Your Markham Orthodontist, Toronto Invisalign, and Richmond Hill Braces at Work and at Play

Markham Orthodontist Expansion of Existing Office Facility

2012-02-13T10:44:00.000-05:00

Your Markham Orthodontist opened a 2000 square foot facility beginning construction in 2005. Thanks to the confidence of local dentists and thousands of very happy patients, Dr. Tam decided it was time for the office to expand just 6 short years later.

New reception area

Our renovated and expanded office now spans about 3100 square feet with the most advanced technologies available. We feature digital x-rays for more accurate images and less radiation, as well as 3-D digital camera teeth scanners for Invisalign and retainers. There is a spacious reception area, private financial payment station, 2 comfortable consultation rooms, 2 fully stocked toothbrushing areas, and 8 semi-private treatment stations, with seating for parents or siblings.

New Clinical Area

The goals of this renovation were to improve the experience for our patients by allowing parents and friends to follow treatment as it is going on in the clinic, provide a modern and comfortable office environment, and to help position ourselves as the best orthodontist in Markham. Check our more pics here: http://www.mcosmiles.com/office-tour.php

New Consultation Room

MCO Markham Orthodontist Discusses Orthodontic Emergency Care

2012-01-31T10:47:00.000-05:00

Your Markham and Stouffville Orthodontist knows that on occasion, there can be some orthodontic emergencies that occur. However, as a general rule, there are few true emergencies that cannot wait until the clinic has an appointment available for you. Common issues include broken appliances, poking or sharpness from brackets and wires, and general soreness.

If something occurs, you should call the office or email us to let us know about your issue. After hours, in an extreme emergency, you can contact Dr. Tam directly.

The following solutions may help you relieve discomfort:

General soreness: When you get your braces on, it is very common for you to feel general soreness in your mouth, and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm salt water mouthwash. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously. If the tenderness is severe, take over the counter aspirin or other headache/pain relief medication. The use of Tylenol is advised over Advil/Ibuprofen.
Poking wire: Placing wax on the poking edge of the wire is a great way to alleviate the discomfort. You can also use the wire cutter provided to you in your care kit.
Loose bracket or band: If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. If the wire comes out entirely, wrap the bracket in a tissue, and call our office immediately. Remember, after alleviating your discomfort, it is still very important that you call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem.
Broken or lost retainers: It is important to let the office know as soon as possible so that you can have your retainer repaired or replaced. Teeth will shift very rapidly out of alignment without retainers in as little as a few days.

As per our office policies, comfort visits will be booked whenever we have an opening. It may not always be possible to book you a visit after work/school/Saturday since most visits are booked up 8 weeks in advance.

Toronto Invisalign Express 5

2012-01-17T11:56:00.000-05:00

There is a new product available for orthodontic relapse patients beginning January 30th.. It is called Invisalign Express 5, used for very minor crowding and spacing. There is one case of up to 5 aligners, plus one refinement of up to 5 aligners. Note that the refinement is not included in the cost of the original lab fee.

There will be a ClinCheck that can be modified, and there are SmartForce attachments and aligner features available as well.

Example of a treatment with 5 aligners

Please be aware that at MCO Orthodontics, there are very few patients who qualify for treatment with regular Invisalign Express (5 months) and there are likely extremely few patients who will qualify for Express 5 (2.5 months). Still this is a viable option for those who have some minor issues that they want to take care of without braces, and would like to use the top brand in clear aligner treatment.

Toronto Invisalign Advice- What can I eat with Invisalign? Only water?

2012-01-07T13:48:00.001-05:00

At MCO Orthodontics, over 100 happy Invisalign patients complete treatment with us every year. Their satisfaction with treatment comes from being well-prepared for what to expect with treatment, as well as their amazing results. Much of this information can be found at our website about Invisalign in Toronto, Ontario.

One of the common questions with Invisalign is about changes in lifestyle. Many patients are looking to this clear braces technique in order to have minimal disruption to their social and professional lives. However, it is important to know that there are changes that must be made to ensure proper and healthy treatment.

Aligners should be worn for 22 hours per day and they should only be removed for eating and brushing. Water is the only thing that should be consumed with the aligners in. Otherwise, sugars and acids from food will be trapped in the aligners against your teeth. This is a quick way to cavities. Stains will also accumulate more quickly, but these can be removed with regular dental cleanings.

Some orthodontists ask their patients to eat with aligners in as an exercise to stimulate blood flow and encourage seating of aligners. However, the patients must clean the aligners and their teeth immediately after eating. The aligners become more difficult to clean, and it basically nullifies any convenience of eating with them in. We have our patients use aligner chewies instead.

The Invisalign website is somewhat contradictory since in one section, it says “you’re required to remove your aligners to eat and drink.” With regards to alcohol, they say “a moderate amount would be fine to consume, as long as care is taken to clean the teeth and the aligners soon after so as not to trap sugar between them.” The issue is that “soon after” is not quantifiable.

Having worn Invisalign, we understand the social implications of wearing the aligners. Our preference for as orthodontic professionals, as well as for our patients is to remove aligners just before having a drink, and then to make up any lost time if required. Needing to wear aligners for a longer period of time is the lesser of two evils when compared to the potential for cavity formation.

While there are accounts of people online who have not had problems while "cheating" their oral hygiene with their aligners, there are also many people who have developed problems. Some of these problems may also not surface immediately and may be issues that come later down the road. If you do decide to "cheat", then understand that you are running the risk of permanent damage to your teeth.

Overall, it is important to make sure you understand all aspects of your care before you begin your treatment. You should not be surprised by Invisalign attachments, IPR, extractions, or lifestyle changes as it starts treatment in a bad spot. Remember that Invisalign treatment does require a commitment to wearing aligners and oral hygiene, and that ultimately the experience of your doctor is what will determine the outcome of your orthodontic care!

Dr. Tam Gives Back to his High School, University of Toronto Schools (UTS)

2012-01-05T07:40:00.001-05:00

MCO Orthodontics has provided TeamMCO with a fantastic place to work with our amazing patients. Dr. Tam attributes much of their success to the solid foundation he obtained while in high school at the University of Toronto Schools (UTS).

Located at the corner of Bloor and Spadina, this school has had the reputation as one of the top high schools in Canada since opening in 1910. UTS is renowned for educating generations of outstanding graduates, including two Nobel Laureates, 20 Rhodes Scholars and numerous leaders in commerce, industry, academics, the arts, sports, government, and public service. What makes UTS different is that it is a merit-based school. Money cannot buy your way in. As such, there are students spanning a large geographic area as well as a large socioeconomic spectrum. Many of the students rely on alumni awards and bursaries to be to study at UTS.

In appreciation of what UTS has done for him, Dr. Tam began to look for a way to give back. In conjunction with the 100 year celebration of UTS in 2010, Dr. Tam met with Alumni Directors to put together an award for students at the school. The MCO Orthodontics UTS Community Builder Award was established, recognizing 4 students annually for excellence in a combination of academics, extra-curricular activities, and leadership within the community. Dr. Tam was happy to present the recipients of the inaugural award last October.

Dr. Tam also got a chance to congratulate a former patient, Anoop M., who was recognized with the highest overall level of achievement in his grade. This is a formidable achievement in a school with so many talented and gifted students. Congratulations!

UTS has recently been given 10 years to move by the University of Toronto. Read more here. With the hard work of Alumni Directors, school administration, Alumni, and current students, there is hope that generations of students will continue to benefit from the excellent education unique to UTS.

Dr. Tam Visits Wisconsin to see the Green Bay Packers and Tour the American Orthodontics Factory

2011-12-16T11:31:00.001-05:00

On December 11th, Dr. Tam was invited by American Orthodontics to attend the game at Lambeau Field to see the Green Bay Packers take on the visiting Oakland Raiders. The weather was unseasonably warm at about zero degrees centigrade, the American Ortho box was full of great people enjoying the food and beverages, and the Packers kept their unbeaten streak alive with a 46-16 win. What a fantastic way to experience a football game!

Just outside Lambeau Field at the legendary Krolls.

Dr. Tam enjoying the pregame in the American Ortho Box.

Sold out as always. Great fans with fantastic spirit!

The following morning, an hour south of Green Bay, Dr. Tam visited the manufacturing facility for American Orthodontics in Sheboygan. Here are some interesting facts about the plant:

-There are about 425 employees in the factory

-None of the employees have a time clock nor are they paid by piece work. They are all on the honour system. They take time off when they need it and make up for it at their leisure. Such as system only works with high integrity employees who value and are proud of their work.

-There is excellent quality control with a combination of machine fabrication and human fabrication/inspection.

-There is a completely isolated latex-free room for the safety of patients with such an allergy

-98% of all of American Orthodontics products are made in America

-American Orthodontics is looking to triple the size of its existing facility in the coming years

Dr. Tam feels extremely confident in the quality of the braces he uses at MCO, especially after witnessing the manufacturing process first-hand. In fact, all of the products that we use at MCO are from top of the line companies because our patients deserve only the best! Thank you to the people at AO for this wonderful opportunity!

Top Toronto Invisalign Orthodonitst visits Costa Rica Invisalign Treat Facility for 2nd time

2011-12-04T12:14:00.000-05:00

MCO Invisalign orthodontist, Dr. Tam, has always aimed to be the best Invisalign dentist in Toronto. In order to do this, he has traveled extensively to meet top doctors all over the world, visited the Invisalign Treat Facility, and attended numerous Invisalign seminars. MCO is also one of the few offices in Canada using the Invisalign scanner to replace impressions!

One of the key aspects of proper Invisalign treatment is the planning of the ClinCheck. While many potential patients consider Invisalign to be the same no matter where you go, this is not the case. It is up to the doctor and their experience to determine when teeth move, how they move, and how much they move. When simulations are created, they are done so by technicians who do not have training with orthodontic tooth movement. Anything can happen in a video, but it doesn't mean it will happen inside the mouth. The above photo is only one section of the facility where the techs create simulations. As you can imagine, there is a lot of variability!

In early November, Dr. Tam went to meet his team leader Alex, his current tech Auxi, and their back-up tech Roberto in Costa Rica. This was his 2nd visit in 2 years. He went to discuss his preferences for treatment, and to ensure that there is a smooth transition whenever Auxi is away. Alex sported his TeamMCO t-shirt and it was fantastic to see them, as they are truly a part of our Invisalign team at MCO. Special thanks to Alex and Auxi for the gift they got for Dr. Tam's son, Isaac!

L-R: Dr. Tam, Alex, Auxi, Roberto

Remember that Invisalign is a technique, not a product, and seek out the most experienced Invisalign doctors to ensure you have proper care.

Inivsalign Teen Toronto: Mom Blogger Straight Talk #InvisalignTO

2011-11-15T11:45:00.002-05:00

What a wonderful event hosted by Mom Central Canada and Kathy Buckworth at Brassaii on King West. I had the opportunity to speak to about 25 mom bloggers from all over the Toronto area about Invisalign Teen.

My treatment coordinator in the Stouffville office, Mandy, joined me for the evening, along with our President's Circle Invisalign representative, Craig MacIntyre. I was also fortunate enough to have a few patients and their mothers join us in case the bloggers wanted to ask questions about their experiences.

We started off with some technical difficulties in getting the projector to work, but after switching a few laptops and ultimately, a cable, all systems were a go. After a half eaten, but great dinner, it was showtime.

I know a lot of speakers for Invisalign and many of them tout aesthetics, generating income from new patients, and getting that movie star smile without braces. Unfortunately, the marketing for Invisalign is far ahead of the training and skill level of most doctors. Certainly aesthetics are an important part of Invisalign treatment, but as health care professionals, we have to remember that there are health aspects to orthodontic treatment that cannot be overlooked, just because our patients are seeking a specific treatment type. My goal was to present an analytical and informative session so that parents can make the right decision for their teens, rather than basing it on smoke and mirrors.

Here are the key points from the evening:

Invisalign has been used with over 1.4M patients
Invisalign Teen was developed in 2009 with specific needs of teens in mind
Benefits of Invisalign Teen include improved oral hygiene, no restrictions on eating, superior aesthetics, and the opportunity to teach teens responsibility.
Orthodontic consultations are recommended at age 7. Generally, this is when the upper front teeth have come in. Dental development, rather than chronological age is the more important determining factor
Many orthodontists offer complimentary consultations
A referral from a dentist is not required to get an appointment with the orthodontist
When thinking about medical procedures, everyone would prefer to go with a specialist for specialist work. The same should apply to dental procedures, including orthodontic treatment.
Orthodontic insurance will cover Invisalign and braces.
It's more correct to ask "Can you correct my teeth with Invisalign?" than to ask "What can Invisalign correct?", since the skill and experience of the doctor will determine your final results.
Invisalign isn't only for Teens. If your teeth, gums, and bone are healthy, it is never too late for orthodontic treatment.
Excellent dental resources include the Invisalign website, American Association of Orthodontists, Canadian Association of Orthodontists, your primary care dentist, online forums, and the Toronto Invisalign site.

I really enjoyed meeting a number of the mom bloggers and it was nice to be asked to work on future segments with them. I learned a few things about parenting from them and will also be looking at a Disney cruise on the advice of Jen Reynolds :). Overall a great evening!

-Dr. Tam

MTV Live Canada's Paul the Intern Visits MCO Markham Orthodontist

2011-11-05T20:41:00.000-04:00

Dr. Tam, your Toronto Invisalign specialist, offering FREE Invisalign and braces consultations was recently on MTV Live with Paul the Intern. The interview was supposed to be about Invisalign, braces, and Halloween. Footage was filmed over the course of a few hours, but was parsed down to a 2 min segment.

None of the questions were prepared in advance and in typical Paul style, he seemed to want to trip up Dr. Tam. Check out the video from MTV here:

Here are some out-takes that didn't make it to TV:

Facebook pics of Markham Orthodontist and Paul the Intern

Fun times!

Invisalign in Toronto- Dr. Tam Discusses Invisalign G4

2011-10-19T21:28:00.000-04:00

In early October 2011, your Toronto Invisalign Specialist followed a program in which Invisalign announced a series of features known as Invisalign G4. They sought to address 3 major issues that some Invisalign doctors had been having issues with. These include:

1. Greater root tip control for canines and upper laterals

2. Improved predictability for upper laterals

3. Better clinical outcomes for open bite treatments

There was a theme that Invisalign is based upon the science of orthodontics. Namely, we have to think of a desired movement, determine a force system, and then design an appliance. At this point, all other aligners other than Invisalign skip the middle step of determining a force system. This is asking for failure of treatment when the proper orthodontic forces are not applied. Anyone can make an aligner or video look good from start to finish. The key is whether the teeth will move that way also. Can you move roots with Invisalign? According to the new changes, they should allow for root movement using new attachments.

In order to achieve these difficult movements, one of the newest features is to apply to force systems to one tooth. This is in the form of attachments or a pressure point, where one feature will counteract the negative forces caused by the first. They are supposed to allow for simultaneous movements such as extrusion and rotation, as well as translations. There is a claim that these new attachments are more aesthetic than previous attachments, with the more gingival attachment often covered by the lip.

It was also announced that optimized attachments with G3 can now be used with precision cuts on canines. This was not previously possible. The cuts are not yet tested with G4 attachments, and thus cannot be used simultaneously.

Also, an update on the iOC scanner was given.

Over 1000 scanned cases have been submitted, with greater accuracy in seating, less spring, improved retention, and proper contouring around the gingiva (according to these numbers, your MCO Markham orthodontist has submitted about 3-4% of world-wide scans). Patients have reported less saliva trapped under the plastic, likely since the aligners comform better to the teeth. Rejections of scans to date have been virtually non-existent, since any deficiencies in the scans can be corrected easily chair-side. Clinchecks are also back in the doctor VIP page on an average of 2 days vs 10 days for PVS impressions.

