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Dr. Chapman wants to know if dairy is a part of your diet. If not, it should be! According to the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), regular consumption of dairy products such as milk, cheese and yogurt can actually lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (gum disease).

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis.

Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but it’s essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Did you know that cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your teeth? In addition to providing large amounts of much needed calcium and phosphorous that reduce and/or prevent decreases in the plaque’s pH level and work to remineralize the enamel of your teeth, cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Cheddar, Swiss, Mozzarella, and Monterey Jack cheese, for example, stimulate the body’s salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris and protect them from acids that weaken them.

The next time you reach for a quick snack get creative with some dairy products, and remember with each bite and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health! Please don’t hesitate to contact Chapman Orthodontics at 317.839.6533, or stop by for a visit at our Plainfield, IN location for more information about keeping your mouth healthy.

1. A typical human mouth contains billions of bacteria, and if you haven’t brushed your teeth lately, you might have more bacteria in your mouth right now than there are people living on planet Earth!

2. Both humans and dogs have mouths that are full of bacteria, and both contain roughly the same number of bacteria. And there are more than 100 different germs in dog (and cat) saliva that can make you sick.

3. If you drop food on the floor it starts to pick up germs from the moment it hits the floor whether you pick it up within 5 seconds or 5 minutes.

4. Periodontal disease is not contagious. While bacteria that lead to gum disease can pass through saliva, gum disease typically develops if your teeth and gums aren’t healthy. Dr. Chapman recommends brushing twice a day and flossing daily.

5. You should never share a toothbrush with someone else. Dr. Chapman warns that it increases the risk for oral infections.

6. Germs may be present on lipstick (including “tester” lipstick at cosmetics counters), lip balm, drinking glasses, band instruments and many other items that may sometimes be shared. We at Chapman Orthodontics encourage you to not share personal items if you want to avoid picking up potentially harmful bacteria, viruses or other microbes.

7. Keeping your toothbrush in a closed container creates an ideal moist environment for the growth of bacteria. Dr. Chapman recommends rinsing your toothbrush with tap water after you use it, then letting it air-dry. Dr. Chapman also recommends the following for retainers or other dental devices that you put in your mouth.

8. You should replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months, sooner if the bristles are frayed.

9. Antiseptic mouthwashes keep your breath fresh, reduce the film of bacteria that forms on teeth (plaque) and gum inflammation (gingivitis). Dr. Chapman recommends rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash twice a day to help keep your teeth and gums healthy.

10. Green tea has been associated with healthier gums and lower odds of tooth loss.

11. While some bacteria are bad for your teeth and gums, others are critical to keeping them healthy. In fact, some helpful organisms in your mouth secrete substances that kill bad bacteria.

12. Most of the bacteria in your mouth are part of a sticky film on your teeth known as plaque, which is the main cause of tooth decay. A single tooth can host 500 million bacteria!

13. When you eat, the bacteria on your teeth excrete acids that can weaken tooth enamel. Chapman Orthodontics reminds patients that using a fluoride toothpaste and other fluoride products like mouth rinse helps to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.

14. Bacteria has been linked with a number of chronic inflammatory disease including diabetes, cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease.

Crazy right? Improving your smile makes it that much easier to maintain your oral health and oral hygiene #OrthoFact. And offering orthodontic treatment for children and adults alike, Dr. Chapman is the best family orthodontist in Brownsburg, IN. If you haven’t already, contact Dr. Chapman at 317.852.5566 TODAY to see if your child may be a candidate for early orthodontic treatment and/or to see how we can improve your smile!

Sometimes kids forget to keep up with their oral hygiene responsibilities so here’s some cool tooth trivia to get kids interested:

George Washington, the first president of the United States, had false teeth because his real teeth were so bad that they had to be removed. After many attempts to create dentures comfortable enough for Washington to wear, a set of false teeth were constructed out of teeth from a cow, a hippopotamus and a walrus. Dr. Chapman of Chapman Orthodontics in Brownsburg, IN stresses that kids brush their teeth twice a day to avoid rotten baby teeth and so that they can keep all 32 of their permanent teeth.

