Connect with the Braces Brigade!

At Family Orthodontics, our patients want to get as much out of their treatment as possible. That includes asking a lot of questions and making sure they take care of both their appliances and oral health.

Would you like to learn more about what to expect during orthodontic treatment, from someone with firsthand experience? Well, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recently developed the Braces Brigade blog, where past, present, as well as future orthodontic patients from coast to coast document their (or their child’s) orthodontic journeys. The blog will serve as a source of guidance for others as the patients undergo orthodontic care.

Our team at Family Orthodontics encourages you to visit the Braces Brigade blog to read these great and informative blogs—who knows, maybe you’ll learn a thing or two! As always, don’t hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions about the Braces Brigade or your own orthodontic treatment with Drs. Jung or Pachter!

Now that I have braces, what can I eat?

You just got braces at Family Orthodontics and Dr. Jung or Dr. Pachter has informed you that over the next several months you will want to avoid eating anything sticky, hard, crunchy, or chewy. What does this leave for you to eat? Lettuce? Nothing?

Luckily, there was someone else wondering the same thing when she first got braces! Brenda Waterman, 13, decided she was going to find a way to have her cake and eat it too, so she created a variety of “braces-friendly” recipes that allow you to enjoy your favorite treats without interfering with your orthodontic care! Her cookbook, “The Braces Cookbook: Recipes you (and your Orthodontist) will Love,” gives patients a variety of delicious recipes, safe to eat with braces; plus additional tips and advice for packing lunches, what to eat at parties, and braces-friendly restaurant dishes! There’s even a section with tips for dealing with the soreness that can occur when your braces or appliance are adjusted. Enjoy the foods you love – even with braces!
Here is a delicious, sneak peek recipe from “The Braces Cookbook:”

Wonderful Waffles

Forget the recipe that came with your waffle iron – this recipe will redefine fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. The secret to delicious waffles is letting the batter "sit" for five minutes before pouring into the waffle iron. Top cooked waffles with syrup, jam, fresh fruit or even whip cream. Makes about 5 servings!

Preheat your waffle iron according to the directions. You may want to lightly spray it with vegetable oil before heating.
• 3 cups flour
• 2 Tbl + 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 Tbl sugar
• 4 cups milk
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
In a large bowl, whisk (or use electric mixer on low) together all ingredients. Let batter sit for about five minutes to activate the baking powder.

When waffle iron is ready, pour about 1/3 cup of batter onto each of the four squares (experiment with your iron – you don't want the batter overflowing). Gently close the cover and set your timer as the manufacturer suggests. Do not lift the cover while they bake. When done, carefully lift one edge with a flat spatula and pull the waffle away. Enjoy!

Happy Holidays from Family Orthodontics!

Carmel, Chocolate, and Candy Canes.. oh my! Keep your BRACES sparklin’ clean this holiday season.

Family Orthodontics wants to remind its patients that keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever when you have braces. Food bits have more spots than usual to hide in your mouth, so you must be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. If you remove plaque regularly during treatment, you'll experience better results and shorter treatment time. Keep plaque at bay with these top ten tips:

1. One tooth at a time. When you brush, take time with each individual tooth – at least 10 seconds each – and pay careful attention to the spots where your teeth touch your braces.

2. It’s all about the angles. Brush the tops of your teeth and braces with your brush angled down toward where they meet. Brush the bottoms of your teeth and braces with your brush angled up.

3. The tooth, the whole tooth, nothing but the tooth. While the front surface of your teeth may seem like the most logical to clean, it’s equally important to clean the inner surface of your teeth (tongue side) as well as the chewing surface. And be sure to clean along your gum line – a key spot for plaque buildup.

4. Step 1: eat, step 2: clean. While you’re in treatment, it’s important to brush after every meal. Bits of food can easily get caught between braces and teeth, and these food bits interact with bacteria in your mouth to cause decay. The longer food is in contact with your teeth, the greater opportunity for plaque to form. If you are eating somewhere that you can’t brush, thoroughly rinse your mouth with water.

5. Like a Boy Scout, always be prepared. The easiest way to be sure you can brush after every meal is to get in the habit of taking a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss with you wherever you go. Designate a special container just for your teeth-cleaning tools and keep it in your purse, backpack, or laptop case.

6. Remove the moving parts. If you have elastic bands or headgear, remove these parts before you brush or floss.

7. Fluoride is your friend. Fluoride helps prevent cavities. Be sure to brush with fluoride toothpaste, and rinse with fluoride mouthwash.

