What is your New Year's Resolution?

The year is almost over, so Dr. Hunter and our team thought we’d ask: what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you most 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, to all our patients, friends, family, and all our dental and medical colleagues.

See you in 2011 everyone!

Ask Dr. Hunter: Why are regular checkups so important?

Are you brushing and flossing daily properly during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. David Hunter? If yes, that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist every 3-to-6 months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting Hunter Orthodontics, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

Your general dentist can check for problems that might not be seen or felt, detect cavities and early signs of decay, treat oral health problems early and show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth.

During an oral exam your dentist can check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to the dentist in the last six months, let us know during your next visit and we will provide a few great references in Glendale, Peoria or Phoenix!

Happy Holidays!

Season's greetings from Hunter Orthodontics!

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as Dr. Hunter and our team at Hunter Orthodontics reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients and readers: What do you love about the holidays this year? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for 2011? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year?

We’d love if you shared with us here, or on our Facebook page, all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

Happy Holidays from our entire staff at Hunter Orthodontics!

What puts you at ease at Hunter Orthodontics?

Dr. David Hunter and team understand not everyone is always thrilled about visiting their orthodontist. But here at Hunter Orthodontics, we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each of your visits. Today, we’d like to know: What is it about our office that makes you comfortable or puts you or your child at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our courteous staff? Dr. Hunter himself?

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

Happy Holidays!

Ask Dr. Hunter: Do germs really live on toothbrushes?

Fall is upon us, and with it comes the dreaded cold and flu season. After recovering from your cold, Dr. David Hunter will tell you one of the most important steps you can take to avoid becoming reinfected is replacing your toothbrush!

Germs can 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!

We hope these tips help! Feel free to call us at Hunter Orthodontics if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook. We hope you had a great Thanksgiving weekend!

Hunter Orthodontics, giving thanks

With Thanksgiving almost upon us, it's a great time to ask ourselves what we're thankful for. With our friends and family around us, we celebrate the blessings given to us in the past year. Our staff at Hunter Orthodontics thought we'd ask: What are you thankful for this holiday season? Do you have any Thanksgiving wishes you would like to share?

We would like to wish you all a safe and happy Thanksgiving. It’s a big food holiday, so be careful what you eat with those braces! If you have any stories or photos to share with us, we’d encourage you to send them along or post them on our Facebook page!

At Hunter Orthodontics, easy and reliable access to your account any day, any time!

At Hunter Orthodontics, we embrace all forms of technology, whether it's through the innovative orthodontic treatments Dr. David Hunter offers, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern office conveniently located in Glendale and serving nearby Phoenix and Peoria.

Did you know that patients at Hunter Orthodontics have access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our website? You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, from the comfort of your own home! And, because we know folks sometimes forget, you can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

You, too, can sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button at the top of our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started or ask us on Facebook!

Love your smile? Then we invite you to review Hunter Orthodontics on Google!

Happy Monday! Dr. David Hunter and our team believe that orthodontics is more than just straightening teeth; it’s about connecting with our patients on a personal level to create a uniquely personal orthodontic experience. Whether you've visited Hunter Orthodontics for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about how Dr. Hunter and our staff are doing! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice with the rest of the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local page and write a review there.

After all, reviews help Dr. Hunter create more beautiful smiles in Glendale, Peoria, Phoenix and surrounding communities. We look forward to reading your reviews - feel free to write a review here!

Ask Dr. Hunter: What's the deal with all those Halloween treats?

As Halloween draws closer and closer, our staff at Hunter Orthodontics know a lot parents here in Glendale, Peoria and Phoenix are worried about their kids going overboard on candies this weekend.

For those undergoing orthodontic treatment, you do need to be careful of the types of candies you consume this weekend. We encourage you to watch the video above about which candies you should avoid, but feel free to ask us on Facebook if you have any questions about what is and isn't braces-friendly!

We hope everyone has a fun, safe and scary Halloween!

