The Blog of John A Gerling DDS, MSD

Happy New Year from Dr. Gerling and team!

2011-12-30T11:33:00.001-08:00

The year is almost over, so we wanted to ask what was memorable about 2011 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2012? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Have a safe and happy New Year, from Dr. Gerling and team!

Season's Greetings from Dr. Gerling and team!

2011-12-20T16:05:00.000-08:00

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as our team at Dr. John Gerling's office 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!

--Dr. Gerling and team

Are you wearing a mouth guard?

2011-12-16T11:09:00.001-08:00

With winter sports right around the corner, many patients here at Dr. John Gerling's office will once again pick up the ball, bring the cleats out of seasonal retirement and hit the fields and courts for the return of sports action! During this time, however, Dr. Gerling and our team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this fall and winter, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as basketball, wrestling and hockey
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps! Dr. Gerling and team will tell you protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact our office or ask us on Facebook.

Kids and teeth grinding, from Dr. John A. Gerling

2011-12-08T16:08:00.000-08:00

Grind, grind, grind. If you live with a teeth grinder, you may be familiar with this unpleasant sound. Did you know teeth grinding, or bruxism, is common in children as well? In fact, three out of 10 kids grind or clench their teeth, usually in response to losing teeth, jaw growth or other discomforts, such as allergies or infections. Teeth grinding is typically a passing phenomena as most kids outgrow it by the time they reach their teenage years. An important thing to remember is that kids frequently grind their teeth in response to stress, and taking measures to reduce or eliminate stress can help solve the problem.

The first step of recovering from teeth grinding is noticing the problem. Symptoms of teeth grinding include:
• Sensitivity in the teeth
• Tightness or pain in the jaw
• Dull headaches, earaches, or facial pain
• Chipped, worn down, or loose teeth

If your child is a teeth grinder, we may be able to help. Please give us a call or ask Dr. John A. Gerling and team on Facebook!

What's on your reading list?

2011-12-02T14:55:00.000-08:00

With the school year close to winding down for the holidays for a lot of Dr. John A. Gerling's patients, we wanted to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year, but reading is a vital step in brain development and literacy.

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

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

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-21T07:54:00.000-08:00

Dr. John A. Gerling and team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. It's a big food holiday, so be careful what you eat!

If you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we'd encourage you to post them to our Facebook page or call our office and ask how.

You're never too old to treat yourself to a new smile!

2011-11-18T11:50:00.000-08:00

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 with Dr. John A. Gerling!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment with Dr. John A. Gerling. The physical process for moving teeth is the same, young or old, which means it’s 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, give Dr. John A. Gerling a call, so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs.

Happy Veterans’ Day from Dr. John Gerling

2011-11-11T13:16:00.000-08:00

Happy Veterans’ Day! Today is a day to thank all military veterans and the men and women currently on active duty that put their lives on the line for the freedoms we all enjoy.

In celebration of Veterans’ Day, Dr. John Gerling and our team would like to share a few fun facts about our flag, this national holiday, and our country’s history!

-Veterans’ Day, a day that was originally called Armistice Day, is a time to thank and honor the men and women who have served in our military.

- President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the official legislation for Veterans’ Day on June 1, 1954, changing the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veterans Day

-There are 23.2 million veterans in the U.S.

-The flag was first approved by Congress on June 14, 1777

-Each of the flag’s colors signify different American values- red is for valor and zeal, white is for hope, purity, and cleanliness of life, and blue is for heaven, loyalty, sincerity, justice, and truth

-Research by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) helped develop the CAT Scan, the cardiac pacemaker, and the “Seattle Foot” to give those hurt the ability to run and jump

-When the flag is displayed next to another flag against a wall, the U.S. flag should be on its own right (on the left side when facing the wall).

-Veterans’ Day is often confused with Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a time for remembering and honoring the men and women who died while serving our country, or as a result of injuries that incurred in battle. Veterans’ Day honors and gives thanks to all veterans who served in our military.

-There are five states with over 1 million veterans in their population – California, Florida, Texas, New York and Pennsylvania

We are so thankful for all who have and are currently serving in the U.S. and overseas!

5 ways you can avoid plaque

2011-11-03T14:35:00.000-07:00

At Dr. John Gerling's office, we know nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth. Here are five other ways you can avoid that dreaded enemy of the teeth during orthodontic treatment, courtesy of WebMD.

Let’s start with 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 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 a trip to the 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 general dentist at least twice a year or as recommended by your dentist, and you have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your teeth while wearing braces.

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 up that candy bar, remember to not give 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 during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Gerling. If you have any questions, give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Ask Dr. Gerling: Am I too old for braces?

2011-10-24T11:30:00.000-07:00

Who’s afraid of “metal mouth” and the appearance of braces? Not adults, apparently. Recently, Dr. John A. Gerling 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 Dr. Gerling 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, Dr. Gerling would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

Ask Dr. Gerling: Now that I have braces, what can I eat?

2011-10-21T09:59:00.000-07:00

You just got braces and Dr. John A. Gerling has 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

Tell Dr. Gerling what's on your mind!

2011-10-14T15:20:00.000-07:00

Week after week, Dr. John A. Gerling and team blog about important topics pertinent to orthodontic treatment 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 and readers: 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 in the coming months? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted 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!

October is National Orthodontic Health Month!

2011-10-07T10:14:00.000-07:00

Happy October! For those who don't know, it’s National Orthodontic Health Month. This month-long event is organized by our pals at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Dr. John Gerling and our team realize that this is a great opportunity for us to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene. National Orthodontic Health Month also aims to recognize the dedicated work of orthodontists like Dr. Gerling and other dental professionals.

The AAO recommends 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 Dr. Gerling during your visit this month!

Age 7 is the magic number for an orthodontic checkup

2011-09-26T16:09:00.000-07:00

Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Dr. John Gerling for a consultation, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Did you know the American 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 Dr. Gerling 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 Dr. John Gerling's office to schedule an appointment.

When should you call Dr. Gerling's office?

2011-09-19T16:26:00.000-07:00

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Dr. John Gerling. Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with us:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, give us a call as soon as possible!

Hope this helps!

Practicing good oral health habits

2011-09-13T17:04:00.000-07:00

At Dr. John A. Gerling's office, 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 adjustment visits with Dr. Gerling.

Start by brushing your teeth twice a day. Proper brushing techniques are an essential part of maintaining good oral health during your orthodontic treatment, as well as preventing gum disease. More care and time are needed to adequately brush your teeth when you are wearing braces. Brushing daily helps remove decay-causing plaque from tooth surfaces. Please consult Dr. Gerling if you would like us to review brushing techniques with you or your child. The use of a mechanical toothbrush such as a Sonicare or Oral B can aid in removing plaque around braces. 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 us or ask your general dentist during your next scheduled visit! Or, ask us on Facebook!

How to freshen bad breath, with Dr. Gerling

2011-09-09T15:29:00.000-07:00

Dr. John A. Gerling, your McAllen, TX orthodontist, recognizes that many of our patients are concerned about bad breath, or halitosis. While some cases of bad breath are persistent (chronic bad breath), generally bad breath is transient, and can be prevented.

We recently came across this helpful video about bad breath and thought it was worth sharing with our patients. The video explains what might cause bad breath and some ways that it can be avoided. In most instances, bad breath can be prevented by practicing common oral hygiene techniques that you have probably heard us emphasize during a visit to Dr. Gerling's office, such as brushing and flossing daily. We encourage you to watch this video for additional tips on how to keep bad breath at bay. Enjoy!

A few helpful webisodes about orthodontics

2011-09-02T11:29:00.000-07:00

Dr. John A. Gerling and his team at his office would like to point you to a few interesting webisodes about orthodontics, located on the YouTube page of the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

There, they tend to post some very pertinent videos about orthodontic treatment, as well as state-of-the-art technology in orthodontia. These include "Orthodontic Treatment Basics," "Common Bite Problems Seen in Children" and "Does My Child Need Braces?"

We think you may find these webisodes interesting, as well as enlightening. If you have any questions about the videos, or your treatment here at Dr. Gerling's office, please give us a call.

20 things that can ruin your smile

2011-08-26T15:32:00.000-07:00

At Dr. John A. Gerling's office, 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
- Bottled water
- Tobacco
- Wine
- Soft drinks
- Citrus and acidic foods

Dr. Gerling and our team encourage you to read the rest of the article and ask us here on our blog or during your next visit to our convenient McAllen office. For more tips or for general questions about your treatment, we invite you to ask Dr. Gerling during your next visit! We also invite you to ask us on Facebook!

The Go-To Mom Talks Invisalign

2011-08-17T06:37:00.000-07:00

Our team at the office of Dr. John Gerling found a great video that discusses the advantages of Invisalign. In the video, Kimberley Clayton Blaine, "The Go-To Mom," discusses the Invisalign and Invisalign Teen treatments and her personal experience with Invisalign.

To determine if Invisalign is right for you, schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Gerling. Have a great week!

The benefits of fluoride

2011-08-12T14:30:00.000-07:00

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment at Dr. John Gerling's office. 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 or orthodontist's 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.

When choosing your own fluoride product, be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and have met the criteria of the ADA for safety and effectiveness. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

Smile! It just might make you live longer.

2011-08-05T15:26:00.000-07:00

Folks with big smiles may actually live longer than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. Dr. John Gerling has known for quite some time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers at the university did something quite interesting: they looked at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity (ranging from big smile, no smile or partial smile). The players' smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers then took into account other factors that impact life longevity, including body mass index, career length and even college attendance.

The results? Researchers found that players who weren't smiling in the photos died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be 79.9 years old.

The take-away from the new study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting Dr. Gerling's office on a regular basis? If not, give us a call!

What's so bad about nail biting?

2011-07-28T14:24:00.000-07:00

We’ve all heard that biting your nails is an awful habit, but you many wonder- really- what’s so bad about it? Recently, our team at Dr. John Gerling's office found an interesting article that discusses how biting your nails affect your teeth and oral health.

Nail biting, also known as Onychophagia, is a common habit among various age groups, including primarily children, teens and young adults. Nail biting is generally triggered by stress and most often decreases with age. That being said, nail biting is unsanitary, unattractive, as well as unhealthy for your teeth!

Here’s why:

• It’s unsanitary. Your nails are dirty, almost twice as dirty as your fingers! Hence, biting your nails is just asking for germs and bacteria.

• No good things come to your teeth. Nail biting causes your teeth to constantly be chewing, which is not good for them. This excessive motion wears your teeth down faster than a non-nail biter’s and puts a large amount of stress on your front teeth- contributing to teeth misalignment.

• Braces don’t love it either. Braces already put pressure on teeth, nail biting adds unnecessary pressure, further stressing your teeth and weakening their roots.

• It can be costly. Nail biting can result in up to $4,000 in additional dental bills over one lifetime, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Yikes!

What can you do about it?

Now that you know how harmful nail biting can be, it’s time to take action to break your nail biting habit. Try to be conscious of your fingernails and to keep them looking good- this will help you resist the temptation. Ask Dr. Gerling or visit the article for tips on how to break a nail biting habit.

Good luck!

Your friends at Dr. Gerling's office

Parents can enjoy the perfect smile too, thanks to Invisalign!

2011-07-22T15:39:00.000-07:00

Hey parents! Focusing on your kids' teeth and oral health so much that you're neglecting your own? If you've been thinking wistfully about having your own set of perfect teeth, our staff at the office of Dr. John Gerling 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 we can discuss the specifics of your treatment.

At Dr. Gerling's office, easy access to your account information

2011-07-15T09:01:00.001-07:00

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

Patients at our office enjoy 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, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

You, too, may 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’s on your summer reading list?

2011-07-08T13:24:00.000-07:00

With summer in full swing, some of us at Dr. Gerling's office wanted to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year, but reading during the summer is a vital step in brain development and warding off the dreaded “summer slide.” Plus, it's fun!

Today, we thought we’d ask: 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 and Dr. Gerling would be happy to provide a few suggestions. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas or check out these summer reading ideas that we came across today, courtesy of Barnes & Noble.

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

What do you LOVE about McAllen?

2011-06-27T16:35:00.000-07:00

Dr. John A. Gerling, your McAllen orthodontist, is situated around some pretty unique neighborhoods. Each is special with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our amazing patients) living within.

Today, Dr. Gerling and our team thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about McAllen? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps a favorite getaway in Texas?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in McAllen, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods” in Texas.

If you need to schedule your next appointment, give us a call! Have a great week!

Stay Cool with a Braces-Friendly Summer Treat!