Overall, Invisalign has been very dedicated to the science of tooth movement with aligners and listening to concerns of doctors and patients. However, remember that the most important factor in treatment is going to be proper treatment planning by your orthodontist of choice. It is his/her job to decide exactly how the teeth will move and when to use specific features to help aid in these movements.

Stouffville Orthodontist Hosts Local Dental Community and Mayor Emmerson

2011-09-28T15:25:00.000-04:00

In our first year here in Stouffville, MCO Stouffville Orthodontics has been very active in the community. We've been at the Strawberry Festival, on the ice at the arena, and fundraised for Markham Stouffville Hospital. Last week, the office held a reception with Stouffville Mayor Wayne Emmerson and a number of members of the dental community in Stouffville and Uxbridge. Overall, it was as great evening and fun was had by all!

Enjoy the pictures!

Mayor Emmerson in a ceremonial "ribbon cutting" outside MCO Stouffville.

Dr. Tam with Dr. Lin, Enza, and Dr. Bhalla from Markham Dentistry for Children.

MCO hygienist Aya, Dr. Charles Shin, Dr. Dimple Bhatia, and Dr. Tam

MCO Treatment Coordinator Mandy and Dr. Beth Williston's Dental Assistant Sabine from Park Drive Dentistry

Dr. Tam with Dr. Maneesh Gupta from Bur Oak Dentistry (also the Colgate Commercial Dentist!)

Dr. Hagi, Dr. Michael Banh, Dr. Fab Bianchi, Dr. Tam and Dr. Veisman

Dr. Priya Kothari from Kidsworld Pediatric Dentistry and her mother.

Dr. Tam with his wife Amelia and their parents.

Stouffville Orthodontist Defines Orthodontic Malocclusion

2011-09-25T15:40:00.000-04:00

Your orthodontist in Markham and Stouffville, Ontario wants to keep you educated on all aspects of your orthodontic treatment. The technical term for a “bad bite” is a malocclusion. There are many different types of malocclusions depending on what the exact nature of the problem.

Orthodontists use a 3 classification system to describe malocclusions:

1. Class 1- the back teeth fit together as they should, but there are other issues such as crowding, rotations, spacing, etc.

2. Class 2- the upper teeth are too far forward compared to the bottom teeth, along with issues described above (typically referred to as an "overbite", but the technical term is overjet)

3. Class 3- the lower teeth are too far forward compare to the upper ones, along with issues described above (often referred to as an underbite)

The problem with malocclusions is not only cosmetic. They may cause teeth to be more easily traumatized, cause excessive wear of enamel, and contribute to issues such as TMJ disorder. Fortunately, Dr. Tam and his team at MCO are specialists in correcting these kinds of issues so that you can have both a beautiful and healthy smile! We have many different options including Invisalign, so don't be afraid to come in for a free consultation :).

Markham Orthodontist Dr. Tam Shares Pictures of His Son Isaac!

2011-09-01T16:41:00.000-04:00

It has been a very busy year professionally for Dr. Tam and TeamMCO. We opened our 2nd office, a 3600 square foot, state-of-the-art orthodontic office in Stouffville, Ontario and have been busy working on an expansion for Markham.

In between, Dr. Tam and his wife Amelia welcomed their son Isaac in June 2011. It is amazing to see how much Isaac has grown and Dr. Tam misses spending time during the day with his son. Fortunately, Amelia has been taking pictures to help capture the moment, and recently sent this set taken over the course of 3 hours. At just under 3 months old, you can see that he managed to turn 90 degrees in his sleep.

Thanks to everyone for their kind words and congratulations!

Ask your Markham Orthodontist... do I need to extract teeth when I get braces?

2011-08-15T17:07:00.001-04:00

Whenever possible, your Stouffville Orthodontist will avoid extractions for orthodontic treatment. If there is any possibility that treatment can proceed without tooth removal, Dr. Tam will delay extraction as long as possible. Generally, braces are placed on the teeth before any teeth are taken out.

There are a few ways to avoid extractions in treatment:

1. Start off with adequate space to align teeth.

2. Expand the jaws in children before puberty.

3. Procline the teeth to increase arch perimeter.

4. Distalize teeth, pushing them back along the ridge of bone in the jaw.

5. Judicious IPR, slenderization, or selective grinding of the teeth to create space.

However, there are times when extractions should cannot always be avoided:

1. Excessive crowding.

2. Protrusive profile (too many teeth for the mouth, causing an overly full profile or open mouth, even when relaxed)

3. Existing bone loss or thin bone that would be compromised by excessive expansion of the jaws.

4. Correction of excessively non-coincident midlines.

5. Removal of wisdom teeth

Dr. Tam customizes your orthodontic care to deliver the best orthodontic treatment possible for each patient. Contact us at if you would like to come in for a free orthodontic consult!

MCO Stouffville Orthodontist Office Offerring Braces and Invisalign!

2011-07-13T10:41:00.000-04:00

MCO Stouffville Orthodontics is now open and fully running, servicing Stouffville, Uxbridge, Newmarket, and surrounding communities. Dr. Tam and his team have years of experience in providing excellent orthodontic care and the best customer service possible, with one of the most popular offices in Markham. We have a proven track record and have treated many dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants in North America.

We are proud to support the community and have participated at the Strawberry Festival, supported local sports teams, and Markham Stouffville Hospital. We look forward to showing you the MCO difference and becoming Stouffville's choice for orthodontic care :). Click here to book your free orthodontic consultation with us today!

Stouffville Orthodontist Discusses: What Can I Eat with Braces?

2011-06-27T12:27:00.000-04:00

Your Stouffville Orthodontist fields a lot of questions about braces. Many of our patients are concerned with what they can eat while braces are on the teeth.

Here are a couple of quick tips:

- Do not tear food or chew with your anterior teeth as braces can come off easily this way.

- Cut food up into smaller pieces and chew food with your molars in the back of your mouth.

- Avoid foods that are too sticky as they may make your braces more difficult to clean.

- Take care and get used to your braces on your teeth, so that you give yourself some time to become more aware of the braces on your teeth, and gain more understanding of how to chew to avoid breakage.

There is a common misconception that you cannot eat certain foods during orthodontic treatment. We advise our patients that this is not true, but that foods may have to be consumed in a different manner. The reason for this is to avoid breakage of the appliances or getting food lodged into areas that may make it difficult to clean. For example, if you like ice cubes, you may want to consider sucking on them and allowing them to melt, rather than breaking them with your teeth. Instead of biting into an apple, cut it into pieces and chew at the back of your mouth.

A couple of years ago we had two patients who were at a birthday party and Child A saw Child B pick up a carrot stick and bite on it with his front teeth. Child B mentioned to Child A that he didn't think he was allowed to eat carrots like that. Child A shrugged his shoulders and continued eating. Child B decided to try, bit into the carrot, and broke off a brace :).

The moral of the story here is that different people may have varying experiences with eating and breakage. However, in order to make sure treatment stays on time and to avoid the hassle of having to replace brackets, each person must learn how to eat to take care their braces, as it will vary from person to person.

Toronto Invisalign Orthodontist First to Scan Teeth for Invisalign Patients

2011-06-01T19:44:00.000-04:00

Invisalign dental scanner

Being the best Invisalign doctor in Toronto is our goal at your Markham Orthodontist. That's why we are the first orthodontic office in the GTA to acquire the iOC Invisalign intraoral scanner. The scanner will allow us to do away with PVS Invisalign impressions that are normally used to created 3-D models of the teeth. While each one of these machines costs as much as a nice car, MCO Orthodontics decided to purchase two of these to service the more than 100 Invisalign patients that begin treatment with us every year!

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The benefits of a 3-D dental scanner:

-no need to have impressions taken, leading to a more comfortable experience and no gagging

-increased accuracy of capture of the teeth

-ability to see the 3-D image of your teeth immediately following the scan

-decreased time required to receive first ClinCheck since models do not need to be created.

The scans generally take between 8-20 minutes, which is comparable to the time required for a full set of impressions. This is a laser and optic scanner, so there is also no concern about any radiation. Unlike other scanning systems, no dust is required to coat the teeth.

Our office has 3 days of hand-on training and will begin using the scanner for all Invisalign and Invisalign Teen patients shortly. We think this is going to really improve the overall Invisalign experience and look forward to helping you smile without braces!

Stouffville Orthodontist Discusses the Secrets for Success and Great Results with Toronto Invisalign

2011-05-27T13:37:00.001-04:00

Your Stouffville Orthodontist and Markham Invisalign braces orthodontist is always talking about successful Invisalign treatment, and pushing the boundaries of Invisalign treatment with some of the best Invisalign doctors in North America.

Three things they agreed upon for the best Invisalign results:

1. Patient compliance with 22 hour wear is required and may minimize the need for refinement stages.

2. Use of judicious IPR (interproximal reduction) to create space for teeth to move can improve the success of Invisalign treatment.

3. Invisalign treatment planning may be more difficult than that of traditional fixed braces. A firm understanding of how teeth move with Invisalign and the ability to detect improper movements in ClinCheck simulations are essential.

Dr. Tam is recognized as an Elite Premier Invisalign Provider and Invisalign Teen orthodontist in the Greater Toronto area, serving Markham, Richmond Hill, Thornhill, Ajax, Pickering, and Stouffville. He teaches Invisalign nationally and helps dentists and orthodontists with planning Invisalign treatment for their patients. Contact your MCO Stouffville Orthodontist to get started on your way to a beautiful smile!

Ask your Richmond Hill Orthodontist... Should I Expect White Spots on the Teeth After Braces?

2011-05-13T13:30:00.011-04:00

With our free consultations at your Markham Orthodontist, we often get questions about whether there will be spots, squares, or scars on teeth after braces. The answer is: Absolutely not. Braces are bonded onto the teeth using a system of adhesives and resins. They are removed easily from the teeth using a combination of instruments and fine bur to take away any residual resin left on the teeth.

White spots are the result of poor oral hygiene. If plaque is allowed to accumulate around the braces, they will produce an acid that leeches the teeth, causing a white spot. The shape of the spotting is usually a square, because of the shape of the area around the brace that was not cleaned properly during treatment. While there are some pastes that may improve the mineral content and appearance of white spotting on the teeth after poor oral hygiene with braces, most aesthetic corrections will require the use of veneers or crowns. Fortunately, these areas of decalcification can be completely avoided by practicing good oral hygiene.

At your Stouffville Orthodontist, our team emphasizes proper braces care. We provide you with everything you need to take care of your braces, spend time at your initial visit going over a hands on demonstration on proper cleaning, refer you to your dentist whenever an extra cleaning is required, provide you with additional supplies as needed, and will actually remove braces before treatment is complete if required, to avoid these spots. There is the opportunity to brush and floss without your wires in at each appointment in our toothbrushing area. We also have video on our Markham Braces YouTube page to show you how to clean your teeth properly. We feel very strongly, and most parents agree, that healthy teeth that are crooked are better than straight, spotted teeth with cavities.

As such, with proper oral hygiene, you should expect straight teeth without the formation of white spots on the teeth! Contact us if you would like to schedule your complimentary consultation or have any additional questions.

Markham Orthodontist Discusses Tooth Whitening Pastes: Do They Work?

2011-04-27T16:27:00.001-04:00

A lot of our Markham braces and Richmond Hill Invisalign patients often ask us about tooth whitening in Toronto, using whitening toothpastes. The question is whether they actually work, and if not, what works best?

By definition, tooth whitening means whitening teeth back to their natural shade. For many people this may not actually be "white enough". To get teeth whiter than that, bleaching is required. However, bleaching doesn't sound all that great, so dental companies also refer to their bleaching products as whitening, to make them sound more appealing. In other words, whitening toothpaste and whitening gel in trays from the dentist will do different things, even though they have similar descriptive names.

Whitening pastes, mouthwashes, and gum simply need to remove surface stains off the teeth to be certified by the American Dental Association as "whitening". Virtually toothpastes have some kind of abrasives in them that make them whitening. Mouthwashes can rinse surface stains off the teeth, and the mechanical action of chewing gum against the teeth can do the same. It is the companies who have paid the money to the ADA who receive the ADA seal to put on their packaging.

In order to truly get whiter teeth like in the commercials, you will need to do some teeth bleaching, such as gels in a tray, or some of the light-activated systems such as Zoom. Keep in mind that you may experience some transient sensitivity, and that a lot of whitening is due to increasing porosity of the enamel surface. Some dentists liken it to tanning. It may provide nicer aesthetics, it can become addictive, and is not really a healthcare-motivated decision.

After orthodontic treatment at your Markham Orthodontist, we recommend our patients wait a couple of months after braces have been removed so that the teeth can remineralize before using any bleaching method. In general, visiting the dentist for regular cleanings and polishing, as well as maintaining good brushing habits will keep your teeth quite white. Anything beyond natural white will require a visit to an oral health care professional.

Toronto Orthodontist Attends Study Club of Top Orthodontists in Dallas

2011-04-02T14:48:00.000-04:00

Your orthodontist in Markham, was privileged to take part in this year's Hummingbird Study Club meeting at the Grand Hyatt in Dallas Texas. This is an annual event by invitation-only for some of the best orthodontists who have worked with some of the top consultants in our field. It was 3 days of intense orthodontic discussion. Dr. Tam taught orthodontists about Invisalign, office design, and social media. This mutual exchange of information benefits each office, and in turn, improves the future patient experience, so that we can always be at the forefront of our orthodontic profession.

Toronto Invisalign Before and After- Severe Spacing and Rotations Corrected!

2011-03-03T18:38:00.001-05:00

Toronto Invisalign results for upper and lower severe spacing by Dr. Jason K. Tam, Invisalign Elite Provider. This patient was told that she cannot have Invisalign to close her spaces. Her extremely rotated lower canines were also an issue.

With proper planning and treatment, all spaces and rotations were corrected, and she now has a beautiful smile! If you are interested in finding your beautiful smile and have been told that Invisalign cannot get you great results, let MCO Orthodontics see what we can do!

BEFORE

AFTER

Extraction with braces vs Non-Extraction Orthodontist in Markham

2011-02-28T13:10:00.001-05:00

We see a lot of people for free consultations who are considering braces and Invisalign in Toronto. One of the most common concerns with Richmond Hill braces is to be able to have orthodontic treatment without taking teeth out. The fear is out there. In fact, there are Damon braces, from Ormco, that make the claim that virtually all orthodontic treatment can be done without extraction, as a part of direct marketing to the public.

Some of the biggest reasons for not wanting teeth out are:

-don’t want to take out good teeth
-scared of extractions
-worried spaces won’t close
-possible caved in profile or narrow smile
-won’t have enough teeth to chew with

There are three major reasons for needing teeth out for orthodontics:

1. A non-viable tooth
-Generally, there is no debate from our patients about removing teeth when there is a huge cavity or an abscess.

2. Excessive crowding
-There is a certain amount of space required to align all of the teeth in crowding situations. In order to gain space, the teeth can be expanded out in a lateral direction, proclined in an anterior direction, distalized to the posterior, or we can do some interproximal reduction.

-There may not be enough room to distalize teeth due to the presence of wisdom teeth or lack of ridge of bone, and there may not be enough space between the roots to reduce enamel safely.

-In terms of lateral or anterior movement, the support of the teeth within the bone is important. If the expansion is too great, the teeth will be pushed out of the periodontal complex, leading to problems such as recession, mobility, and an unstable result.

3. Overly full facial profile

There are times when crowding can be alleviated without removal of teeth, but the end result would result in an overly full facial profile. This presents with individuals unable to close their lips without strain, or an appearance of bulging lips. To harmonize the appearance, it is important to retract the anterior teeth, and in order to do that, space is required. Otherwise, there is no room to move the teeth back. Keep in mind that the orthodontist can control the amount of retraction since space can be closed by moving front teeth back, or back teeth forward. This means you do not have to have a “dished-in” profile with extractions.