Staying healthy this cold season, from Hunter Orthodontics

It's fall, and the cold and flu season is once again upon us in Glendale. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, says that a common cold usually includes sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and coughing. Symptoms can last for up to two weeks, according to the CDC.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. David Hunter and our entire staff give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our Glendale 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 at Hunter Orthodontics, 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 week!

What's on your mind? Tell Dr. Hunter!

Week after week, our creative team at Hunter Orthodontics blog about important topics pertinent to orthodontic treatment care and your well-being, including innovative orthodontic techniques Dr. Hunter offers at our office in Glendale.

Today, 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? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook page!

Take it away and our staff will try to answer any questions you may have! Have a wonderful weekend!

Fun fact Friday with Hunter Orthodontics!

At Hunter Orthodontics, our staff knows our patients love fun facts. And, really, who doesn't?! Our pals at the American Association of Orthodontists came up with some fun facts about orthodontics that Glendale orthodontist Dr. David Hunter and our staff thought you might enjoy. Have a wonderful weekend!

• There are nearly 4 million people in orthodontic treatment throughout the United States. Three out of four are younger than 18.

• The first mechanical treatment for correcting irregular teeth was suggested by Gaius Plinius Secundus (A.D 23-79).The American Association of Orthodontists is comprised of more than 12,000 members in the United States, Canada and abroad.

• The time required to complete orthodontic treatment ranges from 12 to 36 months depending on the nature and severity of the problem.

• Of the 160,000 dentists in the United States and Canada, 8,000 are practicing orthodontists.

• The cement that attaches the braces to the teeth is now made with a special fluoride-releasing substance.

• Wires activated by body heat used in today's braces originally were developed by NASA for use in the space program.

• In addition to alleviating or preventing physical health problems, orthodontics can boost self-esteem as treatment aligns teeth, jaws and lips.

• Famous orthodontic patients include: Dr. Joyce Brothers, Hale Irwin, Cher, Diana Ross, Phyllis Diller, Chelsea Clinton, Whoopi Goldberg, Daisy Fuentes and Brandi.

Dr. David Hunter and Hunter Orthodontics, supporting National Orthodontic Health Month!

Happy Friday! October is National Orthodontic Health Month, and our staff at Hunter Orthodontics wanted to remind our patients to be careful when they bite into their treats this Halloween season. Remember, caramels, taffy, nuts, bubble gum, popcorn kernels and suckers are some of the foods you should be avoiding! Indulging in these foods can break your braces and lengthen your treatment time!

Of course, Halloween doesn’t have to be completely treat-less. Check out these braces-friendly recipes, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists.

If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call at (623) 566-4800, ask us on Facebook or ask Dr. David Hunter during your next visit!

Pasta pomodorini, a delicious and braces-friendly fall recipe!

Fall is here, and sometimes we here at Hunter Orthodontics just feel like a hot, delicious meal is in order. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) made an appetizing (and braces-friendly!) fall dish that is sure to delight. Dr. David Hunter would like to remind you that a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps you achieve the best possible result from your orthodontic treatment at our Glendale office.

Pasta Pomodorini

Ingredients:
• ¾ pound spaghetti or spaghetti
• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• ¼ cup sliced garlic
• ½ teaspoon finely minced Calabrian chilies, or 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 pint small cherry tomatoes, stems removed, crushed between your thumb and forefinger
• Sea salt, preferably gray salt
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, each torn into 2 or 3 pieces
• Wedge of Parmesan cheese

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta. While the pasta cooks, heat the 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over moderate heat. Add the garlic and cook until the slivers are golden brown and crisp, then add the chilies and cook for about 30 seconds. Raise the heat to high and add the tomatoes. Simmer briskly to soften the tomatoes and thicken the juices, about 3 minutes. Season with salt. When the pasta is al dente, scoop out about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta. Return the pasta to the warm pot off the heat. Add the sauce and the basil and mix well. Add some of the reserved cooking water if the pasta seems dry. Transfer to a warmed serving bowl and grate Parmesan over the top to taste. Drizzle with a little more olive oil. Serve immediately. Makes 4 servings.