2011-06-24T17:03:00.001-07:00

Summer is here! Kids and adults alike will now be spending more time outside being active and enjoying the hotter temperatures. What’s better on a hot summer day than a delicious treat that will cool you down after doing something active in the summer sun? Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have just the thing, Watermelon Sorbet! You can find the complete recipe below:

Watermelon Sorbet

Ingredients
• ¾ cup water
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 2 to 3 cups watermelon, diced, no seeds or rind

Directions
In a small saucepan, heat the water, sugar, and lime juice on medium high for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Chill this “syrup” at least 20 minutes. In the meantime, place the watermelon chunks in a food processor or blender and liquefy them. Add the chilled syrup to the watermelon puree and blend. Freeze sorbet in an ice-cream maker according to manufacturer’s directions. Serve immediately.

Happy Summer!

Orthodontic Emergency Care with Dr. Gerling

2011-06-17T15:34:00.000-07:00

True orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but when they do occur we are available to you. 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 with Dr. Gerling.

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you schedule an appointment with Dr. Gerling.

The following solutions may help you relieve your discomfort:

Poking Wire: Using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down or place wax on it to alleviate the discomfort.

Loose Bracket or Band: If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. If the wire comes out entirely, wrap the bracket with a tissue.

Loose Wire: Using a tweezers, try to place your wire back into place. If doing this and using wax does not help, as a last resort use a small fingernail clipper to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If your discomfort continues, place wax on it.

Loose Appliance: If your appliance is poking you, place wax on the offending part of your appliance.

Headgear Does Not Fit: Sometimes headgear discomfort is caused by not wearing the headgear as instructed by your orthodontist. Please refer to the instructions provided by your orthodontist. If the facebow is bent, please call our office for assistance. Surprisingly, headgear becomes more comfortable the more it's worn, so be sure you’re getting in the prescribed hours.

General Soreness: When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm salt water mouthwash. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously. If the tenderness is severe, take aspirin or whatever you normally take for headache or similar pain.

Remember, after alleviating your discomfort, it is still very important that you call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem.

Smile, June is National Smile Month!

2011-06-08T15:42:00.000-07:00

According to the American Dental Association, a person's smile outranked eyes, hair and body as the most important physical feature, which is why it's important for our team at John A. Gerling, DDS to support National Smile Month this June.

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

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Here's a helpful video showing you how to brush with your braces on.
* Floss every day to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Gerling.
* Visit your dentist regularly (usually every six months apart).

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call.

Flossing with braces 101

2011-06-03T08:49:00.000-07:00

Dr. Gerling will tell you that 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 could possibly reduce your treatment time.

Here is a very concise video explaining the proper way to floss your teeth with braces. Give Dr. Gerling a call if you have more questions about flossing. Enjoy!

Dr. Gerling and team, wishing you a safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend

2011-05-27T08:11:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day weekend, a time to remember and honor the men and women lost while serving for our country. Memorial Day is also the unofficial start of summer, and for many folks in McAllen, Texas, getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the classroom or the office spells sweet, sweet relief.

What about you? What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend? Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, or just hitting the great American open roads, we’d like to hear all about it!

Our entire team at Dr. Gerling's office wishes you a happy, safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

Now that I have braces, what can I eat?

2011-05-20T13:48:00.000-07:00

You just got braces at John A. Gerling DDS, MSD and Dr. Gerling has informed you that over the next several months you will want to avoid eating anything sticky, hard, crunchy, or chewy. What does this leave for you to eat? Lettuce? Nothing?

Luckily, there was someone else wondering the same thing when she first got braces! Brenda Waterman, 13, decided she was going to find a way to have her cake and eat it too, so she created a variety of “braces-friendly” recipes that allow you to enjoy your favorite treats without interfering with your orthodontic care! Her cookbook, “The Braces Cookbook: Recipes you (and your Orthodontist) will Love,” gives patients a variety of delicious recipes, safe to eat with braces; plus additional tips and advice for packing lunches, what to eat at parties, and braces-friendly restaurant dishes! There’s even a section with tips for dealing with the soreness that can occur when your braces or appliance are adjusted. Enjoy the foods you love – even with braces!

Here is a delicious, sneak peek recipe from “The Braces Cookbook:”

Wonderful Waffles

Forget the recipe that came with your waffle iron – this recipe will redefine fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. The secret to delicious waffles is letting the batter "sit" for five minutes before pouring into the waffle iron. Top cooked waffles with syrup, jam, fresh fruit or even whip cream. Makes about 5 servings!

Preheat your waffle iron according to the directions. You may want to lightly spray it with vegetable oil before heating.

• 3 cups flour
• 2 Tbl + 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 Tbl sugar
• 4 cups milk
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

In a large bowl, whisk (or use electric mixer on low) together all ingredients. Let batter sit for about five minutes to activate the baking powder.

When waffle iron is ready, pour about 1/3 cup of batter onto each of the four squares (experiment with your iron – you don't want the batter overflowing). Gently close the cover and set your timer as the manufacturer suggests. Do not lift the cover while they bake. When done, carefully lift one edge with a flat spatula and pull the waffle away from the iron. Keep waffles warm on a plate under a clean dishtowel while the others bake.

Dr. Gerling supports National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

2011-05-13T16:46:00.000-07:00

Did you know the month of May is designated National Physical Fitness and Sports Month? In 1983, President Ronald Reagan encouraged Americans to incorporate more physical activity into their lives, and the reminder is even more significant in this day and age, as kids everywhere are distracted more and more by television, social networking and video games. Kids living an active lifestyle can improve their health, productivity and overall well-being, and best of all? It doesn’t have to take a lot of time!

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has provided these public health guidelines for your convenience. The guidelines call for children and teens to exercise for at least one hour each day of moderate intensity physical activity (such as playing sports or brisk walking) or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity (jogging, dancing and jumping rope).

At Dr. Gerling's office, we always encourage our patients to stay fit by exercising or participating in sports. However, we want to remind you to always wear a mouth guard or other forms of facial protection when playing sports. To learn more about how often your child should exercise, we recommend you check out this series of helpful articles about kids and exercise, courtesy of our friends at KidsHealth.org.

May marks National Teen Self-Esteem Month

2011-05-06T09:37:00.000-07:00

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

One of the great ways to improve your confidence is to improve your smile. And that begins with a free consultation to Dr. Gerling's office. After all, what better time to avoid having crooked teeth in your adulthood than coming in for a consultation with Dr. Gerling?

We proudly provide traditional braces and Invisalign Teen for today’s image-conscious teens.

We invite you to give us a call to schedule a free consultation or ask us on Facebook!

What Will YOUR Smile Look Like After Orthodontic Treatment?

