Ask Dr. Beth: What, exactly, are cavities?

Dr. Beth Faber and team know one word nobody wants to hear when they visit the dentist – especially during their orthodontic treatment – is Cavity! That’s right, the dreaded cavity; but what exactly are cavities 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 general dentist, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities at home:

• 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 – or as recommended – for a teeth cleaning and check-up

If you don’t have a general dentist, Dr. Faber would be glad to provide a few recommendations in our area!

We hope you’re having a great holiday season!

Season's Greetings from Dr. Beth & team!

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as our team at Faber Orthodontics reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients and readers: What do you love about the holidays this year? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for 2012? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year?

We’d love if you shared with us here, or on our Facebook page, all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

Happy Holidays!

Ask Dr. Faber: “I’m 36 – am I too old for braces?”

Of course not! At Faber Orthodontics, nobody, and we mean, NOBODY, is "too old" to straighten their teeth!

In fact, Dr. Beth Faber and our staff recently came across a fascinating statistic: the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! Yes, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another reason for the spike in adult braces is this: folks want to look and feel great. In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned and sparkling teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing—very wisely, we might add—to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Dr. Faber can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. Faber would love to have you visit for a complimentary consultation. Please give us a call at (804) 443-6419 to set one up!

Happy Holidays from all of us at Faber Orthodontics!

Are you wearing your mouthguard?

With winter sports right around the corner, many patients here at Faber Orthodontics will once again pick up the ball, bring the cleats out of seasonal retirement and hit the fields for the return of sports action! During this time, however, Dr. Beth Faber and our team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this fall and winter, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as basketball, wrestling and hockey.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. Dr. Faber and team will tell you protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact our office or ask us on Facebook. Stay safe!

How important is your smile? From Dr. Beth

We hope you had a great Thanksgiving! Serving Tappahannock, White Stone and Kilmarnock, VA, Dr. Faber and team have been helping to create healthy, beautiful smiles in the community for over 23 years. It’s our job to keep you smiling!
And speaking of smiling, in a poll conducted by Glamour Magazine earlier this year, people were asked, “If you had to pick between having perfect teeth, eyesight or hair, which would you choose?”

Well, 44 percent of folks out there chose teeth! In addition, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, or AACD, conducted a study and found that 99.7 percent of those polled believed a smile is an important social asset. Respondents said straightness, whiteness, cleanliness, as well as the sincerity and sparkle of one’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well.

If you're considering orthodontic treatment, please call us and schedule a complimentary orthodontic consultation with Dr. Faber. Our Kilmarnock office is conveniently located to serve the nearby communities of White Stone VA, Ingram Bay VA and Irvington VA.

See you soon!

Faber Orthodontics, giving thanks this holiday season

Dr. Beth Faber and our entire orthodontic staff extend our best wishes to you, our patients and referring doctors, for a wonderful Thanksgiving.

We appreciate the opportunity to work together with you in the creation of your ideal smile. We'd like to know, what are you most thankful for this year? Leave us a comment, or if you have any photos or stories to share with us, we encourage you to post them on our Facebook page.

Happy Thanksgiving everybody.

Does Dr. Beth have your current contact info?

There is nasty winter headed for the east coast! Please help us get prepared by calling us and letting us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed!

At times of power outages and bad weather, we need to be able to get a hold of you. Please give us a call with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so we may be able to reach you. Thank you and Happy Holidays from Dr. Beth Faber and team!

Thank you, referring dentists!

Here is Heidi, delivering delicious pies to our referring dentists last week! Just look at these pies, all baked & ready to be devoured!

Halloween safety tips from Faber Orthodontics

Trick-or-treat! In the spirit of today's sweet and spooky holiday, Dr. Beth Faber and team would like to remind all of our patients to be safe while celebrating with friends and family tonight. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists were kind enough to provide trick-or-treaters with some tips for a ghoulishly good time.