Enjoy this great fall dish and have a great weekend!

-From Dr. Hunter and staff

Ask Dr. Hunter: Why are straight teeth so important?

People wonder why Dr. David Hunter and our staff work tirelessly to give our patients straight teeth. Of course it’s nice to have a smile full of evenly aligned teeth, but did you know that straightening your teeth at Hunter Orthodontics can keep them healthier? Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime!

Straight teeth are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque—the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to tooth decay; and they are easier to keep clean!

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, please give us a call at (623) 566-4800 to set up a complimentary consultation. Our staff and Dr. Hunter can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment. Have a great week!

$1.50 for a cavity? Dr. Hunter explains...

Vending machines are a quick way to satisfy hunger - you put in $1.50 and you get back a candy bar, bag of chips or even a soda. But that’s not all! Vending machines not only dispense sweet treats and caffeine bursts, but they also dispense cavities!

Every time you chow down on that chocolate bar the bacteria in your mouth have a party feasting on the sugar. The sugar quickly turns into acid; that’s right, ACID!!! The acid sits on your teeth and eats away at the tooth’s natural enamel (the stuff that protects your tooth from decay). When this enamel is eaten away by the acid on your tooth, you get a cavity! Brushing your teeth after eating a sugary treat can help prevent cavities; but before you indulge remind yourself: “can’t brush? Hold the sugar!”

When choosing a snack, Dr. David Hunter wants you to consider these nutritional options that will not only satisfy your hunger and that "sweet tooth," but won’t cause acid build up resulting in cavities:

•Fresh Fruits (berries, oranges, melon, pears, etc)
•Raw Vegetables (broccoli, celery, carrots, etc)
•Bread
•Pretzels (low salt)
•Milk (low or non-fat)
•Cheese (low or non-fat)
•Nuts and seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc)
•Sliced meat

Hope this helps! Give us a call at (623) 566-4800 if you have any questions!

When should you call Hunter Orthodontics?

Our staff at Hunter Orthodontics hope you're off to a wonderful week! Our pals at the American Association of Orthodontists have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Glendale, Arizona orthodontist Dr. David Hunter for an appointment. Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with us:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, please give us a call at (623) 566-4800 as soon as possible! Enjoy the rest of your week! :)

Connect with Hunter Orthodontics on Facebook!

At the orthodontic practice of Dr. David Hunter, we believe that orthodontics is more than just straightening teeth; it’s about connecting with our patients on a personal level to create a uniquely personal orthodontic experience. We also believe in the unique relationships we have developed with our patients in Glendale, Peoria, Phoenix and surrounding communities here in Arizona. Even if you only see Dr. Hunter for your appointment on a regular basis, did you know that you can now connect with us Facebook?

We invite you to “like” us at Facebook.com/HunterOrthodontics. There, we share office news and updates on our Fan Page, so check it out! By Liking our page, you will receive updates from our office automatically in your news feed! In fact, we encourage you to head to our Facebook page and vote for the winner of the "Where in the World" contest that is wrapping up soon!

See you on Facebook and have a great rest of the weekend,

- Dr. Hunter and staff

Ask Dr. Hunter: What the heck are In-Ovation® Braces?

Who needs ugly and uncomfortable ties or elastics that apply pressure and friction on the teeth? With the free-sliding technology of the In-Ovation braces, your mouth is free of pain and discomfort.

Best of all, there’s no need to have your braces tightened! Using light, gentle forces, In-Ovation makes the path to that beautiful smile you’ve always wanted faster and more comfortable than you ever thought possible.

Did you know Dr. David Hunter is a certified In-Ovation provider in Glendale, Peoria and Phoenix? If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, or would like to know more about In-Ovation, please visit our web site or contact Hunter Orthodontics by calling (623) 566-4800! Happy Monday!!

