Thursday, February 25, 2010

Orchin Orthodontics, the leader in Orthognathic surgery

Orchin Orthodontics has the most experience with Orthognathic surgery (jaw surgery) patients in the DC area (perhaps even the entire East Coast). We successfully complete 50-70 cases every year. Most orthodontists only complete a fraction of that over their entire careers. What does that mean to our patients? We have the knowledge to correctly diagnose a skeletal discrepancy and determine if Orthognathic surgery is indeed indicated. This is important because so many orthodontists attempt to camouflage the skeletal discrepancy rather than proceed with a surgery case. Camouflaging this condition is almost always doomed to failure which can lead to further deterioration of the teeth and underlying structures (gums and bones). The alignment of the teeth may also relapse necessitating retreatment of the orthodontics combined with Orthognathic surgery.

Knowing when to start the orthodontics in preparation for orthognathic surgery can also be tricky if we are treating a teenager. It is important to know when to get started. If orthodontic treatment is initiated too soon and the teenager is still growing, the patient will either need to hold in braces until his/her growth is complete and they are ready for surgery or the braces will have to be removed and then placed again when growth is complete. Neither of these options is attractive since it requires longer time in treatment which is something all patients want to avoid. Orchin Orthodontics strives to get all patients finished with treatment as quickly as possible because it is healthier for the teeth and gums and gives him/her a beautiful smile to enjoy longer.

If you are considering Orthognathic surgery or you have been told that you need jaw surgery, give us a call to schedule your consultation today. Orchin Orthodontics is the place for you. We will explain our treatment plan in a way you will understand and we will keep you informed every step of the way. We have the care, skill and judgment needed to deliver the results you demand. You will love your new smile.

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Mouth guards and sports injuries, with Orchin Orthodontics

At Orchin Orthodontics we know how important it is to protect your face while playing sports. Spring is around the corner, and the spring months bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of damaging your precious mouth and pearly whites. Dr. Andrew and our team also know sports-related injuries are common among children. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get hurt while playing sports.

That’s why Orchin Orthodontics is doing our part to spread the word that facial sports injuries can be avoided simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. Ask us—Dr. Andrew will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment at no additional charge. In addition, the AAO has provided the following tips for keeping your kids safe on the field. Please remind them to:

• Wear mouth guards during contact sports
• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eye wear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant—even as a spectator

All of these can reduce injuries. Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements Dr. Andrew is trying to achieve. Lastly, please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Orchin Orthodontics.

Monday, February 8, 2010

Snow cream recipe, from Orchin Orthodontics

With a storm that has crippled our community and dropped three feet of snow (and another storm looming), the team at Orchin Orthodontics thought we'd post a fun recipe for our patients. With stormy weather, it's a perfect time for "snow cream."

Ingredients:

*8 Cups snow
*1 teaspoon vanilla
*1 can sweetened condensed milk


Mix and serve immediately. Add toppings if desired. And remember to stay warm and safe!

Friday, February 5, 2010

Orchin Orthodontics, now open at 7 a.m.!

We invite you to start your day with a smile. Did you know that Orchin Orthodontics opens at 7 AM? We know how very busy our patients and their families are and we have listened to them. Our patients requested mornings because so many students are involved in sports and other after school activities. We open early so that we may see as many patients as possible on their way to school and work.

Thursday, February 4, 2010

With Orchin Orthodontics, 24/7 access to your account



Access to your account, 24/7. Sounds convenient, doesn’t it?

Patients at Orchin Orthodontics enjoy access to their account, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, on our web site. You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages! Just see what some of our patients are saying about this innovative service:

"I needed to know what my remaining payments were in order to determine the amount I should have deducted through my flexible benefits plan--the payment history made that quite easy." ~ Ben G.

"It is simple and easy to you. Saves making a phone call." ~ Richard O.

"So far, just reviewing care & treatment information. Ability to review payment information online will come in handy later." ~ Richard A.

"New patient, but having account/appointment info online is VERY helpful." ~ William B.

You, too, may sign up for this convenient service on our web site by clicking the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please call the team at Orchin Orthodontics if you have any questions!