Bite Problems: How do I Know when it’s time for Orthodontic Treatment?

Everyone is different, and everyone has a different smile. Because of that, there are a variety of problems associated with misalignments.

How your teeth grow in, alignment of your jaw, and even childhood behaviors can have long lasting impacts on the shape of your mouth, and could contribute to misalignments. 

Orthodontists regularly see all different types of bite problems that affect patients of all ages. The following types of bite problems are typically ones that need comprehensive orthodontic treatment:

1. Underbite: The underbite is very common, especially among children. When your lower jaw is set forward and the lower row of teeth cover part of the upper row, it can cause rapid tooth wear, damage to the enamel, and stress on the jaw joints. 
   
   
2. Crossbite: Posterior and anterior crossbites can affect a single tooth, or multiple teeth. They can also occur with both baby and permanent teeth. A posterior crossbite is when the upper teeth fit behind the lower teeth, and anterior is when the lower teeth fit behind the upper teeth. Crossbites are one of the more serious problems. It can cause a range of issues like lopsided jaw growth, and excessive wearing down of the enamel.

Visit our website to read the full list!

The perfect smile you’ve always wanted is within your reach! Our friendly doctors will provide a free smile consultation and put together a care plan specifically tailored to your needs. 

Contact us today to find out more! Note: due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve updated our office policies to keep you safe! Please be sure to read our office policies before scheduling your appointment. Please call us if you have any questions!

How's Your Flossing and Brushing Routine?

According to the American Academy of Orthodontics, “a simple two-step routine can not only effectively remove dental plaque and strengthen your teeth but can also help to minimize your time in orthodontic treatment.” 

Remember: your oral health care doesn’t end after you leave your dentist or orthodontist office! You’re a big partner in the process to getting straight teeth and a beautiful smile.

You can play your role in the orthodontic process by:

1. Brushing for two minutes after every meal or snack or rinsing your mouth with water if you can’t brush. 
2. Flossing at least once a day, ideally before you brush.
3. Seeing your general dentist every 6 months for check-ups.
4. Avoiding sugary foods and drinks that can contribute to tooth decay.

Trust Stieper & Brust Orthodontics to Take Care of Your Teeth!

We have 5 offices for you to choose from to fit your schedule and routine. Call us today to schedule an appointment! Please visit our website to learn about our updated policies and procedures as we navigate the way forward with COVID-19.

What Is the Best Way to Care for Invisalign?

Caring for your Invisalign is pretty straightforward. Most importantly, you want to prevent the buildup of odor and bacteria. This means taking care of them much like you take care of your own teeth.

Keep them clean! You can use Invisalign cleaning crystals, or a denture cleaner. Brush them just like you would your own teeth with a separate toothbrush before putting them back in.

As a rule, whenever you clean your teeth, clean your Invisalign too. Once in the morning and once in the evening is enough.

And remember to floss your teeth before putting your Invisalign back in!

Read more about Invisalign in Ann Arbor.

Do I Have to Change my Diet When Using Invisalign?

Nope! Because Invisalign is so easily removed, it’s designed to be taken out when you eat. This means you don’t have to limit yourself to certain foods or change what you eat. However, you may want to avoid certain foods that stick in the teeth. And remember to clean your teeth before putting Invisalign back in!

Read more about Invisalign in Ann Arbor.

To learn more about Invisalign®, contact your orthodontic experts at Stieper & Brust Orthodontics. Give us a call today at any of our five locations in Ann Arbor, Dexter, Chelsea, Saline, or Taylor and let us get your treatment started. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

We're Grateful for You this Holiday Season!

Wondering what holiday foods and sweets are okay to eat with braces and invisible aligners like Invisalign?

Avoid things like nuts, popcorn, and uncooked vegetables this holiday season to avoid a costly trip to the orthodontist. Making these small adjustments in your holiday menu will save you a potentially painful and high cost trip to the orthodontist in Ann Arbor this winter!

Read more about it on our website!

We’re Grateful for you this Holiday Season!

This time of the year we reflect on how grateful we are to serve you, our patients! We take pride in making sure you feel comfortable and happy during every step of your orthodontic treatment.

We love to serve our community and patients with exceptional, caring, compassionate service. When you’re undergoing treatment, you can be sure that you’ll be in a comfortable environment, with doctors you can trust.

Contact us today for your free first consultation! We can’t wait to meet you and get you started on your journey to a better you.

Which Thanksgiving Foods are Great for Braces?

The holiday season is fast approaching! Peppermint everything, twinkling lights, and best of all – time spent with our friends and family. It’s also the perfect time of the year to reflect on what we’re all grateful for.