Are you reading this summer?

With summer here for another month, Dr. David Hunter and our staff wanted to take this time to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. With school out and summer settling in, we know it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year. But reading during the summer is actually a vital step in brain development and helps ward off the dreaded “summer slide.”

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR summer reading list? What are some of your all-time favorite books?

If you're out of ideas for great summer reads, please ask us, and we'll be happy to provide a few good book suggestions. Or, you can check out these summer reading ideas that we came across on Wednesday, thanks to Barnes & Noble.

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your summer picks or your all-time favorites on our Facebook page!

This summer, don't forget those mouth guards!

Would you believe we're already halfway through summer? As the weather stays hot through September, the chances for you athletes to sustain a mouth injury get likelier and likelier (because most of you are spending so much time outdoors or participating in more sports-related activities). Dr. Hunter and our staff would like to remind our young athletes in treatment to always take care of both your mouth and appliances while participating in contact- and non-contact sports.

That includes wearing a mouth guard at all times when you're out on the field. Only by using a mouth guard can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. And don't forget to ask us for a mouth guard - Dr. Hunter will provide a mouth guard for anyone in active treatment!

By the way, our summer contest is going strong and our entries have been amazing! Flat Dr. Hunter has traveled 24,041 miles and is still going strong! Don't forget to submit your entries to us on Facebook by August 27th and remember the most CREATIVE photo wins a Nikon digital camera! Good Luck!

We hope you're having a terrific summer!

Dr. Hunter and team want to know: Will you be a part of the Braces Brigade?

Have you ever wondered how to put your experience in braces in writing? Then our staff at Hunter Orthodontics have got the perfect opportunity for you! Thanks to our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, here's your chance! The AAO is proud to offer the Braces Brigade campaign, where you can blog about your experience in orthodontic treatment with millions of people ... AND come away with a $100 American Express gift card!

To complete your Braces Brigade application, you'll need to provide:

* Name
* Age – Must be 14 years of age or older
* E-mail
* Phone number
* Stage of orthodontic treatment
* A photo of your braces/smile
* A sample blog post – picture yourself as a member of Braces Brigade and show off those blogging skills! (100-word minimum)

In your blog, you may answer questions such as:

• Why did you decide to get orthodontic treatment at Hunter Orthodontics?
• What advice would you share with other orthodontic patients?
• What does it feel like to get braces on?
• What foods do you miss the most?
• What new foods have you discovered?
• Do your friends have braces or retainers?
• Where is the first place you’re going to show off your new, beautiful smile?
• How has your new smile changed your life?

All applicants must either be an orthodontic patient of Dr. Hunter's or the parent of a patient (pre- and post- treatment stages are fine). If you're under 18? No problem! Just make sure your parents must fill out a consent form along with your official entry, giving you permission to enter the contest.

We encourage you to apply for the Braces Brigade today - deadline is August 31st! GOOD LUCK everyone!

Congratulations, Jeeanna!

Dr. David Hunter and our team would once again like to congratulate Jeeanna Warren for winning our Online Patriotic Scavenger Hunt! Jeeanna won 2 season passes to Wet 'N Wild! Here she is, accepting her season passes from Dr. Hunter!

Here were the answers:

1. Who Wrote the Declaration of Independence? Thomas Jefferson

2. Who was the first person to sign the Declaration of Independence? John Hancock

3. How many stripes are on the American Flag? 13

4. What do the stripes on the American Flag represent? The original thirteen colonies

5. What does each of the colors on the American Flag represent? Red- Blood, war and courage; Blue- justice; White- Purity

What are patients saying about Hunter Orthodontics?

At the orthodontic practice of Dr. David Hunter, we believe that orthodontics is more than just straightening teeth; it’s about connecting with our patients on a personal level to create a uniquely personal orthodontic experience. Lately, we’ve been receiving some great patient reviews! Check out what our current patients are saying about Dr. Hunter and team!

