Happy New Year from Cottingham Orthodontics!

The 2010 holiday season is upon us, and our team at Cottingham Orthodontics would like to wish all our patients and their families the merriest of holidays and best wishes for the New Year.

We thought we’d ask: what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2011? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Have a safe and happy New Year, from Dr. Cottingham and all of us at Cottingham Orthodontics!

What puts you at ease at Cottingham Orthodontics?

Dr. Karen Cottingham and team understand not everyone is always thrilled about visiting their orthodontist. But here at Cottingham Orthodontics, we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We are not only a doctor and orthodontic team—we are also parents, patients, and people with needs and concerns just like you. We understand what you expect from us, and we are dedicated to helping you achieve a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles!

Today, we’d like to know: What is it about Cottingham Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you or your child at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our courteous and experienced staff? Dr. Cottingham herself?

Let us know by posting on Facebook or by giving us a call!

Staying connected with Dr. Cottingham

At Cottingham Orthodontics, we embrace technology, whether it’s through the innovative orthodontic treatments Dr. Cottingham offers, our interactive website, or our Facebook fan page. As you can probably tell, we love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our fan page. For social media to work, however, we understand that conversation is vital, and that’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social networks are hugely popular these days, we know they’re unpredictable and ever-changing.

While we take a little time to research how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog? Please post your thoughts on Facebook or give us a call!

Hey Dr. Cottingham, when should I replace my toothbrush?

Great question. Fall is here, and with it the dreaded cold and flu season. After recovering from your cold, Dr. Cottingham and our staff will tell you one of the most important steps you can take to avoid becoming re-infected is replacing your toothbrush!

Germs are known to linger on the bristles, and you risk prolonging your sickness by continuing to use the same toothbrush. Be smart - keep a spare, just in case! To protect your toothbrush from bacteria all year long, consider the following tips:

• Wash your hands before and after brushing
• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen
• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster
• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Worn bristles are less effective in properly cleaning your teeth, and can actually be damaging to teeth if used too long!

Hope this tip helps! Feel free to give us a call if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook.