Dr. Inna Gellerman's Spectacular Smiles Blog

New Addition to Our Spectacular Team: Gregory

2011-11-19T09:00:00.000-05:00

My name is Gregory. I am the newest addition to Dr. Gellerman’sstaff. My job is sterilization technician, which means I have to make sure thatall the instruments are clean for use by the assistants and Dr. Gellerman. I amcurrently attending Nassau Community College. I cameacross this position because one of the assistants, Tara, is my cousin, and sheinformed me that the office was looking for someone reliable to be asterilization technician. After meeting Dr. Gellerman’s staff and seeing howopen and professional everyone is, I felt that this was the perfect workenvironment that I want to be a part of.

New Addition to Our Spectacular Team: Tara

2011-11-12T09:00:00.000-05:00

My name is Tara Laveaux, and I am the newest clinicalassistant here at Dr. Gellerman’s office. I recently graduated from Queens Collegewith a BA in Psychology. I started working in a school as a teacher’s aide.Just a few months into it, I realized I didn’t like it there. I began searchingfor a new job, and I stumbled upon a position for an orthodontic assistant.Prior to the teacher’s aide position, I was an orthodontic assistant for fiveyears. With my experience, I gave it a shot. I came in for the interview, and Iwas very pleased with Dr. Gellerman and her staff. They were all verywelcoming. I came on board late February, and although it is a bit of a drivefor me, it’s well worth it!

Diary of a Bracer. Tips on how to get your braces off sooner. by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

2011-10-07T08:10:00.002-04:00

Tips on how to get your braces off sooner:

Good hygiene: thorough brushing and flossing, getting dental cleanings every 3 to 6 months, using fluoride prescription tooth paste
Keeping your appointments: if you are not seen on a regular basis we can’t keep treatment on the schedule and it will be delayed.
Have nothing loose or broken: to prevent things from breaking or getting loose you have to follow the instructions. Each time something gets loose a month is added to your treatment as teeth move back.
Seeing your dentist: have check-ups with your dentist every 6 months to make sure there are no cavities.

Wearing your rubber bands: probably most important of all!

So, this is it… If you are reading this diary you probably need braces. I am sorry and congratulations! It will be tuff, but the best of the best will be taking care of you. I really hope you will enjoy our company for the next so many months. Welcome to our Spectacular family!

by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

Diary of a Bracer. Same day getting my Retainers. by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

2011-09-23T08:01:00.002-04:00

Got my retainers. Good news – they are clear, almost like Invisalign and they will ensure that my teeth stay straight for the rest of my life. Not so good news – they are very tight and I have to wear them all the time for 6 months. However, after 6 months I will have to wear them less and less as time passes by.

REMEMBER!

You struggled and stayed away from your favorite foods and brushed your teeth extra while you had braces – please, wear your retainer to keep your teeth nice and straight as they are now!

I personally saw 10-20 cases in past 4 years where after 2 years in braces but not wearing the retainer, patients needed braces all over again. Don’t take that risk.

by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

Diary of a Bracer. Day 419. by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

2011-09-09T07:52:00.002-04:00

I’m getting my braces off today! I am terrified…I heard it hurts when your braces are removed and your teeth are polished.

Nope it wasn’t so bad – Dr. Gellerman just snapped braces off, polished the teeth with a dental bur. That bur was loud, a couple teeth were sensitive and there was some dust coming off my teeth but that was it. In about 15 minutes my teeth felt very smooth and slimy. It almost felt like something was missing…but I got used to the smoothness of my teeth almost immediately. Freedom! Hello gummy bears, nachos, gum, Butterfinger, salad in a restaurant, peanuts, BACON, and sooooo much more! I missed it all!

by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

Diary of a Bracer. Day 372. by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

2011-08-26T07:42:00.003-04:00

I can see the finish line now; I feel the taste of that crunchy bacon and nachos topped with corn on a cob and LaffyTaffys. Mmmmmm, the day I will get my braces off.

Dr. Gellerman says that as soon as all the spaces between my teeth are closed I can get my braces off.

by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

CNN Runs a Great Orthodontic Segment

2011-08-19T08:36:00.006-04:00

Check out this segment that ran on CNN about orthodontics: CNN Story

The story talks about the Myths of Orthodontics. For example: Braces are only for kids. The truth is that there has been a rise in adult orthodontics, and we see this everyday at Dr. Gellerman's orthodontic practice.

