Orchin Orthodontics, dispelling the myths about braces

At Orchin Orthodontics, we know there are quite a few myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) circulating around these days. But before you buy into those myths, Dr. Orchin and our team think you should get the facts first! We came across a great site that helps set the record straight. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of braces, and we encourage you to check them out today!

We hope everyone has a safe and scary Halloween!

October is National Orthodontic Health Month!

For our staff at Orchin Orthodontics, it's hard to believe October is already upon us! October marks National Orthodontic Health Month, and this month-long event is organized by our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

We know there are many treats can cause havoc for trick-or-treaters who are going through treatment at Orchin Orthodontics, and these treats may cause damage that could prolong your treatment time. The AAO recommends our patients avoid the following Halloween treats:

• Caramel
• Nuts
• Popcorn (including un-popped kernels)
• Taffy
• Jelly beans
• Hard pretzels
• Licorice
• Bubblegum
• Taco chips
• Ice

If you damage your braces, please give Dr. Andrew Orchin and our staff a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved by giving us a call. Loose brackets or wires can usually be made more comfortable by applying some wax until the you can come into our office, located at 5301 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Suite 200.

Ask Dr. Orchin: What's sooooo cool about braces?

Braces today are “cool” and—many would say—even “fun.” These were among the findings of a 2010 nationwide survey of moms whose children are going through or have had orthodontic treatment. New technologies such as SureSmile, Invisalign and SPEED braces, advanced computer software, color options, and even popular celebrities—Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning and Serena Williams, to name a few—sporting stylish braces are making orthodontic treatment more comfortable, fashionable and cool for today’s teens.

The study, conducted on behalf of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, found 86 percent of moms reporting that braces are cooler today than when they were children. Sixty-nine percent of moms also said wearing braces makes their children feel cool, and 81 percent reported their children’s experience with orthodontic treatment as either positive or extremely positive.

Different color options and the ability to change colors, for example, provide exciting ways for young patients to customize appearances. That enthusiasm helps them to feel good about their orthodontic treatment with Dr. Andrew Orchin, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

Has your child or teen visited Orchin Orthodontics for a consultation? If not, please give us a call at (202) 686-5100 and let Dr. Orchin and our staff help your child begin the journey to a gorgeous smile!

Orchin Orthodontics, encouraging you to join the Braces Brigade!

Calling all current and former Orchin Orthodontics patients! How would you like to get a $100 American Express gift card for blogging about your experience with braces? Thanks to our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, here's your chance! The AAO is proud to offer the Braces Brigade campaign, giving you the opportunity to share your orthodontic journey at Orchin Orthodontics with the world!

From now through August 31st, we're looking for patients, as well as parents of orthodontic patients, to join the Braces Brigade and blog about their unique experience in braces. Just head to the AAO's Braces Brigade page to sign up and get started blogging. If you happen to be under 18, your parents must fill out a consent form along with your official entry, giving you permission to enter the contest.

Dr. Andrew Orchin and our staff encourage you to apply for the Braces Brigade today! Have fun and GOOD LUCK!

Ask Dr. Orchin: When should my child come in for a visit?

At Orchin Orthodontics, knowing when to treat patients is just as important as knowing how to treat patients.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children see an orthodontist by age seven. This allows the orthodontist to make an early assessment for possible skeletal problems such as a severe cross-bite (narrow jaw), overjet (protrusive upper teeth), underbite (upper front teeth are behind the lower front teeth), or any other problem that is best treated while the patient is growing. Dr. Orchin uses appliances that are designed to capture growth and correct the malocclusion. Dr. Orchin has the experience to know when it is best to start treatment and when to step back and allow Mother Nature to do her work.

If you or a family member is already in treatment with Dr. Orchin, we are able to schedule a no charge look-see appointment for a younger sibling. This is our way of introducing Dr. Orchin to the patient while he gets a baseline reading on the patient. Please call us at 202-684-9227 for an appointment!