The Family Orthodontics Blog

The benefits of a beautiful smile

2012-01-26T13:49:00.000-08:00

Drs. Haesin Jung, Oran Pachter, and our team know having an attractive smile puts a spring in your step—or two—as well as increases your self-confidence, no matter if you’re 14 or in your late forties. Smiling not only makes people happy and puts them in a good mood, doing it often can even help you live longer, according to previous studies!

If you’ve been hiding your smile because you have crooked teeth or gaps between your teeth, it’s time to consider orthodontic treatment at Family Orthodontics. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to learn how quickly and efficiently today’s most advanced correction techniques can straighten your smile!

Don’t hide your smile any longer—give us a call today to schedule yours or your child’s orthodontic consultation.

Ask Dr. Jung: “How do I prevent tooth decay during my treatment?”

2012-01-20T14:23:00.000-08:00

Great question!

If you are brushing and flossing daily during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Jung, we think that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist every 3-to-6 months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting Family Orthodontics, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

Tooth decay, which is caused by sugars left in your mouth, can turn into an acid, which in turn can break down your teeth. Children are at high risk for tooth decay because adolescents tend to be lax in their oral hygiene habits. Proper brushing and flossing routines, combined with regular dental visits, help keep tooth decay away.

If you have any questions, please be sure to keep ask Dr. Jung or our team during your next adjustment appointment, or ask us on Facebook!

Dr. Haesin Jung , reminding you to protect your mouth this winter

2012-01-13T14:49:00.000-08:00

With winter sports under way for a lot of our patients, Dr. Haesin Jung thought it would be a good time to remind our young athletes wearing braces to take care of both their mouth and appliances while participating in contact sports (and non-contact sports) this winter.

More than half of the seven million sports and recreation-related injuries that occur each year are sustained by youth between ages 5 and 24. Sixty-seven percent of parents say their child does not wear a mouth guard, yet, 70 percent say their biggest fear when their child plays is that they will get hurt. Despite the risks, many kids are still not wearing mouth guards and facial protection during games and practices.

Many people think a mouth guard is effective just to protect your teeth. But research has shown mouth guards can also reduce lower jaw impact that causes concussions and other dental injuries. Our staff at Family Orthodontics encourage you to head over to the American Association of Orthodontists’ website for a quick primer on the importance of mouth guards and facial protection.
We hope this helps you remember to always wear a mouth guard and other forms of protective gear when participating in fall sports! We encourage you to give us a call if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook!

Have you had a check-up lately?

2012-01-05T09:49:00.000-08:00

Even if you brush and floss daily, as well as maintain your braces and visit our office during your orthodontic treatment it is still important to visit your local dentist every 6 months, or as recommended.

Why?

• Your dentist can detect and treat tooth and gum problems that you may have never felt or noticed.
• Even thorough daily oral care may not be enough to prevent cavities and oral decay.
• Frequent visits can allow your dentist to treat a problem early to prevent future complications.
During an oral exam your dentist can check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing.
If you have not visited a dentist in the past six months, please let us know! Dr. Haesin Jung will be happy to provide a few great references here in the area!

-- Dr. Haesin Jung & Team

Happy New Year from Family Orthodontics

2011-12-29T09:20:00.000-08:00

The year is almost over, so we wanted to ask what was memorable about 2011 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2012? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Have a safe and happy New Year, from Family Orthodontics!

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

2011-12-21T06:06:00.000-08:00

Great question, thank you! 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! Happy Holidays!

Beware of those Christmas goodies!

2011-12-15T07:25:00.000-08:00

At Family Orthodontics, we know maintaining a healthy diet over the holiday season can prove a difficult task. After all, who can resist the tasty treats of Christmas? With grandma and everybody else offering you candy, chocolate logs or Christmas pudding, you just can’t say “I’ll pass” each time. But trouble lurks: every time you chow down on that chocolate or candy, the bacteria in your mouth have a feast on the sugar—at your expense. The sugar turns into acid, and the acid eats away at the enamel on your teeth and between your braces. Then, you start getting cavities.

Instead, try pumpkin pie, marvelous molasses cookies, wonderful waffles or other braces-friendly recipes, courtesy of the American Association of Orthodontics, or AAO, and “The Braces Cookbook” by Pamela Waterman.

If you must indulge in chocolaty goodness this Christmas or holiday season, remember to brush your teeth after eating sugary treats. Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!

Happy Holidays!

Have you had a dental check-up lately?

2011-12-07T07:32:00.000-08:00

Even if you brush and floss daily, as well as maintain your braces it is still important to visit your local dentist every 6 months, or as recommended. Why?

•Your dentist can detect and treat tooth and gum problems that you may have never felt or noticed.
•Even thorough daily oral care may not be enough to prevent cavities and oral decay.
•Frequent visits can allow your dentist to treat a problem early to prevent future complications.

If you have not visited a dentist in the past six months, please let us know! We will be happy to provide a few great references here in the area!

