BOOOO! Halloween season at Whitlock Ortho!

Are you ready to Trick or Treat this Halloween season?? Well, come by and see us at Whitlock Ortho - we have some yummy treats and awesome Halloween decorations at our convenient Springdale office, and would love to see you! Happy Halloween.

Whitlock Orthodontics, supporting National Nutrition Month

March has arrived, and that can only mean one thing: it’s National Nutrition Month. Every March, Dr. Boyd Whitlock and thousands of dentists and orthodontists celebrate this occasion, and this year is no different. This March, Dr. Whitlock and our team want you to think diabetes, obesity and periodontal disease, and how healthful eating and physical activity may improve periodontal health.

At Whitlock Orthodontics, we know small changes really can make a big difference, and the American Dietetic Association (ADA) has some advice on ways to start improving your diet this March:

• Focus on fruits and vegetables: Add a serving each day to one meal and increase it every few weeks. Adding more of these foods into your diet is important whether you buy frozen, fresh or organic.

• Think fresh, think local: From farmer’s markets to community-supported agriculture, you have many options to find new, fresh foods in Springdale and Fayetteville.

• Make every calorie count: When you are choosing between options, focus instead on the one with more of the vitamins and nutrients that you need. Sometimes, foods with fewer calories aren’t always the healthiest options.

• It’s tempting, but…: If you have a sweet tooth, have fruit and yogurt for dessert. If you or your little one craves a snack in the afternoon, enjoy some trail mix or nuts.

• Expand your horizons: Try a fish you’ve never eaten before or find a new vegetable recipe. By testing yourself, you might find new healthy favorites to add to your regular grocery list.

If you have additional questions about periodontal disease or keeping yourself and your mouth healthy, please give us a call!

This March, what are you up to? From Dr. W and Whitlock Orthodontics

It’s almost springtime. The daffodils and buttercups are on their way, fresh Rhubarb is ready to be picked, the birds are chirping, the sun is warming up (almost) and the smell of freshly-cut grass is wafting from baseball fields nearby. Our team at Whitlock Orthodontics thought this would be a good time to ask: What are your plans for March?

Are you ready for spring? Are you participating in school sports this year? Do you have exciting plans? We’d love to know them all! You may share your stories or plans with our team here, on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Have a great weekend!

At Whitlock Orthodontics, access to your account any day, any time!

Access to your account, any day, any time. Sounds perfect and convenient, doesn’t it?

Patients at Whitlock Orthodontics enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—on our web site. You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages! Just see what some of our patients are saying about this innovative service:

"Already, I have quickly checked our payment & account info...as well as schedule for appointment reminders to be sent to our cell phones." ~ Judy E.

"I like doing as much as I can online. Ortho Sesame is much better than the previous website. Ortho Sesame is very easy to navigate and aesthetically pleasing as well." ~ Mary K.

"I reviewed pictures and verified next appointments. I signed up for text alerts." ~ Robert A.

"Very detailed, very helpful." ~ Andrea P.

You, too, may sign up for this convenient service on our web site by clicking the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please call the team at Whitlock Orthodontics if you have any questions!

Talking sports and orthodontics with Dr. Whitlock

The spring months bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of damaging your precious mouth and pearly whites. If you play sports, it's important that you consult Dr. Whitlock for special precautions. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing contact sports such as basketball, football and soccer. In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances damaged, please schedule an appointment with Whitlock Orthodontics.

Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Whitlock Orthodontics.

A few helpful webisodes about orthodontics, from Whitlock Orthodontics

Dr. Whitlock and his team at Whitlock Orthodontics would like to point you to a few interesting webisodes about orthodontics, located on the YouTube page of the American Association of Orthodontics, or AAO.

There, they tend to post some very pertinent videos about orthodontic treatment, as well as state-of-the-art technology in orthodontia. These include "Orthodontic Treatment Basics," "Common Bite Problems Seen in Children" and "Does My Child Need Braces?"

We think you may find these webisodes interesting, as well as enlightening. If you have any questions about the videos, or your treatment here at Whitlock Orthodontics, please give us a call.

Happy New Year from everyone at Whitlock Orthodontics!

Season’s Greetings from Whitlock Orthodontics

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as Dr. Whitlock and his team at Whitlock Orthodontics 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 2010? 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!

--The team at Whitlock Orthodontics

Kids Club at Whitlock Orthodontics!

Did you know Dr. Whitlock and his team have a “Super Cool Kids Club”? It’s designed especially for our younger patients that are not quite ready to get started with braces.

