The Rey Orthodontics Blog

May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month!

2011-05-05T09:42:00.000-07:00

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 Rey Orthodontics, 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.

Invisalign® TIPS, from Dr. Rey

2011-04-26T12:14:00.000-07:00

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

1. Am I eating with my aligners on? - These aligners are removable and should be taken out when you eat.
2. Am I drinking anything other than water with my aligners on? - Though it's not necessary for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky soda is. If you take out your aligners when drinking a soda, you have a better chance of keeping your aligners clean.
3. Am I brushing before putting the trays on? - The aligners have both an inside and outside. Keeping the outside clean is easy. Keeping the inside clean is also simple: just make sure you've brushed your teeth before putting the trays on.

These are all very simple steps, and ultimately, they help to keep you building good oral habits. If you have any questions about Invisalign or your treatment here at Rey Orthodontics, give us a call!

How do we "Go Green" at Rey Orthodontics?

2011-04-21T13:39:00.000-07:00

Dr. Maria Rey and our staff at Rey Orthodontics realize we are living in an age with a renewed commitment to conservation, and are frequently reminded to recycle, reduce and reuse. Earth Day is tomorrow, April 22nd, and we thought this would a great time to discuss the things that our office 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™. 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.

You, too, can sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage.

Dr. Rey & our team would love to hear how you minimize your impact on the environment. Leave us a comment below or you can also visit our Facebook page and post something on our wall.

Happy Earth Day!

"Hey Dr. Rey! What's the deal with retainers?"

2011-04-13T20:16:00.000-07:00

If you recently completed treatment at Rey Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you!
Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Maria Rey will provide you with retainers. After braces are removed the teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime. Here are some things to remember when you receiver your retainers from Dr. Rey:

* Wear your retainers full time, until Dr. Rey instructs otherwise.

* 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.

* Initially, you may find it difficult to speak. Practicing speaking, reading, or singing aloud to get used to them quicker is a good idea.

* Retainers are breakable, so treat them with care. If retainers are lost or broken, give us a call immediately.

* Try to remember to bring your retainers to your appointments.

* Retainer replacement is expensive...with proper care they will last for years!

* 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.).

* Keep retainers away from hot water, pockets, the washing machine and napkins.

We hope this helps! You can always contact our team if you have any questions!

Ask Dr. Rey: “I’m 28 – am I too old for braces?”

2011-04-07T21:03:00.000-07:00

Thanks for the question – at Rey Orthodontics, NOBODY is “too old” for braces!

In fact, our staff read a fascinating statistic not too long ago: 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. Rey can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

We are excited for the opportunity to work with you, and we look forward to sharing in this life-changing experience. Our office is conventiently located to the many nearby communities of Washington DC. Please contact our practice at (202) 436-5432 to schedule an appointment, and start smiling today!

Play it safe this spring, from Dr. Rey

2011-03-31T08:26:00.000-07:00

Wouldn’t you believe it, it’s already springtime! The spring months, however, bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of kids damaging their precious mouths and pearly whites. If you play sports, it’s important that you consult Dr. Maria Rey for special precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing spring sports such as baseball, soccer, lacrosse and others. Be sure, however, to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements we are trying to achieve.

In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances damaged, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Rey. And don’t forget to ask us—Dr. Rey will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment.

Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment with Dr. Rey.

How important is your smile? From Rey Orthodontics

2011-03-23T06:39:00.000-07:00

Serving Bethesda, Silver Spring, Washington D.C. and Arlington, Virginia, our staff at Rey Orthodontics is dedicated to helping you achieve a beautiful smile by providing you with the highest quality care, most advanced orthodontic treatments, and an open office environment where you'll feel comfortable!

Dr. Maria Rey and team know having a beautiful smile is important to you. And it's important to us, too.

And, speaking of smiles, in a new poll conducted by Glamour Magazine, people were recently asked, “If you had to pick between having perfect teeth, eyesight or hair, which would you choose?

Well, 44 percent of folks out there are choosing teeth! In addition, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, or AACD, conducted a study and found that 99.7 percent of those polled believed a smile is an important social asset. Respondents said straightness, whiteness, cleanliness, as well as the sincerity and sparkle of a person’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well.

