Niles Daily Star

2011-10-24T11:13:00.000-07:00

We are excited to announce that Dr. Edmund Guyer was on the front page of the Niles Daily Star! In the article, Dr. Guyer talked about the Damon Bracket System and how it is more gentle than traditional braces. The paper stated:

"Dr. Ed Guyer, who has been practicing at Main Street Orthodontics in downtown Niles for 23 years, uses the Damon Bracket System when treating his patients. Main Street Orthodontics was one of the first offices in the Midwest to begin using the system about 10 years ago, which has been updated and improved over the years."

"'It’s quite unique,' Guyer said. 'It causes the teeth to move faster with a lot less discomfort to the patient.' Guyer says traditional braces are tied with elastics that cause friction and pressure, while the Damon System uses a mechanism that doesn’t cause that friction."

To read the rest of the article, visit the Niles Daily Star online! If you have any questions about the Damon Bracket System, visit our website or give us a call at the office!

Patient Referral Contest at Main Street Orthodontics

2011-10-17T13:33:00.000-07:00

All of us at Main Street Orthodontics are excited to announce our Patient Referral Contest going on NOW! Simply tell your friends about us and once they schedule a free orthodontic consultation, you will be entered to win 4 free tickets to the Niles Haunted House or to the Babbit Farms Corn Maze!

Make sure to tell your friends to inform us that you sent them so that we can enter you into the drawing! The deadline for this contest is October 26, 2011 so act now. Good luck!

The latest technology helps you relax at Main Street Orthodontics

2011-10-10T13:14:00.000-07:00

It used to be that people were terrified to see the orthodontist. And Dr. Guyer understands that some patients are still nervous. But fear not! The days of fear and loathing when driving to an orthodontist appointment are gone! And it’s all due to technology. That’s right, technology has allowed orthodontists everywhere to zero in on patient care and comfort.

For example, braces are much more comfortable and the treatment time has been reduced. In addition, the advances in the orthodontic field have permitted digital photos and X-rays of your mouth, patient charting and improved communications between doctor and patient.

If you have any questions about how Main Street Orthodontics uses state-of-the-art technology, write to us on Facebook or give us a call and ask!

October is National Orthodontic Health Month!

2011-10-04T11:23:00.000-07:00

Happy October! For those who don't know, it's National Orthodontic Health Month. This month-long event is organized by our pals at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Dr. Edmund Guyer and our team realize that this is a great opportunity for us to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene. National Orthodontic Health Month also aims to recognize the dedicated work of orthodontists like Dr. Guyer and other dental professionals.

The AAO recommends patients avoid the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

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

If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call, ask us on Facebook or ask Dr. Guyer during your visit this month!

When should you call Main Street Orthodontics?

2011-09-27T10:20:00.000-07:00

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Dr. Edmund Guyer. Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with us:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, give us a call as soon as possible!

Hope this helps,

The team at Main Street Orthodontics

Breaking bad habits, with Main Street Orthodontics

2011-09-20T11:09:00.000-07:00

At Main Street 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. Edmund Guyer.

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. Guyer 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 Main Street Orthodontics or ask your general dentist during your next scheduled visit! Or, ask us on Facebook!

20 things that can ruin your smile, from Main Street Orthodontics

2011-09-13T10:21:00.000-07:00

At Main Street 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
- Tobacco
- Coffee
- Wine
- Soft drinks
- Citrus and acidic foods

Dr. Edmund Guyer 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 office. For more tips or for general questions about your ongoing dental treatment, we invite you to ask Dr. Guyer during your next visit! We also invite you to ask us on Facebook!

The Go-To Mom Talks Invisalign

2011-09-07T15:25:00.000-07:00

Our team at Main Street Orthodontics found a great video that discusses the advantages of Invisalign. In the video, Kimberley Clayton Blaine, "The Go-To Mom," discusses the Invisalign and Invisalign Teen treatment and her personal experience with Invisalign.

To determine if Invisalign is right for you, schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Edmund Guyer. Have a great week!

Now that I have braces, what can I eat?

2011-08-30T11:28:00.000-07:00

You just got braces at Main Street Orthodontics and Dr. Edmund Guyer 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!

Emergency Care with Main Street Orthodontics

2011-08-24T11:26:00.000-07:00

At Main Street Orthodontics, we know orthodontic emergencies are never convenient nor timely. If you are a patient of record, Dr. Edmund Guyer and our team are committed to your dental health and are more than willing to see you after hours or over the weekend. 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 to resolve the problem. If you have a orthodontic emergency after regular office hours, please give us a call. If you are calling us after hours, please follow the emergency prompts to learn how you may be able to solve the problem yourself, or, if you cannot, how to contact Dr. Guyer and team.

Common issues include:

*Broken Brace
*Broken Wires
*Tie has come off of a Brace
*Loose Expander
*Poking Wire Tie
*Sharpness Felt on the Tongue Side of a Brace
*Loss of a Separator
*Initial Soreness
*Wire Poking

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you visit our office.

Who can benefit from braces?

2011-08-17T10:50:00.000-07:00

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Edmund Guyer will tell you that anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic treatment, whether it’s correcting a problem not treated in your younger years, or catching a problem early.

To ensure the best overall treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, recommends that children receive an orthodontic consultation as early as age seven. If a problem is evident, taking action early can spare a lot of treatment and expense down the road.

If you never received orthodontic treatment when you were young, don’t worry! You’re never too old for a beautiful smile. Set up an appointment for a consultation and find out how orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

Where in the world is Dr. Guyer?

2011-08-11T09:34:00.000-07:00

Summer may be coming to an end, but Main Street Orthodontics is still doing our "Where in the World is Dr. Guyer" contest! The last day to submit your photos is September 12th.

How to enter: Simply snap a photo of you with “Dr. Guyer” on your summer vacation. We will be selecting winners for the First Photo Submitted, Funniest, Most Life-like and Most Creative photo.

Be sure to "like" our Facebook page so that you can receive all of the latest updates about the contest. We have already received some great entries. Our team can’t wait to see where your adventures have taken Dr. Guyer this summer!

The importance of wearing a mouth guard when playing sports

2011-08-05T17:00:00.000-07:00

At Main Street Orthodontics we know how important it is to protect your face while playing sports. The spring and summer months bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of damaging your precious mouth and pearly whites. Dr. Guyer and our team also know sports-related injuries are common among children. 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. Another 67 percent admitted their child doesn’t wear a mouth guard when playing sports such as football, basketball, baseball and soccer.

That’s why Main Street 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—Dr. Guyer 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. 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 Dr. Guyer is trying to achieve. Lastly, please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Main Street Orthodontics.

