Welcome to your ultimate on-line resource of orthodontic information.
We'll take you on a virtual tour of our office, show you the latest in orthodontic developments, explain what to expect during treatment,
and answer all your questions.
From clear aligners to colored wires, from invisible braces to scrumptious dessert recipes, we've got orthodontics covered.
Dr. Stephen Tracey
Dr. Stephen Tracey is a native of Southern California and a graduate of Loma Linda University with a B.S. degree in Human Biology. He received his D.D.S. degree from Loma Linda University School of Dentistry in 1983, as well as his M.S. degree in Orthodontics in 1986.
Dr. Tracey chose orthodontics as a profession when, at the age of 16, he had a positive experience as an orthodontic patient. "I feel blessed to be part of such an admirable profession," says Dr. Tracey. "I love having the opportunity to change peoples' lives. My ultimate goal is to have each and every patient leave our office feeling uplifted, with increased self-esteem, and of course . . . an incredible new smile!"
Dr. Tracey is a husband, father and an internationally recognized lecturer, with past presentations made in 13 countries on six continents. He holds a United States patent for an orthodontic device, has published numerous articles in a variety of professional publications, and is well known for his expertise and involvement with aesthetic orthodontic treatment and emerging orthodontic technologies.
Personally, Dr. Tracey's insatiable curiosity combined with his passion for adventure have led him to such diverse places and situations as the jungles of the Amazon, the summit of Mt. Rainier and the finish line of the Ironman Triathlon in Kona, Hawaii.
Dr. Debra Cook
Dr. Debra Cook is also a graduate of Loma Linda University, receiving her D.D.S. degree in 1996 and M.S. degree in Orthodontics in 1998. And although she has been in practice with Dr. Tracey since that time, her education has never really ended. In addition to being a wife and mother, Dr. Cook is very involved in the dental community, continuing her studies through education and research. She is the author of several articles and has lectured in locations as far away as Beijing, China.
Dentistry for Dr. Cook is a family affair. "My father is a dentist, so I had the opportunity to see first-hand how much he enjoyed working with his patients helping them create smiles they could be proud of," she says. "I especially love the fact that we develop long-term friendships with our patients. Although our job is not always easy, helping people feel better about themselves and their smiles makes it all worthwhile."
So how does it all start? Well, your first visit to our office is a four-step
process:
Then, we tell you about us and give you a guided tour of our office, so you
know what to expect during the course of your treatment.
So how does it all start? Well, your first visit to our office is a four-step
process:
Sometimes, with very young patients, no immediate treatment is needed. In
that case, we'll place your child in our Kids' Club and continue to monitor
his or her development and help minimize future problems. This free service
is offered as a courtesy to you.
If treatment is necessary, we move on to the next step...
So how does it all start? Well, your first visit to our office is a four-step
process:
So how does it all start? Well, your first visit to our office is a four-step
process:
Orthodontics has come a long way since the days of "heavy metal"
treatment.
New technology and new materials means treatment that is more comfortable,
less visible, and more efficient than ever. What's more, we now can offer
new cosmetic braces that have clear or tooth colored brackets. But modern
orthodontics doesn't stop with these options. Wait until you see (or don't
see) what's new in ortho appliances...
Although patients are able to eat or drink many foods while in orthodontic
treatment, there are certain food culprits that can damage orthodontic appliances
and braces.
Eating the wrong foods can bend and distort wires, causing treatment delays
and extra visits for repairs.
The following is a list of only some of the foods you should avoid. Consult
your new patient package for a more detailed list. You should use your own
good judgment while eating anything. And no matter what you eat, please remember
to clean
the teeth and gum tissue thoroughly afterwardsespecially
before bedtime.
Bleeding and swollen gums are a sure sign that plaque is not being properly
removed. If your gums are swollen and inflamed, your teeth will not move as
easily, you will experience more discomfort during your treatment, and white
spots or decay will form on the teeth under and around the braces and appliances.
Or try brushing while listening to music or studying. You may want to use
toothpaste to freshen your breath, but don't use toothpaste during this 30
minutes. Avoid the "once over lightly" technique. To concentrate
better, you may use your left hand if you are right handed, and vice versa.