2011-04-29T07:51:00.000-07:00

It is sometimes hard to believe the transformation your smile undergoes during orthodontic treatment. John A. Gerling DDS, MSD loves to see our patients’ smiles light up when they see their new smile in the mirror for the first time. For those of you who haven’t yet started or finished your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Gerling, have you ever wondered what your new smile might look like after treatment?

The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO for short, has recently launched a new tool called “Virtual Smiles”, which shows what your smile might look like after orthodontic treatment. Using the tool will also earn you a free orthodontic consultation coupon, which can be redeemed at our office by yourself, a family member or friend.

Check out the Virtual Smiles tool, and call Dr. Gerling to get started on improving your smile today!

Dr. Gerling, taking steps to become more green

2011-04-21T11:09:00.000-07:00

We are living in an age with a renewed commitment to conservation, and are frequently reminded to recycle, reduce and reuse. Earth Day is this Friday, April 22nd, and we thought this would a great time to discuss the things that Dr. Gerling does to conserve our natural resources and the environment.

Did you know that we offer patients account access 24 hours a day, seven days a week? Our office has convenient and secure online services with Sesame 24-7™. You can view all of your financial information online, and even pay bills through our website. Patients can also receive appointment reminders through email or text messages. Since this information is submitted electronically, we eliminate the use of large amounts of paper and printing materials.

If you’d like to join the millions of people who are making small but important changes to help sustain our fragile ecosystem, try these helpful environmental tips, courtesy of the United States Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA.

Five tips to avoid plaque, from Dr. Gerling

2011-04-14T16:58:00.000-07:00

Dr. Gerling and our team know nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth, much less hearing the word 'plaque.' 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 and braces clears away plaque before it can cause damage and can also clean plaque at the gum line. Please let us know if you need any tips for flossing with braces!

Dr. Gerling recommends that you visit your dentist every 6 months (or as recommended) for regular checkups. Let’s say you brush and floss daily. You’re still at risk for plaque. With time, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar. If you visit your dentist at least twice a year (in addition to visiting Dr. Gerling) you will 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.

Finally, before you pick that candy up, remember to not give 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 will help ensure the success of your orthodontic treatment. If you have any questions, please give us a call or schedule an appointment!

All the cool kids do it!

2011-04-07T10:17:00.000-07:00

Braces today are “cool” and—many would say—even “fun.” These were among the findings of a 2010 nationwide survey of moms whose children are going through or have had orthodontic treatment. New technologies such as Invisalign and Invisalign Teen, 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 for February’s National Children’s Dental Health Month, 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 Dr. Gerling, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

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

Braces 101 with Dr. Gerling

2011-03-31T15:42:00.000-07:00

If you ever sustain damage to your braces and need to call Dr. Gerling, we can help you more effectively if you can tell us exactly which piece is in trouble! Here’s a handy diagram and corresponding list of all the parts that make up your braces.

Elastic Tie: Tiny rubber band that fits around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Archwire: The main wire that acts as a track to guide the teeth along. It's changed periodically throughout treatment, as teeth move to their new positions.

Loop in Archwire: Frequently used for closing space left by an extraction. Many archwires don't have a loop.

Bracket: Small attachment that holds the archwire in place. Most often, a bracket is cemented directly onto the tooth's surface, eliminating the need for a band.

Headgear Tube: Round, hollow attachment on the back bands. The inner bow of the headgear fits into it.

Coil Spring: Fits between brackets and over archwire to open space between teeth.

Tie Wire: Fine wire that is twisted around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Band: A thin ring of metal fitted around a tooth and cemented in place. The band provides a way to attach the brackets to the tooth.

Hook: Welded or removable arm to which elastics (rubber bands) are attached.

Elastic (Rubber Band): Small rubber band that is hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth.

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!

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

2011-03-24T16:56:00.000-07:00

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 with Dr. Gerling!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

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

A Festive and Braces-Friendly Recipe to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day!

2011-03-17T16:54:00.000-07:00

If you're planning to spend St. Patrick's Day celebrating your Irish heritage, or just enjoying the festivals, food and "wearing of the green"- we've got a treat for you! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have a tasty and braces-friendly recipe that is perfect for today. Corned beef casserole presents a twist on the traditional St. Patrick's Day corned beef and cabbage, and will surely become a family favorite!

Corned Beef Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 (8-ounce) package medium egg noodles, uncooked
• 1 (12-ounce) can corned beef
• 1 (10.5- to 14-ounce) can cream of celery soup, undiluted
• ¾ cup milk (use just ½ cup if using larger soup can)
• 1 Tablespoon dried minced onion
• ¼ cup bread crumbs (seasoned or toasted plain)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°. In a saucepan, cook the noodles just until tender; drain. In a large bowl, chop the corned beef into a coarse crumbly texture.

Stir in soup, milk and onion. Grease a 2-quart casserole. Add the noodles and the corned beef mixture and stir together well. Sprinkle the bread crumbs on top.

Bake covered at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

Serves 6-8 people.

Try serving the casserole with petite whole green beans from the freezer…or add 1 cup of finely chopped purple cabbage, 1/4 cup diced onion and 2 teaspoons fennel seed or powder for some true Irish flavor.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Now that I have braces, what can I eat?

2011-03-10T14:21:00.000-08:00

There are a variety of foods Dr. Gerling wants 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 Dr. Gerling a call or ask our staff during your next visit. We also encourage you to check out this helpful article on eating with braces, courtesy of Parenthood.com.

What can I expect during my consultation?

2011-03-04T10:47:00.000-08:00

When you first come in for your initial consultation, Dr. Gerling will conduct a comprehensive examination to assess your oral health. This will better enable us to determine the best treatment method for you.

Your orthodontic evaluation will consist of an oral and facial examination to assess your oral health. Dr. Gerling will have you take intraoral and facial photographs as well as panoramic and cephalometric X-rays to help determine the proper orthodontic treatment method. Then, an impression of your teeth and bite will be taken to construct a model of your mouth. (This will help Dr. Gerling when examining your diagnostic records).

At your second appointment, Dr. Gerling will discuss your options with you. Our team feels it’s important to take the time to carefully examine your diagnostic records after your consultation so that Dr. Gerling can more thoroughly prepare for your treatment at John A Gerling DDS. This additional preparation will ensure that you receive the best orthodontic care possible. At this time, we encourage you to ask us any questions you may have about your treatment.

If you are seeking orthodontic treatment for your child, our staff asks that both you and your child attend the initial consultation. We feel it is important that both you and your child completely understand Dr. Gerling’s recommendations before we proceed with treatment.