- Dr. Jung, Dr. Pachter, & Team

Share your winter break plans with us!

2011-11-28T15:02:00.000-08:00

Drs. Jung, Pachter, and our team at Family Orthodontics want to know: what do your winter plans look like? Do you have any plans for an exciting family vacation? Are you hanging out around town? Catching up on sleep? Spending time with friends? Let us know!

Please feel free to share your exciting winter plans and experiences with us here or on our Facebook page! We would like to wish all of our patients and their families a safe and fun holiday season!

Happy Thanksgiving, from Family Orthodontics

2011-11-22T09:11:00.000-08:00

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season knocking at our door, our entire team at Family Orthodontics wanted to stop for a moment and extend our best wishes to you, our patients, referring doctors and families, for a wonderful Thanksgiving.

As always, if you know anyone we can help, just let us know. We promise to give them the same quality orthodontic care that we have given you.

We hope that this Thanksgiving and holiday season brings fond memories. Thank you for being part of our family.

Are you wearing your mouth guard?

2011-11-18T14:05:00.000-08:00

With fall sports close to wrapping up and winter sports right around the corner, many patients here at Family 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, Drs. Haesin Jung and Oran Pachter 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. Jung, Dr. Pachter, and our 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!

I got my braces. Now what?

2011-11-10T17:09:00.000-08:00

We love when patients ask us that question! Now that you’re wearing braces, it’s just as important to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen as you did before prior to your orthodontic treatment.

Braces are known to trap food particles and make it difficult to brush or remove plaque, which is why Drs. Haesin Jung, Oran Pachter and our team at Family Orthodontics recommends that you brush and floss after every meal. We also encourage you to use a proxabrush to help with the smaller areas where your toothbrush doesn’t reach. We encourage the use of fluoride rinse as well; ask us for a recommendation.

When your braces are initially placed, your teeth are likely to be very sensitive. You may experience discomfort for up to 3 or 5 days, which is why we encourage you to eat soft foods during that time. Remember, the less pressure you put on your teeth, the less discomfort you will have.

You may also be thinking, “Okay, so what can I eat?” We would encourage you to avoid eating sticky, hard, crunchy or chewy snacks that can stick to your teeth.

Dr. Jung and Dr. Pachter will tell you it’s crucial to regularly check your braces for bent or loose wires and brackets. In the event of a loose/broken wire or bracket, please call our Port Jervis, Middletown, or Warwick office immediately to schedule an appointment for repair.

Lastly, in addition to visiting Family Orthodontics, during your orthodontic treatment for adjustments, you should visit your dentist for professional check-ups and teeth cleaning appointments about every six months, or as recommended by your dentist.

Questions? Please let us know below or on our Facebook page. You may also give us a call!

Happy November from Family Orthodontics!

2011-11-03T16:18:00.000-07:00

Happy November, everybody! Believe it or not, we’re almost in full holiday mode! But before we forget about the spooky month that was, we’d like to know how you celebrated Halloween! What did you wear? How much candy did you get? Did you have fun?

If you have any photos or videos that you would like to share with us, please send them our way or feel free to post them on our Facebook page!

We hope you all had a happy and safe Halloween! Also, what are you up to this month? Anything exciting happening in your life? If so, we’d love to hear all about it!

Lastly, have you been in for a dental checkup lately? It’s important that you see your general dentist, as well as visiting Dr. Jung and Dr. Pachter while you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. If you have questions about your orthodontic treatment or just want some general information, give our Middletown, Port Jervis, or Warwick office a call or ask us during your next visit!

Halloween TIPS from the American Association of Orthodontists

2011-10-27T16:02:00.000-07:00

It’s almost that spooky time of year again and Middletown and Port Jervis orthodontists, Drs. Haesin Jung and Oran Pachter, and our team thought we’d share some Halloween tips from our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists.

Trick-or-treating 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

To protect your braces, steer clear of the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

• All hard candies
• All chewy candies
• Caramel
• Nuts
• Licorice
• Taffy
• Jelly beans
• Hard pretzels
• Bubblegum
• Popcorn (including unpopped kernels)
• Ice

Of course, Halloween does not have to be completely treat-less. Braces-friendly Halloween treats can help you enjoy the “spook-ta-cular” holiday. For example, plain chocolate candy is okay, provided you remember to brush and floss afterwards. Bobbing for apples as well as caramel apples are not recommended. However, you can enjoy thinly sliced apples, dipped in yogurt or creamy chocolate sauce.

Dr. Haesin and Dr. Pachter suggest looking for foods that are soft, such as soft chocolate that can melt in one’s mouth or peanut butter cups. Overall, candies that aren’t sticky, chewy, hard or crunchy are generally acceptable.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN from the entire team at Family Orthodontics!

5 Tips to Avoid Plaque

2011-10-21T13:37:00.000-07:00

At Family Orthodontics, we know nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth. Here are five other ways you can avoid that dreaded enemy of the teeth during orthodontic treatment, courtesy of WebMD.

