One in two teens believe that by wearing metal braces, they are more self conscious when smiling, and have a lower self esteem.

This information was found in a 2009 national survey by Align Technology, the makers of Invisalign and Invisalign Teen. The takeaway? Invisalign gives teens (and parents) a choice for a clear, invisible alternative to straighter teeth. The study found that more than half of the surveyed teens believed they are more self-conscious with metal braces, while also smiling less. At an age when image is so important, the thought of having metal brackets and wires constantly attached to teeth may intensify the already-delicate confidence of today’s teens. But… not to worry! We are pleased to offer Invisalign and new Invisalign Teen at Newhart Orthodontics. Give us a call to set up a consultation for your teen to learn more!

In the meantime, check out the Invisalign Teen article on our website.

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, there are orthodontic services that can help you. Look for a dental office which offers 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!

Think you can make someone smile in 30 seconds or less? Then check out Invisalign Teen’s “Make Me Smile” Challenge! Here’s how it works:

Each month, a new challenge will be issued on the Make Me Smile Challenge web site. It is up to you to record a video response to the challenge, and upload it on the site. Videos can only be 30 seconds long, but you can enter as many times as you wish!

There are three challenges total, and the first has nearly ended! At the end of each round, a judge will chose a winner to receive an Apple iPad, and the grand prize– a $5,000 shopping spree on Rodeo Drive. Wow!

We’ve included the contest dates below, but be sure to check out Invisalign Teen’s web site for more information, and GOOD LUCK!

Challenge 1: August 17 – September 13, 2010
Challenge 2: September 14 – October 1, 2010
Challenge 3: October 12 – November 9, 2010

Some people wonder why Los Angeles area orthodontist Dr. Scott Newhart and our team work tirelessly to give our patients straight teeth. Of course it’s nice to have a smile full of evenly aligned teeth, but did you know that straightening your teeth at Newhart Orthodontics can keep them healthier? Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime!
Straight teeth are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque—the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to tooth decay; and they are easier to keep clean!

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, please give us a call to set up a consultation. Dr. Newhart can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.