DentaKit.com Products & Tips

DentaKit.com's BIG annual holiday sale! Now through Nov. 28th

2011-11-19T12:34:00.000-08:00

Dentakit.com is having a BIG holiday sale! Black Friday and Cyber Monday are coming, and that means that it's time to save money on the dental products you or your loved ones need in the coming year!

SAVE 15% on an order of $30 or more* with Coupon Code:
Save15Percent

- OR -

SAVE 20% on an order of $100 or more* with Coupon Code:
Save20Percent

These coupon codes are valid NOW through Monday Nov. 28th. Only one coupon code can be used per order. Enter the coupon code on the Shipping Page when you check out. (*Your merchandise total, before shipping, must be this amount or more.)

The more you buy, the more you save! It's a great time to stock up, and take advantage of your flexible spending benefits before the year ends!

SHOP NOW on your computer or our new mobile site!

Shock Doctor Sports Mouthguards for Braces

2011-10-26T14:14:00.000-07:00

We've been wanting to add a braces sports mouthguard to our product lineup for a long time. The over-the-counter mouthguards we examined just fell short of our expectations: they were all rather uncomfortable in the mouth and frankly didn't offer the best protection. Until now. Shock Doctor makes an excellent sports mouthguard for braces, and we're happy to say that we now carry this product.

There are two types of Shock Doctor Braces Mouthguards:

Single, which protects the upper teeth only

Double, which protects both the upper and lower teeth (includes holes for air flow and easier breathing).

Shock Doctor Braces Mouthguards are made of medical-grade latex-free silicone. They are extremely comfortable in the mouth and immediately conform to the teeth and the brackets. Every time you wear your mouthguard, it conforms to your teeth that day. Then when you remove it, the silicone "bounces back" to original shape. So the next time you wear it, it will conform to your teeth perfectly again, even if you've had an adjustment or your teeth or brackets have moved. Because of this, it will not interfere with your orthodontic treatment, and you get a "custom fit" each time you wear it!

These Shock Doctor Braces Mouthguards are available in both adult and youth (ages 11 and younger) models, and come in two colors: blue or pink.

Keep your mouthguard clean with a specially designed Shock Doctor Mouthguard case, which includes a metal carabiner hook to attach your mouthguard case to your sports duffle bag or backpack.

DentaKit.com strongly suggests that you ask your team coach, and dentist or orthodontist which type of mouthguard is right for your sport. This product meets NFHS wrestling regulations.

Now get out there and tear up the field, or the court, or the mat...whatever....go team!

DentaKit has Gone Mobile!

2011-10-05T00:43:00.000-07:00

DentaKit.com has launched a new mobile site. Now if you visit us from your smartphone or tablet, it will be easier than ever to browse products or gather information. Our mobile site is simple and easy to navigate. You can shop there just as easily as on our regular website. All of our product are there, in addition to our new informational articles.

Checkout is totally secure, with TrustWave security and buyer protection powered by Unbound Commerce. You can use our coupon codes to save money, too. The next time you're on your iPhone, Android, iPod, or iPad -- or any other smartphone device -- take a few minutes to check it out!

Braces Advisory Board Seeks Members!

2011-09-06T15:46:00.000-07:00

Pam Waterman, author of the award-winning series, The Braces Cookbooks, wants you to know that her business is expanding to offer information on braces-related products, books, websites, etc., under the name Metal Mouth Media. She is forming an Advisory Board to review these types of products and give them a thumbs-up or thumbs-down rating. In fact, she has created the Braces-Friendly Seal of Approval that makes it easy for everyone to find what works for life in braces.

She has three members on her Advisory Board so far (all female), and she needs two more people who fit these criteria:

Should be in braces for at least another year.
Is a tween-guy aged 9 to 12, or is an adult guy aged 20 to 35. (The minor would have to provide a letter from a parent giving permission to participate.)

If you join Pam's Advisory Board, your responsibilities would entail reading/using/evaluating a product/book/food that would be sent to you for free. Within four weeks of receiving an item, you would send Pam an email with a "Braces-Friendly" Yes or No and explain why you chose your answer. Either way, you would get to keep the item for your own use. You will review approximately four to six items per year, and do so for approximately one year. After that, you can leave the Advisory Board if you'd like, and she wouldl find a replacement.

For any boy/guy in these age groups who is interested, please email Pam with a note explaining why you would like to be involved, what kind of braces you have and how long you've had them. Send email to Pamela Waterman, President, Metal Mouth Media, at PWaterman@metalmouthmedia.net. Thanks, and keep smiling!

We have a new logo and a slightly new look!

2011-07-13T23:03:00.000-07:00

If you've visited DentaKit.com in the past, you may have noticed recently that something has changed....our logo and some of our site's layout! We are in the middle of a site re-design, which is being done in phases. We just finished Phase One, which includes a snazzy new logo and new headers and footers for the site. Personally I love the new logo. I think it looks happy and friendly -- just like our site! In the months ahead, other elements of the site will be changing and improving to make your shopping experience with us more convenient. We haven't changed our site very much since we began almost 10 years ago and we thought it was time for a facelift. We hope to have the entire site re-done by the end of this year.

Don't worry, we're the same family-run small company we've always been. Only the look and feel of our site will be changing. Our prices and our excellent customer service will stay the same.

Anyway, to celebrate completing phase one of our project, we are offering you a special 15% discount off ANY size order of ANY products in our store. Just use coupon code PhaseOne when you check out. This coupon is good until July 19th and (sorry!) cannot be combined with our free shipping coupon.

Guest Blogger: Pamela Waterman

2011-07-05T13:58:00.000-07:00

Today we welcome Pamela Waterman, co-author of the award-winning braces-friendly cookbooks, The Braces Cookbook: Recipes You (and Your Orthodontist) Will Love and The Braces Cookbook 2: Comfort Foodwith a Gourmet Touch.

Pam says:

Guest Blogger Pamela Waterman here, COO (Chief Orthodontic Organizer) at Metal Mouth Media - home of The Braces Cookbook series. I’m always looking for tips, recipes and ideas that help make life in braces easier for children, teens, adults, and parents. The world is turning to apps for fast, handy information on gazillions of subjects, so I’m not surprised that orthodontics is now one of them.

iBracesHelp is an app by The Dental Specialists that came out last year and was recently updated. Information, photos and video clips give you a quick summary about caring for braces and what to do if you have a problem. You’ll see how to use a toothbrush to best clean around your traditional braces, what to do if your archwire starts sticking out the back (actually a good thing overall – it means your teeth are starting to move the way they are supposed to), and more information than I have ever seen about how elastics can be used to connect various hooks and brackets throughout your mouth.

