Happy New Year! From Dr. Talbot and team

The year is almost over, so we wanted to ask what was memorable about 2011 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2012? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year? 

Have a safe and happy New Year, from Dr. Richard Talbot and team!

Happy Holidays! From Dr. Talbot and team

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as our team at Dr. Richard Talbot's office reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What do you love about the holidays this year? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for 2012? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year?

We’d love if you shared with us all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

--Dr. Talbot and team

Ask Dr. Talbot: “I’m 35 – am I too old for braces?”

Thanks for the question, and of course not!

Recently, our staff read a fascinating statistic: the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! Yes, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another reason for the spike in adult braces is this: people want to look and feel great. In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned and sparkling teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing—wisely, we might add—to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Dr. Talbot can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. Talbot & team would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

Happy Holidays from all of us at Dr. Talbot’s office!

Love your new smile? Tell Dr. Talbot and team all about it!

Has your experience at our office been GREAT?

Would you like to let others know?

Write a review on Google– it’s easy to do! Click below on the the office which you'd like to write a review to be taken to our Google Places Page.

Write a Review of our Roseville Office

Write a Review of our Citrus Heights Office


Do you already have a Google account? Great! Just click write a review to leave your message.

Don’t have an account? Sign up for one–it’s easy and takes only a minute or two! Thank you very much for taking the time to share your experience! We really appreciate it!

Do we have your current contact info?

Happy holidays from all of us at Dr. Richard Talbot Orthodontics! As you probably know, you can always connect with Dr. Richard Talbot and our team on our Facebook page, but we also encourage you to call us and let us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed!

Please contact our office with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so that we may be able to reach you. Thank you!
- The team at Dr. Richard Talbot Orthodontics

Happy Thanksgiving, from Dr. Richard Talbot Orthodontics

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season knocking at our door, our entire team at Dr. Richard Talbot Orthodontics wanted to stop for a moment and extend our best wishes to you, our patients, referring doctors and families, for a wonderful Thanksgiving.
As always, if you know anyone we can help, just let us know. We promise to give them the same quality orthodontic care that we have given you.
We hope that this Thanksgiving and holiday season brings fond memories. Thank you for being part of our family.

Are you wearing your mouth guard?

With fall sports close to wrapping up and winter sports right around the corner, many patients here at Dr. Richard Talbot Orthodontics will once again pick up the ball, bring the cleats out of seasonal retirement and hit the fields for the return of sports action! During this time, however, Dr. Richard Talbot and our team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this fall and winter, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as basketball, wrestling and hockey
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps! Dr. Talbot and team will tell you protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact our office or ask us on Facebook. Stay safe!

Happy Veteran's Day from Dr Richard Talbot Orthodontics

Happy Veteran's Day! Today is a day to thank all military veterans and the men and women currently on active duty that put their lives on the line for the freedoms we all enjoy.

In celebration of Veteran’s Day, Dr. Richard Talbot and our team would like to share a few fun facts about our flag, this national holiday, and our country’s history!

-Veterans Day, a day that was originally called Armistice Day, is a time to thank and honor the men and women who have served in our military.

- President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the official legislation for Veterans Day on June 1, 1954, changing the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veterans Day

-There are 23.2 million veterans in the U.S.

-The flag was first approved by Congress on June 14, 1777

-Each of the flag’s colors signify different American values- red is for valor and zeal, white is for hope, purity, and cleanliness of life, and blue is for heaven, loyalty, sincerity, justice, and truth

-Research by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) helped develop the CAT Scan, the cardiac pacemaker, and the “Seattle Foot” to give those hurt the ability to run and jump

-When the flag is displayed next to another flag against a wall, the U.S. flag should be on its own right (on the left side when facing the wall).

-Veterans Day is often confused with Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a time for remembering and honoring the men and women who died while serving our country, or as a result of injuries that incurred in battle. Veterans Day honors and gives thanks to all veterans who served in our military.

-There are five states with over 1 million veterans in their population – California, Florida, Texas, New York and Pennsylvania

We are so thankful for all who have and are currently serving in the U.S. and overseas!

