Thanks to Invisalign®, mom and dad can have a perfect smile, too! From Dr. Charles Ruff

Hey parents! Focusing on your kids' teeth and oral health so much that you're neglecting your own? If you've been thinking wistfully about having your own set of perfect teeth, our staff at the office of Dr. Charles Ruff can help! We are specially trained to offer an adult-friendly option for straightening teeth called Invisalign.

This course of treatment consists of a set of clear aligners that are molded to fit your teeth using a proprietary technology. You wear them all day and night, except for meals, brushing, and flossing – when you can easily slip them out to make eating and cleaning a snap!

Because they're clear, your teeth will be steadily straightening – and no one will know it but you!

Please give us a call to set up a consultation, so we can discuss the specifics of your treatment.

What is your New Year’s Resolution?

The 2010 holiday season is upon us, and our team at Dr. Ruff's office would like to wish all our patients and their families the merriest of holidays and best wishes for the New Year.

We thought we’d ask: what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2011? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Feel free to post your responses and any pictures or videos that you might want to share on our Facebook page. Have a safe and happy New Year, from all of us at the office of Dr. Charles Ruff!

What do you love about Dr. Charles Ruff and team?

From the moment you walk in the door of the practice of Dr. Charles J. Ruff, you will probably notice that we believe orthodontics is more than just straightening teeth. Dr. Ruff and his knowledgeable team enjoy getting to know each patient they meet and strive to provide the highest quality of orthodontic care in a comfortable and friendly environment. Have you had a great experience at our office?

Share your story with the world!



Just select the "Write a Review" button above to write a review on our Google Place Page. Thank you for the valuable feedback!

Is your child nearing their seventh birthday?

Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Dr. Ruff for a consultation, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That’s right—seven.

Ok, so what’s so great about age seven, you ask? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for Dr. Ruff to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites and open bites can be detected.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age provides one of two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, a healthy prognosis will provide immediate peace of mind.

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and are detrimental to good oral hygiene. So, if your child is nearing his or her seventh birthday, give us a call to schedule an appointment.

Invisalign® tips, from Dr. Charles Ruff

Many people know that Invisalign is a great solution to braces if you don't want to experience the look and feel of traditional metal braces. What few people know, though, is that just like traditional braces, Invisalign requires proper care to work effectively. Good oral hygiene is highly important, even when you are wearing something in your mouth that you can take out to eat with. It's still likely that your aligners can build up plaque if not treated properly. When wearing your Invisalign aligners, Dr. Ruff wants you to ask yourself the following questions:

1. Am I eating with my aligners on? - These aligners are removable and should be taken out when you eat.

2. Am I drinking anything other than water with my aligners on? - Though it's not necessary for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky soda is. If you take out your aligners when drinking a soda, you have a better chance of keeping your aligners clean.

3. Am I brushing before putting the trays on? - The aligners have both an inside and outside. Keeping the outside clean is easy. Keeping the inside clean is also simple: just make sure you've brushed your teeth before putting the trays on.

These are all very simple steps, and ultimately, they help to keep you building good oral habits. If you have any questions about Invisalign or your treatment here at the office of Dr. Charles Ruff, give us a call!

Happy Thanksgiving, from Dr. Charles Ruff

Here at the office of Dr. Charles Ruff, we are very thankful for all of our amazing patients! Our doctor and team would like to wish everyone a fun and safe Thanksgiving. We also want to remind everyone to brush and floss after indulging in the big meal.

If you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we encourage you to post them on our Facebook page or give us a call!

Gobble Gobble!

Cool kids get braces with Dr. Charles Ruff!

Braces today are “cool” and—many would say—even “fun.” These were among the findings of a 2010 nationwide survey of moms whose children are going through or have had orthodontic treatment. New technologies such as Invisalign and Invisalign Teen, advanced computer software, color options, and even popular celebrities—Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Danny Glover, Serena Williams—sporting stylish braces are making orthodontic treatment more comfortable, fashionable and cool for today’s teens.

The study, conducted on behalf of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists for February’s National Children’s Dental Health Month, found 86 percent of moms reporting that braces are cooler today than when they were children. Sixty-nine percent of moms also said wearing braces makes their children feel cool, and 81 percent reported their children’s experience with orthodontic treatment as either positive or extremely positive.

