Dr. Paula Baby & Dr. Jaime Rojas

The benefits of a beautiful smile, from Drs. Baby & Rojas

2012-01-23T07:52:00.001-08:00

At the office of Drs. Baby & Rojas, we 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. 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. See you soon!

Alberta Dentist Spends More Than $31,000 For John Lennon's Tooth

2012-01-20T10:09:00.000-08:00

This is a fun story! An Alberta dentist named Dr. Michael Zuk recently paid more than $31,000 for a "yellowy, browny tooth with a cavity" that once belonged to John Lennon.

Zuk, who has authored a book on celebrities and their teeth, said he would display Lennon's tooth in a case at his dental office. Drs. Baby and Rojas encourage you to read this fascinating story!

2012!

2012-01-03T06:06:00.000-08:00

At Dr. Baby and Dr. Rojas' orthodontic office, the New Year is a time to look back to the past, and more importantly, forward to the coming year. Our wish is that our patients continue to keep their teeth healthy, as well as wear their rubber bands, headgear and appliances as prescribed during their treatment.

We look forward to those patients who are planning their orthodontic treatment this year - we think it's a great resolution!

Happy New Year from all of us at Dr. Baby and Dr. Rojas' office.

Ask Drs. Baby & Rojas: "What's the deal with retainers?"

2011-12-27T06:34:00.000-08:00

If you recently completed treatment, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, we will provide—or have 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 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!

Happy Holidays!

Season’s Greetings!

2011-12-19T08:03:00.001-08:00

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as Drs. Baby and Rojas and our team 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!

Happy Holidays!

Damon Clear at Dr. Baby & Dr. Rojas' office!

2011-12-13T12:10:00.000-08:00

Finally, we have the same high level of quality orthodontic treatment in a bracket that you can't even see! Drs. Paula Baby and Jaime Rojas are proud to offer Damon System braces, including new Damon Clear brackets. Virtually invisible, Damon Clear offers fast, comfortable treatment that can produce extraordinary results! Learn more about Damon Clear by watching the above video or by visiting our Damon Clear page, or give us a call to set up your initial consultation today!

Give us a call to find out how you can receive the smile you have always wanted, now without anyone ever knowing!

We proudly serve London, Goderich and Wingham, ON.

Ask Drs. Baby & Rojas: What is Digital Radiography?

2011-12-05T20:08:00.000-08:00

Great question! In an effort to provide the best possible treatment to our patients, Drs. Baby & Rojas and team use digital radiography (X-rays) in our offices. Instead of using traditional film, digital radiography uses a small wireless sensor, and drastically reduces wait time at our office. But the biggest benefit to the use of digital technology is that it allows Drs. Baby & Rojas to obtain the same information, but also diagnose the size, shape and position of your teeth with great accuracy. Digital radiography also produces less radiation than conventional X-rays.

If you have any more questions about digital radiography or your treatment at our office, please ask us here on our blog, give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Ask Drs. Baby & Rojas: “Why do people need braces, anyway?"

2011-12-01T09:20:00.000-08:00

Your dentist may have discussed with you the benefits of having healthy teeth and proper jaw alignment. Drs. Baby & Rojas will both tell you that crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain, which can result in tooth decay, worsen gum disease and eventually lead to tooth loss.

Other orthodontic problems, specifically concerned with how the teeth bite together can contribute to abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, inefficient chewing function, excessive stress on gum tissue and the bone that support, or misalignment of the jaw joints. Orthodontic treatment with Drs. Baby & Rojas can be less costly than the additional care required to treat dental problems that arise as a result of uncorrected orthodontic problems. For most people, a beautiful smile is the most obvious benefit of orthodontics. After your braces come off, you'll feel more self-confident. To get started with orthodontic your treatment today, please contact us to schedule a consultation.

Our offices are conveniently located in Wingham and London, Ontario. We provide orthodontic care for the following communities: London, Wingham, Lucan, Exeter, Clinton, Goderich, Seaforth, Kincardine, Hanover, Brussels, Lambeth, Middlesex County.

Have a great rest of the week!

How important is YOUR smile?

2011-11-21T07:46:00.000-08:00

At the office of Dr. Paula Baby and Dr. Jaime Rojas, our goal is to provide the highest quality of orthodontics in a professional yet caring and fun environment. As two orthodontists who specialize in treatment for children and adults, we make your treatment and your experience our top priorities. Our goal is to provide the highest quality of orthodontics in a professional yet caring and fun environment.

The bottom line is, we know having a beautiful smile is important to you. It’s important to us, too.

And speaking of smiling, in a poll conducted by Glamour Magazine earlier this year, 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 chose 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 one’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well.

ontact Dr. Rojas and Dr. Baby today to get started with your treatment. Our offices are conveniently located in Wingham and London, Ontario. We provide orthodontic care for the following communities: London, Wingham, Lucan, Exeter, Clinton, Goderich, Seaforth, Kincardine, Hanover, Brussels, Lambeth, Middlesex County.

See you soon!

Ask Drs. Baby & Rojas: “I got my braces. Now what?

2011-11-14T07:20:00.000-08:00

We love when patients ask us that question! Now that you’re wearing braces, it’s just as important to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen as you did before before orthodontic treatment began.

Braces are known to trap food particles and make it difficult to brush or remove plaque, which is why Drs. Baby and Rojas recommend that you brush and floss after every meal. We also encourage you to use a proxabrush to help with the smaller areas where your toothbrush doesn’t reach. We encourage the use of fluoride rinse as well; ask Drs. Baby or Rojas for a recommendation.

When your braces are initially placed, your teeth are likely to be very sensitive. You may experience discomfort for up to 3 or 5 days, which is why we encourage you to eat soft foods during that time. Remember, the less pressure you put on your teeth, the less discomfort you will have.

You may also be thinking, “Okay, so what can I eat?” We would encourage you to avoid eating sticky, hard, crunchy or chewy snacks that can stick to your teeth.

Drs. Baby and Rojas will tell you it’s crucial to regularly check your braces for bent or loose wires and brackets. In the event of a loose/broken wire or bracket, please call one of our offices immediately to schedule an appointment for repair.

Ask Drs. Baby & Rojas: "My son is turning 7 - when should we visit for a consultation?"

2011-11-07T08:27:00.000-08:00

Thanks for the question! Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Drs. Baby & Rojas for a consultation, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Did you know the Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That’s right—seven.

Ok, so what’s so great about age seven, you ask? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for our team to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “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 are detrimental to good oral hygiene. So, if your child is nearing his or her seventh birthday, give us a call at our London, Wingham, or Goderich orthodontic offices to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Rojas celebrates 10 years in Wingham

2011-10-31T09:53:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween! Dr. Jaime Rojas has been putting smiles on the faces of Wingham and area people for a decade. And the smiles are beautiful. Dr. Rojas is the orthodontist who is part of Maitland Family Dental, with doctors Ray Bateman, Yang Liu and David Magee.

