Brown Family Orthodontics - Louisiana Orthodontist

When should you call Dr. Brown and BFO?

2012-01-23T06:14:00.001-08:00

We hope you all had a great weekend! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Brown Family Orthodontics for treatment. Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with Dr. Brown and the BFO team.

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, give us a call this week!

Hope this helps!

--The team at BFO

Dr. Brown & team want to know: How will you spend MLK Day?

2012-01-16T10:16:00.000-08:00

In the 1950s and ’60s, civil rights champion Martin Luther King, Jr. recognized the need to bring about social justice, strengthen America’s communities and move the nation forward. Today, thousands of people of all ages and races in Louisiana spent their day building, giving and renovating our communities to help celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Did you have the day off? If so, what did you do to help your local community?

We’d love to know about your activities and events this MLK Jr. Day. If you have any video or pictures you’d like to share, please share them on our Facebook page!

Dr. Brown and the entire team at BFO are proud of your work in our community! Happy MLK Day!

The benefits of a beautiful smile

2012-01-11T15:31:00.000-08:00

Drs. Brown and our team know having an attractive smile puts a spring in your step—or two—as well as increases your self-confidence, no matter if you’re 14 or in your late forties. Smiling not only makes people happy and puts them in a good mood, doing it often can even help you live longer, according to previous studies!
If you’ve been hiding your smile because you have crooked teeth or gaps between your teeth, it’s time to consider orthodontic treatment at Brown Family Orthodontics. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to learn how quickly and efficiently today’s most advanced correction techniques can straighten your smile!
Don’t hide your smile any longer—give us a call today to schedule yours or your child’s orthodontic consultation.

Happy new year!

2012-01-03T06:07:00.000-08:00

At Brown Family Orthodontics, the New Year is a time to look back to the past, and more importantly, forward to the coming year. Our wish is that our patients continue to keep their teeth healthy, as well as wear their rubber bands, headgear and appliances as prescribed during their treatment.

We look forward to meeting those patients who are planning to begin their orthodontic treatment this year - we think it's a great resolution!

Happy New Year from all of us at Brown Family Orthodontics.

How important is your smile? From Dr. Brown

2011-12-27T06:52:00.000-08:00

For four decades, Brown Family Orthodontics has set the standard of excellence in orthodontic care. Combining a keen eye on technology, a commitment to continuing education, and a steadfast dedication to five-star patient service, Brown Family Orthodontics provides a winning smile and improved self-confidence to every patient.

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

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

Give us a call to schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Brown!

Season's Greetings from Dr. Brown & the BFO team!

2011-12-19T05:51:00.000-08:00

The holiday season is upon us, and as Drs. Brown and their team at Brown Family Orthodontics reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What’s your favorite part about the holidays? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for the new year? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year?

We’d love if you shared with us all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

--The team at Brown Family Orthodontics

Ask Dr. Brown: “I’m 34 – am I too old for braces?”

2011-12-12T08:58:00.000-08:00

Thanks for the question – at Brown Family, NOBODY is “too old” for braces!

In fact, we read a fascinating statistic recently: the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! Yes, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another reason for the spike in adult braces is this: people want to look and feel great. In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned and sparkling teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing—wisely, we might add—to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

In fact, we are proud to offer an adult-friendly option for straightening teeth called Invisalign, which uses a series of invisible, removable and comfortable aligners that no one can tell you're wearing. So, you can smile more during treatment as well as after.

With offices in Metairie, Mandeville, Covington, Franklinton and New Orleans - Uptown, Brown Family Orthodontics maintains a network of convenient locations to accommodate patients and parents. Contact our office to start your journey to a beautiful, new smile. We look forward to working with you! Contact our office to schedule an initial consultation today.

Happy Holidays from all of us at Brown Family Orthodontics!

Share your winter break plans with us!

2011-12-07T10:51:00.000-08:00

Dr. Ed, Dr. Jessica Brown and our team at Brown Family Orthodontics want to know: what do your winter plans look like? Do you have any plans for an exciting family vacation? Are you hanging out around town? Catching up on sleep? Spending time with friends? Let us know!

Please feel free to share your exciting winter plans and experiences with us here or on our Facebook page! We would like to wish all of our patients and their families a safe and fun holiday season!

How important is your smile? From Brown Family Orthodontics

2011-11-28T09:19:00.001-08:00

We hope you had a great Thanksgiving! For four decades, Brown Family Orthodontics has set the standard of excellence in orthodontic care. Combining a keen eye on technology, a commitment to continuing education, and a steadfast dedication to five-star patient service, Brown Family Orthodontics provides a winning smile and improved self-confidence to every patient.

The bottom line is, we know having a beautiful smile is important to you. It’s important to us, too. And speaking of smiling, in a poll conducted by Glamour Magazine earlier this year, people were asked, “If you had to pick between having perfect teeth, eyesight or hair, which would you choose?”

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

Give us a call to schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Brown!

Happy Thanksgiving from Brown Family Orthodontics!

2011-11-21T06:35:00.000-08:00

With Thanksgiving fast approaching, we thought it would be a perfect opportunity to thank all of our patients and their families, our referring doctors and patients and our own families for all their support, encouragement and help throughout the year! We will continue striving to keep giving back to our community and thank them for their participation in making us the best orthodontic practice in Metairie, Mandeville, Covington and Franklinton.

We hope everyone takes out the time this year to spend Thanksgiving with their families and friends - we consider you our family and we feel blessed to know you. Deepest wishes for a wonderful Holiday from Dr. Brown and all of us at Brown Family Orthodontics!

Ask Dr. Brown: “I got my braces. Now what?"

2011-11-16T14:11:00.000-08:00

We love when patients ask us that question! Now that you’re wearing braces, it’s just as important to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen as you did before before orthodontic treatment began.

Braces are known to trap food particles and make it difficult to brush or remove plaque, which is why Dr. Brown and our team at BFO recommend that you brush and floss after every meal. We also encourage you to use a proxabrush to help with the smaller areas where your toothbrush doesn’t reach. We encourage the use of fluoride rinse as well; ask Dr. Brown for a recommendation.

When your braces are initially placed, your teeth are likely to be very sensitive. You may experience discomfort for up to 3 or 5 days, which is why we encourage you to eat soft foods during that time. Remember, the less pressure you put on your teeth, the less discomfort you will have.

You may also be thinking, “Okay, so what can I eat?” We would encourage you to avoid eating sticky, hard, crunchy or chewy snacks that can stick to your teeth.

Our team at Brown Family Orthodontics will tell you it’s crucial to regularly check your braces for bent or loose wires and brackets. In the event of a loose/broken wire or bracket, please call our office immediately to schedule an appointment for repair. (We have offices in Metairie, Mandeville, Covington, Franklinton and New Orleans - Uptown).

Lastly, in addition to visiting Dr. Brown's office during your orthodontic treatment for adjustments, you should visit your dentist for professional check-ups and teeth cleaning appointments about every six months, or as recommended by your dentist.

Ask Dr. Brown: "My son is turning 7 - when should we visit BFO for a consultation?"

2011-11-07T08:25:00.000-08:00

Great question! Our staff at Brown Family Orthodontics will tell you that braces were originally considered to be best appropriate for teens. But these days, kids as old as seven are beginning their orthodontic treatment. Because preadolescent kids are typically not self-conscious, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists suggest it could be a good idea to start early.

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

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

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions about your child’s orthodontic treatment at BFO! We hope you have a WONDERFUL Monday!

Ask Dr. Brown & BFO: What's the deal with Halloween candy?

2011-10-31T07:30:00.000-07:00

With Halloween here, our team at Brown Family Orthodontics know a lot parents here in Metairie, Mandeville, Covington and Franklinton are worried about their kids going overboard on candies this weekend.

For those undergoing orthodontic treatment, it's important to be careful of the types of candies you consume this weekend. We encourage you to watch the video above about which candies you should avoid, but feel free to ask us if you have any questions about what is and isn't braces-friendly!

