Orthodontist in Tulsa, Miami, Okmulgee, Tahlequah, and Pryor, OK (Oklahoma)

Five tips to avoid plaque

2011-10-21T16:16:00.000-07:00

At Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, we know nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth. Here are five other ways you can avoid that dreaded enemy of the teeth during orthodontic treatment, courtesy of WebMD.

Let’s start with brushing regularly. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste is vital to a healthy mouth. Make sure you softly brush all the surfaces of your teeth.

Next on the list is flossing daily: a simple daily flossing between teeth clears away plaque before it can cause damage and can also clean plaque at the gum line. Plaque is known to reach the spaces between teeth.

Also, evading a trip to the dentist is probably not a great idea. Let’s say you brush and floss daily. You’re still at risk for plaque. With time, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar. Consider visiting your general dentist at least twice a year or as recommended by your dentist, and you have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your teeth while wearing braces.

You’ll also want to stop avoiding those fruits and veggies. Believe it or not, there are foods out there that play a key role in keeping plaque off our teeth. They include apples, carrots, cucumbers and other raw fruits and vegetables. You can still eat these types of fruits and veggies if you have braces, but be sure to cut them up into bite sized pieces to avoid breaking off brackets.

Finally, before you pick up that candy bar, remember to not give in to your sweet tooth. Consuming sugary drinks or eating candy or other junk food allows sugar to stick to our teeth. The bacteria, then, becomes plaque, which turns into acid and damages our teeth. Avoiding these five bad habits keeps your plaque in check and your mouth as healthy as can be during your orthodontic treatment with Drs. Thomas and Douglas Kirkpatrick and Joseph Lai. If you have any questions, give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Who will benefit from braces? Ask Kirkpatrick and Lai Orthodontics!

2011-10-11T10:51:00.000-07:00

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Kirkpatrick and Lai Orthodontics will tell you that anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic treatment, whether it’s correcting a problem not treated in your younger years, or catching a problem early.

To ensure the best overall treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, recommends that children receive an orthodontic consultation as early as age seven. If a problem is evident, taking action early can spare a lot of treatment and expense down the road.

If you never received orthodontic treatment when you were young, don’t worry! You’re never too old for a beautiful smile. Set up an appointment for a consultation and find out how orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

October is National Orthodontic Health Month

2011-10-07T13:14:00.000-07:00

Happy October! For those who don't know, it’s National Orthodontic Health Month. This month-long event is organized by our pals at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Drs. Thomas and Douglas Kirkpatrick and Joseph Lai and our team realize that this is a great opportunity for us to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene. National Orthodontic Health Month also aims to recognize the dedicated work of orthodontists like Drs. Kirkpatrick and Dr. Lai and other dental professionals in Oklahoma.

The AAO recommends patients avoid the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

• Caramel
• Nuts
• Popcorn (including un-popped kernels)
• Taffy
• Jelly beans
• Hard pretzels
• Licorice
• Bubblegum
• Ice

If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call, ask us on Facebook, or ask us at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics during your visit this month!

Where are your retainers?

2011-09-29T15:43:00.000-07:00

If you recently completed treatment at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Drs. Thomas and Douglas Kirkpatrick and Joseph Lai will provide—or have provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, however, always provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed by Drs. Kirkpatrick and Dr. Lai is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime.

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

What was your favorite part of Summer 2011?

2011-09-19T15:12:00.001-07:00

The end of Summer and then subsequently the beginning of Fall are just around the corner. Soon the temperatures will cool down, the leaves will start to change, and we’re sure that you’ll thinking about Halloween costumes and Thanksgiving plans. But wait! First, we want to know: what were your favorite parts of the Summer of 2011? Did you go on a wonderful family trip? Did you pick up a new hobby? Did you try to spend as much time outside and in the sun as possible?

Share your favorite memories, stories, or photos with us by leaving a comment below or on our Facebook page.

-Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai

When should you call Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics?

2011-09-12T16:20:00.000-07:00

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Drs. Thomas and Douglas Kirkpatrick and Joseph Lai. 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, give us a call as soon as possible!

Hope this helps,

The team at Kirkpatrick and Lai Orthodontics

Breaking bad habits

2011-09-09T15:45:00.000-07:00

At Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, we know good dental health requires only a few minutes a day. We thought we’d provide some practical advice on how to improve your or your child’s smile between your adjustment visits with Drs. Thomas and Douglas Kirkpatrick and Joseph Lai.

Start by brushing your teeth twice a day. Proper brushing techniques are an essential part of maintaining good oral health during your orthodontic treatment, as well as preventing gum disease. More care and time are needed to adequately brush your teeth when you are wearing braces. Brushing daily helps remove decay-causing plaque from tooth surfaces. Please consult the doctor if you would like us to review brushing techniques with you or your child. The use of a mechanical toothbrush such as a Sonicare or Oral B can aid in removing plaque around braces. Flossing daily will also prevent plaque to build up between the teeth and prevent stains between your teeth. Research has shown the bacteria of gum disease has been linked to coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes and memory loss. Lastly, we encourage you to throw away old toothbrushes and replace them every 2 or 3 months, or after an illness.

We hope this helps! If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics or ask your general dentist during your next scheduled visit! Or, ask us on Facebook!

Now that I have braces, what can I eat?

2011-09-02T13:37:00.000-07:00

You just got braces at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics and Drs. Thomas and Douglas Kirkpatrick and Joseph Lai have informed you that during your orthodontic treatment you will want to avoid eating anything sticky, hard, crunchy, or chewy. What does this leave for you to eat? Lettuce? Nothing?

Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, created a variety of “braces-friendly” recipes that will allow you to enjoy your favorite treats without interfering with your orthodontic care!

Recipes include main dishes, side dishes and even yummy desserts! After all, a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps the patient achieve the best possible results from orthodontic treatment.

If you have any questions about the recipes listed or about the foods you should be avoiding during your orthodontic treatment, please give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Enjoy!

20 things that can ruin your smile, from Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

2011-08-26T17:11:00.000-07:00

At Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, we know your smile is important. And we know you want to keep it sparkling and looking its very best. Recently, we came across an article that suggests at least 20 things can ruin that perfect smile you have.

These include:

- Sports drinks
- Bottled water
- Tobacco
- Wine
- Soft drinks
- Citrus and acidic foods

Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai encourage you to read the rest of the article and ask us here on our blog or during your next visit to our office. For more tips or for general questions about your ongoing orthodontic treatment, we invite you to ask us during your next visit! We also invite you to ask us on Facebook!

Why do you choose Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics?

2011-08-15T15:31:00.000-07:00

Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, serving Tulsa, OK and surrounding areas, strives to provide exceptional treatment in an informative and friendly environment. Have you had a great experience at our office?

Share your story with the world!

Just select the "Write a Review" button above to write a review on our Google Place Page. We look forward to receiving your feedback!

Thank you,
The team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

Regular checkups are essential in maintaining good oral health

2011-08-12T14:37:00.000-07:00

Are you brushing and flossing daily during your orthodontic treatment at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics? 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 our office, 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 your area!

When should you call Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics?

2011-08-05T17:05:00.000-07:00

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai. 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, give us a call as soon as possible!

Hope this helps,
-Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

What are you reading this summer?

2011-07-28T17:29:00.000-07:00

With summer in full swing, some of us at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics wanted to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year, but reading during the summer is a vital step in brain development and warding off the dreaded “summer slide.” Plus, it's fun!

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR summer reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great summer reads? Ask us for suggestions, and our staff and Drs. Thomas and Douglas Kirkpatrick and Joseph Lai would be happy to provide a few suggestions. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas or check out these summer reading ideas that we came across today, courtesy of Barnes & Noble.

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

Dr. Tom Kirkpatrick voted "Best Orthodontist" in Oklahoma Magazine's "Best of the Best 2011"

2011-07-18T15:00:00.000-07:00

Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics' very own Dr. Tom Kirkpatrick was voted "Best Orthodontist" in Oklahoma Magazine's "Best of the Best 2011." Congratulations Dr. Tom Kirkpatrick! It is very exciting for our office to receive this exclusive honor.

For more information about this award, we encourage patients to check out the latest issue of Oklahoma Magazine.

With Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, 24/7 access to your account

2011-07-15T10:22:00.000-07:00

At Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, we embrace new technology, whether it is through the innovative treatments that we offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our five conveniently located modern offices.

Did you know that patients at our office 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 on our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started or ask us on Facebook!

