What is your New Year's Resolution?

2010 has come and gone, so Dr. Mark Farina and our team 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 Tampa and surrounding communities.

See you in 2011, from our entire staff at Farina Orthodontics!

When should you call Dr. Farina?

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

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!

Season's greetings from Farina Orthodontics!

The holidays are here, and as Dr. Farina and our team reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What do you love about the holidays? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for 2011? 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 on our Facebook page. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

Happy Holidays!

What helps you relax at Farina Orthodontics?

Dr. Farina and team understand not everyone is thrilled about visiting their orthodontist. But here at Farina Orthodontics, we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. Today, we’d like to know: What is it about Farina Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you or your child at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our courteous staff? Dr. Farina himself?

Let us know by posting on Facebook or by giving us a call!

Ask Dr. Farina: Do germs really live on toothbrushes?

Great question! Fall is upon us, and with it comes the dreaded cold and flu season. After recovering from your cold, Dr. Farina 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!

We hope these tips help! Feel free to call us at Farina Orthodontics if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook. We hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend!

Giving thanks this holiday season

With Thanksgiving almost upon us, it's a great time to ask ourselves what we're thankful for. With our friends and family around us, we celebrate the blessings given to us in the past year. Our staff at Farina Orthodontics thought we'd ask: What are you thankful for this holiday season? Do you have any Thanksgiving wishes you would like to share?

Dr. Farina and our entire team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. It’s a big food holiday, so be careful what you eat with those braces! If you have any stories or photos to share with us, we’d encourage you to send them along or post them on our Facebook page!

Gobble Gobble!

Farina Orthodontics, dispelling the myths about braces

We hope you're having a great Monday so far- Dr. Mark Farina and our experienced team know there are quite a few myths about orthodontics circulating around nowadays. But before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts first! We came across a great resource recently that helps set the record straight. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of braces. Check them out today!

Hope this helps. Give us a call if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook!

What do you love about fall?

It’s fall here at Farina Orthodontics, a time when families in Tampa begin to make plans for Thanksgiving and the holidays. But before you go celebrating, we wanted to ask you, our wonderful patients, "How are you spending your time this fall?"

Dr. Farina and team would love to hear about your favorite places for eating, shopping, and entertainment here in Tampa and surrounding areas. We are interested in learning about what makes our unique city town “yours.”

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

Happy Halloween from Farina Orthodontics!

Trick-or-treat! In the spirit of this weekend's sweet and spooky holiday, Dr. Mark Farina and our team would like to remind all of our patients in Tampa and the surrounding neighborhoods to be safe while celebrating with friends and family. The American Association of Orthodontists were kind enough to provide trick-or-treaters with some tips for a ghoulishly good time.

A few Halloween safety guidelines before you head out:
• Young children should always be accompanied by an adult
• Carry a flashlight
• Wear a light-colored or reflective costume
• Choose face paint over masks for young ghosts and goblins
• Have an adult inspect all treats before the children dig in

Many treats can cause havoc for trick-or-treaters who are going through orthodontic treatment, including sticky, chewy, gummy and nutty goodies. If you happen to damage your braces, please give us a call immediately at (813) 774 5323. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone.

We wish you all a safe, fun and happy Halloween!

Straight talk with Dr. Farina

Past and current patients have asked us at Farina 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 New Tampa and South Tampa offices 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 (813) 774-5323 to set up a complimentary consultation. Dr. Mark Farina can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

At Farina Orthodontics, Dr. Farina and our entire staff are committed to excellence in orthodontics. It is our goal to provide the highest quality orthodontic treatment available in a professional, caring and fun environment where patients' needs are our top priority.

The common cold is back, from Farina Orthodontics

It's fall, and the cold season is once again upon us. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, says that a common cold usually includes sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and coughing. Symptoms can last for up to two weeks, according to the CDC.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. Mark Farina and team give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our New Tampa and South Tampa offices at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces. For the protection of other patients and our staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

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

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

At Farina Orthodontics, we embrace new technology, whether it is through the innovative orthodontic treatments that we offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern offices conveniently located in New Tampa and South Tampa.

