Go Blackhawks

We are big Hawks fans here at the office. Hockey has always been my favorite spectator sport, since I was a yound lad. Had the good fortune to go to the second Stanley Cup Finals game last Monday with my older brother. (Hawks win 2-1!)
I hoping the Hawks can avenge the painful defeat of my youth when my heroes Bbby Hull, Stan Mikta and Tony Esposito lost in the seventh game of the Cup finals to the Montreal Canadiens 3-2, after leading 2-0
Go Hawks!

Dr. Steve Moravec

Ask Dr. Moravec: How do I brush with braces?

Patients wearing braces at Moravec Orthodontics need to be vigilant when it comes to keeping their braces, teeth and gums clean during treatment with Dr. Moravec. The above video is a great demonstration regarding keeping your teeth healthy during your treatment by brushing and flossing thoroughly, and we definitely encourage you to check it out.

While you're in the mood to check out videos, head over to our YouTube channel! We post helpful and fun videos on a regular basis!

Dr. Moravec wants to know: What are your plans for Memorial Day weekend?

Memorial Day weekend is a time Americans remember all those who bravely fought and gave their lives for our country. It’s also the unofficial start of summer, and for many folks in Plainfield and nearby communities, getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the classroom or the office is sweet relief.

At Moravec Orthodontics, we know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. After all, it’s almost time for vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, or just hitting the great American open roads, we’d like to hear all about it!

What about you? What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend? Tell us, our entire team would love to know all about it!!

SureSmile demonstrated on CNN! From Dr. Moravec

We've talked about the advantage of SureSmile robotic braces in the past, and today thought we'd show you a clip of SureSmile being discussed on CNN this week!

With SureSmile, getting braces isn’t what it used to be. Our patients get incredible results in less time and typically spend less time in braces (20-50% less time), need fewer office visits, experience less pain and discomfort - and ultimately greater results - all thanks to SureSmile's remarkable technology.

Dr. Moravec and team encourage you to check out the above video about SureSmile and let us know what you think! Give us a call at 815.676.9000 if you have any questions about this treatment and if it's right for you, and we'll be happy to discuss!

Write a review of Dr. Moravec!

Dr. Steven J. Moravec and our caring, highly-trained team proudly provide Plainfield and surrounding communities with superb orthodontic care. Dr. Moravec truly loves practicing orthodontics. Providing his patients with a great smile that will last a lifetime is exceptionally rewarding.

Whether you've visited Moravec Orthodontics for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about how Dr. Moravec and our staff are doing! There are lots of ways you may share your thoughts about our practice with everybody else, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local page and write a review there.

Thank you for your time, and enjoy the rest of your week!

Moravec Orthodontics, wishing you a happy Mother's Day!

Our entire team at Moravec Orthodontics would like to take this time to wish all the moms who come to our office a happy upcoming Mother's Day! We thought today would be a great day to let you know we appreciate you all!

Whether it's driving their kids to our office or just "being there," all of the moms whose kids receive treatment at our office do a great job in supporting their kids' through their orthodontic treatment, and you all deserve more than just a day of recognition and praise! Happy Mother’s Day from our entire team at Moravec Orthodontics!

Your turn! From Moravec Orthodontics

By now, you probably know how this works: Week after week, Dr. Moravec and our creative team blog about topics pertinent to orthodontic treatment and care, as well as your well-being, including innovative orthodontic techniques we offer.

This week, however, we thought we’d step back and ask you, our wonderful patients and readers: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the always-changing field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog in the coming months? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask us for a while now?

Take it away and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have!

Moravec Orthodontics in the 2010 Relay for Life on June 26!

Dr. Moravec and our staff at Moravec Orthodontics love giving back to our community, and one way we do that will be by participating in the 2010 Plainfield Relay for Life on June 26th at Plainfield North Highschool.

Dr. Moravec feels it is important to be an active member of the community, as well as supporting the fight against cancer. Our office has formed a team to participate in this great event and will be raising money and awareness for the American Cancer Society. We would greatly appreciate all your support by making a donation to our team page.

For more information, head over to our Facebook fan page!

Support us in the fight against cancer!