This latest version (v1.3) includes a new food section with ideas on what foods are good to eat, what kinds are best to avoid, and several recipes for tender food treats.

You can download the iBracesHelp app at the Apple iTunes website, at http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/ibraceshelp/id381328159?mt=8.

Or, if you don’t have a smart phone, you can access the complete app online at www.BracesHelp.com.

Check it out, especially if you’re out and about and you suddenly pop a bracket. iBracesHelp can be your on-the-spot rescue.

ComfortBrace: Like a "whitestrip," only better!

2011-06-02T11:42:00.000-07:00

Braces are literally a pain, especially when you first get them on and they begin rubbing the inside of your mouth raw. Mouth sores are not fun when you have braces, and people are always looking for a way to prevent them, or at least make them stop hurting for a while. So when a new product comes along that will make those first weeks in braces less irritating, I get very excited.

That's where a new product called ComfortBrace comes in. It looks like a "whitestrip," but contains no whitening chemicals. Like those infamous whitening strips, it totally covers your teeth -- or in this case, your teeth and your braces -- creating a barrier between your brackets and the inside of your mouth. ComfortBrace Protective Strips are a bit thicker than a "whitestrip" and will stay on your teeth all day, even when you are eating or drinking. They're also ideal to wear overnight. Clear and discreet, Comfort Brace Strips also have a minty fresh flavor.

ComfortBrace strips do not contain any harsh chemicals and will not harm your teeth or your braces. They are latex-free and BPA-free. Application and removal of the strips is easy. Full instructions are included with the product.

ComfortBrace strips are made from the same superior trade ingredients found in most dental products on the market today: Carbomer 980, Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC), Sorbitol, Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), Polyethylene & Polypropylene, Acrylates Copolymer, Water, and Mint Flavor.

Each box of ComfortBrace strips contains 24 individually foil-sealed strips. Each strip is meant for one use (they are not re-usable). It's a great product for people in speaking positions whose braces are irritating their mouths, or any braces wearer who just wants to be a little more comfortable.

Sleep Apnea and Dental Snoring Appliances

2011-05-05T17:05:00.000-07:00

Recently, my husband was diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea that bordered on severe. The fact that he had sleep apnea was no surprise -- he'd suspected it for years. But severe? Now, that was shocking! He now uses a CPAP machine at night. He wishes he'd done his sleep study sooner, instead of continuing to put it off.

Why am I mentioning this in our dental blog? Many people go to their dentist to get an oral appliance fitted to help stop their snoring. Or they buy some sort of over-the-counter device at their drugstore. While this is generally a good thing, it's important to realize that a mere snoring problem may only be the tip of the iceberg. If you have a problem with snoring, it is possible that you also have sleep apnea. While a dental device could help, it may not solve your entire problem. And it's really important to know whether you have a larger problem!

Think that snoring is no big deal? It turns out, it really IS a big deal. When your nighttime breathing is obstructed, even mildly, it affects your cellular metabolism and can lead to a huge host of problems, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, depression and anxiety, fatigue, thyroid dysfunction, body aches and pains, restless leg syndrome, frequent nighttime urination, and more. Believe it or not, sleep apnea could cause you to gain weight or not be able to lose weight. And if you have a severe problem, you could be setting yourself up for a heart attack or a stroke.

While most people associate sleep apnea with snoring, that it actually only one symptom. You can have sleep apnea and not snore at all. Snoring occurs when the soft palate and the uvula vibrate against the back of the throat or base of the tongue. Apnea, however, closes off the airway and creates “pauses” in breathing that can occur anywhere from five times to 100 times per hour, as if you're holding your breath many times per hour. Some people don't have a physical obstruction causing the apnea; sometimes, it's caused by the central nervous system.

So, before you head to your dentist to get an oral appliance to help stop your snoring, please consider doing a sleep study first. Usually, you need to get a doctor's referral to schedule a sleep study. Most sleep studies are done as outpatient procedures in hospitals, but some private companies that do it, as well. A few companies let you do the sleep study in your home; they give you a monitor to wear at night. Personally, knowing what I know today, I would advise anyone who suspects sleep apnea to get a sleep study done in a hospital, because they monitor just about every part of your body, your brain, and your breathing -- in other words, it's extremely thorough.

Many people don't want to get a sleep study because they are afraid it will mean needing to use a CPAP machine. However, there are many types of sleep apnea, and the type you have may be able to be treated with a simple dental device. You'll never know for sure until you get a sleep study! And if it turns out that you need a CPAP machine, it's not the end of the world. Think of it this way: would you rather use a CPAP machine at night, or be sicker than you should be, and possibly die younger than you should have?

If you would like to know more about sleep apnea, here are a few links to give you more information:

http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/sleep-apnea/default.htm
http://www.sleepapnea.org/
http://www.ihatecpap.com/oral_appliance.html
http://www.cpaptalk.com/wiki/index.php/Sleep_Apnea

New! Plackers OrthoPick Flosser for Braces

2011-03-24T12:24:00.000-07:00

Flossing with braces is not easy, and we're always on the lookout for products that make it faster and more convenient.

We're so excited to be carrying this great new product from Plackers, a company that makes high-quality dental products. Plackers Orthopick Flossers for Braces are designed to clean braced teeth without shredding or breaking. Just slide the thinner flatter arm of the tool between the teeth and the arch wire and work it up and down as you normally would when you were flossing.

This product has a lot of neat features:

You can bend and angle the head of the tool to move the flosser so it accommodates your back molars.
The patented "Super Tuffloss" used in this tool is among the strongest on the market and will last for an entire flossing session, unlike other similarly designed products.
The "handle" end of the tool doubles as a soft, flexible pick for removing food and plaque from between your braces and stimulating gums.
It has an ergonomically designed comfort grip to make flossing faster and more convenient.
It includes a plastic travel pouch that can hold one or two Orthopick Flossers, for on-the-go convenience.

