Schedule your fall apointment!

Schools are back in session here in Houston, which means it's a great time for Dr. Marc Magness to remind all our patients about the importance of scheduling your fall appointment in advance. With school, clubs, sports and other activities to consider, we know that it can be challenging to find time to visit Memorial Smiles this fall. In order to accommodate all of our patients' busy schedules, it is important that you plan ahead for your appointments so that we are able to provide you with an appointment time that is convenient for you.

As always, please remember to give us advanced notice if you're unable to make your regularly-scheduled appointment. If Dr. Magness and staff receive enough notice, we might be able to schedule another patient for that appointment. Feel free to give us a call at 713-468-9669 if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your fall appointment.

See you soon!

Ask Dr. Magness: Why are regular checkups so important?

If you're brushing twice a day, as well as flossing during your treatment at Memorial Smiles, that's phenomenal. But, remember that it’s also important for you to visit the dentist every six months in addition to brushing their teeth a couple times a day (and visiting Dr. Magness during your treatment). Our staff will tell you regular dental checkups are vital for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can:

• Check for problems that might not be seen or felt
• Detect cavities and signs of tooth decay
• Treat oral health problems early
• Show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth during your orthodontic treatment

During an oral exam, your dentist will check the health of your child’s mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups also typically include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If your child has not been to the dentist in the past six months, it’s time for you to schedule an appointment!

If you don't have a general dentist in Houston or nearby communities, please ask and Dr. Magness and our team will be happy to provide a reference or two!

Summer traveling tips from Memorial Smiles

It's still early August we know most folks - and most of our patients - here at Memorial Smiles take a vacation - or two - during the summer, and often forget to pack the most important of things. Recently, our staff came across an article from ParentsAsk.com that outlined five important tips for summer travel with children. We strongly encourage you to give this article a read if you’re heading out with the family this summer.

We hope you're having a fun summer! Happy (and safe) traveling everyone!

- Dr. Magness and the Memorial Smiles team

"Hey, Dr. Magness: What happens if I miss a visit due to vacation or summer plans?"

Dr. Marc Magness and our staff know that summer is a time for vacations, family, friends and fun. Bu what happens if you miss an appointment?

Not to worry.

Although missing a scheduled appointment can delay your orthodontic treatment, don't worry if your plans take you away from Houston during August and you are not able to make it to our office. Remember, however, that if you will be gone for an extended period this summer, we recommend you come in for a visit prior to leaving and schedule another visit shortly after your return.

In most cases, a delay in one visit does not extend treatment. In fact, having loose/broken brackets and failure to wear your elastics are far more likely to extend your time in your braces. On that note, remember not to indulge in hard, sticky and chewy foods while on your vacation. We look forward to seeing you soon and hearing about your adventures! Feel free to send us photos or share them on our Facebook page!