8. Pointy brushes reach tiny places. Interproximal brushes (sometimes called proxa brushes or interdental brushes) are cone-shaped and come in very handy for reaching spots around your braces that standard brushes can’t.

9. Find the floss for you. Regular floss works for some patients, but others find it easier to work with a floss threader, which helps you get the floss into tight places. Other patients like an all-in-one product called Superfloss, which comes with a stiff end for easy threading, a spongy section for cleaning wide spaces, and regular floss for narrow spaces.

10. Make time for the pros. It’s your job to take care of the everyday cleaning. But make sure to visit your dentist regularly while in treatment, to get the deep, thorough cleaning that only a professional can provide. If you need help finding the right Dentist for you, feel free to contact our office - we’d love to help!

We hope this helps!

--Drs. Jung, Pachter and Team

Smile, and you might just live longer!

Folks with big smiles may actually live than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. Dr. Jung and Dr. Pachter have known for quite some time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers at the university did something quite interesting: they looked at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity (ranging from big smile, no smile or partial smile). The players' smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers then took into account other factors that impact life longevity, including body mass index, career length and even college attendance.

The results? Researchers found that players who weren't smiling in the photos died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be 79.9 years old.

The take-away from the new study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting Family Orthodontics on a regular basis? If not, give us a call!

At Family Orthodontics, access to your account any day, any time

At Family Orthodontics, we embrace new technology, whether it is through the innovative orthodontic treatments that Drs. Jung and Pachter offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern offices conveniently located in Middletown and Port Jervis.

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. Jung on Facebook!

Happy Thanksgiving from Dr. Jung and Family Orthodontics!

Dr. Jung and our entire orthodontic staff at Family Orthodontics 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, and would 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 everyone.

Ask Dr. Jung: Do germs really live on toothbrushes?

Fall is here, and with it the dreaded cold and flu season. After recovering from your cold, our team at Family 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 if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook. Have a wonderful & relaxing weekend!

Dr. Jung and Family Orthodontics, honoring our veterans

Happy Veteran's Day! We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the veterans and those currently on active duty who have put their lives on the line for the freedoms we all enjoy.

In celebration of Veteran’s Day, Dr. Haesin Jung and our entire team at Family Orthodontics would like to share a few fun facts about our flag, our national holiday and our country’s history!

-Veteran's Day, a day that was originally called Armistice Day, is a time to thank and honor the men and women who have served in our military.

- President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the official legislation for Veteran's Day on June 1, 1954, changing the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veteran's Day

-There are 23.2 million veterans in the U.S.

-The flag was first approved by Congress on June 14, 1777

-Each of the flag’s colors signify different American values - red is for valor and zeal, white is for hope, purity, and cleanliness of life, and blue is for heaven, loyalty, sincerity, justice, and truth

-Research by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) helped develop the CAT Scan, the cardiac pacemaker, and the “Seattle Foot” to give those hurt the ability to run and jump

-When the flag is displayed next to another flag against a wall, the U.S. flag should be on its own right (on the left side when facing the wall).

-Veteran's Day is often confused with Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a time for remembering and honoring the men and women who died while serving our country, or as a result of injuries that incurred in battle. Veteran's Day honors and gives thanks to all veterans who served in our military.

-There are five states with over 1 million veterans in their population – California, Florida, Texas, New York and Pennsylvania.

Thanks again to our veterans! We are so thankful for all who have and are currently serving in the U.S. and abroad.

It's November! What are you up to?

Believe it or not, we’re almost in full holiday mode! But before you go celebrating, Dr. Jung and team want to know: What are you doing this month as the fall semester begins to wrap up for a lot of you?

Anything exciting happening in your life? Are you beginning to think about Thanksgiving and holiday plans? If so, we'd love to hear all about it!

You can share your stories with us here or on our Facebook page!

Happy Holidays from Dr. Jung and the team at Family Orthodontics!

Ask Dr. Jung: What's the deal with Halloween candy?

For parents worried about kids going overboard on sugar and other sweets, Halloween is a dreaded annual event.

Dr. Jung and our team at Family Orthodontics will tell you those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, but these treats can damage your teeth and braces too! Did you know sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them? This can cause tooth decay and cavities!

Sour and fruity candy are the worst for your child’s teeth – these candies have a low pH value, which can ruin enamel. This Halloween season, try to limit the amount of these candies that your child eats, and when your child does eat them, either have him rinse his mouth with water afterward or have him drink some milk or eat some cheese. Or, try these braces-free (and delicious) Halloween treats!

