Utah Orthodontist W. Clark Andersen D.D.S., P.C.

For Dr. W. Clark Andersen, a pursuit of excellence

2012-01-27T09:20:00.001-08:00

At Dr. W. Clark Andersen 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 Dr. W. Clark Andersen do that. Some of them are:1. Using the most up to date and proven technologies available2. Spending time and resources on continuing education to stay current and relevant3. Training our entire team on new techniques4. Educating our patients about the pursuit of excellenceIf you or a family member has been thinking about orthodontic treatment, please give us a call. We look forward to seeing you.

The benefits of dairy, from Dr. W. Clark Andersen

2012-01-18T13:14:00.000-08:00

Dr. W. Clark Andersen wants to know: Is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, it should be!

A study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) 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 benefits of a beautiful smile

2012-01-12T15:45:00.001-08:00

Dr. W. Clark Andersen and our team know having an attractive smile puts a spring in your step—or two—as well as increases your self-confidence, no matter if you’re 14 or in your late forties. Smiling not only makes people happy and puts them in a good mood, doing it often can even help you live longer, according to previous studies! If you’ve been hiding your smile because you have crooked teeth or gaps between your teeth, it’s time to consider orthodontic treatment at Dr. Andersen. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to learn how quickly and efficiently today’s most advanced correction techniques can straighten your smile!Don’t hide your smile any longer—give us a call today to schedule yours or your child’s orthodontic consultation.

Need a New Year’s Resolution? How about a healthier, more beautiful smile?

2012-01-06T15:16:00.000-08:00

2012 ishere, and it's a great time of year to get started on a lifetime of straight,dazzling and confident smiles. Here at Dr. W. Clark Andersen, we offer some of today's most innovative orthodontictechnologies that can straighten your smile in less time than you everimagined. Not only do today’s braces and other orthodontic treatmentsstraighten teeth quicker, they also offer greater comfort for the patient andrequire fewer visits to our office.

So ifobtaining a healthy, beautiful smile is one of your New Year’s resolutions, weinvite you to give us a call to schedule an orthodontic consultation with Dr. Andersen.

This Year, Make a New Year’s Resolution to Smile About!

2011-12-28T16:16:00.001-08:00

Let’s face it- when was the last time you managed to keep a New Year’s resolution? We at Dr. Andersen's office believe the key to sticking to a goal is picking one that is both reasonable and attainable. If you haven’t yet picked a New Year’s resolution, consider setting one that will improve your oral health!

For example, resolve to brush twice and floss once a day. Good oral hygiene only takes a few minutes a day, and can make a big difference in your oral health and overall health too! For more oral health-themed resolutions for you and your family, check out this article.

We would love to see what you come up with, share with us by commenting on this post or on our Facebook page. Whatever your New Year’s Resolution, we wish you the very best for 2012!

-Happy New Year, from your friends at Dr. Andersen's office

Happy Holidays! From Dr. Clark and team

2011-12-20T14:50:00.000-08:00

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as our team at Dr. W Clark Andersen's office reflect 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 2012? 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!

--Dr. Andersen and team

Regular checkups and your oral health

2011-12-16T13:24:00.001-08:00

Your general dentist can check for problems thatmight not be seen or felt, detect cavities and early signs of decay, treat oralhealth problems early and show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth.

During an oral exam your dentist can check thehealth of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will alsoinclude a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been tothe dentist in the last six months, let us know during your next visit and wewill provide a few great references in the greater Brigham City and Garland/Tremonton area!

Want to LOVE your smile? Visit Dr. Anderson for a great orthodontic experience!

2011-12-06T06:00:00.000-08:00

W. Clark Anderson, serving Brigham City, Garland and surrounding areas, has received some wonderful patient reviews this last month. Check out what our current patients are saying about Dr. Anderson and team! Thanks so much!

"My husband, daughter and myself have all had orthodontic treatment at Dr. Andersen's office. I cant express the gratitude we feel. Our new smiles have improved our confidence and quality of life greatly. The warmth and energetic enthusiasm in the office is amazing. You can tell Dr. Andersen and his staff truly care about their patients needs. They express a joyful and fun attitude in the work they do. The after care we receive even though our braces are off is above and beyond our expectations. You will not be disappointed with your choice when you visit their office. YOU WILL LOVE YOUR BRACES and YOUR PERFECT SMILE!!!!!!!" ~Vici

"I have 3 kids that have been patients at Dr. Andersen's office. I could not be more thrilled with our whole experience with their office, staff and now our perfect smiles. We always enjoyed our appointments because of the super fun atmosphere that always exists in their office. My kids actually looked forward to coming their appointments. Go see them -- you will be so happy you chose their office!!!"

"Dr. Andersen and his staff rock! I love the fun atmosphere they have created and the way they treat people. The Smile Miles are too cool and the Skate Shop & iStore are full of amazing prizes to spend them on. Every doctor's office should be like this!"

Are you wearing your mouth guard?

2011-12-01T16:35:00.000-08:00

With winter sports right around the corner, many patients here at Dr. W. Clark Andersen's office will once again pick up the ball, bring the cleats out of seasonal retirement and hit the fields and courts for the return of sports action! During this time, however, Dr. Andersen and our team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this fall and winter, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as basketball, wrestling and hockey
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! Dr. Andersen and team will tell you 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 our office or ask us on Facebook. Stay safe!

Happy Thanksgiving from Dr. W. Clark Andersen and team!

2011-11-21T07:15:00.000-08:00

Dr. Andersen and team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. It's a big food holiday, so be careful what you eat!

If you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we'd encourage you to post them to our Facebook page or call our office and ask how.

Gobble Gobble!

Your pal, fluoride

2011-11-18T14:11:00.000-08:00

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment with Dr. W. Clark Andersen. 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 dentist/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!

Cold season is here, from Dr. W. Clark Anderson

2011-11-09T17:19:00.000-08:00

Cold and flu season is here yet again. The folks at Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say that a common cold usually includes sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and coughing. Symptoms can last for up to two weeks.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. W. Clark Anderson and our entire staff give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our Brigham City and Garland offices at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces. For the protection of other patients and our staff at our offices, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

And remember to constantly wash your hands and avoid contact with those who are ill! Stay Healthy!

