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

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!

Dr. Rojas celebrates 10 years in Wingham

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.

Back to school with Drs. Baby & Rojas

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!

Breaking bad habits, from Drs. Baby and Rojas

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!

Love your smile? Tell the world about it!

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.

February marks Children's Dental Health Month

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!

Meet Nancy, Appointment Coordinator at our new Goderich Location

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

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

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!

Join us in Helping Brittnei and the Children of Haiti!

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!

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

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

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?

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

A Thank You Letter from the London Food Bank

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

One Patient's Heartfelt Story

We received the most wonderful and heartfelt comment on our Facebook Fan Page, and we wanted to share it with all of you.

I wanted to thank Dr. Rojas the team especially the Wingham office for my braces "experience" and for giving me the smile I always wanted it made my wedding pictures and day perfect. I will never be able to thank you enough... you had become a family in those 2 years I was with you and an experience I will never forget. Thank you again ~Willeke

Congratulations on your wedding and thank you so much for your kind words Willeke. Your wedding picture is beautiful. We are glad we could make your day just a little more special! We love hearing stories like Willeke's, they make our job so worth it!

If you'd like to share a story about Dr. Baby, Dr. Rojas, or the rest of the orthodontic team, leave a review for us on our social networks, or on our Google Local profile!

Happy New Year!

The year is almost over, so we wanted to ask what was memorable about 2009 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2010? Do you have a new years resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Have a safe and happy New Year, from Dr. Baby & Dr. Rojas!

Meet Brittnei, an amazing member of one of our practice's families

We have many great people and families in our practice and we wanted to introduce you to a very special young woman whom we have the privilege of knowing. Brittnei Berrisford is a full time student at the University of Guelph who, during her time off from school, travels all over the world to help those less fortunate than ourselves. Our office cares deeply about the work that Brittnei does. We will continue to support Brittnei and follow her travels in underdeveloped countries. If you would like to follow Brittnei as well, we will be posting her updates and pictures on our website and other social networks. We think that the work that Brittnei does is amazing, we look forward to seeing where else her heart takes her.

If you would like to see more of what Brittnei does, or you would like to help sponsor her upcoming trip to Haiti this spring (2010), you can contact her by phone 519-505-1577 or email at bberrisf@uoguelph.ca. You can also visit www.glahaiti.org for more information on the orphanage in Haiti that Brittnei will be working at this spring.

Wonderful Patient Testimonials for Drs. Baby & Rojas

Drs. Paula Baby & Jamie Rojas have been receiving some wonderful patient reviews and testimonials from the London and Wingham communities. Check out what our patients have to say and share your thoughts here on our blog, or on our Facebook Fan Page!

“The office has been very helpful, understanding and considerate about the account difficulties we've had in the past. The office is also great at accommodating erratic schedules with flexible appointment times. The service has been top quality and we are very satisfied with the results"
~Retrieved from online patient satisfaction survey

“You have done a wonderful job with both Hamilton and Mackenzie’s teeth – hard to believe it’s the same mouth. Dr. Rojas, I would recommend you to anyone.”
~Mrs. Baker

“I have had 2 kids with braces and they always feel very welcome and comfortable with all the staff”
Retrieved from online patient satisfaction survey

“I really like the comfortable layout of the office and the TV’s and video games keep the kids and adults entertained. I like that some of the staff have braces or had them in the past so they could understand and appreciate the experience. Most of all I love my new smile. I was always self conscious of my crooked teeth and I always tried to hide my smile, but now I absolutely love showing it off.”
~Wendy Riveria

"I love how happy and cheerful they both are. The staff is amazing…. a great place to go to.”
~Retrieved from online patient satisfaction survey


Before I had braces I never smiled in pictures, and even tried to cover my mouth when I would laugh. I got my braces off just weeks before my wedding, and I have not stopped smiling. I am so impressed with the way my teeth look now. I was so happy with the staff that I even married the hygienist and she was so jealous of my smile in our wedding pictures that she now has braces too.”
~Mr. Aumont

"This office has some of the best staff that I’ve come across in all of my family’s health care experiences. The staff are always happy and enthusiastic, not to mention EXTREMELY knowledgeable. It speaks volumes about an organization when the staff seem happy to be there.”
~Retrieved from online patient satisfaction survey

"The office of Dr. Baby and Rojas was such a great experience for me. The staff were always very friendly and welcoming from the moment I walked into the door. The atmosphere there is very modern, and the magazines in the waiting room are current and constantly changing. My whole orthodontic treatment at this office has been amazing. Not to mention I love my new smile!"
~Roger