Diary of a Bracer. Day 340. by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

2011-08-12T11:02:00.001-04:00

The rubber bands – nightmare of every teenager and adult with braces. Bad news – almost everyone who needs braces will need to wear rubber bands. It is something that never changed since the Egyptian orthodontists. Just kidding.

The bottom line – if you want to get your braces off you have to wear your rubber bands every day, 15 to 22 hours a day. There is no way around them. They are annoying and uncomfortable at first, they snap sometimes and shoot off, but they are a necessity for a great final result.

by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

Diary of a Bracer. Day 251. by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

2011-07-29T10:54:00.002-04:00

Oh no! One of my back brackets got loose! It is not only that I have to get it fixed and now the wire is jabbing me in a cheek, I also have to add another month to my time in braces. Every time something gets loose (bracket or a wire) there is nothing that holds the teeth in place and they move back almost immediately. Don’t panic: there is not much you can do at this point. Just make sure whatever feels loose will get fixed. Meanwhile you can stick wax on the loose piece if it’s bothering you.

It was my fault the bracket got loose and I paid for it with discomfort and the extension of my treatment. Don’t be like me – don’t eat what you shouldn’t, and get your braces off on time.

by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

Diary of a Bracer. Day 213. by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

2011-07-15T10:48:00.003-04:00

Today I got my final wire. Yeah! Oh, does it hurt! Wire is so stiff that it feels like I got a cast put on my face. Bite still doesn’t feel right but getting better.

Those lucky ones who will get Sure Smile will not get discomfort of the thick wire and once Sure Smile wires are put in they will see results almost immediately. Another advantage of Sure Smile wires – if they feel too tight you can drink or eat something cold and the tightness will go away for little bit.

by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

Kid-Focused Summer Food Drive

2011-07-11T12:08:00.000-04:00

Dr. Inna Gellerman, Huntington based orthodontist for children and adults, and her entire Spectacular Smiles Team, are encouraging patients, parents, friends and members of the community to join in a kid-focused summer food drive to support the Huntington Community Food Council.

“Summer is the most challenging time for food banks, when schools and pre-school programs that feed at-risk children are closed. Often there is no food at home and children go hungry. We are focusing on the special nutritional needs of children, as they are most vulnerable and hunger affects them in the long and short term,” said Dr. Gellerman. ‘”This is our second kid-focused food drive for the Huntington Community Food Council, and we hope that our patients and friends will join us in supporting this food drive.”

Dr. Gellerman asks that donations be brought to 165 Main Street, Huntington NY 11743 during summer office hours – Monday 1:00 – 7:00 PM, Tuesday 8 AM – 5 PM, Wednesday 9 AM – 5 PM and Thursday 8 AM – 5 PM. Dr. Gellerman’s Spectacular Smiles orthodontic practice will run the food drive from now until Thursday, August 11^th.

Kid friendly food includes juice boxes, cookies, kid’s breakfast and granola bars, fruit cups, macaroni and cheese, peanut butter, jelly, whole grain crackers, breakfast cereals. Please, only non-perishable food items - no damaged cans, expired products or glass containers. Toothbrushes, toothpaste and toilet paper are also needed.

The Huntington Community Food Council is a not-for-profit located at 90 East 5^th Street, Huntington Station, NY 11746, next to Manor Field, and is completely staffed by volunteers. They provide emergency food to families with referrals from agencies in Huntington, including Family Service League, St. Hugh’s, and other local agencies. Hours of operation are 10 AM -12 noon, weekdays only. For more information, please call 631-351-1060.

Diary of a Bracer. Day 158. by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

2011-07-01T10:22:00.002-04:00

Since I got braces, many days have passed by. I touched the subject of eating and discomfort many times, as those two seem to be crucial for survival. Today I would like to touch on the subject of beauty and health, as those two are the main reasons I got braces in first place. Once I’m done with my braces I know for sure my teeth will be perfectly straight, but will I have any cavities or white spots on my teeth? Working for so long in an orthodontic office, I saw for myself many examples where patients got braces taken off and had white spots where food and plaque was sitting all this time. I don’t want to be one of them. So I chose to do the right thing: brush 3 times a day for 3 minutes each time, floss once a day, see my dentist every 3 to 6 months and use magic fluoride prescription toothpaste. Now, don’t think it is easy for me because I am a hygienist and it is a second nature for me to take care of my teeth. Brushing takes too long, flossing is boring, and tell you the truth, I don’t really like dentists that much. I just had to make it work! I tricked myself, especially with flossing that now was taking almost 5 minutes to do. I made it into the ritual – every night I get my Super Floss and floss while watching my favorite show…Since it does n’t matter when during the day you floss, as long as you do it, and since you don’t need a mirror to do it – floss away! I scared my brother into brushing and flossing better, while he had braces. Hopefully, one day, when both of us very old, he will appreciate my efforts. He still will have all of his teeth present and still wearing his retainer once in a while because I taught him the right hygiene.

By Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

Diary of a Bracer. Day 110. by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

2011-06-11T15:54:00.001-04:00

OMG…remember I had that tiny space in between my front teeth? Well, yesterday I had a chain put on, which is just like the color bands that go around the brackets but connected together to pull teeth together and close spaces. This chain must have been used for interrogation of captured solders of the opposing side during the Second World War. And it’s always the day after the tightening that brings holy suffering to your mouth. I’m afraid to make my top teeth touch bottom. The only good news is – not all of them hurt. I think when the time comes I will be able to chew my food with the back teeth. Hopefully I won’t feel hungry today.

By Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

Diary of a Bracer. Days 72-89. by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

2011-05-19T13:00:00.005-04:00

Day 72

Just got new, stronger wires placed in. What a day! It felt tighter but not so bad, teeth didn’t feel as wiggly as with the first wire. Good news to those who have lived through the first couple of weeks with braces – it will never be as bad as the first week! The most exciting part of this appointment is colors! I got blue! Here are best possible matches when it comes to picking colors for your braces: pink/blue, purple/lavender, black/red, orange/dark blue, and purple/lime green. Now, if you ever had to have molds of your teeth taken I suggest watermelon flavor – the best in the house!

Day 89

To those who love to go out into the village on the beautiful spring day: when you stop by your favorite restaurant, these are the foods to stay away from while you are out: spinach, broccoli or green salad. They will get stuck in your braces and wrapped around the wires with no hope of getting them out. Pizza is not the best choice either, even thought cheese that will stick to the brackets will not show as much as spinach. Steak may get stuck and give you that medieval “I-just-killed-this-cow-and-ate-it” look when you smile. Sushi, mashed potatoes, fish, noodles and pasta without tomato souse are great choices. Stick with tuna salad or egg salad for lunch as it requires minimal chewing and doesn’t get stuck easily. All I can say is - enjoy it! And make sure you always have our travel tooth brush with you at all times just in case of a spinach craving emergency!

by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

Diary of a Bracer. Days 21-45. by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

2011-05-13T14:12:00.001-04:00

Day 21

Don't know what I ate but don't eat it when you have braces. All of a sudden after I ate that “something” my lips started to rub against the hooks on some brackets. One of the patients once told me that he figured that, depending on acidity of food, sometimes lips get tender, and that’s when mouth sores form and lips get irritated easily. The ironic part is, even though I work in orthodontic office, I've got no wax to help me out in my time of need. Another tip for you- always have wax with you, and if you don’t it is usually sold in every pharmacy.

Day 45

Vacation! Great news for those who love to travel and explore – you can still do it, just make sure you have plenty of wax to accompany you on your trips. With braces it was more than pleasant to have a Caribbean lobster, sleep in a bungalow with fruit bats, and munch on a fresh coconut. Snorkeling was challenging but fun, real wild grown mangoes with many fibers helped with flossing a lot, and drinking Pina Colada with a straw through the space between the teeth felt like heaven.

by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

Diary of a Bracer. Days 10-14. by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

2011-04-28T12:42:00.001-04:00

Day 10

Teeth still feel sensitive when trying to bite "chewable" foods, though it doesn’t feel like they going to fall out anymore. Fresh salad lovers – bad news for you: unless you cut salad up in the blander and drink it, you are in trouble. It is beyond challenging to chew salad when your teeth are sore.

Day 14

It was a good day- no more discomfort associated with chewing, my bite is totally off, but two patients said I look cute in braces( I think they lied but I’m grateful anyway).

by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

Diary of a Bracer. Day 6. by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

2011-04-21T12:35:00.001-04:00

Day 6

Oh, no…Now molars started to ache and I can’t chew my food at all. Saw one of our patients today – she got a new stronger wire put in by me, and had her braces tightened. She left with a look in her eyes reading “S.O.S.” I could not help but wonder if that is what awaiting me in couple of months?

