This Year, Make a New Year’s Resolution to Smile About!

Let’s face it- when was the last time you managed to keep a New Year’s resolution? We at The Smilezone believe the key to sticking to a goal is picking one that is both reasonable and attainable. If you haven’t yet picked a New Year’s resolution, consider setting one that will improve your oral health!

For example, resolve to brush twice and floss once a day. Good oral hygiene only takes a few minutes a day, and can make a big difference in your oral health and overall health too! For more oral health-themed resolutions for you and your family, check out this article.

We would love to see what you come up with, share with us by commenting on this post or on our Facebook page. Whatever your New Year’s Resolution, we wish you the very best for 2011!

-Happy New Year, from your friends at The Smile Zone

Season’s Greetings from The Smile Zone

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as the team at The Smile Zone
reflects on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What do you love about the holidays this year? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for 2011? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year?

We’d love if you shared with us on our Facebook page all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

--The team at The Smile Zone

Write a review for The Smile Zone!

The Smile Zone, serving Edmonton and surrounding areas, strives to help every patient achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that transcends the boundaries of their expectations and gives them a renewed sense of self-confidence. Today, we would like to hear about your experience with Dr. Jerome, Dr. Rob and our team!


Just select the “Review us on Google Places” button to share your story on our Google Place Page. We look forward to receiving your feedback!

Thank you,

-Dr. Jerome, Dr. Rob and team

Patient Question: What’s so bad about nail biting?

We’ve all heard that biting your nails is an awful habit, but you many wonder- really- what’s so bad about it? Recently, our team at The Smile Zone found an interesting article that discusses how biting your nails affect your teeth and oral health.

Nail biting, also known as Onychophagia, is a common habit among various age groups, including primarily children, teens and young adults. Nail biting is generally triggered by stress and most often decreases with age. That being said, nail biting is unsanitary, unattractive, as well as unhealthy for your teeth!

Here’s why:
• It’s unsanitary. Your nails are dirty, almost twice as dirty as your fingers! Hence, biting your nails is just asking for germs and bacteria.
• No good things come to your teeth. Nail biting causes your teeth to constantly be chewing, which is not good for them. This excessive motion wears your teeth down faster than a non-nail biter’s and puts a large amount of stress on your front teeth- contributing to teeth misalignment.
• Braces don’t love it either. Braces already put pressure on teeth, nail biting ads unnecessary pressure, further stressing your teeth and weakening their roots.
• It can be costly. Nail biting can result in up to $4,000 in additional dental bills over one lifetime, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Yikes!

What can you do about it?
Now that you know how harmful nail biting can be, it’s time to take action to break your nail biting habit. Try to be conscious of your fingernails and to keep them looking good- this will help you resist the temptation. Ask Drs. Rob and Jerome, or visit the article for tips on how to break a nail biting habit. Good luck!

Fall into reading with The Smile Zone!

How better to spend the fall months than inside by the fireplace with a warm cup of cider and a book in hand? Dr. Jerome and Dr. Rob encourage you to warm up your mind this season with a few great books. Sure it may be easy to put off reading this time of the year, but reading is vital to brain development and improving your vocabulary. Besides, reading is fun!

This week, we thought we’d ask: What are YOU reading this fall? Do you have any suggestions for must-read books this year? Out of ideas for great fall reads? Ask us for suggestions, and Drs. Jerome and Rob and our staff would be happy to provide a few suggestions. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas or check out these fall reading ideas that we came across today, courtesy of Amazon.

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your fall picks or your all-time favorites on our Facebook page!

What do you enjoy most about fall in Edmonton?

It’s fall here at The Smile Zone, a time when all across the country, the leaves begin to change colors and the air becomes crisp.

Today we wanted to ask you, our wonderful patients, "How are you spending your time this fall?" Our team would love to hear about your favorite places for eating, shopping, and entertainment within the Edmonton area. We are interested in learning about what makes your community “yours.”

Feel free to post your responses on our Facebook page, or give us a call!

Drs. Rob and Jerome remind patients about our Whitening Specials!

Your Edmonton, AB dentists and team at The Smile Zone would like to offer our patients the opportunity to save on teeth whitening this fall. This Nov.15 - 18 and Dec. 20-23 we are offering both in-office and take home whitening specials.

During the specific dates of the special, the in-office whitening will be $249.00 and our take home whitening will be offered for $99.00.

