Giving thanks this holiday season

Dr. Stevens and our entire team at Stevens Orthodontics would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. Enjoy a day filled of friends, family, and great Thanksgiving food! What are you most thankful for this year? Leave us a comment, or if you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we encourage you to share them on our Facebook page!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Ask Dr. Stevens: “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 before orthodontic treatment began.

Braces are known to trap food particles and make it difficult to brush or remove plaque, which is why Dr. Lucas Stevens and our team 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; ask Dr. Stevens 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.

Our team at Stevens Orthodontics 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 Tallahassee office immediately to schedule an appointment for repair.

Lastly, in addition to visiting Dr. Stevens' office 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.

What are your November plans?

Believe it or not, we’re almost in full holiday mode! But before you go celebrating, Dr. Lucas Stevens and our team at Stevens Orthodontics want to know: What are your plans for November? Do you have plans for Thanksgiving? Are you planning a winter vacation? If so, we’d love to hear all about it!
You may share your stories with us below, or by posting on our Facebook page!

–The team at Stevens Orthodontics

Ask Dr. Stevens: What's the deal with Halloween candy?

With Halloween here, our staff at Stevens Orthodontics know a lot parents in Tallahassee are worried about their kids going overboard on candies this weekend.

All those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, but these treats are known to damage teeth, as well as braces! Did you know sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them? This can cause tooth decay and cavities! Sour and fruity candy, such as Starburst and Skittles, are the worst for your child’s teeth since these candies have a low pH value, which is known to ruin enamel. In addition, we also want your child to steer clear of sticky, chewy, gummy and nutty goodies.

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists recommend softer treats, such as soft chocolate or peanut butter cups, or melt-in-your-mouth foods. Trick-or-treaters who indulge should make sure they brush and floss between teeth, around brackets and at the gum line. If damage occurs, call Dr. Stevens as soon as possible.

We hope everyone has a fun, safe and scary Halloween!

REMINDERS!

* Don't forget to come in for your appoinhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.giftment, or stop in, with your Halloween Costumes on Monday October 31. We will be taking pictures and giving a Target Gift Card to the best dressed.

* Bring in your canned goods for 50 additional Disney points (10 can limit) and you will also receive 5 wooden coins for participating.

* The deadline to bring in your Veteran's Day Letters in on Veteran's Day November 11th. For those who bring us a letter will receive 50 Disney Points and 10 wooden coins.

LET'S ALL SHOW OUR STEVENS ORTHODONTICS SPIRIT!!!!!

Stevens Orthodontics, supporting Smile for a Lifetime

Dr. Stevens and team are proud to be partners of the Smile for a Lifetime Foundation, a charitable non-profit organization that provides orthodontic treatment to people who may not otherwise be able to afford it. have the opportunity to acquire assistance.

To become a candidate, interested families must be at or below twice the federal poverty level and must complete a two-page application for their child or candidate. Local Smile for a Lifetime Foundation applications can be downloaded online from our web site.

NOTE: Correspondence can be via mail sent to the office or e-mail sent to S4L@stevensorthodontics.com. Every effort will be made to respond within 48 business hours, Mon-Thurs. There is NO DEADLINE. Applicants are welcomed and encouraged to resubmit their applications every quarter.

What’s the difference between a Dentist and an Orthodontist?

“Dentists, Orthodontists, they’re all the same right?” We hear our patients asking this question as they wonder about the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. Before becoming an orthodontist Dr. Lucas Stevens started out in dental school and earned a dental degree, just like your dentist. After dental school however, Dr. Stevens decided he wanted to learn more about orthodontics, which is one of nine specialties within the dental field. So he stayed in school for a few more years and became an expert in orthodontics, which focuses on tooth and jaw alignment and bite problems like overbites and under bites.

Other dental specialties you may have heard of include endodontic (focusing on the soft tissue inside your teeth), periodontic (focusing on the gums and other tissues surrounding your teeth) and prosthodontic (focusing on restoring and replacing damaged teeth).

