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June is National Smile Month!

2011-06-17T11:25:00.000-07:00

According to the American Dental Association, a person's smile outranked eyes, hair and body as the most important physical feature, which is why it's important for our team at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics to support National Smile Month this June.

Show off your pearly whites by posting your favorite smile photos on the wall of our Facebook page. We look forward to seeing what you share!

What do you LOVE about Pottstown?

2011-06-09T13:11:00.000-07:00

Fromer & Gross Orthodontics, your Pottstown orthodontists, is situated around some pretty unique neighborhoods. Each is special with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our amazing patients) living within.

Today, Drs. Joel Fromer, Ronald Gross, and our team thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about Pottstown? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps a favorite getaway in Pennsylvania?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in Pottstown, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods” in Pennsylvania.

If you need to schedule your next appointment, give us a call! Have a great week!

Why the Damon® System?

2011-06-03T14:27:00.000-07:00

Something big is happening in the orthodontics world, and it’s no other than Damon braces, which allow your teeth to move more comfortably and easily than traditional braces. With the Damon System, achieving that perfect smile will be faster and easier than you ever thought possible.

With the new Damon braces, we can achieve terrific results and finish your treatment faster. Depending on your case, this may mean saving many months of treatment! After analyzing your specific needs, we will be able to provide you with a treatment plan that will have you smiling soon! Because Damon braces are very precise and effective, we can reduce the need for many of the time-consuming and complicated procedures that are used with traditional braces. Because Damon braces work more efficiently, fewer adjustments are required. As a result, your appointments will be faster and fewer in number. Due to the unique design of this new braces system, we can move your teeth into their correct positions with much less discomfort than traditional braces. Also, Damon braces are small, very comfortable, and easy to keep clean.

Fromer & Gross Orthodontics is a certified Damon System provider. To learn more about the Damon System or your treatment with Dr. Fromer or Dr. Gross, please give us a call.

The advantage of Invisalign Teen™ at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

2011-05-27T09:12:00.000-07:00

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

So how does Invisalign Teen work, you ask? Much in the same fashion as Invisalign, but with a few added characteristics tailored specifically to teenagers’ lifestyles. For instance, Invisalign Teen is designed with “compliance indicators” that fade from dark to light during the two week period that particular tray is used and once it has faded teens know to change trays. Each aligner comes with up to six free individual replacement aligners in case the original aligner ends up lost or broken. Another big benefit for the patient!

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

Dr. Joel Fromer is attending the 111th AAO Annual Session

2011-05-16T08:21:00.000-07:00

To better serve our patients at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics with the highest quality orthodontic care available, our entire team is committed to continuing education into the exciting world of orthodontics.

One of the ways we improve our service is by attending conferences, meetings and seminars. Through May 17th, Dr. Joel Fromer will be in Chicago attending the 2011 AAO Annual Session, an educational event that is one of the largest orthodontic conventions in the world - and one that allows us to consult with orthodontists and current partners from around the country and stay up-to-date on all the latest technologies and orthodontic treatment options available. This, in turn, allows us to give you the best treatment experience possible.

If you've got an appointment scheduled with us soon, Dr. Fromer invites you to ask him about his Chicago trip, including what he learned and how continuing education and acquisition of new technology helps us treat you more effectively.

Here's a photo of Dr. Fromer and Barbara Jacobucci, from Sesame Communications, in Chicago at the 2011 AAO Annual Session.

Patty tells us about her experience with Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

2011-05-12T08:50:00.000-07:00

In this video, Patty Fehr, the mother of Fromer & Gross Orthodontics' patient Samantha Fehr, describes her experience with the orthodontic office of Dr. Joel Fromer and Dr. Ronald Gross. Also included in the video are Samantha's before and after braces photos. Enjoy!

If you're considering orthodontic treatment, please give our office a call to schedule a consultation.

May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month!

2011-05-05T16:33:00.000-07:00

Did you know the month of May is designated National Physical Fitness and Sports Month? In 1983, President Ronald Reagan encouraged Americans to incorporate more physical activity into their lives, and the reminder is even more significant in this day and age, as kids everywhere are distracted more and more by television, social networking and video games. Kids living an active lifestyle can 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 for your convenience. The guidelines call for children and teens to exercise for at least one hour each 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 Fromer & Gross Orthodontics, we always encourage our patients to stay fit by exercising or participating 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 your child should exercise, we recommend you check out this series of helpful articles about kids and exercise, courtesy of our friends at KidsHealth.org.

Is Invisalign® really customized for each patient?

2011-04-29T10:33:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work, says Drs. Joel Fromer and Ronald Gross To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. The best thing about it all? Nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

We are a Certified Invisalign Providers. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, please give us a call at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics.

April is National Facial Protection Month

2011-04-21T15:34:00.000-07:00

Wouldn’t you believe it, it’s already springtime! The spring months, however, bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of kids damaging their precious mouths and pearly whites. April is National Facial Protection Month and if you have braces and play sports, it's important that you consult Dr. Joel Fromer or Dr. Ronald Gross for special precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing spring sports such as baseball, soccer, lacrosse and others. Be sure, however, to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements we are trying to achieve.

In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances damaged, please schedule an appointment with Fromer & Gross Orthodontics.

Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics.

A great braces-friendly spring recipe! From Fromer and Gross Orthodontics

2011-04-14T16:32:00.000-07:00

Winter is over, and the weather is finally starting to get warmer. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) made an appetizing (and braces-friendly!) spring dish that is sure to delight. Remember, a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps you achieve the best possible result from your orthodontic treatment.

Soy Simmered Chicken Wraps

Ingredients:
• 3 boneless chicken breast halves
• 2 large onions, chunked
• Small flour tortillas (pkg. of ten) wheat or white
• (optional: 10-16 oz. of cooked chopped broccoli)
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup water
• 2 Tablespoons honey
• 1/8 teaspoon ginger
• 2 Tablespoons peach or apricot jam
• 1 Tablespoon cornstarch

Directions

In a slow cooker, or a large pan on the stove, layer the onions and the chicken breast. Allow at least three hours in the slow cooker on medium, or at least one hour on the stove—the longer the better, but you don’t have to do anything to it while it cooks. Spoon out the chicken onto a cutting board, and with a knife and fork, shred the chicken as finely as you’d like. In a small saucepan, stir all sauce ingredients together over medium heat until the mixture starts bubbling, then let it simmer for five minutes on low heat to thicken. In a serving bowl, stir sauce and onion into chicken; if you’d like, add cooked chopped broccoli. Makes about six to eight servings.

Enjoy this great spring dish and have a great week!

--From Drs. Joel Fromer, Ronald Gross and staff

What Will YOUR Smile Look Like After Orthodontic Treatment?

2011-04-07T14:18:00.000-07:00

It is sometimes hard to believe the transformation your smile undergoes during orthodontic treatment. Fromer & Gross Orthodontics 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. Joel Fromer or Dr. Ronald Gross, have you ever wondered what your new smile might look like after treatment?

The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO for short, has 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 Fromer & Gross Orthodontics to get started on improving your smile today!

How important is your smile?

2011-03-31T13:57:00.000-07:00

Fromer & Gross Orthodontics we are dedicated to using the most advanced orthodontic technology in order to provide comfortable, accurate, customized orthodontic treatments. Drs. Joel Fromer and Ronald Gross and our talented staff have been creating beautiful smiles in Pottstown for years.

The bottom line is, we know having a beautiful smile is important to you. It’s important to us, too.

In fact, 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 Drs. Fromer and Gross.

You're Never Too Old to Treat Yourself to a New Smile!

2011-03-24T11:08:00.000-07:00

Did you know one in every five orthodontic patients is an adult? We’re living longer and technology is improving, making orthodontic treatment an appealing and safe option for patients of all ages. As the trend toward treatment later in life grows, we’re seeing braces on parents as well as children – and even adult celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Gwen Stefani and Nicholas Cage have shown off their braces. It’s never too late to look and feel your best with Fromer & Gross Orthodontics!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment with Drs. Joel Fromer and Ronald Gross. The physical process for moving teeth is the same, young or old, which means it’s never too late to address issues such as an overbite or underbite, crooked or crowded teeth, or jaw disorders.

How Do I Get Started?

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, we’ll make a consultation appointment with you. During this meeting we will perform a general assessment of your oral health, discuss options for treatment, and answer any questions you may have. We will also discuss matters of cost and insurance. The next step is an orthodontic records appointment in which we take x-rays, photos, and an impression of your teeth. This information drives your unique treatment plan.

What Are the Benefits?

Straightening your teeth can improve your smile, your self-esteem, and your dental health. Technologically advanced new treatments make it easier to identify the option that best fits your lifestyle. Modern techniques and materials have made braces and aligners more effective, comfortable and unobtrusive than ever.

If you think you might benefit from orthodontic treatment, give Fromer & Gross Orthodontics a call, so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs.

A Festive and Braces-Friendly Recipe to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T11:41:00.000-07:00

If you're planning to spend St. Patrick's Day celebrating your Irish heritage, or just enjoying the festivals, food and "wearing of the green"- we've got a treat for you! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have a tasty and braces-friendly recipe that is perfect for today. Corned Beef Casserole presents a twist on the traditional St. Patrick's Day corned beef and cabbage, and will surely become a family favorite!

