Thursday, November 16, 2017

Thanksgiving Countdown!

It seems like the month of November has really flown by! Thanksgiving is just a week away and we’re all looking forward to time with family and friends – not to mention all of the delicious food! While some holidays spotlight foods that might traditionally be a challenge to manage when you have braces, Thanksgiving is typically filled with foods that are braces approved!

If you’re looking to add a new side dish or two to your Thanksgiving table this year, we’ve found two contenders that will not only look spectacular but might also become a new favorite for your family. Both of these would be perfect to bring to a potluck meal since they can both be assembled in advance and each takes less than 30 minutes to heat.  

Maple Cranberry Sweet Potatoes
  • 4 lbs. sweet potatoes
  • 1 cup maple syrup
  • 1 ½ cups fresh cranberries
  • 3 tbsp. butter
  • 1 ½ tsp. salt

Place whole sweet potatoes in a large pot with just enough water to cover and one teaspoon of salt. Heat to a rapid boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer covered about 30 minutes or just until potatoes are fork-tender. Drain. Set aside until cool enough to handle.
Meanwhile, in a saucepan, heat maple syrup to boiling on high. Reduce heat to medium, and boil gently for 10 to 15 minutes or until reduced to 1/2 cup. Stir in cranberries, butter, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook just until cranberries pop, typically about 5 minutes.
When ready to bake:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut cooled sweet potatoes into 1-inch-thick slices and arrange in shallow 3-quart ceramic or glass baking dish, overlapping slices if necessary. Spoon maple-cranberry syrup evenly over potatoes and bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until hot.
Green Bean Cheddar Casserole
  • 3 lbs. green beans
  • 2 cups stale bread
  • 3 tbsp. olive oil
  • 3 green onions, sliced
  • 3 tbsp. cornstarch
  • 2 ½ cups milk
  • ¼ tsp. nutmeg
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
  • Salt & Pepper to taste

Bring a large saucepot of salted water to boil. Add green beans to the boiling water and cook for 2 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
In a food processor, pulse bread into coarse crumbs. Transfer to a bowl and add olive oil and sliced green onions. Toss to combine and set aside.
In a saucepan, whisk cornstarch and 1/2 cup milk until all cornstarch is dissolved. Add nutmeg and a little salt and pepper. Heat slowly over medium heat, and slowly whisk in remaining 2 cups of milk. Allow sauce to boil for 2 minutes, keep whisking! Reduce heat to low, and add in cheeses one handful at a time, waiting until cheese melts before adding the next handful. Once all cheese has been added and the sauce is smooth, remove from heat. Toss with green beans until well coated with sauce. Transfer mixture to a 3-quart baking dish until ready to bake.
When ready to bake:
Sprinkle reserved breadcrumb mixture over green beans. Bake at 375 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes or until breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Recipe Swaps:
·         To save time, purchase fresh green beans in a microwaveable bag and skip the boiling all together!
·         Use your favorite store-bought breadcrumbs to save additional time in lieu of making them yourself. Panko breadcrumbs are also an excellent substitution, adding even more crunch to the topping of this dish.


We hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving! All of us at Kemp Orthodontics are thankful for each and every patient we’ve had the pleasure of serving. Now, what are you going to make with all of the leftovers?


Thursday, November 9, 2017

Out With The Old & In With The New

With cold and flu season starting, germs seem to be lurking everywhere! While it’s difficult to avoid catching the office cold or flu bug, you can help keep your number one oral hygiene accessory in great shape simply by replacing your toothbrush regularly. Toothbrushes help keep your teeth and mouth clean, but how long should you a keep a toothbrush? It is recommended that you switch out that old toothbrush for a fresh new one every 3 to 4 months, and directly after any cold or flu. Replacing your toothbrush is essential since they are constantly exposed to germs and bacteria. If you notice the bristles of your toothbrush have become worn, that is a clear sign that you need a new toothbrush. People who wear braces will likely need to replace their toothbrushes frequently, as braces break down and fracture bristles which makes the toothbrush lose its effectiveness.

It's helpful to keep a pack of toothbrushes available in the house at all times for easy replacement. You may be thinking "my toothbrush is fine, I have it broken in just the way I like it”. While that might very well be true, did you know that your old toothbrush could actually be harming your mouth?

