The Blog of Gerald Ginsberg, DDS

Orthodontic fun facts, from Dr. Ginsberg

2012-01-26T15:54:00.000-08:00

Everyone loves fun facts. Fun, fun, fun! The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that Dr. Ginsberg and our team thought you might enjoy. • 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.

The benefits of dairy, from Dr. Ginsberg

2012-01-18T11:04:00.000-08:00

Dr. Gerald Ginsberg wants to know: Is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, it should be! A study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) 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.

The benefits of a beautiful smile

2012-01-12T14:47:00.001-08:00

Dr. Gerald Ginsberg 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 with Dr. Ginsberg. 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.

Need a New Year’s Resolution? How about a healthier, more beautiful smile?

2012-01-06T11:51:00.001-08:00

2012 is here, and it's a great time of year to get started on a lifetime of straight, dazzling and confident smiles. Dr. Gerald Ginsberg offers some of today's most innovative orthodontic technologies that can straighten your smile in less time than you ever imagined. Not only do today’s braces and other orthodontic treatments straighten teeth quicker, they also offer greater comfort for the patient and require fewer visits to our office.

So if obtaining a healthy, beautiful smile is one of your New Year’s resolutions, we invite you to give us a call to schedule an orthodontic consultation with Dr. Ginsberg.

Happy New Year from Dr. Ginsberg and team!

2011-12-30T11:38:00.000-08:00

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 Dr. Ginsberg and team!

Season's Greetings from Dr. Ginsberg and team

2011-12-20T14:55:00.000-08:00

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as our team at Dr. Gerald Ginsberg's office reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What do you love about the holidays this year? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for 2012? 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!

--Dr. Ginsberg and team

5 ways you can avoid plaque

2011-12-16T11:21:00.000-08:00

At Dr. Gerald Ginsberg's office, 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 Dr. Ginsberg. If you have any questions, give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Have you had a check-up lately?

2011-12-09T10:40:00.000-08:00

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.

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. Ginsberg will be happy to provide a few great references here in the area!

-- Dr. Ginsberg & Team

Are you wearing your mouth guard?

2011-12-02T15:17:00.000-08:00

With winter sports right around the corner, many patients of Dr. Gerald Ginsberg will once again pick up the ball, bring the cleats out of seasonal retirement and hit the fields and courts for the return of sports action! During this time, however, Dr. Gerald Ginsberg and our team 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. Gerald Ginsberg and 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!

From Dr. Ginsberg: Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-21T07:26:00.000-08:00

Dr. Gerald Ginsberg and team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. It's a big food holiday, so be careful what you eat!

If you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we'd encourage you to post them to our Facebook page or call our office and ask how.

Gobble Gobble!

Ask Dr. Ginsberg: Who benefits from braces?

2011-11-18T12:24:00.000-08:00

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Gerald Ginsberg 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!

Happy Veteran's Day from Dr. Ginsberg and Dr. Becker

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

Happy Veteran's Day! Today is a day to thank all military veterans and the men and women currently on active duty that put their lives on the line for the freedoms we all enjoy.

In celebration of Veteran’s Day, Dr. Ginsberg and Dr. Becker and our team would like to share a few fun facts about our flag, this national holiday, and our country’s history!

-Veterans 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 Veterans Day on June 1, 1954, changing the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veterans 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).

-Veterans 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. Veterans 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

We are so thankful for all who have and are currently serving in the U.S. and overseas!

Are you wearing your mouth guard?

2011-11-07T11:19:00.000-08:00

With fall sports close to wrapping up and winter sports right around the corner, many patients here with Dr. Ginsberg 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, Dr. Ginsberg and our team 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. Ginsberg and 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!

Invisalign tips from Dr. Gerald Ginsberg

2011-11-02T13:57:00.000-07:00

Many people know that Invisalign is a great alternative 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, Dr. Gerald Ginsberg wants you to 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 necessary for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky 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 simple: just make sure you've brushed your teeth before putting the trays on.

These are all very simple steps, and ultimately, they help to keep you building good oral habits. If you have any questions about Invisalign or your treatment give us a call!

Halloween TIPS from the American Association of Orthodontists

2011-10-27T15:24:00.000-07:00

It’s almost that spooky time of year again and Dr. Gerald Ginsberg 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. Ginsberg suggests 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 all of us!

The advantage of Invisalign Teen

2011-10-19T13:33:00.000-07:00

Dr. Gerald Ginsberg knows image is everything. At an age when image is so important, the thought of having metal brackets and wires constantly attached to teeth may intensify the already-delicate confidence of today's teens. But... not to worry! There is a clear alternative to traditional braces! Dr. Ginsberg and his team thought we'd remind you that Invisalign Teen™ gives you a whole new way to wear braces for a "clearly" amazing smile!

So how does Invisalign Teen work, you ask? Much in the same fashion as Invisalign, but with a few added characteristics tailored specifically to teenagers’ lifestyles. For instance, Invisalign Teen is designed with “compliance indicators” that fade from dark to light during the two week period that particular tray is used and once it has faded teens know to change trays. Each aligner comes with up to six free individual replacement aligners in case the original aligner ends up lost or broken. Another big benefit for the patient!

The treatment period for Invisalign Teen varies from nine to 18 months. If your teen is considering orthodontic treatment, please contact us and we’ll answer any questions you may have about Invisalign Teen.

Delicious braces-friendly fall recipe from Dr. Ginsberg

2011-10-10T15:04:00.000-07:00

Fall is here, and sometimes Dr. Ginsberg just feels like a hot delicious meal is in order. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) made an appetizing (and braces-friendly!) fall dish that is sure to delight. Dr. Ginsberg would like to remind you that a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps you achieve the best possible result from your orthodontic treatment.

Pasta Pomodorini
Ingredients:
• ¾ pound spaghetti or spaghetti
• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• ¼ cup sliced garlic
• ½ teaspoon finely minced Calabrian chilies, or 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 pint small cherry tomatoes, stems removed, crushed between your thumb and forefinger
• Sea salt, preferably gray salt
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, each torn into 2 or 3 pieces
• Wedge of Parmesan cheese

Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta. While the pasta cooks, heat the 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over moderate heat. Add the garlic and cook until the slivers are golden brown and crisp, then add the chilies and cook for about 30 seconds. Raise the heat to high and add the tomatoes. Simmer briskly to soften the tomatoes and thicken the juices, about 3 minutes. Season with salt. When the pasta is al dente, scoop out about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta. Return the pasta to the warm pot off the heat. Add the sauce and the basil and mix well. Add some of the reserved cooking water if the pasta seems dry. Transfer to a warmed serving bowl and grate Parmesan over the top to taste. Drizzle with a little more olive oil. Serve immediately. Makes 4 servings.