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

From Dr. Brown & the BFO team

Emergency care with Dr. Brown & BFO

2011-10-25T20:01:00.001-07:00

Dr. Brown and staff will tell you true orthodontic emergencies are very rare during your orthodontic treatment, but when they do occur, we want you to know we are available to you. As a general rule, you should call Brown Family Orthodontics when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can't take care of yourself. We'll be able to schedule an appointment to resolve the problem.

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you schedule an appointment with our office. When working with your appliances, you need to know the names of the parts of your appliances so you are able to identify what part is broken or out of place. After alleviating your discomfort, it is very important that you still call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem. Allowing your appliance to remain damaged for an extended period of time may result in disruptions in your treatment plan.

Please give us a call if you have any questions about emergency care of your treatment at Brown Family Orthodontics. For four decades, Brown Family Orthodontics has set the standard of excellence in orthodontic care. We have built a reputation on care, expertise and convenience. With offices in Metairie, Mandeville, Covington, and Franklinton, Brown Family Orthodontics maintains a network of convenient locations to accommodate patients and parents.

Don't skip those regular checkups, especially in October!

2011-10-19T20:38:00.000-07:00

Dr. Brown wants to know: Are you brushing and flossing daily properly during your treatment? If the answer is yes, that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist every 3-to-6 months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting Brown Family Orthodontics, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

It's the perfect time for a visit to the dentist. Why? Because not only is October National Orthodontic Health Month, it's also National Dental Hygiene Month!

Your general dentist can check for problems that might not be seen or felt, detect cavities and early signs of decay, treat oral health problems early and show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth.

During an oral exam your dentist can check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to the dentist in the last six months, let us know during your next visit and we will provide a few great references in Metairie, Mandeville, Covington, Franklinton, New Orleans or surrounding areas!

"Dentists,Orthodontists ... What's the Difference?"

2011-10-10T21:43:00.000-07:00

“Dentists, Orthodontists, they’re all the same right?” We hear our patients asking this question as they wonder about the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. Before becoming an orthodontist Dr. Brown started out in dental school and earned a dental degree, just like your dentist. After dental school however, Dr. Brown decided he wanted to learn more about orthodontics, which is one of nine specialties within the dental field. So he stayed in school for a few more years and became an expert in orthodontics, which focuses on tooth and jaw alignment and bite problems like overbites and under bites.

Other dental specialties you may have heard of include endodontic (focusing on the soft tissue inside your teeth), periodontic (focusing on the gums and other tissues surrounding your teeth) and prosthodontic (focusing on restoring and replacing damaged teeth).

Isn’t it nice to know there’s a dental expert in Dr. Brown to help you through any type of treatment your teeth, jaw and gums might need?

At BFO, October marks National Orthodontic Health Month!

2011-10-03T10:11:00.000-07:00

Did you know October is National Orthodontic Health Month? This month-long event is organized by our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Drs. Ed & Jessica Brown and our team at BFO realize this is a great opportunity for us and to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene. National Orthodontic Health Month also aims to recognize the dedicated work of orthodontists like Dr. Brown and other dental professional in greater New Orleans.

The AAO recommends patients avoid the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

• Caramel
• Nuts
• Popcorn (including un-popped kernels)
• Taffy
• Jelly beans
• Hard pretzels
• Licorice
• Bubblegum
• Taco chips
• Ice

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

Ask Dr. Brown: “Where can I get more info about braces?”

2011-09-29T15:29:00.000-07:00

Great question! Besides on the BFO website, which provides you with a plethora of information about all things braces and Invisalign, we would like to point you to a helpful website: Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, have provided lots of important information about everything braces, including myths and facts of orthodontics, tips for a better orthodontic experience and cool webisodes about orthodontics.

We encourage you to check out AAO today and feel free to contact us if you have any questions here on our blog or on our Facebook page.

Hope this helps,

Dr. Brown & the BFO Team

September is Self-Improvement Month, from BFO

2011-09-22T13:39:00.000-07:00

These days, Americans everywhere are putting greater emphasis on health, fitness and self-improvement, and more people are seeking orthodontic treatment to improve their smile. September happens to be Self-Improvement Month, and our team at Brown Family Orthodontics know that orthodontic treatment is an investment in self-improvement that will reap benefits for a lifetime. And, recent advances in orthodontia, such as Invisalign and more effective brackets and wires, now make orthodontic treatment more palatable for many interested in obtaining that beautiful smile.

Not only does orthodontic treatment give you that beautiful smile, it can also benefit your dental and general health. If teeth are poorly aligned, removing plaque and tartar by brushing and flossing alone may be difficult. A poor bite may result in fractured or excessively worn tooth surfaces, and the extra stress caused by a poor bite may even result in problems with your jaw joints.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. Brown would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

See you soon!

Connect with BFO on Facebook!

2011-09-13T22:09:00.001-07:00

Did you know Brown Family Orthodontics are on Facebook? Our fan page provides you the latest news, updates and announcements from Dr. Brown and our office. We invite you to connect with us and be "in the loop" for all things Brown Family Orthodontics, which serves Covington, Mandeville, Metairie, Franklinton and surrounding communities here in Louisiana.

Become a "fan" today and have a great rest of the weekend! From Dr. Ed Brown and the entire team at Brown Family Orthodontics!

Tips for a successful school year, from Dr. Brown

2011-09-05T10:37:00.000-07:00

At Brown Family Orthodontics, we know a new school year brings a lot of stress for many kids. New classes, new teachers, new friends and new academic challenges can be overwhelming! That’s why we thought we’d provide a few steps for our patients to enjoy their time in school and succeed this upcoming school year!

· Get plenty of sleep every night. Eight hours is recommended.

· Eat a healthy breakfast as it’s the most important meal of the day.

· Pack a healthy lunch or make healthy choices when selecting your school lunch. Try to avoid the vending machine and limit your intake of junk food.

· Stay on top of your homework and reading assignments.

· Stay active. Limit the time in front of the TV or playing video games. Instead, try to get outside to get some exercise—go for a walk or ride your bike.

· Ask for help. When you are having a hard time understanding a concept, ask your teacher or your peers for guidance.

· Always have a positive attitude and a smile on your face!

We hope everyone has a productive and fun school year!

The Go-To Mom Talks Invisalign

2011-08-28T21:07:00.000-07:00

Our team at Brown Family Orthodontics found a great video that discusses the advantages of Invisalign. In the video, Kimberley Clayton Blaine, "The Go-To Mom," discusses the Invisalign and Invisalign Teen treatment and her personal experience with Invisalign.

To determine if Invisalign is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Brown and our team at BFO. We hope you had a great weekend!

Are you wearing your mouthguard? From Dr. Brown

2011-08-23T10:18:00.001-07:00

With fall sports almost here for a lot of our patients at Brown Family Orthodontics, we thought today would be a great time to remind all our young athletes in treatment to take care of both their mouth and appliances while participating in sports – especially contact sports – this fall.

One of the most important pieces of sports equipment you can wear on the field is a mouthguard. A well-fitted mouthguard, which we’re happy to provide, allows you to breathe and speak more clearly, in addition to protecting your mouth and braces. Only by using a mouth guard can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. The next time you’re in for a visit with Dr. Brown, we encourage you to ask us for a mouthguard! In addition, the American Association of Orthodontists has five quick tips for keeping kids safe during sport activities.

• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eyewear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant, even as a spectator

We hope you’re enjoying your summer, and invite you all to share your summer photos on our Facebook page!

Retainers & you, from BFO

2011-08-15T13:59:00.001-07:00

If you recently completed treatment at Brown Family Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you, again! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Brown will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, you see, provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed by our staff at BFO is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime.

To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment here at BFO, please read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth or give us a call! We hope you're all having a wonderful summer!

Smile Week at Brown Family Orthodontics

2011-08-10T14:00:00.000-07:00

It’s National Smile Week here at Brown Family Orthodontics, and a GREAT time to remind Dr. Brown's patients to practice good oral hygiene to keep those teeth shining during your orthodontic treatment!

Here are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Week for many, many years to come:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth and braces.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment
* Visit your dentist regularly (every 6 months or as recommended by your dentist)!

