Ask Dr. Honig: Am I too old for braces?

Who’s afraid of “metal mouth” and the appearance of braces? Not adults, apparently. Recently, our staff at Dr. Honig's practice read a fascinating statistic: the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! Yes, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another reason for the spike in adult braces is this: people want to look and feel great.

In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned and sparkling teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing—wisely, we might add—to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Dr. Honig can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

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

Kids getting braces at a younger age

Dr. Honig 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. Honig to assess what the best age for treatment is.

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

All the cool kids do it!

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 Invisalign, 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 Dr. Honig, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

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

Ask Dr. Honig: What can Invisalign® do for my oral health?

When considering treatment options, patients often ask us how Invisalign treatment is so different than traditional braces. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign with Dr. Honig than you may know. Invisalign is a series of removable aligners that are nearly invisible, and besides straightening your teeth, can improve your oral health. Here’s how:

Healthy gums: Straight teeth allow a close fit for gums. This lessens the gum stress that is caused by crowded or widely spaced teeth, thus also reducing red and swollen gums.

Easy cleaning: Invisalign is removable, therefore brushing and flossing is easier and you are able to maintain a healthy mouth. These habits are vital to avoiding tooth decay, plaque and even gum disease.

Improved speech and chewing: Properly-aligned teeth don’t have the discomfort or compound speech impediments that can be caused by crowded teeth or a deteriorating jawbone.

If you have any questions about Invisalign, just ask Dr. Honig the next time you’re in for an appointment. Or, you may post your question on our Facebook page! You can also read this article for more information on Invisalign and your oral health.

Dr. Honig presents, a tasty braces-friendly dessert recipe!

Summer is finally here in Newark, DE, and that means it’s time for Dr. Honig and team to introduce some delicious summer dessert recipes! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) 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.

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!

-From Dr. Honig and staff

Dr. Honig, supporting Moms for Mouth Guards

Hey, Moms! Have you signed the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge?

Here at Gordon C. Honig, DMD, we care about your pearly whites, and we want to help keep you protected from sports injuries that can be damaging to your beautiful smile. As a way of ensuring that children are using proper facial protection equipment, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontics have introduced the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge.

Dr. Honig will tell you that mouth guards are vital to protecting your teeth from sports related injuries while participating in sports, such as football, soccer, baseball, hockey and basketball, just to name a few. The Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge is a way for moms nationwide to make a commitment to protecting their children’s smile from facial injuries.

We’ve discussed the importance of using facial protection in the past. Today, we thought we’d invite moms to take action by visiting the Moms for Mouth Guards website and taking the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge.

Have a safe week everyone!

A few patient reviews for Dr. Honig and team

Gordon C. Honig, serving Newark and Middletown, DE and surrounding areas, has been receiving some great patient reviews lately! Check out what our current patients are saying about Dr. Honig and team!

"Dr Honig seems very sincere when he speaks to me or my children - he makes eye contact, which is important. His office staff is extremely friendly and so helpful. Everyone we have come in contact with at the office is very knowledgeable about the procedures the children are undergoing and do not seem to mind all of the questions." ~Jim

"Everyone at the office is friendly. The office is clean. There are always the latest magazines to read and games for the kids. The staff and doctor are wonderful." ~Greg

"As a small business owner, I can't help but notice smooth and professional office operations. So often today the customer is not the focus, sadly. I am delighted to say I have recommended Dr. Honig to several friends. Not only for the fine health care my daughter has received, but for the friendly, efficient and always customer focused staff." ~Jackie

"His office is very clean and the staff are wonderful. Dr. Honig is always prompt, he is very knowledgeable and uses the latest technology to assist with his work." ~Sally

Have you had a great experience with Dr. Honig or our team? We would love to hear about it! We welcome patients to connect with us on our interactive Facebook page. Or, you can also give us a call.

Thank you,

Dr. Honig and team

Dr. Honig and the importance of retainers

If you recently completed treatment at the office of Dr. Gordon Honig, we’d like to congratulate you on your beautiful smile! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Honig 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. Honig is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime.

To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Gordon Honig's office, please read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth or give us a call.

Have a great week!

-Dr. Gordon Honig and team

Dr. Honig wants to know: What's on your summer reading list?