Enjoy this great fall dish and have a great week!
--From Dr. Ginsberg and staff

You are never too old for braces!

2011-10-07T09:45:00.000-07:00

Who’s afraid of “metal mouth” and the appearance of braces? Not adults, apparently. Recently, Dr. Ginsberg 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. Ginsberg 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. Ginsberg would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

When should you call Dr. Ginsberg?

2011-09-30T15:57:00.000-07:00

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Dr. Gerald Ginsberg. 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 as soon as possible!

Hope this helps!

Dr. Ginsberg answers your Invisalign questions

2011-09-22T16:33:00.000-07:00

Are you wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you're in treatment? You're not alone in your concerns! Dr. Gerald Ginsberg and our team thought we’d share this list of questions and answers for anyone pondering Invisalign treatment at our office.

How exactly does Invisalign work?
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.

Can other people see that I'm in treatment?
One of the benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.

Can I smoke during treatment?
We discourage smoking while wearing the aligners as they may become discolored.

Are there any foods I shouldn’t eat while in treatment?
You can 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 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 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 clean my aligners?
The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water.

How often must I visit the office during treatment
For most patients, visits every 4-6 weeks are frequent enough for us to determine that your treatment is progressing properly. We will provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan.

If you have additional questions about the Invisalign treatment, please give our office a call.

A few helpful webisodes about orthodontics, from Dr. Ginsberg

2011-09-12T13:53:00.000-07:00

Dr. Ginsberg and his team 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 Gerald Ginsberg, DDS, please give us a call.

Orthodontic emergency? Dr. Ginsberg is here for you.

2011-09-09T15:46:00.000-07:00

At Gerald Ginsberg, DDS, we know orthodontic emergencies are never convenient nor timely. If you are a patient of record, Dr. Ginsberg and our team are committed to your dental health and are more than willing to see you after hours or over the weekend. 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 to resolve the problem. If you have a orthodontic emergency after regular office hours, please give us a call. If you are calling us after hours, please follow the emergency prompts to learn how you may be able to solve the problem yourself, or, if you cannot, how to contact Dr. Ginsberg and team.

Common issues include:
*Broken Brace
*Broken Wires
*Tie has come off of a Brace
*Loose Expander
*Poking Wire Tie
*Sharpness Felt on the Tongue Side of a Brace
*Loss of a Separator
*Initial Soreness
*Wire Poking

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you visit our office.

Eating for orthodontic success with Dr. Ginsberg

2011-09-02T09:48:00.000-07:00

You just got braces at Gerald Ginsberg, DDS and Dr. Ginsberg 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!

20 things that can ruin your smile, from Dr. Ginsberg

2011-08-26T16:43:00.000-07:00

At Dr. Ginsberg's office, 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
- Bottled water
- Tobacco
- Wine
- Soft drinks
- Citrus and acidic foods

Dr. Ginsberg 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 office. For more tips or for general questions about your ongoing orthodontic treatment, we invite you to ask Dr. Ginsberg during your next visit! We also invite you to ask us on Facebook!

A great braces-friendly recipe! From Dr. Ginsberg

2011-08-15T17:12:00.000-07:00

Summer is finally here, and that means it’s time for some refreshing recipes! 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 Dr. Ginsberg and staff

Typical Ortho [Video]

2011-08-12T14:04:00.000-07:00

Have you seen this video? If not, we encourage everyone to check it out! You're definitely guaranteed a good laugh :)

Regular checkups are essential to maintain good oral health

2011-08-05T15:35:00.000-07:00

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 Dr. Gerald Ginsberg's office, 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 the greater Pheonixville and Plymouth Meeting area!

Is Invisalign really customized for each patient?

2011-07-28T14:55:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work, says Dr. Gerald Ginsberg. 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 we 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. The best thing about it all? Nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Ginsberg is a certified Invisalign provider in Phoenixville and Plymouth Meeting. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, please give us a call.

How to freshen your breath, with Dr. Ginsberg

2011-07-22T16:16:00.000-07:00

Dr. Gerald Gindberg, your Phoenixville and Plymouth Meeting orthodontist, recognizes that many of our patients are concerned about bad breath, or halitosis. While some cases of bad breath are persistent (chronic bad breath), generally bad breath is transient, and can be prevented.

We recently came across this helpful video about bad breath and thought it was worth sharing with our patients. The video explains what might cause bad breath and some ways that it can be avoided. In most instances, bad breath can be prevented by practicing common oral hygiene techniques that you have probably heard us emphasize during a visit to our office, such as brushing and flossing daily. We encourage you to watch this video for additional tips on how to keep bad breath at bay. Enjoy!

What’s on your summer reading list?

2011-07-15T13:46:00.001-07:00

With summer in full swing, some of us at Dr. Ginsberg's office 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 during the summer is a vital step in brain development and warding off the dreaded “summer slide.” Plus, it's fun!

Today, we thought we’d ask: 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, and our staff and Dr. Ginsberg 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!

Orthodontic Emergency Care with Dr. Ginsberg

2011-07-08T15:24:00.000-07:00

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. Ginsberg.

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

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, headgear becomes more comfortable the more it's worn, 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. 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.

Dr. Ginsberg asks: What are your 4th of July plans?

2011-07-01T09:40:00.000-07:00

This coming Monday, July 4th, is Independence Day and the United States of America will be turning 235 years old! It’s a day to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence and also a time for every American to pay homage to our soldiers, past and present, who have placed themselves in harm’s way so that we may continue to enjoy our freedom.

Dr. Ginsberg and team will be celebrating this Monday and we would like to know, what are your plans for the 4th of July? Will you be out in the sun? Have you stocked up on fireworks? Are you going to grill up your favorite summer foods? Are you staying in town or heading somewhere else? If you have a 4th of July tradition, we would love to hear about it.

Whatever you plan to do, Dr. Ginsberg hopes you have a fun and safe holiday! Feel free to upload your 4th of July photos to our Facebook page and let us know how your Independence Day turned out this year.

Stay Cool with a Braces-Friendly Summer Treat!

2011-06-25T11:40:00.001-07:00

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 from Dr. Ginsberg & Team

Smile! June is National Smile Month!

2011-06-17T16:02:00.000-07:00

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 Gerald Ginsberg DDS to support National Smile Month this June.

Here 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 every day to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Ginsberg.
* 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.