And remember to smile at people you come across throughout the week, whether you know them or not. Smiles are contagious, and are a good thing to give and to get. We hope you’re all having a relaxing summer!

- Dr. Brown and team

Does Dr. Brown have your current contact info?

2011-08-03T15:58:00.000-07:00

We hope you’re off to a great summer so far! If you are planning on traveling with family this summer or think you might not be able to make it to your scheduled adjustment appointment at Brown Family Orthodontics, please let us know ahead of time so that we may be able to accommodate you, as well as schedule another patient with Dr. Brown at that appointment time.

Also, we ask that you give us a call and let us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed! Please call us with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so we may be able to reach you. Thank you! Enjoy the rest of your week!

Ask Dr. Brown: “I’m 34 – am I too old for braces?”

2011-07-27T09:03:00.000-07:00

The myths & facts about braces, from Brown Family Orthodontics

2011-07-18T14:09:00.000-07:00

Trust us when we say Dr. Brown and our team at BFO are well-aware that there are a lot of myths flying around the topic of orthodontics these days. But, before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts first! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of orthodontics, and we encourage you to check them out before settling for rumors about braces!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment at Brown Family Orthodontics, feel free to give us a call. Have a great holiday weekend everyone!

Love your smile? Tell the world ALL ABOUT IT!

2011-07-10T21:27:00.001-07:00

For four decades, Brown Family Orthodontics has set the standard of excellence in orthodontic care. With offices in Metairie, Mandeville, Covington and Franklinton, Dr. Ed and Dr. Jessica Brown provide a winning smile and improved self-confidence to every patient.

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

After all, reviews help Drs. Brown and our team create more beautiful smiles!

You may write a review here.

Happy Independence Day!

2011-07-04T00:05:00.000-07:00

America turns 235 years old today! It’s a day to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence and also a time for every American to pay homage to our soldiers - past and present - who have placed themselves in harm’s way so that we may continue to enjoy our freedom.

Our team at Brown Family Orthodontics would like to know: what are your plans for the 4th of July? Are you out in the sun? Have you stocked up on fireworks? Are you going to grill up your favorite summer foods? If you have a 4th of July tradition, we would love to hear all about it.

We hope you have a fun and safe holiday! Feel free to upload your 4th of July photos to our Facebook page and let us know how your Independence Day turned out this year.

Write a review of our office!

2011-06-28T19:28:00.000-07:00

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

After all, reviews help Dr. Brown and our team create more beautiful smiles!

You may write a review here.

Share your summer adventures with Brown Family Orthodontics!

2011-06-20T15:04:00.000-07:00

It’s finally beginning to feel like summer here at Brown Family Orthodontics, which means a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories is finally upon us. Whether you’re headed to an exotic destination, barbecuing, hitting the open roads with family, or just having fun in the sun here in Louisiana over the long, hot summer, we’d like to hear all about it! Drop us a line on our Facebook page and share your summer plans and adventures with our staff as the summer rolls along!

We’d like to wish you a happy (and safe) travels to all our patients and readers!

- Dr. Brown and team

Access to your account any day, any time!

2011-06-11T21:20:00.000-07:00

$1.50 for a cavity? Dr. Brown explains...

2011-06-04T20:19:00.000-07:00

Vending machines are a quick way to satisfy hunger. You put in $1.50 and you get back a candy bar, bag of chips or even a soda…but that’s not all! Vending machines not only dispense sweet treats and caffeine bursts, but they also dispense cavities!

Every time you chow down on that chocolate bar the bacteria in your mouth have a party feasting on the sugar. The sugar quickly turns into acid; that’s right, ACID!!! The acid sits on your teeth and eats away at the tooth’s natural enamel (the stuff that protects your tooth from decay). When this enamel is eaten away by the acid on your tooth, you get a cavity! Brushing your teeth after eating a sugary treat can help prevent cavities; but before you indulge remind yourself: “can’t brush? Hold the sugar!”

When choosing a snack, consider these nutritional options that will not only satisfy your hunger and that "sweet tooth," but won’t cause acid build up resulting in cavities:

•Fresh Fruits (berries, oranges, melon, pears, etc)
•Raw Vegetables (broccoli, celery, carrots, etc)
•Bread
•Pretzels (low salt)
•Milk (low or non-fat)
•Cheese (low or non-fat)
•Nuts and seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc)
•Sliced meat

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!

--The team at Brown Family Orthodontics

Brown Family Orthodontics, honoring our veterans and heroes

2011-05-27T13:52:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day weekend is a time Americans remember all those who bravely gave their lives for our country. It’s also the unofficial start of summer 2011, and for many kids, getting out of town for three days with parents after being in school all these months is sure to be sweet, sweet relief.

At Brown Family Orthodontics, we know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend? What will you be doing on your day off from school or work?

Whether you are headed to a barbeque, a camping trip, or just having fun in the sun this weekend, we’d like to hear all about it! Enjoy the holiday!!

"My son is turning 7 - when should we visit BFO for a consultation?"

2011-05-22T18:47:00.000-07:00

What's your story? What made you choose Brown Family Orthodontics?

2011-05-11T15:04:00.000-07:00

For four decades, Brown Family Orthodontics has set the standard of excellence in orthodontic care. With offices in Metairie, Mandeville, Covington and Franklinton, Dr. Ed and Dr. Jessica Brown provide a winning smile and improved self-confidence to every patient.

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

After all, reviews help Drs. Brown and our team create more beautiful smiles!

You may write a review here.

What’s on your reading list? From Brown Family Orthodontics

2011-05-02T09:28:00.000-07:00

With the school year close to winding down for a lot of our patients at Brown Family Orthodontics, we wanted to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. Sure, it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year, but reading is a vital step in brain development and literacy. And if you needed any more reason to read, May marks "Get Caught Reading Month.”

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great reads? Ask us for suggestions, and Dr. Brown & team would be happy to provide a few suggestions. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas on what to read next!

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your book picks or your all-time favorite novels or literature on our Facebook page!

Invisalign Tips from Dr. Brown

2011-04-25T07:10:00.000-07:00

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

1.) Am I eating with my aligners on? - These aligners are removable and should be taken out when you eat.

2.) Am I drinking anything other than water with my aligners on? - Though it's not a necessity for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky a soda is. If you take out your aligners when drinking a soda, you have a better chance of keeping your aligners clean.

3.) Am I brushing before putting the trays on? - The aligners have both an inside and outside. Keeping the outside clean is easy. Keeping the inside clean is also easy: just make sure you've brushed your teeth before putting the trays on.

These are all very simple steps, and ultimately, they help to keep you building good oral habits.

--Brown Family Orthodontics

Cardiodontics: The Heart Mouth Connection, from Brown Family Orthodontics

2011-04-17T08:45:00.000-07:00

If you have been told you have periodontal disease (also known as gum disease or periodontitis), you're not alone. An estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of the disease! Periodontal diseases range from simple gum inflammation to serious disease that results in major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. In the worst cases, teeth are lost.

Gum disease is a threat to your oral health. Research is also pointing to health effects of periodontal diseases that go well beyond your mouth. So we at Brown Family Orthodontics want to let you know some interesting facts and ways to treat the disease.

What is Periodontal Disease?

"Perio" means around, and "dontal" refers to teeth. Periodontal disease is an infection of the structures around the teeth, including the gums and the bones that hold the teeth. The earliest stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis – an infection of the gums. In more severe forms of the disease, all of the tissues are involved, including the bone. Bacteria that live and reproduce on the teeth and gums cause periodontal disease.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Symptoms may include the following:
--redness or bleeding of gums while brushing teeth or using dental floss
--halitosis, or bad breath
--gum recession, resulting in apparent lengthening of teeth
--"pockets" between the teeth and gums indicating that the bone which holds the teeth in the mouth is dissolving
--loose teeth
Gum inflammation and bone destruction are largely painless. Hence, people may wrongly assume that painless bleeding after teeth cleaning is insignificant, although this may be a symptom of progressing periodontitis. If your hands bled when you washed them, you would be concerned. Yet, many people think it's normal if their gums bleed when they brush or floss.