A few tips to stay healthy this cold season, from Family Orthodontics

It's fall, and the cold and flu season is once again upon us here in Middletown and surrounding areas. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, says that a common cold usually includes sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and coughing. Symptoms can last for up to two weeks, according to the CDC.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. Jung and our staff at Family Orthodontics give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our Middletown and Port Jervis offices at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces. For the protection of other patients and our staff, 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! Happy Monday and stay safe!

Ask Dr. Jung: My daughter is seven years old - when should I bring her in for a consultation?

Our team at Family Orthodontics will tell you that braces were originally considered to be best appropriate for teens. But these days, kids as old as seven are beginning their orthodontic treatment. Because preadolescent kids are typically not self-conscious, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists suggest it could be a good idea to start early.

Experts, however, say it depends on the treatment required. Some children who get braces at an early age end up in a second phase of treatment, and end up having braces well into their teenage years despite starting young.

Most orthodontic treatment begins between ages nine and 14, and the folks at AAO estimate most orthodontic treatment lasts from one to three years, with two years being the average. It’s important, however, that children be screened no later than age seven for Dr. Haesin Jung to assess what the best age for treatment is at our convenient offices in Middletown or Port Jervis!

Hope this helps! Please give us a call if you have any questions about your child’s treatment at Family Orthodontics! We hope you had a relaxing weekend!

Dr. Jung and Family Orthodontics, supporting National Orthodontic Health Month!

Did you know this weekend marks the official start of National Orthodontic Health Month, and our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have created a helpful website that provides important information on protecting your braces, including tips for trick-or-treaters, braces-friendly recipes, facts about braces and treats you should avoid while wearing braces.

Dr. Haesin Jung and our staff at Family Orthodontics recommend you check out the AAO's website as well for helpful tips on keeping your braces in tip-top shape. If you have any follow-up questions, please feel free to give us a call, ask us on Facebook or ask Drs. Jung or Pachter during your next visit at our Middletown or Port Jervis office!

We hope you've had a relaxing weekend!

Share your story with Dr. Jung! Why did you choose Family Orthodontics?

At Family Orthodontics, we believe that orthodontics is about more than straightening teeth. It not only enhances a person's health and appearance, it also adds to self-esteem and confidence, improving so many aspects of our lives.

But we’re wondering: What made you choose us for your orthodontic treatment?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can write a review on our Facebook page or on our Google page!

Thanks in advance! We look forward to reading what you come up with!

Foods to avoid during your orthodontic treatment, from Dr. Jung

There are a variety of foods Dr. Jung wants you to avoid while you're wearing braces. Some foods can occasionally damage braces, but certain foods can bend the wires or even break the brackets on your braces. If you’re wearing braces, you should avoid starch, sugar and gummy foods, as these foods can be difficult to remove during brushing. Foods that are high in sugar and starch tend to cause plaque, cavities and even tooth decay.

Avoid tough meats, hard breads and raw vegetables such as carrots and celery. Before long, you'll be able to bite a cucumber again. But you'll need to protect your orthodontic appliances when you eat for as long as you're wearing braces.

Foods you should avoid include:
• Chewy foods: bagels, hard rolls, licorice
• Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice, chips
• Sticky foods: caramels, gum
• Hard foods: nuts, candy
• Foods you have to bite into: corn on the cob, apples, carrots
• Chewing on hard things (for example, pens, pencils or fingernails) can damage the braces. Damaged braces will cause treatment to take longer.

If you have any questions on which foods you should be avoiding and why, we invite you to give us a call or ask our staff during your next visit at our convenient offices in Middletown or Port Jervis! We also encourage you to check out this helpful article on eating with braces, courtesy of Parenthood.com.

Enjoy the rest of the weekend!

Fun facts with Family Orthodontics!

All our patients at Family Orthodontics love fun facts. Fun, fun, fun! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that Dr. Jung thought you might enjoy. We hope you had a wonderful and relaxing Labor Day weekend!

• There are nearly 4 million people in orthodontic treatment throughout the United States. Three out of four are younger than 18.

• The first mechanical treatment for correcting irregular teeth was suggested by Gaius Plinius Secundus (A.D 23-79).The American Association of Orthodontists is comprised of more than 12,000 members in the United States, Canada and abroad.

