Ask Dr. Stevens: Why the Damon™ System?

Tallahassee orthodontist Dr. Lucas Stevens and our dedicated team are pleased to offer our patients The Damon® System. Damon braces allow your teeth to move more comfortably and easily than traditional braces, and, thanks to these innovative new braces, achieving your perfect smile will be faster and easier than you ever thought possible.

You're probably thinking, "OK, Dr. Stevens. Give me the specifics on how Damon braces are an advantage."

Time-Saving

Damon's innovative technology of self-ligating braces saves you time in orthodontic treatment. The Damon system allows for fewer trips to our Tallahassee office, as well as faster movement of your teeth than with traditional braces. The light forces applied by Damon braces are "biologically compatible" meaning that they work with your body for gentler and quicker tooth movement.

Comfortable

Damon System braces have a unique slide mechanism that allows Dr. Stevens to use far lighter forces to move teeth to their correct positions. That makes your treatment not only shorter, but it is also far more comfortable.

Because of its unique sliding door, the Damon bracket allows us to use high-tech, light-force wires to achieve tooth movement. This means less pressure on your teeth for more comfortable treatment. Not every orthodontist uses Damon self-ligating braces. The reason Dr. Stevens does is simple: it means your experience in uncovering your radiant new smile will be more comfortable and convenient than ever.

To learn more about the Damon System, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Stevens, please give us a call at 850-385-2822. We hope you're having a wonderful week!

Back to school with Stevens Orthodontics

Now that many of the schools here in Tallahassee are back in session, Dr. Stevens and our staff would like to remind all of our patients about the importance of scheduling appointments in advance in August and early September. With school, clubs and sports to consider, we know that it can be challenging to find time to visit our office this fall. In order to accommodate all of our patients' busy schedules, it is important that you plan ahead for your appointments so that we are able to provide you with an appointment time that is convenient for you.

As always, please remember to give us advanced notice if you're unable to make your regularly-scheduled appointment. If we receive enough notice, we might be able to schedule another patient for that time. Feel free to give us a call at 850-385-2822 if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your fall appointment.

We look forward to seeing you all, and hope you had a wonderful summer!

Ask Dr. Stevens: What are In-Ovation® Braces?

Who wants ugly and uncomfortable ties or elastics that apply pressure and friction on the teeth? With the free-sliding technology of the In-Ovation lingual braces, your mouth is free of pain and discomfort. In addition, because lingual braces are fastened to the back of the teeth, the braces are completely hidden. In-Ovation braces are a great alternative for people concerned about the look of traditional braces.

Best of all, there’s no need to have your braces tightened! Using light, gentle forces, In-Ovation makes the path to that beautiful smile you’ve always wanted faster and more comfortable than you ever thought possible.

Did you know Dr. Lucas Stevens is a certified In-Ovation provider in Tallahassee and surrounding areas? If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, or would like to know more about In-Ovation, please give us a call at 850-385-2822!

Fluoride and your orthodontic treatment

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment at Stevens Orthodontics. You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and protect your mouth and appliances from being damaged. But did you know there is another, often forgotten about, way to keep your teeth clean and healthy during your treatment with Dr. Lucas Stevens? Fluoride – a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay – can help keep your teeth strong!

Fluoride used in the dentist or orthodontists’ office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask Dr. Stevens how to purchase professional strength fluoride). A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. After the treatment patients may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. Depending on your oral health or Dr. Stevens' recommendation, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six or 12 months. Dr. Stevens may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses for at-home treatment.

When choosing your own fluoride product, be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and have met the criteria of the ADA for safety and effectiveness. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

- Dr. Stevens and staff