HOW TO: Floss with Braces

2011-07-08T14:32:00.000-07:00

Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai will tell you that keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever when you have braces. Food bits have more spots than usual to hide in your mouth, so you must be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. If you remove plaque regularly during treatment, you'll experience better results and could possibly reduce your treatment time.

Here is a very concise video explaining the proper way to floss your teeth with braces. Give Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics a call if you have more questions about flossing. Enjoy!

Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics Asks: What are your 4th of July plans?

2011-07-01T16:45:00.000-07:00

This coming Monday, July 4th, is Independence Day and the United States of America will be turning 235 years old! It’s a day to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence and also a time for every American to pay homage to our soldiers, past and present, who have placed themselves in harm’s way so that we may continue to enjoy our freedom.

Drs. Thomas & Douglas Kirkpatrick and Dr. Joseph Lai and team will be celebrating this Monday and we would like to know, what are your plans for the 4th of July? Will you be out in the sun? Have you stocked up on fireworks? Are you going to grill up your favorite summer foods? Are you staying in town or heading somewhere else? If you have a 4th of July tradition, we would love to hear about it.

Whatever you plan to do, Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics hopes you have a fun and safe holiday! Feel free to upload your 4th of July photos to our Facebook page and let us know how your Independence Day turned out this year.

Stay Cool with a Braces-Friendly Summer Treat!

2011-06-21T09:54:00.000-07:00

With summer finally here, kids and adults alike will be spending more time outside being active and enjoying the hotter temperatures. And what’s better on a hot summer day than a delicious treat that will cool you down after doing something active in the summer sun? Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have just the thing, Watermelon Sorbet! You can find the complete recipe below:

Watermelon Sorbet

Ingredients
• ¾ cup water
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 2 to 3 cups watermelon, diced, no seeds or rind

Directions

In a small saucepan, heat the water, sugar, and lime juice on medium high for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Chill this “syrup” at least 20 minutes. In the meantime, place the watermelon chunks in a food processor or blender and liquefy them. Add the chilled syrup to the watermelon puree and blend. Freeze sorbet in an ice-cream maker according to manufacturer’s directions. Serve immediately.

Happy Summer!

-Drs. Kirkpatrick & Lai

Orthodontic Emergency Care with Drs. Kirkpatrick & Lai

2011-06-17T10:54:00.000-07:00

True orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but when they do occur we are available to you. As a general rule, you should call the office when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can't take care of yourself. We’ll be able to schedule an appointment with Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics.

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you schedule an appointment with Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai.

The following solutions may help you relieve your discomfort:

Poking Wire: Using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down or place wax on it to alleviate the discomfort.

Loose Bracket or Band: If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. If the wire comes out entirely, wrap the bracket with a tissue.

Loose Wire: Using a tweezers, try to place your wire back into place. If doing this and using wax does not help, as a last resort use a small fingernail clipper to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If your discomfort continues, place wax on it.

Loose Appliance: If your appliance is poking you, place wax on the offending part of your appliance.

Headgear Does Not Fit: Sometimes headgear discomfort is caused by not wearing the headgear as instructed by your orthodontist. Please refer to the instructions provided by your orthodontist. If the facebow is bent, please call our office for assistance. Surprisingly, headgear becomes more comfortable the more it's worn, so be sure you’re getting in the prescribed hours.

General Soreness: When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm salt water mouthwash. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously. If the tenderness is severe, take aspirin or whatever you normally take for headache or similar pain.

Remember, after alleviating your discomfort, it is still very important that you call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem.

Smile! June is National Smile Month!

2011-06-07T17:06:00.000-07:00

According to the American Dental Association, a person's smile outranked eyes, hair and body as the most important physical feature, which is why it's important for our team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics to support National Smile Month this June.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Month for many, many 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 every day to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment with Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai.
* 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.

How to freshen bad breath, from Drs. Kirkpatrick & Lai

2011-06-03T12:56:00.000-07:00

Drs. Kirkpatrick & Lai, your Tulsa orthodontists, recognize that many of our patients are concerned about bad breath, or halitosis. While some cases of bad breath are persistent (chronic bad breath), generally bad breath is transient, and can be prevented.

We recently came across this helpful video about bad breath and thought it was worth sharing with our patients. The video explains what might cause bad breath and some ways that it can be avoided. In most instances, bad breath can be prevented by practicing common oral hygiene techniques that you have probably heard us emphasize during a visit to Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, such as brushing and flossing daily. We encourage you to watch this video for additional tips on how to keep bad breath at bay. Enjoy!

Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, wishing you a safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend

2011-05-27T15:41:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day weekend, a time to remember and honor the men and women lost while serving for our country. Memorial Day is also the unofficial start of summer, and for many folks in Tulsa, Miami, Okmulgee, Tahlequah and Pryor, getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the classroom or the office spells sweet, sweet relief.

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

Our entire team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics wishes you a happy, safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

Drs. Kirkpatrick & Lai, debunking the rumors about orthodontics

2011-05-20T10:37:00.000-07:00

Trust us when we say Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai and our staff know there are quite a few myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) floating around these days. But before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists set the record straight (no pun intended) and have provided some information that sheds some light on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, feel free to give us a call.

Talkin' retainers with Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai

2011-05-17T15:07:00.000-07:00

If you recently completed treatment at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed by Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime. Here are some things to remember when you receive your retainers:

• Wear your retainers full time, until the doctor instructs otherwise.
• Take your retainers out when eating, and always put retainers in their case! (Most appliances are lost in school lunchrooms or restaurants.)
• Clean retainers thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Use warm but not hot water. Brushing retainers removes the plaque, and eliminates odors. Efferdent or other orthodontic appliance cleaners can be used, but do not take the place of brushing.
• When retainers are not in your mouth they should ALWAYS be in a retainer case. Pets love to chew on them!
• Initially, you may find it difficult to speak. Practice speaking, reading, or singing out loud to get used to them faster.
• Retainers are breakable, so treat them with care. If retainers are lost or broken call us immediately.
• If you have any questions or concerns about your retainers, or your retainers need adjusting, call us. Do not try to adjust them yourself.
• Always bring your retainers to your appointments.
• Retainer replacement is expensive; with proper care they will last for years!
• Remove retainers when swimming.
• Keep retainers away from hot water, hot car dashboards, pockets, the washing machine, and napkins.

What, exactly, are wisdom teeth?

2011-05-13T14:21:00.000-07:00

Wisdom teeth are a type of molar that is found in the very back of your mouth and are the last molars to develop. There are four wisdom teeth: upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right. These teeth usually appear in late teens or early twenties but may become impacted (fail to erupt) due to lack of room in the jaw or angle of entry. The removal of wisdom teeth has become so commonplace that it is almost a rite of passage for young adults.

Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai will tell you that when a tooth is impacted, it may need to be removed. If it is not removed, you may develop gum tenderness, swelling, or even severe pain. Impacted wisdom teeth that are partially or fully erupted tend to be quite difficult to clean and are susceptible to tooth decay, recurring infections, and yes, even gum disease.

In addition to visiting our website with any questions you may have about wisdom teeth, our friends at WebMD have developed a helpful explanation about wisdom teeth and how they impact your health. Also, feel free to give us a call with any questions you have or ask us on Facebook!

May marks National Physical Fitness and Sports Month!

2011-05-06T11:07:00.001-07:00

Did you know the month of May is designated National Physical Fitness and Sports Month? In 1983, President Ronald Reagan encouraged Americans to incorporate more physical activity into their lives, and the reminder is even more significant in this day and age, as kids everywhere are distracted more and more by television, social networking and video games. Kids living an active lifestyle can improve their health, productivity and overall well-being, and best of all? It doesn’t have to take a lot of time!

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has provided these public health guidelines for your convenience. The guidelines call for children and teens to exercise for at least one hour each day of moderate intensity physical activity (such as playing sports or brisk walking) or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity (jogging, dancing and jumping rope).

At Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, we always encourage our patients to stay fit by exercising or participating in sports. However, we want to remind you to always wear a mouth guard or other forms of facial protection when playing sports. To learn more about how often your child should exercise, we recommend you check out this series of helpful articles about kids and exercise, courtesy of our friends at KidsHealth.org.

What, exactly, is malocclusion?

2011-04-29T16:06:00.000-07:00

Malocclusion, or what Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai calls “bad bite,” is the improper alignment of teeth and/or jaws. When your teeth and jaws are not properly aligned, it may impact your bite, the ability to properly care for your teeth, your gum tissue health and even your appearance.

