Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Ask Tidewater Orthodontics: Why are retainers so important, anyway?

If you've recently completed your treatment at Tidewater Orthodontics, our entire team would like to congratulate you, again! Now, after your braces have been removed, we will provide—or have provided you by now—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized.

Retainers, you see, provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until your bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed by our doctors is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime.

If you have additional questions about retainers or your treatment here at Tidewater Orthodontics, please give us a call! Happy holidays!

Monday, December 19, 2011

Happy Holidays from Tidewater Orthodontics!


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

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

--The team at Tidewater Orthodontics

Monday, December 12, 2011

Ask Tidewater Orthodontics: When should my child come in for a consultation?


Many parents simply just assume they should wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to visit Tidewater Orthodontics only to find that treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. But did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

Ok, you're thinking, what’s so great about age seven? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for the team at Tidewater Orthodontics to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or what we call “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites and open bites can be detected.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age provides one of two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, a healthy prognosis will provide immediate peace of mind.

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and detrimental to good oral hygiene. So if your child is nearing age 7, give us a call to schedule a orthodontic consultation.

Happy Holidays from all of us at Tidewater Orthodontics!

Monday, December 5, 2011

Like us on Facebook, and we’ll donate the proceeds to a great cause!


At Tidewater Orthodontics, we value the relationships we have developed with our patients over the years. Even if you only see us for your appointment every six months, did you know that you can now connect with us on Facebook?

We invite you to “like” us on Facebook, where we share office news, announcements and updates! By Liking our page, you will receive updates from our office automatically in your news feed!

In fact, for every new Facebook fan we get by the end of the year, we will donate $1 to Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters, the facility of choice for pediatric care in southeastern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina. Whether a child needs hospitalization, ongoing care for a chronic illness, outpatient surgery or primary care, CHKD Health System provides the staff, facilities and technologies that address the unique demands of childhood.

We encourage everyone to share our Facebook page with friends, family and coworkers! Please help us make a difference.

See you on Facebook at Facebook.com/TidewaterOrthodontics.

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Do we have your current contact info?

Happy holidays from all of us at Tidewater Orthodontics! As you probably know, you can always connect with Dr. John O Ashby and our team on our Facebook page, but we also encourage you to call us and let us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed!

Please contact our office with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so that we may be able to reach you. Thank you!

- The team at Tidewater Orthodontics

Monday, November 21, 2011

Happy Thanksgiving from Tidewater Orthodontics!

Our entire team at Tidewater Orthodontics would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. It's a big food holiday, so be careful what you eat, especially with those braces! If you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we encourage you post them on our Facebook page!

Gobble Gobble!

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

What do you enjoy most about fall?


It’s fall here at Tidewater Orthodontics, a time when all across the country, the leaves begin to change colors and the air becomes crisp.

Today we wanted to ask you, our wonderful patients, "How are you spending your time this fall?" Our team would love to hear about your favorite places for eating, shopping, and entertainment within the Chesapeake, Norfolk, Virginia Beach areas. We are interested in learning about what makes your community “yours.”

Feel free to post your responses on our Facebook page, or give us a call!

Monday, November 7, 2011

Like us on Facebook, and we’ll donate the proceeds to a great cause!


At Tidewater Orthodontics, we value the relationships we have developed with our patients over the years. Even if you only see us for your appointment every six months, did you know that you can now connect with us on Facebook?
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We invite you to “like” us on Facebook, where we share office news, announcements and updates! By Liking our page, you will receive updates from our office automatically in your news feed!

In fact, for every new Facebook fan we get by the end of the year, we will donate $1 to Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters, the facility of choice for pediatric care in southeastern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina. Whether a child needs hospitalization, ongoing care for a chronic illness, outpatient surgery or primary care, CHKD Health System provides the staff, facilities and technologies that address the unique demands of childhood.

We encourage everyone to share our Facebook page with friends, family and coworkers! Please help us make a difference.