A few Halloween safety guidelines:
• Young children should always be accompanied by an adult
• Carry a flashlight
• Wear a light-colored or reflective costume
• Choose face paint over masks for young ghosts and goblins
• Have an adult inspect all treats before the children dig in

Many treats can cause havoc for trick-or-treaters who are going through orthodontic treatment. If you happen to damage your braces, please give us a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone.

Dr. Beth & our entire team at Faber Orthodontics wish you all a safe, fun and happy Halloween!

Emergency care with Faber Orthodontics

At Faber Orthodontics, we know true orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but when they do occur we are available to you. As a general rule, you should call our Tappahannock or Kilmarnock orthodontic office when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can't take care of yourself. We'll be able to schedule an appointment to resolve the problem.

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you schedule an appointment with our office. When working with your appliances, you need to know the names of the parts of your appliances so you are able to identify what part is broken or out of place. After alleviating your discomfort, it is very important that you still call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem. Allowing your appliance to remain damaged for an extended period of time may result in disruptions in your treatment plan. Click here for instructions or give us a call to learn more! We hope you're off to a great Halloween season!

Cold season is here, from Faber Orthodontics

Cold and flu season is here - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that a common cold usually includes sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and coughing. Symptoms can last for up to two weeks.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. Beth L. Faber and our entire staff give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our Tappahannock office at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces. For the protection of other patients and our staff at Faber Orthodontics, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

And remember to constantly wash your hands and avoid contact with those who are ill! Stay Healthy!

What’s the difference between a Dentist and an Orthodontist?

“Dentists, Orthodontists, they’re all the same right?” We hear our patients asking this question as they wonder about the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. Before becoming an orthodontist Dr. Beth Faber started her career in dental school and earned a dental degree, just like your dentist. After dental school however, Dr. Faber decided she wanted to learn more about orthodontics, which is one of nine specialties within the dental field. So she stayed in school for a few more years and became an expert in orthodontics, which focuses on tooth and jaw alignment and bite problems like overbites and under bites.

Other dental specialties you may have heard of include endodontic (focusing on the soft tissue inside your teeth), periodontic (focusing on the gums and other tissues surrounding your teeth) and prosthodontic (focusing on restoring and replacing damaged teeth).

Isn’t it nice to know there’s a dental expert in Dr. Faber to help you through any type of treatment your teeth, jaw and gums might need?

At Faber Orthodontics, October marks National Orthodontic Health Month!

Happy Monday! October is National Orthodontic Health Month, and our staff at Faber Orthodontics wanted to remind our patients to be careful when they bite into their treats this Halloween season. Remember, caramels, taffy, nuts, bubble gum, popcorn kernels and suckers are some of the foods you should be avoiding! Indulging in these foods can break your braces and lengthen your treatment time!

Of course, Halloween doesn’t have to be completely treat-less. Check out these delicious braces-friendly recipes, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists!

If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call at (804) 443-6419, ask us on Facebook or ask Dr. Beth during your next visit to our office in Tappahannock or Kilmarnock!

Enjoy your Monday & the rest of the week!

Do germs really live on your toothbrush? Dr. Beth explains

Fall is here, and with it the dreaded cold and flu season. After recovering from your cold, Dr. Beth and our team at Faber Orthodontics will tell you one of the most important steps you can take to avoid becoming reinfected is replacing your toothbrush!

Germs can linger on the bristles, and you risk prolonging your sickness by continuing to use the same toothbrush. Be smart - keep a spare, just in case! To protect your toothbrush from bacteria all year long, consider the following tips:

• Wash your hands before and after brushing

• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen

• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster

• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Worn bristles are less effective in properly cleaning your teeth, and can actually be damaging to teeth if used too long!

Hope this tip helps! Feel free to call us in Tappahannock or Kilmarnock if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook.

