Halloween Do's and Dont's, from Cottingham Orthodontics

For parents of Cottingham Orthodontics patients worried about their kids going overboard on candies this weekend, sugar and other sweets, Halloween is a dreaded annual event (no pun intended).

All those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, but these treats are known to damage teeth, as well as your 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 for those with braces, 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. Cottingham or your general dentist as soon as possible.

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

What are happy patients saying about Cottingham Orthodontics lately?

At Cottingham Orthodontics, we are always happy to receive testimonials and feedback from past and current patients who are in love with their smiles! Check out what some of them are saying about our office!

“I love her staff, especially the ladies at the front desk.” ~ Michelle W.

“Dr. Cottingham is very nice, and always complements my braces!” ~ Nuri M.

“Her personality.” ~ Daniel G.

“Everything is very convenient and the staff is so professional.” ~ Sebastian H.

“I feel the office is helping me like I am a human, not just a number.” ~ Julie E.

“Her great personality & the way she works with the children.” ~ James K.

“Dr. Cottingham is simply awesome and she has such a friendly, professional and very knowledgeable staff assisting her!! I have always experienced great service.” ~ Randy R.

If you’re IN LOVE with your smile, we want to hear from you! Please send us your feedback about your experience on our Google Places page or on our Facebook page! Your generous testimonials help us build more beautiful smiles in Indianapolis, Avon and surrounding communities!

Lastly, our Evening with the Stars gala was a big success that raised $385,000! One lucky fan went home with a package that includes dinner for 8 with Dallas Clark and his wife, Karen. Dr. Cottingham and her husband, Gene, enjoyed the event with four of her referring dentists and their spouses. For photos from the gala, head to our Facebook page!

Cottingham Orthodontics support the Make-A-Wish Foundation!

Dr. Cottingham is happy to be sponsoring a table at the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s 5th Annual Evening with the Stars gala next Monday, October 18th.

Cottingham Orthodontics are excited to support the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana, Indiana Region. Dr. Cottingham and team have sponsored the wishes of many children over the years through our giving and our fundraising activities. It is our favorite charity of the many we support. The Make-A-Wish Foundation—since 1980—has granted the wishes of children with life threatening medical conditions.

This event is one of Indianapolis’ most prestigious celebrity fundraisers, with Indianapolis Colts Tight End Dallas Clark expected to attend the gala, which will be held at The Indiana Roof Ballroom. All proceeds from this event will grant the wishes of children in Indiana.

We will post the photos on our Facebook page!

Dr. Karen Cottingham and team support National Orthodontic Health Month!

Happy Wednesday! October is National Orthodontic Health Month, and our staff at Cottingham Orthodontics wanted to remind our patients to be careful when they bite into their treats this Halloween season. Dr. Cottingham wants you to remember that caramels, taffy, nuts, bubble gum, popcorn kernels and suckers (among others) are some of the foods you should be avoiding while you’re wearing braces! Indulging in these foods can break your braces and lengthen your treatment time!

Of course, National Orthodontic Health Month and the Halloween season don’t have to be completely treat-less. Check out these delicious braces-friendly recipes, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists.

If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call, ask us on Facebook or ask Dr. Cottingham during your next visit at our convenient offices in Indianapolis or Avon!