Understanding Cavities - Orchin Orthodontics

One word nobody wants to hear when they visit the dentist is Cavity! That’s right, the dreaded cavity; but, what exactly is a cavity and how do they happen? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger.

So, what causes a cavity? A cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

Yes, cavities can be repaired by your dentist, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)
• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach
• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink
• Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up

Is Invisalign® Really Customized for Each Patient? - Washington, DC

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. And since the aligners are virtually invisible, nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Orchin is a certified Invisalign provider. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, give us a call at 202-609-8948.

Mark Your Calendars: Orchin Orthodontics' Invisalign Day Is Coming Soon!

Does your smile make you smile?

Join us for Invisalign Day on Thursday, February 19, 2009 from 7:30 AM to 12 noon!

Come discover and explore what Invisalign can do. We at Orchin Orthodontics are excited to tell you about new technology that makes Invisalign ideal even for more complex cases.

We are offering complimentary consultations and no additional charge for initial records!

Call 202-609-8948 today as space is limited and we would love to include you!

Introducting Exciting New Services from Orchin Orthodontics!

Orchin Orthodontics proudly announces exciting new products and improvements in existing treatment! Dr. Andrew Orchin recently returned from a continuing education course focusing on Invisalign. Did you know that more complex cases are now perfect for Invisalign? In fact, if you were previously told that Invisalign was not an effective treatment option for you, now is the perfect time to return for another consultation to learn how it may now an ideal treatment for you.

Orchin Orthodontics was one of the first practices in the country to begin using the Invisalign Teen product. The results are amazing and all our patients are happy with the aligners. Invisalign Teen is a wonderful product that has the ability to be widely used. The only caveat to this is that the teenager must be both responsible and compliant if the aligners are to work. You know your teenager the best and we urge you to take it under advisement before beginning Invisalign Teen. Nothing is more disappointing for our doctors, parents and patients than not being able to complete a case.

Dr. Andrew Orchin also attended a course that focused on TAD’s (Temporary Anchorage Devices) and the use of a laser in orthodontics. TAD’s are used in more comprehensive orthodontic cases. Dr. Andrew is now able to move teeth in ways he never could before. A TAD is a micro implant (about the size of the head of a pin) that is painlessly (only a topical numbing gel is needed) placed and removed by Dr. Andrew right in the office. Dr. Andrew will be using a laser to assist in the eruption of teeth. Many times orthodontic treatment comes to a halt when waiting for a tooth to erupt. Often this tooth is just under the surface of the gum. Dr. Andrew can now use a laser to gently make a small window in the gum tissue for the tooth to easily pass through. This is great news because it means the patient will complete orthodontic treatment in a shorter period of time which is always welcome news!

Orchin Orthodontics Reminds You That Regular Checkups Are Important!

Are you brushing your teeth twice a day? If yes, that’s great; but, don’t forget that it’s also important to visit the dentist every six months in addition to your normal orthodontic appointments. Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can:

• Check for problems that might not be seen or felt
• Detect cavities and early signs of decay
• Treat oral health problems early
• Show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth

During an oral exam the doctor will check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to the dentist in the last six months, it’s time for you to schedule an appointment!