Happy November! From Dr. W. Clark Andersen

2011-11-04T11:52:00.000-07:00

Happy November, everybody! Believe it or not, we’re almost in full holiday mode! But before Dr. W. Clark Andersen and team forget about the spooky month that was, we’d like to know how you celebrated Halloween! What did you wear? How much candy did you get? Did you have fun?

If you have any photos or videos that you would like to share with us, please send them our way or feel free to post them on our Facebook page!

We hope you all had a happy and safe Halloween! Also, what are you up to this month? Anything exciting happening in your life? If so, we’d love to hear all about it!

Lastly, have you been in for a dental checkup lately? It’s important that you see your general dentist, as well as visiting Dr. Andersen while you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. If you have questions about your orthodontic treatment or just want some general information, give us a call or ask us during your next visit!

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

2011-10-24T12:04:00.000-07:00

Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Dr. W. Clark Andersen 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 Dr. Andersen 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 to schedule an appointment.

What's the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?

2011-10-19T13:20:00.000-07:00

"Dentists, Orthodontists, they're all the same right?" We hear our patients asking this question as they wonder about the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. Before becoming an orthodontist Dr. W. Clark Andersen started out in dental school and earned a DDS (dental degree), just like your dentist. After dental school however, Dr. Andersen decided to learn more about orthodontics, which is one of nine specialties within the dental field. So they stayed in school for a few more years and became an expert in orthodontics, which focuses on tooth and jaw alignment and bite problems like overbites and under bites.

Other dental specialties you may have heard of include endodontic (focusing on the soft tissue inside your teeth), periodontic (focusing on the gums and other tissues surrounding your teeth) and prosthodontic (focusing on restoring and replacing damaged teeth).

Isn't it nice to know there's a complete dental expert to help you through any type of treatment your teeth, jaw and gums might need?

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

2011-10-14T15:44:00.000-07:00

Some people wonder why Dr. W. Clark Andersen 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 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. Andersen can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Top Invisalign® questions answered

2011-10-10T14:42:00.000-07:00

Are you wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you're in treatment? You're not alone in your concerns! Dr. Andersen and our team thought we’d share this list of questions and answers for anyone pondering Invisalign treatment.

How exactly does Invisalign work?

Using 3-D computer imaging technology, Invisalign creates a series of custom-made, clear aligners exclusively for your teeth, based on the treatment plan that we specify for you. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.

Will I experience pain during treatment?
Most people experience temporary discomfort for a few days after a new aligner is placed. This feeling of pressure is normal and is a sign that Invisalign is working by sequentially moving your teeth to their final destination.

Can other people see that I'm in treatment?

One of the benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.

Can I smoke during treatment?

We discourage smoking while wearing the aligners as they may become discolored.

Are there any foods I shouldn’t eat while in treatment?

You can eat normally during the entire course of treatment. One of the advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. Simply take the aligners out before each meal, brush when you're finished eating, then reinsert the aligners afterward.

What about chewing gum?

We recommend removing your aligners for all meals and snacks, as gum and other chewy substances can stick to the aligners.

How often must I wear my aligners?

Aligners should be worn all day, except when eating, brushing, and flossing.

Will my speech be affected by the aligners?

As with any orthodontic treatment, aligners may temporarily affect your speech. If this does happen, your tongue will adjust within a day or two and your speech should return to normal.

How do I clean my aligners?

The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water.

How often must I visit the office during treatment?

For most patients, visits every 4-6 weeks are frequent enough for us to determine that your treatment is progressing properly. We will provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan.

If you have additional questions about the Invisalign treatment, please give our office a call or contact us on Facebook.

October is National Orthodontic Health Month!

2011-10-07T13:29:00.000-07:00

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.

Dr. W. Clark Andersen 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 Dr. Andersen and other dental professionals in Utah.

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 Dr. Andersen during your visit this month!

Dr. Andersen prepares to take on the St. George Marathon

2011-09-29T14:33:00.000-07:00

The big day is nearly here! As we mentioned earlier this summer, Dr. Andersen will be participating in the St. George Marathon this Saturday. This race marks Dr. Andersen's 19th year running in this marathon.

The St. George Marathon begins in the Pine Valley mountains and stretches across to Worthern Park in St. George. The marathon has been rated by Runner's World as one of the four "Marathons to Build a Vacation Around" in the World.

While Dr. Andersen has run over 30 marathons, he still has to complete extensive training for each competitive race. Last weekend, for example, he completed his last long run in Wellsville. He ended up running a bit over 22 miles, while keeping a pace of about 8:30.

Dr. Andersen always looks forward to meeting up with fellow runners and taking on the physical and mental challenges that come with running marathons. Be sure to stay tuned in the upcoming weeks as Dr. Andersen shares photos from the event! You can also watch the video below for more information about the St. George Marathon.

Breaking bad oral health habits

2011-09-23T14:26:00.000-07:00

At Dr. W. Clark Andersen's office, 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 Dr. Andersen.

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 Dr. Andersen 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 our office or ask your general dentist during your next scheduled visit! Or, ask us on Facebook!

The Go-To Mom Discusses Invisalign

2011-09-12T16:42:00.000-07:00

Our team at Dr. W. Clark Andersen's office found a great video that discusses the advantages of Invisalign. In the video, Kimberley Clayton Blaine, "The Go-To Mom," discusses the Invisalign treatment and her personal experience with Invisalign.

To determine if Invisalign is right for you, schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Andersen. Have a great week!

Emergency Care with Dr. Andersen

2011-09-09T13:05:00.000-07:00

At W Clark Andersen DDS PC, we know orthodontic emergencies are never convenient nor timely. If you are a patient of record, Dr. Andersen and our team are committed to your dental health and are more than willing to see you after hours or over the weekend. 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 to resolve the problem. If you have a orthodontic emergency after regular office hours, please give us a call. If you are calling us after hours, please follow the emergency prompts to learn how you may be able to solve the problem yourself, or, if you cannot, how to contact Dr. Andersen and team.

