Preparing for Cold and Flu Season, from Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd.

It’s that time of year to start thinking about protecting yourself and your family from the flu. Here are some simple steps you can take to help yourself avoid colds and the flu this season.

• Wash your hands before and after brushing
• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen
• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster
• Replace toothbrush after every cold or flu or every 3-4 months when bristles appear worn

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Drs. Battistoni and Beam and our team give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our office at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces.

For the protection of other patients and our staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

Hope this helps and give us a call if you have any questions! Stay healthy!

Drs. Battistoni and Beam, celebrating National Orthodontic Health Month

The haunting hours of Halloween can mean big trouble for trick-or-treaters who wear braces! Did you know that October is National Orthodontic Health Month? Nancy, one of our Clinical Assistants, would like to share a few tips to help our patients enjoy the holiday.

Both our La Grange and Oak Park office have copies of Pam Waterman’s Braces Cookbooks 1 & 2, which offer great recipes that will keep braces intact and patients satisfied this Halloween. Try the Pumpkin Chocolate Chip softies & the Black Cherry Fruit Bats!

Every time a bracket is broken, it can set treatment a step back. If an orthodontic patient chews the wrong type of treat this Halloween, and damage occurs, it is recommended that the patient call our office the next business day so that we can access the problem and arrangements can be made if necessary.

We recommend that you sort your child's Halloween candy to remove damaging treats when they are home from trick-or-treating. We suggest looking at treats that are soft, such as chocolate and peanut butter cups. Apples can be sliced thinly and dipped into chocolate or caramel sauce. Remember, kids with braces shouldn't feel deprived this Halloween season!