We are excited for the opportunity to work with you, and we look forward to sharing in this life-changing experience. Our office is conventiently located to the many nearby communities of Washington DC. Please contact our practice at (202) 436-5432 to schedule an appointment, and start smiling today!

Ask Dr. Rey: Who benefits from braces?

2011-03-15T08:44:00.000-07:00

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Maria Rey will tell you that anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic treatment, whether it’s correcting a problem not treated in your younger years, or catching a problem early.

To ensure the best overall treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, recommends that children receive an orthodontic consultation as early as age seven. If a problem is evident, taking action early at Rey Orthodontics can spare a lot of treatment and expense down the road.

If you never received orthodontic treatment when you were young, don’t worry! You’re never too old for a beautiful smile at Rey Orthodontics. Set up an appointment for a free consultation with Dr. Rey at our Washington, D.C. office and find out how orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

We also proudly serve Bethesda and Silver Spring, MD and Arlington, VA.

See you soon!

Connect with Rey Orthodontics on Facebook!

2011-03-07T14:40:00.000-08:00

At Rey Orthodontics, Dr. Maria Rey and our team truly value the relationships we have developed with our patients here in Washington DC, Bethesda, Silver Spring MD, Arlington and surrounding communities in Orange County. Even if you only visit us every three- to four months, did you know that you can connect with Rey Orthodontics on Facebook?

We invite you to “like” Rey Orthodontics on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/IrvineOrthodontics. We share office news and updates on our Fan Page, so check it out! By Liking our page, you will receive all kinds of updates from our office automatically on Facebook!

See you on Facebook! From Dr. Rey

Your turn! From Rey Orthodontics

2011-02-28T21:13:00.000-08:00

You probably know the drill: each week, Dr. Maria Rey and our staff blog about important topics pertinent to orthodontic care and your well-being.

This week, however, we thought we’d step back and ask: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the always-changing field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog? Perhaps there’s something you’ve been wanting to ask Dr. Rey for a while now? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook page!

So… ask away and have a great week!

Braces tips on the Braces Brigade blog!

2011-02-18T12:27:00.001-08:00

At Rey Orthodontics, we know 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.

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.

In the latest installment of the Braces Brigade blog, Mary K. shares a few tips for those getting ready to undergo orthodontic treatment. We strongly 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 or ask us on Facebook if you have any questions about the Braces Brigade or your own orthodontic treatment with Dr. Rey!

Have a great holiday weekend!

In love with your smile? Then we invite you to review Dr. Rey on Google!

2011-02-10T10:53:00.000-08:00

At Rey Orthodontics, February Marks National Dental Health Month

2011-02-01T20:56:00.000-08:00

Here at Rey Orthodontics, February is National Dental Health Month, and we thought we’d promote good oral hygiene among our patients with a few tips and tricks, courtesy of the American Dental Association.

• Teeth brushing techniques: It takes only two minutes to properly brush using short, gentle strokes and devoting extra attention to the gumline, areas around fillings and hard-to-reach areas such as the back teeth.

• Flossing: hold the floss snugly between thumbs and index finger and insert it between each of the teeth, making sure to go beneath the gumline and curving the floss around the base of each tooth.

• Snack wisely: choose healthy snacks such as cheese, fruits and vegetables and avoid crunchy, sticky, chewy candies that can stick to the teeth. If you eat these snacks, be sure to brush after doing so.

• Carbonated or sugary drinks: these drinks create acids that can damage the teeth when mixed with saliva, so they should be avoided altogether. If you’re going to drink one of these beverages, don’t sip on it throughout the day. Rather, drink it and then brush your teeth.

• Regular dental visits: in addition to seeing our team at Rey Orthodontics during your orthodontic treatment, you should visit your dentist for professional check-ups and teeth cleaning appointments about every six months.

National Dental Health Month aims to increase awareness about the importance of our patients' oral health. If you have any questions about keeping your mouth healthy, or about your treatment with Dr. Maria Rey, please feel free to give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

When Are Two Phases of Treatment Necessary?

