Thanks for your comments

Strathcona Orthodontics provides a number of avenues for our patients and former patients to connect and give us feedback.  For the last 2 years we have been following patients by sending them a survey by email link at 3 time points: at the initial exam, at about mid-treatment, and when the braces are removed and retention begins.  These surveys have been extremely valuable to our office in identifying and improving processes and responding to cares and concerns.  It has also shone a light on what definately doesn't need changing. It has been an overwhelmingly positive outlet for communication.

Our Facebook page is popular especially with the younger crowd.  It is a way to keep that immediate connection to our patients, hear their feedback, and to also keep our patients and the greater community aware of what Strathcona Orthodontics is up to.  It is a fast and fun way to keep in touch.

Another way we keep in touch is with a 'comment box' that is located in our lobby.  There are comment cards easily available to leave us a quick note and this has proved to be a fast, easy and immediate method of communication.  Below are some of the comments we have received from our comment box:

I love your fish. From Dixie

I love this place!  The staff is really nice & I got my teeth straight in no time.

I like the fish tank and I really like the purple fish.  And I like the puffer up fish.  He was really cool.  Thank you.  From Carys

Very efficient

All it means to me is now pain, but the staff are nice!

Thank you for the wonderful experience.  Such kind caring staff.  Keep smiling.  I wish every place of business had employee(s) like all of you :)

I like the new changes. From Miranda

I like the fish tank and the job you guys do.

I would like to thank Dr. Carlyle and the Staff for the continued great service and personal treatment we receive.  It has been a great 3 years so far and we are looking forward to more with our youngest daughter.  Again thank you.

We also survey dentists and dental specialists in our community and surrounding area.  We find out information that helps us work more efficiently and effectively to enhance patient care.  In the last survey there were questions and feedback on everything from technology in the office to our patient care.

At Strathcona Orthodontics it's all about our patients, how we can improve and keep growing our skills to anticipate patient needs.  We welcome any and all comments and feedback. It is our opportunity to learn, grow and provide the very best for our patients!

Certified Orthodontist Is Your Best Choice

With so much choice out there, it's no wonder that people can be unsure about who to see for their orthodontic needs.  At Strathcona Orthodontics we believe that a Certified Orthodontic Specialist is your best option by far.

Certified Orthodontic Specialists have their degree in dentistry, as well have trained an additional 2 to 3 years at university to receive their specialization in orthodontics.   Most orthodontists ONLY do orthodontics, and provide a needed focus and committement to patients orthodontic and oral health well being.  Certified orthodontic specialists like our doctor, Terry Carlyle, take many hours of continuing education accreditation each year to stay current with new technology and emerging trends.

Certified Orthodontic Specialists work closely with other specialists such oral surgeons, prosthodontists, endodontists, ear - nose & throat specialists, and speech therapists.  Orthodontists also keep in close contact with the patient's dentist to ensure a continuum of care during treatment.

At Strathcona Orthodontics: 'Orthodontics is our passion and patients are our priority!'

BRACES AND ADULTS, ARE THEY AN OPTION FOR YOU?

As an adult, have you ever wondered about getting braces?  Has it been a life long question, or did you have braces as a child or teen but the results didn't last?  Do you question whether other people have to chew on only one side of their mouth, or if that space between your teeth was really important enough to close? These questions and many more are presented to us every day at Strathcona Orthodontics.  There is no one answer for everyone as each person's situation is unique. But, when you are searching for answers be sure that you are looking at the most current technology available from a Certified Orthodontic Specialist.

One thing you should know is that orthodontic technology has changed considerably over the years.   With technology that is available today including Damon Braces, Invisalign and Invisalign Teen, there is no longer the need for outdated head gear and unnecessary tooth extractions. By using this current technology patients can expect braces that are more comfortable to wear, shorter treatment time and modern, comfortable retention appliances.

For non growing patients who require only mild to moderate orthodontic correction one option may be Invisalign or Invisalign Teen.  These are a series of clear removeable aligners that gradually move your teeth into place.  You just need to book an initial examiniation to see if you are eligible for this amazing technology.