Different color options and the ability to change colors, for example, provide exciting ways for young patients to customize appearances. That enthusiasm helps them to feel good about their orthodontic treatment with Dr. Ruff, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

Getting social with Dr. Ruff and team

At the office of Dr. Charles Ruff, we embrace technology, whether it’s through the innovative treatments we offer, our high-tech web site or our Facebook fan page. As you can probably tell, we love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas and photos from our Halloween Candy Buyback weekend on our fan page. For social media to work, we understand that conversation is vital, and that’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social networks are hugely popular these days, we know they’re unpredictable and ever-changing.

While Dr. Ruff and our staff take a little time to research how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog? Please post your thoughts or give us a call!

The Great Halloween Candy Buyback at the office of Dr. Charles Ruff

Did you attend Dr. Ruff's Great Halloween Candy Buyback this evening? If not, you still have another chance to trade in your Halloween candy for cash!

This Saturday, Nov. 6th, Dr. Ruff and our team will be hosting another candy drop off from 10am until 12pm at our office. While trick or treating is fun, it's no good for your teeth or braces. For every pound of candy that you share, Dr. Ruff will pay you $1. We will also be donating all of the candy, as well as toothbrushes, to our troops through Operation Gratitude.

We can't wait to see all of our patients at The Great Halloween Candy Buyback! If you have any questions about the candy buyback, or if you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ruff, don't hesitate to give us a call.

Dr. Ruff recognizes Brenda and Sara, two of our amazing staff members!

Dr. Ruff would like to recognize two of our wonderful staff members, Brenda and Sara. Brenda, our Administrative Coordinator, just celebrated her 4th anniversary at the practice of Dr. Ruff. Orthodontic Assistant, Sara, just celebrated her 7th anniversary with our team.

A few words from Brenda and Sara:

Brenda- "I really enjoy getting to know our patients and seeing their beautiful smiles develop along with their self-confidence. My goal is to make sure that your non-clinical experience in our office is wonderful!"

Sara- "I love all aspects of working in the orthodontic field, and what I love the most is seeing patients grow throughout their treatment and to know I was part of creating that beautiful smile."

Be sure to say hello to Brenda and Sara the next time you're in for an appointment!

How are you earning Ruff Bucks?

At the office of Dr. Charles J. Ruff, we know how important proper oral care is for the health of your teeth and the success of your orthodontic treatment. To encourage our patients to develop a daily oral care routine while they're wearing braces, and visit our office every six weeks, we give one Ruff Buck to our patients at each appointment. Also, if a patient wears their Dr. Ruff t-shirt to the appointment they will receive an extra Ruff Buck.

Ruff Bucks can be traded in for a variety of prizes at our office, including gift cards, webkins, toys, and other prizes! For more information about orthodontic treatment, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ruff, don't hesitate to give us a call.

Dr. Ruff announces our Great Halloween Candy Buyback!

Dr. Ruff and team are excited to announce our National Orthodontic Health Month event, The Great Halloween Candy Buyback. Trick or treating is fun, but it's no good for your teeth or braces. That's why Dr. Ruff would like to buy back your candy this year!

For every pound of candy that you bring in to our office, Dr. Ruff will pay you $1. We will also be donating all of the candy, as well as toothbrushes, to our troops through Operation Gratitude.




The Candy Buyback will take place Thursday, Nov. 4th between 4:30- 6:00pm. There will also be a drawing for prizes, the opportunity to meet local troops, tour a Hummer, send notes to our servicemen, and you will get a goody bag!

Dr. Ruff and our team look forward to seeing all of our patients at The Great Halloween Candy Buyback! As always, don't hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule a consultation.

October is National Orthodontic Health Month

Can you believe October is already upon us? October happens to be National Orthodontic Health Month, and this month-long event is organized by our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Many treats can cause havoc for trick-or-treaters who are going through orthodontic treatment, and these treats may cause damage that could prolong your treatment time. The AAO recommends patients avoid the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

• Caramel
• Nuts
• Popcorn (including un-popped kernels)
• Taffy
• Jelly beans
• Hard pretzels
• Licorice
• Bubblegum
• Taco chips
• Ice

If you happen to damage your braces, please give Dr. Ruff and our staff a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone. Loose brackets or wires can usually be made more comfortable by applying some wax until the you can come into our office.