2011-01-27T10:15:00.000-08:00

Usually patients in treatment at Rey Orthodontics already have their permanent teeth – they are pre-teens, teens and adults. But in some cases our team at Rey Orthodontics have to start treatment earlier, even before the patient’s permanent teeth come in. We call this “two-phase treatment.”

When Dr. Maria Rey has patients with clear developmental problems at an early age, it’s best to start work when they are young, before the problems get bigger and more difficult to treat.

Examples include:
•An upper or lower jaw that is not growing correctly
•A mouth growing in a way that doesn’t leave enough room for all the permanent teeth to come in
•A severe malocclusion, or bad bite, which means the jaw doesn’t fit together correctly

In these cases we will start early and do one round of treatment – phase one – while the patient still has their baby teeth. Phase one usually does not involve braces, but can include a different type of appliance that helps the jaw grow into place properly. We’ll follow up with phase two usually a few years later, when permanent teeth are in place. Generally phase two involves standard braces.

In order to catch early problems, we recommend that children have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven (and so does the American Association of Orthodontics). However, if your dentist or pediatrician sees any sign that early treatment might be necessary, he or she may recommend your child visit Rey Orthodontics even sooner.

We hope this helps! Please give us a call if you have any questions or ask Dr. Rey on Facebook!

Ask Dr. Rey: What is TMJ/TMD?

2011-01-17T20:28:00.000-08:00

At Rey Orthodontics, we know millions of Americans suffer from chronic facial and neck pain as well as recurrent headaches. In some cases this pain is due to Temporomandibular Disorder, or TMD.

Your temporomandibular joints, or jaw joints, connect your lower jawbone to your skull. As you may imagine, these joints get quite a lot of use throughout the day as you speak, chew, swallow, and yawn. Pain in and around these joints can be unpleasant and may even restrict movement.

Symptoms of TMD are known to include:

* Pain in the jaw area
* Pain, ringing, or stuffiness in the ears
* Frequent headaches or neck aches
* Clicking or popping sound when the jaw moves
* Swelling on the sides of the face
* Muscle spasms in the jaw area
* A change in the alignment of top and bottom teeth
* Locked jaw or limited opening of the mouth

Should you notice any of these symptoms, let us know by calling Rey Orthodontics! At our convenient Washington DC office, we can help advise you as to whether they indicate the presence of TMD, and what sort of treatment is appropriate for you.

At Rey Orthodontics, access to your account any day, any time

2011-01-11T10:21:00.000-08:00

Did you know patients at Rey Orthodontics 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!

"I like having access to my own appointments and my financial information." ~ Karen G.

"I was able to confirm my appointment online against my Outlook calendar without calling the office." ~ Dale G.

"With my travel schedule - it is easier to access my appointment information from anywhere at any time." ~ Muriel G.

You may sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button at the top of our homepage. Give us a call at our Washington D.C. office if you have any questions about getting started and enjoy the rest of your week.

Connect with the Braces Brigade!

2011-01-03T20:02:00.000-08:00

At Rey Orthodontics, we know 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.

We 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 at our Washington D.C. office if you have any questions about the Braces Brigade or your own orthodontic treatment with Dr. Maria Rey!

Happy New Year everyone!

What's your New Year's resolution?

2010-12-27T12:11:00.000-08:00

2010 is almost over—and what a year it was! Dr. Maria Rey and our staff thought we’d ask: what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you most 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, to all our patients, friends, family and all our dental and medical colleagues in Bethesda, Silver Spring, Arlington and surrounding communities in Washington D.C.

See you all in 2011!

This holiday season, give the gift of a “clearly” amazing smile at Rey Orthodontics!

2010-12-15T14:13:00.000-08:00

Hey parents! Focusing on your kids’ teeth and oral health so much that you’re neglecting your own lately? If you’ve been thinking about having your own set of perfectly-aligned teeth, Dr. Rey and our staff at Rey Orthodontics are happy to help! Dr. Rey is 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! We are excited for the opportunity to work with you, and we look forward to sharing in this life-changing experience. Our office is conveniently located to serve many nearby communities, including Bethesda, Silver Spring, Arlington, and Washington D.C. Please contact our practice to schedule an appointment, and start smiling today!

Does Dr. Rey have your current contact info?