Summer fun with Main Street Orthodontics

2011-07-29T09:49:00.000-07:00

It’s summer here at Main Street 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, Dr. Guyer 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!

HOW TO: Floss with Braces

2011-07-22T17:01:00.000-07:00

Dr. Guyer 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 Main Street Orthodontics a call if you have more questions about flossing. Enjoy!

The importance of retainers, from Dr. Guyer

2011-07-15T17:12:00.000-07:00

If you recently completed treatment at Main Street Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Guyer will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, however, always 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. Guyer 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. Guyer, please read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth or give us a call!

What are YOU reading this summer?

2011-07-08T15:50:00.000-07:00

With summer in full swing, all of us at Main Street Orthodontics 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 during the summer is a vital step in brain development and warding off the dreaded “summer slide.” Plus, it's fun!

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR summer reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great summer reads? Ask us for suggestions, and our staff and Dr. Guyer would be happy to provide a few suggestions. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas or check out these summer reading ideas that we came across today, courtesy of Barnes & Noble.

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your summer picks or your all-time favorites on our Facebook page!

Main Street Orthodontics Talks Orthodontic Emergency Care

2011-07-01T09:46:00.000-07:00

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. Guyer.

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

Stay Cool with a Braces-Friendly Summer Treat!

2011-06-25T12:48:00.001-07:00

Summer is here! Kids and adults alike will now be spending more time outside being active and enjoying the hotter temperatures. And 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 from Dr. Guyer & Team

June is National Smile Month!

2011-06-17T07:33:00.000-07:00

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 Main Street Orthodontics to support National Smile Month this June.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Month for many, many years to come:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Here's a helpful video showing you how to brush with your braces on.
* Floss every day to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Guyer.
* Visit your dentist regularly (usually every six months apart).

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call.

Where are you taking Dr. Guyer this summer?

2011-06-09T16:28:00.000-07:00

Dr. Guyer and our team are known for providing exceptional treatment, excellent customer service, and amazing smiles! This summer, we’re very excited to host our second annual “Where in the World is Dr. Guyer?” contest.

How do I enter? To enter, simply snap a photo of you with “Dr. Guyer” on your summer vacation. We will be selecting winners for the First Photo Submitted, Funniest, Most Life-like and Most Creative photo.

Be sure to "like" our Facebook page so that you can receive all of the latest updates about our summer contest. Our team can’t wait to see where your adventures take Dr. Guyer this summer.

Happy travels!

What helps you relax at Main Street Orthodontics?

2011-06-03T17:07:00.001-07:00

Dr. Guyer 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 Main Street Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or Dr. Guyer?

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

Main Street Orthodontics, wishing you a safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend

2011-05-27T16:34:00.001-07:00

Memorial Day weekend, a time to remember and honor the men and women lost while serving for our country. Memorial Day is also the unofficial start of summer, and for many folks in Niles and St. Joseph, getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the classroom or the office spells sweet, sweet relief.

What about you? What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend? Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, or just hitting the great American open roads, we’d like to hear all about it!

Our entire team at Main Street Orthodontics wishes you a happy, safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

Improve your smile, increase your confidence!

2011-05-17T14:20:00.000-07:00

At Main Street Orthodontics, we know image is everything. At an age when image is so important, the thought of having braces may intensify the already-delicate confidence of today's teens. Well, May is National Teen Self-Esteem Month, and during this time, parents are encouraged to act as positive role models, help stop negative self-images, and improve confidence and security among teenagers.

One of the great ways to improve your confidence is to improve your smile. And that begins with a complimentary consultation at Main Street Orthodontics. After all, what better time to avoid having crooked teeth in your adulthood than coming in for a consultation with Dr. Guyer?

We proudly provide traditional braces, the Damon System and Invisalign Teen for today’s image-conscious teens, and invite you to give us a call to schedule a complimentary consultation or ask us on Facebook!

Main Street Orthodontics at the 111th AAO Annual Session

2011-05-10T16:28:00.000-07:00

To better serve our patients at Main Street Orthodontics with the highest quality orthodontic care available, Dr. Guyer and our entire team are 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, and this weekend, we will be in Chicago attending the AAO Annual Session, an educational event that is one of the largest orthodontic conventions in the world - and one that allows us to consult with orthodontists 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, our wonderful patients, the best treatment experience possible.

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

Summer Contest: Where in the World is Dr. Guyer?

2011-05-04T10:39:00.000-07:00

For the second year in a row, Main Street Orthodontics is excited to announce that we will be hosting our "Where in the World is Dr. Guyer?" summer contest. This contest is the perfect opportunity for anyone traveling outside of Niles and St. Joseph, MI to share their vacation with Dr. Guyer and our team!

To enter, simply snap a photo with Dr. Guyer's photo on your summer vacation. We will be handing out photos of Dr. Guyer to all of our patients. Our team will be selecting four winners in the following categories: First Photo Submitted, Funniest, Most Life-like and Most Creative.

Main Street Orthodontics will be selecting our contest winners on September 13, 2011, so don't delay in submitting your entry! We received many fun photos last summer and we're looking forward to all of this year's new ideas.

Dr. Guyer's Patient Spotlight

2011-04-28T08:36:00.000-07:00

Today, our team at Main Street Orthodontics is pleased to recognize a few of our very special patients. Brooke W. is our patient of the month! She was awarded a $25 gift card to Best Buy for having healthy gums and teeth and not having any breakage. Audrea K. is the winner of our Easter Egg contest. She guessed the correct number of chocolate eggs in the hummingbird feeder. She won the candy and the bird feeder. Please join us in congratulating Brooke and Audrea!

Main Street Orthodontics, taking steps to reduce our environmental impact

2011-04-21T18:01:00.000-07:00

We are living in an age with a renewed commitment to conservation, and are frequently reminded to recycle, reduce and reuse. Earth Day is this Friday, April 22nd, and we thought this would a great time to discuss the things that Main Street 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 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. Guyer 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!

April is National Facial Protection Month

2011-04-14T16:31:00.000-07:00

With spring here, many children, teens and adults in Niles and St. Joseph 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, Dr. Guyer and our dedicated team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. According to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, children, high-school athletes and adults will have more than 5,000,000 teeth knocked out in sporting events this year.

Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this spring, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Main Street Orthodontics. Stay safe and have fun!

Dr. Guyer announces the winner of our Celebrity Faces with Braces Contest

2011-04-08T13:32:00.000-07:00

Our whole team at Main Street Orthodontics had a lot of fun hosting our Celebrity Faces with Braces Contest. There are so many popular celebrities—Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Danny Glover, Serena Williams—sporting stylish braces that orthodontic treatment is more comfortable, fashionable and cool for today’s teens. Today, Dr. Guyer is excited to announce that Shannon D. is the winner of our Celebrity Faces with Braces Contest. Congratulations Shannon, and thank you to everyone who participated!