Had lunch with all girls from our office today (well, they had lunch and I was sipping on my yogurt). Thought my braces would fall out along with my teeth from laughing so hard. When we get together for lunch like that, we get very loud, each of us trying to tell a story funnier than the one before. Today’s subject: who let the dog out and why do we have burned grass on our front yard.

Thought that was it for today, but one of steel ties got broken and started to poke me. I found a tool box and got out a monkey wrench… just kidding – had to tuck in the scratching wire under the brace with a simple pencil eraser. You may want to note it for future incidence that may wait for you.

by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

Diary of a Bracer. Day 3. by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

2011-04-14T12:29:00.001-04:00

Day 3

Last night was much easier, even though I am still totally aware of the rail road tracks on my teeth and some parts of them started to rub against my lips. Cannot bite at all. You know what the worst part of this day is? A month or so ago I won a bet and today I was supposed to get home-made breakfast in bed, the menu for which I selected couple of weeks ago (when I didn’t have my braces yet). Menu reads: two egg omelets with lobster and onions, home fries with mushrooms, BACON (I had to go with it undercooked, it’s not crunchy), freshly hand-squeezed orange juice, almond croissant from a local bakery, and home made coffee mocha. I loaded up on desensitizing pills and was ready to enjoy my winning meal. Food was amazing, even though I felt my teeth would fall out. Well, they didn’t and by the end of the day I was yelling “Let’s go Islanders!” at the top of my lungs at the hockey game. Feel all better…crisis has passed.

by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

Diary of a Bracer. Day 2. by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

2011-04-07T12:44:00.001-04:00

Day 2

Thank God I don’t have to work today! Woke up at ten and started to regret, that I woke up at all. Went on with my day trying to figure out how can I keep my top teeth from touching my bottom teeth, so no mental damage is done and no soreness is felt. Tried sticking my tongue between my teeth while driving (don’t think drivers in front of me appreciated that), tried just keeping my mouth open – did not work. Never noticed that in a relaxed state I automatically squeeze my teeth together (maybe clenching and grinding teeth is a relaxed state of every New Yorker).

At around two o’clock in the afternoon started to feel dizzy. I guess it was time to face the plate and try to eat. My mom was more understanding today – after mocking me only for five minutes this time, she fixed me some soup with soft noodles, cut up in small pieces. People! Boiled chicken works great for food!

Today I hated all those people that go out to eat all those hard, crunchy and chewy things on Friday night. (Thank God for Mr. Sausage’s home made tender cheese ravioli I was saved from starvation this night).

I will not mention how many desensitizing tablets I have taken, but I will say- I already lost 2 pounds from not eating.

Now it was not easy to get ravioli out of my braces with my tongue. That’s when I truly started to love new amazing Dr. Barman’s dual power sonic toothbrush developed in Europe and just introduced in USA. It is truly the greatest tool I have seen and used in my life (and remember I work in orthodontic office and I’m a hygienist – a pro in dental hygiene). If you have or if you are planning on getting them, you have to have this brush. It’s doing all the work for you – honestly. When you get that brush come see me I’ll show you how to keep your teeth and gums healthy and prevent those white spots.

by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

Diary of a Bracer. Day 1. by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

2011-03-31T12:29:00.000-04:00

There comes a point in almost everyone’s life when you need to see an orthodontist. I happen to work for one. And 99 percent of “everyone” needs braces. I happened not to need them when I started working at Dr. Gellerman’s, but things turned out the way they did and, in the end, at age of 24, I got braces.

Day 1

Just got my braces – feels like miniature rail road tracks got stuck to my teeth. Weird. Not comfortable but curious to touch them and stretch my lip as far as I can to cover them completely. Stared in the mirror at them for hours, run my tongue over them, examined every little part, found the perfect way of smiling where I look more cute than terrifying; tolerated some mocking and laughing from my family. You see, my brother just got his braces off a month ago. I was the one who talked him into it, he hated me all the way through his treatment, and now he can get his revenge.

My friends don’t know yet. Well… I figured I may as well parade my braces and be proud than try to hide the fact, that I got them and be ashamed. So I did get the metal ones and I plan on getting colors on them later in the treatment. Moreover, my smiling picture with braces now is my profile picture on Facebook to make sure everyone knows I got braces. I know people would respect my courage and craziness and won’t say a word but smile. And I will smile back with my metal mouth. At my dance class I showed them off to my dance teacher. Smiled with my new smile to one of our patients who owns a deli and happened to have braces too. Paraded my “new Bling Bling” in front of the cashier at the grocery store (who happened to have same exact braces as me and smiled back at me kind of saying “we’re in the same boat”).