2010-12-09T08:17:00.000-08:00

We hope you're having a great week! If you've seen the news lately, you probably know there is some nasty weather ahead this winter in the D.C. area and even across the eastern seaboard.

Please help Dr. Maria Rey and our staff get prepared by calling us and letting us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed!

At times of power outages and inclement weather, we need to be able to get a hold of you. Please call us with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so we may be able to reach you. Thank you and Happy Holidays from Dr. Rey and team!

Ask Dr. Rey: What's the deal with retainers?

2010-11-30T14:42:00.000-08:00

If you recently completed treatment at Rey Orthodontics, our entire staff would like to congratulate you, again! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Maria Rey will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, however, 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. Rey is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for an entire lifetime.

To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment, please visit our website for instructions and read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth. You may also give us a call at 202-436-5432!

We hope you all had a great Thanksgiving!

A season of thanks

2010-11-23T15:55:00.000-08:00

All of us at Rey Orthodontics extend our best wishes to you, our patients, referring doctors and families, for a wonderful Thanksgiving.

We appreciate the opportunity to work together with you in the creation of your ideal smile and look forward to the day when your treatment is completed and you join our family of beautiful smiles, which we create daily at our Washington D.C. office. It's a big food holiday, so be careful what you eat, especially with those braces!

Besides turkey, here are a few foods you can enjoy at Thanksgiving dinner:

• Mashed potatoes or other cooked potatoes
• Corn (if cut off the cob)
• Stuffing
• Yams
• Pumpkin pie and other desserts such as cake and ice cream (but make sure to brush afterward!)

If you are still in search of some wonderful recipes, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have lots of delicious recipes that will satisfy both your sugar craving and hunger now that the weather is cold. We hope you have a safe and fun Thanksgiving this year with your friends and family. Happy Thanksgiving from all of us here at Rey Orthodontics!

Ask Dr. Rey: Do cold germs live on toothbrushes?

2010-11-17T08:37:00.000-08:00

Fall is upon us, and with it comes the dreaded cold and flu season. After recovering from your cold, Dr. Maria Rey will tell you one of the most important steps you can take to avoid becoming reinfected is replacing your toothbrush!

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

• Wash your hands before and after brushing

• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen

• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster

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

Hope these tips help! Feel free to call us at Rey Orthodontics if you have any questions or ask Dr. Rey on Facebook.

What do you enjoy most about fall?

2010-11-09T12:16:00.001-08:00

It’s fall here at Rey Orthodontics, a time when our patients in Washington D.C., Bethesda, Silver Spring and Arlington begin making plans for Thanksgiving and the winter holidays. But before you go celebrating, we wanted to ask you, our wonderful patients, "How are you spending your time this fall?"

Our staff would love to hear about your favorite places for eating, shopping, and entertainment here in the greater Washington D.C area. We are interested in learning about what makes our unique community “yours.”

Feel free to post your responses on our Facebook page, or give us a call! Have a wonderful rest of the week!

What sets Rey Orthodontics apart?

2010-11-04T16:50:00.001-07:00

At Rey Orthodontics, we are dedicated to helping you achieve a beautiful smile by providing you with the highest quality care, most advanced orthodontic treatments, and an open office environment where you'll feel comfortable!

Our commitment to excellence in orthodontic treatment and our approach—treat our patients as if they were a member of our family—is a great reason to visit us for your orthodontic treatment.

**Dr. Maria Rey and our team is focused on our patients, and we make sure that we're available when our patients have questions.

**Orthodontics is all about smiles, and we do what we can to keep our patients smiling by encouraging and supporting them throughout their treatments.

**We are committed to staying up-to-date with the latest orthodontic techniques and technology including traditional braces, Invisalign® invisible braces, Invisalign Teen™, In-Ovation® and more.

**Each treatment we provide is personalized to meet the individual needs and lifestyles of our patients, because we believe it's never too late to have a beautiful smile and we want your treatment to be as rewarding as possible.

**We are always available to answer questions, and with 24-hour online access to our web site, Dr. Rey and our team are able to stay in touch with our patients in between appointments.

Our office is conventiently located to serve many nearby communities, including Bethesda and Silver Spring, Maryland, Arlington, Virginia and Washington D.C. We invite you to schedule an appointment, and start smiling today!

