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Celebrate National Orthodontic Health Month

Five Ways to Celebrate National Orthodontic Health Month

By Community

October is National Orthodontic Health Month, introduced by the American Association of Orthodontists to highlight the importance of orthodontics for a straight, healthy, and beautiful smile. That’s why as your award-winning, Tulsa, OK orthodontist, Dr. Anand Patel at The Brace Place wants to offer five ways to keep you and your kids’ oral and orthodontic health top of mind this month. 

  1. Hold Back A Little On The Halloween Haul

Since October is also Halloween season, candy is an expected and much anticipated part of the month. But it’s not always so great for oral health. Dr. Patel recommends enjoying treats in moderation and ensuring at least a swish of water if not brushing your teeth after indulging.

  1. Make An Orthodontic Appointment

If an initial visit to the orthodontist has been on the to-do list for a while, National Orthodontic Health Month is a great time for you to get it checked off. The Brace Place makes it easy, with free initial consultations at our bright and welcoming Tulsa and Claremore, OK orthodontic offices. Schedule your appointment today.

  1. Share A Smile On Social Media

Do you or your children have braces or clear aligners? Snap a smiley selfie and use the hashtag #NationalOrthodonticHealthMonth to join with others on the journey to a healthier, happier smile.

  1. Switch Up The Braces Elastics

Have you been sporting the same elastics colors since the beginning of your braces treatment? Celebrate National Orthodontic Health Month by switching up the look of your braces. At The Brace Place, we offer modern metal and ceramic braces that you can personalized with your choice of elastics. This month, try orange, black, white, or a combination of these for a Halloween theme. 

  1. Put Together an Orthodontic Travel Kit

Pack a small dental and orthodontic to-go kit with oral health and braces or clear aligner essentials. It’s handy for keeping teeth clean throughout the day and for emergencies. A travel-sized toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and dental floss keep teeth and braces free of plaque and food debris wherever you go. Include orthodontic wax, a compact mirror, and tissues. Don’t forget a clear aligner storage case if using Invisalign® or your custom mouthguard if you play sports.

shop-local-in-tulsa

Shop Local For the Holidays in Tulsa and Claremore, OK

By Community

We don’t know about you, but for the team at The Brace Place, this has been one of the strangest years of our lives. It’s also been one of the most difficult years for many local businesses dealing with the aftermath of closures and the ongoing challenges of social distancing. We went through hard times too, forced to shut the doors to our Tulsa and Claremore orthodontic practice for six weeks. We’re still so grateful to be open again and for your ongoing support.

When times are tough, it’s more important than ever to come together, support local businesses and do what we can to help our communities bounce back. With the holidays fast approaching, we want to take this opportunity to highlight some of our favorite stores in the neighborhood. Whether you’re comfortable heading out to stores in person or you’re sticking to online shopping this year, here are the best places to shop in Tulsa and Claremore this holiday season.

1. The Boxyard Tulsa – 502 East 3rd Street, Tulsa, OK

The Boxyard isn’t your typical shopping center. Created in 2016, this unique shopping destination in Tulsa is made entirely from cargo containers and is home to 20 local retailers, restaurants and small businesses. Here you’ll find everything from Mexican food and ice cream to skateboard gear and customized bath products. We’re sure you’ll be able to find a special gift for everyone on your list at The Boxyard.

  1. The District on Main – 406 W. Will Rogers Blvd, Claremore, OK

If you’re looking for a premium gift for her, The District has you covered. This locally owned shop stocks high-end clothing, accessories, jewelry, body care and housewares, so there’s something for all the special women in your life. Shopping for him? The District also has a small selection of premium men’s products, including shaving cream, face wash, beard balm and cologne.

  1. Made – 219 E Archer St, Tulsa, OK

Made is the best shop in Tulsa for locally made artisan goods. Home to handmade items from over 150 creators, Made is proud to feature primarily Tulsa-made products. Find sweaters, candles, baby clothes, hair accessories, jewelry — everything you could possibly imagine. When you shop at Made, you’re getting a gift your loved one is sure to adore and supporting local artistry at the same time.