Here's how it works: The kids in the club receive an official kids club membership card. If you earn enough punches on the card, you get a chance to spin our brand new prize wheel! You are also automatically entered into our grand prize drawing at each appointment. Our next drawing will be held in January. Stay tuned for details!

Patient reviews for Whitlock Orthodontics

Dr. Whitlock and his team love getting patient reviews. And lately, Whitlock Orthodontics, serving Springdale, Fayetteville and surrounding communities, has been getting some pretty great patient testimonials! We thought we'd share some with you today! Happy Thursday!

"The friendliness of Dr. Whitlock and the staff. My daughter came in a bit apprehensive, but is quickly put to ease by the empathy and care of the entire office." ~ Sheri D.

"Multiple things....his current orthodontic protocols & resulting beautiful smiles....his knowledge & willingness to discuss topics...his respectfulness toward his patients & parents. While his practice seems very aggressive in orthodontic work & community involvement, as well as very interested in individual patients...he seems so patient & calm in the office. Most appreciated !!" ~ Judy E.

"The fact that all the ladies are so nice and easy to get along with. And the cappuccino machine in the waiting room is a definite plus. Also, I've noticed that i will be getting my braces off much sooner than most of my classmates." ~ Teresa R.

"Dr. Whitlock has been the only orthodontist who has really taken the time to work with me and show me what is involved with the treatment on getting my teeth fixed." ~ Carrie H.

"Dr. Whitlock is extremely professional. He sits down and gets the job done all the while exhibiting a wonderful chair side manner." ~ Mary K.

SureSmile goes on ABC’s “The Doctors” -- Dr. Whitlock

SureSmile goes on ABC’s “The Doctors”


On a recent episode of ABC's "The Doctors," Dr. Thomas Lee of Oxnard, California, was interviewed in front of a live audience and demonstrated SureSmile technology and discussed treatment benefits for orthodontists and their patients. Dr. Lee's 14-year-old patient, Nina, who had just completed SureSmile treatment, was part of the segment as well, and spoke positively about her SureSmile treatment experience.

SureSmile is a software program that facilitates the precise positioning of a patient’s teeth placement for orthodontic braces. Did you know Dr. Whitlock is a certified SureSmile provider? Give us a call and ask for more information!

Helping you prepare for cold and flu season, from Whitlock Orthodontics

Traditionally cold and flu season starts in Fall, but this year it seems to have started much earlier and with the number of patients canceling appointments because of flu and H1N1 symptoms Whitlock Orthodontics is taking additional precautions to help prevent the spread of germs.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, we give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our office at all times as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces.

For the protection of other patients and our staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

Maintaining and protecting oral hygiene equipment is also important this flu season. To protect your toothbrush from bacteria follow these steps:

• Wash your hands before and after brushing
• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen
• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster
• Replace toothbrush after every cold or flu or every 3-4 months when bristles appear worn

Hope this helps and give us a call if you have any questions! Stay healthy and Happy Thanksgiving!

Hollywood stars struggle with crooked teeth as well! Consider Katherine Heigl...

We at Whitlock Orthodontics know everyone struggles with little imperfections. Making crooked teeth straight, stained teeth sparkling white and chipped teeth smooth is part of what I do as an orthodontist. The sense of renewed self confidence that comes to my patients after having some sort of reconstructive work is what makes my job worthwhile.

Consider Katherine Heigl, award-winning actress, and considered by many the Grace Kelly of our day. She describes struggling with crooked teeth her whole life until finally there came a point when she said "enough is enough!" She decided to do something to straighten her teeth.

I think you will enjoy this clip. Please feel free to leave comments, tell me what you think! Have you ever struggled with this same problem? Have you felt the relief of smiling to reveal a straight, bright smile after hiding crooked ones for so long? Contact us so we can hear your story, or help you create a new beautiful smile and a story of your own!

How is Whitlock Orthodontics doing? We'd love to know!

Whether you have visited Whitlock Orthodontics for a week or for years, we’d love to hear your feedback about your experience with Dr. Whitlock! Now with the Internet, it’s even easier to 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!

You may write a review here or here.

Thank you and enjoy the rest of your week!

--The staff at Whitlock Orthodontics

Dr. Whitlock wants to know: What are you up to in November?

October has come and gone, and—believe it or not—we’re almost in full holiday mode! But before we forget about the spooky month that just wrapped up, Whitlock Orthodontics would like to know how you celebrated Halloween! What did you wear? How much candy did you get? Did you have fun?

If you have any photos or videos that you would like to share with us, please send them our way! We hope you all had a happy and safe Halloween! Also, what are you up to this month? Anything exciting happening in your life? If so, we’d love to hear all about it.