Give us a call today and schedule a consultation! We look forward to hearing from you!

Talkin' retainers with Dr. Gerling

2011-02-26T12:11:00.000-08:00

If you recently completed treatment at Dr. Gerling's office, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Gerling will provide—or has 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 by Dr. Gerling 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!

Moooooove over gum disease!

2011-02-17T09:41:00.000-08:00

Dr. Gerling wants to know: Is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, it should be! A 2008 study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can actually lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). Results of the study also showed that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease.

Cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth. In addition to providing large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also does its part to fight cavities. Cheddar, Swiss, Mozzarella, and Monterey Jack all stimulate the body's salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris and protect them from acids that weaken them, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This means cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's ph level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis.

Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

For more information about which dairy foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please give us a call.

Friday fun facts, from Dr. Gerling

2011-02-11T16:21:00.000-08:00

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 at Dr. Gerling's office 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 Brandi.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month!

2011-02-03T09:36:00.000-08:00

One in four parents says their child has had an injury during an organized sport resulting in a trip to the emergency room, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO. That why Dr. Gerling and our team thought February—also known as National Children’s Dental Health Month—would be great time to remind our patients to be mindful of their braces and pearly whites while playing sports. Here are a few tips to stay safe on the field this spring, courtesy of the AAO:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Dr. Gerling. Stay safe and have fun!

Share a Smile, Win an iPod!

2011-01-28T10:16:00.000-08:00

McAllen orthodontist Dr. Gerling knows that the highest compliment you can give our practice is referring your friends and family. Each month, we reward patients for referrals with Share a Smile Cards. These cards are your entry in our iPod drawing.

Tracy was the winner of our December iPod giveaway. Congratulations Tracy, and thank you for the referrals! We appreciate your trust in Dr. Gerling and our team.

Would you like to be our January of February iPod winner? Ask Dr. Gerling about what you can do to receive a Share a Smile Card at your next appointment. Have a great weekend!

Dr. Gerling's top ten tips to keep your teeth clean and healthy

2011-01-22T12:03:00.000-08:00

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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

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

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

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. 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. If you need help finding the right Dentist for you, feel free to contact our office - we’d love to help!

Regular checkups are essential in maintaining good oral health

2011-01-14T16:09:00.000-08:00

Are you brushing and flossing daily properly during your orthodontic treatment? If yes, that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist every 3-to-6 months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting our office, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

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 McAllen, TX area!

Connect with the Braces Brigade!

2011-01-03T08:00:00.000-08:00

At the practice of Dr. Gerling, our patients want to get as much out of their treatment as possible. That includes asking a lot of questions and making sure they take care of both their appliances and oral health.

Would you like to learn more about what to expect during orthodontic treatment, from someone with firsthand experience? Well, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recently developed the Braces Brigade blog, where past, present, as well as future orthodontic patients from coast to coast document their (or their child’s) orthodontic journeys. The blog will serve as a source of guidance for others as the patients undergo orthodontic care.

Our team at Dr. Gerling's office encourage you to visit the Braces Brigade blog to read these great and informative blogs—who knows, maybe you’ll learn a thing or two! As always, don’t hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions about the Braces Brigade or your own orthodontic treatment with Dr. John Gerling!

Happy New Year from Dr. Gerling and team

2010-12-29T11:06:00.000-08:00

The 2010 holiday season is upon us, and our team at Dr. Gerling's office 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, from all of us at Dr. Gerling's office!

Smile now, smile later, smile often! From Dr. Gerling and team

2010-12-23T12:03:00.000-08:00

Folks with big smiles may actually live longer than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. Dr. Gerling has known for quite some time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers at the university did something quite interesting: they looked at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity (ranging from big smile, no smile or partial smile). The players' smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers then took into account other factors that impact life longevity, including body mass index, career length and even college attendance.

The results? Researchers found that players who weren't smiling in the photos died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be 79.9 years old.

The take-away from the new study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting Dr. Gerling on a regular basis? If not, give us a call!

Dr. Gerling asks: How are you putting those Share a Smile Cards to use?

2010-12-17T11:00:00.001-08:00

Dr. Gerling, your McAllen orthodontist, rewards our patients for excellent orthodontic care with Smile Cards. Each month, Smile Cards are your ticket to an entry in our iPod drawing. We are pleased to announce that Macela is our November iPod winner. Congratulations Marcela!

Would you like to be the proud winner of an iPod? Ask Dr. Gerling about what you can do to receive a Smile Card at your next appointment. Happy Holidays!

Understanding cavities

2010-12-10T16:40:00.000-08:00

One word nobody wants to hear is cavity! That’s right, the dreaded cavity; but what exactly is a cavity and how do you get one? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger.

So, what causes a cavity? A cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

Yes, cavities can be repaired by your dentist, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Gerling:

• ALWAYS brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)
• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth and braces (where your toothbrush can’t reach)
• Try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar (sugar increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth causing more plaque and possibly cavities).
• Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up

Be sure to visit our website for more information about caring for your teeth while wearing braces.

Celebrities get braces, too!

2010-12-03T14:37:00.000-08:00

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 Dr. Gerling.

In fact, lots of Hollywood stars 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 the office of Dr. John A.Gerling DDS, MSD a call.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-24T15:53:00.000-08:00

Here at the office of Dr. Gerling, we are very thankful for all of our amazing patients and their families. We would like to wish everyone a fun and safe Thanksgiving. We also want to remind everyone to brush and floss after indulging in the big meal.

If you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we encourage you to post them on our Facebook page or give us a call!

Dr. Gerling's office supports Toys for Tots!

2010-11-20T15:54:00.001-08:00

Dr. Gerling and our team are very proud and excited to be collecting toys for the Toys-for-Tots campaign this year. Please share your blessings and bring a new and unwrapped toy to our office no later than Dec. 16 to support our efforts. All the toys will be donated to less fortunate children in our area.

Thanks for your support! Please give us a call if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your next appointment at our office.

Dr. Gerling announces the winner of our BOO! Contest

2010-11-09T08:00:00.000-08:00

Our team at the office of John A Gerling DDS, MSD is excited to announce that Javier H. is the winner of our BOO! Contest. He won a booootiful cash prize of $25 for showing us his Halloween spirit online. Have fun spending the money, Javier!

Dr. Gerling would like to thank all of our patients who participated in the BOO! Contest. We had a great time getting "BOOED!"

Staying connected with Dr. Gerling and team

2010-11-05T17:00:00.000-07:00

At John A Gerling DDS, MSD, 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 and pictures from contests and events 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 Dr. Gerling and our staff 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!