One day each week, usually Tuesday, Dr. Rojas and his team travel from London to the Wingham office. He’s been doing the commute for 10 years now, through good weather and bad, and wants to thank the local community for its support. The rest of the week, he works at his London office at Horton and Wharncliffe streets.

In Dr. Rojas’ opinion, he has the best of both worlds – a practice he shares with his wife, Dr. Paula Baby, who is also an orthodontist, and an opportunity to bring the latest orthodontic techniques to a community where the pace of life is different and people have a down-to-earth attitude he appreciates. And straight teeth are
important no matter where you live.

The process of getting that great smile has changed dramatically in the decade Dr. Rojas has been coming to Wingham. There are a lot more options for patients, including some that eliminate the glittering metal brackets most of us think of when
we’re considering orthodontic work.

These days, braces can be clear. There are also systems like Insignia – computer generated braces, where each bracket is designed for a particular tooth. Because the orthodontist monitors everything by computer, minor adjustments can be made, offering a precision that isn’t possible with other types of braces.

“It’s amazing what orthodontics can do,” Dr. Rojas said. He had been in a practice in Clinton, but regards his decision to accept the invitation to join the Wingham practice as “one of the best business decisions” he ever made. The dentists in the practice were welcoming, and so was the community. And the rest is history – 10 years of straight teeth, definitely something to smile about.

For more information, call 519-357-3027, or check the website.

Halloween Candy Buy Back through November 8th!

2011-10-26T08:43:00.000-07:00

Check out the details for our Halloween Candy Buy Back! One lucky person will win an iPod Touch!

October is Oral Health Month!

2011-10-17T15:54:00.000-07:00

In honor of Oral Health Month, Drs. Paula Baby and Jaime Rojas recommend 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
• Ice

If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call, ask us on Facebook, or ask Drs. Baby and Rojas during your visit this month!

Happy Thanksgiving! From Dr. Baby and Dr. Rojas

2011-10-10T11:18:00.000-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving! It’s a day to sleep in late, eat turkey, pumpkin pie and enjoy the colours of the season. As always, Drs. Paula Baby, Jaime Rojas and our team have a lot to be thankful to be for.

How about you? What are you thankful for today? Friends? Family? A day off? Your new smile?

Drs. Baby, Rojas and team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. It's a big food holiday, so be careful what you eat with those braces! If you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we'd encourage you to post them below or post them to our Facebook page!

Gobble Gobble!

Ask Drs. Baby & Rojas: Now that I have braces, what can I eat?

2011-10-03T08:01:00.000-07:00

Great question. Let’s say you just got braces and Dr. Paula Baby or Dr. Jaime Rojas have 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!

Drs. Baby & Rojas, giving back to the community

2011-09-28T18:28:00.000-07:00

We are a week into collecting items for the people of Goderich. Thanks to all those who have already generously donated. Our list of urgently needed items has recently been updated to include only non-perishable food items. All donations can be dropped off until October 5th at any one of our offices. For further information please refer to our Facebook page.

Thank you again for your support.

Ask Drs. Baby & Rojas: “Where can I get more info about braces?”

2011-09-27T15:59:00.000-07:00

Great question! Besides here on Dr. Baby & Rojas’ website, which provides you with a plethora of information about all things braces and Invisalign, we would like to point you to a helpful website: Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, have provided lots of important information about everything braces, including myths and facts of orthodontics, tips for a better orthodontic experience and cool webisodes about orthodontics.

We encourage you to check out AAO today and feel free to contact us if you have any questions here on our blog or on our Facebook page.

Hope this helps,

Drs. Baby, Rojas and Team

Join the conversation.

2011-09-21T22:20:00.000-07:00

Whether you just began your orthodontic treatment and have a follow-up question for Dr. Baby, Dr. Rojas or our team, or if you’d simply like to drop us a quick line, we’d love to hear from you!

We love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our interactive Facebook fan page.

Please visit us on the following networks:

Facebook: facebook.com/LondonBraces
YouTube: youtube.com/LondonBraces
Twitter: twitter.com/BabyRojasOrtho

20 things that can ruin your smile, from Drs. Baby & Rojas

2011-09-13T20:02:00.000-07:00

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

- Tobacco

- Coffee

- Wine

- Soft drinks

- Citrus and acidic foods

Drs. Baby & Rojas encourage you to read the rest of the article and ask us here on our blog or during your next visit to our convenient Wingham, London or Goderich office. For more tips or for general questions about your ongoing dental treatment, we invite you to ask Drs. Baby & Rojas during your next visit! We also invite you to ask us on Facebook!

What do you love about our office?

2011-09-05T19:37:00.000-07:00

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

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

Thank you,
Drs. Paula Baby and Jaime Rojas

Back to school with Drs. Baby & Rojas

2011-08-29T08:21:00.000-07:00

Now that many of the schools in London, Wingham and Goderich are back in session, Drs. Baby & Rojas would like to remind all of our patients about the importance of scheduling appointments in advance. With school, clubs, sports and family duties to consider, we know that it can be challenging to find time to visit our office this fall. 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.

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 if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your fall appointment.

We’ll see you soon and hope summer is winding down nicely for all our patients!

The trouble with bottled water, from Drs. Baby & Rojas

2011-08-23T10:01:00.001-07:00

Our team at the office of Dr. Baby and Dr. Rojas know that as more families turn to bottled water and away from the traditional tap, they may be missing out on one important ingredient that most brands of bottled water fail to include: fluoride!

For more than 60 years, water fluoridation has proved to be a safe and cost-effective way to reduce dental caries. Today, water fluoridation is estimated to reduce tooth decay by 20- to 40 percent in children who have access to fluoridated toothpaste.

Bottled water, however, which remains one of the more popular drinks in the world, may not contain any fluoride, which is known to help prevent and even reverse the early stages of tooth decay. The majority of bottled waters on the market do not contain optimal levels (0.7-1.2 ppm) of fluoride, according to the American Dental Association, or ADA. Many dental health specialists suspect bottled water’s increased popularity as the culprit behind rising rates of cavities.

Because fluoride helps strengthen teeth, it is an important component of maintaining good oral health. So if bottled water is your water of choice, be sure to check the label to make sure that your brand contains fluoride. As of a 2006 decision, the Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, allows bottled water containing .6 to 1.0 milligrams per liter (parts per million) of fluoride to carry a label stating that fluoridated water may reduce the risk of dental cavities or tooth decay. The ADA has backed this decision.

Of course, simply drinking fluoridated water is not a magic ticket to perfect teeth. To keep your pearly whites in tip-top shape, it’s important to brush and floss daily and avoid sugary sweets, in addition to maintaining your fluoride intake and visiting your dentist regularly.

Tell Drs. Baby & Rojas about your summer!