A few Halloween safety tips, from Dr. Talbot & team

Team Talbot loves to get in the spirit of Halloween. Our annual Team Pumpkin Decorating Contest is an opportunity to put our creative talents to work. We each choose our pumpkins (any size) and decorate it any way we choose. The only limitation on creativeness is there can be no carving or shaving of the pumpkin. We have had some very creative pumpkins in the past. Traditionally we have only been able to have patients and their families in during the week prior to Halloween be able to enjoy and “Vote” on their favorite masterpiece.

As you know some traditional Halloween treats can wreak havoc on orthodontic appliances (and teeth!) so we’d like to share some healthy alternative treats: stickers, pencils, note pads, trading cards, or finger puppets. Ration the loot a little at a time. Always brush your teeth well after eating candy and before going to bed.

We wish you all a happy, safe, and spooky Halloween!

October is National Orthodontic Health Month at Dr. Talbot's office!

Did you know that October is not only a month of celebrating fall and the beginning of the holiday season but October is National Orthodontic Month. What does that mean? Celebrating National Orthodontic Month means taking one more opportunity to educate people on the importance of orthodontics and what it can do for you.

Many people think that orthodontics is just about braces and getting straight, pretty teeth. It is so much more than just “straightening teeth”. It is important to know that the “function” of teeth can be even more important than a beautiful smile. When you “bite” fits correctly it eliminates many problems in the future such as improper wear of the teeth and jaw joints, tooth pain, and potential problems with digestion caused by inability to chew your food efficiently. The position of your teeth and supporting facial structures also affects the way we age “gracefully”.

A beautiful, straight and healthy smile gives individuals a self-confidence to look up and smile at the world. National Orthodontic Health Month is a great time to explore the possibilities of orthodontics for you and your family. Come and see how we can help you plan your future of a happy, straight smile!

Year-end insurance reminder from Dr. Talbot

Do you have unused funds left in your flexible spending, or health savings account? Do you need to plan for your next year’s FSA? Call our office today and we can help you utilize your FSA to get the maximum benefits for this year and plan for next year.

Dr. Talbot & team tend to get busy towards the end of the year—don’t wait to give us a call!!

Don't skip those regular checkups, especially in October!

Dr. Talbot wants to know: Are you brushing and flossing daily properly during your treatment? If the answer is yes, that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist every 3-to-6 months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting Dr. Talbot's office, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

It's the perfect time for a visit to the dentist. Why? Because not only is October National Orthodontic Health Month, it's also National Dental Hygiene Month!

Your general dentist can check for problems that might not be seen or felt, detect cavities and early signs of decay, treat oral health problems early and show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth.

During an oral exam your dentist can check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to the dentist in the last six months, let us know during your next visit and we will provide a few great references!

October marks National Orthodontic Health Month!

Promoting National Orthodontic Month is a treat in Dr. Talbot’s practice because it gives us another great reason to promote overall body health. Straight teeth look nice, but it is just as important to have teeth that function properly to maintain our nutritional needs.

Initial consultations are a great place to get a lot of information and plan for your orthodontic future. The AAO recommends that a child first be seen around age 7 or sooner if the general dentist makes a recommendation. October is also a great time to start for families, since it is a popular month for open enrollment for health benefits and health savings accounts for the upcoming year.

Braces and orthodontic appliances for children and adults are very easy to adapt to for all lifestyles. Many people feel they will have to deprive themselves of their favorite foods. We like to encourage patients that it is more about how you eat certain foods. It is important to avoid those very hard, sticky and chewy candies but someone with orthodontic appliances can have things like chocolate candy, Pirates Booty , cookies, ice cream, and brownies. There are still plenty of options for munchies and sweet treats.

In love with your smile? Tell Dr. Talbot & team about it!

Has your experience at Dr. Talbot's office been GREAT?

Would you like to let others know?

Write a review on Google– it’s easy to do! Click below on the the office which you'd like to write a review to be taken to our Google Places Page.

Write a Review of our Roseville Office

Write a Review of our Citrus Heights Office


Do you already have a Google account? Great! Just click write a review to leave your message.