Ask Dr. Ruff: Is Invisalign® really customized for each patient?

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work, says Dr. Ruff. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. The best thing about it all? Nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Ruff is a certified Invisalign provider in Waterville, Skowhegan, and Dover-Foxcroft ME. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, please give us a call.

Kids getting braces at a younger age

You may have once heard that braces were considered to be best appropriate for teens. But these days, kids as old as seven are beginning their orthodontic treatment. Because preadolescent kids are typically not self-conscious, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists suggest it could be a good idea to start early.

Experts, however, say it depends on the treatment required. Some children who get braces at an early age end up in a second phase of treatment, and end up having braces well into their teenage years despite starting young.

Most orthodontic treatment begins between ages nine and 14, and the folks at AAO estimate most orthodontic treatment lasts from one to three years, with two years being the average. It’s important, however, that children be screened no later than age seven for Dr. Ruff to assess what the best age for treatment is.

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions about your child’s treatment!

Ask Dr. Ruff: Why is it so important to have straight teeth?

Some people wonder why Waterville, Skowhegan, and Dover-Foxcroft, ME orthodontist Dr. Charles Ruff and our team work tirelessly to give our patients straight teeth. Of course it’s nice to have a smile full of evenly aligned teeth, but did you know that straightening your teeth at our office can keep them healthier? Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime!

Straight teeth are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque—the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to tooth decay; and they are easier to keep clean!

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, please give us a call to set up a consultation. Dr. Charles Ruff can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Distinguishing the myths and facts about orthodontics, from Dr. Charles Ruff

Trust us when we say Dr. Charles Ruff and our staff know there are quite a few myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) floating around these days. But before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists set the record straight (no pun intended) and have provided some information that sheds some light on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at the office of Dr. Charles J. Ruff, feel free to give us a call.

Your friend, fluoride!

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment at Dr. Charles J. Ruff. You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and protect your mouth and appliances from being damaged. But did you know there is another, often forgotten about, way to keep your teeth clean and healthy during your treatment? Fluoride – a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay – can help keep your teeth strong! Fluoride comes in two varieties: topical and systemic. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth. Topical fluoride includes toothpastes and mouth rinses. Systemic fluorides are swallowed in the form of a dietary supplement.

Fluoride used in the orthodontists’ office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask Dr. Ruff how to purchase professional strength fluoride). A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. After the treatment patients may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride.

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

Have you participated in a Dr. Charles Ruff weekly trivia contest?

Each week, Dr. Charles Ruff and our team of orthodontic professionals posts trivia question in our office and through email. You can enter every week until August 30th for your chance to win two tickets to Funtown/ Splashtown! Have you had a chance to submit your trivia responses yet? If not, don't hesitate to participate today for your chance to win!

Weekly winners will be announced via email when the new trivia question is sent, so be sure to provide us with your most recent email address in your contact information. Dr. Charles Ruff will also be selling discounted Funtown/ Splashtown combo passes for $25. As always, don't hesitate to give us a call or connect with us on Facebook if you have any questions!

Have a great week,

-Dr. Charles Ruff and team

Ask Dr. Ruff: What can Invisalign® do for my oral health?

When considering treatment options, patients often ask us how Invisalign treatment is so different than traditional braces. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign with Dr. Charles Ruff than you may know. Invisalign is a series of removable aligners that are nearly invisible, and besides straightening your teeth, can improve your oral health. Here’s how:

Healthy gums: Straight teeth allow a close fit for gums. This lessens the gum stress that is caused by crowded or widely spaced teeth, thus also reducing red and swollen gums.

Easy cleaning: Invisalign is removable, therefore brushing and flossing is easier and you are able to maintain a healthy mouth. These habits are vital to avoiding tooth decay, plaque and even gum disease.

Improved speech and chewing: Properly-aligned teeth don’t have the discomfort or compound speech impediments that can be caused by crowded teeth or a deteriorating jawbone.

