What is your New Year’s Resolution?

Many folks in consider the beginning of a new year a time to not only reflect on the year that was, but also to set personal goals for the upcoming year. How are you planning to improve your health and happiness in 2012? Our team recommends that you make a New Year’s resolution to benefit your oral health!

It is important that New Year’s resolutions are reasonable and attainable, and that they improve your overall quality of life—for example, did you know that flossing every day is the very best way to prevent periodontal, or gum disease? Using a straw when drinking sugary beverages can also help prevent cavities. There are many small steps that you can take to prevent cavities, oral infections and bad breath.

Be sure to give us a call if you need a few suggestions on ways to improve your oral health. After all, we know your oral health is about more than just a beautiful smile.

Happy New Year!

-Your friends at Icon Orthodontics

Icon Orthodontics wishes you happy holidays!

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as our team at Icon Orthodontics reflects on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What do you love about the holidays this year? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for 2012? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year?

We’d love if you shared with us all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

Beware of those Holiday goodies!

At Icon Orthodontics, we know maintaining a healthy diet over the holiday season can prove a difficult task. After all, who can resist the tasty treats of the holidays? With grandma and everybody else offering you candy, chocolate logs or Christmas pudding, you just can’t say “I’ll pass” each time. But trouble lurks: every time you chow down on that chocolate or candy, the bacteria in your mouth have a feast on the sugar—at your expense. The sugar turns into acid, and the acid eats away at the enamel on your teeth and between your braces. Then, you start getting cavities.

Instead, try pumpkin pie, marvelous molasses cookies, wonderful waffles or other braces-friendly recipes, courtesy of the American Association of Orthodontics, or AAO, and “The Braces Cookbook” by Pamela Waterman.

If you must indulge in chocolaty goodness this Christmas or holiday season, remember to brush your teeth after eating sugary treats. Hope this helps! Give our Calgary office a call if you have any questions!

Happy Holidays!

Share your winter break plans with us!

Dr. Corey Low and our team at Icon Orthodontics want to know: what do your winter plans look like? Do you have any plans for an exciting family vacation? Are you hanging out around town? Catching up on sleep? Spending time with friends? Let us know!

Please feel free to share your exciting winter plans and experiences with us here or on our Facebook page! We would like to wish all of our patients and their families a safe and fun holiday season!

Do we have your current contact info?

As you probably know, you can always connect with Dr. Low and our team on our Facebook page, but we also encourage you to call us and let us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed!

Please contact our office with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so we may be able to reach you. Thank you!

Ask Dr. Low: Is Invisalign® really customized for each patient?

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work, says Dr. Corey Low. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. The best thing about it all? Nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Low is a certified Invisalign provider. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, please give our Calgary office a call.

I got my braces. Now what?

We love when patients ask us that question! Now that you’re wearing braces, it’s just as important to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen as you did before prior to your orthodontic treatment.

Braces are known to trap food particles and make it difficult to brush or remove plaque, which is why Dr. Corey Low and our team at Icon Orthodontics recommend that you brush and floss after every meal. We also encourage you to use a proxabrush to help with the smaller areas where your toothbrush doesn’t reach. We encourage the use of fluoride rinse as well; just ask us for a recommendation!

When your braces are initially placed, your teeth are likely to be very sensitive. You may experience discomfort for up to 3 or 5 days, which is why we encourage you to eat soft foods during that time. Remember, the less pressure you put on your teeth, the less discomfort you will have.

You may also be thinking, “Okay, so what can I eat?” We would encourage you to avoid eating sticky, hard, crunchy or chewy snacks that can stick to your teeth.

Dr. Low and team will tell you it’s crucial to regularly check your braces for bent or loose wires and brackets. In the event of a loose/broken wire or bracket, please call our Calgary office immediately to schedule an appointment for repair.

Lastly, in addition to visiting Icon Orthodontics during your orthodontic treatment for adjustments, you should visit your dentist for professional check-ups and teeth cleaning appointments about every six months, or as recommended by your dentist.

Questions? Please let us know below or on our Facebook page. You may also give us a call!