The most important time to brush is just before going to bed. Take your time
and do it right.
Tips for living with braces
Achieving a healthy, beautiful smile is a projectone
that requires careful attention, a diligent commitment, and yes, even some
lifestyle adjustments. But the rewards are worth it!
To make your treatment as quick and effectiveand
comfortableas possible,
here a some things you need to know:
FOODS
TO AVOID
CLEANING
TIPS
EMERGENCIES
SOOTHING RECIPES
Soothing Recipes
We know how those teeth can get a little sore after orthodontic adjustments,
so here are some soothing recipes that we hope you and/or your child will
enjoy.
Desserts
Appetizers
Easy on Your Teeth Deviled Eggs
6 hard boiled eggs
2 tbsp butter, melted
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tbsp prepared mustard
1/8 tsp dill weed
dash Worcestershire sauce
dash hot sauce
cup mayonnaise
1/8 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper
paprika
Peel the eggs after they
have cooled and cut into halves lengthwise. Carefully remove the yolk,
place in a small bowl, and mash with fork. Add the remaining ingredients
except the paprika. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Refill the egg halves
with this mixture and sprinkle with paprika.
Soothing Santa Fe Chicken Chowder
2 tbsp butter
1 med onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 tsp ground cumin
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp coriander
1/2 tsp salt
2 cups very finely chopped chicken breast
1 pint half & half
1 can (15 oz) creamed sweet corn
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes and green chilies
1 1/2 cup finely grated sharp cheddar cheese
In a dutch oven over medium high heat,
melt the butter and saute the onion and garlic. Add the chicken broth,
cumin, cayenne, coriander, salt and chicken. Stir, and over high heat,
bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 10-15 minutes.
Add the half and half, corn, tomatoes, and green chilies. Stir and increase
the heat to medium. Gradually stir in the cheese until melted.
Serves 4-6.
Tips for living with braces
Achieving a healthy, beautiful smile is a projectone
that requires careful attention, a diligent commitment, and yes, even some
lifestyle adjustments. But the rewards are worth it!
To make your treatment as quick and effectiveand
comfortableas possible,
here a some things you need to know:
We know how those teeth can get a little sore after orthodontic adjustments,
so here are some soothing recipes that we hope you and/or your child will
enjoy.
Main Courses
Painless Pasta with Roasted Red Sweet Pepper Cream Sauce
2-8 oz containers soft style cream cheese
1 cup half and half
2 green onions, very thinly sliced
3 tbsp onion, very finely chopped
1/2 tsp basil
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp pepper
1/4 tsp salt
2-7 oz jars roasted red sweet peppers, drained and finely chopped
12 oz angel hair pasta, cooked
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, finely grated
In a medium sized sauce pan over medium
heat, melt the cream cheese, stirring often. Add the half and half.
Stir in the green onions, onion, basil, garlic, salt, pepper and the
red peppers. Continue to stir until the sauce is creamy and smooth and
heated through. Pour over pasta and toss to coat. Sprinkle the parmesan
cheese on top.
Serves 4-6.
Bucky Beef Enchiladas
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
10 flour tortillas, cut into small bite-size pieces
2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
1 can (4 oz) green chilies, chopped
1 can (4.5 oz) black olives, chopped
1 can (10 3/4 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes and green chilies
1/2 cup water
In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion and garlic. Drain and run
through a food processor or blender. In a greased 9"x13"x2"
casserole dish, layer _ the mixture, tortillas, cheese, green chilies,
and black olives. Repeat. In a medium sized bowl, combine the soup,
diced tomatoes, green chilies, and water. Mix thoroughly and pour over
the top of the layered ingredients. In a preheated oven, bake covered
at 350 degrees for 1 hour.
Serves 6-8.