If you have any questions about Invisalign, just ask Dr. Ruff the next time you’re in for an appointment. Or, you may post your question on our Facebook page! You can also read this article for more information on Invisalign and your oral health.

Keeping plaque at bay, from Dr. Charles J. Ruff

Dr. Charles J. Ruff wants to remind everyone that keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever when you have braces. Food bits have more spots than usual to hide in your mouth, so you must be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. If you remove plaque regularly during treatment, you'll experience better results and shorter treatment time. Keep your BRACES sparklin’ clean with these top ten tips:

1. One tooth at a time. When you brush, take time with each individual tooth – at least 10 seconds each – and pay careful attention to the spots where your teeth touch your braces.

2. It’s all about the angles. Brush the tops of your teeth and braces with your brush angled down toward where they meet. Brush the bottoms of your teeth and braces with your brush angled up.

3. The tooth, the whole tooth, nothing but the tooth. While the front surface of your teeth may seem like the most logical to clean, it’s equally important to clean the inner surface of your teeth (tongue side) as well as the chewing surface. And be sure to clean along your gum line – a key spot for plaque buildup.

4. Step 1: eat, step 2: clean. While you’re in treatment, it’s important to brush after every meal. Bits of food can easily get caught between braces and teeth, and these food bits interact with bacteria in your mouth to cause decay. The longer food is in contact with your teeth, the greater opportunity for plaque to form. If you are eating somewhere that you can’t brush, thoroughly rinse your mouth with water.

5. Like a Boy Scout, always be prepared. The easiest way to be sure you can brush after every meal is to get in the habit of taking a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss with you wherever you go. Designate a special container just for your teeth-cleaning tools and keep it in your purse, backpack, or laptop case.

6. Remove the moving parts. If you have elastic bands or headgear, remove these parts before you brush or floss.

7. Fluoride is your friend. Fluoride helps prevent cavities. Be sure to brush with fluoride toothpaste, and rinse with fluoride mouthwash.

8. Pointy brushes reach tiny places. Interproximal brushes (sometimes called proxa brushes or interdental brushes) are cone-shaped and come in very handy for reaching spots around your braces that standard brushes can’t.

9. Find the floss for you. Regular floss works for some patients, but others find it easier to work with a floss threader, which helps you get the floss into tight places. Other patients like an all-in-one product called Superfloss, which comes with a stiff end for easy threading, a spongy section for cleaning wide spaces, and regular floss for narrow spaces.

10. Make time for the pros. It’s your job to take care of the everyday cleaning. But make sure to visit your dentist regularly while in treatment, to get the deep, thorough cleaning that only a professional can provide. If you need help finding the right Dentist for you, feel free to contact our office - we’d love to help!

Hope this helps!

-Dr. Charles J. Ruff

This summer, don't forget those mouth guards!

Dr. Ruff and our staff can't believe we're already halfway through summer! As the weather stays hot, the chances for mouth injuries for our athletes gets bigger and bigger. We'd like to remind our young athletes orthodontic treatment to always take care of both your mouth and appliances while participating in contact- and non-contact sports.

That includes wearing a mouth guard at all times when you're playing sports. Only by using a mouth guard can athletes with and without braces avoid serious mouth injuries. And don't forget to ask us for a mouth guard - we will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment! We hope you're having a great summer so far!

The Braces Brigade - be a part of it!

At the office of Dr. Charles Ruff, we know that orthodontic treatment can seem long and strenuous to some patients. Or, it can be a fun and exciting time (it is for most of our patients!). This summer, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists would like to reward you for sharing your story in braces with the world. The campaign is called the Braces Brigade, and as an appreciation (if you're chosen), they'll throw in a $100 American Express gift card for your efforts.

To complete your Braces Brigade application, you'll need to provide your:

* Name
* Age – Must be 14 years of age or older
* E-mail
* Phone number
* Stage of orthodontic treatment
* A photo of your braces/smile
* A sample blog post – picture yourself as a member of Braces Brigade and show off your blogging skills! (100-word minimum)

Here's how it works: In your weekly blogs, which you'll write for eight months if selected. If you happen to be under the age of 18, your parents must fill out this consent form along with your official entry.

Dr. Ruff encourages you to apply for the Braces Brigade by August 31st! If you get accepted, let us know during your next visit or on our Facebook page!