Let’s start with brushing regularly. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste is vital to a healthy mouth. Make sure you softly brush all the surfaces of your teeth.

Next on the list is flossing daily: a simple daily flossing between teeth clears away plaque before it can cause damage and can also clean plaque at the gum line. Plaque is known to reach the spaces between teeth.

Also, evading a trip to the dentist is probably not a great idea. Let’s say you brush and floss daily. You’re still at risk for plaque. With time, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar. Consider visiting your general dentist at least twice a year or as recommended by your dentist, and you have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your teeth while wearing braces.

You’ll also want to stop avoiding those fruits and veggies. Believe it or not, there are foods out there that play a key role in keeping plaque off our teeth. They include apples, carrots, cucumbers and other raw fruits and vegetables. You can still eat these types of fruits and veggies if you have braces, but be sure to cut them up into bite sized pieces to avoid breaking off brackets.

Finally, before you pick up that candy bar, remember to not give in to your sweet tooth. Consuming sugary drinks or eating candy or other junk food allows sugar to stick to our teeth. The bacteria, then, becomes plaque, which turns into acid and damages our teeth. Avoiding these five bad habits keeps your plaque in check and your mouth as healthy as can be during your orthodontic treatment with Drs. Haesin Jung and Oran Pachter.

If you have any questions, give our Middletown, Port Jervis, or Warwick office a call or ask us on Facebook!

Cold season is here....Stay Healthy!

2011-10-13T18:26:00.000-07:00

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. Haesin Jung, Dr. Oran Pachter and our entire staff give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our Middletown, Port Jervis, and Warwick 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 at Family 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!

At Family Orthodontics, October means National Orthodontic Health Month!

2011-10-06T15:21:00.000-07:00

Happy October! For those who don't know, it’s National Orthodontic Health Month. This month-long event is organized by our pals at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Drs. Haesin Jung, Oran Pachter, and our team realize that this is a great opportunity for us to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene. National Orthodontic Health Month also aims to recognize the dedicated work of orthodontists like Dr. Jung, Dr. Pachter, and other dental professionals in the Middletown, Port Jervis, and Warwick areas.

The AAO recommends patients avoid the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

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

If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call, ask us on Facebook, or ask Drs. Jung and Pachter during your visit this month!

Foods to Avoid During Your Orthodontic Treatment

2011-09-29T11:13:00.000-07:00

There are a variety of foods Dr. Haesin Jung and Dr. Oran Pachter want 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

Also, 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 Family Orthodontics a call or ask our staff during your next visit.

A few helpful webisodes about orthodontics

2011-09-22T13:42:00.000-07:00

Drs. Haesin Jung, Oran Pachter and our team at Family Orthodontics would like to point you to a few interesting webisodes about orthodontics, located on the YouTube page of the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

There, they tend to post some very pertinent videos about orthodontic treatment, as well as state-of-the-art technology in orthodontia. These include "Orthodontic Treatment Basics," "Common Bite Problems Seen in Children" and "Does My Child Need Braces?"

We think you may find these webisodes interesting, as well as enlightening. If you have any questions about the videos, or your treatment here at Family Orthodontics, please give us a call.

20 things that can ruin your smile

2011-09-14T16:37:00.000-07:00

At Family Orthodontics, we know your smile is important. And we know you want to keep it sparkling and looking its very best. Recently, we came across an article that suggests at least 20 things can ruin that perfect smile you have.

These include:

- Sports drinks
- Tobacco
- Coffee
- Wine
- Soft drinks
- Citrus and acidic foods

Dr. Haesin Jung, Dr. Oran Pachter, and our team encourage you to read the rest of the article and ask us here on our blog or during your next visit to our convenient Middletown, Port Jervis, and Warwick offices. For more tips or for general questions about your ongoing dental treatment, we invite you to ask anyone from our team during your next visit! We also invite you to ask us on Facebook!

When should you call Drs. Jung and Pachter?

2011-09-08T16:40:00.000-07:00

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Dr. Haesin Jung and Dr. Oran Pachter.

Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with us:

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, give Family Orthodontics a call as soon as possible!

Hope this helps,

-Dr. Jung, Dr. Pachter, and team

Breaking Bad Habits

2011-09-01T13:54:00.000-07:00

At Family Orthodontics, we know good dental health requires only a few minutes a day. We thought we’d provide some practical advice on how to improve your or your child’s smile between your adjustment visits with Drs. Haesin Jung and Oran Pachter.

Start by brushing your teeth twice a day. Proper brushing techniques are an essential part of maintaining good oral health during your orthodontic treatment, as well as preventing gum disease. More care and time are needed to adequately brush your teeth when you are wearing braces. Brushing daily helps remove decay-causing plaque from tooth surfaces. Please consult Dr. Jung or Dr. Pachter if you would like us to review brushing techniques with you or your child. The use of a mechanical toothbrush such as a Sonicare or Oral B can aid in removing plaque around braces. Flossing daily will also prevent plaque to build up between the teeth and prevent stains between your teeth. Research has shown the bacteria of gum disease has been linked to coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes and memory loss. Lastly, we encourage you to throw away old toothbrushes and replace them every 2 or 3 months, or after an illness.