3 Reasons to Change Out Your Old Toothbrush
1.     Bacteria - Your toothbrush is a tool for removing bacteria from your teeth…but it doesn’t actually kill bacteria. Some of the bacteria from your teeth stay on your toothbrush after you are done brushing. This isn’t a problem initially, but imagine three to four months of bacteria build up on your toothbrush. That old bacteria ridden toothbrush is in your mouth at least twice a day…yuck!
2.     Bristles - Like any tool, a toothbrush wears down. Worn bristles are tough on your enamel and can wear it away over time. Not only that - an old, worn toothbrush can be up to 95 percent less effective at removing plaque.
3.     Illness - Always change your toothbrush after you’ve been sick, even if it’s not “technically” time to replace your toothbrush. Germs and bacteria in your mouth require you to brush twice a day, every day.

If you feel like changing your toothbrush every three months is wasteful, we’ve got a solution! Put that old toothbrush to work doing odd jobs around the house. Old toothbrushes are great for cleaning around facet fixtures and tackling tile grout. They can even be used to clean tools, computer keyboards, and tennis shoes! Make sure to mark your calendar as a reminder to replace your toothbrush at least every 3 to 4 months. If you need a few tips on keeping your smile in tip-top shape, make sure to ask at your next appointment with one of our knowledgeable staff members at Kemp Orthodontics. We’re here to help!

Thursday, October 19, 2017

Four Fall Flavorful Smoothies

With Fall in full swing and with it the hectic holidays just a step further down the road, we thought we’d put together a list of a few fall-themed smoothies that can serve as a great (and easy!) breakfast or after school snack.
Pumpkin Banana Smoothie
If you’re a pumpkin fan, this smoothie is for you! While pumpkin is a trendy item, especially this time of year, what you might not know is pumpkin has both fiber and protein which makes for a healthy and filling smoothie.
  • 2 tablespoons canned pure pumpkin
  • 5 tablespoons milk
  • 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 banana, frozen
  • ½ teaspoon honey
  • ⅛ teaspoon cinnamon
  • pinch of nutmeg
  • ¼ cup ice 

Helpful tip: If you’re finding that you have several over ripened bananas that you aren’t able to eat in time, toss them in a freezer bag! Frozen bananas are the perfect addition to smoothies and help make preparation even easier for those hectic weekday mornings. 

Cranberry, Pear, & Orange Smoothie
That’s quite a mouthful, and trust us, you’ll love this nutrient-packed smoothie!  It chocked full of filling fiber from the pear, Vitamin C from the orange, and antioxidants from the cranberries. If you’re using whole cranberries for the first time, this smoothie might be a bit tart! Add a bit of extra honey to tone down the tart zing.
  • ¾ cup cranberries (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 pear, core removed & chopped
  • 1 small orange
  • ½ cup low-fat plain yogurt (or Greek yogurt)
  • 1 teaspoon honey 
Feeling adventurous? Add in any of the items below to give this smoothie even MORE flavor!
  • A handful of fresh spinach
  • A frozen or fresh banana
  • A few frozen strawberries, blueberries, mango, or pineapple
  • 1 teaspoon of chia seeds


Caramel Apple Smoothie
This smoothie is a great alternative to the traditional sticky treat and delivers all of the delicious flavor! Smoothie staples Greek yogurt and almond milk add filling protein and frozen banana adds plenty of sweetness.
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1 frozen banana
  • ½ cup vanilla Greek yogurt
  • ½ cup applesauce
  • ¼  tsp caramel extract
  • Caramel sauce & cinnamon for topping


Recipe swap: This recipe is very adaptable - the trick is to use what you have! Experiment with different types of milk and yogurt. If you don’t have caramel extract on hand, add a bit of caramel sauce right to the blender! Many of the applesauce pouches that are so popular with kids come in fun flavors too. The options are endless, have some fun with it!


Green Monster Smoothie
When you are ready to move on from using spinach in your green smoothies, Swiss chard is a great next step. Swiss chard has a delicate flavor and softer leaves that blend well in most blenders. It is actually in the same family (amaranthaceae) as spinach and beets!
  • 2-3 cups Swiss chard, destemmed and roughly chopped
  • 2-3 ripe bananas, fresh or frozen
  • 1 tart green apple, chopped
  • 1 medium whole grapefruit, peeled and chopped
  • 1 cup white cranberry juice or water
  • 2 cups ice 
This recipe makes plenty, so freeze individual portions for those extra hectic mornings!