Corned Beef Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 (8-ounce) package medium egg noodles, uncooked
• 1 (12-ounce) can corned beef
• 1 (10.5- to 14-ounce) can cream of celery soup, undiluted
• ¾ cup milk (use just ½ cup if using larger soup can)
• 1 Tablespoon dried minced onion
• ¼ cup bread crumbs (seasoned or toasted plain)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°. In a saucepan, cook the noodles just until tender; drain. In a large bowl, chop the corned beef into a coarse crumbly texture.

Stir in soup, milk and onion. Grease a 2-quart casserole. Add the noodles and the corned beef mixture and stir together well. Sprinkle the bread crumbs on top.

Bake covered at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

Serves 6-8 people.

Try serving the casserole with petite whole green beans from the freezer…or add 1 cup of finely chopped purple cabbage, 1/4 cup diced onion and 2 teaspoons fennel seed or powder for some true Irish flavor.

Happy St. Patrick's Day, from all of us at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics!

Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment with Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

2011-03-10T16:00:00.000-08:00

Usually patients in orthodontic treatment at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics already have their permanent teeth – they are pre-teens, teens and adults. But in some cases we have to start treatment earlier, even before the patient’s permanent teeth come in. We call this “two-phase treatment.”

When we have patients with clear developmental problems at an early age, it’s best to start work when they are young, before the problems get bigger and more difficult to treat.

Examples include:

• An upper or lower jaw that is not growing correctly
• A mouth growing in a way that doesn’t leave enough room for all the permanent teeth to come in
• A severe malocclusion, or bad bite, which means the jaw doesn’t fit together correctly

In these cases we will start early and do one round of treatment – phase one – while the patient still has their baby teeth. Phase one usually does not involve braces, but can include a different type of appliance that helps the jaw grow into place properly. We’ll follow up with phase two usually a few years later, when permanent teeth are in place. Generally phase two involves standard braces.

In order to catch early problems, we recommend that children have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven (and so does the American Association of Orthodontists). However, if your dentist or pediatrician sees any sign that early treatment might be necessary, he or she may recommend your child visit our office even sooner.

If you have additional questions about two-phase orthodontic treatment with Drs. Joel Fromer and Ronald Gross, please give our office a call. We'd love to help.

The Importance of Retainers

2011-03-04T13:14:00.000-08:00

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

Here are some things to remember when you receive your retainers:

* Wear your retainers full time, until the doctor instructs otherwise. Wearing your retainers at night ensures that your pearly whites won’t relapse.
* Take your retainers out when eating...and always put retainers in their case! (Most appliances are lost in school lunch rooms or restaurants.)
* Clean retainers thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush and only a small amount of toothpaste. Use warm but not hot water.
* When retainers are not in your mouth they should ALWAYS be in a retainer case.
* Retainers are breakable, so treat them with care. If retainers are lost or broken, give us a call immediately.
* Remove retainers when swimming or during any sporting activity in which the retainers could fall out and get broken or lost (cheerleading, basketball, etc.) or when you should be wearing a mouth guard (football, soccer, etc.).

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

Smile, and you might just live longer!

2011-02-25T11:14:00.000-08:00

Folks with big smiles may actually live longer than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. Drs. Joel Fromer and Ronald Gross have known for quite some time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers at the university did something quite interesting: they looked at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity (ranging from big smile, no smile or partial smile). The players' smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers then took into account other factors that impact life longevity, including body mass index, career length and even college attendance.

The results? Researchers found that players who weren't smiling in the photos died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be 79.9 years old.

The take-away from the new study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting Fromer & Gross Orthodontics? If not, give us a call!

The Importance of Mouth Guards, from Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

2011-02-18T10:36:00.000-08:00

Spring is quickly approaching, which also means upcoming spring sports will be starting soon. This week, Fromer & Gross Orthodontics wants to talk about mouth guards, what they are, when to use them, the works.

Q: What are athletic mouth protectors?

A: Athletic mouth protectors, or mouth guards, are made of soft plastic. They are adapted to fit comfortably to the shape of the upper teeth.

Q: Why are mouth guards important?

A: Mouth guards hold top priority as sports equipment. They protect not just the teeth, but the lips, cheeks, and tongue. They help protect children from such head and neck injuries as concussions and jaw fractures. Increasingly, organized sports are requiring mouth guards to prevent injury to their athletes. Research shows that most oral injuries occur when athletes are not wearing mouth protection.

Q: When should my child wear a mouth guard?

A: Whenever he or she is in an activity with a risk of falls or of head contact with other players or equipment. This includes football, baseball, basketball, soccer, hockey, skateboarding, even gymnastics. We usually think of football and hockey as the most dangerous to the teeth, but nearly half of sports-related mouth injuries occur in basketball and baseball.

Q: How do I choose a mouth guard for my child?

A: Any mouth guard works better than no mouth guard. So, choose a mouth guard that your child can wear comfortably. If a mouth guard feels bulky or interferes with speech, it will be left in the locker room.

If you have braces and play sports, it's important that you consult us for special precautions. In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances damaged, phone at once for an appointment. In the meantime, treat your discomfort as you would treat any general soreness.If you have any additional questions, give us a call at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics. We'd love to hear from you!

NEW Commercial from Fromer & Gross Orthodontics!

2011-02-10T09:49:00.000-08:00

Fromer & Gross Orthodontics has a new commercial! It will be airing on TLC, Hallmark, Lifetime and The Cooking Channel networks. We really love hearing feedback from our patients. Let us know what you think by commenting on this post, on our Facebook Page, or by giving us a call.

-Drs. Joel Fromer, Ronald Gross and team

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month!

2011-02-04T11:21:00.000-08:00

One in four parents says their child has had an injury during an organized sport resulting in a trip to the emergency room, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO. That why Drs. Joel Fromer, Ronald Gross and team at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics thought February—also known as National Children’s Dental Health Month—would be great time to remind our patients to be mindful of their braces and teeth while playing sports.

Here are a few tips to stay safe on the field this spring, courtesy of the AAO:

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

We hope that helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Fromer & Gross Orthodontics. Stay safe and have fun!

Safety first this winter! From Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

2011-01-28T10:05:00.000-08:00

Winter is officially here, and with it comes sometimes unpredictable and inclement weather. This week, Drs. Joel Fromer, Ronald Gross and our team would like to share a few winter safety tips that we found on the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry website. These tips include everything from what to wear outdoors to tips for winter snow sports. Enjoy!

• Older babies and young children should generally be dressed in one more layer of clothing than an adult would wear in the same conditions
• Several thin clothing layers will keep an infant or child dry and warm. Warm boots, gloves, mittens, and a hat are necessities!
• A cold air humidifier, saline nose drops, and petrolatum will help a child that suffers from winter nosebleeds.
• It is important for children to wash their hands frequently, and to use the bend of their elbow if they need to sneeze or cough to prevent the spread of colds and flu.
• Never ski or snowboard alone. Adults should supervise young children participating in winter sports.
• When sledding, it is preferable to separate young children from older children, and to avoid crowded areas.
• The AAP recommends that children under age 16 not operate snowmobiles and that children under age 6 never ride on snowmobiles.

We hope that these tips help keep you and your loved ones stay safe and sound this winter season. Please give us a call if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your next appointment at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics.

What, exactly, is Malocclusion?

2011-01-18T12:04:00.000-08:00

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

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

Drs. Fromer and Gross will tell you that untreated malocclusion can lead undesirable mouth problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, or chipped and cracked teeth. The most common solution for malocclusion, of course, is orthodontic treatment. The actual course of treatment, including the length of time you will require braces, will be determined by severity of your malocclusion. The goal of your treatment is to move your teeth into the proper position and correct any misalignment in the jaw.

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

Stay Warm AND Keep Your Braces Happy!

2011-01-14T08:25:00.000-08:00

It’s chilly outside, and sometimes nothing satisfies the staff here at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics more than a hot meal. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) made an appetizing (and braces-friendly!) winter dish that is sure to delight. Remember, a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps you achieve the best possible result from your orthodontic treatment.

Best Baked Spaghetti
Ingredients
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped or 1 Tablespoon dried onion
• 1 clove garlic, chopped
• 3 (8 oz.) cans tomato sauce
• ½ cup Burgundy or merlot wine (Burgundy gives a deeper flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 Tablespoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup grated American cheese, about 4 slices, or ½ cup grated mild cheddar cheese
• ½ lb. dry spaghetti, broken in half

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°. In a large no-stick frying pan or Dutch oven, sauté meat, onion and garlic. Add tomato sauce, wine, oregano, sugar and salt. Simmer, cover, 1 hour, stirring occasionally. (It really makes a difference if you can take this amount of time! Otherwise 20 minutes will serve to heat everything.) Cook spaghetti and drain. Put half the spaghetti in a greased 3-quart casserole, and then add half the sauce and ¼ cup of the grated cheese. Add the remaining spaghetti and sauce, and stir everything with a large spoon. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Best if baked for 45 minutes at 350°. Makes about six to eight servings.

Enjoy this great winter dish and have a great weekend!

--From Drs. Joel Fromer, Ronald Gross and staff

Braces 101

2011-01-07T11:22:00.000-08:00

Should you need to call Fromer & Gross Orthodontics in case you sustain any damage to your braces, 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!

What is your New Year’s Resolution?

2010-12-30T08:13:00.000-08:00

The 2010 holiday season is upon us, and our team at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics would like to wish all our patients and their families the merriest of holidays and best wishes for the New Year.