September is Self-Improvement Month, from Faber Orthodontics

These days, Americans everywhere are putting greater emphasis on health, fitness and self-improvement, and more people are seeking orthodontic treatment to improve their smile. September happens to be Self-Improvement Month, and our team at Faber Orthodontics know that orthodontic treatment is an investment in self-improvement that will reap benefits for a lifetime. And, recent advances in orthodontia, such as Invisalign and more effective brackets and wires, now make orthodontic treatment more palatable for many interested in obtaining that beautiful smile.

Not only does orthodontic treatment give you that beautiful smile, it can also benefit your dental and general health. If teeth are poorly aligned, removing plaque and tartar by brushing and flossing alone may be difficult. A poor bite may result in fractured or excessively worn tooth surfaces, and the extra stress caused by a poor bite may even result in problems with your jaw joints.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. Beth Faber would love to have you visit for a complimentary consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

See you soon!

Love your new smile? Tell the world about it!

At Faber Orthodontics, we believe receiving orthodontic care is a personal choice. We like to keep your treatment personal by providing you with customized treatment plans, individual time spent with Dr. Beth Faber, and a smile that reflects who you truly are! We have been helping to create healthy, beautiful smiles in Kilmarnock and Tappahannock for more than 23 years, and we couldn't do it all without your wonderful and positive references.

Whether you’ve just come in for a complimentary consultation with Dr. Beth or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to know: What made you choose us for your orthodontic treatment? You can write a review on our Facebook page or on our Google Places page!

Why are retainers so important?

Have you recently completed treatment at Faber Orthodontics? If so, our entire staff would like to congratulate you again! Job well done! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Beth Faber will provide retainers for you, which you'll wear every day, right? After braces are removed, Dr. Beth will you teeth may shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, however, provide that stabilization, and are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed by Dr. Beth is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime.

Remember to:

* Wear your retainers full time, until the doctor instructs otherwise.
* Take your retainers out when eating… and always put retainers in their case! (Most appliances are lost in school lunch rooms or restaurants.)
* Clean retainers thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Use warm but not hot water. Brushing retainers removes the plaque, and eliminates odors. Efferdent® or other orthodontic appliance cleaners can be used, but do not take the place of brushing.
* When retainers are not in your mouth they should ALWAYS be in a retainer case. Pets love to chew on them!
* Initially, you may find it difficult to speak. Practice speaking, reading, or singing out loud to get used to them faster.
* Retainers are breakable, so treat them with care. If retainers are lost or broken call us immediately.
* If you have any questions or concerns about your retainers, or your retainers need adjusting, call us. Do not try to adjust them yourself.
* Always bring your retainers to your appointments.
* Retainer replacement is expensive… with proper care they will last for years!
* Remove retainers when swimming.
* Keep retainers away from hot water, hot car dashboards, pockets, the washing machine, and napkins.

To learn more more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment, please ask Dr. Beth or our team during your next adjustment visit!

Back to school with Faber Orthodontics

With many of the schools in Tappahannock and Kilmarnock back in session, Dr. Beth Faber and our staff would like to remind all of our patients about the importance of scheduling appointments in advance. With school, clubs and sports to consider, we know that it can be challenging to find time to visit Faber Orthodontics this fall. In order to accommodate all of our patients' busy schedules, it is important that you plan ahead for your appointments so that we are able to provide you with an appointment time that is convenient for you.

As always, please remember to give us advanced notice if you're unable to make your regularly-scheduled appointment. If we receive enough notice, we might be able to schedule another patient for that time. Feel free to give us a call at (804) 443-6419 if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your fall appointment.

Have a great week, and we look forward to seeing you!

Are you wearing your mouthguard? From Dr. Beth

With fall sports almost here for a lot of our patients at Faber Orthodontics, we thought today would be a great time to remind all our young athletes in treatment to take care of both their mouth and appliances while participating in sports – especially contact sports such as soccer and football – this fall.