Don’t have an account? Sign up for one–it’s easy and takes only a minute or two! Thank you very much for taking the time to share your experience! We really appreciate it!

September is Self-Improvement Month, from Dr. Talbot

These days, Americans everywhere are putting greater emphasis on health, fitness and self-improvement, and more people are seeking orthodontic treatment to improve their smile. September happens to be Self-Improvement Month, and our team at Dr. Talbot's office know that orthodontic treatment is an investment in self-improvement that will reap benefits for a lifetime. And, recent advances in orthodontia, such as Invisalign and more effective brackets and wires, now make orthodontic treatment more palatable for many interested in obtaining that beautiful smile.

Not only does orthodontic treatment give you that beautiful smile, it can also benefit your dental and general health. If teeth are poorly aligned, removing plaque and tartar by brushing and flossing alone may be difficult. A poor bite may result in fractured or excessively worn tooth surfaces, and the extra stress caused by a poor bite may even result in problems with your jaw joints.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. Richard Talbot and our team would love to have you visit for a complimentary consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

See you soon!

Connect with Dr. Talbot on Facebook!

At the orthodontic practice of Dr. Richard D. Talbot, our goal is to provide outstanding orthodontic care in an uplifting, comforting environment where you and your family are our primary focus.

Even if you only see us for your appointment on a regular basis, did you know that you can now connect with Dr. Talbot & team on Facebook?

We invite you to “like” our page, where we share office news, updates and contest announcements! By Liking our page, you will receive updates from our office automatically in your news feed!

See you on Facebook!

- Dr. Talbot and staff

Breaking bad habits with Dr. Talbot

At Dr. Talbot's office, we know good dental health requires only a few minutes a day. We thought we’d provide some practical advice on how to improve your or your child’s smile between your adjustment visits with Dr. Talbot.

Start by brushing your teeth twice a day. Proper brushing techniques are an essential part of maintaining good oral health during your orthodontic treatment, as well as preventing gum disease. More care and time are needed to adequately brush your teeth when you are wearing braces. Brushing daily helps remove decay-causing plaque from tooth surfaces. Please consult Dr. Talbot if you would like us to review brushing techniques with you or your child. The use of a mechanical toothbrush such as a Sonicare or Oral B can aid in removing plaque around braces. Flossing daily will also prevent plaque to build up between the teeth and prevent stains between your teeth. Research has shown the bacteria of gum disease has been linked to coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes and memory loss. Lastly, we encourage you to throw away old toothbrushes and replace them every 2 or 3 months, or after an illness.

We hope this helps! If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Talbot Orthodontics or ask your general dentist during your next scheduled visit! Or, ask us on Facebook!

Are you wearing your mouthguard? From Dr. Talbot

With fall sports almost here for a lot of our patients at Dr. Talbot’s office, we thought today would be a great time to remind all our young athletes in treatment to take care of both their mouth and appliances while participating in sports – especially contact sports such as soccer and football – this fall.

One of the most important pieces of sports equipment you can wear on the field is a mouthguard. A well-fitted mouthguard, which we’re happy to provide, allows you to breathe and speak more clearly, in addition to protecting your mouth and braces. Only by using a mouth guard can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. The next time you’re in for an adjustment visit with Dr. Talbot, we encourage you to ask us for a mouthguard! In addition, the American Association of Orthodontists has five quick tips for keeping kids safe during sport activities this fall.

• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eyewear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant, even as a spectator

We hope you’re enjoying your summer, and invite you all to share your summer photos on our Facebook page!

The Go-To Mom Talks Invisalign

Our team at Dr. Richard Talbot Orthodontics found a great video that discusses the advantages of Invisalign. In the video, Kimberley Clayton Blaine, "The Go-To Mom," discusses the Invisalign and Invisalign Teen treatment and her personal experience with Invisalign.

To determine if Invisalign is right for you, schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Talbot. Have a great week!

Tell Dr. Talbot about your summer!

The dog days of summer are upon us, and what better time for our team at the office of Dr. Talbot to ask our patients about their summer!