Halloween safety tips, from Dr. Gerling

2010-10-29T17:01:00.000-07:00

Trick-or-treat! In the spirit of October’s sweet and spooky holiday, Halloween, Dr. Gerling would like to remind all of our patients to be safe while celebrating with friends and family. Happy Halloween!

Here are a few Halloween safety tips:
• Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.
• Walk, slither, and sneak on sidewalks, not in the street.
• Look both ways before crossing the street to check for cars, trucks, and low-flying brooms.
• Cross the street only at corners.
• Don't hide or cross the street between parked cars.
• Wear light-colored or reflective-type clothing so you are more visible. (And remember to put reflective tape on bikes, skateboards, and brooms too!)
• Plan your route and share it with your family. If possible, have an adult go with you.
• Carry a flashlight to light your way.
• Keep away from open fires and candles. (Costumes can be extremely flammable.)
• Visit homes that have the porch light on.
• This is also a great time to buy fresh batteries for your home Smoke Alarms.
• Accept your treats at the door and never go into a stranger's house.
• Use face paint rather than masks or things that will cover your eyes.
• Be cautious of animals, strangers and goblins!
• Have a grown-up inspect your treats before eating. And don't eat candy if the package is already opened. Small, hard pieces of candy are a choking hazard for young children
• Teach children their home phone number and to call 9-1-1 if they have an emergency or become lost.
• Review the principle of "Stop-Drop-Roll", should costumes catch on fire.
• Take extra effort to eliminate tripping hazards on your porch and walkway. Check around your property for flower pots, low tree limbs, support wires or garden hoses that may prove hazardous to young children rushing from house to house. You don’t want a lot of injured ghost in your front yard!

What do you love about Dr. Gerling and team?

2010-10-22T10:33:00.000-07:00

From your very first visit to John A Gerling DDS, MSD our doctor and team strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by Dr. Gerling's work? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with 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. Please let us know about your experience the next time you're in the office, or by giving us a call!

Thank you,
Dr. Gerling and team

A friendly reminder about our "BOO" Contest, from Dr. Gerling

2010-10-11T16:51:00.000-07:00

Dr. Gerling and our team would like to remind all of our patients that we want to get "BOOED" this month! Don't forget to show us your Halloween spirit for a chance to win a booootiful $25 Halloween treat.

You can enter our "BOO" Contest by either:
1. "Liking" the John A Gerling Facebook page and writing "BOO" on our Facebook page wall.
2. Commenting on our latest blog entry with "BOO!"

Now through Halloween, every booer will be entered into a drawing for a booootiful $25 cash treat. We look forward to receiving your contest entries!

-Dr. Gerling and team

Dr. Gerling announces our "What Would YOUR Hygienist Say?" Contest

2010-10-05T08:28:00.000-07:00

October is National Dental Hygiene Month and National Orthodontic Health Month. What a great time of the year for Dr. Gerling's office to have a contest about HYGIENE!

Be sure to visit Dr. Gerling and our team this month, so that you have a chance to enter our "What Would Your Hygienist Say? "Contest. If you can answer five of our six questions correctly, you will be entered to win a mystery prize! We are giving away two, so don't hesitate to enter today! Winners will be selected on Nov. 12, 2010.

Dr. Gerling invites patients to the annual International Museum of Art & Science fundraiser

2010-09-29T15:36:00.000-07:00

It is with great pleasure that Dr. Gerling announces our most important annual fundraiser for the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS).

Collage will be held on Saturday, October 9th at IMAS. We will be honoring one of McAllen's most well known and important women, Janet Wallace. She has become an icon in McAllen, TX and attends just about every major social event held in our city. Janet is the mother of 10 and is still very active.

So please, mark your calendars for this grand event and come celebrate education, culture and entertainment. Tickets are $125 each for museum members and $150 each for non-members. We have a limited supply of tickets at our office. Please give us a call if you would like to discuss ticket availability, or if you have any questions about the event.

Thanks,

Dr. John Gerling

Dr. Gerling presents a braces-friendly Halloween recipe!

2010-09-22T14:18:00.000-07:00

Dr. Gerling and our team strives to provide the highest quality of orthodontic care in an environment that is friendly and fun. Today, we wanted to share a festive fall recipe that is both braces-friendly and easy to prepare. Don't forget to brush and floss after indulging!

WITCH’S HAT COOKIES

Ingredients:
• 12 sugar ice cream cones, chocolate flavor
• 12 5-inch chocolate chocolate-chip cookies
• 1 cup royal icing
• 1 lb. JBz chocolate candies (or Halloween plain M&M’s)

Instructions:
1. Prepare royal icing with tint purple.
2. Fill pastry bag with decorating tip.
3. Mix flavors of JBz. Pour 1 Tablespoon of JBz into cone.
4. Pipe icing around edge. Top with cookie.
5. Flip upside down to rest on cookie.
6. Pipe more icing and decorate with candies.

As always, feel free to give Dr. Gerling a call at 956-687-2004 if you have any questions about eating with braces, or if you would like to schedule your next appointment at our office. You can also visit our website for a few tips on caring for your braces.

Hey, Dr. Gerling! What's it like getting braces on?

2010-09-17T14:59:00.000-07:00

Dr. Gerling and our team often receive many questions from patients about what it feels like and looks like getting braces on. That's why we wanted to share this great video with you today of our patient Marie C. getting her braces on. As always, feel free to give us a call if you have any questions about braces, or if you would like to schedule a consultation at our office. Thank you!

"Boo" us for your chance to win a booootiful Halloween treat!

2010-09-10T14:15:00.000-07:00

Dr. Gerling and our team loves receiving nice messages on our Facebook wall from patients, but right now we just want to get "BOOED"! Show us your Halloween spirit for a chance to win a booootiful Halloween treat.

You may ask, "how do I show my holiday spirit?"
It's simple, all you have to do to get entered in the drawing is "like" our Facebook page and write "BOO" on our wall. Every booer will be entered in a drawing for booootiful $25 cash treat starting now until Halloween. We look forward to receiving your contest entries!

-Dr. Gerling and team

Dr. Gerling asks: Do you have Justin Bieber Fever?

2010-08-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

In honor of the recent Justin Bieber fever that is sweeping our nation, now through September 30, 2010 Dr. Gerling will be hosting a Justin Bieber Fever Contest! Next time you come in for an appointment, be sure to take a few minutes to participate in our trivia game. The contest winner will receive a portable iPod travel speaker, so don't wait to book your September appointment today!