How important is your smile? From Main Street Orthodontics

2011-03-31T09:14:00.000-07:00

For over 20 years, Dr. Guyer has been practicing orthodontics in Michigan. He understands the needs and expectations of his patients, and is dedicated to working with you and your family to achieve the healthy, beautiful smile you want!

And speaking of smiling, in a new poll conducted by Glamour Magazine, 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 are choosing 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 a person’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well.

Please contact Main Street Orthodontics for your FREE consultation, and start smiling!

Am I too old for braces?

2011-03-24T14:28:00.000-07:00

Who’s afraid of “metal mouth” and the appearance of braces? Not adults, apparently. Recently, our staff at Main Street Orthodontics read a fascinating statistic: the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! Yes, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another 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 and sparkling teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing—wisely, we might add—to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Dr. Guyer 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, Dr. Guyer would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

Foods to Avoid during your Orthodontic Treatment

2011-03-18T14:44:00.000-07:00

There are a variety of foods Dr. Guyer 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 Main Street Orthodontics a call or ask our staff during your next visit.

Braces 101 with Dr. Guyer

2011-03-11T15:46:00.000-08:00

If you ever sustain damage to your braces and need to call Main Street 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!

Age 7 is the magic number for an orthodontic check-up

2011-03-03T17:53:00.000-08:00

Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Dr. Guyer 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 Dr. Guyer to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites and open bites can be detected.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age 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 Main Street Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

The benefits of dairy, from Main Street Orthodontics

2011-02-25T14:36:00.000-08:00

Is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, it should be! A research study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can actually lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). Results of the study also showed that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease.

Cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth. In addition to providing large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also does its part to fight cavities. Cheddar, Swiss, Mozzarella, and Monterey Jack all stimulate the body's salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris and protect them from acids that weaken them, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This means cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's ph level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis.

Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

For more information about which dairy foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please give Main Street Orthodontics a call.

Distinguishing the myths and facts about orthodontics

2011-02-17T15:39:00.000-08:00

Trust us when we say Dr. Guyer and our staff know there are quite a few myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) floating around these days. But before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists set the record straight (no pun intended) and have provided some information that sheds some light 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 here at Main Street Orthodontics, feel free to give us a call.

Visualize your new smile with the Brace Painter!

2011-02-11T08:31:00.000-08:00

Braces at Main Street 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.

Would you like to try out pink and purple bands this February, without the commitment of an all-out Valentine’s Day look? 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. Guyer know if you have any questions about the Brace Painter, or your orthodontic treatment at Main Street Orthodontics. Have a great weekend!

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month!

2011-02-03T16:55:00.000-08:00

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

National Children's Dental Health Month, now in its 61st 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 with Main Street Orthodontics, please feel free to give us a call!

Invisalign is your clear alternative to braces [Video]

2011-01-26T13:13:00.000-08:00

Dr. Guyer, your Niles and St. Joseph, MI Invisalign provider, specializes in teen and adult orthodontic treatment. Main Street Orthodontics proudly offers this state-of-the-art system of clear, removable aligners so that you can get the beautiful straight teeth you've always wanted - without braces. For more information about Invisalign, watch this short patient video.

Don’t hesitate to give Main Street Orthodontics a call if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule a consultation at our office.

Safety first this winter! From Dr. Guyer

2011-01-20T10:28:00.000-08:00

Winter is officially here, and with it comes not only the holiday season, but also sometimes unpredictable and inclement weather. This week, our team at Main Street Orthodontics would like to share a few winter safety tips that we found on the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry website. These tips include everything from what to wear outdoors to tips for winter snow sports. Enjoy!

• Older babies and young children should generally be dressed in one more layer of clothing than an adult would wear in the same conditions
• Several thin clothing layers will keep an infant or child dry and warm. Warm boots, gloves, mittens, and a hat are necessities!
• A cold air humidifier, saline nose drops, and petrolatum will help a child that suffers from winter nosebleeds.
• It is important for children to wash their hands frequently, and to use the bend of their elbow if they need to sneeze or cough to prevent the spread of colds and flu.
• Never ski or snowboard alone. Adults should supervise young children participating in winter sports.
• When sledding, it is preferable to separate young children from older children, and to avoid crowded areas.
• The AAP recommends that children under age 16 not operate snowmobiles and that children under age 6 never ride on snowmobiles.

We hope that these tips help keep you and your loved ones stay safe and sound this winter season. Please give us a call if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your next appointment at Main Street Orthodontics.

Cold and Flu Season is Here - Replace Your Toothbrush!

2011-01-13T16:19:00.000-08:00

Winter is upon us, and with it comes the dreaded cold and flu season. After recovering from your cold, Dr. Guyer will tell you one of the most important steps you can take to avoid becoming reinfected is replacing your toothbrush!

Germs are known to 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!

We hope these tips help! Feel free to call us at Main Street Orthodontics if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook.

Connect with the Braces Brigade!

2011-01-06T15:38:00.000-08:00

At Main Street Orthodontics, our patients want to get as much out of their treatment as possible. That includes asking a lot of questions and making sure they take care of both their appliances and oral health.

Would you like to learn more about what to expect during orthodontic treatment, from someone with firsthand experience? As you might remember from a blog entry about the Braces Brigade this summer, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recently developed the Braces Brigade blog, where past, present, as well as future orthodontic patients from coast to coast document their (or their child’s) orthodontic journeys. The blog will serve as a source of guidance for others as the patients undergo orthodontic care.

Our team at Main Street Orthodontics encourages you to visit the Braces Brigade blog to read these great and informative blogs—who knows, maybe you’ll learn a thing or two! As always, don’t hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions about the Braces Brigade or your own orthodontic treatment with Dr. Guyer!

Write a review for Dr. Guyer!

2010-12-27T11:22:00.000-08:00

Main Street Orthodontics, serving St. Joseph and Niles, MI, strives to improve the health, appearance, and self-confidence of each and every patient that we serve. Today, we would like to hear about your experience with Dr. Guyer and our team!

Just select the “Write a Review” button to share your story on our Google Place Page. We look forward to receiving your feedback!

Thank you,

-Dr. Guyer and team

What is your New Year’s Resolution?

2010-12-22T12:26:00.000-08:00

The 2010 holiday season is upon us, and our team at Main Street Orthodontics would like to wish all our patients and their families the merriest of holidays and best wishes for the New Year.