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! And, because we know folks sometimes forget, you can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

To 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 wonderful weekend!

At Farina Orthodontics, October means National Orthodontic Health Month!

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

Dr. Mark Farina and our team realize this is a great opportunity for us and to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene. National Orthodontic Health Month also aims to recognize the dedicated work of orthodontists like Dr. Farina and other dental professional in Tampa.

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
• Taco chips
• Ice

If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call, ask us on Facebook or ask Dr. Farina during your visit this month!

Tell us your story! Why do you choose Farina Orthodontics?

At Farina Orthodontics, Dr. Mark Farina and our entire staff are committed to excellence in orthodontics. It is our goal to provide the highest quality orthodontic treatment available in a professional, caring and fun environment where patient's needs are our top priority.

Whether you’ve just come in for a complimentary consultation or your family has been visiting our Tampa office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can write a review on our Facebook page or on our Google listing!

Happy Friday!

Ask Dr. Farina: When should my child visit your office?

Dr. Mark Farina will tell you that braces were originally considered to be best appropriate for teens. But these days, kids as old as seven 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 at Farina Orthodontics 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. Farina to assess what the best age for treatment is.

We hope this helps! Please give us a call if you have any questions about your child’s treatment!

Dr. Mark Farina, reminding you September is National Childhood Injury Prevention Month

Fall is almost upon us, which means it's a great time for Dr. Mark Farina and our staff to remind our patients (especially you athletes) to take care of both your mouth and appliances while participating in contact sports, as well as leisure sports this fall. Let's face it: this is a busy time of year sports-wise, whether you're playing soccer in the local park or preparing for high school football.

With September being National Childhood Injury Prevention Month, our entire staff at Farina Orthodontics want you to know that only by using a mouth guard can athletes with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. So, the next time you're in for a visit at our convenient Tampa office, we encourage you to ask Dr. Farina for a mouth guard, and we will provide one! For more info on sports injuries and how to avoid them, check out this helpful article.

We hope you've had a wonderful and safe holiday weekend!

Dr. Mark Farina, reminding you to visit the dentist during your treatment

Dr. Farina wants to know: Are you brushing your teeth twice a day during your orthodontic treatment? If the answer is yes, we think that’s wonderful! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist every six months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting Farina Orthodontics, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health.

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 Dr. Farina or one of staff members know during your next visit and we will provide a few great references in the greater Tampa area! Happy Friday and have a wonderful weekend! :)

Some fun facts about braces, from Dr. Mark Farina

At Tampa's Farina Orthodontics, we know everyone loves fun facts. After all, who doesn't? The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, have come up with some fun facts about orthodontics we know you'll get a kick out of. Happy Friday and enjoy the 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.

National Smile Week at Farina Orthodontics!

Who told you there are no holidays during the dog days of summer? It’s National Smile Week through Friday, and a great time for us at Farina Orthodontics to remind our patients to practice good oral hygiene to keep those teeth shining during your orthodontic treatment! That, of course, includes brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding foods that can stain your teeth such as tea and coffee and visiting your general dentist here in Tampa for checkups and cleanings as recommended during your orthodontic treatment.

Smiles are contagious, and are GREAT to both give and receive ... aaaaaaaaaand can actually help you live longer, according to a recent study? We hope you're having an outstanding summer! Get out there and show off that beautiful smile! :)

Invisalign®, giving parents in Tampa something to smile about

Parents: Have you been 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 perfect teeth, we can help because Dr. Mark Farina is specially trained to offer an adult-friendly option for straightening teeth called Invisalign. In fact, Dr. Farina is an Invisalign Premier Provider here in Tampa.

Invisalign consists of a set of clear aligners that are molded to fit your teeth and are to be worn all day and night, except for meals, brushing, and flossing. And, because they're clear, your teeth will be steadily straightening – and no one will know it but you!

Please give us a call at 813-774-5323 to set up a complimentary consultation, and have yourself a great weekend!

Talkin' fluoride with Dr. Farina

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment at Farina Orthodontics: 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.