Are you wearing your mouth guard?

With fall sports close to wrapping up and winter sports right around the corner, many patients here at Icon Orthodontics will once again pick up the ball, bring the cleats out of seasonal retirement and hit the fields for the return of sports action! During this time, however, Dr. Corey Low and our team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this fall and winter, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as basketball, wrestling and hockey
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps! Dr. Low and team will tell you protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact our office or ask us on Facebook. Stay safe!

Happy November from Icon Orthodontics!

Happy November, everybody! Before we forget about the spooky month that was, we’d like to know how you celebrated Halloween! What did you wear? How much candy did you get? Did you have fun?

If you have any photos or videos that you would like to share with us, please send them our way or feel free to post them on our Facebook page!

We hope you all had a happy and safe Halloween! Also, what are you up to this month? Anything exciting happening in your life? If so, we’d love to hear all about it!

Lastly, have you been in for a dental checkup lately? It’s important that you see your general dentist, as well as visiting Dr. Corey Low while you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. If you have questions about your orthodontic treatment or just want some general information, give our Calgary office a call or ask us during your next visit!

Halloween Tips

It’s almost that spooky time of year again and Calgary orthodontist, Dr. Corey Low, and our team thought we’d share some Halloween tips from our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists.

Trick-or-treating safety guidelines:

• Young children should always be accompanied by an adult
• Carry a flashlight
• Wear a light-colored or reflective costume
• Choose face paint over masks for young ghosts and goblins
• Have an adult inspect all treats before the children dig in

To protect your braces, steer clear of the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

• All hard candies
• All chewy candies
• Caramel
• Nuts
• Licorice
• Taffy
• Jelly beans
• Hard pretzels
• Bubblegum
• Popcorn (including unpopped kernels)
• Ice

Of course, Halloween does not have to be completely treat-less. Braces-friendly Halloween treats can help you enjoy the “spook-ta-cular” holiday. For example, plain chocolate candy is okay, provided you remember to brush and floss afterwards. Bobbing for apples as well as caramel apples are not recommended. However, you can enjoy thinly sliced apples, dipped in yogurt or creamy chocolate sauce.

Dr. Low suggests looking for foods that are soft, such as soft chocolate that can melt in one’s mouth or peanut butter cups. Overall, candies that aren’t sticky, chewy, hard or crunchy are generally acceptable.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN from the entire team at Icon Orthodontics!

Cold season is here...Stay Healthy!

Cold and flu season is here - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that a common cold usually includes sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and coughing. Symptoms can last for up to two weeks.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. Corey Low and our entire team give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our Calgary office at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces. For the protection of other patients and our staff at Icon Orthodontics, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

And remember to constantly wash your hands and avoid contact with those who are ill! Stay Healthy!

5 Tips to Avoid Plaque

At Icon Orthodontics, we know nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth. Here are five other ways you can avoid that dreaded enemy of the teeth during orthodontic treatment, courtesy of WebMD.

Let’s start with brushing regularly.. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste is vital to a healthy mouth. Make sure you softly brush all the surfaces of your teeth.

Next on the list is flossing daily: a simple daily flossing between teeth clears away plaque before it can cause damage and can also clean plaque at the gum line. Plaque is known to reach the spaces between teeth.

Also, evading a trip to the dentist is probably not a great idea. Let’s say you brush and floss daily. You’re still at risk for plaque. With time, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar. Consider visiting your general dentist at least twice a year or as recommended by your dentist, and you have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your teeth while wearing braces.

You’ll also want to stop avoiding those fruits and veggies. Believe it or not, there are foods out there that play a key role in keeping plaque off our teeth. They include apples, carrots, cucumbers and other raw fruits and vegetables. You can still eat these types of fruits and veggies if you have braces, but be sure to cut them up into bite sized pieces to avoid breaking off brackets.