Teeth whitening is a great way to enhance the appearance of your smile. When you're ready for a whiter, brighter smile give us a call to schedule your evaluation with Dr. Rob and Dr. Jerome.

Cold and Flu Season is Here- It may be time to replace your toothbrush!

Fall is here, and with it the dreaded cold and flu season. After recovering from your cold, Dr. Rob and Dr. Jerome will tell you one of the most important steps you can take to avoid becoming reinfected is replacing your toothbrush!

Germs can linger on the bristles, and you risk prolonging your sickness by continuing to use the same toothbrush. Be smart - keep a spare, just in case! To protect your toothbrush from bacteria all year long, consider the following tips:

• 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 your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Worn bristles are less effective in properly cleaning your teeth, and can actually be damaging to teeth if used too long!

Hope this tip helps! Feel free to call us at The Smile Zone if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook.

More happy patients at The Smile Zone!

The Smile Zone, serving Edmonton, AB and surrounding areas, has been receiving some great patient reviews lately! Check out what our current patients are saying about Dr. Rob and Dr. Jerome and team!

"He is friendly, patient with patients, describes the procedures to be peformed, welcomes questions and provides responses." ~Tomasz

"He is very easy to talk to and explains things well. I have confidence in his abilities." ~Jennifer

"Very friendly, caring and sensitive to my needs." ~Stephen

"Excellent visit, Jerome was very friendly and I am very confident he will take very good care of me and my family." ~Ryan

Ask Drs. Rob and Jerome: Which toothbrush should my child use?

Drs. Rob and Jerome will tell you that brushing your teeth is one of the easiest methods of cavity prevention. But which type of toothbrush should your child use? When choosing a toothbrush, look for round-ended (polished) bristles that clean while being gentle on the gums. Choose one that is specifically designed for children's smaller mouths and hands. Also, look for large handles that can help children control the toothbrush. Lastly, throw out a toothbrush after three months or sooner if the bristles are fraying. Frayed bristles can harm your gums, and are not as effective in cleaning teeth.




As far as which toothpaste is best? It doesn't matter as long as it has fluoride in it. However, for your youngster's first three years, do not use fluoridated toothpaste. Make sure to touch each tooth and every side of that tooth. Also, you do need to gently brush on your gums.

To learn more about choosing the right toothbrush and toothpaste for your child, we encourage you to read this helpful article from Parenthood.com or visit our website. You may also give us a call and we'll try to answer any question you may have about keeping your child's mouth as healthy as possible!

Good Breath Gone Bad!

Bad breath, or as your doctor may call it “halitosis,” is caused by odor-producing bacteria that grows in your mouth. This bacteria gathers on bits of food in your mouth and between your teeth and release sulfur compounds making your breath smell. Some foods, like garlic and onions, may contribute more to bad breath because of oils the food the food releases, and smoking is also a major cause of bad breath.

There are several myths around bad breath. Here are a couple common myths and the truth behind it all:

Myth #1: Mouthwash will make my breath smell better
Mouthwash will make your breath smell better, but it is only a temporary fix. If you use mouthwash, just know that you will still need to brush and floss when you get the chance as mouthwash alone will not kill all of the bacteria producing germs in your mouth. When choosing a mouthwash, pick an antiseptic with plaque-reducing compounds. Also make sure any dental products you choose comes with the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of approval!

Myth #2: I brush my teeth; I will never have bad breath
Brushing your teeth will save you from having breath, but the truth is most people only brush their teeth for about 30-45 seconds! You need to brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes, twice a day to give your teeth a thorough cleansing. It’s also important to brush your tongue, which is where a majority of odor causing bacteria like to hang out.

TRUTH #1: The single most effective way to combat bad breath is to brush, floss, and visit your dentist for regular cleanings.
Brush your teeth twice a day (for at least 2 minutes), floss at least once and visit your dentist every six months…this way your breath will always be fresh!

TRUTH #2: Bad breath can be a symptom of an oral infection.
For more information on early detection and treatment of oral infections, be sure to visit The Oravital™ System website, or give Drs. Rob and Jerome a call at 1-877-301-3380.

The Smile Zone, protecting you from cavities

With Halloween only two weeks away, Dr. Rob and Dr. Jerome know that there will soon be many tricks and treats! While this festive holiday is full of costumes and fun activities, it can also be a harmful time for the teeth of our Edmonton, AB young trick-or-treaters.