Isn’t it nice to know there’s a dental expert in Dr. Stevens to help you through any type of treatment your teeth, jaw and gums might need?

At Stevens Orthodontics, October marks National Orthodontic Health Month!

Happy Monday!October is National Orthodontic Health Month, and our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have provided a helpful website that provides important information on protecting your braces, including tips for trick-or-treaters, braces-friendly Halloween recipes, facts about braces and treats you should avoid while wearing braces.

Don’t eat foods that are hard, sticky, crunchy or chewy. Avoid candy, gum, nuts, hard chips and popcorn. For foods that you would normally bite into with your front teeth, you should cut or break it into small pieces and chew on your back teeth. Eating these foods can cause the brackets to become loose or broken. Keep foreign objects out of your mouth such as pens, pencils, and fingernails because these can also cause breakage. If you have excessive breakage, it will prolong your treatment time. Dr. Lucas Stevens and our team want to work with you to get to that spectacular smile we are all looking for as soon as possible, so let’s do what we can to take care of your braces properly!

Please give us a call if you have any questions!

In love with your smile? Tell Dr. Stevens & team about it!

Dr. Lucas Stevens, who has been an orthodontist in the Tallahassee area since 1985, knows and understands the needs and expectations of his patients and is dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.

Your teeth are an important part of your health, your appearance and your self-confidence. Why leave your oral health in the hands of anyone other than a skilled qualified specialist with years of experience?

Today, Dr. Stevens and our team are wondering: What made you choose us for your orthodontic treatment?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our convenient Tallahassee office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can write a review on our Facebook page or on our Google listing!

September is Self-Improvement Month, from Dr. Stevens

These days, Americans everywhere are putting greater emphasis on health, fitness and self-improvement, and more people are seeking orthodontic treatment to improve their smile. September happens to be Self-Improvement Month, and our team at Stevens Orthodontics know that orthodontic treatment is an investment in self-improvement that will reap benefits for a lifetime. And, recent advances in orthodontia, such as SureSmile and more effective brackets and wires, now make orthodontic treatment more palatable for many interested in obtaining that beautiful smile.

Not only does orthodontic treatment give you that beautiful smile, it can also benefit your dental and general health. If teeth are poorly aligned, removing plaque and tartar by brushing and flossing alone may be difficult. A poor bite may result in fractured or excessively worn tooth surfaces, and the extra stress caused by a poor bite may even result in problems with your jaw joints.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. Lucas Stevens would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up! Passionate about his work as an orthodontist, Dr. Stevens is Tallahassee’s first board certified orthodontic specialist and the area’s exclusive provider of SureSmile braces technology.

See you soon!

Connect with Dr. Stevens on Facebook!

Did you know Stevens Orthodontics is on Facebook? Our fan page, which keeps growing with each day, provides you the latest news from Dr. Lucas Stevens and our office. We invite you to connect with us and be "in the loop" for all things orthodontics.

Our goal is to have 500 fans! Invite your friends!

Tips for a successful school year, from Dr. Stevens

At Stevens Orthodontics, we know a new school year brings a lot of stress for many kids. New classes, new teachers, new friends and new academic challenges can be overwhelming! That’s why we thought we’d provide a few steps for our patients to enjoy their time in school and succeed this upcoming school year!

· Get plenty of sleep every night. Eight hours is recommended.

· Eat a healthy breakfast as it’s the most important meal of the day.

· Pack a healthy lunch or make healthy choices when selecting your school lunch. Try to avoid the vending machine and limit your intake of junk food.

· Stay on top of your homework and reading assignments.

· Stay active. Limit the time in front of the TV or playing video games. Instead, try to get outside to get some exercise—go for a walk or ride your bike.

· Ask for help. When you are having a hard time understanding a concept, ask your teacher or your peers for guidance.

· Always have a positive attitude and a smile on your face!

Our entire team at Stevens Orthodontics hope everyone has a productive and fun school year!

