
Blog
Best Practices for Correcting Crowded Teeth in Early Childhood
01/10/2025
As children's baby teeth form their first smiles, you might notice some crowding in early childhood. At our outstanding practice based in Bettendorf and Eldridge, Iowa, we can evaluate your child's smile for the proper orthodontic treatment.
Swollen Gums with Braces: Causes, Treatments
12/12/2024
If you are new to getting braces, you might be a bit worried if your gums feel sore during the initial treatment. However, there is nothing to be extremely concerned about and, in fact, there are several reasons why the gums might be extra-sensitive and some even easier solutions to the problem.
Invisalign Clear Aligners: Ultimate Gift for Loved Ones
11/11/2024
With the holidays quickly approaching, now is the time to pick the perfect gift for the special person in your life. If you have a loved one who struggles with their self-esteem because of a crooked smile, consider visiting our Bettendorf or Eldridge orthodontist office for more information on clear aligners. This process is effective, comfortable, and not as obvious as metal braces. Let's look at some of the benefits of clear aligners as an Eldridge orthodontic treatment that we offer here at Mack Orthodontics.
How to Floss with Braces: 4 Different Ways
10/11/2024
While braces can provide you with a straighter smile and a healthier bite, it can be difficult to keep your braces clean. Flossing can be a challenge if you don't know the right techniques. Our Bettendorf and Eldridge orthodontist office is dedicated to helping our clients learn the proper methods of taking care of their oral hygiene while having braces. This will allow your Bettendorf and Eldridge orthodontic treatment to be more effective.
How to Prepare Your Child for Their First Dental Visit
09/11/2024
Mack Orthodontics has two offices to serve you: Bettendorf and Eldridge. We believe in helping both our youngest and older patients feel comfortable and happy in our offices. Our younger patients may feel a little nervous or worried, especially before their first visit. Check out some simple tips you can use to prepare your child for their first appointment with us.
Could Your Child Benefit from a Habit Appliance?
08/13/2024
If your child has had trouble breaking their habit of sucking their thumb, you are probably worried about what might happen to their teeth. This is a very valid concern because thumbsucking can eventually lead to malformed and/or crooked teeth that will need orthodontic correction.
3 Popular Myths About Thumb Sucking Debunked
07/11/2024
Thumb sucking is something that many babies and small toddlers do as a way of self-soothing. This habit sometimes continues for the first few years of a child's life. While thumb-sucking is something that children usually grow out of on their own, there are many people who discourage this technique. Mainly, it has been theorized that thumb sucking can lead to various dental issues and increase the need for Eldridge orthodontic treatment. Our team at Mack Orthodontics in the Bettendorf and Eldridge area can assist with any dental issues that your child has relating to thumb sucking. Let's take a look at three popular myths about thumb-sucking and why they're not accurate.
How Long Do You Need to Use a Palatal Expander?
06/10/2024
A palatal expander is necessary when your jaws don't have enough room to fit all your teeth. Widening the palate above opens up the spaces between teeth to help them fit into position better. Most of the time, a palatal expander is only used with children and teens who are still growing and can benefit from the use of this orthodontic device.
3 Ways Digital X-Rays Improve Dental Care
03/11/2024
At Mack Orthodontics, we want families to feel relaxed and comfortable from start to finish. Our atmosphere comprises a coffee and tea station for adults and a fun playroom for kids. After an examination and cleaning, we devise a customized plan to treat your orthodontic issue. Dr Steven J Mack and his experienced staff will also answer questions and discuss financing. Our patients leave our facility with confidence that we will do our part to keep your smile healthy and bright. We encourage you to use oral health routines to help us out.
Comfort Tips For Your Palatal Expander
02/10/2024
At Mack Orthodontics, we offer our patients many options for correcting tooth and bite issues. If you or your child have certain dental issues, the orthodontist might place a palatal expander in your mouth. This treatment can widen your jaw and create more space to accommodate your teeth, but it can cause some discomfort. These tips can bring comfort while using a palatal expander.