As seen with Patient #2's Before and After Extractions, there is no problem with closing up space, and as described above, sometimes it is actually healthier and will provide better results when taking teeth out than trying to fit teeth where they will not be stable. In this case, the arch is actually wider after tooth removal than prior. There are a lot of celebs with beautiful smiles, and they have had teeth taken out too!

There are many people who do not have full function of all of their teeth, due to malocclusions, or extractions, and they function well. A proper bite with teeth that are in good occlusion with fewer teeth is better than more teeth that do not fit well together.

Each individual situation is different. At MCO Orthodontics, whenever possible, we do not extract teeth. However, there are instances as described above, when tooth removal is indicated and will produce better long term outcomes. To book your own complimentary evaluation, please visit us here.

Retainers and Vivera: Information from your Markham Orthodontist

2011-02-07T11:38:00.001-05:00

One of the most important aspects of your Toronto Invisalign or braces treatment is going to be your retainers. Following any orthodontic care at your Markham Orthodontist, you will need to do something to maintain that beautiful smile. The answer to the amount of time retainers need to be worn is "as long as you want your teeth to stay straight" :).

Our patients have a number of different options for retainers. For our Invisalign patients, we generally recommend Vivera retainers or Invisalign retainers. For our fixed braces patients, we usually recommend a combination of fixed retainers with a removable retainer. Here are some of the options:

Fixed lingual wires
Pros
-don't have to think about taking retainers in and out
-teeth attached to intact wires will not move
-no one can see them

Cons
-only holds teeth they are attached to
-wires require flossing with a floss threader, ie more difficult to maintain
-cannot bite down on front teeth without risk of breaking retainer; if broken, teeth may shift without knowing
-still need removable retainer nightly to maintain posterior teeth

Invisalign aligner retainers or Essix Style retainers
Pros
-excellent aesthetics
-retain all teeth in the arch
-made off your ClinCheck without need for a new impression if you had Invisalign treatment
-no adjustment period since they are the same as all aligners during treatment

Cons
-may need to replace every 3-6 months
-must remember to wear nightly

Traditional Hawley or Circumferential retainers
Pros
-longevity- can last several years
-ability to make small movements by bending wire in certain situations

Cons
-bulkiness
-poor aesthetics
-nightly wear required
-cost of replacement if lost or broken

Vivera retainers
Pros
-can be made off last Clincheck stage or with new impressions
-sturdiness
-superior aesthetics
-minor relapse can be corrected by wearing this retainer full time
-subscriptions can be ordered to defray cost of ordering individual retainers, and after the first retainer, the rest can be mailed to you
-reordering is as simple as a phone call to the orthodontic office as digital impressions are stored

Cons
-replacement required after 9-12 months
-need for nightly wear

Take a look at Dr. Tam's video on Vivera for more information.

Toronto Inivsalign Orthodontist: Elite Preferred Invisalign Dentist

2011-01-25T13:44:00.000-05:00

As of January 2011, Dr. Jason K. Tam, your top Invisalign Orthodontist in Toronto, has been recognized with Elite Preferred Invisalign status. You may have seen Dr. Tam's Invisalign videos on YouTube

as well as information on the most comprehensive Invisalign website around, at Toronto Braces. There you can compare Invisalign vs Braces, see before and after Invisalign, and how to choose an Invisalign doctor. He also travels nationally to teach dentists and orthodontists on how to use Invisalign.

Elite Preferred Invisalign Status recognizes doctors that have achieved an experience level of the top 1% of all Invisalign providers in the world. It is a designation of the number of patients treated, but there can be still be significant variation between the quality and difficulty level of patients treated. Dr. Tam uses Invisalign as a technique, treated overbites, underbites, extraction cases, combined surgical orthodontics, as well as crowding and spacing. He firmly believes that Invisalign, when used properly can produce beautiful results on par with, and in some cases, better than with fixed braces.

If you have questions about Invisalign and would like to schedule your complimentary consultation with your Elite Richmond Hill Invisalign Orthodontist, please click here.

Markham Orthodontist Introduces the AAO's Braces Brigade Blog!

2011-01-23T11:49:00.004-05:00

When potential new patients come to see us at MCO Markham Orthodontics, they have a lot of questions about their future experience with braces and Invisalign. We have a lot of information on our website, including how to take care of your braces, various treatment modalities, as well as before and afters!

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

Our Markham Orthodontist Team encourages you to visit the Braces Brigade blog to read these great and informative blogs—who knows, maybe you’ll learn a thing or two! As always, don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about the Braces Brigade or your own orthodontic treatment!

Toronto Invisalign Impressions May Soon be a Thing of the Past!

2011-01-10T13:04:00.000-05:00

With any orthodontic treatment, impressions are generally required to produce models for treatment planning. PVS Invisalign Impressions are required for Toronto Invisalign care. However, a new partnership has been formed between Align Technology and Cadent Inc to produce 3D scanners that may eliminate the need for these impressions. This would improve the accuracy of record taking, and improve the experience by not requiring impressions. Rest assured, as soon as this technology is available and proven, we will have it here at MCO Orthodontics in Markham and Stouffville. Here is the press release below:

SAN JOSE, Calif. and CARLSTADT, N.J., Jan. 10, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Align Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq:ALGN - News) and Cadent, Inc., today announced an agreement to jointly develop software applications that will run on Cadent iTero(TM) and iOC(TM) scanners for use in Invisalign treatment. The new applications will optimize case assessment and planning for Invisalign treatment, and bring valuable digital tools chair-side for Invisalign providers who use Cadent scanners.

"The joint development agreement with Cadent is in line with our long-term strategic initiatives of improving the Invisalign customer experience through innovation," said Thomas M. Prescott, Align president and CEO. "Our partnership with Cadent allows us to leverage our own and other innovative technology to bring digital diagnosis and treatment tools conveniently chair-side in customers' practices."

"Cadent's powder-free scanning technology is fundamental for meeting the precision demanded by Align's standards," said Timothy Mack, Cadent president and CEO. "We are honored to develop new Invisalign applications which leverage our combined technologies and create value for our mutual customers and their patients. Integration with Invisalign has been one of the most widely requested enhancements by both general practitioners who use the iTero system and orthodontists who are using the iOC system."

Over the past few years, Align has worked with several manufacturers of intra-oral scanning (IOS) systems to evaluate interoperability of these systems for future use with Invisalign treatment. Rigorous standards for scan quality and accuracy have been defined by Align to ensure a specific scanning technology can successfully replace the physical impressions currently used in an Invisalign case submission. As part of that program, Align is currently in final beta tests with Cadent to validate their systems for use with Invisalign and expects to announce interoperability in the second quarter of 2011.

Under the terms of the agreement, Align will fund several million dollars for Cadent software development over the next few quarters in order to accelerate the availability of these chair-side applications. Align will own all rights to the developed applications and technology. Additional information regarding these new Invisalign applications will be provided closer to commercial launch.

Music Video by Train- Spreading the Holiday Cheer from Your Orthodontist in Markham

2010-12-22T22:51:00.002-05:00

The holidays are well underway in Markham and we just wanted to share a cute video with you all. We may not all celebrate Christmas, but we can all appreciate the warmth and happiness of this video.

It's our last day in the clinic for 2010 this Thursday. Your Markham orthodontist wishes everyone a very happy holiday season and a fantastic 2011!

Markham and Toronto Orthodontist Discusses Recent Article about Damon Braces, Self-Ligating Braces, etc.

2010-12-18T09:55:00.001-05:00

At MCO Markham and Stouffville Orthodontics, we want to present all of the relevant information to our patients so that they can make the most informed decision. We get many inquiries about Damon braces or SL brackets. We have not found these brackets to provide any superior results, comfort, or speed, and have been able to provide excellent, on-time care, with our current modern bracket system. We plan treatment well, so we can see our patients every 8 weeks and still often complete treatment ahead of schedule!

In the August 2010 issue of the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthodpedics, an article was written about claims made by manufacturers of various self-ligating braces. The American Association of Orthodontics' Council on Scientific Affairs looked at this topic from the stand point of what evidence there is about these claims. They looked at:

1. Does lateral expansion of the dental arch by SL brackets "grow" buccal alveolar bone? There is no peer reviewed material on this subject.

2. Is lateral expansion of the dental arch by SL brackets comparable with the lateral expansion gained by rapid maxillary expansion followed by conventional brackets? There is no peer reviewed material on this subject.

3. Is lateral expansion of the dental arch gained by SL brackets stable in the long term? There is no peer reviewed material on this subject.

4. Are SL brackets more efficient and more effective than conventional bracket systems? Current evidence DOES NOT support this assertion.

5. So SL brackets provide less friction between the archwire and bracket? Current evidence shows this under specific lab conditions, but does not represent real life situations.

6. Do SL brackets produce lower clincial forces compared with traditional brackets? No in-vivo studies ahve been shown to answer this question.

7. Do patients treated with SL brackets experience less pain during treatment? There is not a lot of data to compare, yet this is a study reporting that patients with SL brackets experienced greater pain than those with traditional brackets.

8. Are conventional brackets less hygienic than SL brackets? Evidence does not support this claim.

Most of the notable assertions made by SL bracket companies are not backed up by evidence in scientific studies. Unfortunately, many orthodontists continue to make these claims. Ultimately, it is not the type of brace that is going to determine the outcome of your treatment. It is the skill of the orthodontist, his/her team, treatment plan, and diagnosis that will be the difference.

Your Toronto Invisalign Specialist Says. "Smile More! "

2010-12-04T10:15:00.000-05:00

Your Markham - Stouffville Orthodontist suggests you smile more :). Our Toronto Invisalign and Unionville braces patients have a lot to be happy about, including patient contests, rewards programs, frozen yogurt, and Invisalign, to go along with their beautiful smiles!

According to a March 2010 study at Michigan’s Wayne State University, those with big smiles may actually live than those who don’t. Positive emotions have been linked to both physical and mental health for some time. Researchers looked at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity, ranging from big smile, no smile or partial smile. They then compared this data to the longevity of the players, taking into account other factors, such as body mass index, career length and even college attendance.

The results? Researchers found that players who weren't smiling in the photos lived an average of 72.9 years, players with partial smiles lived to be 75, and those with the biggest smiles lived to be 79.9 years old. The take home message is pretty clear!

If you're self-conscious about your smile, contact MCO Orthodontics to discover how we can help. We look forward to helping you achieve your best smile possible!

Richmond Hill Invisalign Dentist and Team Attend Invisalign Summit Las Vegas

2010-11-15T13:18:00.000-05:00

TeamMCO, your Markham braces and Stouffville Invisalign team, recently went down to Las Vegas to attend the Invisalign Summit. This is a meeting of the top offices in North America. With a large waiting list, we were fortunate to be prioritized for early registration so that the entire team could take part in this excellent learning process. We firmly believe that aside from having one of the best Invisalign doctors in the country, the knowledge of our team is second to none. This ensures a smooth treatment process and allows us to answer any of your questions regarding your Invisalign care.

If you'd like to see more pictures of this great learning experience and team building trip, check out our MCO Orthodontics Facebook page!

MCO's Toronto Invisalign Patient Day is November 18th, 2010

2010-10-26T10:56:00.003-04:00

MCO, your orthodontist in Markham, knows it is time for youto think about making your teeth straight and smile without worrying about the cost of Invisalign in Toronto. Our Invisalign Sale Day is a great reason for you to get going on your smile using virtually invisible braces. For one day only, getting Invisalign is less expensive than our aesthetic ceramic braces!

MCO Invisalign Orthodontics is hosting another Toronto Invisalign Day. Back by popular demand, this is your opportunity to experience Invisalign treatment with one of Toronto's top Invisalign Specialists. Dr. Tam teaches Invisalign to dentists and orthodontists nationally for Invisalign and has treated several dentists, their staff, and family members using this clear braces technique.

The event will be held on Thursday, November 18th, 2010 between 1-6pm at Markham Centre Orthodontics. It is the day for you to begin treatment with us to take advantage of over $1000 in savings:

-Free Invisalign evaluation (including photos, x-rays, and examination... a $380 value)

-$380 off your treatment fee

-complimentary tooth whitening at the end of Invisalign treatment ($350 value)

-special giveaways and refreshments

-on-site Invisalign representative.

If you would like to schedule an appointment with us, please call 905-477-7750 or schedule an online appoinment at our Toronto Invisalign website. The spots will fill up fast, juast as they did at our previous 2 events. Vists are by appointment only and reserved for the first 20 new patients. We look forward to meeting you soon!

Markham Orthodontist is Guest Speaker at the Niagara Peninsula Dental Association Study Club

2010-10-20T10:22:00.006-04:00

Your Markham Orthodontist was invited by the NPDA study club, a component society of the Ontario Dental Association, to provide a 5 hour lecture series on Orthodontics in 2010. The study club meets periodically throughout the year to educate dentists and specialists on a variety of dental topics.

Dr. Tam provided lectures emphasizing the correct timing for orthodontic treatment, discussed indirect bonding, the use of temporary attachment devices, social media, and his national lecture on Invisalign. Key points were to initiate MOST orthodontic treatments just prior to loss of the 2nd primary molars and that overall, the length of the lower jaw cannot be increased if done earlier when compared to during the peak period of growth. Other issues such as crossbites with mandibular deviation or underbite tendencies with a retruded upper jaw must be treated between the ages of 7 to 10.

The group of about 70 dentists found these topics and Dr. Tam's delivery extremely interesting. One of the attending dentists, Dr. Frank Bojcic, sent Dr. Tam an email after the presentation stating, "I am really happy that I came today. I really enjoyed the day as the pace picked up and it was not just a regular ortho course. Great content. Kudos." Dr. Tam was invited by several individuals to provide more lectures in the future and is happy to be on the forefront of knowledge and technology in his field.

Invisalign G3 as Discussed by Your Markham Orthodontist

2010-10-01T13:39:00.005-04:00

Your Toronto Invisalign Specialist took part in the web conference call release of Invisalign G3. Being implemented October 11th, it has been touted to deliver better clinical results. It will be available on Invisalign, Invisalign Teen, and Invisalign Assist. Some of the changes do may make it unsuitable for Invisalign Express. Below is a summary of some of the changes followed by Markham Orthodontist, Dr. Tam's, opinions.

The key improvements surround Smart-Force Features. The science is that the features are customized to each tooth based on width, long axis, and the contour of the entire tooth, while measuring actual forces. These new features and changes include:

1. Torquing ridges for lower incisors. Previously only on upper incisors to help with lingual root torque

2. Lingual ridges paired with buccal ridges when retracting and requesting lingual root torque. There was a previous concern that, when retracting teeth, no lingual surface was contacting the tooth, therefore removing one of the force vectors required to achieve a moment, and a compromise in root torque.

3, Optimized rotation attachments-Some new variations to allow them to be placed at the centre of the tooth if required, so that there are fewer interferences with the bite from opposing teeth. Previously only on canines, but now also on bicuspids. The claim is that instead of predictable 30 degree rotations, 45 degrees can also be achieved predictably. These attachments are supposed to be less retentive and therefore make it easier for patients to remove aligners when compared to the use of vertical attachments.

4. IPR staging- Earlier improvement was to check the contact points of the teeth before doing IPR, but will now take into account the mesial/distal axes as well as the incisal edges. This claim is that IPR is going to be a simpler procedure. indicators in the software will change colour of the IPR from grey=done, yellow=current stage, white=later to help the clinician properly identify when IPR is to occur.

5. Precision cuts- Precuts in the aligner are now available to allow the use of buttons or elastics. Previously, clinicians would have to make cuts in the aligners with nail clipper or crown/bridge scissors.