Periodontal Disease Affects Your Health

Periodontal disease is a putrid, festering infection of the mouth. Bacteria and inflammatory particles can enter the bloodstream through ulcerated and bleeding gums and travel to the heart and other organs. In recent years, gum disease has been linked to a number of health problems. Researchers are studying possible connections between gum disease and:
--Heart disease: Gum disease may increase the risk of heart disease. Gum disease also is believed to worsen existing heart disease.
--Stroke: Gum disease may increase the risk of the type of stroke caused by blocked arteries
--Diabetes: People with diabetes and periodontal disease may be more likely to have trouble controlling their blood sugar than diabetics with healthy gums.
--Premature births: A woman who has gum diseases during pregnancy may be more likely deliver her baby too early and the infant may be more likely to be of low birth weight.

Combating Periodontal Disease

--See your dentist! See your dentist every six months for a checkup! Regular professional cleanings and checkups make you feel good, look good, and could be a lifesaver!
--Brush and floss daily. Take your time and do it right!
--Use an anti-bacterial mouthwash. Daily use of an anti-bacterial mouthwash helps to disinfect the teeth and gums, and reduces the number of bacteria.
--Straighten your teeth. Crowded teeth are nearly impossible to keep clean. Orthodontic treatment can greatly reduce inflammation and periodontal disease.

--Brown Family Orthodontics

Straight talk with Dr. Brown

2011-04-10T09:29:00.000-07:00

Some people wonder why our team at Brown Family Orthodontics work tirelessly 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 at Brown Family Orthodontics 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; and they are easier to keep clean!

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, please give us a call to set up a consultation. Drs. Ed and Jessica Brown can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

See you soon!

Get to know your braces! From Brown Family Orthodontics

2011-04-04T10:38:00.000-07:00

If you ever sustain damage to your braces and need to call Dr. Brown and our staff at Brown Family Orthodontics, we can help you more effectively if you can tell us exactly which piece is in trouble! Here’s a handy diagram and corresponding list of all the parts that make up your braces.

Elastic Tie: Tiny rubber band that fits around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Archwire: The main wire that acts as a track to guide the teeth along. It's changed periodically throughout treatment, as teeth move to their new positions.

Loop in Archwire: Frequently used for closing space left by an extraction. Many archwires don't have a loop.

Bracket: Small attachment that holds the archwire in place. Most often, a bracket is cemented directly onto the tooth's surface, eliminating the need for a band.

Headgear Tube: Round, hollow attachment on the back bands. The inner bow of the headgear fits into it.

Coil Spring: Fits between brackets and over archwire to open space between teeth.

Tie Wire: Fine wire that is twisted around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Band: A thin ring of metal fitted around a tooth and cemented in place. The band provides a way to attach the brackets to the tooth.

Hook: Welded or removable arm to which elastics (rubber bands) are attached.

Elastic (Rubber Band): Small rubber band that is hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth.

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!

How important is your smile? From Dr. Brown

2011-03-27T08:42:00.000-07:00

For four decades, Brown Family Orthodontics has set the standard of excellence in orthodontic care. Combining a keen eye on technology, a commitment to continuing education, and a steadfast dedication to five-star patient service, Brown Family Orthodontics provides a winning smile and improved self-confidence to every patient.

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

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

Give us a call to schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Brown!

Play it safe this spring, from Dr. Brown

2011-03-21T13:52:00.000-07:00

With spring here, many of our patients will once again pick up the ball, bring the bat out of seasonal retirement.

So, today, Dr. Brown and our dedicated team at BFO urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. According to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, children, high-school athletes and adults will have more than 5,000,000 teeth knocked out in sporting events this year.

Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this spring, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Brown Family Orthodontics.

Stay safe and have fun!

How will YOUR smile look after orthodontic treatment at BFO?

2011-03-14T09:48:00.000-07:00

At Brown Family Orthodontics, we know it's sometimes hard to believe the transformation your smile undergoes during orthodontic treatment. Our team at BFO love to see our patients’ smiles light up when they see their new smile in the mirror for the first time. For those of you who haven’t yet started or finished your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Brown, have you ever wondered what your new smile might look like after treatment?

The American Association of Orthodontists recently launched a new tool called “Virtual Smiles,” which shows what your smile might look like after orthodontic treatment. Check out the Virtual Smiles tool, and call us at BFO to get started on improving your smile today!

Invisalign patient testimonial [Video]

2011-03-07T07:24:00.000-08:00

Dr. Brown & team found this video recently, and realized that it's just what folks considering Invisalign need to see. Invisalign gets a ton of promotion online (including here on our blog), but people rarely get the see a clear cut, unbiased, point of view from someone who actually has chosen to straighten their teeth with Invisalign.

At Brown Family Orthodontics, we get quite a lot of requests for Invisalign. We always let our patients know about the stages of Invisalign, as well as how one might first react to it. But, to hear it from someone actually wearing these clear aligners is something else.

Check out this video of a patient who has been wearing her aligners for only 10 minutes! Because they’re clear, your teeth will be steadily straightening – and no one will know it but you! Please give us a call to set up a complimentary consultation with Dr. Brown and our team at BFO, so we can discuss the specifics of your treatment.

Happy Monday!

Connect with Dr. Brown and BFO on Facebook!

2011-02-26T09:17:00.001-08:00

Dr. Brown & team, dispelling the myths about braces

2011-02-19T18:02:00.000-08:00

Trust us: Dr. Brown and our team at BFO are well-aware that there are a lot of myths flying around the topic of orthodontics these days. But, before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts first! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of orthodontics, and we encourage you to check them out before settling for rumors about braces!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment at Brown Family Orthodontics, feel free to give us a call. Have a great holiday weekend everyone!

Tell us what's on your mind!

2011-02-14T08:24:00.000-08:00

By now, you’re probably familiar with the drill: Every week, our talented staff at Brown Family Orthodontics blog about topics related to orthodontic care and your health, including innovative orthodontic treatments offered at our office. This week, we thought we’d ask our remarkable patients: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the exciting field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog going forward? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Drs. Brown but haven’t found the time? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook fan page!

Give us your best shot, and our team will try to answer any questions you may have!

Happy Valentine's Day!

At BFO, February marks National Dental Health Month

2011-02-06T13:01:00.000-08:00

At BFO, February is National Children's Dental Health Month and our professional team thought we'd share a few oral hygiene tips with you, our patients, courtesy of the American Dental Association, or ADA.

• Teeth brushing techniques: It takes only two minutes to properly brush using short, gentle strokes and devoting extra attention to the gumline, areas around fillings and hard-to-reach areas such as the back teeth.
• Flossing: hold the floss snugly between thumbs and index finger and insert it between each of the teeth, making sure to go beneath the gumline and curving the floss around the base of each tooth.
• Snack wisely: choose healthy snacks such as cheese, fruits and vegetables and avoid sticky, chewy candies that can stick to the teeth. If you eat these snacks, be sure to brush after doing so.
• Carbonated or sugary drinks: these drinks create acids that can damage the teeth when mixed with saliva, so they should be avoided altogether. If you're going to drink one of these beverages, don't sip on it throughout the day. Rather, drink it and then brush your teeth.
• Regular dental visits: in addition to seeing Dr. Brown, you should visit your dentist for professional check-ups and teeth cleaning appointments about every six months.

National Children's Dental Health Month, now in its 61st year, aims to increase awareness about the importance of kids' oral health. If you have any questions about keeping your mouth healthy, or about your treatment with Brown Family Orthodontics, please feel free to give us a call!

Ask Dr. Brown: What are "Dentofacial Orthopedics"?

2011-01-30T08:37:00.000-08:00

You may have noticed that Drs. Ed and Jessica Brown and our team at BFO specialize in "Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics." While most people have heard of orthodontics, many are confused by the "dentofacial orthopedics" part of the title.

Not to worry - we can explain!

You probably know that an orthodontist like Dr. Brown straightens teeth, and indeed: "ortho" comes from the Greek for "straight" or "correct," and "dontic" from the Greek for "teeth." But what about dentofacial orthopedics? "Dentofacial" is "teeth" plus "face" while "ortho" again means "straight" and "pedic" is from the Greek for "child."