We hope this helps! If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Family Orthodontics or ask your general dentist during your next scheduled visit! Or, ask us on Facebook!

Now that I have braces, what can I eat?

2011-08-25T11:52:00.000-07:00

You just got braces at Family Orthodontics and Drs. Haesin Jung and Oran Pachter has informed you that during your orthodontic treatment you will want to avoid eating anything sticky, hard, crunchy, or chewy. What does this leave for you to eat? Lettuce? Nothing?

Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, created a variety of “braces-friendly” recipes that will allow you to enjoy your favorite treats without interfering with your orthodontic care!

Recipes include main dishes, side dishes and even yummy desserts! After all, a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps the patient achieve the best possible results from orthodontic treatment.

If you have any questions about the recipes listed or about the foods you should be avoiding during your orthodontic treatment, please give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Enjoy!

At Family Orthodontics, what puts you at ease?

2011-08-18T13:35:00.000-07:00

Drs. Haesin Jung, Oran Pachter 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 Family Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff, Dr. Jung, or Dr. Pachter?

Let us know by posting here, on our Facebook page, or give us a call. Have a great day!

Straight Teeth and Your Oral Health

2011-08-10T16:00:00.000-07:00

Some people wonder why Middletown, Port Jervis, and Warwick orthodontists, Dr. Haesin Jung and Dr. Oran Pachter, 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 Family 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!

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.

Regular Checkups are Essential in Maintaining Good Oral Health!

2011-08-03T15:47:00.000-07:00

Are you brushing and flossing daily during your orthodontic treatment? If yes, that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist every 3-to-6 months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting Family Orthodontics, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

Your general dentist can check for problems that might not be seen or felt, detect cavities and early signs of decay, treat oral health problems early and show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth.

During an oral exam your dentist can check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to the dentist in the last six months, let us know during your next visit and we will provide a few great references in our area.

What Do You LOVE About Summer?

2011-07-28T15:00:00.000-07:00

Summer is here, and the team at Family Orthodontics thought we’d ask: What’s your favorite part about summer? Is it the warm weather? The free time you get? Spending quality time with friends and family? Grilling barbecue in the backyard?

Dr. Jung, Dr. Pachter, and team would like to know what makes your summer truly special. Let us know by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

What do you LOVE about our community?

2011-07-21T15:40:00.000-07:00

Family Orthodontics, your Middletown, Port Jervis, and Warwick orthodontists, are situated around some pretty unique neighborhoods. Each is special with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our amazing patients) living within.

Today, Drs. Haesin Jung, Oran Pachter and our team thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about our community? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps a favorite getaway in New York?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in our community, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods” in New York.

If you need to schedule your next appointment, give us a call! Have a great week!

Kids Getting Braces at a Younger Age

2011-07-14T16:44:00.000-07:00

Drs. Haesin Jung and Oran Pachter 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 the 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. Jung and Dr. Pachter to assess what the best age for treatment is.

Hope this helps! Give Family Orthodontics a call if you have any questions about your child’s treatment!

The Importance of Retainers

2011-07-07T15:34:00.000-07:00

If you recently completed treatment at Family Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Drs. Jung and Pachter will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers provide that stabilization. They 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. Jung or Dr. Pachter is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime. Here are some things to remember when you receive your retainers:

* Wear your retainers full time, until the doctor instructs otherwise. Wearing your retainers at night ensures that your pearly whites won’t relapse.
* 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 only a small amount of toothpaste. Use warm but not hot water.
* When retainers are not in your mouth they should ALWAYS be in a retainer case.
* Retainers are breakable, so treat them with care. If retainers are lost or broken, give us a call immediately.
* Remove retainers when swimming or during any sporting activity in which the retainers could fall out and get broken or lost (cheerleading, basketball, etc.) or when you should be wearing a mouth guard (football, soccer, etc.).

We hope this helps! You can always contact our team if you have any questions!

Happy Social Media Day, from Family Orthodontics!

2011-06-30T10:32:00.000-07:00

It seems like in today’s world, every day feels like social media day. However, June 30th is officially Social Media Day, “a day to celebrate the revolution of media becoming social.” Much like the use of cell phones, checking and updating social media has become a daily routine for many people. We here at Family Orthodontics are particularly grateful for social media because we are able to interact with patients like you.

Recently we found a very interesting study about social media that was presented on May 25, 2011 by Edison Research and Arbitron that presents some very interesting statistics about social media use in America today. One fascinating highlight is that approximately 46 million Americans who are the age of 12 or older check their social media sites and services several times a day. Check out the full study for more interesting information about social media and social networking.

