(WGGB) — If you suspect your child may need braces, prepare for spending thousands of dollars.

Tonight, we look at how to plan for the cost of braces.

Braces typically cost anywhere from $4,000 to $7,000 and when planning for the cost of braces, you need to think about the entire process of getting them.

A lot of times people think about the cost for the braces alone, but there could be dental work that needs to be done ahead of time.

Do they need any teeth pulled or a deep cleaning?

Also, don’t forget a lot of times after braces, there is a retainer that children need to wear as well.

Dr. Robert A Stoner, DDS/Orthodontist: “All patients get retainers when the braces come off. Most patients get removable retainers and they wear the top retainer full time for about six months to a year and I have them wear the bottom retainer every night,” says Orthodontist Dr. Robert Stoner.

And when it comes to choosing an orthodontist, do some research.

“Check the credentials of the orthodontist. How long have they been practicing? Are they are member of the American Board of Orthodontists, and do they accept your insurance. These are all important factors in making your decision,” adds Angie Hicks of Angie’s List.

Not all orthodontists are going to charge the same price so be a savvy consumer and shop around, and don’t be afraid to ask if the price of braces is negotiable.

(WGGB) — Well, like it or not, we’re heading into the thunderstorm season. You never know when the power might go out.

If you’re thinking about a generator as a power back-up, we have what you need to know in today’s Angie’s List report.

When it comes to generators, you have a couple of options.

Portable generators are cheaper than permanent units, but they’re designed to run for shorter time periods and are powered by gasoline, so they’ll need frequent refueling.

Permanent units can start automatically or with the flip of a switch – and can power everything in your house.

“Portable is more common than permanent and there is a few reasons. I think that the ease of use is one. Probably the biggest one is its cost-effective. We can install your transfer switch, emergency panel, for around $500-$600, then there would be the cost of the generator, whatever generator you would pick,” says Chris Hinesley, an electrical contractor.

That’s pretty cost-effect for a homeowner on a house around 1,500 to 2,000 square feet to have emergency power so that they would becomfortable in a power outage.

When deciding what type of generator you want or need, a lot depends on how much you think you’ll use it.

Angie Hicks from Angie’s List notes, “If you are living in the city and you may just need it for a few hours aportable generator can be a great option, they cost about $1,000, but if you live in a rural area where you may be without electricity for a longer period of time or if you have medical issues that require equipment to be plugged in, you are probably going to go with a whole house generator.”

No matter what type of generator you buy, you should have it installed by a licensed electrician.

If a generator is installed wrong, it can have an impact on your home’s entire electrical system.

You should regularly check your generator to make sure it starts and is operating correctly and put the generator outside on a level surface in a well-ventilated area at least ten feet away from the house to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

(WGGB) — Does your car need an oil change every 3,000, 5,000 or 7,000 miles?

How often your car needs an oil change depends on a variety of factors

There was a time when 3 months or 3,000 miles was sound advice on when to change your oil, but times have changed.

“Years ago the time to change your oil was really simple – every three months or 3,000 miles. With the improvements made to engine oil as well as cars you need to depend on your owner’s manual for the best recommendation of how frequently your car may need an oil change. It could be 3,000, 7,000, even 10,000 miles,” says Angie’s Hicks of Angie’s List

Vehicles that use conventional motor oil should have their oil changed between 3,000 and 5,000 miles.

Those who use synthetic motor oil can go up to 7,000 miles.

If you’re not sure, check your owner’s manual.

Where and how you drive your vehicle can also play a role. Regular oil changes are a critical in ensuring your car’s engine runs properly and will have a long life.

If you ignore this maintenance item, damage can occur.-

“If you skip a lawn treatmen you can always catch up and recover your lawn, but your engine will wear and you won’t get that back,” says Jim Trump, who owns an auto repair shop.

Checking under the hood and vehicle during an oil changecan also help your mechanic spot needed repairs or services before major work is needed.

(WGGB) — Whether you leave town for a vacation or leave to run a few errands, it’s easy for busy people to become careless and leave their home vulnerable to break-ins.

According to the latest FBI statistics, there were 2,159,878 burglaries in the U.S. in 2010, resulting in $4.6 billion in property loss.

Out of all burglaries, more than 60 percent were the result of forced entry. Residential burglaries accounted for 74 percent, and more than half occurred during the daytime.

You can enhance the security of your home without spending a fortune with these three simple measures.

Door Locks:

• A deadbolt is a type of lock that has a steel bolt that extends into the door jamb and strike plate of a door frame. The most common type is the single cylinder deadbolt – which is operated by a twist knob on the inside of the door and a key on the outside.
• Locksmiths say unless you have working deadbolt locks and actually use them, your home isn’t secure.
• For around $100 per door, you can have a high quality deadbolt installed.
• If the deadbolts are not functioning properly or they are inadequate, the intruder can kick the door in.
• Organizations like the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) give quality ratings that range from one to three. One represents the highest quality so check the lock before buying.
• New homeowners should have their locks changed, because there is no way to know who previously had keys to the home.

Doors:

• The best lock in the world isn’t going to make a difference if the overall quality of your door, doorjamb, and door frame are poor.
• Replace the door. Many exterior doors are designed with security in mind, using reinforced glass or small windows away from the lock to prevent a burglar from reaching in.
• The most secure door feature is a solid core, not a hollow one. To check this, knock on your door: solid doors sound “dead,” while hollow doors will echo. To improve security, replace any hollow entry door with one made of metal, fiberglass, solid wood, as they can’t be kicked in or broken easily.
• Hiring Tip: Have a professional locksmith assess locks and doors. Only a trained professional can spot the kinds of vulnerabilities that make burglars’ lives easier.