Finally, before you pick up that candy bar, remember to not give in to your sweet tooth. Consuming sugary drinks or eating candy or other junk food allows sugar to stick to our teeth. The bacteria, then, becomes plaque, which turns into acid and damages our teeth. Avoiding these five bad habits keeps your plaque in check and your mouth as healthy as can be during your orthodontic treatment with Calgary orthodontist, Dr. Corey Low. If you have any questions, give Calgary office a call or ask us on Facebook!

Burning Invisalign® Questions with Dr. Low

Are you wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you're in treatment? You're not alone in your concerns! Calgary orthodontist, Dr. Corey Low, and our team thought we’d share this list of questions and answers for anyone pondering Invisalign treatment at Icon Orthodontics.

How exactly does Invisalign work?

Using 3-D computer imaging technology, Invisalign creates a series of custom-made, clear aligners exclusively for your teeth, based on the treatment plan that we specify for you. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.

Will I experience pain during treatment?
Most people experience temporary discomfort for a few days after a new aligner is placed. This feeling of pressure is normal and is a sign that Invisalign is working by sequentially moving your teeth to their final destination.

Can other people see that I'm in treatment?

One of the benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.

Can I smoke during treatment?

We discourage smoking while wearing the aligners as they may become discolored.

Are there any foods I shouldn’t eat while in treatment?

You can eat normally during the entire course of treatment. One of the advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. Simply take the aligners out before each meal, brush when you're finished eating, then reinsert the aligners afterward.

What about chewing gum?

We recommend removing your aligners for all meals and snacks, as gum and other chewy substances can stick to the aligners.

How often must I wear my aligners?

Aligners should be worn all day, except when eating, brushing, and flossing.

Will my speech be affected by the aligners?

As with any orthodontic treatment, aligners may temporarily affect your speech. If this does happen, your tongue will adjust within a day or two and your speech should return to normal.

How do I clean my aligners?

The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water.

How often must I visit the office during treatment?

For most patients, visits every 4-6 weeks are frequent enough for us to determine that your treatment is progressing properly. We will provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan.

If you have additional questions about the Invisalign treatment, please give Calgary office a call.

Some Great Braces-Friendly Recipes!

You just got braces at Icon Orthodontics and Dr. Corey Low has informed you that during your orthodontic treatment you will want to avoid eating anything sticky, hard, crunchy, or chewy. What does this leave for you to eat? Lettuce? Nothing?

Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, created a variety of “braces-friendly” recipes that will allow you to enjoy your favorite treats without interfering with your orthodontic care!

Recipes include main dishes, side dishes and even yummy desserts! After all, a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps the patient achieve the best possible results from orthodontic treatment.

If you have any questions about the recipes listed or about the foods you should be avoiding during your orthodontic treatment, please give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Enjoy!

What was your favorite part of Summer 2011?

The end of Summer and the beginning of Fall is tomorrow! Soon the temperatures will cool down, the leaves will start to change, and we’re sure that you’ll be thinking about your Thanksgiving Day plans and Halloween costumes.

But wait! First, we want to know: What were your favorite parts of the Summer of 2011? Did you go on a wonderful family trip? Did you pick up a new hobby? Did you try to spend as much time outside and in the sun as possible?

Share your favorite memories, stories, or photos with us by leaving a comment below or on our Facebook page.

-Dr. Corey Low and team

At Icon Orthodontics, what puts you at ease?

Calgary orthodontist, Dr. Corey Low, and team understand not everyone enjoys visiting their orthodontist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit.

We’d like to know: What is it about Icon Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or Dr. Low?

Let us know by posting here, on our Facebook page, or by giving us a call!

Breaking Bad Habits

At Icon Orthodontics, we know good dental health requires only a few minutes a day. We thought we’d provide some practical advice on how to improve your or your child’s smile between your adjustment visits with Dr. Corey Low.

Start by brushing your teeth twice a day. Proper brushing techniques are an essential part of maintaining good oral health during your orthodontic treatment, as well as preventing gum disease. More care and time are needed to adequately brush your teeth when you are wearing braces. Brushing daily helps remove decay-causing plaque from tooth surfaces. Please consult Dr. Low if you would like us to review brushing techniques with you or your child. The use of a mechanical toothbrush such as a Sonicare or Oral B can aid in removing plaque around braces. Flossing daily will also prevent plaque to build up between the teeth and prevent stains between your teeth. Research has shown the bacteria of gum disease has been linked to coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes and memory loss. Lastly, we encourage you to throw away old toothbrushes and replace them every 2 or 3 months, or after an illness.