2011-08-15T15:13:00.000-07:00

The dog days of summer are upon us, and what better time for Drs. Baby & Rojas (and our team) 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! We invite you to post your photos as well!

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

When you need immediate care, we’re here for you.

2011-08-11T20:19:00.000-07:00

At the office of Dr. Paula Baby and Dr. Jaime Rojas, we know true orthodontic emergencies are never convenient nor timely. If you are a patient of record, Drs. Baby and Rojas 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 contact Drs. Baby and Rojas.

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. We proudly serve patients from London, Wingham, Lucan, Exeter, Clinton, Goderich, Seaforth, Kincardine, Hanover, Brussels, Lambeth and Middlesex County.

We hope you’re all enjoying your summer.

Connect with us on Facebook!

2011-08-04T20:34:00.000-07:00

We value the relationships we have developed with our patients in London, Wingham, Goderich and nearby communities over the years. 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//LondonBraces. We share office news, updates and all sorts of announcements there, so we encourage you to check us out! By Liking our page, you will receive updates from our office automatically in your news feed!

See you on Facebook and have a great weekend,

- Drs. Baby, Rojas and team

Ask Drs. Baby & Rojas: Can germs really live on my son’s toothbrush?

2011-07-29T14:34:00.000-07:00

Thank you for the question, and yes, absolutely. Germs are known to linger on the bristles, and you risk prolonging your sickness by continuing to use the same toothbrush. Be smart this summer - keep a spare, just in case! To protect your toothbrush from bacteria all year long, consider the following tips:

• 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 your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Worn bristles are less effective in properly cleaning your teeth, and can actually be damaging to teeth if used too long!

Hope these tips help! Feel free to call us if you have any questions or ask Dr. Baby, Dr. Rojas or our team on Facebook.

What’s on your mind?

2011-07-21T13:41:00.000-07:00

As the summer progresses, our team at the office of Dr. Paula Baby and Dr. Jaime Rojas strive to continue writing about important topics related to orthodontics and your treatment at our office.

To help us continue doing that through the course of the summer, Drs. Baby & Rojas and team would like to ask you, our readers: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the always-changing and exciting field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog in the summer months? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Drs. Baby or Rojas for a while? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook page!

We hope you’re having a great week!

Ask Drs. Baby & Rojas: “I’m 31 – am I too old for braces?”

2011-07-14T22:54:00.000-07:00

Absolutely not! At the office of Dr. Paula Baby and Dr. Jaime Rojas, nobody is “too old” for braces! In fact, we read a fascinating statistic recently: adults getting braces has actually jumped 24 percent since 1996! Of course, braces help make your teeth stay strong, healthy and become perfectly-aligned. But we’d like you to know orthodontic treatment with Drs. Baby and Rojas 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, we would love to have you visit for a consultation at our office. Please give us a call to set one up at our convenient Wingham or London office and have a wonderful weekend!

Are you wearing your mouthguard this summer?

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

With summer in full force, 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 summer.

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 Dr. Baby or Dr. Rojas, we encourage you to ask us for a mouth guard! 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!

Do we have your current contact info?

2011-07-01T16:17:00.000-07:00

We hope you’re having a great Friday and 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 appointment with Drs. Baby or Rojas, please let us know ahead of time so that we may be able to accommodate you, as well as schedule another patient at that appointment time.

Also, we ask that you give us a call and 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!

Love your new smile? Tell the world ALL ABOUT IT!

2011-06-22T14:13:00.001-07:00

At the office of Dr. Paula Baby and Dr. Jaime Rojas we understand that deciding to undertake orthodontic treatment is an important decision and investment, and choosing the right specialist is a crucial part of that decision.

Whether you've visited our office for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about how our office has fared during your orthodontic treatment! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice, but we encourage you to head to our Google Places page and write a review there.

After all, reviews help Drs. Baby & Rojas create more beautiful smiles in London, Wingham, Goderich and surrounding communities. Thanks in advance, and we hope you have a great week!

You may write your review here.

Where will your braces go this summer?

2011-06-15T09:18:00.000-07:00

With summer almost here, we thought it would be a great idea for you to share your summer photos with us by letting us know where your braces went this summer.

Camping, canoeing, back yard BBQ, Canada’s Wonderland, or boating it doesn’t matter, we want to see those smiling faces!

You can post those pictures on our Facebook FanPage or email us at staff@londonbraces.com and we will post them on your behalf.

5 habits that lead to teeth plaque, from Drs. Baby and Rojas

2011-06-10T23:05:00.000-07:00

Nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth. 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 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 your 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 dentist at least twice a year, and you 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. 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 that candy up, think about giving 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. If you have any questions, visit our web page on oral hygiene, or contact our office at 1-800-920-9798.

Hope this helps,
Drs. Baby & Rojas

What’s on your reading list this summer?

2011-06-03T16:29:00.001-07:00

With summer almost upon us, some of us at Drs. Baby & Rojas' office ave been thinking more and more about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading, but reading during the summer is a vital step in brain development—and it's fun!

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 would be happy to provide a few suggestions. You can also ask a local librarian or check out this list of 19 books to read this summer!

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

Access your account—any day, any time, anywhere!

2011-05-23T16:15:00.001-07:00

Access to your account, 24/7. Sounds convenient, doesn’t it?

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, which is especially helpful for those teens and parents who are always on-the-go! And, because we know folks sometimes forget, you can even receive appointment reminders through email, text messages and more!

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

"My son is turning 7 - when should we visit for a consultation?"

2011-05-17T14:36:00.000-07:00

Great question! Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Drs. Baby & Rojas for a consultation, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Did you know the Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That’s right—seven.

Ok, so what’s so great about age seven, you ask? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for our team to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “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 are detrimental to good oral hygiene. So, if your child is nearing his or her seventh birthday, give us a call at our London, Wingham, or Goderich orthodontic offices to schedule an appointment.

Breaking bad habits, from Drs. Baby and Rojas

2011-05-09T12:50:00.000-07:00

At the office of Drs. Baby and Rojas, we know good dental health requires only a few minutes a day. We thought we’d provide some practical advice on how to improve your or your child’s smile between your visits with Drs. Baby and Rojas.

Start by brushing your teeth twice a day. Proper brushing techniques are an essential part of maintaining good oral health, as well as preventing gum disease. Brushing daily helps remove decay-causing plaque from tooth surfaces. Please consult Drs. Baby and Rojas if you would like us to review brushing techniques with you or your child. Flossing daily will also prevent plaque to build up between the teeth and prevent stains between your teeth. Research has shown the bacteria of gum disease has been linked to coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes and memory loss. Lastly, we encourage you to throw away old toothbrushes and replace them every 2 or 3 months, or after an illness.

We hope this helps! If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact our convenient Wingham, Goderich and London offices or ask us on Facebook!

Ask Drs. Baby & Rojas: Which foods should I avoid while in braces?