If you require a more classic approach to orthodontics, then consider seeking out an office that uses Damon Braces, which we at Strathcona Orthodontics consider the most up to date and preeminent technology available.  Damon Braces reduce the need for removal of healthy teeth (extractions) and bulky outdated head gear.  These low-profile braces are more comfortable than conventional braces and deliver faster treatment time with fewer visits to the orthodontist. Through the latest technologies, Damon Braces ensure that through more gentle tooth movement you get the smile you have been dreaming of!  For more information on the Damon Difference™ just click on this link: www.damonbraces.com/qo2.php. 

At Strathcona Orthodontics, our doctor is a Certified Orthodontic Specialist, a Certified Damon Specialist and a Qualified Invisalign Provider.  We'd be delighted to chat with you about any of these amazing technologies and how they could help you achieve a wonderful, functional smile.

SPRING BREAK

Hurray! Spring break is finally here. If you aren't skiing or in a sunny southern spot, here are some fabulous spring break activities right here in Edmonton!

For young and old alike, there is the world famous Telus World of Science. Star gaze at the Margaret Ziegler Theatre or see what's playing at the IMAX Theatre. There are also daily Science Demonstrations. There is also so much to do and see at the Royal Alberta Museum during spring break. They are showing daily movies, puppet theatre, crafts and so much more! Why not visit our new Art Gallery of Alberta, check out their website to see the family programs available. While it is so beautiful outside, try to get out for a family walk or bike ride in our beautiful Edmonton River Valley.

It is easy to get out of the routine of brushing & flossing during a change in your schedule. If you are out and about try putting a toothbrush, paste and some floss in your backpack (use the Strathcona Orthodontics oral hygiene bag you received when you 1st got your braces on). It's even more important to be aware of foods that might loosen or remove a bracket while you are on the go. Choose your foods just as you would at home to avoid loose wires or broken brackets. Most of all remember to have a fun, safe & healthy spring break!

Braces Friendly Recipe, Easy Lemon Cake from Kraft Kitchens

Easy Lemon Cake
Prep Time: 20 min
Total Time: 1 hr 25 min
Makes: 16 PIECES

What You Need!
1 pkg. (2-layer size) lemon cake mix
2 pkg. (4-serving size each) Jell-O Lemon Instant Pudding
1-1/2 cups cold milk
3 cups thawed Cool Whip Whipped Topping

Make It!
PREPARE and bake cake mix as directed on package for 2 (8- or 9-inch) round cake layers. Cool completely. BEAT milk and pudding mixes with whisk 2 min. Immediately spread over tops of cake layers. STACK cake layers. Frost with Cool Whip. Keep refrigerated.

Kraft Kitchens Tips
Garnish cake with lemon slices and fresh mint leaves.
Variation
Bake cake in 13x9-inch pan; cool. Spread with pudding mixture, then Cool Whip.

A Health Drink for your Teeth by RealAge

A Health Drink for Your Teeth
By RealAge©

"Search Which is better for your teeth -- orange juice or tea?"

"Turns out that OJ ranks right up there with soda in terms of its enamel-damaging potential. But tea's effect on teeth is like water's: It leaves enamel unscathed."

"Guard Your Teeth"
"Think of enamel as armor for your teeth. Once that armor gets worn down or damaged, it can't repair itself. That's why acidic beverages -- soda, citrus juice, sports drinks -- are so bad for your pearly whites: They contain enamel-stripping acids (phosphoric, citric, malic, and tartaric acids, to name a few). But green and black teas don't attack enamel, and they even have a bit of tooth-friendly fluoride to boot."...

"Drinks That Do No Wrong"
"Save wear and tear on your teeth with these other smart sipping strategies:
Use a straw with acidic beverages. This minimizes contact with your teeth. Or swish your mouth with water afterward.
Drink brewed tea -- and drink it straight up. If you load it up with sugar and lemon, your teeth will feel it. You might want to skip the milk, too.
Snack on natural stain removers, like apples, celery, and carrots. Here's a sweet treat that may actually be good for teeth." Strathcona Orthodontics reminds our patients to always cut up fruit and vegetable into small bites and be very careful when eating carrots, it is easy for a bracket to come loose or pop off when chewing carrots! Refer to our 'Eating with braces' link for more ideas of what foods to eat & avoid while you have braces on.

"Get the YOU Docs' advice on how to take care of your smile. Watch this video."

"RealAge Benefit:
Flossing and brushing your teeth daily can make your RealAge as much as 6.4 years younger."

