The Lowdown on Dental Insurance, HSA’s and FSA’s to Help Pay for Braces or Invisalign

From Pixabay

Every year around this time, people begin to think about what to cook for the holidays, who they need to buy presents for, etc. The holidays aren’t the only thing on people’s minds, however, as health insurance, deductibles, HSA’s, and more force their way in as well.

If you have ever wondered what the difference between a HSA and a FSA is, then you know what we are talking about. If you still aren’t sure if your dental insurance covers braces and/or Invisalign, you understand too.  We get so many calls coming into our office with questions about dental insurance that we’ve decided to answer all your questions in one spot!

Many adult patients assume that insurance and health savings plans will not cover clear braces or Invisalign treatment.  But this is not true; many insurance plans will provide a 50 percent reimbursement for most orthodontic treatments, even if they are purely cosmetic.

Most orthodontic offices will file necessary claims and provide tips on maximizing insurance benefits.

If you have a pre-tax savings plan like a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) you may want to apply the funds in these accounts for clear braces or aligners.  For most FSA’s, you must use the money in the account by the end of the year, or lose the funds indefinitely.  

Also, if your employer offers an FSA option that you are not taking advantage of, now is the time to sign up so that you can purchase clear braces or Invisalign with pre-tax dollars in January.

That about covers it! If you have any other questions on the subject, let us know in the comments!

How to pull off holiday trends with braces

(From Pixabay)

It’s that time of year again. The time of year where you see all of those relatives that you haven’t seen since last holiday season. A lot has probably changed since you last saw each other and you may be nervous to show off your new braces. But, have no fear, Reed Orthodontics is here to help you get holiday ready from head to toe!

Outfits:

First off, you need to pick out your outfit well in advance. This will ensure you feel more relaxed when the holiday occasion arrives. Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner with your family, your school holiday party, or New Year’s Eve with your friends, these top trends will make sure you are the most stylish one there and your braces will just be a cute accessory:

For girls, tulle and beading are very in this holiday season. You can pick classic holiday colors or just pick your favorite. It’s easy to look elegant when tulle and beads are involved.

For boys, you can’t go wrong with sweaters. Whether you simply pair your sweater with khakis or layer it, you will look put together and ready to celebrate this holiday season.

From Seventeen Magazine

From Polyvore

Nails:

Your holiday look isn’t complete without a manicure! You can customize your look for every occasion. Thanksgiving nails can include glitter or a quirky turkey. For December, choose from snowflakes, bows, string lights, and, of course, glitter!

Hair:

Keep things simple the day of the get together. 10-minutes is all you need with these hair-dos. Adding a ribbon or bow to your everyday style is another easy look to pull off that will make you look like a million bucks.

Makeup:

As we said in our makeup and braces blog, it may seem counter-intuitive to put a bright color on your lips while wearing braces. But contrary to that, a bright color will actually brighten up your smile. So, before you head out the door for the holiday party, put on your favorite red or pink shade. If lipstick isn’t your style, you can go for a simple lip with a smoky eye.

Smile:

If you don’t get photos at the holiday party, did it really even happen? Here are some tips for getting that perfect shot. Before you go out, take five minutes and practice smiling in front of a mirror. It may sound a little weird but it will help you feel more comfortable for all of those selfies and group shots.

Did we skip your favorite holiday trend? Let us know in the comments!

Fall Recipe Guide for People with Braces

https://pixabay.com/en/wine-leaf-wine-harvest-vineyard-1731640/

Fall is here and with that comes some seasonal traditions! Watching the leaves change colors. Apple picking with friends. Watching Hocus Pocus. Enjoying hay rides. Going to pumpkin patches. Eating too much candy...the list goes on and on. Some traditions are difficult to enjoy when you have braces and that’s why we’ve pulled together some creative recipes so that you can still enjoy the flavors of fall:  

Craving apples?

There’s nothing like enjoying an apple on a crisp fall afternoon. However, with braces, you have to be careful to avoid apples since they can cause damage to your brackets. It may almost seem like there is no point to joining your friends apple picking this year. But, have no fear, we’ve found the perfect recipe so that you can still enjoy all of that apple flavor without the risk of any damage.

Craving pumpkin?

Sweets are difficult to avoid during this time of year. Most of us have halloween candy that lasts us well into the winter. How can you satisfy your sweet tooth without eating candy that can get stuck in your braces? These melt in your mouth pumpkin cookies with cream cheese icing should do the trick! They have just the right amount of sweetness and are easy to make!

Craving chocolate?