We hope this helps! If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Icon Orthodontics or ask your general dentist during your next scheduled visit! Or, ask us on Facebook!

20 things that can ruin your smile

At Icon Orthodontics, we know your smile is important. And we know you want to keep it sparkling and looking its very best. Recently, we came across an article that suggests at least 20 things can ruin that perfect smile you have.

These include:

- Sports drinks
- Bottled water
- Tobacco
- Wine
- Soft drinks
- Citrus and acidic foods

Calgary orthodontist, Dr. Corey Low and our team encourage you to read the rest of the article and ask us here on our blog or during your next visit to our convenient Calgary office. For more tips or for general questions about your ongoing dental treatment, we invite you to ask Dr. Low during your next visit! We also invite you to ask us on Facebook!

The Go-To Mom Talks Invisalign

Our team at Icon Orthodontics found a great video that discusses the advantages of Invisalign. In the video, Kimberley Clayton Blaine, "The Go-To Mom," discusses the Invisalign treatment and her personal experience with Invisalign.

To determine if Invisalign is right for you, give us a call and schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Corey Low. Have a great week!

Achieving your perfect smile with the Damon System

Something big is happening in the orthodontics world, and it’s no other than Damon braces, which allow your teeth to move more comfortably and easily than traditional braces. With the Damon System, achieving that perfect smile will be faster and easier than you ever thought possible.

With the new Damon braces, we can achieve terrific results and finish your treatment faster. Depending on your case, this may mean saving many months of treatment! After analyzing your specific needs, we will be able to provide you with a treatment plan that will have you smiling soon! Because Damon braces are very precise and effective, we can reduce the need for many of the time-consuming and complicated procedures that are used with traditional braces. Because Damon braces work more efficiently, fewer adjustments are required. As a result, your appointments will be faster and fewer in number. Due to the unique design of this new braces system, we can move your teeth into their correct positions with much less discomfort than traditional braces. Also, Damon braces are small, very comfortable, and easy to keep clean.

Dr. Corey Low is a certified Damon System provider. To learn more about the Damon System or your treatment here at Icon Orthodontics, please give us a call.

Regular Dental Checkups are essential during your Orthodontic Treatment

Are you brushing and flossing daily during your orthodontic treatment? If yes, that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist every 3-to-6 months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting Icon Orthodontics, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

Your general dentist can check for problems that might not be seen or felt, detect cavities and early signs of decay, treat oral health problems early and show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth.

During an oral exam your dentist can check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to the dentist in the last six months, let Dr. Low or our team during your next visit and we will provide a few great references.

Kids Getting Braces at a Younger Age

Calgary orthodontist, Dr. Corey Low will tell you that braces were originally considered to be best appropriate for teens. But these days, kids as old as seven are beginning their orthodontic treatment. Because preadolescent kids are typically not self-conscious, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists suggest it could be a good idea to start early.

Experts, however, say it depends on the treatment required. Some children who get braces at an early age end up in a second phase of treatment, and end up having braces well into their teenage years despite starting young.

Most orthodontic treatment begins between ages nine and 14, and the folks at the AAO estimate most orthodontic treatment lasts from one to three years, with two years being the average. It’s important, however, that children be screened no later than age seven for Dr. Low to assess what the best age for treatment is.

Hope this helps! Give Icon Orthodontics a call if you have any questions about your child’s treatment!

Stay Cool with a Braces-Friendly Summer Treat!