Maintaining Oral Hygiene with Braces
01/10/2024
Wearing braces generates many questions regarding brushing and flossing. At Mack Orthodontics, our team can help you with braces care and hygiene at each appointment. With braces in Eldridge, Iowa, take a closer look at how you can maintain oral hygiene throughout your treatment.
Can Braces Change The Shape Of Your Face?
12/10/2023
Braces change the shape of your face. Orthodontic devices are designed to change many things about your teeth, jaws, and mouth, which in turn change the shape of your face. Just ask Mack Orthodontics for some before and after photos of their patients at your initial consultation.
How Often Do Braces Need Tightening?
11/10/2023
Orthodontics involves various treatments that move teeth into proper alignment to achieve better dental health. You'll also have a happy, healthy smile when you complete your treatment. Traditional or clear braces align teeth that are crooked or crowded and are effective for severe misalignment cases. At Mack Orthodontics we provide Eldridge orthodontic treatment and quality care in a friendly, relaxing environment.
5 Hygiene Tips To Follow While Using Invisalign
10/10/2023
Invisalign is an effective way to straighten your smile without traditional braces. Whether you plan to start Invisalign or are currently wearing aligners, it's important to understand the role good oral hygiene plays in making this treatment as effective as possible. Let the Eldridge Invisalign experts at Mack Orthodontics teach you several crucial Invisalign hygiene tips.
What Is A Thumb Sucking Appliance- A Complete Guide
09/10/2023
Kids from before they were born take comfort in sucking their thumbs. In utero, it's meant to help train them for nursing. After weaning off of breast milk or bottles, they are supposed to stop sucking their thumbs, but some kids don't. Mack Orthodontics offers an excellent preventive device to get kids to stop thumbsucking and avoid ruining their teeth.
How often do I change my Invisalign clear aligners?
08/10/2023
Mack Orthodontics is an Eldridge orthodontic treatment facility that offers several teeth straightening options for children and adults. Since 1997, they have worked with numerous patients experiencing orthodontic issues by using modern technology for effective results. They pride themselves on connecting and serving the community. One of their most popular products, Invisalign has many advantages for those experiencing mild to moderate teeth alignment issues.
Give Yourself the Gift of Clear Aligners
07/10/2023
Who doesn't dream of having a beautiful, confident smile? Unfortunately, not everyone is born with perfectly aligned teeth, and that's where orthodontic treatment comes in. Many people feel that traditional braces are their only option when it comes to orthodontic treatment in Bettendorf but have you considered clear aligners? Invisalign in Eldridge is bringing a new level of comfort, convenience, and discretion to the process of fixing misaligned teeth and giving you the perfect smile you always wanted.
Misconceptions & Myths About Digital X-Rays
05/10/2023
If you're considering Scott County orthodontic treatment for yourself or a loved one, look no further than Mack Orthodontics. At Mack Orthodontics, we know that your smile is as unique as you are. With two convenient locations, state-of-the-art equipment, and highly-trained staff, we're ready to address your specific Eldridge orthodontics needs and make your smile as beautiful and healthy as it can be.
How Painful Is Invisalign Treatment?
04/12/2023
Mack Orthodontics is a comprehensive orthodontic care practice serving children, teens, and adults in the Bettendorf and Eldridge, IA areas. Dr. Steven J. Mack, D.D.S. offers quality treatment in a comfortable and professional environment. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces, Mack Orthodontics offers Invisalign® and Invisalign Teen appliances for teeth straightening. Invisalign and Invisalign Teen utilize aligners that are individually customized. As the name implies, these aligners are almost invisible.
Instructions to Patients Wearing a Removable Appliance
02/05/2023
Mack Orthodontics is here for all of your IA teeth straightening needs. Come pay us a visit in our Bettendorf and Eldridge locations for professional orthodontists you can count on and feel comfortable with. For your removable appliance to do its job, you must follow the instructions and take proper care of it. Remember that all the time and care you put in will pay off once you have a smile that makes you want to share it with the world.
