Cottingham Orthodontics, dispelling the myths about braces

Trust us when we say Dr. Cottingham knows there are a lot of myths and half-truths floating around these days when it comes to orthodontics. But, before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts first!

Our good friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of orthodontics, 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 Cottingham Orthodontics, feel free to give us a call!

Dr. Cottingham at the "Celebration of Caring" Fundraising Gala

Dr. Cottingham will be attending the Peyton Manning Children's Hospital at St.Vincent "Celebration of Caring" Fundraising Gala on March 4th. Now in its fourth year, the event will benefit the programs and services at Peyton Manning's Children's Hospital at St. Vincent in Indianapolis. Besides Peyton, Ashley, and famed father Archie Manning in attendance, four-time Academy of Country Music Entertainer of the Year Kenny Chesney is scheduled to perform, along with an appearance by sportscaster Bob Costas.

The event will also serve as the grand opening of the new JW Marriott Indianapolis, the largest JW Marriott in the world!

For more information about the event, which will be held at the JW Marriott in downtown Indianapolis, please call (317) 338-5090 or visit give.stvincent.org.

We will have photos available shortly after the event on our Facebook page!

Complimentary Consultations at Cottingham Orthodontics

At Cottingham Orthodontics, 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!

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. Karen Cottingham, 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 us a call!

We look forward to working with you, your family and all of your wonderful smiles!

- The team at Cottingham Orthodontics

At Cottingham Orthodontics, February Marks National Children's Dental Health Month

At Cottingham Orthodontics, February is National Children's Dental Health Month, as well as National Dental Health Month, and Dr. Cottingham and team thought we’d promote good oral hygiene among our patients with a few tips and tricks, courtesy of the American Dental Association.

• Teeth brushing techniques: It takes only two minutes to properly brush using short, gentle strokes and devoting extra attention to the gumline, areas around fillings and hard-to-reach areas such as the back teeth.

• Flossing: hold the floss snugly between thumbs and index finger and insert it between each of the teeth, making sure to go beneath the gumline and curving the floss around the base of each tooth.

• Snack wisely: choose healthy snacks such as cheese, fruits and vegetables and avoid crunchy, sticky, chewy candies that can stick to the teeth. If you eat these snacks, be sure to brush after doing so.

• Carbonated or sugary drinks: these drinks create acids that can damage the teeth when mixed with saliva, so they should be avoided altogether. If you’re going to drink one of these beverages, don’t sip on it throughout the day. Rather, drink it and then brush your teeth.

• Regular dental visits: in addition to seeing our team at Cottingham Orthodontics during your orthodontic treatment, you should visit your dentist here in Indianapolis or Avon for professional check-ups and teeth cleaning appointments about every six months.

National Dental Health Month aims to increase awareness about the importance of our patients' oral health. If you have any questions about keeping your mouth healthy, or about your treatment with Cottingham Orthodontics, please feel free to give us a call or ask us on Facebook!