Lighting:

• The installation and proper placement of outdoor lighting can enhance the security of a home. Security lighting should be mounted high enough to prevent tampering. Security lights can also be protected by a plastic guard or metal mesh cage.
• When placing and aiming exterior lights, they should illuminate the homeowner’s property; however, they should not shine through the neighbors windows. While the initial adjustments can be made during the day, fine-tuning should be done after dark. If used with security cameras, lights should be placed and adjusted to prevent excessive glaring and shadows.
• It’s also wise to have a security lighting plan for the interior of the home, especially if you plan to be away for an extended period of time. Security experts recommend using timers to control interior lighting. The best timers will allow random settings so there is no fixed pattern to signal the homeowner’s absence.
• Security lighting can lose its effectiveness if it’s overused, or not used properly. Security lighting that remains on all night is sometimes ignored, and activity in the area may go unnoticed. Motion sensors can help alleviate the problem by drawing attention to any activity.

(WGGB) — Earth Day is on April 22 and what better way to celebrate than making your home more energy efficient.

The insulation of your home, along with the sealing of air leaks and drafts, can help you save up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs each year.

A poorly insulated attic can decrease your home’s energy efficiency, leading to increased utility bills. It can also boost humidity, causing mold growth, rot and animal infestations.

Angie’s List, the nation’s leading provider of consumer reviews, asked highly rated insulation companies to weigh in.

• Do I have enough? When you look at your attic, the insulation should appear voluminous and fluffy. The more the insulation settles over time, the more it loses its effectiveness. If the insulation looks flat and deflated, or it doesn’t rise over your floor joists, you might need more. For the best assessment, consider having an energy audit in which infrared technology can detect gaps in insulation.
• What type of insulation? Most homeowners use either loose insulation made from fiberglass or cellulose, spray foam insulation, or rolls, batts and blankets made from mineral fibers such as fiberglass and rock wool. One advantage of spray foam insulation is it can reach the nooks and crannies of your attic where other types of insulation might be difficult to apply.
• What is R value? Attic insulation is classified into different R values, which measure thermal resistance. The higher the R value, the better the insulation.
• Check it often: Since insulation can deteriorate, have it checked periodically to make sure it remains efficient.

Angie’s List Tips: Hiring an insulation company

• Hire help: Adding insulation to your attic yourself is dangerous. You may step through the ceiling or fall through it. A reputable contractor also has the knowledge of what type of insulation should be used for your home based on your climate and region.
• Ask to see the R-value: You can find the R-value printed on bags or on labels attached to bags of insulation – always ask the contractor to see the bags that will be used.
• Know your options: Regulation requires contractors to provide consumers with a fact sheet including insulation information on the products they sell.
• Check certifications: Ask if the contractor certified by the Insulation Contractors Association of America (ICAA). These contractors have access to training regarding proper installation and are familiar with codes and regulations.
• What is the cost? Most insulation companies charge by a home’s square footage.
• Read the contract: The contract should include the job specification, cost, warranty information, and method of payment. The contract should also spell out the type of insulation, where it will be used and its R-value. Beware of contracts that list the insulation in terms of thickness – the R-value tells how well a material insulates, not the thickness.
• Tax credits available: Congress reinstated the energy efficiency home improvement tax credits this year, and eligible homeowners can claim up to $500 in tax credits that had expired at the end of 2011. The credit is eligible for homeowners who have added Energy Star-rated home improvement items, including insulation, to their homes last year or plan to do so this year. Those who have not used any energy tax credits in the past would be eligible for the full $500. Homeowners who have used $300 in credits dating back to 2006, for example, would still be eligible for $200. Homeowners are advised to contact their accountant to see what qualifies as energy efficient and whether they are eligible for the credit.

(WGGB) — It’s almost home improvement season again. Now is a good time to assess if there’s any winter damage to your home and make plans for spring repairs.

The best way to retain your home’s value is to keep it in good shape. With the arrival of spring, homeowners should take a good look around their homes to determine if there are repairs they should address.

All of us have lists of projects around the house that either we don’t have time to get to or we aren’t sure how to fix. Many homeowners use a handyman regularly to take care of routine maintenance and odd-and-end projects around the house.

Angie’s List, the nation’s leading provider of consumer reviews, asked highly rated handymen/handywomen how they can help with their honey-do list.

A handyman, or handywoman, can offer a one-stop-shop for many home repair services.
Most handyman companies offer a wide range of services. Some focus on smaller home improvement projects such as weather stripping, faucet installation and drywall repair while others can do both small

For homeowners with a long to-do list of minor repairs that don’t require a trade license, handymen can eliminate the need for multiple service providers – thus saving you time and money.

Angie’s List Tips: Hiring a Handyman

• Are you licensed? Every handyman has a different set of skills and areas of expertise. Licensing requirements for handymen vary by state and municipality, so homeowners should verify with their local licensing board that a handyman can do their specific job. The majority of states require an electrician or plumber’s license to perform most work in those trades. Many times, handyman licensing depends on the job’s cost or scope.
• Make a list of what you need done: Have a list on hand when you call to make an appointment and go through your list with the handyman. Most professionals are going to tell you up front if it’s a job outside their area of expertise. And, in the case of some of the larger handyman shops, knowing what jobs you need done, often determines which employee they send to your house.
• What’s the price? Know what’s included in the cost – do you have to supply materials. Ask if the company charges a flat rate or by the hour, or a trip fee
• Prep your home: Anything you can organize or purchase ahead of time may save you time and money. For example, if there’s an issue with your sink, remove all the items from underneath it.

(WGGB) — April showers may bring May flowers, but they could also cause leaks in your home.

Your roof is your home’s number one defense against the elements. No part plays a bigger role in keeping the elements out, so when a roof requires a repair, there’s little time to waste.

Why it’s important: A leaking roof can cause serious damage to your home. Failing to address leaks right away can significantly raise the cost of roofing repair. That is because once the water breaks through the roof and gets into the house, it can cause damage to sheathing, rafters and ceilings.

Angie’s List, the nation’s leading provider of consumer reviews, asked highly rated roofing companies to for insight into roof leaks.

4 Signs to look for:
You can avoid potential damage from the elements by regularly inspecting your roof, especially following a storm. Be on the lookout for the following signs:
1. Curled shingles on the edges of roll roofing.
2. Broken shingles or sections of roll roofing that are missing.
3. Damaged or missing flashing around the edges of the roof or around objects protruding from the roof.
4. Area where water collects in puddles.