Summer heat safety tips, from Dr. Ruff and team

With the summer heat wave sweeping through Maine and the Eastern U.S. the last two weeks, Dr. Ruff and our staff want you to think more and more about sun safety when you’re out and about. Last week, Good Morning America ran an interesting segment on the many ways you can protect yourself from heat stroke and other heat-related conditions this summer. And, here are a few summer safety tips from our friends at WebMD.

Dr. Ruff and our staff encourage you to watch the video clip, and remember to always have a bottle of water when heading out! We hope you're all having a GREAT summer!

Dr. Ruff and team present: Patriotic fun facts!

Tonight, Dr. Ruff and our staff will help celebrate our nation's 234th birthday. And because we know our patients love fun facts, we thought we'd provide you with some fun facts about Independence Day! Enjoy!

- Independence Day was first celebrated in Philadelphia on July 8, 1776.

- An estimated 2.5 million people lived in America in July 1776. Today, an estimated 309 million people reside in the United States.

- The major objection to being ruled by Britain was taxation without representation, which meant that people didn't want to be taxed by a government that did not represent them.

- In 1941, Congress declared 4th of July a federal legal holiday. It is one of the few federal holidays that have not been moved to the nearest Friday or Monday.

- The stars on the original American flag were arranged in a circle to ensure that all colonies were equal.

- America's mascot, the bald eagle, can achieve speeds of up to 200 miles per hour when making a predatory dive. During a normal flight, bald eagles can travel up to 30 miles per hour.

- The American flag patch is backwards on U.S. Army uniforms. The reason? The blue field on the flag (the part with the stars) faces forward to symbolize carrying the American flag into battle.

- Someone who specializes in the history of flags is called a vexillologist.

- The word ‘patriotism’ comes from the Latin patria, which means ‘homeland’ or ‘fatherland.’

- According to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, Americans consume over 150 million hot dogs during their Independence Day festivities.

Have a great Fourth of July weekend everyone, and we'll see you next week!!

When should you call our office?

The folks at the American Association of Orthodontists have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call the office of Dr. Charles Ruff. Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with Waterville and Dover-Foxcroft orthodontist Dr. Ruff and team:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, give us a call at (207) 873-7425.

Invisalign treatment with Dr. Charles Ruff: How does it work? [Video]

Maybe you've wondered how Invisalign treatment by Waterville orthodontist Dr. Charles Ruff manages to straighten your teeth without using traditional metallic braces? The Invisalign system is a state-of-the-art system of clear, removable aligners that we proudly offer at our convenient Waterville office. To learn more about how Invisalign treatment with Dr. Ruff can give you that beautiful smile you've always wanted, please give our office a call at (207) 873-7425. Dr. Charles J. Ruff is a Certified Invisalign Provider in Maine.

Have a GREAT week, everyone!

Ask Dr. Ruff: when should my child come in for a consultation?

Many parents in Waterville and surrounding communities just assume they must wait until a child has all of his or her permanent teeth, only to find that treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Some orthodontic problems are easier to correct while the jaw is still growing. Consequently, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven.

What’s so great about age seven, you ask? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for an orthodontist to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or what Dr. Charles Ruff calls “bad bite.”

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and detrimental to good oral hygiene. So if your child is nearing age seven, please give us a call at (207) 873-7425 to schedule an appointment.

Talking cavities with Dr. Ruff

Dr. Charles Ruff knows that one word no patient wants to hear when they visit their dentist or orthodontist is "cavity." Oh, those dreaded cavities! But what exactly is a cavity and how do you get one? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger.

So, what causes a cavity? A cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

Yes, cavities can be repaired by your dentist, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities during your treatment with Dr. Ruff:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)
• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach
• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink
• Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up

We hope this helps! Give us a call for more info about your oral health or your treatment at our office!

"Hey Dr. Ruff! Any truth to those rumors about braces?"

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

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment with Dr. Ruff, feel free to give us a call at (207) 873-7425.

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

Dr. Ruff wants to know: What are your plans for Memorial Day?