--Dr. Whitlock and team

Answering all your burning questions about mouthwash

While mouthwash is not an alternative to regular brushing and flossing, it can help keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. There are several different types of mouthwashes available, and all of them will help do different things for your smile. The most common types of mouthwashes are:

• Fluoride - fluoride is the most used type of mouthwash available, and is used to strengthen the enamel of the teeth while preventing cavities and tooth decay.

• Antiseptic - an antiseptic mouthwash is used to kill bacteria and germs in the mouth. Most commonly used before and after a dental surgery, antiseptic mouthwashes can also help to fight gum disease, and halitosis (chronic bad breath). Antiseptic mouthwashes can affect your sense of taste and may stain the teeth, so it is recommended that you consult your dentist before using this type of mouthwash.

• Combination - a combination mouthwash is designed to help prevent tooth decay, freshen the breath, and maintain the health of your smile.

• Prescription - for patients with gum disease, or any signs of gum disease, you may need a prescription mouthwash. Prescription mouthwashes, like Peridex of PerioGard, are used to treat gingivitis, and other forms of decay.

There are also many different brands of mouthwash. Some common brands include:

• Scope
• Listerine
• Act
• Crest
• Tom’s of Maine (all-natural)
• Plax (anti-plaque rinse)
• Breath Rx
• Orajel
• Targon (special mouthwash made for smokers)
• Rembrandt (whitening mouthwash)


If you are curious about which kind of mouthwash would work best for you, be sure to ask Dr. Whitlock. If you have a favorite mouthwash, let us know by posting a comment for others to read!

SureSmile Technology at Whitlock Orthodontics

We've blogged about SureSmile before, but today, we wanted to show it to you in action! Check out exactly how exciting it is when the expertise and experience of our Fayetteville and Springdale orthodontist, meets the precision of a robot:



--Whitlock Orthodontics

Oral Piercing: Is It Worth It?

Piercing, like tattooing, is one of today’s popular forms of “body art” and self-expression. If you’re thinking about getting a piercing – or if you already have one or more – there are some health risks you should know about.

Your mouth contains millions of bacteria, and infection is a common complication of oral piercing. Just touching your mouth jewelry (tongue barbells and lip and cheek labrettes) can lead to infection. Many people who have piercings tend to regularly touch them – which is a perfect opportunity for bacteria from hands to enter piercing sites. Also, food particles that collect around piercing sites can lead to infection.

Pain and swelling are other possible side effects of piercing. Your tongue – the most popular piercing site in the mouth – could swell large enough to close off your airway! Piercing also can cause uncontrollable bleeding or nerve damage. Damage to the tongue’s blood vessels can cause serious blood loss.

The hoop, ring, stud, and barbell-shaped jewelry can hinder your ability to talk and eat. Some people also develop a habit of biting or playing with their piercings – which can lead to cracked, scratched teeth; gum damage and recession; and sensitive teeth. There may also be a need for restorations, such as crowns or fillings, and additional dental treatment due to piercings.

Consider the potential pitfalls of piercing carefully before getting one. Keep in mind that it will be an added responsibility to your life, and will need regular upkeep. Make sure that you’re committed to the task of taking care of it for the full healing period and beyond.

If you have an oral piercing, pay special attention to it. Clean the piercing with antiseptic mouthwash after eating, and brush the jewelry when you brush your teeth. Of course, let us know if you have any questions.

--Whitlock Orthodontics

Whitlock Orthodontics New Ride

If you have been on our Facebook page recently, you may have noticed a few pictures we uploaded recently. Your new ride is here from Whitlock Orthodontics! If you are a patient at one of the local schools, we can picked you up in our sweet new ride for your orthodontic appointment! Our new Whitlock Orthodontics Hummer has a custom graphic wrap, televisions and videogames. To sign up for this program, give our office a call at 479-751-1103. In the meantime, head over to our facebook page for all the exciting pictures and join the conversation!

Whitlock Orthodontics Around the Web

If you've ever visited us at Whitlock Orthodontics, you already know that Dr. Whitlock and the rest of the team love connecting with their patients. We love the ability to communicate with all of you online too! Besides our web site and our blog, Whitlock Orthodontics is on many other networks too!

* Share a video with us, or watch one of ours on YouTube

* Become a "fan" of Whitlock Orthodontics on Facebook

* View and comment on our photos on MySpace

See you around the web!

--Whitlock Orthodontics

Summer Fun with Whitlock Orthodontics!

Its summer here at Whitlock Orthodontics, a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbeque, a camping trip, or just having fun in the sun, we want to hear about it! Leave a comment on our blog and tell us about your summer!

Happy Travels,

-From Whitlock Orthodontics