Angie’s List Tips: Hiring a roofing contractor

• Be patient: Though your situation might seem to be one of desperation, avoid settling on the first contractor who comes along and offers to do the job.
• Avoid out-of-town storm chasers: These roofers travel around the country following the paths of storms looking for homeowners in dire need of repair.
• Are you legit? Ask to see proof of insurance and check the roofer’s license with your local building department or licensing agent. If the company only lists a post office box, it’s a red flag. Ask for a list of previous customers and visit the work sites to make sure the references are legit.
• Read the contract before signing: The contract should include such items as payment terms, type of materials used, provisions for change orders and a termination clause.

(WGGB) — Fences have both practical and aesthetic value, but a badly conceived fence can be an eyesore and a source of conflict with neighbors.

Fencing Materials:

• Wood: One of the most common types of fencing, wood can give properties a traditional look. However, the lifetime of wood fencing varies. Many types have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years and require regular maintenance, ranging from cleaning and sealing to painting. It’s important to understand the different types of wood and which are preferable for your purposes, tastes and climate. Bamboo is among the most recent newcomers to the range of fencing options. It is highly touted because it is considered environmentally friendly
• Vinyl/composite: Often a top choice among homeowner associations in newer neighborhoods, this type of fencing tends to have clean, uniform lines. It also is a cost-effective option because it is easy to maintain; no painting and sealing required. In most cases, vinyl/composite fencing has a longer warranty than other types of fencing.
• Metals:  Materials in this category can include aluminum, steel and traditional wrought iron – an expensive but beautiful choice. These options are ideal if you want to establish boundaries on your property but would rather maintain your views. They also can be highly decorative and enhance the overall aesthetic of your property.
• Brick/masonry: Though an expensive option, brick as fencing is appropriate for historic neighborhoods and more stately properties. It also provides a high degree of privacy and security.

Angie’s List Tips: What to consider when installing a fence

• What’s the purpose of the fence? Is it for privacy? To keep your kids and dogs in or another reason?
• Are you allowed to have fence? If so, what type? Homeowners are responsible for checking with their homeowners association on types of fences allowed, verifying their property lines, having their yard checked for buried utility lines, etc.
• Be a good neighbor: While it’s not legally required, communicate with your neighbors that you’re thinking of putting up a fence so they don’t learn of it only when they see it being installed.
• Factor in maintenance: Your fence will lose its appeal if you don’t maintain it. Check your fence every few months for splintering, peeling, mold, breakage and insects. Be careful with the weed whacker near the fence. Over time, that causes splintering and scratches which breaks the seal and encourages damage.

Angie’s List Tips: Hiring a fencing contractor

• A quality fencing company should provide you with written estimates, a warranty on the work, as well as a product warranty on the materials.
• Are they a full-service company? In addition to the installation, do they do repairs and adjustments?
• Ask for references and don’t be afraid to do a little leg work to check up on the company’s past projects.
• Get at least three written estimate and read the contract thoroughly.

(WGGB) — Selling a home can be a big task for any homeowner. Details such as home staging, photos and your real estate agent can really impact how much your home sells for and how quickly it sells.

Angie’s List Tips: 4 ways to sell your home fast

1. Make repairs: When people are thinking about buying a house they are looking for reasons to rule it out and simple things like a leaky faucet or a missing floor tile can be a turn-off for buyers. Take the extra step and make these small repairs service your home’s mechanicals regularly.
2. Keep it clean: You never know when someone may stop by and want to see your home so keep it clean and tidy. Remove as much clutter as you can – this will help make the house look cleaner. Don’t forget the outside too – keep your grass mowed and weeds out of flowerbeds
3. Stage your home: If you have fewer personal belongings, prospective owners can picture their own belongings in the home more easily. Bring in some furniture pieces to fill an empty room.
4. Online listings: The Internet is a popular place for people who are looking to buy a home and it’s one of the first places they look. Find a real estate company that has online listings and offers a virtual tour, photos. Attractive, high quality photos are crucial. The first image is very important to buyers using online search tools. They will either click on that home or skip it and move on.

Open houses are becoming a seldom-used item in many real estate agents’ tool boxes, according to real estate experts who talked recently with Angie’s List. Highly rated real estate pros tell us few sales are made at open houses and often they’re just opportunities for the neighbors to check out your house. In years past, open houses were a popular way for would-be buyers to see properties they were considering. But with the rise and convenience of online listings, featuring photo and/or video tours, experts say open houses are just not as necessary.

Angie’s List Tips: Working with a real estate agent

• Ask questions: Many agents offer free market analyses. Before choosing and agent, ask how they came up with their price, their opinion of what’s happening in the market, etc.
• What experience do you have? You want an agent with a proven history of sales in your area. Ask how long they have been in the business, how many homes they sold last year, and the average number of days those homes were on the market.
• Do you have references? Ask for references and talk to former clients whose homes they’ve sold to get their experience on how the process went.
• Marketing plan: Get a copy of the agent’s marketing plan, review it, and make suggestions if appropriate. A good agent should tailor a marketing plan specifically for your home – not just list the home online. He or she should be creative in making your home stand above the rest.
• Communication is key: Your agent should be in contact you frequently and keep you updated on your home and other homes for sale in your area. If you decide yours isn’t doing enough, find another again who will.

(WGGB) — Did you replace your favorite pair of shoes because the soles had worn out? Tossed out a skirt because the zipper broke? Bought a new couch because the cushions sank?

Shoe Repair:

• A talented cobbler can dye the lavender shoes you wore for your friend’s wedding and stretch a pair of shoes that suddenly feel too tight.
• A qualified shoe repair professional can also perform the following work for your favorite shoes:
• Replace worn heels/soles
• Strap repair
• Buff scratches and worn looking leather
• Stretch shoes for increased comfort
• Adjust shoes to fit unique feet
• Dying

However, the way some shoes are constructed may prevent them from being repairable. One example of this would be a non-welted men’s dress shoe. This means the shoe was constructed without a welting — a strip of leather, rubber or plastic stitched into the upper part of the shoe as well as the insole. Without welting, a shoe repair may come close to actually building a new shoe.

