Braces Friendly Banana Oat Chia Pancakes

Collins Orthodontics Presents: Braces Friendly Eats

Banana Oat Chia Pancakes

Bananas and oats, see how they stack up!

Here’s the video that shows you how to make it:

https://youtu.be/-x0URDf9OZQ

INGREDIENTS

Servings: 2-4

Banana Oat Chia Pancakes

1 cup rolled oats
2 large eggs
1 ripe banana
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon coconut oil (plus extra for cooking)
1/4 cup milk (almond, soy, or dairy
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

PREPARATION (with Food Processor)

1. Use your food processor to grind the oats into fine flour. 
2. Add the remaining ingredients and pulse until well-blended. 
3. Heat up a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
4. Once warm, add coconut oil and swirl around until melted with your pan bottom fully coated!
5. Drop your batter into 1/8 cup portions.
6. Cook ‘em up for 3-4 minutes or until slightly set/bubbly. 
7. Flip and finish cooking for about 2-3 more minutes.  
8. Transfer to your plate and top it off with sliced banana and your choice of honey, syrup, or even Nutella.
9. Enjoy!

No processor? No problem.

1. Crack open those eggs and whisk them up in a medium sized bowl.
2. Mash your freshly peeled banana in with the egg.
3. Add cinnamon, vanilla, chia seeds and oats and stir to combine well.
4. Set aside and take five while you prepare your toppings.
5. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
6. Once warm, add the coconut oil and swirl around till melted and the bottom of the pan is completely coated.
7. Using a ¼ cup measure, scoop mix into your cooking pan, leaving space between pancakes so you can turn them easily. Cooking just 3 at a time!
8. Cook for 3-4 minutes, then flip those babies over and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side or until cooked through
9. Transfer to your plate and top it off with sliced banana and your choice of honey or syrup, or maybe some Nutella?
10. Enjoy!

About "Braces Friendly Eats" by Collins Orthodontics

When Malia prepped for clear braces treatment at Collins Orthodontics, she shared her plan with us. Her meal plan! She jumped on the internet, found the foods perfect for her first week in braces, and prepped them before ever sitting back in our chair at Collins Orthodontics. 

The result? Collins Orthodontics presents Braces Friendly Eats featuring Malia Howe—healthy foods you’ll love that won’t irritate your smile while you start your treatment.

Meet Malia

Say hello to mom, blogger and (surprise!) ninja in the kitchen, Malia Howe. She never had braces before and recently decided she was ready for the perfect smile. And she didn’t have to look far for the right orthodontist, Dr. Grant Collins, a family friend. Together they decided to bring these tasty, smile-friendly eats to patients everywhere.

Hungry for more? Visit her food blog.

Questions about Braces or Invisalign?
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Jenna's Famous "Braces Friendly" Molten Lava Cake Recipe

By Jenna Jensen
-Licensed Dental Assistant at Collins Orthodontics

This "braces friendly" dessert is the ultimate go-to for all chocolate lovers, especially the ones who love rich dark chocolate, like me!  You can ask all my co-workers, family, and friends - these molten cakes are simply the best!  I first started making these with my mom about seven years ago.  At that time, both her and I were fans of the TV show The Biggest Loser.  We made it a weekly tradition to make molten cakes every Tuesday when the show was on.  We often commented to each other on how we were watching contestants working hard to lose weight, and there we were indulging in a weekly dessert together!  To this day, my mom always has all the ingredients on hand, so she is always ready when visit and ask, “How about a molten cake, Mom?” Her answer is always "yes" of course!

I have had many trial and error molten cake baking sessions with sometimes overcooking, sometimes undercooking, and sometimes the cakes getting stuck in the dishes. The recipe below is what I have found to make the perfect molten cakes...