Essentially, while orthodontics entails the management of tooth movement, dentofacial orthopedics involves the guidance of facial growth and development, which occurs largely during childhood. In both cases, appliances are frequently used – the more familiar braces for orthodontics, and other specialized appliances like headgear and expanders depending on what facial abnormalities are present. Sometimes orthopedic treatment may precede conventional braces, but often the two are accomplished at the same time. So if your child gets braces and headgear, he's undergoing orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics!

Because Dr. Brown is skilled in both areas, he is able to diagnose any misalignments in the teeth and jaw as well as the facial structure, and can devise a treatment plan that integrates both orthodontic and dentofacial orthopedic treatments.

We hope that helps! Contact our office and schedule a consultation for your child. It’s never too late to get a great smile, and all of us at BFO can’t wait to help you get started.

January featured patient reviews!

2011-01-22T13:39:00.000-08:00

For four decades, Brown Family Orthodontics has set the standard of excellence in orthodontic care, with offices in Metairie, Mandeville, Covington and Franklinton. Check out what our patients are saying about BFO!

"I feel all the doctors are very concerned about patient care. My children always get the best care when we are there for our appointments. They communicate with them on a level that they can understand and are always available to me, if I have any questions. The office staff are wonderful and polite and the office is always very cleaned and organized." ~ Alton J.

"Dr Brown is outstanding! This man knows his stuff! He treated my daughter, me and even my grandson is now coming to your office. My hat is off to Dr. Brown." ~ Lisa L.

"Everyone is friendly and very helpful. It's like visiting family." ~ Tina D.

"Excellent Visit - Had a great time at BFO today. I got a new (pink!) powerchain. I got another (hopefully my last!) chain too. The staff was great (as always) and I grabbed a new sillyband while I was there. i also grabbed a card about the iPad contest. Yay!" ~ Emma F.

"Great Visit to BFO - I had a superb visit at BFO today. They replaced my wires today and and gave me some great floss. The staff was awesome as always. Overall a great visit. They got me in and out of the office quickly. The progress my teeth have made has been overwhelming. Thank you BFO!"

Ask Dr. Brown: What is sleep apnea?

2011-01-15T17:43:00.000-08:00

Sleep disorders are fairly common, with around 50 to 70 million Americans being affected by some type chronic sleep disorder, and many of these progressing to Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), which is known to cause loss of sleep among many other health problems.

Sleep apnea is considered a serious medical problem that if left untreated can lead to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart failure and stroke. It can also take a toll on your overall energy level, as the condition causes an ongoing state of fatigue. Here at Brown Family Orthodontics, there are several different approaches to sleep apnea treatment, including:

• Surgery to the jaws or airway tissue to open the airway. This is typically only used in the most severe cases.
• Continuous airway pressure therapy which involves a mask and machine (CPAP machine) to keep your throat muscles and tissue open while sleeping
• Oral appliance therapy, a less intrusive method involving a customized oral device that positions your jaw in a favorable position to keep your airway open while you sleep.

If you suspect that you may suffer from a sleep disorder or sleep apnea, give us a call as soon as possible! We have offices in Metairie, Mandeville, Covington and Franklinton.

GO SAINTS!

2011-01-08T09:56:00.000-08:00

We've got football fever! From all of us at Brown Family Orthodontics: GO SAINTS!

Brown Family Orthodontics present: The importance of regular dental visits

2011-01-01T15:33:00.000-08:00

Are you brushing teeth twice a day and flossing during your orthodontic treatment? If the answer is yes, we think that’s great! But, Dr. Brown and our team at BFO would like to remind you to visit your general dentist every six months (or as recommended) in addition to taking good care of your oral health during orthodontic treatment. Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can:

•Check for problems that might not be seen or felt
•Detect cavities and early signs of decay
•Treat oral health problems early
•Show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth

During an oral exam the doctor will check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to the dentist in the last six months, it’s time for you to schedule an appointment!

Hope this helps. Give us a call at Brown Family Orthodontics if you have any questions.

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year from all of us at BFO!

2010-12-26T14:27:00.000-08:00

2010 is almost over—and what a year it was at BFO! Dr. Brown and our team at Brown Family Orthodontics thought we’d ask: what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you most looking forward to in 2011? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Have a safe and happy New Year, to all our patients, friends, family and all our dental and medical colleagues in New Orleans, Metairie and surrounding communities.

What helps you or your child relax at Brown Family Orthodontics?

2010-12-18T13:29:00.000-08:00

Dr. Brown and our staff at BFO understand not everyone is always thrilled at the prospect of visiting the orthodontist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each of your visits. For four decades, Brown Family Orthodontics has set the standard of excellence in orthodontic care, with offices in Metairie, Mandeville, Covington and Franklinton.

Today, we’d like to know: What is it about Brown Family Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment or our friendly staff? Is it something about Dr. Brown?

Let us know on our Facebook page! Happy Holidays!

Share your winter break plans with BFO!

2010-12-12T15:28:00.000-08:00

Dr. Brown and our team at BFO want to know: what do your winter plans look like? Do you have any plans for an exciting family vacation? Are you hanging out around town? Catching up on sleep? None of the above? Let us know!

Please feel free to share your exciting winter plans and experiences with us here or on our Facebook page! We would like to wish all of our patients and their families a safe and fun holiday season!

Also, don't forget we are accepting your new and unwrapped toys through Dec. 16 as part of our Toys for Tots program!

Brown Family Orthodontics partners with Toys for Tots ‎

2010-12-06T15:16:00.000-08:00

Our team at Brown Family Orthodontics would like to invite our patients and community members to join us in delivering a message of hope to those less fortunate in our community. We are now accepting new, unwrapped toys and clothing to be donated to less fortunate youngsters in our area through Toys for Tots.

Please stop by our office anytime during regular business hours to drop off your donations. Thank you for teaming up with us to reach out to our community. Nothing is more rewarding than helping an unfortunate child experience the joy of the holidays.

We will be accepting your donations through Dec. 16. Please head to our Facebook page for more info. Thank you for all your help this holiday season!

From our entire team at BFO!

Dr. Brown wants to know: Do you know where your retainer is?

2010-11-29T09:42:00.000-08:00

Giving thanks this holiday season

2010-11-20T12:26:00.000-08:00

Ask Brown Family Orthodontics: Do cold germs live on toothbrushes?

2010-11-12T14:18:00.000-08:00

Fall is here, and with it the dreaded cold and flu season. After recovering from your cold, Dr. Ed and Dr. Jessica Brown will tell you one of the most important steps you can take to avoid becoming reinfected is replacing your toothbrush!

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

• Wash your hands before and after brushing

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

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

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

Hope this tip helps! Feel free to give us a call if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook. Happy Friday!

Connect with BFO on Facebook!

2010-11-06T18:53:00.000-07:00

Did you know Brown Family Orthodontics are on Facebook? Our fan page provides you the latest news, updates and announcements from Dr. Brown and our office. We invite you to connect with us and be "in the loop" for all things Brown Family Orthodontics, which serves Covington, Mandeville, Metairie, Franklinton and surrounding communities.

Become a "fan" today and have a great rest of the weekend! From Dr. Ed Brown and the entire team at Brown Family Orthodontics!

Ask Dr. Brown: What's the deal with all that Halloween candy?

2010-10-30T20:52:00.000-07:00

As Halloween nears closer and closer, our staff at Brown Family Orthodontics know a lot parents here in Metairie, Mandeville, Covington and Franklinton are worried about their kids going overboard on candies this weekend.

For those undergoing orthodontic treatment, it's important to be careful of the types of candies you consume this weekend. We encourage you to watch the video above about which candies you should avoid, but feel free to ask us if you have any questions about what is and isn't braces-friendly!

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

From Dr. Brown & the BFO team

Your turn! From Brown Family Orthodontics

2010-10-26T10:35:00.000-07:00

By now, you’re probably familiar with the drill: Every week, our creative staff at Brown Family Orthodontics write about topics related to orthodontic care and your health, including innovative orthodontic treatments offered at our offices in Metairie, Mandeville, Covington and Franklinton.