Most people experience some degree of malocclusion, but it generally is not severe enough to require corrective measures. If your malocclusion is serious enough, however, treatment may be necessary to correct the issue.

Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai will tell you that untreated malocclusion can lead undesirable mouth problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, or chipped and cracked teeth. The most common solution for malocclusion, of course, is orthodontic treatment. The actual course of treatment, including the length of time you will require braces, will be determined by severity of your malocclusion. The goal of your treatment is to move your teeth into the proper position and correct any misalignment in the jaw.

At Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, we use the most advanced technology in the field in order to ensure that you receive the best possible results. If you have any questions about malocclusion, please give us a call and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have.

Taking steps to reduce our environmental impact

2011-04-22T11:52:00.000-07:00

We are living in an age with a renewed commitment to conservation, and are frequently reminded to recycle, reduce and reuse. Earth Day is today, April 22nd, and we thought this would be a great time to discuss everything that Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics does to conserve our natural resources and the environment.

Did you know that we offer patients account access 24 hours a day, seven days a week? We offer convenient and secure online services with our patient login system. You can view all of your account information, and even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages. Since this information is submitted electronically, we eliminate the use of large amounts of paper and printing materials.

Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai would love to hear how you minimize your impact on the environment. Leave us a comment below or you can also visit our Facebook page and post something on our wall.

Happy Earth Day!

Foods to Avoid During Your Orthodontic Treatment

2011-04-15T12:08:00.000-07:00

There are a variety of foods Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai recommend you to avoid while you're wearing braces. Some foods can occasionally damage braces, but certain foods can bend the wires or even break the brackets on your braces. If you’re wearing braces, you should avoid starch, sugar and gummy foods, as these foods can be difficult to remove during brushing. Foods that are high in sugar and starch tend to cause plaque, cavities and even tooth decay.

Avoid tough meats, hard breads and raw vegetables such as carrots and celery. Before long, you'll be able to bite a cucumber again. But you'll need to protect your orthodontic appliances when you eat for as long as you're wearing braces.

Foods you should avoid include:

• Chewy foods: bagels, hard rolls, licorice
• Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice, chips
• Sticky foods: caramels, gum
• Hard foods: nuts, candy
• Foods you have to bite into: corn on the cob, apples, carrots

Also, chewing on hard things (for example, pens, pencils or fingernails) can damage the braces. Damaged braces will cause treatment to take longer.

If you have any questions on which foods you should be avoiding and why, we invite you to give Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics a call or ask our staff during your next visit.

Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai support National Facial Protection Month

2011-04-08T11:03:00.000-07:00

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, and during this time, Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai and our dedicated team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. According to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, children, high-school athletes and adults will have more than 5,000,000 teeth knocked out in sporting events this year.

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. 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 Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics. Stay safe and have fun!

How important is your smile?

2011-03-31T13:56:00.000-07:00

You may not know it, but your teeth are actually an important part of your health, your appearance, and your self-confidence! At Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics we want to help you achieve a healthy, happy smile that gives you the look you want with the confidence you deserve.

And speaking of smiling, in a new poll conducted by Glamour Magazine, people were asked, “If you had to pick between having perfect teeth, eyesight or hair, which would you choose?

Well, 44 percent of folks out there are choosing teeth! In addition, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, or AACD, conducted a study and found that 99.7 percent of those polled believed a smile is an important social asset. Respondents said straightness, whiteness, cleanliness, as well as the sincerity and sparkle of a person’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well.

Please contact our practice and schedule a complimentary orthodontic consultation. We look forward to meeting you, and we’re excited for the opportunity to give you just one more reason to keep smiling!

You're Never Too Old to Treat Yourself to a New Smile!

2011-03-25T15:16:00.000-07:00

Did you know one in every five orthodontic patients is an adult? We’re living longer and technology is improving, making orthodontic treatment an appealing and safe option for patients of all ages. As the trend toward treatment later in life grows, we’re seeing braces on parents as well as children – and even adult celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Gwen Stefani and Nicholas Cage have shown off their braces. It’s never too late to look and feel your best with Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment with Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai. The physical process for moving teeth is the same, young or old, which means it’s never too late to address issues such as an overbite or underbite, crooked or crowded teeth, or jaw disorders.

How Do I Get Started?

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, we’ll make a consultation appointment with you. During this meeting we will perform a general assessment of your oral health, discuss options for treatment, and answer any questions you may have. We will also discuss matters of cost and insurance. The next step is an orthodontic records appointment in which we take x-rays, photos, and an impression of your teeth. This information drives your unique treatment plan.

What Are the Benefits?

Straightening your teeth can improve your smile, your self-esteem, and your dental health. Technologically advanced new treatments make it easier to identify the option that best fits your lifestyle. Modern techniques and materials have made braces and aligners more effective, comfortable and unobtrusive than ever.

If you think you might benefit from orthodontic treatment, give Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai a call, so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs.

A Festive and Braces-Friendly Recipe to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T17:37:00.000-07:00

If you're planning to spend St. Patrick's Day celebrating your Irish heritage, or just enjoying the festivals, food and "wearing of the green"- we've got a treat for you! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have a tasty and braces-friendly recipe that is perfect for today. Corned beef casserole presents a twist on the traditional St. Patrick's Day corned beef and cabbage, and will surely become a family favorite!

Corned Beef Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 (8-ounce) package medium egg noodles, uncooked
• 1 (12-ounce) can corned beef
• 1 (10.5- to 14-ounce) can cream of celery soup, undiluted
• ¾ cup milk (use just ½ cup if using larger soup can)
• 1 Tablespoon dried minced onion
• ¼ cup bread crumbs (seasoned or toasted plain)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°. In a saucepan, cook the noodles just until tender; drain. In a large bowl, chop the corned beef into a coarse crumbly texture.

Stir in soup, milk and onion. Grease a 2-quart casserole. Add the noodles and the corned beef mixture and stir together well. Sprinkle the bread crumbs on top.

Bake covered at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

Serves 6-8 people.

Try serving the casserole with petite whole green beans from the freezer…or add 1 cup of finely chopped purple cabbage, 1/4 cup diced onion and 2 teaspoons fennel seed or powder for some true Irish flavor.

Happy St. Patrick's Day, from all of us at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics!

Braces 101 with Drs. Kirkpatrick & Lai

2011-03-11T12:52:00.000-08:00

If you ever sustain damage to your braces and need to call Kirkpatrick and Lai Orthodontics, we can help you more effectively if you can tell us exactly which piece is in trouble! Here’s a handy diagram and corresponding list of all the parts that make up your braces.

Elastic Tie: Tiny rubber band that fits around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Archwire: The main wire that acts as a track to guide the teeth along. It's changed periodically throughout treatment, as teeth move to their new positions.

Loop in Archwire: Frequently used for closing space left by an extraction. Many archwires don't have a loop.

Bracket: Small attachment that holds the archwire in place. Most often, a bracket is cemented directly onto the tooth's surface, eliminating the need for a band.

Headgear Tube: Round, hollow attachment on the back bands. The inner bow of the headgear fits into it.

Coil Spring: Fits between brackets and over archwire to open space between teeth.

Tie Wire: Fine wire that is twisted around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Band: A thin ring of metal fitted around a tooth and cemented in place. The band provides a way to attach the brackets to the tooth.

Hook: Welded or removable arm to which elastics (rubber bands) are attached.

Elastic (Rubber Band): Small rubber band that is hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth.

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!

Technology helps you relax at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

2011-03-04T17:49:00.000-08:00

It used to be that people were terrified to see the orthodontist. And Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai understand that some patients are still nervous. But fear not! The days of fear and loathing when driving to an orthodontist appointment are gone! And it’s all due to technology. That’s right, technology has allowed orthodontists everywhere to zero in on patient care and comfort.

For example, braces are much more comfortable and the treatment time has been reduced. In addition, the advances in the orthodontic field have permitted digital photos and X-rays of your mouth, patient charting and improved communications between doctor and patient.

If you have any questions about how we use state-of-the-art technology at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, give us a call and ask!

The health benefits of dairy, from Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

2011-02-25T14:03:00.000-08:00

Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai want to know: Is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, it should be! A research study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can actually lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). Results of the study also showed that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease.

Cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth. In addition to providing large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also does its part to fight cavities. Cheddar, Swiss, Mozzarella, and Monterey Jack all stimulate the body's salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris and protect them from acids that weaken them, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This means cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's ph level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. 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.