Common issues include:
*Broken Brace
*Broken Wires
*Tie has come off of a Brace
*Loose Expander
*Poking Wire Tie
*Sharpness Felt on the Tongue Side of a Brace
*Loss of a Separator
*Initial Soreness
*Wire Poking

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you visit our office.

When should you call Dr. Andersen's office?

2011-09-02T11:48:00.000-07:00

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Dr. W. Clark Andersen. 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!

20 things that can ruin your smile, from Dr. Andersen

2011-08-26T14:47:00.000-07:00

At W Clark Andersen DDS PC, 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

Dr. Andersen and our team encourage you to read the rest of the article and ask us here on our blog or during your next visit to our convenient Brigham City and Garland/Tremonton offices. For more tips or for general questions about your orthodontic treatment, we invite you to ask Dr. Andersen during your next visit! We also invite you to ask us on Facebook!

What do you love about summer?

2011-08-16T06:03:00.000-07:00

Summer is finally here, and the team at W. Clark Andersen, DDS, PC thought we’d ask: What’s your favorite part about summer? Is it the warm weather? Spending time biking, hiking or running in Brigham City and Garland? The free time you get? Picnics with friends and family?

Dr. Andersen and team would like to know what makes your summer truly special. We hope that everyone had a wonderful time at our "Summer Splash" Party! Please feel free to share any pics from the party with our team on Facebook. We also encourage you to "like" us on Facebook, so that you can comment on all of our summer event photos. Thank you!

Top ten tips for keeping your BRACES sparklin’ clean

2011-08-12T12:49:00.000-07:00

Dr. W. Clark Andersen 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 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!

"Summer Splash" Party fun!

2011-08-05T11:26:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, August 2, Dr. Clark Andersen's office held our annual "Summer Splash" Party! We had so much fun. We ate a lot of food and gave away tons of prizes. The big prize winners were Taylor Olson, who won a bicycle, and Meagan Martineau, who won a trampoline! Congratulations to Taylor and Meagan! Other prizes that we gave away included ipods, movie passes, pizza certificates and more!

We hope that you all had a great time, we sure did. Our team at the office is already looking forward to next year's party! Check out all of the fun pictures from this year's party by visiting our Facebook page.

How to freshen your bad breath, with Dr. Andersen

2011-07-28T16:47:00.000-07:00

Dr. W. Clark Andersen, your Brigham City and Garland orthodontist, recognizes 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 our office, 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!

A few Invisalign® tips, from Dr. W. Clark Andersen

2011-07-21T18:34:00.000-07:00

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. W. Clark Andersen wants you to ask yourself the following questions:

Am I eating with my aligners on?

These aligners are removable and should be taken out when you eat.

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.

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 W. Clark Andersen DDS PC, give us a call!

Summer fun with Dr. Andersen and team

2011-07-15T08:04:00.000-07:00

It’s summer here at W. Clark Andersen DDS PC, a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, hitting America’s open roads or just having fun in the backyard, Dr. Andersen and our team want to hear all about it! Leave a comment on our Facebook fan page and tell us about your summer!

We also encourage you to share your vacation photos, and enter our Summer Photo Contest. All you need to do to enter is snap a photo wearing your office t-shirt! Dr. Andersen will be giving away an iPod to the Summer Photo Contest winner.

Summer Photo Contest

2011-07-07T07:37:00.000-07:00

Are you traveling outside of Brigham City and Garland this summer? If so, you'll want to bring your W. Clark Andersen DDS PC t-shirt with you! That's right, Dr. Andersen is hosting his annual Summer Photo Contest.

Would you like to win an iPod?
To enter, simply submit a photo of you wearing your W. Clark Andersen DDS PC t-shirt at the beach, camping, hiking, or wherever your summer travels bring you. We will be giving away an iPod to the Summer Photo Contest winner.

Mail entries to:
111 E. Forest St. No. C
Brigham City, UT 84302

Happy travels!

Dr. Clark Andersen Maps His Ride!

2011-07-01T14:34:00.000-07:00

When Dr. Andersen isn't in the office perfecting our patients' smiles, he enjoys running, cycling and spending time outdoors. Did you know that Dr. Andersen has completed over 30 marathons? He has even run the Boston Marathon twice! As Dr. Andersen trains for the St. George Marathon, he will be using the iMap My Run App to share his training progress with our patients. Be sure to check back to our Facebook page to follow his runs and rides in the upcoming weeks! You might even get a few ideas for trails around the Garland and Brigham City.

Friday fun facts!

2011-06-24T16:15:00.000-07:00

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 Dr. Andersen's office 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.

Totally Terrific Teeth Contest

2011-06-15T15:13:00.000-07:00

W Clark Andersen DDS, PC invites you to show the world your totally terrific teeth! Put on your creativity cap and draw, color, paint, collage, or sculpt a piece of art describing your teeth and why you love ‘em! When you’re finished, take a digital picture of your creation, or scan it in and save it in JPG format. You can click here to submit the JPG file to us.

Our Totally Terrific judges will review each beautiful piece of art and pick three winners who will receive an iPad 2! The contest ends June 30th, 2011, so don’t delay in submitting your entry.

Smile! June is National Smile Month!

2011-06-07T16:59:00.000-07:00

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 W Clark Andersen DDS 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 Dr. W. Clark Andersen.
* 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.

Flossing with braces 101

2011-06-03T10:34:00.001-07:00

Dr. Andersen and team, wishing you a relaxing and memorable Memorial Day weekend

2011-05-27T15:31:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day weekend is a time when Americans everywhere stop and remember all those men and women who bravely gave their lives for our country.

Memorial Day also marks the unofficial start of summer 2011, and for many folks in Utah, getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the office or in the classroom means sweet, sweet relief. At Dr. W. Clark Andersen's office, we also know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. After all, it’s a season of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, hitting the great open roads or hanging out in your backyard this weekend, we want to know about it!

Have a nice and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

Ask Dr. Andersen: If you weren’t an Orthodontist, what would you be?