As always, feel free to give us a call if you have any questions or if you would like to schedule your next appointment with Dr. Gerling. May the most dedicated Justin Bieber fan win!

Thank you,

-Dr. Gerling and team

Hey, Dr. Gerling! Can you tell me more about Invisalign®?

2010-08-27T09:50:00.000-07:00

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 with Dr. Gerling 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 Dr. Gerling the next time you’re in for an appointment. 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.

Congratulations, Alyssa Estrada and Andrew Castro! They won the Shrek Trivia Game!

2010-08-18T10:33:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who participated in Dr. Gerling's Shrek Trivia Contest! Alyssa Estrada and Andrew Castro were the contest winners, each receiving a $25 gift card to Fandango. Congratulations Alyssa and Andrew!

If you didn’t win our game this time, don’t get discouraged! There are currently three NEW contests going on at our office, so you will have plenty of opportunities to participate. As always, be sure to "like" our Facebook page so that you can receive the most up to date contest details.

Have a great week!

-Dr. Gerling and team

Back to school with Dr. Gerling and team

2010-08-10T10:53:00.000-07:00

Here in McAllen, TX, kids and parents are beginning to stock up on pencils, spiral notebooks, and binders because it’s back to school time! To better accommodate the changing schedules of our patients, our team at Dr. Gerling’s office will be introducing new school year hours at our office.

Because it is more challenging to work around school, sports, and after school activities, we want to remind our patients about how important it is to plan in advance for your orthodontic appointments. We also ask that you give us advance notice if you are unable to make an appointment, so that another patient has the opportunity. To schedule your fall appointment, give us a call today!

The fall hours for John A. Gerling DDS, MSD are as follows:

• Monday: 9:40am-6:00pm

• Tuesday: 7:00am-4:00pm

• Wednesday: 7:00am-4:00pm

• Thursday: 7:00am-4:00pm

• Friday: 8:30am-12:00pm

Dr. Gerling asks: How well do you know Shrek?

2010-08-02T09:34:00.000-07:00

Do you and your family love getting caught up in the adventures of Shrek, Princess Fiona, Donkey, Puss in Boots, and King Artie? Now through the end of August, Dr. Gerling and our team will be testing your trivia knowledge of Shrek and the gang through an in office trivia contest! The next time you're in for an appointment, fill out an entry form for your chance to win one of two $25 Fandango gift cards! This great trivia contest is open to all patients, so don't be shy!

Is it time for you to schedule a check up appointment with Dr. Gerling? Give us a call today!

Good luck,

-Dr. Gerling and team

Congratulations, Camila! She is the winner of Dr. Gerling's "Know Your Icons" game.

2010-07-30T11:29:00.000-07:00

Congratulations, Camila! She recently won Dr. Gerling's "Know Your Icons" game! Thanks to everyone who participated in this great office contest. If you haven't yet checked out our Facebook page, be sure to "like" John A. Gerling DDS, MSD, so that you can receive all of our latest contest updates, photos, and event information!

Have a great weekend everyone!

-Dr. Gerling and team

Hey, Dr. Gerling! What is it like getting your braces off?

2010-07-20T10:12:00.000-07:00

Lately, Dr. Gerling and our team have received many questions from patients regarding the removal of braces. That's why our team at John A. Gerling DDS, MSD decided to produce a video of Paul having his braces removed. We hope that you will find this video very informative. Congratulations Paul!

-Dr. Gerling and team

Ask Dr. Gerling: Am I too old for braces?

2010-07-14T10:49:00.000-07:00

Who’s afraid of “metal mouth” and the appearance of braces? Apparently, not adults. Recently, our staff at John A Gerling DDS, MSD read a fascinating statistic: the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! Braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, also promoting positive self esteem. 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 to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Dr. Gerling 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, Dr. Gerling would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

Parental Spotlight: 7 tips for traveling with teens

2010-07-07T14:40:00.000-07:00

Hey, parents! Are you planning that perfect family vacation for the whole family? Here at John A. Gerling DDS, MSD, we know that summer is the season when many families choose to hit the open road- or catch a flight- to make those memories together. That’s why we want to share a few tips for summer travel from our friends at Shine.

1) Have your teens set the pace—and even the itinerary. No teen wants to be dragged around a city that they have no interest in. By allowing everyone a voice in the trip itinerary, children and parents alike become more invested in the vacation.

2) Everyone offers up a playlist. A trip soundtrack isn’t complete without a hodgepodge of every family member’s favorite tracks!

3) Set a limit on phones/electronics use. This decision has to be specific to your family, but a good rule of thumb is that if you’re setting the rules for minute limits or check-ins that all family members should stick to them- not just teens and tweens.

4) Keep food & drinks on hand. Sometimes a snack is all you need to stay cheery- hunger can oftentimes create unnecessary arguments and tension between families.

5) Don’t make them clean the hotel room. While on vacation, the same rules that apply at home for cleaning don’t necessarily apply while staying in a hotel.

6) Set a gift shop budget. These costs can add up quickly, so be sure to set limits ahead of time!

7) Give them a little freedom. When traveling with tweens and teens, it is important that they are able to have some areas, maybe a five-block radius or even the hotel lobby, where they are able to wander without the whole family.

We hope that these tips are useful for helping plan those family vacations! For more articles on parenting and for the parenting pick of the day, check out Shine. Also, if you have any great family vacation photos, feel free to share them on our Facebook page!

Happy travels!

Science Saturday with Dr. Gerling!

2010-06-28T16:40:00.000-07:00

Here at John A. Gerling DDS, MSD, we love learning about Science! Last Saturday our office hosted Science Saturday, an event for patients and their families to learn about different types of fossils. The event was a huge success! Our staff and patients had a great time viewing the different fossils and learning about their unique properties from Dr. John Gerling.

You can find more photos from Science Saturday on our Facebook page!

Invisalign treatment with Dr. Gerling: How does it work? [Video]

2010-06-20T21:25:00.000-07:00

Perhaps you've wondered recently how Invisalign treatment at Dr. Gerling's office manages to straighten your teeth without using metallic traditional braces? The Invisalign system is a state-of-the-art system of clear, removable aligners that we proudly offer at our convenient location in McAllen, Texas.

Not only are the aligners invisible, they are also removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment at our office. Plus, brushing and flossing are no problem. They are also comfortable, with no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment. And no metal and wires usually means you spend less time in your doctor's office getting adjustments. Invisalign also allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan when you start so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.