My first meal – happened to be yogurt which was running freely under my wires and covering my braces in sugary sweet strawberries and milk; banana was a tough one – mushy and soft getting stuck where it should not. After dinner, which was more of a solid food, I learned how to manipulate my tongue to make sure I swallow sushi, not tuck them in under my wires for everyone to see.

I think my co-workers struggle the most with my new metal accessory. It was hard as it is to understand what I said and what I meant before I got braces (as English is my third language) and now it’s almost impossible. Braces added a lisp and a charming almost whistling sound to my words…I feel like a snake with two rows of teeth.

Come the night…teeth start “itching”, can’t really bite the way I used to any more. I don’t even know if I slept at night.

by Anastasia Myagkova, RDH

"Braces in Less Time". SureSmile Demonstrated on Fox5

2011-03-24T11:47:00.000-04:00

SureSmile Fox5

We've talked about the advantage of SureSmile robotic braces in the past, and today thought we'd show you a clip of SureSmile being discussed on Fox5 last week!

With SureSmile, getting braces isn’t what it used to be. Our patients get incredible results in less time and typically spend less time in braces (20-50% less time), need fewer office visits, experience less pain and discomfort - and ultimately greater results - all thanks to SureSmile's remarkable technology.

Dr. Gellerman and her team encourage you to check out the above video about SureSmile and let us know what you think! Give us a call at 631-427-8444 if you have any questions about this treatment and if it's right for you, and we'll be happy to discuss!

Welcome To Our Spectacular Office!!!

2011-03-10T12:25:00.000-05:00

I would like to share with you some history of my orthodontic practice. It all started in September of 2003 when I saw an orthodontic practice for sale in a beautiful building on the Main Street in Huntington. I fell in love with the area immediately and knew right away I wanted to settle here. Since I usually act immediately, by October my orthodontic office was opened. With enthusiasm and love I started to build my professional home.

Many people helped me along the way. Our vision and mission statement are developed through the combined efforts of all members of our team. The focus of my practice is the patients, their comfort and satisfaction. At the end of the day our success as medical practitioners can be measured only one way – the number of patients satisfied and excited with their smile. We treat every guest of our practice as if he or she is a part of our family.

We designed our office so both children and adults would feel comfortable and at home. Kids are running off to play of our many Wii, X-box, and Playstation games, while their parents are getting cozy with a cup of coffee surfing the Internet. If you need to laugh, read the three volumes of “How I Lost My Retainer. What is your story?” Our books of smiles will help you to learn what was going on in the office since its inception, including parties for kids, holidays, fund raising event and much more.

I am welcoming you to our office, enjoy!!!

When should you call Dr. Gellerman's office?

2011-03-03T10:04:00.000-05:00

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists(AAO) have put together this helpful list for your advantage. Here are some early warning signs—courtesy of Dr. Gellerman—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 Dr. Gellerman and her team a call today 631-427-8444!

Invisalign Tips

2011-02-24T10:00:00.000-05:00

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 Invialign aligners, 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 a necessity for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky a 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 easy: 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.

Imagining Your Life With Invisalign.

2011-02-17T14:36:00.000-05:00

Are you wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you're in treatment? You're not alone in your concerns! Following are a list of questions and answers for anyone pondering Invisalign treatment.

How exactly does Invisalign work?

Using 3-D computer imaging technology, Invisalign creates a series of custom-made, clear aligners exclusively for your teeth, based on the treatment plan that we specify for you. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.

Will I experience pain during treatment?

Most people experience temporary discomfort for a few days after a new aligner is placed. This feeling of pressure is normal and is a sign that Invisalign is working by sequentially moving your teeth to their final destination.

Can other people see that I'm in treatment?

One of the benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.

Can I smoke during treatment?

We discourage smoking while wearing the aligners as they may become discolored.

Are there any foods I cannot eat while in treatment?

You can eat normally during the entire course of treatment. One of the advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. Simply take the aligners out before each meal, brush when you're finished eating, then reinsert the aligners afterward.

What about chewing gum?

We recommend removing your aligners for all meals and snacks, as gum and other chewy substances can stick to the aligners.

How often must I wear my aligners?

Aligners should be worn all day, except when eating, brushing, and flossing.

Will my speech be affected by the aligners?

As with any orthodontic treatment, aligners may temporarily affect your speech. If this does happen, your tongue will adjust within a day or two and your speech should return to normal.

How can I clean my aligners?