“The office staff and Dr. Hunter are flexible, patient, and very caring. They make you feel like part of the family!” ~ Briana R.

“Everyone seems to know what they're doing. I feel confident that I have chosen the right orthodontist. Friendly staff.” ~ Gary B.

“Dr. Hunter puts 100% in to making all of his patients feel comfortable and at home. He genuinely cares about his patients and their families.” ~ Joshua H.

“This office is always much more tech-savvy, which I love; the website is easy to navigate and has useful information.” ~ Skyler M.

“He is almost like family, my oldest son started care with Dr Hunter approx 7 years ago and had braces twice, my second son was under his care during that time, and now it's mom's turn. The office has always been clean, welcoming, and fun. I have recommended him many times. His professionalism shines.” ~ DeAnn C.

Share your Fourth of July plans with Hunter Orthodontics!

This Sunday - which happens to be Independence Day - Dr. Hunter and our staff will help celebrate America's 234th birthday. For most folks, the Fourth of July is a chance to celebrate and commemorate the anniversary of the signing of America's Declaration of Independence. It's also a time for people to pay homage to all our troops - past and present - who lost their lives in battle - and those soldiers who continue to place themselves in danger every day so that Americans can enjoy our freedoms.

Today, our staff thought we'd ask: what are your Fourth of July weekend plans? Are you heading to a barbecue? Hitting the great American open roads with family? Having fun in the sun? Going swimming with friends?

If you're planning on using fireworks to light up the Arizona night sky, Dr. Hunter and team want to stress that you be extra careful! We want you to exercise caution if you'll be out swimming, playing sports or lighting fireworks.

Whatever you might be doing over Independence Day weekend, our entire staff hope you have a great week and a safe and happy Fourth of July weekend! Feel free to share your photos on our Facebook fan page!

Tell Hunter Orthodontics about your summer plans!

It’s summer here at Hunter Orthodontics, a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, hitting the open roads or just having fun in the backyard, Dr. David Hunter and team want to hear all about it! Leave a comment on our Facebook page and tell us about your summer!

We also encourage you to post any photos to our Facebook wall and don't forget about our Online Scavenger Hunt!

Happy travels,

The Hunter Orthodontics team

Dr. Hunter’s Patriotic Scavenger Hunt!

We are excited about our Patriotic Scavenger Hunt! (Contest runs from June 17th to July 4th)

RULES:
Copy the questions below then paste them along with the answers in the comment box on our Facebook Page.

1. Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?

2. Who was the first person to sign the Declaration of Independence?

3. How many stripes are on the American flag?

4. What do the stripes on the American flag represent?

5. What does each of the colors on the American flag represent?

Once your answers have been posted on our Facebook page, your name will be entered to win TWO season passes to Wet ‘N Wild!

Not a fan on Facebook? No problem…Copy the questions above and paste them to a new e-mail message. Type in your answers and send to darcie@hunterortho.com

(Please remember to include your first and last name and telephone number)

GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!

Dr. David Hunter and staff, supporting National Smile Month

We hope you enjoyed the weekend! Now that we’re in June, Dr. David Hunter and team thought we’d tell you June is National Smile Month, and a good time to remind all our patients to practice good oral hygiene between your visits to Hunter Orthodontics.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health in June so that you may celebrate National Smile Month for many more years to come:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Here's a helpful video showing you how to brush with your braces on.
* Floss everyday to thoroughly clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment.
* Visit your dentist regularly (usually every six months apart).

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call at (623) 566-4800! We want everyone to get out there and share your beautiful smiles with Arizona!

New patient contest: Where in the World is Dr. Hunter?

This week marks the start of our new summer contest titled "Where in the World is Dr. Hunter?"

Here's how it works: if you're traveling this summer, you get a Flat Dr. Hunter from the office and take him with them everywhere you go. Then, you'll submit your photos as well as postcards from all the fun places you travel to this summer. Our staff will be posting pictures on our bulletin board!