Each package of Plackers Orthopick Flossers contains 24 flossing tools and one plastic travel pouch. We are really impressed by this product and are sure that you will be, too!

Do Invisalign and Other Plastic Aligners and Retainers Cause Allergy or Illness?

2011-02-19T21:34:00.000-08:00

Do plastic or acrylic Invisalign aligners and other types of plastic retainers make people sick? Some readers at ArchWired.com's Metal Mouth Message Board seem to think so. For more than four years, members across the country have reported getting symptoms that include sore throats, upper respiratory symptoms, fatigue, nausea, headaches, and swollen glands -- allegedly from their plastic aligners or retainers.

There is no official clinical evidence that these products contain substances that are harmful or potentially allergic. There have been no official reports or investigations into the matter. According to an article in the San Jose, CA Mercury News, in November 2010, the FDA issued a warning letter to Align technologies, stating that it could face federal fines or other penalties because it hasn't disclosed enough information about patients who suffered serious side effects after using the product. In the article, Align CEO Thomas Prescott said in an interview that he knows of only "a small handful of what appeared to be potentially allergic reactions" to the product. Nonetheless, he said, "we take this very seriously." Align Technologies provided the agency with information it hopes will resolve the matter.

Nevertheless, several ArchWired.com readers claim that they developed symptoms of illness shortly after starting Invisalign treatment, or wearing similar clear plastic retainers made by other companies.

According to Align Technologies' website, Invisalign aligners do not contain Bisphenol-A or phthalate plasticizers. Quoting the company's product FAQ, "These aligners are made with USP Class VI medical-grade, high molecular weight, polyurethane resins. Tests have been conducted to determine the biocompatibility of these materials, and show that they are biocompatible and pass all applicable regulatory requirements and thresholds for human wear in the mouth. Of course, as with any medical device, you should consult with your health professional about your aligner or retainer treatment and any applicable risks of use."

Align Technologies goes on to state, "Invisalign aligners are classified as Class II medical devices by the FDA, and Align Technology, Inc., received the necessary 510K clearance from the FDA to be able to sell and market the Invisalign system in 1998."

This doesn't mean that your aligner or retainer is beyond reproach. It's possible that there is some sort of allergy or sensitivity that the manufacturers and the FDA don't know enough about. It's also possible that some of these illnesses occur because people aren't keeping their aligners or retainers clean enough, resulting in an overgrowth of bacteria on the appliances.

If you think that your aligners or retainers are causing illness, there are several things you can do:

If you feel that you are having a life-threatening reaction, call 911 or go to your nearest Emergency Room.

Tell your dentist, orthodontist, and/or medical doctor (but apparently many dentists haven't heard of such side effects)

Make sure you keep your aligner or retainer free of bacteria by using a germ-killing retainer cleaning product, such as Retainer Brite, SonicBrite, or DentaSoak. If you're not sure what product to use, or how to kill the bacteria with home remedies, ask your orthodontist. Above all, you want to ensure that your aligner is continually free of bacterial buildup by cleaning it properly every single day. Also make sure that your hands are clean when touching your aligners or touching your mouth.

If you keep your retainer or aligner in a case, be sure to keep the case clean, as well. If your case smells bad, that means it has an overgrowth of bacteria.

If symptoms persist, contact Align Technologies (for Invisalign) or the manufacturer of any other type of retainer you wear, and report the problem. You may also want to contact the Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to make a formal report.

Share you concerns on ArchWired.com's message board, or other dental message boards.

Finally, if the symptoms persist, and you truly believe that your orthodontic treatment is making you ill, consider ceasing your treatment (at least for a while to see if you improve) or getting a different type of retainer or traditional braces instead.

Here are a few links to posts made on the ArchWired.com Metal Mouth Message Board about illness allegedly resulting from plastic aligners and retainers:

http://www.archwired.com/phpbb2/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=13809
http://www.archwired.com/phpbb2/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=37813
http://www.archwired.com/phpbb2/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=27737
http://www.archwired.com/phpbb2/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=38531

Here are a few other links from other websites concerning this issue:

http://en.allexperts.com/q/Dentistry-966/2008/3/invisalign-systemic-allergic-reactions.htm
http://en.allexperts.com/q/Dentistry-966/2008/3/f/invisalign-systemic-allergic-reactions.htm
http://escoforum.wordpress.com/2011/01/06/allergic-reactions-to-invisalign-materials/
http://allergy.hyperboards.com/index.php?action=view_topic&topic_id=17416
http://www.bracesreview.com/forums/invisalign/5155-allergic-invisalign-trays.html

SturdyFloss: Back in Stock!

2011-02-03T18:17:00.000-08:00

For a while, we were out of stock of SturdyFloss, which is no way to begin a new year! Good news: it's back in stock!

If you're not familiar with SturdyFloss, it's a length of unwaxed floss with a stiff but bendable thin plastic tip. It easily fits around orthodontic wires or helps you to floss bridgework or bonded retainers. The great thing about this product is that the tip is bendable and re-positionable. So you can bend it one way to fit under some wires, and bend it another way to help floss some of those really hard-to-reach areas.

If you like Glide Threader Floss but wish the tip was more substantial, then you might really like SturdyFloss. Each box contains 100 individually-wrapped strands, so you can keep some with you to floss when necessary.

Wrestling and Braces

2011-01-20T23:58:00.000-08:00

Most adults wrestle with their braces. But then there are high school wrestlers who have braces -- and wrestle with finding something to cover them!

I learn the most about our products from our customers, and this is no exception. It turns out, our Lip Protector product is extremely popular with high school wrestlers! It totally covers the brackets, and since it has such a slim profile, it doesn't interfere at all with the wrestler's breathing. Unlike a mouth guard, the Lip Protector covers only the front of the teeth. In that regard, you must remember that it will not protect a child's mouth or brain from heavy impact. All it does is protect you from your braces -- or other wrestlers from getting scratched by your braces. It is not meant to replace a mouth guard.

A similar product is the Comfort Cover, which totally encases the brackets. Both products sell for $8.50 per set. One set includes a top piece and a bottom piece. Remember to clean them regularly either with soap and water, or a retainer cleaner like Retainer Brite. Otherwise, they will begin to smell like the inside of your kid's gym bag. And you wouldn't want that inside your kid's mouth!