Now that summer is in full swing, some of us at Gordon C. Honig have been thinking about how important reading is to helping improve your vocabulary and critical thinking skills. Sometimes it can be difficult to make that initial move of opening up a book, but reading during the summer is a vital step in brain development—and it's fun!

What's on YOUR summer reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great summer reads? Ask us for suggestions, Dr. Honig and our staff would be happy to provide a few suggestions. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas or check out these summer reading ideas that we came across today, courtesy of Barnes & Noble.

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your summer picks or your all-time favorites on our Facebook page!

Staying connected with Dr. Honig and team

At the office of Dr. Gordon Honig, we embrace all forms of technology, whether it’s through the innovative orthodontic treatments Dr. Honig offers or our social networks, including our new Facebook fan 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 Facebook. For social media to work, however, Dr. Honig and staff 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 are unpredictable and ever-changing.

While Dr. Honig and our dedicated 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 over the summer and going forward? What would you like us to share on our blog? Please post your thoughts or give us a call!

Enjoy the weekend everyone!

Featured patient review for Dr. Honig!

Once in a while, Dr. Gordon Honig and our team get patient reviews that make us really proud to do the work we do ever day: creating beautiful smiles for our patients in Delaware. Recently, we received a testimonial from Jim, whose children are patients of ours. Here's what Jim wrote:

"Dr. Honig seems very sincere when he speaks to me or my children - he makes eye contact, which is important. His office staff is extremely friendly and so helpful. Everyone we have come in contact with at the office is very knowledgeable about the procedures the children are undergoing and do not seem to mind all of the questions I am constantly asking. Dr Honig and his staff have turned a very nerve-wracking and apprehensive situation into a very positive and exciting experience so far." ~ Jim E.

Thanks for writing in, Jim! We're glad to create beautiful smiles for your kids!

Ask Dr. Honig: what are cavities and how do people get them?

Newark and Middletown orthodontist Dr. Gordon Honig knows that one word no patient wants to hear when they visit their dentist or orthodontist is "cavity." Oh, those dreaded cavities! But what exactly is a cavity and how do you get one? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger.

So, what causes a cavity? A cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

Yes, cavities can be repaired by your dentist, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities during your treatment with Dr. Honig:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)
• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach
• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink
• Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a check-up

We hope this helps! Give us a call for more info about your oral health or your treatment at Honig Orthodontics!

Dr. Honig and team, helping combat myths about orthodontics

You've probably heard the myths. We've heard them, too. Trust us when we say Dr. Honig and our team are well-aware that there are a lot of myths floating around the topic of orthodontics these days. But, before you buy into those myths, Dr. Honig thinks you should first get the facts! Our pals at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of braces, and we encourage you to check them out before settling for rumors about braces!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment at the office of Dr. Honig, feel free to give us a call! Happy Wednesday!

Fluoride, your pal during orthodontic treatment

There are so many ways you protect your pearly whites during your treatment with Dr. Honig. 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, the 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. Orthodontists like Dr. Honig use in-office fluoride treatments to help protect the oral health of adults and children undergoing orthodontic procedures.

Fluoride used in our 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. Dr. Honig 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.

Lastly, Dr. Honig and our entire team wish you a safe, happy and memorable Memorial Day weekend!

Invisalign Q&A with Dr. Honig

We've discussed the advantage of Invisalign treatment with Dr. Gordon Honig in the past, but today thought we'd answer some burning questions about these clear aligners that are becoming more and more popular with our patients.

How exactly does Invisalign work, Dr. Honig?

Using 3-D computer imaging technology, Invisalign creates a series of custom-made, clear aligners exclusively for your teeth, based on the treatment plan that we specify for you. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.

Will I experience pain during treatment?

Most people experience temporary discomfort for a few days after a new aligner is placed. This feeling of pressure is normal and is a sign that Invisalign is working by sequentially moving your teeth to their final destination.

Are there any foods I shouldn’t eat while in treatment?

You may eat normally during the entire course of treatment. One of the advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. Simply take the aligners out before each meal, brush when you're finished eating, then reinsert the aligners afterward.

What about chewing bubble gum?

We recommend removing your aligners for all meals and snacks, as gum and other chewy substances can stick to the aligners.

How often must I wear my Invisalign aligners?

Aligners should be worn all day, except when eating, brushing, and flossing.

Will my speech be affected by the aligners?

