Happy Holidays from your friends at Wu Orthodontics!

Halloween Pumpkin Contest Winners

Happy Halloween!

Are all braces the same?

Recently, we have been asked if all braces are the same? The quick answer is no, not all braces are the same. Thanks to innovative technology, orthodontists have choices on what type of braces to make it less time consuming and more comfortable than before.

Dr. Eric Wu is the first Palo Alto orthodontist to use braces called the Damon System. These brackets do not need to use elastic rings or tiewires to hold wires in place like conventional braces, making it a more comfortable experience throughout treatment. This light feeling allows the teeth to slide freely along the wires. This means teeth tend to move more quickly and dramatically reduces treatment time. This light friction system also reduces the need for extractions of teeth, expanders, headgear and other appliances. Dr. Wu is typically able to finish an individuals treatment 6 months faster in the Damon system as compared with traditional braces.

The picture below shows the comparison of traditional braces (left side) and the Damon system (right side).



Stay tuned for some amazing cases treated by Dr. Wu!

Imagining Your Life With Invisalign

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! Following are a 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 cannot 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 can 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 your office during treatment?

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

A Sour Smile is not a Happy Smile

It’s no secret that sweet, sugary candies and drinks have an adverse effect of the health of your smile, but what about sour or tart candies? We at Wu Orthodontics thought you might want to know what kind of an effect does eating or drinking something sour have on my smile?

Recent research from the Minnesota Dental Association suggests that the amount of acid in sour candies is enough to eat away at tooth enamel and cause cavities. Here are a few souring facts about sour candies, and some helpful tips on how to protect your teeth from Wu Orthodontics (even if you cannot give up sour candies all together).

Facts

-Sour candies can be very acidic, and may actually burn the gums and cheeks, while weakening and wearing down the enamel on your teeth. (Check the acid levels in some of your favorite candies)

-It can take almost 20 minutes for the acid in sour candies to become neutral. Holding the acid in your mouth by sucking on sour hard candies or chewing sour gummies can keep the acid active for more than 20 minutes.

-The acid in sour candies can cause cavities and severe tooth decay.

Protect your teeth

-Limit the amount of sour candies that you eat on a daily basis, and if you do indulge, remember not to suck or chew on sour candies for long periods of time.

-After eating sour candies, rinse your mouth out with water, drink milk, or eat a couple slices of cheese. This will help neutralize the acid in your mouth (wait at least one hour before brushing your teeth with toothpaste, as this can actually increase the effects of acid on your teeth)

-If tooth erosion has already begun, ask your dentist about ways you can help reduce sensitivity and continue to protect your teeth.

Hope this helps! From Wu Orthodontics.

Braces 101, With Wu Orthodontics

If you live in the Palo Alto community, and you have sustained any damage to your braces, 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.Give Wu Orthodontics a call at 650-646-3999 if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule an appointment.



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.

--Dr. Eric Wu, your Palo Alto Community Orthodontist

The Myths and Facts of Orthodontics, From Wu Orthodontics

There are quite a few myths about orthodontists circulating around. Before you buy into those myths, you should get the facts! We came across a great site that helps set the record straight. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of orthodontists, check them out today!

Hope this helps,

--Dr Eric Wu

What Do You Think of Wu Orthodontics? We Want to Hear!

We at Wu Orthodontics have come to appreciate your interactions with us online, whether it is on MySpace, Facebook, YouTube, or this blog. This week we wanted to share with you a great review about Wu Orthodontics, and encourage you to take a few moments to write a review too!

As an adult getting braces, I wanted to make sure I chose the right orthodontist. I did extensive research and met with six orthodontists and I must say: Dr. Wu stood out from the pack. He was very professional, easy going, kind, patient and thorough. I asked a lot of questions and he answered each and every one of them to my satisfaction. After our initial consultation, I still had more questions and he made the time to talk with me some more. We had great rapport and I felt really comfortable with Dr. Wu.

I was impressed that Dr. Wu uses the damon system. Not all orthodontist are up to speed on the latest technologies so I was glad Dr. Wu uses it and recommended it. He explained all the options to me and made sure I knew exactly what was involved. I like being informed and able to make smart decisions about my treatment.

I started my treatment right away but my travel/work schedule made it difficult to schedule appointments. Dr. Wu’s office was very accommodating and made every effort to schedule (and reschedule) my appointments as needed.

Dr. Wu’s prices are very fair; you get what you pay for and I wouldn’t have mind paying more for the excellent customer service and professional care that I’ve received from Wu Orthodontics.