The Gerald Ginsberg, DDS Annual Good Patient Contest

2011-06-06T15:41:00.000-07:00

Each year, Dr. Ginsberg sponsors a Good Patient Contest to recognize all of our exceptional orthodontic patients. To be eligible for our contest, you must arrive to your appointment on time, with nothing broken and have good oral hygiene. We draw names among the many children that are eligible.

Congratulations to our 2010 Good Patient Award winners. What a great job you all did! Our first place winners are Matt C. from our Phoenixville office, and Nicholas S. from Plymouth Meeting. The second place winners are Antonio D. of our Plymouth Meeting office, and Isabella T. from the Phoenixville office. Our third place winners are Joseph S. from the Phoenixville office and Zarabella D. from the Plymouth Meeting office.

Pennsylvania orthodontist Dr. Ginsberg lectures to our local dental community

2011-06-01T09:13:00.000-07:00

If you know Dr. Ginsberg, than you know how active he is in our local Phoenixville and Plymouth Meeting communities. He's always attending continuing education conferences and seminars so that he can stay on the cutting edge of current orthodontic treatments. This Thursday, June 2, Dr. Ginsberg is pleased to share that he will be lecturing to orthodontists in the Philadelphia area.

If you’ve got an appointment scheduled with us soon, Dr. Ginsberg invites you to ask him about this lecture and how continuing education and acquisition of new technology helps us serve you more effectively. Have a great week everyone!

After finishing a busy lecture series, Dr. Ginsberg is ready for summer!

2011-05-26T08:56:00.000-07:00

When Dr. Gerald Ginsberg isn't creating beautiful smiles for our Phoenixville and Plymouth Meeting, PA patients, he enjoys maintaining an active lecture schedule. Over the last several months, Dr. Ginsberg has lectured to orthodontic residents at Eastman University Rochester, New York, University of Pennsylvania, and the State University of New York at Stony Brook. In February and March he lectured to groups of Orthodontists in Philadelphia, PA, and Wilkes Barre, PA.

Dr. Ginsberg is always keeping busy. When he isn't working, he is riding his bike or traveling around the world to share his experience with Invisalign and other orthodontic techniques. Dr. Ginsberg has lectured to fellow orthodontists and industry professionals in the United States, Costa Rica, Europe, and China. Isn't it nice to know that your orthodontist is an accredited and respected leader within the orthodontic industry?

Dr. Ginsberg supports National Physical Fitness and Sports Month!

2011-05-20T17:55:00.000-07:00

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 Gerald Ginsberg, DDS, 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.

Distinguishing the myths and facts about orthodontics

2011-05-13T14:54:00.000-07:00

Trust us when we say Dr. Ginsberg and our staff 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! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists set the record straight (no pun intended) and have provided some information that sheds some light 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 Gerald Ginsberg DDS, feel free to give us a call.

Dr. Ginsberg at the 2011 AAO Annual Session in Chicago

2011-05-06T11:53:00.000-07:00

Patients at Dr. Gerald Ginsberg's office can feel confident they are receiving the very best in orthodontic health care. Dr. Ginsberg’s goal is to give his patients a fun, educational, beneficial orthodontic experience, resulting in a smile that they are excited to share! As part of Dr. Ginsberg’s work as an orthodontist, our team will be attending the 2011 AAO Annual Session.

The AAO Annual Session is one of the largest orthodontic conventions in the world, and this year’s theme is “Changes, Challenges, Choices.” Dr. Ginsberg looks forward to consulting with dental experts and orthodontists from around the country to stay on the cutting edge of current orthodontic treatments and always offer the most sophisticated treatment options. The 111th AAO Annual Session is being held in Chicago May 13-17, 2011.

In addition to being a proud member of the American Association of Orthodontists, Dr. Ginsberg is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics and a member of some prestigious institutions including the American Dental Association, College of Diplomates of The American Board of Orthodontics, Montgomery County Dental Society, Pennsylvania Dental Society, Pennsylvania Association of Orthodontists, Middle Atlantic Society of Orthodontists and the Greater Philadelphia Association of Orthodontists.

Five tips to avoid plaque

2011-04-28T16:08:00.000-07:00

Dr. Gerald Ginsberg and our team know nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth, much less hearing the word 'plaque.' Here are five other ways you can avoid that dreaded enemy of the teeth, courtesy of our friends at WebMD.

Let’s start with not 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 not flossing daily: a simple daily flossing between teeth and braces clears away plaque before it can cause damage and can also clean plaque at the gum line. Please let us know if you need any tips for flossing with braces!

Dr. Ginsberg recommends that you visit your dentist every 6 months (or as recommended) for regular checkups. Let’s say you brush and floss daily. You’re still at risk for plaque. With time, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar. If you visit your dentist at least twice a year (in addition to visiting Dr. Ginsberg) you will have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your teeth.

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.

Finally, before you pick that candy up, 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 will help ensure the success of your orthodontic treatment. If you have any questions, please give us a call or schedule an appointment!

Dr. Ginsberg, taking steps to become more green

2011-04-21T09:03:00.000-07:00

We are living in an age with a renewed commitment to conservation, and are frequently reminded to recycle, reduce and reuse. Earth Day is this Friday, April 22nd, and we thought this would a great time to discuss the things that Gerald Ginsberg DDS does to conserve our natural resources and the environment.

Did you know that we offer patients account access 24 hours a day, seven days a week? Our office has convenient and secure online services with Sesame 24-7™. You can view all of your financial information online, and even pay bills through our website. Patients can also receive appointment reminders through email or text messages. Since this information is submitted electronically, we eliminate the use of large amounts of paper and printing materials.

Dr. Ginsberg and our team would love to hear how you minimize your impact on the environment. Leave us a comment below or you can also visit our Facebook page and post something on our wall.

Happy Earth Day!

Join the Braces Brigade!

2011-04-15T13:29:00.000-07:00

At Gerald Ginsberg DDS, 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 Gerald Ginsberg DDS 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 Dr. Ginsberg!

Flossing with braces, from Dr. Ginsberg

2011-04-08T10:09:00.000-07:00

Dr. Gerald Ginsberg 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 possibly reduce your treatment time.

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

Dr. Ginsberg supports National Facial Protection Month

2011-04-01T12:45:00.000-07:00

With spring here, many children, teens and adults in Montgomery County 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, Dr. Ginsberg 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 Dr. Ginsberg. Stay safe and have fun!

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

2011-03-25T12:03:00.000-07:00

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 Dr. Ginsberg!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment with Dr. Ginsberg. 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 Dr. Ginsberg a call, so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs.