  1. The Haberdashery – 407 W. Will Rogers Blvd, Claremore, OK

For a wider selection of gifts for him in Claremore, head over to The Haberdashery on West Will Rogers Boulevard. This is your go-to place for all his favorite brands from Saxx to Patagonia. There’s even an in-store barber for beard trims and haircuts, making this a true clothing store for guys in Claremore.

  1. Stash Apparel & Gifts – 3734 S. Peoria Ave & 9918 S. Riverside Pkwy, Tulsa, OK

Stash is one of our favorite places to shop in Tulsa. With two convenient locations and contact-free pick-up options, there’s nothing to get in the way of your holiday shopping. Here you’ll find women’s and baby clothes, accessories and homewares, as well as customizable gifts of all kinds. Stash really is a one-stop shop for everyone you’re shopping for this holiday season.

  1. Rhapsody Boutique & Spa – 318 W Will Rogers Blvd, Claremore, OK

Give a unique gift this year and send your loved one to the spa. Located right in downtown Claremore, Rhapsody is a full service hair salon, spa and boutique, offering everything from haircuts and coloring to massages and mani-pedis. And in case a spa service isn’t enough, Rhapsody is a trendy clothing boutique too, so you’re sure to find the perfect gift. 

  1. Stella Rae’s – 13220 Pawnee Dr (Suite C), Oklahoma City, OK

This nationally recognized shop has its roots right here in Oklahoma, so you can get all your favorite brands and support local too. Sometimes it’s easiest (and safest) just to shop online and Stella Rae’s is the perfect place. Shopping for a bargain? Don’t miss “$20 Tuesday” when Stella Rae’s puts thousands of items on sale for just $20! Just load up your online shopping cart before midnight on Monday and watch the prices drop first thing on Tuesday. If you have a big holiday shopping list, you can’t go wrong with savings like this!

  1. LoliPop: A Sweet Boutique – 518 W. Will Rogers Blvd, Claremore, OK

Does someone on your Christmas list have a sweet tooth? LoliPop should be your first stop. Not only does this Claremore candy shop have delicious sweets and treats, it’s also a clothing and accessory store, so you’ll have no trouble finding exactly what you’re looking for. Need a little help picking out the perfect gift? LoliPop also has gift baskets. This really is the sweetest place to shop in Claremore.

Did we miss any of your favorites? What other local Tulsa and Claremore shops are you supporting right now? We’d love to hear all about your holiday plans the next time you come in to see us. Contact The Brace Place today to book an appointment.

Our Second Annual Guide to the Best Affordable & Free Summer Activities for Kids in Tulsa & Claremore, OK: Social Distance Edition

By Community

Summer is officially here and it’s safe to say this year is going to look a little different than years past. The current pandemic has thrown a wrench into many families’ summer plans, with international travel off the books and summer camps cancelled until next year. But that doesn’t mean you have to sit at home all summer long! There are still countless fun summer activities for kids in Tulsa and Claremore.

At The Brace Place, we care about more than just creating beautiful smiles — we want to help our Claremore and Tulsa orthodontic patients soak up everything summer has to offer. All from a safe physical distance, of course. If you’re looking for ideas for socially distant summer fun, read on for our second annual list of things to do with kids in Tulsa, Claremore and beyond.

1. Tour the Gardens & Picnic at the Philbrook Museum of Art

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The Philbrook Museum of Art is one of our favorite places to take kids in Tulsa. While the museum itself is closed due to COVID-19, the gardens reopened in June and special exhibitions are back on offer as of July. All visitors over the age of 5 are required to wear a mask while indoors, but you can roam the gardens mask-free as long as you stay six feet away from any other guests. You can even bring a picnic to enjoy on the grounds! So pack a lunch and a blanket and enjoy a low-cost sunny summer day outside with your family. One catch: you will need to book your tickets in advance as the museum is not doing ticket sales at the gate. Kids under 17 get in for free and admission for adults is just $12 each.

2. Visit the Virtual First Friday Art Crawl

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Everyone’s favorite summer art event is back again this year, virtual style. While you can’t visit all of the galleries in person (yet!), you can get your art fix and introduce your children to the local art world online. This kid-friendly event in Tulsa takes place on the first Friday of every month from 5-9pm and is free for everyone to attend. For July, some galleries are reopening their spaces to the public so be sure to check the Tulsa Arts District Facebook page above for up-to-date information and gallery protocols.