Without further adieu, I give to you my famous "braces friendly" molten lava cake recipe:

Molten Lava Cakes Recipe
*Makes 2* 

• 2 oz. Baker’s Bittersweet Baking Chocolate
• 4 T. Margarine
• 3 T. Four
• ½ C Powered Sugar
• 1 whole egg
• 1 egg yolk
• Spray PAM
• 2- 1 cup ramekins, or similar round dessert dish

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. 
In a medium microwave safe bowl, melt chocolate and margarine for 30 seconds, stir, then repeat as needed until completely melted.  Whisk in flour and powdered sugar, then egg and egg yolk. Spray bottoms of ramekins with PAM, divide batter in half, and pour into prepared ramekins. Place in center rack of oven and set the timer for 12 minutes.  Check the cakes after 6 minutes. When the centers are slightly jiggly, and the cakes are firm about ½ inch from the outer edges, remove the cakes from the oven and let sit for one minute. Carefully cut around the edges of the molten cakes and invert onto serving plate. (Note: The cakes may crack so the lava comes running out, don’t worry, this is normal!)  You can dust powdered sugar on the top of the cakes for garnish. Serve with lots and lots of ice cream.  Different ovens may cook the molten cakes quicker. If you prefer more lava in the middle, cook for a shorter time. If you prefer less gooey goodness in the middle, cook for a little longer so the center is slightly firmer. You do not want to over bake.

Happy Baking Everyone!  Enjoy! :)

-Jenna Jensen

Want to learn more about Jenna Jensen and the rest of the Collins Orthodontics Team?  Visit our "Meet the Team" page and you'll be in the know on all of your favorite Collins Orthodontics team members!

Collins Orthodontics
Website: RochesterOrthodontics.com
Email: info@rochesterorthodontics.com
Facebook:  Facebook.com/RochesterOrthodontics
YouTube:  Collins Orthodontics YouTube Channel
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Instagram: instagram.com/thebracesguy

Collins Orthodontics Volunteers with Feed my Starving Children

“I’m STARVING!” are exactly the words that came out of my mouth after missing my usual breakfast and having to wait until lunch for my first meal of the day.  However, those words have taken on new meaning to me after this past weekend.  I spent the day with the Collins Orthodontics Team (and their families) on a Saturday, where we all pitched in to help a non-profit organization called “Feed my Starving Children” to serve children who truly understand the meaning of the word “starving” far greater than me.  Our staff and their children spent the day hand-packing meals specifically formulated for malnourished children. This organization had reached nearly 70 countries around the world, where a single bag of food provides nutritious meals for six children and costs only $1.32 to produce.  Although I LOVE what I do - braces, invisalign, and providing people with amazing smiles - it really is moments of service that mean the most to me.  The times that are most humbling and rewarding for our team at Collins Orthodontics is when we have opportunities like this to serve side-by-side with other wonderful volunteers in our community.  That being said, I leave you with an inspiring quote by Albert Einstein: “Only a life lived in the service to others is a life worth living.”  God Bless.  -Dr. Collins

#FeedMyStarvingChildren  #CollinsOrthodontics  #MakingHairNetsCool  #GetYourVolunteerOn

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Collins Orthodontics thanks Braces and Invisalign Patients with Cinderella Event (Rochester, MN)

By Grant C. Collins, DDS, MS

Our first Patient Appreciation Event at Collins Orthodontics was a success and a ton of fun! We had an amazing evening with our patients and their families at our exclusive pre-release showing of Disney's Cinderella movie! The main highlight of the night - an appearance by "Cinderella" herself (who just so happens to be one of Dr. Collins's former Invisalign patients)! Thanks to all of our Collins Orthodontics patients (i.e. our orthodontic "family") for coming out for a special evening! We always enjoy seeing all of our patients and it was a special treat for us to see them outside of our office! The Cinderella Event was the first of many patient events, and we can’t thank our patients enough for helping to make this event so memorable!

Below are some of the photos from the event.  To see more photos from the event, check out our "Cinderella Facebook Photo Album" on our Collins Orthodontics Facebook Page!