You can be grateful for holiday foods – many Thanksgiving staples are great foods for those of us with braces or Invisalign!

Read more on our website! 

We’re Grateful for you this Holiday Season!

This time of the year we reflect on how grateful we are to serve you, our patients! We take pride in making sure you feel comfortable and happy during every step of your orthodontic treatment.

Contact us today for your free first consultation! We can’t wait to meet you and get you started on your journey to a better you.

Enjoy Halloween with Invisalign and Traditional Braces

Since most kids (and adults) are looking forward to Halloween at the end of the month, we’ve put together some tips so you can still enjoy the holiday while also being mindful of your orthodontic health! Avoiding some candy and enjoying others can help you stay on track with your Invisalign or traditional braces.

• Avoid anything high in sugar, like candy corn! The same goes for citrus sweets, soft drinks, and anything else highly acidic which can discolor your teeth.
• Be careful with popcorn and popcorn balls – the kernels and pieces can get lodged in your braces.

Read more on our website!

Need More Ideas?

We love to talk with our patients and want to help you enjoy the season while also taking care of your teeth. If you have questions or need tips, Drs. Stieper and Brust, and Dr. Khatib are happy to help! Call us today to schedule your next check-up, or your first free consultation.

Celebrate National Orthodontic Health Month by finally taking the plunge with Invisalign or traditional braces. We can’t wait to meet you!

Have a Happy Halloween While Taking Care of Your Teeth

It’s October, and we’re celebrating! No, not just for Halloween!

Did you know that October is National Orthodontic Health Month?

According to Colgate, “more than 1.2 million U.S. adults currently sport braces.” Are you one of them? Maybe you’re a teen or you have a child who needs braces, or is currently receiving treatment.

Did you know you can still enjoy your favorite Halloween candies and treats while going through orthodontic treatment?

Better Orthodontic Health Means a Healthier You!

At Stieper & Brust, we love what we do. We love to help our patients get the beautiful smile of their dreams and help boost their health and their self-esteem.

According to MouthHealthy.org, “correcting [crooked teeth] can create a nice-looking smile, but more importantly, orthodontic treatment results in a healthier mouth. Not correcting an abnormal bite could result in further oral health problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, tooth loss, and jaw problems.”

Read more on our website!

Braces-Friendly Options for Summer Party Treats

For some of us, summer is the best time of year. The summer sun, barbecuing, bonfires, and best of all; the food! Those of us with traditional braces or clear aligners like Invisalign know about the constant struggles that come with enjoying traditional summer treats.

We have some small tricks for you so that you don’t have to worry about those endless seeds stuck in your teeth!

• Toothpicks are your best friends! - Carrying around some toothpicks in your bag will be the most helpful thing for your smile. If seeds or food ever get stuck in your mouth, the toothpick is there for a quick pick-me-up!
• Choose what you eat wisely. Making small swaps to your diet will immediately help your teeth Switch from berries to seedless fruit, cubed to crushed ice, and choosing a veggie tray over chips are all small changes you can make! Click here to read the full article on our website!
• Keep up with brushing! - Brushing your teeth regularly will have your smile looking brighter than the sun itself!
• Don’t forget about your regular cleaning - Most people over look this task, but it is so important to fit this time in. Before diving into the pool, give your orthodontist a call for a quick check up.

At Stieper & Brust Orthodontics, we’re committed to helping you enjoy summer and the delicious foods that come with it while keeping your smile healthy at the same time.

Enjoy all of your favorite summer foods even while having braces!

 Can’t seem to find the middle ground maintaining your beautiful smile while still enjoying yummy summer foods? Trying to find healthier options for summer treats?

Bring on the summer treats now that warm weather is here! Your mind is now overtaken with the thoughts of barbecuing, sweet fruit, and tasty cold treats to cool you off. However, this time of the year can be tricky for those of us with traditional braces or clear aligners like Invisalign.

We’ve created some simple summer tricks to help you fulfill your summer treat needs while still caring for your teeth!

• Veggie over everything - According to the American Dental Association, carrots, celery and raw broccoli are like natural toothbrushes! Choose a veggie tray instead of chips and dip at your party to satisfy that need for a crunch, but stay away from the chips that often end up settling in the pits of your teeth
• More cheese, please! - Dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese are low in sugar but rich in calcium, which can strengthen and protect enamel.
• Go seedless - Try to stay away from seeds by going for hotdog and hamburger buns without sesame and poppy seeds. For fruit options, try to stay away from raspberries, kiwis, and blackberries, which have small seeds that get easily stuck in teeth.
• Look out for ice - Crunching on hard foods like ice can cause broken teeth and can damage enamel. Crushed iced cubes are a better option for your guests.
• Stay away from soda! - Water is one of the best things you can drink, especially on hot days when it’s so important to stay hydrated. To satisfy a sweet tooth, try infused water!