2011-04-30T14:51:00.000-07:00

There are a variety of foods Dr. Paula Baby and Dr. Jaime Rojas want you to avoid while you're wearing braces. Some foods can occasionally damage braces, but certain foods can bend the wires or even break the brackets on your braces.

If you’re wearing braces, you should avoid starch, sugar and gummy foods, as these foods can be difficult to remove during brushing. Foods that are high in sugar and starch tend to cause plaque, cavities and even tooth decay.

Avoid tough meats, hard breads and raw vegetables such as carrots and celery. 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 should avoid 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

Also, chewing on hard things (for example, pens, pencils or fingernails) can damage the braces. Damaged braces will cause treatment to take longer.

If you have any questions on which foods you should be avoiding and why, we invite you to give Drs. Baby and Rojas a call or ask our staff during your next visit.

Drs. Baby & Rojas, dispelling the myths about orthodontics

2011-04-20T19:54:00.000-07:00

Drs. Baby & Rojas and our staff know there are quite a few myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) out there nowadays. But before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts first! 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 , feel free to give us a call. Or, we invite you to ask us on Facebook!

Ask Drs. Baby & Rojas: What's the deal with retainers?

2011-04-10T08:25:00.000-07:00

Play it safe this spring, from Drs. Baby & Rojas

2011-04-04T08:13:00.000-07:00

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 Dr. Paula Baby and Dr. Jaime Rojas for special precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing spring sports such as baseball, soccer, lacrosse and others. Be sure, however, 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 at our office. And don’t forget to ask us—Drs. Baby and Rojas 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 with Drs. Baby and Rojas.

See you soon!

How important is your smile? From Drs. Baby & Rojas

2011-03-22T09:02:00.000-07:00

At the office of Dr. Paula Baby and Dr. Jaime Rojas, we believe confidence in your smile begins with the alignment of your teeth. As two orthodontists who specialize in treatment for children and adults, we make your treatment and your experience our top priorities. Our goal is to provide the highest quality of orthodontics in a professional yet caring and fun environment.

In fact, 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.

Contact us today for a consultation and start the path to a dazzling new smile! Our offices are conveniently located in Wingham and London, Ontario. We provide orthodontic care for the following communities: London, Wingham, Lucan, Exeter, Clinton, Goderich, Seaforth, Kincardine, Hanover, Brussels, Lambeth, Middlesex County.

Love your smile? Tell the world about it!

2011-03-08T06:44:00.000-08:00

Invisalign patient testimonial [Video]

2011-03-02T10:20:00.000-08:00

Drs. Baby & Rojas and team came across this video recently, and realized 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.

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 an initial consultation, so Drs. Baby and Rojas can discuss the specifics of your treatment.

Biolase ezlase 940 Dental Laser

2011-02-23T15:08:00.000-08:00

We are excited to announce that our office has recently purchased a new soft tissue laser for use with our patients to speed up treatment time.

The laser, called the ezlase 940, is the first dental laser to obtain clearance at the unique 940 nm wavelength, and enables Drs. Baby and Rojas to remove tissue and place brackets to teeth sooner in order to speed up treatment.

In the past, orthodontists would sometimes wait 6 months - one year for these teeth to fully erupt before placing brackets. Now we can drastically speed up treatment with laser tissue removal! The really great news about this laser is that it is one of the most high tech on the market. It also runs at a very specific wavelength that is far more comfortable for patients and uses and superior control of bleeding during dental procedures. Small and ultralight, the ezlase 940 enables Drs. Baby and Rojas to produce results and more comfortably than ever.

You can learn more about this process by giving us a call today or asking us on Facebook!

Tell us what's on your mind!

2011-02-14T08:47:00.000-08:00

Week after week, Drs. Baby, Rojas and our team blog about important topics pertinent to orthodontic 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: 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? Perhaps there’s something you’ve been wanting to ask us for a while now? Let us know by posting here or on our interactive Facebook page!

So… take it away and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have!

Happy Valentine's Day!

February marks Children's Dental Health Month

2011-02-06T13:25:00.000-08:00

Each February for the past 61 years, Children's Dental Health Month has helped raise awareness about the importance of oral health. Developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

For kids wearing braces, brushing and flossing can become more difficult, requiring extra time and vigilance to remove food particles that accumulate on and between the teeth and in braces. New options for braces such as Invisalign Teen, which is removable, make it easier for kids to maintain good oral health during orthodontic treatment.

If the health of your teeth is ignored during treatment with braces, the results can be significantly compromised. Drs. Baby and Rojas are both available and happy to explain why effective brushing and flossing is one of the most critical actions needed from patients during orthodontic treatment. Have you visited our Wingham, London or Goderich office lately? Give us a call and schedule an appointment! We also invite you to connect with us on Facebook!

Access to your account any day, any time

2011-01-30T20:00:00.000-08:00

Access to your account, 24/7. Sounds convenient, doesn’t it?

At the office of Dr. Baby and Dr. Rojas, we embrace new technology, whether it is through the innovative orthodontic treatments we offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern offices.

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, which is especially helpful during the holidays! 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 on our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started or ask us on Facebook!

What do you love about our office?

2011-01-24T10:46:00.000-08:00

Drs. Baby and Rojas understand not everyone enjoys visiting their orthodontist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. As two orthodontists who specialize in treatment for children and adults, we make your treatment and your experience our top priorities. Our goal is to provide the highest quality of orthodontics in a professional yet caring and fun environment.

We’d like to know: What is it about the office of Dr. Paula Baby and Dr. Jaime Rojas that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff? Is it something about the quality care you get from our doctors?

Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook page!

Drs. Rojas and Baby, your local Insignia™ providers

2011-01-17T16:05:00.000-08:00

Let's say you're getting braces soon. While you’re excited about finally having that great, gorgeous smile, you may be nervous about wearing wires and brackets for two or more years. Well, Drs. Baby and Rojas would like to tell you about an orthodontic system that makes straightening your teeth with braces a lot faster and easier compared to conventional orthodontic treatment. It’s called Insignia, and it’s changing the way people feel about their braces.

While traditional orthodontic treatments take two or more years, it’s not true for Insignia. Through the use of Insignia’s sophisticated 3-D imaging, treatment planning, and customized braces with customized precision archwires, Drs. Baby and Rojas can reduce treatment time compared to that of conventional braces.

In addition to shortening treatment times, the greater efficiency of the Insignia system at London Braces also helps reduce the number of wire changes and adjustments you’ll need, and that means fewer trips to our office. The Insignia system’s 3-D software lets Drs. Baby and Rojas analyze how to effectively and efficiently align your teeth. Through this software, personalized archwires are designed to move your teeth into proper alignment smoothly and directly, reducing the number of maintenance visits. Unlike traditional orthodontics and their “one size fits all” approach, Insignia Advanced Smile Design customizes braces and wires to you. The result is a radiant smile that reflects your individuality.