Whether you visited our nation’s capitol, went on a camping trip, visited the state fair or just stayed in town and hung out with friends, we want to know how you’re all spending your summer! Please feel free to share your summer plans and experiences with us below or on our Facebook page as the summer comes to an end soon for a lot of our patients at Talbot Orthodontics!

We look forward to reading all about your adventures! Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Smile Week at Talbot Orthodontics!

It’s National Smile Week, and a GREAT time to remind our patients at Talbot Orthodontics to practice good oral hygiene to keep those teeth shining during your orthodontic treatment!

Here are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Week for many, many years to come:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth and braces.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment
* Visit your dentist regularly (every 6 months or as recommended by your dentist)!

And remember to smile at people you come across throughout the week, whether you know them or not. Smiles are contagious, and are a good thing to give and to get. We hope you’re all having a relaxing summer!

- Dr. Talbot and team

Does Dr. Talbot have your current contact info?

We hope you’re having a great week and a great summer so far! If you are planning on traveling with family this summer or think you might not be able to make it to your scheduled adjustment appointment with Dr. Talbot, please let us know ahead of time so that we may be able to accommodate you, as well as schedule another patient at that appointment time.

Also, we ask that you give us a call and and let us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed! Please call us with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so we may be able to reach you. Thank you!

Dr. Talbot & team want to know: What’s on your mind?

As the summer progresses, our team at Richard Talbot Orthodontics strive to continue writing about important topics related to orthodontics and your treatment at our office.

To help us continue doing that through the course of the summer, Dr. Talbot and team would like to ask you, our readers: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the always-changing and exciting field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog in the summer months? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Dr. Talbot for a while? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook fan page!

Ask Dr. Talbot: When should our child come in for a consultation?

Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Dr. Talbot for a consultation, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That’s right—seven.

Ok, so what’s so great about age seven, you ask? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for Dr. Talbot to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites and open bites can be detected.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age provides one of two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, a healthy prognosis will provide immediate peace of mind.

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and are detrimental to good oral hygiene. So, if your child is nearing his or her seventh birthday, give us a call to schedule an appointment.

Ask Dr. Talbot: What's the deal with retainers?

If you recently completed treatment at either our Citrus Heights or Roseville offices, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Talbot will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, however, always provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed by us is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime.

To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment, please read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth or give us a call!

Happy Independence Day!

Happy Independence Day!

America turns 235 years old today! It’s a day to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence and also a time for every American to pay homage to our soldiers - past and present - who have placed themselves in harm’s way so that we may continue to enjoy our freedom.

Dr. Talbot & team would like to know: what are your plans for the 4th of July? Are you out in the sun? Have you stocked up on fireworks? Are you going to grill up your favorite summer foods? If you have a 4th of July tradition, we would love to hear all about it.

We hope you have a fun and safe holiday! Feel free to upload your 4th of July photos to our Facebook page and let us know how your Independence Day turned out this year.

Share your summer adventures with us!

As the school year comes to an end for a lot of our patients at Dr. Talbot's office, the days get longer and the hot California sun begins to warm up, there’s no better way to beat the heat than jump into a pool or chill under the shade with a cool beverage.

For most of our patients, summer brings a chance to get away from it all and escape everyday life, if only for a week or two. For others, it means a season of relaxation and relief from homework and studying, among other activities.

How about you?

What are your summer plans? Do you have any interesting plans for a summer vacation? Our entire staff (as well as Dr. Parker) would be interested in how you are all spending your summer vacations. If you’re headed to an exotic destination, awesome! If you’re going camping, we’d like to hear about it! Going to a baseball game? Tell us! Even if you’re staying at home and hanging out, let us know!

Please feel free to share your summer plans and adventures on our Facebook page as the summer rolls along!

Dr. Talbot and team proudly offer complimentary consultations!

At the orthodontic practice of Dr. Richard D. Talbot, our goal is to provide outstanding orthodontic care in an uplifting, comforting environment where you and your family are our primary focus. We accomplish this goal by working as a team, giving our patients the respect, support and appreciation they deserve.