What's the deal with all those Halloween candies & treats?

2010-10-29T09:16:00.000-07:00

With Halloween just two days away, we know all that candy is making its rounds around Washington DC, Silver Spring and neighboring communities. Instead of telling kids to avoid candy altogether, however, one orthodontist decided to show his patients the good kinds of candy to eat with braces and the kind to avoid. We encourage you to check this video out and we hope everyone has a fun, safe and scary Halloween!

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists recommend softer treats, such as soft chocolate or peanut butter cups, or melt-in-your-mouth foods. Trick-or-treaters who indulge should make sure they brush and floss between teeth, around brackets and at the gum line. If damage occurs, please call Dr. Maria Rey as soon as possible.

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

Straight talk with Rey Orthodontics

2010-10-22T17:57:00.000-07:00

Past and current patients have asked us at Rey Orthodontics why we work so tirelessly to give our patients straight teeth. Of course it’s great to have a smile full of evenly-aligned teeth, but did you know that straightening your teeth at our Washington D.C. office can keep them healthier as well? Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime!

Straight teeth are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque—the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to tooth decay; and they are easier to keep clean! If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, please give us a call at 202-436-5432 to set up a consultation. Dr. Maria Rey can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

At Rey Orthodontics, we are dedicated to helping you achieve a beautiful smile by providing you with the highest quality care, most advanced orthodontic treatments, and an open office environment where you'll feel comfortable!

Your child and Halloween candy, from Rey Orthodontics

2010-10-13T12:44:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago, we mentioned October marks National Orthodontic Health Month. With Halloween right around the corner, Dr. Maria Rey and our team wanted to warn you about the negative effects candy can have on your teeth, enamel and braces.

All those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, but these treats can damage your teeth and braces too! Did you know sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them? This can cause tooth decay and cavities! Sour and fruity candy, such as like Skittles and Starburst, are the worst for your teeth – these candies have a low pH value, which can ruin enamel.

This Halloween season, try to limit the amount of these candies you eat - if you do eat them, remember to rinse your mouth with water, drink a glass milk or eat some cheese.

Make a resolution to improve your oral health this October, which also happens to be National Dental Hygiene Month!

Staff Spotlight: Lisa at Rey Orthodontics

2010-10-05T08:20:00.000-07:00

I'm Lisa Jacobs and I'm in charge of Patient Communications at Rey Orthodontics. I grew up in Washington, D.C. and I'm the proud mother of two wonderful children.

I graduated from Smith College with a B.A. in Political Science and went on to receive Certificates in Paralegal Studies and Event Management from the George Washington University.

I'm very enthusiastic, energetic and love to meet our patients and be of any help. I met Dr. Maria Rey as her patient many years ago and now I'm proud to work with Dr. Rey not only because I received excellent treatment care and admired her work ethic but because I wanted to be a part of her team, developing happy and healthy smiles to all of our patients. In my spare time, I enjoy running, photography and planning special events for family members and friends.

Rey Orthodontics, supporting National Orthodontic Health Month!

2010-10-01T14:26:00.000-07:00

Today marks the official start of National Orthodontic Health Month, and our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have created a helpful website that provides important information on protecting your braces, including tips for trick-or-treaters, braces-friendly Halloween recipes, facts about braces and treats you should avoid while wearing braces.

Dr. Maria Rey and our staff at Rey Orthodontics recommend you check out the AAO's website as well for helpful tips on keeping your braces in tip-top shape. If you have any follow-up questions, please feel free to give us a call at 202-436-5432, ask us on Facebook or ask Dr. Rey during your next visit!

Have a wonderful and relaxing weekend!

More happy smiles at Rey Orthodontics!

2010-09-22T12:36:00.000-07:00

At Rey Orthodontics, we are dedicated to helping you achieve a beautiful smile by providing you with the highest quality care, most advanced orthodontic treatments, and an open office environment where you'll feel comfortable! Just see what some our patients have to say!

"Dr. Maria Rey is always accessible and available to answer any questions. She replys quickly to my e-mails, she did not pressure me for an answer when I had to weigh my options." ~ Karen G.