Angie’s List Tips: Taking care of your shoes

• Just like anything else – regular maintenance and cleaning of your shoes is going to help them last longer. Think of your shoes as part of your outfit, you wash your clothes regularly, so your shoes should be washed about once a week as well.
• Re-soling shoes is probably the most common requested shoe repair – and it is pretty inexpensive.  New soles for women’s shoes run about $10 for the pair, for men re-soling costs about $20 for the pair.
• A shoe repair company can also stretch your shoe for comfort, fit a shoe to unusual feet, and professionally waterproof a shoe to protect it from the elements.
• Shoe repair can also alleviate a variety of physical problems. Worn heels will change your gait. When you are not walking properly, your feet, ankles, knees, hips and back can all suffer.
• Use cream to polish and protect leather. If you do not take these steps, the leather will dry out, crack and fall apart.
• Get to know your local shoe repair stop and take your shoes in on a regular basis to repair wear and tear. This will keep your shoes lasting even longer.
• As long as the uppers of the shoe are in good shape, most shoes can always be repaired. When you get into repairing a tear in the leather or stitching, you’re looking at a more costly repair, so it may be a good idea to just get a new pair of shoes.
• If the cost of repair is more than half the price of what a new pair of shoes would cost, you should consider replacing it.
• Don’t stack your shoes on top of one another. Protect your shoes by keeping them in the boxes or on a rack.

Alteration services:
Clothing alterations can make a big difference in your overall appearance. If you’ve gained or lost weight, a tailor can make adjustments that will create a custom fit and salvage your wardrobe for a fraction of the cost of buying new garments.

Whether you need a pair of pants hemmed, a zipper repaired or a suit of clothing made to fit, consider the services of a highly rated seamstress or tailor. Alteration experts provide a range of services.

• The most common reason to visit an alteration shop is to have hems and sleeves adjusted on skirts, dresses, jeans, slacks, shirts, blouses and blazers.
• Other popular services include mending and resizing garments. Mending services include repairing holes and tears and replacing broken zippers. Size changes can be achieved through adjusting or adding darts to blouses, dresses and blazers. Seams can be taken in or let out to improve fit. The waistlines of pants, skirts and dresses can also be adjusted.

Angie’s List Tips: Working with a tailor

• To test a tailor’s service and skill, start with a small job. Simple alterations include replacing a button or a zipper or shortening hemlines.
• Ask about prices. Do they charge a flat-rate? For hemming regular pants, more stores tell us they charge $8 to $10.
• There are limits to what even a skilled tailor can do with clothing. Many times a tailor is limited by proportion, especially with a jacket or pair of pants. Pockets and seams can become skewed if a garment is taken in by two or more inches. Also, a large hole in clothing may not be able to be repaired without a visible fix.

Furniture Re-Upholstery:
So, you’ve inherited a sofa from Grandma and you want to keep the warm feeling you get from having it – just maybe not the plaid pattern that goes with it. Or, maybe you have a nice set of furniture but one piece is damaged and you don’t want to break up the set or have to buy a whole new set.
A professional furniture upholsterer can give your old furniture new life.

• A re-upholsterer can often save a damaged piece of furniture by seamlessly, and sometimes creatively, making a repair. Often times, a couch or chair cushion just needs to be re-stuffed.
• Reupholstering offers a great value over buying new furniture when the piece is well constructed.  If a piece of furniture has a hard wood frame, and coil springs you’ll often come out ahead, price wise, to reupholster the piece than to buy a new piece of the same quality.
• Re-upholsterers typically offer hundreds of fabric types, colors and patterns to choose from. Companies either have a showroom where you can view the fabric samples and others will come to your home.
• The cost varies on every piece and is a reflection of the labor needs (time required) to do the job and the cost of the material selected. But be prepared: quality reupholstering can get expensive, so you want to be sure your original furniture is solid, structurally sound or that the sentimental value is worth the investment. Reupholstering a sofa, for example, can run between $700 and $1,200 depending on its size, the type of fabric, and foam and padding needed if the cushions need replaced. Larger chairs can cost around $500, while smaller chairs typically run less than $200.
• Check the upholsterer’s reputation before you hire. Ask for samples, photos of previous work done and references from other clients.

(WGGB) — Spring is an important time for your lawn – if you neglect it now, you’ll pay the price for the rest of the year.

When it comes to your lawn, you don’t have to go over the top with your landscaping, but you do need to pay attention to the basics.

Angie’s List Tips: 3 Steps to Spring Lawn Care

1. Clean up the yard: If you still have leaves or debris in your yard, remove as soon as possible. Leaves left on the yard prevent it from receiving the sunlight it needs. Rake up thatch as well because thatch can prevent nutrients and water from reaching grass roots.
2. Service your lawnmower: Regular maintenance on your lawnmower can help avoid ill-timed breakdowns and extend its lifecycle. A service appointment should include an oil change, sparkplugs, air filter, carburetor, cables, belts, and inspection/sharpening of the blade – dull mower blades will splinter your grass, causing it to wilt
3. Seed and feed: If you have any bare spots on your lawn, now is a good time for seed. Your lawn may also benefit from fertilizer at this time. If you are unsure about the health of your lawn, take a plug of your lawn to your local nursery to learn what your lawn really needs. The federal government requires those who apply certain chemicals to control weeds, insects or diseases to be certified pesticide applicators. If they can’t provide documentation, find another company. And beware of any company or product that promises a quick cure. Remember your lawn is a growing plant. If it is weak and damaged it will take longer to recover.

