Smart Savings for Your Smile: How to Use FSA and Insurance for Your Orthodontic Care with Escott Orthodontics

Learn Why the AAO Recommends a Checkup by Age 7 and How Early Care Benefits Your Child’s Smile Table of Contents Introduction Why the AAO Recommends an Orthodontic Checkup by Age 7 How Early Orthodontic Evaluations Benefit Your Child Common Orthodontic Issues Detected in Early Evaluations The Process of an Early Orthodontic Evaluation at Escott Ortho Treatment Options for Kids at Escott Ortho in Baldwin Park Preventative Orthodontics: How It Saves Time and Money Why Choose Escott Orthodontics? The Role of Parents in Early Orthodontic Care Conclusion: Give Your Child the Gift of a Healthy, Confident Smile Frequently Asked Questions About Early Orthodontic Evaluations Introduction Nothing lights up a room like a child’s smile, and at Escott Ortho in Baldwin Park, we’re passionate about ensuring every child has a healthy, confident one. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven, but many parents aren’t aware of this crucial milestone. At Escott Orthodontics, Dr. Christopher Escott and Dr. Hunter Davis specialize in early orthodontic care, offering expert guidance on ensuring your child’s teeth and jaw develop properly. Whether your child needs braces , Invisalign® , or preventative orthodontics, we aim to create a lifetime of healthy smiles. Let’s explore why early evaluations matter, how they help, and what you can expect from a visit to Escott Ortho in Baldwin Park. Why the AAO Recommends an Orthodontic Checkup by Age 7 Many parents assume orthodontic treatment begins in the teenage years, but according to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) , an initial evaluation should occur by age seven . Why so early? At this stage, your child’s permanent teeth are starting to come in, and early warning signs of misalignment, bite issues, and jaw development problems can be detected. Key Benefits of an Age 7 Evaluation Detecting Hidden Issues Early – Not all orthodontic problems are immediately visible. X-rays and professional evaluations can reveal problems beneath the surface. Guiding Jaw Growth – Early intervention can help correct overbites, underbites, and crossbites before they become more severe. Reducing Future Treatment Time – Addressing problems early may reduce or even eliminate the need for braces or extractions in the future. Escott Ortho in Baldwin Park offers free consultations so parents can understand their child’s orthodontic needs without pressure or commitment. How Early Orthodontic Evaluations Benefit Your Child Scheduling an early orthodontic checkup is not about immediately putting braces on your child. Instead, it’s about monitoring growth and development to determine the best action. Early Evaluations Help With: ✔ Guiding Teeth Into Proper Positions – If there’s too much crowding, an orthodontist can guide teeth into alignment as they emerge. ✔ Preventing Jaw Problems – Some children develop bite issues that, if left untreated, could lead to difficulty chewing, speaking, or even breathing . ✔ Avoiding Tooth Extractions – When orthodontic issues are caught early, treatments like expanders can make room for permanent teeth, reducing the need for extractions later. ✔ Boosting Confidence – A straight smile helps kids feel good about themselves, leading to better self-esteem and social interactions . By evaluating your child’s dental development early, Dr. Escott and Dr. Davis can create a personalized plan to ensure a healthy, beautiful smile for years . Common Orthodontic Issues Detected in Early Evaluations At Escott Orthodontics , we see a variety of early orthodontic concerns. Some of the most common ones include: 1. Bite Problems Overbite: Upper front teeth overlap the lower teeth too much. Underbite: Lower teeth extend past the upper teeth. Crossbite: Upper and lower teeth do not align properly when biting down. 2. Crowding & Spacing Issues Crowding: Teeth don’t have enough room to align properly. Excessive Spacing: Gaps between teeth that may indicate missing or small teeth. 3. Jaw Growth Issues If the upper or lower jaw is too small or too large, it can create a misaligned bite and affect speech and chewing. 4. Prolonged Oral Habits Thumb-sucking and pacifier use beyond age 3-4 can cause dental misalignment. By catching these issues early, Escott Ortho in Baldwin Park can intervene at the right time to create a healthier, straighter smile for your child . The Process of an Early Orthodontic Evaluation at Escott Ortho At Escott Orthodontics , we make early orthodontic visits a stress-free experience for parents and kids. What to Expect During Your Free Consultation Digital X-rays & Exam – We check for jaw alignment, bite issues, and emerging teeth . Personalized Treatment Plan – We explain all options clearly if treatment is needed. No-Pressure Approach – If no immediate treatment is necessary, we monitor your child’s development with periodic checkups . We aim to ensure your child’s smile grows naturally and beautifully with gentle, proactive care . Ready to Schedule Your Child’s Free Orthodontic Evaluation? Escott Ortho in Baldwin Park is here to help your child achieve a healthy, confident smile . Whether a simple checkup or early treatment, Dr. Escott and Dr. Davis provide expert, compassionate care that makes a difference. 📍 Locations: Lake County, College Park (Orlando), Baldwin Park (Orlando), FL 🌐 Website: escottortho.com ⭐ 5-Star Rated with 400+ Reviews Let’s give your child the gift of a lifetime smile —because there’s sunshine in every smile! Conclusion: Give Your Child the Gift of a Healthy, Confident Smile A beautiful, healthy smile starts with early care, and an orthodontic evaluation by age seven is the first step in ensuring your child’s teeth and jaw develop properly. At Escott Ortho in Baldwin Park , Dr. Christopher Escott and Dr. Hunter Davis are dedicated to providing children with top-quality, compassionate orthodontic care . By addressing potential issues early, we can prevent future complications, reduce treatment time, and even save on long-term costs . Whether your child needs braces, Invisalign®, or a monitoring plan , our team is here to guide you every step. With a 5-star rating and over 400 glowing reviews , Escott Orthodontics has been recognized as the “Best of the Best - Orthodontist” for four years —a testament to our commitment to creating bright, confident smiles in Baldwin Park and beyond. Frequently Asked Questions Does every child need braces after an early orthodontic evaluation? Not necessarily. Some kids only need monitoring, while others may benefit from early intervention. What if my child’s teeth look straight? Even straight teeth can have underlying bite or jaw issues that require attention. How much does an early orthodontic evaluation cost? Escott Ortho offers free initial consultations for new patients. Is early treatment more expensive than waiting? No! Early care can prevent more complex (and costly) treatments later. How do I schedule an appointment? Click HERE or call our Baldwin Park office today!