When choosing your own fluoride product, however, 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. If you have any questions about fluoride, we encourage you to ask Dr. Farina during your next visit. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

Happy Friday and have a TERRIFIC weekend!

Dr. Mark Farina and staff, encouraging you to join the Braces Brigade

This summer, how would you like to blog about your experience in braces at Farina Orthodontics AND receive a $100 American Express gift card for your efforts? Thanks to our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists and their Braces Brigade campaign, you can do just that!

To complete your Braces Brigade application, you'll need to provide your:

* Name
* Age – Must be 14 years of age or older
* E-mail
* Phone number
* Stage of orthodontic treatment
* A photo of your braces/smile
* A sample blog post – picture yourself as a member of Braces Brigade and show off those blogging skills! (100-word minimum)

Here's how it works: In your weekly blogs, which you'll write for eight months if accepted, you'll answer the following questions:

• Why did you decide to get braces at Dr. Farina's office?
• What advice would you share with other orthodontic patients?
• What does it feel like to get braces on?
• What foods do you miss the most?
• What new foods have you discovered?
• Do your friends have braces or retainers?
• Where is the first place you’re going to show off your new, beautiful smile?
• How has your new smile changed your life?

If you happen to be under 18, your parents must fill out this consent form along with your official entry, giving you permission to enter the contest.

We strongly encourage you to apply for the Braces Brigade! If you get accepted, let us know during your next visit with Dr. Farina or post on our Facebook page!

Have a great weekend!

Traveling this summer? Try these 5 tips!

At Tampa's Farina Orthodontics, our staff and Dr. Mark Farina know most people - including many of our patients - take a vacation during the summer, and often forget to pack the most important of things.

Recently, our staff came across this article from ParentsAsk.com that outlined five important tips for summer travel with children. We strongly encourage you to give this article a read if you’re heading out with the family this summer. Here are even more tips you can use to ensure your vacation packing – and the traveling/vacation itself – goes as smooth as possible!

Happy and safe traveling!

Ask Dr. Farina: what's the deal with Invisalign Teen?

Invisalign Teen, the clear alternative to braces, can straighten your child's teeth without discomfort and embarrassment of traditional metallic braces. Invisalign Teen works much in the same fashion as Invisalign technology used for adults, and is quickly becoming the choice of treatment to straighten teen's teeth by nearly one million patients worldwide, including a lot here at Tampa's Farina Orthodontics.

For more info about Invisalign Teen, please give us a call! We hope you have a GREAT rest of your Fourth of July weekend!!

Featured patient review for Dr. Farina!

Once in a while, Tampa orthodontist Dr. Mark Farina and team get patient reviews that make us really proud to do the work we do at Farina Orthodontics: creating beautiful smiles. Check out this review we received from a former patient! Please feel free to contribute your own thoughts about our office!

“Our family wants your family to know how happy we are with our straight teeth and beautiful smiles thanks to Farina Orthodontics!!! After consultations with several orthodontists, it was clear that Dr. Farina and his staff were the most qualified to provide our family with effective orthodontic care we were looking for. Our family was attracted to Farina Orthodontics because of their friendliness, exceptionally clean and modern facilities, time-saving benefits of their state-of-the-art brackets, and the cappuccino mom gets treated to ? all in a payment plan we can afford!! While taking four kids through braces, mom started her orthodontic treatment with Dr. Farina to improve her TMJ. Do the math and that is five mouths from one home enjoying the detailed care of this great group of professionals!! We could not imagine doing the braces "experience" anywhere else but with Farina Orthodontics!!” ~ E. Hixon

Burning questions about Invisalign® with Dr. Mark Farina

Perhaps you're wondering what Invisalign treatment with Tampa orthodontist Dr. Mark Farina is really like, and what effect it will have on your daily activities? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you're in treatment? You're not alone in your concerns! Dr. Farina and our team thought we’d share this list of questions and answers for anyone pondering Invisalign treatment at Farina Orthodontics.

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 any 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.

Are there any foods I shouldn’t 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.

How often must I wear my aligners?