One of the most important pieces of sports equipment you can wear on the field is a mouthguard. A well-fitted mouthguard, which we’re happy to provide, allows you to breathe and speak more clearly, in addition to protecting your mouth and braces. Only by using a mouth guard can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. The next time you’re in for a visit at Faber Orthodontics, we encourage you to ask us for a mouthguard! In addition, the American Association of Orthodontists has five quick tips for keeping kids safe during sport activities this fall.

• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eyewear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant, even as a spectator

We hope you’re enjoying your summer, and invite you all to share your summer photos on our Facebook page!

Tell Dr. Faber about your summer!

The dog days of summer are upon us, and what better time for Dr. Beth Faber and our team at Faber Orthodontics to ask our patients about their summer!

Whether you visited our nation’s capitol, went on a camping trip, visited the state fair or just stayed in town and hung out with friends, we want to know how you’re all spending your summer! Please feel free to share your summer plans and experiences with us below or on our Facebook page as the summer comes to an end soon for a lot of our patients at Faber Orthodontics!

We look forward to reading all about your adventures! Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Smile wide! It's National Smile Week!

It’s National Smile Week, and a GREAT time to remind our patients at Faber Orthodontics to practice good oral hygiene to keep those teeth shining during your orthodontic treatment!

This includes brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding foods that can stain your teeth such as tea and coffee and visiting your general dentist in Tappahannock, White Stone, Kilmarnock or surrounding communities as recommended.

And remember to smile at people you come across throughout the week, whether you know them or not. Smiles are contagious, and are a good thing to give and to get. In addition, smiling can actually help you live longer, according to a recent study! We hope you’re all having a relaxing summer!

- Dr. Beth and team

Ask Dr. Faber: What, exactly, are cavities?

Dr. Beth Faber and team know one word nobody wants to hear when they visit the dentist – especially during their orthodontic treatment – is Cavity! That’s right, the dreaded cavity; but what exactly are cavities 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 general dentist, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities at home:

• 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 – or as recommended – for a teeth cleaning and check-up

If you don’t have a general dentist, Dr. Faber would be glad to provide a few recommendations in our area!

We hope you’re having a great summer!

Does Dr. Beth have your current contact info?

We hope you’re having a great summer so far! If you are planning on traveling with family this summer or think you might not be able to make it to your scheduled adjustment appointment with Dr. Beth Faber, please let us know ahead of time so that we may be able to accommodate you, as well as schedule another patient at that appointment time.

Also, we ask that you give us a call and let us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed! Please call us with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so we may be able to reach you. Thank you! Enjoy the rest of your week!

What's on your mind?

As the summer progresses, our team at Faber Orthodontics strive to continue writing about important topics related to orthodontics and your treatment at our office.

To help us continue doing that through the course of the summer, Dr. Faber and team would like to ask you, our readers: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the always-changing and exciting field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog in the summer months? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Dr. Faber for a while? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook fan page!

We hope you had a terrific weekend!

Tell us about your summer!

It's finally summer here at Faber Orthodontics, and a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories awaits! Whether you're headed to an exotic destination, barbecuing, hitting the open roads with family, or just having fun in the backyard in Tappahannock or Kilmarnock, we'd like to hear about it! Drop us a comment on our Facebook fan page and tell us about your summer adventures and plans as summer 2011 rolls along!

Happy and safe travels,

-Dr. Beth and team

Happy Independence Day!

Tomorrow, Dr. Beth and our staff at Faber Orthodontics will be busy celebrating America's 235th birthday. And because we know our patients love fun facts, we thought we'd provide you with some fun facts about Independence Day!

- Independence Day was first celebrated in Philadelphia on July 8, 1776.

- An estimated 2.5 million people lived in America in July 1776. Today, an estimated 309 million people reside in the United States.

- The major objection to being ruled by Britain was taxation without representation, which meant that people didn't want to be taxed by a government that did not represent them.

- In 1941, Congress declared 4th of July a federal legal holiday. It is one of the few federal holidays that have not been moved to the nearest Friday or Monday.