Back to school with Dr. Stevens

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!

Breaking Bad Habits

At Steven 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. Stevens.

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. Stevens 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 Steven Orthodontics or ask your general dentist during your next scheduled visit! Or, ask us on Facebook!

Tell Dr. Stevens about your summer!

The dog days of summer are upon us, and what better time for our team at Stevens Orthodontics to ask our patients about their summer!

Whether you visited our nation’s capitol, went on a camping trip, visited the state fair or just stayed in town and hung out with friends, we want to know how you’re all spending your summer! Please feel free to share your summer plans and experiences with us below or on our Facebook page as the summer comes to an end soon for a lot of our patients at Stevens Orthodontics! We invite you to post your photos as well!

We look forward to hearing all about your adventures! Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Smile Week at Stevens Orthodontics

It’s National Smile Week at Stevens Orthodontics, and a GREAT time to remind Dr. Stevens' patients to practice good oral hygiene to keep those teeth shining during your orthodontic treatment!

Here are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Week for many, many years to come:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth and braces.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment
* Visit your dentist regularly (every 6 months or as recommended by your dentist)!

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call, ask Dr. Stevens during your next visit ... or ask us on Facebook!

And remember to smile at people you come across throughout the week, whether you know them or not. Smiles are contagious, and are a good thing to give and to get. We hope you’re all having a relaxing summer!

Myths about braces, explained

Believe us when we say Dr. Lucas Stevens is well-aware that there are a lot of myths and half-truths flying around these days when it comes to braces and orthodontic treatment. But, before you buy into those myths, Dr. Stevens thinks you should get the facts first! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of braces, and we encourage you to check them out before settling for rumors about braces!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment at Stevens Orthodontics, feel free to give us a call at (850) 385-2822.

We hope you're all having a great summer!

Does Dr. Stevens have your current contact info?

We hope you’re off to a great summer so far! If you are planning on traveling with family this summer or think you might not be able to make it to your scheduled adjustment appointment with Dr. Lucas Stevens, please let us know ahead of time so that we may be able to accommodate you, as well as schedule another patient at that appointment time.

Also, we ask that you give us a call and let us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed! Please call us with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so we may be able to reach you. Thank you! Enjoy the rest of your week!

What’s your story? What made you & your child choose Stevens Orthodontics?

Dr. Lucas Stevens, who has been an orthodontist in the Tallahassee area since 1985, knows and understands the needs and expectations of his patients and is dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.

Your teeth are an important part of your health, your appearance and your self-confidence. Why leave your oral health in the hands of anyone other than a skilled qualified specialist with years of experience?

Today, Dr. Stevens and our team are wondering: What made you choose us for your orthodontic treatment?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our convenient Tallahassee office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can write a review on our Facebook page or on our Google Places page!

Ask Dr. Stevens: “I’m 53 – am I too old for braces?”

Of course not! No one is "too old" for orthodontic treatment!

Recently, our staff at Stevens Orthodontics read a fascinating statistic: adults getting braces has jumped 24 percent from just 15 years ago! Yes, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another reason for the spike in adult braces is this: people want to look and feel great.

In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Dr. Stevens can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

Because of a lifetime of wear, it is not uncommon for adult patients to require some cosmetic dentistry after orthodontics is completed in order to gain the maximum esthetic result. Dr. Stevens likes to work closely with your family dentist here in Tallahassee to give you the most esthetic and healthy smile possible.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. Stevens would love to have you visit for a complimentary consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

Happy Independence Day!

America turns 235 years old tomorrow! It’s a day to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence and also a time for every American to pay homage to our soldiers - past and present - who have placed themselves in harm’s way so that we may continue to enjoy our freedom.

Our team at Stevens Orthodontics would like to know: what are your plans for the 4th of July? Are you out in the sun? Have you stocked up on fireworks? Are you going to grill up your favorite summer foods? If you have a 4th of July tradition, we would love to hear all about it.

