Our Blog

OK... If you’re already a Twitter user, you get it... So, just follow us!

If you’re NOT using Twitter yet, you’re probably thinking, “What the heck is Twitter, and why should I care?!”

We understand, and here’s a quick course:

Twitter Is A Real-Time Information Network...

that connects you with information you find interesting. Small bursts of information (140 characters in length) called Tweets share a lot in a little space. Connected to each Tweet are linked rich details, deeper context, and embedded media.

You Don’t Have To Tweet To Get Value From Twitter

Whether YOU CHOOSE to tweet a lot, OR NEVER, you still have access to the voices and information that interests you. You can contribute, or just listen in and retrieve.

Why Follow Our Practice On Twitter?

You may be asking yourself, “Why use Twitter at all, when there are already so many other distractions in my life?” Good question. You’ll be surprised how much you’ll learn from little tiny snippets. Life is busy. Sometimes there’s no time to sit down and read a newspaper article, magazine story, or lengthy blog post. You may be sitting, waiting for somebody, and have a couple minutes. Our Twitter stream provides meaningful info and/or links to things you can consume and benefit from in a minute or two.

Whether or not you are already a Twitter user, you can click on the icon below to see our Twitter feed or follow us on Twitter @DrGorczyca or @GorczycaOrtho. Then, you can decide if you’d like to sign up for your own Twitter account!

You can also find us at Gorczyca Orthodontics www.clubbraces.com at 5201 Deer Valley Road, Suite 1A in Antioch, California 94531 or call us at (925) 757-9000.

As your lifelong oral health partner, we want to be accessible to you in as many ways as possible, and to connect with you in whatever ways are BEST FOR YOU! As always, thanks for being our valued patient.

ANKYLOGLOSSIA, an excessive attachment of muscle or fascia to the undersurface and tip of the tongue can create speech problems in children as young and 1-2 years old. Later in life, it can also make eating an ice cream cone very difficult.

If you notice that your young child has a notch at the top of their tongue, or has difficulty sticking out their tongue or touching the tip of their tongue to their top lip, your child may have tongue-tie.

A Tongue-tie Can Be Easily Removed

A frenum or band of tissue causes tongue-tie. The tip of the tongue is held down to the floor of the mouth in tongue-tie and cannot protrude. This attachment can be easily removed by most pediatricians or a periodontist.

The earlier a pathologic frenum or tongue-tie can be treated, the less speech damage will be done or speech therapy will be required. It will also make eating easier, especially eating an ice cream cone.

The actual surgical procedure in frenectomy to cure tongue-tie is extremely simple. Often it is done with a laser with little pain and quick recovery. Tongue-tie is also rare and affects less than 1% of the population.

Let Us Know If You Have Any Questions!

If you have questions about tongue-tie, your orthodontist can help. In Antioch, California, contact orthodontist Dr. Ann Marie Gorczyca at www.clubbraces.com or call (925) 757-9000 for a tongue-tie evaluation if you have questions about tongue-tie.

Eating an ice cream cone should not be difficult. Be sure it is easy and remains one of the simple pleasures of life.

PREGNANT? KNOW SOMEONE WHO’S PREGNANT? There’s plenty to think about during this time! But while you’re picking out baby clothes and reading up on childcare philosophies, our team reminds you to remember the importance of your oral health.

Gum Disease Risk

Pregnancy brings a heightened level of hormonal activity which can lead to gum sensitivity and increased gum disease risk. And some studies have shown that gum disease could be linked to pre-term labor and other associated risks. The good news is that pregnancy doesn’t cause gum disease—plaque does. So keeping up your great oral habits helps keep you safe. Brush regularly, floss every day, and don’t miss your regular dental checkups. If you’re pregnant, an ideal time to schedule your check-up appointment is during your second trimester—your pregnancy is stable, but not far enough along to risk any stress-induced problems.

Regular Checkups During Pregnancy

During regular checkups, your teeth and gums are more thoroughly cleaned than you can through brushing and flossing yourself. This is a major step in preventing periodontal disease. In the past, women were sometimes anxious about dental procedures during pregnancy. Typically, there’s never an issue, but be sure to let our practice—and your general dentist—know you’re expecting so that any appropriate adjustments can be made in your care.

Other Special Concerns

• Morning Sickness: DON’T brush your teeth right after being sick. Stomach acid makes your teeth softer and brushing can wear them down. Rinse out your mouth, and then wait a while before brushing.
• Dental Procedures That Can’t Wait: If you need to have a more involved procedure performed while you’re pregnant, be sure to (1) let us (and your general dentist) know you’re pregnant; and (2) talk it over beforehand with your OB. We want to make sure there aren’t any special details we should know.

Did You Know?

Congratulations on your pregnancy! We’re excited for you!

For more information about taking care of your oral health during pregnancy, check out these links from the ADA and Columbia University. And if you have questions, just ask us! You can also comment below, or send us a direct message on our Facebook page.

NOTHING COMPARES TO YOUR BEAUTIFUL straight teeth! We know you’re excited to complete your treatment and unveil your new smile. We are too! But did you know that orthodontic treatment isn’t just about looks? Straight teeth can also contribute to your oral and overall health.

Malocclusion Causes Extra Wear On Your Teeth And Jaw

Malocclusion refers to the alignment of your jaw and your bite. When your bite is misaligned, it can lead to unnecessary and uneven wear on your teeth. And that can lead to chipped and fractured teeth.

Malocclusion can also cause problems with your jaw—called a temporomandibular disorder, or TMD. TMD usually shows up in the form of chronic headaches, difficulty opening your jaw, and ringing in your ears.

Fortunately, your orthodontic plan is designed to align your bite and ensure that you won’t have problems with malocclusion down the road.

Crowded Teeth Pose A Danger For Teeth And Gums

Another issue that many people deal with before orthodontic treatment is crowded teeth. Crowded teeth pose a danger for both your teeth and your gums. Why? Because they’re harder to clean and more likely to hide away bacteria. This bacteria inflames your gums and causes cavities.

Orthodontic Treatment Is An Investment That Pays Off

Next time you catch a glimpse of your braces in the mirror, think about the great investment you’re making! Orthodontic treatment can save you big down the road, and it can even help your overall health throughout your life.

And, of course, it will give you a gorgeous smile!

If You’re Not Already One Of Our Valued Patients...

If you’re not already our patient, or if you know someone who is looking for an orthodontist in the area, contact us. We’re happy to discuss your options with you and find a plan that will work for your health AND your lifestyle.

And to our valued patients—thank you! Thanks for the trust you show in our practice. We’re honored to work with you to help you achieve your ideal smile! And anytime you have suggestions for how we can serve you better, be sure to visit our Facebook page and send us a direct message.

Call us at Gorczyca Orthodontics at (925) 757-9000. Find us at www.clubbraces.com in Antioch, California.

To find an orthodontist near you visit the American Association of Orthodontists at www.mylifemysmile.org.

We look forward to seeing you during your next appointment!