We thought we’d ask: what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you 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, from all of us at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics!

Looking for a delicious BRACES-friendly Winter Dessert? We’ve got a great recipe!

2010-12-23T09:27:00.000-08:00

You have braces, and you’re probably wondering what to eat. Fromer & Gross Orthodontics will tell you can’t have gum, popcorn or other delicious but braces-unfriendly foods. But fear not! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have a delicious recipe that will satisfy both your sugar craving and hunger when the weather gets cold.

Apple Bombolini
Ingredients:

Rustic dough
• 9 ounces cake flour (about 3 cups)
• ½ cup all purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• Pinch sea salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into large pieces
• 1 tablespoon vanilla
• 2 tablespoon cold water

Apple sauce filling
• 4 Granny Smith apples
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 vanilla bean, or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon water

Diced apples:
• 4 Granny Smith apples
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla
• ½ lemon, juiced

Directions:

For the dough: In a mixing bowl with a paddle attachment, add the dry ingredients and mix for 5 seconds to blend. Add the butter and vanilla and mix until the butter is about the size of peas. Add the cold water and blend until the dough just comes together. Form the dough into a roughly shaped ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.

Applesauce filling: Peel, core, and slice the apples. Put the apples with the rest of the ingredients into a saucepan. Bring to a boil, turn down the heat, and cook until the apples are very soft, about 20 minutes. Remove from the heat, cool, and refrigerate.

Diced apples: Peel, core, and cut the apples into large slices. Toss with the sugar, vanilla and lemon juice and set aside.

Assemble the bomboloni: Remove the dough from the refrigerator. Roll out to1/4-inch thick round. Cut into 6-inch rounds. Place about 1/4 cup of the Apple Sauce Filling onto the center of each round. Top with a few pieces of the Diced Apples. Pull the sides up towards the center to form a bundle, pinching the dough together towards top. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour before baking

Bake the bombolonis: Heat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Remove the bombolonis from the refrigerator and place them on a greased or parchment paper lined baking sheet. Bake until golden brown, about 25 to 30 minutes. Makes 5 servings.

We hope you enjoy this treat!

Happy Holidays from all of us at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics!!

Celebrities get braces, too!

2010-12-17T14:34:00.000-08:00

Did you know that back in 2002, Tom Cruise had braces? During this time, he was 40 years old and filmed Minority Report, Austin Powers in Goldmember and the Last Samurai. Check out his smile in Jerry Maguire, Rain Man or The Firm and compare to the post-braces Tom Cruise in Valkyrie or Tropic Thunder. The fact is, movie stars need to look their best for the silver screen, and it wouldn't be possible without orthodontists like Drs. Fromer & Gross.

In fact, lots of Hollywood stars have had orthodontic treatment. Check out this slideshow of famous faces with braces. If you’ve thought about getting the perfect smile you’ve always wanted, please give Fromer & Gross Orthodontics a call.

10 tips for keeping your BRACES sparklin’ clean

2010-12-09T10:34:00.000-08:00

As you probably have heard during a visit to Fromer & Gross Orthodontics, keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever when you have braces. Food bits have more spots than usual to hide in your mouth, so you must be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. If you remove plaque regularly during treatment, you'll experience better results and shorter treatment time. Keep plaque at bay with these top ten tips:

1. One tooth at a time. When you brush, take time with each individual tooth – at least 10 seconds each – and pay careful attention to the spots where your teeth touch your braces.

2. It’s all about the angles. Brush the tops of your teeth and braces with your brush angled down toward where they meet. Brush the bottoms of your teeth and braces with your brush angled up.

3. The tooth, the whole tooth, nothing but the tooth. While the front surface of your teeth may seem like the most logical to clean, it’s equally important to clean the inner surface of your teeth (tongue side) as well as the chewing surface. And be sure to clean along your gum line – a key spot for plaque buildup.

4. Step 1: eat, step 2: clean. While you’re in treatment, it’s important to brush after every meal. Bits of food can easily get caught between braces and teeth, and these food bits interact with bacteria in your mouth to cause decay. The longer food is in contact with your teeth, the greater opportunity for plaque to form. If you are eating somewhere that you can’t brush, thoroughly rinse your mouth with water.

5. Like a Boy Scout, always be prepared. The easiest way to be sure you can brush after every meal is to get in the habit of taking a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss with you wherever you go. Designate a special container just for your teeth-cleaning tools and keep it in your purse, backpack, or laptop case.

6. Remove the moving parts. If you have elastic bands or headgear, remove these parts before you brush or floss.

7. Fluoride is your friend. Fluoride helps prevent cavities. Be sure to brush with fluoride toothpaste, and rinse with fluoride mouthwash.

8. Pointy brushes reach tiny places. Interproximal brushes (sometimes called proxa brushes or interdental brushes) are cone-shaped and come in very handy for reaching spots around your braces that standard brushes can’t.

9. Find the floss for you. Regular floss works for some patients, but others find it easier to work with a floss threader, which helps you get the floss into tight places. Other patients like an all-in-one product called Superfloss, which comes with a stiff end for easy threading, a spongy section for cleaning wide spaces, and regular floss for narrow spaces.

10. Make time for the pros. It’s your job to take care of the everyday cleaning. But make sure to visit your dentist regularly while in treatment, to get the deep, thorough cleaning that only a professional can provide. If you need help finding the right Dentist for you, feel free to contact our office - we’d love to help!

Also, make sure to check out our Life with Braces page on our website for more helpful information. We hope this helps!

Access your account any time, anywhere!

2010-12-03T10:35:00.000-08:00

At Fromer & Gross 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 Pottstown.

Did you know that patients at our office have access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our website? You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, from the comfort of your own home, which is especially helpful during the holidays! And, because we know folks sometimes forget, you can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

You, too, can sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button at the top of our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started or ask Dr. Fromer on Facebook!

Happy Thanksgiving from Fromer & Gross Orthodontics!

2010-11-23T10:03:00.000-08:00

Dr. Fromer and our entire orthodontic staff extend our best wishes to you, our patients and referring doctors, for a wonderful Thanksgiving.

We appreciate the opportunity to work together with you in the creation of your ideal smile, and would like to know: what are you most thankful for this year? Leave us a comment, or if you have any photos or stories to share with us, we encourage you to post them on our Facebook page.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone.

Does Dr. Fromer have your current contact info?

2010-11-17T15:38:00.000-08:00

We hope you’re having a great week so far! There is a nasty weather ahead this fall and winter in Pennsylvania and across the eastern seaboard, as well as the entire East Coast. Please help Dr. Fromer and team get prepared by calling us and letting us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed!

At times of power outages and inclement weather, we need to be able to get a hold of you. Please call us with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so we may be able to reach you. Thank you and Happy Holidays from Dr. Fromer and our entire staff!

Fromer & Gross Orthodontics, honoring our veterans

2010-11-11T09:28:00.000-08:00

Happy Veteran's Day! We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the veterans and those currently on active duty who have put their lives on the line for the freedoms we all enjoy.

In celebration of Veteran’s Day, Dr. Joel Fromer and our team at Fromer and Gross Orthodontics would like to share a few fun facts about our flag, this national holiday, and our country’s history!

-Veterans Day, a day that was originally called Armistice Day, is a time to thank and honor the men and women who have served in our military.

- President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the official legislation for Veterans Day on June 1, 1954, changing the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veterans Day

-There are 23.2 million veterans in the U.S.

-The flag was first approved by Congress on June 14, 1777

-Each of the flag’s colors signify different American values- red is for valor and zeal, white is for hope, purity, and cleanliness of life, and blue is for heaven, loyalty, sincerity, justice, and truth

-Research by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) helped develop the CAT Scan, the cardiac pacemaker, and the “Seattle Foot” to give those hurt the ability to run and jump

-When the flag is displayed next to another flag against a wall, the U.S. flag should be on its own right (on the left side when facing the wall).

-Veterans Day is often confused with Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a time for remembering and honoring the men and women who died while serving our country, or as a result of injuries that incurred in battle. Veterans Day honors and gives thanks to all veterans who served in our military.

-There are five states with over 1 million veterans in their population – California, Florida, Texas, New York and Pennsylvania

Thanks again! We are so thankful for all who have and are currently serving in the U.S. and overseas.

More happy smiles at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics!

2010-11-05T10:16:00.000-07:00

It's no secret we love hearing from our patients. Check out what a few of them are saying about us! Thinking about straightening your teeth? We'd love to help! Give us a call at 484-948-4559! Have a wonderful weekend!

“Staff is very friendly and understanding, especially since most patients are kids. It was awkward going into the office the first few times - felt like the only adult patient. They really made you feel welcome and made the visit very pleasant.” ~ Jeannette R.

"Dr. Fromer and his staff took the time to really explain Rita's treatment options with us. They were also very friendly and helpful in determining our insurance coverage and setting up a payment schedule."
-Herminio M.

"I love the care and concern that the entire staff has for the patients and their families. They are wonderful!" ~ David H.

"Everybody in the office is friendly. Also, Dr. Fromer and the hygienist team always explain what they are doing before they do it." ~ John L.

"The rapport that he has with the children - it makes it very easy for them to go - there's not a "fear" factor involved. The staff is great!"
-Randall B.

“EVERYONE so nice at the office, it really made my daughter feel comfortable. She was very nervous before getting to the office.” ~ Megan S.