• The time required to complete orthodontic treatment ranges from 12 to 36 months depending on the nature and severity of the problem.

• Of the 160,000 dentists in the United States and Canada, 8,000 are practicing orthodontists.

• The cement that attaches the braces to the teeth is now made with a special fluoride-releasing substance.

• Wires activated by body heat used in today's braces originally were developed by NASA for use in the space program.

• In addition to alleviating or preventing physical health problems, orthodontics can boost self-esteem as treatment aligns teeth, jaws and lips.

• Famous orthodontic patients include: Dr. Joyce Brothers, Hale Irwin, Cher, Diana Ross, Phyllis Diller, Chelsea Clinton, Whoopi Goldberg, Daisy Fuentes and Brandi.

Your turn! From Family Orthodontics

By now, you probably know the drill: Week after week, Dr. Haesin Jung and our staff at Family Orthodontics blog about important topics pertinent to orthodontic treatment care and your well-being, including innovative orthodontic techniques we offer at our offices in Middletown and Port Jervis.

This week, however, we thought we’d step back and ask you, our wonderful patients and readers: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the always-changing field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog in the coming months? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask us for a while now?

Let us know by posting here or on our interactive Facebook fan page! So… take it away and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have!

Try this end-of-summer braces-friendly recipe!

It's almost time for school! But not before our staff at Family Orthodontics shares with our patients a delicious summer recipe you can savor before you start thinking about homework again! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists made an appetizing (and braces-friendly!) summer dish that is sure to delight. Remember, a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps you achieve the best possible result from your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Jung.

Lime-Graham Cheesecake Nibbles

Ingredients:

Crust:

• 1½ cups graham-cracker crumbs (about 9 double-square crackers, crushed)
• 3 Tablespoons margarine, melted
• – or –
• 1½ cups gingersnap crumbs (about 24 to 30 gingersnap cookies, crushed)
• 3 Tablespoons margarine, melted

Filling:

• 2 eggs, separated
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup sugar
• 3 drops green food coloring
• 2 Tablespoons lime juice
• 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour

Directions

Preheat oven to 325°. Line two muffin tins with 24 cupcake papers. In a medium bowl, stir together the crumbs and margarine. Spoon 1 Tablespoon of the crumb mixture into each paper. Press down the mixture firmly with the bottom of a small juice glass. In a medium bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together egg whites and the salt until the mixture forms soft peaks. Set aside. In a large bowl, use the mixer to beat together the cream cheese, sugar, food coloring, lime juice and flour, until fluffy. Add the yolks until well mixed, then use a spoon to fold in the whites. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the lime mixture into each paper. Bake at 325 degrees for 25 minutes. Cool on the counter for 20 minutes, then keep refrigerated. Makes two dozen.

Enjoy this great end-of-summer dish!

- Dr. Jung and the Family Orthodontics team

This summer, are you wearing your mouth guard?

Summer is here for another six full weeks, and our staff at Family Orthodontics would like to take this time to remind our young athletes in orthodontic treatment to take care of both your mouth and appliances while participating in contact sports (and non-contact sports) this August.

It's important to know that 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 with Drs. Jung or Pachter, be sure to ask us for a mouth guard, and we will provide one for you! We hope you're enjoying your summer so far! Send us those postcards!!

Five summer traveling tips, from Family Orthodontics

Most of us take a vacation during the summer, and sometimes forget to pack the most important of things. Recently, our staff at Family Orthodontics came across an interesting article from ParentsAsk.com that outlined five important tips for summer travel with children. We strongly encourage you to give this article a read if you’re heading out with the family this summer. And here are even more tips you can use to ensure your vacation packing—and the traveling itself—goes as smooth as possible!

Happy traveling! Be sure to send us your postcards - you may post them on our Facebook page!

Access your account—any day, any time, anywhere—at Family Orthodontics

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

Our patients at Family Orthodontics enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our helpful and easy-to-navigate website. You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, all from the comfort of your own home!

You, too, may sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started!

We hope you're all having a great summer.

Here comes the Braces Brigade!

Our team at Family Orthodontics are looking for current, former and future orthodontic patients, as well as parents of orthodontic patients, to join the AAO's Braces Brigade and blog about the unique, heartwarming and - let's face it - sometimes hilarious experiences that come with undergoing orthodontic treatment.

All applicants must either be an orthodontic patient here at Family Orthodontics or the parent of an orthodontic patient (pre- and post- treatment stages are fine).

