What is your New Year’s Resolution?

The year is almost over, so we wanted to 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 Covino Orthodontics

Season’s Greetings from Covino Orthodontics

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

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

Fall into reading with Covino Orthodontics!

How better to spend the fall months than inside by the fireplace with a warm cup of cider and a book in hand? Dr. Covino encourages 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 holiday 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 holiday picks or your all-time favorites on our Facebook page!

Fluoride is your friend during orthodontic treatment!

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment. 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. Depending on your oral health or doctor’s recommendation, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six or 12 months. Your doctor may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses for at-home treatment.

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!

Moooooove over gum disease!

Dr. Covino wants to know: Is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, it should be! A 2008 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.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Dr. Covino and team 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 office and ask how.

Gobble Gobble!

The advantage of the Damon System with Dr. Covino [Patient Video]

Dr. Covino is your Doylestown, New Hope and all of middle Bucks County Damon System provider. Damon braces allow us to achieve terrific results in less time, while providing you greater comfort throughout your treatment. For more information about Damon braces, give us a call to schedule your consultation at Covino Orthodontics!

What do you love most about Covino Orthodontics?

From the moment you walk in the door of Covino Orthodontics our doctor and team committed to providing you and your family and friends the utmost in exceptional service and orthodontic care in a friendly, supportive, and informative environment. Dr. Covino is a board certified orthodontist, offering patients a variety of treatment options, including traditional metal braces, Damon® braces, and Invisalign®.

Today, we would love to hear your feedback about how our practice is faring. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by Dr. Covino's work? 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 can write a review here on our Google Place page. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Thank you,

The team at Covino Orthodontics

Celebrities, too, get braces!

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 Dr. Covino.

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 Covino Orthodontics a call.

A braces-friendly Halloween recipe, from Covino Orthodontics

Did you know that October is National Orthodontic Health Month? Dr. Covino and our team know how tempting this time of the year can be for your sweet tooth. With all of the hard, sticky, crunchy, and chewy candy that is often passed around to trick-or-treaters, we know that it can sometimes be hard to find orthodontic-friendly options.

However, there is good news! Today, we 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.

Ask Dr. Covino: Why is it so important to have straight teeth?

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

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

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, please give us a call to set up a consultation. Dr. Covino can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

A few Halloween safety tips, from Dr. Covino

Trick-or-treat! In the spirit of October’s sweet and spooky holiday, Halloween, Dr. Covino 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 Dr. Covino and our staff a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone.

October is National Orthodontic Health Month!

Did you know that October is National Orthodontic Health Month? Dr. Covino and our team know how tempting this time of the year can be for your sweet tooth. With all of the caramel, candy corn, and lollipops that are often passed around to trick-or-treaters, we know that it can sometimes be hard to find hard candy alternatives.

However, there is good news! Today, we would like to share a few braces-friendly holiday foods with all of our patients, courtesy of the American Association of Orthodontics, or AAO. These treats are delicious, and provided that you remember to brush and floss after indulging, these foods will not cause damage to your beautiful smile.

Orthodontic-Friendly Treats
• Soft, melt-in-your-mouth chocolates
• Peanut butter cups
• Milk shakes
• Gelatin
• Peeled, thinly sliced apples
• Ice cream

Thanks to Invisalign®, parents can also have a perfect smile!

Hey mom and dad! Focusing on your kids' teeth and oral health so much that you're neglecting your own? If you've been thinking wistfully about having your own set of perfect teeth, our staff at Covino Orthodontics can help! We are specially trained to offer an adult-friendly option for straightening teeth called Invisalign.

This course of treatment consists of a set of clear aligners that are molded to fit your teeth using a proprietary technology. You wear them all day and night, except for meals, brushing, and flossing – when you can easily slip them out to make eating and cleaning a snap!

Because they're clear, your teeth will be steadily straightening – and no one will know it but you!

Please give us a call at our New Hope or Doylestown office to set up a consultation, so we can discuss the specifics of your treatment.

The importance of retainers, from Dr. Covino

If you recently completed treatment at Covino Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Covino 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 Dr. Covino 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 Dr. Covino, please read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth or give us a call!

Top ten tips for keeping your BRACES sparklin’ clean

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!

Dr. Covino and Team

Ask Dr. Covino: What’s so bad about nail biting?

