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!