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!