"Dr. Rey is incredibly knowledgeable and so I am confident in an amazing outcome. During my appointments she takes the time to talk to me." ~ Patrick K.

"Dr. Rey always goes out of her way to explain what she is doing and why. Great chair side manner, very friendly, and extremely competent!‎" ~ Matthew

Please feel free to contribute your own thoughts about our office! Dr. Rey and our team love getting patient testimonials!

Rey Orthodontics, dispelling the myths about braces

2010-09-15T09:47:00.000-07:00

Trust us when we say Dr. Maria Rey and our staff know there are quite a few myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) out there these days. But before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts!

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists set the record straight (no pun intended) and have provided some information that sheds some light on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at Rey Orthodontics, feel free to give us a call at 202-436-5432. Have a wonderful rest of the week!

Dr. Maria Rey presents: Invisalign and your oral health

2010-09-07T08:55:00.000-07:00

When considering treatment options in Bethesda, Silver Spring, Arlington or Washington, D.C., patients often ask Dr. Maria Rey how Invisalign treatment is so different than traditional braces. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign at Rey Orthodontics 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, please give us a call at 202-436-5432. 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.

Share your experience at Rey Orthodontics with the world!

2010-08-28T18:46:00.000-07:00

Ask Dr. Maria Rey: When should my child first visit your office?

2010-08-21T18:33:00.000-07:00

Braces were originally considered to be best appropriate for teens. But these days, kids as old as seven years old are beginning their orthodontic treatment. Because preadolescent kids are typically not self-conscious, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists suggest it could be a good idea to start early.

Experts, however, say it depends on the treatment required. Some children who get braces at an early age end up in a second phase of treatment, and end up having braces well into their teenage years despite starting young.

Most orthodontic treatment begins between ages nine and 14, and the folks at AAO estimate most orthodontic treatment lasts from one to three years, with two years being the average. It’s important, however, that children be screened no later than age seven for Dr. Maria Rey to assess what the best age for treatment is.

Hope this helps! Give us a call at 202-436-5432 if you have any questions about your child’s treatment!

We hope you're having a wonderful summer so far!

Rey Orthodontics present: Fun facts!

2010-08-15T14:04:00.000-07:00

Dr. Maria Rey and our staff at Washington D.C.'s Rey Orthodontics know our patients love fun facts - LOVE THEM, in fact. The American Association of Orthodontists has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that Dr. Rey thought you might get a kick out of. Have a great rest of your weekend!

• 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.

What do you love about summer?

2010-08-07T20:25:00.000-07:00

With summer officially here for another seven weeks, Dr. Rey and our staff at Rey Orthodontics thought we’d ask: What’s your favorite part about summer? The warm weather we get? The free time you get? Less homework? Spending quality time with friends and family? Grilling barbecue in the backyard?

Whatever you're up to this summer, we'd like to know what makes this season truly special for you. Let us know by posting on our Facebook page!

Enjoy your weekend everybody!

Dr. Maria Rey, reminding you to use your mouth guard this summer

2010-08-03T21:50:00.000-07:00

Let’s face it: sports-related injuries are common among children, let alone teens with braces - and especially during the summer. In a 2009 survey, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, discovered that 70 percent of parents said their biggest fear is that their child will get hurt while playing organized sports.

If you play summer sports, it's important that you consult Dr. Maria Rey for special precautions, including wearing a mouth guard, which is advised for playing summer sports such as softball, soccer or even touch-football.

In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances damaged, please schedule an appointment with Rey Orthodontics or your general dentist. And don’t forget to ask us—Dr. Rey will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment.

Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries this summer. Please give us a call at 202-436-5432 if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at our convenient Washington D.C. office.

Staying connected with Rey Orthodontics

2010-07-31T18:18:00.000-07:00

If you've spent one minute at our convenient Washington, D.C. office, you probably know that Dr. Maria Rey and our staff embrace all forms of new technology, whether it’s through the innovative orthodontic treatments we offer, our high-tech and convenient website or our Facebook page. For social media to work, our staff at Rey Orthodontics 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. Rey and our staff take a little time to research how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog in the coming weeks and months? Please post your thoughts on Facebook or give us a call at 202-350-9768!