Summer is here! Kids and adults alike will now be spending more time outside being active and enjoying the hotter temperatures. What’s better on a hot summer day than a delicious treat that will cool you down after doing something active in the summer sun? Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have just the thing, Watermelon Sorbet! You can find the complete recipe below:

Watermelon Sorbet

Ingredients

• ¾ cup water
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 2 to 3 cups watermelon, diced, no seeds or rind

Directions

In a small saucepan, heat the water, sugar, and lime juice on medium high for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Chill this “syrup” at least 20 minutes. In the meantime, place the watermelon chunks in a food processor or blender and liquefy them. Add the chilled syrup to the watermelon puree and blend. Freeze sorbet in an ice-cream maker according to manufacturer’s directions. Serve immediately.

Happy Summer!

-Dr. Corey Low and team

What do you LOVE about Calgary?

Dr. Corey Low, your Calgary orthodontist, is situated around some pretty unique neighborhoods. Each is special with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our amazing patients) living within.

Today, Dr. Low and our team thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about Calgary? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps a favorite getaway in Alberta?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in Calgary, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods” in Alberta on our Facebook page.

If you need to schedule your next appointment, give us a call! Have a great weekend!

Icon Orthodontics Celebrates Canada Day 2011!

Last Friday, the Icon Orthodontics team celebrated Canada Day 2011!

Last year you might have seen Dr. Low and his staff at the Apple Juice table, but this year we hosted our very own Photo Booth offering complimentary memorable Canada Day pictures! The event was wonderful and was filled with good food, great weather, music, line dancers, balloon animals, and Canada Day temporary tattoos. We can't wait for next year!!

Check out more photos in our "Canada Day 2011" album on our Facebook page.

Why Are Retainers So Important?

If you recently completed treatment at Icon Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Corey Low will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, however, always provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed by Dr. Low is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime.

To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Low, please read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth or give us a call!

Summer fun with Icon Orthodontics!

It’s finally summer! A season full of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, hitting Canada’s open roads or just having fun in the backyard, Dr. Low and our team want to hear all about it! We also encourage you to post any photos from your summer adventures to our Facebook wall!

Happy travels!

Icon Orthodontics 2011 Golf Tournament

On June 3, Icon Orthodontics held a Golf Tournament at the Stewart Creek Golf Course in Canmore. The tournament was our way of saying thank you to our referring dentists and dental representatives for their continued support. It was a good turnout of participants and the weather was beautiful. We were lucky, as there was snow on the course only 2 weeks before.

It was a day filled with excitement! There were iPad 2s given away as prizes, a near hole-in-one which would have resulted in a NEW truck, and two bears spotted on the course.

A big thank you to everyone who participated and also to the awesome and well organized staff at the Stewart Creek Golf Course.

You'll find more photos from the event on our Facebook Page.

-Dr. Corey Low and team

Icon Orthodontics in the Community

Dr. Corey Low of Icon Orthodontics has always made the community that he practices in a priority. In addition to supporting schools, parks and hospitals in West Calgary, Dr. Low and family made a commitment to the 2010 facility expansion at the Westside Recreation Centre. A donor wall was recently completed and we were pleased to share it with the Icon Orthodontics team during our annual planning session held at Westside. Funding from Icon Orthodontics was used to equip the Youth Wellness Centre and is an important investment in the health of our youth - our future.

For more information about Icon Orthodontics' involvement in the community, please visit our "In The Community" section of our website.

3D Imaging at Icon Orthodontics

Calgary orthodontist, Dr. Corey Low, has recently completed further certification for 3D imaging using our CBCT scanner. As you know, Dr. Low is a pioneer in the use of 3D imaging in Orthodontics.

This novel technology allows Dr. Low to accurately visualize teeth placement and prepare an ideal treatment plan for your dentition. Radiation exposure is kept to a minimum, with one iCAT scan producing less radiation than traditional dental x-rays. In fact, you receive more radiation exposure from an airport scanner than from our iCAT. Your safety is always our priority at Icon Orthodontics. Be assured that our use of this technology is in large part due to the minimal radiation exposure allowed by the iCAT.

Please check out our website for more information about 3D Imaging at Icon Orthodontics.