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

How do 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 Farina Orthodontics during my treatment?

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

Dr. Farina wants to know: What's on your summer reading list?

With summer only two weeks away, some of us at Farina Orthodontics have been thinking increasingly about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easier to go play ball or kick back and watch TV, but Dr. Mark Farina will tell you reading during the summer is a vital step in being prepared for classes in the fall and maintaining your skill level.

Out of ideas for great summer reads? Ask us for suggestions, and our staff (and Dr. Farina) would be happy to provide a few titles. You may also ask a local librarian here in Tampa for some ideas or check out various summer reading lists that we came across recently.

Happy reading!

Farina Orthodontics, supporting National Smile Month

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 Farina Orthodontics 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. Farina.
* 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 at (813) 774-5323! We hope you all a fun and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

Dr. Farina, helping you save face on the field

Wouldn’t you believe it, summer is just around the corner! At Farina Orthodontics, our team knows that the summer months bring with them an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of the athletes in our practice damaging their teeth. If you play sports, it's important that you consult Dr. Mark Farina for special precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard. Mouth guards are advised for playing spring sports such as baseball, soccer, lacrosse and many, many others.

We were reminded about the need to wear mouth guards after reading an article recently about hockey great Keith Tkachuk needing reconstructive surgery after taking a puck to the mouth. Tkachuk’s gruesome injury underscores the need for all of our patients to use facial protection at all times when out on the field.

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

Our team at Farina Orthodontics will tell you that 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 at (813) 774-5323 if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment with Dr. Farina.

SureSmile at work on CNN!

You're probably familiar with most of the treatment offered at Farina Orthodontics, but did you know Dr. Farina specializes in SureSmile braces that get you in an out of braces 40 percent faster? After all, we know that one of the biggest concerns for orthodontic patients with braces is the length of their treatment.

SureSmile, which combines digital 3-D imaging, has computer-aided treatment planning and customized archwires to straighten teeth faster, has become quite popular with our patients!

This week, CNN's Dr. Sanjay Gupta filed a report on SureSmile, which we certainly encourage you to watch. Please give Dr. Farina and team a call at (813) 774-5323 if you're interested in SureSmile and we'll be more than happy to talk to you about it!

Tell the world about your experience with Farina Orthodontics!

At Farina Orthodontics, Dr. Mark Farina and our entire staff are committed to excellence in orthodontics. It is our goal to provide the highest quality orthodontic treatment available in a professional, caring and fun environment where patient's needs are our top priority. Our focus is on patient comfort and efficient treatment results.

Whether you've visited Dr. Farina for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about how our office is faring! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice with the rest of the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local page and write a review there.

After all, reviews help Dr. Farina and team create more beautiful smiles in Tampa and surrounding communities.

You may write a review here.

Thank you and enjoy your weekend! We look forward to reading your reviews!

Farina Orthodontics and AAO present: "How Orthodontics Changed My Life" video contest

Dr. Farina would like to direct your attention to an exciting contest that our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists are currently running. The contest, “How Orthodontics Changed My Life,” is all about you, our wonderful patients - tell the AAO your story about treatment at Farina Orthodontics and you may just win a $2,500 scholarship!

Contest entrants should tell their stories on video, and answer the following questions while filming:

* What were you like before you had orthodontic treatment?
* How have you changed How proud are you of your new smile?
* When did you notice changes in yourself?
* What kinds of changes have you noticed?
* What does your new smile mean to you?
* What would you say to others whose smiles make them self-conscious?

All entries must be postmarked by July 15th.

Dr. Farina and our entire team hope you'll find some time to submit your video! GOOD LUCK!!

"Hey, Dr. Farina! What, exactly, is malocclusion?"

Malocclusion, or what Dr. Farina calls “bad bite,” is the improper alignment of teeth and/or jaws. When your teeth and jaws are not properly aligned, it may impact your bite, the ability to properly care for your teeth, your gum tissue health and even your appearance.

Most people experience some degree of malocclusion, but it generally is not severe enough to require corrective measures. If your malocclusion is serious enough, however, treatment may be necessary to correct the issue.

