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The month of May has the unique distinction of being National Teen Self-Esteem Month. What does that mean?

National Teen Self-Esteem Month was created to raise public awareness about how low self-esteem can negatively affect teens. Especially during May, parents and guardians of teens are asked to be positive role models. If teens can receive positive re-enforcement and their negative images of themselves are improved, then their self-esteem has a better chance of developing in a positive direction.

Dr. Joel Martinez, Dr. Christopher Martinez, and Dr. Vanessa Martinez and our team at Joel Martinez, DDS know there are a lot of young adults living in America are struggling with depressed self-images. These can affect all aspects of their everyday lives. Some evidence shows learning abilities and increased risk of eating disorders can originate in a teen’s low self-esteem. It can also lead to abuse of drugs and thoughts of suicide. Dating violence among high school teens is now more common than previously thought.

What can be done to help?

So what can adults do specifically to help their teens? The National Teen Self-Esteem Facebook page offers a variety of suggestions and positive messages for teens and parents alike. Of all the pages your teen “likes” on social media, perhaps he or she should include this page. Some of the tips offered include:

1. When you stumble, get right back up.
2. Don’t compare yourself to anyone else.
3. Do things that make you feel good about yourself.
4. Open yourself up to compliments.

Another great way to build self-esteem is to have a beautiful, health smile, and that’s where our team at Joel Martinez, DDS come in! Whether your teen is due for a simple cleaning, could benefit from cosmetic treatments, or needs orthodontic care, we can help bestow a confident smile he or she will be proud to show off.

Overall, a more positive approach to life will help us all. It is a very important trait to instill in our teens. As parents, a big part of our responsibility is to show our children there is always another day and bumps in the road are just that. We need to help guide their self-esteem and reinforce their positive traits. We can help them recognize the value of who they are.

We should make our children’s self esteem a priority — not just in May, but throughout the year. Let National Teen Self-Esteem Month serve as the impetus for new levels of self-esteem.

For more information on this topic, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Joel Martinez, Dr. Christopher Martinez, and Dr. Vanessa Martinez, please give us a call at our convenient McAllen office!

If you’re brushing your teeth twice a day during your orthodontic treatment, Dr. Joel Martinez, Dr. Christopher Martinez, and Dr. Vanessa Martinez and our team think that’s wonderful! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist every six months, or as recommended, in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing. (And visiting Joel Martinez, DDS for regular adjustments, of course.)

Dental checkups are crucial for maintaining good oral health. Your general dentist can check for problems that might not be seen or felt, detect cavities and early signs of tooth decay, as well as catch and treat oral health problems early. During an oral exam, your dentist can also 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 adjustment visit and we will provide a few great references in the McAllen area!

Are you an adult who is considering getting braces? Perhaps you’ve had them before, but over the years that dental work has been reversed. Or maybe you’ve never had any orthodontic work done, but are considering braces for the first time. In either case, Joel Martinez, DDS can help you enjoy straighter teeth, an improved bite, and a more beautiful smile. If you are considering getting braces, here is what you need to know about adult orthodontic work from Dr. Joel Martinez, Dr. Christopher Martinez, and Dr. Vanessa Martinez.

Can braces work for adults?

Absolutely! Braces work for just about anyone. However, there are several different types of braces, and not all of them may work for you. Different types of orthodontic treatments include:

• Ceramic braces
• Metal braces
• Self-ligating brackets
• Lingual brackets (braces behind the teeth)
• Invisible braces
• Rubber bands for bite correction
• Headgear and other appliances

By scheduling a consultation, we can determine which treatment or combination of treatments would be best for your specific needs.

How do I get started?

Getting braces can be a little bit daunting. At first glance, the process may appear expensive and time-consuming. However, if you take it step by step, getting braces can be a simple and relatively pain-free experience. Here are the first steps you need to take to get on the road to straight teeth:

First, you need information. If you are nervous about getting braces, or are having trouble getting started, learning more about the process can help ease your mind. Here are a few sample questions to ask:

• What kind of braces do you recommend for my teeth?
• How long will the treatment take?
• How often will I need to come in for adjustments?
• What is the total cost of the treatment? Do you accept insurance? Will you require the full amount up front, or do you have payment plans?

Asking these types of questions will help you understand what to expect during the entire process, which can aid your decision on the proper course of action.

The next step is to complete any prerequisite treatment. During your first meeting with Dr. Joel Martinez, Dr. Christopher Martinez, and Dr. Vanessa Martinez, we’ll need to take some X-rays and molds of your teeth, and then help you determine an appropriate treatment plan. Recommendations may include some preliminary dental work before you get your braces, which can be an important step in making sure your orthodontic treatments are effective.

Once you have completed these steps, you are ready to get started! After you’ve chosen a treatment plan and undergone any necessary prerequisite dental work, you’ll be able to get your braces. Just like that, you’re on your way to a better smile! If you’d like to get started right away, call our McAllen location today!

We hope everyone is enjoying April and all that spring has to offer. Our staff is filled with crafty hands and decorative talent so we love any chance to spruce up the office for a new season.

If you’re like us, you might still be nibbling on a few Easter candies here and there. Visiting any of our offices will easily reveal what our favorite treat is: chocolate kisses! After each visit, our patients can indulge in a complimentary kiss at check out. We’re only human and who doesn’t love chocolate, right? After your treat, we encourage you to visit the tooth brushing station to turn that sweet tooth into a clean tooth. Eliminating the desire for sweets is impossible, so we believe good oral hygiene and indulging in moderation goes a long way when it comes to healthy teeth.

Did you know that April 22nd is Earth Day? Our world contains a limited amount of resources so it’s up to us to show compassion for our planet and the generations to come! We like to live by the wise words of Dr. Joel’s mom: “wherever you are visiting, leave that place better than the way you found it.” To stay environmentally friendly at the office, we recycle all shredded paper materials and disposable toothbrushes. A simple way to conserve resources at home is by limiting the use of water while brushing your teeth. It’s so easy to leave the faucet running while you’re hard at work, but this wastes a lot of water. Instead, fill a cup halfway and dip your toothbrush into it to wet it. The rest can be used as a rinse when you’re done.

Speaking of the planet, we love any chance to get outside and enjoy the beauty this world has to offer. Spending a nice spring day with our family and friends is so rewarding. Not only do we get to spend time with  people we care about, we get an opportunity to get a tan, too! We love trying out new activities like paddle boarding, playing a game of tag or even just enjoying a new book outside. The long-lasting memories and bonds we create with our loved ones are something we can always cherish.

We hope you enjoy the rest of April and get outside to enjoy that sunshine! We can’t wait to see you in the office soon.