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 Covino Orthodontics found an interesting article that discusses how biting your nails affect your teeth and oral health.

Nail biting, or Onychophagia, is a common habit that 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 Dr. Covino or visit the article for tips on how to break a nail biting habit.

Good luck!

Your friends at Covino Orthodontics

Protecting your mouth during fall sports, with Dr. Covino

Now that fall sports are beginning, our team at Covino Orthodontics would like to remind all of our patients how to be safe while having fun outside. This week, we would like to discuss mouth guards, what they are, when to use them, the works. If you have any additional questions, don't hesitate to give us a call!

Q: What are athletic mouth protectors?

A: Athletic mouth protectors, or mouth guards, are made of soft plastic. They are adapted to fit comfortably to the shape of the upper teeth.

Q: Why are mouth guards important?

A: Mouth guards hold top priority as sports equipment. They protect not just the teeth, but the lips, cheeks, and tongue. They help protect children from such head and neck injuries as concussions and jaw fractures. Increasingly, organized sports are requiring mouth guards to prevent injury to their athletes. Research shows that most oral injuries occur when athletes are not wearing mouth protection.

Q: When should my child wear a mouth guard?

A: Whenever he or she is in an activity with a risk of falls or of head contact with other players or equipment. This includes football, baseball, basketball, soccer, hockey, skateboarding, even gymnastics. We usually think of football and hockey as the most dangerous to the teeth, but nearly half of sports-related mouth injuries occur in basketball and baseball.

Q: How do I choose a mouth guard for my child?

A: Any mouth guard works better than no mouth guard. So, choose a mouth guard that your child can wear comfortably. If a mouth guard feels bulky or interferes with speech, it will be left in the locker room. Dr. Covino can advise you on what type of mouth guard is best for your child.

Invisalign® tips, from Dr. Covino

Many people know that Invisalign is a great solution to braces if you don't want to experience the look and feel of traditional metal braces. What few people know, though, is that just like traditional braces, Invisalign requires proper care to work effectively. Good oral hygiene is highly important, even when you are wearing something in your mouth that you can take out to eat with. It's still likely that your aligners can build up plaque if not treated properly. When wearing your Invisalign aligners, Dr. Covino wants you to ask yourself the following questions:

1. Am I eating with my aligners on? - These aligners are removable and should be taken out when you eat.

2. Am I drinking anything other than water with my aligners on? - Though it's not necessary for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky soda is. If you take out your aligners when drinking a soda, you have a better chance of keeping your aligners clean.

3. Am I brushing before putting the trays on? - The aligners have both an inside and outside. Keeping the outside clean is easy. Keeping the inside clean is also simple: just make sure you've brushed your teeth before putting the trays on.

These are all very simple steps, and ultimately, they help to keep you building good oral habits. If you have any questions about Invisalign or your treatment here at Covino Orthodontics, give us a call!

All the cool kids do it!

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 such as Invisalign and the Damon System, advanced computer software, 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 Dr. Covino, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

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

Dr. Covino discusses how smoking can affect your oral health

Everybody knows that smoking causes lung cancer, but did you also know that smokers and tobacco users are susceptible to a variety of oral health problems at a faster rate than non-smokers?

It’s true! Smoking is responsible for almost 75 percent of gum disease in adults; and, similar to smokers, adults who smoke pipes and cigars, as well as those using smokeless tobacco, are just as susceptible to gum disease and other tobacco related health problems.

As soon as you use tobacco products, you become more likely to experience any of these oral health problems:

• Oral cancer
• Gum disease
• Tooth loss
• Loss of bone in the jaw
• Gum recession
• Delayed/impaired healing process after oral surgery or any other treatment
• Decreased success rate of dental implant (tooth replacement) procedures
• Mouth sores
• Loss of your sense of taste and smell
• Bad breath
• Tooth and tongue stains

If you are interested in protecting your oral health we strongly recommend you quit using tobacco products! The following steps are recommended by the Surgeon General to help you quit smoking and using tobacco:

• Get ready – set a quitting date and remove all materials from your home, car and office
• Get support
• Learn new skills and behaviors
• Get medication and use it correctly
• Be prepared for relapse or difficult situations

For support, start with Covino Orthodontics! We can help by recommending different options to help you quit, and above all we will support you throughout the quitting process. We are dedicated to helping you protect your oral health – and quitting smoking is significant step in the right direction.

