"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! :)