Brodsky Orthodontics has a new web site!

If you happened to be browsing through our web site recently you might have noticed our new design, which has a refined, modern look that exudes warmth and is aesthetically appealing.

The website has many great features that we know you will enjoy and are very user friendly, innovative components including: patient testimonials, staff bios, before and after photos as well as links to our social networking sites. If you want to make your payment online, it’s a snap - just click on "Patient Login" at the top of the page. The site also has a virtual tour of the office and information about all aspects of orthodontic treatment, including TMJ problems, sleep apnea and iCAT 3D x-rays. If you would like to know more about Invisalign, we have two pages of information devoted to the topic with links to our YouTube page.

This website was personally designed by the doctors with you in mind. We have a terrific and beautiful office where patient care comes first. We hope that when you visit our website you will feel proud to be associated with our unique practice, which embraces technology.

While visiting our site, please click on the link to our Facebook Fan Page and become a fan of Brodsky Orthodontics. This is where you can get all the latest up-to-date information about what’s happening at Brodsky Orthodontics.

So... what do you think? Let us know by posting here or giving us a call!

Invisalign Tips, from Drs. Joel and Charles Brodsky

Many people know that Invisalign is a great solution to braces if you don't want to experience the look and feel of traditional metal braces. What few people know, though, is that just like traditional braces, Invisalign requires proper care to work effectively.

Good oral hygiene is highly important, even when you are wearing something in your mouth that you can take out to eat with. It's still likely that your aligners can build up plaque if not treated properly. When wearing your Invisalign aligners, ask yourself the following questions:

1.) Am I eating with my aligners on? - These aligners are removable and should be taken out when you eat.
2.) Am I drinking anything other than water with my aligners on? - Though it's not a necessity for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky a soda is. If you take out your aligners when drinking a soda, you have a better chance of keeping your aligners clean.
3.) Am I brushing before putting the trays on? - The aligners have both an inside and outside. Keeping the outside clean is easy. Keeping the inside clean is also easy: just make sure you've brushed your teeth before putting the trays on.

These are all very simple steps, Drs. Brodsky say, and ultimately, they help to keep you building good oral habits.

If you have any questions about Invisalign or your treatment here at Brodsky Orthodontics, give us a call!

It's January 4th, and we are glad to be back in the office!

Happy New Year from Brodsky Orthodontics!

Drs. Brodsky and our team at Brodsky Orthodontics wish you all a safe, healthy and happy New Year! We are looking forward to seeing you on January 4!

Happy Holidays from Brodsky Orthodontics!

The holiday season is upon us, and as Drs. Brodsky and their team at Brodsky Orthodontics reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What’s your favorite part about the holidays? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for the new year? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year?

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

--The team at Brodsky Orthodontics

When should you call Brodsky Orthodontics?

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Brodsky Orthodontics for treatment. 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 us a call today!
Hope this helps, and Happy Monday!

--The team at Brodsky Orthodontics

Patient reviews for Brodsky Orthodontics

Brodsky Orthodontics, serving Lakewood and surrounding communities, has been receiving some great patient testimonials lately! Check out what our current patients are saying about Drs. Brodsky and team! Have a great week!

"Very friendly staff and modern office. Patient and courteous doctors." ~ Karmela V.

"The staff so far have been outstanding and do their best to work with you. I have to have a gadget screwed to my upper palate and am mortified but have confidence in the staff when they say it will not be that bad. Staff are also very friendly." ~ Janira B.

"I have known Dr. Brodsky for a very long time as all four of my children have come to his office for orthodontics. His office is very cheerful and Dr. Brodsky and his staff are wonderful." ~ Cindy F.

"The staff (of course!!) All of you are so personable to myself and my whole family. I appreciate the time you take to make us comfortable while in your office. My twins love it there and cannot wait to get their appliances on!!!" ~ Traci G.

What Do You Love About Brodsky Orthodontics?

From your very first visit to our orthodontic office, the team at Brodsky Orthodontics strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. Have you been especially impressed by our orthodontists? Did our front office team go out of their way to make your day? Do you love your new smile?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for generations, we’d love to hear your feedback on our networks. Or, you can tell us by giving us a call!