2011-05-18T13:14:00.000-07:00

Utah orthodontist Dr. W. Clark Andersen loves making his patients' teeth straight and and healthy! He enjoys improving the smiles and confidence of our patients, and providing the best orthodontic care for everyone who visits our office. But we thought we’d ask him what profession he would pursue if it wasn’t for orthodontia. Here's what Dr. Andersen said:

"I would love to be a chef! First of all I LOVE good food, and secondly there is an art to fine cooking, much like there is an art to fine orthodontics!"

Foods to Avoid During Your Orthodontic Treatment

2011-05-13T14:08:00.001-07:00

There are a variety of foods Dr. Andersen wants 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 W Clark Andersen a call or ask our staff during your next visit.

What’s on your reading list?

2011-05-06T09:30:00.000-07:00

With the school year close to winding down for a lot of our patients at W Clark Andersen DDS, we 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 is a vital step in brain development and literacy. And if you needed any more reason to read, May marks “Get Caught Reading Month.”

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great reads? Ask us for suggestions, and Dr. Andersen and our team would be happy to provide a few. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas on what to read next!

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your book picks or your all-time favorite novels or literature on our Facebook page!

The Braces Glossary: Your Guide to Brackets, Bands, and More!

2011-04-28T16:26:00.000-07:00

If you ever sustain damage to your braces and need to call W. Clark Andersen DDS, 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!

W. Clark Andersen, taking steps to reduce our environmental impact

2011-04-22T15:43:00.000-07:00

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 W. Clark Andersen 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.

Dr. Andersen and our team 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!

Don't forget about your oral health!

2011-04-13T16:34:00.000-07:00

Are you brushing and flossing daily during your orthodontic treatment? 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). Since April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Andersen would like to remind patients about the importance of maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

The fact is, every hour of every day in the U.S., someone dies of oral cancer, which is the sixth-most common diagnosed form of the disease. The five-year survival rate is only 50 percent, and oral cancer is one of the few cancers whose survival rate has not improved. Oral cancer is one of the few cancers whose survival rate has not improved because it is often diagnosed very late.

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. 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 the Brigham City, Garland/Tremonton and Farr West areas!

April is National Facial Protection Month

2011-04-08T08:37:00.000-07:00

With spring here, many children, teens and adults in Garland and Brigham City, 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. Andersen 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 Dr. Andersen. Stay safe and have fun!

How important is your smile? From W. Clark Andersen DDS

2011-03-30T17:18:00.000-07:00

Every day, Dr. Andersen strives to provide the best in orthodontic care for adults and children. Braces are a great way to improve your smile and self confidence and we offer a variety of solutions for patients of all ages.

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 give us a call today to schedule your orthodontic consultation with Dr. Andersen!

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

2011-03-25T15:08:00.000-07:00

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 W Clark Andersen!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment with Dr. Andersen. 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 Dr. Andersen 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

2011-03-17T08:45:00.000-07:00

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 W. Clark Andersen DDS!

Your pal, fluoride!

2011-03-10T10:43:00.000-08:00

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Andersen. 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!

Would you like to win $100 from Dr. Clark Andersen?

2011-03-04T09:25:00.000-08:00

Isn’t social media great? Dr. Andersen and team love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or posting videos on our YouTube channel. To celebrate our 20th year of practicing in the Brigham - Tremonton areas, Dr. Andersen is currently hosting a YouTube Video Contest.

Share your story in a short video for a chance to win $100 from W. Clark Andersen, DDS. Our only contest specifications are that videos must be in a digital format, and no more than 4 minutes in length. All video entries must be submitted by March 31, 2011 to qualify for the contest.

Here are a few video ideas:
-"Can Braces Really get Stuck Together When Kissing?"
-"My Life in Braces"
-"Dr. Andersen is so Cool"

We look forward to receiving your YouTube Video Contest entries! All videos will be uploaded to our YouTube channel. As always, please give us a call if you have any questions about the contest.

Talkin' retainers with Dr. Andersen

2011-02-26T12:23:00.000-08:00

If you recently completed treatment at W Clark Andersen DDS, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Andersen 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 Dr. Andersen 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. 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.).

We hope this helps! You can always contact our team if you have any questions!

Cold and Flu Season is Here - Replace Your Toothbrush!

2011-02-17T12:10:00.000-08:00

Winter is upon us, and with it comes the dreaded cold and flu season. After recovering from your cold, Dr. Andersen will tell you one of the most important steps you can take to avoid becoming reinfected is replacing your toothbrush!

Germs are known to linger on the bristles, and you risk prolonging your sickness by continuing to use the same toothbrush. Be smart - keep a spare, just in case! To protect your toothbrush from bacteria all year long, consider the following tips:

• 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 your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Worn bristles are less effective in properly cleaning your teeth, and can actually be damaging to teeth if used too long!

We hope these tips help! Feel free to call us at W Clark Andersen DDS PC if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook.

Imagine your new smile with the Brace Painter!

2011-02-08T16:19:00.000-08:00

Braces at W. Clark Andersen DDS 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 Dr. Andersen know if you have any questions about the Brace Painter, or your orthodontic treatment at our office. Have a great week!

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month

2011-02-03T17:27:00.000-08:00

For the past 61 Februaries, the American Dental Association, or ADA, has sponsored National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. National Children's Dental Health Month began as a one-day event in 1941 in a Cleveland clinic. In 1981, however, the program was extended to a month-long celebration known today as National Children’s Dental Health Month.

Each February, Dr. Andersen and thousands of dental professionals focus on the preventive oral care of America's children. Dr. Andersen and our staff want you to remember 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. Has your child visited W. Clark Andersen DDS in the past six months? If not, it’s time to give us a call and schedule an appointment!

Thursday Tooth Trivia, from Dr. W. Clark Andersen

2011-01-27T16:43:00.000-08:00

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 W Clark Andersen DDS PC 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.

Skinny Stickin' the Dam

2011-01-21T18:02:00.000-08:00

Over the past 20 years, Dr. Andersen and our team have always been very involved in community events. We have volunteered for and sponsored events like the Relay for Life, high school sports teams, local arts and many others. On January 15th, we sponsored the "Skinny Stickin' the Dam" event. This family event was planned by the Brigham City Recreation Department and was designed to introduce the sport of cross country skiing to families. About 30 people in all participated and made the trek around the Mantua Reservoir. They covered a distance of about 4.5 miles! It was a great day with 2-3 inches of fresh snow and not too cold, thank goodness! It was our pleasure to provide the rental skis so that families could participate free of charge. We look forward to more events like this in the future and hope to see you there!