Give us a call and ask us about this revolutionary treatment! Our offices are conveniently located in Wingham and London, Ontario. We provide orthodontic care for the following communities: London, Wingham, Lucan, Exeter, Clinton, Goderich, Seaforth, Kincardine, Hanover, Brussels, Lambeth, Middlesex County.

Enjoy the rest of your week!

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

2011-01-14T15:01:00.001-08:00

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!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment. The physical process for moving teeth is the same, young or old, which means it is 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, get in touch with us so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs.

Preparing for Cold and Flu Season, from Drs. Baby & Rojas

2011-01-07T09:06:00.000-08:00

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, we 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!

Make 2011 the year to improve your oral health

2010-12-28T13:19:00.000-08:00

Many folks 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. Rojas, Dr. Baby 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!

What is your New Year’s Resolution?

2010-12-22T11:50:00.001-08:00

The 2010 holiday season is upon us, and our team would like to wish all our patients and their families the merriest of holidays and best wishes for the New Year.

We thought we’d ask: what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2011? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Have a safe and happy New Year!

Insignia Delivers Custom-Made Damon Braces

2010-12-17T13:09:00.001-08:00

Ask us about this exciting new technology on your next visit to our office!

Video- Digital Braces

2010-12-10T15:52:00.000-08:00

Check out this video on 3D technology in orthodontics. Pretty cool to see how far orthodontics has advanced over the years!

Help Us Reach Our Food Bank Goal This Holiday Season!

2010-12-01T13:53:00.000-08:00

With Christmas just around the corner we want to do our part and support our community. For the 2nd year we are accepting donations for the London Food Bank. We have a goal of 150 non-perishable food items. Please help us reach our goal! We are accepting donations from now until December 20th. Thank you so much for your continued support! Items currently needed by the London Food Bank include:

-powdered or canned milk

-canned beans in tomato sauce

-canned tuna, salmon

-canned fruit

-canned vegetables

-canned juice

-rice, pasta (uncooked)

-macaroni & cheese dinner

-canned tomatoes / pasta sauce

-baby food (jars, cereals, cookies)

-baby formula

-individually packaged healthy snack foods

-canned stew

What puts you at ease at our office?

2010-11-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

Dr. Baby, Dr. Rojas 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 our team that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or doctors?

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

Staying connected with Our Team

2010-11-17T08:00:00.000-08:00

At our London, Wingham, and Goderich offices, we embrace technology, whether it’s through the innovative treatments we offer, our high-tech web site or our Facebook fan page. As you can probably tell, we love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our fan page. For social media to work, we understand that conversation is vital, and that’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social networks are hugely popular these days, we know they’re unpredictable and ever-changing.

While we take a little time to research how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog? Please post your thoughts or give us a call!

Ask Us: Who benefits from braces?

2010-11-12T13:17:00.000-08:00

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Our team 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 Canadian Association of Orthodontists, or CAO, 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 adult orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

Give us a call today at 1-800-920-9798!

Age 7 is the magic number for an orthodontic check-up

2010-11-04T14:18:00.000-07:00

Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Drs. Baby & Rojas for a consultation, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Did you know the Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That’s right—seven.

Ok, so what’s so great about age seven, you ask? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for our team to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “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 are detrimental to good oral hygiene. So, if your child is nearing his or her seventh birthday, give us a call at our London, Wingham, or Goderich orthodontic offices to schedule an appointment.

A few Halloween safety tips

2010-10-29T08:07:00.000-07:00

Trick-or-treat! In the spirit of October’s sweet and spooky holiday, Halloween, Drs. Baby & Rojas would like to remind all of our patients to be safe while celebrating with friends and family. Below are some tips for trick-or-treaters to ensure 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 our staff a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone.

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

A Great Braces Friendly Halloween Recipe

2010-10-21T07:55:00.000-07:00

Our team know how tempting this time of the year can be on our sweet tooth. With all of the caramel, candy corn, and lollipops that are often passed around to trick-or-treaters, we realize that it can sometimes be hard to find hard, chewy, sticky, and crunchy candy alternatives.

However, there is good news! Today, we would like to share a great braces-friendly Halloween recipe with all of our patients, courtesy of “The Braces Cookbook” by Pamela Waterman. This Spider Bites recipe is delicious, and provided that you remember to brush and floss after indulging, this is a cookie that won’t bite back!

Spider Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 cup shortening
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 Tbsp. water
• 1 Tsp. vanilla
• 2 eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cocoa
• 1 Tsp. salt
• ½ Tsp. baking powder
• 1 package black rope licorice, cut into 1-inch pieces**
• 1 small tube of white (or color of choice) frosting
• Toothpicks

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

In a large bowl, combine shortening, sugar, water, and vanilla. Beat until smooth. Add eggs into the mixture and blend. Slowly mix in flour, cocoa, salt and baking powder using low-medium speed. Drop tablespoon helpings of mixture onto ungreased cookie sheets and roll each helping into a ball.

Bake 9 minutes at 375 degrees. The batch should produce around three dozen cookies.

Let cookies cool for about 10 minutes. Then using a toothpick, create four small holes in either side of the cookie. Still using the toothpick, push one end of a piece of the cut licorice into each hole, creating the “legs” of the spider. Once all eight pieces are in place, create eyes or decorate at will using the white frosting. Then eat and enjoy!

**Licorice can sometimes stick to braces; parents should monitor

Keeping Up with the Latest in Sterlization Techniques

2010-10-15T15:21:00.000-07:00

A safe environment for our patients and team members is a big part of our goal here at the orthodontic practice of Drs. Baby & Rojas. We strive to use the highest quality, safest materials and procedures with our patients, to ensure you have a healthy and pain free experience at our office. Another area of our efforts in safety revolves around sterilization. Our staff is up on the latest technologies in sterilization, and continue to take educational courses to ensure we are doing everything possible to keep our patients and ourselves safe.

Questions about our sterilization or safety procedures? Give us a call!

The importance of retainers

2010-10-07T16:27:00.000-07:00

If you recently completed treatment, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, we will provide—or have 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 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!

Orthodontic fun facts, from Drs. Baby & Rojas

2010-09-30T11:05:00.000-07:00

Everyone loves fun facts. Fun, fun, fun! The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that 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 yes, even Justin Bieber!

All the cool kids do it!

2010-09-24T11:04:00.000-07:00

Braces today are “cool” and—many would say—even “fun.” These were among the findings of a 2010 survey of moms whose children are going through or have had orthodontic treatment. New technologies such as Insignia, Damon System and Invisalign, advanced computer software, color options, and even popular celebrities—Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Danny Glover, Serena Williams—sporting stylish braces are making orthodontic treatment more comfortable, fashionable and cool for today’s teens.
The study, conducted on behalf of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, found 86 percent of moms reporting that braces are cooler today than when they were children. Sixty-nine percent of moms also said wearing braces makes their children feel cool, and 81 percent reported their children’s experience with orthodontic treatment as either positive or extremely positive.