As you might have noticed, we love engaging in conversation with our patients online. It’s a great way to connect with our patients. It also helps us share news, photos, ideas, and upcoming events at the office. We have found that our Facebook fan page and blog are great tools for making this connection.

Drs. Jung, Pachter and our team want to continue to improve our social networking presence. Let us know how you would like us to be using are social media or what you would like to see posted on the blog.

Happy Social Media Day!

Stay Cool with a Braces-Friendly Summer Treat!

2011-06-23T16:03:00.000-07:00

Summer is here! Kids and adults alike will now be spending more time outside being active and enjoying the hotter temperatures. And 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!

-Drs. Jung, Pachter, and team

"Braces Rock" Contest at Family Orthodontics!

2011-06-16T12:50:00.000-07:00

If you have any questions about the contest, please give Family Orthodontics a call.

June is National Smile Month!

2011-06-08T15:16:00.000-07:00

According to the American Dental Association, a person's smile outranked eyes, hair and body as the most important physical feature, which is why it's important for our team at Family Orthodontics to support National Smile Month this June.

Show off your pearly whites by posting your favorite smile photos on the wall of our Facebook page. We look forward to seeing what you share!

Orthodontic Emergency Care with Family Orthodontics

2011-06-02T16:55:00.000-07:00

True orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but when they do occur we are available to you. As a general rule, you should call the 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 with Dr. Haesin Jung or Dr. Oran Pachter.

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you schedule an appointment with Family Orthodontics.

The following solutions may help you relieve your discomfort:

Poking Wire: Using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down or place wax on it to alleviate the discomfort.

Loose Bracket or Band: If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. If the wire comes out entirely, wrap the bracket with a tissue.

Loose Wire: Using a tweezers, try to place your wire back into place. If doing this and using wax does not help, as a last resort use a small fingernail clipper to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If your discomfort continues, place wax on it.

Loose Appliance: If your appliance is poking you, place wax on the offending part of your appliance.

Headgear Does Not Fit: Sometimes headgear discomfort is caused by not wearing the headgear as instructed by your orthodontist. Please refer to the instructions provided by your orthodontist. If the facebow is bent, please call our office for assistance. Surprisingly, the headgear may hurt less if it’s worn more, so be sure you’re getting in the prescribed hours.

General Soreness: When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm salt water mouthwash. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously. Placing Orabase on the affected area may help; this can be found in your local pharmacy. If the tenderness is severe, take aspirin or whatever you normally take for headache or similar pain.

Remember, after alleviating your discomfort, it is still very important that you call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem.

Drs. Jung, Pachter and team, wishing you a relaxing and memorable Memorial Day Weekend!

2011-05-25T11:10:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day weekend is a time when Americans everywhere stop and remember all those men and women who bravely gave their lives for our country.

Memorial Day also marks the unofficial start of summer 2011, and for many folks in Middletown, Port Jervis, and Warwick getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the office or in the classroom means sweet, sweet relief. At Family Orthodontics, we also know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. After all, it’s a season of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, hitting the great open roads or hanging out in your backyard this weekend, we want to know about it!

Have a nice and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month!

2011-05-20T12:36:00.000-07:00

Did you know the month of May is designated National Physical Fitness and Sports Month? In 1983, President Ronald Reagan encouraged Americans to incorporate more physical activity into their lives, and the reminder is even more significant in this day and age, as kids everywhere are distracted more and more by television, social networking and video games. Kids living an active lifestyle can improve their health, productivity and overall well-being, and best of all? It doesn’t have to take a lot of time!

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has provided these public health guidelines for your convenience. The guidelines call for children and teens to exercise for at least one hour each day of moderate intensity physical activity (such as playing sports or brisk walking) or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity (jogging, dancing and jumping rope).

At Family Orthodontics, we always encourage our patients to stay fit by exercising or participating in sports. However, we want to remind you to always wear a mouth guard or other forms of facial protection when playing sports. To learn more about how often your child should exercise, we recommend you check out this series of helpful articles about kids and exercise, courtesy of our friends at KidsHealth.org.

What, exactly, is malocclusion?

2011-05-11T15:56:00.000-07:00

Malocclusion, or what Drs. Haesin Jung and Oran Pachter call “bad bite,” is the improper alignment of teeth and/or jaws. When your teeth and jaws are not properly aligned, it may impact your bite, the ability to properly care for your teeth, your gum tissue health and even your appearance.

Most people experience some degree of malocclusion, but it generally is not severe enough to require corrective measures. If your malocclusion is serious enough, however, treatment may be necessary to correct the issue.

Drs. Jung and Pachter will tell you that untreated malocclusion can lead undesirable mouth problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, or chipped and cracked teeth. The most common solution for malocclusion, of course, is orthodontic treatment. The actual course of treatment, including the length of time you will require braces, will be determined by severity of your malocclusion. The goal of your treatment is to move your teeth into the proper position and correct any misalignment in the jaw.