20 Years and Counting!

2011-01-17T08:44:00.000-08:00

Did you know that 2011 marks our 20th year of practicing in the Brigham - Tremonton areas? It is hard to believe that we have been here that long already! It has been a great experience to grow with you and make so many good friends over the last 20 years. We count it an honor to have been able to be a part of your lives and to see so many beautiful smiles take shape. We live and work in a great community!

To celebrate our 20th anniversary, we will be having some fabulous contests, promotions and prizes to give to you, our loyal patients and friends. Most of these contests and promotions will be disseminated via your email. If we do not have your current email on file, now may be a good time to come into either the Brigham or Tremonton location and update your records or just give us a call. As always, we want to be the "best part of our patient's day" so let us know what we can do to serve you better!

Now for the fun stuff... Our first contest will be a video contest. Here's what you do. Simply get a group of family , friends etc. and make a short video about your orthodontic experience. It can be funny, serious, informative, documentary style etc. You can use your friends and family who are, have been or will be patients. It needs to be in digital format and no more than 4 minutes in length. Some ideas could be: "My Life in Braces", or "Can Braces Really get Stuck Together When Kissing?", or "Dr. Andersen is so Cool" ( we like that one). Be creative and have some fun! We will need to have your video entry submitted before the end of March. All videos will be posted on our YouTube channel, and patients can vote or "like" their favorite. The winners will receive $100.00! Get out those cameras and... "action"! Be sure to also check our website periodically for more information.

We hope you have a great 2011! We intend to have a great one!

Dr. Clark Andersen and Staff

Patient Question: What’s so bad about nail biting?

2011-01-14T15:57:00.000-08:00

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 W. Clark Andersen 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 Dr. Andersen or visit the article for tips on how to break a nail biting habit. Good luck!

Getting social with the Braces Brigade!

2011-01-06T16:57:00.000-08:00

At the practice of W. Clark Andersen, 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 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 Dr. Andersen!

Make 2011 the year to improve your oral health

2010-12-29T08:31:00.000-08:00

Many folks in Brigham City, Garland, and Tremonton, UT consider the beginning of a new year a time to not only reflect on the year that was, but also to set personal goals for the upcoming year. How are you planning to improve your health and happiness in 2011? Dr. Andersen and our team recommend that you make a New Year’s resolution to benefit your oral health!

It is important that New Year’s resolutions are reasonable and attainable, and that they improve your overall quality of life—for example, did you know that flossing every day is the very best way to prevent periodontal, or gum, disease? Using a straw when drinking sugary beverages can also help prevent cavities. There are many small steps that you can take to prevent cavities, oral infections and bad breath.

Be sure to give us a call if you need a few suggestions on ways to improve your oral health, or visit this helpful article from our friends at the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). After all, we know your oral health is about more than just a beautiful smile.

Happy New Year!

-Your friends at W. Clark Andersen

Season’s Greetings from Dr. Andersen and team!

2010-12-22T16:30:00.000-08:00

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as the team at W. Clark Andersen DDS 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 Brigham City or Garland?

We’d love if you shared your responses on our Facebook page. Happy holidays, from our entire team at Dr. Andersen's office!

Celebrities also get braces!

2010-12-17T14:39:00.000-08:00

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 Dr. W. Clark Andersen.

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 Dr. W. Clark Andersen a call!

With W. Clark Andersen DDS, 24/7 access to your account

2010-12-10T15:19:00.000-08:00

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!

You 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!

Why do you choose W. Clark Andersen?

2010-12-03T16:53:00.001-08:00

From your very first visit to W. Clark Andersen our doctor and team strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. 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,

-Dr. Andersen and team

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-23T15:51:00.000-08:00

Dr. Andersen and team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. Enjoy a day filled of friends, family, and great Thanksgiving food! What are you most thankful for this year? Leave us a comment, or if you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we encourage you to share them on our Facebook page!

Happy Thanksgiving!

What do you enjoy most about fall?

2010-11-20T16:28:00.000-08:00

It’s fall here at W. Clark Andersen, 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 the Brigham City and Garland areas. 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!

Dr. Andersen asks: Is your child nearing their seventh birthday?

2010-11-08T13:42:00.000-08:00

Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Dr. Andersen 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 Dr. Andersen 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 to schedule an appointment.

"Hey, Dr. Andersen! Why is it so important to have straight teeth?"

2010-11-06T12:20:00.000-07:00

Some people wonder why Brigham City and Garland orthodontist Dr. W. Clark Andersen 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 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. Andersen can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

A few tips for staying safe this Halloween, from Dr. Andersen

2010-10-29T19:19:00.000-07:00

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

Ask Dr. Andersen: What can Invisalign® do for my oral health?

2010-10-21T16:43:00.000-07:00

When considering treatment options, patients often ask us how Invisalign treatment is so different than traditional braces. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign with Dr. Andersen than you may know. Invisalign is a series of removable aligners that are nearly invisible, and besides straightening your teeth, can improve your oral health. Here’s how:

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 even 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. Andersen the next time you’re in for an appointment. Or, you may post your question on our Facebook page! You can also read this article for more information on Invisalign and your oral health.

A braces-friendly fall recipe, from Dr. Andersen!

2010-10-16T18:18:00.000-07:00

In celebration of National Orthodontic Health Month, Dr. Andersen and our team would like to share a great braces-friendly Halloween recipe with all of our patients, courtesy of the American Association of Orthodontics, or AAO, and “The Braces Cookbook” by Pamela Waterman. These Pumpkin Chocolate-Chip Softies are delicious, and provided that you remember to brush and floss after indulging, this treat will not cause damage to your beautiful smile.

Pumpkin Chocolate-Chip Softies

Ingredients:

1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1 15-ounce can plain pumpkin purée
3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
2 eggs
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 tablespoons molasses
1 tablespoon milk
1 12-ounce bag chocolate chips

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F.