Dr. Joel Fromer with the 411 on Halloween treats

2010-10-29T09:48:00.000-07:00

For moms and dads in Pottstown worried about their kids going overboard on candies this weekend, sugar and other sweets, Halloween is a dreaded annual event (no pun intended).

All those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, but these treats are known to damage teeth, as well as braces! Did you know sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them? This can cause tooth decay and cavities! Sour and fruity candy, such as Starburst and Skittles, are the worst for your child’s teeth since these candies have a low pH value, which is known to ruin enamel. In addition, we also want your child to steer clear of sticky, chewy, gummy and nutty goodies.

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists recommend softer treats, such as soft chocolate or peanut butter cups, or melt-in-your-mouth foods. Trick-or-treaters who indulge should make sure they brush and floss between teeth, around brackets and at the gum line. If damage occurs, call Dr. Fromer as soon as possible.

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

Cold & flu season is here again, from Dr. Fromer and team

2010-10-22T21:37:00.000-07:00

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. Joel Fromer and our staff at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our Pottstown office 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 the weekend!

Connect with us on Facebook!

2010-10-13T13:34:00.000-07:00

At Fromer & Gross Orthodontics, we value the relationships we’ve developed with our patients in Pottstown and surrounding communities over the years. Even if you visit our office on a regular basis, did you know you can always connect with us on Facebook?

By “Liking” us at Facebook.com/FromerGrossOrtho, you will receive regular updates and contest announcements from our office – all through your news feed!

See you all on Facebook!

At Fromer & Gross Orthodontics, October means National Orthodontic Health Month!

2010-10-05T16:04:00.000-07:00

We hope you're having a great week!

October is National Orthodontic Health Month, and our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have included information on protecting your braces, including tips for trick-or-treaters, braces-friendly Halloween recipes, facts about braces and treats you should avoid while wearing braces.

Here are some foods you should try to avoid this Halloween season:

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

Dr. Joel Fromer and our staff recommend you check out the AAO's website as well for helpful tips on keeping your braces in tip-top shape. If you have any follow-up questions about keeping your braces in tip-top shape, please feel free to give us a call at 484-948-4559, ask us on Facebook or ask Dr. Fromer during your next visit at our convenient Pottstown office!

Silver Braces and No Chewing Gum [Video]

2010-09-29T08:49:00.000-07:00

Dr. Joel Fromer and our staff thought we'd share with a fun video we recently filmed about taking care of your braces during your treatment! We think you'll enjoy it - we still do!

Tell us your story! Why do you choose Dr. Fromer's office?

2010-09-24T10:01:00.000-07:00

At Fromer and Gross Orthodontics, our patients' comfort, satisfaction and well-being are our major concerns. Our goal is to provide the very best possible orthodontic care so that our patients achieve optimal oral health and the best possible smile.

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation with Drs. Fromer or Gross or your family has been visiting our Pottstown office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can write a review on our Facebook page or let us know the next time you're in for an appointment! We always love hearing from our patients!

Happy Friday!

Ask Dr. Fromer: Which foods should I avoid while wearing braces?

2010-09-15T13:25:00.000-07:00

Good question. There are a variety of foods Dr. Joel Fromer wants you to avoid while you're wearing braces. Some foods can occasionally damage braces, but certain foods can bend the wires or even break the brackets on your braces. If you’re wearing braces, you should avoid starch, sugar and gummy foods, as these foods can be difficult to remove during brushing. Foods that are high in sugar and starch tend to cause plaque, cavities and even tooth decay.

Avoid tough meats, hard breads and raw vegetables such as carrots and celery. Before long, you'll be able to bite a cucumber again. But you'll need to protect your orthodontic appliances when you eat for as long as you're wearing braces.

Foods you should try to avoid include:
• Chewy foods: bagels, hard rolls, licorice
• Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice, chips
• Sticky foods: caramels, gum
• Hard foods: nuts, candy
• Foods you have to bite into: corn on the cob, apples, carrots
• Chewing on hard things (for example, pens, pencils or fingernails) can damage the braces. Damaged braces will cause treatment to take longer.

If you have any questions on which foods you should be avoiding and why, we invite you to give us a call at 484-948-4559 or ask one of our team members during your next visit at our convenient Pottstown office! We also definitely encourage you to check out this helpful article about eating with braces, courtesy of Parenthood.com.

Have a great rest of the week!

Dr. Joel Fromer, reminding you September is National Childhood Injury Prevention Month

2010-09-06T16:55:00.000-07:00

This month, our staff at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics want you to be extra careful with your braces and appliances. After all, September marks the start of fall sports and an increased risk to mouth injuries. September also happens to be National Childhood Injury Prevention Month, and Dr. Joel Fromer thought it’d be a good idea to share a few sobering facts about sports and facial injuries, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Injuries can happen at any age: More than half of the seven million sports and recreation-related injuries that occur each year are sustained by youth between ages 5 and 24, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Collision and contact sports have higher injury rates—baseball, soccer, basketball and football account for about 80% of all sports-related emergency room visits for children between 5 and 14 years of age. Despite the risks, many kids are still not wearing mouth guards and facial protection during games and practices.

Mouth guards are not being used: Sixty-seven percent of parents say their child does not wear a mouth guard, yet, 70% say their biggest fear when their child plays is that they will get hurt. And here’s a chilling stat: One out of every four (27 percent) parents say their child has sustained an injury during an organized sport resulting in a trip to the emergency room, according to the AAO.

Not enough support for mouth guards: Of the parents whose children do not wear a mouth guard, 84 percent say it's because the league or coach does not require it, the AAO says.

Hard hits occur in every sport: The average high school baseball pitcher can throw a fast ball between 75-to-85 miles per hour. This compares to being hit in the mouth by a speeding car! Cheerleading is one of the most dangerous sports, accounting for 65% of all injuries in high school girls' athletics, according to MSNBC.com.

We hope this helps you remember to always wear a mouth guard and other forms of protective gear when participating in fall sports! We encourage you to give us a call at 610-326-9797 if you have any questions!

Invisalign®, giving parents in Pottstown something to smile about

2010-08-27T16:22:00.000-07:00

Dear parents: If you've been focusing on your kids' teeth and oral health so much that you're neglecting your own? If you've been thinking about having your own set of perfect teeth, our staff at Fromer and Gross Orthodontics can help! Drs. Fromer & Gross are specially trained to offer an adult-friendly option in Pottstown for straightening teeth called 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! And, because they're clear, your teeth will be steadily straightening ... and no one will know it but you!

Please give us a call at 484-948-4559 to set up a consultation, so we can discuss the specifics of your treatment. Happy Friday everybody!

Back to school with Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

2010-08-20T18:14:00.000-07:00

Now that many of the schools are back in session in Pottstown and surrounding communities, Dr. Joel Fromer and our staff wanted 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 our office this fall for your regular visit. 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 at 484-948-4559 if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your fall appointment.

Have a GREAT weekend - we look forward to seeing you this fall!

National Smile Week at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

2010-08-11T10:49:00.000-07:00

It’s National Smile Week, and a nice time to remind our patients at Fromer and Gross Orthodontics to practice good oral hygiene to keep those teeth shining during your orthodontic treatment! This includes brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding foods that can stain your teeth such as tea and coffee (and many others) and visiting your general dentist here in Pottstown on a regular basis.

And remember to smile at people you come across throughout the week, whether you know them or not. We know smiles are contagious, and are always good to both give and receive. In addition, smiling can help you live longer, according to a 2010 study!

Lastly, we wanted to remind you there is still time to post your vacation pictures on our Facebook page. Contest runs until September 1st, so don’t delay - post those pictures today!!!

We hope you're having a relaxing and wonderful summer!

Dr. Fromer wants to know: will you join the Braces Brigade this summer?

2010-08-02T10:41:00.000-07:00

Calling all current and former patients: how would you like to blog about your experience in braces AND come away with a cool $100 American Express gift card? Thanks to the American Association of Orthodontists' and their Braces Brigade campaign, you can do just that!

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

* 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)

In your blog, feel free to answer questions such as:

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

All applicants must either be an orthodontic patient of Dr. Fromer or the parent of a patient. If you're under 18, your parent must fill out a consent form along with your application.

We encourage you to apply for the Braces Brigade this summer! We hope you had a great weekend!

Invisalign and your oral health, from the Fromer Orthodontics staff

2010-07-25T18:37:00.000-07:00

When considering options for their orthodontic treatment, patients often ask Pottstown orthodontist Dr. Joel Fromer just how Invisalign treatment is so different than traditional braces. Invisalign, which is a series of removable aligners that are nearly invisible, not only help straighten your teeth, the treatment can improve your oral health. Here’s how:

Healthy gums: Straight teeth allow a close fit for gums. This lessens the gum stress that is caused by crowded or widely spaced teeth, thus also reducing red and swollen gums.

Easy cleaning: Invisalign is removable, therefore brushing and flossing is easier and you are able to maintain a healthy mouth. These habits are vital to avoiding tooth decay, plaque, and gum disease.

Improved speech and chewing: Properly-aligned teeth don’t have the discomfort or compound speech impediments that can be caused by crowded teeth or a deteriorating jawbone.

If you have any questions about Invisalign treatment at our office, we invite you to ask Dr. Fromer or our staff during your next visit. Or, you may post your question on our Facebook page!