Angie’s List Tips: Lawn mower maintenance

• Need maintenance? Warning signs that your mower needs maintenance can include difficulty in starting, a smoking engine, a dull blade, and reduced horsepower.
• Schedule a service: The best time to have your mower serviced is in the fall – companies are less busy, so you may be able to save some money. If you failed to service your mower last year, now is the time to call. Lawnmower service companies are at their busiest in the late spring, so try to schedule service early so your mower is ready to go when you need it.
• Ask what’s included: A service appointment should check the oil, blade, spark plugs, filter, battery and belts. Some facilities will require you to drop your mower off at their shop, while others will make house calls. Always ask for an estimate and guarantee on the work. A spring checkup can cost $50-$150 depending on whether you have a push or riding lawn mower.
• Don’t mow with a dull blade: Be sure to sharpen the blade at least once a year. Cutting grass with a sharpened blade is important for lawn health – it promotes better grass health. If you notice the blade has some major gashes, it may be time to buy a new blade – which costs around $10. Keep grass at least 2 to 3 inches tall. This height helps keep the moisture in the grass and the weeds out.
• Keep in clean: After each mowing, wait until the engine cools and use a hose to spray the clippings and grass debris that may be clinging to the underside of the deck of your mower. This will keep grass clippings from building up and help prevent clogging.

(WGGB) — According to the American Dental Association, 75 percent of people have a fear of the dentist, and 10 percent of those fears turn into phobias. Take your child to the dentist early to ease any fears and teach them good dental habits.

A pediatric dentist is the best bet for your child’s first few dental visit experiences.

A pediatric dentist has the training and experience in working with kids. You’ll want a dentist who is sensitive to your child’s needs and can make the appointment as positive an experience as possible.
Remember to schedule your child for an oral health screening by her first birthday.

Why are baby teeth important?

Healthy baby teeth:

• Allow your child to chew and eat properly.
• Help your child speak clearly.
• Shape your baby’s face.
• Guide adult teeth into place.

Dental decay in baby teeth affects your child’s overall health.

• Cavities can be painful.
• Cavities can interfere with your child’s ability to eat well.
• Dental disease can affect your child’s overall health and development.

Protect your baby from germs that cause tooth decay
> Don’t put food, pacifiers, utensils in your mouth and then in your baby’s mouth. Many parents “clean” pacifiers by putting them in their mouths and then giving them back to their babies, but cavity-causing germs are easily passed to infants and toddlers this way. Germs can also be shared when parents test food or share utensils with their child.

No matter how careful you are, your baby will get some of your germs, so keeping the germs down by taking care of YOUR oral health is important.

Get Started with Cleaning
Before teeth begin to come in, gently clean your baby’s gums with a clean soft cloth after each feeding. This will help your baby get used to having their gums (and later teeth) cleaned.

As soon as your baby’s teeth start to come in, begin to clean their teeth and gums with a small soft toothbrush and a smear of fluoridated toothpaste—about as big as a grain of rice.

Tips to Make Cleaning Easier

• Try placing your baby’s head in your lap to make it easier to brush. Gently stabilize your baby’s head. Lift or lightly press your baby’s lips away from the teeth.
• Use a small soft toothbrush.
• Brush every surface of your baby’s teeth. Move the brush in tiny circles. You can use a clean damp cloth instead of a brush if you and your baby prefer.
• Use a smear of fluoridated toothpaste—about as big as a grain of rice.

Make brushing a positive experience. Sing songs or recite catchy rhymes with your child. You can even use a timer to let your child know when he or she is done brushing. Remember to use dental terms, like “toothbrush” and “toothpaste,” to get your child used to hearing the words. Don’t forget to model your own good brushing habits. Show your child that you practice the same healthy dental habits that you are encouraging your child to develop.

Choose your words carefully. You may lapse into describing a dental visit as an unpleasant obligation, but the words you use to explain the experience can either create or dispel anxiety for your child. Avoid using words like ‘drill,’ ‘hurt’ or ‘needle.’ Keep the conversation positive and focused on the benefits of good dental health. A pediatric dentist might tell your child he is going to shine his smile, count her teeth, or tickle her gums.

Peer examples: Some pediatric dental offices encourage kids to see other children under the dentist’s care. Older siblings who are receiving checkups can model positive behavior and set a good example at the office and at home.

The National Maternal and Child Oral Health resource center says:

• An estimated 51 million school hours per year are lost due to dental-related illness.
• Children from low income families are at higher risk.
• Early tooth loss from tooth decay can cause speech impairments, absence and inability to concentrate in school and lower self-esteem.
• Toothaches can distract from testing performance, schoolwork, or social skills.

9 good dental health practices:
1. Eat nutritious food instead of those high in sugar

2. Have drinking water readily available throughout the day

3. Any juice provided is limited to 4-6 ounces and served only in a cup

4. Brush after each meal or rinse with water if brushing isn’t possible

5. Caregivers should always hold infants when feeding from a bottle—no propping of bottles or sippy cups

6. As soon as babies can sit without support, switch from drinking from a bottle to a cup

7. Start brushing teeth as soon as first tooth erupts

8. To prevent cross contamination, store toothbrushes separately and keep separate toothpaste tubes for each child, or dispense from one large tube onto clean piece of paper to swipe on toothbrush

9. Parents’ dental health affects a child’s in multiple ways. Displaying good dental habits in front of children, along with not sharing food or drink will help keep children’s teeth healthy

(WGGB) — Your home should be your safe haven, but sometimes harmful toxins may be present by posing health risks for you and your family.

Maybe you don’t realize this, But there are several potential dangers in your house.

“The common toxins we hear about are mold, radon and asbestos,” says Angie Hicks of Angie’s List.

A common culprit in many households – mold.

Rebecca Shopp says when she first saw it in her house, she didn’t think too much about it.. “I had a company come out and test and they into the crawlspace. I hadn’t gone into the crawlspace and I don’t want to go into the crawlspace. That’s when they found a lot more mold than I was expecting. Once I knew how much there was I was really concerned,” she says.

Experts say if you have less than 10 square feet of mold damage, you can remove it yourself. Otherwise, call a professional.