As with any orthodontic treatment, aligners may temporarily affect your speech. If this does happen, your tongue will adjust within a day or two and your speech should return to normal.

How do I go about cleaning my aligners?

The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water.

How often must I visit Dr. Honig's office during treatment?

For most patients, visits every 4-to-6 weeks are frequent enough for us to determine that your treatment is progressing properly. Dr. Honig will provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan.

We encourage you to give us a call and ask away about Invisalign! Enjoy your weekend everyone!!

Tell the world what you think about your treatment with Dr. Honig!

At the office of Gordon C. Honig, we know the long-term benefits of orthodontic treatment can have a significant impact on one's future. Our staff shares our patients' enthusiasm and are thrilled to have the opportunity to play a role in the personal fulfillment and successes of our patients. Our enthusiasm shows every day in our attitude and commitment to making your experience with our practice pleasurable and rewarding.

Whether you've visited our office for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about how Dr. Honig and our team are doing! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice with the rest of the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local page and write a review there.

After all, reviews help Dr. Honig and our team create more beautiful smiles in Newark, Middletown and surrounding communities!

Thank you in advance and enjoy the rest of your week!

Dr. Gordon Honig and team, wishing you a happy Mother's Day

Mother's Day - which, of course, falls this Sunday - is special to all of us. Everyone looks forward to this day to spend time with mom and let her know how special she is to us.

Tell Dr. Honig and team, what are you planning on mom's special day this upcoming Sunday?

Out of ideas? Then check out this helpful video about clever, inexpensive Mother's Day gift ideas, courtesy of Good Morning America. We're sure mom will love whatever you come up with!

Happy Mother's Day, moms! We appreciate you all!

The importance of regular checkups, from Dr. Gordon Honig

Dr. Honig and team want to know: Is your child brushing his or her teeth twice a day while in treatment? If yes, that’s fantastic! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for your child to visit the dentist every six months in addition to brushing their teeth a couple times a day (and visiting Dr. Honig regularly, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can:

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

During an oral exam the doctor will check the health of your child’s mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If your child has not been to the dentist in the last six months, it’s time to schedule an appointment! Just ask us - Dr. Honig will be able to refer a dentist - plenty of great doctors in Newark, Middletown and surrounding communities!

Happy Friday!

Patient question for Dr. Honig: What should I expect during my consultation?

When you first come in for your consultation with Dr. Honig, our office will conduct a comprehensive examination in order to assess your oral health. This will better enable us to determine the best treatment method for you. Then, at your next appointment, Dr. Honig will discuss your orthodontic options with you.

Our staff feels it’s important to take the time to carefully examine your diagnostic records after your consultation so that Dr. Honig can more thoroughly prepare for your treatment. If you are seeking orthodontic treatment for your child, we ask that both you and your child attend the consultation. Give us a call today and schedule a consultation! We look forward to hearing from you!

Ask Dr. Honig: Which toothbrush (and toothpaste) should my child use?

Dr. Gordon Honig and our staff will tell you that brushing your teeth is one of the easiest methods of cavity prevention. But the question remains: which type of toothbrush should your child use? When choosing a toothbrush, look for round-ended (polished) bristles that clean while being gentle on the gums. Choose one that is specifically designed for children's smaller mouths and hands. Also, look for large handles that can help children control the toothbrush. Lastly, throw out a toothbrush after three months or sooner if the bristles are fraying. Frayed bristles have the ability to harm your gums, and are not as effective in cleaning teeth.

As far as which toothpaste is best? It doesn't matter as long as it has fluoride in it. However, for small children who tend to swallow toothpaste, do not use fluoridated toothpaste. Make sure to touch each tooth and every side of that tooth. Also, you do need to gently brush on your gums.

To learn more about choosing the right toothbrush and toothpaste for your child, we encourage you to read this helpful article from Parenthood.com. Or, you may give us a call and we'll try to answer any question you may have about keeping your child's mouth as healthy as possible!

Play it safe this spring, from Dr. Gordon Honig

April, also known as National Facial Protection Month, is upon us, and for Dr. Honig and our staff, that only means one thing: it’s once again time to remind our dear patients to protect their faces and pearly whites. Above is a helpful video from our friends at the AAO about staying safe on the ball field this spring.

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. By simply wearing a properly fitted mouth guard or other form of protection, you can greatly reduce your chances of traumatic facial injuries.