We hope you had a great weekend, and wish you an awesome rest of the summer!

All the cool kids do it! From Dr. Fromer and team

2010-07-16T09:01:00.000-07:00

Braces today are “cool” and—many would say—even “fun.” These were among the findings of a 2010 nationwide survey of mothers whose children are going through or have had orthodontic treatment. New technologies, advanced computer software, color options, and even popular celebrities—Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Danny Glover, Serena Williams—sporting stylish braces are making orthodontic treatment more comfortable, fashionable and cool for today’s teens.

The study, conducted on behalf of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists for February’s National Children’s Dental Health Month, found 86 percent of moms reporting that braces are cooler today than when they were children. Sixty-nine percent of moms also said wearing braces makes their children feel cool, and 81 percent reported their children’s experience with orthodontic treatment as either positive or extremely positive.

Different color options and the ability to change colors, for example, provide exciting ways for young patients to customize appearances. That enthusiasm helps them to feel good about their orthodontic treatment, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

Has your child visited Fromer and Gross Orthodontics for a consultation? If not, please give us a call and let us help your child begin the journey to a gorgeous smile!

Congratulations, Marcy!

2010-07-06T11:38:00.000-07:00

Marcy Tessari of Drs. Adolf and Cohen's office is the winner of our 1st quarterly referring dental office raffle. She is the recipient of an exciting spa treatment at "Body Kneads"!

What are patients saying about Fromer & Gross Orthodontics?

2010-07-06T09:52:00.000-07:00

Drs. Fromer and Gross just love getting patient reviews. And lately, Fromer & Gross Orthodontics, serving Pottstown and surrounding communities, has been getting some pretty great testimonials! Our staff thought we'd share some with you today! We hope you had a GREAT weekend!

“Up to date technology. I loved the computer training, the photos, explanations, take-home information, and now the website...” ~ Wendy R.

“He and everyone else welcomes their patients with optimism, and everyone is so wonderful to talk to. It's exciting to get to have a conversation with them.” ~ Dennis Z.

“Dr. Fromer is an excellent orthodontist. He reminds me to wear my night brace and updates my mom on everything she needs to know. Dr. Fromer is also very patient and friendly.” ~ Brittany R.

Share your Independence Day weekend plans with Dr. Fromer and staff!

2010-06-29T13:43:00.000-07:00

Like most Americans, our staff at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics will celebrate America's 234th birthday on Sunday. For most folks we know, Independence Day means a time of celebration, and a time to commemorate the anniversary of the signing of America's Declaration of Independence.

Fourth of July weekend is also a time to pay homage to all our soldiers, past, present and future - soldiers who continue to place themselves in danger every day so that we Americans may enjoy our freedoms.

Tell us: what are your Fourth of July plans? Are you heading to a barbecue? Hitting the open road with family? Are you planning on using fireworks to light up the summer sky?

Whatever you end up doing over Independence Day weekend, we hope you have a great upcoming week and a safe (and happy) Fourth of July weekend!

See you soon!

- Dr. Fromer and team

Summer Contest at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics!

2010-06-24T14:40:00.000-07:00

Dr. Fromer and team are excited to announce our new summer patient contest: Here's how it works: From now until September 1st, take a picture of yourself on vacation and post the photo on our Facebook fan page. If you post a photo from your summer destination, we'll give you one entry into our contest. BUT... take a photo with your Fromer & Gross T-shirt and you'll get TWO entries!

We look forward to seeing your photos! Happy traveling!!

Dr. Fromer & team at the Boyertown Sidewalk Sale

2010-06-16T09:45:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful day - our office enjoyed some "fun in the sun" at an outing Tuesday, June 15th at the Boyertown Sidewalk Sale. Check out more photos of our booth and Dr. Fromer having a blast with some creative creatures on our Facebook fan page!

Refer-a-friend at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics!

2010-06-10T08:27:00.000-07:00

Did you know we have a new "Refer-a-Friend" feature page on our website? Dr. Fromer and team definitely encourage you to refer your pals to our office for a chance to win some pretty cool prizes! Our entire team at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics are gratified to find how many new patients regularly call on us based on your words of advice.

Dr. Fromer and team, supporting National Smile Month

2010-06-02T09:46:00.000-07:00

Now that we’re in June, Dr. Fromer thought this would be a great time to remind our patients that June is National Smile Month, and a great time to remind all our patients to practice good oral hygiene between your visits to Fromer & Gross Orthodontics.

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

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Here's a helpful video showing you how to brush with your braces on.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment.
* Visit your dentist regularly (usually every six months apart) in addition to visiting Dr. Fromer.

We hope these tips help! We hope you have yourself a great rest of the week.

How does our office "Go Green"?

2010-05-24T14:53:00.000-07:00

Our team at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics know that we are living in an age when more and more people have a renewed commitment to conservation, and are frequently reminded to recycle, reduce and reuse. We, too, have taken steps to make our office more environmentally-friendly. We do this by...

* Using digital x-rays which eliminates the need for harsh developing chemicals and film material

* Using biodegradeable trash bags

* Processing insurance claims electronically which saves paper

* Using paper products made from recycled materials

* Recyling our cardboard, paper and plastic and, in September we will be going paperless!

Drs. Fromer, Gross and staff care about the environment so you can feel good about choosing us for all of your orthodontic needs! Have a great week!

Dr. Fromer at the AAO Annual Session, part two

2010-05-19T09:39:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, we discussed Dr. Fromer's passion for new technology and continuing education when it comes to orthodontics. Check out this short clip of Dr. Fromer, who has a special message for all our wonderful patients at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics!

American Idol contest at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics!

2010-05-10T08:47:00.000-07:00

Our staff is excited to announce our American Idol contest. We will be accepting entries until Friday, May 21st. Stop by our office, fill out a quick questionnaire and we'll enter you in a drawing for some GREAT prizes. There will be three winners!!!

Also, congratulations to Steven B., Laura H. and Eileen C. - they are our monthly WEBKINZ winners for January, February and March!

Lastly, Our patient, Benjamin L., who is on the Boyertown Midget Baseball League's Black Bears 12-year-old Tournament Team, will played Governor Mifflin's Diamond Team this past Saturday, as part of their Mother's Day "Hit One Out of the Park for a Cure" charity event to fight Breast Cancer. Way to go Ben! We're proud of you!

Dr. Fromer wants to know: Are you prepared for Mother's Day?

2010-05-04T18:03:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day - which falls on this coming Sunday, May 9 - is special to each and every one of us. Everybody looks forward to Mother's Day to let our moms know how special they are to all of us. The day is observed by giving gifts, visiting our moms or taking them out to celebrate.

Tell us, what are you planning on mom's special day this upcoming Sunday?

Out of ideas? Then check out this helpful video about clever, inexpensive Mother's Day gift ideas. Whatever you come up with, Dr. Fromer and team are sure mom will love it!

Fromer & Gross Orthodontics go to D.C.!

2010-04-30T13:58:00.000-07:00

In our commitment to continuing education and acquiring the latest technology in orthodontics, and to better serve our outstanding patients in Pottstown with the highest quality orthodontic care available, Drs. Fromer and Gross, as well as our team at Fromer and Gross Orthodontics, are committed to continuing education in the always-interesting world of orthodontics.

One of the ways we improve our service is by attending important conferences and seminars, and through next Tuesday, we will be in Washington D.C attending the AAO Annual Session. This conference is always an educational event and also happens to be one of the largest orthodontic conventions on the planet - one that allows us to consult with orthodontists from around the country (and Canada) and stay up-to-date on all the latest technologies and orthodontic treatment options available. This, in turn, allows our team at Fromer and Gross Orthodontics to give you, our fantastic patients, the best treatment experience possible.

We'll see you all next week! Have a great weekend!

Did you change the world today?

2010-04-22T16:41:00.000-07:00

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

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

Play it safe this spring, from Fromer and Gross Orthodontics

2010-04-16T12:58:00.000-07:00

Nearly 60,000 people injure their faces annually while participating in sports activities, and teenagers account for 80 percent of all sports-related trips to the emergency room. April happens to be National Facial Protection Month, and a great time to remind our patients to always protect their faces.

The above video from our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists provides five great tips to stay safe on the field this spring. We hope the video helps. Drs. Fromer and Gross will tell you protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Fromer and Gross Orthodontics. Stay safe and have fun on the field and have a great weekend!

Ask Fromer & Gross: What can I expect during my consultation?

2010-04-09T12:28:00.000-07:00

At your initial consultation, Drs. Fromer or Gross will conduct a comprehensive examination to assess your oral health. This will better enable us to determine the best treatment method for you.

Your orthodontic evaluation will consist of an oral and facial examination to assess your oral health. Drs. Fromer or Gross will have you take intraoral and facial photographs as well as panoramic and cephalometric x-rays to help determine the proper orthodontic treatment method. Then, an impression of your teeth and bite will be taken to construct a model of your mouth. (This will help Drs. Fromer and Gross when examining your diagnostic records).

At your second appointment, we will discuss your options with you. Our team feels it’s important to take the time to carefully examine your diagnostic records after your consultation so that Drs. Fromer or Gross can more thoroughly prepare for your treatment at Fromer and Gross Orthodontics. This additional preparation will ensure that you receive the best orthodontic care possible. At this time, we encourage you to ask us any questions you may have about your treatment.

