Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Dr. Beth Faber, distinguishing the myths and facts about orthodontics

Trust us when we say Dr. Beth Faber and our staff know there are quite a few myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) flying around these days. But before you start buying into those myths, we think you should get the facts! We came across a great site that helps set the record straight (no pun intended). Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at Faber Orthodontics, feel free to give us a call at (804) 443-6419.

One last thing: we hope you and your loved ones have a safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

SureSmile treatment at Faber Orthodontics



Does the thought of having braces bring you down? Our team at Faber Orthodontics understands that one of the biggest concerns for orthodontic patients with braces is the length of their treatment.

But you’re in luck, because Dr. Beth Faber specializes in SureSmile, high-tech braces that are revolutionizing the orthodontic industry. SureSmile, which combines digital 3-D imaging, has computer-aided treatment planning and customized archwires to straighten teeth about 40 percent faster than traditional braces. The SureSmile program calculates the exact shape and pattern of the teeth and bends and cuts the braces wires, with more precision than traditional braces.

This week, CNN's own Dr. Sanjay Gupta filed a short report on SureSmile, which is becoming quite popular with our patients. We encourage you to check out the video and let us know what you think! Give us a call!

Friday, May 14, 2010

Invisalign® treatment at Faber Orthodontics: What's the advantage?

Are you wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you're in treatment? You're not alone in your concerns! Dr. Beth Faber and our team thought we’d take a moment and discuss these clear aligners today.

To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment at Faber Orthodontics, the first thing we do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now - and digitize it. Using special software, Dr. Faber looks at the current positioning of your teeth and compares 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. The best thing about it all? Nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Faber 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, please give us a call at our Kilmarnock or Tappahannock office.

Friday, May 7, 2010

Ask Dr. Faber: When should my kid come in for a check-up?

Dr. Faber will tell you that many parents in Kilmarnock and Tappahannock assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to visit Faber Orthodontics for a consultation, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started sooner. Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That’s right—seven.

Ok, so what’s so great about age seven, you ask? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for Dr. Faber to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or what Dr. Faber calls “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites and open bites can be detected.

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and are detrimental to good oral hygiene. So, if your child is nearing his or her seventh birthday, give us a call at Faber Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

Have a great weekend!