Memorial Day Weekend, only a few days away, is a time once again for Americans to remember all those who bravely gave their lives for our country. It’s also the unofficial start of summer, and for many kids in San Diego, getting out of town for three days with parents or relaxing after being cooped up at school for 9 months is always sweet, sweet relief.

What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend? Whether you are headed to a family barbecue, a camping trip, or hitting the open road, Dr. Ruff and our team would love to hear allllll about it! Enjoy the long weekend if we don't see you this week for a visit, and we'll see you soon!!

Connect with us on Facebook!

If you know Dr. Ruff, you know he values the relationships he and our team have developed with patients in Waterville, Foxcroft and surrounding communities. Even if you only see us for your appointment every three- to four months, did you know that you can now connect with us on our Facebook page?

We invite you to “like” Charles J. Ruff DMD on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/CharlesJRuffDMD. We share office news and updates on our Fan Page, so check it out! By Liking our page, you will receive updates from our office automatically on Facebook!

See you online and have a great week,

- Dr. Ruff and staff

Share your experience with Dr. Ruff with the world!

Whether you've visited Dr. Ruff for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about how our office is faring! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice with the rest of the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local page and write a review there.

After all, reviews help Dr. Ruff create more beautiful smiles in Waterville, Skowhegan, Foxcroft and surrounding communities.

You may write a review here.

Thank you and enjoy your week! We look forward to reading your reviews!

Parent Appreciation Contest

To our parents:
We understand how hard it is to take time off of work and time out of your regular schedule to drive to our office. Thank you so much for all your commitments and hard work that you have given to your child's orthodontic care.

As a token of our appreciation, our monthly contest is for you! Your child may enter you into the contest which will be going until May 28th. If you are not in our office before then, you can still be entered by emailing us the patients name at cjrordering@hotmail.com

We will draw two winners...a father...and a mother. They will have the choice of winning one of the following:
$100 Gift Certificate Home Depot
$100 Gift Certificate Apollos Day Spa
$100 Gift Certificate Natanis Golf
$100 Gift Certificate Simons Mall



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Wishing you a happy Mother's Day, from Dr. Ruff and team

Dr. Charles Ruff and our entire team would like to thank all the wonderful moms out there for driving their kids to their regularly scheduled appointments at our office and for being there for their child at all times.

We know that moms should get more than just a day of celebration, appreciation and acknowledgment, but we want you to know that we appreciate you all very much! Happy Mother's Day!

Retainers, retainers, retainers...

If you recently completed treatment at the office of Dr. Charles Ruff, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Ruff will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth may shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, however, provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed by Dr. Ruff is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime.

To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Ruff, please read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth or give us a call at (207) 873-7425.

Today marks the 40th anniversary of Earth Day! What are you up to?

Earth Day, designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth's environment, marks its 40th anniversary today. Earth Day was founded by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson on April 22, 1970 and is observed every April 22nd on virtually every country on Earth.

Whether lending a helping hand to plant trees or getting out to volunteer in your community, today is your opportunity to get started in making your impact year-round. Are you making a difference today? Tell us, what are you up to? How long have you participated in helping our planet?

If you’d like to join the millions of people around the world who are making small but important changes to help sustain Mother Earth, try these helpful environmental tips, courtesy of the United States Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA.

Happy Earth Day!

Ask Dr. Ruff: Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?

Of course not. In fact, our staff recently read a fascinating statistic: the number of adults getting braces has climbed 24 percent since 1996! It's true that braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another reason for the spike in adult braces is this: folks want to look and feel great.

In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing—wisely, we might add—to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Dr. Ruff can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. Ruff would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

Dr. Ruff wants to know: What do you love about Waterville?

The office of Charles J. Ruff, located in Waterville and serving surrounding communities here in Maine, is situated around some pretty special neighborhoods. Each is unique with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our great young patients) living within.

Today, Dr. Ruff thought he'd ask: What are your favorite things about Waterville or your community? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps you have a favorite Maine getaway (there are lots of them!).

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in Burnaby, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods.” And, who knows, we might just post your response on our social networks!

This April, play it safe! From Dr. Ruff

You may remember our team last week blogging about the advantage of wearing a mouth guard when participating in sports-related activities. Well, this week happens to be a great time for a follow-up. You see, April is National Facial Protection Month, and it’s a good time to remind our young athletes about staying safe on the field this spring. According to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, children, high-school athletes and adults will have more than 5,000,000 teeth knocked out in sporting events this year.