Wired White Pizza
1 tube (10 oz) Refrigerated pizza dough
1 container (10 oz) refrigerated alfredo sauce
1/2 cup onions, finely chopped
7-8 slices bacon, crisply fried and finely crumbled
1 jar (2.5 oz) sliced mushrooms, drained
1 cup cooked chicken breast, chopped
7 oz hickory smoked gouda cheese, grated
Using a pizza baking sheet, follow the
manufacturer's directions for handling and shaping the dough. Pre-bake
the dough prior to the layering of the ingredients for 5-6 minutes at
425 degrees or until lightly golden brown. Evenly spread the alfredo sauce
over the pre-baked dough and layer the remaining ingredients in the order
given. Transfer the pizza to a preheated oven and bake at 425 degrees
for 10-12 minutes.
Special Smiley Mashed Potatoes
1 package (22 oz) frozen
mashed potatoes
1 tbsp butter or margerine
2 1/2 cups milk
1/2 pound ground beef, cooked, finely crumbled, and drained
1 package taco seasoning mix
1 tbsp sun dried tomatoes or 1/4 cup finely diced fresh tomatoes
with skins removed
2 oz diced black olives
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
In large microwaveable bowl,
combine the potatoes, butter and milk. Microwave on high for 8 minutes.
Remove bowl from microwave oven and stir the mixture well. Stir in the
last 6 ingredients, return bowl to the microwave and cook 7 minutes on
high. Stir well with fork to fluff.
Metal Mouth Meatballs
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
1/4 cup milk
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp minced onion
1 tbsp very finely chopped green pepper
1 egg, beaten
1/4 tsp dried oregano
Combine all ingredients and
mix thoroughly with hands. Form or roll into 24 equal sized balls. Place
in a well-greased 9"x13"x2" casserole dish and bake at
400 degrees for 25-30 minutes. Service with a smooth spaghetti sauce over
soft dante angel hair pasta.
Chew-less Chili Chicken
2 cups cooked chicken breast,
finely chopped
1 can (10 3/4 oz) cream of chicken soup
3/4 cup chicken broth
1 can (4 oz) chopped green chilies
1 jar (2 oz) diced pimentos
8 flour tortillas, 7" diameter, cut into small pieces
2 1/2 cups cheddar cheese
In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients
and mix thoroughly. Reserve 1 cup of the cheese for sprinkling on top.
Pour into a greased 9"x 12" x2" casserole dish and bake
at 350 degrees for 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Serves 4-6.
Tips for living with braces
Achieving a healthy, beautiful smile is a projectone
that requires careful attention, a diligent commitment, and yes, even some
lifestyle adjustments. But the rewards are worth it!
To make your treatment as quick and effectiveand
comfortableas possible,
here a some things you need to know:
Soothing Recipes
We know how those teeth can get a little sore after orthodontic adjustments,
so here are some soothing recipes that we hope you and/or your child will
enjoy.
Main
Courses Desserts
Braces Friendly Banana Cream Cake
1 1/2 cups granulated
sugar
1 stick butter, softened
2 eggs
3/4 cup sour cream
2 cups flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp vanilla extract
3/4 cup milk
2 cups bananas, thinly sliced
Grease a 9" x 12"
x 2" baking pan and lightly dust with flour. In a large mixing bowl,
cream the butter and sugar. Beat in the eggs on at a time. Beat in the
sour cream. Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, mixing
well. Beat in the vanilla, milk and bananas. Pour into the prepared baking
pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. Top with
whip cream or drizzle with a chocolate topping of your choice.
Crossbite Carrot Cake
2 cups granulated sugar
2 sticks butter, softened
4 eggs
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground ginger
2 tsp salt
1 can crushed pineapple in heavy syrup, well drained
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups carrots, very finely grated.
Grease and lightly dust a
9"x12"x2" baking pan with flour. In a large bowl, cream
the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a
time. Gradually add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger,
and salt, mixing well. Beat in the pineapple, vanilla extract, and carrots.
Pour into the baking pan and bake in the preheated oven at 350 degrees
for one hour. Allow to cool completely frosting.
Cream Cheese Frosting
1 pkg (8 oz) cream cheese,
softened
1 stick butter, softened
2 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (confectioners sugar)
In large bowl, combine the
cream cheese and butter, beating until smooth. Beat in the lemon juice
and vanilla. Gradually beat in the sugar and continue beating until light
and fluffy. Spread evenly over the cake. Refrigerate.