In medium-sized mixing bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg. In large mixing bowl, with a mixer or whisk, combine pumpkin, brown sugar, eggs, oil, molasses and milk. Add flour mixture slowly into pumpkin mixture until well combined. Stir in chocolate chips.

The dough is very soft. Drop by heaping tablespoons onto greased cookie sheets, 12 cookies to a pan. Bake for 25 minutes. Store in a covered container between sheets of waxed paper.

October is National Orthodontic Health Month

2010-10-08T16:27:00.000-07:00

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 Dr. Andersen and our staff 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.

Dr. Andersen attends Study Club to stay connected with the orthodontic community!

2010-09-22T16:57:00.000-07:00

Dr. Andersen is a trusted orthodontist with offices in Brigham City and Garland, Utah. Every day we strive to provide the best in orthodontic care for adults and children. That's why Dr. Anderson attends a study club regularly, to make sure that he is knowledgeable in the latest and most effective orthodontic procedures. There is always something new to learn from the other members of the group. Study group also ensures that Dr. Andersen is able to educate patients at the highest level to make an informed decision about their orthodontic treatment options.

As always, feel free to give W. Clark Andersen a call if you have any questions about orthodontic treatment options at our office. You can also call us today at our Garland office (435-553-4802) or at our Brigham City office (435-553-4798) to schedule your complimentary consultation!

Thank you,

-Dr. Andersen and team

Regular checkups are essential in maintaining good oral health

2010-09-17T17:15:00.000-07:00

Are you brushing and flossing daily properly during your orthodontic treatment? 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 Dr. Andersen, 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 the greater Brigham City and Garland, Utah area!

The importance of retainers, from W. Clark Andersen

2010-09-10T16:27:00.000-07:00

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

Dr. Andersen's Annual Swim Party was a huge success!

2010-08-31T10:00:00.001-07:00

Our 14th Annual Swim Party was a wonderful event for Brigham City, UT and surrounding areas. Over 700 patients and friends attended the Swim Party, eating over 750 hot dogs and 600 bags of chips! The weather was absolutely perfect at Brigham City Community Pool. Dr. Andersen enjoys giving away prizes and seeing the kids faces light up when they win an iPod.

Be sure to "like" our Facebook page to view our complete Swim Party photo album! Thank you to everyone who helped make the event a huge success! As always, feel free to give us a call if you have any questions or if you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Andersen.

Thank you,

-W. Clark Andersen

Distinguishing the myths and facts about orthodontics, from Dr. Andersen

2010-08-26T16:41:00.000-07:00

Trust us when we say Dr. Andersen 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 W. Clark Andersen, feel free to give us a call.

Top ten tips for keeping plaque at bay, from Dr. Andersen

2010-08-20T15:24:00.000-07:00

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 with Dr. W. Clark Andersen, you'll experience better results and shorter treatment time. Keep your BRACES sparklin’ clean 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!

Thanks to Invisalign® with Dr. Andersen, mom and dad can have a perfect smile, too!

2010-08-11T11:59:00.000-07:00

Hey parents! 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 W. Clark Andersen 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 to set up a consultation, so we can discuss the specifics of your treatment.

Dr. Andersen asks: Have you entered the Brigham City Nose Picking Contest?

2010-08-03T17:01:00.000-07:00

We have a special contest going on right now at our Brigham City, UT office, and Dr. W. Clark Andersen wants to take this opportunity to tell all of our Brigham City patients about it. The Nose Picking Contest is an opportunity for our patients to better learn about the team at W. Clark Andersen, in a fun and interesting way! Have you entered the Nose Picking Contest? To enter, patients match plaster molds of all staff noses to the staff pictures!

Next time you're in for a checkup, be sure to ask Dr. W. Clark Andersen about the Nose Picking Contest! Our orthodontic team strives to provide outstanding orthodontic service in a fun and personal environment, which is why we always enjoy coming up with different contests for our patients!

Have a great week,

-Dr. Andersen and team

Have you been wearing your W. Clark Andersen t-shirt?

2010-07-27T09:17:00.000-07:00

If you've visited W. Clark Andersen and our team lately, then you also received a W. Clark Andersen t-shirt! Have you been wearing your t-shirt around Brigham City, UT? If one of our staff members or the doctor spots you wearing your W. Clark Andersen t-shirt around town, then we'll give you a coupon for a free frozen yogurt! Yum.

Have you been traveling with your W. Clark Andersen t-shirt?
Mail us a photo! We will giving away prizes for the furthest away photo and for the coolest photo.

Mail entries to:
111 E. Forest St. No. C
Brigham City, UT 84302

Safe travels!

-Dr. Andersen and team

Dr. Andersen invites you to our annual Summer Swim Party!

2010-07-19T15:17:00.000-07:00

Every year, our team at W. Clark Andersen hosts a Summer Swim Party, to celebrate you, our wonderful patients! We're very excited to announce that this year's party will take place on Thursday, August 19th at Brigham City Community Pool. There will be food, drinks, and lots of prizes! Don't forget to stop by the office for a pool party ticket for you and a friend!

Last year, our door prizes ranged from movie passes to a trampoline. You won't want to miss the surprises that we came up with for this year! Feel free to give us a call if you have any questions about the Summer Swim Party.

-Your friends at W. Clark Andersen

All the cool kids are doing it!

2010-07-16T14:10:00.000-07:00

Today, braces are seen as “cool” and—many even say—“fun.” These were among the findings presented in a 2010 nationwide survey of mothers whose children are going through or have had orthodontic treatment. New technologies such as Invisalign, 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 child’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, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

Has your child visited Dr. Andersen for a consultation? If not, please give us a call and let us help your child begin the journey to a gorgeous smile!

A few patient reviews for Dr. Andersen and staff

2010-07-06T12:00:00.000-07:00

Dr. Anderson, serving Brigham City and Garland, UT and surrounding areas, has been receiving some great patient reviews lately! Check out what our current patients are saying about Dr. Anderson and the team!

"Dr. Andersen is very friendly and has a personality that is great with kids. He seems very concerned about the kids care."

"I like how positive he and his staff are and that they make my experience a good one."

"Dr. Andersen takes the time to make sure you understand everything."