With all of the sugary, sticky, and chewy treats that are often shared with trick-or-treaters, it is important to follow these simple tips to prevent cavities this Halloween:




• 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

For more information on cavities and your oral health, don’t hesitate to ask Drs. Rob or Jerome at your next appointment.

The Smile Zone announces our HUGE upcoming whitening specials!

Drs. Rob and Jerome and our team at The Smile Zone in Edmonton, AB are excited to announce our upcoming whitening specials! This Nov.15 - 18 and Dec. 20-23 we are offering both our in-office and take home whitening specials.




The in-office whitening will be $249.00 and our take home whitening will be offered for $99.00 during the specific dates of the special.

Don't hesitate to contact us now to take schedule your whitening appointment!

Drs. Rob and Jerome remind patients about the importance of good oral hygiene

At the Smile Zone, we just can't believe September is already over. It's fall; the leaves are turning color, the weather is crisp and cool today, October 1st, marks the official start of National Dental Hygiene Month, a time for Drs. Rob and Jerome (and our staff) to raise awareness of the benefits of a healthy beautiful smile.

This year's theme is “Healthy Habits are Easier than You Think,” which focuses on prevention. At The Smile Zone, we know everyone is busy; living a life on-the-go is difficult for most people, but our staff is here to tell you keeping a healthy mouth shouldn’t be.

Your teeth are an important part of your body, and keeping them clean helps keep your mouth and your body healthy. By taking care of your teeth, eating a balanced diet, and visiting our convenient Edmonton office on a regular basis, you can have healthy teeth and an attractive smile throughout your entire life.

We encourage you to check out the ADHA's National Dental Hygiene Month website, which provides pointers on keeping your mouth clean and healthy. Lastly, is it time that you schedule an appointment at The Smile Zone? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to give us a call at (280)-989-5733 to set up an appointment.

Ask Drs. Rob and Jerome: Is Invisalign® really customized for each patient?

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work, says The Smile Zone Drs. Rob and Jerome. 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!

The Smile Zone is a certified Invisalign provider in Edmonton, AB. 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.

Smile, and you might just live longer!

Folks with big smiles may actually live than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. Drs. Rob and Jerome have known for quite some time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers at the university did something quite interesting: they looked at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity (ranging from big smile, no smile or partial smile). The players' smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers then took into account other factors that impact life longevity, including body mass index, career length and even college attendance.

The results? Researchers found that players who weren't smiling in the photos died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be 79.9 years old.

The take-away from the new study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting The Smile Zone on a regular basis? If not, give us a call!

Take care of your gums! From Drs. Rob and Jerome

Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, can be difficult to recognize. Many people do not recognize the warning signs - bleeding and swollen gums - as a precursor to gum disease. This month, a campaign is underway to raise awareness about gum health and periodontal disease, and we at The Smile Zone wanted to do our part to help spread the word!

Early recognition and action are the most important steps to health gums, and ultimately a health body too! Studies are published every year linking oral health, including the gums, to the health of other areas of the body, such as the heart. One of the most important steps to improving the care of your gums is recognizing the warning signs for gum disease. These can include:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent halitosis, or bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position

If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with our office as soon as possible. We can take proactive steps to prevent gingivitis and gum disease, while showing you how to improve gum care in your daily oral hygiene habits.

Zoom!® Whitening at The Smile Zone

A whiter smile is one just one dentist visit away! ZOOM!® Smile Whitening brightens and whitens your teeth in just 45 minutes. Once you have gone through the Zoom!® treatment we will send you home with an at-home whitening bleaching kit with custom made trays. Using the take home trays will allow you to maintain your desired level of whitening over several months.

While Zoom!® Smile Whitening is a great way to enhance the appearance of your smile, it's not always for everyone. Those with deep, dark stains that remain unaffected by whitening treatments and patients with regular tooth sensitivity may not be good candidates. Find out more about Zoom!® Smile Whitening at our web site; and when you are ready to have a whiter, brighter smile contact Drs. Rob and Jerome for an evaluation!

What do you love about The Smile Zone?

From your very first visit to The Smile Zone in Edmonton, AB, our doctors and team strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by Dr. Rob or Dr. Jerome's work? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with 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. You can write a review here on our Google Places page. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!