Please check with your wrestling coach to ensure that it is "legal" to wear these braces covers in competition. We wouldn't want you to forfeit a match because you have the wrong equipment in your mouth!

Twas The Night Before Christmas (for braces wearers)

2010-12-16T15:08:00.000-08:00

by Lynn S.

Twas the night before Christmas, and I'd been put through my paces

To cook, clean and wrap with my teeth set in braces.

The cookies so crunchy, the roast beef so chewy

But alas I must eat food that's softer and gooey.

My family munched on their crackers and chips

(Well, those only would have gone straight to my hips).

With my chompers a-hurtin from ear to ear

It's been hard to come up with that old Christmas cheer.

But I know that it all will pay off, all of this grief

When two Christmases from now, Santa brings me straight teeth!

This year, however, I'll cut him some slack

And wish for a case that good dental wax!

So goodbye crooked teeth

And spaces too tight!

Merry Christmas to all

And to all a good bite!

Donate and Give An Underprivileged Kid a New Smile!

2010-12-09T13:46:00.000-08:00

ArchWired.com (our "sister" website) has partnered with Smiles Change Lives, a charitable organization that partners with orthodontists to give low-income kids nationwide a chance to receive much-needed orthodontic treatment.

Starting this holiday season, and continuing into next year, ArchWired.com will match, dollar for dollar, all donations given on our behalf. Our goal is to raise $1,250 -- which we will match, penny for penny to a grand total of $2,500 -- to give better smiles to 10 underprivileged kids across the country.

Click on HERE to make a donation to Smiles Change Lives on behalf of ArchWired.com/DentaKit.com.

Please consider donating to this worthwhile cause this holiday season!

Hanukkah Braces Humor

2010-12-06T12:45:00.000-08:00

Ortho, Ortho, Ortho
(to the tune of Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel)
by Lynn S.

I had a maloclussion
I hated every day
The ortho said he'd fix it
And to him I did say,

Oh ortho, ortho, ortho
How much more do I pay?
When will my teeth be straightened?
What can I eat? Oy vey!

And so I wore my braces
Brushed after every meal
I also wore elastics
Yes, I was no schlameel.

Oh ortho, ortho, ortho
When is my next appointment?
And for this awful canker sore
Do you have any ointment?

I couldn't chew the brisket
Or bite the chocolate gelt
At least there were the latkes
In my mouth they did melt!

Oh ortho, ortho, ortho
I need some dental wax
And please give me a lot sir,
For these painful train tracks

So now it's two years later
My braces have come out
As I light my menorah, I think:
A miracle happened in my mouth!

Oh ortho, ortho, ortho
How much more do I pay?
When will my teeth be straightened?
What can I eat? Oy vey!

SALE! Save 15% with Coupon Code Holiday15

2010-11-24T01:10:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again. The snow is falling. The fire is roaring. And everyone is rushing to their computers to buy dental products for themselves, and their friends and family!

(We wish)

But seriously folks, while your head may be filled with visions of flat screen TVs, cashmere sweaters, gold jewelry, and toys toys toys -- remember that a beautiful smile is a terrible thing to spend more money on than you have to.

That's why we're having a big sale all weekend, from today (as in RIGHT NOW) through the end of Monday, November 29th (otherwise known as Cyber Monday).

It's a great opportunity to use up some of those Flexible Spending dollars before the year ends, or just stock up on the things you need the most: retainer cleaners, dental wax, and some of our newest products like GumEase Braces Pain Control System, SulcaBrush, and Rincinol PRN! And don't forget, our DentaKit Braces Survival Kit makes a thoughtful stocking stuffer for a loved one in braces. It may not be as exciting as an X-Box, but we're sure it will be greatly appreciated!

Just enter coupon code: Holiday15 when you check out, and you'll save 15% on anything and everything in the store! Yeah, I said EVERYTHING. The more you spend, the more you save! My Mom, who has been the Unofficial Coupon Queen of New Jersey since 1971 really likes this sale, and I'm sure you will, too.

Remember, our system takes only one coupon code per order. This offer expires at midnight on Monday, November 29th. So go to our website right now and save some money!

Merry Christmas to all -- and to all your pearly whites!

Braces and Teeth Hurt? GumEase Freezes The Pain Away!

2010-11-17T20:32:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited about this product! Finally, a new concept in pain relief for people with braces!

Do your teeth, braces, and mouth hurt from an orthodontic adjustment or dental surgery? Before you reach for the bottle of painkillers, consider using drug-free gumEase®.

GumEase is a whole new way to look at orthodontic and oral pain relief. It is a plastic mouthpiece, filled with freezable non-toxic saline solution. You freeze gumEase in your home freezer, then apply it inside your mouth as needed. When you place a frozen gumEase mouthpiece inside your mouth as directed, it blocks the pain that comes from the nerves inside your mouth and jaw. This cold method of pain blocking is a technique called "cryoanesthesia." The result is, the nerves in your mouth and jaw temporarily stop transmitting pain impulses to the brain! It has even successfully been used to help stop the pain of migraine headaches!

Each gumEase "OrthoPack" contains 3 mouthpieces, which are totally re-usable. Just keep the 3 mouthpieces in your freezer and use them as often as you need, as many times as you need. GumEase is latex-free and DEHP-free. It has been FDA approved and successfully tested in patient trials. You can buy it at DentaKit.com for $29.95. Who knows, this product could be the difference between enjoying your holiday meal and not! If you're new to braces this holiday season, I recommend additionally using dental wax to help prevent your mouth from getting all torn up.

SulcaBrush for Periodontal Health and Braces Hygiene

2010-11-13T11:29:00.000-08:00

Recently some customers had requested that we carry a slim tufted periodontal brush which could clean between their braces. After searching around, we found a great product called SulcaBrush and added it to our product lineup.

The Sulcabrush is a "unituft" brush with soft bristles. Each SulcaBrush has two ends, each angled differently. Need a slightly different angle? You can take off the brush heads and screw them on to either side of the handle to give you complete control over the angle to adjust perfectly to your needs. In addition, you'll receive a bonus pocket SulcaBrush which you can keep in your purse, backpack, or at your desk at work.

The SulcaBrush model that we sell also has a bonus pocket brush that you can easily carry with you (for instance, it will fit in your DentaKit Braces Survival Kit, or your purse or backpack). The neat thing about the smaller Pocket SulcaBrush is that you can store a couple of extra brush heads inside the hollow handle!