"He answers questions completely, and gives his opinion. Everyone in the office is just great."

Have you had a great experience at W. Clark Andersen lately? Let us know! We love hearing from our patients! You canwrite a review here or give us a call!

Have a great week!

-Your friends at W. Clark Andersen DDS

Ask Dr. Andersen: Am I too old for braces?

2010-06-28T11:53:00.000-07:00

Who’s afraid of “metal mouth” and the physical appearance of braces? Not today's adults, apparently. Recently, our staff at W. Clark Andersen read a fascinating statistic: the number of adults getting braces has actually 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 and sparkling 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. Andersen 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, W. Clark Andersen would love to have you visit for a complimentary consultation. Please give us a call to schedule your appointment today!

"Hey Dr. Andersen! How does Invisalign really work?"

2010-06-23T13:00:00.000-07:00

Perhaps you've wondered how Invisalign treatment manages to straighten your teeth without using metallic traditional braces? The Invisalign system at is a state-of-the-art system of clear, removable aligners that we proudly offer at our convenient locations in Brigham City and Garland.

Not only are the aligners invisible, they are also removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment with Dr. Andersen. 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 begin treatment so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.

Dr. Andersen 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. Andersen, who will gladly provide a complimentary consultation, is the trusted orthodontist of Brigham City, Garland, Harrisville, North Ogden and surrounding communities.

Access your account—any day, any time—at W. Clark Andersen DDS

2010-06-15T11:03:00.000-07:00

Did you know that Dr. Andersen's patients enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our website? If you're a patient of ours, 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!

You 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 at our Brigham City or Garland location if you have any questions about getting started!

Tell us about your summer plans!

2010-06-05T19:35:00.000-07:00

We just can't believe it's already June. As the school year comes to an end for a lot of Dr. Andersen's patients, the days get longer and the temperatures begin to climb, there’s no better way to beat the heat than jump into a pool or cool off under the shade with a beverage. For a lot of our patients, summer brings a chance to get away from it all and escape every-day life, if only for a week or two. For others, it means a season of relaxation and relief from homework and other duties.

What about you?

What are your plans for summer? Do you have any interesting plans for a summer vacation? Does your family have a vacation or family reunion planned? Our staff want to see when and how you are all spending your summer vacations. If you’re going somewhere exotic, tell us about it! If you're going camping, great! Even if you're staying at home, that can be fun, too.

Please feel free to share your summer plans and experiences with us on our Facebook page as the summer rolls along!

Breaking down myths about orthodontics with Dr. Andersen

2010-05-30T16:27:00.000-07:00

Trust us when we tell you Dr. Andersen is well-aware that there are a lot of myths and half-truths flying around these days when it comes to orthodontic treatment. But, before you buy into those myths, Dr. Andersen thinks you should get the facts first! Our pals at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of orthodontics, and we encourage you to check them out before settling for rumors about braces!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment at our office, feel free to give us a call at one of our two convenient locations.

We hope you have a great rest of your Memorial Day weekend! Make it memorable!

Write a review of Dr. Andersen and team!

2010-05-22T21:12:00.000-07:00

Dr. Andersen is a trusted orthodontist with offices in Brigham City and Garland/Tremonton, Utah. Every day Dr. Andersen and team strive to provide the best in orthodontic care for adults and children, and we are pleased to treat so many wonderful patients.

Whether you've visited Dr. Andersen's office for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about how our practice is faring! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice with the rest of the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local page and write a review there. Or, you may review us on Yelp if you'd like. After all, reviews help Dr. Andersen and team create more beautiful smiles!

You may write a review here. Thanks in advance and enjoy the rest of your weekend! We look forward to reading your reviews!

Dr. Andersen and team, supporting Children's Book Week

2010-05-15T16:46:00.000-07:00

You might not be aware that it's Children's Book Week! Since 1919, Children's Book Week has been celebrated nationally in schools, libraries and bookstores to encourage a love of books.

Are you looking for a great book to read this summer while on vacation? Then check out the Children’s Book Council’s website, which offers some great reads!

In fact, here are five kids’ books that you parents will love as well. The great thing? Your local library in Garland or Brigham City probably has a copy!

Read up and have a great rest of the weekend!

-- Dr. Andersen and team

A safety message from Dr. Andersen

2010-05-10T09:41:00.000-07:00

Two Saturdays ago Dr. Andersen was out for a training ride on his bike in preparation for a race he was scheduled to participate in the next day, and was hit by a car. He was hit from behind while on a country road and suffered a fractured scapula, three fractured ribs, a pneuomothorax and a pulmonary contusion, not to mention the road rash.

The car was traveling between 50-60 MPH and he was going 24 MPH. This accident got him an overnight stay in the hospital and some missed work days. The thing it did not get him was any permanent or life-threatening injuries because he was wearing his helmet! Without the helmet, Dr. Andersen is sure he would be either dead or permanently disabled. Since the weather is getting warm and the bikes are coming out, Dr. Andersen thinks this would be a great time to remind all the bikeriders out there to be extra careful this summer - and that includes wearing your helmet at all times.

Dr. Andersen, reminding you Mother's Day is coming up!

2010-05-04T10:00:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day -- which falls on this coming Sunday, May 9 -- is special to each and every one of us. Everybody looks forward to Mother's Day to let our mom know how special she is to us. The day is observed by giving gifts, visiting our moms or taking them out to celebrate.

Tell us, what are you planning on mom's special day this upcoming Sunday?

Out of ideas? Then check out this helpful video about clever, inexpensive Mother's Day gift ideas. Whatever you come up with, Dr. Andersen and team are sure mom will love it!

Lastly, we are having a Mother's Day promotion for the month of May. All Moms of our patients get a "sweet" gift of chocolates and get 10% off when they start treatment in the month of May! Call us and ask for more info!

10 kids' health issues to watch this year, from Dr. Andersen

2010-04-30T14:51:00.000-07:00

Would you believe it, it's almost May! This is a great time to remind our parents about the various kids' health issues and how you can avoid them. In late 2009, KidsHealth.org published its annual list of “10 Kids’ Health Issues to Watch” this year and what they mean to you.