Friday, August 11, 2017

BACK TO SCHOOL WITH BRACES

Congratulations to all our patients who are starting a new school year this month. We hope this new year will be your best year yet.

Now that you are wearing braces and getting closer to showing off your beautiful new smile, you might want to think about some ways to give special attention to your appliances. We know that taking care of braces can add to a hectic lifestyle, so your Kemp Orthodontics team has created these quick tips that will make caring for your orthodontic braces a breeze while you’re in school.

1. WATCH WHAT YOU EAT

Of course, we think everyone should eat healthfully and maintain a healthy lifestyle. However, people who wear braces know it is important to choose foods that protect their orthodontic appliances. Crunchy and sticky foods may break a bracket or cause a wire to slip out of a bracket. If you choose crunchy foods like apples and carrots, be sure to cut them into tiny bites so you can protect your braces. Better still is to choose soft foods. The list of soft foods is so long – sandwiches, soups, casseroles, veggies, salads, and on. You’ll totally forget about those crunchy and sticky foods!

2. WEAR A MOUTH GUARD
Many people who play sports benefit from wearing a mouth guard while playing games and exercising. Mouth guards serve to protect their wearers from flying pucks and balls, swinging elbows, and accidental hits and falls. For people who wear braces on their teeth, wearing a mouth guard is an absolute necessity. We at Kemp Orthodontics suggest that every time our patients participate in physical activities and games (including gym classes) they wear a mouth guard. And you never know which of your favorite athletes just may be in the chair next to you at Kemp Orthodontics getting his or her own new mouth guard!

3. BRUSH AND FLOSS REGULARLY
Braces sometimes trap food while you are eating. It is very important to brush your teeth after every meal, even that yummy school lunch, and to floss at least once a day. After all, no one wants to have broccoli stuck in his or her front teeth!

4. DON'T CHEW ON PENCILS

Just don’t do it. Yuk!

August is an exciting time of year – a time for new beginnings, like starting your journey to your most beautiful smile. Come on over to Kemp Orthodontics and let us share with you a glimpse of the smile that waits to be revealed in you. Call 615.790.7027 for your free new patient evaluation.

Tuesday, July 18, 2017

Differences Between Clarity Advanced Braces & Invisalign

Clarity Advanced braces and Invisalign are two treatments with the same mission, to make orthodontic treatment more difficult to detect than traditional metal braces. Many patients of Kemp Orthodontics seek our help to straighten their smiles, but want to make a less noticeable statement while they commit to a healthier, straighter smile. Both Clarity Advanced Braces and Invisalign treatments can provide this solution for many patients.

While the two treatments have the same mission, there are stark differences between them.

Invisalign can be removed: Like traditional braces, ceramic braces can make brushing and flossing teeth more difficult, as well as eating. Invisalign can be easily removed for both of these necessities, keeping your mouth healthy throughout the entire treatment process.

Removable aligners do have their perks, however this does result in one downside of Invisalign, and it takes discipline. You must remove the aligner trays when you are eating or drinking. Other than that, as well as brushing and flossing, the aligners must be worn for at least 22 hours per day.

Invisalign is more transparent: One of the most favorite things about Invisalign is its virtual transparency. Most people don’t notice someone is wearing Invisalign until they are told.

While ceramic braces blend into the patient’s teeth, the brackets are more noticeable than Invisalign’s transparent retainer.

Adjustment time is different:
For Invisalign, trays must be changed every two weeks, compared to four weeks for adjustments with ceramic braces.

Ceramic braces can treat more extensive cases: 
Invisalign has been developed to treat a wide variety of cases, provided they aren’t extremely severe. Here are the common cases that Invisalign can treat:
  • Crowded (crooked) teeth 
  • Gapped teeth 
  • Overbite, underbite and open bite 
The only difference between metal and ceramic braces is the material used for the bonding brackets. Therefore, ceramic braces can treat many of the same cases, including more severe cases that Invisalign cannot handle. Here are some additional issues that clear braces can treat:
  • Crossbites 
  • Malocclusions 
  • Very crooked teeth 
  • Various other flaws of teeth and the jaw 
Straightening your teeth to improve your oral health and smile is a big step for many patients at Kemp Orthodontics. If you need help deciding whether Clarity Advanced Braces or Invisalign makes more sense for you or your child, consult Dr. Kemp or Dr. Rice at our Brentwood or Franklin locations. Give us a call to schedule a complimentary exam today, or click here to schedule online.