3. Go Fishing at Claremore Lake

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A visit to beautiful Claremore Lake is one of the best things to do with kids in Claremore, OK. Constructed in 1929, the lake provides more than a peaceful backdrop for a summer afternoon — it also has boat ramps, fishing docks and picnic areas for all your summer needs. Take a stroll around the lake, try your hand at fishing and grab a table for a picnic in the park. A day at the lake is a free summer activity in Clamore that the whole family can enjoy.

4. Attend a Free Virtual Summer Camp

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Yep, you read that right! Tulsa Public Schools is offering free virtual summer camps in Tulsa and Claremore for kids of all ages. From weather and earth science to art and music, there are so many fun and educational summer camps to choose from. Learn about all things science with Discovery Lab, discover the art of storytelling with ahha Tulsa, or take a journey into the world of jazz with the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz. With programs for kids from kindergarten to grade 12, we’re sure you’ll find a Tulsa summer camp your youngsters will love.

5. Take a Route 66 Road Trip

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What better way to spend a socially distant day with the family than by hitting the open road? Pack some road trip snacks and spend the day touring historic Route 66, visiting as many of the iconic landmarks along the way as you’d like. The best part about this local Tulsa trip is that you can choose your own adventure. Whether you go the distance or stay closer to home, this is a summer Tulsa and Claremore activity your kids won’t soon forget. Check out this helpful Route 66 trip guide for kids to get the most out of your family adventure as possible.

6. Catch a Flick at Admiral Twin Drive-In Theater

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It’s not really summer until you catch your favorite movie at the local drive-in. Fortunately, drive-in theaters allow you to stay physically distant by nature and the Admiral Twin Drive-in in Tulsa is open for business. Load up the kids, grab a bag of popcorn and settle in for one of the two movies on offer each night — or stay for a double feature! Admission is just $3 for kids ages 3 to 11 and $7 for everyone age 12 and up. Tickets are available at the gate but you can book ahead to guarantee you get a spot. A night at the drive-in is truly a classic affordable summer activity for kids in Tulsa.

What are you looking forward to doing with your kids this summer in Claremore in Tulsa? Let us know the next time you visit The Brace Place. Call us today to book your appointment.

Our Response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19)

By Community, Orthodontics

OUR OFFICES ARE RE-OPENING THIS FRI, MAY 1ST! – COVID-19 UPDATE FOR APRIL 29, 2020

 

Dear Patients and Parents,

We are excited to announce that our Tulsa and Claremore offices will be open to patients again this Friday, May 1st!

We want to thank all of our patients for their continued support and patience through all of this.

As we prepare to transition back, we will be making a few changes to our office protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of our patients, staff and community, as well as to prevent the spread of covid-19. Your safety and well-being are always our utmost top priority!

Here’s what’s changing:

Following strict CDC and ADA guidelines on infection control and sterilization techniques and equipment, we will be:

✅ Rescheduling patients who had appointments with us in the last 6-7 weeks. The Brace Place staff will be calling patients to confirm new appointment dates and times.

✅ The number of patients and patient family members in the offices will be limited. For a teen or adult patient, we prefer no other family present, if possible. For children, only 1 family member may be present with the patient. Please wear a mask upon entering the office.

✅ We will be limiting the number of patients we see per hour to enhance social distancing. To help accommodate everyone’s appointments, we will be opening extra operating days in the coming months.

✅ Our staff will be undergoing daily temperature checks using a no-contact thermometer. Temperature checks can be requested if you are uncertain if your child has a fever.

✅ Office amenities such as coffee and water stations will be temporarily closed due to sanitation purposes.

✅ If you are a patient who has experienced or currently has a fever, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, cough, sore throat, traveled to a hot spot, or has been outside the US, please call us to reschedule your appointment to when you’re healthy.

If you have any questions or concerns at all, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

We look forward to seeing you all soon!