An Orthodontist Gives 5 Tips to Prevent Future Bite Problems
12/05/2022
Located in Eldridge and Bettendorf, IA, Mack Orthodontics can provide a great dental experience that involves high-quality comfort and treatment. When your child has a bite problem, we can decrease their risk of developing other issues associated with chewing. Our orthodontists have the experience and training needed for treating problems with a bite and give many options for treatment.
Why Your Child May Need Orthodontic Headgear
11/08/2022
Children grow up fast, and catching dental issues early can help kids develop healthier bright smiles. With help from a qualified professional who provides orthodontic treatment in Eldridge, you can ensure optimal oral care.
Wisdom Teeth Recovery: What to Expect After Surgery
09/05/2022
When your wisdom teeth come in, they can cause a lot of pain and some discomfort. You don't need to live with that pain because the pros at Mack Orthodontics can remove them. The Scott County office is full of friendly faces and offers all of the help you need. Find out what to expect after you go through wisdom tooth extraction.
5 Tips & Tricks to Get the Most from Your Invisalign Braces
08/08/2022
So, you did it; you finally got Invisalign braces. Mack Orthodontics did a great job, too, didn't they? They are the best for orthodontic treatment in Scott County, IA, and their orthodontists are very nice people too. As you move ahead with your treatment plan, there are some very valuable tips and tricks to know in order to get the most from your Invisalign braces.
Metal Braces vs Ceramic Braces
08/01/2022
When your child needs braces, you have more than one option these days. You have three options, but where growing preteens are concerned, it's best just to consider metal braces or ceramic braces. At Mack Orthodontics, we want you to be fully informed of what these braces are and what the benefits and drawbacks each are.
Myths and Facts of Orthodontics
06/06/2022
At Mack Orthodontics our priority is to create better, brighter smiles in the Bettendorf and Eldridge areas. You can trust that Dr. Steven Mack and our highly qualified team will work together to create a treatment plan that results in a smile you'll be proud of.
How safe are Digital Dental X-Rays?
05/23/2022
Dental X-Rays are common when it comes to dental and orthodontic work. At Mack Orthodontics, we use X-Rays to diagnose and treat issues that we can't see with the naked eye. When you visit your Bettendorf and Eldridge, IA area orthodontic office, you should expect at some point or another to receive X-Rays. You may be wondering, though, how safe are digital dental x-rays?
Pros & Cons of Orthodontic Expanders at Mack Orthodontics
05/10/2022
Mack Orthodontics is committed to making your and your family's orthodontic needs a priority. When considering a treatment plan, suggestions may include a palatal expander. But, what exactly is an orthodontic expander, how do they work, and is it something you need? Here we will go into the pros and cons of expanders to help you make the most informed choice for your oral health goals.
Is Invisalign Teen Right for My Child?
04/07/2022
Being a teenager is full of new and exciting experiences. Your teen is changing and growing daily, which can sometimes present challenges, including orthodontic issues. If you believe your child is ready to begin orthodontic treatment in Bettendorf, IA, there are several great options to choose from. At Mack Orthodontics, we'll work with you and your child to determine their orthodontic needs and provide the right treatment for their lifestyle. One treatment option popular with teens is Invisalign Teen - but what is Invisalign Teen and is it a good fit for your child?
Do Braces Hurt?
04/04/2022
One of the most common questions we get asked at our practice is "do braces hurt?" For some, the answer is yes. However, that shouldn't deter you from getting braces. Getting braces comes with huge benefits, such as improving your oral health and straightening your smile. At Mack Orthodontics, we strive to educate patients on anything and everything orthodontics and braces. If you have braces and are suffering from minor pain, here is what you need to know and how you can find relief.