If you’re a chocoholic, those Snickers bars and M&MS are probably calling your name...Don’t risk the chance of damaging your braces! Instead, enjoy these double chocolate muffins! Fresh from the oven or packed for lunch, they are a sure way satisfy your chocolate cravings.

Craving caramel?

Caramel is one of the top things to avoid with braces. It’s a sticky mess that is sure to get stuck in all of the new nooks and crannies on your teeth. However, fall is a time where caramel makes everything better….caramel popcorn, caramel apples, caramel candies. Thankfully, you don’t have to go the whole season without a taste of the delicious fall flavor! Check out this simple caramel apple smoothie. Just make sure you blend the caramel in completely.

Are we missing one of your favorite fall flavors? Have a recipe you would like to share? Let us know in the comments!

Using Mouthwash with Braces

(From company website) 

When you first get braces, you will likely have a lot of questions. One of the most frequently asked questions we get is: “Should I use mouthwash during my time with braces?” This is such an important question because it affects your daily routine. The short answer to this question is yes. But, there’s still a lot to know before you head down to the store and buy a bottle. That’s why we decided to dive in and give you the low-down on mouthwash.

Mouthwash vs Floss
Flossing has many benefits. It’s what actually removes the plaque from our teeth. If you floss regularly, it will help prevent plaque formation and hardening. Only flossing removes plaque completely.

Mouthwash is a bit more complex than that. There are two types of mouthwashes: cosmetic and therapeutic. Cosmetic mouthwashes really only serve the purpose of bad breath relief. They don’t kill the bacteria that builds up in your mouth. Therapeutic mouthwash is more similar to floss. This type of wash removes plaque and prevents it from building up. Not only that but it can help prevent cavities and gingivitis.

Types of Mouthwash 
Choosing a mouthwash is the next step in your braces care process. You have to think about why you want to choose a mouthwash. If you have gingivitis or are at risk, you should select a wash with antibacterial ingredients. If you are prone to getting cavities, you should think about purchasing a wash that includes fluoride. There is even prescription mouthwashes that can be prescribed if needed. However, it’s important that everyone avoid using a mouthwash that contains alcohol, especially when you have braces.

How To Use Mouthwash 
When it comes to actually using mouthwash, things are pretty simple. You can either swish before you brush and floss or after. It doesn’t matter when, as long as you remember to do it. It won’t take much time out of your day, only swish for around 30-60 seconds. It may take a few weeks to see results but it will be worth it when you go to your next dental appointment.

Waterpicks 
On a similar note to mouthwash, water picks are optional but a great addition to your nighttime routine. It is an efficient way to get food out of hard to reach spaces. Not only that but you can put mouthwash in your water pick to get two things done at once.

If you have any questions about what types of mouthwash to use, or getting braces in general, feel free to contact our office at any time!

Going Back to School After Getting Braces Over the Summer:

(courtesy of: Pixabay)

The start of a new school year is exciting and nerve-wracking all at once. You’ll be able to see your friends everyday, show off your new sneakers, and learn new things. On the other hand, you’re probably nervous to see all of your classmates for the first time in 3 months. Getting braces over the summer can make you even more anxious to go back to school but it doesn’t have to! We here at Tina Reed Orthodontics have come up with a list of tips to make you more relaxed for your first day at school with braces.

1. First day outfit and makeup-

Make sure you set out the perfect outfit the night before. It doesn’t have to be the trendiest outfit, it just has to make you comfortable as you strut your stuff around the halls at school. It can be as simple as a pair of dark jeans and a band t-shirt or as flashy as a new dress with fringed sandals. If you are at the age where you wear make-up, check out our Makeup and Brace blog for some tips. You can try out that bright lipstick that you have been dying to wear or just swipe on some gloss as you’re walking to the bus.

2. Getting your haircut-

If you have been debating on whether or not to go for a dramatic new look, now is the time to try it out. With a fresh haircut, people won’t even notice your braces. Try out the undercut that you’ve been dreaming about or  add a streak of purple or blue in their hair.

3. Packing the right lunch-

Eating with braces can sometimes be a challenge so make sure that you pack items that are easy to eat. Avoid chips, apples, and sticky candy when packing or choosing your lunch in line at school.

4. Braces emergency kit-

If you are still nervous after trying the tricks above, we recommend packing a braces emergency kit. You should include wax, floss, a toothbrush, and a pocket mirror to use during any emergencies that may occur.

5. Have confidence-

To be honest, as long as you are confident all day long, no one will care that you have braces. If you just let yourself be you and get excited that you are on the path to a new smile, then you will have a great first day back to school. While the tips above will help make sure you are relaxed and have less to worry about in this new situationt, wear your changing smile proudly and get excited for the new school year ahead.