- The stars on the original American flag were arranged in a circle to ensure that all colonies were equal.

- America's mascot, the bald eagle, can achieve speeds of up to 200 miles per hour when making a predatory dive. During a normal flight, bald eagles can travel up to 30 miles per hour.

- The American flag patch is backwards on U.S. Army uniforms. The reason? The blue field on the flag (the part with the stars) faces forward to symbolize carrying the American flag into battle.

- Someone who specializes in the history of flags is called a vexillologist.

- The word ‘patriotism’ comes from the Latin patria, which means ‘homeland’ or ‘fatherland.’

- According to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, Americans consume over 150 million hot dogs during their Independence Day festivities.

- Speaking of food, there's a 1-in-6 chance the beef on your backyard this Independence Day weekend grill came from Texas. The Lone Star State is America's leader in the production of cattle and calves.

Have a great Fourth of July everyone!

Stay Cool with a Braces-Friendly Summer Treat!

Summer is here! Kids and adults alike will now be spending more time outside being active and enjoying the hotter temperatures. What’s better on a hot summer day than a delicious treat that will cool you down after doing something active in the summer sun? Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have just the thing, Watermelon Sorbet! You can find the complete recipe below:

Watermelon Sorbet

Ingredients

• ¾ cup water
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 2 to 3 cups watermelon, diced, no seeds or rind

Directions

In a small saucepan, heat the water, sugar, and lime juice on medium high for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Chill this “syrup” at least 20 minutes. In the meantime, place the watermelon chunks in a food processor or blender and liquefy them. Add the chilled syrup to the watermelon puree and blend. Freeze sorbet in an ice-cream maker according to manufacturer’s directions. Serve immediately.

Happy Summer! Enjoy!

- Dr. Beth Faber and team

With Faber Orthodontics, access to your account any day, any time!

At Faber Orthodontics, we embrace new technology, whether it is through the innovative orthodontic treatments that Dr. Beth offers, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern office conveniently located in Tappahannock and Kilmarnock.

Did you know that patients at our office have access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our website? You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, from the comfort of your own home, which is especially helpful during the holidays! And, because we know folks sometimes forget, you can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

You, too, can sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button at the top of our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started or ask Dr. Beth on Facebook!

What’s on your summer reading list?

With summer 2011 only two weeks away, some of us at Faber Orthodontics have been thinking more and more about the importance of reading. More specifically, summer reading. Of course it’s easier to go play baseball with friends or watch TV, but reading during the summer is a vital step in being prepared for your classes in the fall and maintaining your skill level.

If you’re out of ideas for summer reading material? Ask us for suggestions, and our staff would be happy to provide a few good suggestions. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas or check out various summer reading lists that Dr. Beth and our team found earlier this week.

Happy reading!

Smile! June marks National Smile Month!

It's June already! Where does the time go?

Dr. Beth Faber and team are excited to tell you June marks National Smile Month, a great time to remind our patients to brush, floss, practice good nutrition at home (and over the summer) to avoid cavities and gum disease, among other dental health issues.

After all, there's more and more evidence that suggests folks with gum disease are more at risk for serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and strokes.

Here are a few easy steps you can improve your oral health at home:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth and braces
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during orthodontic treatment.
* Visit your general dentist regularly (usually every six months apart).

If you have questions about any of the tips here, we encourage you to give us a call at (804) 443-6419 or ask us on Facebook! We hope you have a relaxing weekend!

Honoring our veterans and heroes this Memorial Day weekend

Memorial Day weekend is a time Americans remember all those who bravely gave their lives for our country. It’s also the unofficial start of summer, and for many kids, getting out of town for three days with parents after being in school all these months is sure to be sweet, sweet relief.

At Faber Orthodontics, we know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. After all, it’s unofficially the start of summer and time for a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories with parents or friends. What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend? What will you be doing on your day off from school or work?