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!

For more information about which dairy foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please give us a call.

The importance of straight teeth, from Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai

2011-02-18T15:30:00.000-08:00

Some people wonder why we work so hard 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 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, give us a call to set up a consultation. Drs. Kirkpatrick & Lai can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month

2011-02-11T10:48:00.000-08:00

Each February for the past 61 years, the American Dental Association (ADA) has sponsored National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. Developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

For kids wearing braces, brushing and flossing can become more difficult, requiring extra time and vigilance to remove food particles that accumulate on and between the teeth and in braces. If the health of your teeth is ignored during treatment with braces, the results can be significantly compromised. Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai are available and happy to explain why effective brushing and flossing is one of the most critical actions needed from patients during orthodontic treatment. Have you visited us lately? Give us a call and schedule an appointment!

Visualize your new smile with the Brace Painter!

2011-02-04T15:00:00.000-08:00

Braces at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics are more fun than ever! With the Brace Painter, parents and children are able to “paint their braces,” and visualize how teeth will look with different colors of bands.

Would you like to try out pink and purple bands this February, without the commitment of an all-out Valentine’s Day look? The Brace Painter allows for you to select different colors, and then assign those colors of bands to certain teeth. Now, you can visualize your braces before you even come in for your appointment!

As always, please let Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai Orthodontics if you have any questions about the Brace Painter, or your orthodontic treatment at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics. Have a great weekend!

Tackling kids' sport safety with Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai

2011-01-27T14:19:00.000-08:00

Let’s face it: sports-related injuries are common among children, let alone teens with braces. In a recent survey, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, discovered that 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get hurt while playing sports. But 67 percent admitted that their child doesn’t wear a mouth guard when participating in organized sports such as football, basketball, baseball and soccer. That’s why Kirkpatrick and Lai Orthodontics is helping spread the word that many facial sports injuries can be prevented simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. Ask us—Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment. In addition, the AAO has provided the following tips for keeping your kids safe on the field this spring. Please remind them to:

• Wear mouth guards during contact sports
• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eye wear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant—even as a spectator

All of these can reduce injuries. Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai are trying to achieve.

Give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics.

Flossing 101

2011-01-20T15:51:00.001-08:00

Here is a very concise video explaining the proper way to floss your teeth. Many people think that flossing is only to get the food out from in between your teeth, when actually flossing should be done every day on every tooth to help protect your teeth and gums.

What helps you relax at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics?

2011-01-15T12:50:00.000-08:00

Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai understand not everyone is thrilled to see their orthodontist. But they want you to know that we strive to bring you exceptional orthodontic care in the most gentle, efficient and caring manner. We care about our patients, and we take time to evaluate your individual case and deliver the right treatments for the best results. We’d like to know: What is it about Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our friendly staff? Drs. Tom and Doug? Dr. Joe?

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

Getting social with the Braces Brigade!

2011-01-07T11:46:00.000-08:00

At Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, our patients want to get as much out of their treatment as possible. That includes asking a lot of questions and making sure they take care of both their appliances and oral health.

Would you like to learn more about what to expect during orthodontic treatment, from someone with firsthand experience? Well, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recently developed the Braces Brigade blog, where past, present, as well as future orthodontic patients from coast to coast document their (or their child’s) orthodontic journeys. The blog will serve as a source of guidance for others as the patients undergo orthodontic care.

Our team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics encourages you to visit the Braces Brigade blog to read these great and informative blogs—who knows, maybe you’ll learn a thing or two! As always, don’t hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions about the Braces Brigade or your own orthodontic treatment with Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai.

What is your New Year’s Resolution?

2010-12-28T14:30:00.000-08:00

The 2010 holiday season is upon us, and our team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics would like to wish all our patients and their families the merriest of holidays and best wishes for the New Year.

We thought we’d ask: what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you 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, from all of us at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics!

Season’s Greetings from Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

2010-12-22T16:44:00.000-08:00

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as our team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics reflects on the year that was, we’d like to know: What do you love most about this time of the year? Sledding or snowboarding with the family? Holiday baking? An annual event in Tulsa, Tahlequah, Miami, Pryor or Okmulgee?

We’d love if you shared your responses on our Facebook page. Happy holidays, from our entire team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics!

Access your account any time at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

2010-12-16T10:30:00.000-08:00

Why do you choose Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics?

2010-12-10T09:25:00.000-08:00

Drs. Tom, Doug and Joe, your Tulsa orthodontists, strive to provide orthodontic care in the most gentle, efficient and caring manner. Our doctors and team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics are always willing to listen, accommodate and adapt to our patients' needs. Have you had a great experience at our office?

Please share your story!

Just select the “Review Us on Google Places” button above to write a review on our Google Place Page. We look forward to receiving your feedback!

Thank you,

-Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

Fall into reading with Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics!

2010-12-03T09:51:00.000-08:00

How better to spend the fall months than inside by the fireplace with a warm cup of cider and a book in hand? Drs. Thomas and Douglas Kirkpatrick and Joseph Lai encourage you to warm up your mind this season with a few great books. Sure it may be easy to put off reading when balancing a hectic schedule, but reading is vital to brain development. Besides, reading is fun!

This week, we thought we’d ask: What are YOU reading this fall? Do you have any suggestions for must-read books this year? Out of ideas for great fall reads? Ask us for suggestions, and our staff would be happy to provide a few suggestions. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas or check out these fall reading ideas that we came across today, courtesy of Amazon.

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

Happy Thanksgiving, from Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

2010-11-24T14:35:00.000-08:00

Here at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, we are very thankful for all of our amazing patients! Our doctor and team would like to wish everyone a fun and safe Thanksgiving. We also want to remind everyone to brush and floss after indulging in the big meal.

If you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we encourage you to post them on our Facebook page or give us a call!

Preparing for Cold and Flu Season, from Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

2010-11-20T14:17:00.000-08:00

To promote a healthy and clean environment, our doctors and team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our 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, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

Maintaining and protecting oral hygiene equipment is also important this flu season. To protect your toothbrush from bacteria follow these steps:

• 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 toothbrush after every cold or flu or every 3-4 months when bristles appear worn

We hope these tips help! Feel free to call if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook. Stay healthy!

Looking for a delicious braces-friendly winter dessert? We’ve got a great recipe!

2010-11-12T17:13:00.000-08:00

You have braces, and you’re probably wondering what to eat. You can’t have gum, popcorn or other delicious but braces-unfriendly foods. But fear not! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have a delicious recipe that will satisfy both your sugar craving and hunger when the weather gets cold.

Apple Bombolini

Ingredients:

Rustic dough
• 9 ounces cake flour (about 3 cups)
• ½ cup all purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• Pinch sea salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into large pieces
• 1 tablespoon vanilla
• 2 tablespoon cold water

Apple sauce filling
• 4 Granny Smith apples
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 vanilla bean, or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon water

Diced apples:
• 4 Granny Smith apples
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla
• ½ lemon, juiced

Directions:

For the dough: In a mixing bowl with a paddle attachment, add the dry ingredients and mix for 5 seconds to blend. Add the butter and vanilla and mix until the butter is about the size of peas. Add the cold water and blend until the dough just comes together. Form the dough into a roughly shaped ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.

Applesauce filling: Peel, core, and slice the apples. Put the apples with the rest of the ingredients into a saucepan. Bring to a boil, turn down the heat, and cook until the apples are very soft, about 20 minutes. Remove from the heat, cool, and refrigerate.

Diced apples: Peel, core, and cut the apples into large slices. Toss with the sugar, vanilla and lemon juice and set aside.

Assemble the bomboloni: Remove the dough from the refrigerator. Roll out to1/4-inch thick round. Cut into 6-inch rounds. Place about 1/4 cup of the Apple Sauce Filling onto the center of each round. Top with a few pieces of the Diced Apples. Pull the sides up towards the center to form a bundle, pinching the dough together towards top. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour before baking
Bake the bombolonis: Heat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Remove the bombolonis from the refrigerator and place them on a greased or parchment paper lined baking sheet. Bake until golden brown, about 25 to 30 minutes. Makes 5 servings.

What do you enjoy most about fall?

2010-11-05T14:39:00.000-07:00

It’s fall here for us at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, a time when all across the country, the leaves begin to change colors, the air becomes crisp, and families begin to make plans for Thanksgiving.