One of our commitments is meeting with you to help you explore all or the options available to you or your child. We offer complimentary consultations for those interested in orthodontic treatment. During this time, you'll have time reserved with Dr. Talbot, who will assess your particular needs as well as discuss treatment options available and answer any questions you may have. We place a high value on making sure you have complete information before beginning treatment.

If you have been thinking about obtaining the dazzling smile you’ve always wanted, we invite you to give a call!

Dr. Talbot & team, dispelling the myths about orthodontics

Trust us when we say Dr. Talbot and our staff know there are quite a few myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) floating around these days. But before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists set the record straight (no pun intended) and have provided some information that sheds some light on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here, feel free to give us a call.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Smile! June marks National Smile Month!

Did you know that June is National Smile Month? According to the American Dental Association, a person’s smile outranks their eyes, hair and body as the most important physical feature.

One of the many benefits in correcting your bite through orthodontics is the end result of a beautiful and healthy smile. Clean teeth and braces along with healthy gums definitely helps orthodontic treatment progress faster and creates a better smile. Good dental habits such as daily brushing, flossing and regular visits to your dentist are a must while you are in orthodontic treatment.

Dr. Talbot and his staff encourage you to be nice to your smile this summer. The change of season is a great time to start something new. We recommend that all of our patients use a Sonicare toothbrush. Sonicare has a new “orthodontic kit” that includes 6 replacement brush heads and has a 2 year guarantee. This new “orthodontic kit” is not available in stores but is available for you in our office, please ask us for details.

Our goal is to set you up for a beautiful lifelong smile. A Sonicare habit is a healthy habit. Celebrate National Smile Month and treat your family to a Sonicare.

Dr. Talbot and team, wishing you a relaxing and memorable Memorial Day weekend

Memorial Day weekend is a time Americans remember all those who bravely gave their lives for our country. It’s also the unofficial start of summer, and for many kids, getting out of town for three days with parents after being in school all these months is sure to be sweet, sweet relief.

At the orthodontic office of Dr. Richard Talbot, we know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. After all, it’s unofficially the start of summer and time for a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories with parents or friends. What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend? What will you be doing on your day off from school or work?

Whether you are headed to a barbeque, a camping trip, or just having fun in the California sun this weekend, we’d like to hear all about it! Enjoy the holiday!

Ask Dr. Talbot: When should my child come in for a consultation?

Great question! Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Dr. Talbot for a consultation, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That’s right—seven.

Ok, so what’s so great about age seven, you ask? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for Dr. Talbot to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites and open bites can be detected.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age provides one of two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, a healthy prognosis will provide immediate peace of mind.

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and are detrimental to good oral hygiene. So, if your child is nearing his or her seventh birthday, give us a call to schedule an appointment.

Love your smile? Tell the world ALL ABOUT IT!

Has your experience at Dr. Talbot's office been GREAT?

Would you like to let others know?

Write a review on Google– it’s easy to do! Click below on the the office which you'd like to write a review to be taken to our Google Places Page.

Write a Review of our Roseville Office

Write a Review of our Citrus Heights Office


Do you already have a Google account? Great! Just click write a review to leave your message.

Don’t have an account? Sign up for one–it’s easy and takes only a minute or two! Thank you very much for taking the time to share your experience! We really appreciate it!

May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month!

Did you know the month of May is designated National Physical Fitness and Sports Month? In 1983, President Ronald Reagan encouraged Americans to incorporate more physical activity into their lives, and the reminder is even more significant in this day and age, as kids everywhere are distracted more and more by television, social networking and video games. Kids living an active lifestyle can improve their health, productivity and overall well-being, and best of all? It doesn’t have to take a lot of time!

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has provided these public health guidelines for your convenience. The guidelines call for children and teens to exercise for at least one hour each day of moderate intensity physical activity (such as playing sports or brisk walking) or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity (jogging, dancing and jumping rope).

At Dr. Richard Talbot Orthodontics, we always encourage our patients to stay fit by exercising or participating in sports. However, we want to remind you to always wear a mouth guard or other forms of facial protection when playing sports. To learn more about how often your child should exercise, we recommend you check out this series of helpful articles about kids and exercise, courtesy of our friends at KidsHealth.org.