Who's benefiting from braces?

2010-07-24T15:04:00.000-07:00

Dr. Maria Rey will tell you braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic treatment, whether it’s correcting a problem not treated in your younger years, or catching a problem earlier rather than later.

To ensure the best overall treatment, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists recommend that kids receive an orthodontic consultation as early as age seven. If a problem is evident, taking action early can spare a lot of treatment and expense down the road.

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age and our staff at Rey Orthodontics know that adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. In fact, one of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over 21.If you never received orthodontic treatment when you were young, we don’t want you to worry! At Rey Orthodontics, you’re never too old for a beautiful smile. Set up an appointment for a consultation by calling us at 202-436-5432, and find out how adult orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

We hope you're having an outstanding weekend!

Ask Dr. Rey: Is Invisalign® right for me?

2010-07-22T11:04:00.000-07:00

If you've ever wondered how Invisalign's clear aligners can move your teeth in the same fashion as traditional braces, keep reading.

Part of what makes Invisalign really "work," is that the treatment is customized for each patient. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment at Rey Orthodontics, the first thing we do is to take an impression of your teeth and digitize it. Using special software, Dr. Maria Rey looks at the current positioning of your teeth, and compare 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 Invisalign? Nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Serving Washington D.C., Bethesda, Silver Spring (MD) and Arlington (VA), Dr. Rey is a Certified Invisalign® Provider in Washington, DC. A complimentary consultation with Dr. Rey can determine if Invisalign is right for you. We encourage you to give us a call at 202-436-5432.

Have a GREAT rest of the week everyone!

What are patients saying about Rey Orthodontics?

2010-07-12T14:34:00.000-07:00

Last week, we asked you, our wonderful current and past patients, what you most liked about your experience at Rey Orthodontics. Well, we received two nice reviews, and thought we’d share them with you today.

"Professional and wonderful personality. High level of care." ~ Dale G.

"Competent, compassionate, friendly, easy to talk to and takes time to explain." ~ Muriel G.

Please feel free to contribute your own thoughts about our office! Dr. Maria Rey and team love getting patient testimonials!

What do you love about Rey Orthodontics?

2010-07-01T13:17:00.000-07:00

From your very first visit to Washington D.C.'s Rey Orthodontics, our dedicated team - including, of course, Dr. Maria Rey - strive to provide superior orthodontic treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere.

Today, we thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by Dr. Rey? 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. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call at 202-436-5432!

We hope you have a FANTASTIC Independence Day weekend, and we hope to post some of your fantastic responses next week!

Meet Our Orthodontist

2010-06-22T11:46:00.000-07:00

Dr. Maria C. Rey has been practicing orthodontics for more than 20 years. Dr. Rey combines passion with dedication in the pursuit of excellence in orthodontics. She has been in private practice in the Washington, DC, area since 1997. In addition to her practice, Dr. Rey has been a part-time faculty member at the Washington Hospital Center Orthodontic Residency, and previously at Children’s National Medical Center Orthodontic Residency, teaching Clinical Orthodontics for more than 10 years.

Dr. Rey brings to each of her patients a wealth of worldwide experience in the field of orthodontics. Dr. Rey was awarded her DDS degree from Universidad Javeriana Bogota, Colombia, in 1980 and completed her specialty training in orthodontics in 1986. She has conducted research in conjunction with the University of Amsterdam (ACTA), and worked in a private orthodontic practice in Hilversum, the Netherlands. She has extensive clinical experience treating cleft lip and palate patients at a hospital-based clinic in Bogota, Colombia.

While Dr. Rey's compassionate and friendly manner transcends her expert credentials, creating beautiful and healthy smiles for her patients is Dr. Rey's primary motivation. Her extensive clinical experience and her strong ties to the academic world give her the ability to provide her patients with the latest available knowledge and techniques in orthodontic care.

In her little spare time, Dr. Rey enjoys time with her family. She resides in North Bethesda, MD, with her husband, Kurt, and two children, Maren and Johann. She speaks English, Spanish and is conversational in both German and Dutch. To add to an already impressive list of accomplishments, Dr. Rey is an avid golfer, scuba diver, and loves gourmet cooking.