Of course, we also sell Replacement Tips for SulcaBrush, as well as a handy carry Travel Case for the full-sized brush.

Be sure to check back with this blog later in the month, because we'll be introducing more great new products, and some money-saving DentaKit.com Black Friday and Cyber Monday coupon specials! You can also find our coupon codes on RetailMeNot, Twitter, and our FaceBook Page!

Goodbye Dr. Ken's Floss, Hello Fresh & Go Floss

2010-10-30T15:15:00.000-07:00

We hate to see a terrific product go, but sadly Dr. Ken's natural vegan floss singles have been discontinued. Apparently the Dr. Ken's company was acquired last year, and the acquiring company decided not to continue the single use floss products. (Don't worry, the other Dr. Ken's products, such as the toothpaste, mouthwash, etc. will still be made and are not being discontinued).

Fortunately, it gives us the opportunity to introduce a similar floss product to you, made by Fresh & Go, the company that makes that cool toothbrush with toothpaste in the handle.

So, TA DA: Introducing - Single Use Floss Packets by Fresh & Go!

Fresh & Go individual floss packets contain 24 sachets of mint flavored waxed floss. Each sachet is individually sealed, so it's easy to just put them in your pocket, purse, backpack, or briefcase. Just tear, floss, and toss! If you liked the Dr. Ken's product, I'm sure you'll have equal adoration for the Fresh&Go single use floss.

We know that some people don't like mint, and we're continuing to look for a non-mint individually packaged floss which is unflavored and unscented. (The Dr. Ken's Gliding Floss has been discontinued as well. We still have 6 packages in stock, and they're on clearance. So if you like the Dr. Ken's Gliding Floss, snatch up our remaining inventory of Dr. Ken's Gliding Floss at the low sale price. When it's gone, it's gone for good!)

Lil Palates: How to Clean Under an Orthodontic Palate Expander

2010-10-01T13:35:00.000-07:00

Do you or your kids have an orthodontic palate expander at the roof of the mouth? If so, you will love the Lil Palates Sweeper Tool.

As you know, food gets trapped between the expander and upper palate and can be difficult to dislodge and clear out. If you don't clear out the trapped food, it can lead to really yucky bad breath and decay. Luckily, an innovative dentist designed a special tool that solves this pesky and challenging problem.

Lil Palates Sweeper is designed specifically to dislodge food debris that collects between the roof of the mouth and an orthodontic expander. It is made of soft, flexible plastic and is the perfect solution for people with Hyrax, Nance, Herbst, Haas, and other orthodontic appliances.

It's a great product for kids, but should be used with adult supervison. Each Lil Palates Sweeper Tool stores within its own handle (like a pocket knife) and includes three cheerful rubberized charms: a frog, a turtle, and a butterfly. It's available in blue or purple.

Simple little devices like this really make life easier for people suffering through expanders when they have braces (or are getting ready to wear braces). Lil Palates was created by a dentist to help his young son, who was having difficulty with his palate expander. I just love it when people create great products to help solve everyday problems! We carry several products like this at DentaKit.com, so come on over and check them out!

Surviving Braces - A "Must-Have" Book!

2010-09-23T13:20:00.000-07:00

We've just added a new book to our product lineup, called "Surviving Braces."

Co-written by an orthodontic technician with 32 years of experience, and edited by an Orthodontist, Surviving Braces packs a lot of practical advice into its 160 pages. Included are chapters detailing what to expect when you get braces, dealing with orthodontic emergencies, braces trivia, space for an orthodontic diary, more than 65 delicious recipes, and a ton of practical tips and facts. There is even a diagram showing the parts of braces, to help you better understand what your orthodontist is talking about!

This book would make a great holiday must-have "stocking stuffer" gift, or a great gift in general for any kid, teen, or adult who has recently gotten braces on their teeth. Check it out!

Lip Protectors for Braces - Back in Stock!

2010-05-09T22:58:00.001-07:00

Our popular Lip Protectors are back in stock! This popular product is smooth on the outside, and attaches to the arch wire of your braces with soft plastic hooks on the inside. It shields your sensitive mouth tissue from the irritation of your braces. It's a popular choice for people who are new to braces and must do a lot of speaking, or who play a wind instrument.

Each set of Lip Protectors comes with two shields -- one for the top teeth, and one for the bottom teeth. If the plastic hooks don't line up with your braces, you can clip them off with scissors for a custom fit.

If you're not sure whether this is the right type of braces irritation protection for you, our website carries a variety of different types of lip protectors: Comfort Cover, Braces Cover for Ceramic Brackets, and of course dental wax and dental silicone, both in 10-packs and bulk boxes of 50 containers. We also carry Brace Relief analgesic gel and Brace Guard Lip Protector, which makes a custom shield for your mouth.

They say that "beauty is pain," but I don't think they were referring to the inside of your mouth being ripped up by braces! Don't suffer, try one of our lip protection products and be prepared to smile again!

Oh, and by the way, while I'm at it, I want to add a plug for my friend Jan's jewelry website. Jan makes absolutely gorgeous necklaces and earrings from semi-precious stones, pearls, and crystals. It's all very high-quality stuff, painstakingly hand crafted. Check out her Etsy website at: RazzleBedazzle.com.

DentaKit.com/ArchWired.com Sponsors Braces for a Low-Income Child

2010-01-28T14:04:00.000-08:00

Today ArchWired.com/DentaKit.com donated $250 to the Smiles Change Lives program to help one low-income child receive braces. We hope to partner with Smiles Change Lives in the future to help raise $1250 to sponsor 5 children across the country sometime later this year, or perhaps do a more ambitious matching challenge with our readers/customers to help raise enough to sponsor 10 children.

In the mean time, if you are an orthodontist or dentist: Smiles Change Lives needs orthodontists across the country to "adopt" 2 or 3 children/teens each for treatment. The charity is also looking for donations from anyone interested in helping low-income children and teens receive orthodontic treatment.

Thank You for Helping us Help Haiti

2010-01-25T14:38:00.000-08:00

We at DentaKit.com want to thank you, our loyal customers, for helping us make a donation to Haiti relief. Based on last week's sales, we were able to donate $250 today to the Doctors Without Borders organization, which will be used to help provide medical care to the citizens of Haiti in need of treatment.