Thank you,

The team at The Smile Zone

A great article about changes in dentistry, from Drs. Rob & Jerome

The world around us is always changing and evolving, whether it’s the latest gadget you ordered online or the high-tech braces on your teeth! Recently, we read an article in the New York Times about dental implants, and how they are becoming increasingly favored over bridges to replace lost teeth. One thing to remember about dental implants is that they need to be cared for just like your regular teeth; daily brushing and flossing are a must!

Call us today to schedule a consultation with Drs. Rob and Jerome to discuss your implant options.

Is sedation dentistry with The Smile Zone right for you?

While Drs. Rob and Jerome strive to offer a comfortable experience for all our patients, we realize that fear or anxiety while visiting the dentist can affect many adults anyway. For patients who need extra comfort and relaxation during their dental visit, we are pleased to offer sedation dentistry.

Do you feel nervous or stressed about your upcoming dental treatment? Well you’re not alone; in fact, almost 30 percent of the population experiences "dental phobia" when faced with visiting the dentist!

The reasons for patients' fear of the dentist can be numerous, but are usually due to a traumatic experience during their childhood. This overwhelming anxiety can cause one to avoid modern dental care, resulting in poor oral hygiene and possible mouth-related issues such as gum disease.

You may benefit from sedation dentistry if you commonly experience one or more of the following:

* High fear of dental care
* Complex dental problems
* Traumatic dental experiences
* Fear of needles and shots
* Trouble getting numb
* Sensitive teeth

If you suffer from dental phobia, sedation dentistry may be the answer. Please give us a call for more info about sedation dentistry, and we'll be more than happy to answer your questions.

The Damon® System, now available at The Smile Zone!

Drs. Rob and Jerome, serving Edmonton, AB and surrounding areas, are excited to share all of the new advancements in the world of orthodontics with our patients. The Damon System is revolutionizing the way that The Smile Zone aligns teeth, also enhancing facial esthetics. With the Damon System, achieving that perfect smile will be faster and easier than you ever thought possible.

Here’s why Damon® is better:

With the new Damon braces, we can achieve terrific results and finish your treatment faster, oftentimes in 50% the time of conventional braces. Depending on your case, this may mean saving many months of treatment! After analyzing your specific needs, Drs. Rob and Jerome will be able to provide you with a treatment plan that will have you smiling soon! Because the high-technology wires of Damon braces work more efficiently, fewer adjustments are required. As a result, your appointments will be faster and fewer in number. Due to the unique design of this new braces system, we can move your teeth into their correct positions with much less discomfort than traditional braces. Also, Damon braces are small, very comfortable, and easy to keep clean.

To learn more about the Damon System or your treatment here at The Smile Zone, please give us a call.

HUGE Whitening Special!!!

Beginning this Monday, July 26th through August 19th we are offering our in-office whitening for $249.00 and our take-home whitening for $99.00. To take advantage of this special, please contact us on Monday by calling (780) 989-5733! We hope you're all having a GREAT weekend, and we look forward to seeing your smiling faces!

Five easy steps to sun safety with the Smile Zone

Let's face it, summer can get pretty darn hot. Whether your little one is relaxing by the pool or catching some rays at the family picnic, Drs. Rob and Jerome want you to think more and more about sun safety when you’re out and about with your child. There are many ways kids can protect themselves during the summer, and Parents Magazine has kindly provided five tips to help you get started with sun protection:

1. Limit outdoor playtime. Anywhere between 10a.m. and 4p.m. is usually the hottest time of the day.

2. Apply sunscreen properly. (Choose a sunscreen with SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 15 or higher. Make sure you apply to nose, ears, hands, feet, shoulders and behind the neck. Lips can also burn, so apply a lip balm with SPF protection.

3. Wearing protective clothing. This includes a hat with a brim, sunglasses and a large umbrella.

4. Watch those medications. Some medications increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun, so make sure to ask your doctor whether your child may be at risk.

5. You're the parent - set a good example. If your child sees you following sun-safety rules, he or she will follow suit.

Drs. Rob and Jerome, as well as our entire staff, encourage you to always have a bottle of water handy when heading out!

Questions? Concerns? Give us a call!

We hope you're all having a GREAT summer so far!

Summer plans?

With summer 2010 in full force, we thought we'd ask you about your summer plans. After all, summer is a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you're headed to an exotic destination, barbecuing, hitting the open road with family, or just having fun in the sun, we'd like to hear about it! Drop us a comment on our Facebook fan page and tell Drs. Rob & Jerome and staff about your summer adventures! We also encourage you to share any photos on our Facebook wall.