This week, though, we thought we’d ask our remarkable patients: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the exciting field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog going forward? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Drs. Brown but haven’t found the time? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook fan page!

Give us your best shot, and our team will try to answer any questions you may have!

Cold & flu season is back, from Brown Family Orthodontics

2010-10-17T18:20:00.000-07:00

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

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

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

When should you call Dr. Brown and BFO?

2010-10-10T17:37:00.000-07:00

We hope you're enjoying your weekend! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Brown Family Orthodontics for treatment. Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with Dr. Brown and the BFO team.

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, give us a call this week!

Hope this helps!

--The team at BFO

At Brown Family Orthodontics, October is National Orthodontic Health Month!

2010-10-04T07:16:00.000-07:00

Talkin' fluoride with Dr. Brown

2010-09-27T15:41:00.000-07:00

There are so many ways you protect your pearly whites during your treatment at Brown Family Orthodontics! You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and protect your mouth and appliances from being damaged. But did you know there's another way to keep your teeth sparkling and healthy during your treatment at BFO?

Fluoride.

Yes, fluoride, the mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay, can help keep your teeth strong! Fluoride comes in two varieties: topical and systemic. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth. Topical fluoride includes toothpastes and mouth rinses. Systemic fluorides are swallowed in the form of a dietary supplement. Orthodontists like Drs. Ed and Jessica Brown use in-office fluoride treatments to help protect the oral health of adults and children undergoing orthodontic procedures.

Fluoride used in our office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask Dr. Brown how to purchase professional strength fluoride). Dr. Brown may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses for at-home treatment.

When choosing your own fluoride product, be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of approval. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and have met the criteria of the ADA for safety and effectiveness.

We hope that helps! Let us know if you have any other questions about fluoride or your treatment at BFO!

"My son is seven - when should he visit BFO?"

2010-09-18T17:13:00.000-07:00

A sour smile is not a happy smile! From Brown Family Orthodontics

2010-09-09T08:33:00.000-07:00

It’s no secret that sweet, sugary candies and drinks have an adverse effect of the health of your smile, but what about sour or tart candies? Our team at Brown Family Orthodontics thought you might want to know what kind of an effect does eating or drinking something sour have on my smile?

A 2008 study from the Minnesota Dental Association suggests that the amount of acid in sour candies is enough to eat away at tooth enamel and cause cavities. Here are a few souring facts about sour candies, and some helpful tips on how to protect your teeth from Brown Family Orthodontics](even if you cannot give up sour candies all together).

Facts

-Sour candies can be very acidic, and may actually burn the gums and cheeks, while weakening and wearing down the enamel on your teeth. (Check the acid levels in some of your favorite candies)

-It can take almost 20 minutes for the acid in sour candies to become neutral. Holding the acid in your mouth by sucking on sour hard candies or chewing sour gummies can keep the acid active for more than 20 minutes.

-The acid in sour candies can cause cavities and severe tooth decay.

Protect your teeth

-Limit the amount of sour candies that you eat on a daily basis, and if you do indulge, remember not to suck or chew on sour candies for long periods of time.

-After eating sour candies, rinse your mouth out with water, drink milk, or eat a couple slices of cheese. This will help neutralize the acid in your mouth (wait at least one hour before brushing your teeth with toothpaste, as this can actually increase the effects of acid on your teeth)

-If tooth erosion has already begun, ask your dentist about ways you can help reduce sensitivity and continue to protect your teeth.

Hope this helps! From Dr. Brown and Brown Family Orthodontics.

In love with your smile? Then we invite you to review us on Google!

2010-08-30T14:59:00.000-07:00

For four decades, Brown Family Orthodontics has set the standard of excellence in orthodontic care. With offices in Metairie, Mandeville, Covington and Franklinton, Dr. Ed and Dr. Jessica Brown provide a winning smile and improved self-confidence to every patient.

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

After all, reviews help Drs. Brown and our team create more beautiful smiles!

You may write a review here.

Back to school with Brown Family Orthodontics

2010-08-21T17:07:00.000-07:00

Now that many of the schools in Metairie, Mandeville, Covington and Franklinton are back in session, Dr. Brown and our entire staff at BFO would like to remind all of our patients about the importance of scheduling appointments in advance. With school, clubs and sports to consider, we know that it can be challenging to find time to visit Brown Family Orthodontics. In order to accommodate all of our patients' busy schedules, it is important that you plan ahead for your appointments so that we are able to provide you with an appointment time that is convenient for you.

As always, please remember to give us advanced notice if you're unable to make your regularly-scheduled appointment. If we receive enough notice, we might be able to schedule another patient for that time. Feel free to give us a call if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your fall appointment.

Have a GREAT weekend - we look forward to seeing your smiling faces this fall!

Thanks to Invisalign at BFO, mom and dad can have an amazing smile, too!

2010-08-14T17:19:00.000-07:00

Hey, moms and dads! Focusing on your kids' oral health so much that you've been neglecting your own? If you've been thinking about having your own set of perfectly-aligned teeth, Drs. Ed and Jessica Brown can definitely help! We are specially trained to offer an adult-friendly option for straightening teeth: Invisalign.

This course of treatment consists of a set of clear aligners that are molded to fit your teeth using a proprietary technology. You wear them all day and night, except for meals, brushing, and flossing – when you can easily slip them out to make eating and cleaning a snap!

Because they're clear, your teeth will be steadily straightening – and no one will know it but you! Drs. Brown are certified Invisalign providers in Franklinton, Mandeville, Metairie and Covington.

Please give us a call to set up a consultation. We hope you're having a wonderful summer!

Dr. Brown and the BFO team, reminding you to protect your mouth this summer

2010-08-06T09:01:00.000-07:00

With summer here for another seven weeks, Dr. Ed Brown & our BFO staff would like to remind our young athletes going through treatment to take care of both your mouth and appliances while participating in contact sports (and non-contact sports) this summer.

Remember, only by using a mouth guard can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. The next time you're in for a visit at BFO, be sure to ask us for a mouth guard, and we'll provide one for you! Enjoy your weekend, and we hope you're enjoying your summer thus far!

Brown Family Orthodontic present: Fun facts about braces!

2010-07-28T21:09:00.000-07:00

Who loves fun facts? Most people. Who loves orthodontic facts? Everyone we know here at BFO! The American Association of Orthodontists has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that our BFO staff thought you might enjoy. Have a terrific rest of the week!

• There are nearly 4 million people in orthodontic treatment throughout the United States. Three out of four are younger than 18.

• The first mechanical treatment for correcting irregular teeth was suggested by Gaius Plinius Secundus (A.D 23-79).The American Association of Orthodontists is comprised of more than 12,000 members in the United States, Canada and abroad.

• The time required to complete orthodontic treatment ranges from 12 to 36 months depending on the nature and severity of the problem.

• Of the 160,000 dentists in the United States and Canada, 8,000 are practicing orthodontists.

• The cement that attaches the braces to the teeth is now made with a special fluoride-releasing substance.

• Wires activated by body heat used in today's braces originally were developed by NASA for use in the space program.

• Famous orthodontic patients include: Dr. Joyce Brothers, Hale Irwin, Cher, Diana Ross, Phyllis Diller, Chelsea Clinton, Whoopi Goldberg, Daisy Fuentes and Brandi.

Dr. Brown wants to know: Are you ready for the Braces Brigade?

2010-07-18T19:13:00.000-07:00

Our entire staff at Brown Family Orthodontics are looking for current, former and future orthodontic patients, as well as parents of orthodontic patients, to join the AAO's Braces Brigade and blog about the unique, heartwarming and - let's face it - sometimes hilarious experiences that come with orthodontic treatment. All applicants must either be an orthodontic patient here at BFO or the parent of an orthodontic patient (pre- and post- treatment stages are just fine).

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

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

If you're under 18, you must get your parents' permission and have them fill out this form along with your submission.

