Donate your Halloween candy at Orchin Orthodontics to support our troops overseas!

Orchin Orthodontics is proud to announce that we will be participating in Treats for the Troops this year. As all of our patients know, not all candy is appliance-friendly. We are asking our patients to donate the treats they are not supposed to eat so we may give them to a parent who will ship them to our Troops in the Middle East.

We will start taking donations immediately after Halloween through November 15th. Any and all donations will be appreciated and enjoyed, but here is a reminder list of the candy our patients with fixed appliances (braces, Maxillary expanders, lower lingual holding arches and retainers) should not be eating while they undergo orthodontic treatment:

*Mike & Ikes
*Starbursts
*Skittles
*Now and Laters
*Tootsie Rolls
*Jolly Ranchers
*Twizzlers
*Gummy Bears
*Caramel
*Taffy
*Sour Patch Kids
*Milk Duds
*Gobstoppers
*Chewing gum
*Hard candy
*Lollipops
*Fruit Roll-ups
Anything hard, sticky or chewy

Thank you very much for sharing your Halloween goodies with our Troops - we know they will appreciate the sweets. Also, if you have extra candy of any kind, we will be happy to send that as well!

- The Orchin Orthodontics Team

Play the "Lost Retainer" Contest on our Facebook page!

Retainers come in pretty handy after you’re done with your orthodontic treatment. But we also know they aren’t hard to lose. With our new patient contest, we’re asking you to share your story with lost retainers!

We are looking for the funniest/most unusual story about how your retainer was lost, and will award the person who gets the most votes "likes" on our Facebook page with a $50 Visa gift card!

Head to Facebook.com/OrchinOrthodontics and share your story! Good luck!

Ask Dr. Orchin: What happens if I miss a visit due to summer plans?

Most of us take a vacation during summer and often it can delay a regular orthodontic visit. Please do not worry if your plans take you away from the DC area during summer and you are not able to make it to Dr. Orchin’s office. The worst case scenario is that it will extend your time in orthodontic treatment. Since we use the best wires available, this is minimized because our wires are active over a long period of time. If you will be gone for an extended period (more than 6 weeks), we recommend you come in for a visit prior to leaving and schedule another visit shortly after your return.

In most cases, a delay in one visit does not extend treatment. In fact, having loose/broken brackets and failure to wear elastics are far more likely to extend your time in braces. On that note, please remember not to indulge in hard, sticky and chewy treats while enjoying your vacation. We look forward to seeing you soon and hearing about your adventures!

Orchin Orthodontics want to know: What do you love about summer?

With summer 2010 in full force, Dr. Andrew Orchin and our team at Orchin Orthodontics thought we’d ask: What’s your favorite part of summer? Is it the warm weather? The free time you get? Spending quality time with friends and family? Grilling barbecue in the backyard?

Dr. Orchin and team would like to know what makes your summer here in Washington D.C. truly special. Let us know by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Ask Orchin Orthodontics: What are SPEED Braces?

SPEED Braces are a miniaturized metal bracket. The reduced size minimizes lip and cheek irritation and is more aesthetic and hygienic than traditional braces. In addition, SPEED Braces are efficient because their springs apply a light continuous force (stored energy) that means less discomfort and pain throughout orthodontic treatment. With patient cooperation, SPEED Braces also reduce time in treatment for patients.

Hygiene: SPEED eliminates the two most common food traps: "tie-wings" and "ligature ties." Additionally, the clean lines of the SPEED design have resulted in a smooth rounded silhouette that is easy for all patients to keep clean.

Aesthetics: SPEED Braces are 1/3 the size of traditional metal braces

Comfort: SPEED improves patient comfort in two ways:
SPEED's smooth rounded design minimizes soft tissue irritation
SPEED permits the use of extremely light forces by eliminating the high frictional resistance caused by ligature ties

The result... more comfortable treatment for patients!



SPEED's Self-Ligating design eliminates the need for tie-wings. This permits significant appliance miniaturization. With all of the benefits to SPEED Braces, it seems an obvious choice for Orchin Orthodontics to use them. Why doesn’t every orthodontist use SPEED Braces?

SPEED Braces require additional training for the orthodontist since they are not routinely used during orthodontic residency. Bracket placement on the tooth is different for SPEED Braces than it is for traditional braces. In addition, since SPEED Braces use stored energy, lighter wires are utilized. All of these factors contribute to a fairly steep learning curve for both the orthodontist and orthodontic assistants. Rest assured that Dr. Orchin and his team have mastered SPEED Braces. In fact, Orchin Orthodontics has been using SPEED Braces for about 20 years.