Sincerely,
Lynn

5% of DentaKit.com Profits Donated to Doctors Without Borders

2010-01-17T23:00:00.000-08:00

This month I had planned to post a blog entry aimed at everyone who is newly braced in the new year. But that can wait until later.

A major event last week changed my mind. By now I'm sure you're as overwhelmed as I am with the news reports from earthquake ravaged Haiti. The news is horrible and extremely disturbing. My family and I personally have made a donation to The Red Cross in light of this disaster. As a family living near San Francisco, we know firsthand how destructive even a mild earthquake can be. When I saw that this one was 7.0, I knew that the people of Haiti would have a very long road ahead of them.

So, during the week of January 17th to 23rd, DentaKit.com will donate 5% of its profits to the Doctors Without Borders organization. This international organization mobilizes its efforts to bring medical care to disadvantaged people worldwide. Of course more recently they are concentrating their efforts in Haiti.

I know that everyone is being bombarded with pleas to donate money to charity organizations. This is one way that you can make a donation simply by purchasing your dental braces supplies and retainer cleaners. It's a great week to stock up on any supplies you need, while taking advantage of free shipping for orders over $69 -- and additionally donating money to a worthy cause. Please make a purchase on our website today, and help spread the word.

Sincerely,

Lynn

Holiday Sale on All Orthodontic Supplies

2009-12-18T14:23:00.000-08:00

Just got braces, just got your retainers, or simply need to stock up on dental wax, threader floss, and other orthodontic supplies?

DentaKit is having a year-end holiday sale! You can save in one of two ways:

- Get Free Shipping on an order of $50 or more with coupon code Holiday2009. This applies only to order shipped to the 50 United States.

- or, Save 10% off an order of any size (no matter how large or small) with coupon code SaveTen

These coupons are valid from now until Dec. 31st 2009. Enter the coupon code on the Billing Page when you check out (the box to enter the code is near the bottom of the page). Click Here to go to DentaKit.com and start saving now!

Happy Holidays from the staff at DentaKit.com!

DentaSoak 3-Month Refill: Less Plastic, Better for the Environment!

2009-11-02T12:11:00.000-08:00

Our popular DentaSoak Retainer Cleaner now has an even more environmentally friendly option: a Refill Kit that does not include the plastic soaking cup. Previously, every DentaSoak kit came with a plastic soaking cup. The problem is, most people don't need more than one cup! If customers ordered two or three DentaSoak kits, they got a lot of extra soaking cups. So, in an effort to be more environmentally friendly, the folks at DentaSoak came up with a Refill Kit that contains only the DentaSoak product and no extra cup.

This is better for you, because the Refill Kit is a little less expensive than the original Starter Kit. And, there will be less unnecessary plastic littering our landfills or recycling plants. It's a win-win for everyone!

DentaSoak is one of the only retainer cleaners on the market today that does not contain Persulfate, an ingredient that sometimes causes an allergic reaction. To use DentaSoak, you mix two packets with cold water and use the solution for an entire week, which is especially convenient for lazy kids or busy adults!

If you've never used DentaSoak before, than you need to buy the Starter Kit which includes the soaking cup (to ensure proper measurement of water to DentaSoak solution). The DentaSoak Three Month Starter Kit is $15.99, and the DentaSoak Three Month Refill Kits are $14.99.

Looking for Pick-a-Dent or Tip-a-Dent? We have them!

2009-10-03T20:58:00.000-07:00

Looking for a really great dental pick and gum stimulator? We highly recommend two products made by Denticator: Pick-a-Dent and Tip-a-Dent.

Pick-a-Dent is a plastic dental pick which is thin but extremely durable. It is similar to another brand of "super" dental pick sold in local stores -- except that the Pick-a-Dent is stronger and will last longer. One side of the Pick-a-Dent looks like a lightening bolt and comes to a point. The other side looks like a sword. Between the two sides, you get a variety of dental uses, from dislodging debris from dental braces and bridgework to gum stimulation. We sell Pick-a-Dent in two quantities: a bag of 36, or a value pack of 144. Each Pick-a-Dent comes in its own plastic sheath.

Tip-a-Dent is a bit larger than Pick-a-Dent. It contains a non-latex "rubber" tip on one side for gum stimulation, and a straight spiral proxi-brush on the other side. The tips snap on and off and are replaceable. We sell the Tip-a-Dent in bags of 10 (each in its own plastic sheath), and replacement rubber tips and spiral brushes are available in bags of 36.

Keep one or two of these great products in your dental kit and you'll never have to worry about yucky stuff in your teeth. They're small enough to throw in your purse or pocket so you're never caught flashing spinach to your friends and co-workers!

By the way, both of these products used to be sold in local stores years ago, but are now only available through dentists, dental suppliers, and online stores like DentaKit.com.

Double Refill Pack for InfaLab's Brace Relief Pocket Kit

2009-06-09T20:52:00.000-07:00

By popular demand, we have brought back the refill items for InfaLab's Brace Relief Pocket Kit -- but this time they're in a handy Double Refill Pack. That means more cost savings and convenience for you -- and less plastic in the environment!

Brace Relief Pocket Kit is a cute little mirrored square case that packs serious braces relief! It contains 4 thick rods of Brace Gard Silicone and one tube of Brace Relief analgesic gel. When you finish using the contents of the original Pocket Kit, you can fill the empty plastic case with our Double Refill Pack. It contains 8 rods of Brace Gard Silicone and 2 tubes of the analgesic gel -- double the original amount contained in the Pocket Kit -- in a convenient re-sealable plastic zipper bag.

Brace Gard Silicone has many advantages over plain dental wax. It lasts longer, is more transparent, and will not melt when you drink hot liquids. It can also be molded into a temporary mouth guard to cover a series of brackets. Your brackets must be totally dry for Brace Gard to stick properly. This means that before you use it, you should dry your braces as thoroughly as possible with a clean tissue. Most people love using dental silicone, and prefer it over regular dental wax, once they get the hang of applying it.

Need a large quantity of dental silicone? We also sell Ortho-Sil in packs of 10 containers, or boxes of 50 containers. If you need a really large quantity of Brace Gard Silicone, we can arrange to special-order it for you at no extra charge. But if enough customers want large quantities of Brace Gard, we will certainly consider adding a bulk box of Brace Gard to our inventory!