6. Passive aligners- No movement but still get fresh trays. Especially good for patients where one arch takes far longer than the other or those wearing elastics for several months to correct A/P discrepancies.

7. Delay of IPR and attachments. Specific movements requiring attachments will start when attachments placed. IPR can be requested to not occur within the first few visits to ease patients into treatment. Allow patients to get used to aligners and also help offices with patient appointments.

8. Highlighting of unpredictable movements- The range of “predictable” movements will be shown in the ClinCheck and any “harder movements” will be indicated. Previously had to be recognized by the doctor visually. For example, large extrusions, rotations, moving certain teeth without attachments, moving teeth large distances.

How does Invisalign G3 affect me as a doctor or as a patient?
These changes are in a positive direction for Invisalign and Align Technology. There is an improvement in the clinical efficiency for doctors, aiding in the patient experience, and a show of commitment to achieving scientifically- based, excellent clinical results with aligners.

For experienced clinicians, G3 does not mark a large change in the way we plan treatment, as many of us have already been personalizing these treatment features for our patients already. The biggest plus is that the new software and features make it extremely clear to doctors that they are the ones who are directing treatment. Impressions are not to be sent to Align to allow technicians to plan treatment. Invisalign is not magic. It should be viewed as an orthodontic technique, not a product. Therefore, while these changes allow the doctor more flexibility and decision-making, it will really begin to separate the experienced doctors from those who are less experienced. Treatment planning and diagnosis will still be paramount in any successful Invisalign treatment.

For more information, please visit www.torontoinvisalign.com or visit www.markhamortho.com to learn more about Dr. Tam and MCO Invisalign Orthodontics.

Dr. Tam Recognized for His Service as Chinese Canadian Dental Society President

2010-09-29T12:25:00.003-04:00

Apart from the office at MCO Markham Orthodontics, Dr. Tam has been on the executive of the Chinese Canadian Dental Society (CCDS) for the past three years, serving as President in 2009/10.

Dr. Tam receiving his award from incoming President Dr. Erica Shum.

The goals of the society are:
* Professional and technical exchange of idea among members and other professional groups
* Community Service such as dental screening clinics at Chinese Community Health Fairs
* Social activities amongst the members and their families;
* Assistance to students studying Dentistry;
* Assistance to graduates in regards to practice setup, management, associateships

Markham Orthodontist addresses the audience of over 120 dentists and family.

While his term as President is over, Dr. Tam remains a highly respected member of the dental community and an excellent resource for fellow dentists. Congratulations on being recognized by the CCDS for your voluntary contributions to the dental community!

Toronto Invisalign Specialist teaches Eastern Canada Invisalign Dentists, Orthodontists, Dental Hygienists, and Assistants How to Use Invisalign

2010-09-18T08:15:00.010-04:00

As a leading invisible braces orthodontist practising Invisalign in Toronto, Dr. Tam was hired by Align Technology to provide 3 lectures in the Maritimes.

Dr. Tam teaching the orthodontists, hygienists, and assistants in Fredericton.

He started with a lecture to Hatheway Orthodontics in Fredericton, before flying to Halifax for two study clubs to teach Halifax orthodontists and dentists. Having extensive experience in producing excellent results, the attendees were extremely happy to receive training from Dr. Tam on how to move teeth with aligners, and tips for patient care. Unfortunately, this information is not part of the certification process. Certified Invisalign providers do not receive extensive training on effective, and predictable tooth movement, as most information is regarding the materials submission process.

Dr. Tam lecturing to dentists at the Marriott Harbourfront Halifax

Invisalign is an invisible, clear braces technique of moving teeth. If you are interested in Toronto Invisalign, please visit our office for complimentary consultation.

SL brackets vs Traditional braces: Damon Braces, Innovation Braces, Smart-Clip...

2010-08-31T18:13:00.000-04:00

Orthodontists in Markham and across North America have made claims regarding the superiority of their bracket system compared to traditional braces. They make claims about less pain, faster treatment, less friction, etc. So what is the truth?

In the most recent American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, an article makes it quite clear.

There is no current evidence for the majority of claims made by proponents of Damon braces and other SL braces.

Highlights of this article include:

-No evidence that lateral expansion of the dental arch by self-ligating brackets ‘‘grows’’ buccal alveolar bone
-No evidence that self-ligating bracket systems are more efficient or effective than conventional edgewise bracket systems
-No evidence patients treated with self-ligating bracket systems experience less pain during treatment

It is a shame that some orthodontists continue to maintain these claims regarding the "superiority" of their braces, whether out of lack of knowledge, or in the name of marketing. Ultimately, the diagnosis and treatment plan, the precision of wire and bracket placement, as well as the management of the movement of teeth, make the biggest difference in your orthodontic results. Best of luck in your orthodontic treatment!

Toronto Invisalign Specialist Breaks the Story on Invisalign G3

2010-08-17T10:40:00.003-04:00

Your Toronto Invisalign Orthodontist, Dr. Jason K. Tam, is happy to let you know about the best generation of Invisalign known as Invisalign G3, being released by Align Technology in October 2010 for North America.

There are modifications to allow for more doctor control in the treatment planning process, by allowing doctors to place attachments where they wish, use features to help correct class 2 and class 3 malocclusions, and introduce new and improved "SmartForce" features as follows:

-Optimized Rotation Attachments
-Power Ridge feature
-Optimized Extrusion Attachments
-Plus new features to be announced.

This next generation makes it even more clear that the doctor must be in control of this braces technique in order to provide the most optimal results. In other words, just like traditional braces, there will be a difference in your final treatment result depending on the doctor you choose. If you would like to see a short video regarding these new changes, it is available at the Aligntech Institute.

Click here if you would like to find out more about Invisalign or are in the Toronto area and want to schedule your free Invisalign consultation!

Markham Invisalign Orthodontist Takes an East Coast Road Trip

2010-08-04T12:09:00.006-04:00

Your Markham Orthodontist and TeamMCO worked extremely hard in July and took a well deserved week off at the end of the month. Some of the team took trips, went to cottages, while others just had some nice time to relax.

Dr. Tam and his wife took a road trip through Washington DC, Philadelphia, and New York City. Here are some pics from their trip and we hope you are all enjoying a wonderful summer!

After trekking to the White House in over 40C heat, Dr. Tam and Amelia took a nice stroll in Georgetown, home of the famous DC Cupcakes (as seen on TV). The line up was over 45 min... Thankfully, they managed to have someone sell them one of the famous Red Velvet cupcakes!

It was then time to drive off to Philadephia. What trip to Philly would be complete without a cheesesteak! They visted the famous corner with Geno's and Pat's before going to Jim's, where many celebrities have enjoyed their famous steak sandwiches!

After Philly, it was off to NYC, where Dr. Tam worked as a dentist for a year before starting off as an orthodontic and Invisalign specialist. Dr. Tam measures up to NBA stars Chris Paul, Kobe Bryant, and Dirk Nowitzki and then enjoys a walk in Times Square.

Ask Your Markham Orthodontist: What do Radiance Brackets Look Like?

2010-07-20T22:24:00.005-04:00

Increasingly, we're finding a lot of Richmond Hill braces patients coming in to MCO Orthodontics asking for a specific type of clear braces. Many of them are looking for a fixed brace that is not particularly noticeable. There are many brands including Damon Clear Braces, 3M Clarity, and Ice Braces, but the one gaining market share at the fastest rate is American Orthodontics' Radiance Bracket. Here's why...

Traditionally, there has been a knock against clear ceramic braces taking longer than metal braces as well as being difficult to remove. With improved technology, Radiance braces will allow teeth to move as quickly as with traditional metal braces.

Here are a couple of additional benefits:

-Clear Polished Sapphire. Made with the second hardest mineral known to man, it will not fracture unlike other brands, and is an extremely strong bracket

-Predictable Debonding. Radiance bracket's patented Quad-Matte™ base allows for a strong bond in the center to hold the bracket in place, but a weaker bond on the outside to allow for easy debonding.

-Smooth Comfort. Radiance is smooth to the touch making them safe and comfortable for the patient.

-Invisible. Radiance braces are virtually invisible, allowing our patients the confidence to smile in work and social situations.

-No Staining. Radiance's monocrystalline structure and highly polished surface serve as barriers to undesirable staining elements.

For all of these above reasons, Radiance has become the "clear" choice for ceramic braces at MCO Orthodontics. To learn more, or schedule your complimentary consultation, please click here.

Invisalign in Toronto... All You Need To Know!

2010-07-13T17:18:00.006-04:00

We are now happy to announce that the Invisalign in Toronto website has now gone live. Your MCO Orthodontics Markham team spent over half a year working on the content for this Invisalign, Invisalign Teen, and Invisalign Express site. Special thanks to a local Markham company, StakPrint, for their wonderful work on the website design!

It is a must see for anyone considering Invisalign, discussing the various products, before and after Invisalign, how to choose a doctor, and other information that you should read before starting treatment.

Remember that Invisalign is a technique, not a product. Book your Invisalign appointment request online and let us help you discover your MCO Invisalign Smile!

Toronto Invisalign Impression, IPR, Attachments Videos in HD!

2010-06-30T10:52:00.011-04:00

MCO Invisalign Orthodontics has rapidly become one of the most experienced and top offices of Toronto Invisalign patients from Markham, Richmond Hill, Stouffville, North York, and Scarborough. Dr. Jason K. Tam has become the choice orthodontist for many Invisalign patients, including dentists, dental hygienists, assistants, some driving up to 4 hours away and others who have come from overseas. He has been asked to speak nationally to orthodontists and dentists about the Invisalign invisible braces technique.

As a result of our Invisalign experience, we discovered that it would be helpful for our patients to see live procedures before they came in for them. For the benefit of potential Invisalign patients, we hired professional videographers from Silverpoint Media to film our team member, Mandy, undergo various parts of her Invisalign treatment.

We have four Invisalign procedure videos for your viewing. They will be best viewed from our YouTube page by double clicking on the video.

1. Invisalign PVS Impressions

2. Invisalign Insertion... the first day!

3. Placement of Invisalign attachments

4. IPR / Interproximal reduction / Slenderizing / Tooth filing

We hope that you will find these videos helpful as you begin on your way to a beautiful smile the Invisalign way! To schedule your free consultation for Invisalign, please click here.

Markham Orthodontist and Toronto Invisalign Office Video

2010-06-08T12:52:00.005-04:00

MCO Markham Orthodontics has just put the finishing touches on our new office introduction video. We're extremely honoured to be your choice for Invisalign in Toronto and various braces options for the northeast GTA. We love to create great smiles and have fun at the same time!

Click here to schedule your complimentary initial assessment and get on your way to a beautiful straight smile today! We look forward to meeting you soon :).

Invisalign Wedding Smiles in Toronto and Markham

2010-05-24T10:38:00.000-04:00

Last year, we had over 10 patients begin Invisalign braces with us in preparation for their Toronto wedding smiles. They have now sent us some photos and we're happy to share them with you. Thanks to Tammy, Omar, and Lisa for sending us some pics of your special day!

Of note, many of our patients were not finished with their Invisalign treatment going into their big wedding day, but all of them had a noticeable improvement in their smile. This is important because a lot of Invisalign patients are concerned with other people noticing their Invisalign and attachments. Some of our brides and grooms even took photos with their aligners in, and nobody knew!

If you are interested in straightening your teeth to have a beautiful smile for your wedding, consider Invisalign at MCO. Find out more information and book a complimentary consultation here :).

Toronto Invisalign: What can Invisalign correct?

2010-05-19T10:38:00.000-04:00

At Markham Centre Orthodontics see a lot of Richmond Hill Invisalign patients and one thing we try to get across is that Invisalign isn't a product but should be viewed as a technique. There is considerable variation in the types of treatment that a doctor can provide with Invisalign based upon experience and skill.

Check out this video by Markham Invisalign specialist, Dr. Tam:

If you're interested in Invisalign to help straighten your teeth and get the great smile you deserve, without using metal braces, click here to schedule your complimentary assessment.

Ask your Markham and Greater Toronto Orthodontist... Why Are Straight Teeth So Important?

2010-05-11T19:39:00.001-04:00

Some people wonder why we work so hard here at Markham Centre Orthodontics to give our patients straight teeth. Of course it's nice to have a smile full of evenly aligned teeth, but did you know that straightening your teeth can keep them healthier? Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime.

Straight teeth are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque, the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to tooth decay. Ever had problems flossing or brushing around crooked teeth? Straight teeth are much easier to maintain and keep clean! In addition, in our society, for better or for worse, first impressions count, and a beautiful smile can take you and your children a long way towards a successful career and life.

Of course, your Markham and Greater Toronto Orthodontist, Dr. Tam, works with braces and Invisalign to help align your teeth. He may also work with your dentist or other specialists to help fine tune the details to your new smile.

As we begin to live longer and wish to improve the quality of our lives, straight teeth and a healthy smile play a vital role. Think about enjoying the foods you love and showing a confident smile for those wedding and Facebook pictures! A smile goes a long way! (Yes that is younger Dr. Tam and his wife Amelia during their engagement shoot!)

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause you problems because they are out of alignment, give us a call at 905-477-7750 to set up your complimentary consultation. Dr. Tam can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign here in Markham and Greater Toronto.

Toronto, Markham, and Richmond Hill Invisalign Day Sale

2010-04-24T17:39:00.000-04:00

As summer approaches, it's time to think about your smile without worrying about the cost of Invisalign! Invisalign Day is a great reason for you to get going on your smile using virtually invisible braces.

Markham Centre Orthodontics is hosting another Invisalign Day. Back by popular demand, this is your opportunity to experience Invisalign treatment with one of Toronto's top Invisalign specialists. Dr. Tam has lectured with Align Technology and treated several dentists, their staff, and family members using this clear braces technique. He was also part of the pilot project for the development of the popular Invisalign Teen.

We're bringing back Invisalign Day on Thursday, May 13th, 2010 between 1-6PM at Markham Centre Orthodontics. It is the day for you to begin treatment with us to take advantage of:

-complimentary Invisalign evaluation
-$380 off your treatment fee
-complimentary tooth whitening at the end of Invisalign treatment
-special giveaways and refreshments
-on-site Invisalign representative

If you would like to schedule an appointment with us, please call 905-477-7750 or fill out our online appointment request form here:. The spots will fill up fast, just as they did at our last event. Visits are by appointment only and reserved for the first 20 new patients. We look forward to meeting you soon!

Toronto Invisalign Orthodontist Breaks Story on Modification to Proficiency Requirements

2010-04-22T18:10:00.002-04:00

Your Invisalign orthodontist tries to keep you informed about any news regarding Align Technology. Last year, new proficiency requirements were announced for orthodontists and dentists to remain certified with Invisalign. There was a lot of backlash from the profession, despite the apparent need to improve the quality of results from doctors due to inexperience.

This is likely not a good thing for prospective patients, as it means that there will still be a large pool of inexperienced Invisalign providers out there past June. Please remember that Invisalign is a technique requiring an experienced Invisalign doctor.

Here's breaking news regarding the removal of case requirements:

Dear Doctor:

I am writing to share some significant changes to the way we encourage product proficiency with Invisalign. Last June, we announced the Invisalign proficiency program, an initiative aimed at helping doctors who use Invisalign develop and maintain a baseline of Invisalign product knowledge and experience. While we remain deeply committed to the original objectives of the proficiency program, we are equally committed to listening to our customers and responding to their concerns. Effective immediately, Align is eliminating the annual case requirement for Invisalign providers. Instead of requiring doctors to start 10 Invisalign cases per year, we will focus on other ways to help ensure great treatment results for doctors and patients, including:

Maintaining the annual 10 CE hour requirement to ensure doctors have the latest product and clinical training available;
Continued product innovation and improvement to deliver great product performance and predictability, and the outcomes doctors expect.
We launched the proficiency program with the best of intentions – to help ensure that every Invisalign provider can achieve great results for his or her patients, and that every patient can be confident of a great treatment experience with an Invisalign provider. We knew that the program represented a big change for our customers, but we did not anticipate the scope and intensity of their frustration with the annual case requirement.