As a part of the American Association of Orthodontists' Braces Brigade you'll have the chance to share the journey to your healthy, beautiful smile with the world AND receive a $100 American Express gift card for their work! Dr. Ed Brown and our team encourage you to apply! GOOD LUCK!!

What’s on your reading list this summer?

2010-07-08T09:41:00.000-07:00

With summer in full swing, some of us at Brown Family Orthodontics have been thinking more and more about the importance of reading for kids and teens. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading and play video games or watch a movie, but our staff will tell you reading during the summer is a vital step in brain development - and it's fun!

What's on YOUR summer reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great summer reads? Ask us for suggestions, and our staff would be happy to provide a few suggestions. You may also ask a local librarian in Metairie, Covington or Franklinton for some ideas or check out these summer reading ideas that we came across recently, courtesy of Barnes & Noble.

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us some of your all-time favorite reads on our Facebook page!

Getting social with Brown Family Orthodontics

2010-06-30T13:13:00.000-07:00

In honor of Social Media Day, Dr. Ed Brown and our staff would like to take today to discuss our approach to social media and online patient communications. At our convenient offices in Franklinton, Metairie, Mandeville and Covington offices, we embrace technology and the benefits that social media can bring to our team at Brown Family Orthodontics. Our website, innovative orthodontic treatments and social media presence (including our interactive Facebook page), are all examples of ways that our office uses state-of-the-art technology.

We love engaging in conversation with our patients online. It’s great to connect with our patients by sharing news, ideas and upcoming events at our offices. We have found that our Facebook fan page and blog are great tools for making that type of connection.

Dr. Brown and team are interested in hearing your thoughts on social media. How would you prefer we use our social networks this summer? What would you like to see us share on our blog? Let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

We hope you have a safe, relaxing and FUN Fourth of July weekend!

Enjoy your Fourth of July weekend everybody!

Patient question: What should I do in case of an emergency with my appliances?

2010-06-25T21:25:00.000-07:00

Share your summer adventures with Brown Family Orthodontics!

2010-06-16T16:44:00.000-07:00

It's almost summer here at Brown Family Orthodontics, a season full of adventures, vacations and great memories. Whether you're headed to a barbecue, an exotic destination, a camping trip, or just having fun in the backyard this summer, Dr. Brown and team want to hear about it! Share your plans and experiences on our Facebook page all summer long!

Happy travels,

The BFO team

What are happy patients saying about Brown Family Orthodontics?

2010-06-09T11:09:00.000-07:00

Dr. Ed Brown and our team love getting patient reviews. And lately, Brown Family Orthodontics, serving Covington, Mandeville, Metairie and Franklinton, has been getting some pretty great patient testimonials! We thought we'd share some with you today! Happy Wednesday!

"I like the fact the is a good bed side manner. That is one thing that I look for in a Doctor." ~ Amy C.

"Patients are seen at their appointment time... no waiting!" ~ Robert F.

"Their kindness and the way they relate to the patients, no matter their age. Dakota is treated like a person." ~ Terry K.

"The personable staff and easy treatment." ~ Krystal K.

Win an iPad at Brown Family Orthodontics!

2010-06-02T09:02:00.000-07:00

Our team at Brown Family Orthodontics is excited to announce our next patient contest! Our next Share-A-Smile prize will be a new Apple iPad, and it starts now!

There are five ways to earn entries! You may refer a friend to our office, which gets you one entry. You may write a testimonial on our Facebook wall about your experience at our office, which also gets you one entry. If you post a video testimonial, we will award you two entries.

You may also write a review of Dr. Brown and team on our Google, Yahoo or Bing listings, which will net you one entry. Or, you may update your Facebook status when you visit the Brown Family Orthodontics Team, and we will award you one entry.

If you have any questions about our contest rules or how to join, please feel free to give us a call!

This Memorial Day, what are you up to? From Dr. Brown

2010-05-25T15:05:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day weekend is a time Americans remember all those who bravely gave their lives for our country. It’s also the unofficial start of summer, and for many kids, getting out of town for three days with parents after being in school all these months is sure to be sweet, sweet relief.

At Brown Family Orthodontics, we know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. After all, it’s unofficially the start of summer and time for a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories with parents or friends. What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend? What will you be doing on your day off from school or work?

Whether you are headed to a barbeque, a camping trip, or just having fun in the sun this weekend, we’d like to hear all about it! Enjoy the holiday!!

Share your experience at Brown Family Orthodontics with the world!

2010-05-17T09:01:00.000-07:00

For four decades, Brown Family Orthodontics has set the standard of excellence in orthodontic care. They have built a reputation on care, expertise and convenience. With offices in Metairie, Mandeville, Covington, and Franklinton, Brown Family Orthodontics maintains a network of convenient locations to accommodate patients and parents. Combining a keen eye on technology, a commitment to continuing education, and a steadfast dedication to five-star patient service, Brown Family Orthodontics provides a winning smile and improved self-confidence to every patient.

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

After all, reviews help Drs. Brown and our team create more beautiful smiles in Metairie, Mandeville, Covington, Franklinton and surrounding communities.

You may write a review here.

Thank you and enjoy your week! Drs. Brown and team look forward to reading your reviews!

Brown Family Orthodontics, supporting National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

2010-05-14T07:34:00.000-07:00

Did you know the month of May is observed as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month? In 1983, President Ronald Reagan encouraged people everywhere to incorporate more activity into their lives. The president's reminder is even more significant today as kids are distracted more and more by TV, social networking and video games. Kids living an active lifestyle can - and do - improve their health, productivity and overall well being, and best of all? It doesn’t have to take a lot of time!

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has provided these public health guidelines, which call for kids and teenagers to exercise one hour every day of moderate intensity physical activity (such as playing sports or brisk walking) or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity (jogging, dancing and jumping rope).

At Brown Family Orthodontics, we encourage our patients to exercise or participate in sports. However, we want to remind you to always wear a mouth guard or other forms of facial protection when playing sports. To learn more about how often you should exercise, we recommend you check out this series of helpful articles about kids and exercise, courtesy of our friends at KidsHealth.org.

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

2010-05-07T15:56:00.000-07:00

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

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

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

There will be two winners; the contest is open to students who are age 18 who have completed active orthodontic treatment (braces must have been removed) and be in the active retention phase of treatment or have completed active retention.

The contest guidelines provide instructions to contestants on submitting their videos, which are to be submitted on DVDs or USB flash drives and accompanied by a signed release. All entries must be postmarked by July 15th.

Dr. Brown and our entire team at Brown Family Orthodontics hope you'll find time to submit your video! GOOD LUCK!!

Parents and daughters, from Brown Family Orthodontics

2010-04-30T14:30:00.000-07:00

Recently, we came across the AAO's Twitter page, where we found a gem of an article about parenting teenage girls we thought we'd pass along to the moms who come into our office every day. The article, from our friends at momlogic, pointed to a recent survey that involved 2,000 mothers and fathers of children over the age of 18, and noted that teenage girls - specifically 14-year-olds - are the toughest to parent "due to their desire to grow up too quickly, their demands for greater freedom and peer pressure to be thin."

At Brown Family Orthodontics, we know parenting isn't always easy. But we want you to know you're not alone - millions of moms and dads are struggling - or have struggled - with their teenagers' behavior. If you feel your son or daughter is acting out, we encourage you to read "Teen Anger: Techniques to Avoid the Buildup."

Enjoy your weekend everyone!

This Earth Day, what are you up to? From Dr. Brown

2010-04-22T10:23:00.000-07:00

At Brown Family Orthodontics, we support Earth Day, designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth's environment and marks its 40th anniversary today.

Whether lending a helping hand to plant trees or getting out to volunteer in various projects in our community, today is your opportunity to get started in making your impact year-round. Are you making a difference today? Tell us, what are you up to? How long have you participated in helping our planet?

If you’d like to join the millions of people around the world who are making small but important changes to help sustain our ecosystem, try these helpful environmental tips, courtesy of the United States Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA.

Happy Earth Day!