What Will YOUR Smile Look Like After Orthodontic Treatment?

2011-03-18T10:20:00.000-07:00

It is sometimes hard to believe the transformation your smile undergoes during orthodontic treatment. Dr. Ginsberg loves to see our patients’ smiles light up when they see their new smile in the mirror for the first time. For those of you who haven’t yet started or finished your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Ginsberg, have you ever wondered what your new smile might look like after treatment?

The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO for short, has recently launched a new tool called “Virtual Smiles”, which shows what your smile might look like after orthodontic treatment. Using the tool will also earn you a free orthodontic consultation coupon, which can be redeemed at our office by yourself, a family member or friend.

Check out the Virtual Smiles tool, and call us to get started on improving your smile today!

Braces 101 with Dr. Gerald Ginsberg

2011-03-11T13:28:00.000-08:00

If you ever sustain damage to your braces and need to call Dr. Ginsberg, 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!

Dr. Ginsberg's top ten tips for keeping your teeth clean

2011-03-04T17:41:00.000-08:00

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!

The importance of retainers, from Gerald Ginsberg DDS

2011-02-26T11:08:00.000-08:00

If you recently completed treatment at Gerald Ginsberg DDS, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Ginsberg 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. Ginsberg 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!

Prioritize your oral health with regular checkups!

2011-02-17T13:36:00.000-08:00

Are you brushing and flossing daily properly 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 Dr. Ginsberg, 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 the Phoenixville and Plymouth Meeting areas!

Preparing for Cold and Flu Season, from Dr. Ginsberg

2011-02-11T14:07:00.000-08:00

It’s that time of year to start thinking about protecting yourself and your family from the flu. Here are some simple steps you can take to help yourself avoid colds and the flu this season.

• 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

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. Ginsberg and our team 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 and our staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

Hope this helps and give us a call if you have any questions! Stay healthy!

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month!

2011-02-04T15:48:00.000-08:00

One in four parents says their child has had an injury during an organized sport resulting in a trip to the emergency room, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO. That why Dr. Ginsberg and team thought February—also known as National Children’s Dental Health Month—would be a great time to remind our patients to be mindful of their braces and teeth while playing sports. Here are a few tips to stay safe on the field this spring, courtesy of the AAO:

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 Gerald Ginsberg DDS. Stay safe and have fun!

Visualize your new smile with the Brace Painter!

2011-01-27T16:21:00.001-08:00

Braces at Gerald Ginsberg DDS 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 Dr. Ginsberg know if you have any questions about the Brace Painter, or your orthodontic treatment at Gerald Ginsberg DDS. Have a great week!

At Gerald Ginsberg, DDS, what puts you at ease?

2011-01-14T11:04:00.000-08:00

Dr. Gerald Ginsberg 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 Gerald Ginsberg, DDS that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or Dr. Ginsberg?

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call!

What is your New Year’s Resolution?

2011-01-03T08:00:00.000-08:00

Many folks in Phoenixville and Plymouth Meeting, PA consider the beginning of a new year a time to not only reflect on the year that was, but also to set personal goals for the upcoming year. How are you planning to improve your health and happiness in 2011? Dr. Ginsberg and our team recommend that you make a New Year’s resolution to benefit your oral health!

It is important that New Year’s resolutions are reasonable and attainable, and that they improve your overall quality of life—for example, did you know that flossing every day is the very best way to prevent periodontal, or gum, disease? Using a straw when drinking sugary beverages can also help prevent cavities. There are many small steps that you can take to prevent cavities, oral infections and bad breath.

Be sure to give us a call if you need a few suggestions on ways to improve your oral health, or visit this helpful article from our friends at the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). After all, we know your oral health is about more than just a beautiful smile.

Happy New Year!

-Your friends at Gerald Ginsberg, DDS

Dr. Ginsberg discusses: "Thick or Thin Veneers?"

2010-12-27T08:00:00.000-08:00

Dr. Ginsberg recently came across an article that discusses the advantages and disadvantages of thick and thin veneers. Today, he would like to share a brief summary of the Journal of American Dental Association article. Be sure to visit the veneers article to learn more!

A few advantages of ceramic veneers
-No anesthesia is required
-Less patient fear
-Patients' appreciation of conservative tooth preparations
-Possibility of reversal

A few disadvantages of no-preparation Ceramic Veneers
-Overcontoured appearance
-Possible need for more veneers
-Opaque, monotone appearance
-Limited translucence
-Margins not visible to the technician
-Possible overcontouring of margins
-Possible inadvertent alteration of occlusion

Dr. Ginsberg discusses a study on treatment response and stability of slow maxillary expansion

2010-12-23T14:33:00.000-08:00

Dr. Ginsberg uses expanders to "expand" or widen your upper jaw by putting gentle pressure on your upper molars each time an adjustment is made.

"Treatment response and stability of slow maxillary expansion using Haas, hyrax, and quad-helix appliances," a study that was included in the American Journal of Orthopedics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, evaluates the short-and long-term effectiveness of different types of expanders.

Here are a few highlights of the study:
-84% of PXB correction remained with about one third of the initial expansion lost
-Haas, hyrax, and quad-helix appliances were equally effective
-Slow maxillary expansion altered the PXB patients' maxillary widths from narrower to slightly wider than the widths of the noncrossbite norms

For more information on this important study on expanders, be sure to check out the American Journal of Orthopedics and Dentofacial Orthopedics article. You can also give us a call if you have any questions.

With Dr. Gerald Ginsberg, 24/7 access to your account

2010-12-16T11:43:00.000-08:00

At Dr. Gerald Ginsberg, DDS, we embrace new technology, whether it is through the innovative orthodontic treatments that we offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern offices conveniently located in Phoenixville and Plymouth Meeting.

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! And, because we know folks sometimes forget, you can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

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

Write a review for Dr. Ginsberg!

2010-12-10T10:31:00.000-08:00

Dr. Ginsberg is an experienced board certified orthodontist, and an Invisalign Elite Premier Provider. It is our goal to create great smiles for kids and adults. Have you had a great experience at Gerald Ginsberg, DDS?

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,

-Dr. Ginsberg and team

An important study about microimplants in adults, from Dr. Ginsberg

2010-12-03T12:09:00.000-08:00

At the practice of Dr. Ginsberg, it is our priority to provide patients with exceptional orthodontic treatment using the best technology available. Dr. Ginsberg is an experienced board certified orthodontist, and has been voted the "Best Orthodontist" by Main Line Life. Today, he would like to share an educational article that talks about the findings of a microimplants study.