At Family Orthodontics, we use the most advanced technology in the field in order to ensure that you receive the best possible results. If you have any questions about malocclusion, please give us a call and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have.

What’s on your reading list?

2011-05-04T17:20:00.000-07:00

With the school year close to winding down for a lot of our patients at Family Orthodontics, we wanted to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year, but reading is a vital step in brain development and literacy. And if you needed any more reason to read, May marks “Get Caught Reading Month.”

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great reads? Ask us for suggestions, and Dr. Haesin Jung, Dr. Oran Pachter, and our team would be happy to provide a few. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas on what to read next!

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your book picks or your all-time favorite novels or literature on our Facebook page!

Why do you choose Family Orthodontics?

2011-04-27T17:08:00.000-07:00

Family Orthodontics, serving Middletown, Port Jervis, Warwick NY and surrounding areas, strives to provide exceptional treatment in an informative and friendly environment. Have you had a great experience at our office?

Share your story with the world!

Just select the "Review Us on Google places" button above to write a review on our Google Place Page. We look forward to receiving your feedback!

Thank you,
The team at Family Orthodontics

Flossing with Braces 101, from Family Orthodontics

2011-04-20T15:11:00.000-07:00

Dr. Haesin Jung and Dr. Oran Pachter will tell you 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 could possibly reduce your treatment time.

Here is a very concise video explaining the proper way to floss your teeth with braces. Give Family Orthodontics a call if you have more questions about flossing. Enjoy!

What's the real difference between a Dentist and an Orthodontist?

2011-04-13T17:14:00.000-07:00

"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 Drs. Haesin Jung and Oran Pachter started out in dental school and earned a dental degree, just like your dentist. After dental school however, Dr. Jung and Pachter decided they wanted to learn more about orthodontics, which is one of nine specialties within the dental field. So they 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 are dental experts at Family Orthodontics to help you through any type of treatment your teeth, jaw and gums might need? If you need to schedule an initial consultation or your next visit, please give our office a call.

April is National Facial Protection Month!

2011-04-06T17:06:00.000-07:00

With spring here, many children, teens and adults 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. Haesin Jung, Oran 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.

Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this spring, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
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. 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 Family Orthodontics. Stay safe and have fun!

A great braces-friendly spring recipe! From Family Orthodontics

2011-03-30T11:27:00.000-07:00

Winter is over, and the weather is finally starting to get warmer. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) made an appetizing (and braces-friendly!) spring 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.

Soy Simmered Chicken Wraps

Ingredients:
• 3 boneless chicken breast halves
• 2 large onions, chunked
• Small flour tortillas (pkg. of ten) wheat or white
• (optional: 10-16 oz. of cooked chopped broccoli)
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup water
• 2 Tablespoons honey
• 1/8 teaspoon ginger
• 2 Tablespoons peach or apricot jam
• 1 Tablespoon cornstarch

Directions

In a slow cooker, or a large pan on the stove, layer the onions and the chicken breast. Allow at least three hours in the slow cooker on medium, or at least one hour on the stove—the longer the better, but you don’t have to do anything to it while it cooks. Spoon out the chicken onto a cutting board, and with a knife and fork, shred the chicken as finely as you’d like. In a small saucepan, stir all sauce ingredients together over medium heat until the mixture starts bubbling, then let it simmer for five minutes on low heat to thicken. In a serving bowl, stir sauce and onion into chicken; if you’d like, add cooked chopped broccoli. Makes about six to eight servings.

Enjoy this great spring dish and have a great week!

--From Drs. Haesin Jung, Oran Pachter and team

You're Never Too Old to Treat Yourself to a New Smile!

2011-03-23T13:58:00.000-07:00

Did you know one in every five orthodontic patients is an adult? We’re living longer and technology is improving, making orthodontic treatment an appealing and safe option for patients of all ages. As the trend toward treatment later in life grows, we’re seeing braces on parents as well as children – and even adult celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Gwen Stefani and Nicholas Cage have shown off their braces. It’s never too late to look and feel your best with Family Orthodontics!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment with Drs. Haesin Jung and Oran Pachter. The physical process for moving teeth is the same, young or old, which means it’s never too late to address issues such as an overbite or underbite, crooked or crowded teeth, or jaw disorders.

How Do I Get Started?

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, we’ll make a consultation appointment with you. During this meeting we will perform a general assessment of your oral health, discuss options for treatment, and answer any questions you may have. We will also discuss matters of cost and insurance. The next step is an orthodontic records appointment in which we take x-rays, photos, and an impression of your teeth. This information drives your unique treatment plan.

What Are the Benefits?

Straightening your teeth can improve your smile, your self-esteem, and your dental health. Technologically advanced new treatments make it easier to identify the option that best fits your lifestyle. Modern techniques and materials have made braces and aligners more effective, comfortable and unobtrusive than ever.