If you are seeking orthodontic treatment for your child, our staff asks that both you and your child attend the initial consultation. We feel it is important that both you and your child completely understand our recommendations before we proceed with treatment.

Give us a call and schedule a consultation!

April Fools!

2010-04-01T09:51:00.000-07:00

You're probably familiar with how April Fools' Day works: one of your friends tries to pull a prank on you, you fall for it (or not), and everyone has a good time. Today, Drs. Fromer and Gross would like if you shared a great story about a trick you played, or a friend played on you, on this silliest of days.

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

And.... click here for the Top 100 April Fool's Day hoaxes of all time!

Tell Drs. Fromer and Gross what’s on your mind!

2010-03-22T09:56:00.000-07:00

By now, you probably know how our blog process: Week after week, Drs. Fromer and Gross, as well as our dedicated staff, write about topics related to orthodontic treatments and your well-being. Well, this week, we thought we’d step back and ask you, our terrific patients: what’s on your mind? What would you like us to focus on our blog? What would you like to know about the exciting field of orthodontics? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Drs. Fromer and Gross but couldn’t? Here’s your chance! Let us know by posting here on the blog or on our Facebook page!

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

This March (and spring) what are you up to? From Drs. Fromer and Gross

2010-03-18T11:15:00.000-07:00

It’s almost springtime (really!). The daffodils and buttercups are on their way, the birds are chirping, the sun is warming up and the smell of freshly-cut grass is wafting from a baseball field nearby. Drs. Fromer and Gross, as well as our dedicated professional team, thought this would be a good time to ask: What are your plans for the remainder of March and into spring?

Are you ready for spring? Are you participating in school sports this year? 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 Facebook fan page or by giving us a call!

P.S. While you’re on our Facebook page, become a fan of Fromer & Gross Orthodontics!

Ask Fromer & Gross: Who really benefits from braces?

2010-03-09T13:01:00.001-08:00

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Drs. Fromer and Gross will tell you that anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic treatment, whether it’s correcting a problem not treated in your younger years, or catching a problem early. To ensure the best overall treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, recommends that children receive an orthodontic consultation as early as age seven. If a problem is evident, taking action early can spare a lot of treatment and expense down the road.

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

A few helpful Invisalign® tips, from Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

2010-03-05T15:28:00.000-08:00

Many people know that Invisalign is a great solution to braces if you don't want to experience the look and feel of traditional metal braces. What few people know, though, is that just like traditional braces, Invisalign treatment 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, Drs. Fromer and Gross want you to ask yourself the following questions:

1. Am I eating with my aligners on? - These aligners are removable and should be taken out when you eat.
2. Am I drinking anything other than water with my aligners on? - Though it's not a necessity for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky a soda is. If you take out your aligners when drinking a soda, you have a better chance of keeping your aligners clean.
3. Am I brushing before putting the trays on? - The aligners have both an inside and outside. Keeping the outside clean is easy. Keeping the inside clean is also easy: just make sure you've brushed your teeth before putting the trays on.

These are all very simple steps, and ultimately, they help to keep you building good oral habits. If you have any questions about Invisalign or your treatment here at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics, please give us a call!

Happy Washington's birthday!

2010-02-22T10:23:00.000-08:00

Everyone knows George Washington was the first President of the United States and one of our country's founding fathers. But in honor of Washington birthday, here are a few little-known facts about the man who was known for never telling a lie, from Fromer & Gross Orthodontics.

• Washington is the only President inaugurated in 2 cities (New York and Philadelphia)
• Toothaches bothered Washington for years. When he was 57, he had all his teeth pulled. From then on, he wore ivory false teeth. At the time of his inauguration, George Washington had only one tooth.
• Five states were added to the Union during Washington's presidency - North Carolina (1789), Rhode Island (1790), Vermont (1791), Kentucky (1792) and Tennessee (1796).
• At six feet, two inches tall, and 200 pounds, Washington was one of our biggest presidents.
• There were only 13 stars on the United States flag when Washington became President in 1789.

Access your account—any day, any time—at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

2010-02-11T10:04:00.000-08:00

Access to your account, 24/7. Sounds convenient, doesn’t it?

At Fromer & Gross 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 Pottstown.

Did you know that patients at our office 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 are saying about this service!

"Helps me confirm my appointments if I forget and also keep track of my payments." ~ Roxanne R.

"I like that I can view appointment and financial information...very helpful and convenient." ~ Michele D.

"I can access this system at whatever time to communicate versus limited time with office hours." ~ Joseph K.

"I love the convenience of being able to get information when it's convenient for ME. I don't have to worry that the office is closed when I have a question about my account. And if I lose an appointment card, which often happens, I don't have to bother the office staff with a phone call." ~ Scott J.

You, too, can sign up for this convenient service on our web site by clicking the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions!

Tackling sports injuries with Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

2010-02-04T09:19:00.000-08:00

Drs. Fromer and Gross know sports-related injuries are common among children. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get hurt while playing sports. Another 67 percent admitted their child doesn’t wear a mouth guard when playing sports such as football, basketball, baseball and soccer.

That’s why Fromer & Gross Orthodontics are doing our part to spread the word that facial sports injuries can be avoided simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. Ask us—Drs. Fromer or Gross may recommend the best mouth guard for you.

In addition, the AAO has provided the following tips for keeping kids safe on the field.

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

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

Fromer & Gross Orthodontics want to know: What do you love about Pottstown?

2010-01-28T16:09:00.000-08:00

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

Today, Drs. Fromer and Gross thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about Pottstown and our community? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps you have a favorite Pennsylvania getaway?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in Pottstown, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods.” And, who knows, the team at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics just might post your response on our social networks!

Ask Fromer & Gross: When should my child come in for a checkup?

2010-01-19T16:04:00.000-08:00

Many parents are convinced they should wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth in order to visit Fromer & Gross Orthodontics, only to find that treatment would have been much easier if started sooner. Did you the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

You're probably thinking, "What's so special about age seven?" Well, enough permanent teeth have arrived for Drs. Fromer & Gross to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites and open bites can be detected.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age provides one of two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, a healthy prognosis will provide immediate peace of mind.

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and detrimental to good oral hygiene. So if your child is nearing age 7, give us a call at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

Have a great rest of the week!

Fromer & Gross Orthodontics in the new office!

2010-01-11T17:03:00.000-08:00

We are officially in our new location and we love it! Although Drs. Fromer, Gross and the team are still doing some "fine-tuning," everything has come together beautifully. We have received overwhelming understanding and support from our patients and for this we thank you. The positive feedback given to us ranging from "great location," to "the much improved parking," to "the expansive and beautiful décor" has made our adventure all worthwhile.

As the new year begins, we also begin our journey in our new office. So, please feel free to stop by, and of course, check out our cool new game room fully stocked with the latest in touch screen games and of course, XBOX 360!!!

The advantage of Invisalign Teen™ at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics!

2010-01-05T10:47:00.000-08:00

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

For many teens, Invisalign Teen offers a trouble-free, clear alternative to traditional braces; and not only that, but it offers them the chance to have straight teeth without losing self-confidence!

So how does Invisalign Teen work? Invisalign Teen works in the same way as Invisalign, but with a few added characteristics tailored specifically to teenagers’ lifestyles. For instance, Invisalign Teen is designed with “compliance indicators” that fade from dark to light during the two week period that particular tray is used and once it has faded teens know to change trays. Each aligner comes with up to six free individual replacement aligners in case the original aligner ends up lost or broken. Another big benefit for the patient!

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

Happy Tuesday!

When should you call Fromer & Gross Orthodontics?

2009-12-29T09:14:00.000-08:00

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

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

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, give us a call as soon as possible!

Happy New Year!

Happy Holidays from Fromer & Gross Orthodontics!

2009-12-22T13:41:00.000-08:00

The holidays have arrived, and as Drs. Fromer and Gross and their team at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What do you love about the holidays? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for 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!

We've moved! What do you think?

2009-12-15T15:03:00.000-08:00

Did you know Fromer & Gross Orthodontics has moved to a new location? As of Monday, our address is 900 Heritage Drive, Suite 920, Pottstown, PA 19464. We will be seeing patients in our NEW location beginning Thursday, December 17th.

Are you looking forward to seeing our new office? Will you have trouble getting to our office? Are you as excited for the move as we are?

We'd love if you shared with us any comments, concerns, hopes or otherwise. Or, you can do so by giving us a call!

Happy Tuesday, from the team at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

Patient reviews for Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

2009-12-08T10:25:00.000-08:00

Drs. Fromer and Gross just love getting patient reviews. And lately, Fromer & Gross Orthodontics, serving Pottstown and surrounding communities, has been getting some pretty great testimonials! The team thought we'd share some with you today! Happy Tuesday!

"The rapport that you have with the children - it makes it very easy for them to go - there's not a "fear" factor involved. Your staff is great!" ~ Randall B.

"Dr.Fromer is an excellent orthodontist. He reminds me to wear my night brace and updates my mom on everything she needs to know. Dr. Fromer is also very patient and friendly." ~ Brittany R.

"The entire staff is helpful and very pleasant to deal with. I never feel like any question is "stupid" or I never feel like I am inconveniencing anyone. And most importantly, my kids are very comfortable going to their appointments - they never dread going! Thank you!!" ~ Bryan B.

"Dr. Fromer really takes a personal interest in each individual...make even the most uncomfortable procedure more bearable through there expressions of compassion :)" ~ Gretchen G.