The Importance of Orthodontic Retention
02/25/2022
Retainers are the unsung heroes of orthodontic treatment where braces and Invisalign get all the glamor and spotlight, retainers do the hard work of making sure your teeth stay straight after you are done with your primary treatment. Here at Mack Orthodontics, your local provider of orthodontic treatment in Bettendorf, it is our mission to make sure you get the most out of your new smile which is why we often recommend retention to our patients. Find out about the importance of retention and how Mack Orthodontics can help you achieve a beautiful smile that will last a lifetime!
9 Tips to Boost Your Oral Hygiene Routine
02/03/2022
At Mack Orthodontics, we make sure to provide comprehensive orthodontic care to all patients- which includes advising on oral hygiene. Part of getting effective results from orthodontic treatment stems from how well you take care of your teeth. With metal braces, it can be hard to reach those tiny spots just by brushing and flossing alone. However, Dr. Mack and staff have 9 tips to help anyone boost their oral hygiene before, during, and after orthodontic care. Incorporate these tips into your daily regime to help you achieve a better-looking, healthier smile.
Orthodontic Treatment in Bettendorf, IA
01/05/2022
One of the most important parts of orthodontic treatment is the diagnostic phase, where the orthodontist assesses the patient's teeth and maxillofacial bones before beginning any form of treatment, in order to find out what is contributing to the problem, and what the best approach to treatment will be. Whether patients end up needing expanders, braces, or orthodontic headgear, x-rays will be needed for assessment along the way. At Mack Orthodontics in Bettendorf, IA, we use dental digital x-rays to capture images of our patient's teeth. Here's what you need to know about the three different types of dental X-rays that could play a role in your treatment.
Braces in Bettendorf, IA
11/17/2021
Braces are an iconic part of growing up, and while not everyone needs them, almost everyone could benefit from having them. Whether you need to get braces to treat serious malocclusion or other orthodontic issues, or you just want to improve the aesthetics of your smile at any age, metal braces are a dependable and affordable option. Dr. Mack offers his patients at Mack Orthodontics in Bettendorf, IA a range of possible treatments from Invisalign to the many different types of braces. Today we'll be discussing what to expect when you opt for traditional metal braces.
Complications Encountered in Temporary Orthodontic Anchorage Device Therapy
10/13/2021
Are you about to get a temporary orthodontic anchorage device installed? What does it include? At Mack Orthodontics, we provide TADs as an added component to orthodontic treatment. Simply, a Temporary Orthodontic Anchorage Device (TADS) is a small, screw-like dental implant made of a titanium alloy that is put in temporarily for several months of orthodontic treatment. However, with any oral implant, it comes with risks and complications. The good news is that with the right supervision, you can trust that Dr. Steven Mack and his staff provide comfortable and thorough care. If you are about to get TAD therapy, here is what you need to know.
Is Orthodontic Headgear Still Used?
09/29/2021
Due to recent advances in orthodontic treatment, we are seeing less and less of the headgear-clad teen, and more of the discrete Invisalign-toting types walking around on the streets but does that mean headgear has been completely phased out of orthodontic treatment? Here at Mack Orthodontics, your local orthodontist in Eldridge and Bettendorf, we believe that everyone deserves to be able to straighten their smile if they want to which is why we still recommend headgear to some patients for whom Invisalign or metal braces are not the best options. Find out why headgear is still an important element of our Bettendorf, IA orthodontic treatment arsenal.
How to Floss with Braces
03/26/2021
We know that flossing your teeth with your braces is tricky, but with the right tools and correct technique, it's a job you can learn to do quite easily. Here is a step-by-step flossing guide that can help you learn the right way to floss so you can keep your teeth and braces clean and fresh.
Braces Vs Invisalign
01/22/2021
Here at Mack Orthodontics, we prioritize the health and protection of our patients' teeth above all else. By combining state-of-the-art orthodontic technology with a highly skilled staff, we are able to provide you with the most advanced and effective treatment. Some of the many services we provide include both traditional braces and invisalign.
