Friday, October 30, 2009

Its Flu Season!



Since colds and flu are spread so easily in this environment, we have encouraged our patients and their families to reschedule appointments if they are experiencing any flu-like symptoms. We have also been encouraging our staff to stay at home if they are feeling sick. In addition, we spray all community surfaces several times daily, use disposable pre-pasted toothbrushes at our brushing stations and cover all headrests with disposable plastic. There is anti-bacterial soap available in our restroom and a motion activated hand dryer too. If you are feeling the flu symptoms, be sure to get plenty of rest and stay hydrated!

Have a safe and happy Halloween from all of us at Sellers Orthodontics!

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Never Fear, Dr. Sellers is Here!



Leave your fears at home when you visit Sellers Orthodontics! We have video games, wide screen TVs, the latest magazines, internet access, coffee and even ice cream! All this, just in the waiting area! People who visit us for the first time always tell us how warm and inviting our office is. Our staff does an incredible job of making patients and parents feel comfortable and welcome.

--Dr. Sellers & Team

Friday, October 16, 2009

When Are Two Phases of Treatment Necessary?



Usually patients in orthodontic treatment already have their permanent teeth – but in some cases we have to start treatment earlier, even before the patient’s permanent teeth come in. We call this “two-phase treatment.”

When we have patients with clear developmental problems at an early age, it’s best to start work when they are young, before the problems get bigger and more difficult to treat. Examples include an upper or lower jaw that is not growing correctly, or a mouth growing in a way that doesn’t leave enough room for all the permanent teeth to come in.

In these cases we will start early and do one round of treatment – phase one – while the patient still has “baby teeth.” Phase one usually does not involve braces, but can include a different type of appliance that helps the jaw grow into place properly, such as a retainer. We’ll follow up with phase two usually a few years later, when permanent the patient’s permanent teeth have come in. Phase two often does involve braces and sometimes headgear.

In order to catch early problems, we recommend that children have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven (and so does the American Association of Orthodontics). However, if your dentist or pediatrician sees any sign that early treatment might be necessary, he or she may recommend your child visit an orthodontist even sooner. For more information about two-phase orthodontics, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sellers please call 704-837-0420.

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Continuing Education at Sellers Orthodontics



Continuing education is a great way to keep your practice fresh. Dr. Sellers participates in about 100 hours of continuing education every year! Our staff recently had a consultant come to the practice for 2 full days. We learned new ways to make our schedule more efficient as well as improve our interaction with both our patients and the public. Our staff participates in “Webinars” routinely including clinical as well as administrative classes.

Not only do we participate in classes, we try to educate our family of patients about orthodontics and general dental health too! October is Orthodontic health month, and Dr. Sellers recently spoke to his son’s class about the benefits of early orthodontic visits. Each student was given a goodie bag to take home which had a letter to the parents included.

Friday, October 2, 2009

The non-surgical approach to a beautiful smile

The field of orthodontics is constantly improving, and Dr. Sellers is at the forefront of these new, less invasive forms of non-surgical treatment. We have several stories about how we were able to treat people non surgically with fabulous results!



This gentleman had been in a catastrophic auto accident and almost died. He pulled through all the broken bones and body parts but was left with a very compromised bite. He was unable to chew his food. Every other orthodontist he had been to recommended more surgery, which of course he was opposed to! We at Sellers Orthodontics were able to correct his bite in less than a year using the Damon System with a great result!

We encourage you see us at Sellers Orthodontics for a complimentary consultation. We can then determine what treatment is best for your individual needs. Give us a call at 704-837-0420 today!