We all know that braces straighten teeth. One thing we may not know is that the whole process of straightening teeth increases the chance of getting cavities. Let me explain this statement. When an orthodontist prepares a tooth to bond a bracket (brace) to it, he or she must condition that tooth. The most common conditioner, more accurately termed etch, is phosphoric acid. This is used to make the surface of a tooth rough so the composite material (dental glue) can adhere to the tooth and hold the bracket in place.

A recent study, presented in the Orthodontic Journal, “The Angle Orthodontist”, Volume 81, Issue 5, published September 2011, found that when a tooth is etched (conditioned), the tooth has a 34% higher chance of getting a cavity. The cavity will typically present itself as a white spot on the surface of the upper front six teeth between the bracket and the gum tissue. The lower front teeth are less prone to cavities because the saliva coats the lower teeth more effectively which helps prevent decay.

There is good news, however. A new product on the market has been shown to drastically reduce the incidence of cavities. This product is called Opal Seal. This company has added extra protection to one of the bonding steps that prevents cavities. The study that confirmed this process was also published in the Angle Orthodontist, Volume 79, Issue 2, March 2009.

I have always been aware of the increased chance of cavities of my clientele but never fully understood the reasons the cavities formed. We now exclusively use Opal Seal during our bonding process and I anticipate no more cavities or white spots for my clientele.

Three Generations!

3 Generations of Patients Treated by 2 Generations of Orthodontists!
Grandma Stephanie Henk, a practicing chiropractor in Escondido, Was treated in our office by Dr. Kieffer Sr., Dr. Kieffer’s dad. Stephanie then brought her daughter, Kristen, to Dr. Kieffer Sr. for orthodontics and now Kristen’s son, Kyle, is being treated by Dr. Kieffer. Thank you for keeping it all in the family! It has been a pleasure working with your family throughout the years!

10th Anniversary at Kieffer Ortho!

“Imagine the first day of your new job being on April Fool’s Day? I felt superstitious starting at Kieffer Orthodontics on that date but as my 10th Anniversary approaches at the end of this week, I have found myself at the BEST job I have ever held! I enjoy working with the innovative ideas that Dr. Kieffer incorporates into the treatment provided by our team. The fun and supportive working environment located by the beach (one of my favorite places) makes coming to work a pleasure every day. Needless to say, April Fool’s Day is now one of my favorite days!” Dee Schofield, RDA