How to combat bad breath:

Image Courtesy of Jeremy Tarling

Summer is a time to be carefree, try new things, meet new people, and just relax. You don’t want your breath to hold you back or cause you to worry all season long. In most cases, bad breath is caused by oral bacteria build up. If you don’t drink enough water, take medications to cause your mouth to be dry, or forget to brush your tongue, bacteria can form. To help you be worry-free this summer, we here at Reed Orthodontics have gathered some top tips for keeping your breath fresh:

1. Continue brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes. Make sure to put extra effort into brushing the back of your tongue where bacteria build-up is commonly found.
2. Floss every day to make sure all food particles are removed from your teeth. It may be tough to remember to do, but once it is worked into your routine you will notice a difference in your breath.
3. Up your water intake and stay hydrated throughout the day. The more active you are, the more water you should drink. Swish cool water around in your mouth to freshen your breath in the morning.
4. Replace your toothbrush every two to three months. It is important buy a soft bristle toothbrush if you have sensitive gums.
5. To stimulate saliva production, chew a sugarless piece of gum. While you can try a sugarless mint, it is less recommended.
6. Keep your dental checkups and cleanings on a regular schedule. You should be seeing your dentist about every six months.
7. If you’ve tried the tips above and your breath problem still continues, we recommend booking an appointment with us. Chronic bad breath may be a symptom of a more serious condition that needs treated.

By using our tips, just imagine how much extra time you will have this summer! You can head to a baseball game at PNC Park or stop by the Pittsburgh Zoo. You could stop by one of the top places to get ice cream in the Burgh. Or even use this extra time as an excuse to show off your pearly whites.

Do you have any other fresh breath tips? We’d love to hear them!

5 Excuses to Show Off Your Pearly Whites This Summer!

Source: Pixabay 

School’s out! It’s so easy to lay on the couch and let the summer pass you by.  But it’s time to get up, head out, and enjoy the ‘Burgh! Not only is Pittsburgh home to the Stanley Cup this summer, it’s also full of summer activities to try out. With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to know where to begin. For some extra help, we have come up with a list of things to put on your calendar so that you can show off your gorgeous smile!

1. Kennywood-

Whether you get a season pass, a one day ticket, or a night rider pass, Kennywood is always a good idea! Start the day off with a ride on the Sky Rocket. You can throw your arms up and say cheese as you show off your brand new smile for the roller coaster photo. At lunchtime eat at the Potato Patch, of course! You can even pair it with some gummies and sweets to enjoy since you don’t have braces anymore. End the night with a relaxing ride on the swings in Lost Kennywood.

2. Ducky Tours-

Explore the city like you never have before! The Just Ducky Tour goes through, not only the streets of downtown but also travels through the famous three rivers of Pittsburgh. It is the perfect activity for the family to enjoy and get some photos along the way.

3. Farmer’s Markets-

Sometimes you really just need a day to relax, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay at home. Head to one of the many Farmer's Markets in Pittsburgh and pick up some fresh produce to add to dinner tonight. You may even run into some of your neighbors to show off your awesome new smile!

4. Movies in the Park-

Enjoy the warm summer nights at a movie in the park. It is a free and fun nighttime activity that’s a perfect excuse to catch up with your friends from school...just make sure to remind them you got your braces off so they recognize you!

5. Water Fun-

Keeping cool during the summer in Pittsburgh is sometimes tough but there’s no need to frown! We’ve got you covered. Head to the sidewalk fountains in either Southside Works or Market Square to beat the heat. If you want a view while you cool off, try the North Shore water steps. Last but not least, try out the ‘Cloud Arbor’ near the Children’s Museum. You can enjoy the cloud as you learn about science.

Makeup and Braces

No matter what age you are when get your braces on, it will surely affect your makeup routine. At first, you may be hesitant to draw attention to your mouth because you are self-conscious about your braces. It can be hard to know what beauty look will work best when you aren’t used to braces, so here are a few tips to keep in mind.

1. Bright lips-

It may seem counter-intuitive to put a bright color on your lips while wearing braces, but it will make your smile look brighter. The right shade of hot pink or true red for your skin tone may take a few tries to find, but it will be worth it when you walk out of the house feeling as confident as ever.

You want to make sure the colors go on smooth and don’t bleed to create a sleek and put together look. Mac Pink Pigeon and NYX Pink Lust are both good pinks to try out while Melted Ruby and Wet n Wild Hot Red are a good starting point for reds.