Braces 101 with Dr. Richard Talbot Orthodontics

If you ever sustain damage to your braces and need to call Dr. Richard Talbot Orthodontics, 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.

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.

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!

Ask Dr. Talbot: "How do you treat patients with special needs?"

At Dr. Talbot’s orthodontic office, the diversity of patient needs requires a flexible yet consistent quality of patient care. Many of our patients would be considered “special needs" and do require appropriate personal care. Regardless of the patient’s limitations, our staff will always give the best of care to everyone without compromise. Sometimes we may take more time with a patient or schedule a number of shorter appointments to get the same result. This is determined by the patient’s specific physical and mental needs and/or limitations. The parents are a critical part in this process as they know their child best and can enlighten us as we begin treatment.

Communication and education is always first and foremost with the patients and parents in our practice. This gives patients a foundation for understanding how the braces do what they do and what the patient’s part is in their treatment. At every visit we explain what we will be doing that day at the beginning of the appointment and then also explain as we go step by step to make sure patients are comfortable with the process. We also talk about the goal of having straight teeth in the future to remind them why we are doing what we do. This part of treating patients may change slightly with a “special needs” individual only in the sense that it takes a little more explaining, some affirmation as they cooperate, and possibly a break or two throughout the process to allow them time to adjust and cope with the appointment.

When preparing for a visit, parents should always put a positive spin on the news that their child will be visiting the orthodontist. We take hi-tech pictures, tour the whole office to let them see what we do here, play the video games and contests just to make their visit as fun as possible. We love to make everyone who visits our office smile!

Please contact our Citrus Heights orthodontic office at (916) 965-8026 or our Roseville Orthodontic office at (916) 773-8338 to schedule your child's complimentary consultation!

Ask Dr. Talbot: “I’m 38 – am I too old for braces?”

Thanks for the question, and of course not!

Recently, our staff read a fascinating statistic: the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! Yes, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another reason for the spike in adult braces is this: people want to look and feel great. In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned and sparkling teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing—wisely, we might add—to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Dr. Talbot can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. Talbot & team would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

Our staff member shares her story with braces!

Check out what a member of our team at Dr. Talbot's office wrote about her experience with braces as a child!

Many times we think back on our childhood and remember fearful times. Usually fear or anxiety about a situation happened because the outcome was unknown. For the most part change takes a little courage to face.

I remember when I was told as a very young girl that I would someday have to get braces. To be honest, I wasn’t sure how to feel. No one in my family had gone through orthodontics. All I knew for sure was that after my braces, maybe I would “look normal” and the kids would not tease me anymore about looking like a “bulldog”. I was at that time very excited for the change but disappointed when the orthodontist said I must wait until I was 14 years old to have braces and make a change.

My orthodontic needs were a bit more than the average braces and retainers. I had an overgrowth of my lower jaw which caused my lower teeth to protrude in front of my upper teeth, which attributed to “the bulldog look”. I waited a few years for my braces to be put on, and wore them with pride flashing that “silver smile”. I knew the change was coming and kept my eye on the goal with brushing and wearing rubber bands. My apprehension about the braces I think was overshadowed by the other stage of my treatment, orthognathic surgery. About halfway through my braces I had a surgery that removed bone in my lower jaw to make the correction in the skeletal relationship of my bite. My result was phenomenal and changed my outlook in life!

I believe that most of the FEAR of braces is due to stories that others have shared and often those sharing the stories either are only focusing on the bad experiences with braces or they have heard stories from others and have not had braces themselves at all. FEAR is “False Evidence Appearing Real”. The best thing that we can do to alleviate our fears is to ask questions, a lot of questions because the more we know the better we feel about anything that we may experience.

Think of all the beautiful smiles that are created with braces. It’s a life long change that is yours to keep. Someone may be afraid of what others will say but the truth is people will always find something to say good or bad, and after you have your braces it will be all about your beautiful smile. Be brave, you deserve it!