Friday fun facts with Covino Orthodontics

Everyone loves fun facts. Fun, fun, fun! The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that our team at Covino Orthodontics thought you might enjoy.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dr. Covino invites you to join the Braces Brigade!

Have you just begun orthodontic treatment with Covino Orthodontics in Doylestown and New Hope, PA? Well, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO is in search of past, present, and future orthodontic patients and their parents to join the Braces Brigade! Share your smile with the world, through joining this community of online journalists, and receive a $100 American Express gift card for your hard work!

What is the Brace Brigade?
The Braces Brigade is an opportunity for you to share your unique orthodontic experiences with the world, through blogging! Blogging is a way for you to document your story, the foods that you had to avoid, any advice you might have for future orthodontic patients, or maybe the first place that you plan to show off your new smile! Really, what you choose to blog about it up to you!

Applicants for the Braces Brigade must be 14 years or older. For more information, visit the Braces Brigade website, courtesy of the AAO. If you have any questions about orthodontic treatment, or the Braces Brigade, feel free to give Covino Orthodontics a call today!

Have a great weekend,

-Dr. Covino and team

Ask Dr. Covino: How does Invisalign affect my oral health?

Patients often ask us how Invisalign is so different than braces when considering treatment options with Dr. Covino. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign with Dr. Covino than you may know. Invisalign is a series of clear, removable, and comfortable aligners that are nearly invisible. Besides straightening your teeth, did you know that Invisalign can improve your oral health? Here’s how Invisalign can help improve your health, while shaping your beautiful smile:

Healthy gums- Straight teeth allow a close fit for gums. This lessens the gum stress that is caused by crowded or widely spaced teeth, thus also reducing red and swollen gums.

Easy cleaning- Invisalign is removable, therefore brushing and flossing is easier and you are able to maintain a healthy mouth. These habits are vital to avoiding tooth decay, plaque, and gum disease.

Improved speech and chewing- Properly aligned teeth don’t have the discomfort or compound speech impediments that can be caused by crowded teeth or a deteriorating jawbone.

If you have any questions about Invisalign, just ask Dr. Covino the next time you’re in for an appointment. Or, feel free to give us a call! You can also read this article for more information on Invisalign and your oral health.

Covino Orthodontics presents, 7 tips for traveling with teens

Hey, parents! Have you been planning that perfect family vacation? Our team at Covino Orthodontics knows that summer is the season when many families choose to hit the open road—or catch a flight—to make those memories together. That’s why we want to share a few tips for summer travel from our friends at Yahoo! Shine.

1) Have your teens set the pace—and even the itinerary. No teen wants to be dragged around a city that they have no interest in, by allowing everyone a voice in the trip itinerary, children and parents alike become more invested in the vacation.

2) Everyone offers up a playlist. A trip soundtrack isn’t complete without a hodgepodge of every family member’s favorite music tracks!

3) Set a limit on phones/electronics use. This decision has to be specific to your family, but a good rule of thumb is that if you’re setting the rules for minute limits or check-ins that all family members should stick to them—not just teens and tweens.

4) Keep food and drinks on hand. Sometimes a snack is all you need to stay cheery- hunger can oftentimes create unnecessary arguments and tension between families.

5) Don’t make them clean the hotel room. While on vacation, the same rules that apply at home for cleaning don’t necessarily apply while staying in a hotel.

6) Set a gift shop budget. These costs can add up quickly, so be sure to set limits ahead of time!

7) Give them a little freedom. When traveling with tweens and teens, it is important that they are able to have some areas, maybe a five-block radius or even the hotel lobby, where they are able to wander without the whole family.

We hope these tips are useful for helping you plan that perfect family vacation this summer! For more articles on parenting and for the parenting pick of the day, check out Yahoo! Shine. Also, if you have any great family vacation photos, feel free to post them on our Facebook page!

Happy travels,

-Your friends at Covino Orthodontics

Ask Dr. Covino: Why the Damon® System?

The Damon System is revolutionizing the world of orthodontics, leaving Dr. Covino's patients with full, natural smiles. This new orthodontic treatment enables teeth to move more comfortably than traditional braces and aligns teeth using light biologically-sensible forces. With the Damon System, finding that perfect smile is easier than ever!