They include:

• Earliest Signs of Autism Identified in Babies

• Obesity and Kids: What Parents Should Understand

• Many Kids Missing Out on CHIP Benefits

• H1N1 Flu Pandemic Affecting Kids the Hardest

• Texting & Driving: Just Say No

• The Importance of Vitamin D

• The Toll of Constant Social Networking

• The Impact on Concussions

• Pregnancy, STDs Increasing Among U.S. Teens

and...

• Smoking: Good News and Bad News

Dr. Andersen and our staff encourage you to read the entire article in its entirety! Have a great weekend!

Dr. Andersen wants to know: what helps you relax at our office?

2010-04-19T08:12:00.000-07:00

Trust Dr. Andersen when he says he understands that not everyone is always thrilled to visit their orthodontist. But at W. Clark Andersen DDS, we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each of your visits. With offices in Brigham City and Garland/Tremonton, Dr. Andersen is a trusted orthodontist.

Today, we’d like to know: What is it about Dr. Andersen or our team - or our office ambience - that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or Dr. Andersen himself? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook page!!

AAO and the Moms For Mouth Guards Campaign, from Dr. Andersen

2010-04-13T11:53:00.000-07:00

Last week, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists posted a great video about Moms For Mouth Guards, a program promoting the importance of mouth guards for our kids' sports activities. Through the Moms For Mouth Guards Campaign, football great Emmitt Smith and the AAO are educating parents and coaches about the importance of wearing mouth guards and other protective gear while kids are out on the field. The campaign encourages parents and coaches to take the Moms For Mouth Guards Pledge to keep their young athletes safer on the field. For every pledge received, the AAO makes a donation to the National Alliance of Youth Sports.

The video above is especially important for our sports enthusiasts in treatment at W. Clark Andersen DDS who are partaking in sports such as lacrosse, baseball, soccer and skateboarding this spring. If you have any additional questions about protecting your mouth, please see our previous blog posts or give us a call at (435) 723-3272.

Dr. Andersen wants to know: are there teeth grinders in your house?

2010-04-09T09:52:00.000-07:00

Grind, grind, grind … grind. If you live with a teeth grinder, you may be familiar with this unpleasant sound, especially recently. A recent study published in the journal Head & Face Medicine in March suggests that people—adults and kids—faced with stress tend to cope by grinding their teeth. In addition, the Chicago Dental Society suggests that since the recession began in 2007, teeth grinding, or bruxism, has been on the rise.

The Chicago Dental Society surveyed more than 250 members about the connection between stress and oral health. Nearly 75 percent of dentists said their patients reported increased stress over the past year, largely due to the economic recession.

During stressful times, teeth grinding can be a nuisance that causes headaches and sleep problems, but it also can cause lasting problems for your teeth and gums, including chipped teeth, worn enamel, chronic pain, or even TMJ, a painful jaw disorder.

The first step of recovering from teeth grinding is noticing the problem. Symptoms of teeth grinding include:

• Sensitivity in the teeth
• Tightness or pain in the jaw
• Dull headaches, earaches, or facial pain
• Chipped, worn down, or loose teeth

An important thing to remember is that people frequently grind their teeth in response to stress, and taking measures to reduce or eliminate stress can help solve the problem. If the teeth-grinder in your house can’t stop, schedule an appointment to see us by giving us a call. Dr. Andersen and our team at W. Clark Andersen DDS can help determine the cause of the problem.

Have a great weekend!

Play it safe this spring, from Dr. Clark Andersen

2010-03-29T08:52:00.000-07:00

In February, Dr. Andersen and our staff blogged about the advantage of wearing a mouth guard when playing sports and we thought a reminder today wouldn’t hurt. You see, April happens to be National Facial Protection Month, and it’s a good time to remind our young athletes about staying safe on the field this spring. 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. By simply wearing a properly fitted mouth guard, these accidents could prevent this along with other traumatic facial injuries.

The above video from our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists outlines five ways you can protect yourself this spring. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact our team. And remember to stay safe and have fun this April!

Soft tissue laser surgery at W. Clark Andersen DDS

2010-03-24T13:43:00.000-07:00

At the orthodontic office of W. Clark Andersen, we use soft tissue lasers routinely in our office for several uses. The funnest reason is to enhance esthetics post treatment when a patient has hyperplastic gum tissue. There are also a lot of reasons to use a soft tissue laser surgery during treatment, most commonly we use it to expose an unerupted tooth which saves the patient months of treatment time.

Dr. Andersen has done hundreds of these procedures in the office. No injections are needed, the proceedure is painless and there is very little if any post-op pain associated. We have the smallest and most high-tech laser used for dental applications available. It is cordless utilizing blue tooth technology and about the size of a magic marker!

For more photos, please head over to our Facebook page!

Dr. Andersen wants to know: What's on your mind?

2010-03-18T13:24:00.000-07:00

Week after week, Dr. Andersen and our professional team discuss important topics pertinent to orthodontic care. This week, we thought we’d step back and ask: 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? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook fan page!

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

Dr. Clark Andersen, Utah's certified Insignia™ provider

2010-03-08T09:29:00.000-08:00

You may remember our video from last week, showing the outcomes of Insignia treatment. Today, Dr. Andersen and team thought we'd talk a little more about our new treatment. After watching the video, you're probably asking yourself: What does it mean to me? Well, for one, shorter treatment time. While it takes - on average - two years to complete traditional orthodontic treatment, the treatment time for Insignia is much shorter. Through the use of Insignia’s sophisticated 3-D imaging, treatment planning, and customized braces with customized precision archwires, Dr. Andersen can reduce treatment time compared to that of regular braces.

In addition to shortening treatment times, the greater efficiency of the Insignia system also helps reduce the number of adjustments and wire changes your mouth will need, and that means fewer trips to our office. The Insignia system’s 3-D software lets Dr. Andersen analyze how to effectively and efficiently align your teeth. With Insignia, personalized archwires are designed to move your teeth into proper alignment, reducing the number of maintenance visits.

If you have any questions about orthodontic treatment with Insignia braces, please feel free to give us a call! Dr. Andersen is one of a select number of orthodontists certified to practice with Insignia’s cutting-edge technology.