In addition, numerous national and state professional organizations strongly oppose the case start requirement. Two organizations have taken action against the case requirement and other groups are threatening similar action. These industry relationships are important to Align; we’ve worked hard over the years to develop them.

While we remain deeply committed to helping ensure great results for Invisalign doctors and patients, we cannot ignore our customers’ continued frustration and concerns, or those of valued industry partners. We will continue to award Invisalign Preferred Provider status to doctors who reach a minimum of 10 case starts a year. While this is not a requirement, we believe that Preferred Provider status encourages doctors to continue building their Invisalign experience and offers valuable benefits to our customers, including:

Access to millions of consumers through inclusion on Invisalign.com’s Find a Doctor search tool;
Preferred Provider-branded marketing resources for your practice;
A multi-million dollar consumer advertising campaign that drives prospective patients to “see a Preferred Provider;”
Industry-leading sales and clinical support teams, with a dedicated customer care hotline;
A new customer loyalty and rewards program coming in 2011 that will combine Preferred Provider status and Invisalign Advantage program benefits with a new range of rewards.

We realize that this represents another significant change for our customers, but hopefully a welcome one. We understand that meeting the proficiency requirements was not easy for many customers, and we truly appreciate the commitment you’ve demonstrated to Invisalign over the past several months.

If there is anything that my team or I can do for you, we are here to help. If you have questions regarding the Invisalign CE requirements, Preferred Provider status, or other details, please visit http://vip.invisalign.com/proficiency.

Your success and satisfaction with Invisalign and with our company are our highest priorities. We know that we can only be successful over the long-term if we listen to our customers and respond to their needs.

Thank you again for support and for your business.

Sincerely,

Dan S. Ellis Vice President, North American Sales

Markham Orthodontist meets with Top Orthodontic Practices in Chicago

2010-04-17T16:58:00.003-04:00

For the second year in a row, Dr. Tam, your Markham braces specialist, met with some of the best orthodontists in North America at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare Chicago. There were orthodontists from Atlanta, San Francisco, Syracuse, Sacramento, Vancouver, Montreal, Minnesota, New Orleans, D.C., and more.

It takes extremely dedicated professionals to fly to another city, and lock themselves in a hotel conference room for two and a half full days of intense informational exchange. They discussed various aspects of orthodontic treatment, Invisalign, TADs, Incognito braces, scheduling, patient activities, and a numbers analysis of the practices.

Dr. Tam would like to thank Hummingbird Associates for having him at this meeting and looks forward to the implementation and exchange of ideas. It is meetings such as these that continue to keep us as the top choice for Markham and Richmond Hill orthodontic treatment.

Toronto Invisalign Specialist meets with some of Invisalign's Top Directors at Leafs Game

2010-03-30T22:51:00.008-04:00

Dr. Tam, your Toronto Invisalign Dentist, was recently invited to meet with some of Invisalign's Senior Executives.

It was business and pleasure as they enjoyed dinner over the Leafs vs Thrashers. Despite the 3-2 loss, it was an excellent evening of dialogue between Dr. Tam, the Senior Director of North American Sales, an Invisalign President's Club representative, Invisalign's Canadian National Manager. They discussed the future of Align Technology, upcoming innovations, and the direction of Invisalign education.

It was stressed that Invisalign is a technique, rather than a product. Dr. Tam was happy to learn that Invisalign understands that there is a real problem with the number of certified doctors who are not proficient in using aligners. He suggested ideas on how to bring other orthodontists up to speed on how Invisalign works in the best offices.

Should you wish to learn more about Invisalign, or schedule your free Toronto Invisalign consultation, please feel free to call us at 905 477 7750, or book your appointment online.

Your Markham and Toronto Invisalign Orthodontist... A Pleasant Place to Visit

2010-03-20T12:29:00.002-04:00

Does hearing the word "orthodontist" or "braces" send shivers down your spine? Many people experience some nervousness when preparing to visit the orthodontist. However, with modern technology at Markham Centre Orthodontics, we are able to provide relatively pain-free procedures, and in some cases, treat patients in less time than with traditional methods. In addition, our loft ceilings, comfortable chairs, modern setting, and friendly team will set even the most anxious patients at ease.

Some of these newer treatment options include both Invisalign and Invisalign Teen. For more information, see our website.

Parents and patients often ask about pain with braces. All patients may experience tenderness and mild soreness hours after undergoing an orthodontic procedure. This is part of the biology of tooth movement and will occur regardless of which appliance you use. It will vary from person to person. We see our patients about once every eight weeks to minimize the incidence of your discomfort. We are also happy to explain to our patients how to minimize this discomfort and take care of your new braces.

The orthodontist's office is a very pleasant place to visit! Increasingly, teens are asking their parents for braces and Invisalign and some of their parents join them as our patients too! Markham Centre Orthodontics strives to provide you with a great smile and a fantastic orthodontic experience. Please contact our office to find out more about the treatments we provide and what we do to ensure your visits are comfortable!

Braces Before and After with Extractions by your Markham Braces Orthodontist

2010-03-08T10:42:00.009-05:00

We've had a number of requests to showcase some examples of before and afters for our Toronto Invisalign and braces patients. We'll begin periodically posting some of the beautiful smiles we've created here at Markham Centre Orthodontics. Any examples you see have been posted with written consent from our patients.

JW before braces with severe crowding, crossbites, and malalignment.

JW after 2 years of braces with 4 teeth removed. She couldn't stop smiling!

If you're interested in achieving beautiful, straight teeth, whether you have minor malalignment or severe dental malocclusion, click here to schedule your complimentary initial consultation with us. We look forward to seeing you soon!

March Break Activities in Markham and Richmond Hill from your Unionville Orthodontist

2010-02-21T08:44:00.007-05:00

With the holiday season long gone, our Markham braces and Invisalign patients all tell us that they can't wait for March Break! Some are lucky enough to go away to places like Florida, the Dominican, Cuba, and Mexico, while others will be at home in Markham, looking for things to do.

Don't forget that it is a great time to schedule your braces and Invisalign consultation with us while the kids are off school! Traditionally, March Break is one of the busiest times of year at Markham Centre Orthodontics. Teens are especially excited about Invisalign Teen, an orthodontic technique for straightening teeth without braces. Call 905-477-7750 or request an appointment online.

Here's are some links to some other programs that will be happening around Markham. Remember to relax, stay safe, and have fun!

March Break in Markham

March Break in York Region

Toronto Invisalign: Frequently Asked Questions

2010-02-11T23:19:00.005-05:00

Designated as Premier Provider by Invisalign, your Markham and Richmond Hill Invisalign braces orthodontist fields a lot of questions about Invisalign. Here are some of the FAQ from the American Association of Orthodontists.

Q: How much does Invisalign cost?

A: As with other types of orthodontic treatment, the cost of Invisalign depends on the complexity of a patient’s case. The team at Markham Centre Orthodontics can determine your treatment cost at your complimentary consultation appointment.

Q: Does Invisalign really work?

A: In short, yes. In both clinical research and in orthodontic and dental practices nationwide, Invisalign has been proven effective at straightening teeth. Dr. Tam has successfully treated himself, and other dental professionals in the Markham area.

Q: Does insurance cover Invisalign?

A: Each patient should review their coverage since medical benefits differ significantly from policy to policy. If a patient has orthodontic coverage however, Invisalign should be covered to the same extent as traditional braces. Remember that Invisalign is still orthodontic treatment.

Q: What are aligners made of?

A: Aligners are made of clear, strong medical grade plastic that is virtually invisible when worn.

Q: What do aligners look like?

A: Aligners are nearly invisible and look similar to clear tooth-whitening trays, but are custom made for a better fit to move teeth. Some orthodontists and dentists have referred to them as “contact lenses for teeth.”

Q: How does Invisalign effectively move teeth?

A: Invisalign aligners, much like brackets and archwires, move teeth through the appropriate placement of controlled force on the teeth. The difference? Invisalign not only controls forces, but also controls the timing of the force application. This results in an efficient force delivery system.

Want to know more about Invisalign? Visit Markham Centre Orthodontics online or give us a call at (905) 477-7750.

Toronto Adult Braces Treatment with your Markham Braces and Invisalign Specialist

2010-01-31T09:33:00.007-05:00

Your Unionville Orthodontics Team often fields questions from parents, whose kids are currently in treatment, about their own teeth. They have seen the amazing results in their children, but are unsure about whether they can successfully undergo treatment. Common questions are about age and types of appliances.

Age is not the primary concern with tooth movement. What is essential is healthy gums and bones. With these two factors in place, adult orthodontics is generally not an issue. Our office provides aesthetic options such as Invisalign, clear ceramic braces, and iBraces / Incognito (inside braces) for those wishing to have a less conspicuous treatment. Dr. Tam has successfully treated patients in their 60s and 70s! In fact, nearly 40% of the patients at Markham Centre Orthodontics are adults. With an environment suitable for people of all ages, our adult braces patients feel extremely comfortable while at the office.

Here's a video from the American Association of Orthodontists featuring Dr. Larry Wang from Maryland regarding adult orthodontics. Dr. Tam spent time with Dr. Wang, who is originally from Richmond Hill, at the Costa Rica Invisalign Study Club for top Invisalign doctors last year.

If you are interested in scheduling your complimentary evaluation regarding your own potential treatment, please feel free to visit our website. See you soon!

Richmond Hill Invisalign Orthodontist Details Invisalign Appointment Timeline

2010-01-16T21:17:00.000-05:00

We're well into the New Year at Markham Centre Orthodontics and have been seeing a lot of interest in Invisalign clear braces to straighten teeth and improve smiles.

Below is an approximate timeline for your appointments:

1. Comprehensive complimentary consultation with records- 1 hour

2. PVS impressions- 20-30 min (may be combined with consult visit)

3. Initial Invisalign Insertion and Instructions- 20-30 min

4. Placement of attachments and instructions on aligner insertion and removal- 45min to 1 hr

5. Checking current aligner and dispensing subsequent aligners- 15min. Add approximately 15min if IPR is required

6. Attachment removal, and final/progress records, and PVS imp for refinement/mid course correction or retainer impressions if required- 45min to 1hr

7. Retention visits- 10-15min

Please call us at 905-477-7750 or email us if you are interested in straightening your teeth without braces. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Happy 2010 and Brushing Tips from your Markham Braces and Richmond Hill Invisalign Orthodontist

2010-01-04T21:28:00.005-05:00

A new decade is upon us and Markham Centre Orthodontics is looking forward to being your continued choice for straight teeth and beautiful smiles in Markham and Richmond Hill!

Let's start off with the year with some helpful tips about brushing:

1. Take time with each individual tooth and pay special attention to the areas where your teeth touch your braces.

2. Remember to angle your brush to cover the tops and bottoms of the braces.

3. Don't forget the inside of your tooth as well as the biting surface.

4. Remember to brush after you eat. Trapped food doesn't look good in braces, but can also cause bad breath and cavities. If you can't brush, make sure you rinse well with water.

5. Keep some of the travel supplies from your new patient care kit with you so that you can clean on the go!

6. Fluoride helps prevent cavities. Use a fluoridated toothpaste and see your dentist for fluoride treatment if necessary.

7. Use your proxibrush to clean between the braces and under your wire. A regular brush can't get under there :(.

8. Floss regularly to keep your gums healthy. Use a floss threader or superfloss if you have trouble putting your regular floss under the wire.

9. Even though you keep your teeth clean on a daily basis, don't forget the visits to the dentist to take care of the areas under the gums.

If you have any questions about brushing, be sure to ask us at your next visit :).

Markham Orthodontist and Team Contribute to Markham Food Bank

2009-12-24T23:54:00.001-05:00

As a part of the holiday season, your Markham braces and Richmond Hill Invisalign orthodontist asked TeamMCO to contribute to our holiday food drive. Many of you decided to bring in non-perishable food items, as well as toys, in exchange for TeamMCO VIP points. A week before Christmas, we dropped off several bags of food to the Markham Food Bank near Markham Road and Highway 7. Thank you to all of our patients and families who helped contribute to those less fortunate in our wonderful community of Markham.

Happy Holidays from TeamMCO!

2009-12-19T13:09:00.002-05:00

Thanks for making us the choice for Markham braces and Richmond Hill Invisalign this decade. All the best for a healthy and happy holiday season. We look forward to continuing to serving the community for decades to come!

Toronto Damon Braces and Richmond Hill Self-Ligating Braces... What does the evidence say?

2009-12-01T11:23:00.004-05:00

Markham Invisalign and Unionville braces patients know MCO to be a high-tech, modern clinic offering exceptional patient care. New patients often ask us about the types of braces used to correct improper alignment and bites. In the last several years, many orthodontic companies have pushed self-ligating (SL) brackets including Damon braces, SmartClip Speed, and Innovation R. Patients have referred to them as “braces that don’t require extraction” or “new technology braces” or “painless braces”. These braces do not require an elastic tie to secure the wire as there is generally some sort of sliding door mechanism. The manufacturers make several claims as pulled directly from their websites:

Straighten teeth faster due to reduced friction
More comfortable/painless treatment
Reduce the number of tooth extractions
Reduce the number of visits
Reduced amount of root resorption

Here are some of the common questions we hear about these braces...

Are self-ligating or Damon braces better than traditional braces?

Do Damon Braces or Self-Ligating braces work faster?

Are Damon Braces or Self-Ligating braces pain-free?

In 2008, Miles published a paper in one of the most highly respected orthodontic journals, Angle Orthodontics, confirming Kusy’s findings in the late 90s, describing friction in conventional vs SL braces. He noted that the friction of the wire against the corners of the brace (2^nd order friction for those physicists and engineers out there!) was the major factor in the speed of tooth movement rather than the force of the elastic against the wire. This property is present in every brace. He was unable to validate manufacturer’s conclusions that SL braces move teeth faster.

This year, in 2009, Fleming also published in the same journal. He wrote that “clinical trial data do not support the contention that treatment time is reduced with SL brackets”. He went on to say that, in fact, there may be a greater number of visits due to a greater number of wire changes required. Patients complained of greater discomfort at their visits from the increased pressure required to open and close SL bracket doors. Speed of tooth movement is independent on bracket type and there is no difference in the amount of root resorption. Braces themselves do not hurt, as evidenced by no pain during the time braces are being put on. It is the mobilization of teeth that causes the teeth to be sensitive, and no brace thus far, has been able to change this biological process.

Do Damon Braces or Self-Ligating braces reduce the need for extraction?

The debate of extraction versus non-extraction is extremely controversial. The bottom line is that extractions can be of benefit in certain situations. There are limits as to the amount of jaw expansion that will remain relatively stable and healthy with respect to the gum and bone structure. Various studies have shown that bone does not regenerate around the teeth, despite using Damon braces, as the company asserts. Sometimes, extractions will improve the profile, as in individuals who cannot close their lips without strain, or who have a protrusive profile. Extractions do not need to mean dished in faces. With proper orthodontic movement, the right amount of retraction of anterior teeth, and protraction of posterior teeth will yield excellent results.

So why are many orthodontists offering Damon braces and SL braces?

The amount of chair time may be reduced for the person changing your wire to flip a door closed rather than ask you what coloured elastics you would like followed by securing them to each individual brace. Also, in our ever-demanding consumer world, who wouldn’t go and see the orthodontist who claims to offer painless, faster treatment? Orthodontic suppliers are providing all of this marketing, the general public has adopted their claims, therefore driving up business. Unfortunately, the orthodontic literature shows there is no advantage, and in some cases there are disadvantages, in using SL brackets. As a profession, orthodontists must remember that we are business, but first and foremost, a health care industry based upon science.