Connor James, Musician and Icon Orthodontics Patient

Recently Icon Orthodontics patient, Connor James, gave Dr. Corey Low a very special gift. Connor is a Folk/Indie musician and has a NEW CD out called, "We Don't Know." Conner was kind enough to give Dr. Low a signed copy of his new album.

We'd like to encourage you to check out the music of Connor James by visiting his MySpace Page, just CLICK HERE.

Congratulations on the NEW CD Conner!

Dr. Low and his wife, Shannon, attend the 2011 Sunshine Gala

To help raise funds for the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at the Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary orthodontist Dr. Corey Low and his wife, Shannon, attended the May 2011 Sunshine Gala. The Sunshine Gala has been hosted for two years now and funds raised are used to support the Extracorporeal Life Support Program, life saving technology that will further enhance the care provided by Alberta Children’s Hospital’s Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.

Having three children of their own, the Low's recognize the importance of exemplary life-saving devices at the Alberta Children's Hospital, which services Southern Alberta, BC and Saskatchewan. This year's Sunshine Gala raised over $80,000!

For further information about how you can help support the Extracorporeal Life Support Program, please visit the Sunshine Gala page on the Alberta Children's Hospital website.

Foods to Avoid During Your Orthodontic Treatment

There are a variety of foods Dr. Corey Low wants you to avoid while you're wearing braces. Some foods can occasionally damage braces, but certain foods can bend the wires or even break the brackets on your braces. If you’re wearing braces, you should avoid starch, sugar and gummy foods, as these foods can be difficult to remove during brushing. Foods that are high in sugar and starch tend to cause plaque, cavities and even tooth decay.

Avoid tough meats, hard breads and raw vegetables such as carrots and celery. Before long, you'll be able to bite a cucumber again. But you'll need to protect your orthodontic appliances when you eat for as long as you're wearing braces.

Foods you should avoid include:

• Chewy foods: bagels, hard rolls, licorice
• Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice, chips
• Sticky foods: caramels, gum
• Hard foods: nuts, candy
• Foods you have to bite into: corn on the cob, apples, carrots

Also, chewing on hard things (for example, pens, pencils or fingernails) can damage the braces. Damaged braces will cause treatment to take longer.

If you have any questions on which foods you should be avoiding and why, we invite you to give Icon Orthodontics a call or ask our staff during your next visit.

Everyone can benefit from BRACES with Icon Orthodontics!

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Corey Low will tell you that anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic treatment, whether it’s correcting a problem not treated in your younger years, or catching a problem early.

At Icon Orthodontics, we are proud to offer our patients several different options when it comes to orthodontic treatment like SureSmile, Invisalign, the Damon System, Clarity by 3M, and Incognito.

If you are considering orthodontic treatment, please give Icon Orthodontics a call to schedule your consultation with Dr. Low.

We encourage you to watch this video and learn more about Incognito, which are braces placed behind your teeth, rather than in a visible area. Because of this, no one will ever know that you are wearing braces! Enjoy!

The Icon Orthodontics Team in Las Vegas!

To make sure we are constantly improving our patients’ experience with orthodontic treatment, Icon Orthodontics sets annual goals. When these goals are accomplished, Dr. Corey Low rewards our entire team with something special. Last year when we met our goals Dr. Low sent the team on a trip to Victoria and this year he decided to send us further south to Las Vegas! We had a great time and even got to meet Kelsey Gramer, also known as Frasier.

Here are some photos from our trip, enjoy! To see more photos, CLICK HERE and visit our Facebook page.

Icon Orthodontics, Taking Steps to Reduce Our Environmental Impact

We are living in an age with a renewed commitment to conservation, and are frequently reminded to recycle, reduce and reuse. Earth Day is today, April 22nd, and we thought this would a great time to discuss the things that Icon Orthodontics does to conserve our natural resources and the environment.

Did you know that we offer patients account access 24 hours a day, seven days a week? Our office has convenient and secure online services with Sesame 24-7™. Patients can also receive appointment reminders through email or text messages. Since this information is submitted electronically, we eliminate the use of large amounts of paper and printing materials.

Dr. Corey Low and our team would love to hear how you minimize your impact on the environment. Leave us a comment below or you can also visit our Facebook page and post something on our wall.