We at Chapman Orthodontics also recommend using a soft toothbrush; can you guess what people used to use to brush their teeth? The first toothbrush with nylon bristles wasn’t invented until 1938. Before then, people would chew on the end of a stick until it formed a brush which was then used to clean their teeth. And before the invention of toothpaste in the beginning of the 20th century, people used to use ashes, chalk, charcoal, honey, lemon juice, crushed egg shells or parts of animal hooves.

Did you know that elephants only have four teeth? Elephants have two upper molars and two lower molars that measure one foot across and weigh 9 lbs. Because they grind their food their teeth are worn down to the gum line and eventually they fall out. And unlike us, an elephant may go through six sets of teeth in its lifetime. Dr. Chapman wants kids two remember that we only have two sets of teeth, our baby teeth and our adult (permanent) teeth, so we have to take care of them to avoid chipped, fractured or broken teeth.

Go over these fun facts with your child while they are brushing their teeth, and if you have any questions or concerns please don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Chapman at 317.852.5566.

We all have those bad habits that involve the poor use of our teeth. Beware of these 5 habits that could wind you in Dr. Chapman’s Brownsburg, IN office:

Crunching on ice can cause serious damage to teeth and braces—Even a blender needs special blades to crush ice!

Using your teeth as tools – from ripping open a small package to biting your nails – it’s just not a good idea. And although braces are tools, they only fix smiles.

Absentmindedly chewing on whatever you have in your hand like pens, pencils, eyeglasses… are you doing it right now? Stop! Dr. Chapman stresses that absentminded chewing puts added pressure on teeth during treatment with braces.

Sipping on soda (diet too) over a long period of time can be detrimental to your teeth; you’re literally washing your teeth in acid. Moreover, a diet like this can leave white spots (demineralization) around the area where your braces once were post braces.

Excessive snacking raises the acidity level in your mouth many times throughout the day, which causes decay and enamel erosion. Also, keep in mind that braces trap food more easily.

If you have any questions or concerns please don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Chapman at 317.852.5566. Keep smiling!

Tooth enamel is the clear outer layer of the tooth. You can think of enamel as a tough eggshell protecting the soft part of the tooth inside, in fact, enamel is the hardest substance in the body. Dr. Chapman of Chapman Orthodontics in Plainfield, IN, stresses that damage to enamel is permanent and can cause a number of teeth issues.

Here’s 6 things that destroy tooth enamel:

1. Acids from foods and bacteria eat away at enamel causing erosion, the shrinking of tooth size, and cavities. This is the same for drinks like sodas, sweet teas and wine.

2. Dentin, the hard, dense, bony tissue forming the bulk of a tooth beneath the enamel, is what makes enamel seem white. Dr. Chapman warns that over time, coffee, tea, wine, cigarettes and other substances can stain the outer layer of your teeth a yellow or gray. These things can also stain your Invisalign® aligners which is why Dr. Chapman encourages patients to remove their aligners before eating and drinking as well as before brushing and flossing.

3. Bruxism, or teeth-grinding, over time can wear down or fracture the enamel.

4. Enamel can be chipped or cracked, again, such damage to the enamel is permanent. Dr. Chapman warns that using your teeth as tools and/or gnawing on anything can chip or crack the enamel. Moreover, when this happens the inner layer gets exposed and this leads to tooth decay and sensitivity.

5. Some health conditions can damage tooth enamel, e.g., the eating disorder bulimia causes stomach acid to enter the mouth because of frequent vomiting and those acids eat away at tooth enamel. Dr. Chapman warns that acid reflux, stomach problems, and other eating disorders can also have this effect.

6. Dry mouth allows acids to stick around longer and causes damage to enamel. Dr. Chapman reminds us that saliva helps restore tooth enamel, therefore if you have dry mouth chewing sugar-free gum, sucking on sugar-free candy or drinking water can build saliva.

To fight tooth enamel erosion always remember to brush and floss after you eat or drink, and if you have any questions or concerns don’t hesitate to contact our practice at 317.839.6533.

Dr. Chapman of Chapman Orthodontics encourages his Brownsburg, IN patients to continue regular cleanings every six months with their dentist during their Invisalign® treatment for it promotes good oral hygiene, but did you know that it can also prevent a multitude of diseases?

Here are 10 really great reasons to stick with your regular cleaning schedule!

1. It Prevents Oral Cancer. You may or may not realize that you’re screened for oral cancer during your regular dental cleanings. Oral cancer is highly curable with early diagnosis.