Fromer & Gross Orthodontics Are Moving in December!

2009-11-30T14:19:00.000-08:00

As many of you already know, our office will be moving its location. This move will be taking place the week of December 14th, 2009. The last day at our present location will be Thursday, December 10th. We will be seeing patients in our NEW location beginning December 17th.

Our new address is:
900 Heritage Drive
Suite 920
Pottstown, PA 19464
Our phone number will remain the same … 610-326-9797.

We are VERY excited and look forward to seeing all of you there!

--The team at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

Fromer & Gross Orthodontics want to know: What did you do in November?

2009-11-23T13:17:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, we’re almost in December – and in full holiday mode! But before you go celebrating, Drs. Fromer and Gross and team want to know: Did you do anything
exciting this month? Do you have plans for Thanksgiving? If so, we'd love to hear all about it!

You can share your stories with us here, on our social networks or by giving us a call!
--The team at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

Now that I have braces, what can I eat? Drs. Fromer and Gross Explain

2009-11-16T14:11:00.000-08:00

You just got braces and Drs. Fromer or Gross have informed you that over the next several months you will want to avoid eating anything sticky, hard, crunchy, or chewy. What does this leave for you to eat? Lettuce? Nothing?

Luckily, there was someone else wondering the same thing when she first got braces! Brenda Waterman, 13, decided she was going to find a way to have her cake and eat it too, so she created a variety of “braces-friendly” recipes that allow you to enjoy your favorite treats without interfering with your orthodontic care! Her cookbook, “The Braces Cookbook: Recipes you (and your Orthodontist) will Love,” gives patients a variety of delicious recipes, safe to eat with braces; plus additional tips and advice for packing lunches, what to eat at parties, and braces-friendly restaurant dishes! There’s even a section with tips for dealing with the soreness that can occur when your braces or appliance are adjusted. Enjoy the foods you love – even with braces!

Here is a delicious, sneak peek recipe from “The Braces Cookbook:”

Wonderful Waffles

Forget the recipe that came with your waffle iron – this recipe will redefine fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. The secret to delicious waffles is letting the batter "sit" for five minutes before pouring into the waffle iron. Top cooked waffles with syrup, jam, fresh fruit or even whip cream. Makes about 5 servings!

Preheat your waffle iron according to the directions. You may want to lightly spray it with vegetable oil before heating.
•3 cups flour
•2 Tbl + 2 tsp baking powder
•1 tsp salt
•2 Tbl sugar
•4 cups milk
•4 eggs
•1/2 cup vegetable oil

In a large bowl, whisk (or use electric mixer on low) together all ingredients. Let batter sit for about five minutes to activate the baking powder.

When waffle iron is ready, pour about 1/3 cup of batter onto each of the four squares (experiment with your iron – you don't want the batter overflowing). Gently close the cover and set your timer as the manufacturer suggests. Do not lift the cover while they bake. When done, carefully lift one edge with a flat spatula and pull the waffle away from the iron. Keep waffles warm on a plate under a clean dishtowel while the others bake.

Enjoy this braces-friendly recipe! From the team at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

Let Drs. Fromer & Gross know how they're doing!

2009-11-09T15:30:00.000-08:00

Whether you have visited Fromer & Gross Orthodontics for a week or for years, we’d love to hear your feedback about your experience with Drs. Fromer and Gross or the team! Now with the Internet, it’s even easier to write your thoughts and share them with the world. We'd want to encourage you to write a review of us. It only takes a moment!

You can write a review here.

Thank you!

--The Fromer & Gross Orthodontics team

The importance of regular adult checkups, from Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

2009-11-02T13:54:00.000-08:00

Are you brushing teeth twice a day? If yes, that’s great! But, Drs. Fromer and Gross would like to remind you to visit your dentist every six months in addition to brushing your teeth a couple times a day. 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 if you have any questions.

--The team at Fromer and Gross Orthodontics

The Myths and Facts of Orthodontics, from Drs. Fromer and Gross

2009-10-27T08:35:00.000-07:00

Drs. Fromer and Gross know there are quite a few myths about orthodontists circulating around these days. Before you buy into those myths, you should get the facts! We at Fromer and Gross Orthodontics came across a great site that helps set the record straight. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of orthodontists, check them out today!

Here’s the link: http://www.braces.org/mythsandfacts/index.cfm

Hope this helps,

--Drs. Fromer and Gross and team

Katherine Heigl Struggles with Crooked Teeth

2009-10-20T14:51:00.000-07:00

Everyone struggles with little imperfections. Making crooked teeth straight, stained teeth sparkling white and chipped teeth smooth is part of what I do as an orthodontist. The sense of renewed self confidence that comes to my patients after having some sort of reconstructive work is what makes my job worthwhile.

Consider Katherine Heigl, award winning actress, and considered by many the Grace Kelly of our day. She describes struggling with crooked teeth her whole life until finally there came a point when she said "enough is enough!" She decided to do something to straighten her teeth.

We think you will enjoy this clip. Please feel free to leave comments, tell me what you think! Have you ever struggled with this same problem? Have you felt the relief of smiling to reveal a straight, bright smile after hiding crooked ones for so long? Contact us so we can hear your story, or help you create a new beautiful smile and a story of your own!

--Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

Answering all your burning questions about mouthwash

2009-10-16T13:12:00.000-07:00

While mouthwash is not an alternative to regular brushing and flossing, it can help keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. There are several different types of mouthwashes available, and all of them will help do different things for your smile. The most common types of mouthwashes are:

• Fluoride - fluoride is the most used type of mouthwash available, and is used to strengthen the enamel of the teeth while preventing cavities and tooth decay.

• Antiseptic - an antiseptic mouthwash is used to kill bacteria and germs in the mouth. Most commonly used before and after a dental surgery, antiseptic mouthwashes can also help to fight gum disease, and halitosis (chronic bad breath). Antiseptic mouthwashes can affect your sense of taste and may stain the teeth, so it is recommended that you consult your dentist before using this type of mouthwash.

• Combination - a combination mouthwash is designed to help prevent tooth decay, freshen the breath, and maintain the health of your smile.

• Prescription - for patients with gum disease, or any signs of gum disease, you may need a prescription mouthwash. Prescription mouthwashes, like Peridex of PerioGard, are used to treat gingivitis, and other forms of decay.

There are also many different brands of mouthwash. Some common brands include:

• Scope
• Listerine
• Act
• Crest
• Tom’s of Maine (all-natural)
• Plax (anti-plaque rinse)
• Breath Rx
• Orajel
• Targon (special mouthwash made for smokers)
• Rembrandt (whitening mouthwash)

If you are curious about which kind of mouthwash would work best for you, be sure to ask Dr. Fromer at your next appointment. If you have a favorite mouthwash, let us know by posting a comment for others to read!

National Dental Hygiene Month

2009-10-09T13:23:00.001-07:00

Did you know that October is National Dental Hygiene Month? Fall is here, and Halloween is coming soon, but now it is more important than ever to maintain good oral hygiene.

All those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, but these treats can damage your teeth and braces too! Did you know sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them? This can cause tooth decay and cavities! After eating these candies, be sure to wash your mouth out with water, drink milk or eat a few slices of cheese. These 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)

Besides cavities and tooth decay, many people do not realize that good oral health and hygiene are important to your overall health too! Research is discovering the connection between periodontal disease and other major health concerns, such as heart disease! Therefore, it is important to maintain a good oral hygiene routine: see your dentist every six months, brush and floss daily and use an antibacterial mouthwash.

Make a resolution to improve your oral health for October, the National Dental Hygiene Month!

--Drs. Fromer & Gross

Imagining Your Life With Invisalign

2009-09-29T07:59:00.000-07:00

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

How exactly does Invisalign work?

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

Will I experience pain during treatment?

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

Can other people see that I'm in treatment?

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

Can I smoke during treatment?

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

Are there any foods I cannot eat while in treatment?

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

What about chewing gum?

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

How often must I wear my aligners?

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

Will my speech be affected by the aligners?

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

How can I clean my aligners?

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

How often must I visit your office during treatment?

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

More About Orthodontics From Dr. Fromer

2009-09-22T07:54:00.000-07:00

There are so many questions about orthodontics that we never ask, so Fromer & Gross Orthodontics took some time to explain the most common concerns.

At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?

Orthodontic treatment can be started at any age. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected at an early age before jaw growth has slowed. Early treatment may mean that a patient can avoid surgery and more serious complications. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child first visit an orthodontist by age seven or earlier if a problem is detected by parents, the family dentist or the child's physician.

What is Phase I and Phase II treatment?

Phase I, or early interceptive treatment, is limited orthodontic treatment (i.e. expander, Herbst, Facemask, headgear, or partial braces) before all of the permanent teeth have erupted. Such treatment can occur between the ages of six and ten. This treatment is sometimes recommended to make more space for developing teeth, correction of crossbites, overbites, underbites, or harmful oral habits. Phase II treatment is also called comprehensive treatment, because it involves full braces when all of the permanent teeth have erupted, usually between the ages of eleven and thirteen.

Would an adult patient benefit from orthodontics?

Absolutely!! Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age. Everyone wants a beautiful and healthy smile. Between 30-40% of our patients are adults.

How does orthodontic treatment work?