We thought we’d ask: what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2011? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Have a safe and happy New Year, from all of us at Main Street Orthodontics!

Access your account—anywhere, any day, any time—at Main Street Orthodontics

2010-12-13T08:00:00.000-08:00

Access to your account, 24/7. Sounds simple and convenient, doesn’t it?

Patients at our offices enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our website. 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 through email or text messages!

You may also sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started!

Regular checkups are essential in maintaining good oral health

2010-12-08T14:51:00.000-08:00

Are you brushing and flossing daily properly during your orthodontic treatment? If yes, that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist every 3-to-6 months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting Main Street Orthodontics, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

Your general dentist can check for problems that might not be seen or felt, detect cavities and early signs of decay, treat oral health problems early and show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth.

During an oral exam your dentist can check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to the dentist in the last six months, let us know during your next visit and we will provide a few great references in the greater St. Joseph and Niles areas!

What’s so bad about nail biting?

2010-12-01T16:48:00.000-08:00

We’ve all heard that biting your nails is an awful habit, but you many wonder- really- what’s so bad about it? Recently, our team at Main Street Orthodontics found an interesting article that discusses how biting your nails affect your teeth and oral health.

Nail biting, also known as Onychophagia, is a common habit among various age groups, including primarily children, teens and young adults. Nail biting is generally triggered by stress and most often decreases with age. That being said, nail biting is unsanitary, unattractive, as well as unhealthy for your teeth!

Here’s why:
• It’s unsanitary. Your nails are dirty, almost twice as dirty as your fingers! Hence, biting your nails is just asking for germs and bacteria.
• No good things come to your teeth. Nail biting causes your teeth to constantly be chewing, which is not good for them. This excessive motion wears your teeth down faster than a non-nail biter’s and puts a large amount of stress on your front teeth- contributing to teeth misalignment.
• Braces don’t love it either. Braces already put pressure on teeth, nail biting ads unnecessary pressure, further stressing your teeth and weakening their roots.
• It can be costly. Nail biting can result in up to $4,000 in additional dental bills over one lifetime, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Yikes!

What can you do about it?
Now that you know how harmful nail biting can be, it’s time to take action to break your nail biting habit. Try to be conscious of your fingernails and to keep them looking good- this will help you resist the temptation. Ask Dr. Guyer or visit the article for tips on how to break a nail biting

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-24T11:09:00.000-08:00

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

What do you enjoy most about fall?

2010-11-20T11:47:00.000-08:00

It’s fall here at Main Street Orthodontics, a time when all across the country, the leaves begin to change colors, the air becomes crisp, and families begin to make plans for Thanksgiving.

Today we wanted to ask you, our wonderful patients, "How are you spending your time this fall?" Our team would love to hear about your favorite places for eating, shopping, and entertainment within the Niles and St. Joseph areas. We are interested in learning about what makes your community “yours.”

Feel free to post your responses on our Facebook page, or give us a call!

Cool kids get braces with Dr. Guyer!

2010-11-12T14:50:00.000-08:00

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 and the Damon System, advanced computer software, color options, and even popular celebrities—Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Danny Glover, Serena Williams, 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. Guyer, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

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

How well do you know celebrity faces with braces?

2010-10-25T08:13:00.000-07:00

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. The fact is, movie stars need to look their best for the silver screen, and it wouldn't be possible without orthodontists like Dr. Guyer. That's why beginning Nov. 3, 2010, we want to test your orthodontic knowledge of celebrities with our "Celebrity Faces with Braces" contest.

Many Hollywood stars have had orthodontic treatment. Be sure to test your celebrity trivia knowledge the next time you're in for an appointment. The contest ends this January, so don't hesitate to participate!

Why the Damon® System?

2010-10-21T09:01:00.000-07:00

Something big is happening in the orthodontics world, and it’s no other than Damon braces, which allow your teeth to move more comfortably and easily than traditional braces. With the Damon System, achieving that perfect smile will be faster and easier than you ever thought possible.

Dr. Guyer is a certified Damon System provider in Niles and St. Joseph, MI. To learn more about the Damon System or your treatment here at Main Street Orthodontics, please give us a call.

Why do you choose Main Street Orthodontics?

2010-10-15T10:19:00.001-07:00

From your very first visit to Main Street 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 Dr. Guyer's work? 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 for our Niles, MI office. You could also write a review here for our St. Joseph, MI office. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Thank you,

The team at Main Street Orthodontics

A braces-friendly recipe, in celebration of National Orthodontic Health Month!

2010-10-06T10:33:00.000-07:00

Did you know that October is National Orthodontic Health Month? Dr. Guyer and our team know how tempting this time of the year can be for your sweet tooth. With all of the caramel, candy corn, and lollipops that are often passed around to trick-or-treaters, we know that it can sometimes be hard to find hard candy alternatives.

However, there is good news! Today, we 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

Dr. Guyer congratulates our summer contest winners!

2010-09-27T09:55:00.000-07:00

This summer, Dr. Guyer and our team enjoyed hosting the "Where in the World is Dr. Guyer?" summer contest and the Tailgate Drawing. Congratulations to all of our summer contest winners! For the "Where in the World is Dr. Guyer?" contest, here are our $50 Visa gift card winners:

Farthest Vacation Photo Winner- Chris K.

Funniest Vacation Photo Winner- Matthew K.

Most Unique Vacation Photo Winner- Grant D.

The Main Street Orthodontics Tailgate Drawing was a drawing for everything that you might need to tailgate before the big game, with a prize of a mini grill, charcoal, a cooler, and chairs. Cole H. is the lucky winner of the Tailgate Drawing.

Thanks to everyone who submitted their summer photos with Dr. Guyer and entered our Tailgate Drawing. We enjoyed staying connected with all of our patients this summer! As always, feel free to give us a call if you have any questions about the summer contests, or if you would like to schedule a consultation at our office.

Top ten tips for keeping plaque at bay, from Main Street Orthodontics

2010-09-24T15:21:00.000-07:00

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!

Main Street Orthodontics

Thanks to Invisalign® with Dr. Guyer, mom and dad can also have a perfect smile!

2010-09-16T09:12:00.000-07:00

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 Main Street 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.

What puts you at ease at Main Street Orthodontics?

2010-09-09T16:09:00.000-07:00

Tailgate with Main Street Orthodontics!

2010-09-02T11:37:00.001-07:00

This September, Dr. Guyer and our team at Main Street Orthodontics will be hosting a Tailgate Drawing. One lucky patient will win everything that you might need to tailgate before the big game, specifically a mini grill, charcoal, a cooler, and chairs.