We hope you have a fun and safe holiday! Feel free to upload your 4th of July photos to our Facebook page and let us know how your Independence Day turned out this year.

Summer fun with Stevens Orthodontics

It’s summer here at Stevens Orthodontics, a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you've been to a barbecue, gone on a camping trip, hit the great American open roads with family or just had fun in the sun, Dr. Lucas Stevens and our team want to hear all about it! Leave a comment on our Facebook fan page and tell us about your summer!

We also encourage you to post any photos to our Facebook wall!

Happy and safe travels,

Dr. Stevens and team

Dr. Stevens and team proudly offer complimentary consultations!

At Stevens Orthodontics, we provide excellent orthodontic treatment in a friendly and professional environment. We are dedicated to the comfort, well-being, and complete satisfaction of every patient that comes into our office. Our focus is on patient comfort and efficient treatment results.

One of our commitments is meeting with you to help you explore all or the options available to you or your child. We offer complimentary consultations for those interested in orthodontic treatment. During this time, you'll have time reserved with Dr. Stevens, who will assess your particular needs as well as discuss treatment options available and answer any questions you may have. We place a high value on making sure you have complete information before beginning treatment.

If you have been thinking about obtaining the dazzling smile you’ve always wanted, we invite you to give a call at 850-385-2822. Dr. Stevens has been serving the Tallahassee area since 1985.

See you soon!

Smile wide! June marks National Smile Month!

Now that June is here, our team at Stevens Orthodontics thought we’d tell you June is National Smile Month, and a good time to remind all our patients to practice good oral hygiene between your visits to our convenient Tallahassee office, as well as your general dentist.

Below are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Month for many, many years to come:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth and braces.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment
* Visit your dentist regularly (every 6 months or as recommended by your dentist)!

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call, ask Dr. Stevens during your next visit or ask us on Facebook!

Mouthguard Q&A with Dr. Stevens

Wouldn’t you believe it, summer is just around the corner! The summer 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. Lucas Stevens 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 many others.

Q: How can I help prevent my teeth from becoming chipped or broken while I play sports this summer?

Please wear an orthodontic mouthguard, designed for braces. Ask us for one during your next appointment if you do not already have one.

Q: If I’m hit in the mouth, and a tooth gets knocked out, what can/should I do? What should I do if I am injured on a weekend when the office is closed?

Call your dentist immediately.

Q: Can my teeth be fixed if they are chipped, broken or knocked out?

Absolutely - dentists can fix teeth that need to be repaired.

Q: Are sports drinks bad for my teeth? What can I drink to stay hydrated and keep my teeth healthy?

H20 is always the best, but if you like drinks with sugar, please be sure to brush or rinse with water when you take your last sip.

Q: If I wear Invisalign aligners, will they help protect my teeth, or do I still need to wear a mouth guard?

Always use a mouthguard while playing contact sports.

Q: Can I still play sports while wearing my retainer, or is it best to take it out?

Keeping your retainer in is best, but if it needs to come out - please remember to put back in your mouth ASAP! We don't want those straight beautiful teeth to shift.

Q: Can I still wear a mouth guard with braces?

Yes, please ask us for one if you need it. We have special ones just for braces that allow your teeth to move while you wear them. Please don't buy the mouthguards that you boil yourself - they will not allow your teeth to move because they mould to your teeth.

Please let us know if you have any other questions about mouth protection or your treatment at Stevens Orthodontics!

What’s on your reading list this summer?

Traveling this summer? Heading on a camping trip? Lying on a hammock resting in your backyard?

Whatever you're up to, summer is a great time for kids to continue learning, maintain the skill level and prepare for the school year. With summer only weeks away, some of us at Stevens Orthodontics have been thinking increasingly about the importance of reading, which we encourage for all our patients.

Out of ideas? Ask us for suggestions, and Dr. Lucas Stevens and team would be happy to provide a few titles. You may also ask a librarian here in Tallahassee for some ideas or check out these summer reading lists we came across this past week.