Whether you are headed to a barbeque, a camping trip, or just having fun in the sun this weekend, we’d like to hear all about it! Enjoy the holiday!

Ask Dr. Faber: When should my child come in for a consultation?

Many parents simply just assume they should wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Dr. Beth Faber, only to find that treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. But did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

Ok, you're thinking, what’s so great about age seven? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for the team at Faber Orthodontics 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 we call “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites and open bites can be detected.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age provides one of two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, a healthy prognosis will provide immediate peace of mind.

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 detrimental to good oral hygiene. So if your child is nearing age 7, give us a call to schedule a complimentary orthodontic consultation.

Have a great rest of the weekend!

What's your story? What made you choose Faber Orthodontics?

At Faber Orthodontics, we believe receiving orthodontic care is a personal choice. We like to keep your treatment personal by providing you with customized treatment plans, individual time spent with Dr. Beth Faber, and a smile that reflects who you truly are! We have been helping to create healthy, beautiful smiles in Kilmarnock and Tappahannock for more than 24 years, and we couldn't do it all without your wonderful and positive references.

Whether you’ve just come in for a complimentary consultation with Dr. Beth or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to know: What made you choose us for your orthodontic treatment? You can write a review on our Facebook page or on our Google listing!

May is National Teen Self-Esteem Month

At Faber Orthodontics, we know image is everything. At an age when image is so important, the thought of having braces may intensify the already-delicate confidence of today’s teens. Well, May is National Teen Self-Esteem Month, and during this time, parents are encouraged to act as positive role models, stop negative self-images, and improve confidence and security among teenagers.

One of the great ways to improve your confidence is to improve your smile. And that begins with a free consultation to our convenient Tappahannock or Kilmarnock office. After all, what better time to avoid having crooked teeth in your adulthood than coming in for a consultation with Dr. Faber?

We invite you to give us a call to schedule a complimentary consultation or ask us on Facebook!

Happy Monday!

Myths about braces, explained

Trust us when we say that we are aware that there are quite a few myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) out there nowadays. But before you buy into all those myths, Dr. Beth Faber and staff want you to get the facts! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, help set the record straight and have provided some information that sheds some light on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about braces or your orthodontic treatment at our office, feel free to give us a call or ask Dr. Beth during your next visit! See you soon!

Ask Dr. Faber: “I’m 37 – am I too old for braces?”

Of course not! At Faber Orthodontics, nobody, and we mean, NOBODY, is "too old" to straighten their teeth!

In fact, Dr. Beth Faber and our staff recently came across a fascinating statistic: the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! Yes, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another reason for the spike in adult braces is this: folks want to look and feel great. In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned and sparkling teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing—very wisely, we might add—to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Dr. Faber can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. Faber would love to have you visit for a complimentary consultation. Please give us a call at (804) 443-6419 to set one up!

Straight talk with Dr. Faber

Some people wonder why Tappahannock and Kilmarnock orthodontist Dr. Beth Faber and our team work tirelessly to give our patients straight teeth. Of course it’s nice to have a smile full of evenly aligned teeth, but did you know that straightening your teeth at Faber Orthodontics can keep them healthier? Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime!

Straight teeth are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque—the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to tooth decay; and they are easier to keep clean! Receiving orthodontic care is a personal choice; and at Faber Orthodontics, we like to keep your treatment personal by providing you with customized treatment plans, individual time spent with your orthodontist, and a smile that reflects who you are! We have been helping to create healthy, beautiful smiles in the community for over 23 years.

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, please give us a call to set up a complimentary consultation. Dr. Faber can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Get to know your braces! From Faber Orthodontics

If you ever sustain damage to your braces and need to call Faber Orthodontics, 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.

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!

Why Invisalign? From Dr. Faber

Are you interested in straightening your teeth, but aren't interested in doing so through conventional orthodontic treatment? Dr. Beth Faber and our staff would like to recommend Invisalign!