2. Smoky Eye

To add some drama to your beauty look, try a smoky eye. This will draw attention away from your mouth if you’re feeling self conscious and bring it to your eyes instead. Pinterest is the perfect place to find the smoky eye that works for you. There are tutorials for hooded eyes, blue eyes, brown eyes, and more.

3. Glossed lips with colorful bands-

For more of an everyday style that enhances your braces in a different way, try out a glossy look. This look on Polyvore is the perfect example of using a gloss to put the focus on your colorful bands.To achieve this look, fill in your entire lip with nude liner to prevent bleeding and keep your color in place all day. Two glosses to try are Kylie Cosmetics So Cute and Urban Decay Liar.

All in all, these tips are just to help you have fun with your makeup routine while you’re experiencing a big change like braces. You’ll have to get comfortable and used to the temporary change to your appearance, and that comes from experimenting with new techniques and colors.

Five Ideas to Make Your Time with Braces Fly by:

Getting braces is a different experience for every person. Some people, like our patient Chris, think that it is a quick process from the start. He says, “follow the plan that Dr. Reed gives to you so you'll have a smooth ride through your treatment and your braces will be off before you know it.” Others are nervous when they think about having braces for anywhere from 18 months to 2 years. It feels like a big time commitment and can seem like an eternity. We are here to tell you that isn’t true! If you still don’t believe us or Chris, we’ve gathered some ideas to make the time fly and remind you why you got braces in the first place.

1. Calendar Countdown- Every house needs a calendar, so make your’s personal and use it to countdown to the day you get your braces off. This idea of using a simple binder and turning it into a fully customizable calendar seems like an affordable and perfect way to get you excited for the big day. If you like more color, check out this crafty idea using paint chip samples to make your countdown calendar.
2. Paper Chain- You may be reminded of your first grade art class with these paper chains, but they’re really effective. Everyday you have your braces you should add another ring to your chain. You can use this practice to help you remember why you got braces in the first place. Before you seal each strip of paper into a ring, write a reason why you are getting your teeth straightened, or a future event that you imagine yourself having straight teeth for.
3. Reward Coupons- Positive encouragement is one of the best ways to push through the braces process. For each month you have your braces on, reward yourself with a coupon. The coupon could be for extra TV time, or a trip to the ice cream parlor, whatever makes you excited and reminds you that you are on track to a better smile!
4. Find a buddy- Everything is more fun with a friend. Find someone that you know got their braces on close to the time you did that way you can talk with them as the months go by. Having someone to talk to about what you’re going through will not only help you, but keep you excited for the end results.

We hope these techniques help the time go by and get you to that perfect smile before you know it!

5 Reasons to Smile This Spring!

Now that you’ve finished your spring cleaning, it’s time to get out and show off your pearly whites! Spring is a special time of year when the flowers bloom, the sun shines, and everyone heads outside. As most of you know, Pittsburgh is on the rise and that means that there is always something to do in the city. To make things a little easier for you, we have gathered the top five events going on around The ‘Burgh for you to smile about this spring.

1. Phipps Conservatory annual Spring Flower Show--

Celebrate the season by heading over to the conservatory! Not only will you get to see the gorgeous plants that are there year round, but you will also get to see the “Masterpieces in Bloom” show. This year, works by Van Gogh, Monet, and other famous artists will be featured among nature to represent renewal and regrowth.

2. Pirates Season--

Head over to PNC Park to enjoy a day of sports, fun, food, and friends! This season is sure to be a good one. Andrew McCutchen has got his power back and he’s ready to use it! We can’t wait to see where we go this season. Opening day is April 3rd!

3. The Pittsburgh Wine Festival--

For the 14th year in a row, the Pittsburgh Wine Festival is giving all Pittsburghers the chance to travel the world in just one night. There will be wine from California, Italy, South Africa, and more! Our protip is to plan which wines you want to hit first and make a list so you maximize your experience. Also, check out our tips on how to make sure your teeth don’t stain after all of the delicious reds you’ll be tasting!

4. Patio Dining--

Being a city filled with foodies, Pittsburgh’s restaurant scene is amongst the best in the country. The only thing that could make eating out in the city more enjoyable is to eat outside! Here are some of the best rated spots with outdoor patios for you to check out this spring. Some of our favorites are Murray Ave Grille and Pusadee’s Garden.

5. The Pittsburgh Marathon--

Whether you participate in one of the various race options, you volunteer to keep participants on track, or you simply cheer on the runners, The Pittsburgh Marathon is a must-go spring event in the city. The marathon’s course crosses over all three rivers and five of our bridges. It goes through 13 of Pittsburgh’s amazing neighborhoods and has incredible views throughout the whole city.

So what are you waiting for? Go out, explore, and keep smiling!