Thank you,
Brodsky Orthodontics and the Brodsky Orthodontics Team

Brodsky Orthodontics want to know: What did you do in November?

Believe it or not, we’re almost in December – and in full holiday mode! But before you go celebrating, Drs. Brodsky and team want to know: Did you do anything exciting this month? Do you have plans for Thanksgiving? If so, we'd love to hear all about it!

You may share your stories with us here, on our social networks or by giving us a call!
--The team at Brodsky Orthodontics

Now that I have braces, what can I eat? Brodsky Orthodontics Explain

You just got braces and the Brodsky Orthodontics 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 from the iron. Keep waffles warm on a plate under a clean dishtowel while the others bake.

Enjoy this braces-friendly treat! From Brodsky Orthodontics

Keeping you safe this cold & flu season, from Brodsky Orthodontics

Traditionally cold and flu season starts in Fall, but this year it seems to have started much earlier and with the number of patients canceling appointments because of flu and H1N1 symptoms our office is taking additional precautions to help prevent the spread of germs.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, we give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our office at all times as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces.

For the protection of other patients, our doctors and our staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

Maintaining and protecting oral hygiene equipment is also important this flu season. To protect your toothbrush from bacteria follow these steps:

• 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 toothbrush after every cold or flu or every 3-4 months when bristles appear worn

Hope this helps! Stay healthy!

--Brodsky Orthodontics

The Myths and Facts of Orthodontics -- From Drs. Brodsky

There are quite a few myths about orthodontists circulating around. Before you buy into those myths, you should get the facts! We here at Brodsky Orthodontics 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 orthodontists, check them out today!

http://www.braces.org/mythsandfacts/index.cfm

Hope this helps,

--Drs. Joel and Charles Brodsky and staff

A Spooky Good Time At Brodsky Orthodontics

Halloween is right around the corner and that means lots of tricks and treats for our patients! This year we are turning our office into a Haunted House Maze on Thursday October 29th from 6:00-7:30pm. Both doctors will be dressed up and scaring patients in the haunted maze. Outside of the haunted house (in our parking lot), we will have a few different Halloween games for all of our patients to participate in. Many great prizes and gift certificate will be given out to the winners.


During the month of October we also have our Annual Pumpkin Decorating Contest. All patients can participate and judging has three different age groups for MOST CREATIVE and FAVORITE HALLOWEEN THEME. Bring your pumpkin into the office before October 28th and receive 2 Rewards Points. You can either use a real pumpkin or a plastic one.



Real pumpkins can only be PAINTED and cannot have anything poking into them. NO LEAKERS WILL BE ACCEPTED. Gluing onto a real pumpkin is acceptable. Plastic pumpkins can be cut and embellished. Judging will take place on October 29th at NOON and winners will be announced at our Halloween Event. If you would like your pumpkin back for Halloween, please pick it up on October 29th at our Haunted House.

This is a fun event for every age. We hope to see you there!




--Brodsky Orthodontics

National Dental Hygiene Month

Did you know that October is National Dental Hygiene Month? Fall is here, and Halloween is coming soon, but now it is more important than ever to maintain good oral hygiene.

All 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! After eating these candies, be sure to wash your mouth out with water, drink milk or eat a few slices of cheese. These will help neutralize the acid in your mouth (wait at least one hour before brushing your teeth with toothpaste, as this can actually increase the effects of acid on your teeth)

Besides cavities and tooth decay, many people do not realize that good oral health and hygiene are important to your overall health too! Research is discovering the connection between periodontal disease and other major health concerns, such as heart disease! Therefore, it is important to maintain a good oral hygiene routine: see your dentist every six months, brush and floss daily and use an antibacterial mouthwash.

Make a resolution to improve your oral health for October, the National Dental Hygiene Month!

--Brodsky Orthodontics

Answering All Your Burning Questions About Mouthwash

While mouthwash is not an alternative to regular brushing and flossing, it can help keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. There are several different types of mouthwashes available, and all of them will help do different things for your smile. The most common types of mouthwashes are:

• Fluoride - fluoride is the most used type of mouthwash available, and is used to strengthen the enamel of the teeth while preventing cavities and tooth decay.

