Dr. Barbara J. Utermark

06/01/2026

Which drinks are allowed with braces?

Tap water and milk are your best choices for drinks while braces are on. Soft drinks typically contain large amounts of sugar and their acidity can wear down the enamal. Beverages like coffee and tea can stain teeth. Try to limit these to avoid cavities and prevent staining. If you choose to consume them, use a straw and at least rinse with water after drinking.

Statement by AAO (American Association of Orthodontists) as of January 30, 2023

Article Link: https://aaoinfo.org/whats-trending/life-during-treatment/

06/01/2026

Congratulations on your radiant smile, Joanne! We're glad to have had you as a patient.

05/28/2026

What can I eat with braces?

A healthy diet supports the body as it undergoes the biological changes that occur during orthodontic treatment. You are encouraged to enjoy a variety of healthy, easy-to-chew foods during orthodontic treatment. Soups, stews, casseroles, pasta, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, and smoothies can be good choices. You can enjoy fresh soft fruits like bananas, and berries. Pizza is OK, but the crust should be soft and cut into small pieces.

Statement by AAO (American Association of Orthodontists) as of August 28, 2025

Article Link: https://aaoinfo.org/blog/what-can-i-eat-with-braces/

05/28/2026

Congratulations on your magnificent smile, Malachi! Thank you for always being such an excellent patient.

05/27/2026

Congratulations on your new outstanding smile, Stella! You've been an incredible patient!

05/25/2026

When should my child have the first visit with an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first check-up with an orthodontist at the age of 7. By that age, a child will have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, and the orthodontist will be able to recognize orthodontic problems (“malocclusions”) even in their earliest stages. Even if your child doesn’t need orthodontic treatment at age 7, taking them for their first visit allows the orthodontist to monitor their growth and avoid costly future problems with the jaws or teeth by detecting and treating orthodontic issues at the right time.

Statement by AAO (American Association of Orthodontists) as of December 12, 2024

Article Link: https://aaoinfo.org/whats-trending/early-orthodontic-care-may-help-you-avoid-costly-treatments/

05/24/2026

05/22/2026

Congratulations Antonia on your achievements! Highest ELA Average, Highest Social Studies Average, Highest Math Average, Highest Overall GPA in 8th Grade and Scholar Athlete Award! We are all so proud of you!

05/21/2026

Does my child need to brush her tongue?

Yes. It is common knowledge for most parents and kids to brush their teeth for two minutes, two times each day, but many parents and caregivers might not know the importance of brushing their little one’s tongue. The majority of the bacteria in your mouth are on your tongue and while a tongue won’t get cavities like teeth, it holds bacteria like a sponge, which will eventually spread to teeth. While water and mouth wash can help dislodge particles and make their mouth feel minty fresh, they won’t do the trick. Pesky bacteria can stick together and lodge in the crevices and grooves of the tongue, so it has to be brushed off. These bacteria can also cause odors as well, particularly when the mouth is dry, such as after sleeping or when breathing through the mouth. Brushing the tongue, including the back, can help reduce these odor-causing bacteria to prevent bad breath.

Article Link: https://www.mychildrensteeth.org/little-teeth-truth-does-my-child-need-to-brush-her-tongue/

05/21/2026

Congratulations on your excellent smile, Bruce! We've really enjoyed working with you to give you that great smile.