Dr. Barbara J. Utermark

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Dr. Barbara J. Utermark Orthodontics for adults, teens and children and Pediatric Dentistry Orthodontics (braces) for adults, teens and children, and Pediatric Dentistry.

Why is all this brushing and flossing necessary?Brushing and flossing keep teeth and gums clean by removing plaque and f...
10/15/2026

Why is all this brushing and flossing necessary?

Brushing and flossing keep teeth and gums clean by removing plaque and food debris. When plaque and trapped food are left on the teeth and around braces, the outcome can be cavities, swollen gums, bad breath and permanent white marks on the teeth. Maintaining good oral hygiene helps to minimize your time in treatment and contributes to a healthy result.

Link: https://aaoinfo.org/resources/faqs/page/15/

Do Teeth Feel Loose After Braces Come Off?Yes, teeth can sometimes feel a little loose or different after braces come of...
10/12/2026

Do Teeth Feel Loose After Braces Come Off?

Yes, teeth can sometimes feel a little loose or different after braces come off. This can happen while the bone and tissues around your teeth continue to adjust to their new positions. The feeling should improve as your teeth settle. If a tooth feels very loose, painful, or just doesn’t seem right, contact your orthodontist so they can take a look.

Statement by AAO (American Association of Orthodontists) as of September 16, 2026

Article Link: https://aaoinfo.org/whats-trending/what-to-expect-after-braces-removal/

How long do retainers last?With proper care, retainers can last many years. However, remember that retainers are similar...
10/08/2026

How long do retainers last?

With proper care, retainers can last many years. However, remember that retainers are similar to any other device and likely will need to be replaced at some point. Proper care of retainers will extend the lifetime of the retainer. “Proper care” consists of:
- Storing removable retainers in their cases when the retainers are not in the mouth.
- Keeping retainers away from heat sources, including the inside of hot cars.
Keeping retainers away from pets.
- Don’t put your retainers in your pocket without the case.
If your retainer appears to have lost its shape, or if it no longer fits when you attempt to place it on your teeth, inform your orthodontist.

Statement by AAO (American Association of Orthodontists) FAQs

Link: https://aaoinfo.org/resources/faqs/page/13/

How should your teeth rest when your mouth is closed?When your mouth is closed, your lips should be relaxed, your jaw sh...
10/05/2026

How should your teeth rest when your mouth is closed?

When your mouth is closed, your lips should be relaxed, your jaw should not feel tight, and your teeth should not be clenched. When you bring your bite together, the upper teeth should slightly overlap the lower teeth, and the front and back teeth should meet in a balanced way. A healthy bite distributes pressure across the teeth instead of placing too much force on one area.

Statement by AAO (American Association of Orthodontists) FAQs

Link: https://aaoinfo.org/resources/faqs/page/3/

What Parents Should Know About Teething- First teeth: Usually appear around 6–8 months, but timing varies.- Signs of tee...
10/01/2026

What Parents Should Know About Teething

- First teeth: Usually appear around 6–8 months, but timing varies.
- Signs of teething: Irritability and a desire to chew on objects are common.
- Soothe gums: Use a teething ring or gently massage the gums with a cool, wet washcloth.
- Start oral care: Begin brushing when the first tooth appears and floss once teeth begin touching.
- First dental visit: Schedule a dental visit after the first tooth appears to establish healthy habits early.

Article Link: https://www.mychildrensteeth.org/teething-as-told-by-a-baby-tooth/

How to Get Kids Excited About Oral HealthGetting kids excited about brushing can make it easier to build healthy habits....
09/28/2026

How to Get Kids Excited About Oral Health

Getting kids excited about brushing can make it easier to build healthy habits. Try these 5 simple tips:

1. Stick to a routine: Brush twice a day for 2 minutes.
2. Make it fun: Use games, songs, or other fun activities to make brushing exciting.
3. Supervise young children: Help them brush until they can do a thorough job, around age 7–8.
4. Use a 2-minute song: Singing or playing a favorite song can make brushing time easier.
5. Practice together: Encourage children to practice brushing their favorite doll or stuffed animal’s teeth.

Article Link: https://www.mychildrensteeth.org/5-bite-sized-tips-how-to-get-kids-excited-about-oral-health/

09/24/2026

Is va**ng bad for your teeth and braces?

Yes. Va**ng can be harmful to your teeth, gums, and orthodontic treatment. It may contribute to dry mouth, gum inflammation, tooth decay, and gum damage, all of which can make it harder to maintain a healthy smile during braces or aligner treatment. (AAO recommends avoiding e-cigarettes and va**ng products for both oral health and successful orthodontic care.)

Statement by AAO (American Association of Orthodontics)

Link: https://aaoinfo.org/resources/faqs/page/2/

Congratulations on your new pretty smile, Nicole. Thank you for being such a wonderful patient.
09/22/2026

Congratulations on your new pretty smile, Nicole. Thank you for being such a wonderful patient.

Can you eat candy with braces?Some soft chocolates may be okay with braces, but you should avoid sticky, chewy, or hard ...
09/21/2026

Can you eat candy with braces?

Some soft chocolates may be okay with braces, but you should avoid sticky, chewy, or hard candies like caramel, taffy, gummies, suckers, hard mints, and hard candy. Sticky candies can cling to braces, while hard candies can break brackets or wires. Sugary treats can also increase the risk of plaque buildup and white marks if teeth are not cleaned well afterward.

Statement by AAO (American Association of Orthodontics) FAQs

Link: https://aaoinfo.org/resources/faqs/

5 Simple Ways to Protect Your Children's Smile1. Brush Twice a Day: 2 minutes, twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.2. L...
09/17/2026

5 Simple Ways to Protect Your Children's Smile

1. Brush Twice a Day: 2 minutes, twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
2. Limit Sugary Drinks and Snacks: Choose water between meals.
3. Keep Up with Regular Dental Visits: Start by age 1 or when the first tooth appears.
4. Protect Teeth During Sports: Use a mouthguard to protect teeth.
5. Don’t Wait to Address Dental Problems: Don’t ignore pain, sensitivity, swelling, or white spots.

Article Link: https://www.mychildrensteeth.org/5-ways-to-protect-your-childrens-smile/

Address

4469 Columbia Road
Martinez, GA
30907

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 6pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 5pm
Thursday 8:30am - 5pm
Friday 8:30am - 12pm

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