Dr. Mike Hilgers, breaking down the myths about orthodontics

Trust us: Dr. Mike Hilgers is well-aware that there are a lot of myths flying around the topic of orthodontics these days. But, before you buy into those myths, he thinks you should get the facts first! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of orthodontics, and we encourage you to check them out before settling for rumors about braces!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment at Hilgers Orthodontics, feel free to give us a call at our convenient Goodyear office.

Our entire team wish you a safe and memorable Memorial Day weekend!

Dr. Mike Hilgers discusses the importance of fluoride

There are so many ways you are already protecting your teeth throughout your treatment at Hilgers Orthodontics. You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and protect your appliances from being damaged. But did you know there's another way to keep your teeth sparkling and healthy during your treatment?

Fluoride.

Yes, the mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay, can help keep your teeth strong! Fluoride comes in two varieties: topical and systemic. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth. Topical fluoride includes toothpastes and general mouth rinses. Systemic fluorides, however, are swallowed just like a dietary supplement. Orthodontists just like Dr. Mike Hilgers use in-office fluoride treatments to help protect the oral health of adults and children undergoing orthodontic procedures.

Fluoride used in Dr. Hilgers' office is often times stronger than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask Dr. Hilgers or team how to purchase professional strength fluoride). A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. Dr. Hilgers may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses for in-home treatment.

When choosing your own fluoride product, be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of approval. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and have met the criteria of the ADA for safety and effectiveness.

Dr. Mike and Hilgers Orthodontics, supporting Children's Book Week

You might not be aware that it's Children's Book Week! Since 1919, Children's Book Week has been celebrated nationally in schools, libraries and bookstores to encourage a love of books.

Are you looking for a great book to read this summer while on vacation? Then check out the Children’s Book Council’s website, which offers some great reads!

In fact, here are five kids’ books that you'll fall in love with as well. The great thing? Our local library in Goodyear probably has a copy! Grab a book and enjoy this weekend, and tell us all about it when you come in for your next appointment with Dr. Mike!

Write a Review of Hilgers Orthodontics!

Whether you have visited Hilgers Orthodontics for a week or for years, we'd love to hear your feedback about your experience with Dr. Mike and team. Because Hilgers Orthodontics has plenty of online listings where you write your thoughts and share them with the world, we'd want to encourage you to write a review of us. It only takes a moment of your time!

You may write a review here, and we hope to post some soon!

Thank you and have a great weekend. Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there!

"Hey, Dr. Mike! What, exactly, is malocclusion?"

Malocclusion, or what Dr. Mike Hilgers and our staff call “bad bite,” is the improper alignment of teeth and/or jaws. You see, when your teeth and jaws are not properly aligned, it may impact your bite, the ability to properly care for your teeth, your gum tissue health and, yes folks, even your appearance.

Dr. Mike will tell you that untreated malocclusion can - and does - lead undesirable mouth problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, or even chipped and cracked teeth. The most common solution for malocclusion, of course, is orthodontic treatment. The actual course of treatment, including the length of time you will require braces, will be determined by the severity of your malocclusion. The goal of your treatment at Hilgers Orthodontics is to move your teeth into the proper position and correct any misalignment in the jaw.

You can be sure that Dr. Mike uses the most advanced technology in the field in order to ensure that you receive the best possible results from your treatment. If you have any questions about malocclusion, please give us a call and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have! Dr. Hilgers is Goodyear's trusted, experienced orthodontist, who genuinely cares about his patients!

Happy May Day!