Dr. Gerling, who is a certified Invisalign provider, also provides plenty of resources on our website about Invisalign, or you can give our office a call to learn if this revolutionary new treatment option is right for you!

We hope you had a GREAT weekend!

Access your account—any day, any time—at John A. Gerling DDS

2010-06-15T10:21:00.000-07:00

At John A. Gerling DDS, we embrace all forms of new technology, whether it's through the innovative orthodontic treatments that we offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern office conveniently located in McAllen.

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! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

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

Have a great week!

Dr. Gerling and team want to know: what are your summer plans?

2010-06-07T14:50:00.000-07:00

As the school year comes to a close for a lot of our patients, the days get longer and the temperatures begin to climb here in Texas, there’s no better way to beat the heat than jump into a pool or cool off under the shade with a beverage (non-sugary, of course).

For a lot of our patients in McAllen and surrounding areas, summer brings a chance to get away from it all and escape every-day life, if only for a week or two. For others, it means a season of relaxation and relief from homework and other duties.

How about you?

What are your plans for summer? Do you have any interesting plans for a family vacation? We want to see when and how you are all spending your summer vacations. If you’re going somewhere exotic, we'd like to hear about it! If you're going camping, great! Even if you're hanging out in the backyard, that can be fun, too.

Please feel free to share your summer plans and experiences with our staff on our Facebook page as the summer rolls along!

Talkin' Invisalign Teen™ with Dr. Gerling

2010-05-31T14:45:00.000-07:00

Image is everything, especially for teenagers. And in an age (and culture) when image is so important, the thought of having metal brackets and wires constantly attached to teeth may intensify the already-delicate confidence of today's teens. But... not to worry! There is a clear alternative to traditional braces! Our team at the office of Dr. John A. Gerling thought we'd remind you that Invisalign Teen™ gives our teens a whole new way to wear braces for a "clearly" amazing smile!

You're probably wondering, "OK, Dr. Gerling, how does Invisalign teen work?"

Well, much in the same fashion as Invisalign, but with a few added characteristics tailored specifically to teenagers’ lifestyles. For example, Invisalign Teen is designed with “compliance indicators” that fade from dark to light during the two week period that particular tray is used and once it has faded teens know to change trays. Each aligner comes with up to six free individual replacement aligners in case the original aligner ends up broken or lost - another big benefit for Dr. Gerling's patients!

The treatment period for Invisalign Teen varies from nine to 18 months. To learn more about these clear aligners, please contact us at (956) 687-2004 and we’ll answer any questions you may have about Invisalign Teen!

We hope you're enjoying your Memorial Day weekend!

Dr. Gerling and team, breaking down the myths and facts about orthodontics

2010-05-26T14:38:00.000-07:00

Trust us when we say Dr. Gerling knows there are quite a few myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) flying around these days. But before you buy into those myths, our doctor thinks you should get the facts! We came across a great site that helps set the record straight (no pun intended). Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at Dr. Gerling's office, feel free to give our team a call at (956) 687-2004.

What do you love about Dr. Gerling and team?

2010-05-17T09:10:00.000-07:00

Dr. Gerling and team fully understand that 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 John A. Gerling DDS that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly professional staff? Is it Dr. Gerling himself?

Let us know by posting here, on our Facebook fan page or by giving us a call!

Invisalign: is it for everyone? Dr. Gerling and team explain...

2010-05-14T08:40:00.000-07:00

Perhaps you're wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities. You might be wondering: Will Invisalign slur my speech? Will people know I'm in treatment? At John A. Gerling DDS, we'll tell you that you're not alone in your concerns! Dr. Gerling and our team thought we’d take a moment and discuss these clear aligners today.

To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment at our office, the first thing Dr. Gerling does is take an impression of your teeth as they are now - and digitize it. Using special software, Dr. Gerling looks at the current positioning of your teeth and compares it to the way your teeth should look.

Next, we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. The best thing about it all? Nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Gerling is a Certified Invisalign® Provider. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, please give us a call at our McAllen office and have a great weekend.

Dr. Gerling wants to know: What should we blog about?

2010-05-06T15:25:00.000-07:00

By now, you probably know how our blogging process works: Week after week, Dr. John Gerling and our creative staff 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 readers: 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 in the coming months? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Dr. Gerling for a while now? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook fan page!

"Hey, Dr. Gerling! When should my kid come in for an appointment?"

2010-04-28T15:42:00.000-07:00

Many parents often assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to visit Dr. John Gerling, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started sooner. Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That’s right—seven.

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

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 (956) 687-2004.

Ask Dr. Gerling: Why is it so important to have straight teeth?

2010-04-21T16:52:00.000-07:00

Some people wonder why McAllen and Rio Grande Valley orthodontist Dr. John Gerling 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 the office of Dr. Gerling 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! At the office of Dr. John A. Gerling, you will receive the highest quality of orthodontic care in an environment that is friendly and fun. For over 20 years, our knowledgeable doctor and staff have been creating beautiful, healthy smiles in the Rio Grande Valley and surrounding areas. You can trust your family's smile to us!

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, please give us a call at 956-687-2004 to set up a consultation. Dr. Gerling can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Have a great rest of the week!

What's your favorite part about John A. Gerling DDS?

2010-04-12T09:45:00.000-07:00

From your very first visit to John A. Gerling DDS, our team strives to provide superior orthodontic treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by Dr. Gerling? Did our professional team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with 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. Or, you can tell us by giving us a call! Happy Monday!

Meet Our Orthodontist

2010-03-24T12:26:00.000-07:00

I have been practicing orthodontics for almost 30 years. Before becoming an orthodontist however, I worked hard throughout college and dental school to make sure that I received the highest quality education and training. I can't think of any other career that I would love more than orthodontics! My job as an orthodontist gives me a great sense of satisfaction and pride. My team is wonderful; they are supportive of each other and our patients, and it is very rewarding to watch my team build close relationships with the people we treat.

When I'm away from the office, I enjoy keeping up with the latest advances in various sciences, and doing all of the things that make me smile! I am originally from Dallas, and have lived in McAllen for over 25 years. My wife, Becky, and I have been married for almost 40 years and we have one grown daughter named Megan. We also have two dogs, Cookie and Lilly Put, and a cat, Max. In my free time, I enjoy studying astronomy, flying, hiking, organic gardening, looking for fossils and arrowheads, and creating exhibits for education purposes. I also like building metal sculptures. My latest sculpture is called "Winded Runners" which will soon be on display at one of McAllen's linear park trails.