Dr. Farina will tell you that untreated malocclusion can lead undesirable mouth problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, or even chipped and cracked teeth. The most common solution for malocclusion, of course, is orthodontic treatment. The goal of your treatment is to move your teeth into the proper position and correct any misalignment in the jaw.

At Farina Orthodontics, we use the most advanced technology in the field in order to ensure that you receive the best possible results. If you have any questions about malocclusion, please give us a call and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have.

Dr. Farina wants to know: Did you change the world today?

At Farina Orthodontics, we support Earth Day. Whether lending our helping hands to plant trees or grasses or getting out to volunteer in various projects around Tampa, today was our opportunity to get involved in making our year-round impact in the community. Dr. Farina wants to know: Did you make a difference today? Tell us, what Earth Day-related activities did you accomplish? How long have you participated in helping our community and planet?

Earth Day, which today marks its 40th anniversary, is designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for our environment and ecosystem. If you’d like to join the millions of people around the world who are making small but important changes to help sustain our ecosystem, we encourage you to try these helpful environmental tips, courtesy of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Have a great rest of the week everyone!

Farina Orthodontics present: Mr. Bean goes to the dentist

How about a treat today? Here's a little classic dental humor for you to enjoy, from the bumbling yet lovable British spy, Mr. Bean. Our staff at Farina Orthodontics loved it, and know you'll get a laugh as well. Enjoy "Mr. Bean Goes to the Dentist”!

And... if you have any other suggestions you think we should share with other patients, please let us know!

Dr. Mark Farina, reminding you April is National Facial Protection Month

April is upon us, and for Dr. Farina and our staff, that only means one thing: it’s once again time to remind our dear patients to protect their faces and pearly whites. April is National Facial Protection Month, and during this time Dr. Farina and our dedicated team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. After all, sports-related injuries are the leading cause of emergency room visits in 12- to 17-year-olds according to the Centers for Disease Control. Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this spring, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

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. Dr. Farina 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 Farina Orthodontics. Stay safe!

Don't be fooled! From Farina Orthodontics

You're probably familiar with how April Fools' Day works: one of your friends tries to put one over on you, you fall for it (or not), and everyone has a good time. Today, Dr. Farina and our staff would love if you shared a story about a trick you played, or a friend played on you, on April Fools' Day, the silliest of days.

Feel free to post them here or on our Facebook page, and stay alert out there today! :)

Tell Dr. Farina what’s on your mind!

By now, you’re probably familiar with our blog-writing process: Each week, Dr. Farina and our staff write about important orthodontic topics and your well-being, including innovative orthodontic treatments offered at Farina Orthodontics. This week, though, we thought we’d step back and ask you, our wonderful patients: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the always-changing and exciting field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Dr. Farina for a while now? Here’s your chance! Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook page!

Give us your best shot, and we’ll try to answer any question you may have!

The importance of retainers, from Dr. Mark Farina

If you recently completed treatment at Farina Orthodontics, our team would like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Mark Farina will provide - or has provided 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:

* Wear your retainers full time, until Dr. Farina tells you 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 at Farina Orthodontics.
* 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, your pockets and other places where they can get damaged.

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

Free dentofacial and orthodontic screenings at Farina Orthodontics

With our community screening program, Dr. Farina and our team offer convenient and FREE no-obligation dentofacial and orthodontic clinical examinations. Simply call Farina Orthodontics at 813-774-5323 to schedule an appointment.

A thorough clinical examination is essential for an accurate diagnosis and, if indicated, evaluation of treatment alternatives, estimation of treatment time and cost, and effective doctor-patient communication.

Visit our Getting Started page to learn more about your first appointment, scheduling and financial arrangements. And help us prepare for your first appointment by completing our Patient Information form. Click here to complete the form and bring it with you to your first appointment with Dr. Farina.

Plus, if you're a new patient, you are eligible for a complementary consultation AND $250 off treatment with Dr. Farina. Give us a call today!

Ask Dr. Farina: Who benefits from braces?

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Mark Farina 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 can spare a lot of treatment and expense down the road.