The most creative picture will win a Nikon Ultra-Slim Coolpix camera! Let us know if you have any questions and good luck!

Ask Dr. Hunter: Are those rumors about orthodontics really true?

Trust us when we tell you our entire team at Hunter Orthodontics is well-aware that there are a lot of myths and half-truths flying around these days when it comes to braces and orthodontic treatment. But, before you buy into those myths, Dr. Hunter thinks you should get the facts first! Our pals at the American Association of Orthodontists have some helpful 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 our office, feel free to give us a call at our convenient Glendale location.

We hope you have a great rest of your Memorial Day weekend, and we can't wait to see you all again!

Dr. Hunter and team want to know: What are your plans for Memorial Day weekend?

Make no mistake about it: Memorial Day Weekend is a time to reflect and honor the men and women who have served to protect America and ensure our freedom. It’s also the unofficial start of summer, and for many kids in Glendale, getting out of town for three days with parents after being cooped up in school all these months is sweet, sweet relief.

At Hunter Orthodontics, we know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. After all, it’s unofficially the start of summer 2010 and time for a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories with parents or friends.

What about you? What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend?

Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, hitting the open roads of Arizona or just having fun in the sun, we’d love to hear all about it! Relax and enjoy the long weekend!

With Hunter Orthodontics, easy access to your account information

Access to your account, any day, any time. Sounds just perfect and convenient, doesn’t it?

Patients at Hunter Orthodontics enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our web site. You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages! Just see what a few of Dr. Hunter‘s patients are saying about this innovative service:

"It is very convenient and it is a wonderful service." ~ Tyler F.

"Gives me up to date information about my account usable in many forms, can make payments on line, info on Daniels braces, and a way to e-mail you. Love the office, the employees, it is all simply a great atmosphere for the kids as well as the parents; should be the model to emulate." ~ Daniel N.

"First of all, it answered some questions, but what I will like the most, is to be able to make my payments online." ~ Maria R.

"Just started to use OrthoSesame. It is very convenient and I was able to see that our down-payment was credited to our account. It's also great for double-checking on appointment times." ~ Alexandra C.

"This service has helped me with looking at the financial aspect, for ex: how much more I need to pay and how much I have paid. I can check my appointments, and basically get all the information I need when I get home from work and the office is closed. This is a great service!" ~ Thomas F.

You, too, may sign up for this convenient service on our web site by clicking on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started!

Share your experience at Hunter Orthodontics with the world!

At Hunter Orthodontics, we believe that orthodontics is more than just straightening teeth; it’s about connecting with our patients on a personal level to create a uniquely personal orthodontic experience. Whether you've visited Hunter Orthodontics for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about how Dr. Hunter and our staff are doing! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice with the rest of the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local listing and write a review there.

After all, reviews help Dr. Hunter create more beautiful smiles in Glendale and surrounding communities. We look forward to reading your reviews!

Dr. Hunter wants to know: Do you know where your retainers are?

If you recently completed treatment at Hunter Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. David Hunter will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, however, provide that stabilization.

To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Hunter, please read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth or give us a call!

We hope you have a great weekend and HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to all the great moms who come to our office!

We still support Brooke!

Unfortunately, Brooke didn't win last night at the Comeback Student Athlete of the Year banquet. She was in the top 3 for fan favorite voting and the top seven for the second scholarship offered by judges' votes. She was a little bummed, but perked up because she was on Channel 12 news last night!

Here is a note from Brooke's golf coach, Jason:

I also wanted to comment on what a great evening it was last night. On the drive home, I really reflected on what is important in the grand scheme of things. In these tough economic times, especially being a teacher with budget cuts, tax overrides, and the like, being in that room really showed me what the true meaning of life is. To hear some of the stories from the kids that were nominated really made me appreciate how good some of us have it. The battles and the perseverance that these young adults have shown at such a young age is truly remarkable. I certainly hope that in my lifetime, I won’t be faced with some of the challenges that I saw and heard last night from kids that haven’t even graduated from high school yet. However, I now see that if those challenges do present themselves for me or my family, that there are others that have battled and overcome great obstacles.