Get Ready for Summer Travel with Pre-Pasted Toothbrushes, Floss Packets, Retainer Wipes

2009-05-30T15:44:00.000-07:00

Summer travel is just around the corner (not to mention summer camp!) Now is the time to stock up on dental care items you'll need for your carry-on or your suitcase. Whether you're in braces or retainers, we have a lot of great products that will help make your travel more convenient.

Pre-pasted toothbrushes are an easy way to stay on top of your oral hygiene when you're on the road. We carry several types:

Deluxe pre-pasted ReadyBrush
Deluxe pre-pasted Ortho ReadyBrush for people with braces
Economy Pre-pasted Toothbrushes
Fresh & Go Toothbrushes with toothpaste in the handle

Need to floss your braces? Don't forget to take along some packets of Glide Threader Floss, SturdyFloss or a few FlossFish! If you don't have braces, Dr. Ken's Floss Singles are individually packaged and fit anywhere (and you can use them with the FlossFish or the BridgeAid threader needle).

If you use a special mouthwash, we have spouted travel bottles which are relatively flat and pack easily. They come in two sizes: 2 ounce and 4 ounce.

If you wear retainers or Invisalign, then you should check out Cleanse. Freshen. Go. Cleansing Towelettes. These individually wrapped wipes help keep your retainer or aligner clean anywhere in just seconds. Just wipe your retainer with the towelette to kill germs. They're great for airplane travel! Or for a deeper cleaning, take along some Retainer Brite tablets, which are indivdually foil wrapped.

The thing I hated the most about traveling when I had braces was trying to find a way to rinse my mouth when I was a in public restroom. Our pop-up folding cup fills this need, and comes in a rainbow of colors. Or, you can treat yourself to one of our Braces Survival Kits, which include the folding cup and other great stuff.

Happy trails to you, wherever your summer travel will take you. I hope you flash a wide dazzling smile in your vacation pictures, confident that nothing yucky is stuck in your teeth!

Retainer / Aligner Cleaning Wipes and Spray will make your life easier!

2009-05-16T16:14:00.000-07:00

You don't always have time to soak your retainer. And you don't always have time to rinse your aligner. And sometimes -- ick -- you drop your retainer on the floor and need to clean it right away! Wouldn't it be nice if there was a product that cleaned your retainer or aligner really quickly, like a wipe or a spray?
Well, dream no more. Finally these products have been invented, and we have them! Introducing: Cleanse. Freshen. Go. Retainer Wipes and Retainer Cleaning Spray. These products are great for Invisalign aligners, all types of retainers, sports mouthguards, nightguards, and even bridgework and dentures -- any type of removable dental appliance. And, it does not contain Persulfate!

Cleanse. Freshen. Go. Cleansing Wipes: The pre-moistened wipes (also known as "towelettes") are individually foil wrapped. To use them, take your dental appliance out of your mouth and wipe it with the towelette. That's it -- no rinsing needed! Cleanse. Freshen. Go. Cleansing Towelettes are infused with a fresh mint flavor and scent. They kill the germs on your retainer and leave it smelling and tasting minty fresh. I have to say, I wish a product like this existed when I wore my retainers 24/7 a few years ago. Personally I hated putting a "dirty" retainer back into my mouth. These wipes will come in handy in all sorts of situations when you are out-and-about. Throw a few into your purse, backpack, pocket, or briefcase. It's a great product for kids in retainers or sports mouth guards who are too lazy or forgetful to keep their retainers clean. And of course, they are great for clear aligners! Try them, we're sure you'll like them. And if you like them a lot, you can save some money by buying A Bulk Bag of 100 Cleanse. Freshen. Go. Wipes.

Cleanse. Freshen. Go. Retainer Cleaning Spray is a liquid that you spray on your retainer to kill germs and remove plaque. To use the spray, remove your dental appliance from your mouth, spray it thoroughly with the solution, then brush your retainer or aligner. If you don't have a brush, you can massage the product in with clean fingertips, or a tissue or cottonball. Then, simply rinse your dental appliance with clean running water. This product is a great alternative to soaking,and can be used as an "in between" cleaner for those situations when you don't have time to soak.

The Cleanse. Freshen. Go. Retainer Cleaning Wipes are available in either a box of 20 or a money-saving bulk bag of 100 individually wrapped wipes. The Spray is available in a 2-ounce bottle, which provides about 50 to 60 cleanings.

We think that you'll love these products as much as we do. If you know someone with Invisalign, or who is wearing retainers, or who uses a mouthguard, spread the word! Viva la convenience!

Introducing DentaSoak: A Retainer Cleaner that is Persulfate-Free

2009-02-25T23:20:00.000-08:00

At DentaKit.com we like to be on the leading edge and offer products that are innovative and helpful. When a new retainer cleaning product called DentaSoak caught our attention, we realized it would be a great addition to our retainer cleaning product offerings.

What's so different about DentaSoak? It does not contain the chemical Persulfate. Some people are allergic or sensitive to Persulfate and cannot use oral hygiene products that contain the chemical. Unfortuantely, many retainer and denture cleaners do contain the ingredient. But not DentaSoak. This unique formula kills 99% of disease-spreading germs and bacteria in one 15-minute use. It keeps your retainer, aligner, mouthguard, or dentures sparkling clean and odor-free, and it has a fresh minty fragrance.

DentaSoak is a combination of two types of ingredients: a liquid and a powder. To use DentaSoak, mix the liquid packet together with cold water, add the powder packet, then close and gently shake the retainer bath (included). Once the solution is mixed, it lasts for ONE WEEK. That's right, you mix it once, and use it all week long. At the end of the week, spill it away and mix a new batch for the following week. An incredibly convenient solution for kids who are lazy about keeping their retainers or mouthguards clean!

Each box of DentaSoak includes a spill-resistant retainer bath with a convenient lift-out tray, plus enough solution-making packets to last 3 months. You can save money by buying 4 boxes (a one-year supply). Give DentaSoak a try; we're sure you'll be as impressed as we were!