“It depends on the situation but the majority of the time they should seek some help because once you disturb the mold then the spores tend to spread, so we are trying to control the environment,” says Mike Honan, a mold and asbestos contractor.

Radon is another possible toxin in your house. It’s odorless, colorless, and can actually seep into your home, and it’s dangerous.

Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers.

“The best method to collect a sample is a short-term test. It’s the quickest most reliable way that is going to give you a snap shot,” notes Betsie Trammell, a lab manager.

And that’ll tell you whether the level is low or high. From there, you can do further testing.

Asbestos is another bad toxin, most often used in construction materials prior to the 1980′s.

Hicks adds, “So if your house is built before 1980, your home might be at risk and the only way to discover whether you have it is to have your home tested.”

A good thing to do because asbestos can cause different forms of cancer.

If you do get your home tested, make sure someone does the test then sends it to a lab for analysis and have another person perform the repair work. Don’t use the same person for both jobs.

(WGGB) — The amount of energy applied to selecting the right contractor for your remodeling job, is well worth the time. Experts say that the percentage of contractors who are willing to negotiate are very high. Angie Hicks explains the importance of following your instincts when it comes down to getting the job done efficiently.

(WGGB) — It’s hard to miss those commercials for low, low prices on carpet cleaning, but how many of them are too low to be true?

Carpets and rugs take a lot of wear and tear over time. Whether its children, pets or visitors – your carpet captures all the dirt tracked into the house day after day, year after year. And that doesn’t even take into account those accidents – spilled wine, un-house broken pets and other spills and stains that come along.

A professional cleaning will help rid your home of hidden dust and allergens that regular vacuuming can miss. Just as important, it will help preserve carpet fibers and keep colors brighter. But getting this work done sometimes comes at too high a price because of disreputable companies who dangle get-in-the-door prices that don’t generally hold up once you let the company inside your home. The two most common tactics:

• Bait and Switch – This is the offer to get your carpets cleaned for 5 to 10 dollars a room. Usually, the homeowner is told their carpet is in really bad shape and the offer didn’t include pre-spray, deep cleaning and sometimes even using hot water – all essential to a proper carpet cleaning.
• High-pressure sales – This tactic preys on the homeowner’s desire to get the job done right. Homeowners are told there are some spots that need additional cleaning because of how dirty they are, and that without the extra attention, those areas of the floor will stand out and make the floor look bad.

Angie’s List tips to avoid getting scammed:

• Insist on a written estimate that details all charges – and read the fine print.
• Don’t guess if you don’t understand anything on the estimate. Do they charge by the hour or square feet of the room? Are they going to charge you for the square feet where your master bed is that you just want cleaned around? Do you need to move your furniture or will they charge you to do that? Are all pre-sprays, and other tasks included or add-ons?
• Your carpet cleaner should be certified by the IICRC (Institution of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification.) You can check at www.iicrc.org.
• Is there a guarantee? A good company will return to clean spots that reappear within a short period of time.
• Watch out for those companies who come in and out in a hurry. It takes time to go through the process from start to finish.
• Does the company use hot water from its truck? Or will they be using your water?
• Do they have liability and insurance? If they break something in your home will they pay to fix it or leave you with the cost?
• Ask how much experience they have with cleaning carpets.
• Make sure they use the right type of solution on your carpet.

 Types of Cleaning Methods:

• “Steam cleaning” is probably the most well-known type of carpet cleaning. To the pros, it’s better known as hot water extraction cleaning, because it involves a pre-treatment and then a blast of water (up to 250-degrees!) going on and off of the carpet simultaneously. This is usually the only type of cleaning covered by a carpet warranty.
• Carbonated cleaning allows cleaning agents to get to the carpet fibers with very little wetting. The solution doesn’t contain the oil or detergents that typically leave a dirt-attracting residue, and dissolved dirt is removed with a machine that rubs cotton pads over the carpet.
• The HOST system is the only all-dry, all-natural cleaning system that is currently Green Seal certified. It uses an absorbent to pre-treat and clean the carpet by trapping grease and dirt, which is then extracted. It leaves the carpet ready for immediate use, with no downtime. It’s completely non-toxic, with no threat of moisture of harsh chemicals.
• “Bonnet” cleaning uses spray foam that is removed by a rolling/buffing machine that has a bonnet-like attachment. This is mainly for commercial carpet, and is similar to what buffing a hard floor surface is like.

We spoke with some highly-rated carpet cleaners on Angie’s List about keeping your carpet looking great:

• The number one way to keep your carpet looking fresh between professional cleanings is to vacuum regularly – about three times a week. This keeps dirt from settling in.
• Don’t walk around with bare feet – you’ll transfer body oils and contribute a considerable amount of grime to the carpet fibers.
• Don’t leave your furniture in the same place forever. Change traffic patterns if you can. Leaving furniture in one position for the life of the carpeting creates worn, dirty paths throughout the home and leaves pristine carpet in areas you never see. Carpet that wears evenly will last and stay cleaner longer.

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB) — Experts say that the biggest mistake people make when it comes to plumbing – is ignoring the issues at hand. Plumbers say that during the holiday season, they receive the most emergency calls.

Angie’s List for some simple ways to avoid emergency phone calls:

Clogged Sink:

Overflowing – Locate the shut-off valve. If your toilet doesn’t have one, lift the tank and rig the float to stay in its position and not let any more water fill the tank.

Plumbers may charge by the hour or by the job. For basic services, expect to pay 70 to 150 dollars an hour. For emergency calls however, it is time and a half.

]]> http://www.wggb.com/2012/12/18/angies-list-avoid-plumbing-emergencies/feed/ 0 http://www.wggb.com/2012/12/11/angies-list-holiday-decorating-on-a-small-budget/ http://www.wggb.com/2012/12/11/angies-list-holiday-decorating-on-a-small-budget/#comments Tue, 11 Dec 2012 14:03:46 +0000 Sarah Calabrese http://www.wggb.com/?p=177510 If you're in the market for new holiday decorations, a small budget shouldn't stop you from creating a "new look." Here are some budget-friendly ways to make a world of decorating... Read more

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If you’re in the market for new holiday decorations, a small budget shouldn’t stop you from creating a “new look.” Here are some budget-friendly ways to make a world of decorating difference.