So what's the bottom-line?

Despite the aesthetic nature of orthodontics, it is important that health care treatment be evidence-based. In other words, scientific studies should confirm any claims made. There is a significant amount of physics and biology behind the way your teeth move. At Markham Centre Orthodontics, our team strives to stay up to date on the most advance technologies in order to provide the best care possible. We have chosen not to use Damon braces or self-ligating braces since most modern day braces work the same and they can all produce excellent results. The experience and skill of your orthodontist and their team will be the factors that make the difference.

Toronto and Markham braces patients deserve the most scientific, aesthetic, comfortable, cost-effective, and shortest treatment possible. A lot of our patients enjoy the fun of choosing colours to match their schools, teams, and holidays. At Markham Centre Orthodontics, whether it is braces or Invisalign, rest assured that you will receive the most up-to-date, scientifically-based treatment around. Factor in world-class customer service in a contemporary, comfortable environment, and you’ll discover why we are the secret behind some of Markham’s best smiles. Click here if you would like to book your complimentary examination with us today.

Markham Invisalign and Richmond Hill Invisalign Teen Day a Great Success!

2009-11-20T11:47:00.003-05:00

It seems like a lot of people out there are getting the message that we are one of the top Greater Toronto Invisalign practices, with a reasonable cost of Invisalign, excellent results, and fantastic service. Markham Centre Orthodontics always works to provide the best treatment possible, and in this case, straight teeth with invisible braces :). Remember that Invisalign is a technique, not a product, so not all Invisalign certified doctors are the same.

On November 19th, Markham Centre Orthodontics hosted Invisalign Day, a day with special promos for those interested in Invisalign and Invisalign Teen. We had a full schedule of consultations and tried to accommodate the walk-ins as well. Ages ranged between 12 to 72 coming locally from Markham, Unionville, as well as Toronto. Our office has far exceeded the annual Invisalign proficiency requirements, but we would have met these numbers on Invisalign Day alone!

Click here if you would like to schedule your complimentary orthodontic assessment and get on your way to a beautiful, straight smile!

Markham Braces Holiday Food Drive and Candy Cane Contest

2009-11-09T18:26:00.009-05:00

Your Markham braces orthodontist encourages TeamMCO to bring in 1-2 non-perishable food items for our holiday food drive. At this time of year it is important to remember those less forunate than ourselves. To encourage you, we will be giving out 5-10 TeamMCO points to those who wish to contribute.

Also, at your next visit, make sure you swing by the front desk and count the candy canes. Closest guess wins. Good luck!

Invisalign Braces in Toronto... Dr. Tam Lectures at George Brown College

2009-11-03T13:18:00.007-05:00

Successful before and after Invisalign braces in Richmond Hill requires an experienced doctor and a well-trained team. Invisalign is not magic and should not be viewed as a product. It is simply another orthodontic technique to move teeth, just like braces or other appliances. Our patients at Markham Centre Orthodontics benefit from a highly knowledgeable team, including a few who have had Invisalign treatment themselves!

Saturday, it was Dr. Tam's turn to provide a lecture on Invisalign as a part of the dental hygiene orthodontic module at George Brown College. Dental hygienists from all over Ontario came for this informative session, learning tips from a high quality and high volume Invisalign practice. Dr. Tam also provided a hands on demo on impression taking.

If you're looking for braces or Invisalign treatment in the 905 area, look to your Markham Invisalign orthodontist. Send us an email to book your complimentary assessment today!

Richmond Hill Braces Orthodontist Answers: Do I/ How long do I need retainers?

2009-10-26T12:19:00.000-04:00

Your Markham braces specialist answers another common question about retainers.

Question: How long do I need to wear my retainer?

Answer: As long as you want your teeth to stay straight :).

Scientific articles published in the "American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics" show an enormous variation in how long you need to wear your retainers. These articles indicate that there is no way to predict how teeth may move without retainers. About half of the undesired tooth movement takes place in the first two years after you stop wearing your retainer.

The literature has conflicting information on the influence on wisdom teeth on crowding of teeth. Generally, orthodontists do not believe that wisdom teeth will be the cause or sole cause of malalignment after treatment. Still, it is generally recommended to have wisdom teeth taken out, as we have more than enough teeth for proper function, and this minimizes the possibility of complications from partially impacted teeth, such as acute gum infections, pain, and swelling.

Some crowding of the lower front teeth may be part of the natural aging process similar to greying hair and wrinkled skin. There are still pressures on the teeth after treatment, such as food, the tongue, grinding, and muscle tone. Unfortunately, everything in the world has a tendency towards disorder. Teeth are not an exception. As such, the only way to ensure continued satisfactory alignment is by the use of retainers to some degree, for life.

When it comes time to take braces off, our team of orthodontic professionals will discuss various retainer options with you. Generally, we place a fixed lingual retainer in the lower arch, and provide a removable retainer for the upper jaw. We also offer essix (clear-style mouthguard) retainers. Each option has its inherent and disadvantages, and we will try to find the options that best suit your individual situation.

Our Markham braces patients start off on a full time schedule of wearing retainers for the first few months. They then taper wear down about an hour per month until wearing aligners only at night. We advise our patients to wear retainers to sleep indefinitely. Many of our patients become accustomed to wearing retainers and feel that it is awkward if they go to bed without them! Let it be known that those who maintain straight teeth have a secret... they still wear their retainer!

Invisalign Day at Markham Centre Orthodontics

2009-10-08T10:09:00.012-04:00

Dr. Tam and the team at Markham Centre Orthodontics, your Premier Provider of Invisalign in Markham, Richmond Hill, Scarborough, Toronto, Stouffville, Pickering, Ajax, Thornhill and North York present:

Invisalign Day at Markham Centre Orthodontics

Thursday, November 19th, 2009 from 1PM-6:00PM

**Special Promotions**

-Complimentary exam

-$380 discounted from your treatment fee

-Complimentary whitening to first 20 new Invisalign patients

Ever thought about straight teeth without traditional braces? Now is your chance to take advantage of this limited offer with one of Greater Toronto's top Invisalign Offices. Call us at 905-477-7750 to reserve your visit as appointments are limited!

Note that this day is for those who wish to start treatment on this day. We ask that you confirm your insurance coverage prior this visit. Should you wish to find out more information, please visit our website or schedule a consultation with us before November 19th.

Toronto Invisalign Braces Specialist Provides Trip Report from Costa Rica Study Club

2009-09-29T11:27:00.014-04:00

Outside Align Technologies in Costa Rica

At Markham Centre Orthodontics, we strive to be at the forefront of all aspects of care for our patients. As a Premier Provider of Richmond Hill Invisalign braces and Markham Invisalign Teen, Dr. Tam was fortunate to be invited to attend the Invisalign Study Club in Costa Rica for Top Invisalign doctors. This experience included a tour of the Invisalign tech centre, special lectures about Invsalign 1.5, details of the manufacturing and ClinCheck process, as well as clinical discussions with some of the top Invisalign providers in Canada and America. This entry will detail Dr. Tam's trip to the Invisalign centre.

Invisalign Reception Area

Prior to going into the facility, Dr. Tam was asked to sign a non-disclosure regarding proprietary information. Therefore, as much detail will be provided as possible, without infringing upon this agreement.

The tour began with an informational session about Invisalign in their impressive 63,000 sq ft facility, housing around 730 employees, including 543 different techs, 49 team leaders, 65 customer service reps, 48 in finance and IT, as well as 26 doctors, of which 6 are orthodontists. Any patient information is sent digitally from Mexico, and there is no physical data present in Costa Rica. All employees are eligible for complimentary Invisalign treatment in the Invisalign clinic, allowing them to straighten their teeth, while gaining a deeper understanding of the product they work with.

Invisalign on-site employee clinic

Invisalign has chosen Heredia, Costa Rica for its tech plant because of its political stability, solid IT infrastructure, high literacy rate of 96%, high level of education, and quality of dental schools. With no army, the country is able to provide free medical care, basic dental care, and college education for its citizens. Techs are selected from a large pool of applicants and if chosen, undergo 15 weeks of training before being allowed to work on patient cases. This training is known as “Treat University”, and involves using the “Treat” software, developed in Russia, to learn how to receive data, segment the teeth, set the bite, produce a tooth set up, and figure out the location of the gingival margins. There is some training about basic orthodontic principles and the new techs work with new Invisalign doctors, with the assumption that their cases are less complicated. This becomes a problem when these new doctors send in cases that are beyond the scope of a less experienced provider, and has lead to the development of Invisalign proficiency requirements.

One of the two rooms of Invisalign Techs

There is also a team of experienced techs who work with Premier Providers. They work with fewer different doctors, but tend to work with a higher volume of more challenging cases. These techs are supervised by a team leader, who has previously worked as a tech. Dr. Tam’s particular team leader works with with the top doctors from Canada, New York, and Texas. The team leaders are in turn supervised by a staff dentist who may or may not be an orthodontist. Important to note is that the techs have an understanding of basic English, but may rely on their team leaders to provide further clarification. This makes it even more important that the tech understand the preferences of the doctor.

Our Invisalign Technician Auxi working on one of our ClinChecks

Dr. Tam was very excited to meet his dedicated Invisalign technician, Auxi, and her team leader, Alex. They were able to sit down to talk about his preferences, facilitating a better understanding of Dr. Tam’s Invisalign treatment goals. This minimizes the amount of time required to approve a ClinCheck, provides more optimum treatment, and leads to an expedited production of the aligners. Together, they spent a few hours working with Dr. Tam on some new and existing ClinCheck simulations.

L-R: Team leader Alex, Dr. Tam, Invisalign Tech Auxi

Both Auxi and Alex are extremely talented at their work and were extremely friendly. However, they made a point to state that they are not allowed to make treatment decisions, and rely on the doctor’s expertise, prescription, and modifications to produce optimal treatment. This reinforces the concept that successful treatment requires an experienced provider who understands how to move teeth with Invisalign.

Overall, it was an extremely valuable experience to see how Invisalign works behind the scenes. Their software is constantly being developed, the employees are hard-working, and are in a world-class facility. Dr. Tam would like to thank Align Technology for selecting him for this elite Invisalign meeting.

Please feel free to contact us if you are interested in getting started on the way to a straighter smile without braces.

Markham Braces Team Member Megan in Montreal for Rosemary Bray

2009-09-21T17:15:00.001-04:00

This past August, Megan flew up to Montreal to meet with orthodontic consultant, Rosemary Bray. They met at Korne Orthodontics in Westmount, the orthodontic office of Dr. Paul Korne. Joining her on the trip was Dawn from Scarborough Town Orthodontics. The goal of the one-day meeting was to learn ways to improve customer service, provide the best financial plans, and orthodontic treatment value for our patients.

At Markham Centre Orthodontics, we understand that there may be various challenges to obtaining orthodontic treatment. Whenever possible, we try to remove these barriers and deliver the best Invisalign and braces experience possible. We look forward to continuing to provide Unionville and Markham with some of the area’s best smiles!

Invisalign Braces... The Next Generation of Invisalign coming in October.

2009-09-15T11:57:00.005-04:00

This is a breaking story on Invisalign`s next generation product. They have compiled research as to what makes treatment more predictable and successful, and are attempting to improve general outcomes. It is basically a revision of the best practice protocol, with data taken from some of the most successful offices.

If you are looking at Invisalign treatment, it`s advisable to seek an experienced Invisalign provider since every treatment is different, and requires the expertise of the orthodontist or dentist.

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Sept. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Align Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: ALGN) today introduced new and enhanced product features designed to provide improved results for everyday clinical demands, including extrusion and rotation of teeth, root movements, and interproximal reduction (IPR). The new features will help deliver the great outcomes doctors expect from Invisalign treatment.

"This continued evolution of our product line and our technology is based on extensive customer research and the treatment data and experience gained through more than one million Invisalign cases," said Sheila Tan, Align Technology's vice president, marketing and chief marketing officer. "We believe that these improvements will give doctors greater confidence in what they can achieve with Invisalign, and help deliver the outcomes doctors expect in more clinical applications."

The new product line features are designed to overcome barriers to treatment by addressing clinical issues that doctors have traditionally perceived as challenging in Invisalign treatment, such as extrusions and rotations, and by implementing improvements and best practices frequently requested by doctors:

-- New Optimized Attachments for extrusions and rotations are now custom designed to be patient-specific and tooth-specific to consistently deliver the correct aligner forces to the teeth, helping to increase predictability of the desired movement.

-- Power Ridges(TM), previously available only with Invisalign Teen(TM), are used in place of attachments to provide additional force in cases where certain types of movements, including lingual root torque, are prescribed.

-- Velocity Optimization provides more controlled movements for the entire tooth, including the root, and is designed to limit the speed of tooth movements to optimal ranges. Previously, doctors had to identify movements that might require velocity adjustments and request those changes as part of the treatment planning process. The velocity adjustment will now be accounted for automatically in the case set-up.

-- Interproximal Reduction (IPR) Protocol Improvements address a frequent doctor request regarding timing of IPR during treatment. IPR can now be set up in later stages of treatment when teeth are better aligned and contact points may be easier to access.

-- New Invisalign Attachment Kit and attachment material deliver greater bond strength, wear resistance, accuracy, and ease of use.

All new and enhanced product features are available at no additional cost and
are being released through a phased roll-out with full availability to all
Invisalign-trained doctors in North America by mid October.

Markham Invisalign Team Member Mandy Discusses “What is Invisalign Teen?”

2009-09-09T17:18:00.000-04:00

While many Markham dentists and Unionville and Richmond Hill orthodontists have advertised this product, most patients still don’t know what makes Invisalign Teen different from regular Invisalign. Teen was introduced to the worldwide market in 2009. Dr. Tam and his team at Markham Centre Orthodontics was one of the offices selected to be in the pilot project to develop the product. To date, there are only 4 orthodontic practices in the Greater Toronto Area designated as Invisalign Teen Providers, in Mississauga, downtown Toronto, and us in Markham.

Watch as Mandy describes Invisalign Teen’s new features. Stay tuned to watch her undergo her own Invisalign treatment!

Markham Invisalign Orthodontist Presents Our Word Search Contest!

2009-09-01T18:27:00.008-04:00

Markham Centre Orthodontics, your Invisalign Richmond Hill and braces in Markham, is happy to announce our next office contest. From now until the end of October, our patients are free to participate in our word search. It will be available in the office or you can print up a copy below.

Good luck and we look forward to your entries!

Markham Centre Orthodontics Softball Team Competes in Unionville

2009-08-30T10:28:00.003-04:00

Markham Centre Orthodontics is happy to support our patients in various sports or activities. This summer, one of our patients and coach of the team, Michael, approached Dr. Tam for sponsorship of a team in the peewee/bantam division of UMSC. The team sported royal blue jerseys and has had a lot of fun.

Last week, Dr. Tam and Wanda went out to one of the games to support their team. Each player was given an MCO bag and BPA-free Nalgene water bottle. Unfortunately, the field crew were unable to get the lights on, and the game had to be canceled.

TeamMCO wishes the team all the best as they approach the playoffs!

Markham Invisalign Orthodontist Breaks the Story on Settlement Between Invisalign and Ormco

2009-08-17T13:00:00.005-04:00

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Aug. 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Align Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: ALGN) today announced that it has reached a settlement with Ormco Corporation (Ormco), a subsidiary of Danaher Corporation (NYSE: DHR), to end all pending litigation between the parties and to begin a new strategic collaboration. As part of the settlement, Align will make a cash payment of approximately $13 million to Ormco and issue approximately 7.6 million shares of Align's Common Stock to Danaher Corporation, Ormco's ultimate parent, that after issuance will be equal to approximately ten percent ownership interest in Align. Based on the closing price of Align's Common Stock on Friday, August 14, 2009 the value of the shares is approximately $77 million. The issuance of a portion of the shares is subject to clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended. For a summary of the terms of the transaction, please refer to the Company's Form 8-K filed today.