Why is Damon® better?
One of the greatest benefits of Damon braces is their ability to achieve amazing results with faster treatment periods. Depending upon your specific situation, this may mean saving several months of treatment! After analyzing your particular needs, we will be able to provide you with a treatment plan that will have you smiling soon! Because Damon braces are so precise and effective, we can reduce the need for many of the time-consuming and complicated procedures that are used with traditional braces. Because Damon braces work more efficiently, fewer adjustments are required. As a result, your appointments will be faster and fewer in number. Due to the unique design of this new braces system, we can move your teeth into their correct positions with much less discomfort than traditional braces. Also, Damon braces are small, very comfortable, and easy to keep clean.

Dr. Covino is a certified Damon System provider. To learn more about the Damon System or your treatment here at Covino Orthodontics, please give us a call. We look forward to hearing from you!

The perfect braces-friendly summer recipe from Dr. Steven Covino!

Summer is finally here, and that means it’s time for some refreshing recipes! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) made an appetizing (and braces-friendly!) summer dessert that is sure to delight. Remember, a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps you achieve the best possible result from your orthodontic treatment.

Lime-Graham Cheesecake Nibbles

Ingredients:

Crust:
• 1½ cups graham-cracker crumbs (about 9 double-square crackers, crushed)
• 3 Tablespoons margarine, melted
– or –
• 1½ cups gingersnap crumbs (about 24 to 30 gingersnap cookies, crushed)
• 3 Tablespoons margarine, melted

Filling:
• 2 eggs, separated
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 3 drops green food coloring
• 2 Tablespoons lime juice
• 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour

Directions

Preheat oven to 325°. Line two muffin tins with 24 cupcake papers. In a medium bowl, stir together the crumbs and margarine. Spoon 1 Tablespoon of the crumb mixture into each paper. Press down the mixture firmly with the bottom of a small juice glass. In a medium bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together egg whites and the salt until the mixture forms soft peaks. Set aside. In a large bowl, use the mixer to beat together the cream cheese, sugar, food coloring, lime juice and flour, until fluffy. Add the yolks until well mixed, then use a spoon to fold in the whites. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the lime mixture into each paper. Bake at 325 degrees for 25 minutes. Cool on the counter for 20 minutes, then keep refrigerated. Makes two dozen.

Enjoy this delicious summer recipe and have a great week!
--From Dr. Steven Covino and staff

Invisalign treatment at Covino Orthodontics: How does it work? [Video]

Have you ever wondered how Invisalign treatment at Covino Orthodontics manages to straighten your teeth without using metallic traditional braces? The Invisalign system is a state-of-the-art system of clear, removable aligners that we proudly offer at our convenient locations in Doylestown and New Hope.

Not only are the aligners invisible, they are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment. Plus, brushing and flossing are no problem. They are also comfortable, with no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment. And no metal and wires usually means you spend less time in your doctor's office getting adjustments. Invisalign also allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan when you start so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.

Dr. Steven Covino also provides plenty of resources on our website about Invisalign, or give our office a call to learn if this revolutionary new treatment option is right for you!

Dr. Covino, who will provide a complimentary consultation, is the trusted orthodontist of Doylestown, New Hope and all of middle Bucks County, Pennsylvania.

Ask Dr. Covino: Are retainers that important?

In short, yes, retainers are hugely important after your treatment at Covino Orthodontics. If you've recently completed treatment with Dr. Steven Covino, our staff would like to congratulate you again! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Covino will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth may - and do - shift out of position if they are not stabilized.

Retainers, however, 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.

If you have additional questions about retainers or your treatment here at Covino Orthodontics, please give us a call. Our staff would love to hear from you!

We hope you're enjoying a great weekend!

Dr. Covino wants to know: What should we blog about this summer?

As summer quickly approaches, our staff at Covino Orthodontics strive to continue writing about important topics related to braces and your treatment with New Hope and Doylestown orthodontist Dr. Steven Covino.

To help us continue blogging through the course of the long, hot summer, however, we'd love your opinion: What would you like us to focus on our blog over the summer? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Dr. Covino for a while and just haven't found the right opportunity? Give us your ideas by posting here or on our Facebook page!

We hope you have a great Sunday! See you soon!

Ask Dr. Covino: Are those rumors about braces really true?

In short, probably not.