Invisalign aligners are customized, clear aligners used to straighten teeth quicker and with fewer office visits than traditional braces.

Here are a couple of questions you may have:

Why would I want Invisalign?

Not only are the aligners invisible, they are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment. Plus, brushing and flossing are no problem. They are also comfortable, with no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment. And no metal and wires usually means you spend less time in your doctor's office getting adjustments. Invisalign also allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan when you start so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.

How does it work?

You wear each set of aligners for about 2 weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. As you replace each aligner with the next in the series, your teeth will move – little by little, week by week – until they have straightened to the final position Dr. Faber has prescribed. You'll visit Dr. Faber about once every 6 weeks to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned. Total treatment time averages 9-15 months, and the average number of aligners worn during treatment is between 18 and 30, but both will vary from case to case.

If you're considering orthodontic treatment, please call (804) 445-2045 and schedule a complimentary orthodontic consultation with Dr. Faber. Our Kilmarnock office is conveniently located to serve the nearby communities of White Stone VA, Ingram Bay VA and Irvington VA.

See you soon!

How important is your smile? From Faber Orthodontics

Serving Tappahannock, White Stone and Kilmarnock, Dr. Faber and team have been helping to create healthy, beautiful smiles in the community for over 23 years. It’s our job to keep you smiling!

Speaking of smiling, in a new poll conducted by Glamour Magazine, people were asked, “If you had to pick between having perfect teeth, eyesight or hair, which would you choose?

Well, 44 percent of folks out there are choosing teeth! In addition, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, or AACD, conducted a study and found that 99.7 percent of those polled believed a smile is an important social asset. Respondents said straightness, whiteness, cleanliness, as well as the sincerity and sparkle of a person’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well.

If you're considering orthodontic treatment, please call (804) 443-6419 and schedule a complimentary orthodontic consultation with Dr. Faber. Our Kilmarnock office is conveniently located to serve the nearby communities of White Stone VA, Ingram Bay VA and Irvington VA.

Ask Dr. Beth: Who benefits from braces?

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Beth Faber will tell you that anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic treatment, whether it’s correcting a problem not treated in your younger years, or catching a problem early.

To ensure the best overall treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, recommends that children receive an orthodontic consultation as early as age seven. If a problem is evident, taking action early with Faber Orthodontics can spare a lot of treatment and expense down the road.

If you never received orthodontic treatment when you were young, don’t worry! You’re never too old for a beautiful smile at Faber Orthodontics. Set up an appointment for a free consultation with Dr. Faber at our Tappahannock or Kilmarnock office and find out how orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

See you soon!

Your turn! From Faber Orthodontics

Dr. Beth Faber and team understand not everyone enjoys visiting their orthodontist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about Faber Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you or your child at ease?

Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or Dr. Beth?

Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook page!

"Hey Dr. Beth! What's the deal with retainers?"

If you’ve recently completed your treatment at Faber Orthodontics, our entire team would like to congratulate you, again! Now that your braces have been removed successfully, Dr. Beth Faber will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can – and do - shift out of position if they are not stabilized.

Retainers, you see, provide that stabilization, and are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed by Dr. Beth is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime. To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Beth, we encourage you to give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Complimentary Consultations at Faber Orthodontics

At Faber Orthodontics, we like to keep your treatment personal by providing you with customized treatment plans, individual time spent with your orthodontist, and a smile that reflects who you are!

One of our commitments is meeting with you to help you explore all or the options available to you or your child. We offer complimentary consultations for those interested in orthodontic treatment. During this time, you'll have time reserved with Dr. Beth Faber, who will assess your particular needs as well as discuss treatment options available and answer any questions you may have. We place a high value on making sure you have complete information before beginning treatment.

If you have been thinking about obtaining the dazzling smile you’ve always wanted, we invite you to give us a call at one of our offices in Tappahannock or Kilmarnock.

See you soon!

