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Braces in Pop Culture: Who Rocked Them

August 11th, 2025

Braces aren't just for awkward yearbook photos—they've had their share of star moments on TV, in movies, and even on the red carpet. From fictional characters to real-life celebrities, here are some who wore their braces proudly (and looked great doing it!).

1. Katy Perry
Pop superstar Katy Perry embraced her braces during her rise to fame—proving you can rock a chart-topping smile and orthodontic gear.

2. Emma Watson as Hermione Granger
While Emma didn't wear braces in the Harry Potter films, she had them in real life between movies. Even the brightest witch of her age needed a little orthodontic magic!

3. Tom Cruise
Yes, even Hollywood's leading man wore braces as an adult—on the red carpet, no less. If he can confidently flash his brackets to paparazzi, you can definitely smile for school pictures.

4. Gwen Stefani
The pop-punk icon brought braces into the spotlight in the early 2000s and made them part of her signature style.

5. Betty Suarez from Ugly Betty
America Ferrera's TV alter ego may have been teased for her braces, but they became part of the character's charm—and an inspiring reminder that confidence trumps criticism

6. Faith Hill
The country music superstar wore braces as an adult to fine-tune her smile. She proves that it's never too late to invest in yourself.

7. Tyra Banks
The supermodel and TV host has been open about her orthodontic journey, showing that even in the modeling world, braces are nothing to hide.

Why This Matters:
Braces are a sign that you're investing in your future smile. And as these pop culture moments prove, confidence is the best accessory—whether you're on stage, on screen, or just walking down the hallway at school.

Start your Braces journey at Dr. Azizi's office!!

Glenside 215-576-6414 Ambler 215-646-9514

Back to School with Braces: Tips for a Smooth Start

August 4th, 2025

As summer winds down and the school year begins, students with braces may face a few new challenges—from lunch choices to keeping up with oral hygiene between classes. Here are a few simple tips Dr. Azizi suggests as your child heads back to school with their braces:

1. Pack Braces-Friendly Snacks
Avoid sticky, hard, or crunchy foods that can damage brackets. Instead, pack soft snacks like yogurt, applesauce, string cheese, or cut-up fruits.

2. Create a Braces Care Kit
A small pouch with essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss threaders, orthodontic wax, and a mirror can be a lifesaver after lunch or during discomfort.

3. Drink Lots of Water
Encourage your child to drink water throughout the day. It helps rinse away food particles and keeps their mouth fresh—especially important when brushing isn't immediately possible.

4. Wear a Mouthguard for Sports
If your child plays contact sports, make sure they wear an orthodontic mouthguard to protect their teeth and braces.

5. Keep Up Appointments with Dr. Azizi
With the school year getting busy, don't forget to keep your child's orthodontic check-ups on the calendar. Consistent adjustments help treatment stay on track.

A little preparation goes a long way in making the school year easier for students with braces. If you have any concerns or questions, Dr. Azizi is here to help!

The Generations and Orthodontics

July 21st, 2025

The Greatest Generation
Born: ~1901–1927
Came of age during the Great Depression and World War II.

The Silent Generation
Born: ~1928–1945
Childhood during WWII and the post-war boom; often described as disciplined and traditional.

Baby Boomers
Born: ~1946–1964
Grew up during economic prosperity, civil rights movements, and the rise of rock 'n' roll.

Generation X (Gen X)
Born: ~1965–1980
Known as the "Latchkey Generation," shaped by MTV, the rise of personal tech, and cultural shifts.

Millennials (Gen Y)
Born: ~1981–1996
Came of age with the internet, smartphones, social media, and the 2008 recession.

Generation Z (Gen Z)
Born: ~1997–2012
Digital natives, grew up with social media, streaming, and global events like COVID-19.

Generation Alpha (Gen Alpha)
Born: ~2013–2025
The first generation to grow up entirely in the 21st century, surrounded by AI, smart tech, and virtual learning.

Generation Beta (expected)
Born: ~2025–2039 (projected)
Will be the children of Millennials and Gen Z, likely growing up in a world dominated by AI, automation, and climate challenges.

Dr. Azizi has the knowledge and experience for all generations!

Call our office for your complimentary consultation today.

Glenside: 215-576-5829 Ambler: 215-646-9514

Summer Camps & Braces: Tips for Parents

July 8th, 2025

Summer camp is a rite of passage for many kids and teens—and having braces shouldn't get in the way of the fun! Here are Dr.Azizi's top tips for parents sending a child with braces to camp.

1. Pack a Braces Care Kit
Essentials include:
A travel toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
Floss or orthodontic flossers
Wax for braces (to soothe irritation)
A mirror (to check for food or issues)
Orthodontic elastics (if prescribed)
A retainer case (if wearing one)

2. Stick to Braces-Safe Snacks
Many camps offer sticky, crunchy, or chewy treats that can damage brackets or wires. Talk to your child.
Encourage soft options like fruit, yogurt, cheese sticks, or sandwiches.

3. Teach Them How to Handle Minor Emergencies
If a bracket breaks or a wire pokes, your child should know:
Use wax to cover anything sharp
Ask a counselor for help contacting you
Know it's okay to call Dr. A—he is happy to guide you remotely

4. Keep Us in the Loop
If your child will be at camp during a scheduled appointment, let us know as soon as possible so we can adjust their treatment plan or reschedule. We want to keep everything on track!

Final Tip: Don't forget to snap a photo before they head off—camp memories are even better with braces-covered smiles!

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