Dr. Steven Covino and our professional team know there are a lot of myths and half-truths floating around these days when it comes to orthodontics (and orthodontists as well). But, before you buy into those myths, we think you should definitely get the facts! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some great information on the myths and facts of orthodontics, and we definitely encourage you to check them out before settling for rumors about braces!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment at Covino Orthodontics, please feel free to give us a call at one of our convenient locations in New Hope or Doylestown!

Dr. Covino and staff hope you're having a safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!!

Covino Orthodontics, supporting National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

May is almost gone, but not before Dr. Covino and team recognize it as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. Twenty-seven years ago, President Ronald Reagan encouraged Americans of all ages to include more physical activity into their lives, and the reminder is even more important today as kids everywhere are distracted more by TV, social networking or video games. Kids living an active lifestyle can - and often do - improve their health, productivity and overall well-being.

The U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services encourages people to exercise one hour every 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 Covino 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 give us a call or check out these articles about kids and exercise, courtesy of our friends at KidsHealth.org.

Dr. Covino in the community

Dr. Steven Covino is actively involved in several community-service activities and charitable organizations in New Hope and Doylestown because he strongly believes in giving back. First and foremost, we are devoted to local schools. Over the past few months, Dr. Covino and Covino Orthodontics have supported Solebury Parks and Recreation Little League baseball, as well as Buckingham United Spring Soccer. We were also involved at the New Hope Solebury School Pizza BINGO night, donating bottled water. Dr. Covino and team also donated a bike for a raffle at Buckingham Elementary school.

In addition, Dr. Covino participated as a speaker in Career Day at Gaymen Elementary school recently, speaking with four classes of sixth-graders (approximately 100 students). Dr. Covino has also made donations and participated in local golf events to benefit the New Hope Solebury Lacrosse team to support the Variety Club for children with disabilities. Lastly, our office sponsored one of our former patients, Alexandra Bove, to go to Kenya as part of a youth mission trip.

If you have any questions about our other work here in New Hope, Doylestown and surrounding communities in Bucks County, please feel free to contact us. We look forward to sharing more of our community involvement in the coming months! Ask Dr. Covino and team about our upcoming Father's Day contest!

Dr. Covino at the AAO, part two

Last week, we discussed Dr. Covino's passion for new technology and continuing education when it comes to orthodontics. Check out this short clip of Dr. Covino, who has a special message for all our patients at Covino Orthodontics!

Dr. Covino at the AAO Annual Session in D.C.!

To better serve Doylestown, New Hope and surrounding communities in Bucks County with the highest quality orthodontic care available, Dr. Steven Covino is committed to continuing education into the exciting world of orthodontics.

One of the ways our team at Covino Orthodontics improve our service is by attending conferences, meetings and seminars, and this weekend, Dr. Covino was in Washington D.C. attending the 110th AAO Annual Session, an educational event that is one of the largest orthodontic conventions in the world - and one that allows Dr. Covino to consult with some of the sharpest minds in orthodontics from around the country and stay up-to-date on all the latest technologies and orthodontic treatment options available. This, in turn, allows us Covino Orthodontics give you, our amazing patients, the best treatment experience possible.

If you've got an appointment scheduled with Dr. Covino in the coming weeks, we invite you to ask us about our trip, including what he learned at the AAO Annual Session and how continuing education and acquisition of new technology helps us treat you more effectively.

Happy Monday!

Smile wider, live longer, from Covino Orthodontics

Great news! People with big smiles may actually live than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Wayne State University. Researchers there conducted their study by looking at photos of 230 baseball players who began their careers in baseball prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity (ranging from big smile, no smile or partial smile). The players' smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. Then, of course, the researchers then took into account other factors that impact life longevity, including body mass index, career length and, yes, even college attendance.

The results? Researchers found that players who weren't smiling in the photos 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!

So smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting Covino Orthodontics on a regular basis as part of your treatment? If not, give us a call!

What helps you relax at Covino Orthodontics?

The fact is, Dr. Covino is well-aware that not everyone always enjoys visiting their orthodontist. But at Covino Orthodontics, we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We are committed to providing you and your family & friends the utmost in exceptional service and orthodontic care in a friendly, supportive, and informative environment

So, today we’d like to know: What is it about Covino Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly professional staff? Is it Dr. Covino himself?

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

Covino Orthodontics, helping you save face this spring

With spring here, many children, teens and adults in Doylestown and New Hope 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, Dr. Steven Covino 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.