Wednesday, June 28, 2017

Healthy Summer Snack Recipe

At Kemp Orthodontics we believe nutrition and a healthy smile go hand in hand. Summer often means snacking and eating on the go, so Kemp Orthodontics is here to help you keep your snack choices healthy this summer with braces-friendly healthy summer snack recipes.

Since you want to avoid sticky sweets and sugary beverages, we will provide you with some snack choices that are a great fit for orthodontic patients and promote overall wellness and health. All summer long check here for healthy new summer snack recipes.


Frozen Fruit Pops

Fresh fruit with a splash of juice makes a fresh and healthy snack. Use whatever fruit your heart desires. A perfect summer treat!

Ingredients:
  • 1/3 cup diced kiwi
  • 1/3 cup diced watermelon
  • 1/3 cup diced strawberries
  • 1/3 cup diced pineapple
  • 1/4 cup fresh pineapple juice or orange juice
Directions:
  1. Combine diced fruit in a bowl and fill each 5 oz cup with fruit. 
  2. Add 1 tbsp of juice and insert craft sticks into each cup. They easily stay in place because of all the fruit. 
  3. Place in the freezer a few hours until firm. To remove the pops from the cups, run under warm water a few seconds. Enjoy!



Thursday, June 1, 2017

A Consultation That Can Change Your Life

At Kemp Orthodontics, our number one goal is to give our patients beautiful, healthy smiles that will last a lifetime. Since one of the first things people notice about others is their smiles, the Kemp Orthodontics team is committed to helping all our neighbors in Middle Tennessee achieve those beautiful smiles they’ve always wanted. With the coming of summer, now is the perfect time to schedule your initial consultation at Kemp Orthodontics and see the positive change you can receive with orthodontic treatment.

Did you know orthodontic treatment is not just for cosmetic purposes?
Straight teeth aren’t just pretty, they’re healthy, too. Teeth that are properly aligned are easier to clean, thereby reducing the risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease. Having a good healthy bite alignment not only makes it easier to eat and speak but also will enhance your dental and overall health as well.

With locations in Brentwood and Franklin, Tennessee, our practice’s top priority is to provide you with the highest quality orthodontic care. We utilize the latest technological advances in the industry, such as Clarity Advanced Braces and Invisalign, along with the latest in computer technology to ensure that you receive the most effective care possible. We recognize that every patient has different needs, so Dr. Kemp and Dr. Rice work to provide unique treatment plans for every patient’s needs. Whether you're an adult, adolescent, or child, our knowledgeable doctors and staff are committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve. Give us a call at our convenient Brentwood or Franklin locations to schedule your consultation today!

Wednesday, May 3, 2017

Top 10 Invisalign Tips

  • Wear your aligners for a minimum of 2 weeks, before moving into the next aligner. 
  • Sharp or rough edges can be smoothed with an emery board. 
  • Change into your next aligner before going to bed so they settle in overnight. 
  • Keep your aligners in their case while eating to avoid losing them. Keep the out of reach of any household pets, especially dogs! 
  • If you need to, you can soak your Invisalign aligners in a mix of 50/50 white vinegar and cold water to brighten them. 
  • Wear your aligners for at least 20 hours a day. 
  • Always carry a toothbrush. 
  • Only drink water when you're wearing your aligners. 
  • Don't put your aligners in hot water. 
  • Don't use toothpaste to clean your aligners. 
If you have any further questions about Invisalign please don’t hesitate to call us at our convenient Brentwood or Franklin practice.



Tuesday, April 18, 2017

Play It Safe This Spring

Now that spring break has passed, many of our patients are ready to begin the spring sports season. Because many of our patients are active athletes in the middle Tennessee area, the time is perfect for Kemp Orthodontics to remind everyone that April has been designated as National Facial Protection month and to encourage everyone to observe spring sports safety. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or parent, everyone needs to play it safe during organized sports to help prevent serious facial injuries.

Here are 4 pieces of equipment you can add to your sports bag to stay safe during the sports season.

1. A mouth guard can protect your smile. A mouth guard is less expensive than an injury, and it is not painful to your mouth or wallet. Keep your smile safe and prevent your orthodontic appliances from injury by habitually wearing a mouth guard during sports.

2. A helmet can protect your head and neck. Helmets can prevent damage to the head and neck, so be sure to wear one when it is needed.

3. Protective eyewear can make a difference. Keep your 20/20 vision with sports eyewear that will keep your vision clear and your game at its best.