How important is your smile? From Dr. Talbot

At Talbot Orthodontics, we are dedicated to using the most advanced orthodontic technology in order to provide comfortable, accurate, customized orthodontic treatments. Dr. Saju Mathew and our talented staff have been creating beautiful smiles in Manhattan and the New York, NY area for years.

The bottom line is, we know having a beautiful smile is important to you. It’s important to us, too.

In fact, in a new poll conducted by Glamour Magazine, people were asked, “If you had to pick between having perfect teeth, eyesight or hair, which would you choose?

Well, 44 percent of folks out there are choosing teeth! In addition, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, or AACD, conducted a study and found that 99.7 percent of those polled believed a smile is an important social asset. Respondents said straightness, whiteness, cleanliness, as well as the sincerity and sparkle of a person’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well.

Please contact our Citrus Heights orthodontic office at (916) 965-8026 or our Roseville Orthodontic office at (916) 773-8338 to schedule your complimentary consultation!

Play it safe this spring, from Dr. Talbot

With spring here, many children, teens and adults in Citrus Heights and Roseville will once again pick up the ball, bring the bat out of seasonal retirement.

So, today, Dr. Talbot and our dedicated team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. According to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, children, high-school athletes and adults will have more than 5,000,000 teeth knocked out in sporting events this year.

Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this spring, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Richard Talbot Orthodontics.

Stay safe and have fun!

Ask Dr. Talbot: Who benefits from braces?

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Talbot will tell you that anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic treatment, whether it’s correcting a problem not treated in your younger years, or catching a problem early.

To ensure the best overall treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, recommends that kids receive an orthodontic consultation as early as age seven. If a problem is evident, taking action early can spare a lot of treatment and expense down the road.

If you never received orthodontic treatment when you were young, don’t worry! You’re never too old for a beautiful smile. Set up an appointment for a complimentary consultation with Dr. Talbot and find out how adult orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

See you soon!

Connect with Dr. Talbot and team on Facebook!

At the orthodontic practice of Dr. Richard D. Talbot, our goal is to provide outstanding orthodontic care in an uplifting, comforting environment where you and your family are our primary focus.

Even if you only see us for your appointment on a regular basis, did you know that you can now connect with Dr. Talbot & team on Facebook?

We invite you to “like” our page, where we share office news, updates and contest announcements! By Liking our page, you will receive updates from our office automatically in your news feed!

See you on Facebook!

- Dr. Talbot and staff

Access to your account any day, any time!

At Talbot Orthodontics, patients have access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week - all through our website. Patients can look up their appointments and all their account details at their convenience, all from the comfort of their own home! Patients can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

If you're a patient of Dr. Talbot's, you too may sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking the "Patient Login" button at the top of our homepage. Please give us a call at our convenient Citrus Heights and Roseville locations if you have any questions about getting started!

Presidents' Day Fun Facts!

Tomorrow marks Presidents’ Day, a day known for celebrating both George Washington’s and Abraham Lincoln’s combined February birthdays. Presidents’ Day was created in 1971, when President Richard Nixon combined the birthdays of two of our most well-known presidents into one single federal holiday. Presidents’ Day also marks a hard-earned day off from work and school for a lot of our patients at the office of Dr. Talbot.

Here are a few fun facts about our nation’s presidents we thought you might enjoy:

*Abraham Lincoln, our 16th president, supposedly carried letters, bills and notes in his tall stovepipe hat.

*George Washington is the first president to be featured on a postage stamp.

*Ronald Reagan, our 40th president, broke the so-called “20-year curse,” in which every president elected in a year ending in 0 died in office.

*Harry S. Truman was the first president to have his Inauguration and speeches televised.

*Fourteen presidents served as vice presidents: J. Adams, Jefferson, Van Buren, Tyler, Fillmore, A. Johnson, Arthur, T. Roosevelt, Coolidge, Truman, Nixon, L. Johnson, Ford, and George H.W. Bush.

*Abraham Lincoln was the tallest of the U.S. presidents measuring 6’ 4” tall.

*Virginia is the birthplace of more United States presidents than any other state, followed by Ohio and Massachusetts.