We hope you all had a wonderful Memorial Day weekend!

Ask Dr. Stevens: When should my child come in for a consultation?

Thanks for asking! Dr. Lucas Stevens 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 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. Stevens and our staff to assess what the best age for treatment is.

We hope this helps, and invite you to give us a call if you have any questions about your child’s treatment and have yourself a wonderful rest of the weekend!!

Connect with Stevens Orthodontics on Facebook!

Did you know Stevens Orthodontics is on Facebook? Our fan page, which keeps growing with each day, provides you the latest news from Dr. Lucas Stevens and our office. We invite you to connect with us and be "in the loop" for all things orthodontics.

See you on Facebook!

May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month!

Did you know the month of May is designated National Physical Fitness and Sports Month? In 1983, President Ronald Reagan encouraged Americans to incorporate more physical activity into their lives, and the reminder is even more significant in this day and age, as kids everywhere are distracted more and more by television, social networking and video games. Kids living an active lifestyle can improve their health, productivity and overall well-being, and best of all? It doesn’t have to take a lot of time!

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has provided these public health guidelines for your convenience. The guidelines call for children and teens to exercise for at least one hour each day of moderate intensity physical activity (such as playing sports or brisk walking) or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity (jogging, dancing and jumping rope).

At Stevens Orthodontics, we always encourage our patients to stay fit by exercising or participating in sports. However, we want to remind you to always wear a mouth guard or other forms of facial protection when playing sports. To learn more about how often your child should exercise, we recommend you check out this series of helpful articles about kids and exercise, courtesy of our friends at KidsHealth.org.

HOW TO: Floss with Braces

Dr. Lucas Stevens 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 Stevens Orthodontics a call if you have more questions about flossing. Enjoy!

How do we "Go Green" at Stevens Orthodontics?

Dr. Stevens and our team at Stevens Orthodontics realize we are living in an age with a renewed commitment to conservation, and are frequently reminded to recycle, reduce and reuse. Earth Day is tomorrow, April 22nd, and we thought this would a great time to discuss the things that our office 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.

You, too, can sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage.

Dr. Stevens & 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!

Love your smile? Then we invite you to review Stevens Orthodontics online!

Dr. Lucas Stevens, who has been an orthodontist in the Tallahassee area since 1985, knows and understands the needs and expectations of his patients and is dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.

Your teeth are an important part of your health, your appearance and your self-confidence. Why leave your oral health in the hands of anyone other than a skilled qualified specialist with years of experience?

Today, Dr. Stevens and our team are wondering: What made you choose us for your orthodontic treatment?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our convenient Tallahassee office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can write a review on our Facebook page or on our Google listing!

"Hey Dr. Stevens! What's the deal with retainers?"

If you've recently completed treatment with Dr. Lucas Stevens, our professional team at Stevens Orthodontics would like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Stevens will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized.

Retainers provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes, Dr. Stevens says. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime. If you have additional questions about retainers or your treatment here at Stevens Orthodontics, please give us a call at 850-385-2822. Our staff would love to hear from you!

How important is your smile? From Stevens Orthodontics

You work hard, you care about your health and you want to look your very best. Your teeth are an important part of your health, your appearance and your self-confidence. Why leave your oral health in the hands of anyone other than a skilled qualified specialist with years of experience? Dr. Stevens has been an orthodontist in the Tallahassee area since 1985. He knows and understands the needs and expectations of his patients and is dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.

And speaking of smiling, in a new poll conducted by Glamour Magazine, people were asked, “If you had to pick between having perfect teeth, eyesight or hair, which would you choose?

Well, 44 percent of folks out there are choosing teeth! In addition, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, or AACD, conducted a study and found that 99.7 percent of those polled believed a smile is an important social asset. Respondents said straightness, whiteness, cleanliness, as well as the sincerity and sparkle of a person’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well.

Please contact Stevens Orthodontics at (850) 385-2822 for your complimentary consultation, and start smiling!