Tips for living with braces
Achieving a healthy, beautiful smile is a projectone
that requires careful attention, a diligent commitment, and yes, even some
lifestyle adjustments. But the rewards are worth it!
To make your treatment as quick and effectiveand
comfortableas possible,
here a some things you need to know:
Allergic reactions: What to look for
In rare cases, some people have reactions to the metals used in orthodontic
appliancesincluding
nickel, copper, and chromewhile
others may be allergic to latex (the material used in the gloves worn by the
doctor and staff).
Reactions to metal include swelling of the mouth, swelling or a rash where
the metal touches your skin, and a sore mouth weeks after the appliance has
been inserted.
There are two types of latex allergiesthe
first is quite minor and a typical reaction might be slight swelling after
being touched. In extreme cases, allergic reactions to latex can include hives,
swelling in the face and hands, and breathing difficulty.
If you get any extreme allergic symptoms after orthodontic treatment call
our office immediately.
Why get braces?
Because a smile is a priceless, precious assetone
that can last for a lifetime. And investing in orthodontic treatment today
means you can enjoy the benefits of a super smile for years to come.
It's not just about appearance, either. "Malocclusions" or "bad
bites", can affect the way you chew or talk, and can even lead to more
serious (and expensive) oral health problems. Here are some of the common
conditions that can be corrected with orthodontic treatment:
- Crowded teeth: teeth are crooked, turned, or "overlapping"
- Overbite: the upper jaw or teeth are too far in front, or the lower
too far back
- Underbite: the lower jaw or teeth are too far in front, or the
upper too far back
- Overjet (Protrusion): the upper teeth stick out and do not
fit with the lower front teeth
- Spacing: teeth that have gaps or spaces between them
Ask yourselfor have
your have your child askthis
question: "Do I like my smile?" If the answer is no, then orthodontic
treatment can be one of the best investments you'll ever make.
Who should get braces?
In short, anyone who needs treatment.
It's a common misconception that braces are just for teenagers. The fact
is that anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic treatment
whether it's correcting a long-time bite problem that wasn't addressed
in younger years, or catching developmental problems early.
- To ensure the best overall dental and facial development, all children
should have an orthodontic consultation sometime between the ages of four
and seven. Usually, nothing more than observation is needed (and we will
continue to monitor progress at no charge) but if a problem is evident,
taking action early can spare a lot of treatment and expense down the road.
In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children
see an orthodontist by age sevensooner
if something is obviously wrong.
- You're never too old for a beautiful smile. If you've been living with
a bite problem for a long time, or been hiding your smile, it's time you
found out how adult orthodontics
can transform your smileand
your life.
My child has crooked teeth. Will they straighten
out as they grow?
The space available for teeth in the mouth does not increase
with age so, unfortunately, there won't be any opportunity for your child's
teeth to straighten. The fact is, after the molars erupt (usually in the sixth
year) the space in the mouth actually gets smaller as the child grows older.
So, if your child has crooked or crowded teeth, it's best to get an orthodontic
evaluation sooner than later.
Can my dentist do orthodontics?
Orthodontists are dentists that complete at least two additional years of
very comprehensive full time specialized university training. So even though
orthodontists are dentists, they are very specialized in their training. Some
dentists take weekend courses in orthodontic treatments, but for specialized
care you should see an orthodontist.
Do I need to be referred by my family dentist
to see an
orthodontist?
No. Although many of our patients are referred to us by family dentists,
if you have concerns about the health or appearance of your (or your child's)
smile and would like a free evaluation, just book an appointment.
How do I schedule an initial examination?
It's easyjust
give us a call. Our number is 909-981-8789. Or click
here to request an appointment online.
How much is an initial examination?
Your initial exam is free because we consider it to be an important
first step in your orthodontic health and a great opportunity to welcome you
into our family.
Do we still need to see our family dentist
if we're already seeing you?
Yes, you still need to see your regular dentist for check-ups and cleanings.