Brooke didn’t win the scholarship award, and for that I am disappointed. But every student that was nominated certainly came home a winner. I am very proud to have had the pleasure of being one of Brooke’s teachers, and now her coach. I very much look forward to her playing golf the next two years to finish her high school career. I am even more proud to have been a part of last evening to support her in this journey she has gone through. People say being a teacher is a powerful job as we inspire and effect the lives of young people, and mold them for the future. I think this is a case where the student has truly inspired the teacher!

Thank you for your support and your time.

Comeback Student Athlete of the Year Banquet Tonight!

Well, the votes have been cast, and tonight - at a banquet - we find out if Brooke Alden will be the 2010 PCH Sports Medicine Comeback Student Athlete of the Year! If Brooke wins, she will be awarded scholarship money and on top of that, her golf program at Sunrise Mountain High School will receive $1000!

GOOD LUCK BROOKE! From our entire team at Hunter Orthodontics!

Ask Dr. Hunter: Which toothbrush should my child use?

Our staff at Hunter Orthodontics will tell you that brushing your teeth is one of the easiest methods of cavity prevention before and after your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Hunter. But which type of toothbrush should your child use? When choosing a toothbrush, look for round-ended (polished) bristles that clean while being gentle on the gums. Choose one that is specifically designed for children's smaller mouths and hands. Lastly, throw out a toothbrush after three months or sooner if the bristles are fraying. Frayed bristles have the ability to harm your gums, and are not as effective in cleaning teeth.

But what about toothpaste? It doesn't matter as long as it has fluoride in it. However, for small children who tend to swallow toothpaste, do not use fluoridated toothpaste. Make sure to touch each tooth and every side of that tooth and gently brush on your gums.

To learn more about choosing the right toothbrush and toothpaste for your child, we encourage you to read this helpful article from Parenthood.com. Or, you may give us a call and we'll try to answer any question you may have about keeping your child's mouth as healthy as possible!

Congratulations Garrett!

For those unfamiliar with how we run patient contests, we periodically have online contests where we send out an e-mail to all our fantastic patients and have them answer questions about our web site. Garrett K., pictured above with Dr. Hunter, is our online contest winner for our contest that ran from January through March.

PS! A friendly reminder from our staff: don't forget to wear you mouth guard out on the field! A lot of our patients play sports and participate in physical activities, and we want them all to be safe! For more information about sports and facial protection, please visit the American Association of Orthodontists Sports Safety page. Have a great weekend everyone!

This April, a reminder to play it safe! From Dr. Hunter and team

With spring here, many children, teens and adults will once again pick up the ball, bring the bat out of seasonal retirement, and lace up their cleats to hit the fields for the return of spring sports! April is National Facial Protection Month, however, and during this time, Dr. Hunter and our dedicated team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this spring, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. Dr. Hunter will tell you protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Hunter Orthodontics. Stay safe!

April Fools' and NEW contest at Hunter Orthodontics!

Traditionally, April 1st is known as April Fool's Day. Dr. Hunter and our entire team would love if you shared a great story about a trick you played, or someone else played on you, on this silliest of days.

Feel free to post them here or on our Facebook page.

In other news, we have a NEW online contest starting TODAY! Here's how it works: Post a 1-minute video on our Facebook page about why your mom is the best! The Best video will be chosen by Dr. Hunter and the winner will receive a $50 gift certificate to Massage Envy for MOM!

So send us your videos! We can't wait to see them!

It's time to vote for the Comeback Student Athlete of the Year!

Please help by casting your votes for Brooke Alden! Don't forget to log on each day to vote for Brooke! Voting starts today (March 22nd) and continues through April 9th. You are allowed one vote, per person, per day.