See you on Facebook at Facebook.com/TidewaterOrthodontics.

Monday, October 31, 2011

Halloween safety tips from Tidewater Orthodontics



Trick-or-treat! In the spirit of today's sweet and spooky holiday, our team at Tidewater Orthodontics would like to remind all of our patients to be safe while celebrating with friends and family tonight. Our friends at 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:
• 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 us a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone.

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

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Great Job!

Great job by the staff of Tidewater Orthodontics who ran in the Run Like a Girl 5K to support ovarian cancer at First Landing State Park!

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Cold season is here, from Tidewater Orthodontics

Cold and flu season is here - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that a common cold usually includes sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and coughing. Symptoms can last for up to two weeks.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. John O Ashby and team give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake offices at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces. For the protection of other patients and our staff at Tidewater Orthodontics, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

And remember to constantly wash your hands and avoid contact with those who are ill! Stay Healthy!

Monday, October 10, 2011

Don't skip those regular checkups, especially in October!

Our team at Tidewater Orthodontics want to know: Are you brushing and flossing daily properly during your treatment? If the answer is 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 Tidewater Orthodontics, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

It's the perfect time for a visit to the dentist. Why? Because not only is October National Orthodontic Health Month, it's also National Dental Hygiene Month!

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 area!

Monday, October 3, 2011

October marks 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 great Monday, and are ready for Halloween season!

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

With Tidewater Orthodontics, access your account—any day, any time, anywhere!

At Tidewater Orthodontics, 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 Virginia Beach, Norfolk and Chesapeake.

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, too, can sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button at the top of our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started or ask us on Facebook!

Thursday, September 22, 2011

In love with your new smile? Tell the world about it!


At Tidewater Orthodontics, we don't just treat adults and children; we specialize in creating great smiles for every person. Drs. John O. Ashby and Curtis W. Dailey have been in the business of making people smile for a long time, and we continue to provide the most effective, up-to-date orthodontic treatments at our offices in Virginia Beach, Norfolk or Chesapeake.

Whether you have visited our office for weeks, months or years, we’d love to hear your feedback about your experience with us! Now with the Internet, it’s even easier to write your thoughts and share them with the world. We'd want to encourage you to write a review of us on our Google Places page - it only takes a moment!

You may write your review here.

Thank you in advance, and have a great rest of the week!

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

September is Self-Improvement Month, from Tidewater Orthodontics


These days, Americans everywhere are putting greater emphasis on health, fitness and self-improvement, and more people are seeking orthodontic treatment to improve their smile. September happens to be Self-Improvement Month, and our team at Tidewater Orthodontics know that orthodontic treatment is an investment in self-improvement that will reap benefits for a lifetime. And, recent advances in orthodontia, such as Invisalign and more effective brackets and wires, now make orthodontic treatment more palatable for many interested in obtaining that beautiful smile.

Not only does orthodontic treatment give you that beautiful smile, it can also benefit your dental and general health. If teeth are poorly aligned, removing plaque and tartar by brushing and flossing alone may be difficult. A poor bite may result in fractured or excessively worn tooth surfaces, and the extra stress caused by a poor bite may even result in problems with your jaw joints.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, we would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up! We put our patients first! Our team is friendly and welcoming, and patients feel comfortable and confident in our practice.

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

When should your child come in for a consultation?


Many parents simply just assume they should wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to visit Tidewater Orthodontics only to find that treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. But did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

Ok, you're thinking, what’s so great about age seven? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for the team at Tidewater Orthodontics to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or what we call “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites and open bites can be detected.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age provides one of two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, a healthy prognosis will provide immediate peace of mind.

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and detrimental to good oral hygiene. So if your child is nearing age 7, give us a call to schedule a orthodontic consultation.