The drawing will be held September 20th, so don't forget to enter your name into the Tailgate Drawing at your next appointment! As always, feel free to give us a call if you have any questions about the tailgate drawing, or if you would like to schedule your next appointment.

Good luck,

-Main Street Orthodontics

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

2010-08-25T15:00:00.000-07:00

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 Main Street 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. Guyer 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.

Back to school extended hours at Main Street Orthodontics

2010-08-19T09:23:00.000-07:00

Now that many of the schools in Niles and St. Joseph, MI are starting session again, Dr. Guyer and our team want to remind all of our patients about scheduling appointments in advance. With school, clubs and sports to consider, we know that it can be challenging to find time to visit Main Street Orthodontics. To help accommodate all of our patients' busy schedules, our office will have extended hours until 6pm on Wednesday beginning after Labor Day. It is important that you plan ahead for your appointments so that we are able to provide you with an appointment time that is convenient for you.

Dr. Guyer and our team also want to remind everyone of how important it is to give advance notice if you are unable to make an appointment. If we receive enough notice, we might be able to schedule another patient for that time. As always, feel free to give us a call if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your fall appointment. We hope that everyone is enjoying the last couple weeks of summer!

Where in the world is Dr. Guyer?

2010-08-09T08:35:00.000-07:00

Are you traveling outside of Niles and St. Joseph, MI this summer? If so, don't forget to bring your Dr. Guyer paper plate cutout with you! Our team loves staying connected with patients, which is why we are giving away three different $50 Visa gift cards for the most creative Dr. Guyer vacation pictures that we receive.

To enter, bring your Dr. Guyer vacation photo in to your next appointment. Winners will be announced September 8th, so don't wait to snap those pictures!

If you have any questions, feel free to connect with us on our Facebook page, or you can give us a call.

Have a great week,

-Main Street Orthodontics

Summer savings at Main Street Orthodontics!

2010-08-04T11:15:00.000-07:00

Are you considering orthodontic treatment in Niles or St. Joseph, MI? Dr. Guyer and our team are excited to introduce to you our practice, where our mission is to improve the health, appearance, and self-confidence of each and every patient that we serve. If you haven't already had a chance to take a look at the Main Street Orthodontics website, we encourage you to come see what our orthodontic team is all about! If you look carefully, you might even see a coupon for $200 off your initial fee!

Give us a call today to schedule a complimentary consultation with Main Street Orthodontics. We look forward to a long and positive relationship and one we are totally confident you will be happy to recommend us to your family and friends.

Are you wearing your mouth guard?

2010-07-29T21:37:00.000-07:00

Can you believe we're halfway through summer? As the weather gets - and stays - hot here in Michigan, the chances for athletes to sustain a mouth injury get likelier and likelier because of all the sports they play over the summer. Dr. Guyer would like to remind you to always take care of both your mouth and appliances while participating in contact sports.

That includes wearing a mouth guard at all times when you're out on the field. Only by using a mouth guard can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. And don't forget to ask us for a mouth guard - Dr. Guyer will provide a mouth guard for anyone in active treatment! We hope you're having a GREAT summer!

This summer, be a part of the Braces Brigade!

2010-07-22T21:06:00.000-07:00

Thanks to our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists' Braces Brigade campaign, YOU can blog about your experience in braces AND come away with a $100 American Express gift card!

To complete your Braces Brigade application, you'll need to provide the AAO with your:

* Name
* Age – Must be 14 years of age or older
* E-mail
* Phone number
* Stage of orthodontic treatment
* A photo of your braces/smile
* A sample blog post – picture yourself as a member of Braces Brigade and show off those blogging skills! (100-word minimum)

In your blog, you'll (hopefully) answer the following questions:

• Why did you decide to get orthodontic treatment at Main Street Orthodontics?
• What advice would you share with other orthodontic patients?
• What does it feel like to get braces on?
• What foods do you miss the most?
• What new foods have you discovered?
• Do your friends have braces or retainers?
• Where is the first place you’re going to show off your new, beautiful smile?
• How has your new smile changed your life?

Remember, if you're under 18, your parents must fill out a consent form along with your official entry, giving you permission to enter the contest.

We strongly encourage you to apply for the Braces Brigade by August 31! If you get accepted, let us know during your next visit or post on our Facebook page!

Invisalign: How, exactly, does it work? [Video]

2010-07-12T21:39:00.000-07:00

Perhaps you've thought about how Invisalign treatment at Main Street Orthodontics manages to straighten your teeth without using metallic traditional braces? Invisalign is a state-of-the-art system of clear, removable aligners that we proudly offer at our convenient locations in Niles and St. Joseph.

Not only are the aligners invisible, they're also removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment. Plus, brushing and flossing are no problem. They are also comfortable, with no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment. And no metal and wires usually means you spend less time in your doctor's office getting adjustments. Invisalign also allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan when you start so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.

Dr. Ed Guyer, who happens to be a certified Invisalign provider, also provides plenty of resources on our website about Invisalign, or give us a call to learn if this revolutionary new treatment option is right for you!

Enjoy the rest of the week everyone!

Dr. Guyer and team want to know: what are your Independence Day weekend plans?

2010-07-01T11:33:00.000-07:00

Like most Americans, our staff at Main Street Orthodontics will celebrate America's 234th birthday next Sunday.

Today, we thought we'd ask: what are you planning for the Fourth of July weekend? Are you heading to a barbecue? Hitting the open road with family? Are you planning on using fireworks to light up the night sky?

Whatever you and your family end up doing over Independence Day weekend, we hope you have a fantastic Fourth of July weekend!

See you all next week!

Dr. Guyer and Main Street Orthodontics want to know: What do you love about summer?

2010-06-25T10:35:00.000-07:00

With summer finally here, Dr. Guyer and our staff at Main Street Orthodontics thought we’d ask: What’s your favorite part about summer? The warm weather we get? The free time you get? Less homework? Spending quality time with friends and family? Grilling barbecue in the backyard?

We'd like to know what makes summer truly special for you. Let us know by posting on our Facebook page!

Enjoy your weekend everyone!!

More happy patients at Main Street Orthodontics!

2010-06-15T16:29:00.000-07:00

Our team at Main Street Orthodontics (as well as Dr. Guyer) love getting patient testimonials from current and former patients at our Niles and St. Joseph offices. Here are a few reviews we received recently - our patients like us and we love our patients!

"The personable environment of the entire office." ~ Danyzk T.

"The way Dr. Guyer takes his time. Plus he does a good job." ~ Greg D.

"We really liked Dr. Guyer and we feel very confident in the treatment plan that he recommended would be best." ~ Connor F.

"Dr. Guyer is very polite. I have the impression that he has his patients' best interests at heart. He's an excellent orthodontist, and loves what he does!" ~ Carlos N.