Voting is at the following site: www.comebackathlete.azcentral.com

If Brooke wins, she will be awarded scholarship money and on top of that, her golf program at Sunrise Mountain High School will receive $1000!

Brooke deserves this more than anyone I know ... she has kicked cancer's butt and did the impossible. Although sports was her life, she was told she could never play football, softball or soccer again. She decided she could try golf, however. Never playing before, she tried out for her high school's golf team and made it. She played 2nd seed most of the season and even qualified for state! She is a bionic woman with her titanium leg and she never lets anything get her down or set her back. She is our hero and an inspiration to so many! Please take the time to vote for her!

The making of a smile at Hunter Orthodontics

Our staff at Hunter Orthodontics recorded a recent patient and the process of beginning orthodontic treatment with Dr. Hunter. Please enjoy the video and let us know what you think! For more fun and interesting videos, please visit our YouTube channel!

Congratulations to the Banat SC 99 soccer team, winners of our Team Party contest!

Congratulations to the girls! Here's how the contest works: Current patients will enter their team for a chance to win an end-of-the-season pizza party hosted by Dr. Hunter and our team. a large majority of our patients are in sports, acting/drama, gymnastics, ballet, cheer and many other activities.

If you are interested in entering your team into our drawing for your end-of-the-season party, please contact Hunter Orthodontics for an entry form. This contest will run through the entire year and winners will be drawn quarterly.

Happy Monday!

Can you pick our nose?

Can you believe we are actually asking our patients to pick our noses? It's not as gross as it sounds - starting today through May 27th, our wonderful patients have a chance to win a $50 gift card to "Speed Street" Cart Racing by matching the nose to the correct team member at Hunter Orthodontics.

Feel free to study each nose and try your hardest to guess right. GOOD LUCK!

Hunter Orthodontics in the community!

Dr. Hunter and our entire team at Hunter Orthodontics love giving back to the Glendale community, and this week was no different. As part of National Children’s Dental Health Month, Dr. Hunter on Tuesday donated bookbags and backpacks to all the students and faculty of Happy Valley School.

With February being National Children's Dental Health Month and with spring sports just around the corner, we thought this would also be an appropriate time to talk about mouth guards and the need to protect your pearly whites. If you play sports, it's important that you consult Dr. Hunter for special precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing spring sports such as baseball and soccer. Be sure, however, to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements Dr. Hunter is 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 Hunter Orthodontics. And don’t forget to ask us—Dr. Hunter will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment.

Stay tuned for upcoming events and contests and head over to our interactive Facebook fan page for more news about Hunter Orthodontics!

Meet Our Orthodontist

When you choose to become an orthodontist, it's not just something that you wake up one day and decide to be. Choosing to become an orthodontist takes dedication, training, and a passion for helping people change and improve their lives. Dr. Hunter is an orthodontist because he truly cares about the patients he treats. Every smile he treats is a new challenge, and new opportunity to have a positive impact on someone's life. When you choose to work with Dr. Hunter, you're not just a patient; you're a part of our orthodontic family!

Dr. David R. Hunter moved to Arizona as a young boy in 1963. He grew up in North Phoenix, graduating with honors from Sunnyslope High School in 1973.

Dr. Hunter completed dental school at Virginia Commonwealth University's Medical College of Virginia in 1983. His honors included membership in Omicron Kappa Upsilon (OKU), an honorary institution for academic excellence. In 1986, Dr. Hunter completed a general practice residency at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Thereafter, he pursued a three-year program in graduate orthodontics at the University of Missouri at Kansas City where he received his specialty certificate. Practicing in Arizona since 1989, Dr. Hunter is a well-known Glendale orthodontic specialist.

Dr. Hunter and his wife, Susan, are the parents of four children - Jennifer, Jason, Jordan and Joel - and grandparents to three grandchildren. When Dr. Hunter is not busy with his patients, he enjoys boating, camping and golfing.