"Three-dimensional evaluation of interradicular spaces and cortical bone thickness for the placement and initial stability of microimplants in adults" discusses the potential advantages, as well as the factors relating to optimal safety and stability for microimplant placement.

Be sure to check out the article's Q & A section to learn more about this important study. As always, don't hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions!

Dr. Ginsberg lectures with Dr. Angelo Miraldi about Invisalign

2010-11-24T08:26:00.000-08:00

Dr. Ginsberg recently lectured with Dr. Angelo Miraldi to the orthodontic residents and faculty after returning from the Invisalign Summit. The lecture generated a great deal of interest and the students had many questions and were very excited about Invisalign. The Invisalign talk was held on Monday, November 8th from 9am until 5:30pm .

Dr. Ginsberg's next speaking engagement will be to orthodontists in the Philadelphia area on December 7. Following, Dr. Ginsberg will lecture to the orthodontic department at Stonybrook, New York.

For more information about Dr. Ginsberg, and Invisalign treatment in the Phoenixville area, give us a call!

Ask Dr. Ginsberg: At what age should my child begin orthodontic treatment?

2010-11-11T09:24:00.000-08:00

The orthodontic community has been debating for some time about the best age for children to begin orthodontic treatment. Dr. Ginsberg, your experienced board certified Pennsylvania orthodontist, has been following the research surrounding the best age for orthodontic treatment. Today, Dr. Ginsberg would like to share a few of the important studies that were recently discussed in an interesting article about early orthodontic treatment.

In one 10-year study of 300 children that was conducted by the University of Florida, it was determined that "on average, early treatment produces the same results as later treatment. But again, the outcomes vary widely among children."

Smart Money magazine recently featured an article entitled “10 Things Your Orthodontist Won’t Tell You.” In this article, the number 5 thing is “Your child won’t die if he doesn’t get braces by age seven.”

At the practice of Gerald Ginsberg, DDS, we make it our priority to accurately inform patients about their treatment options. The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that your child be evaluated by age seven, as early detection of some orthodontic problems is important in order to take early corrective action and avoid more difficult treatment later. However, for many patients, Dr. Ginsberg recommends treatment during adolescence between the ages of 10-12.

To read more about these interesting studies on the best age to begin orthodontic treatment, visit the article. We also encourage you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ginsberg to assess what the best age is to begin your child's orthodontic treatment.

Dr. Ginsberg returns to the office after a busy month abroad

2010-11-05T15:04:00.000-07:00

Dr. Ginsberg returns to the office next week after a busy October of lecturing in Naples, Italy and consulting in Rome. He was honored to return and lecture again at the University of Naples. As Dr. Ginsberg is an Invisalign Elite Premier Provider, he has extensive experience with Invisalign, and is lecture topic was Invisalign combined with braces. He will also be giving this same lecture next week at the University of Rochester, NY.

To find out more about Invisalign and why Dr. Ginsberg was voted for the fifth year as "Best Orthodontist" by Main Line Life, contact us today and schedule a free consultation!

A few Halloween safety tips, from Dr. Ginsberg

2010-10-29T14:33:00.000-07:00

Trick-or-treat! In the spirit of October’s sweet and spooky holiday, Halloween, Dr. Ginsberg would like to remind all of our patients to be safe while celebrating with friends and family. The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has provided trick-or-treaters with some tips for a ghoulishly good time.

A few Halloween 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

Many treats can cause havoc for trick-or-treaters who are going through orthodontic treatment. If you happen to damage your braces, please give Dr. Ginsberg and our staff a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone.

A braces-friendly fall recipe, from Dr. Ginsberg

2010-10-22T14:13:00.001-07:00

In celebration of National Orthodontic Health Month, Dr. Ginsberg would like to share a great braces-friendly Halloween recipe with all of our patients, courtesy of the American Association of Orthodontics, or AAO. This Spooktacular Pumpkin Cake is delicious, and provided that you remember to brush and floss after indulging, this treat will not cause damage to your beautiful smile.

Spooktacular Pumpkin Cake

Ingredients:

1 pkg. yellow or white cake mix
½ cup vegetable oil
4 eggs
1 cup canned pumpkin
¾ cup sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon
Dash of nutmeg
¼ cup water (add 2 tbl. of water if eggs are small)

Directions:

Put cake mix in a large bowl. Make an indentation in the center and pour in the oil and one egg. Mix using mixer, then add the rest of the eggs one at a time, beating after each one.

Add pumpkin, sugar, spices, and then water.

Bake in greased and floured tube pan in 350 degree oven for 60-70 minutes (depending on oven calibration). Cool before removing from pan.

Dr. Ginsberg supports National Orthodontic Health Month

2010-10-16T18:32:00.000-07:00

Can you believe October is already upon us? October happens to be National Orthodontic Health Month, and this month-long event is organized by our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Many treats can cause havoc for trick-or-treaters who are going through orthodontic treatment, and these treats may cause damage that could prolong your treatment time. 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
• Taco chips
• Ice

If you happen to damage your braces, please give Dr. Ginsberg a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone. Loose brackets or wires can usually be made more comfortable by applying some wax until the you can come into our office.

A great article about orthodontic treatment at a young age, from Dr. Ginsberg

2010-10-07T16:06:00.000-07:00

The world around us is always changing and evolving, which is why it's important that your orthodontist is informed on the latest research. Dr. Ginsberg recently found this great radio segment and article by NPR, discussing the latest research on the best age to begin orthodontic treatment, which he would like to share with all of our patients.

Did you know that the American Association of Orthodontics recommends that your child be evaluated by age seven? Early detection of some orthodontic problems is important in order to take early corrective action and avoid more difficult treatment later. For many patients, however, Dr. Ginsberg recommends treatment during adolescence between the ages of 10-12. There are often benefits for deferring orthodontic treatment, although it is best to evaluate patients on a case by case basis.

For more information on the best age to begin your orthodontic treatment, give us a call today. We look forward to seeing you!

Thanks to Invisalign®, mom and dad can also have a beautiful smile!

2010-10-03T14:50:00.000-07:00

Hey parents! Focusing on your kids' teeth and oral health so much that you're neglecting your own? If you've been thinking wistfully about having your own set of perfect teeth, Dr. Ginsberg and our staff can help! We are specially trained to offer an adult-friendly option for straightening teeth called Invisalign.

This course of treatment consists of a set of clear aligners that are molded to fit your teeth using a proprietary technology. You wear them all day and night, except for meals, brushing, and flossing – when you can easily slip them out to make eating and cleaning a snap!