The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water.

How often must I visit your office during treatment?

For most patients, visits every 4-6 weeks are frequent enough for us to determine that your treatment is progressing properly. Dr. Gellerman will provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month!

2011-02-11T14:03:00.001-05:00

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. Gellerman's 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 teeth 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 us 631-427-8444. Stay safe and have fun!

New York Times Article Focuses on Orthodontic Treatment Financing

2011-02-04T12:12:00.001-05:00

On Saturday, January 22 the New York Times published an article on planning for the financial aspects of orthodontic treatment.

How to Plan For and Handle the Cost of Braces

You can see that your child’s bite is misaligned or that his teeth are sticking out in all the wrong places. You know what’s coming: months of treatment and an orthodontist bill anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000.

Read th NY Times Article.

Dr. Inna Gellerman's Spectacular Smiles: Write a Review for Dr. Inna Gellerman & her Team!

2011-01-23T14:41:00.001-05:00

Dr. Inna Gellerman's Spectacular Smiles: Write a Review for Dr. Inna Gellerman & her Team!: "Dr. Inna Gellerman, your Huntington, NY orthodontist, provides superior orthodontic treatment in a fun and friendly environment. Have you ha..."

Write a Review for Dr. Inna Gellerman & her Team!

2011-01-23T14:10:00.001-05:00

Dr. Inna Gellerman, your Huntington, NY orthodontist, provides superior orthodontic treatment in a fun and friendly environment.

Have you had a spectacular experience at Dr. Gellerman's office?

Share your story with the world!!

Click here "Review Us on Google Places" to write a review on our Google Place Page.

We look forward to receiving your spectacular feedback?

Thank you,

Dr. Inna Gellerman and Team

Rest Assured, You're Insured!

2010-11-15T11:00:00.001-05:00

Not sure about your dental-orthodontic insurance coverage? Do not worry!!! We accept most insurance plans from a variety of different providers. Our exceptional staff works with each patient individually to thoroughly check their insurance coverage making it possible for patients to pay the least co-pay available.

If you’re unsure about your insurance plan or have questions about your coverage please contact our office. We will help you sort through the paperwork and set up a plan that is affordable and manageable for your personal budget. Dr. Inna Gellerman believes everybody deserves a spectacular smile – yours awaits you!

Suresmile: Accelerated Robotic Braces - Dr. Inna Gellerman, Orthodontist...

2010-11-08T12:49:00.000-05:00

justin bieber teen invisalign

2010-11-08T12:33:00.000-05:00

EXTRA FLEX PLAN DOLLARS TO SPEND BEFORE YEAR END?

2010-11-08T11:16:00.000-05:00

You may be like many other people, who have reached this point in the year with unspent dollars in a flex plan account. These accounts are created to set aside pre-tax dollars for medical expenses, but if the expenses are not incurred before the end of the year, the money is lost to you forever.

Have you ever considered orthodontic treatment? Is there something about your smile that you’ve always wanted to change? Has your dentist recently talked about periodontal issues related to crowding of your lower teeth? Why not use those flex plan dollars to create a beautiful, healthy smile?

Dr. Inna Gellerman is happy to see you for a consultation at no charge to discuss how SureSmile, Invisalign, and Incognito-Lingual Braces, could work for you. You may be surprised how easy and affordable changing your smile can be! If you have flex dollars that expire at the end of 2010, please let our office staff know when you call so they can arrange your appointment accordingly.

So don’t delay call our office today 631-427-8444. Don't forget to visit our website for more exciting news! www.drgellerman.com

Dr. Inna Gellerman's "Pumpkin Run" Brings Smiles to Huntington's Children

2010-11-07T15:59:00.000-05:00

In the spirit of the Fall season and motivated by her passion to help others and give back to the community, Dr. Inna Gellerman joined forces with several local dental offices and held, "The Pumpkin Run". Each participating office decorated a pumpkin which was displayed at a Fall Festival sponsored by Dr. Gellerman. Dr. Gellerman's patients and their families participated in the fun-filled event by selecting the best decorated pumpkin. The winning office received a delicious "Fall breakfast" from Panera Bread, while the runner up office enjoyed freshly baked pumpkin pies and apple cider. Each pumpkin was donated to Huntington Hospital's Pediatric Ward for the children to enjoy the spirit of Fall. To simply call them pumpkins would be an understatement. They were truly magnificent works of art. The winner of this year's "Pumpkin Run" is Dr. Christine Vice with the amazing "Tiger Pumpkin". Second place went to Dr. Tracy Stewart with a dazzling "Cinderella Pumpkin". On behalf of Dr. Inna Gellerman, we would like to extend her thanks to all the volunteer dentists and their staff members. Your caring hands put smiles on the faces and in the hearts of so many. Check out the masterpieces.