How Do I Know I Need Braces?
12/21/2020
Orthodontic care is important for both children and adults. A beautiful, straight smile can not only boost your confidence and self-esteem, it can also greatly improve the function of your teeth. For children and adolescents, earlier is truly better. We can take advantage of their growing mouths and shifting teeth, meaning it's easier to manipulate the teeth into a straighter position. For adults, orthodontic treatment can take place at any time. Today, our Eldridge & Bettendorf orthodontist offers a number of orthodontic appliances for children, adolescents, and adults like metal braces, Invisalign Teen, and Invisalign.
The Best Foods For Your Teeth
12/18/2020
Mack Orthodontics provides comprehensive orthodontic treatment for patients of all ages. Dr. Steven Mack and all our staff are dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain a beautiful smile. Fall brings some of your beloved favorites like crisp weather, family gatherings, seasonal food, and holiday fun. We also know the season can be challenging as it can increase your risk of tooth decay. We want to help you prevent common orthodontic issues and maintain excellent oral health—here's how with a list of the best foods for your teeth!
Happy Halloween From Mack Orthodontics!
10/13/2020
Halloween is such a fun time, but if you are undergoing orthodontic treatment, there are things you need to be aware of. The experts at Mack Orthodontics provide this overview of how to care for your teeth during Halloween.
How Long Do I Need To Wear My Retainer?
10/01/2020
Now comes the retention phase, a part of treatment that's absolutely crucial to the longevity of your smile. As your dedicated Bettendorf and Eldridge, IA orthodontist, we'll give you detailed instructions on wearing and caring for your retainer when we fit you for one.
Avoiding Cavities With Braces
09/17/2020
Braces make your teeth more susceptible to cavities and dental decay, so here at Meister Orthodontics, as your Bettendorf and Eldridge, IA area orthodontist, we'd like to offer a few tips on how to prevent cavities while wearing braces.
Cleft Lip and Palate Repair
03/17/2020
Among the most common birth defects, cleft lip and cleft palate affect approximately 1 in 800 babies born in North America. Luckily, oral/dental treatment exists to help affected children live a healthy, normal life.
Fixing Gummy Smiles
01/15/2020
Some people feel self-conscious about smiling because they believe their gums are too prominent. Though we each have our own definition of what makes a smile beautiful — including how much gum is too much — orthodontists define a smile as "gummy" when 4 millimeters (just over 1/8 of an inch) of gum tissue shows. If you'd like to learn more about fixing gummy smiles, continue reading more!
Difference Between Orthodontics & Dentistry?
12/05/2019
You may know that orthodontics and dentistry both relate to teeth, but do you know what differentiates the forms of service these two areas offer? If you're in need of treatment for your teeth, you need to know. Both dentists and orthodontists work on oral health and dental care, but they can help your teeth in different ways.
What to Expect with Braces
11/11/2019
When getting braces it is normal for people to feel a mix of emotions: excitement about the teeth straightening journey, nervousness about the discomfort involved, and uncertainty over the life adjustments you'll have to make. But there's no need to worry; Mack Orthodontics is here to quash any doubts and answer any questions you may have about starting teeth straightening treatment with braces. That way you can just focus on the excitement! Continue reading below for our guide on what to do as you begin your braces adventure.
Is it Time to See an Orthodontist?
10/30/2019
Many people wait to seek orthodontic treatment for a number of reasons, the main one being that they're simply unaware that orthodontic treatment is what they need. Our team at Mack Orthodontics in Bettendorf, Maquoketa, and Eldridge is here to offer guidance on when to see an orthodontist by highlighting a few common conditions and problems we treat that should get attention sooner rather than later!
Stress & Oral Habits
10/15/2019
The effects of stress on our body are multifaceted. Stress not only affects your body, it impacts your oral health as well. One specific way is by clenching or grinding your teeth, also known as bruxism or bruxing. When we grind or clench, we damage our teeth and dental/orthodontic work by:
Is Straightening Your Teeth Purely A Cosmetic Decision?