Braces use steady gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into their proper positions. The brackets that are placed on your teeth and the arch wire that connects them are the main components. When the arch wire is placed into the brackets, it tries to return to its original shape. As it does so, it applies pressure to move your teeth to their new, more ideal positions.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Treatment times vary on a case-by-case basis, but the average time is from one to two years. Actual treatment time can be affected by rate of growth and severity of the correction necessary. Treatment length is also dependent upon patient compliance. Maintaining good oral hygiene and keeping regular appointments are important in keeping your treatment time on schedule.

Do braces hurt?

The placement of bands and brackets on your teeth does not hurt. Once your braces are placed and connected with the arch wires, you may feel some soreness of your teeth for one to four days. Your lips and cheeks may need one to two weeks to get used to the braces on your teeth.

Will braces interfere with playing sports?

No. It is recommended, however, that patients protect their smiles by wearing a mouth guard when participating in any sporting activity. Mouth guards are inexpensive, comfortable, and come in a variety of colors and patterns.

Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?

No. However, there may be an initial period of adjustment. In addition, brace covers or wax can be provided to prevent discomfort.

Should I see my general dentist while I have braces?

Yes, you should continue to see your general dentist every six months for cleaning and dental checkups, or more frequently as recommended.

Got more questions? Give us a call at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics. We'd love to hear from you.

Softly Brushing Your Way to Clean Teeth

2009-09-17T14:07:00.000-07:00

Just as there are so many different types of toothbrushes to choose from, each brush also has a different type of bristle! There are generally three different types of bristles; hard, medium, and soft. We always recommend that our patients, especially children and seniors, use a soft bristled toothbrush.

Using a hard and medium bristled brush can actually harm your teeth and gums by stripping the enamel from the teeth and irritating the gums so that they become red and sore, and can even cause gum recession. If you do use a hard or medium bristled brush as a personal preference, we recommend using an electric toothbrush.

Soft bristles are much gentler on your teeth and gums, and while patients of all ages are recommended to use soft bristled brushes, they are particularly great for children, seniors, patients recovering from a dental procedure, and patients wearing braces.

Soft bristles, and even extra-soft bristles are every bit as effective when it comes to cleaning your teeth; in fact, if you currently use a hard or medium bristled brush, try a soft bristled brush next time you buy a toothbrush and we bet you won’t even notice a difference!

--Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

Oral Piercing: Is It Worth It?

2009-09-10T13:53:00.000-07:00

Piercing, like tattooing, is one of today’s popular forms of “body art” and self-expression. If you’re thinking about getting a piercing – or if you already have one or more – there are some health risks you should know about.

Your mouth contains millions of bacteria, and infection is a common complication of oral piercing. Just touching your mouth jewelry (tongue barbells and lip and cheek labrettes) can lead to infection. Many people who have piercings tend to regularly touch them – which is a perfect opportunity for bacteria from hands to enter piercing sites. Also, food particles that collect around piercing sites can lead to infection.

Pain and swelling are other possible side effects of piercing. Your tongue – the most popular piercing site in the mouth – could swell large enough to close off your airway! Piercing also can cause uncontrollable bleeding or nerve damage. Damage to the tongue’s blood vessels can cause serious blood loss.

The hoop, ring, stud, and barbell-shaped jewelry can hinder your ability to talk and eat. Some people also develop a habit of biting or playing with their piercings – which can lead to cracked, scratched teeth; gum damage and recession; and sensitive teeth. There may also be a need for restorations, such as crowns or fillings, and additional dental treatment due to piercings.

Consider the potential pitfalls of piercing carefully before getting one. Keep in mind that it will be an added responsibility to your life, and will need regular upkeep. Make sure that you’re committed to the task of taking care of it for the full healing period and beyond.

If you have an oral piercing, pay special attention to it. Clean the piercing with antiseptic mouthwash after eating, and brush the jewelry when you brush your teeth. Of course, let us know if you have any questions.

--Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

Fromer & Gross Orthodontics' New Location!

2009-09-02T08:43:00.000-07:00

We are very excited to announce that the Fromer & Gross Orthodontics office is moving to a brand new location! Our address will be:

900 Heritage Drive – Suite 920
Pottstown, PA 19464

If all goes as expected, our anticipated relocation date will be mid-December.

Please enjoy these photographs, as we will continue to keep you updated with information and pictures as things progress. Check out our Facebook page for more photos!

Fromer & Gross Orthodontics Around the Web

2009-08-19T14:26:00.000-07:00

If you've ever visited us at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics, you already know that we love connecting with our patients. We love the ability to communicate with all of you online too! Besides our web site and our blog, Fromer & Gross Orthodontics is on many other networks too!

* Share a video with us, or watch one of ours on YouTube

* Become a "fan" of Fromer & Gross Orthodontics on Facebook

* View and comment on our photos on MySpace

See you around the web!

--Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

Braces 101 with Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

2009-08-12T12:00:00.000-07:00

Summer Fun with Fromer & Gross Orthodontics!

2009-08-05T14:18:00.000-07:00

Its summer here at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics, a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbeque, a camping trip, or just having fun in the sun, we want to hear about it! Leave a comment on our blog and tell us about your summer!

Happy Travels,

-From Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

Baby Teeth – and Gums – Need Special Care! Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

2009-07-28T09:40:00.000-07:00

One question we hear all the time at Fromer and Gross Orthodontics is “When should I start brushing my baby’s teeth?”

You should begin regular cleanings even before your baby has teeth. After each breast feeding – or bottle-feeding – use a clean, damp washcloth to gently rub your baby’s gum tissue. You can wrap the material around one finger to make it easier to remove any food bits from your baby’s mouth.

When your baby’s first tooth comes in switch to a baby toothbrush. Look for special baby toothbrushes in your drugstore – they have just a few bristles and are very soft. There are even brushes shaped like finger puppets that fit over the tip of your pointer finger! All you need at this point is water – no toothpaste yet.

After a few more teeth appear, you can start using toothpaste, but you only need a tiny bit, and make sure it doesn’t contain fluoride for the first three years. From the beginning, have your little one practice spitting the toothpaste out after brushing. That way, he or she will already have the good habit of spitting when you switch to fluoride toothpaste, which should never be swallowed.

If you have any questions about caring for your baby’s teeth, please contact us at Fromer and Gross Orthodontics.

Bottled Water May Be Behind Tooth Troubles, Dr. Fromer Explains

2009-07-21T09:46:00.000-07:00

We at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics want you to know that as more families turn to bottled water and away from the tap, they may be missing out on one important ingredient that most brands of bottled water fail to include: fluoride!

As of 2005, bottled water is second only to soft drinks as the most popular drink in the United States, beating out milk, juice, and – more significantly – tap water. Between 2001 and 2006, the amount of bottled water sold in the U.S. rose an average of 10% per year. And many dental health specialists point to bottled water’s increased popularity as the culprit behind rising rates of cavities.

Because fluoride helps strengthen teeth, it is an important component of maintaining good oral health. The benefits of fluoride were noticed in the early part of the twentieth century, when researchers found communities with low levels of tooth decay. It turned out that these towns had measurable levels (around 1 part per million) of fluoride in their drinking water.

Beginning in the 1940s, communities have fluoridated their water supplies, and dentists have seen a significant decline in cavities ever since. The American Dental Association endorses both community water fluoridation and the use of fluoride-containing products as a safe means of preventing tooth decay. Between tap water and toothpaste, most of us get sufficient amounts of fluoride.

But if your family avoids fluoridated tap water in favor of ever-more-popular bottled water, you could be missing out on the levels of fluoride necessary to make a difference in your oral health.

If bottled water is your water of choice, check the label to make sure that your brand contains fluoride. As of a 2006 decision, the FDA allows bottled water containing .6 to 1.0 milligrams per liter of fluoride to carry a label stating that fluoridated water may reduce the risk of dental cavities or tooth decay. The ADA has backed this decision.

Of course, simply drinking fluoridated water is not a magic ticket to perfect teeth. To keep your choppers in tip-top shape, it’s important to brush and floss daily and avoid sugary sweets, in addition to maintaining your fluoride intake and visiting us at Fromer & Gross Orthodontics regularly.

Drs. Fromer & Gross Answer the Question "Is Invisalign® Really Customized for Each Patient?"

2009-07-14T10:28:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. And since the aligners are virtually invisible, nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Drs. Fromer & Gross are both certified Invisalign providers. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, give us a call at 610-326-9797 .

More Great Patient Reviews for Dr. Fromer!

2009-07-07T12:47:00.000-07:00

A few months ago we posted some testimonials from our patients. Since then, we have received even more great reviews for Fromer and Gross Orthodontics!

When you have an appointment you do not need to wait at Fromer and Gross Orthodontics. This is so important because as we all have experienced at other doctors, you can make an appointment they take you back and you have to wait. In addition the staff is very friendly and courteous. ~ Kenneth K.

Dr Fromer and the staff really takes a personal interest in each individual...they make even the most uncomfortable procedure more bearable through expressions of compassion :). ~ Gretchen G.

We are informed of all services at the time of the appointment or before. Drs. Fromer and Gross, along with the office staff are extremely knowledgeable and courteous. Making appointments are easy and flexible. ~ Leonard R.
They make me smile! ~ William H.

Cardiodontics: The Heart Mouth Connection from Fromer & Gross Orthodontics

2009-06-29T10:43:00.000-07:00

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 Fromer & Gross 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.

--Fromer & Gross Orthodontics