Learn How to Keep Your Teeth Bright by Avoiding Common Culprits of Discoloration Everyone wants a bright , confident smile, but did you know that certain foods and drinks can stain teeth? Whether you have braces or clear aligners , caring for your teeth is essential for maintaining a healthy, white smile. At Escott Orthodontics, led by Dr. Christopher Escott and Dr. Hunter Davis , we want to help you avoid common staining culprits so you can enjoy a radiant smile throughout your orthodontic journey. Escott Ortho is dedicated to providing top-tier orthodontic care . With locations in Lake County, College Park (Orlando), and Baldwin Park (Orlando), Florida, we take pride in keeping our patients' smiles healthy and beautiful. Named "Best of the Best—Orthodontist" by Lake Sumpter Style Magazine now five years in a row, we take pride in our work. In this guide, we'll discuss the top foods and drinks that stain teeth and offer tips to prevent discoloration —especially if you wear braces or Invisalign®. Why Do Teeth Stain? Tooth staining occurs when pigments from food, drinks, or habits penetrate the enamel (the outermost layer of your teeth). Over time, these pigments settle into the enamel, leading to discoloration. There are three main types of tooth stains: Extrinsic stains : Surface stains from coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored foods. Intrinsic stains : Stains inside the tooth, often caused by medications or excessive fluoride. Age-related stains : A combination of extrinsic and intrinsic staining that occurs naturally over time. If you wear braces, staining can be uneven because the brackets cover parts of your teeth, leaving lighter areas when removed. Aligner users should also be cautious since teeth can absorb stains while wearing trays. Foods and Drinks That Can Discolor Your Teeth The foods and beverages you consume daily can affect a healthy, white smile. Some of the most delicious and nutritious options can also be the worst offenders when it comes to staining your teeth. If you wear braces or Invisalign®, it's even more important to be mindful of what you eat and drink to avoid uneven discoloration. Here's a breakdown of the top foods and drinks that can lead to tooth discoloration and how to protect your smile from stains. Stain-Causing Foods to Watch Out For 1. Dark-Colored Fruits and Berries Fruits like blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and cherries are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, but their deep pigments can stain teeth. Their juices can seep into the enamel, causing discoloration over time and leaving marks on braces and aligners. 👉 Pro Tip: Rinse your mouth with water or brush your teeth after eating berries to minimize staining effects. 2. Acidic Tomato-Based Products Tomato-based products, including pasta sauce , ketchup , and salsa , are highly acidic and contain deep red pigments that can adhere to your teeth. The acidity also softens enamel, making it easier for stains to take hold. 👉 Pro Tip: Eating a leafy green salad before consuming tomato-based foods can create a natural barrier to protect your teeth. 3. Dark Sauces Dark sauces such as soy sauce and balsamic vinegar are flavorful but notorious for staining teeth. Their dark pigmentation can penetrate the enamel and cause long-lasting discoloration, especially with frequent consumption. 👉 Pro Tip: Pair these sauces with crunchy vegetables like carrots or celery to help scrub away staining compounds. 4. Deeply Colored Spices Spices like curry and turmeric give food a vibrant color but also leave behind yellowish stains on teeth. If you eat curry dishes frequently, your teeth may gradually develop a yellow tint over time. 👉 Pro Tip: To reduce staining, drink water between bites and brush your teeth soon after eating spice-heavy meals. 5. Pigment-Rich Root Vegetables Pigment-rich root vegetables like beets are incredibly nutritious, but their deep red pigment stains everything they touch—including your teeth! Beets can contribute to tooth discoloration, whether raw, roasted, or in juice form. 👉 Pro Tip: If drinking beet juice, use a straw to minimize direct contact with your teeth. Rinse your mouth afterward to prevent staining. Beverages That Can Tarnish Your Bright Smile Certain drinks can leave behind stubborn stains, dulling your white, radiant teeth. Whether you're sipping on your morning coffee or enjoying a glass of wine, being mindful of these beverages can help maintain your healthy smile—especially if you have braces or aligners. 