Staying connected with Moravec Orthodontics

If you know our staff at Moravec Orthodontics, you know we love and embrace technology. We love connecting 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, 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 Dr. Moravec and our staff take a little time to research how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our phenomenal 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 or post your responses on our fan page!

Mother's Day contest at Moravec Orthodontics

Beginning next Tuesday, April 13, Moravec Orthodontics will be holding a contest for the best Mother's Day card from the heart. While you're in for your appointment, we will have blank cards for you to create a special note for your mom.

After creating your heartfelt sentiment to Mommy dearest, place your card in an unsealed envelope with a mailing address you would like the card to be delivered to. Then, all cards will be placed in a drawing, and the winner will receive a gift card for a manicure/pedicure for mom.

All cards will be mailed out, and the winner will receive the gift card. We think mom will love and appreciate the card with or without the gift card! Good luck!

If you have any questions, please contact us, and have a great rest of the week!

Moravec Orthodontics, helping you save face this spring

April, also known as National Facial Protection Month, is upon us, and for Dr. Moravec and our team at Moravec Orthodontics, that only means one thing: it’s once again time to remind our dear patients to protect their faces and pearly whites. Above is a helpful video from our friends at the AAO about staying safe on the ball field this spring.

Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of the tips offered in the video, please contact our staff. And remember to have fun and stay safe!

Dairy, your diet and periodontal disease, from Dr. Moravec

Let's face it, dairy is an important part of your diet. In fact, a 2008 study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease, or gum disease.

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw, says Dr. Moravec. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis.

Results of the study showed that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease. Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

To learn more about gum disease, or if have any questions about your treatment at Moravec Orthodontics, please don't hesitate to give us a call!

The importance of fluoride, from Dr. Moravec

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Moravec. You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and protect your mouth and appliances from being damaged. But did you know there is another, often forgotten about, way to keep your teeth clean and healthy during your treatment? Fluoride – a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay – can help keep your teeth strong! Fluoride comes in two varieties, topical and systemic. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth. Topical fluoride includes toothpastes and mouth rinses. Systemic fluorides are swallowed in the form of a dietary supplement. Dentists and orthodontists use in-office fluoride treatments to help protect the oral health of adults and children undergoing dental or orthodontic procedures.

Fluoride used at Moravec Orthodontics is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask Dr. Moravec how to purchase professional strength fluoride). A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. After the treatment patients may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. Depending on your oral health or doctor’s recommendation, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six or 12 months. Dr. Moravec may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses for at-home treatment.

When choosing your own fluoride product be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and have met the criteria of the ADA for safety and effectiveness. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

Moravec Orthodontics, supporting National Nutrition Month

March is here, and that can only mean one thing: it’s National Nutrition Month. Every March, Dr. Steven Moravec and thousands of dentists and orthodontists celebrate National Nutrition Month. This March, Moravec Orthodontists want you to think diabetes, obesity and periodontal disease, and how healthful eating and physical activity may improve periodontal health.

At Moravec Orthodontists, we 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 fresh, think local: From farmer’s markets to community-supported agriculture, you have many options to find new, fresh foods here in Plainfield.

• Make every calorie 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.

• 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.

• 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.

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

Ask Dr. Moravec: When should my child come in for a check-up?

Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to visit Dr. Steven Moravec to begin treatment, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That’s right—seven.

Ok, so what’s so great about age seven, you ask? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for Dr. Moravec to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or what Dr. Moravec and our team call “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites and open bites can be detected.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age provides one of two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, a healthy prognosis will provide immediate peace of mind.

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and are detrimental to good oral hygiene. So, if your child is nearing his or her seventh birthday, give us a call at Moravec Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

At Moravec Orthodontics, a pursuit of excellence

At Moravec Orthodontics we make every effort to provide you with the best orthodontic treatment. For us that means achieving consistently great results. There are many things that help Dr. Moravec do that. Some of them are:

1. Using the most up to date and proven technologies available
2. Spending time and resources on continuing education to stay current and relevant
3. Training our entire team on new techniques
4. Educating our patients about the pursuit of excellence

If you or a family member has been thinking about orthodontic treatment, please give us a call. Dr. Moravec and our team look forward to seeing you.

Have a great weekend!

