Healthier Smile

Top 5 Foods for a Healthier Smile

Top 5 foods that promote a healthier smile, from crunchy fruits to dairy products. Learn how simple dietary changes can strengthen your teeth and gums – Bee Cave Orthodontics – Austin, Texas

Healthier Smile

Your smile is one of your greatest assets, and taking care of it goes beyond regular brushing and flossing. Did you know that the foods you eat can make a significant difference in maintaining a radiant, healthy smile? From strengthening your teeth to keeping your gums healthy, here are the top five foods to incorporate into your diet for optimal oral health.

1. Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables

Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery work wonders for your teeth. These foods act as natural toothbrushes, helping to scrub away food particles and plaque. Additionally, their high water content stimulates saliva production, which is essential for neutralizing acids and protecting your enamel. Apples, often referred to as “nature’s toothbrush,” are an excellent choice for an on-the-go snack that benefits your smile.

2. Dairy Products for Healthier Smile

Dairy products, such as cheese, yogurt, and milk, are packed with calcium and phosphates that help to rebuild enamel and keep your teeth strong. Calcium is a critical mineral for bone health, and that includes your jawbone, which supports your teeth. Cheese is especially beneficial as it helps balance the pH levels in your mouth, reducing the risk of decay and cavities. Choose low-sugar options like plain yogurt to keep your gums healthy and maintain a balanced oral environment.

3. Leafy Greens

Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are powerhouses for oral health. These greens are rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly calcium and folic acid, which are known to strengthen enamel and protect against gum disease. Folic acid is especially helpful for women, as it supports gum health during pregnancy. Add a handful of spinach to your smoothie or salad to enjoy the benefits of these green giants.

4. Nuts and Seeds

Nuts like almonds, walnuts, and Brazil nuts, as well as seeds such as chia and sesame, are excellent sources of essential minerals, including calcium and phosphorus. These minerals are critical for keeping your teeth and jawbone strong. Chewing nuts also stimulates saliva production, which helps to wash away bacteria and food particles. Just be sure to choose unsalted options to avoid unnecessary sodium intake.

5. Water

It might not be a “food” in the traditional sense, but water is one of the most important elements for a healthy mouth. Drinking water throughout the day helps rinse away food particles and bacteria, preventing plaque buildup and cavities. Additionally, water aids in saliva production, which plays a crucial role in protecting your teeth and gums. Opt for fluoridated water if available, as it adds an extra layer of protection by strengthening enamel.

Make Your Smile Shine Brighter Now

Incorporating these foods into your diet can significantly improve your oral health, but remember that they work best alongside regular dental care. Start with a healthier smile today and experience the benefits firsthand.

Schedule a free consultation now and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile. Our team is here to guide you on the journey to optimal oral health!

Want to get to know us a little better? Check out our YouTube Videos!

The Role of Orthodontics in Addressing Sleep Apnea in Austin Texas

Bee Cave Orthodontics Invisalign for adults and kids in Austin

Dr. Da Silveira, alongside ENT specialist Dr. Stacey Clark and Pulmonologist Dr. Lisa Barber, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the pivotal role of orthodontics in addressing pediatric sleep apnea. Their collaborative approach underscored the importance of interdisciplinary care in managing this condition. Dr. Da Silveira’s expertise in orthodontics, combined with Dr. Clark’s insights into ear, nose, and throat considerations, and Dr. Barber’s expertise in pulmonary health and sleep disorders, provided a holistic perspective on the complex interplay between orthodontic treatment and pediatric sleep apnea. Their presentation highlighted the significance of early detection and intervention in improving the quality of life for children affected by sleep-disordered breathing.

Bee Cave Orthodontics Invisalign for adults and kids in Austin

With over 25 years of experience as an orthodontist and 17 in Austin as Chief of Orthodontics at Dell Medical Center, Dr. Adriana Da Silveira is a trusted expert in the field of orthodontics, renowned for her Invisalign expertise in treating even the most challenging cases. Her advocacy for Invisalign has taken her to numerous national and international platforms, including the AAO annual meeting and the Invisalign Ortho Summit. Her dedication to ongoing education and research ensures that Bee Cave Orthodontics remains at the forefront of advancements in treatment, technology, and care approaches.

Two days ’til you could win a Zoom teeth whitening, gift cards to your fave eateries, discounts on treatments, free scans and evaluations, wine and treats.

SIP & SCAN

Wednesday, May 8
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
11412 Bee Cave Rd Suite 300, Austin, TX 78738
(512) 334-0444

Bee Cave Orthodontics Invisalign for adults and kids in Austin

$200 Gift Certificate to Muse Med Spa in Westlake

Invisalign selfie lights for your cell phone

Self Defense Class from Atos Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Bee Cave

Gift cards from our friends at Toss Pizzeria and Giovanni’s Table

Raffle every 30 minutes

Our Very Own Dr. D and Petra are Speaking at Invisalign’s Align 360 Symposium: Teen Takeover

Bee Cave Orthodontics Invisalign for adults and kids in Austin

Forget the Oscar’s!

🌟 Our very own Dr. D. and Petra Putnam, Bee Cave Ortho’sTreatment Coordinator, will be speakers at Invisalign’s Align 360 Symposium: Teen Takeover at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on March 8th! Representing the most successful Invisalign First private practice in Texas, we are so proud that their expertise has made them such highly regarded experts in Invisalign!

