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
GooglePlus:  Collins Orthodontics Google Plus Page
Instagram: instagram.com/thebracesguy

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!

Request a Free Consultation with Dr. Collins
Collins Orthodontics Website
Facebook Page
Google Plus Page
YouTube Page

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.

Fluoride and Brushing Your Children's Teeth in Rochester, MN

By Grant Collins

The American Dental Association has updated their guidelines for brushing children's teeth. Here's what you need to know about the update:

Parents should use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste to brush baby teeth twice daily as soon as the teeth erupt, instead of waiting until children are older. Once children are 3 to 6 years old, then the amount should be increased to a pea-size dollop.

Guidelines for Brushing Your Children's Teeth

Happy Brushing!

-Dr. Collins

Collins Orthodontics Facebook

Collins Orthodontics Website

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.
• 
  
• 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!

Invisalign Clear Braces at Collins Orthodontics in Rochester, MN

By Grant Collins

Notice anything different about Marika’s smile? She’s actually wearing her Invisalign aligners in this picture (Dr. Collins is so proud!). So what is Invisalign, you ask? It's simple! Invisalign is a modern technique used for straightening teeth, where the process involves using a custom-made series of aligners created for you and only you. These aligners are made of smooth, comfortable and virtually invisible plastic material that you wear over your teeth. Wearing the aligners will gently shift your teeth into place, based on the exact movements your orthodontist plans out for you. There are no metal brackets to attach and no wires to tighten. You just pop in a new set of aligners approximately every two weeks, until your treatment is complete. The best part about the whole process is that most people won't even know you're straightening your teeth. Invisalign is a great way to get the smile you've always wanted!

Request a FREE Invisalign Consultation at Collins Orthodontics in Rochester, MN.

Invisalign, Teeth Whitening and Braces for Weddings in Rochester, Minnesota

By Grant Collins

What a great day at The Wedding Extravaganza! Huge shout out to the handful of future grooms that showed up today as well…even on an NFL playoff day! We’ll announce the winners for the contest this week on the Collins Orthodontics Facebook page, so make sure to like the page before we draw names (must like the page to win!). Cheers to all the brides-to-be who showed interest in getting a beautiful bright smile for their big day! — at The Wedding Extravaganza.

MyWeddingSmile.com

Collins Orthodontics: High Quality Orthodontic Care and a Clean and Modern Look!

Collins Orthodontics: High Quality Orthodontic Care and a Clean and Modern Look!
By Grant Collins

Window film is officially up at Collins Orthodontics, and we are thrilled with the result! It definitely fits with the clean and modern style of our orthodontic clinic. Thank you to Todd Jensen and Sun Control of Minnesota!

Rochester Braces and Invisalign

Collins Orthodontics Employee Spotlight (Rochester, MN)

By Grant Collins

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT: We are thrilled to introduce our newest employee at Collins Orthodontics, Jenna. Jenna is not only one of the most skilled orthodontic dental assistants in the Rochester, MN, but she’s also one of the friendliest, thoughtful, hard-working and genuine people you will ever meet. In her free time, Jenna also enjoys running, shopping, spending time with her family and friends, and spoiling her dog, Midas! When you visit us at Collins Orthodontics, Jenna’s warm/welcoming smile and easygoing personality will certainly make you feel at ease. Welcome to the family, Jenna!

Merry Christmas From Our Little Elf!

Most days, I live and breathe straightening teeth. Braces, Invisalign, Teeth Whitening...it's all about delivering beautiful smiles! But the holidays is the perfect time to push aside work and focus on family. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Collins Orthodontics!
rochesterorthodontics.com
facebook.com/rochesterorthodontics

Invisalign. What You Need to Know! (Rochester, MN)

Invisalign. What You Need to Know!

Rochester, MN

By Grant Collins

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign treatment is a technique that we use at Collins Orthodontics to straighten your teeth without the use of traditional metal braces! Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners that are custom-modeled to fit your teeth. The virtually invisible aligners gradually straighten your teeth into a smile of which you will be proud. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign has no metal bands or wires to trap food and plaque. Maintaining a good oral hygiene program will also reduce chances of plaque buildup, tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Invisalign has many advantages:

• Clear, Virtually Invisible Aligners
• Removable, Will Not Get In The Way Of Your Activities
• Easy To Remove To Eat, Brush, And Floss
• Graduate To A New Set Of Aligners About Every Two Weeks
• Easy To Monitor Your Progress With Regular Appointments

Am I a Candidate for Invisalign?

The majority of orthodontic problems can be addressed using Invisalign. Please contact our office to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Collins to see if Invisalign is the right treatment for you.

Why Should I Choose Collins Orthodontics for Invisalign?

Why choose Collins Orthodontics? The answer is simple: Dr. Grant Collins is a specialist with over 8,000 hours of training at an accredited orthodontic residency program, and he focuses his entire practice on Invisalign and braces. Because of the experience and training of Dr. Collins, we are able to offer the highest quality of care in the shortest amount of time using Invisalign. Remember...Invisalign is simply a tool used to straighten teeth; Your doctor's expertise, skill, and knowledge in orthodontics are what matter most.

Request my FREE Invisalign Consultation Today!

Grand Opening at Collins Orthodontics in Rochester, MN

By Grant Collins

Here's a photo of the front desk at Collins Orthodontics after a busy day getting ready for our Grand Opening on Tuesday, December 17! So far we have had a wonderful week filled with consultations including braces, clear braces, invisalign, early treatment, and the importance of great oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment! 

rochesterorthodontics.com

facebook.com/rochesterorthodontics

https://plus.google.com/+CollinsOrthodonticsRochester/about

Caden Trying Out the New Chairs!

Caden did the final inspections on the waiting room chairs at Collins Orthodontics, and we did get his approval (i.e. bribed him with blueberry oatmeal). Looks like we are still good to go for Tuesday’s Grand Opening…

Facebook
Website

Collins Orthodontics New Logo! (Rochester, MN)

By Grant Collins
We have received so many compliments on the new logo, so I definitely need to give credit where it’s due. Jenna Nelson is the EXTREMELY talented graphic designer who created the Collins Orthodontics logo. Not only is she a visionary with incredible artistic abilities, but also she is professional, organized, easy to work with, and efficient. So thank you Jenna for creating the perfect logo for our clinic!
Rochester Orthodontist

Local Man to Open Orthodontic Clinic

By Grant Collins
Big thank you to Jeff Kiger and the Rochester Post-Bulletin for writing such a great article about our new orthodontic clinic! We are officially within a few weeks of our Grand Opening! — with Grant Collins and Jeff Kiger at Post-Bulletin.Local Man to Open Orthodontics Clinic
Rochester Orthodontist