Happy and safe travels everyone,

- The Smile Zone staff

Patient question: What are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are a type of molar that is found in the very back of your mouth and are the last molars to develop. There are four wisdom teeth: upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right. These teeth usually appear in late teens or early twenties but may become impacted (fail to erupt) due to lack of room in the jaw or angle of entry. The removal of wisdom teeth has become so commonplace that it is almost a rite of passage for young adults.

Drs. Rob and Jerome will tell you that when a tooth is impacted, it may need to be removed. If it is not removed, you may develop gum tenderness, swelling, or even severe pain. Impacted wisdom teeth that are partially or fully erupted tend to be quite difficult to clean and are susceptible to tooth decay, recurring infections, and yes, even gum disease.

In addition to visiting our website with any questions you may have about wisdom teeth, our pals over at WebMD have developed a helpful explanation about wisdom teeth and how they impact your health. Our team at The Smile Zone also recommend that you give us a call at (780) 989-5733 for more on wisdom teeth.

We hope you all have a great weekend! See you soon!

Thumb-sucking and your child's teeth, from the Smilezone staff

Lots of parents have asked us whether it’s healthy for children to suck thumbs (or, less frequently, fingers). If you’ve got a thumb-sucker in the house, you are not alone. Research says, in fact, that between 75- and 95 percent of infants suck their thumbs.

As a parent, you're probably thinking: is this anything to worry about?

In most cases, no. Sucking is a natural reflex for infants, and can provide security and contentment - as well as relaxation. It’s a habit that most children grow out of between the ages of 2 and 4.

Should you need to help your child end his or her habit, follow these guidelines:

1. Always be supportive and positive. Instead of punishing your child for thumb-sucking, give praise when he doesn't suck.
2. Put a band-aid on his thumb or a sock over his hand at night. Let him know that this is not a punishment, just a way to help him remember to avoid sucking.
3. Start a progress chart and let him put a sticker up every day that he doesn't suck his thumb. If he makes it through a week without sucking, he gets to choose a prize (trip to the zoo, new set of blocks, etc.) When he has filled up a whole month reward him with something great (a ball glove or new video game); by then the habit should be over. Making your child an active participant in his treatment will increase his willingness to break the habit.
4. If you notice your child sucking when he's anxious, work on alleviating his anxiety rather than focusing on the thumb-sucking.
5. Take note of the times your child tends to suck (long car rides, while watching movies) and create diversions during these occasions.
6. Explain clearly what might happen to his teeth if he keeps sucking his thumb.

However, if your child keeps sucking after he or she has gotten permanent teeth, it’s time to take a closer look. If your child sucks his thumb aggressively, putting pressure on the inside of his mouth or his teeth, it could cause problems with tooth alignment and proper mouth growth. If you’re worried, please give us a call and Drs. Andrew and Caouette will help assess the situation, and provide tips for how to help your child break the habit.

Ask Drs. Andrew and Caouette: Who benefits from Invisalign®?

We've discussed the health benefits of straight teeth before. Today, thought, we thought we'd follow-up and discuss one of the best ways you can accomplish a straight, beautiful smile at our convenient office in Edmonton: Invisalign.

Invisalign treatment at The Smilezone can give you the beautiful straight teeth you've always wanted. It works through a series of invisible, removable, and comfortable aligners that no one can tell you're wearing. So you can smile more during treatment as well as after. Drs. Andrew and Caouette were some of the first general dentists in Canada to be trained and certified in the use of these invisible aligners.

Not only are the aligners invisible, they are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment. Plus, brushing and flossing are no problem. They are also comfortable, with no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment. And no metal and wires usually means you spend less time in our office getting adjustments.

If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment at our office, please give us a call at (877) 301-3380.

We hope you enjoyed your weekend!

The Smile Zone, Edmonton's CEREC providers

Our staff at the Smilezone in Edmonton are pleased to offer our patients CEREC dentistry. CEREC, a technology for restoring damaged teeth, can be completed in a single visit to our office and makes your teeth stronger and more beautiful, all while keeping your teeth looking healthy and natural.

You're probably thinking: All right, so how does CEREC work, exactly?