]]> http://www.wggb.com/2012/12/11/angies-list-holiday-decorating-on-a-small-budget/feed/ 0 http://www.wggb.com/2012/12/04/angies-list-using-your-appliances-over-the-holidays/ http://www.wggb.com/2012/12/04/angies-list-using-your-appliances-over-the-holidays/#comments Tue, 04 Dec 2012 17:56:22 +0000 Ryan Trowbridge http://www.wggb.com/?p=175382 SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB) – The busy holiday cooking season is upon us – are your appliances ready to work overtime? We rely on our household appliances each and every day to help make our lives simpler, but all too often we don’t... Read more

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SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB) – The busy holiday cooking season is upon us – are your appliances ready to work overtime?

We rely on our household appliances each and every day to help make our lives simpler, but all too often we don’t always treat them right.

Repair companies tell Angie’s List they see homeowners do things such as stuff the freezer and fridge too full of food – blocking the air supply, overfilling dishwashers – or simply not giving the machines the routine maintenance they need.

According to the nationwide Angie’s List poll:

• More than 40 percent of respondents say they’ll host holiday dinners this year, putting their ovens, refrigerators and garbage disposals to the test.
• 11 percent of respondents said they’ve had an appliance die in the midst of preparing a special meal.

Angie’s List dos & don’ts to get the most out of your appliances:

• Stoves/Ovens – Self-cleaning cycles cause the oven to run at extremely high temperatures. Do not run the self-cleaning cycle right before your big meal. Check your oven’s performance at least two weeks before the big day by getting a basic cake mix and following the directions exactly. If the cake isn’t perfect in the time frame set out on the box, your oven’s temperature might be off. Clean the oven after each use with soap and water – that will help prevent having to run the self-clean function.
• Refrigerators – In addition to overfilling, the No. 1 issue with refrigerators is a failure to clean the condenser coil, which dissipates heat from the unit. Clean the coil every six months by unplugging the refrigerator, vacuuming the coil and using an air blower to get out any remaining dust or debris. Failure to keep this clean leads to performance issues. Refrigerators with misaligned doors from hinges damaged by people hanging on the door, or a bad seal, can also lead to trouble keeping food cold. You can test if the seal is tight by sliding a piece of paper between the seal and the door. If the paper slides down with the door closed, you should probably have the seal replaced.
• Dishwashers – Clean your dishwasher’s filter at least twice a year to remove particles and debris. The filters location can vary depending on the model so be sure to check your owner’s manual. Rinse large food particles off dishes. Check the spinning arms to make sure the spray holes are free of debris. Avoid leaving a dishwasher running with no one home. If the automatic shutoff fails, you could come home to an overflowing unit and a water-damaged house.
• Garbage disposals – Keep the blades sharp by running cold water and sending a cup of ice down the disposal. Run cold water for 10 seconds before inserting food into the disposal and for 30 seconds after each use. Cold water helps solidify grease and fat so they can be chopped up by the disposal.
• Maintain your appliances: Maintenance required for your appliance will depend on the manufacturer. Always check with your model’s manual. Whenever you perform extensive maintenance work on your appliances, take the necessary safety precautions. Shut off electrical and gas lines when working on them. Consult an appliance repair professional for major maintenance/repairs.
• When to repair versus replace: If an appliance repair will cost more than half the cost of the new appliance and the unit is more than six or seven years old, you’re probably better off replacing it with a newer model.

There are many factors consumers need to consider before hiring an appliance repair service. Home appliances are expensive, and you want to ensure the company you hire is reputable and has the skills required to complete the fix in a timely and efficient manner.

Angie’s List Tips: Hiring an appliance repair service

• Research potential hires. Get at least three estimates and compare the bids based on price, parts, labor and warranty. You also want to research how long the company has been in business, check reviews on Angie’s List and speak with past clients.
• Inquire about costs. Expect to pay up to $100 for a typical service call. Additional parts and labor charges will apply if you hire the company for a repair, but many companies will deduct the service charge.
• Check skill level. It’s important to hire a company whose employees have the training to complete the job. Ask if the employees are factory trained or certified in appliance repair. Ask if they have experience working with your make and model.
• Is the work under warranty? Check to see if the repair service guarantees its work, and determine how long. Most warranties vary from 90 days to one year.

]]> http://www.wggb.com/2012/12/04/angies-list-using-your-appliances-over-the-holidays/feed/ 0 http://www.wggb.com/2012/11/29/angies-list-inexpensive-bathroom-updates/ http://www.wggb.com/2012/11/29/angies-list-inexpensive-bathroom-updates/#comments Thu, 29 Nov 2012 19:27:34 +0000 Ryan Trowbridge http://www.wggb.com/?p=173946 (WGGB) – Do you have a bathroom with pink tiles or a blue bathtub? While a full-scale bathroom remodel costs tens of thousands of dollars, little updates like changing the grout color or refinishing the tub, can provide major aesthetic... Read more

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(WGGB) – Do you have a bathroom with pink tiles or a blue bathtub?

While a full-scale bathroom remodel costs tens of thousands of dollars, little updates like changing the grout color or refinishing the tub, can provide major aesthetic improvements for significantly less money.

Giving your bathroom a makeover doesn’t have to cost thousands of dollars or weeks of intensive labor. Updating finishes, from the tub surface and tile color to cabinet hardware or the toilet, can retrofit an outdated bathroom to modern tastes for hundreds instead of thousands of dollars.

Angie’s List tips: 4 Simple bathroom updates

• Give grout a new look: Homeowners don’t have to rip out their bathroom shower tile or tile floors to make it look new again. If your tile is in good shape you can hire a company to re-grout, clean, seal, or stain grout to make it look like it did the day it was installed. Costs are determined by the amount of work, but generally range from $100 to $400. If your tiles are in good shape, but you are not fond of the color – you can reglaze them. A trick to test if your tile is good or needs to be repaired/replaced: knock on the tile, it if rattles or if you find cracks, call a professional before water gets behind the tiles, which can cause further damage.