Play it safe this spring, from Dr. Stevens

With spring here, many children, teens and adults in Tallahassee will once again pick up the ball, bring the bat out of seasonal retirement.

So, today, Dr. Stevens and our dedicated team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. According to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, children, high-school athletes and adults will have more than 5,000,000 teeth knocked out in sporting events this year.

Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this spring, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
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. 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 Stevens Orthodontics.

Stay safe and have fun!

Win a trip to Disney World from Stevens Orthodontics!

Dr. Stevens will be sending one lucky patient and his/her family to Disney. Here is how it works…

- Referral of a non-family member for a new patient exam (25 points)
- Bonus points if the referral starts treatment (50 points)
- A staff member sees you outside of the office wearing your Stevens Orthodontics T-Shirt (10 points)
- A staff member sees your car around town with your Stevens Orthodontics magnet (10 points)
- Become a fan of Stevens Orthodontics on Facebook (5 points)
- Write a review of Stevens Orthodontics on Facebook (15 points)
- Bring a friend with you to your appointment (2 points)
- Bring your Kids Club Card with you to your recall appointment (15 points)
- “A” on hygiene at your appointments (1 point)
- Wearing elastics (1 point)
- Wearing Stevens Orthodontics T-Shirt to appointments (1 point)
- Arriving on time for your appointments (1 point)
- No broken brackets at your appointments (1 point)

The patient with the most points at the end wins a trip to Disney, which includes 2 nights at a Disney Value Resort, 2-day admission tickets for 4 people and a $500 Disney gift card to use on food and/or souvenirs inside the parks.

We will be announcing the winner on December 12, 2011.

If you are interested in participating, please fill out an entry form
at the front desk.

**Account must be current to be eligible to win

At Stevens Orthodontics, access to your account any day, any time

Did you know that patients at Stevens Orthodontics in Tallahassee enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week? Through our helpful website, you may look up your appointments with Dr. Stevens and all of your account details at your convenience, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders via text messages!

You may sign up for this convenient service - Ortho Sesame - on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button at the top of our homepage. Please give us a call at our convenient Tallahassee office if you have any questions about getting started!

Your turn! From Stevens Orthodontics

You probably know the drill: each week, Dr. Stevens and our staff blog about important topics pertinent to orthodontic care and your well-being.

This week, however, we thought we’d step back and ask: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the always-changing field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog? Perhaps there’s something you’ve been wanting to ask Dr. Stevens for a while now? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook fan page!

So… ask away and have a great week!

Presidents' Day Fun Facts!

Tomorrow marks Presidents’ Day, a day known for celebrating of both George Washington’s and Abraham Lincoln’s combined Birthdays. Presidents’ Day was created in 1971, when President Richard Nixon combined the birthdays of two of our most well-known presidents into one single federal holiday. Presidents' Day also marks a hard-earned day off from work and school for a lot of our patients at Stevens Orthodontics.

Here are a few fun facts about our nation’s presidents:

*Abraham Lincoln, our 16th president, carried letters, bills and notes in his tall stovepipe hat.

*George Washington is the first president to be featured on a postage stamp.

*Ronald Reagan, our 40th president, broke the so-called "20-year curse," in which every president elected in a year ending in 0 died in office.

*Harry S. Truman was the first president to have his Inauguration and speeches televised.

*Abraham Lincoln was the tallest of the U.S. presidents measuring 6’ 4” tall.

*Virginia is the birthplace of more United States presidents than any other state, followed by Ohio and Massachusetts.

Complimentary Consultations at Stevens Orthodontics

At Stevens Orthodontics, we provide excellent orthodontic treatment in a friendly and professional environment. We are dedicated to the comfort, well-being, and complete satisfaction of every patient that comes into our office. Our focus is on patient comfort and efficient treatment results.

