Shirck Orthodontics Blog

Did you know that 1.3 MILLION Americans are currently living or are in remission from leukemia, lymphoma, or myeloma? September is Blood Cancer Awareness Month, a time that’s intended to bring attention to the countless patients and families dealing with these diseases so that everyone can lend a helping hand. At Shirck Orthodontics, we’re big supporters of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, the world’s largest volunteer, non-profit health agency dedicated to the study and treatment of blood cancers. This cause hits really close to home because our own Operations Manager, Zhenia, was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2005, and the LLS provided a ton of support during her treatment. To give back, we sponsor their big local fundraiser every year in which two lucky high school students have a chance to directly help those in need. To learn more about this opportunity, read on below! (more…)

If your child has crooked teeth or a misaligned bite, then orthodontics can offer a ton of benefits beyond simply improving the appearance of their smile. Not only can straightening their teeth boost their confidence, but it can also improve their ability to eat, speak, and even breathe comfortably. There is just one stumbling block many people worry about: finances. Orthodontics, whether you’re talking about traditional braces or Invisalign, can be a sizeable investment for any family, especially for those who don’t have dental insurance. Fortunately, here at Shirck Orthodontics, we strive to make top-quality orthodontic care affordable for every single family, which is why we’re happy to offer a variety of flexible payment plans. Not only that, but many feature 0% interest! To learn more, keep reading. (more…)

After feeling self-conscious about your crooked teeth for years, you’ve finally decided to do something about them. Thankfully, you’re no longer limited to just getting braces to straighten your teeth. These days, many adults choose Invisalign because it’s discreet, comfortable, and extremely effective. Many assume they’ll just be wearing clear plastic trays for the next few months, but then they’re surprised when their orthodontist says that they need to have small attachments placed onto their teeth. So, this begs the question, “Why are attachments needed sometimes for Invisalign?” Today, you’ll find the answer to this question and more…just keep reading! (more…)

If your child has noticeably crooked teeth or a misaligned bite, you, like most parents, probably assume they just need to get braces. While this approach is used with many children, sometimes, an orthodontist will utilize a more sophisticated method involving what is called Phase 1 & Phase 2 Orthodontics. What is the difference between the phases? Will your child need just one or both? When should the treatment begin? Below, you’ll find the answers to these questions and more in today’s blog. (more…)

Many parents are very surprised when their child’s orthodontist says that they need to have a tooth extracted before treatment can begin. The common question is simply, “Why?” Most people assume that braces are just placed onto the teeth as is, but this isn’t the case for many patients. If you have a child in need of braces, will an extraction be necessary beforehand? What will this accomplish? Will this make the treatment last significantly longer? These are all great questions, and as you read on, you’ll find the answers to them and many more. (more…)

Once a parent learns that their child is going to need braces, they usually want to start the process as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, you can’t simply go to an orthodontist’s office and say “Braces, please!” Often, you have to schedule a consultation first, then attend another appointment that could be weeks later to have the braces actually put on. At Shirck Orthodontics, however, we’re ready to save you the time and stress by offering same day braces in Powell. You can bring your child to come see us, we’ll perform a brief exam, go over their treatment options, and then we can apply their braces that same appointment so they can get their new smile a soon as possible. How do same day braces actually work? You just have to take the following steps… (more…)

The team at Shirck Orthodontics is made up of many different kinds of people, but we all share one thing in common: a passion for service. That’s why we all decided to get into the dental field! On a daily basis, it allows us to improve people’s lives and literally put a smile on their faces. Of course, we believe that our efforts shouldn’t just be limited to our office, which is why your orthodontist in Powell and our team also provide support for several local organizations. Read on below to learn how we’re actively working to make Powell a better place for everyone! (more…)

On this website, we end up talking about ourselves quite a bit…like a lot. So today, we decided to change things up and let someone who doesn’t work for our practice do the talking. Rajan found himself in the same position as a lot of other fathers—his daughter’s dentist said she needed braces. Fortunately for him, he’d known Dr. Jeff for over 10 years at this point, and Rajan knew he was the orthodontist in Powell he trusted to take great care of his daughter. In the video, you can watch his full testimonial, and below, we’re going to highlight exactly why Rajan thought of Shirck Orthodontics when his daughter’s smile needed help using his own words. (more…)

young football player

Every parent feels two emotions at the exact same time whenever they watch their child play sports. One, they are just so happy and excited to see their child being active and working together with their peers, and two, they’re always a little concerned for their safety. That’s just how parents work! This second feeling is especially heightened if a child has braces. Should a child undergoing orthodontic treatment even be playing sports? Is it worth the risk of an accident? Fortunately, according to an orthodontist in Powell, your little athlete can keep playing and make sure their braces stay safe just by following these simple tips… (more…)

When your child decided to do band in school, you were overjoyed. They’re going to learn a skill they’ll be able to use for the rest of their life, plus they’ll get to meet and hang out with a large group of their peers who share the same interests. But then, your child’s dentist threw a wrench into the works: they’ve recommended your little Mozart get braces. This obviously doesn’t matter if your child plays drums, percussion, or guitar/bass, but what about a wind instrument? Will braces force them to put their instrument down until treatment is done? Will they make playing so uncomfortable that your child will want to quit? Fortunately, according to an orthodontist in Powell, band kids and band parents alike have nothing to be concerned about. (more…)