Because they're clear, your teeth will be steadily straightening – and no one will know it but you!

Please give us a call to set up a consultation, so we can discuss the specifics of your treatment.

Dr. Gerald Ginsberg, unfolding the myths and facts about orthodontics

2010-09-24T12:35:00.000-07:00

The importance of wearing a mouth guard when playing sports

2010-09-17T11:34:00.000-07:00

At Gerald Ginsberg DDS we know how important it is to protect your face while playing sports. Last week, Dr. Ginsberg discussed the importance of protecting your teeth from sports related injuries while participating in fall sports, such as football and soccer. Today, we wanted to share with you this great video that was produced by the American Association of Orthodontists for the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge. The Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge is a way for moms nationwide to make a commitment to protecting their child's smile from facial injuries.

As always, feel free to give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards, or if you would like to schedule your next appointment with our office.

Dr. Ginsberg, supporting Moms for Mouth Guards

2010-09-10T11:10:00.000-07:00

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

Here at Dr. Ginsberg's office, 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. Ginsberg 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!

Your turn! From Dr. Ginsberg

2010-09-03T13:17:00.000-07:00

Week after week, Dr. Ginsberg and team blog about important topics pertinent to orthodontic treatment care and your well-being, including innovative orthodontic techniques we offer. This week, 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!

Ask Dr. Ginsberg: How can Invisalign® benefit my oral health?

2010-08-26T15:07:00.000-07:00

When considering treatment options, patients often ask us how Invisalign is so different than traditional braces. There are more reasons to smile about Invisalign with Dr. Ginsberg 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. Ginsberg 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. Ginsberg supports Style 'N Smile!

2010-08-20T10:13:00.000-07:00

The Style 'N Smile fashion show, sponsored by the American Association of Orthodontics, or AAO, promotes self esteem, while displaying the newest back to school fashions. Most importantly, the fashion show emphasizes how a beautiful, healthy smile never goes out of style. To learn more about the Style 'N Smile fashion show, take a look at this short video clip from 90210 pop culture icon Jennie Garth.

With cutting edge treatment options, Dr. Ginsberg and our team has what it takes to make you smile! Dr. Ginsberg is a Diplomate on the American Board of Orthodontics. Give us a call today if you have any questions about the Style 'N Smile fashion show, or if you would like to schedule your consultation!

Have you visited our Phoenixville, PA office yet?

2010-08-13T14:45:00.000-07:00

Have you had a chance to tour our Phoenixville, PA office yet? If not, take a minute to watch this great video that was filmed by Dr. Ginsberg and our team! Give us a call today to schedule your next appointment at our Phoenixville, PA office! Have a great weekend everyone!

-Gerald Ginsberg, DDS

Ask Dr. Ginsberg: What’s so bad about nail biting?

2010-08-06T15:36:00.000-07:00

Everyone has heard that biting your nails is an awful habit, but you many wonder- really- what’s so bad about it? Recently, our team at Gerald Ginsberg, DDS found an interesting article that discusses how nail biting affects your oral health.

Nail biting, also known as Onychophagia, is a common habit and is generally triggered by stress, often decreasing with age. That being said, nail biting is unsanitary, unattractive, and 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 Dr. Ginsberg or visit this article for tips on how to break a nail biting habit.

Good luck!

-Dr. Ginsberg and team

Share your summer adventures with us!

2010-07-28T22:16:00.000-07:00

It's summertime, and that means a season full of adventures, vacations and great memories is upon us for another couple of months. Whether you're headed to Philadelphia, an exotic destination to Asia, a camping trip, or just having fun in the sun this summer, Dr. Ginsberg and team want to hear allllllll about it! We invite you to share your plans and experiences on our Facebook page as the summer rolls along!

Happy travels everyone. Enjoy it while the sun's out!

Will you be a part of the Braces Brigade?

2010-07-21T20:59:00.001-07:00

Dr. Gerald Ginsberg wants to know: how would you like to blog about your experience in braces AND come away with a $100 American Express gift card? Thanks to the American Association of Orthodontists' Braces Brigade campaign, you can do just that!

To complete your Braces Brigade application, you'll need to provide:

* 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)

In your blog, feel free to answer questions such as:

• Why did you decide to get orthodontic treatment at Dr. Ginsberg's office?
• What advice would you share with other orthodontic patients?
• What does it feel like to get braces on?
• What foods do you miss the most?
• What new foods have you discovered?
• Do your friends have braces or retainers?
• Where is the first place you’re going to show off your new, beautiful smile?
• How has your new smile changed your life?

All applicants must either be an orthodontic patient of Dr. Ginsberg or the parent of a patient. If you happen to be under 18, your parents must fill out a consent form along with your official entry, giving you permission to enter the contest.

We strongly encourage you to apply for the Braces Brigade! Have a GREAT rest of the week!

Invisalign Teen™ on the Tyra Banks Show

2010-07-15T12:50:00.000-07:00

We've discussed discussed Invisalign Teen in length before, but today wanted to direct your attention to a clip of the clear aligners being discussed on the Tyra Banks Show not too long ago. Both Invisalign and Invisalign Teen are a series of clear, comfortable and removable aligners that gradually position your teeth until they are straight and beautiful. There is no need for a mouthful of metal or poking wires. Watch as Dr. Jacquie Fulop-Goodling, an orthodontist from New York City, discuss the many advantages of Invisalign Teen. Give us a call to learn more info about this amazing treatment!

Dr. Gerald Ginsberg and team present: Patriotic fun facts!

2010-07-03T17:45:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow night, Dr. Ginsberg and our staff will be busy celebrating America's 234th birthday. And because we know most of our patients love fun facts, we thought we'd provide you with some patriotic fun facts about Independence Day!

- Independence Day was first celebrated in Philadelphia on July 8, 1776.

- An estimated 2.5 million people lived in America in July 1776. Today, an estimated 309 million people reside in the United States.

- The major objection to being ruled by Britain was taxation without representation, which meant that people didn't want to be taxed by a government that did not represent them.

- In 1941, Congress declared 4th of July a federal legal holiday. It is one of the few federal holidays that have not been moved to the nearest Friday or Monday.

- The stars on the original American flag were arranged in a circle to ensure that all colonies were equal.

- America's mascot, the bald eagle, can achieve speeds of up to 200 miles per hour when making a predatory dive. During a normal flight, bald eagles can travel up to 30 miles per hour.

- The American flag patch is backwards on U.S. Army uniforms. The reason? The blue field on the flag (the part with the stars) faces forward to symbolize carrying the American flag into battle.