One of our commitments is meeting with you to help you explore all or the options available to you or your child. We offer complimentary consultations for those interested in orthodontic treatment. During this time, you'll have time reserved with Dr. Stevens, who will assess your particular needs as well as discuss treatment options available and answer any questions you may have. We place a high value on making sure you have complete information before beginning treatment.

If you have been thinking about obtaining the dazzling smile you’ve always wanted, we invite you to give a call at 850-385-2822. Dr. Stevens has been serving the Tallahassee area since 1985.

See you soon!

Stevens Orthodontics, supporting National Children's Dental Health Month

Each February for the past 61 years, the American Dental Association (ADA) sponsors National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. Developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

For kids wearing braces, brushing and flossing can become more difficult, requiring extra time and vigilance to remove food particles that accumulate on and between the teeth and in braces. If the health of your teeth is ignored during treatment with braces, the results can be significantly compromised. Dr. Lucas Stevens is available and happy to explain why effective brushing and flossing is one of the most critical actions needed from patients during orthodontic treatment. Have you visited our Tallahassee office lately? Give us a call and schedule an appointment!

We also invite you to connect with us on Facebook!

Are you wearing your mouth guard?

At Stevens Orthodontics, we know spring sports are just around the corner, and we would like to remind our young athletes in treatment to take care of both your mouth and appliances while participating in contact sports (and non-contact sports) as well this spring. Dr. Lucas Stevens will tell you that only by using a mouth guard can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. And don't forget to ask us for a mouth guard - we will provide a mouth guard for anyone in active treatment!

If you have further questions or are ready to schedule your consultation, just give us a call at our Tallahassee orthodontic office.

What helps you or your child relax at Stevens Orthodontics?

We get it. Not everyone always enjoys visiting their orthodontist. But at Stevens Orthodontics, we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about Stevens Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment or our friendly staff? Dr. Stevens himself?

You may let us know by posting here or by letting us know on Facebook! We'd like to hear from you!

America marks Martin Luther King Day

Today, our country celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who was a thinker, leader and civil rights champion. In the 1950s and ’60s, Dr. King recognized the need to bring about social justice, and worked tirelessly to instill tolerance in our nation, strengthen America’s communities and move the nation forward. Today, thousands of folks of all ages and races in Tallahassee and across Florida will spend their time building, giving and renovating our communities to help celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend. Do you have the day off on Monday? If so, what do you plan to do to help your local community?

We’d love to know about your activities and events this MLK Jr. Day. If you have any video or pictures you’d like to share, please pass them along! If you’re not sure how, give us a call!

Our entire team at Stevens Orthodontics are proud of all our patients, families and colleagues who continue to make a difference in our community!

Here comes the Braces Brigade!

Last summer, you may remember, Dr. Stevens and staff blogged about the AAO's Braces Brigade. Well, now the blog is up-and-running, and boy do they have stories to tell!

If you'd like to learn more about what to expect during orthodontic treatment, from someone with firsthand experience, the Braces Brigade blog, where past, present, as well as future orthodontic patients from coast to coast document their orthodontic journeys, is a great place to start.

Dr. Stevens and team encourage you to visit the Braces Brigade blog to read these great and informative blogs—who knows, maybe you’ll learn a thing or two! As always, don’t hesitate to give us a call at our Tallahassee office if you have any questions about the Braces Brigade or your own orthodontic treatment with Dr. Stevens!

Have a great rest of the week!

The importance of visiting your dentist during treatment, from Stevens Orthodontics

Are you brushing teeth twice a day and flossing during your orthodontic treatment? If the answer is yes, we think that’s fantastic! But, Dr. Stevens and our team at Stevens Orthodontics would like to remind you to visit your general dentist every six months (or as recommended) in addition to taking good care of your oral health during orthodontic treatment. Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can:

•Check for problems that might not be seen or felt
•Detect cavities and early signs of decay
•Treat oral health problems early
•Show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth

During an oral exam the doctor will 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, it’s time for you to schedule an appointment!

Hope this helps. Give us a call if you have any questions. Happy New Year!