If you think you might benefit from orthodontic treatment, give Family Orthodontics a call, so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs.

The Oral Health Effects of Smoking

2011-03-16T14:29:00.000-07:00

Everybody knows that smoking causes lung cancer, but did you also know that smokers and tobacco users are susceptible to a variety of oral health problems at a faster rate than non-smokers?

It’s true! Smoking is responsible for almost 75 percent of gum disease in adults; and, similar to smokers, adults who smoke pipes and cigars, as well as those using smokeless tobacco, are just as susceptible to gum disease and other tobacco related health problems.

As soon as you use tobacco products, you become more likely to experience any of these oral health problems:

• Oral cancer
• Gum disease
• Tooth loss
• Loss of bone in the jaw
• Gum recession
• Delayed/impaired healing process after oral surgery or any other treatment
• Decreased success rate of dental implant (tooth replacement) procedures
• Mouth sores
• Loss of your sense of taste and smell
• Bad breath
• Tooth and tongue stains

If you are interested in protecting your oral health, we strongly recommend you quit using tobacco products! The following steps are recommended by the Surgeon General to help you quit smoking and using tobacco:

• Get ready – set a quitting date and remove all materials from your home, car and office
• Get support
• Learn new skills and behaviors
• Get medication and use it correctly
• Be prepared for relapse or difficult situations

For support, start with Family Orthodontics! We can help by recommending different options to help you quit, and above all we will support you throughout the quitting process. We are dedicated to helping you protect your oral health – and quitting smoking is significant step in the right direction.

Celebrities get braces, too!

2011-03-09T15:27:00.000-08:00

Did you know that back in 2002, Tom Cruise had braces? During this time, he was 40 years old and filmed Minority Report, Austin Powers in Goldmember and the Last Samurai. Check out his smile in Jerry Maguire, Rain Man or The Firm and compare to the post-braces Tom Cruise in Valkyrie or Tropic Thunder. The fact is, movie stars need to look their best for the silver screen, and it wouldn't be possible without orthodontists like Drs. Haesin Jung and Oran Pachter.

In fact, lots of Hollywood stars have had orthodontic treatment. Check out this slideshow of famous faces with braces. If you’ve thought about getting the perfect smile you’ve always wanted, please give Family Orthodontics a call.

Who benefits from braces?

2011-03-03T13:52:00.000-08:00

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Drs. Haesin Jung and Oran Pachter 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 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. Set up an appointment for a consultation and find out how orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

The Benefits of Dairy, from Family Orthodontics

2011-02-24T17:29:00.000-08:00

Drs. Haesin Jung and Oran Pachter want to know: Is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, it should be! A 2008 study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can actually lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). Results of the study also showed that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease.

Cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth. In addition to providing large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also does its part to fight cavities. Cheddar, Swiss, Mozzarella, and Monterey Jack all stimulate the body's salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris and protect them from acids that weaken them, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This means cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's ph level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis.

Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

For more information about which dairy foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please give us a call.

All the cool kids do it!

2011-02-17T15:11:00.000-08:00

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

The study, conducted on behalf of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists 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.

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

Has your child or teen visited Family Orthodontics for a consultation? If not, please give us a call and let us help your child begin the journey to a gorgeous smile!

Visualize your new smile with the Brace Painter!

2011-02-10T16:02:00.000-08:00

Braces at Family Orthodontics are more fun than ever! With the Brace Painter, parents and children are able to “paint their braces,” and visualize how teeth will look with different colors of bands.

Would you like to try out pink and purple bands this February, without the commitment of an all-out Valentine’s Day look? The Brace Painter allows for you to select different colors, and then assign those colors of bands to certain teeth. Now, you can visualize your braces before you even come in for your appointment!

As always, please let Drs. Haesin Jung and Oran Pachter know if you have any questions about the Brace Painter, or your orthodontic treatment at Family Orthodontics. Have a great week!

National Children’s Dental Health Month is here!

2011-02-03T14:27:00.000-08:00

Each February for the past 61years, 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. Drs. Haesin Jung and Oran Pachter are 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 us lately? Give us a call and schedule an appointment!

When Are Two Phases of Treatment Necessary?

2011-01-27T13:33:00.000-08:00

Usually patients in orthodontic treatment at Family Orthodontics already have their permanent teeth – they are pre-teens, teens and adults. But in some cases we have to start treatment earlier, even before the patient’s permanent teeth come in. We call this “two-phase treatment.”

When we have patients with clear developmental problems at an early age, it’s best to start work when they are young, before the problems get bigger and more difficult to treat.

Examples include:

• An upper or lower jaw that is not growing correctly
• A mouth growing in a way that doesn’t leave enough room for all the permanent teeth to come in
• A severe malocclusion, or bad bite, which means the jaw doesn’t fit together correctly

In these cases we will start early and do one round of treatment – phase one – while the patient still has their baby teeth. Phase one usually does not involve braces, but can include a different type of appliance that helps the jaw grow into place properly. We’ll follow up with phase two usually a few years later, when permanent teeth are in place. Generally phase two involves standard braces.