Sunday, August 28, 2011

Back to school with Tidewater Orthodontics

Now that many of the schools are back in session here in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake and Norfolk, Drs. Dailey and Ashby would like to remind all of our patients about the importance of scheduling appointments in advance this fall. With school, clubs and sports to consider, we know that it can be challenging to find time to visit Tidewater Orthodontics. In order to accommodate all of our patients' busy schedules, it is important that you plan ahead for your appointments so that we are able to provide you with an appointment time that is convenient for you this fall.

As always, please remember to give us advanced notice if you're unable to make your regularly-scheduled appointment. If we receive enough notice, we might be able to schedule another patient for that time. Feel free to give us a call at (757) 340-7000 if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your fall appointment.

See you soon! :)

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Are you wearing your mouthguard?


With fall sports almost here for a lot of our patients at Tidewater Orthodontics, we thought today would be a great time to remind all our young athletes in treatment to take care of both their mouth and appliances while participating in sports – especially contact sports – this fall.

One of the most important pieces of sports equipment you can wear on the field is a mouthguard. A well-fitted mouthguard, which we’re happy to provide, allows you to breathe and speak more clearly, in addition to protecting your mouth and braces. Only by using a mouth guard can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. The next time you’re in for a visit with Drs. Ashby and Dailey, we encourage you to ask us for a mouthguard! In addition, the American Association of Orthodontists has five quick tips for keeping kids safe during sport activities.

• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eyewear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant, even as a spectator


We hope you’re enjoying your summer, and invite you all to share your summer photos on our Facebook page!

Monday, August 15, 2011

Tell us about your summer!

The dog days of summer are upon us, and what better time for our team at Tidewater Orthodontics to ask our patients about their summer!

Whether you visited our nation’s capitol, went on a camping trip, visited the state fair or just stayed in town and hung out with friends, we want to know how you’re all spending your summer! Please feel free to share your summer plans and experiences with us below or on our Facebook page as the summer comes to an end soon for a lot of our patients at Tidewater Orthodontics! We invite you to post your photos as well!

We look forward to hearing all about your adventures! Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Smile wide! It's National Smile Week!

It’s National Smile Week, and a GREAT time to remind our patients at Tidewater Orthodontics to practice good oral hygiene to keep those teeth shining during your orthodontic treatment!

Here are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Week for many, many years to come:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth and braces.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment
* Visit your dentist regularly (every 6 months or as recommended by your dentist)!


And remember to smile at people you come across throughout the week, whether you know them or not. Smiles are contagious, and are a good thing to give and to get. We hope you’re all having a relaxing summer!

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Do we have your summer contact info?


We hope you’re off to a great summer so far! If you are planning on traveling with family this summer or think you might not be able to make it to your scheduled adjustment appointment at Tidewater Orthodontics, please let us know ahead of time so that we may be able to accommodate you, as well as schedule another patient with Drs. Ashby & Dailey at that appointment time.

Also, we ask that you give us a call and let us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed! Please call us with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so we may be able to reach you. Thank you! Enjoy the rest of your week!

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Tips to help you beat the heat, from Tidewater Orthodontics


These are the “dog days” of summer, and with the heat wave sweeping through the majority of the United States, our team at Tidewater Orthodontics want you to be extra careful about sun safety when you’re out and about this summer. Here are a few summer safety tips we thought we’d pass along.

We also encourage you to always have a bottle of water handy when heading out.
Have a great summer!

Monday, July 18, 2011

This summer, smile with Invisalign Teen!


There’s good news for teenage smiles at Tidewater Orthodontics! We are proud to offer Invisalign Teen, a popular choice for straightening teeth without traditional wires and brackets.

Much like Invisalign for adults, Invisalign Teen is an alternative to metallic braces and is undetectable when worn. Invisalign moves teeth at a pace that is faster than traditional braces and are:
-Clear
-Removable
-Super comfortable
-Customized just for you

Invisalign aligners are really comfortable and very durable. They fit in with any of your extracurricular activities. So whether you're swimming the 50 meter race, out on the field throwing the football, or playing the clarinet with the school's band, you don't have to worry about your braces getting in the way!