• Bathtub refinishing/reglazing: Over time, the bathtub begins to show signs of wear – stains, scratches or a dull finish. Refinishing an existing bathtub can achieve the look of a brand-new tub and consumes much less time and money than replacing one. Bathtub refinishing is an option that can return a bathtub or shower enclosure to like-new appearance for about $500. However, homeowners need to maintain the tub with proper cleaners. Steer clear of beach or abrasive cleaners, and avoid dripping faucets and leaving down wet rubber bath mats – which could wear down the finish over time. This project also requires proper ventilation – ask which methods the company uses as well as what type of materials/chemicals/coatings they will use before you sign a contract and begin work.

• Faucets & other bathroom fixtures: Updating your sink’s hardware or other bathroom fixtures such as the tub handles, control knobs or shower head are a great way to give your bathroom a newer look without spending a lot of money on a total remodel. There are a number of finishes available for sink faucet fixtures and other bathroom fixtures, including chrome, brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and steel. Styles and finish should be chosen carefully because of the strong impact faucets make to overall decor.

• Update your toilet: Toilets with colors like avocado green and coral pink were once in vogue, but today may make your home’s bathroom appear hopelessly outdated. Or perhaps you have leaky bowl. It may be more cost-effect to replace that toilet than find and repair leaks – which not only cause damage, but consume water and increase your utility bill. Many models cost less than $200, but you have to factor in cost for removal and installation. Replacing a toilet is best left to a qualified plumbing professional because porcelain can be extremely heavy and you want to be sure the unit is properly plumbed to the existing drain system to prevent leaks.

]]> http://www.wggb.com/2012/11/29/angies-list-inexpensive-bathroom-updates/feed/ 0 http://www.wggb.com/2012/11/13/angies-list-warning-signs-you-may-have-bad-brakes/ http://www.wggb.com/2012/11/13/angies-list-warning-signs-you-may-have-bad-brakes/#comments Tue, 13 Nov 2012 20:01:09 +0000 Ryan Trowbridge http://www.wggb.com/?p=169867 (WGGB) -- Do your holiday travel plans include hitting the roads this season? It’s important to check now that your vehicle is ready for the trip. Tonight, why a brake inspection should be a part of that checkup to ensure safety and... Read more

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(WGGB) — Do your holiday travel plans include hitting the roads this season? It’s important to check now that your vehicle is ready for the trip.

Tonight, why a brake inspection should be a part of that checkup to ensure safety and reliability.

While modern cars are more reliable than ever, they still need regular maintenance and brakes are one car repair where you don’t want to cut corners.

Angie’s List, the nation’s leading provider of consumer reviews, spoke to several experienced auto repair specialists about your car’s brakes.

Angie’s List Tips: Signs you need brake repair:

• Squealing: If you notice a high-pitched squealing sound when you apply the brakes, it’s a good indicator that your brakes need to be replaced or at the very least inspected. Many vehicle and brake component manufacturers engineer wear indicators into their brakes to produce this sound to notify the driver brake work is needed. Other factors that can produce a high-pitched squealing from the brakes include a build-up of brake dust from the brake pads being worn down, debris or rust on the surface of the rotor or brake pads becoming glazed over from high heat.
• Grinding: If you hear grinding sounds when you apply pressure to your brake pedal, it means the pads weren’t replaced in time or something is rubbing against the brake rotors the wrong way. The brake pads may be beyond their wear limit, they may be coming into rough, uneven contact with the rotors, or it can be something more sinister like brake calipers or pistons grinding against the rotor.
• Vibrations or pulsations when brake pedal is applied: Feeling pulsations or vibrations when you apply the brake pedal typically indicates the brake rotor is significantly worn or warped. Effective braking power relies on the brake pads and brake rotor coming into contact cleanly, that is the entire surface brake pad contacting the brake rotor simultaneously. A rotor that is warped by friction or heat, or worn beyond acceptable limits, can create vibrations or pulsations.
• Loss of pressure on the brake pedal: When your foot presses on the brake pedal, you should feel a firm response that becomes increasingly firm as you press down harder. If you own a late-model vehicle (and not a classic or vintage vehicle without modern braking technology), a brake pedal that feels mushy or can be pressed all the way down to the floor can indicate several things. It could be a relatively minor problem such as a leak or gap in the brake lines allowing air to enter and diminish braking power or the brake pedal may need to be adjusted, or it may be something much more serious, such as a failing brake system.
• Dashboard warning lights: Modern vehicles with on-board vehicle diagnostic systems may display warnings on the instrument cluster to indicate issues with the braking system. If an “ABS” or “brakes” warning light appears on the instrument cluster and doesn’t go away, or flashes, check your owner’s manual for details. Be sure to inform your auto service technician about the warning lights when making a service appointment.

 

Angie’s List Tips: Brake repair

• What’s that sound? Many of us don’t notice a needed repair until something changes, particularly how the car sounds. You’re the most familiar with how your car is supposed to sound, so any new, unusual sound should be a call to action to contact a trusted auto repair pro.
• Brake check: A brake inspection should be part of your vehicle’s ongoing regular maintenance to ensure safety and reliability. It’s a good idea to have your brakes inspected at least every six months for signs of wear or degradation, or whenever you experience grinding, vibrations or shaking when you brake. Regardless of the vehicle, brakes generally need to be replaced every 20,000-30,000 miles. Don’t wait until noises develop or become significantly louder to address brake system maintenance.
• What experience do you have? Ask the automotive technician about their experience inspecting brakes and making repairs. Do they have the specialized tools and equipment?
• Don’t wait until the last minute: If you have a road trip coming up have a reputable mechanic give it a once over at least two weeks before you depart. That way, if they discover an issue, you have plenty of time to fix it before your trip.

 

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