4. Face shields can protect you from trauma. If you are a hockey, football, or baseball player, face shields can prevent severe damage to your face.

These accessories are important additions to your sports experiences. This equipment can prevent impact and damage to your head and mouth while not interfering with your MVP skills on the field. Since accidents can occur at any time, be sure you’re wearing the proper safety equipment during practices as well as competitive games. If you are interested in purchasing a mouth guard, we have specialized mouth guards available in our office that are designed to fit comfortably over your braces. Contact us at our Brentwood or Franklin location to order yours today at the low cost of $10.00.

If you have any further questions on how to prevent a head or neck injury, don’t hesitate to ask Dr. Kemp, Dr. Rice, or any of the Kemp Orthodontics staff members for more information.

Thursday, April 6, 2017

Spring Is In The Air!

Spring is in the air! As the flower buds are peeking out and birds are starting to chirp, it's time to leave those thoughts of snow days behind. Spring can be a wonderful time to explore the outdoors, and the members of Kemp Orthodontics are all excited about the fun spring activities that call them outdoors. Spring is the time to get your family moving together and establish some healthy habits to get away from the electronic environment of the indoors. We have 5 fun ideas to get you in the mood for the loveliest season of the year.

1. Dust off the sports gear. Find a kick a ball, throw a Frisbee, shoot hoops, whatever sports activity that you and your family enjoy doing.

2. Get dirty in the yard. Mow the grass. Pull weeds. Till flower beds. Replant. Cut back. Find the fun in getting sweaty, and teach your kids how to manage the landscaping while you do it.

3. Explore the outdoors. Hike a trail and check out the plants budding out of the ground.

4. Go to a baseball game. The beginning baseball season is one of the annual markers that warm weather is just around the corner. If you don't have it in your budget for pricey pro tickets, look into local league games, college games, or even high school games to watch.

5. Make Something. Whether you're experimenting with a new recipe or creating a new craft, making something new will give your kids a sense of satisfaction.

After being cooped up all winter, everyone's ready for some fresh Spring air. We hope you will step into the warm weather with these suggestions of fun activities for the entire family. Post your Spring into Spring photos on our Kemp Orthodontics Facebook page to show how you are enjoying this beautiful Spring. Tag us by using #KempOrthodontics on social media, or click here to post your photos on our Facebook wall. And, of course, if one of your Spring motivations is to work on your beautiful smile, please give the Kemp Orthodontics team a call to schedule your consultation appointment at one of our convenient offices in Brentwood and Franklin.

Thursday, March 30, 2017

NUTELLA MOUSE | Braces-Friendly Recipe

This 3 ingredient dessert will win you over immediately. Nutella Mousse is a quick, easy, and delicious dessert!

Ingredients
  • 3 cups heavy cream
  • ⅓ cup sugar
  • 1 cup Nutella
Instructions
  1. Pour heavy whipping cream into the bowl of a stand mixer or a large mixing bowl. Pour in sugar. Use a hand mixer, or the whisk attachment on a stand mixer, to whip cream until stiff peaks form.
  2. Scoop the nutella into the bowl. Fold it together using a rubber spatula until all of the whipped cream is brown and loses its streaks.
  3. Scoop into serving dishes, or use a piping bag if you are being fancy.
  4. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Yield: about 4 cups





Your Franklin and Brentwood orthodontists Dr. Kemp and Dr. Rice encourage you to share your braces-friendly recipes! Click here to post your favorite recipe on our facebook wall! 

Thursday, March 16, 2017

So You’re Ready to Have a Beautiful Smile

How many times have you looked at your smile and wished it reflected the real you? Perhaps now you are ready to make a commitment to talk with Dr. Kemp and Dr. Rice at Kemp Orthodontics to understand how you can have that really beautiful smile. But, maybe you have a few butterflies that keep you from making the call to Kemp Orthodontics. Don’t worry about those flutters. It’s completely normal to feel a bit apprehensive when you first consider going to an orthodontist. Whether your dentist has advised you to seek care from Kemp Orthodontics, or you’ve decided to do so on your own, you can quell those little nervous tinges by doing a few easy tasks.

The first thing you can do to prepare for your initial exam is to learn more about orthodontics and understand your options. There are so many options for patients who want braces today. Orthodontic care is much more versatile than it was in the past. Start by visiting our website and familiarizing yourself with the options for treatment we offer at Kemp Orthodontics and how these options may work for you. Our website offers you a chance to get to know our doctors and our team members ahead of your visit so you will be assured you are at the best orthodontic office for your treatment.