How to Afford The Cost of Braces

2009-02-03T16:46:00.000-08:00

In these tight economic times, many people are cutting back, and dental work is no exception. As more people lose jobs and medical/dental benefits, they will be seeking care less often. A "luxury" like orthodontic braces may seem like an extravagance to be put on the back burner. But depending on your location and your situation, you don't necessarily have to postpone or cancel getting the smile of your dreams (or necessary early phase orthodontic work for your children).

First of all, if you're not seeing the dentist as often as usual, be sure to pay extra attention to your oral hygiene. Brush several times per day with a good fluoride toothpaste, and floss at least once per day. Try not to eat sticky sweet candies, or drink too many sugary drinks which can cause cavities. If you need to cut back on dental treatment, try to at least get two professional cleanings per year. They are usually not very expensive if you opt to only have cleanings and postpone the x-rays for a later date.

Here are some tips to help you afford braces:

Speak to your orthodontist to see if the payments for your treatment can be extended, so that you are paying less per month over a longer period of time.
If you have not already started orthodontic treatment, look into a dental discount plan, such as DentalPlans.com. These types of plans are not insurance; they are discount plans that have participating groups of dentists that have agreed to offer treatment at a lesser price.
Investigate a dental school in your area. Many dental schools also have orthodontic programs, and take patients from the community for various types of orthodontic and dental work. Your orthodontic treatment would be done by dentists who are getting orthodontic training, and would be overseen by professors who are themselves experienced orthodontists. The cost is usually much lower than that charged by a private orthodontist.
Investigate whether your orthodontic treatment could be covered by a State, County, or Federal plan. In some countries such as Great Britain, a national health service offers orthodontic treatment for low cost (although there may be a waiting list).

If you already have braces and cannot afford to continue your treatment, speak to your orthodontist to work something out. Do not just keep the braces on your teeth and skip appointments, and certainly do not try to remove them yourself -- you could permanently damage your teeth! As a last resort, you could contact a local dental school and see if an orthodontist in training could finish your treatment for a lower cost. However, if you signed a payment contract with your previous orthodontist, you will still need to work out a financial arrangement for the treatment that has already taken place!

We also would not advise anyone to pay for the entire cost of their braces upfront at the beginning of treatment. Although the orthodontist may offer you a discount for doing so, it is not wise. Patients have gotten burned when an orthodontic office suddenly closes and they cannot get treatment or get their money back! If this happened to you, you would have to start over with a new orthodontist! Most orthodontists are reputable; but nevertheless, it is not wise to pay for the whole thing in advance no matter how attractive that option may be.

Keeping Your Braces Clean in the New Year

2009-01-05T19:03:00.000-08:00

It's a new year, so resolve to keep your teeth cleaner! When you have braces, it can seem daunting to keep your teeth clean enough, but it's essential. If you let too much plaque and debris build up on your teeth, it can cause bad breath and decay.

Do you have to brush your teeth after every single meal and snack? Realistically, you will probably not be able to. But if you commit to brushing after most major meals, you will keep your teeth reasonably clean. When you can't brush, swish your mouth several times with water. This is especially helpful after eating sweets or drinking sugary beverages.

Brushing teeth that have braces is not hard. At first you may find it more time consuming than before you had braces. But as the weeks go on, you will fall into your new oral hygiene routine.

Rinse with warm water a couple of times to dislodge any food particles.
Use a gum massager or dental pick to dislodge any particularly stubborn particles that are badly stuck in your brackets.
Now you can use a small amount of toothpaste and brush your teeth. It is best to use circular, vibrating motions around the gum line. Angle your toothbrush above and below the brackets. Scrub each surface of every tooth with 10 strokes of the toothbrush. This should take several minutes -- be as thorough as possible. Don't forget to also clean the surfaces of the molars and to also brush your tongue!
Rinse again with water several times to remove food debris.
Floss your teeth at least once a day, then rinse again. Floss threader needles, or threader floss which has a stiff end make it easier. It can be extremely frustrating and time-consuming to floss your teeth when you have orthodontic braces, but the more you practice, the easier and faster it will become. It's great to use a Waterpik-type device, but as most dentists will tell you, a Waterpik is not a total substitute for dental floss. So, as much as you may hate to floss, it is necessary, especially when you have braces!

When I had braces on my teeth (I wore them for three years, when I was in my early 40's) I found several products extremely helpful, and we sell them all at DentaKit.com:

Orthodontic toothbrush (v-trim with angled handle): $2.65 each
Swedish Pop-up Folding Cup in a variety of colors: $4.50
Pick-a-Dent Dental Pick (36 picks per pack): $16.50
Tip-a-Dent with dual rubber gum massager tip and brush tip (10 pack): $19.99
Glide Threader Floss (bulk 150 pack): $31.50
SturdyFloss with bendable stiff tip (100 pack): $13.99

How to Use Dental Wax

2008-12-11T22:59:00.000-08:00

When you first got your braces, your orthodontist probably gave you a container of dental wax. By using this product properly, you can spare yourself hours of needless pain and irritation. In the first weeks of orthodontic treatment, braces can rub the inside of your lips and gums until they are raw. This is extremely uncomfortable, but after a week or two the tissue heals and "toughens up." You may not believe it, but with time you will actually forget that you are wearing braces -- they will not irritate the insides of your mouth as much!

But in the mean time, while you are adjusting to life with orthodontics, dental wax is indispensable. It can help to protect those delicate tissues and help them heal. Using dental wax is very easy:

Pinch a small quantity of wax from the strip -- enough to cover the bracket that is irritating your mouth.
Knead the wax briefly between clean fingers to warm it slightly and make it more malleable.
Smoosh it right onto the bracket that is giving you trouble. You can cover as little or as much of the bracket as necessary.

Remember to remove the wax before brushing your teeth, or it will gunk up your toothbrush! You can eat with dental wax on your brackets, but hot foods may dissolve it slightly -- or it may come off when you chew. Dental wax is non-toxic, so don't worry if you swallow some; it will pass right through your digestive system.

Most people apply dental wax between meals, after brushing their teeth. If you find yourself needing to apply wax constantly for weeks on end, you may want to consider trying dental silicone or one of the soft plastic wax alternative products we carry -- especially if you play a wind instrument or a horn!

At DentaKit.com we sell an excellent quality dental wax in packets of 10 containers for $9.99. Need a lot? A bulk box of 50 dental waxes is $29.99 -- that's a great value at 60 cents per container!