08/20/2019
It's a common misconception that teeth straightening is purely a cosmetic procedure. It's not. Orthodontic care has many benefits, especially when completed with great finesse by professionals like Dr. Mack and Dr. Kadavy. Here are a few of the many reasons why you should consider getting your teeth straightened.
Why Get Invisalign Teen This Summer?
07/03/2019
With summer vacation on the way in and school on its way out, the average teenager is looking forward to sleeping in, spending time with friends, and enjoying freedom from homework, due dates, and test prep. If you're a teen, probably the last thing you're thinking about is orthodontic treatment, right? But maybe you should! It might surprise you to know that summer is actually the perfect time to get to your orthodontist's office and get started on a healthier, straighter smile with Invisalign Teen.
Charcoal Toothpaste
06/07/2019
Activated charcoal seems to be everywhere you look these days. Drink it in a smoothie, lather it on your face, or even use it to brush your teeth. The popularity of charcoal toothpaste specifically has increased as it has gained attention across the internet. But is this internet miracle product really all it's cracked up to be when it comes to getting and maintaining a whiter smile? Mack Orthodontics is committed to providing you with the best info on your dental/oral health and we're here to dive into this topic and answer your questions.
Why Choose Ceramic Braces?
04/22/2019
Ever wished that you could improve your smile, but are unsure of which orthodontic treatment to choose? It can be difficult to select the best path to straighter teeth and a better smile; however, our Mack Orthodontics talented doctors and team are here to help ease the confusion about selection and will assist in any way possible to aide in choosing between our various types of treatment. One kind of braces that are becoming increasing popular is ceramic braces.
Direct-to-Consumer Braces vs. Professional Orthodontist
03/20/2019
If you've ever considered using braces to straighten your teeth, you're most likely familiar with direct-to-consumer orthodontic treatment options, such as SmileDirectClub. These companies have exploded in popularity recently—boasting their affordability and less fuss involved. However, not all aspects of direct-to-consumer treatment are good. There are strong, unwavering benefits to completing orthodontic treatment with a certified and experienced orthodontist vs. getting the quick fix of straight-to-order aligners. Here are some things you should consider before clicking "purchase" on a smile kit.
5 Foods That Stain Your Teeth & The Solution
02/20/2019
A bright white smile can be the key to your confidence. If you are someone that suffers from stained or discolored teeth, there's no need to worry, the experts at Mack Orthodontics are here to help!
Retainers 101
01/24/2019
It's the New Year, which means plenty of New Year's resolutions. This 2019 make one of your resolutions to keep your teeth straight by properly using your retainer!
Braces vs. Invisalign-Which One is Right for You?
12/17/2018
Can you believe 2019 is coming? That means another year full of activities, social events, and adventure in general. So, whether it's for yourself or for your child, it may be time to invest in a plan to straighten your teeth. But should you pick braces or opt for Invisalign? At Mack Orthodontics in Bettendorf, Eldridge, and Maquoketa, we offer both Invisalign and traditional braces as great options to straighten teeth. By considering your individual teeth, goals, and preferences, we can help you choose which option is right for you.
How to Tell If You’re Having an Orthodontic Emergency
12/01/2018
Having braces or Invisalign takes a bit of getting used to at first, and a lot of care. You may heed all directions from your orthodontist and still experience minor aches and soreness, which is completely normal. There may come a time however, although rare, that you may actually experience an orthodontic emergency. But how do you know when it's just regular pain or an emergency? Continue below to read a summary of some common orthodontic problems, learn if they're emergencies or not, and discover how to treat them.
Slenderizing
11/16/2018
Teeth crowding is one of a handful of very common orthodontic problems that people experience. Tooth extraction is the usual method for dealing with this issue. However, in some cases you can avoid extraction, and crowded teeth can be fixed with a procedure called interproximal reduction or slenderizing.