Align and Ormco have also agreed upon an exclusive collaboration over the next seven years to develop and market an orthodontic product that combines the Invisalign(R) system with Ormco's Insignia(R) orthodontic brackets and arch wires system to treat the most complex cases. Each party will retain ownership of its pre-existing intellectual property, and each party will be granted intellectual property licenses in their respective field for jointly-developed combination products.

"We are pleased to resolve this ongoing litigation with Ormco and to begin a new relationship that meets our shared goals of providing innovative products and excellent service to our orthodontic customers," said Thomas M. Prescott, Align Technology president and CEO. "This collaboration with Ormco, a fellow innovator in digital orthodontics, gives us the ability to compete for a segment of the market that is difficult to treat with Invisalign alone, and accelerates our long-term plan for a combination product."

Per the terms of the agreement, Ormco and Align have requested that judgment be entered on the claims resolved by the jury and all remaining claims in the litigation between the two parties be dismissed with prejudice. Additionally, as part of the settlement agreement, Ormco has agreed to release all past claims asserted by Ormco against Align based upon the '444 patent and has agreed not to sue Align for any claim of infringement based upon the '444 patent as a result of Align's relating to removable aligners.

New Markham Braces and Richmond Hill Invisalign Team Members Join MCO!

2009-08-12T14:39:00.001-04:00

If you’ve been in the office lately, you will have noticed a few new faces at Markham Centre Orthodontics. As we continue to grow, we are committed to bringing on only the best orthodontics team members possible, in keeping with our high standards for treatment and customer service. In this way, we hope to continue to be your choice for Markham braces and Richmond Hill Invisalign.

We are happy to have Jenny join Megan at our reception area to serve you better. Interestingly, we met Jenny as she was referred to our office as a patient by her dentist. She joined our team mid-treatment and is currently in the process of closing up 4 spaces where premolars were extracted for optimal facial aesthetics and profile. Fluent in chinese, particularly cantonese and with a working knowledge of mandarin, Jenny is here to help you with payments, statements, and scheduling your appointments. Be sure to see her or Megan before you leave the office to schedule your next visit!

Aya is the newest member of our clinical team. A dental hygienist for over 7 years, she was educated at George Brown College, where she also took part in the orthodontic study module for dental hygienists. She has completed the local anaesthesia course at the University of Alberta, but is happy that we don’t need to give needles at MCO :). Aya will be seeing you for your adjustment visits, placing/replacing braces, and on that awesome day when your braces are removed! Recently married, and now living in York Region with her husband, Aya is extremely excited to join our team at MCO.

Don’t forget to welcome both team members to TeamMCO. We thank you for your support as we continue to grow as your choice for braces in Markham and Invisalign in Toronto!

Markham Invisalign Specialist Visits California and Elite Invisalign Orthodontists

2009-08-05T22:04:00.010-04:00

Dr. Tam and his wife Amelia recently took a trip to California. They flew into San Francisco, drove up to Napa wine country, and took the scenic drive down the Pacific Coast Highway to Los Angeles. As a part of his recent trip, your Markham braces and Toronto Invisalign orthodontist also spent some time with two of the top Invisalign doctors in California and the world.

The trip began in San Francisco where they saw the Golden Gate Bridge, Union Square, and ate some great food at area restaurants. They managed to get through a 4am hotel fire on the 2nd floor (while staying on the fourth) to take this picture of a huge chair in the lobby of the Clift Hotel, a few blocks from Union Sq.

Following a tour through Napa Valley, it was time to start going down the coast. Along the way, Dr. Tam met Dr. David Shen at a local outdoor mall in Palo Alto, just minutes from Stanford University. Dr. Tam first came to know of Dr. David Shen at the 2007 and 2008 Invisalign Summits, a multi-day Invisalign conference with some of the best Invisalign practices around. Dr. Shen owns 9 practices in the Bay Area and is recognized as one of the top 10 Invisalign doctors in the world. He has been an Elite Invisalign Provider for many years, and has been recognized by CEO Thomas Prescott for his work. These top Invisalign doctors discussed their successes and challenges with Invisalign braces, including extractions with Invisalign, use of elastics and attachments , and various treatments involving a combination of Invisalign and clear, invisible braces. It was a beneficial meeting for them both, ending with Dr. Tam presenting a bottle of ice wine to Dr. Shen, to show him a unique taste from Canada.

Dr. Tam and Amelia then spent a few days driving down the coast, enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Pacific Coast. It was quite chilly around the Bay Area, but began to warm up slightly as they hit the famed Hearst Castle halfway down the coast. This estate property, built in the early 1900s, features 3 large swimming pools, and a 70,000 square foot main house. It couldn't have been easy to build, as tourists must take a bus 8 miles up the mountain to view the property!

Following a few more days down the coast with stops at Pismo Beach and Santa Barbara, Dr. Tam and his wife finally made it to Los Angeles where they met with Dr. Charles Brodsky from Brodsky Orthodontics in the Lakewood/Longbeach area of Los Angeles. Dr. Brodsky, an Elite Invisalign provider and classmate of Dr. Tam’s at Boston University, presented one of the top 5 cases at the 2008 Invisalign Summit. They discussed various office efficiencies, Inviaslign treatment, use of mini-implants in conjunction with fixed orthodontics, and orthodontic customer service.

On the way back to Toronto, Dr. Tam saw a familiar face in the security line at LAX. It was none other than NHL hockey star Paul Kariya. He was nice enough to wait for Dr. Tam to pass through security for a short chat and a pic.

Dr. Tam and Amelia had a wonderful mid-summer break together. It was a very eye opening experience to see the Golden State of California. Dr. Tam also feels very fortunate to be amongst the best group of Invisalign orthodontists in North America. Even on vacation abroad, he is committed to finding out how to provide the best Richmond Hill Invisalign and best Toronto braces for our patients. To schedule your complimentary consultation for Markham Invisalign or Thornhill braces, please contact us at 905-477-7750.

Invisalign's Align Technology Update on Litigation wtih Ormco

2009-07-22T11:35:00.003-04:00

Align Technology Provides Update on Patent Litigation with Ormco Corporation

SANTA CLARA, Calif., July 21, 2009 -- Align Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: ALGN) today provided an update on the a lawsuit brought by Ormco Corporation (Ormco) against Align Technology, Inc. (Align) in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California (District Court), which was tried by jury June 9 through June 25, 2009.
As previously disclosed, on June 26, 2009, the jury delivered a verdict against Align. Ormco alleged that Align infringed claims of Ormco’s 6,616,444 patent. Align claimed non-infringement, invalidity, as well as unenforceability of the patent and equitable defenses. The jury found the claims asserted by Ormco in the 6,616,444 patent to be infringed and valid. The jury also issued an advisory verdict that Ormco did not engage in prosecution laches or unclean hands, equitable defenses raised by Align. The jury only determined liability. Any monetary damages will be determined in a later trial, which has not been schedule, but would likely occur in early 2010. The jury verdict does not preclude Align from selling its Invisalign System. We have not accrued any liability for the judgment related to the Ormco litigation as such amounts are not reasonably estimable at this time. This is due to a number of factors, including: that the Court has not yet entered judgment; that discovery regarding possible damages is a lengthy and time consuming process involving testimony of experts and has not yet begun; and that determining a reasonable royalty rate is highly fact specific and there are many complicated factors to consider in this case.

The Court requested and has received briefing on the equitable defenses raised by Align and is expected to rule on the equitable defenses later this week. Align believes the facts and the law do not support the jury’s findings of infringement and validity and therefore has filed a motion for judgment as a matter of law on all issues seeking to set aside the jury’s verdict of liability. The Court has set a hearing on our motion for August 3, 2009, after which the Court is expected to enter judgment. Depending on the judgment entered by the Court, we may file various post-trial motions and if unsuccessful, we intend to appeal the liability decision and request a stay of the damages phase of the case pending appeal.

On July 13, 2009, Ormco filed a motion for permanent injunction against Align seeking to enjoin the sale of the Invisalign System through the January 2010 expiration of the 6,616,444 patent, as well as other injunctive relief including the destruction of all material, including software, created by Align from September 2003 to the present, the discontinuation of certification programs and the decertification of doctors certified from September 2003 to the present and the destruction of sales representatives’ records developed during this time period. The Court has scheduled a hearing on the motion for permanent injunction for August 17, 2009. Ormco seeks unusual injunctive relief that we believe is unwarranted and not supported by the law or facts of the case. Align will contend that an injunction would cause irreparable harm to Align, its employees and those doctors who include Invisalign as a large part of their practice, and would interrupt patient treatment and services currently underway. In addition, a balancing of hardships weighs heavily in Align’s favor as the issuance of the injunction would require Align the cease the sale of its sole product, the Invisalign System, while the denial of the injunction does not harm Ormco. Finally, any harm Ormco claims to have suffered would be sufficiently compensated by money damage. For these reasons, we strongly believe that Ormco’s motion for a permanent injunction should be denied and we will vigorously oppose the motion. In the unlikely event that the Court grants a permanent injunction, we would immediately appeal to the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals and seek to stay the injunction.

Ormco Patent Litigation Background Previously Disclosed:
Align has had ongoing patent litigation with Ormco, since 2003 when Ormco sued Align for patent infringement and Align won a sweeping summary judgment. Ormco appealed that decision and in August 2007 the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that 86 of Ormco’s 92 claims (related to 6,616,432, '243, '861 and '444 patents) were invalid and not infringed by Align. Ormco pursued the six remaining claims, which relate generally to a process of gathering and organizing tooth data, in the lawsuit against Align in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.

Our Patient Reviews: Richmond Hill Invisalign, Markham Braces, and Thornhill Orthodontics Experiences

2009-07-17T07:11:00.002-04:00

At Markham Centre Orthodontics, Dr. Tam and his team of professionals understand that everyone expects straight teeth and a beautiful smile from their orthodontic treatment. We also know that there are various motivations and a lot of choice for seeking orthodontic care in Markham and Toronto. That is why the success of our work is measured not only by providing you with a beautiful smile, but with a wonderful experience along the way, that you can share with your friends, family, and colleagues.

We thank our patients for providing us with the following online reviews from our website. It is extremely gratifying for us to receive affirmation, from both adults and teens, that we are providing the wonderful care and environment that we strive for. We look forward to continuing to be your choice for Invisalign in Richmond Hill, braces in Pickering, and orthodontists in Markham. Contact us at 905-477-7750 to schedule your complimentary consultation!

Braces and Invisalign Reviews of Dr. Jason Tam and Markham Centre Orthodontics

I never thought I'd have straight teeth because I just will not wear braces and needed some serious movement. Doctor Tam plotted out, what seemed impossible, a treatment using Invisalign and he moved a tooth from behind my main row of teeth to the front. It's been a long road (2 years+) but my teeth are straight and awesome! And no braces! I can't overstate how impressive this Dr.Tam, his staff, and the facility are. If you need orthodontics and are in the Markham area do yourself a favour and at least check MCO out.
-Rajesh K.

I have been a patient of Markham Centre Orthodontics for nearly two years and just recently had my braces removed. Working with Dr. Tam and his team has been a pleasant and an enjoyable experience. Markham Centre Orthodontics offers a modern and contemporary style, as well as a well kept and clean environment. This clinic is very welcoming and is great for patients of all ages. I am very happy with my results, and would recommend this clinic to anyone in need of orthodontic treatment.
-Erin L.

I have been with MCO for almost a year, and I've been seeing great results. The customer service is amazing and Dr. Tam and his team make you feel right at home. I would recommend Dr. Tam to anybody who's looking for a perfect smile!
-Lyshelle B.

I had a great experience with Markham Centre Orthodontics. I wanted the invisalign treatment done as soon as possible and they made driving from far away worth it. The facility is modern and clean. The MCO staff addressed all my questions and concerns and helped make the procedure quick and easy. In less than a year my teeth are straight. I recommend getting the invisalign treatment here. Thank you MCO. -Cory O

I cannot say enough good things about Dr Tam and his staff. They are an excellent team and the facility is state of the art! If you need braces, MCO is the place to go! Being an adult, getting braces was one of those things that I wanted to get done for a very long time but was afraid of the process. After going for consultations at several other orthodontists with no success, my dentist recommended Dr Tam. I immediately felt comfortable with him. The initial consultation was very thorough with xrays, pictures and assessments done on the spot. When it came time to get my braces on, I was pleasantly surprised that Dr Tam had a more efficient way of getting the brackets on that took little time and wasn't as painful as I thought it would be. All procedures are explained to me and I was told what to expect every step of the way. I have had my braces for 15 months now and the progress has been amazing. I actually started seeing dramatic results at my second visit!
-Pauline T.

Pros and Cons of Invisalign- Richmond Hill Invisalign and Scarborough Invisalign Teen Premier Provider

2009-07-03T10:16:00.001-04:00

As a Greater Toronto Invisalign Premier Provider office, we see patients interested in Invisalign from Richmond Hill, Scarborough, North York, and Unionville. Being in the top 5% of all Invisalign providers, our patients are willing to see us in Markham. We are often asked about the pros and cons of Invisalign braces vs traditional metal braces or clear ceramic braces. Here are some of the pros and cons of Invisalign in Thornhill, Markham, Pickering, Ajax, and Whitby. Should you wish to schedule your free Invisalign consultation, please call 905-477-7750 or visit www.markhamortho.com for more information.

Pros:

Removable- easier to maintain oral hygiene, can eat what you want, take out for sports and playing instruments

Virtually Invisible- more aesthetic than metal braces and clear braces so no one need to know you are undergoing orthodontic treatment

Comfortable- no wires or brackets against the inside of your mouth

3-D simulation- video gives patient an idea of the treatment goal prior to starting treatment and may be a motivating factor

Fewer Emergencies- no poking wires or broken brackets

FDA approved material- safe and no concern over metal allergies

Treatment of choice- for certain malocclusions, it may produce a better result in a shorter amount of time

Straight Teeth, No Braces- many patients wish to align their teeth, would never get fixed braces, but would use Invisalign

Cons:

Require excellent cooperation- if they aren't worn as directed, the teeth won't move

Require removal for eating- take aligners out for anything but water, followed by brushing or flossing, before replacing aligners

Cost- generally more expensive than braces (not the case in our office due to Invisalign volume but will differ by provider)

Transient lisp- whether with brackets or aligners, there is an adjustment period and a slight lisp should be expected at the beginning

Changing treatment- treatment set once the ClinCheck is accepted. Direction of treatment changed by new impression and starting again

New aligner every 2 weeks- while this doesn't mean you see the orthodontist/dentist every 2 weeks, you will have new pressure on your teeth that often. Most patients experience some tooth discomfort for a day or two with each new aligner

The final word: Depending on your malocclusion, Invisalign can be an excellent method of straightening your teeth and providing you with a perfect bite. Keep in mind that Invisalign is an ever-evolving technique and requires the orthodontist/dentist to have a firm grasp of tooth movement using a removable appliance. Currently, the majority of certified Invisalign providers do not have a firm understanding of moving teeth with Invisalign, as there is a big difference between how teeth should and can be moved in terms of order and direction. Invisalign isn't applicable for all tooth movements, but an experienced provider will be able to address a wider variety of situations.

If you would like to schedule your complimentary consultation for braces or Invisalign, please call 905-477-7750.

Summer is here. Your Markham Orthodontist Reminds you to Protect Yourself in the Sun!

2009-06-28T11:25:00.000-04:00

It looks like summer has finally made it. School has ended, exams are done, and the hot weather is here. Our phone is going off the hook with patients scheduling consultations for braces and Invisalign. If you wish to schedule your complimentary evaluation, please call us at 905-477-7750.