Happy Earth Day!

Mouth Guards and Sports Injuries, with Icon Orthodontics

Wouldn’t you believe it, it’s already springtime! The spring months, however, bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of kids damaging their precious mouths and pearly whites. If you play sports, it's important that you consult Dr. Corey Low for special precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing spring sports such as baseball, soccer, lacrosse and others. Be sure, however, to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements we are trying to achieve.

In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances damaged, please schedule an appointment with Icon Orthodontics. Let Dr. Low know if you need help finding the right mouth guard for the best protection.

Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Icon Orthodontics.

Flossing with Braces, from Icon Orthodontics

Dr. Corey Low will tell you that keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever when you have braces. Food bits have more spots than usual to hide in your mouth, so you must be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. If you remove plaque regularly during treatment, you'll experience better results and could possibly reduce your treatment time.

Here is a very concise video explaining the proper way to floss your teeth with braces. Give Icon Orthodontics a call if you have more questions about flossing. Enjoy!

Braces 101 with Icon Orthodontics

If you ever sustain damage to your braces and need to call Icon Orthodontics, we can help you more effectively if you can tell us exactly which piece is in trouble! Here’s a handy diagram and corresponding list of all the parts that make up your braces.

Elastic Tie: Tiny rubber band that fits around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Archwire: The main wire that acts as a track to guide the teeth along. It's changed periodically throughout treatment, as teeth move to their new positions.

Loop in Archwire: Frequently used for closing space left by an extraction. Many archwires don't have a loop.

Bracket: Small attachment that holds the archwire in place. Most often, a bracket is cemented directly onto the tooth's surface, eliminating the need for a band.

Headgear Tube: Round, hollow attachment on the back bands. The inner bow of the headgear fits into it.

Coil Spring: Fits between brackets and over archwire to open space between teeth.

Tie Wire: Fine wire that is twisted around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Band: A thin ring of metal fitted around a tooth and cemented in place. The band provides a way to attach the brackets to the tooth.

Hook: Welded or removable arm to which elastics (rubber bands) are attached.

Elastic (Rubber Band): Small rubber band that is hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth.

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!

Go Incognito with Icon Orthodontics!

Calgary orthodontist, Dr. Corey Low, is pleased to offer his patients Incognito braces. Our team at Icon Orthodontics is always receiving questions about Incognito, which is why we wanted to discuss a few of the unique benefits of this new orthodontic treatment. To begin, Incognito is placed behind your teeth, rather than in a visible area. Because of this, no one will ever know that you are wearing braces! This unique type of braces is created using state-of-the-art technology and is entirely customized to the shape of your teeth. Hence, you can improve your smile efficiently and effectively in a discreet new way.

Here’s a great clip from the show, “The Balancing Act,” on Lifetime Television that highlights the features that make Incognito braces easy to wear, effective, and hidden! Featuring Icon Orthodontics patient, Amy Byerley.


To learn more about the Incognito treatment with Dr. Low, give our office a call. We'd love to answer any questions you have!

“My child is turning seven – when should I bring them in for a visit?”

Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Dr. Corey Low for a consultation, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That’s right—seven.

Ok, so what’s so great about age seven, you ask? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for Dr. Low to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites and open bites can be detected.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age provides one of two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, a healthy prognosis will provide immediate peace of mind.

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and are detrimental to good oral hygiene. So, if your child is nearing his or her seventh birthday, give us a call at Icon Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

Now that I have braces, what can I eat?

You just got braces at Icon Orthodontics and Dr. Corey Low has informed you that over the next several months you will want to avoid eating anything sticky, hard, crunchy, or chewy. What does this leave for you to eat? Lettuce? Nothing?