Today we wanted to ask you, our wonderful patients, "How are you spending your time this fall?" Our team would love to hear about your favorite places for eating, shopping, and entertainment within Tulsa, Tahlequah, Miami, Pryor and Okmulgee. We are interested in learning about what makes your community “yours.”

Feel free to post your responses on our Facebook page, or give us a call!

Halloween safety tips, from Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

2010-10-29T12:10:00.000-07:00

Trick-or-treat! In the spirit of October’s sweet and spooky holiday, Halloween, Drs. Joe, Doug, and Tom would like to remind all of our patients to be safe while celebrating with friends and family. The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has provided trick-or-treaters with some tips for a ghoulishly good time.

A few Halloween safety guidelines:
• Young children should always be accompanied by an adult
• Carry a flashlight
• Wear a light-colored or reflective costume
• Choose face paint over masks for young ghosts and goblins
• Have an adult inspect all treats before the children dig in

Many treats can cause havoc for trick-or-treaters who are going through orthodontic treatment. If you happen to damage your braces, please give Drs. Joe, Doug, and Tom and our staff a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone.

At Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, a pursuit of excellence

2010-10-22T13:43:00.000-07:00

At Kirkpatrick & Lai 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 our doctors do that. Some of them are:

1. Using the most up to date and proven technologies available, including ncluding invisible braces, clear braces, early treatment, facial surgery, adult orthodontic treatment, and other orthodontic braces and appliances.

2. Spending time and resources on continuing education to stay current and relevant

3. Training our entire team on new techniques

4. Employing an “open office” concept where patients and their families are encouraged to ask questions and take an interactive role with their treatment.

If you or a family member has been thinking about orthodontic treatment, please give us a call. We look forward to seeing you!

Celebrities get braces, too!

2010-10-15T15:15:00.000-07:00

Did you know that back in 2002, Tom Cruise had braces? During this time, he was 40 years old and filmed Minority Report, Austin Powers in Goldmember and the Last Samurai. Check out his smile in Jerry Maguire, Rain Man or The Firm and compare to the post-braces Tom Cruise in Valkyrie or Tropic Thunder. The fact is, movie stars need to look their best for the silver screen, and it wouldn't be possible without orthodontists like Drs. Joe, Doug, and Tom.

In fact, lots of Hollywood stars have had orthodontic treatment. Check out this slideshow of famous faces with braces.

If you’ve thought about getting the perfect smile you’ve always wanted, please give Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics a call.

A braces-friendly recipe, in celebration of National Orthodontic Health Month!

2010-10-08T11:29:00.000-07:00

In honor of National Orthodontic Health Month, our team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontic would like to share a great braces-friendly Halloween recipe with all of our patients, courtesy of the American Association of Orthodontics, or AAO. This Spooktacular Pumpkin Cake is delicious, and provided that you remember to brush and floss after indulging, this treat will not cause damage to your beautiful smile.

Spooktacular Pumpkin Cake

Ingredients:

1 pkg. yellow or white cake mix
½ cup vegetable oil
4 eggs
1 cup canned pumpkin
¾ cup sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon
Dash of nutmeg
¼ cup water (add 2 tbl. of water if eggs are small)

Directions:

Put cake mix in a large bowl. Make an indentation in the center and pour in the oil and one egg. Mix using mixer, then add the rest of the eggs one at a time, beating after each one.

Add pumpkin, sugar, spices, and then water.

Bake in greased and floured tube pan in 350 degree oven for 60-70 minutes (depending on oven calibration). Cool before removing from pan.

October is National Orthodontic Health Month

2010-10-01T17:32:00.000-07:00

Can you believe October is already upon us? October happens to be National Orthodontic Health Month, and this month-long event is organized by our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Many treats can cause havoc for trick-or-treaters who are going through orthodontic treatment, and these treats may cause damage that could prolong your treatment time. The AAO recommends patients avoid the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

• Caramel
• Nuts
• Popcorn (including un-popped kernels)
• Taffy
• Jelly beans
• Hard pretzels
• Licorice
• Bubblegum
• Taco chips
• Ice

If you happen to damage your braces, please give Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone. Loose brackets or wires can usually be made more comfortable by applying some wax until the you can come into our office.

Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics asks: Are you wearing your retainer?

2010-09-24T13:34:00.000-07:00

If you recently completed treatment at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, our doctors 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, always provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed by our team at Kirkpatrick and Lai Orthodontics is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime.

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

Staying connected with Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

2010-09-16T14:32:00.000-07:00

At Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, we embrace technology, whether it’s through the innovative treatments we offer, our high-tech web site or our Facebook fan page. As you can probably tell, we love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our 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 Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai and our staff take a little time to research how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal 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 give us a call!

Your pal, fluoride!

2010-09-10T10:38:00.000-07:00

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment with Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics. 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.

Fluoride used in the orthodontists’ office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask your doctor 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.

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!

Top ten tips for keeping your BRACES sparklin’ clean

2010-09-02T15:52:00.000-07:00

Keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever when you have braces. Food bits have more spots than usual to hide in your mouth, so you must be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. If you remove plaque regularly during treatment, you'll experience better results and shorter treatment time. Keep plaque at bay with these top ten tips:

1. One tooth at a time. When you brush, take time with each individual tooth – at least 10 seconds each – and pay careful attention to the spots where your teeth touch your braces.

2. It’s all about the angles. Brush the tops of your teeth and braces with your brush angled down toward where they meet. Brush the bottoms of your teeth and braces with your brush angled up.

3. The tooth, the whole tooth, nothing but the tooth. While the front surface of your teeth may seem like the most logical to clean, it’s equally important to clean the inner surface of your teeth (tongue side) as well as the chewing surface. And be sure to clean along your gum line – a key spot for plaque buildup.

4. Step 1: eat, step 2: clean. While you’re in treatment, it’s important to brush after every meal. Bits of food can easily get caught between braces and teeth, and these food bits interact with bacteria in your mouth to cause decay. The longer food is in contact with your teeth, the greater opportunity for plaque to form. If you are eating somewhere that you can’t brush, thoroughly rinse your mouth with water.

5. Like a Boy Scout, always be prepared. The easiest way to be sure you can brush after every meal is to get in the habit of taking a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss with you wherever you go. Designate a special container just for your teeth-cleaning tools and keep it in your purse, backpack, or laptop case.

6. Remove the moving parts. If you have elastic bands or headgear, remove these parts before you brush or floss.

7. Fluoride is your friend. Fluoride helps prevent cavities. Be sure to brush with fluoride toothpaste, and rinse with fluoride mouthwash.

8. Pointy brushes reach tiny places. Interproximal brushes (sometimes called proxa brushes or interdental brushes) are cone-shaped and come in very handy for reaching spots around your braces that standard brushes can’t.

9. Find the floss for you. Regular floss works for some patients, but others find it easier to work with a floss threader, which helps you get the floss into tight places. Other patients like an all-in-one product called Superfloss, which comes with a stiff end for easy threading, a spongy section for cleaning wide spaces, and regular floss for narrow spaces.

10. Make time for the pros. It’s your job to take care of the everyday cleaning. But make sure to visit your dentist regularly while in treatment, to get the deep, thorough cleaning that only a professional can provide. If you need help finding the right Dentist for you, feel free to contact our office - we’d love to help!

Hope this helps!

-Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

Age 7 is the magic number for an orthodontic check-up

2010-08-26T13:53:00.000-07:00

Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics for a consultation, 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 Drs. Thomas and Douglas Kirkpatrick and Joseph Lai to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “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 Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

With Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, 24/7 access to your account

2010-08-19T16:24:00.000-07:00

Access to your account, 24/7. Sounds simple and convenient, doesn’t it?

Patients at our offices enjoy 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, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages! Take a look at a few patient reviews about this service:

"Knowing we will be reminded of appointments is a BIG relief! We have missed many of our scheduled appointments in the past at K&L. Now, we have no excuse to miss anymore. THANK YOU!!" ~Doris

"I am constantly losing my appointment forms and it is so much easier to get on this site then to call the orthodontist." ~Kevin

"I am a very busy working mom. I am a highly organized person, but my calendar gets to full and the school rearranges it so often that it sometimes gets difficult to keep up with everything during certain times. I love knowing that I can find out everything I need to know about my account and my appointments online, from my home computer or any other, in a matter of seconds, whenever I need to do so." ~Christophe

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

What do you love about Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics?

2010-08-13T13:15:00.000-07:00

From your very first visit to Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics our doctors and team strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by work? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with your new smile?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You may write a review here, here, here, here or here.Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai present: The perfect braces-friendly summer wrap!