- Someone who specializes in the history of flags is called a vexillologist.

- The word ‘patriotism’ comes from the Latin patria, which means ‘homeland’ or ‘fatherland.’

- According to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, Americans consume over 150 million hot dogs during their Independence Day festivities.

- Speaking of food, there's a 1-in-6 chance the beef on your backyard this Independence Day weekend grill came from Texas. The Lone Star State is America's leader in the production of cattle and calves.

Have a great Fourth of July weekend everyone! Please be careful with your fireworks!!

Patient question for Dr. Ginsberg: How, exactly, does Invisalign work? [Video]

2010-06-27T10:29:00.000-07:00

If you've ever wondered how Invisalign treatment at the office of Dr. Gerald Ginsberg manages to straighten teeth without using braces at all? The Invisalign system is a state-of-the-art system of clear, removable aligners that we proudly offer at our convenient offices in Plymouth Meeting and Phoenixville. Dr. Ginsberg is an elite premier provider, and is one of the top 5 in the world in the number of patients treated. Consider Invisalign to get the beautiful straight teeth you've always wanted — without braces, whether you're an adult or teenager.

We also have plenty of resources on our website to check out about Invisalign, or give our office a call to learn if this revolutionary new treatment option is right for you!

Have a GREAT rest of the weekend everyone!!

Dr. Gerald Ginsberg and team want to know: what should we blog about this summer?

2010-06-22T19:15:00.000-07:00

Last week, you might recall, we asked you about your summer plans. Today, however, we thought we'd write another summer-related post. With summer finally here, our staff at Gerald Ginsberg DDS strives to continue blogging about topics related to braces and your treatment with Phoenixville and Plymouth Meeting orthodontist Dr. Gerald Ginsberg.

To help us continue blogging through the course of the long summer, however, we'd love your help: What would you like us to focus on our blog this summer? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Dr. Ginsberg for a while about your treatment and just haven't found the right time or opportunity? This is your chance! Give us your ideas by posting here or on our Facebook page!

Happy Tuesday and have a great rest of the week!

Summer plans?

2010-06-12T20:33:00.000-07:00

At the office of Dr. Gerald Ginsberg, we can't believe it's already June. As the school year comes to a close for a lot of Dr. Ginsberg's patients, the days get longer and the temperatures in Pennsylvania begin to climb, there’s no better way to beat the heat than jump into a pool and cool off under the shade. For a lot of people here in our area, summer brings a chance to get away from it all and escape every-day life, if only for a week or two - or three. For others, it means a season of relaxation and relief from homework and other activities.

What about you?

How are you planning on spending your summer? Do you have any interesting plans for a summer vacation? Does your family have a vacation or family reunion planned? Or are you just planning on hanging out? Whatever you're up to, we'd love to hear it! Please feel free to share your summer plans and experiences on our Facebook page as the summer rolls along!

Enjoy your weekend!

More reviews from Dr. Ginsberg's happy patients!

2010-06-08T15:25:00.000-07:00

Dr. Gerald Ginsberg and team, serving Phoenixville, Plymouth Meeting and nearby communities in Montgomery County, 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!

"Very impressive. Eloquent - intelligent - well equipped with information - on the ball - knows what he does well - knows his patients and can easily diagnose a problem. My wife and I were very much impressed on our first visit. His assistant was rather good too. Good luck to them and their business." ~ Sherley M.

"He's is a very nice, and patient person. I wonder how he does so many kids in one day! Of course his nurses staff couldn't be any nicer either. They always ask how are you, and talk you through all your appointments." ~ Rachel G.

"Dr. Ginsberg is a very easy going nice guy. He truly cares about his patients." ~ Julie B.

"The staff in Dr. Ginsberg's office is just the best! Dr. Ginsberg is very available to talk to in the office--I do like the "open" layout. In addition, we are used to this office--have been going there for about 13 years!!!" ~ James R.

"He's an expert in his field." ~ Marietta T.

"Hey, Dr. Ginsberg! What can you tell me about fluoride?"

2010-05-31T16:32:00.000-07:00

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Gerald Ginsberg: 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 with cavity prevention 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. Ginsberg use in-office fluoride treatments to help protect the oral health of adults and children undergoing orthodontic procedures.

Fluoride used in Dr. Ginsberg's office is often a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask Dr. Ginsberg 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. Ginsberg may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses for in-home treatment.

When choosing your own fluoride product, be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of approval. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

Dr. Ginsberg wants to know: What's in store for you this Memorial Day weekend?

2010-05-27T16:22:00.000-07:00

The unofficial kickoff to summer—Memorial Day weekend—is just a day away. It's a time for Americans to remember all those men and women who bravely gave their lives and fought for our country.

For folks in Plymouth Meeting, Phoenixville and surrounding communities here in Montgomery County, getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the classroom or office spells sweet, sweet relief. At the office of Gerald Ginsberg, we know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. After all, Memorial Day means a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories is on the way.

What about you? Whether you're headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, or just hitting the great American open roads, our entire team would like to hear all about it!

Dr. Ginsberg and our entire team hope you have a relaxing Memorial Day weekend!!

Post a review of Dr. Ginsberg and our office!

2010-05-24T20:27:00.000-07:00

Voted "Best Orthodontist" by Main Line Life and "Among the Best Orthodontists" by Main Line Today, Dr. Gerald Ginsberg is an experienced board certified orthodontist whose goal is to create great smiles for kids and adults. Whether you've visited Gerald Ginsberg DDS for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about how Dr. Ginsberg and our practice is faring!

There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice 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'd like. After all, reviews help Dr. Ginsberg create more beautiful smiles in Plymouth Meeting, Phoenixville and surrounding communities!

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

A few Invisalign® tips from Dr. Ginsberg...

2010-05-21T15:50:00.000-07:00

Dr. Gerald Ginsberg will tell you 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, however, 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, Dr. Ginsberg wants you to 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.

and...

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, and ultimately, they help to keep you building good oral habits. If you have any questions about Invisalign or your treatment here at Gerald Ginsberg DDS, we definitely encourage you to give us a call!

Fun facts with Dr. Ginsberg!

2010-05-11T10:15:00.000-07:00

At Gerald Ginsberg DDS, we know our patients love fun facts - LOVE THEM. The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that our team and Dr. Ginsberg thought you might enjoy.

• 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.

Dr. Ginsberg at the 110th AAO Annual Session!