To complete the Braces Brigade application, you'll need:

* Name
* Age – Must be 14 years of age or older
* E-mail
* Phone number
* Stage of orthodontic treatment
* A photo of your braces/smile
* A sample blog post – picture yourself as a member of Braces Brigade and show off those blogging skills! (100 word minimum)

If you're under 18, you must get your parents' permission and have them fill out this form along with your submission.

As a part of the American Association of Orthodontists' Braces Brigade you'll have the chance to share the journey to your healthy, beautiful smile with the world. You'll also serve as a resource for current and future orthodontic patients just like you. And if that's not reason enough, all Braces bloggers will receive a $100 American Express gift card for their work! Dr. Jung and team DEFINITELY encourage you to apply! GOOD LUCK!!

Ask Dr. Jung: How do I know when I have an emergency?

Dr. Jung will tell you true orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but they do happen - especially during the summer when patients are out and about more frequently. When they do occur, we want you to know our dedicated staff at Family Orthodontics are always available to you. As a general rule, you should call our 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.

Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with Drs. Jung and Pachter:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, please give us a call as soon as possible! We hope you're enjoying your summer!

More happy patients at Family Orthodontics!

About a month ago, our staff at Family Orthodontics asked our patients to write a short review telling us what they liked most about Dr. Jung and our practice. Well, we received some phenomenal reviews and thought we’d share a few with you today!

“She is wonderful, very patient.” ~ Stephanie H.

“She is honest and upfront. Did not prescribe work that was unwarranted.” ~ Vincent S.

“My daughter enjoys going . Dr Jung is very friendly and always treats the kids as individuals. Her staff is also friendly and very helpful.” ~ Patricia F.

“Very child friendly and explains in detail to both our child and us every procedure.” ~ Darcy M.

“Alexi has no problem going to his orthodontist for appointments as he likes Dr. Jung very much.” ~ Darlene A.

“Great staff and office space! Open and friendly in every way!” ~ Cheryl W.

“Dr. Jung is professional, great with kids, very good at her job, the office is clean and new, the staff is always helpful and easy to talk to.” ~ Heather S.

Get those regular checkups! From Dr. Jung & Family Orthodontics

If you're brushing twice a day, as well as flossing during your treatment, that's terrific!

But, remember that it’s also important for you to visit the dentist every six months in addition to brushing your teeth a couple times a day (and visiting Family Orthodontics regularly during your treatment). Drs. Jung and Pachter (as well as our staff) will tell you regular dental checkups are vital for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can:

• Check for problems that might not be seen or felt
• Detect cavities and signs of tooth decay
• Treat oral health problems early
• Show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth during your treatment

During an oral exam, your dentist will check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups also typically include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to the dentist in the past six months, it’s time for you to schedule an appointment!

If you don't have a general dentist in Middletown, Port Jervis, Warwick or nearby communities, please ask our staff and we will be happy to provide a few names for you!

Family Orthodontics want to know: what's on your reading list this summer?

Two weeks ago, you might recall, our staff at Family Orthodontics asked you, our amazing patients and readers, about your summer 2010 plans.

With summer only a day away, some of us have been thinking more and more about the importance of summer reading. We realize it’s easier for today's teens to go play ball at the park or kick back and spend some time in front of the TV, but Dr. Jung and our staff will tell you reading during the summer is a vital step in being prepared for classes in the fall, as well as maintaining your skill level.

If you're out of ideas for great summer reads, we encourage you to ask us for suggestions, and we'd be happy to provide a few titles for you. You may also ask a local librarian in Port Jervis, Warwick or Middletown for some ideas or check out these summer reading lists from Barnes & Noble we came across on Friday.

Happy reading everyone! Keep us updated!

Ask Drs. Jung and Pachter: what's the deal with retainers?

Have you recently completed treatment at Family Orthodontics? Our staff would like to congratulate you again! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Jung will provide—or has provided you by now—with retainers. After braces are removed, our staff will tell you that teeth may shift out of position if they're not stabilized.

Retainers, however, provide that stabilization, and are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until your bones and gums adapt to treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed by Dr. Jung is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for your lifetime!

It is absolutely vital that you wear your retainer at all times. The only time you should remove your retainer should be when you're eating or brushing/flossing. Your retainer will not work as well as it should if it is not worn consistently.

If you have additional questions about retainers or your treatment here at Family Orthodontics, please give us a call and we'll try to answer any question you may have.

Have a great week!