2010-08-06T13:59:00.000-07:00

Summer is finally here in Tulsa, Tahlequah, Miami, Pryor, and Okmulgee, and Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai would like to share a great summer recipe with you! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) made an appetizing (and braces-friendly!) summer dish that is sure to delight. Remember, a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps you achieve the best possible result from your orthodontic treatment.

Soy Simmered Chicken Wraps

Ingredients:

• 3 boneless chicken breast halves
• 2 large onions, chunked
• Small flour tortillas (pkg. of ten) wheat or white
• (optional: 10-16 oz. of cooked chopped broccoli)
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup water
• 2 Tablespoons honey
• 1/8 teaspoon ginger
• 2 Tablespoons peach or apricot jam
• 1 Tablespoon cornstarch

Directions:

In a slow cooker, or a large pan on the stove, layer the onions and the chicken breast. Allow at least three hours in the slow cooker on medium, or at least one hour on the stove—the longer the better, but you don’t have to do anything to it while it cooks. Spoon out the chicken onto a cutting board, and with a knife and fork, shred the chicken as finely as you’d like. In a small saucepan, stir all sauce ingredients together over medium heat until the mixture starts bubbling, then let it simmer for five minutes on low heat to thicken. In a serving bowl, stir sauce and onion into chicken; if you’d like, add cooked chopped broccoli. Makes about six to eight servings.

Enjoy this great spring dish and have a great week!

-Drs. Thomas and Douglas Kirkpatrick and Joseph Lai

Ask Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai: What’s so bad about nail biting?

2010-07-30T15:09:00.000-07:00

We’ve all heard that biting your nails is an awful habit, but you many wonder- really- what’s so bad about it? Recently, our team at Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai found an interesting article that discusses how biting your nails affect your teeth and oral health.

Nail biting, also known as Onychophagia, is a common habit among various age groups, including primarily children, teens and young adults. Nail biting is generally triggered by stress and most often decreases with age. That being said, nail biting is unsanitary, unattractive, as well as unhealthy for your teeth!

Here’s why:

• It’s unsanitary. Your nails are dirty, almost twice as dirty as your fingers! Hence, biting your nails is just asking for germs and bacteria.
• No good things come to your teeth. Nail biting causes your teeth to constantly be chewing, which is not good for them. This excessive motion wears your teeth down faster than a non-nail biter’s and puts a large amount of stress on your front teeth- contributing to teeth misalignment.
• Braces don’t love it either. Braces already put pressure on teeth, nail biting ads unnecessary pressure, further stressing your teeth and weakening their roots.
• It can be costly. Nail biting can result in up to $4,000 in additional dental bills over one lifetime, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Yikes!

What can you do about it?

Now that you know how harmful nail biting can be, it’s time to take action to break your nail biting habit. Try to be conscious of your fingernails and to keep them looking good- this will help you resist the temptation. Ask Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai, or visit this article for tips on how to break a nail biting habit.

Good luck!

Your friends at Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai

Cool kids have fun with braces, from Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

2010-07-23T16:06:00.000-07:00

Braces today are “cool” and—many would say—even “fun.” These were among the findings of a 2010 nationwide survey of moms whose children are going through or have had orthodontic treatment. New technologies, color options, and even popular celebrities—Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Danny Glover, Serena Williams—sporting stylish braces are making orthodontic treatment more comfortable, fashionable and cool for today’s teens.

The study, conducted on behalf of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists for February’s National Children’s Dental Health Month, found 86 percent of moms reporting that braces are cooler today than when they were children. Sixty-nine percent of moms also said wearing braces makes their children feel cool, and 81 percent reported their children’s experience with orthodontic treatment as either positive or extremely positive.

Different color options and the ability to change colors, for example, provide exciting ways for young patients to customize appearances. That enthusiasm helps them to feel good about their orthodontic treatment with Drs. Joe, Tom, and Doug, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

Has your child or teen visited Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics for a consultation? If not, please give us a call and let us help your child begin the journey to a gorgeous smile!

Congratulations Oklahomans, you live in a great place for families!

2010-07-12T16:06:00.000-07:00

Our team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, loves how ideal Tulsa, OK and surrounding areas are for families with young children looking for a safe and environmentally friendly community. Family Circle agrees and voted Edmond, Oklahoma the best town for families in 2010. With a population of 82,530, the city is known for its spacious parks, walking and jogging trails, and lake fishing.

With an average 18 to 1 student to teacher ratio and an average great schools rating of 9, Edmond is perfect for families with school aged children. The three local high schools are recognized for raising nearly a million dollars for charity so far this year. It’s communities like these that make Oklahoma a wonderful place for families.

That’s why, our team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics thought we’d ask you: What is your favorite thing about your city? Do you love all of Tulsa’s community programs? Or, does your family cherish the rich history of Tahlequah? Let us know by writing here or by posting on our interactive Facebook page. You can also give us a call at the office.

Five summer traveling tips, from Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

2010-07-08T14:01:00.000-07:00

Summer is a great time for vacations! Many of us here in Tulsa, OK take a vacation sometime during the summer, and although we usually write a "to pack" list, it is not uncommon to forget the most important of things. Recently, our staff at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics came across an interesting article from ParentsAsk.com that outlined five important tips for summer travel with children. We strongly encourage you to give this article a read if you’re heading out with the family this summer. Here are even more tips you can use to ensure your vacation packing—and the traveling itself—goes as smooth as possible!

Happy traveling! We hope that these tips are useful. Also, if you have any vacation pictures to share, remember you can always post those on our Facebook page! We always enjoy staying in touch with our patients between visits.

-Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

Hey, Moms! Have you signed the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge?

2010-06-29T14:24:00.000-07:00

Our team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics cares about your pearly whites, and we want to help protect you from sports injuries that can be damaging to your beautiful smile. As a way of ensuring that children are using proper facial protection equipment the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO) has introduced the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge.

Mouth guards are vital to protecting your teeth from sports related injuries while participating in sports, such as football, soccer, baseball, hockey, and basketball, to name a few. The Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge is a way for moms nationwide to make a commitment to protecting their kids’s smile from facial injuries.

In past entries, we’ve discussed the importance of using facial protection when exercising to prevent injury. Today, we at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics are inviting moms to take action by visiting the Moms for Mouth Guards website and taking the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge.

Have a safe week everyone!

-- Your friends at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

The importance of dental checkups, from Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai

2010-06-25T09:43:00.000-07:00

Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai want to know: is your child brushing his or her teeth twice a day as recommended during their orthodontic treatment? If the answer is yes, we think that's phenomenal! But, don't forget that it’s also important to visit the dentist every six months in addition to brushing, flossing (and visiting Kirkpatrick and Lai Orthodontics as recommended by our staff). Your dentist can:

• Check for problems that might not be seen or felt
• Detect cavities and signs of tooth decay
• Treat oral health problems early
• Show your child how to properly brush and floss their teeth

During an exam, your dentist usually will check the health of your child’s mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups also typically include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If your child has not been to the dentist in the past six months, it’s time for you to schedule an appointment!

If you don't have a general dentist in Tulsa, Tahlequah, Miami, Pryor or Okmulgee, please ask and we'll be more than happy to provide a few names!

Have a GREAT weekend everyone!

What are our patients saying about Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics?

2010-06-18T13:54:00.000-07:00

Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, serving Tulsa, Miami, Pryor, Okmulgee, Tahlehquah and surrounding communities, deliver the highest quality orthodontic care in a personalized environment. Drs. kirkpatrick and Lai make orthodontic treatment fun and enjoyable. Just see what a few of our patients are saying!

"We had a good experience 12 years ago with our older daughter and chose to come back with younger daughter. Friendly, casual, environment is inviting." ~ Caye M.

"The friendly atmosphere. Very welcoming and friendly staff and the doctors are attentive and friendly. My daughter is no longer afraid of Dentist's since she started coming here. Thank you." ~ Doug R.

"1. He talked directly to my 14 year old son. Makes him responsible for his own actions and knowledgeable about his situation. 2. Honest about situation." ~ Kim P.

"Highly credentialed, very personable, great office staff." ~ Farrah G.

"Friendly and clean atmosphere. Quick in and out appointments. Very accomodating to our schedules." ~ Tim T.

Tell us: what should we blog about this summer?