Different color options and the ability to change colors, for example, provide exciting ways for young patients to customize appearances. That enthusiasm helps them to feel good about their orthodontic treatment with Drs. Baby & Rojas, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

Has your child or teen visited our office for a consultation? If not, please give us a call and let us help your child begin the journey to a gorgeous smile!

Celebrities get braces, too!

2010-09-17T13:55:00.000-07:00

Did you know that back in 2002, Tom Cruise had braces? During this time, he was 40 years old and filmed Minority Report, Austin Powers in Goldmember and the Last Samurai. Check out his smile in Jerry Maguire, Rain Man or The Firm and compare to the post-braces Tom Cruise in Valkyrie or Tropic Thunder. The fact is, movie stars need to look their best for the silver screen, and it wouldn't be possible without orthodontists like Drs. Baby & Rojas!

In fact, lots of stars on the silver screen have had orthodontic treatment. Check out this slideshow of famous faces with braces. If you’ve thought about getting the perfect smile you’ve always wanted, please give us a call!

Corinne Gets Insignia Braces!

2010-09-10T15:17:00.000-07:00

Corinne, one of our hygienists in our London office got braces. To put her braces on we used Insignia. Insiginia is a high tech treatment option that can give patients a truly customized smile. With Insignia, we are able to use special orthodontic software to give you precise results in less time!

This means we can facilitate better, faster treatment results, even in complicated cases!

Be sure to ask Corinne about her experience with braces on your next visit!

Ask Us: What can Invisalign® do for my oral health?

2010-09-01T14:45:00.000-07:00

When considering treatment options, patients often ask us how Invisalign treatment is so different than traditional braces. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign 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 us the next time you’re in for an appointment at our London, Wingham or Goderich offices! 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.

Your pal, fluoride

2010-08-26T13:44:00.000-07:00

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment. You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and protect your mouth and appliances from being damaged. But did you know there is another, often forgotten about, way to keep your teeth clean and healthy during your treatment? Fluoride – a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay – can help keep your teeth strong! Fluoride comes in two varieties: topical and systemic. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth. Topical fluoride includes toothpastes and mouth rinses. Systemic fluorides are swallowed in the form of a dietary supplement.

Fluoride used in the dentist/orthodontists’ office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask your doctor how to purchase professional strength fluoride). A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. After the treatment patients may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. Depending on your oral health or doctor’s recommendation, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six or 12 months. Your doctor may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses for at-home treatment.

Regular checkups are essential in maintaining good oral health

2010-08-19T14:39:00.001-07:00

Are you brushing your teeth twice a day during your orthodontic treatment? If yes, that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your dentist every six months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting our office, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health.

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 London, Wingham and Goderich, ON areas!

Distinguishing the myths and facts about orthodontics, from Drs. Baby & Rojas

2010-08-12T15:12:00.000-07:00

Trust us when we say Drs. Baby & Rojas 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 , feel free to give us a call.

The Insignia System in London, Wingham, & Goderich, ON

2010-08-06T11:01:00.000-07:00

Recently we have been certified in the patient customized bracket technique called Insignia, from Ormco. Insiginia is a high tech treatment option that can give patients a truly customized smile. With Insignia, we are able to use special orthodontic software to give you precise results in less time!

This means we can facilitate better, faster treatment results, even in complicated cases!

We have had a staff member just go through the process, and will be sharing some photos soon! For more information, check out this video below! Ask about this exciting new technology next time you are in the office for an appointment!

View more news videos at: http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/video.

Thanks to Invisalign®, mom and dad can have a perfect smile, too! From Drs. Baby & Rojas

2010-07-28T14:41:00.000-07:00

Hey parents! You’ve taken your kids to our office to straighten their smiles, but what about yours? If you've been wanting to improve your smile , our team 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 that we can discuss the specifics of your treatment, and determine if Invisalign will work for you.

Oral Health and Overall Health, from Drs. Baby & Rojas

2010-07-22T19:36:00.000-07:00

Our team knows that while in orthodontic treatment, it is important to maintain proper oral health. According to a recent study by the British Columbia Dental Hygienists' Association, periodontal disease is linked to not only your oral health, but also the health of other body functions.

It is commonly known that proper oral health is important for many everyday functions, such as eating, talking, and kissing. New correlations have now been found linking poor oral health and cardio-vascular disease, diabetes, respiratory problems, and other systemic diseases. "Patients who have had previous infections of the heart valve may need antibiotics before having dental work done," says Cardiologist Dr. Nisha D'Mello of the University of Ottawa Heart Institute.

Have you been brushing, flossing, and visiting us for your regularly scheduled appointments? If not, give us a call! Also, be sure to visit your general dentist every six months for an oral exam to check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue.

Have a great week!

-Drs. Baby & Rojas

Am I too old for braces?

2010-07-16T07:08:00.000-07:00

Recently, our staff at Drs. Baby & Rojas orthodontic office 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 us 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, we would love to have you visit for a consultation in our London, Wingham, or new Goderich office. Please give us a call to set one up!

What’s on your summer reading list?

2010-07-09T07:10:00.000-07:00

With summer in full swing, some of us at Drs. Baby & Rojas office ave been thinking more and more about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading, but reading during the summer is a vital step in brain development—and it's fun!

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 would be happy to provide a few suggestions. You can also ask a local librarian!

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

Invisalign® tips, from Drs. Baby & Rojas

2010-07-01T14:54:00.000-07:00

Many people know that Invisalign is a great solution to braces if you don't want to experience the look and feel of traditional metal braces. What few people know, though, is that just like traditional braces, Invisalign requires proper care to work effectively. Good oral hygiene is highly important, even when you are wearing something in your mouth that you can take out to eat with. It's still likely that your aligners can build up plaque if not treated properly. When wearing your Invisalign aligners, we want 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!

Happy Canada Day!

Meet Jill, New Team Member in Wingham & London, ON

2010-06-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hi, I am Jill. I have been working in the dental field for over 15 years, 11 of those years in orthodontics. My family recently moved to London from Edmonton so now I have joined this great dental team. You will see me in both the London and Wingham offices working with the clinical staff. I have two children who are so much fun. When I am not at work I hate to exercise, I love to do way too many crafts (I can't seem to get them all done), and I am working on my cooking skills ~ which is why I need to exercise.

Meet Holly, Dental Assistant and New Team Member

2010-06-16T08:49:00.000-07:00

My name is Holly and I am a certified level II dental assistant. Since completing the dental assistant program in 2005, I have worked in general and pediatric dentistry. I started with Dr. Baby and Dr. Rojas in the spring of 2010 and I am very excited to be a part of their orthodontic team. My role as a dental assistant is to obtain new patient records and assist the other members of the clinical team in any way possible. I look forward to helping you achieve a new, beautiful smile. When I am not at work, I enjoy quality family time with my boyfriend Jaime and our daughter, Ava.