Family Orthodontics want to know: what are your summer plans?

At Family Orthodontics, we're having a difficult time believing school is almost out for our patients. As the school year comes to a close, the days get longer and the temperatures begin to climb here in New York, there’s no better way to beat the heat than jump into a pool or cool off under the shade with a beverage.

For a lot of our patients in Middletown, Port Jervis and surrounding areas, summer brings a chance to get away from it all and escape every-day life, if only for a week. For others, it means a season of relaxation and relief from homework and other duties.

How about you?

What are your plans for summer? Do you have any interesting plans for a family vacation? We want to see when and how you are all spending your summer vacations. If you’re going somewhere exotic, we'd like to hear about it! If you're going camping, awesome! Even if you're staying at home, that can be fun, too.

Please feel free to share your summer plans and experiences with our staff on our Facebook page as the summer rolls along!

Don't forget our summer postcard contest!

Dr. Jung and team, supporting National Smile Month

Now that we’re in June, our staff at Family Orthodontics thought we’d tell you June is National Smile Month, and a good time to remind all our patients to practice good oral hygiene between your visits to see Dr. Jung.

Below are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Month for many, many years to come:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Here's a helpful video showing you how to brush with your braces on.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Jung.
* Visit your dentist regularly (usually every six months apart).

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call. We hope you enjoyed the long holiday weekend!

Share your review of Family Orthodontics with the world!

At Family Orthodontics, we believe that orthodontics is about more than straightening teeth. It not only enhances a person's health and appearance, it also adds to self-esteem and confidence, improving so many aspects of our lives.

Whether you've been treated by Dr. Jung for a week or months, we'd love to hear your feedback about how our practice is faring during your treatment! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about Family Orthodontics with the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local page and write a review there. Or, you may review us on Yelp if you wish. After all, reviews help Drs. Jung and Pachter and team create more beautiful smiles for patients in Middletown, Warwick, Port Jervis and and surrounding communities here in Orange County!

You may write a review here. Thanks in advance and enjoy your week! We look forward to reading your reviews!

Your pal, fluoride! From Dr. Jung

There are so many ways you protect your pearly whites throughout your treatment at Family Orthodontics. You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and protect your mouth and appliances from being damaged. But did you know there's another way to keep your teeth sparkling and healthy during your treatment?

Fluoride.

Yes, fluoride, a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay, can help keep your teeth strong! Fluoride comes in two varieties: topical and systemic. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth. Topical fluoride includes toothpastes and mouth rinses. Systemic fluorides are swallowed in the form of a dietary supplement. Dentists and orthodontists use in-office fluoride treatments to help protect the oral health of adults and children undergoing dental/orthodontic procedures.

Fluoride used in Dr. Jung's office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask your doctor how to purchase professional strength fluoride). A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. After the treatment patients may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. Depending on your oral health or doctor’s recommendation, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six or 12 months. Drs. Jung or Pachter may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses for at-home treatment.

When choosing your own fluoride product, be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of approval. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and have met the criteria of the ADA for safety and effectiveness. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

New smiles at Family Orthodontics!

At Family Orthodontics, we love to celebrate our patient getting their braces off, and we've uploaded a few short clips on our YouTube channel showing some of our patients getting debanded. We encourage you to check them out!

Might you be the next lucky one to make an appearance and become the latest video sensation at Family Orthodontics?

Dr. Jung visits the 2010 AAO Annual Session in Washington D.C.!

Our patients at Family Orthodontics can feel confident they are receiving the best in orthodontic health care because Dr. Jung's goal is to provide the most up-to-date technology and techniques using the best materials possible. Both Drs. Jung and Pachter are devoted to life-long learning and further their education through reading, attending conferences and continuing education courses. One of those important conferences includes the 2010 AAO Annual Session in Washington D.C., where Dr. Jung headed this weekend.

The AAO Annual Session is an always-educational event that is also one of the largest orthodontic conventions on the planet. It's also a time for Dr. Jung to consult with dental experts and orthodontists from around the country and stay up-to-date on all the latest technologies and orthodontic treatment options available. This, of course, allows Family Orthodontics to give you, our amazing patients, the best treatment experience possible.

In addition to being a proud member of the American Association of Orthodontists, Dr. Jung is a Diplomate of American Board of Orthodontics. As for Dr. Pachter, he is a Diplomate of American Board of Orthodontics and has a strong background in research.

Isn't it nice to know you have a complete dental experts taking care of your perfecting your smile?

