Ask Dr. Fleming: What's the deal with all those Halloween treats?

As Halloween nears closer and closer, our staff at Fleming Orthodontics know a lot parents here in Falls Church, Arlington and Alexandria are worried about their kids going overboard on candies this weekend.

For those undergoing orthodontic treatment, you do need to be careful of the types of candies you consume this weekend. We encourage you to watch the video above about which candies you should avoid, but feel free to ask us if you have any questions about what is and isn't braces-friendly!

We hope everyone has a fun, safe and scary Halloween!

Staying healthy this cold season, from Fleming Orthodontics

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

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. Harold Fleming and our entire staff give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our Falls Church 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 at Fleming Orthodontics, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

And remember to constantly wash your hands and avoid contact with those who are ill! Have a great rest of your weekend!

Straight talk with Dr. Fleming

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

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

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, please give us a call to set up a consultation at our convenient office in Falls Church. Dr. Fleming can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Questions? Give us a call at 703-534-8711 or ask us on Facebook!

Fun fact Friday with Fleming Orthodontics!!

At Fleming Orthodontics, we know our patients love fun facts. After all, who doesn't? The American Association of Orthodontists came up with some fun facts about orthodontics that Dr. Harold Fleming and our staff thought you might enjoy. Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

• There are nearly 4 million people in orthodontic treatment throughout the United States. Three out of four are younger than 18.

• The first mechanical treatment for correcting irregular teeth was suggested by Gaius Plinius Secundus (A.D 23-79).The American Association of Orthodontists is comprised of more than 12,000 members in the United States, Canada and abroad.

• The time required to complete orthodontic treatment ranges from 12 to 36 months depending on the nature and severity of the problem.

• Of the 160,000 dentists in the United States and Canada, 8,000 are practicing orthodontists.

• The cement that attaches the braces to the teeth is now made with a special fluoride-releasing substance.

• Wires activated by body heat used in today's braces originally were developed by NASA for use in the space program.

• In addition to alleviating or preventing physical health problems, orthodontics can boost self-esteem as treatment aligns teeth, jaws and lips.

• Famous orthodontic patients include: Dr. Joyce Brothers, Hale Irwin, Cher, Diana Ross, Phyllis Diller, Chelsea Clinton, Whoopi Goldberg, Daisy Fuentes and Brandi.

October is National Orthodontic Health Month!

October is National Orthodontic Health Month, and our staff at Fleming Orthodontics wanted to remind Dr. Harold Fleming's patients to be careful when they bite into their treats this month. Remember, caramels, taffy, nuts, bubble gum, popcorn kernels and suckers are some of the foods you should be avoiding this Halloween Season! Indulging in these foods can break your braces and lengthen your treatment time!

Of course, Halloween doesn’t have to be completely treat-less. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have provided a helpful list of tips and braces-friendly recipes for the Halloween Season.

Enjoy and have a wonderful weekend!