We proudly offer free consultations for Invisalign Teen! We look forward to working with you and your family and sharing in your exciting transformation!

Saturday, July 9, 2011

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

Sunday, July 3, 2011

Happy Independence Day!

America turns 235 years old tomorrow! 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.

Our team at Tidewater Orthodontics would like to know: what are your plans for the 4th of July? Are you out in the sun? Have you stocked up on fireworks? Are you going to grill up your favorite summer foods? If you have a 4th of July tradition, we would love to hear all about it.

We hope 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.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Share your summer adventures with us!


It’s summer here at Tidewater Orthodontics, a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you've been to a barbecue, gone on a camping trip, hit the great American open roads with family or just had fun in the sun, our team wants to hear all about it! Leave a comment on our Facebook fan page and tell us about your summer!

We also encourage you to post any photos to our Facebook wall!

Happy and safe travels,

- The Tidewater Orthodontics team

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Drs. Ashby and Dailey, helping you save face this summer


With summer 2011 almost here, our staff at Tidewater Orthodontics thought it would be a good time to remind our patients to take care of their mouth and appliances when out on the field. After all, the summer months bring with them a greater chance of our athletes damaging their teeth since you are out and about and/or playing sports. If you are playing sports this summer, it's important that you consult Dr. John Ashby or Dr. Curtis Dailey for special precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard. Mouth guards are advised by our doctors and staff for playing summer sports such as baseball, soccer, lacrosse and many, many others.

In case of any accident involving the face, we want you to check your mouth and appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances are damaged, please schedule an appointment to see us immediately. And don’t forget to ask us—Drs. Ashby and Dailey will be more than happy to provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment!

Our team at Tidewater Orthodontics will tell you that only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at our office.

We hope you all had a wonderful weekend!

Friday, June 10, 2011

June is National Smile Month


According to a March 2011 poll by Glamour Magazine, 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 Tidewater Orthodontics to support National Smile Month this June.

Show off your pearly whites by posting your favorite smile photos on the wall of our Facebook page. We look forward to seeing what you share!

Thursday, June 2, 2011

We proudly offer complimentary consultations!


At Tidewater Orthodontics, we don't just treat adults and children; we specialize in creating great smiles for every person.

One of our commitments is meeting with you to help you explore all or the options available to you or your child. We offer complimentary consultations for those interested in orthodontic treatment. During this time, you'll have time reserved with Drs. Ashby and Dailey, who will assess your particular needs as well as discuss treatment options available and answer any questions you may have. We place a high value on making sure you have complete information before beginning treatment.

If you have been thinking about obtaining the dazzling smile you’ve always wanted, we invite you to give us a call at one of our offices in Virginia Beach, Norfolk and Chesapeake.

See you soon!

- The team at Tidewater Orthodontics

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Tidewater Orthodontics, honoring our veterans


Memorial Day weekend is a time Americans remember all those who bravely gave their lives for our country. It’s also the unofficial start of summer, and for many kids, getting out of town for three days with parents after being in school all these months is sure to be sweet, sweet relief.

At Tidewater Orthodontics, we know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. After all, it’s unofficially the start of summer and time for a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories with parents or friends. What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend? What will you be doing on your day off from school or work?

Whether you are headed to a barbeque, a camping trip, or just having fun in the sun this weekend, we’d like to hear all about it! Enjoy the holiday!

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

May marks National Teen Self-Esteem Month!


At Tidewater Orthodontics, we know image is everything. Especially for today’s teenagers. At an age when image is so important, the thought of having braces may intensify the already-delicate confidence of today’s teens. Well, May is National Teen Self-Esteem Month, and during this time, parents are encouraged to act as positive role models, help stop negative self-images, and improve confidence and security among teenagers.

Both Drs. Ashby & Dailey, as well as our team, will tell you one of the great ways to improve your confidence is to improve your smile. And that begins with a consultation at our convenient offices. After all, what better time to avoid having crooked teeth in your adulthood than coming in for a consultation with Drs. Ashby and Dailey?