"He is very friendly and was very informative when I had questions and the office has a very friendly atmosphere." ~ Cynthia S.

"What I like best is that they work with your schedules." ~ Elizabeth M.

Please feel free to contribute your own thoughts about our office!

Tell Main Street Orthodontics: What should we blog about?

2010-06-05T17:42:00.000-07:00

As the summer rapidly approaches in Michigan, our team at Main Street Orthodontics strive to continue writing about important topics related to orthodontics and your treatment with Dr. Ed Guyer.

To help us continue doing that through the course of the long, hot summer, however, we're looking for your help: What would you like us to focus on our blog in the coming months? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Dr. Guyer and staff for a while and just haven't found the chance? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook page!

We hope you a relaxing rest of the weekend! See you soon!

Fun facts with Dr. Guyer and Main Street Orthodontics!

2010-05-29T22:51:00.000-07:00

At Main Street Orthodontics, we know our patients love fun facts - LOVE THEM. The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that our team thought you would enjoy. Have a great rest of Memorial Day weekend!

• 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.

• In addition to alleviating or preventing physical health problems, orthodontics can boost self-esteem as treatment aligns teeth, jaws and lips.

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

At Main Street Orthodontics, easy access to your account information!

2010-05-22T12:40:00.000-07:00

Access to your account any time you wish sounds pretty great, doesn't it? At Main Street Orthodontics, our wonderful patients may access their accounts 24/7, thanks to a helpful tool called OrthoSesame. 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 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, and enjoy the rest of the weekend!

Share your experience at Main Street Orthodontics with the world!

2010-05-13T22:20:00.000-07:00

Dr. Ed Guyer has been practicing orthodontics in Michigan for over 20 years. He understands the needs and expectations of his patients, and is dedicated to working with you and your family to achieve the healthy, beautiful smile you want!

We cater to people, not teeth! Our practice works hard to make your experience as comfortable, convenient, and rewarding as possible.

Whether you have visited Main Street Orthodontics for weeks or months, we'd love to hear your feedback about Dr. Guyer and our team. Now with the Internet, it’s even easier to write your thoughts and share them with the world. We'd want to encourage you to write a review of us on our Google Local page. It only takes a moment!

You may write a review here.

Thank you and have a great weekend! We really look forward to reading your reviews!

Dr. Guyer at the 2010 AAO Annual Session!

2010-05-05T11:57:00.000-07:00

If you know Dr. Ed Guyer, you know things he's very passionate about include continuing education and new technology. One of the ways we continue to improve at Main Street Orthodontics is by attending important seminars and conferences. Dr. Guyer attended one of those very important conferences - the AAO Annual Session - this past weekend in Washington D.C.

The AAO Annual Session is an always-educational event that is also one of the largest orthodontic conventions in the world. It's also a time for Dr. Guyer to consult with dental experts and orthodontists from around the country and stay up-to-date on all the latest technologies and orthodontic treatment options available. This, of course, allows our team at Main Street Orthodontics to give you, our phenomenal patients, the best treatment experience possible.

In addition to being a proud member of the American Association of Orthodontists, Dr. Guyer is a member of the American Dental Association, World Federation of Orthodontists and the Michigan Damon System Study Club. Dr. Guyer has also been the president of the Lakeland Valley Dental Association, published in journals such as the Angle Orthodontist and lectures regularly on the Damon® System, which my office has utilized to become one of the Midwest’s most experienced and advanced orthodontic practices.

Isn't it comforting to know you have a complete dental expert in Dr. Guyer perfecting your smile?

"Hey, Dr. Guyer! Which toothbrush should my kid use?"

2010-05-01T08:28:00.000-07:00

At Main Street Orthodontics, we'll always tell you that brushing your teeth - even during orthodontic treatment - is one of the easiest methods of cavity prevention. But the question remains: which type of toothbrush should your child use? When choosing a toothbrush, look for round-ended (polished) bristles that clean while being gentle on the gums. Choose one that is specifically designed for children's smaller hands and mouths. Also, look for large handles that can help children control the toothbrush. Lastly, throw out a toothbrush after three months or as soon as bristles begin fraying.

As far as which toothpaste is best? It doesn't really as long as it has fluoride in it. However, for small children who tend to swallow toothpaste, do not use fluoridated toothpaste. Make sure to touch each tooth and every side of that tooth. Also, make sure to gently brush on your gums.

To learn more about choosing the right toothbrush and toothpaste for your child, we encourage you to read this helpful article from Parenthood.com. Or, you may give us a call at either our Niles or St. Joseph location, and we'll try to answer any question you may have about keeping your child's mouth as healthy as possible!

Main Street Orthodontics want to know: Did you change the world today?

2010-04-22T16:52:00.000-07:00

At Main Street Orthodontics, we support Earth Day. Whether lending our helping hands to plant trees or grasses or getting out to volunteer in various projects around St. Joseph or Niles, today was our opportunity to get involved in making our year-round impact in the community. Dr. Guyer wants to know: Did you make a difference today? Tell us, what Earth Day-related activities did you accomplish? How long have you participated in helping our community and planet?

Earth Day, which today marks its 40th anniversary, is designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for our environment and ecosystem. If you’d like to join the millions of people around the world who are making small but important changes to help sustain our ecosystem, we encourage you to try these helpful environmental tips, courtesy of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Have a great rest of the week everyone!

-- The staff at Main Street Orthodontics

Hey, Dr. Guyer: What, exactly, is malocclusion?

2010-04-16T10:53:00.000-07:00

Malocclusion, or what Dr. Guyer 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, believe it or not, even your appearance.

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. If overcrowding is causing the problem, Niles and St. Joseph orthodontist Dr. Guyer may need to remove one or more teeth as part of treatment.

At Main Street 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. Have a terrific weekend, patients!

Ask Main Street Orthodontics: What should I expect during my consultation?

2010-04-09T12:36:00.000-07:00

At your initial consultation at Main Street Orthodontics, our team and Dr. Guyer will conduct a comprehensive examination to assess your oral health. This will better enable us to determine the best treatment method for you.

Your orthodontic evaluation will consist of an oral and facial examination to assess your oral health. Dr. Guyer will have you take intraoral and facial photographs as well as panoramic and cephalometric x-rays to help determine the proper orthodontic treatment method. Then, an impression of your teeth and bite will be taken to construct a model of your mouth. (This will help Dr. Guyer when examining your diagnostic records).