Dr. Patel and The Brace Place Team

____________________________

 

COVID-19 UPDATE FOR APRIL 2, 2020

 

Dear Patients and Parents,

We want to personally reach out to you and provide an update on the actions that The Brace Place is taking to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and to support the health and well-being of our patients and team. Following recommendations from the Oklahoma Dental Association, ADA and CDC, we are temporarily closing the office until April 30th.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate through this time together and we will continue to provide you with the latest information via email, text message, and social media. Phones will still be answered, and messages checked routinely.

We will be contacting every patient who is on the schedule from now until then and will reappoint you once we have more information in the next few weeks.

For your convenience, in the event of a dental emergency or if you have any questions about your orthodontic treatment and would like to send us pictures to have Dr. Patel review your progress, please complete a virtual check-in with us here. Dr. Patel will be able to provide feedback which will allow for your treatment to progress and your treatment to stay on track.

Our admin support and emergency care will be available from Monday to Thursday 8am – 12pm and 1pm – 5pm at both our Tulsa and Claremore offices.

If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us via phone or email.

We are privileged to serve you and the community and look forward to seeing your smiles again soon!

Thank you and be well,

Dr. Patel and The Brace Place Team

____________________________

 

COVID-19 UPDATE FOR MARCH 18, 2020

 

Dear Patients and Parents,

In light of the current COVID-19 crisis and in the interest of protecting our patients and orthodontic team, we are following the recommendation of the American Dental Association (ADA) to not do any elective dental procedure which includes orthodontics, and have made the hard decision to close our office (EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY) and cancel all appointments until April 3rd.

We will be contacting every patient who is on the schedule from now until then and will reappoint you once we have more information in the next three weeks.

We will remain available for emergencies and to answer any questions via phone or email.
Phone: (918) 749-8817 (Tulsa Office)
Phone: (918) 342-1240 (Claremore Office)
Email: appointments@thebraceplacetulsa.com

Make sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for timely updates.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBracePlaceTulsa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebraceplacetulsa

As small business owners, healthcare providers, parents and community members we feel the need to do our part to #flattenthecurve. The health of our patients and staff is our top priority!

Thank you so much for your support and understanding during this difficult time. We feel blessed to be part of such an amazing community. We take comfort knowing we will get through this together. We will continue to update you as new information becomes available.

Invisalign Patients:
Continue wearing your aligners as instructed. If you are on your last aligner and have an appointment in this three-week time frame, continue wearing the last aligner until you are seen again. Any questions or concerns, please contact us.

Braces Patients:
Hygiene, hygiene, hygiene! Brush, floss, repeat. Continue with your treatment as directed until you are seen again.

Expander and Elastics Patients:
Continue with your treatment as directed. If your appointment falls in this next three-weeks, please call us before continuing further.

Stay safe and keep smiling!

Dr. Patel and The Brace Place Team

summer-kids-pool

The Best Affordable & Free Summer Activities for Kids in Tulsa & Claremore, OK

By Community

Can you believe we made it through another school year? We don’t know about you, but at our orthodontic practice in Tulsa and Claremore, time is flying by. Before you know it, your kids will be headed off to university!

For now, though, let’s enjoy as much time with our little ones as possible. Spending quality time with your family is what summer break is all about, after all. But with so many fun things to do with kids in Tulsa and Claremore, it can get to be a little hard on the wallet. To make your life easier, The Brace Place has rounded up all the best, free family activities in town so you can spend less time planning (and spending), and more time playing and exploring with your kids.

From parks and playgrounds to museums and more, here’s our ultimate list of free (or cheap) things to do with kids this summer.

Read More

volunteer and giving back to community

7 Great Ways to Give Back During the Holidays

By Community

Finding ways to give back to the community is wonderful year-round. Yet, during the holidays, most kids and teens have days off from school for winter break and many of us are reflecting on all of the things we’re thankful for, which is why it’s the perfect time to get your kids involved in spreading holiday cheer and learning the importance of helping others. At The Brace Place, we firmly believe in giving back to the communities that have supported our Claremore and Tulsa orthodontic practice and it makes us so happy when our patients and their families embrace service and volunteerism too. Not sure where to start? Here are seven great ways to give back during the holidays in the Tulsa area: Read More