1. Your Morning Pick-Me-Up: Coffee and Tea A hot cup of coffee or tea may be the perfect way to start your day, but these beloved drinks contain tannins , which gradually darken your teeth . Black tea, in particular, is even more staining than coffee due to its high concentration of these compounds. 👉 Pro Tip: Reduce staining by adding milk to your coffee or tea and using a straw to limit direct contact with teeth. 2. A Glass of Elegance: Red Wine A sip of red wine might feel luxurious, but its deep pigments and acidity can stain teeth quickly. Red wine contains chromogens , which cling to enamel, leaving behind noticeable dark stains after just one glass. 👉 Pro Tip: Swish water in your mouth between sips and brush your teeth before, not immediately after, drinking to prevent acid-related enamel damage. 3. Bubbly but Harmful: Dark Sodas and Soft Drinks The acid and artificial coloring in dark sodas like coca-cola can erode enamel and cause deep-set stains. Additionally, the high sugar content fuels bacterial growth, leading to plaque buildup and discoloration. 👉 Pro Tip: Use a straw to reduce direct contact with teeth, and rinse with water after drinking to wash away residue. 4. The Hidden Staining Effect: Sports and Energy Drinks While sports and energy drinks might seem refreshing, they contain artificial dyes, high acidity, and added sugars, all of which contribute to weakened enamel and discoloration. Even clear or light-colored options can soften enamel, making teeth more prone to staining from other foods and drinks. 👉 Pro Tip: Rinse your mouth with water after consuming these drinks, and opt for water or coconut water as a healthier alternative. By being aware of these stain-causing beverages and following simple preventive measures, you can enjoy your favorite drinks without compromising your brilliant smile! 😁 How to Prevent Tooth Stains While Wearing Braces or Aligners 1. Brush & Floss Regularly Proper oral hygiene is key to preventing stains. Brush after every meal and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles. 2. Use a Straw for Staining Beverages A straw helps bypass your teeth, reducing exposure to staining liquids. This is especially useful for coffee, tea, and sodas. 3. Rinse After Eating or Drinking If you can't brush right away, rinse with water to wash away stain-causing particles before they settle. 4. Schedule Professional Cleanings Regular dental cleanings help remove surface stains and keep teeth looking bright. After your orthodontic treatment is complete, Escott Orthodontics can recommend professional whitening treatments. 5. Choose Teeth-Friendly Foods Opt for crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery—they naturally help clean your teeth while you chew! Why Choose Escott Orthodontics for Your Smile Journey? At Escott Orthodontics, we specialize in braces and Invisalign® treatments to give you a confident, radiant smile. Our team, led by Dr. Christopher Escott and Dr. Hunter Davis , provides top-quality orthodontic care in Lake County , College Park (Orlando), and Baldwin Park (Orlando), Florida. 🏆 Award-Winning Car e: Named "Best of the Best - Orthodontist" 5 years in a row ⭐ 5-Star Rating : Over 400+ positive Google reviews 😊 Personalized Treatment : Customized orthodontic plans for each patient For more information, click HERE to book your consultation today! Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. Can I drink coffee with braces? Yes, but it's best to use a straw and rinse your mouth afterward to prevent stains. 2. Do Invisalign® aligners get stained? Yes, aligners can stain if exposed to coffee, tea, or dark sodas. Remove them before drinking anything other than water. 3. How can I remove stains from my teeth? Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings can help remove surface stains. 4. Are whitening treatments safe with braces? It's best to wait until after your braces are removed to avoid uneven whitening. 5. How often should I visit Escott Orthodontics for checkups? Regular checkups are usually planned every 8-12 weeks to ensure your orthodontic treatment stays on track! 🚀 Sunshine in Every Smile – Choose Escott Orthodontics for the Best Orthodontic Care!

