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Having a sensitive gag reflex is nothing to be embarrassed about. Additionally, it is not something that should deter you from seeking orthodontic treatment. Those with a sensitive gag reflex can get frustrated, but it is certainly something that can be worked with while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Orthodontists, like Dr. Amir Davoody and Dr. Mark Hablinski at Davoody and Hablinski Orthodontics, are trained professionals that can help care for and achieve a beautiful smile. Below are some tips to help patients with a sensitive gag reflex.Read More

Date night can be a nerve-wracking experience. From what to wear, where to go, what to talk about, the numerous variables of date night can wreak havoc on what should be a fun experience. You don’t want your braces to be another source of worry on this evening, and they don’t have to be!

With a few simple tips from Dr. Amir Davoody at Davoody and Hablinski Orthodontics, you can flash your beautiful smile at your date as many times as you want without being worried about leftovers being hidden in your brackets.

At a Nice Restaurant – Stick to Soft Foods

While mood lighting can help hide a lot of things, it can’t get rid of food in your teeth. Stick to soft, tender foods so you can smile with confidence all night long. Pasta, mashed potatoes, soups, and other softer options are easy to eat and are less likely to have little bits that stick around in wires and brackets. Read More

Dear Patients,

After over 37 rewarding years in full-time practice, I will be moving to a part-time schedule at the end of the year. Dr. Amir Davoody will take the lead as primary orthodontist of Davoody & Hablinski Orthodontics, seeing patients five days per week.

My plan is to spend more time with my family, including my six children and 10 grandchildren and refocus on faith and community. Serving others and giving back has always given me a great sense of joy and satisfaction, and I look forward to developing the ministries that I feel are most rewarding. I also plan to spend some time playing golf as well as traveling with my wife, Dorothy.

For those that have not yet spent time with Dr. Davoody, he is first and foremost an incredibly talented, compassionate, and patient-focused orthodontist. He also stays on the cutting edge, always looking at new technology to improve outcomes and the overall patient experience. Over the past three years of work together I have seen that his work ethic and philosophy align perfectly with mine, making for a strong and fulfilling partnership.

I am truly excited about this new chapter of my life, which will allow me to focus more time on endeavors close to my heart. Thank you so much for your continued trust and confidence, and I look forward to seeing you soon.

Warm regards,

Dr. Mark Hablinski
Davoody & Hablinski Orthodontics

When it comes to improving your smile, at-home teeth straightening kits have become an increasingly popular option for patients looking to correct minor to moderate orthodontic problems. Even though teeth straightening kits are less expensive and time-consuming than services diagnosed and treated by an orthodontist such as Dr. Davoody or Dr. Hablinski of Davoody and Hablinski Orthodontics, the kits can cause more harm than good to your smile and bite in the long run.

What are At-Home Teeth Straightening Kits?

At-home teeth straightening kits are typically purchased online or at a physical location where a “Smile Specialist” explains the process and takes digital impressions of your teeth. You are later presented with clear aligners to begin treatment. The kits purchased online include a dental impression kit that you send back to have scanned and your aligners created. In some cases, you may even receive a preview of what your new smile could look like.Read More

Whether you’ve had orthodontic treatment or not, you’ve seen people wearing elastics or rubber bands as part of the process. But do you know what they’re used for? To help give you a better idea of why rubber bands are used with metal or clear braces, we’ll explain what they are, why they’re used, and how to take care of them during treatment.

What are Rubber Bands?

In short, rubber bands are used to help move your teeth along the archwire to aid in tooth movement for your particular treatment plan. There are many different ways to wear rubber bands and how long you wear them is determined by your orthodontist. Dr. Davoody and Dr. Hablinski at Davoody and Hablinski Orthodontics will instruct you on exactly how to wear your rubber bands and when and how often to change them based on your personalized treatment plan. Since your rubber bands lose their elasticity with use, patients are normally instructed to replace them at least once a day, especially after eating and brushing.Read More

You’re getting your braces put on for the first time and you’re not sure what to expect. One thing is for sure; your oral hygiene practices will definitely change. To help prepare you for what’s in store and make the most of your orthodontic treatment, we at Davoody and Hablinski Orthodontics explain what you can expect from your first week in braces:

Placement Day

On the day your braces are put on, the process should be relatively painless. In the hours following placement, you may notice that it will take you longer than usual to finish meals as you get used to wearing and chewing with braces. Stick to softer foods (like soups, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, shakes, etc.) for the first few days while your teeth and mouth adjust. You may also experience slight discomfort or soreness as the teeth begin to move.Read More

It’s the start of a new day and you’re going through the motions of your morning routine. As you begin flossing, you notice your gums start to bleed in some areas. Is this normal?

While bleeding gums from flossing does not mean your mouth isn’t clean, it can be a sign that you aren’t flossing enough. According to Colgate, “It’s fairly common for gums to bleed when you first begin flossing between teeth, and as long as the bleeding stops quickly, it’s not usually considered a problem.” In other words, continue to floss daily and the bleeding should stop over time.

Causes of Bleeding Gums

Several factors can cause gums to bleed. To help narrow down why you may be experiencing bleeding gums, consider the following reasons:Read More

In a previous post, we discussed some of the drinks that have a negative effect on the teeth. This included soda, fruit juices, and coffee. While it may seem like water is your only beverage option, fear not. There are a few drinks still available to quench your thirst without affecting your orthodontic treatment.

Milk

Not only can it help build strong bones, but milk is a great source of calcium. Calcium helps to repair and maintain tooth enamel to keep your teeth strong. Lactose intolerant? Don’t worry. Calcium-fortified soy milk is a great alternative to getting the same benefits as regular milk. However, it is important to keep in mind that milk also contains sugar which, if left on the teeth for too long, can cause tooth decay.Read More