Our New Soft Tissue Laser

2010-06-08T16:04:00.001-07:00

We are excited to announce that our office has recently purchased a new soft tissue laser for use with our patients to speed up treatment time.

The laser enables us to remove tissue and place brackets to teeth sooner in order to speed up treatment. In the past, orthodontists would sometimes wait 6 months - 1 year for these teeth to fully erupt before placing brackets. Now we can drastically speed up treatment with laser tissue removal! The really great news about this laser is that it is one of the most high tech on the market, the ezlase 940. It runs at a very specific wavelength that is far more comfortable for patients. You can learn more about this process by giving us a call today!

Meet Lindsay, Team Member at our London, ON Office!

2010-06-03T16:12:00.000-07:00

My name is Lindsay and I graduated from the dental assisting program at George Brown College in 2009. I have been working in the dental industry for the past year but have recently begun working in orthodontics, which I have come to love. I am one member of the team who greets you as you enter our London office, books your appointments and helps you to find the answers that you are looking for. I live in London and spend most of my free time with my wonderful husband and our friends. If I am not in the office, it is hard to say where I will be as my husband and I love to travel.

2010-05-28T11:36:00.000-07:00

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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Remove the moving parts. If you have elastic bands or headgear, remove these parts before you brush or floss.

Fluoride is your friend. Fluoride helps prevent cavities. Be sure to brush with fluoride toothpaste, and rinse with fluoride mouthwash.

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.

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.

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.

Hope these tips help!

--Drs. Baby & Rojas

Placing a Temporary Anchorage Device

2010-05-21T11:16:00.000-07:00

Check out how simple and painless the placement of a Temporary Anchorage Device is. In the first video, Dr. Rojas prepares this patient for their TAD, and then places it in the second video! At the orthodontic practice of Drs. Paula Baby and Jaime Rojas, we use TADs to achieve precise control over how your teeth move into place during orthodontic treatment. TADs are an effective and painless technology that has made orthodontic treatment easier than ever! Give our London, Wingham, or Goderich offices a call to learn more, or visit our web site!

Second Annual Doctor and Staff Appreciation Bowling Night

2010-05-14T08:18:00.000-07:00

At the orthodontic practice of Drs. Jaime Rojas and Paula Baby, we have so much to be thankful for when it comes to our wonderful doctors and talented staff. So we wanted to show our appreciation of the team, along with all the local referring doctors who send us patients in need of orthodontic treatment to our London, Wingham, or Goderich offices. We held our second annual appreciation night at the local bowling alley, and have posted a ton of fun photos on our Facebook page, check them out here.

Each office picked a costume theme, and competed for prizes. We hope everyone had a great time and we at Dr. Paula Baby and Dr. Jaime Rojas' office look forward to next year!

Temporary Anchorage Device Removal Video

2010-05-07T09:53:00.000-07:00

One of the coolest new technologies that we offer at our London, Wingham, and new Goderich orthodontic offices are TADs (Temporary Anchorage Devices). These are so useful because they allow us to create individual adjustments of teeth during orthodontic treatment, which can greatly affect your overall result!

TADs are tiny screws made out of titanium alloy that are attached to the bone between the roots of the teeth and can be placed in the bone in the roof of the mouth as well. Since there are no nerve endings in this area, there is typically little or no discomfort for patients. Ask us about TADs during your next visit!

Meet Nancy, Appointment Coordinator at our new Goderich Location

2010-04-29T15:12:00.000-07:00

This week, we wanted to introduce you to Nancy Plumsteel, our appointment coordinator at our Goderich orthodontic office. She wanted to share the following with everyone, check it out!

I have been working in the dental field for 19 years. I graduated from Fanshawe College dental assisting program in 1991. I am the person who will greet you at our Goderich office, book your appointments and answer your questions. I live in Goderich and am happily married with 3 children. My spare time is spent enjoying the outdoors which includes hiking, camping and going to the beach or just relaxing by the pool.

Welcome Nancy!

More About Orthodontics From Drs. Baby & Rojas

2010-04-23T07:55:00.000-07:00

There are so many questions about orthodontics that we never ask, so Drs. Jaime Rojas and Paula Baby took some time to explain the most common concerns.

At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?

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

What is Phase I and Phase II treatment?

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

Would an adult patient benefit from orthodontics?

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

How does orthodontic treatment work?

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

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

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

Do braces hurt?

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

Will braces interfere with playing sports?

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

Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?

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

Should I see my general dentist while I have braces?

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

Got more questions? Give us a call at our office! We'd love to hear from you.

Photo of our new Goderich, ON orthododontic office

2010-04-16T16:29:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we announced our new office, but several patients have been wanting to see a photo, so here it is! We are so excited to begin serving the Goderich community!

What is malocclusion? Drs. Baby & Rojas Explain!

2010-04-09T14:05:00.000-07:00

Malocclusion, or what we calls “bad bite,” is the improper alignment of teeth and/or jaws. When your teeth and jaws are not properly aligned, it may impact your bite, the ability to properly care for your teeth, your gum tissue health and even your appearance.

Most people experience some degree of malocclusion, but it generally is not severe enough to require corrective measures. If your malocclusion is serious enough, however, treatment with Drs. Baby & Rojas may be necessary to correct the issue.

We will tell you that untreated malocclusion can lead undesirable mouth problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, chipped and cracked teeth. The most common solution for malocclusion, of course, is orthodontic treatment. The actual course of treatment, including the length of time you will require braces, will be determined by severity of your malocclusion. The goal of your treatment is to move your teeth into the proper position and correct any misalignment in the jaw. If overcrowding is causing the problem, we may need to remove one or more teeth as part of treatment.

At our London and Wingham offices (and soon our new Goderich location), we use the most advanced technology in the field in order to ensure that you receive the best possible results. If you have any questions about malocclusion, please give us a call and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have.

Join us in Helping Brittnei and the Children of Haiti!

2010-03-30T07:08:00.000-07:00

Earlier this year we introduced you to Brittnei Berrisford. As some of you know she is headed back to God's Littlest Angels orphanage in Haiti in less than a month. Brittnei would appreciate our help. She is looking for donations of the items listed below to bring with her to the orphanage. Starting March 30th there will be a box located at the London office for donations that you wish to bring in. Wingham and Goderich patients are welcome to bring their items to those locations as well. Thank you so much for your continued support. Brittnei and the children of Haiti are very grateful.

• infant Tylenol
• diapers
• bandages
• triple-antibiotic ointment
• crib sheets
• baby cereal and fruit puree
• baby lotion
• soap
• diaper cream
• toothpaste
• toothbrushes
• shoes and sandals
• candles
• rope
• work gloves

--Drs. Paula Baby & Jaime Rojas

Our New Goderich Office!