Give the gift of a lifetime this holiday season—a radiant smile! Schedule your New Patient Consultation at Escott Orthodontics for expert care in braces and Invisalign®. Start your journey today!

Celebrate Thanksgiving with confidence, even with braces or Invisalign®! Escott Orthodontics offers expert tips on braces-friendly foods, holiday care routines, and maintaining a healthy, bright smile. Learn how to enjoy the feast while keeping your orthodontic progress on track.

Learn how to keep your retainer safe with tips from Escott Orthodontics in Orlando and Lake County, FL. From using a bright case to keeping it away from pets, these simple steps will ensure your retainer stays out of the trash and in great shape. Protect your smile investment by following these expert recommendations, and contact Escott Orthodontics if you need any assistance or have questions about retainer care.

Exciting news from Escott Orthodontics: We are expanding with the addition of Dr. Jeff Martin and the opening of our new Orlando location at 863 Outer Road! Dr. Martin, a respected figure in the Baldwin Park community for over 30 years, brings his expertise in advanced orthodontic treatments to our team. Join us in celebrating this new chapter as we continue to deliver exceptional, personalized orthodontic care to Orlando and Central Florida.

Discover the reasons behind frequent cheek biting and how misaligned bites like crossbite or limited buccal overjet can contribute to this issue. At Escott Orthodontics in Orlando, we specialize in diagnosing and treating bite misalignments to alleviate cheek biting and improve your oral health. Learn how our expert orthodontic team can help you achieve a properly aligned bite and a more comfortable, healthier smile.

Protect your smile while staying active with orthodontic treatment at Escott Orthodontics in Orlando. Learn essential tips for safeguarding your teeth and braces during sports, including the importance of custom mouthguards, choosing the right activities, and practicing good oral hygiene. Stay safe and confident on the field with our expert advice and personalized care.

Feeling anxious about getting braces? At Escott Orthodontics in Orlando, we’re here to help you overcome your fears with personalized treatment plans, state-of-the-art technology, and a supportive team that treats you like family. Discover five ways our experienced professionals ensure a comfortable and successful journey to your perfect smile.