I am extremely pleased with the results. :) I smile more, feel more confident and get compliments on my teeth/smile all the time! Thank you, Dr. Wu!

This week, why not write a review about your experiences at Wu Orthodontics too?

Wu Orthodontics Holds Another Dental Education Lecture

At Wu Orthodontics, we know that providing the best in orthodontic care to the community of Palo Alto is of the utmost importance. But you can't have comprehensive orthodontic care without outstanding dental treatment. That is why we reach out to dental professionals in the greater Palo Alto metropolitan region and host study clubs.

As our world advances, so does our dental and orthodontic knowledge. By staying on top of the latest technologies and procedures, we are able to offer the most advanced treatments for your teeth. And that's what you deserve!

Our next study club will be held at Wu Orthodontics on July 23rd. Dr. Paul Homoly will speak on advanced dental treatments. Dr. Homoly is a world-class leader in dental education. As a comprehensive restorative dentist and acclaimed educator for over twenty-five years, he is known for his innovative and practical approach to dentistry. He will discuss the distinctions between simple and complex care patients and provide practical tips for determining whether your patient is ready for complex care.

As always, we will have hors d'oeuvres. Hope to see you there!

Wu Orthodontics

Dr. Wu Is Doing the Tour De Cure!

In June, Dr. Wu is racing in the Tour de Cure. He has set a fund-raising goal and is raising support for Diabetes.

The Tour de Cure is sponsored by the American Diabetes Association.

You can watch his progress and support him in his efforts on his page!

You can get more information about the Palo Alto leg of the trip, and if you are a community resident, you can come out and support Dr. Wu in person!

Good luck Dr. Wu!

Dr. Wu's Dental Screening at Herbert Hoover Elementary Was a Huge Success!

Last Wednesday, April 8, there was a free dental screening at Herbert Hoover Elementary School to reach out to underprivileged kids throughout the Palo Alto community.

We are pleased to report that it was a great success!

The event was coordinated by the Palo Alto Unified School District and the Mid-Peninsula Dental Society. There were three Palo Alto dental professionals conducting the screening, Dr. Alan Lu, Dr. Latha, and Dr. Eric Wu.

Together, they were able to screen 29 kids!

Dr. Eric Wu is the Mid-Peninsula Dental Society Chair and he also attended Herbert Hoover Elementary School.

Upcoming Free Dental Screening For Palo Alto Community

On Wednesday, April 8, we are holding a dental screening at the Herbert C. Hoover Elementary School in Palo Alto. The screening is for underprivileged and under-served residents of the community who are in need of dental care.

The event is coordinated by the Mid-Peninsula Dental Society and the Foothill College Hygienist Program in conjunction with the Palo Alto School District. Linda Lenoir is the school nurse for the district and she has been reaching out to families in the community to raise awareness of this great event.

Dr. Eric Wu is the Community Chairperson for the Mid-Peninsula Dental Society. He is serving his first year of a two year term.

These groups came together to provide this service to the Palo Alto community because no one should have to sacrifice their dental health, no matter their economic condition. Again, the event will be held on Wednesday, April 8, at the Herbert C. Hoover Elementary School. Interestingly enough, it was also Dr. Wu's elementary school.

Wu Orthodontics Leads Dental Study Clubs for Palo Alto General Dentists

Wu Orthodontics is committed to excellence in oral health. A key part of this commitment is their focus on education. That is why they regularly hold study clubs on topics of general dentistry.

Tuesday, March 24th, is the second study club in a series of seven. Fifteen to twenty general dentists from the Palo Alto and surrounding communities will attend the lecture held on the top floor of Wu Orthodontics' office building.

Dr. Wu will kick off the evening with a presentation about the Damon System. He will detail what the Damon System is capable of and present several cases that he is currently working on.

Following Dr. Wu's presentation, Dr. Terrell F. Pannkuk, a native Californian, will lecture on the differences between root canals and implants. He will discuss practical applications of the two and specific cases where each is appropriate.

Palo Alto Girls Softball League and Wu Orthodontics In Full Swing

They came out swinging for opening Day on Saturday.

That's right, the Palo Alto Girls Softball League is officially in full swing. And the team sponsored by Wu Orthodontics kicked off their season right in their stylish new jerseys. Dr. Wu went out to meet the team and cheer them on.

The next two months will be full of challenging opponents,long practices, and grueling strategy sessions, but with Wu Orthodontics on their side, these girls are sure to wow their opponents.

Stay tuned for pictures of the girls in their Wu Orthodontics jerseys!