2010-06-04T13:32:00.000-07:00

As summer rapidly approaches, our team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics strive to continue writing about important topics related to orthodontics and your treatment at our office - and are busy planning out our summer blogging schedule.

To help us continue doing that through the course of the summer, however, we'd love your input: Today, we thought we’d step back a bit today and ask you, our patients and readers: What would you like us to focus on our blog in the coming months? What would you like to know about the always-changing and exciting field of orthodontics? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Drs. Kirkpatrick or Lai for a while? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook page!

We hope you have a great weekend!

Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai want to know: What are your plans for Memorial Day weekend?

2010-05-27T12:42:00.000-07:00

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

At Kirkpatrick & Lai orthodontics, we know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. After all, it’s unofficially the start of summer and a time for a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories.

What about you? What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend? Whether you're headed to barbecues, a camping trip, or hitting the open roads of Oklahoma, we’d like to hear all about it!

Ask Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai: Which toothbrush should my kid use?

2010-05-22T09:03:00.000-07:00

At Kirkpatrick and Lai orthodontics, our doctors will always tell you that brushing your teeth - even during your orthodontic treatment with us - is one of the easiest methods of cavity prevention. But the question remains: 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 your child's small hands and mouth. Also, look for large handles that can help children control the toothbrush. Lastly, throw out a toothbrush after three months or as soon as bristles begin fraying.

As far as which toothpaste is best? It doesn't really matter, as long as it has fluoride in it. Make sure to touch each tooth and every side of that tooth. Also, make sure to 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 at one of our five convenient locations, and we'll try to answer any question you may have about keeping your child's mouth as healthy as possible!

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Dr. Lai visits the AAO Annual Session in Washington D.C.

2010-05-10T10:42:00.000-07:00

Patients at Kirkpatrick and Lai orthodontics can feel confident they are receiving the best in orthodontic health care. Our goal is to provide the most up-to-date technology and techniques using the best equipment possible and help you achieve a healthy, happy smile that gives you the look you want with the confidence you deserve.

One of those conferences includes the 2010 AAO Annual Session in Washington D.C., where Dr. Joseph Lai headed last weekend. The AAO Annual Session is an always-educational event that happens to be one of the largest orthodontic conventions in the world. It's also a time for us to consult with dental experts and orthodontists from around the country and stay up-to-date on all the latest technologies and orthodontic treatment options available. This, of course, allows Kirkpatrick and Lai orthodontics to give you, our phenomenal patients, the best treatment experience possible.

In addition to being a proud member of the American Association of Orthodontists, Drs. Tom, Dr. Doug, and Dr. Joe are active members of the Southwestern Society of Orthodontists and the Tulsa County Dental Society. Drs. Tom and Dr. Doug have both served as president of the Tulsa County Dental Society, and all three doctors are past presidents of the Oklahoma Orthodontic Society.

Isn't it nice to know you have complete dental experts in Drs. Tom, Dr. Doug, and Dr. Joe taking care of your perfecting your smile?

Fun facts with Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics!

2010-05-03T15:59:00.000-07:00

Who loves fun facts? Everybody! The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that our team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics thought you might enjoy. Happy Monday!

• 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.

Ask Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics: What can I expect during my consultation?

2010-04-30T10:15:00.000-07:00

When you first come in for your initial consultation, we will conduct a comprehensive examination to assess your oral health. This will better enable us to determine the best treatment method for you.

Your orthodontic evaluation will consist of an oral and facial examination to assess your oral health. Drs. Kirkpatrick or Lai will have you take intraoral and facial photographs as well as panoramic and cephalometric X-rays to help determine the proper orthodontic treatment method. Then, an impression of your teeth and bite will be taken to construct a model of your mouth. (This will help us when examining your diagnostic records).

At your follow-up appointment, one of our doctors will discuss your options with you. Our team feels it’s important to take the time to carefully examine your diagnostic records after your consultation so that Drs. Kirkpatrick or Lai can more thoroughly prepare for your treatment at Kirkpatrick and Lai orthodontics. This additional preparation will ensure that you receive the best orthodontic care possible. At this time, we encourage you to ask us any questions you may have about your treatment.

If you are seeking orthodontic treatment for your child, our staff asks that both you and your child attend the initial consultation. We feel it is important that both you and your child completely understand our recommendations before we proceed with treatment.

Give us a call and schedule a consultation! We look forward to hearing from you!

This Earth Day, did you make a difference?

2010-04-22T14:59:00.000-07:00

Earth Day, designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth's environment, marks its 40th anniversary today. Earth Day was founded by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson on April 22, 1970 and is observed every April 22nd on virtually every country on Earth.

At Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, we support Earth Day, and know that whether you lend a helping hand to plant trees or get out to volunteer in your community, today is your opportunity to get started in making your impact year-round. Did you make a difference today? Were you involved with any cool Earth Day projects?

If you’d like to join the millions of people around the world who are making small but important changes to help sustain Mother Earth, try these helpful tips, courtesy of courtesy of the United States Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA.

Oh no! Tulsa makes the ‘14 worst-teeth cities’ list!

2010-04-13T16:11:00.000-07:00

Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai will tell you regular dental visits, brushing and flossing, minimizing your intake of soda and coffee and not smoking, among other factors, will maximize a person's chances of achieving great oral health. Our friends at TotalBeauty in 2009 released their list of the “14 Worst-Teeth Cities,” and we are sad to report Tulsa was chosen among the fourteen.

Here’s an excerpt from the article: "Tulsa is also on the list of the smokiest cities, coming in at no. 9. That plus the area's hard water and low fruit and vegetable consumption don't help the situation either. Could explain why Oklahoma ranks no. 6 in teeth loss."

This is why Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai are here: to straighten teeth and encourage good oral health. Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting Kirkpatrick and Lai orthodontics (as well as your dentist) regularly? If not, it’s time to schedule an appointment! And don’t forget the old dental saying: “Be true to your teeth or they’ll be false to you!”

Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai, reminding you to play it safe this spring

2010-04-09T13:57:00.000-07:00

With spring here, many children, teens and adults in Tulsa, Tahlequah, Miami, Okmulgee and Pryor 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, and during this time, Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. After all, sports-related injuries are the leading cause of emergency room visits in 12- to 17-year-olds according to the Centers for Disease Control.

We hope the above video from the AAO helps you understand the importance of facial protection. Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai will tell you that 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 at Kirkpatrick and Lai orthodontics and have a terrific weekend!

The benefits of smiling, from Kirkpatrick and Lai orthodontics

2010-04-01T11:43:00.000-07:00

Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai have some great news to report today! (And it's no April Fools' joke!) People with big, happy smiles may actually out-live those who don’t, according to a new study conducted at Wayne State University in Michigan.

Our team at Kirkpatrick and Lai orthodontics knew that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers at the university did something quite interesting: they used information from the Baseball Register to look at photos of 230 players who began their baseball careers prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity (wide smile, no smile or partial smile). The players' smile ratings were then compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009.

The researchers then took into account other factors associated with longevity of life, such as body mass index, or BMI, career length and, believe it or not, college attendance. They found that players who weren't smiling died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be 79.9 years old!

The take-away from the new study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you perfected your smile by visiting Kirkpatrick and Lai orthodontics lately? If not, give us a call today!

The importance of retainers, from Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

2010-03-25T09:33:00.000-07:00

If you recently completed treatment at Kirkpatrick and Lai orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai will provide—or have provided you—with retainers.

After braces are removed, the teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime. Here are some things to remember when you receive your retainers:

* Wear your retainers full time, until Drs. Kirkpatrick or Lai instruct otherwise. Wearing your retainers at night ensures that your pearly whites won’t relapse.
* Take your retainers out when eating...and always put retainers in their case! (Most appliances are lost in school lunch rooms or restaurants.)
* Clean retainers thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush and only a small amount of toothpaste. Use warm but not hot water.
* When retainers are not in your mouth they should ALWAYS be in a retainer case.
* Retainers are breakable, so treat them with care. If retainers are lost or broken, give us a call immediately.
* Remove retainers when swimming or during any sporting activity in which the retainers could fall out and get broken or lost (cheerleading, basketball, etc.) or when you should be wearing a mouth guard (football, soccer, etc.).

Give us a call if you have any additional questions about retainers or your treatment at Kirkpatrick and Lai Orthodontics!

What's on your mind? From Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai

2010-03-19T09:29:00.000-07:00

By now, you're probably familiar with the drill: each week, we at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics blog about important topics pertinent to orthodontics and your well-being. Today, Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai thought we’d step back and ask you, our amazing patients: 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? Perhaps there’s something you’ve been wanting to ask us for a while now? Let us know by posting here or on our interactive Facebook fan page!