Drs. Jung and Pachter, distinguishing the myths and facts about orthodontics

Trust us when we say our staff at Family Orthodontics know there are quite a few myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) floating around these days. But before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts! 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 orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at Family Orthodontics, feel free to give us a call.

Get ready for 2010 summer postcard contest!

We have 3 categories for our postcard contest, which begins on Memorial Day and runs through Labor Day. We still have our traditional drawing where we pick a winner by throwing postcards in the air. Usually the last postcard to stay up in 'heads' position is the winning postcard. Two other categories are the most original and the funniest postcard. After all, what's a vacation without telling someone where you've visited?

The three grand prize winners will receive a $50 giftcard to spend it any way one desires. Just remember you have a better chance of winning at our office than playing Lotto!

For more information, please give us a call and GOOD LUCK!

Family Orthodontics, reminding you to play it safe this spring

With spring here, many children, teens and adults in Port Jervis and Middletown will once again pick up the ball, bring the bat out of seasonal retirement, and lace up their cleats to hit the fields for the return of spring sports! April is National Facial Protection Month, and during this time, Drs. Jung and Pachter and our dedicated team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. According to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, children, high-school athletes and adults will have more than 5,000,000 teeth knocked out in sporting events this year.

The above video from our friends at the AAO has five tips to stay safe on the field this spring. Drs. Jung and Pachter will tell you that protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of the tips offered in the video, please contact our staff at Family Orthodontics. And remember to have fun and stay safe!

Ask Drs. Jung and Pachter: What can I expect during my consultation?

At your initial consultation, Drs. Jung and Pachter will conduct a comprehensive examination to assess your oral health. This will better enable us to determine the best treatment method for you.

Your orthodontic evaluation will consist of an oral and facial examination to assess your oral health. Drs. Jung or Pachter will then have you take intraoral and facial photographs as well as panoramic and cephalometric x-rays to help determine the proper orthodontic treatment method. Then, an impression of your teeth and bite will be taken to construct a model of your mouth. (This will help Drs. Jung and Pachter when examining your diagnostic records).

At your second appointment, Drs. Jung or Pachter will discuss your options with you. Our team feels it’s important to take the time to carefully examine your diagnostic records after your consultation so that Drs. Jung and Pachter can more thoroughly prepare for your treatment at Family Orthodontics. This additional preparation will ensure that you receive the best orthodontic care possible. At this time, we encourage you to ask us any questions you may have about your treatment.

If you are seeking orthodontic treatment for your child, our staff asks that both you and your child attend the initial consultation. We feel it is important that both you and your child completely understand our recommendations before we proceed with your treatment.

Give us a call today and schedule a consultation!

Drs. Jung and Pachter want to know: What helps you relax?

Drs. Jung and Pachter understand not everyone is always excited to see their orthodontist. We also understand the apprehension some adults and children may have towards getting braces. Because of this, Family Orthodontics offers an assortment of orthodontic solutions to cater to your unique needs.

But Drs. Jung and Pachter want you to know our team strives to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about Family Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our dedicated staff? Perhaps there's something about Drs. Jung and Pachter that you enjoy?

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call! Enjoy the rest of your week!

Age seven, the magic number for your child's first visit to Family Orthodontics

Many parents in Port Jervis and Middletown just assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to visit Family Orthodontics, only to find that treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. But did you know that the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That's right: seven.

OK, you're thinking: what’s so great about age seven? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for Drs. Jung and Pachter 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. Jung calls “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 two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, however, 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 seven, please give us a call at Family Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

The importance of mouth guards, from Family Orthodontics

Spring may be a time for sports, sun and fun, but it's also a time when you have to be careful. At Family Orthodontics, we know how important it is to protect your face while playing sports. With spring around the corner, Drs. Jung and Pachter know the spring months bring an increase in outdoor activities—and a greater chance of damaging your precious mouth and pearly whites. Our dedicated team at Family Orthodontics also know sports-related injuries are common among children. According to the AAO, 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get injured while playing sports.

That’s why Drs. Jung and Pachter are doing our part to spread the word that facial sports injuries can be avoided simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. If you play sports, it's important that you consult us for special precautions. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing contact sports. In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are your discomfort as you would treat any general soreness.

And, ask us—Drs. Jung and Pachter will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment. 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 Drs. Jung and Pachter are trying to achieve. Lastly, please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Family Orthodontics.

Ask Drs. Jung and Pachter: Am I too old for braces?

