More On Damon Braces

Damon braces are a unique type of self-ligating braces that allow you to eliminate the rubber bands that cause so much trouble for traditional braces wearers. These braces use a steady pattern of pressure to correct your teeth, and they can shift your teeth more rapidly than traditional braces can.

The unique design of Damon braces helps to reduce the buildup of food particles and debris that can tend to get lodged in the brackets of traditional metal braces. Thus, eating with Damon braces can actually be easier because your cleaning job is simpler.

There are several different foods that you might want to focus on during your early days with Damon Smile braces. The most important thing to remember is that you need to focus on soft foods and non-chewy foods immediately after you get your Damon braces. Remember to chew carefully and evenly as you start to adjust to your new braces.

As you become comfortable with the braces, consider gradually re-introducing the crunchier and harder foods that you usually enjoy. Most Damon braces patients are able to eat virtually anything that they usually can, as long as caution is used. However, particularly chewy foods, for example taffy, are something that you might want to avoid in general.

Some Damon braces patients tell us that they are successful in eating all the same foods they did prior to braces! Overall, you can expect a very smooth transition into wearing Damon braces, and you will be able to enjoy remarkably fast smile correction at the same time.

If you are curious about Damon braces or if you have specific questions about how they can help you, please feel free to contact Lenz Orthodontics at our Racine or Waterford offices anytime!

New Easy Soft Pretzel Recipe

INGREDIENTS

• 1 package (1/4 oz.) active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110° to 115°)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 4 to 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 8 cups water
• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon cold water
• Coarse salt, optional

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the sugar, butter, salt and 2 cups flour. Beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough (dough will be sticky).
2. Turn dough onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
3. In a large saucepan, bring 8 cups water and baking soda to a boil. Punch dough down; divide into 12 portions. Roll each into a log and then make into a regular pretzel shape. Add to boiling water, a few at a time, for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon; drain on paper towels.
4. Place on greased baking sheets. Lightly beat egg yolk and cold water; brush over pretzels. Sprinkle with the salt. Bake 425° for 9-11 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pans to wire racks. 

Are You Ready For An Amazing Smile?

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 Lenz 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.

Orthodontic treatment may be a new adventure for you with its own unique medical vocabulary. Be sure to ask Dr. Lenz 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 consultation:

• 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 consultation, don’t be afraid to ask. The Lenz Orthodontics team is here to help you achieve your most beautiful smiles from your first telephone call and throughout your treatment.

Are You Feeling Lucky? | MARCH CONTEST ALERT

Here are all the details on our March contest! #LenzOrthodontics

Head to www.mlenzortho.com to enter now!