Zammitti Orthodontics, distinguishing the myths and facts about orthodontics

Dr. Zammitti is well-aware that there are quite a few myths about orthodontists circulating around these days. But before you buy into those myths, he thinks you should get the facts! Our team at Zammitti Orthodontics came across a great site that helps set the record straight. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at Zammitti Orthodontics, please feel free to give us a call.

A few tips to stay healthy this cold season, from Dr. Sal Zammitti

Just when you think spring has almost arrived, you remember it's still cold and flu season. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, has provided a few tips on how to know if you've caught the common cold:

* Sneezing
* Stuffy or runny nose
* Sore throat
* Coughing
* Watery eyes
* Mild headache
* Mild body aches

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. Zammitti and our professional team give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our office at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces. For the protection of other patients and our staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

And remember to constantly wash your hands and avoid contact with those who are ill! Have a great weekend!

Zammitti Orthodontics, supporting National Nutrition Month

March has arrived, and that can only mean one thing: it’s National Nutrition Month. Every March, Dr. Sal Zammitti and thousands of dentists and orthodontists celebrate National Nutrition Month. This March, Dr. Zammitti and our team at Zammitti Orthodontics want you to think diabetes, obesity and periodontal disease, and how healthful eating and physical activity may improve periodontal health.

Dr. Zammitti and team know small changes really can make a big difference, and the American Dietetic Association (ADA) has some advice on ways to start improving your diet this March:

• Focus on fruits and vegetables: Add a serving each day to one meal and increase it every few weeks. Adding more of these foods into your diet is important whether you buy frozen, fresh or organic.

• Think local: From farmer’s markets to community-supported agriculture, you have many options to find new, fresh foods here in Charlotte.

• Make your calories count: When you are choosing between options, focus instead on the one with more of the vitamins and nutrients that you need. Sometimes, foods with fewer calories aren’t always the healthiest options.

• Expand your horizons: Try a fish you’ve never eaten before or find a new vegetable recipe. By testing yourself, you might find new health favorites to add to your regular grocery list.

• It’s tempting, but...: If you have a sweet tooth, have fruit and yogurt for dessert. If you crave a snack in the afternoon, enjoy some trail mix or nuts.

If you have additional questions about periodontal disease or keeping yourself and your mouth healthy, please give us a call!

The advantage of SureSmile® at Zammitti Orthodontics!

We've blogged about SureSmile in the past, and today thought we'd share a little more information about this groundbreaking orthodontic treatment.

Does the thought of having braces bring you down? The team at Zammitti Orthodontics understand that one of the biggest concerns for orthodontic patients with braces is the length of their treatment.

But you’re in luck, because Dr. Sal Zammitti specializes in SureSmile, high-tech braces that are revolutionizing the orthodontic industry. SureSmile, which combines digital 3-D imaging, has computer-aided treatment planning and customized archwires to straighten teeth about 40 percent faster than traditional braces. The SureSmile program calculates the exact shape and pattern of the teeth and bends and cuts the braces wires, with more precision than traditional braces.

There are three steps. First, Dr. Zammitti identifies the initial tooth position with the patented OraScanner, a wand with a tiny camera attached. The OraScanner creates a precise 3-D digital model of your mouth, which is then uploaded into software that lets Dr. Zammitti view your mouth and teeth from any angle. Next, the SureSmile system allows us to create your entire treatment plan prior to treatment, using special computer software to analyze the 3-D model of your mouth and develop a custom archwire treatment. Finally, SureSmile’s robotic technology bends Shape Memory Alloy archwires, which can “remember” your prescription.

Results

With SureSmile’s specially programmed archwires, your teeth move more directly into their intended positions. The result for our patients is shortened treatment time and a more comfortable experience in braces.

Once the braces are on it’s only a matter of time before they are taken off revealing beautiful, straight, healthy teeth. With traditional braces a patient is expected to schedule 18 to 20 office visits over two years. With SureSmile, patients average seven to 10 visits and can have their braces off within half the time!

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, and braces are on the horizon, please contact Zammitti Orthodontics today!

Talking mouth guards with Dr. Zammitti

Let’s face it: sports-related injuries are common among children, let alone teens with braces. In a recent survey, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, discovered that 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get hurt while playing sports. That’s why Dr. Zammitti and our team are helping spread the word that many facial sports injuries can be prevented simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. Ask us—Dr. Zammitti will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment. In addition, the AAO has provided the following tips for keeping your kids safe on the field. Please remind them to:

• Wear mouth guards during contact sports
• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eye wear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant even as a spectator

All of these can reduce injuries. Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements Dr. Zammitti is trying to achieve.

Give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Zammitti Orthodontics.

The great social media adventure, with Zammitti Orthodontics

At Zammitti Orthodontics, we love social media and we LOVE communicating with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our Facebook fan page. For social media to work, conversation is vital, and that’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social media is hugely popular these days, it is unpredictable and ever-changing.

While Dr. Zammitti and our team are taking 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? Send us your thoughts or give us a call!

Dr. Zammitti wants to know: What do you love about our community?

Zammitti Orthodontics, located in Concord and serving Charlotte and surrounding cities, is situated around some pretty special neighborhoods. Each is unique with its own personality, created by the people and places (and Dr. Zammitti's amazing patients) living within.

Today, Dr. Zammitti and our team thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about Concord, Charlotte or surrounding communities? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps a favorite North Carolina getaway?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in Concord or Cabarrus County, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods.” And, who knows, Dr. Zammitti and team just might post your response on our social networks!