At your second appointment, Dr. Guyer will discuss your options with you. Our team feels it’s important to take the time to carefully examine your diagnostic records after your consultation so that Dr. Guyer can more thoroughly prepare for your treatment at Main Street Orthodontics. This additional preparation will ensure that you receive the best orthodontic care possible. At this time, we encourage you to ask us any questions you may have about your treatment.

If you are seeking orthodontic treatment for your child, our staff asks that both you and your child attend the initial consultation. We feel it is important that both you and your child completely understand Dr. Guyer’s recommendations before we proceed with treatment.

Give us a call and schedule a consultation! We look forward to hearing from you!

Don't be fooled! From Dr. Guyer

2010-04-01T09:01:00.000-07:00

April 1st is traditionally known as April Fools' Day. Dr. Guyer and our entire team at Main Street Orthodontics would like if you shared a great story about a trick you played, or someone else played on you, on this silliest of days.

Feel free to post them here or on our Facebook page, and stay alert out there today! Lots of pranksters running around!

Talking retainers with Dr. Ed Guyer

2010-03-26T09:14:00.000-07:00

If you recently completed treatment with Dr. Guyer, our professional team at Main Street Orthodontics would like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Guyer will provide—or has 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, Dr. Guyer says. 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 Main Street Orthodontics, please give us a call at (269) 684-2355. Our staff would love to hear from you!

Wishing you a safe and happy St. Patrick's Day, from Main Street Orthodontics

2010-03-17T14:10:00.000-07:00

Dr. Guyer and team hope you remembered to wear green on your way out this morning! Whether Irish or not, millions of people in the U.S. and around the world celebrate St. Patrick's Day with toasts, parades and "the wearing of the green." Here are some fun facts about St. Patty’s Day our team at Main Street Orthodontics thought you might enjoy:

• St. Patrick’s Day is observed on March 17th because that is the feast day of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. It is also a worldwide celebration of Irish culture and history.

• The name “leprechaun” has several origins. It could be from the Irish Gaelic word “leipreachan,” which means “a kind of aqueous sprite.” Or, it could be from “leath bhrogan,” which simply means “shoemaker.”

• Some American towns have Irish names. They include: Shamrock Lakes, Indiana; Shamrock, Oklahoma; Shamrock, Texas; Dublin, California and Dublin, Ohio and Mount Gay-Shamrock, West Virginia.

• Despite what you may have heard, St. Patrick never banished snakes from Ireland. In fact, no snakes exist or ever existed in Ireland. Ireland is surrounded by icy ocean waters, much too cold to allow snakes to migrate from Britain or anywhere else.

• St. Patrick's Day was first celebrated in Boston, in 1737. Approximately 34 million Americans claim Irish ancestry. That’s almost nine times the population of Ireland, which has 4.1 million people.

Burning Invisalign® questions, with Dr. Ed Guyer

2010-03-09T10:45:00.001-08:00

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. Ed Guyer and our professional team thought we’d share this list of questions and answers for anyone pondering Invisalign treatment at Main Street 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.

Are there any foods I cannot 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 can 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 your office during treatment?

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

What are patients saying about Main Street Orthodontics?

2010-03-05T14:39:00.000-08:00

Main Street Orthodontics deliver the highest quality orthodontic care in a personalized environment here in Niles and St. Joseph. We make orthodontic treatment fun and enjoyable. Just see what our patients have to say!

"He is very friendly and accessible for any question I may have especially since I am a novice." ~ Betty K.

"The way Dr. Guyer takes his time. Plus he does a good job." ~ Greg D.

"Very up-to-date office. Friendly doctor and staff." ~ Allison C.

"Dr. Guyer seems to care about his patients.Also he takes time to answer any questions that I have." ~ Anthoney W.

Happy Washington's birthday, from Main Street Orthodontics!

2010-02-22T11:00:00.000-08:00

Everyone knows George Washington was the first President of the United States and one of our country's founding fathers. But in honor of Washington birthday, we at Main Street Orthodontics thought we'd share a few little-known facts about the man who was known for never telling a lie.

• Washington is the only President inaugurated in 2 cities (New York and Philadelphia)
• Toothaches bothered Washington for years. When he was 57, he had all his teeth pulled. From then on, he wore ivory false teeth. At the time of his inauguration, George Washington had only one tooth.
• Five states were added to the Union during Washington's presidency - North Carolina (1789), Rhode Island (1790), Vermont (1791), Kentucky (1792) and Tennessee (1796).
• At six feet, two inches tall, and 200 pounds, Washington was one of our biggest presidents.
• There were only 13 stars on the United States flag when Washington became President in 1789.

The great social media adventure, with Main Street Orthodontics

2010-02-10T16:10:00.000-08:00

Isn’t social media great? The team at Main Street Orthodontics love communicating with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our 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, it is unpredictable and ever-changing.

While Dr. Guyer and team are taking a little time to research how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our "in-the-know" patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share? Send us your thoughts or give us a call!

Tackling sports injuries with Dr. Guyer

2010-02-03T14:02:00.000-08:00

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 fear is that their child will get hurt while playing organized sports. But 67 percent admitted that their child doesn’t wear a mouth guard during organized sports such as football, basketball, baseball and soccer. That’s why Main Street Orthodontics is helping spread the word that many facial sports injuries can be prevented simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards.

Did you know mouth guards are one of the least expensive pieces of protective equipment available? Over-the-counter versions may cost as little as $5, although custom-fit mouth guards offer greater protection. Dr. Guyer can recommend the best mouth guard for you. In addition, the AAO has four quick tips for keeping kids safe during sport activities.

• Wear mouth guards during contact sports
• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eyewear
• 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. Give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Main Street Orthodontics.

Dr. Guyer wants to know: What do you love about our community?

2010-01-27T13:07:00.000-08:00

Main Street Orthodontics, located in Niles and St. Joseph, and serving surrounding communities, is situated around some pretty unique neighborhoods. Each is special with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our fantastic patients) living within.

Today, Dr. Guyer and our team thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about Niles, St. Joseph or our local communities? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps a favorite Michigan getaway?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in Niles or St. Joseph, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods.” And, who knows, we might post your response on our social networks!

The Damon System at Main Street Orthodontics: Better Results in Less Time

2010-01-20T13:19:00.000-08:00

A lot of our patients, (especially you parents!) come to Dr. Guyer convinced that traditional braces are the only answer to straight teeth. Here at Main Street Orthodontics, we offer the Damon System, a revolutionary new braces system that can give you better results in less time!

Some questions you're probably asking yourself include:

Am I right for the Damon System?

Main Street Orthodontics will evaluate your eligibility for the Damon System, and the procedure can be performed for children and adults alike!

What makes Damon braces better?