The Dental Solution To Thumb-Sucking: Bluegrass Appliance

2010-11-07T15:44:00.002-05:00

One answer to this parental problem is a simple appliance called a "Bluegrass." The appliance is placed on the child's upper teeth, and usually stops the habit the first day of use.This appliance also quickly redirects the tongue to a more normal swallowing position.

It is a type of brace that sits full-time on the upper teeth and roof of the mouth. The appliance consists of plastic roller connected to supporting bands or rings. The roller fits behind the child's upper front teeth. It is barely visible in normal view. The bands are fastened to the back molars.

Effectiveness of the “Bluegrass”

Once the “Bluegrass” is cemented, there is nothing to adjust and no moving or removable parts. It is one of the simplest, yet most effective dental devices. Why is the “Bluegrass” so effective in stopping thumb sucking? It takes away the habit's pleasure. The roller prevents the thumb or finger from touching the gums behind the front teeth and on the roof of the mouth, turning a pleasant experience into an unpleasant one. With no satisfaction, the child has no incentive to continue.

“Bluegrass” will also help to prevent the tongue from thrusting forward. In order to do that, the patient MUST practice flipping or “playing with” the roller as well as putting the tongue behind the roller when swallowing.

As a rule, the front tooth position is better within few weeks after appliance placement. It takes 4-6 months for an open bite to close and the front teeth to straighten. The brace is left on 9-12 months, plenty of time for the habit to fade away.

What is a good age to begin “Bluegrass” treatment? The ideal time is when upper front baby teeth become loose, before the adult teeth have pushed out. This usually occurs just before or after age six. Prompt thumb removal allows adult teeth to have a much better positioning. Dental health is certainly important to a child's wellbeing. So is parental peace of mind. For the thumb sucking patient, the orthodontic “Bluegrass” provides the answer to both.

What About Thumb Sucking in Older Children?

Sucking on a thumb, finger, or blanket may be noted in preteens, teenagers and even adults. The initial orthodontic treatment is the same for all, placement of a “Bluegrass” to break the habit. For teens and adults, counseling may be suggested to deal with any underlying psychological problems.

Breaking Your Child's Thumb Sucking Habit

2010-11-07T15:22:00.002-05:00

Thumb sucking in young children is a very normal response to anxiety and stress. Still, this behavior should decrease by ages 3-4 and stop by age five. Many children are slow to break the habit which can lead to anxiety for parents. Is it worth the stress to break the thumb sucking habit? Yes, because long-term thumb sucking can cause problems with chewing, speech, and facial appearance.

Effects on the Jawbone

The longer and harder a child sucks his thumb the more harm is done to teeth and jaws. Regular, strong thumb sucking makes front teeth move and can even reshape the jaw bone. Upper front teeth flare out and tip upward while lower front teeth move inward. But, how can something as small as a child's thumb or finger actually move bone?

Children’s jaws are rich in blood supply and fairly low in mineral content like calcium. This makes jaws of children under age eight especially soft and flexible. As a result, prolonged thumb or finger sucking easily deforms the bone around the upper and lower front teeth. The deformity produces a hole or gap when teeth are brought together, known as an open bite.

If a child stops thumb sucking before loss of baby front teeth and arrival of adult front teeth, most or all of the damage may disappear. The repair may be slow, and it may take up to 6 months for the changes to occur. However, if the habit persists, there may be lasting damage. Flared upper teeth, delayed arrival of front teeth, and open bites are all common problems. This can result in chewing difficulties, speech abnormalities, and an unattractive smile.

Do Home Remedies Work?

Some parents try home remedies to break the habit. Common methods include:

Placing gloves on their children before bedtime
Painting thumbs and fingers with various foul-tasting substances
Wrapping bandages around the offending digits

Children can easily overcome these measures. Thumb sucking is also a deep-rooted behavior and may need more than these remedies offer. The child's desire to stop will determine the success of any intervention.

If you are worried, give us a call and we will help assess the situation,and provide tips for how to help your child break the habit.