If you never received orthodontic treatment when you were young, don’t worry! At Farina Orthodontics, you’re never too old for a beautiful smile. Set up an appointment for a consultation with Dr. Farina and find out how adult orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

Farina Orthodontics, supporting National Children’s Dental Health Month

With February being National Children's Dental Health Month, our professional team at Farina Orthodontics thought we'd share a few good oral hygiene tips with our patients, courtesy of the American Dental Association, or ADA.

• 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 place 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 vegetables, fruits and cheese and avoid sticky, chewy candies that can stick to the teeth. If you eat these snacks, make sure to brush after doing so.
• Carbonated or sugary drinks: these beverages create acids that can damage the teeth when mixed with saliva, so they should be avoided altogether. When drinking one of these beverages, avoid sipping on it throughout the day. Rather, drink it and then brush your teeth.
• Regular dental visits: in addition to seeing Dr. Mark Farina, you should visit your dentist regularly (approximately every six months).

National Children's Dental Health Month, now in its 60th year, aims to increase awareness about the importance of kids' oral health. If you have any questions about keeping your mouth healthy, or about your treatment with Farina Orthodontics, please feel free to give us a call!

What puts you at ease at Farina Orthodontics?

Dr. Farina and team understand not everyone is thrilled about visiting their orthodontist. But here at Farina Orthodontics, we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. Today, we’d like to know: What is it about Farina Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our courteous staff? Dr. Farina himself?

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call!

Tackling sports injuries with Farina Orthodontics

Dr. Farina knows sports-related injuries are common among children. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get hurt while playing sports. Also, 67 percent admitted that their child doesn’t wear a mouth guard when participating in organized sports such as football, basketball, baseball and soccer. That’s why Farina Orthodontics is doing our part to spread the word that facial sports injuries can be avoided simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards.

Did you know mouth guards are one of the least expensive pieces of protective equipment available? Over-the-counter versions may cost as little as $5, although custom-fit mouth guards offer greater protection. Dr. Farina may recommend the best mouth guard for you. In addition, the AAO has provided the following tips for keeping kids safe on the field.

• Wear mouth guards during contact sports
• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eye wear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant—even as a spectator

All of these can reduce injuries. Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Farina Orthodontics.

Dr. Farina wants to know: What do you love about Tampa?

Farina Orthodontics, located in Tampa and serving surrounding communities, is situated around some pretty special neighborhoods. Each is unique with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our great patients) living within.

Today, Dr. Farina and our team thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about Tampa or western Florida? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps a favorite getaway? Do you love the nice weather we get year-round?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in Tampa, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods.” And, who knows, Dr. Farina and team just might post your response on our social networks! Enjoy the rest of your week!

Farina Orthodontics shares a few helpful Invisalign® tips

Last week, the Farina team blogged about the advantage of Invisalign Teen treatment at our office. Today, we thought we might provide you with a few helpful Invisalign tips. When wearing your Invisalign aligners, Dr. Farina 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 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. If you have any questions about Invisalign or your treatment here at Farina Orthodontics, please ... give us a call!

Invisalign Teen™ at Farina Orthodontics

We've blogged about our Invisalign service in the past, but today we thought we'd remind you that Dr. Farina is a certified Invisalign Teen provider.

Dr. Farina knows that for teens, image is everything. At an age when image is so important, the thought of having metal brackets and wires constantly attached to teeth may intensify the already-delicate self-esteem of today's teens. But... not to worry! There is a clear alternative to traditional braces! The team at Farina Orthodontics thought we'd remind you that Invisalign Teen™ gives you a whole new way to wear braces for a "clearly" amazing smile!

So how does Invisalign Teen work? Invisalign Teen works in the same way as Invisalign, but with a few added characteristics tailored specifically to teenagers’ lifestyles. For instance, 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 lost or broken. Another big benefit for the patient!

The treatment period for Invisalign Teen varies from nine to 18 months. If your teen is considering orthodontic treatment, please contact us and we’ll answer any questions you may have about Invisalign Teen.

When should you call Farina Orthodontics?

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

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!