Happy Halloween from Tidewater Orthodontics!

Trick-or-treat! In the spirit of this weekend's sweet and spooky holiday, our staff at Tidewater Orthodontics would like to remind all of our patients in Virginia Beach, Norfolk and Chesapeake to be safe while celebrating with friends and family. The American Association of Orthodontists were kind enough to provide trick-or-treaters with some tips for a ghoulishly good time.

A few Halloween safety guidelines before you head out:
• 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, including sticky, chewy, gummy and nutty goodies. If you happen to damage your braces, please give us a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone.

We wish you all a safe, fun and happy Halloween!

Tidewater Orthodontics want to know: what's on your mind?

By now, most of you are probably familiar with our blog-writing process works: Week after week, our creative team at Tidewater Orthodontics write about topics related to orthodontics and your well-being.

Today, however, we thought we’d step back and ask you, our terrific patients: what’s on your mind? What would you like us to focus on our blog? What would you like to know about the exciting field of orthodontics? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Drs. Ashby or Dailey, but just didn't have the chance?? Well, here’s your chance! Let us know by posting here on the blog or on our Facebook fan page!

Give it your best shot, and we’ll try to answer any question you may have! Have a great rest of the week!

Connect with Tidewater Orthodontics on Facebook!

At Tidewater Orthodontics, we put our patients first! Our team is friendly and welcoming, and patients feel comfortable and confident in our practice. Our practice is professional, family-friendly and fun.

Even if you only see us for your appointment on a regular basis, did you know that you can now connect with us on Facebook?

We invite you to “like” us at Facebook.com/TidewaterOrthodontics. We share office news and updates on our Fan Page, so check it out! By Liking our page, you will receive updates from our office automatically in your news feed!

See you on Facebook!

- The Tidewater Ortho staff

Fun facts with Tidewater Orthodontics!

Our patients at Tidewater Orthodontics love fun facts. Fun, fun, fun. The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that we thought you might enjoy. Happy Monday!

• 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.

Tidewater Orthodontics, supporting National Orthodontic Health Month!

Did you know October is National Orthodontic Health Month? Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have created a helpful website that provides important information on protecting your braces, including tips for trick-or-treaters, braces-friendly recipes, facts about braces and treats you should avoid while wearing braces.

Dr. Curtis Dailey and Dr. John Ashby encourage you to check out the AAO's website as well for helpful tips on keeping your braces in tip-top shape. If you have any follow-up questions, please feel free to give us a call, ask us on Facebook or ask our doctors or staff during your next visit at Tidewater Orthodontics!

We hope you've had a relaxing weekend, and are ready for Halloween season!