Who’s afraid of “metal mouth” and the appearance of braces? Not adults, apparently. Recently, our staff at Family Orthodontics read a fascinating statistic: adults getting braces has jumped 24 percent from just 14 years ago! Yes, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another reason for the spike in adult braces is this: cosmetics.

In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Family Orthodontics 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, Drs. Pachter and Jung would love to have you visit for a consultation. Give us a call to set one up!

Meet Dr. Pachter

You've met Dr. Jung. Now, it's time to meet Dr. Oran Pachter! Dr. Pachter earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from University of Pennsylvania Dental School. He is a proud recipient of Dean's Scholarship during his four years of dental education at UPenn. As an undergraduate, he attended Yeshiva University in New York City where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in biology. His honors include Summa Cum Laude status and making the Dean's List.

Dr. Pachter completed his orthodontic specialty training at New York University and has a strong background in research. He is a Diplomate of American Board of Orthodontics and a certified Invisalign provider. He is a compassionate orthodontist who is very meticulous in his techniques to provide the best treatment possible. He currently practices in the Warwick office.

Dr. Pachter is a native New Yorker who now resides with his family in Bergenfield, NJ. He and his wife, Arielle, have two daughters, Eliora and Tehila who keeps them very busy. His hobbies include playing basketball and watching movies. He enjoys the beautiful scenic drive on the Warwick Turnpike and is slowly getting acclimated to the country life.

What are patients saying about Family Orthodontics?

Drs. Jung and Pachter deliver the highest quality orthodontic care in a personalized environment. We make orthodontic treatment fun and enjoyable. Just see what our patients have to say about our doctors and professional staff! Please feel free to contribute your own thoughts about our office! We love getting patient testimonials!

"Dr. Jung is friendly and caring. So is her staff." ~ Elizabeth L.

"Dr. Oran is really nice." Cheri-Anne S.

"Dr. Jung is great. She always asks me if I am OK. Makes me feel comfortable and explains everything so I understand. She also tells me anything I need I can ask. She makes me feel like I am not just a patient, but a friend." ~ Lisa R.

"Dr. Jung made a point to say hello to everyone and I did not feel it was rehersed. She seemed to really care about each patient that was in her office and the young lady that took the photos was amazing. Thank you for making this a fun expereince for my daughter." ~ Paul H.

"It is a pleasure to be in your office. All staff are very friendly and professional. It is a welcoming place for my son. It is a comfortable office." ~ Michael C.

What do you love about Family Orthodontics?

From the very first time you visit Family Orthodontics, Drs. Jung and Pachter, as well as our team strive to provide superior orthodontic treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by Drs. Pachter or Jung? Did our amiable team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with your new smile?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for months, we’d love to hear your feedback. Or, you can tell us by giving us a call! Enjoy the rest of your week!

Ask Drs. Jung and Pachter: Why is it so important to have straight teeth?

Some people wonder why Drs. Jung and Pachter 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 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! At Family Orthodontics, we believe that orthodontia is about more than straightening teeth. It not only enhances a person's health and appearance, it also adds to self-esteem and confidence, improving so many aspects of our lives. And because each smile is unique, Drs. Jung and Pachter and our dedicated team enjoy getting to know the person behind the smile.

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 consultation. Drs. Jung and Pachter can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Meet Dr. Jung

Dr. Haesin Sabina Jung earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Columbia University, School of Dental and Oral Surgery. While attending, she received an award of excellence from Omicron Upsilon Key, an honorary dental society, as well as divisional excellence award in operative dentistry and Northeastern Society of Periodontists’ award of excellence.

She then completed one year General Practice Residency at St. Barnabas Hospital in Bronx, New York. She provided general dental care to all age population including medically compromised, geriatric, and special needs patients in the hospital setting.

Dr. Jung finished her orthodontic specialty training at New York University. Upon graduation, she has been creating spectacular smiles by utilizing the most recent technological advancements and clinical techniques available. She is a Diplomate of American Board of Orthodontics and a member of American Association of Orthodontists. She has three offices in Orange County, New York where she treats families in a friendly, caring, and highly personalized environment.

She is a graduate of High School of Music and Arts, once featured in a movie, “Fame”. She is an accomplished musician who plays piano and cello. She holds Bachelor of Arts degree in musicology from New York University. Her hobbies include gardening, skiing, reading and doing crafts with her children. She resides with her husband, Stan, and her three children, Tristan, Erin, and Cameron.