Questions To Ask At Your Initial Exam
Orthodontic treatment may be a new adventure for you with its own unique medical vocabulary. Be sure to ask Dr. Kemp or Dr. Rice any questions you have, knowing our team is here to help you. In fact, you can feel better about your experience knowing that most new patients have similar questions. Here is a list of questions many patients ask at their initial exam:
  • Is there an estimated length of time that I will likely have to wear braces
  • How much should I expect to pay for my treatment? What are the payment options? 
  • Will braces prevent me from playing my favorite sport or musical instrument? 
  • How can I keep my teeth clean with braces? 
  • How often will I be expected to come in for checkups and other appointments? 
  • Are there specific foods I will need to avoid when I get braces? 
If any other questions arise during or after your exam, don’t be afraid to ask. The Kemp Orthodontics team is here to help you achieve your most beautiful smiles from your first telephone call and throughout your treatment.

Thursday, February 16, 2017

Do You Know When To Schedule Your Next Appointment?

It's hard to believe that our Spring Break is just a month away, and the end of our current school year is coming up just as fast. At Kemp Orthodontics, we suggest that our patients make their future appointments at least two months ahead for their greatest scheduling convenience. For new patients, this news may come as a surprise. But summertime appointments are the perfect time to get your braces placed and get started on the path to your perfect smile. Now is the time to think about making your summer appointments at Kemp Orthodontics so you get your perfect spot.

Tuesday, January 31, 2017

Super Bowl Snacks Safe For Braces

Super Bowl LI is just around the corner and there is more to be excited for than just the big game. Almost all of us have 4 things on our mind when it comes to the Super Bowl: the game, new commercials, the half-time show, and the food! Just because you have braces, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy all the yummy game food you will be surrounded by. We understand chicken wings and popcorn may not be the best choices, but there are so many other treats you can indulge in as you enjoy the action. The staff at Kemp Orthodontics compiled a list of their favorite braces-friendly super bowl treats just for you!



These are just a few of our favorite braces friendly Super Bowl food options. Get creative and find ways to take your off limit treats and recreate them into braces approved eats!

Thursday, January 19, 2017

Deciding Between Types Of Floss

How are you doing with your New Year’s Resolution? Many of our Kemp Orthodontics patients made a commitment in 2017 to improve their oral hygiene so their smiles will be radiant when their braces are removed. We live in a time when we have a vast assortment of tools to keep our smiles healthy. From toothbrushes to toothpastes to water flossers to basic dental floss, the choices open to us are many. If you are one of our Kemp Orthodontics patients who committed to improve your flossing skills, then you know you have lots of options that all give you a healthy smile. The choice is completely dependent on your preference. You can choose from an assortment of flavors, coatings, and other variations. Essentially, they all do the same thing. The most important thing to remember is to buy the most functional floss for your teeth and to use it daily. If you want to know what the best dental floss is, then the answer is -- the kind that enables you to clean the areas between your teeth thoroughly and regularly. To help you find the right type of floss for you, here are some options.

Flossers
Flossers usually consist of a plastic instrument with a floss strip on one end and a pick on the opposite end. Flossers can be both effective at cleaning the areas in between your teeth as well as scraping off plaque. Flossers also come in flavors like mint or cinnamon. Lots of Kemp Orthodontics patients love their flossers.

Gentle Dental Floss
Some people find that standard dental floss is too harsh on their gums. For that reason, some companies make floss with soft coatings that are less abrasive on the gums. Typically, these types of floss are just as effective as the more rigid floss and are ideal for those people looking for a more sensitive approach to flossing.

Flavored Dental Floss
Most people buy flavored dental floss because it freshens their breath even more than unscented floss. The unscented floss can sometimes take on the smells associated with the bacteria in your mouth, which can sometimes be pretty stinky. So, pick your favorite flavor of dental floss and use it to floss your teeth every day.

When it comes to choosing the best dental floss, it is hard to make a bad choice. Pick the gentle minty floss or the unwaxed cinnamon floss. Just pick it and use it every day. All the team at Kemp Orthodontics, including Dr. Kemp and Dr. Rice, say that the best floss is the one you will use regularly. For more information on floss or flossing with braces, contact Kemp Orthodontics located in Brentwood and Franklin, TN.