Can Adults Get Braces Too?
11/06/2018
Usually, when people hear the word "braces," they associate it with kids and teenagers. In fact, one of the most common questions we receive is: "Can adults get braces too?" And the answer is absolutely; it's never too late! Here at Mack Orthodontics, we offer a wide range of dental and orthodontic treatments for patients of all ages in Bettendorf, Eldridge, and Maquoketa, as well as other surrounding communities.
Fluoride & Your Teeth
10/10/2018
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is essential for tooth development and the prevention of tooth decay. Most of us have access to fluoride in our drinking water; however, it may not be a sufficient amount. That's one reason why we may recommend a fluoride supplement and/or the use of toothpastes and other dental products that contain this important mineral.
Traveling with Braces
08/04/2018
Summertime is in full swing and everyone knows that with the summer season comes the time off to travel. However, when you have braces, there is no time off from them -- even when you're on vacation. That's why our orthodontics team has taken the time to put together a brief guide for our Bettendorf, Eldridge, and Maquoketa patients of things to do and not do when you're traveling with braces.
How to Clean Your Invisalign Clear Aligners
07/20/2018
Invisalign is a great option for orthodontic treatment. The clear aligners are practically invisible, they're removable, and best of all, you can eat any foods that you want. However, to get the most out of your experience with Invisalign, you have to take good care of your clear aligners and make sure you clean them properly. The Mack Orthodontics team has created a comprehensive list of the biggest do's and don'ts when it comes to taking care of and cleaning your Invisalign clear aligners.
Wisdom Teeth & Wisdom Tooth Extraction
06/18/2018
Your third molars are more commonly called "wisdom teeth." Usually appearing in the late teens or early twenties, wisdom teeth often lack the proper space in the jaw to erupt fully or even at all. This common condition is called impaction.
Seven Myths about Orthodontic Treatment
04/12/2018
Mack Orthodontics is committed to bringing you the latest in orthodontic treatment, technologies, and information. We utilize our blog as a means to help our patients understand vital orthodontic treatment, oral, and dental topics. This month, we would like to highlight a great piece from the American Association of Orthodontists that debunks and explains seven myths about orthodontic treatment. Read the piece in full on our blog below, or view it here on the AAO website:
Early Treatment
03/16/2018
It's never too late to begin orthodontic treatment. But when it comes to your child's teeth, earlier is better than later. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial screening at age seven to determine if early orthodontic treatment is right for your child. In most cases, if orthodontic work is not needed, our orthodontists will simply monitor your child's growth patterns until the best time for treatment is determined.
Orthodontic Headgear
02/19/2018
Sometimes braces alone aren't enough to move teeth into a better position, or correct a problematic bite or misaligned jaw growth. In those situations, one of our practice's trusted orthodontists may recommend the use of special appliances, such as orthodontic headgear. Orthodontic headgear is worn partly outside the mouth and applies just enough force to move the teeth properly and guide your face and jaw growth.
Sleep Apnea
12/13/2017
Most people don't associate teeth with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD). However, a 2012 study revealed that many children who are diagnosed with ADHD don't really have the condition. Rather, their behavioral problems are actually due to sleep-related breathing disorders (SRBD), such as sleep apnea.
Early Dental Care
10/18/2017
Just because your child won't keep his or her first set of teeth forever, doesn't mean those tiny pearly whites don't need conscientious care. Primary teeth (baby teeth) serve some extremely important functions. As your local Bettendorf, Maquoketa, and Eldridge orthodontics team, we believe maintaining your child's dental health from an early age will lead to health benefits that last throughout adulthood.
Ceramic Braces
09/22/2017
Braces can create a beautiful, straight smile for you. Mack Orthodontics offers many orthodontic treatment options, such as ceramic braces. Ceramic braces are a newer system of braces that provide the same service as traditional braces; however, they allow you to straighten your teeth in a much less noticeable way. At Mack Orthodontics, we can provide ceramic braces to patients at our three locations: Bettendorf, Maquoketa, and Eldridge, IA. Learn more today!