Wu Orthodontics Teams Up WithThe Palo Alto Girls Softball Leauge

Wu Orthodontics is the proud sponsor of a team in the Palo Alto Girls Softball League this Spring. As the days are getting warmer and longer, we are looking forward to cheering our girls on and bringing them lots of water to stay hydrated!

The Girls Softball League has been in the greater Palo Alto community for more than 25 years. Last year alone, 400 girls played, ranging in age from 5 to 14. Sponsors for the league help run the league, outfit the teams, and improve the fields.
Wu Orthodontics is excited to be involved with such a great organization and can’t wait for the games to begin. And now, Play Ball!

Invisalign: It's as Easy as 1,2,3--Wu Orthodontics, Palo Alto, California

Looking to improve your smile, but eager to keep your treatment to yourself? Consider Invisalign, the invisible way to straighten teeth. The clear, custom aligners are removable, which makes for easy eating, brushing and flossing, and no disruption of your lifestyle. Over half a million people have chosen Invisalign in their quest for an amazing smile. The process is simple:

STEP 1:We’ll Create a Custom Treatment Plan for You
First we’ll take impressions of your teeth. Based on their current position and their ideal end position, we’ll create a treatment plan that maps out the movement of your teeth throughout your time in Invisalign aligners.


STEP 2:Your Unique Set of Aligners Are Created
Using precision computer mapping and design, a series of clear, removable aligners are custom-molded. We’ll provide you with your aligners and precise instructions on how long each aligner is to be worn.


STEP 3:Wear Your Aligners to Guide Your Teeth into Place
Wear each set of aligners night and day for the prescribed time period, removing them to eat, brush and floss. We’ll set regular check-ups to monitor your progress. Each case is a little different, but on average, treatment lasts about a year. Contact us at Wu Orthodontics to see if Invisalign is right for you!

Is Invisalign Really Customized for Each Patient? - Wu Orthodontics

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. And since the aligners are virtually invisible, nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr.Wu is a certified Invisalign provider. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, give us a call at 650-322-0288.

Gum Disease Can Sneak Up on You! - Wu Orthodontics

It’s easy to tell when you have a cavity; but unfortunately, gum disease can exist in your mouth without you even knowing. In fact, you can have the beginning stages of gum disease without noticing any pain or discomfort. Since gum disease can be undetectable, it’s important to watch for warning signs in order to prevent the disease from worsening!

Signs to watch for:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position
• Any change in the way partial dentures fit

If you or someone in your family is showing these signs, make an appointment with your dentist right away to diagnose the problem and begin treatment to save your teeth and give you back a healthy mouth!

Good Breath Gone Bad! - Dr. Eric Wu, Orthodontist

Bad breath can be a real downer, especially when you are out on a date with that girl or boy you’ve had a crush on all semester! However, bad breath can be prevented!

Bad breath, or as your doctor may call it “halitosis,” is caused by odor-producing bacteria that grows in your mouth. This bacteria gathers on bits of food in your mouth and between your teeth and release sulfur compounds making your breath smell. Some foods, like garlic and onions, may contribute more to bad breath because of oils the food releases, and smoking is also a major cause of bad breath.

There are several myths around bad breath. Here are some common myths and the truth behind it all:

Myth #1: Mouthwash will make my breath smell better

Mouthwash will make your breath smell better, but it is only a temporary fix. If you use mouthwash, just know that you will still need to brush and floss when you get the chance as mouthwash alone will not kill all of the bacteria producing germs in your mouth. When choosing a mouthwash, pick an antiseptic with plaque-reducing compounds. Also make sure any dental products you choose comes with the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of approval!

Myth #2: I brush my teeth; I will never have bad breath

Brushing your teeth will save you from having breath, but the truth is most people only brush their teeth for about 30-45 seconds! You need to brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes, twice a day to give your teeth a thorough cleansing. It’s also important to brush your tongue, which is where a majority of odor causing bacteria like to hang out. Lastly, flossing to remove food and plaque between the teeth will also help reduce your chances of having bad breath!

Myth #3: If I don’t smell it, then my breath is fresh

This is a false assumption in every sense of the word! The truth is that the breath you breathe out is not the same breath coming out when you talk to someone. When you breathe you are not using your throat as you do when you are talking; and when you talk more breath moves over the back of your mouth where bacteria is causing bad breath.

#1 TRUTH: Brush your teeth twice a day (for at least 2 minutes), floss at least once and visit your dentist every six months…this way your breath will always be fresh! Not letting your nerves get the best of you on your date? That’s up to you!!!