Complimentary Consultations at Dr. Talbot's office

At the orthodontic practice of Dr. Richard D. Talbot, our goal is to provide outstanding orthodontic care in an uplifting, comforting environment where you and your family are our primary focus. We accomplish this goal by working as a team, giving our patients the respect, support and appreciation they deserve.

One of our commitments is meeting with you to help you explore all or the options available to you or your child. We offer complimentary consultations for those interested in orthodontic treatment. During this time, you'll have time reserved with Dr. Talbot, who will assess your particular needs as well as discuss treatment options available and answer any questions you may have. We place a high value on making sure you have complete information before beginning treatment.

If you have been thinking about obtaining the dazzling smile you’ve always wanted, we invite you to give a call.

See you soon and Happy Valentine's Day!

Dr. Talbot & team, supporting National Children's Dental Health Month

Each February for the past 61 years, the American Dental Association (ADA) sponsors National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. Developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

For kids wearing braces, brushing and flossing can become more difficult, requiring extra time and vigilance to remove food particles that accumulate on and between the teeth and in braces. If the health of your teeth is ignored during treatment with braces, the results can be significantly compromised. Dr. Talbot is available and happy to explain why effective brushing and flossing is one of the most critical actions needed from patients during orthodontic treatment. Have you visited our Citrus Heights or Roseville office lately? Give us a call and schedule an appointment!

We also invite you to connect with us on Facebook!

Sleep disorders and treatment options in Citrus Heights and Roseville

Are you drowsy during the day with no explanation? Do you snore loudly, or wake up breathless in the middle of the night? If so, you may be one of more than 50- to 70 million Americans affected by some form of sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea is considered a serious medical problem that if left untreated can lead to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart failure and stroke. It can also take a toll on your overall energy level, as sleep apnea causes an ongoing state of fatigue.

If you suspect that you or someone in your family is suffering from sleep apnea, please give us a call

What puts you at ease at Talbot Orthodontics?

We get it. Not everyone enjoys visiting their orthodontist. But at Dr. Talbot's office, we want you, our patients, to know that the doctors and the entire team strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about Talbot Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment or our friendly staff? Dr. Talbot himself?

You may let us know by posting here or by letting us know on our Facebook page! We'd like to hear from you!

Ask Dr. Talbot: When should I call your office?

Thanks for the question! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Dr. Richard Talbot and team. Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in at one of offices in Citrus Heights or Roseville:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, give us a call as soon as possible! Enjoy the rest of the week!

All the cool kids do it!

Braces today are “cool” and—many would say—even “fun.” These were among the findings of a 2010 nationwide survey of moms whose children are going through or have had orthodontic treatment. New technologies such as SureSmile and the Damon System, advanced computer software, color options, and even popular celebrities—Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Danny Glover, Serena Williams—sporting stylish braces are making orthodontic treatment more comfortable, fashionable and cool for today’s teens.

The study, conducted on behalf of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists for February’s National Children’s Dental Health Month, found 86 percent of moms reporting that braces are cooler today than when they were children. Sixty-nine percent of moms also said wearing braces makes their children feel cool, and 81 percent reported their children’s experience with orthodontic treatment as either positive or extremely positive.

Different color options and the ability to change colors, for example, provide exciting ways for young patients to customize appearances. That enthusiasm helps them to feel good about their orthodontic treatment with Dr. Talbot, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

Has your child or teen visited our Roseville or Citrus Heights offices for a consultation? If not, please give us a call and let us help your child begin the journey to a gorgeous smile!

Connect with the Braces Brigade!

At Dr. Talbot's office, our patients want to get as much out of their treatment as possible. That includes asking a lot of questions and making sure they take care of both their appliances and oral health.

Would you like to learn more about what to expect during orthodontic treatment, from someone with firsthand experience? Well, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recently developed the Braces Brigade blog, where past, present, as well as future orthodontic patients from coast to coast document their (or their child’s) orthodontic journeys. The blog will serve as a source of guidance for others as the patients undergo orthodontic care.

Our team encourages you to visit the Braces Brigade blog to read these great and informative blogs—who knows, maybe you’ll learn a thing or two! As always, don’t hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions about the Braces Brigade or your own orthodontic treatment!