2010-03-26T15:52:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to announce that Drs. Baby & Rojas will soon have a new office in Goderich, in addition to our existing London and Wingham offices. The new location is at 33 West St. Goderich, Ont. N7A 2K5, and is currently the practice of Dr. Beath. We are looking forward to working with the patients of Goderich and surrounding areas, and will be sharing photos as soon as we have them available!

Stay tuned!

Your turn! From Drs. Baby & Rojas

2010-03-19T14:38:00.000-07:00

Week after week, we blog about important topics pertinent to orthodontic 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: 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? Perhaps there’s something you’ve been wanting 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!

Vancouver Olympians from London

2010-02-26T14:31:00.000-08:00

While we are proud of all our Canadian Olympians, we wanted to specially congratulate the athletes from London and surrounding areas. If you've been following the Vancouver Olympics broadcast at all, then you are probably aware that Christine Nesbitt, who is from the London area, has won a gold medal for the 1000m long track speed skating event!

Scott Moir and Tessa Virtue also won the very first Canadian gold medal for the ice dancing event. Scott and Tessa are both London!

Have you been watching the Olympics? What is your favorite event?

--Drs. Baby & Rojas

Why the Damon™ System?

2010-02-19T14:16:00.000-08:00

Something big is happening in the orthodontics world, and it’s no other than Damon braces, which allow your teeth to move more comfortably and easily than traditional braces. With the Damon System, achieving that perfect smile will be faster and easier than you ever thought possible.

Here’s what makes the Damon system different:

With the new Damon braces, we can achieve terrific results and finish your treatment faster. Depending on your case, this may mean saving many months of treatment! After analyzing your specific needs, we will be able to provide you with a treatment plan that will have you smiling soon! Because Damon braces are very precise and effective, we can reduce the need for many of the time-consuming and complicated procedures that are used with traditional braces. Because Damon braces work more efficiently, fewer adjustments are required. As a result, your appointments are typically faster and fewer in number. Due to the unique design of this new braces system, we can move your teeth into their correct positions with much less discomfort than traditional braces. Also, Damon braces are small, very comfortable, and easy to keep clean.
We are a certified Damon System provider. If you have any questions about the Damon System or your treatment, please give us a call!

--Drs. Paula Baby and Jaime Rojas

February is Heart Month

2010-02-12T16:35:00.000-08:00

Since February is Heart Month, we wanted to let you know about the importance of oral health and its connection to your heart's health too!

Research is pointing to health effects of periodontal diseases that go well beyond your mouth. We want to let you know some interesting facts and ways to treat the disease.

What is Periodontal Disease?

"Perio" means around, and "dontal" refers to teeth. Periodontal disease is an infection of the structures around the teeth, including the gums and the bones that hold the teeth. The earliest stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis – an infection of the gums. In more severe forms of the disease, all of the tissues are involved, including the bone. Bacteria that live and reproduce on the teeth and gums cause periodontal disease.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Symptoms may include the following:
--redness or bleeding of gums while brushing teeth or using dental floss
--halitosis, or bad breath
--gum recession, resulting in apparent lengthening of teeth
--"pockets" between the teeth and gums indicating that the bone which holds the teeth in the mouth is dissolving
--loose teeth
Gum inflammation and bone destruction are largely painless, so people may wrongly assume that painless bleeding after teeth cleaning is insignificant, although this may be a symptom of progressing periodontitis.

Periodontal Disease Affects Your Health

Periodontal disease is a putrid, festering infection of the mouth. Bacteria and inflammatory particles can enter the bloodstream through ulcerated and bleeding gums and travel to the heart and other organs. In recent years, gum disease has been linked to a number of health problems. Researchers are studying possible connections between gum disease Heart disease. Gum disease may increase the risk of heart disease. Gum disease also is believed to worsen existing heart disease. If this wasn't enough, periodontal disease may also increase the risk of the type of stroke caused by blocked arteries. People with diabetes and periodontal disease may be more likely to have trouble controlling their blood sugar than diabetics with healthy gums. Finally, A woman who has gum diseases during pregnancy may be more likely deliver her baby too early and the infant may be more likely to be of low birth weight.

Combating Periodontal Disease

--See your dentist! See your dentist every six months for a checkup! Regular professional cleanings and checkups make you feel good, look good, and could be a lifesaver!
--Brush and floss daily. Take your time and do it right!
--Use an anti-bacterial mouthwash. Daily use of an anti-bacterial mouthwash helps to disinfect the teeth and gums, and reduces the number of bacteria.
--Straighten your teeth. Crowded teeth are nearly impossible to keep clean. Orthodontic treatment can greatly reduce inflammation and periodontal disease, so call us at 1-800-920-9798 to schedule your consultation appointment!

24/7 access to your account

2010-02-05T09:52:00.000-08:00

At the orthodontic offices of Drs. Paula Baby and Jaime Rojas, 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 London and Wingham, ON.

Did you know that patients at our office have access to their account, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, on our web site? You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

Just see what some of our patients have to say about this service!

I was wondering how much my teeth had moved from when i first had my braces placed on and instead of bugging my orthodontist at my next appt i was able to check online. it is very convenient. ~ Nicole G.

This office is our first healthcare professional to offer a service such as this to be able to view and print financial information as well as being able to chart progress by looking at the pictures! Very cool. ~ Wesley F.

With a fairly busy lifestyle it is much easier to be able to access this info when it is convenient for me. ~ Colleen P.

You can sign up for this convenient service on our web site by clicking the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please call the team at 1-800-920-9798 if you have any questions!

A Thank You Letter from the London Food Bank

2010-01-29T11:32:00.000-08:00

We wanted to share with you a wonderful letter that was sent to our office from the London Food Bank. This good news is thanks to all of your contributions. As you can see, it really has made a difference!

Dear Dr. Baby, Dr. Rojas and staff,

Thank you for your recent food donation to the London Food Bank.

As we experience the cold winter months the number of client visits will rise as individuals may experience the other financial challenges of heating winter clothing costs. Often our clients will pay those bills first which leaves them with very little or no money to spend on food. This is an experience common to many of our clients.

The generous citizens of London and the surrounding area, through the efforts of the London Food Bank, have in the past fed on average, approximately 2500 families per month. Throughout 2009, we saw a significant increase in the number we are assisting. We have been helping on average over 3000 families each month with our highest month being 3377. The number of individuals helped in 2009 was approximately 85,000 and roughly 35,000 of them were children and youth under the age of 18. We anticipate that this increase will unfortunately be the new norm.

Individuals can use the services of the London Food Bank once a month. Most of our clients, in fact 75%, use the food bank four times or less in a year. It is this statistic that demonstrates to us that the individuals who use this food bank do so because they need to, not because they want to.

With sincere gratitude,

Donna Speller
Human Resources
London Food Bank