In order to catch early problems, we recommend that children have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven (and so does the American Association of Orthodontists). However, if your dentist or pediatrician sees any sign that early treatment might be necessary, he or she may recommend your child visit our office even sooner.

If you have any additional questions, please feel free to give our office a call.

Getting Social with Family Orthodontics

2011-01-18T17:33:00.000-08:00

At Family Orthodontics, we embrace technology, whether it’s through the innovative treatments we offer, our high-tech web site or our Facebook Page. As you can probably tell, we love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our fan page. For social media to work, we understand that conversation is vital, and that’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social networks are hugely popular these days, we know they’re unpredictable and ever-changing.

While Drs. Haesin Jung, Oran Pachter and our staff take a little time to research how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog? Please post your thoughts on this blog, the Facebook Page or give us a call!

Nail Biting, Not so great for your Oral Health

2011-01-12T15:13:00.000-08:00

We’ve all heard that biting your nails is an awful habit, but you many wonder- really- what’s so bad about it? Recently, our team at Family Orthodontics found an interesting article that discusses how biting your nails affect your teeth and oral health.

Nail biting, also known as Onychophagia, is a common habit among various age groups, including primarily children, teens and young adults. Nail biting is generally triggered by stress and most often decreases with age. That being said, nail biting is unsanitary, unattractive, as well as unhealthy for your teeth!

Here’s why:

• It’s unsanitary. Your nails are dirty, almost twice as dirty as your fingers! Hence, biting your nails is just asking for germs and bacteria.
• No good things come to your teeth. Nail biting causes your teeth to constantly be chewing, which is not good for them. This excessive motion wears your teeth down faster than a non-nail biter’s and puts a large amount of stress on your front teeth- contributing to teeth misalignment.
• Braces don’t love it either. Braces already put pressure on teeth, nail biting ads unnecessary pressure, further stressing your teeth and weakening their roots.
• It can be costly. Nail biting can result in up to $4,000 in additional dental bills over one lifetime, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Yikes!

What can you do about it?

Now that you know how harmful nail biting can be, it’s time to take action to break your nail biting habit. Try to be conscious of your fingernails and to keep them looking good- this will help you resist the temptation. Ask Drs. Jung and Pachter or visit the article for tips on how to break a nail biting habit.

Good luck!

Your friends at Family Orthodontics

Braces 101

2011-01-06T13:16:00.000-08:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Connect with the Braces Brigade!

2010-12-29T11:03:00.000-08:00

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?

2010-12-22T13:17:00.000-08:00

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.

2010-12-17T08:32:00.000-08:00

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!

2010-12-08T13:10:00.000-08:00

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

2010-12-03T14:30:00.000-08:00

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!

2010-11-23T11:19:00.000-08:00

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?

2010-11-18T14:02:00.000-08:00

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

2010-11-11T11:28:00.000-08:00

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?

2010-11-05T11:31:00.000-07:00

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?

2010-10-27T15:21:00.000-07:00

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

2010-10-18T16:29:00.000-07:00

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?

2010-10-11T13:17:00.000-07:00

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!

2010-10-03T17:57:00.000-07:00

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?

2010-09-27T15:59:00.000-07:00

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

2010-09-18T19:20:00.000-07:00

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!

2010-09-07T11:27:00.000-07:00

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

2010-08-27T10:11:00.000-07:00

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!

2010-08-19T10:14:00.000-07:00

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?

2010-08-09T14:16:00.000-07:00

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

2010-08-02T16:39:00.000-07:00

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

2010-07-24T15:13:00.001-07:00

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!

2010-07-18T18:33:00.000-07:00

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?

2010-07-13T21:37:00.000-07:00

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!

2010-07-06T10:46:00.000-07:00

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

2010-06-29T15:02:00.000-07:00

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?

2010-06-20T20:04:00.000-07:00

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?

2010-06-13T22:39:00.000-07:00

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?

2010-06-07T14:01:00.000-07:00

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

2010-06-01T20:34:00.000-07:00

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!

2010-05-25T13:32:00.000-07:00

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

2010-05-20T14:56:00.000-07:00

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!

2010-05-12T21:29:00.000-07:00

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.!

2010-05-03T10:44:00.000-07:00

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

2010-04-28T13:56:00.000-07:00

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!

2010-04-22T14:03:00.000-07:00

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

2010-04-14T13:31:00.000-07:00

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?

2010-04-08T09:00:00.000-07:00

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?

2010-03-29T21:53:00.000-07:00

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

2010-03-22T13:08:00.000-07:00

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

2010-03-16T09:03:00.000-07:00

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?

2010-03-11T16:54:00.000-08:00

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

2010-03-01T14:08:00.000-08:00

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?

2010-02-23T15:13:00.000-08:00

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?

2010-02-16T13:39:00.000-08:00

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!