Importance of Lifetime Retainer Wear
07/05/2017
When you finish your orthodontic treatment, you are excited to be free of the appliances you've had to put up with—brackets, wires, aligners, and so on. However, while it is certainly important to revel in the freedom of your new smile, equally important is taking the necessary action to retain it. And that comes down to one word — retainers.
Tooth Sensitivity
07/03/2017
We all want a healthy, beautiful smile, but dental care goes beyond just helping teeth look good. At Mack Orthodontics, we're proud to provide expert, high-quality orthodontic treatment to patients of all ages throughout the Bettendorf, Maquoketa, and Eldridge, IA areas. We believe everyone deserves a smile they feel proud of, and our trusted orthodontist Dr. Mack and his highly trained staff work with you to customize a comprehensive treatment plan that meets the needs of your lifestyle.
Dry Mouth
05/23/2017
Everybody gets dry mouth now and then. Sometimes temporary mouth dryness can be brought on by dehydration, stress, or a normal reduction in saliva flow at night. However, if your dry mouth persists long past the norm, you may have a chronic condition known as xerostomia.
Gum Disease
05/23/2017
Everybody gets dry mouth now and then. Sometimes temporary mouth dryness can be brought on by dehydration, stress, or a normal reduction in saliva flow at night. However, if your dry mouth persists long past the norm, you may have a chronic condition known as xerostomia
Good Foods for Your Teeth
03/14/2017
We all know that a healthy, balanced diet is critical to overall health; but did you know that diet has a huge impact on teeth? You may not realize it, but certain foods can contribute to developing tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease, while others can reinforce the integrity of your teeth and help you maintain a beautiful, healthy smile.
Preparing for Life with Braces
12/13/2016
At Mack Orthodontics, we understand that you'll have to go through some lifestyle changes when first acclimating to wearing braces. That's why when deciding on pursuing orthodontic treatment it is important to choose an orthodontist that will go out of the way to assist you.
Mouth Guard
10/13/2016
Fall is here, which means school stadiums all across Iowa are bustling with the sports of the season. And we at Mack Orthodontics are excited to be cheering them on. From football to field hockey, patients of our Bettendorf and Maquoketa, IA offices are busy partaking in fun sports, and we couldn't be prouder. Of course, as we root for your victory, we'd be remiss if we didn't remind you about wearing your mouth guard.
Invisalign - A New Way to Straighten Your Smile
09/06/2016
At Mack Orthodontics, we're passionate about helping our patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. As such, we're constantly working to make treatment more convenient and more effective for our patients. While traditional metal braces are still the most popular form of treatment we offer at our Bettendorf, Maquoketa, and Eldridge offices, there's a revolutionary alternative that's helping more and more people achieve a beautiful smile without the need for metalwork: Invisalign!
The Early History of Orthodontic Treatment
08/12/2016
Today, orthodontic treatment is a normal part of life. Whether you go for more traditional types of braces or more innovative forms of treatment like Invisalign, straightening your teeth has become a common practice. But it wasn't always that way.
The Benefits of Early Treatment
06/17/2016
Most people associate orthodontic treatment with teenagers. However, as a practice, we actually recommend starting orthodontic treatment much earlier.
Patient Appreciation Night
06/01/2016
At Mack Orthodontics, we don't just appreciate our patients; we celebrate them! On June 3, Dr. Mack and the entire team of our Bettendorf and Maquoketa orthodontics practice will be taking patients out to the ballgame for Patient Appreciation Night.
Lingual Braces
04/21/2016
Orthodontic treatment has come a long way since the introduction of braces. What used to be thick, heavy, and unwieldy strips of metal have evolved into the slim, lightweight, and comfortable modern braces we know today.