We proudly provide traditional braces, Damon System braces, SmartClip, In-Ovation® and Invisalign Teen for today’s image-conscious teens, and invite you to give us a call to schedule your consultation or ask us on Facebook!

Monday, May 9, 2011

What's your story? What made you choose Tidewater Orthodontics?


At Tidewater Orthodontics, we don't just treat adults and children; we specialize in creating great smiles for every person. Drs. John O. Ashby and Curtis W. Dailey have been in the business of making people smile for a long time, and we continue to provide the most effective, up-to-date orthodontic treatments at our offices in Virginia Beach, Norfolk or Chesapeake.

Whether you have visited our office for weeks, months or years, we’d love to hear your feedback about your experience with us! Now with the Internet, it’s even easier to write your thoughts and share them with the world. We'd want to encourage you to write a review of us on our Google Local page - it only takes a moment!

You may write your review here.

Thank you in advance, and have a great rest of the week!

Sunday, May 1, 2011

What’s on your reading list?


With the school year close to winding down for a lot of our patients at Tidewater Orthodontics 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 is a vital step in brain development and literacy. And if you needed any more reason to read, May marks "Get Caught Reading Month.”

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great reads? Ask us for suggestions, and we would be happy to provide a few suggestions. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas on what to read next!

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

Monday, April 25, 2011

Myths about braces, explained


Our staff at Tidewater Orthodontics knows there are quite a few myths about orthodontists circulating around these days. Before you buy into those myths, however, Drs. Dailey and Ashby think you should get the facts! We came across a great site that helps set the record straight. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at Tidewater Orthodontics, please feel free to give us a call. We hope you had a wonderful Easter weekend!

Sunday, April 17, 2011

What helps you or your child relax at Tidewater Orthodontics?

At Tidewater Orthodontics, we understand that not every person is always thrilled about visiting their orthodontist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each of your visits. At Tidewater Orthodontics we don't just treat adults and children; we specialize in creating great smiles for every person. Drs.John O. Ashby and Curtis W. Dailey have been in the business of making people smile for a combined 43 years, and we continue to provide the most effective, up-to-date orthodontic treatments.

Today, we'd like to know: What is it about Tidewater Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or our talented doctors?

Let us know! We'd love to hear from you!!

Sunday, April 10, 2011

Straight talk with Tidewater Orthodontics

Some people wonder why our team at Tidewater Orthodontics work tirelessly to give our patients straight teeth. Of course it’s nice to have a smile full of evenly-aligned teeth, but did you know that straightening your teeth at Tidewater Orthodontics can keep them healthier? Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime!

Straight teeth are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque—the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to tooth decay; and they are easier to keep clean!

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, please give us a call to set up a consultation. Drs. Ashby and Dailey can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

See you soon!

Monday, April 4, 2011

Play it safe this spring, from Tidewater Orthodontics


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

In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances damaged, please schedule an appointment with Tidewater Orthodontics. And don’t forget to ask us—our doctors will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment.

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

Sunday, March 27, 2011

How important is your smile? From Tidewater Orthoodontics


At Tidewater Orthodontics we don't just treat adults and children; we specialize in creating great smiles for every person, and have been doing so for a combined 43 years!

And speaking of smiling, in a new poll conducted by Glamour Magazine, people were asked, “If you had to pick between having perfect teeth, eyesight or hair, which would you choose?

Well, 44 percent of folks out there are choosing teeth! In addition, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, or AACD, conducted a study and found that 99.7 percent of those polled believed a smile is an important social asset. Respondents said straightness, whiteness, cleanliness, as well as the sincerity and sparkle of a person’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well.

We look forward to working with you and your family and sharing in your exciting transformation!

Sunday, March 20, 2011

Get to know your braces! From Tidewater Orthodontics

We hope you're having a great weekend! Should you need to call Tidewater Orthodontics in case you sustain any damage to your braces, 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! Let us know if you have any questions during your next visit or on Facebook!