At Brown Family Orthodontics, a pursuit of excellence

2010-04-16T12:23:00.000-07:00

At Brown Family Orthodontics, we make every effort to provide you with the best orthodontic treatment possible. For four decades, Brown Family Orthodontics has set the standard of excellence in orthodontic care. We have built a reputation on care, expertise and convenience. With offices in Metairie, Mandeville, Covington, and Franklinton, Brown Family Orthodontics maintains a network of convenient locations to accommodate patients and parents.

Combining a keen eye on technology, a commitment to continuing education, and a steadfast dedication to five-star patient service, Brown Family Orthodontics provides a winning smile and improved self-confidence to every patient.

There are many things that help Dr. Ed Brown achieve great results. Some of them are:

1. Using the most up to date and proven technologies available
2. Spending time and resources on continuing education to stay current and relevant
3. Training our entire team on new techniques
4. Educating our wonderful patients about the pursuit of excellence

If you or a family member has been thinking about orthodontic treatment, please give us a call. We look forward to seeing you.

Smile for a Lifetime in the news!

2010-04-05T09:52:00.000-07:00

You may remember our post from a few weeks ago, when we discussed Dr. Brown’s involvement with Smile for a Lifetime, the outstanding program that is changing lives every day. Over the weekend, we found a great article in DentistryIQ about Smile for a Lifetime, and thought we'd share this well-written piece with you.

Drs. Ed and Jessica Brown and Brown Family Orthodontics are proud partners with Smile for a Lifetime. Remember, to become a candidate at Brown Family Orthodontics, interested patients and their families must be at or below poverty level and must complete a one-page application for their child. The applications can be picked up at our office. Please give us a call to learn more about Smile for a Lifetime, or to find out if you qualify.

Save face this spring, from Brown Family Orthodontics

2010-03-29T09:01:00.001-07:00

April is almost upon us, and for Drs. Brown and our team at Brown Family Orthodontics that only means one thing: it’s time to remind our young patients to protect their faces and pearly whites. Above is a helpful video from our friends at the AAO about staying safe on the ball field this spring.

According to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, children, high-school athletes and adults will have more than 5,000,000 teeth knocked out in sporting events this year. By simply wearing a properly fitted mouth guard, these accidents could prevent this along with other traumatic facial injuries.

At Brown Family Orthodontics we are concerned for the health and safety of our patients at all times, but especially when playing contact sports. The above video from our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists outlines five ways you can protect yourself this spring. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact our team. And remember to stay safe and have fun this spring!

Tell Drs. Brown what’s on your mind!

2010-03-22T09:40:00.000-07:00

By now, you’re familiar with the drill: Every week, our talented staff at Brown Family Orthodontics blog about topics related to orthodontic care and your health, including innovative orthodontic treatments offered at our office. This week, we thought we’d ask our remarkable patients: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the exciting field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog going forward? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Drs. Brown but haven’t found the time? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook fan page!

Give us your best shot, and our team will try to answer any questions you may have!

Brown Family Orthodontics, partnering with Smile for a Lifetime

2010-03-15T09:43:00.000-07:00

Dr. Ed Brown and our entire team at Brown Family Orthodontics are proud to partner with a nonprofit organization called Smile for a Lifetime. The organization helps under-privileged kids in Mandeville, Covington, Franklinton and Metairie who can’t afford to have a not only a great-looking smile, but a smile that will be healthy and last a lifetime!

To become a candidate at Brown Family Orthodontics, interested families must be at or below poverty level and must complete a one-page application for their child or candidate. Smile for a Lifetime Foundation applications can be picked up at our offices, school guidance offices, or by giving us a call. You may also visit www.s4L.org.

Sleep disorders and treatment options at Brown Family Orthodontics

2010-03-08T15:56:00.000-08:00

Sleep disorders are fairly common, with around 50 to 70 million Americans being affected by some type chronic sleep disorder, and many of these progressing to Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), which can cause loss of sleep among many other health problems.

Sleep apnea is considered a serious medical problem that if left untreated can lead to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart failure and stroke. It can also take a toll on your overall energy level, as the condition causes an ongoing state of fatigue. At Brown Family Orthodontics, there are several different approaches to sleep apnea treatment, including:

• Surgery to the jaws or airway tissue to open the airway. This is typically only used in the most severe cases.
• Continuous airway pressure therapy which involves a mask and machine (CPAP machine) to keep your throat muscles and tissue open while sleeping
• Oral appliance therapy, a less intrusive method involving a customized oral device that positions your jaw in a favorable position to keep your airway open while you sleep.

If you suspect that you may suffer from a sleep disorder or sleep apnea, give us a call. Depending on your situation, treatment may involve an oral device that Drs. Brown can custom-create for you.

This March, what are you up to? From Brown Family Orthodontics

2010-03-03T10:21:00.000-08:00

It’s almost springtime, and that means the daffodils and buttercups are on their way, the sun is warming up and the smell of freshly-cut grass is wafting across baseball fields nearby. Drs. Edward and Jessica Brown thought this would be a good time to ask: What are your plans for March?

Are you ready for spring? Are you participating in school sports? Do you have exciting plans? We’d love to know them all!

You may share your stories or plans with our team here, on our social networks or by giving us a call!

February marks National Children’s Dental Health Month, from Brown Family Orthodontics

2010-02-22T09:05:00.000-08:00

February is National Children's Dental Health Month and our professional team at Brown Family Orthodontics thought we'd share a few oral hygiene tips with you, our patients, courtesy of the American Dental Association, or ADA.

• Teeth brushing techniques: It takes only two minutes to properly brush using short, gentle strokes and devoting extra attention to the gumline, areas around fillings and hard-to-reach areas such as the back teeth.
• Flossing: hold the floss snugly between thumbs and index finger and insert it between each of the teeth, making sure to go beneath the gumline and curving the floss around the base of each tooth.
• Snack wisely: choose healthy snacks such as cheese, fruits and vegetables and avoid sticky, chewy candies that can stick to the teeth. If you eat these snacks, be sure to brush after doing so.
• Carbonated or sugary drinks: these drinks create acids that can damage the teeth when mixed with saliva, so they should be avoided altogether. If you're going to drink one of these beverages, don't sip on it throughout the day. Rather, drink it and then brush your teeth.
• Regular dental visits: in addition to seeing Dr. Brown, you should visit your dentist for professional check-ups and teeth cleaning appointments about every six months.

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

The Saints are Superbeauxl Champs!

2010-02-08T12:57:00.000-08:00

Brown Family Orthodontics is proud of our Saints! A great game, a great Super Bowl and a great team! What was your favorite moment of the game? Did you like the on-side kick? The 74-yard interception? Share with us your favorite moments of the season!

24/7 access to your account at Brown Family Orthodontics

2010-02-01T16:10:00.000-08:00

At Brown Family Orthodontics, we embrace new technology, whether it is through the innovative orthodontic treatments that we offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern office conveniently located in Covington, Mandeville, Metairie and Franklinton, and serving surrounding communities.

Did you know that patients of Drs. Brown have access to their account, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, on our web site? You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages! Just see what some of our patients have to say about this service!

"It was amazing for me to view my pictures on line and see what my teeth looked like prior to brace and now. What a difference." ~ Lisa L.

"Brings it into the 21st century. You don't have to bother anyone with non-emergency issues." ~ Tina D.

"I can view my account whenever possible if I can't get someone in the office, and it's accessible anywhere." ~ James S.

"More convenient the other offices that rely only on phone communication." ~ Terry K.

"Ortho Sesame is really helpful and easy to access." ~ Debra C.

You can sign up for this convenient service on our web site by clicking the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please call the team at Brown Family Orthodontics if you have any questions!

Facebook Fan Page for Brown Family Orthodontics!

2010-01-25T10:11:00.000-08:00

Did you know Brown Family Orthodontics is on Facebook? Our fan page, which keeps growing each day, provides you the latest news from Drs. Brown and our office. We invite you to connect with us and be "in the loop" for all things Brown Family Orthodontics, which serves Covington, Mandeville, Metairie, Franklinton and surrounding communities.

Become a "fan" today and have a great rest of the week! From Dr. Ed Brown and the entire team at Brown Family Orthodontics!