Probably the biggest advantage of Damon braces over traditional brackets is the amount of time and effort involved. Main Street Orthodontics can often cut months off of the total treatment time for patients using the Damon System, and less visits to our office are necessary to make adjustments.

In addition, the Damon System brackets are:

• Cleaner- Damon brackets don’t have the elastic of traditional brackets, and are less prone to all the plaque buildup that your dentist warns you about!
• Discreet- Damon braces are smaller and have fewer parts than traditional brackets, making them less noticeable and more comfortable.
• No tightening- With the Damon system, Dr. Guyer can position your teeth and avoid frequent adjustments. This also reduces the need for complicated tooth extractions or surgery.

If you have been thinking about an orthodontic procedure, contact the team at Main Street Orthodontics for an assessment to see if the Damon System is right for you!

Ask Main Street Orthodontics: When should my child get an orthodontic check-up?

2010-01-12T11:21:00.000-08:00

Many parents assume they must wait until a child has all of his or her permanent teeth, only to find that treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Some orthodontic problems are easier to correct while the jaw is still growing. Consequently, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven.

What’s so great about age seven? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for an orthodontist to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites, and open bites can be detected.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age 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, says Dr. Guyer.

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 detrimental to good oral hygiene. So if your child is nearing age 7, give us a call at Main Street Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

The advantage of Invisalign Teen™ at Main Street Orthodontics

2010-01-05T14:29:00.001-08:00

We've blogged about Invisalign in the past, but did you know we provide Invisalign Teen treatment as well?

For many teens, Invisalign Teen offers a trouble-free, clear alternative to traditional braces. Not only that, but it offers them the chance to have straight teeth without losing self-confidence, says Dr. Guyer.

So how does Invisalign Teen work? Invisalign Teen works in the same way as Invisalign, but with a few added characteristics tailored specifically to teenagers’ lifestyles. For instance, Invisalign Teen is designed with “compliance indicators” that fade from dark to light during the two week period that particular tray is used and once it has faded teens know to change trays. Each aligner comes with up to six free individual replacement aligners in case the original aligner ends up lost or broken. Another big benefit for the patient!

The treatment period for Invisalign Teen varies from nine to 18 months. If your teen is considering orthodontic treatment, please contact us and we’ll answer any questions you may have about Invisalign Teen.

A few helpful webisodes about orthodontics, from Main Street Orthodontics

2009-12-29T16:37:00.000-08:00

Dr. Guyer and his team at Main Street Orthodontics would like to point you to a few interesting webisodes about orthodontics, located on the YouTube page of the American Association of Orthodontics, or AAO.

There, they tend to post some very pertinent videos about orthodontic treatment, as well as state-of-the-art technology in orthodontia. These include "Orthodontic Treatment Basics," "Common Bite Problems Seen in Children" and "Does My Child Need Braces?"

We think you may find these webisodes interesting, as well as enlightening. If you have any questions about the videos, or your treatment here at Main Street Orthodontics, please give us a call.

Happy New Year!

Happy Holidays from Main Street Orthodontics!

2009-12-22T16:41:00.000-08:00

The holidays are here, and as Dr. Guyer and his team at Main Street Orthodontics reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What do you love about the holidays? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for the new year? Opening presents by
the fireplace? All the delicious food? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this
year?

We’d love if you shared with us all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

--The team at Main Street Orthodontics

PS What do you think of our brand new web site? Let us know!

When should you call Main Street Orthodontics?

2009-12-16T09:05:00.000-08:00

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together this helpful list for your advantage. Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with us:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, give Dr. Guyer and his team a call today!

Happy Wednesday!

Patient reviews for Dr. Guyer and Main Street Orthodontics

2009-12-08T13:51:00.000-08:00

Dr. Guyer and his team just love getting patient reviews. And lately, Main Street Orthodontics, serving St. Joseph, Niles and surrounding communities, has been getting some pretty great testimonials! We thought we'd share some with you today! Happy Tuesday!

"Dr. Guyer is very friendly and patient focused. His staff is also friendly, curteous, and very helpful!" ~ Tristan W.

"The professionalism of a friendly and helpful staff, and the fact that Dr. Guyer comes strongly recommended through word of mouth through out the community. As a mother of one patient, I will continue to hold his practice in high regard and urge family and friends to seek out his exceptional quality of service." ~ Eric L.

"Takes the time to educate the patient and family. Streamlined and efficient operation. Dr. Guyer himself is easy to deal with, experienced, and well established in his field." ~ Lorraine J.

"My daughter is not the best patient. But in spite of this, I feel all the members of the staff have gone above and beyond to make it all work for us. My daughter now has her braces on and is doing wonderful. Thanks to a top notch staff." ~ Mike and Julie B.

"Everyone is friendly, things are explained clearly and there are no surprises. When we have had to come in for broken appliances or something, it's never a problem. And the coffee tastes great!" ~ Tyler B.

Now that I have braces, what can I eat? Main Street Orthodontics Explain...

2009-12-01T09:04:00.000-08:00

You just got braces and Dr. Guyer has 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 Main Street Orthodontics

Keeping you safe this cold & flu season, from Main Street Orthodontics

2009-11-23T13:51:00.000-08:00

Traditionally cold and flu season starts in Fall, but this year it seems to have started much earlier and with the number of patients canceling appointments because of flu and H1N1 symptoms Main Street Orthodontics is taking additional precautions to help prevent the spread of germs.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, we give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our office at all times as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces.

For the protection of other patients and our staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

Maintaining and protecting oral hygiene equipment is also important this flu season. To protect your toothbrush from bacteria follow these steps:

• Wash your hands before and after brushing
• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen
• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster
• Replace toothbrush after every cold or flu or every 3-4 months when bristles appear worn

Hope this helps and give us a call if you have any questions! Stay healthy!

Dr. Guyer and Main Street Orthodontics want to know: What are you doing in November?

2009-11-16T15:17:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, we’re almost in full holiday mode! But before you go celebrating, the team at Main Street Orthodontics wants to know: What are you doing this month? Anything exciting happening in your life? If so, we'd love to hear all about it!

You can share your stories with us here or by giving us a call!

--The team at Main Street Orthodontics

Could you be our next 'Patient of the Month?

2009-11-10T11:08:00.000-08:00

Main Street Orthodontics rewards our patients for having healthy gums and teeth. Every month, we enter patients who are on time to their appointments, do not have anything loose or broken on their appliance and who have healthy gums and teeth into our Patient of the Month contest. Everyone entered into the contest gets to take home a prize that day. Then, at the end of the month, we randomly draw one name and that person becomes our Patient of the Month role model, they receive a $25.00 Gift Card to Best Buy!

For more information, please stop by our offices or give us a call!