Patients with braces or other orthodontic appliance can find it difficult
to keep their teeth clean. Your family dentist will advise you as to how often
to come in for check-ups. Check out Cleaning
Tips for more information on how to keep your mouth as clean as possible.
What about invisible aligners?
Orthodontics has come a long way in recent years. Lighter, more
effective materials. Mini-braces. "Behind-the-teeth" braces.
And yes, in many cases we can now correct bite disorders with invisible
alignersclear plastic
appliances that fit around your teeth and gently and gradually align them.
Not only that, our office is a certified Invisalign orthodontic office. Invisalign
uses the latest in computer imaging technology to create custom aligners.
Click here to
see more.
Want to know if any of these treatments is right for you? Just book
a consultationwe'd
be happy to meet you and discuss your treatment options.
What foods do I have to avoid?
Unfortunately, there are a few foods that should be avoided
while in bracesprimarily
hard foods and sticky foods. For example, foods such as peanut brittle and
candied apples can not only be very difficult to clean from braces but can
even damage and break them. For a detailed list on the foods and candies that
must be avoided while in braces, visit Foods
to Avoid.
How long will treatment last?
There are a number of factors that determine how long you will
wear braces, but in most cases you'll be ready to show off your new smile
in about 18-24 months. And with today's modern orthodontic appliances, treatment
is getting fasterand
easierall the time.
Braces are used to straighten your teeth gradually, not overnight, so a little
patience is needed. Just remember, any discomfort you may feel will be brief.
Your beautiful, healthy smile, however, will last a lifetime.
Are retainers needed after braces?
Wearing a retainer after braces is an important step in treatment
because they keep the teeth stable while the bones and gums adapt to the change.
Without them, there is a possibility that the teeth may start moving back
into their old positionsnot
good.
What about costs?
As mentioned earlier in this section, your initial consultation
is free, so it costs you nothing to get an assessment. The total cost will
vary by case and complexity, but because our modern techniques often require
fewer visits, you might be surprised at how affordable orthodontic treatment
can be.
A beautiful, healthy smile is one of the best investments you can make in
your or your child's future. And to help you fit this investment into your
budget, we offer a variety of payment methods:
- In-house financing with no interest, an appropriate down payment and the
remaining balance paid over your treatment time
- Outside financing that offers no down payment and low monthly fees paid
over your treatment time
- Payment in full with a courtesy bookkeeping discount
- Automatic Credit Card payments (all major credit cards accepted)
- Most major insurance plans (we will fill out the necessary paperwork for
you).
During your first visit and evaluation, our treatment coordinator will be
happy to explain all the financial options to you and work with you on customizing
a payment plan that fits your needs.
If you thought braces are just for kids, it's time we straightened a few things out
Maybe you didn't get braces when you needed them as a child.
Or maybe you did, but you stopped wearing your retainer. Orthodontics can
still help you you
are never too old for a beautiful smile.
Change your smile change your life
We have seen patients achieve amazing transformations, not only in their smiles
but in their attitudes, after getting orthodontic treatment. Never underestimate
the power of a smile to boost confidence and self-esteem.
Straight
teeth are healthy teeth
Crooked or mis-aligned teeth are harder to clean, and can lead to a whole
host of potentially serious oral health problems. Orthodontics now can save
you a lot of treatment
and a lot of money
later.
These aren't the braces you remember
Don't forget, braces have come a long way in recent years. They are more comfortable,
the treatment times are shorter, and require fewer visits. There are new materials,
and new appliances
many of which are barely noticeable, if it all. With the many options
available today, it's never been easier or more convenient to achieve a sensational
smile.
Your best investment
A new smile is unlike anything you can buy to enhance your appearance. A third
of our patients are adults, and after they see their new smiles many of them
tell us they wish they had done it sooner.
These are the people who know the value of a healthy smile,
people who realize the best investment you can make is in yourself.
If you're not satisfied with the way
your teeth look or feel, stop hiding your smile!
Make an appointment for
a consultation and make one of your best investments
an investment in yourself.
Tracey Orthodontic Specialists
600 N. Euclid Ave., Suite 202
Upland, CA 91786
Tel: 909.981.8789
email: inquiries@traceyortho.com