2010-05-03T09:42:00.000-07:00

If you know Dr. Gerald Ginsberg, you know his goal is to give his patients a fun, educational, beneficial orthodontic experience, resulting in a smile that they are excited to share. One of the many ways he achieves that goal is by attending important conferences and lectures. You see, continuing education is an important part of Dr. Ginsberg’s work as an orthodontist. With continuing education he is able to stay on the cutting edge of current orthodontic treatments and always offer his patients the most sophisticated treatment options.

This past weekend, Dr. Ginsberg attended the 110th AAO Annual Session in Washington D.C., an opportunity for him to mingle with dental experts and some of the top orthodontic specialists in the world. The AAO Annual Session is always an educational event that is one of the largest orthodontic conventions on the planet - and one that allows Dr. Ginsberg to stay up-to-date on all the latest technologies and orthodontic treatment options available. This, in turn, allows him to give you, our wonderful patients, the best treatment experience possible.

A proud member of the American Association of Orthodontists, Dr. Ginsberg is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics and a member of some prestigious institutions including the American Dental Association, College of Diplomates of The American Board of Orthodontics, Montgomery County Dental Society, Pennsylvania Dental Society, Pennsylvania Association of Orthodontists, Middle Atlantic Society of Orthodontists and the Greater Philadelphia Association of Orthodontists.

If you've got an appointment scheduled with Dr. Ginsberg soon, he encourages you to ask him about his perspectives on the AAO Annual Session, including what he learned and how continuing education and acquisition of new technology helps him treat you more effectively.

Happy Monday!

Talking retainers with Dr. Ginsberg

2010-04-30T11:01:00.000-07:00

If you recently completed treatment at the orthodontic office of Gerald Ginsberg, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Ginsberg will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, however, 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. Ginsberg 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. Ginsberg, please read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth or give us a call!

Dr. Ginsberg has some interesting articles he'd like you to read!

2010-04-23T16:36:00.000-07:00

Typically, we'll blog about the orthodontic treatments offered at Gerald Ginsberg DDS. Today, however, we thought we'd point you to a few interesting (and important) articles, including one about arch changes, the Damon System, early treatment, expanders, micro implants, an opinion piece on early treatment and, lastly, an important study about veneers.

Check them out and let us know what you think! Have a great weekend!

Dr. Ginsberg wants to know: What do you love about our office?

2010-04-16T15:52:00.000-07:00

From your very first visit to Gerald Ginsberg DDS, Dr. Ginsberg and our staff strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere - creating great smiles for kids and adults is our goal.

This Friday, we thought we’d ask you, our dear patients: Have you been especially impressed by Dr. Ginsberg? Did our 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 years, we’d love to hear your feedback. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Have you visited our YouTube page lately?

2010-04-09T16:36:00.000-07:00

If you've been over to our YouTube channel in recent weeks, you will have noticed a few new videos, including a tour of our office and clips explaining Invisalign treatment. Dr. Ginsberg worked hard to record and upload the videos and would love if you took a look! Have a great weekend!

Patient question for Dr. Ginsberg: Are there benefits to early orthodontic treatment?

2010-03-29T16:47:00.000-07:00

Our office has been approached by some patients asking about the need for early orthodontic treatment. It is the policy of some orthodontists to start treatment at age 8 or 9 followed by a second stage when the permanent teeth erupt.

The questions have been analyzed by a number of research studies in which the policy of starting treatment at age 8 or 9 and then a second stage when the permanent teeth come in was compared to waiting to begin treatment later with only one stage of treatment. The results of these controlled comparison studies have shown that there was no difference in the final orthodontic results. On the other hand, there have not been any studies showing any benefits from two stage treatment.

The child who started early was in treatment longer, and there were extra costs involved. There has also never been any research showing that expanders placed on children with no crossbites have any effect on whether permanent teeth will require extraction

Of course are some types of problems which should be started early. These include crossbites (when the upper teeth are inside the lower teeth) either the front or side teeth, when the child is being affected socially by other children, or when problem is affecting self image. If you would like to obtain copies of some of these studies we shall be happy to send them.

Also, if you would like to discuss this information information, Dr. Gerald Ginsberg will be happy to talk to you.

Ask Dr. Ginsberg: What’s so special about an orthodontist?

2010-03-23T15:42:00.000-07:00

"Dentists, Orthodontists, they're all the same right?" Our staff at Gerald Ginsberg DDS hear our patients asking this question as they wonder about the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. Dr. Ginsberg started out in dental school and earned a DDS (dental degree), just like your dentist. After dental school however, Dr. Ginsberg received his orthodontic certification from the American Association of Orthodontists, and he became a diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics.

Today, Dr. Ginsberg remains true to his goals: give his patients a fun, educational, beneficial orthodontic experience, resulting in a smile that they are excited to share! Isn't it nice to know there's an expert here to help you through any type of treatment your teeth, jaw and gums might need?

The importance of regular adult checkups, from Dr. Gerald Ginsberg

2010-03-18T16:21:00.000-07:00

Are you brushing your teeth twice a day? If yes, that’s great; but, don’t forget that it’s also important to visit your dentist every six months in addition to brushing your teeth a couple times a day and flossing (and visiting Dr. Ginsberg, 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 you how to properly brush and floss your teeth

During an oral exam the dentist will 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, it’s time for you to schedule an appointment!

PS if you have any questions about your treatment at Gerald Ginsberg DDS, please give us a call. Dr. Ginsberg and team would love to hear from you!

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

2010-03-10T08:54:00.000-08:00

Who’s afraid of “metal mouth” and the appearance of braces? Not adults, apparently. Recently, our staff at Gerald Ginsberg DDS 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 Dr. Gerald Ginsberg 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. Ginsberg would love to have you visit for a consultation. Give us a call to set one up!

What are patients saying about Dr. Gerald Ginsberg?

2010-03-04T09:33:00.000-08:00

Dr. Gerald Ginsberg and our dedicated team deliver the highest quality orthodontic care in a personalized environment, serving Phoenixville, Plymouth Meeting and surrounding communities here in Montgomery County. We make orthodontic treatment fun and enjoyable. Just see what our patients have to say!

"Dr. Ginsberg is a very easy going nice guy. He truly cares about his patients." ~ Julie B.

"He is very good with kids!" ~ Dan L.

"Dr. Ginsberg and his staff are very talented, professional, and accommodating to busy families." ~ Katie G.

"Very impressive. Eloquent - intelligent - well equipped with information - on the ball - knows what he does well - knows his patients and can easily diagnose a problem. My wife and I were very much impressed on our first visit. His assistant was rather good too. Good luck to them and their business." ~ Sherley M.