Well, to start out, Dr. Rob Andrew will meet with you to discuss the details of the procedure. During the procedure, one of our doctors will apply a thin layer of reflective powder onto your tooth and will use a special camera to take a photo of your tooth. Using Computer Aided Design (CAD), the photo serves as an optimal impression. The restoration will then be designed by the computer on this impression. Then CEREC will use a diamond bur and disk to create your restoration piece out of a high-tech ceramic. Finally, the ceramic restoration is bonded to your tooth using state-of-the-art adhesive dentistry.

Drs. Rob and Jerome are Edmonton's local CEREC dentists. Give us a call at (780) 989-5733 to schedule an appointment for CEREC treatment and have a great rest of the week!

At The Smile Zone, easy access to your account information

At The Smilezone, we embrace new technology, whether it is through the innovative orthodontic and cosmetic treatments we offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern office conveniently located in Edmonton.

Did you know that patients of Drs. Rob and Jerome have access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our website? You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

You, too, can sign up for this convenient service on our web site by clicking on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please give us a call at (780) 989-5733 if you have any questions about getting started and have a great weekend!

Drs. Rob and Jerome discuss the benefits of dairy

As the summer quickly approaches, the days get longer and the temperatures gradually begin to climb in Edmonton, there’s nothing more refreshing than getting some ice cream, a milk shake or a glass of cold milk to cool off. June is a great time for our team at The Smilezone to remind you that dairy foods should be a part of your balanced diet.

After all, a 2008 study found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can actually lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease).

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis. Drs. Rob and Jerome will tell you eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth.

For more information about which dairy foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please give us a call at (780) 989-5733. Enjoy the weekend everyone!

Share your experience at The Smile Zone with the world!

At The Smilezone we care about our patients. Our doctors and team want to help every patient achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that transcends the boundaries of their expectations and gives them a renewed sense of self-confidence. Here at The Smilezone, we work hard to give our patients the personal attention they deserve, and our patients can always count on receiving the best care for themselves and their family.

Whether you've visited our office for a week or months, we'd love to hear your feedback about how our practice is faring during your treatment! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about Drs. Rob or Jerome with the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local page and write a review there. Or, you may review us on Yelp if you'd like. After all, reviews help us create more and more beautiful smiles here in Edmonton!

You may write a review here. Thanks in advance and enjoy the rest of your weekend! We look forward to reading your reviews!

The Smile Zone, helping you save face

Wouldn’t you believe it, it’s springtime and summer is just around the corner! At the Smile Zone, our team knows that the spring and summer months bring with them an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of kids damaging their precious pearly whites. If you play sports, it's important that you consult Drs. Caouette or Andrew 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 many others.

We were reminded about the need to wear mouth guards after reading an article about hockey great Keith Tkachuk needing reconstructive surgery after taking a puck to the mouth. Tkachuk’s injury underscores the need for all athletes to use facial protection such as mouth guards while participating in sports.

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 at our office. And don’t forget to ask us—Drs. Caouette or Andrew will be happy to 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 at the Smile Zone.

Ask Drs. Andrew and Caouette: Am I too old for treatment?

At The Smilezone, nobody, and we mean, NOBODY, is "too old" for braces. In fact, our staff read a statistic recently that spelled it all out: the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! Yes, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another reason for the spike in adult braces is this: people want to look and feel great about their teeth. In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned and sparkling 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 Drs. Andrew and Caouette 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, our team at The Smilezone would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

Don't forget about those retainers!

If you're among the lucky ones who've just completed their treatment at The Smile Zone, our entire team would like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Drs. Andrew or Caouette will provide—or have provided you—with retainers. After your braces are removed, teeth may shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Our team will always tell you that retainers provide the stabilization your pearly whites need.

To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment at The Smile Zone, please read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth or give us a call!

We hope you have a great weekend and we'd like to wish a HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to all the great moms who come to our office!

Parsing through the myths and facts about orthodontics with Drs. Andrew and Caouette

Trust us when we say our staff at The Smilezone know there are quite a few myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) out there these days. But before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts! We came across a great site that helps set the record straight. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information 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 Smilezone, feel free to give us a call.

What puts you at ease at The Smilezone?

Drs. Rob and Jerome understand not every person always enjoys visiting their orthodontist. But at The Smilezone, we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each of your visits. At The Smilezone we care about our patients. Our doctors and team want to help every patient achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that transcends the boundaries of their expectations and gives them a renewed sense of self-confidence.