We hope the above video helps. 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 the office of Gordon C. Honig. And remember to have fun and stay safe!

Ask Dr. Honig: What's the connection between my gums and heart?

Have you been told you have gum disease? Don't worry - you're not alone. An estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease or periodontitis. This particular disease ranges from simple gum inflammation to serious disease that can result in major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. In the worst cases, teeth are lost.

While gum disease is a threat to your oral health, research is also pointing to health effects of periodontal diseases that go well beyond your mouth. Recently, our staff at Honig Orthodontics read an article in Parade Magazine that reported a study that indicated an association between gum disease and heart disease. We encourage you to check out the article for tips on how to improve your overall oral health. If you have any questions, please give us a call and we'll answer any concerns you may have!

It's spring! Do you know where your mouth guard is?

Wouldn’t you believe it, it’s already springtime! Dr. Gordon Honig, however, knows that spring months bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of damaging your precious pearly whites. If you play sports, it's important that you consult Dr. Honig for special precautions. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing spring sports such as baseball, lacrosse and soccer. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements Dr. Honig is trying to achieve.

In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances damaged, please schedule an appointment with our office.

Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment with Dr. Honig.

Dr. Gordon C. Honig among the best in Delaware!

In 2009, we were fortunate to be awarded as one of Delaware's top practices by Delaware Today Magazine. We feel that it is the combination of commitment, experience and our progressive attitude toward employing the latest technology and procedures that makes our office unique.

Dr. Honig knows orthodontics can be an exciting and energizing experience for anyone, at any age, and the long-term benefits of orthodontic treatment can have a significant impact on one's future. That's why our staff at the office of Gordon C. Honig share our patients' enthusiasm and are thrilled to have the opportunity to play a role in the personal fulfillment and successes of our patients. Our enthusiasm shows every day in our attitude and commitment to making your experience with our practice both pleasureable and rewarding. We look forward to meeting you and sharing the benefits of orthodontic treatment with you.

Dr. Gordon Honig talks adult orthodontics

Who’s afraid of “metal mouth” and the appearance of braces? Not adults, apparently. According to a new study, adults getting braces has jumped 24 percent since 1996! In fact, did you know one of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over the age of 21? 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—wisely—to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Dr. Gordon Honig can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. Honig and our dedicated team would love to have you visit for a consultation. Give us a call at either our Middletown or Newark location to set one up. Also, have a great weekend!

Ask Dr. Honig: Who really benefits from braces?

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Gordon Honig 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, Dr. Honig says.

If you never received orthodontic treatment when you were young, don’t worry! At the office of Gordon C. Honig, you’re never too old for a beautiful smile. Set up an appointment for a consultation and find out how adult orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, from Dr. Gordon Honig

Each February, the American Dental Association (ADA) sponsors 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 traditional 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. New options for braces such as Invisalign Teen, which is removable, make it easier for kids to maintain good oral health during orthodontic treatment.

If the health of your teeth is ignored during treatment with braces, the results can be significantly compromised. Dr. Honig is available to explain why effective brushing and flossing is one of the most critical actions needed from patients during orthodontic treatment. Have you visited Dr. Honig lately? Give us a call!

With Dr. Honig, quick and easy access to your account online!

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

Patients at the orthodontic office of Gordon C. Honig enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—on our web site. You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages! Just see what some of Dr. Honig‘s patients are saying about this innovative service:

"This is very convenient. I love this service!!" ~ Susan T.

"It is extremely convenient to check on my account during the day at work." ~ Adam L.

"I loved being able to view the pictures of my daughters teeth. I always look forward to seeing how much they have improved. Now I can see before the visit." ~ David G.

"Quick and easily accessible information." ~ Raymond W.

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

Another storm! Be careful out there!

The weather conditions here in Delaware are intense as ever this week! Snow, ice and heavy winds all make for difficult driving and walking conditions. Dr. Honig and our team would like to remind you to be safe when you're out and about! Here's some helpful advice for cold and snowy weather:

1. Winterize your vehicle: This includes checking your tire pressure, inspecting all belts and hoses, making sure the battery is fully charged, switching to a thinner grade of engine oil for better performance in colder temperatures and inspect the wipers and wiper fluid to ensure better visibility.