References Published on 02/19/2009 Topographic and radiographic profile assessment of dental erosion. Part III: Effect of green and black tea on human dentition. Bassiouny, M. A. et al., General Dentistry 2008 Jul-Aug;56(5):451-461; quiz 462-463, 495-496.

How we Create a Beautiful Smile for You!

Creating a beautiful smile at Strathcona Orthodontics means more to us than just good looks. It means total care, including the latest in technical expertise, patient care and technology. We use state of the art braces and clear aligners to ensure a balanced and comfortable bite, maximize opportunities for continued dental hygiene, and create the confidence you seek in your new look. Each team member at Strathcona Orthodontics is committed to patient care: your care. Our group of professionals care about each patient and are dedicated to achieving the best result possible for you in a comfortable and friendly environment.


At Strathcona Orthodontics we use Damon Brackets which are proven to provide great results. These braces use 'reduced friction' which means gentler tooth movement. They eliminate the need for head gear and reduces the instance of tooth extractions. Damon Brackets also reduce the time patients wear braces, helping you achieve your goals sooner.

We also offer the Invisalign system, a series of clear aligners that carefully move your teeth over time to achieve that beautiful smile. Invisalign is an alternative for non-growing individuals who seek minimal tooth movement.

Come in and talk to us about how we can help you achieve your dream of a beautiful smile.

Eating with braces - the do's & dont's!

Sometimes it can be a challenge to stay on track with suitable foods when you have braces on. We will be posting an on-going blog at Strathcona Orthodontics with our favorite 'braces friendly' recipes. First we have a few tips from the pros!

When you first get your braces on, your teeth and gums are going to be a little tender. Remember during this time that ice cream can be considered a food group, just so long as you are getting enough good nutrition from other sources. In addition to your daily ice cream habit be sure to try milk shakes, yogurt, soup, pudding, mashed potatoes, mac & cheese and pasta, apple sauce, and eggs. Booster Juice is also a great choice for a snack or meal with their fabulous assortment of delicious smoothies! You can be sure that in a very short time you will be eating more normally again.

Check out our section on Eating with Braces that will guide you through foods to avoid while you have your braces on. Some of the main culprits for breaking a bracket (braces) and winding you back up into the office for extra appointment are biting into hard candy, ice cubes, and popcorn kernels (we even see people who have a pen biting habit that aren't aware of it until a bracet pops loose!). Foods like raw fruits and vegetables, and pizza crust all need to be cut into small pieces to avoid an extra visit to the orthodontist. For all you carnivores out there, make sure you cut the meat off the bone and into small pieces before you dig in. And, stay completely away from nuts and beef jerky!

Coming up in the next Strathcona Orthodontics Blog: RECIPES FOR SUCCESS!

Introducing Strathcona Orthodontics - Creating Beautiful Smiles!

A little bit about us...Strathcona Orthodontics is located in Edmonton Alberta Canada in the heart of 'Old Strathcona', Edmonton's theatre, arts & festival district. Dr. Terry Carlyle D.D.S., M.Sc., F.R.C.D.C. has practiced orthodontics since 1977. His exceptional knowledge and skill, and his kind and generous personality has endeared him to patients and professionals alike! At Strathcona Orthodontics we are experts at creating beautiful smiles. We use state of the art Damon braces that use less friction and provide quicker & gentler tooth movement, and we are Invisalign Premier providers (clear removeable aligners).

Our office was built with our patients and our environment in mind. From an X-box video waiting area for the kids to a larger than life aquarium, we have put every effort into providing our patients and their families with a comfortable and friendly atmosphere. We also used a variety of sustainable material such as bamboo, and recycled rubber flooring to lessen our carbon footprint. We are leading the way in Edmonton to becoming as paperless as possible with electronic patient charts and a number of other systems designed to lessen our impact on the environment.

At Strathcona Orthodontics, our focus is on patient care and with that in mind we have state of the art equipment including ICat Digital Imaging. This system emits less radiation and gives us the ability to see many views from a single x-ray. We are able to immediately assess jaw joint position, tooth crowding, airway, sinuses and much much more!

This is just a tidbit of information on our practice. We are looking forward to sharing more about our practice and posting blogs on current orthodontic topics. Stay tuned!