Take care of your teeth and save money on the cost of braces in the long run with these tips and more! Our friendly team of orthodontists have the knowledge to answer any of your questions and will make sure you’re comfortable with your braces or Invisalign. Contact us today! We want to make sure your smile is as bright as ever!

Meet the Newest Addition to Our Team - Dr. Leen Khatib!

Stieper and Brust Orthodontics is excited to announce the addition of Dr. Leen Khatib to our practice! Leen is an Ann Arbor/Saline native and feels very fortunate to have the opportunity to practice in the community where she grew up.

After graduating from Saline High School in 2008, she attended University of Michigan where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Biomedical Engineering.

 Dr. Khatib earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, graduating near the top of her class. Upon graduating, she attended Indiana University where she completed her Orthodontic Residency and obtained her Master of Science in Dentistry.

Dr. Khatib was born and raised in the Ann Arbor/Saline area. She was very active with the sports community, participating in basketball, tennis, and golf throughout her years at Saline High School. She enjoys being outside, water sports on the lake and cheering on the Wolverines (Go Blue!).

It takes significant effort to find someone who we know will uphold the high quality of care and service that patients experience in our practice. Dr. Khatib is passionate about creating a fun environment for her patients where they can come to realize their best smile. Our goal is to make our office visits the highlight of their day! Additionally, we are thrilled that Dr. Khatib’s addition will allow for increased availability and more flexible hours for our mutual patients.

Teeth Straightening Can Help with Chronic Pain!

Did you know straight teeth make it easier to clean and take care of your pearly whites?

Did you know that crooked teeth could be the cause of chronic pain you might be experiencing?

Seeing an orthodontist for teeth straightening could help you get back on the path to a healthier lifestyle.

Visit our website to learn more about how straight teeth can improve your overall health!

We’ve got flexible options to help with the cost of braces, and we’ll help you get the straight, beautiful smile of your dreams. You’ll not only see physical improvements, but your self-esteem and confidence will skyrocket!

Contact us today to schedule your consultation. We can’t wait to see you and get you on your journey to better health!

Having Straight Teeth Isn't Just About Looks!

Did you know having straight teeth isn’t just about looks?

Did you know that there are many health benefits to having your teeth straightened?

 If you’re wondering whether you should consider traditional braces or Invisalign, we know that it can be a tough decision, especially for adults. However, the benefits of having straighter teeth are more than just aesthetic!

Visit our website to learn more!

Braces or Invisalign Improve Your Overall Health!

If any of the symptoms listed above sound like issues you’ve been having, it’s time to schedule an appointment with Stieper & Brust! Our orthodontists are friendly and work hard to make sure you’re comfortable and at ease as they develop a personalized treatment plan for you.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation. We can’t wait to see you and get you on your journey to better health!

See Your Favorite Orthodontists in Ann Arbor Before Summer Vacation

Even if you’ve lived in Michigan your entire life, there’s a high chance that there’s some great vacation spots you haven’t visited yet!

 As the weather warms up and the kids get out of school, it’s time to explore your own backyard! We’re looking forward to summer too, so we’ve put together a list of hidden gems here in Michigan that are perfect for a weekend getaway.

Check out our website to learn more!

Catch Up with Your Favorite Orthodontists in Ann Arbor Before Your Trip!

Make time to schedule an ortho checkup before you hit the road! We have convenient hours to fit your busy schedule while you’re juggling work, kids, errands, and planning a vacation. We’ll make sure you don’t have any issues while traveling, and we can even give you some tips for taking care of your braces or Invisalign while you’re away from home.

Michigan Road Trip Ideas for You and Your Family

Are you planning summer vacation ideas for you and your family? Are you trying to think of ways to keep the kids occupied and having fun when school is out of session?

If a big multi-state road trip or trip flying across the country isn’t in the cards for your family this summer, consider exploring your own backyard! Some of the coolest places in Michigan lie along rural backroads and in the heart of the state’s biggest cities.

Check out our website to learn more!

Catch Up with Your Favorite Orthodontists in Ann Arbor Before Your Trip!

Make time to schedule an ortho checkup before you hit the road! We have convenient hours to fit your busy schedule while you’re juggling work, kids, errands, and planning a vacation. We’ll make sure you don’t have any issues while traveling, and we can even give you some tips for taking care of your braces or Invisalign while you’re away from home.

Don’t Let the Cost of Braces in Ann Arbor Deter You from Your Dream Smile!