2. Drive, accelerate, and brake slowly: Make sure you begin to decelerate well in advance of turning a corner. If you go into a skid, turn your wheels into the skid and accelerate slightly to regain control of the vehicle.

3. Pack an emergency road kit and learn common emergency signs: Get to know winter driving basics, such as always having extra oil and antifreeze, blankets and drinking water, and emergency road flares. Your cell phone should be with you at all times, and if you have an extra, keep a spare charger in your vehicle.

4. Learn how to install tire chains: Choose chains that are easy to install, and then practice putting them on and taking them off a few times in your driveway or parking lot.

5. Learn how to fix a flat tire: Flat tires are easy to fix if you have the right tools and you know what to do. Make sure your spare tire is properly inflated and in good condition, and be sure you have a full set of tools, including a good jack that you know how to operate and a lug wrench that will get the job done.

6. Learn how to jump start a car: If you should experience a battery that has lost power, you'll need a set of jumper cables and someone who can lend you a car. This helpful video explains how to properly jump start your vehicle.

Finally, if you don't feel safe going out, you can always reschedule your appointment. At the office of Gordon C. Honig our patients' well-being is our primary concern, and that includes staying safe (and warm) on the roads during this storm!

Dr. Honig wants to know: What do you love about our community?

The orthodontic office of Gordon C. Honig, located in Newark and Middletown, and serving surrounding communities, is situated around some pretty special neighborhoods. Each is unique with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our amazing patients) living within.

Today, Dr. Honig and our team thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about Newark or Middletown? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps a favorite Delaware getaway?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in Newark, Middletown or other local communities, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods.” And, who knows, Dr. Honig and team just might post your response on our social networks! Enjoy the rest of your week!

Dr. Honig wants to know: Are there teeth grinders in your house?

Grind, grind, grind ... grind. If you live with a teeth grinder, especially a night grinder, you may be familiar with this unpleasant sound. Other symptoms of teeth grinding (also called “bruxism”) include:

• Sensitivity in the teeth
• Tightness or pain in the jaw
• Dull headaches, earaches, or facial pain
• Chipped, worn down, or loose teeth

People frequently grind their teeth in response to stress, so taking measures to reduce or eliminate stress can help solve the problem, says Dr. Honig. Here are some things you can try to stop grinding:

• Cut back on caffeine and alcohol
• Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
• Relax right before bedtime with a warm bath or shower
• Help your jaw learn to relax by quitting any chewing habits (pens, pencils, gum)
• When clenching or grinding happens during the day, place your tongue between your teeth to serve as a reminder to avoid the habit

Also, breathing exercises are a must. Daily physical activity, tai chi and yoga can all make a big difference in preventing teeth grinding.

If grinding goes untreated, it can lead to chipped teeth, worn enamel, chronic pain, or even TMJ, a painful jaw disorder. If the teeth-grinder in your house can’t stop, schedule an appointment to see us by giving us a call. Then, Dr. Honig can help determine the cause of the problem and possibly even prescribe a custom mouthpiece to help break the habit.

Hope this helps! Enjoy the rest of your week!

As Dr. Honig: When should my child visit your office?

Many parents assume they must wait until a child has all of his or her permanent teeth to come in and see Dr. Honig, only to find that treatment would have been much easier if started earlier.

Ok, so what’s so great about age seven, you ask? The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, recommends that every child receive an initial orthodontic examination as early as age seven. The timing of orthodontic treatment is extremely important and greatly affects the treatment result. Since no two patients are alike, there is not a specific age that is best to begin orthodontic treatment at Gordon C. Honig, DMD.

For more information, or if your child is nearing age 7, give us a call to schedule an appointment.

Enjoy the rest of your week!

Dr. Honig and team want to know: What are you up to in January?

The New Year is here, and, believe it or not, we’re only a couple of months away from spring! Dr. Honig and our team thought we'd ask: What are you doing in January? Any big mid-winter break plans? Anything exciting going on in your life?

If you have any photos or videos that you would like to share with us, please send them our way or call our offices and ask how! Have a great rest of the week!

Is Invisalign® really customized for each patient? Dr. Honig has the answer

Part of what makes it work Invisalign treatment work is that it's customizable for just about anyone, says Dr. Honig. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next Dr. Honig and our team use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. And since the aligners are virtually invisible, nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Honig is a certified Invisalign provider. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, give us a call.