• Antiseptic - an antiseptic mouthwash is used to kill bacteria and germs in the mouth. Most commonly used before and after a dental surgery, antiseptic mouthwashes can also help to fight gum disease, and halitosis (chronic bad breath). Antiseptic mouthwashes can affect your sense of taste and may stain the teeth, so it is recommended that you consult your dentist before using this type of mouthwash.

• Combination - a combination mouthwash is designed to help prevent tooth decay, freshen the breath, and maintain the health of your smile.

• Prescription - for patients with gum disease, or any signs of gum disease, you may need a prescription mouthwash. Prescription mouthwashes, like Peridex of PerioGard, are used to treat gingivitis, and other forms of decay.

There are also many different brands of mouthwash. Some common brands include:

• Scope
• Listerine
• Act
• Crest
• Tom’s of Maine (all-natural)
• Plax (anti-plaque rinse)
• Breath Rx
• Orajel
• Targon (special mouthwash made for smokers)
• Rembrandt (whitening mouthwash)


If you are curious about which kind of mouthwash would work best for you, be sure to ask us at your next appointment. If you have a favorite mouthwash, let us know by posting a comment for others to read!

--Brodsky Orthodontics

More About Orthodontics From Brodsky Orthodontics

There are so many questions about orthodontics that we never ask, so Dr. Brodsky & Dr. Charles took some time to explain the most common concerns.

At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?

Orthodontic treatment can be started at any age. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected at an early age before jaw growth has slowed. Early treatment may mean that a patient can avoid surgery and more serious complications. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child first visit an orthodontist by age seven or earlier if a problem is detected by parents, the family dentist or the child's physician.

What is Phase I and Phase II treatment?

Phase I, or early interceptive treatment, is limited orthodontic treatment (i.e. expander, Herbst, Facemask, headgear, or partial braces) before all of the permanent teeth have erupted. Such treatment can occur between the ages of six and ten. This treatment is sometimes recommended to make more space for developing teeth, correction of crossbites, overbites, underbites, or harmful oral habits. Phase II treatment is also called comprehensive treatment, because it involves full braces when all of the permanent teeth have erupted, usually between the ages of eleven and thirteen.

Would an adult patient benefit from orthodontics?

Absolutely!! Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age. Everyone wants a beautiful and healthy smile. Between 30-40% of our patients are adults.

How does orthodontic treatment work?

Braces use steady gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into their proper positions. The brackets that are placed on your teeth and the arch wire that connects them are the main components. When the arch wire is placed into the brackets, it tries to return to its original shape. As it does so, it applies pressure to move your teeth to their new, more ideal positions.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Treatment times vary on a case-by-case basis, but the average time is from one to two years. Actual treatment time can be affected by rate of growth and severity of the correction necessary. Treatment length is also dependent upon patient compliance. Maintaining good oral hygiene and keeping regular appointments are important in keeping your treatment time on schedule.

Do braces hurt?

The placement of bands and brackets on your teeth does not hurt. Once your braces are placed and connected with the arch wires, you may feel some soreness of your teeth for one to four days. Your lips and cheeks may need one to two weeks to get used to the braces on your teeth.

Will braces interfere with playing sports?

No. It is recommended, however, that patients protect their smiles by wearing a mouth guard when participating in any sporting activity. Mouth guards are inexpensive, comfortable, and come in a variety of colors and patterns.

Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?

No. However, there may be an initial period of adjustment. In addition, brace covers or wax can be provided to prevent discomfort.

Should I see my general dentist while I have braces?

Yes, you should continue to see your general dentist every six months for cleaning and dental checkups, or more frequently as recommended.

Got more questions? Give us a call at Brodsky Orthodontics. We'd love to hear from you.

Join the conversation on Facebook!

Did you know Brodsky Orthodontics is on Facebook? We have recently created a fan page, where you can ask us questions, learn about contests and events at the office, and show your support of our office by becoming a fan!