- Dr. Beth and the team at Faber Orthodontics

At Faber Orthodontics, February marks National Children's Dental Health Month

Each February for the past 61 years, the American Dental Association (ADA) has sponsored National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. Developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

For kids wearing braces, brushing and flossing can become more difficult, requiring extra time and vigilance to remove food particles that accumulate on and between the teeth and in braces. If the health of your teeth is ignored during treatment with braces, the results can be significantly compromised. Dr. Beth Faber is available and happy to explain why effective brushing and flossing is one of the most critical actions needed from patients during orthodontic treatment. Have you visited our Tappahannock and Kilmarnock office? Give us a call and schedule a complimentary new-patient exam with Dr. Beth!

We also invite you to connect with us on Facebook!

What makes braces sooooo cool?

Dr. Beth Faber will always tell you that braces, are cool, hip and usually pretty fun nowadays. In fact, these were among the findings of a nationwide survey last year of moms whose children are going through or have had orthodontic treatment. New technologies such as Invisalign and SureSmile, advanced computer software, color options, and even popular celebrities—Tom Cruise, Serena Williams and Dakota Fanning, to name a few—sporting stylish braces are making orthodontic treatment more comfortable, fashionable and cool for today’s kids.

The study, conducted on behalf of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists for February’s National Children’s Dental Health Month, 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.

Has your child visited Faber Orthodontics for a complimentary consultation? If not, please give us a call and let Dr. Faber help your child begin the journey to a beautiful new smile!

Ask Dr. Faber: When should my child be seen for a check-up?

Many parents just assume they should wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Dr. Beth Faber, only to find that treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. But did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

Ok, you're thinking, what’s so great about age seven? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for the team at Faber Orthodontics 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 we call “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites and open bites can be detected.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age provides one of two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, a healthy prognosis will provide immediate peace of mind.

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 detrimental to good oral hygiene. So if your child is nearing age 7, give us a call to schedule a complimentary orthodontic consultation.

More than just a day off from school

Tomorrow, the nation will celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who was a thinker, leader and civil rights champion. In the 1950s and ’60s, King recognized the need to bring about social justice, and worked tirelessly to instill tolerance in our nation, strengthen America’s communities and move the nation forward. This weekend, tens of thousands of people of all ages and races in Virginia and across the United States will spend their time building, giving and renovating our communities to help celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend. Do you have the day off on Monday? If so, what do you plan to do to help your local community?

We’d love to know about your activities and events this MLK Jr. Day. If you have any video or pictures you’d like to share, please pass them along! If you’re not sure how, give us a call!

Dr. Faber and our entire team are proud of all our patients, families and colleagues who continue to make a difference in our community!

Technology helps you relax at Faber Orthodontics

It used to be that people were terrified to see the orthodontist. And Dr. Beth Faber understands that some patients are still nervous. But fear not! The days of fear and loathing when driving to an orthodontist appointment are gone! And it’s all due to technology. That’s right, technology has allowed orthodontists everywhere to zero in on patient care and comfort.

For example, braces are much more comfortable and the treatment time has been reduced. In addition, the advances in the orthodontic field have permitted digital photos and X-rays of your mouth, patient charting and improved communications between doctor and patient.

Dr. Faber specializes in orthodontics, offering gentle, effective, and state-of-the-art treatments; including SureSmile technology, self-ligating braces, and Invisalign clear braces. We'll take the time to educate you about each treatment option, so that you can choose the best treatment for you.

If you have any questions about how Dr. Faber uses state-of-the-art technology at our offices in Tappahannock and Kilmarnock, give us a call and ask!

What is your New Year's Resolution?

2011 is here—and what a year 2010 was at Faber Orthodontics! Dr. Beth Faber and our staff thought we’d ask: what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you most looking forward to this year? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Also, we’d like to wish a Happy New Year to all our patients, friends, family and all our dental and medical colleagues in Tappahannock, Kilmarnock and surrounding communities!

See you all soon!