This summer, stay cool with a braces-friendly treat!

Summer is here! Kids and adults alike will now be spending more time outside being active and enjoying the hotter temperatures. What’s better on a hot summer day than a delicious treat that will cool you down after doing something active in the summer sun? Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have just the thing, Watermelon Sorbet! You can find the complete recipe below:

Watermelon Sorbet

Ingredients

• ¾ cup water
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 2 to 3 cups watermelon, diced, no seeds or rind

Directions

In a small saucepan, heat the water, sugar, and lime juice on medium high for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Chill this “syrup” at least 20 minutes. In the meantime, place the watermelon chunks in a food processor or blender and liquefy them. Add the chilled syrup to the watermelon puree and blend. Freeze sorbet in an ice-cream maker according to manufacturer’s directions. Serve immediately.

Happy Summer! Enjoy this treat!

- Dr. Dougherty and team

Dr. Dougherty and team proudly offer complimentary consultations!

At Dr. Dougherty's office, it is our goal to provide the best treatment possible in a comfortable and supportive environment. Combining the right mix of personal care, high technology and continuing education, we maintain a commitment to our patients in every facet of our practice.

One of our commitments is meeting with you to help you explore all or the options available to you or your child. We offer complimentary consultations for those interested in orthodontic treatment. During this time, you'll have time reserved with Dr. Dougherty, who will assess your particular needs as well as discuss treatment options available and answer any questions you may have. We place a high value on making sure you have complete information before beginning treatment.

Your needs, your comfort, and your understanding of orthodontic procedures are top priority for our practice, and we’re happy to meet with you to help you explore all or the options available to you or your child. Please contact our office today to schedule your complimentary new-patient exam.

See you soon!

Get your orthodontic emergency kit this summer!

Don't forget to pick up a complimentary orthodontic emergency kit from our office before you head out on vacation. You can pick one up at your next appointment with Dr. Dougherty, or stop by during office hours. Hope everyone is planning a great summer!

Smile! June is National Smile Month!

Did you know June is National Smile Month? It's a good time to remind all our patients to practice good oral hygiene between your visits to our Sherman Oaks office, as well as your general dentist.

Below are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Month for many, many years to come:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth and braces.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment
* Visit your dentist regularly (every 6 months or as recommended by your dentist)!

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call, ask Dr. Dougherty during your next visit ... or ask us on Facebook!