Protecting your mouth during sports, with Dr. Moravec

At Moravec Orthodontics, we know it's difficult to believe spring is on its way (we're almost there!). The spring months, however, bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of kids damaging your precious mouths and pearly whites. If you play sports, it's important that you consult Dr. Moravec for special precautions. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing spring sports such as baseball and soccer. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements we are trying to achieve.

In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances damaged, please schedule an appointment with Moravec Orthodontics. And don’t forget to ask us—Dr. Moravec may recommend the best mouth guard for you.

Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Moravec Orthodontics.

Access your account anytime with Moravec Orthodontics

At Moravec Orthodontics, we embrace new technology, whether it is through the innovative (and 21st Century) orthodontic treatments that we offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern office conveniently located in Plainfield.

Did you know that patients of Dr. Moravec have access to their account, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, on our web site? You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages! Just see what some of our patients are saying about Ortho Sesame!

"I liked being able to show my huband the page about the doctor since he hasn't met him personally. I like seeing our next appointment to verify I've got it correct on my calendar." ~ Todd. L.

"I can access Sesame any time for my information, whereas I work days and cannot always make phone calls." ~ Lynne V.

"It has helped me keep track of the important things that matter such as being on track with Jonathan"s appointment and my finances." ~ Sonia L.

"This service is very convenient for me, and it is nice to have so much information readily available to me at any time." ~ Ralph V.

You can sign up for this convenient service on our web site by clicking the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please call the team at Moravec Orthodontics if you have any questions!

A few helpful Invisalign® tips, from Moravec Orthodontics

We've blogged about the advantage of Invisalign treatment with Dr. Moravec in the past, and today thought we'd share a few Invisalign tips with you, our wonderful patients. Many people know that Invisalign is a great solution to braces if you don't want to experience the look and feel of traditional metal braces. What few people know, though, is that just like traditional braces, Invisalign requires proper care to work effectively.

When wearing your Invisalign aligners, Dr. Moravec wants you to ask yourself the following questions:

1. Am I eating with my aligners on? - These aligners are removable and should be taken out when you eat.

2. Am I drinking anything other than water with my aligners on? - Though it's not a necessity for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky a soda is. If you take out your aligners when drinking a soda, you have a better chance of keeping your aligners clean.

3. Am I brushing before putting the trays on? - The aligners have both an inside and outside. Keeping the outside clean is easy. Keeping the inside clean is also easy: just make sure you've brushed your teeth before putting the trays on.

These are all very simple steps, and ultimately, they help to keep you building good oral habits. If you have any questions about Invisalign or your treatment here at Moravec Orthodontics, please... give us a call!

Dr. Moravec wants to know: What helps you relax in our office?

Dr. Moravec understands not everyone enjoys visiting their orthodontist. But he wants you to know our caring, highly-trained team strives to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit.

Today, we thought we'd ask: What is it about Moravec Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our amiable staff? Dr. Moravec himself?

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call!

Have a great weekend!

The advantage of SureSmile® at Moravec Orthodontics

Last week, we shared with you a clip of SureSmile as used on the popular TV show "The Doctors."

This week, we thought we'd remind you about SureSmile technology at Moravec Orthodontics. Does the thought of having braces bring you down? Dr. Moravec understands that one of the biggest concerns for orthodontic patients with braces is the length of their treatment.

But you’re in luck, because Dr. Moravec 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. Moravec 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. Moravec 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 Moravec Orthodontics at (815) 676.9000.

SureSmile makes the rounds on ABC’s “The Doctors” - Moravec Orthodontics

On a recent episode of ABC's "The Doctors," Dr. Thomas Lee of Oxnard, California, was interviewed in front of a live audience and demonstrated SureSmile technology and discussed treatment benefits for orthodontists and their patients. Dr. Lee's 14-year-old patient, Nina, who had just completed SureSmile treatment, was part of the segment as well, and spoke positively about her SureSmile treatment experience.

SureSmile is a software program that facilitates the precise positioning of a patient’s teeth placement for orthodontic braces. Did you know Dr. Moravec is a certified SureSmile provider? Give us a call and ask for more information! Have a great rest of the week!

--The team at Moravec Orthodontics