2. It Helps Fight Gum Disease. Gum disease is one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss. It can be treated and reversed if diagnosed early, but regular cleanings and check ups, and daily brushing and flossing, are key weapons in winning the battle against gum disease.

3. It’s About More Than Your Mouth. Studies have linked gum disease to heart attacks and strokes? Getting your teeth cleaned every 6 months could reduce your risk of serious health problems!

4. You Want to Preserve Your Smile. As mentioned, gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. To keep your pearly whites intact, stick with your cleaning schedule.

5. It Helps to Detect Dental Problems Early. We’ve already touched upon early detection of gum disease and oral cancer, but don’t overlook more basic dental problems such as cavities and broken fillings. Without routine cleanings these problems could lead to root canals, gum surgery and/or tooth extraction.

6. It Gives You Guidance to Maintaining Excellent Oral Health. Check ups are a great way to keep your oral health on the right path, and to ask questions like: what’s the best electric toothbrush to buy, or what is current research saying about how to better care for your teeth.

7. You Have Dental Insurance. Consider how much money you put into your insurance plan. Take advantage of it and save a lot of money in the long run by avoiding costly procedures that result from poor dental habits.

8. You Want to Upgrade Your Smile. If you’re already suffering from tooth decay or gum problems, regular appointments will give you the best smile possible.

9. You’re a Smoker. Regular cleanings remove most tobacco stains, polishing your teeth to a beautiful shine!

10. You Need Some Time Alone. Okay, this isn’t a spa, but think of the waiting room as a relaxing place to forget about work or the stresses of family life. Stress effects your dental health and your health and well-being should never take a back seat to your daily planner.

If you have any questions or concerns about your Invisalign® treatment or your oral health please don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Chapman, he can be reached at 317.852.5566.

With sports in full swing, Dr. Chapman recommends that his patients in Plainfield, IN wear mouth guards especially if they have braces. As an essential part of many athletes’ sport equipment, mouth guards work to protect player’s teeth and prevent dental injury, but which mouth guard is right for you?

Stock mouth guards are preformed and come ready to wear. They are inexpensive and can be bought at most sporting goods stores in Plainfield, IN. Unfortunately, little can be done to adjust their fit: they are bulky, make breathing and talking difficult and they provide little or no protection. Dr. Chapman does not recommend this type of mouth guard to his patients.

Boil and bite mouth guards can also be bought at many sporting goods stores in Plainfield, IN, and may offer a better fit than stock mouth protectors. Boil and bite mouth guards are made from a thermoplastic material so that consumers can do just as the name says; “boil and bite” to ensure a perfect fit. Hot water softens this product and allows consumers to shape the mouth guard around their teeth using finger and tongue pressure. Dr. Chapman however, also does not recommend this to his patients.

Custom-fit mouth guards, although more expensive than the other types, will provide the most comfort and protection. For more information on custom-fitted mouth guards contact Chapman Orthodontics at 317.839.6533.

There are tons of people out there that enlist the services of orthodontists and dentists, but many people think that they are the same thing. While this misconception is understandable, Dr. Chapman of Chapman Orthodontics in Plainfield, IN wants patients to understand the differences between an orthodontist and a dentist.

In terms of education, dentists need to complete medical school and post-graduate training before they can begin seeing patients. For all intents and purposes, dentists are doctors but with a specialization in teeth. When speaking about the services they provide, dentists are generally involved in helping patients with general dental problems like decay, tartar buildup and gum disease. They’re in the practice of advocating oral hygiene when they see their patients, and will typically only see patients around twice a year, aside from fillings and other dental work for cavities and decay.

Then there are orthodontists like Dr. Chapman that are actually dentists, but they did an additional two years in a residency program for orthodontics specifically. They typically see patients for more severe dental issues, including alignment of the teeth and jaw. And dentists actually refer most of those patients to orthodontists. Orthodontists handle assessing all alignment issues, and then they can advise patients on procedures like braces. When a patient decides to move forward on braces, an orthodontist can help them select the best option, and then manage their care.