Today, we’d like to know: What is it about The Smilezone that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or Drs. Caouette and Andrew?

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call! Enjoy your week!

Ask Drs. Andrew and Caouette: When should my child visit for a check-up?

At The Smile Zone, we think a child's first visit to the dentist should be enjoyable and positive. The more you and your child know about the first visit, the better you will feel. Children are not born with a fear of the dentist, but they can fear the unknown. At The Smile Zone, Drs. Caouette and Andrew, as well as our dedicated staff make a practice of using pleasant, non-frightening, simple words to describe your child's first dental visit and treatment. We want you and your little one to feel at ease from the moment you walk through the door.

Typically, children should visit the dentist by their first birthday. It is important that your child's newly-erupted teeth (erupting at 6-12 months of age) receive proper dental care and benefit from proper oral hygiene habits right from the beginning. Your child's first tooth erupts between ages 6-12 months and the remainder of their 20 primary or "baby" teeth typically erupt by age 3.

If you have any questions about pediatric dentistry, or about your child's treatment with Drs. Caouette or Andrew, please feel free to give us a call at (780) 989-

Offers on whitening at The Smilezone!

Happy Monday! Our team is happy to announce we are having a special teeth whitening offer. The home whitening for ONLY $149.00 and the In-Office Whitening for ONLY $299.00. These offers apply to selected dates and please give us a call at (780) 989-5733 for details!

Ask Drs. Andrew and Caouette: Why are straight teeth so important?

Some people wonder why our team at The Smile Zone works 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 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! At The Smile Zone, we care about our patients. Drs. Andrew and Caouette want to help every patient achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that transcends the boundaries of their expectations and gives them a renewed sense of self-confidence. Here at The Smile Zone, we work hard to give our patients the personal attention they deserve, and our patients can always count on receiving the best care for themselves and their family.

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. Drs. Andrew and Caouette can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

What are patients saying about The Smile Zone?

Drs. Andrew and Caouette, as well as our dedicated team, love getting patient reviews. And lately, The Smile Zone, serving Edmonton and surrounding communities in Alberta, has been getting some pretty great patient testimonials! We thought we'd share some with you today! Please feel free to contribute your own thoughts about our office!

"Friendly and laid back. I also like the honest information provided during appointments that are not rushed. Excellent job!" ~ Paul A.

"I enjoy the flexibility of making appointments according to my sometimes hectic work schedule. I also enjoy the friendly staff and cleanliness of the facilities." ~ Rob S.

"Really modern equipment, methods, and office. Very easygoing." ~ Aurea S.

"Painless most of the time and very patient." ~ Eileen A.

"Just had my first visit. Highly recommended. Excellent visit, Dr. Jerome was very friendly and I am very confident he will take very good care of me and my family." ~ Ryan S.

Meet the Doctors

Dr. Rob Andrew has been practicing dentistry since 1986. He attended the University of Stellenbosch near Cape Town, South Africa, where he received his degree in dentistry. Dr. Rob also completed a two-year postgraduate course in esthetic dentistry (cum laude) at the same University in 1998 and is experienced in all phases of general dentistry. He wrote the University Co-ordinating Council's equivalency exam at the University of Alberta in 1999 and is a registered member of the Canadian Dental Association, the Edmonton District Dental Society, The International Association for Orthodontics and Functional Jaw Orthopedics. Dr. Rob completed a two-year mini-residency program in orthodontics and TMJ disorders in 2002 and believes that advanced education keeps his clinical skills perfected for the benefit of his patients.


Dr. Jerome Caouette earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1997 from the University of Alberta after practicing for a few years as a professional engineer. He has gained extensive general dentistry experience while located in Peace River, Hinton and Edmonton including dental surgery and pediatric dental rehabilitation in hospital settings. Dr. Jerome has additional education and training to provide in-office conscious sedation via inhalation, oral and IV routes of administration. In addition to general dentistry, he also provides services such as wisdom tooth extractions, dental implants and bone augmentation procedures. Other interests include being a part-time clinical instructor at the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Medicine and Oral Health Science. Also, Dr. Jerome joined the "Kindness in Action" group in 1999 and has traveled to Honduras on several occasions to provide volunteer dentistry in remote villages. Dr. Jerome's personal interests include spending time with his family and golfing when time permits.