If you have any questions about SPEED Braces, or about your treatment with Dr. Orchin, please give us a call. We look forward to hearing from you!

We are Thrilled to introduce our patients to SureSmile!

Orchin Orthodontics is committed to delivering high levels of service and care to our patients. That means keeping up with advancements in orthodontics such as SureSmile. We are the only orthodontic office in the area to provide SureSmile as an option for patients needing orthodontic treatment with conventional braces. SureSmile is an incredible high-tech approach to orthodontics. With SureSmile, we use several technologies to give you a great result in less time. First, a scanner captures 3-D images of your teeth so Dr. Orchin can plan treatment on the computer. Next, he directs specialized robots to produce prescription wires to use in your braces. Treatment is faster because SureSmile enables us to move teeth directly and precisely into position.

In addition to reducing the length of time you have to wear braces, the SureSmile system also reduces over all discomfort by decreasing the number of wire changes and adjustments. SureSmile is able to deliver these improvements to conventional orthodontic therapy because it customizes arch wires to move teeth more directly to the target positions.

At Orchin Orthodontics we know you would like to get out of braces quickly but you also want a great smile that will last a lifetime. At our office you can have both. Ask a team member how you can get SureSmile treatment.

What are patients saying about Orchin Orthodontics?

Dr. Orchin and his team just love getting patient testimonials. And lately, Orchin Orthodontics, serving the greater Washington D.C. area, has been getting some pretty great reviews! We thought we'd share a few with you today!

"The quality of orthodontic work performed on other patients that I know personally!" ~ Richard S.

"The smiles that greet us when we walk in ... the patients of Dr. Orchin and nurses with our 'hectic,' sometimes scared little darlings." ~ Peter H.

"Professional, friendly environment environment. Honest opinion." ~ Jane C.

"They are so friendly and the staff is soooo responsive and I feel like family when I come there!" ~ Eliot B.

"Friendly, very clean environment... and known to be the best." ~ Dick S.

Have any personal reviews you'd like to share? Please post them here or give us a call!

Choosing the Right Orthodontist, Part Four: Not all fees are created equal.

Why do we charge our patients a consultation fee? Our doctors carve out time in their schedule to sit down and meet with you. Dr. Orchin will take the time to get to know you and your dental concerns and formulate a specific treatment plan just for you. During the exam Dr. Orchin takes the time to explain his findings to you and has the gift of explaining the findings in a way that you will understand. The team at Orchin Orthodontics wants you to be informed of the diagnosis and our treatment plan so that you are able to make the best decision on orthodontic treatment. Before you leave our office you will know what type of treatment is indicated for you, what is involved in the treatment, how long you will be in treatment and the exact cost of treatment. Our fees are all inclusive, meaning that there are no hidden or extra fees for x-rays taken during treatment, emergency visit, broken fixed appliances, or retention visits. These extra fees can add up to hundreds of dollars if they are not included.

Since we have let the proverbial cat out of the bag, let’s talk about our fees. We live in the same community we work in and we have heard the rumors that Orchin Orthodontics is the most expensive orthodontic practice in the DC metropolitan area. Would it surprise you if we tell you that is simply not true? Well, we did a case study and here is what we found: Our fees are within a couple of hundred dollars of the other TOP orthodontic practices in the area. Yes, that is right! Some of the cases, we were not the highest but the lowest of the three fees we encountered. Please remember that we only looked at practices that are qualified to deliver similar results. Our team at Orchin Orthodontics is the best and we know that. We have the technology that no other practice in the area has, and extensive training to make your orthodontic experience the best it can be. Our patients experience shorter treatment times with less discomfort. Call us today so that we may share the Orchin Orthodontic Experience with you.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays from Orchin Orthodontics!

Here's a nice holiday photo with Dr. Orchin and his two sons, Leo (on the left) and Max (on the right). Can you tell they are both sporting SPEED braces?

Dr. Orchin and his team at Orchin Orthodontics would like to wish you, our amazing patients, happy year-ending and enjoyable holidays!

Choosing the Right Orthodontist, Part Three: Does Orchin Orthodontics only handle complex cases?