To recap, while they are both medical professionals that deal with teeth, dentists provide more general care, while orthodontists can provide specialized treatment for more serious alignment and cosmetic issues. They both work together in some facets, as part of a medical team to keep your teeth looking great, orthodontists have just worked hard to get specialized training and education, in order to provide you with access to different dental solutions like clear braces and palette expanders. For the best orthodontic treatment in the Plainfield, IN area, contact Dr. Chapman TODAY at 317.839.6533.

Oral health begins with clean teeth. Keeping the area where your teeth meet your gums clean can prevent gum disease, and keeping your tooth surfaces clean can help you avoid cavities. Dr. Chapman of Chapman Orthodontics offers the following tips to his patients in Brownsburg, IN.

1. Brush your teeth at least twice a day. When you brush, don’t rush. Dr. Chapman recommends brushing for two minutes twice a day, and more frequently if you have braces — take enough time to do a thorough job.

2. Use the proper equipment. We at Chapman Orthodontics recommend using a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush that fits your mouth comfortably. Electric/battery-operated toothbrushes reduce plaque and the chance of gum disease more than does manual brushing, and these devices are helpful if you have arthritis or other problems that make it difficult to brush effectively.

3. Practice good techniques. Hold your toothbrush at a slight angle — aiming the bristles toward the area where your tooth meets your gum. Again Dr. Chapman reminds patients that keeping the area where your teeth meet your gums clean can prevent gum disease. Also, don’t forget to gently brush the outside, inside and chewing surfaces of your teeth, as well as your tongue, with short back-and-forth motions.

4. Keep your equipment clean. Always rinse your toothbrush with water after brushing. Dr. Chapman also stresses that you store your toothbrush in an upright position, if possible, and allow it to air-dry until using it again. Toothbrush Tip: don’t routinely cover toothbrushes or store them in closed containers, it can encourage the growth of bacteria.

5. Know when to replace your toothbrush. Invest in a new toothbrush or a replacement head for your electric or battery-operated toothbrush every three to four months — or sooner if the bristles become frayed.

Follow these basic tips daily and keep up with your appointments to Chapman Orthodontics and you’ll have the best smile in town! Call Dr. Chapman TODAY at 317.484.6388, if you’ve missed or need to schedule an appointment.

Food has more hiding spots than usual in your mouth now, so you have to be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. Keep your oral appearance up to par while wearing braces with these ten tips from Chapman Orthodontics in Brownsburg, IN:

1. One tooth at a time. When you brush Dr. Chapman stresses that you take your time with each individual tooth–At least 10 seconds each–And pay close attention to the spots where your teeth touch your braces.

2. It’s all about the angles. Brush your top teeth and braces with your brush angled downward, and brush your bottom teeth and braces with your brush angled up.

3. The tooth, the whole tooth and nothing but the tooth. While the front surface of your teeth may seem like the most logical to clean, Dr. Chapman says that it’s equally important to clean the inner and chewing surface of your teeth, your tongue and along your gum line (a key spot for plaque buildup).

4. Brush after every meal. Food can easily get caught in your braces and in between your teeth. This can lead to tooth decay. Also, the longer food is in contact with your teeth, the greater the opportunity for plaque to form. If you can’t brush after every meal then thoroughly rinse your mouth with water.

5. Make a first aid teeth cleaning kit. Get into the habit of taking a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss with you wherever you go. Design a special container just for your teeth-cleaning tools and keep it in your bag.

6. Remove the moving parts. If you have elastic bands or headgear, remove these parts before you brush or floss.

7. Fluoride is your friend. Fluoride helps prevent cavities. Be sure to brush with fluoride toothpaste and rinse with fluoride mouthwash.

8. Interproximal brushes. Sometimes called proxa brushes or interdental brushes, these cone-shaped brushes come in handy when you need to reach those spots around your braces that standard brushes can’t reach.

9. Find the floss for you. Regular floss works for some Chapman Orthodontics patients, but others find it easier to work with a floss threader or Superfloss. A floss threader helps you get the floss into those tight places, and Superfloss is an all-in-one product which comes with a stiff end for easy threading, a spongy section for cleaning wide spaces and regular floss for narrow spaces.

10. Make an appointment with Chapman Orthodontics! Visit Chapman Orthodontics in Brownsburg, IN (and your dentist) regularly while in treatment to get a deep, thorough cleaning that only a professional can provide. Also, if you have any concerns about your braces feel free to contact Dr. Chapman at 317.852.5566.