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!