Your Unionville braces and Richmond Hill Invisalign team at Markham Centre Orthodontics wish all of our patients and family a wonderful and safe summer. Stay cool and protect yourself from the sun. Below is information from Health Canada regarding fun in the sun.

Exposure to UV radiation, primarily UVB, can cause sunburns and may eventually result in skin cancer. It is important to note that while sunscreens can help reduce sunburn, they are not as effective against the other harmful effects of UV rays, such as premature aging of the skin and depression of the immune system.

All sunscreens have a sun protection factor (SPF) on their labels. The SPF represents the length of time that sunscreen-protected skin can be exposed to UVB rays before a minimal redness (erythema) appears, compared to the length of time it takes on unprotected skin. In other words, it indicates how much longer you can be exposed to the sun before getting a sunburn.

The amount of time it takes for unprotected skin to burn depends on skin type. In general, fair skin burns more quickly than darker skin. If you have the type of skin that would burn after 20 minutes in the sun without protection, then the proper application of sunscreen with SPF 15 would allow you to spend up to 300 minutes (15 times longer) in the sun without getting a sunburn. However, this does not mean that your skin is protected from all UV effects. Damage to your skin, other than sunburning, may have already started.

The SPF varies depending on the nature of the sunblocking ingredients in the product. Since the SPF refers only to protection against UVB, it is important to choose a "broad spectrum" sunscreen that also protects you from UVA radiation.

How Sunscreens Protect Your Health

There are many different brands of sunscreen available. They are classified according to their active ingredients, as some products contain chemical filters, some contain physical filters, and some contain both.

* Chemical filters absorb some of the UV radiation and convert it into heat. There are more chemical filters that absorb UVB rays than absorb UVA rays.
* Physical filters are small particles (usually zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) that scatter and reflect both UVB and UVA rays.

Minimizing Your Risk

Protect your health by using a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Look for claims on the label indicating that the product has staying power (e.g., water resistant, very water resistant, waterproof).

For best results, be sure to follow the instructions on the product label. Use the recommended amount of sunscreen and respect the waiting period between application and exposure to the sun. Reapply sunscreen 20 minutes after you go out, so that the product stabilizes on your skin and gives you maximum protection. If you are sweating heavily or swimming, reapply sunscreen frequently to get the best protection.

Here are other steps that Health Canada recommends you take to protect against UV exposure:

* If possible, avoid being in the sun between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
* Look for shade, stay under a tree, or use an umbrella.
* During outdoor activities, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. When the UV index is three or higher, you should also wear protective clothing and a large-brimmed hat.
* Remember to apply sunscreen to all exposed areas of your skin.

Your Markham Braces and Richmond Hill Invisalign Orthodontist Says That Gum Disease Can Affect Your Heart

2009-06-22T16:09:00.000-04:00

Recent research shows that there is a direct connection between gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) and heart disease. There are several theories that explain the connection between gum disease and heart disease, but the most common theory contests that gum disease is caused by teeth that are not aligned properly. Plaque causing bacteria will begin to form on and between the teeth. The bacteria can be carried into the body’s blood stream causing blood clots that restrict nutrients and oxygen from reaching the heart.

The connection between orthodontics and periodontics is so important that Dr. Tam attended the February 2009 American Association of Orthodontics and American Academy of Periodontolgy Joint Specialties Conference in Orlando. Continuing education is an extremely important part of Dr. Tam's ongoing attitude towards providing the most up-to-date treatment possible.

By brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing and undergoing orthodontic treatment if your teeth are not perfectly aligned, you can prevent plaque buildup that results in heart complications. Remember, your teeth are a part of your body; and just like any other part of your body, your mouth is just as susceptible to disease!

Here's a 7 minute video clip from ABC on the subject.

Call (905)477-7750 for your complimentary orthodontic consultation with braces and Invisalign in Markham, Toronto, Unionville, Richmond Hill, Scarborough, Pickering, Ajax, Stouffville, York Region, Downtown Markham, North York, Thornhill, and the rest of the Greater Toronto Area. Let Markham Centre Orthodontics show you the Secret Behind Markham and Greater Toronto's Best Smiles!

ClearCorrect Tries to Woo Doctors Unhappy with Invisalign Proficiency Requirements

2009-06-08T12:22:00.006-04:00

There has been a lot of talk about Invisalign's new proficiency requirements for their doctors. Your Markham Invisalign and Richmond Hill Braces orthodontist broke the story for you last week. It seems perfect timing for another company, ClearCorrect, to come out and try to take some market share. Currently, they have FDA approval, but are still waiting to get into the Canadian market.

Here is an email that was forwarded to me by a colleague:

ClearCorrect is based in Houston, Texas and according to the company, was founded by some of the biggest users of aligners. They offer two products. A two year treatment of up to 64 aligners, or a limited treatment of up to 12 aligners. The mid-course correction and refinement are included, as long as the treatment stays within the number of allotted aligners. Refinements of up to 4 sets are available for an additional cost. Their price point for doctors is about 70% that of Invisalign. Another difference to orthodontists or dentists is that one set of retainers is provided in the lab cost (may or may not make a difference to the patient cost). They are also provided with a model in case they wish to fabricate additional retainers in-office.

Although there is no literature or video published on the manufacturing process, they claim to have a similar process compared to Invisalign. All work is done in-house in Houston. They claim to cut costs by not requiring field reps in each territory. They also claim that their aligners are more clear. Online certification is available for doctors to discuss the process, and like Invisalign, does not show doctors how to move teeth. Other than that, it does not appear that there is any online continuing education. Invisalign now has over 200 hours of CE online as a part of their pathways to proficiency.

This is the second major company that has tried to compete with Invisalign. OrthoClear, started by the one of the founders of Invisalign, was bought out by Align within a very short period of time. They had promised lower prices, better service, etc for doctors unhappy with Invisalign. It caused a tremendous problem for doctors and patients who were left stranded in the middle of treatment. Invisalign took the high road and offered to continue treatment for these patients after the buyout. It is far too early in the game to see if ClearCorrect will be able to survive in this market dominated by Invisalign. From our standpoint, Markham Centre Orthodontics will not use ClearCorrect unless it is proven to be superior to Invisalign, and shows longevity in the market. Our patients deserve to be treated as over one million Invisalign patients, rather than with a company we cannot yet vouch for.

Invisalign does not seem too worried about ClearCorrect. The goal of their proficiency requirements was to prevent less experienced doctors from using their product, often incorrectly. This includes both orthodontists and GPs, resulting in claims by both doctors and patients that "Invisalign doesn't work". Many of the doctors who are upset with Invisalign are those that wish to offer it as a "bait and switch", but usually tell patients they will need alternative treatments. Invisalign seems happy to let these doctors who treat one or two patients annually, work with another company.

Remember that proper treatment planning and diagnosis is the key to successful Invisalign in Markham and braces in Unionville. To schedule your complimentary examination with your Richmond Hill orthodontist, call 905-477-7750. We look forward to the opportunity to meet you!

Markham Orthodontist Provides Details about Invisalign Proficiency

2009-06-05T11:16:00.008-04:00

Here at Markham Centre Orthodontics, we draw Invisalign patients from all over the Greater Toronto Area, including Markham, Richmond Hill, Thornhill, Unionville, Scarborough, Pickering, Ajax, Stouffville, and more. Our patients are well-educated about Invisalign and understand that they are choosing an experienced Premier Provider Invisalign orthodontist for their treatment.

While Invisalign is a fantastic way to straighten teeth without braces, it isn't as easy as taking an impression, seeing a movie, and expecting to see a result. There are many important aspects to proper Greater Toronto Invisalign treatment, requiring knowledge of how teeth move with aligners.

The parent company of Align Technologies has recognized that there is a problem with less experienced providers, including both dentists and orthodontists. As such, they have made a move to ensure a certain level of competency and experience for Invisalign providers. Interestingly, the majority of complaints about this new program are from a large number of general dentists and a smaller number of orthodontists. On a side note, this move has been applauded by the American Association of Orthodontists.

Our Markham Invisalign patients should feel assured that we met the requirements in the first month of 2009. In fact, we have far exceeded the minimal levels and are in the top 5% of Invisalign Providers in North America. We have also been the choice of Invisalign certified Markham dentists and their family members for their own Invisalign braces. You are in good hands :).

Contact us at 905-477-7750 to schedule your complimentary initial assessment for Richmond Hill Invisalign, Thornhill Invisalign Teen, and Markham Invisalign Express with your Greater Toronto Invisalign Premier Provider Orthodontist. Find out more about Invisalign here.

Press release from Invisalign:

Align Technology Announces Invisalign® Proficiency Program to Help Doctors Build Product Experience

New product proficiency baseline requires 10 case starts and 10 CE credits per year
SANTA CLARA, Calif., June 2, 2009 -- Align Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: ALGN) today announced that it is implementing a product proficiency program in North America to help ensure that Invisalign-trained doctors have the experience and confidence necessary to achieve high quality treatment outcomes for Invisalign patients. The Invisalign System is an evolving, skill-based procedure that requires regular usage and ongoing education to develop proficiency with the product and technique. The Invisalign proficiency initiative, along with ongoing improvements in Invisalign products, training and support, is evidence of Align’s commitment to helping Invisalign-trained doctors gain the knowledge and experience they need to be successful with Invisalign.

Effective June 1, the Invisalign product proficiency program requires every Invisalign provider in North America to start 10 Invisalign cases and complete at least 10 Invisalign-specific continuing education (CE) credits each calendar year to maintain active provider status. Doctors who do not meet the annual case start and CE requirements by the end of each calendar year, starting with December 31, 2009, will be able to continue treating any cases in-progress, but they will not be eligible to submit new Invisalign cases or to use Invisalign marketing resources. Doctors can reactivate their provider status by retaking Invisalign Clear Essentials I training and meeting the proficiency requirements during the new calendar year.

“Based on more than a million patients treated to date, we know that a doctor’s proficiency levels with Invisalign are a reflection of his or her Invisalign case experience,” said Dan Ellis, vice president North America Sales. “We are committed to helping our customers gain the product knowledge and confidence they need to achieve high quality treatment outcomes. In addition, by ensuring a baseline of experience, Align can also better support the needs of Invisalign providers by tailoring programs and services to help doctors build and maintain a working knowledge of Invisalign.”

As part of the Invisalign proficiency program, Align has created a Proficiency Pathway to ensure that doctors have the appropriate education tools and support to be successful with Invisalign. The Proficiency Pathway provides clinical educational opportunities to help doctors achieve confidence with Align Technology Inc. 881 Martin Avenue Santa Clara, CA 95050 Tel: (408) 470-1000 Fax: (408) 470-1201

Align Technology, Inc. Announces Invisalign Proficiency Program case selection and treatment planning, case submission and treatment management, as well as aspects of practice development. The pathway is divided into six milestones and under each milestone Align has identified courses or content specifically related to increasing a doctor’s knowledge and confidence based on his or her current case experience level.

Dr. Randol Womack completed Invisalign training in 1999 and has been teaching Invisalign courses since 2001. “As with any health-related service, the doctor has the obligation to become proficient in his or her proposed treatment method in order to represent a predictable resolution to the patient’s prime concern and expectation.” said Dr. Womack. “The combination of training and sufficient experience with the Invisalign System is key to ensuring the doctor has the confidence needed to provide patients with the great outcomes they expect.”

Invisalign-trained doctors now have a range of Invisalign products that provide treatment solutions for most day-to-day treatment needs. In 2008, Align introduced three new product offerings with new features, tools and delivery options to meet specific clinical demands while providing a family of end-to-end solutions for doctors. With the launch of these new products, the Invisalign product family includes: Invisalign Express for simple/limited treatment cases, Invisalign Full or Invisalign Assist for comprehensive or complex cases, Invisalign Teen for younger patients, and Vivera Retainers for post-treatment retention.

We Don't use Damon Braces at Markham Centre Orthodontics... Here's Some New Evidence Why...

2009-06-04T00:17:00.020-04:00

EDIT: It appears this post has generated quite a bit of discussion. Please note that the proper treatment planning by an orthodontist, not the appliance, results in healthy, successful smiles. We appreciate your comments and have added another abstract from one of the world's most respected orthodontists, Dr. Brite Melsen. This is not specific to Damon, but is also about self-ligation.

Transversal Expansion and Self-Ligating Brackets: A CBCT Study

Paolo Cattaneo, L. Cevidanes, M. Treccani, A. Myrda, B. Melsen

Aarhus, Denmark

Aim: To perform 3D assessment of the transverse changes of the maxillary alveolar bone on patients treated with active and passive self-ligating brackets. Material and Methods: Pre- and post-treatment CBCT-scans of 50 patients were taken. 3D models were generated from the scans, were registered using the cranial base stable structures, and superimposed. Changes in basal alveolar bone and dental arches were evaluated using a 3D colored mapping. Results: Expansion happened mostly in the canine and more in the premolar region, and was achieved by buccal tipping. No transverse augmentation of basal bone could be detected. High variation and strong patient-related patterns of transversal expansion were observed.

There has been a lot of media buzz about Damon braces with claims that extractions are not required, and that bone is generated due to extremely light forces. There are also unsubstantiated claims about moving teeth faster. Most people don't want teeth taken out and want fast treatment. With ads showing Miss Seventeen wearing them, who wouldn't want a Damon orthodontist?

At Markham Centre Orthodontics, we strive to provide evidence-based treatment for your Unionville braces and Markham orthodontics. Despite the hype and buzz about this "revolutionary" technology, we want to be sure we are providing our patients with the best and healthy options possible. It is important to realise that it is the orthodontist, treatment planning, and diagnosis, that produce successful outcomes, not a particular product, be it Damon, Invisalign, or any other type of appliance.

A study has come out of the University of Oklahoma by Paventy to scientifically refute the claims by Damon users. They used cone beam technology, similar to that of CAT scans, to measure bone around the teeth after trying to correct severe crowding that Damon braces claim to be able to correct without extractions.

Here is the abstract:

Nonextraction Treatment Using the Damon System: A CBCT Evaluation

Anthony M. Paventy

University of Oklahoma

Objective: To evaluate facial bone changes using CBCT after arch development using the Damon System in nonextraction treatment of moderate to severe crowding.

Methods: 19 patients with clinical crowding of 5+ mm were treated following the Damon System. ACBCT scan was taken prior to bonding (T1) and again after arch development (T2). T1 data served as the internal control group.

Results: The maxillary 1st premolars, mandibular 1st and 2nd premolars and mandibular molars all showed significant facial bone height loss. Additionally, every maxillary tooth showed significant mean facial bone width loss. The same was true for the mandible

Conclusion: The Damon System effectively expanded both dental arches. However, facial bone did not correspondingly adapt after arch development was completed. In fact, facial bone decreased significantly in height and width for nearly all teeth measured.

What this means is that while teeth can be straightened when there is inadequate space, the supporting structures around the teeth can be weakened, leading to an increased likelihood of future gum and tooth mobility problems. The data is beginning to show that severe crowding and transverse expansion may not be best treated without extractions, expanders, or surgery, regardless of what appliance is being used.

Note that the use of self-ligation with proper treatment planning has produced many successful results. However, studies unequivocally show that they are no faster than traditional brackets, and that some brands may actually be more uncomfortable. The data presented at the AAO in Boston and AAO/AAP joint meeting in Orlando confirm that there may be no advantage of self-ligation over traditional brackets.

Orthodontics should be directed at creating healthy smiles that last a lifetime. There are times that it is healthier to remove teeth than to try and fight the natural balance of our bodies. Seek your own professional opinion regarding your own personal situation. Please call 905-477-7750 to schedule your complimentary evaluation for Richmond Hill braces, Scarborough Invisalign, and Markham orthodontics.