Monday, March 14, 2011

How will YOUR smile look after orthodontic treatment?

At Tidewater Orthodontics, we know it's sometimes hard to believe the transformation your smile undergoes during orthodontic treatment. Our team at Tidewater Orthodontics love 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 at our office, 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 Tidewater Orthodontics to get started on improving your smile today!

Happy Monday!

Monday, March 7, 2011

Invisalign patient testimonial [Video]



Our team at Tidewater Orthodontics came across this video a couple of weeks ago, and thought that it's just what folks considering Invisalign need to see. Invisalign gets a ton of promotion online (including here on our blog), but people rarely get the see a clear cut, unbiased, point of view from someone who actually has chosen to straighten their teeth with Invisalign.

At Tidewater Orthodontics, we get quite a lot of requests for Invisalign. We always let our patients know about the stages of Invisalign, as well as how one might first react to it. But, to hear it from someone actually wearing these clear aligners is something else.

Check out this video of a patient who has been wearing her aligners for only 10 minutes! 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 complimentary consultation, so we can discuss the specifics of your treatment.

Saturday, February 26, 2011

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

Thursday, February 17, 2011

Do you know where your mouth guard is?


As many of our patients at Tidewater Orthodontics start preparing for spring sports, we would like to remind our patients wearing braces to take care of both your mouth and appliances while participating in contact sports (and non-contact sports) this spring.

Whether you wear braces or not, protecting your smile while playing sports is essential. Sports related injuries to the mouth and jaw are some of the most common injuries received by athletes. Mouthguards help protect your teeth and gums from injury. The bottom line is, only by using a mouth guard can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries.

The next time you're in for a visit with us at either our Virginia Beach, Norfolk or Chesapeake office, please ask us for a mouth guard, and we will provide one for you!

Have a great weekend!

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Complimentary Consultations at Tidewater Orthodontics


At Tidewater Orthodontics, we don't just treat adults and children; we specialize in creating great smiles for every person.

One of our commitments is meeting with you to help you explore all or the options available to you or your child. We offer complimentary consultations for those interested in orthodontic treatment. During this time, you'll have time reserved with Drs. Ashby and Dailey, who will assess your particular needs as well as discuss treatment options available and answer any questions you may have. We place a high value on making sure you have complete information before beginning treatment.

If you have been thinking about obtaining the dazzling smile you’ve always wanted, we invite you to give us a call at one of our offices in Virginia Beach, Norfolk and Chesapeake.

See you soon!

- The team at Tidewater Orthodontics

Friday, February 4, 2011

At Tidewater Orthodontics, February marks National Children's Dental Health Month


At Tidewater Orthodontics, February is National Children's Dental Health Month, as well as National Dental Health Month, and Drs. Ashby & Dailey and team thought we’d promote good oral hygiene among our patients with a few tips and tricks, courtesy of the American Dental Association.

• Teeth brushing techniques: It takes only two minutes to properly brush using short, gentle strokes and devoting extra attention to the gumline, areas around fillings and hard-to-reach areas such as the back teeth.

• Flossing: hold the floss snugly between thumbs and index finger and insert it between each of the teeth, making sure to go beneath the gumline and curving the floss around the base of each tooth.

• Snack wisely: choose healthy snacks such as cheese, fruits and vegetables and avoid crunchy, sticky, chewy candies that can stick to the teeth. If you eat these snacks, be sure to brush after doing so.

• Carbonated or sugary drinks: these drinks create acids that can damage the teeth when mixed with saliva, so they should be avoided altogether. If you’re going to drink one of these beverages, don’t sip on it throughout the day. Rather, drink it and then brush your teeth.

• Regular dental visits: in addition to seeing our team at Tidewater Orthodontics during your orthodontic treatment, you should visit your dentist for professional check-ups and teeth cleaning appointments about every six months.