So… take it away and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have!

Ask Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics: Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?

2010-03-12T14:24:00.000-08:00

Who’s afraid of the appearance of braces on their teeth? Not adults, apparently. Recently, our staff at Kirkpatrick and Lai Orthodontics read a fascinating statistic: adults getting braces has jumped 24 percent from just 14 years ago! Also, did you know ne of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over 21?

Yes, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another reason for the spike in adult braces is this: people want to look and feel great.

In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

This March, what are you up to? From Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

2010-03-03T11:17:00.000-08:00

Wouldn't you believe, it’s almost springtime. The daffodils and buttercups are on their way, the sun is warming up and the smell of freshly-cut grass is wafting from baseball fields across Oklahoma. Today, Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai thought this would be a good time to ask: What are your plans for March?

Are you ready for spring? Are you participating in school sports? Do you have exciting plans? We’d love to know them all!

You may share your stories or plans with our team here, on our social networks or by giving us a call at any of our locations!

Omega-3s and dental health, from Dr. Joe Lai

2010-02-22T15:36:00.000-08:00

Recently, Dr. Lai read an article about the dental health benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids of marine and plant origin. A new study from the University of Kentucky reveals that all types of food-borne omega-3 fats (like tuna, walnuts and spinach) cut the numbers of oral disease bacteria by half or more.

The study found that "the dental health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids of marine and plant origin have been found to have strong anti-bacterial activity against a range of oral pathogens and "may include anti-bacterial effects, extending the benefits beyond inflammation." Drs. Ebersole and Huang said that they planned to conduct further studies needed to prove that omega-3s acids work in people’s mouths. While this is encouraging news, Dr. Lai wants to remind you that self–examination is another simple way of looking after yourself. If you are unsure about self-examining your mouth, please give us a call and schedule an appointment with Dr. Lai!

Getting social with Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

2010-02-19T15:16:00.000-08:00

At Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, we embrace technology, whether it’s through the innovative orthodontic treatments we offer, our high-tech web site or our Facebook fan page. We love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our 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 Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai and our dedicated team take a little time to research how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog? Send us your thoughts or give us a call!

At Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, access your account any day, any time

2010-02-10T10:10:00.000-08:00

At Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, we embrace new technology, whether it is through the innovative orthodontic treatments that we offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern offices conveniently located in Tulsa, Tahlequah, Miami, Okmulgee and Pryor.

Did you know that our patients 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 this service!

"I won't forget appointments now. No phone numbers to look up and offices to call. Convenient, can do anytime anywhere. Doesn't waste any paper. It's faster, more effecient to use verses phone calls. Very glad you have this service now." ~ Doris G.

"Usually you have to go in and wait for hours just to find out how much your bill is.. Here all you have to do id go online and your billing information is all online.. You also give a link right to my orthodontist's home page.. I went to my family doctor's web site and it was so hard to navigate I finally gave up. Your site is very user-friendly." ~ Joey M.

"I absolutely love the convenience of being able to look up info on my account/appointments, etc. online at my leisure. It allows me to fit whatever I need to do here into my own schedule and I don't have to feel badly about bothering the office by phone should I forget something. I hope that all of our family physicians/dentists soon implement this online system. I think it's wonderful." ~ Christopher P.

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

Kirkpatrick and Lai Orthodontics, helping tackle sports injuries

2010-02-03T12:33:00.000-08:00

Let’s face it: sports-related injuries are common among children, let alone teens with braces. In a recent survey, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, discovered that 70 percent of parents said their biggest fear is that their child will get hurt while playing organized sports.

Did you know mouth guards are one of the least expensive pieces of protective equipment available? Over-the-counter versions may cost as little as $5, although custom-fit mouth guards offer greater protection. Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai can recommend the best mouth guard for you. In addition, the AAO has provided the following tips for keeping kids safe on the field.

• Wear mouth guards during contact sports
• Wear a helmet
• Wear protective eyewear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Be observant even as a spectator
• Use good judgment

All of these can reduce sports-related injuries. Give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Kirkpatrick and Lai Orthodontics.

Music at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics!

2010-01-27T16:19:00.000-08:00

What's missing at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics? Music.

Dr. Joe and our team have been thinking about adding some tunes while you relax and let us take care of your treatment. But before we do anything, we'd like to know: What would you, our amazing patients, like to listen to? Are you a Pandora kind of person? Perhaps XM Radio suits you best? Would you like to us to stream music from an iPod? Or do you prefer good-old-fashioned radio stations?

We'd love to get your thoughts! Please let us know by posting here or by giving us a call!

Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics want to know: What are you up to in January?

2010-01-21T09:39:00.000-08:00

It may still be chilly outside, but can you believe we’re only a couple of months away from spring? Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai, as well as our team want to know: What are you doing in January? What have you accomplished this year? Are you keeping up with your New Year’s Resolution? Any big mid-winter break plans? Anything exciting going on in your life?

If you have any photos or videos that you would like to share with us, please send them our way or give us a call at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics and ask how! Have a great rest of the week!

Ask Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics: When should my child get an orthodontic check-up?

2010-01-13T07:53:00.000-08:00

Many parents think they must wait until their child has all permanent teeth to see Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai, only to find that treatment would have been much simpler if started earlier. Some orthodontic problems are easier to correct while the jaw is still growing. So, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven.

What’s so special about age seven? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for an orthodontist to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “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 detrimental to good oral hygiene. So if your child is nearing age 7, give us a call at Kirkpatrick and Lai Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

What puts you at ease at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics?

2010-01-06T12:40:00.001-08:00

Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai understand not everyone is thrilled to see their orthodontist. But they want you to know that we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our friendly staff? Drs. Tom and Doug? Dr. Joe?

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

A few helpful webisodes about orthodontics, from Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai

2009-12-30T13:10:00.001-08:00

Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai would like to point you to a few interesting webisodes about orthodontics, located on the YouTube page of the American Association of Orthodontics, or AAO. There, they tend to post some very pertinent videos about orthodontic treatment, as well as state-of-the-art technology in orthodontia. These include "Orthodontic Treatment Basics," "Common Bite Problems Seen in Children" and "Does My Child Need Braces?"

We think you may find these webisodes interesting, as well as enlightening. If you have any questions about the videos, or your treatment here at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, please give us a call.

Happy New Year from the entire team at Kirkpatrick and Lai Orthodontics!

When should you call Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics?

2009-12-23T11:43:00.000-08:00

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call the team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics. 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, give us a call as soon as possible!

Happy holidays!

Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics want to know: What do you love about the holidays?

2009-12-16T14:37:00.000-08:00

The holiday season is upon us, and as the doctors and their team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask: What’s your favorite part about the holidays? Being with your loved ones? 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 all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

Happy Wednesday! From the Kirkpatrick & Lai team.

Patient reviews for Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

2009-12-09T06:38:00.000-08:00

Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai love getting patient reviews. And lately, the team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, serving Tulsa, Miami, Pryor, Okmulgee, Tahlehquah and surrounding communities, have been getting some pretty great patient testimonials! We thought we'd share some with you today! Happy Wednesday!

"Office hours and number of employees. We have always felt valued as a patient because of the attention we have been given." ~ Becky W.

"They're nice and friendly always helpful and don't mind explaining things. They make sure the parents and the kids know what's going on." ~ Kenneth T.

"The friendly atmosphere. Very welcoming and friendly staff. Doctors are attentive and friendly. My daughter is no longer afraid of Dentist's since she started coming here. Thank you." ~ Doug R.

"Everyone is polite, facilities are very clean, and the service is excellent." ~ Jana M.

"So far I like the tech savviness of the office. I thought the website was very detailed and will probably be extremely helpful throughout my orthodontic work." ~ Amy M.

Distinguishing the Myths and Facts about Orthodontics, from Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

2009-12-02T07:52:00.000-08:00

The doctors and team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics know there are quite a few myths about orthodontists circulating around these days. But before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts! We came across a great site that helps set the record straight. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of orthodontics. Check them out today!

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!

--The team at Kirkpatrick and Lai Orthodontics

Wishing you a safe and happy Thanksgiving, from Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics

2009-11-25T08:12:00.000-08:00

The team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics would like to wish you 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 pictures to share with us, we'd encourage you to send them along or call our offices and ask how.

Gobble Gobble!