For Dr. Ruff and our staff, that's just not acceptable.

The above video contains five ways to ensure the safety of your mouth this spring, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO. If you have any further questions about any of the tips offered in the video, please give us a call at (207) 873-7425. Have a great rest of the week and remember to protect your mouth!

The importance of mouth guards, from Dr. Ruff

Wouldn’t you believe it, it’s already springtime! The spring months, however, bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of kids damaging their precious mouths and pearly whites. If you play sports, it's important that you consult Dr. Ruff for special precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing spring sports such as baseball, soccer, lacrosse and others. Be sure, however, to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements we are trying to achieve.

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 our office. And don’t forget to ask us—Dr. Ruff will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment.

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

Wishing you a safe and happy St. Patrick's Day (and night), from Dr. Charles Ruff

Dr. Ruff wants to know: Did you remember to dress in green when you stepped out this morning? Whether Irish or not, millions of people in the U.S. and around the world celebrate St. Patrick's Day with toasts, parades and "the wearing of the green." Dr. Ruff and our team hope you stay safe and enjoy your night out tonight!

Orthodontic fun facts, from Dr. Ruff

Everyone loves fun facts. Fun, fun, fun. The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that our team at the office of Dr. Charles J. Ruff thought you might enjoy.

• There are nearly 4 million people in orthodontic treatment throughout the United States. Three out of four are younger than 18.
• The first mechanical treatment for correcting irregular teeth was suggested by Gaius Plinius Secundus (A.D 23-79).The American Association of Orthodontists is comprised of more than 12,000 members in the United States, Canada and abroad.
• The time required to complete orthodontic treatment ranges from 12 to 36 months depending on the nature and severity of the problem.
• Of the 160,000 dentists in the United States and Canada, 8,000 are practicing orthodontists.
• The cement that attaches the braces to the teeth is now made with a special fluoride-releasing substance.
• Wires activated by body heat used in today's braces originally were developed by NASA for use in the space program.
• In addition to alleviating or preventing physical health problems, orthodontics can boost self-esteem as treatment aligns teeth, jaws and lips.
• Famous orthodontic patients include: Dr. Joyce Brothers, Hale Irwin, Cher, Diana Ross, Phyllis Diller, Chelsea Clinton, Whoopi Goldberg, Daisy Fuentes and Brandi.

Dr. Charles Ruff, reminding you about the importance of regular checkups

Is your child brushing his/her teeth twice a day? If yes, that’s great, says Dr. Charles Ruff. But, don’t forget that it’s also important for your child to visit the dentist every six months in addition to brushing their teeth a couple times a day. If your child will be visiting the dentist for the first time, it’s important to bring them in after their first tooth comes through, and no later than their first birthday. Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can:

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

During an oral exam the doctor will check the health of your child’s mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If your child has not been to the dentist in the last six months, it’s time for you to schedule an appointment! Lastly, if you have any questions about your treatment with Dr. Ruff, please give us a call at (207) 873-7425.

Ask Dr. Ruff: Who benefits from braces?

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Ruff will tell you that anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic care; whether it’s correcting a problem not treated in your younger years, or catching a problem early.

To ensure the best overall treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, recommends that children receive an orthodontic consultation as early as age seven. If a problem is evident, taking action early can spare a lot of treatment and expense down the road. If you never received orthodontic treatment when you were young, don’t worry! You’re never too old for a beautiful smile. Set up an appointment at (207) 873-7425 for a consultation and find out how adult orthodontics will transform your smile, and your life!

Imagining your life with Invisalign®

Are you wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you're in treatment? You're not alone in your concerns! Dr. Charles Ruff and our team thought we’d share this list of questions and answers for anyone pondering Invisalign treatment with Dr. Ruff.

How exactly does Invisalign work?

Using 3-D computer imaging technology, Invisalign creates a series of custom-made, clear aligners exclusively for your teeth, based on the treatment plan that we specify for you. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.

Will I experience pain during treatment?