What type of patient do we treat at Orchin Orthodontics? We treat every patient from mild crowding or spaces to cleft palate and every case in between. We realize that may surprise some of you who have heard about our amazing results on complex cases and just assumed that’s all we do. Please don’t feel your case is too easy for Dr. Orchin and know that we would enjoy meeting you and helping you achieve your ideal smile.

The truth is, we love creating beautiful smiles that build confidence and make our patients look as great as they feel. Schedule an appointment and give us the opportunity to exceed your expectations.

Choosing the Right Orthodontist, Part Two: What Separates Orchin Orthodontics From the Rest?

Why should you consider choosing Orchin Orthodontics for your treatment? In addition to the service we provide, we are passionate about giving our patients a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Our office is equipped with the most advanced technology available in orthodontics.

But here's something else that makes us stand out: The Orchin team regularly attends continuing education orthodontic courses. Why? Because orthodontics is not a stagnant field. New treatment—SureSmile ®, TAD’s (temporary anchorage devices), LASER and SPEED brackets—is being introduced every year, and we think it's important to stay on top of our game.

These treatments are not just for the most complex cases. Most cases will benefit from the use of one or more of these. What does that mean to you, our patient? Shorter treatment times that are more comfortable—and yield a predictable and ideal result every time. After all, that is why you are investing in orthodontic treatment with our doctors: to create a beautiful and healthy smile.

If you have any questions about orthodontics or why Orchin Orthodontics is the right fit for you, please don't hesitate to call us!

Choosing the Right Orthodontist, Part One: Why Should I Visit Orchin Orthodontics For My Invisalign Treatment When I Can Call My Dentist?

At Orchin Orthodontics, we are often asked, “Why should I come to an Orthodontist for Invisalign when my general dentist provides Invisalign?” and “Isn’t all the work done by computers? Won't the result will be the same?”

We want to take a moment to outline some very important basic concepts of orthodontic treatment and the choice of your orthodontist. Drs. Orchin and the team feel it is very important that the practitioner you choose is certified by the American Association of Orthodontists. While we are aware there are many general dentists who provide Invisalign, orthodontists are better qualified and have more extensive training in the movement of teeth than any of their peers.

Although Invisalign is created by computer-aided technology, the results are only as successful as the practitioner providing the prescription and treatment plan. We are Invisalign Premier Providers, which indicates a higher level of training in Invisalign as well as an increased case acceptance and successful completion of Invisalign cases.

We understand that choosing a provider is a very personal and important decision and know you must consider many factors in doing so. Please be aware that your care--before, during and after treatment--involves our entire team. We take great pride in our qualified team here at Orchin Orthodontics. We understand that continued education and team building is of the utmost importance. Rest assured that we are always looking for ways to improve so that we may meet our goals and exceed your expectations. Our combined experience makes us an outstanding team providing beautiful and dependable results.

If you have any questions about Invisalign, please give us a call!

Braces 101 with Orchin Orthodontics

Should you need to call Orchin Orthodontics in case you sustain any damage to your braces, we can help you more effectively if you can tell us exactly which piece is in trouble! Here’s a handy diagram and corresponding list of all the parts that make up your braces.



Elastic Tie: Tiny rubber band that fits around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.


Archwire: The main wire that acts as a track to guide the teeth along. It's changed periodically throughout treatment, as teeth move to their new positions.

Loop in Archwire: Frequently used for closing space left by an extraction. Many archwires don't have a loop.

Bracket: Small attachment that holds the archwire in place. Most often, a bracket is cemented directly onto the tooth's surface, eliminating the need for a band.

Headgear Tube: Round, hollow attachment on the back bands. The inner bow of the headgear fits into it.

Coil Spring: Fits between brackets and over archwire to open space between teeth.

Tie Wire: Fine wire that is twisted around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Band: A thin ring of metal fitted around a tooth and cemented in place. The band provides a way to attach the brackets to the tooth.

Hook: Welded or removable arm to which elastics (rubber bands) are attached.

Elastic (Rubber Band): Small rubber band that is hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth.

--Orchin Orthodontics

Gummy Tummy - Orchin Orthodontics

We know the rumors going around – mostly among young people – that once you swallow a piece of chewing gum it will stake a claim and take up residency in your stomach for at least seven years! We really hate to take all the fun out of the mystery, but the truth is that chewing gum, when swallowed, will enter the stomach and move through the digestive system just like any other piece of food and leave the body long before seven years! So, if you ever have accidentally swallowed a piece of gum, there is no need to worry!