With over 25 years of experience as an orthodontist and 17 in Austin as Chief of Orthodontics at Dell Children’s Hospital, Dr. D is a very important advocate for Invisalign and has spoken at many national and international meetings, including the AAO annual meeting and the Invisalign Ortho Summit.

Petra’s vast experience comes from team coordination, team leadership, clinical assisting, marketing, and office management, and she will be speaking on Phase I treatment using the highest level of advanced, digital technology, that is Invisalign First.

Learn more about them and other speakers here. Go team! Make us proud!!

What To Expect At Your First Orthodontist Appointment

What to expect at your first orthodontist appointment?

Your first orthodontist visit is the most important step towards preparing for orthodontic treatment and improving your smile. The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children see their orthodontist for a “Phase 1 Orthodontic Evaluation” between the ages of 7 and 8.  Initial consultations are important because they allow the orthodontist to get a clear understanding of any issues that may be present, and then to formulate the most ideal treatment plan to correct those issues. If these issues have the opportunity to fully develop, your child’s orthodontic issues can become more complex. 

In the lead up to your exam, it’s perfectly normal to feel nervous or scared.  Having accurate information about what to expect during your first appointment will help prepare you for your free consultation. 

Introduction

A proper introduction creates a lasting first impression and is valuable to any first experience. Here at Bee Cave Orthodontics, we want to make sure you feel comfortable working with our team, so we will make sure to greet you upon arrival, introduce our staff, and give you a tour of the office, conveniently located at 11412 Bee Cave Rd, Suite 300 in Austin, Texas.

Paperwork and Relevant History

A member of our team will ask you to fill out paperwork regarding your current dentists information and any helpful health history. It will also inform us of the last time you had x-rays, your last relevant consultation, and previous issues you may have experienced. 

bee cave ortho

Exam and Imaging Utilizing 3D Scanner

Next, the orthodontic staff will need to take a panoramic x-ray and photographic images of the mouth. Digital images help orthodontists make accurate diagnoses. Here at BeeCave Orthodontics, we use advanced imaging technology such as the iTero 3D Scanner. The use of the 3D scanner has changed the world of orthodontics. With the help of these digital machines, orthodontists can easily scan the patient’s mouth and use digital impressions to create an individualized dental treatment. An intraoral scanner takes pictures of the patient’s teeth and soft tissue and “stitches” those pictures together, in the right order, to create a 3D digital image of the patient’s mouth. No more gooey impressions that make everyone gag! Yuck!

Bee Cave Orthodontics Invisalign for adults and kids in Austin

Once the images have been completed, our expert orthodontist Dr. Adriana Da Silveira “Dr. D” will then do a comprehensive physical exam of the teeth, jaw, and face to ensure everything is developing the way it should. Dr. D has practiced for the last 20 years and has served as Chief of Orthodontics for Dell Children’s since 2008. Her expertise has been caring for children born with cleft lip and palate, craniofacial syndromes, cases that require jaw surgery, cases of sleep apnea, and children with special needs. No case is too hard or too difficult for Dr. D and her vast history of providing expert orthodontic care. Each child, each person, and each smile is unique, so each treatment is personalized – one size doesn’t fit all for orthodontics and Dr. D takes each patient’s care very seriously.

Treatment Plans

Once the exam and images are complete, our orthodontic expert Dr. Adriana Da Silveira, “Dr. D” will discuss if your child needs to move forward with “Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment” to address any issues. Not all children will need early orthodontic treatment, but it’s best to consult with an orthodontist so we can get ahead of any potential issues and formulate a plan. This plan may mean waiting for more permanent teeth to erupt before starting any treatment, as only about 20% of children at the age of 7 require early “Phase I Orthodontic treatment.” Here at Bee Cave Orthodontics, we offer yearly checkups for your child so we can help monitor until orthodontic treatment timing is right for your child.

Your child may benefit from “Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment” if you notice any of these issues:

  • Overbite
  • Underbite
  • Crooked teeth
  • Crowding
  • Gapped teeth
  • Protruding teeth
  • Teeth that don’t touch
  • Habits that could affect their dental development (such as thumb sucking)
  • Speaking issues
  • Breathing issues

Questions

We encourage you to ask questions along the way. We are here to provide you with all of your options and to help you understand each one of them.

We hope this information is useful as you prepare for your first orthodontist appointment. Our goal is to develop young jaws and/or arches to make room for existing teeth and for incoming permanent teeth. As always, Dr. D. will design a customized digital treatment plan for your child to address their needs when they’re ready for treatment and will be here every step along the way. 

Claim Your Free Phase 1 Orthodontic Evaluation at Bee Cave Orthodontics
Bee Cave Orthodontics Invisalign for adults and kids in Austin

Here at Bee Cave Orthodontics, we offer complimentary exams to assess each child’s needs and find the right time to start treatment. We want to give you a new smile that stands out from the crowd.

Orthodontic treatment is one of the most important investments you can make for yourself and your family. Our talented team, including orthodontic expert Dr. Adriana Da Silveira, can be trusted to deliver a customized treatment plan and a beautiful, healthy smile you’ll want to share with everyone around you!