Luckily, there was someone else wondering the same thing when she first got braces! Brenda Waterman, 13, decided she was going to find a way to have her cake and eat it too, so she created a variety of “braces-friendly” recipes that allow you to enjoy your favorite treats without interfering with your orthodontic care! Her cookbook, “The Braces Cookbook: Recipes you (and your Orthodontist) will Love,” gives patients a variety of delicious recipes, safe to eat with braces; plus additional tips and advice for packing lunches, what to eat at parties, and braces-friendly restaurant dishes! There’s even a section with tips for dealing with the soreness that can occur when your braces or appliance are adjusted. Enjoy the foods you love – even with braces!

Here is a delicious, sneak peek recipe from “The Braces Cookbook:”

Wonderful Waffles

Forget the recipe that came with your waffle iron – this recipe will redefine fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. The secret to delicious waffles is letting the batter "sit" for five minutes before pouring into the waffle iron. Top cooked waffles with syrup, jam, fresh fruit or even whip cream. Makes about 5 servings!

Preheat your waffle iron according to the directions. You may want to lightly spray it with vegetable oil before heating.

• 3 cups flour
• 2 Tbl + 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 Tbl sugar
• 4 cups milk
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

In a large bowl, whisk (or use electric mixer on low) together all ingredients. Let batter sit for about five minutes to activate the baking powder.

When waffle iron is ready, pour about 1/3 cup of batter onto each of the four squares (experiment with your iron – you don't want the batter overflowing). Gently close the cover and set your timer as the manufacturer suggests. Do not lift the cover while they bake. When done, carefully lift one edge with a flat spatula and pull the waffle away from the iron. Keep waffles warm on a plate under a clean dishtowel while the others bake.

Enjoy!

-Your friends at Icon Orthodontics

Dr. Low Hosts Biennial Golf Tournament at Stewart Creek

On May 29th, 2009, Dr. Corey Low hosted his Biennial Golf Tournament at the Stewart Creek golf course in Canmore, Alberta. The tournament was held to thank referring dentists and dental representatives for their continued support of Icon Orthodontics. The weather was great and even the resident grizzly bear and cub were spotted on the course!

A special thanks goes out to the management and staff at Stewart Creek for their help making the day a success.

Dr. Low will be hosting another Biennial Golf Tournament June 3rd, 2011 for referring dentists, specialists, and representatives. We are looking forward to it!

Canada Day with Icon Orthodontics

Last year, Dr. Corey Low and the Icon Orthodontics team participated in the Strathcona Square Pancake Breakfast at the Apple Juice Table during the Canada Day Celebration. We are looking forward to participating in the fun and activities again this year! Here are some great photos from the event.




Is it time for your next visit to Icon Orthodontics? Give our office a call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Low. Have a great week!

Featured Icon Orthodontics' Team Member, Lucie

Icon Orthodontics' office manager, Lucie Meeds, has been along for the ride from the beginning. Lucie started as the office manager at Icon Orthodontics in September of 2000. She has helped Dr. Corey Low build his practice from the ground up. Lucie has watched the growth of the Low family as well as the practice over the last decade. You may recognize Lucie helping out at the front desk or treatment coordinating at your New Patient Consultation. Dr. Low sends out a special thank you to Lucie for her years of loyalty and service.

Here's Lucie to tell you a little bit more about herself:

"I have worked in the orthodontic field for over 20 years of which 10 years has been with Icon Orthodontics as Dr. Low's Office Manager and Treatment Coordinator. I am sometimes away from my desk, but I am always available to answer any questions you may have. One of the best parts of my job is to see the awesome smiles that we create and the dynamic team that I work with! When I am not at the office, I love to spend time with my husband, my 2 kids and my grandchildren. I also enjoy travelling to HOT places!!"

Get to know Lucie and the rest of our amazing team at Icon Orthodontics by giving us a call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Low.

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!

The Icon Orthodontics Team in Victoria B.C.!

The Icon Orthodontics annual staff meeting was held this year in beautiful Victoria, B.C.! Dr. Corey Low and his wife Shannon took the staff of Icon Orthodontics, along with their partners, for a trip to the west coast! When the meeting was adjourned, the staff enjoyed their free time partaking in various activities like sea kayaking, ferry rides, and even feeding wild seals in the harbour! Everyone had a wonderful and productive trip and enjoyed their time off.