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Collins Orthodontics Service Project: Helping Our Youth Serve the Community in Rochester, Minnesota

By Grant Collins, D.D.S., M.S.

One thing that we "like" at Collins Orthodontics is serving people within our community. One thing that we "LOVE" at Collins Orthodontics is WORKING ALONGSIDE OUR YOUTH while serving people within the community! Thanks to the wonderful students, teachers and parents of St. Pius and St. John's, many children in poverty will have the opportunity to have a real cake on their birthdays, and families in need will have items that we often take for granted - toothbrushes, soap, shampoo, towels. I am so proud of these kids for spending an entire day serving others. Our future is in great hands, Rochester! 

#ThePowerOfService #StJohnsServiceProject #StPiusServiceProject #CollinsOrthodontics #HeartForService #Braces #Invisalign #SmileWithConfidence

For more information about Braces, Invisalign or Collins Orthodontics, please visit the following sites:

Web:  RochesterOrthodontics.com

Facebook:  Facebook.com/RochesterOrthodontics

Email:  info@rochesterorthodontics.com

Phone:  507-258-5400

Your Journey to a Great Smile

Your Journey to a Great Smile
By Grant Collins, D.D.S., M.S.
(Orthodontist - Rochester, Minnesota)

Have you ever wanted to get braces or Invisalign, but you are worried about what your experience will be like?  What will the orthodontist be like?  Will you be treated with respect?  Will they make you feel badly about your teeth?  Will they treat your child with the same amount of care as they would with their own families?

Going to an orthodontist can be nerve-wracking, and that's understandable!  You will be meeting with new people in a new office, and you are not quite sure what to expect.  For that reason, we have put together a short video called "Your Journey to a Great Smile" so you know exactly what it is like to become a family member (ahem - I mean "patient") at Collins Orthodontics.  Here is a little "peek" inside of our clinic walls to show you what we are all about...

For more information:
Web: RochesterOrthodontics.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/RochesterOrthodontics
Phone: 507-258-5400
Email: info@rochesterorthodontics.com
Request an Appointment: RequestMyAppointment.com

Why I Chose To Live in Rochester, Minnesota

 

By Grant Collins, DDS, MS (Orthodontist at Collins Orthodontics in Rochester, MN)

I can't feel my hands at all.  Or my feet.  Or anything really.  The 3 millimeters of exposed skin on my face is definitely frost bitten, and my runny nose has instantly turned into an abstract ice sculpture.  As I heave another load of snow from the driveway to the snow bank, I can't help but hear the question that so many of my friends who live in more desirable locations always ask: "Why in the world would you want to live in Rochester, MN?!?"  which has forced me to think.  Is it the 12 foot snow drifts, the 9 months of darkness, and the -70 degree wind chills?  Or is it the swarms of mosquitoes that always find a way to invite themselves to nearly all summer events?  Why do I live in Rochester?  The reason is simple - I love Rochester.  

It's a city full of life, love, spirit and diversity.  We have the perfect city to raise a family and the best medical care in the world is right at our fingertips.  It's a safe place, and rather than complain about the cold, we embrace it.  We play hockey and ice skate.  We snow shoe.  We ski.  We even create martini glasses out of ice and have a big winter festival.  I truly believe that Rochester is the best city in the world, and it's because of the people that make up this city.  So I would pose another question back to my friends - "Why in the world WOULDN'T I want to live in Rochester, MN!?!"

I am originally from Rochester, and grew up here for the majority of my childhood.  I had a chance to attend Sunset Terrace Elementary, John Adams Middle School, Kellogg Middle School, and eventually Century High School.  I understand the school system and what intense pressure the students face in such a highly educated community.  I can relate to families who place a lot of importance on their kids not missing school.  I get it.  I was there too.  I understand this community.  I am so lucky to have grown up in a safe, encouraging, and compassionate community that fosters an environment of learning and development.  I also understand that Rochester is a city of specialists, and the expectation is that medical care is provided by the best of the best.  If you need ACL reconstructive knee surgery, you don't see your general physician.  Heck, you don't even see just any orthopedic surgeon.  You see the ACL knee specialist within the orthopedic surgery department.  That's the type of care in which I have received for my various sports injuries, and it is exactly the type of orthodontic specialty care in which I provide to others.  Our community deserves and expects only the best.