The American Cancer Society:

2010-08-19T10:34:00.000-04:00

The American Cancer Society:

SURESMILE Works its Magic on CNN. From Dr. Inna Gellerman

2010-08-17T07:46:00.000-04:00

Dr. Inna Gellerman loves working with SureSmile, robotic wires that are revolutionizing the orthodontic industry. SureSmile, which combines digital 3-D imaging, has computer-aided treatment planning and customized archwires to straighten teeth about 40 percent faster than traditional braces.

Recently, CNN's Dr. Sanjay Gupta filed a short report on SureSmile, which is becoming quite popular with our patients.

With SureSmile, getting braces sure isn’t what it used to be. Dr. Gellerman's patients get fantastic results in less time with this remarkable technology and typically spend less time in braces, need fewer office visits, experience less discomfort and ultimately greater results.

We encourage you to check out the CNN SureSmile video
Please,let us know what you think! Give us a call at (631) 427-8444 if you have any questions about SureSmile, and we'll be happy to discuss!

Spectacular Song Contest Winner Amy Wohl

2010-06-20T16:22:00.000-04:00

My teeth are in jail

What did they do

To deserve these wires

Whenever I chew

Every picture I take

My face disappears

With the flash on the metal

I burst into tears

But little by little

My teeth rock and roll

They move to the groove

With Dr. Inna on patrol

She works her magic

and the time goes by fast

It comes to the day

Braces come off at last

There’s my smile

So relieved to see

My perfect pearly whites

Here’s the real me

My teeth were in jail

What did they do

Now I can show my smile proudly

And so can you!!!

By Amy Wohl…mom of Benny, Jake, Jamie, Ari & Ally

(4 are new patients of Dr. Inna Gellerman!!)

Why Mouth Guards?

2010-03-26T12:23:00.001-04:00

Dr. Inna Gellerman together with the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) is encouraging kids to “play it safe” and consistently wear mouth guards and other protective gear during competitions and practices.

Football, soccer and basketball can all be hard hitting sports and the members of the AAO want to ensure that orthodontic patients, and their teammates, are properly protected from sports related injuries to the jaw and mouth. These injuries can include a lifetime of maintenance to repair and maintain.

Despite the risks, many kids are still not wearing mouth guards and facial protection during sporting competitions and practices. Parents, coaches and kids need to understand the prevalence of sports injuries and know that many sports injuries can be reduced or prevented by wearing the proper protective gear.

What are patients saying about us?

2010-02-26T19:51:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago, the team at Dr. Gellerman Orthodontics asked you, our wonderful patients, what you liked most about our practice. Well, we received some pretty great reviews, and thought we'd share a few with you today! Dr. Gellerman and team love getting patients testimonials, and would appreciate your feedback. Have a great weekend!
As an adult who elected to get braces after having mouth surgery, I wanted my experience to be fast and pleasant. My two kids and I, all went to Dr. Gellerman at the same time for braces. With three of us going, we wanted an office and orthodontist that was not only knowledgeable and friendly, but a high priority to us was an office that was accommodating. We all have very busy lifestyles! That is exactly what we found at Dr. Gellerman's office - knowledgeable, friendly and accommodating.
In my quest to have my braces off as soon as possible, after a few months Dr. Gellerman recommended SureSmile braces, since they could cut months off the process. Of course, I jumped on that! After 14 months, 3 weeks, my braces are off and I could not be any happier about my teeth and my experience with Dr. Gellerman and her great staff. My kids are jealous will are looking forward to getting their SureSmile braces on so they can get their braces off sooner as well.
Thank you Dr. Gellerman and your great staff!
Hope G.

Dr. Gellerman and her staff have always been both professional and friendly.
Brendan S.

Sean was a little self conscience about the space created between his front teeth from the palatal expander, but as you can see Dr. Gellerman did a wonderful job in getting back that great smile we all love. Sean Z.

My experience at Dr. Gellerman’s office was always great. Every appointment was always so personal because of the great staff. The office was always decorated to be very kid friendly and always had something to do while you waited. Never did Dr. Gellerman make my visit painful. My time at Dr. Gellerman’s office was always a pleasure, but I only wish to be there in her newly renovated office.
Sean M.

My experience with Dr. Gellerman and staff was great. Dr. Gellerman is truly an artist when it comes to fixing people’s teeth. My old smile is now a thing of the past, thanks to her. I can’t thank her enough.
Taina P.

This orthodontist is one of the most amazing doctors I have ever met! We love her “no tears” approach with children and the children love all the “extra goodies she gives them!” She did wonders for our son’s mouth.
Phil & Mary Beth K.