This being said, gum does not have any dietary benefits, so while it’s not harmful to swallow, you still want to avoid swallowing it. If you are a gum-chewer, make sure you chew sugarless gum, because gum with sugar can lead to cavities. Sugarless gum still has the same amount of flavor, but with less cavity causing ingredients. You see, when the bacterium in your mouth breaks down sugar, what’s left behind is acid. This acid eats away at the enamel coating of your teeth, causing holes that we call cavities. Cavities can lead to other long term mouth problems if they are not treated in time, so it is best to try and avoid overexposing your teeth to too many harmful substances!

Happy (sugar-free) gum chewing from Orchin Orthodontics!

Orchin Orthodontics Presents Toothbrush Trivia!

People have been brushing their teeth for thousands of years! In fact, the first “toothbrush” was created around 3000BC! Ancient civilizations used a thin twig with a frayed edge to rub against their teeth for cleaning.

The first toothbrush with bristles – similar to today’s toothbrushes – was invented in 1498 in China. Brushes were made out of bone or bamboo with bristles made from the hairs on the back of a hog’s neck.

It wasn’t until 1938 that the first nylon bristle toothbrush was introduced and people quickly became aware of practicing good oral hygiene.

Here are some other interesting facts about your toothbrush (and toothpaste):

• Most people are said to use blue toothbrushes over any other color
• The first toothpaste was used in 500 BC in China and India
• On average, children smile about 400 times per day
• Your toothbrush should be replaced every two months
• The first known toothpaste was used in 1780, Crest was introduced in the US in 1955 and Colgate in 1873

Speed Braces

A progressive, esthetic Orthodontic appliance that is up to 3 times smaller than standard braces. They are comfortable, hygienic, esthetic and efficient. If you have heard of Damon braces, or Smart-Clip braces, or any other self-ligating braces (braces that do not use elastic rings to hold the wire in place), Speed braces were the first of these types to use the technology and they move your teeth more quickly with less discomfort and are much smaller, therefore much less noticeable!

Another Great Patient Testimonial

You asked us to keep the patient testimonials coming, so we are listening! We will continue to scour YouTube, Google Video, MetaCafe, and all the other great video sharing sites to compile what we feel are the best and most honest patient testimonials out there. Keep watching and keep considering Invisalign. Do you have a video you want to send us? Let us know the next time you comment on the blog!

Invisalign and You

Some Invisalign questions to ask yourself:

1.) Am I eating with my aligners on? - These aligners are removable and should be taken out when you eat.
2.) Am I drinking anything other than water with my aligners on? - Though it's not a necessity for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky a soda is. If you take out your aligners when drinking a soda, you have a better chance of keeping your aligners clean.
3.) Am I brushing before putting the trays on? - The aligners have both an inside and outside. Keeping the outside clean is easy. Keeping the inside clean is also easy: just make sure you've brushed your teeth before putting the trays on.

Many people know that Invisalign is a great solution to braces if you don't want to experience the look and feel of traditional metal braces. What few people know, though, is that just like traditional braces, Invisalign requires proper care to work effectively. Good oral hygiene is highly important, even when you are wearing something in your mouth that you can take out to eat with. It's still likely that your aligners can build up plaque if not treated properly. Think about what you can do to keep your aligners up to shape and you'll also keep your oral health top notch.

Getting Invisalign in Washington, DC? Check This Out

Have you been thinking about getting Invisalign in Washington, DC? As top Invisalign providers in the area, we understand the need for our patients to research the product and make sure that it's right for them. Take a moment to check out this video we found to help keep you informed:

Creating Beautiful Smiles in Washington DC

As an orthodontist in Washington, D.C., I work hard to build beautiful smiles. But how does that treatment workout when patients leave my office and go about their normal routines? Well, that all depends on the food they eat.

Having braces doesn’t mean you have to stop eating your favorite foods. For most situations, common sense will tell you what to avoid. Hard foods can break or damage wires and brackets. Sticky foods can get caught between brackets and wires. Minimize sugary foods; they cause tooth decay and related problems. Nail biting, pencil and pen chewing and chewing on foreign objects should be avoided.

If you feel like braces might conflict with your eating habits, you might want to consider Invisalign. Invisalign aligners are not only clear and virtually invisible, but they can be removed while you eat! For more information about invisalign, you may want to check out my orthodontic website.