To improve your health, you probably think about working out, getting enough sleep, drinking enough water, and a healthy diet. Have you considered smiling more as an approach to better health? It’s true! Smiling and laughing can improve your overall health by promoting good relationships, decreasing stress, and even boosting your immune system. If you’ve always wanted to improve the look of your smile, now is the time! Even if you’re an adult, it’s not too late for braces or Invisalign. You can finally have the smile you’ve always wanted, and reap the benefits.

Don’t Let the Cost of Braces in Ann Arbor Deter You from Your Dream Smile! 

We’ve been helping people feel great about their smiles for years, and we can help you too! We will develop a care plan especially for you, and be up front about the cost and procedures from your first appointment. Don’t just take it from us, listen to some of our happy patients!

These are not fabricated reviews! 

“I cannot say enough good things about Stieper and Brust! The office atmosphere is vibrant and upbeat, unlike any other dentist or doctor office I've been to. Between the friendly and knowledgeable staff and their high level of technology, you can rest assured that you are in good hands. Both Dr. Stieper and Dr. Brust are personable and amazing at what they do. I always leave their office feeling confident and better about my smile. My Invisalign treatment through their office has been affordable, convenient and a fun process to watch my teeth shift so quickly! I was nervous to start Invisalign at first but as I near the end of my treatment, I am so happy I made the decision to follow through with it and especially at Stieper & Brust Orthodontics!” – Lindsey C. 

Click here to read the full article on our website!

Did you know that smiling can make you healthier?

Do you hide your mouth behind your hands when you smile or laugh? 

Do you get nervous about being in social situations because you’re not happy with the way your smile looks? 

 Everyone deserves a bright, beautiful smile that they want to show off. Not only are straight teeth a sign of a healthy mouth, but smiling and laughing can be beneficial to your overall health! Don’t let the cost of braces in Ann Arbor deter you from getting the smile you’ve always wanted! Your path to great health starts with your first visit to Stieper & Brust Orthodontics. 

Want to learn more about how a great smile can impact your health? Click here to read the full article on our website!

Plan a Family Day Trip to Celebrate Spring and Summer!

Are you getting ready to start planning summer vacation for you and your family?

Now that the sun is out more often, the travel bug is spreading!

Check out some of these great day trip options in Michigan:

1. Lake Huron Bay – The Great Lakes Bay region, all easily accessed by I-75, have some of the area’s best, lesser-known attractions. Visit Bay City and see one of the narrated history tours, operated by Bay City Boat Lines. 
2. Frankenmuth – Not only are the chicken dinners a must-have, but there’s also river tours, or wine and chocolate tasting cruises! In addition, two companies offer horse-drawn carriage rides around the Bavarian streetscapes. You can also experience Christmas in July at Bronner’s! 

Check out the full list on our website!

While you’re making plans for the summer, don’t forget about your check-ups at Stieper & Brust Orthodontics! We want to make sure you can enjoy your summer to the fullest, and that means making sure there are no dental mishaps while you’re gone.

 Making sure you keep up with your orthodontic appointments is the best way to cut down on braces cost in Ann Arbor.  Ask us about how to take care of your braces and Invisalign aligners while traveling!

Advice from Dr. Stieper About Braces-Friendly Sweet Treats

Looking for sweet treats you can have while you're undergoing orthodontic treatment?

Dr. Brad Stieper says, "We want everyone to still enjoy things they love, especially with the summer months coming up! You can still enjoy camping and cookouts, just take the corn off the cob first! Cut apples and carrots into pieces and use your back teeth to chew.

When all else fails, try one of my favorite smoothie recipes, no chewing required."

Strawberry Banana Smoothie 

• 2 cups frozen strawberries 
• 1 fresh banana, peeled 
• 1 cup milk 
• 1 cup ice 
• 1 tablespoon honey, if you like it a little sweeter 

Blend all ingredients until smooth and enjoy!

Ask Your Orthodontist about Your Eating Habits 

Still not sure what you should be avoiding when you have braces or Invisalign? The key as with most things is to enjoy in moderation. Eating the wrong thing can cause broken brackets, which can cause unnecessary appointments and an added cost for braces, and nobody wants that! Ask your orthodontist for more suggestions! You might realize you can enjoy more salty, sweet, crunchy foods than you originally thought!

Make This Year's Spring Break a Stay-cation!

Sticking around the Mitten for spring break this year?

 Are you looking for some fun but educational ways to keep the kids entertained?

There’s tons of fun things to explore in Ann Arbor and the surrounding areas for you and the entire family. Plan a day out and check out some great attractions, including:

• The Henry Ford 
• The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum 
• Air Time Trampoline and Game Park 

To see the full list and learn more about some of these attractions, visit our website!