Right now we are looking for suggestions for our Halloween costumes, leave a comment today! We are also giving away a limited supply of Knott's Scary Farm coupons, give us a call to claim yours while supplies last!

--Brodsky Orthodontics

Oral Piercing: Is It Worth It?

Piercing, like tattooing, is one of today’s popular forms of “body art” and self-expression. If you’re thinking about getting a piercing – or if you already have one or more – there are some health risks you should know about.

Your mouth contains millions of bacteria, and infection is a common complication of oral piercing. Just touching your mouth jewelry (tongue barbells and lip and cheek labrettes) can lead to infection. Many people who have piercings tend to regularly touch them – which is a perfect opportunity for bacteria from hands to enter piercing sites. Also, food particles that collect around piercing sites can lead to infection.

Pain and swelling are other possible side effects of piercing. Your tongue – the most popular piercing site in the mouth – could swell large enough to close off your airway! Piercing also can cause uncontrollable bleeding or nerve damage. Damage to the tongue’s blood vessels can cause serious blood loss.

The hoop, ring, stud, and barbell-shaped jewelry can hinder your ability to talk and eat. Some people also develop a habit of biting or playing with their piercings – which can lead to cracked, scratched teeth; gum damage and recession; and sensitive teeth. There may also be a need for restorations, such as crowns or fillings, and additional dental treatment due to piercings.

Consider the potential pitfalls of piercing carefully before getting one. Keep in mind that it will be an added responsibility to your life, and will need regular upkeep. Make sure that you’re committed to the task of taking care of it for the full healing period and beyond.

If you have an oral piercing, pay special attention to it. Clean the piercing with antiseptic mouthwash after eating, and brush the jewelry when you brush your teeth. Of course, let us know if you have any questions.

--Brodsky Orthodontics

Softly Brushing Your Way to Clean Teeth with Brodsky Orthodontics

Just as there are so many different types of toothbrushes to choose from, each brush also has a different type of bristle! There are generally three different types of bristles; hard, medium, and soft. We always recommend that our patients, especially children and seniors, use a soft bristled toothbrush.

Using a hard and medium bristled brush can actually harm your teeth and gums by stripping the enamel from the teeth and irritating the gums so that they become red and sore, and can even cause gum recession. If you do use a hard or medium bristled brush as a personal preference, we recommend using an electric toothbrush.

Soft bristles are much gentler on your teeth and gums, and while patients of all ages are recommended to use soft bristled brushes, they are particularly great for children, seniors, patients recovering from a dental procedure, and patients wearing braces.

Soft bristles, and even extra-soft bristles are every bit as effective when it comes to cleaning your teeth; in fact, if you currently use a hard or medium bristled brush, try a soft bristled brush next time you buy a toothbrush and we bet you won’t even notice a difference!

--Brodsky Orthodontics

Brodsky Orthodontics Around the Web

If you've ever visited us at Brodsky Orthodontics, you already know that we love connecting with our patients. We love the ability to communicate with all of you online too! Besides our web site and our blog, Brodsky Orthodontics is on many other networks too!

* Become a "fan" of Brodsky Orthodontics on Facebook

* View and comment on our photos on MySpace

See you around the web!

--Brodsky Orthodontics

20th Annual Skate Depot Summer Party, with Brodsky Orthodontics

This past Tuesday evening from 6-8pm, Brodsky Orthodontics held its 20th Annual Skate Depot Summer Party in Cerritos for all of their patients. Approximately 350 patients and friends showed up for this fabulous event. The evening started with a free skate around the ring. After about one hour, everyone did the “hokey pokey” and turned themselves around. The evening concluded with a raffle where 10 lucky patients won a gift certificate to Golden Spoon.



Many Brodsky Orthodontics team members were seen slowly making their way around the ring. Both Dr. Charles and Dr. Brodsky made multiple appearances skating around the ring. Dr. Charles decided to go with in-line rollerblade skates, while Dr. B chose to go with the more “traditional” skates. Thankfully, neither doctor was seen falling.

Thanks for attending this wonderful exciting event. If for some reason anyone was unable to make it this year, we look forward to seeing you on skates next August.