The video above, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, has some helpful tips on staying safe on the field. Dr. Covino 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 Covino Orthodontics. And remember to have fun and stay safe!

Ask Dr. Covino: Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?

The short answer is, of course not!

Recently, our staff at Covino Orthodontics read a fascinating statistic: the number of adults getting braces has climbed 24 percent since 1996! 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—wisely, we might add—to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Dr. Steven Covino 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, Dr. Covino would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

Senior High School Scholarship: deadline is Wednesday!

Are you a graduating senior this spring? Are you interested in pursuing a career in health care? Dr. Covino and team wanted to remind you that the deadline to be eligible for a $500 scholarship is this Wednesday, March 31. For those who wish to pursue a career in the health care field Dr. Covino has established a $500 scholarship award for those individuals who have demonstrated a desire to serve others in the health care profession and shown a commitment to following ones goals.

The scholarship is open to senior students who attend New Hope Solebury High School, Central Bucks East High School and Central Bucks West High School. All applications are to be submitted to you high school guidance office.

The requirements? A 500-word typed essay on “Why I Want a Career In The Health Field,” plus your senior photograph with a signed release. You may fill out an application here.

The importance of mouth guards, from Dr. Covino

Dr. Covino is well-aware that 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. That’s why we at Covino Orthodontics are helping spread the word that many facial sports injuries can be prevented simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards.

If you are in treatment at Covino Orthodontics, Dr. Covino can provide you with a mouth guard. In addition, the AAO has six quick tips for keeping kids safe during sport activities.

• Wear mouth guards during contact sports
• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eyewear
• 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 braces avoid serious sports injuries. Give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment here at Covino Orthodontics.

The Invisalign® advantage at Covino Orthodontics

Part of what makes Invisalign "work," is that its clear aligners are customizable for anyone. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment at Covino Orthodontics, the first thing Dr. Covino does is take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitizes it. Using special software, the doctor looks at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next, Dr. Covino uses special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. And the best part of it all? Since the aligners are virtually invisible, nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Covino is a certified Invisalign provider in New Hope and Doylestown. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment at Covino Orthodontics, please give us a call. Enjoy the rest of your week!

Staying connected with Covino Orthodontics

At Covino Orthodontics, we embrace technology, and that includes the innovative orthodontic treatments we offer and our Facebook 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 Dr. Covino 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!

Ask Dr. Covino: Who benefits from braces?

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Steven Covino 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 and coming in for a consulation at Covino Orthodontics 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. Dr. Covino and our dedicated team are committed to providing you and your family & friends the utmost in exceptional service and orthodontic care in a friendly, supportive, and informative environment. Dr. Covino is the trusted orthodontist of Doylestown, New Hope and all of middle Bucks County.

Set up an appointment for a consultation with Dr. Covino and find out how orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

Meet Our Orthodontist

Doctor Steven Covino grew up in Westchester County, New York attending Byram Hills High School, in Armonk, NY with his wife Kathleen. While in High School Dr. Covino participated in various athletic programs and was selected as captain of his varsity football team. As a senior player he was named player of the week on three separate occasions and named as a player of the all league team.

Doctor Covino received his bachelors of science degree from Muhlenberg College, Allentown, PA in May of 1987. While at Muhlenberg he was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity and held positions in the fraternity as; social chairman, house steward, rush chairman, Greek week chairman, and vice president.

Dr. Covino received his formal dental education from The State University of New York School of Dental Medicine in Buffalo, New York. After graduating in 1991 with a minor in pediatric dentistry, Dr. Covino attended a general practice dental residency program at Rochester General Hospital and Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, New York.

Dr. Covino attended the Montefiore Medical Center Orthodontic Specialty Program in Bronx, New York and in 1994 graduated with a certificate in orthodontics. After working as an associate for a number of years, Dr. Covino opened his private practice in Doylestown, PA in 1997. In a continued effort to provide quality orthodontic care and his continued pursuit of orthodontic excellence Dr. Covino achieved Diplomate Status by the American Board of Orthodontics in February of 2007.

Dr. Steven Covino currently resides with his wife Kathy, children Frank, Donna, and Juliana and their pets, "Fred" the cat and "Ginger" their golden retriever in Solebury, PA. In his spare time Dr. Covino enjoys spending time with his wife and children, coaching, playing golf, and working on various projects around his home.