So having had the opportunity to train at Mayo Clinic for my residency in Orthodontics, my decision to live and open Collins Orthodontics in Rochester was a no-brainer.  I understand the people of this community, and I feel as if I can contribute in ways in which this community can relate and appreciate.  Our clinic does just that.  We have set up a clinic schedule that includes appointment options Monday through Friday, with early morning, lunch hour, and evening appointments available so your kids do not have to miss school, or you don't have to miss work.  We are in a location that is safe and visible, easily accessible to both people who live in Rochester and those who live in surrounding communities.  Knowing that Rochester is a city of specialists in which our community demands specialty care, I completed an additional 3 year residency in orthodontics after dental school in order to be able to provide high quality orthodontic care, including all types of braces, clear braces and Invisalign.  I understand what makes Rochester a unique and wonderful place, and I fully intend to contribute to this city in any way I can.

Outside of orthodontics, we are here to make the city a better place.  We are proud sponsors of many community events, such as the Orcas, Triton Triathlon, multiple 5K races, RYSA scholarships for children who cannot afford soccer registration fees, sponsorships of those who cannot afford orthodontic care, and we are just getting started. 

This city has given so much to me.  I've received a fantastic education, a wonderful experience with family and community, and specialty care second to none.  It's my turn to have the opportunity to give back to the same community in which has provided so much to me.  I don't drive here 1-2 days per week just to have a business.  I live here.  I'm ready to make Rochester a better place…I'm ready to help make Rochester the type of city which will cause others to also ask the question, "Why wouldn't you want to live in Rochester, MN?!?!" 

About the Author: Grant C. Collins, DDS, MS, is a Mayo Clinic trained Orthodontist who is the owner and orthodontist at Collins Orthodontics.  He currently resides with his wife and son in Rochester, MN.  He is a proud member of the American Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, Minnesota Dental Association, Zumbro Valley Dental Society, Phi Beta Kappa, Phi Kappa Phi, National Dental Honor Society, and Omicron Kappa.

Invisalign: 5 Things You MUST know before starting Invisalign Clear Braces

By Grant Collins

1. Invisalign aligners look great...nearly invisible!

Honestly, one of the most common reasons why the wonderful people of Rochester, MN and surrounding communities do not want to straighten their teeth is because they do not want to wear traditional metal braces and wires.  The great news is that, because of Invisalign, you no longer have to!  Invisalign treatment consists of a series of clear, removable aligners that are custom-modeled to fit your teeth.  The virtually invisible aligners gradually straighten your teeth over time, and unlike traditional braces, Invisalign has no metal bands or wires! You don’t need to change anything about your current lifestyle! With Invisalign you can continue participating in day-to-day activities without changing a thing. Invisalign is great for professionals, athletes, brides, and parents. Most people will not even be able to tell you are getting your teeth straightened!

2. Invisalign is a tool, not a substitute for orthodontic knowledge

Just like braces, Invisalign is simply a "tool" used by orthodontists to straighten your teeth.  Also just like braces, the skill and orthodontic knowledge of your doctor has a much greater effect on your final outcome than the "tools" in which your doctor uses.  The first step in choosing your Invisalign provider is to find an expert in straightening teeth (i.e. an "orthodontist").  An orthodontist is a specialist that receives an additional two to three years of specialized education beyond dental school in order to learn the most effective, efficient, and proper way to align misaligned teeth.  All orthodontists are dentists, but only 6% of dentists are orthodontists.  Orthodontists will focus all efforts of continuing education only within the specialty of orthodontics, ensuring that you are receiving the best and most specialized care possible.  In order to see if the doctor is a specialist, look for the seal of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO).  Only orthodontic specialists can be members of the AAO.