National Dental Health Month aims to increase awareness about the importance of our patients' oral health. If you have any questions about keeping your mouth healthy, or about your treatment with Tidewater Orthodontics, please feel free to give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Sunday, January 30, 2011

What is two-phase treatment and when is it necessary?


Great question. Usually patients in orthodontic treatment at Tidewater Ortho already have their permanent teeth, but in some cases we have to start treatment earlier, even before the patient’s permanent teeth come in. We call this “two-phase treatment.”

When we have patients with clear developmental problems at an early age, it’s best to start work when they are young, before the problems get bigger and more difficult to treat. Examples include an upper or lower jaw that is not growing correctly, or a mouth growing in a way that doesn’t leave enough room for all the permanent teeth to come in.

In these cases we will start early and do one round of treatment – phase one – while the patient still has “baby teeth.” Phase one usually does not involve braces, but can include a different type of appliance that helps the jaw grow into place properly, such as a retainer. We’ll follow up with phase two usually a few years later, when permanent the patient’s permanent teeth have come in.

In order to catch early problems, we recommend that children have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven (and so do our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists). To learn more about two-phase orthodontics, or to schedule a consultation, please give us a call or ask us on Facebook. We look forward to working with you and your family and sharing in your exciting transformation.

Monday, January 24, 2011

Ask Tidewater Orthodontics: Which foods should I avoid while wearing braces?

Thanks for your question. For the first day or so in your new braces, we'd like you to stick to soft foods. Avoid tough meats, hard breads and raw vegetables. Before long, you'll be able to bite a cucumber again. But you'll need to protect your orthodontic appliances when you eat for as long as you're wearing braces.

Foods you'll definitely want to avoid during your treatment at Tidewater Orthodontics include:

* Chewy foods: bagels, hard rolls, licorice
* Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice, chips
* Sticky foods: caramels, gum
* Hard foods: nuts, candy
* Foods you have to bite into: corn on the cob, apples, carrots
* Chewing on hard things (for example, pens, pencils or fingernails) can damage the braces. Damaged braces will cause treatment to take longer.


For some great and braces-friendly recipes, check out the Braces Cookbook or ask one of our team members during your next visit.

Monday, January 17, 2011

More than just a day off from school, from Tidewater Orthodontics


Today, our country celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who was a thinker, leader and civil rights champion. In the 1950s and ’60s, Dr. King recognized the need to bring about social justice, and worked tirelessly to instill tolerance in our nation, strengthen America’s communities and move the nation forward. This weekend, tens of thousands of people of all ages and races in Virginia and across the United States spent their time building, giving and renovating our communities to help celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend. Do you have the day off on Monday? If so, what do you plan to do to help your local community?

We’d love to know about your activities and events this MLK Jr. Day. If you have any video or pictures you’d like to share, please pass them along! If you’re not sure how, give us a call!

Our entire team at Tidewater Orthodontics are proud of all our patients, families and colleagues who continue to make a difference in our community!

Friday, January 7, 2011

Ask Tidewater Orthodontics: Why are regular dental checkups so important?


Our staff at Tidewater Orthodontics want to know: Is your child brushing his or her teeth twice a day during treatment? If the answer is yes, we think that’s fantastic!

But, don’t forget that it’s also important for your child to visit the dentist every six months in addition to brushing their teeth a couple times a day (and visiting us at Tidewater Orthodontics, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. During the visit, your dentist can:


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


During an oral exam the doctor will also check the health of your child’s mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If your child has not been to the dentist in the last six months, it’s time for you to schedule an appointment - just ask us - Drs. Ashby and Dailey know plenty of great dentists in Virginia Beach, Norfolk and Chesapeake!

Have a great weekend!

Saturday, January 1, 2011

Connect with the Braces Brigade!

At Tidewater Orthodontics, 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 Tidewater Orthodontics 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 at our Virginia Beach, Norfolk or Chesapeake offices if you have any questions about the Braces Brigade or your own orthodontic treatment with Drs. Ashby or Dailey!

Happy New Year!