Most people experience temporary discomfort for a few days after a new aligner is placed. This feeling of pressure is normal and is a sign that Invisalign is working by sequentially moving your teeth to their final destination.

Can other people see that I'm in treatment?

One of the benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.

Can I smoke during treatment?

We discourage smoking while wearing the aligners as they may become discolored.

Are there any foods I cannot eat while in treatment?

You can eat normally during the entire course of treatment. One of the advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. Simply take the aligners out before each meal, brush when you're finished eating, then reinsert the aligners afterward.

What about chewing gum?

We recommend removing your aligners for all meals and snacks, as gum and other chewy substances can stick to the aligners.

How often must I wear my aligners?

Aligners should be worn all day, except when eating, brushing, and flossing.

Will my speech be affected by the aligners?

As with any orthodontic treatment, aligners may temporarily affect your speech. If this does happen, your tongue will adjust within a day or two and your speech should return to normal.

How can I clean my aligners?

The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water.

How often must I visit your office during treatment?

For most patients, visits every 4-6 weeks are frequent enough for us to determine that your treatment is progressing properly. Dr. Ruff will provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan.

Access your account anytime!

Access to your account at any time. Sounds convenient, doesn’t it?

Patients of Dr. Ruff 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 Dr. Ruff‘s patients are saying about this innovative service:

"The financial info and pictures were very helpful and accurate." ~ Charles C.

"I'm able to get information about our account and treatment schedule without having to make a long distance telephone call during the Dr's office hours. I can do it at any hour of the day or night right from my own computer at no extra cost or hassle." ~ Robert W.

"Being able to check online for time and dates of appointments is very convenient." ~ Michael W.

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

Toothbrush Trivia with Dr. Charles Ruff!

People have been brushing their teeth for thousands of years! In fact, the first “toothbrush” was created around 3000BC! Ancient civilizations used a thin twig with a frayed edge to rub against their teeth for cleaning.

The first toothbrush with bristles – similar to today’s toothbrushes – was invented in 1498 in China. Brushes were made out of bone or bamboo with bristles made from the hairs on the back of a hog’s neck.

It wasn’t until 1938 that the first nylon bristle toothbrush was introduced and people quickly became aware of practicing good oral hygiene.

Here are some other interesting facts about your toothbrush (and toothpaste):

• Most people are said to use blue toothbrushes over any other color
• The first toothpaste was used in 500 BC in China and India
• On average, children smile about 400 times per day
• Your toothbrush should be replaced every two months
• The first known toothpaste was used in 1780, Crest was introduced in the US in 1955 and Colgate in 1873

Dr. Ruff and team want to know: What are you up to in January?

BRRRR! It may still be chilly in Waterville (23 degrees), but can you believe we’re only a couple of months away from spring? Dr. Ruff and team want to know: What are you doing in January? What have you accomplished this year? Are you keeping up with your New Year’s Resolution? Any big mid-winter break plans? Anything exciting going on in your life?

If you have any photos or videos that you would like to share with us, please send them our way or call our office at (207) 873-7425 and ask how! Have a great rest of the week!

What are patients saying about Dr. Ruff?

Dr. Charles Ruff and our team just love getting patient reviews. And lately, our office, serving Waterville, Dover Foxcroft, Skowhegan and surrounding communities, has been getting some pretty great patient testimonials! We thought we'd share some with you today! If you have any reviews you'd like to share with us, please pass them along!

"EVERYONE in the office is friendly, professional, and makes you feel welcome and special for coming to the office." ~ Kevin S.

"Dr. Ruff definitely has the best reputation in our area. He is honest and his care is outstanding." ~ Brian S.

"Professional, friendly, polite, helpful, responsive, give me plenty of reminders about appointments, pleasant office . . . can't imagine a better place." ~ Melora N.

"We like the friendly staff and Dr. Ruff is very pleasant. He really cares about the kids teeth and has a wonderful way of working with the kids." ~ Andrew C.

"He is thorough and a perfectionist." ~ Donald H.

Dr. Ruff wants to know: What do you love about our practice?

From your very first visit to our office, Dr. Ruff and our team strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. Have you been especially impressed by Dr. Ruff? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Do you love your new smile?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback on our networks. Or, you can tell us by giving us a call!