3. Most people are great candidates for Invisalign

From our experience at Collins Orthodontics, the great majority of patients are great Invisalign candidates.  Although there are a few exceptions, we have found that Invisalign is an excellent tool to achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.  

4. Compliance is not optional

One of the greatest features of Invisalign is that you can remove the clear aligners in order to enjoy the foods you love and easily brush and floss your teeth (also reducing your risk of cavities and staining compared to traditional braces).  At the same time, if you do not wear your aligners a minimum of 22 hours per day, then the Invisalign will not work.  Your overall outcome with Invisalign is very much dependent on your commitment to wearing the aligners!

5. Invisalign reduces the risk of cavities compared to braces

Since you can remove the Invisalign aligners, it makes cleaning your teeth simple!  With traditional braces and wires, it is very difficult to keep your teeth clean, where food can easily get caught between the teeth.  When food is allowed to sit in your mouth, your risk of cavities increases significantly.  With Invisalign, that risk is completely eliminated!  It's a great treatment to keep your teeth healthy and clean, even during treatment!

For more information about Braces and Invisalign, please visit us at:

www.rochesterorthodontics.com

www.facebook.com/rochesterorthodontics.com

Are All Orthodontic Clear Braces in Rochester, MN Really Clear? The Answer May Surprise You...

By Grant Collins

It's scientific fact that one full mouth of "old school" style metal orthodontic bands is enough to create all the characters needed for 2 entire Transformers movies (I made that up). But yikes, no wonder people hated braces back then! At Collins Orthodontics in Rochester, MN, we offer the newest and most esthetic treatment options including clear braces, Invisalign, and standard braces (and yes...with colors if you want!).

So what is the secret to our clear braces versus other orthodontic offices in Rochester, MN?  Well...our brackets are completely translucent, so they perfectly match the color of your teeth!  In fact, most types of "clear braces" aren't really clear at all! Instead, they are opaque, and if their color is not perfectly matched to your teeth color....then it will not blend in with your teeth at all!  That's why we use true "clear" brackets that are completely translucent in order to perfectly match the shade and color of your teeth!  Check out our patient, James P. below....he is wearing his Collins Orthodontics clear brackets in this photo!

Schedule a free "clear braces" consultation today!

Invisalign, Braces, and Clear Braces Patient Testimonials about Dr. Collins as Their Orthodontist in Rochester, MN

By Grant Collins

Of all the things that you need to consider before choosing your orthodontist in Rochester Minnesota, the MOST important item is that you (or your child) is comfortable around the orthodontist! Select an orthodontist that not only cares about your smile, but also about your well-being. If it is your child needing treatment, it is important that your orthodontist is a positive influence and excellent role model to your child; someone that makes you and your child feel at ease. 

Treatment can sometimes take up to several years, where you will see your orthodontist every 6 to 8 weeks – so choosing the right orthodontist is a very important decision! Whether you are choosing Invisalign, Invisalign Teen, Clear Braces, or Traditional Braces for you or your child, absolutely make sure that you begin treatment with an orthodontist that you trust!

Also, make sure to do your research on the orthodontist! Most orthodontists have biographies on their websites, which will allow you to assess if the orthodontist looks like the right fit for you. Some important items to find out:

•   Where did the orthodontist do his/her training?
• What do other patients say about the orthodontist? Look for a “testimonial” page on the website. If there are no testimonials, then make sure to find people who have had experiences with the orthodontist. It's great to see videos of testimonials as well!
• What are the orthodontist’s interests and involvement in the community?
• Does the orthodontist provide excellent treatment? Check the website for “Before and After” Galleries to show a sample of the orthodontist’s work.
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• Interested in scheduling a free consultation at Collins Orthodontics to see if we are the right fit for you? Call us at 507-258-5400 or simply Request a FREE consultation today!