Happy New Year from Dr. Vardy!

Now That I Have Braces, What Can I Eat? - Dr. Iris Vardy

You just got braces and the orthodontist has 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.

What's So Special About an Orthodontist Like Dr. Vardy?

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

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

Isn't it nice to know there's a dental expert here to help you through any type of treatment your teeth, jaw and gums might need?

Are There Teeth Grinders in Your House? - Vardy Orthodontics

Grind, grind, grind, grind. If you live with a teeth grinder, especially a night grinder, you may be familiar with this unpleasant sound. Other symptoms of teeth grinding (technically called “bruxism”) include:

• Sensitivity in the teeth
• Tightness or pain in the jaw
• Dull headaches, earaches, or facial pain
• Chipped, worn down, or loose teeth

People frequently grind their teeth in response to stress, so taking measures to reduce or eliminate stress can help solve the problem. Here are some things you can try to stop grinding:

• Cut back on caffeine and alcohol
• Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
• Relax right before bedtime with a warm bath or shower
• Help your jaw learn to relax by quitting any chewing habits (pens, pencils, gum)
• When clenching or grinding happens during the day, place your tongue between your teeth to serve as a reminder to avoid the habit

If grinding goes untreated, it can lead to chipped teeth, worn enamel, chronic pain, or even TMJ, a painful jaw disorder. If the teeth-grinder in your house can’t stop, make an appointment to see us by calling 917-720-4838. Dr. Vardy can help determine the cause of the problem and possibly even prescribe a custom mouthpiece to help break the habit.

When Are Two Phases of Treatment Necessary?

Usually patients in orthodontic treatment already have their permanent teeth – 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, or a mouth growing in a way that doesn’t leave enough room for all the permanent teeth to come in.

In these cases we will start early and do one round of treatment – phase one – while the patient still has “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, such as a retainer. We’ll follow up with phase two usually a few years later, when permanent the patient’s permanent teeth have come in. Phase two often does involve braces and sometimes headgear.

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 Orthodontics). However, if your dentist or pediatrician sees any sign that early treatment might be necessary, he or she may recommend your child visit an orthodontist even sooner. For more information about two-phase orthodontics, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Vardy please call 917-720-4838 and visit our web site.

'Tis the Season for Making a Difference

“Each year it is estimated that 18 percent of all children in the US -- 22 million children -- suffer from chronic illness – Soaringwords is the power to heal.”

The holidays are a wonderful time for families to spend time with each other and give thanks for the blessings they have been given throughout the year. For families with ill, hospitalized children however, the holidays can be an emotionally and physically challenging time where miracles become the only source of hope. These families need support, especially during the holidays, to help them and their children get through this rough time.

At Vardy Orthodontics we have once again teamed with Soaringwords to support the children and families that are in the hospital this holiday season. We have purchased blankets and pillows for our patients, parents, and referring doctors to decorate with encouraging words throughout Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Years. In January we will deliver the decorated blankets and pillows to the children and families to give them hope and show them our never ending support.

From now until January please stop by our office and help us decorate the blankets and pillows with words of encouragement, positive messages, and inspiring pictures. Help spread hope this holiday season to children and families within our community.

Why Is It So Important to Have Straight Teeth?

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

Straight teeth are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque – the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to tooth decay; and they are easier to keep clean!

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, give us a call at 917-720-4838 to set up a consultation. Dr. Vardy can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Soaringwords Brings Inspiration and the Power to Heal

“Each year it is estimated that 18 percent of all children in the US -- 22 million children -- suffer from chronic illness – Soaringwords is the power to heal”

The holidays are wonderful time for families to spend time with each other and give thanks for the blessings they have been given throughout the year. For families with ill, hospitalized children however, the holidays can be an emotionally and physically challenging time where miracles become the only source of hope. These families need support, especially during the holidays, to help them and their children get through this rough time.

Soaringwords is a non-profit program designed to bring communities together to show support for ill children and their families. While doctors and nurses provide medical care, Soaringwords works with communities to provide in-person and online support to hospitalized children to boost their spirits and reduce feelings of isolation. Those participating in a Soaringwords project share their hope and support through creating and donating personal stories, poems, art, letters, photography, and crafts.

At Vardy Orthodontics we are proud volunteers of the Soaringwords holiday project. Each year we buy Soaringwords blankets and pillows that our staff and patients decorate with pictures and words of encouragement. Then our team personally delivers them to a local hospital for the children and their families to enjoy, knowing that they are not alone.

Please stop by Vardy Orthodontics in the coming months and share some hope with the children and families in our community. Your contribution has the power to heal. If you are not able to stop by our practice, but would like to participate in this project, please contact us to find out about the different ways to donate.

Halloween Party on 78th Street Recap

This year’s Halloween trick-or-treat night on 78th Street was a great success! Dr. Vardy, her children, her staff and her staff’s children handed out glow-in-the-dark toothbrushes and “braces friendly” soft chocolates to trick-or-treaters who stopped by Vardy Orthodontics on their way down 78th Street. Festivities were in full swing from 4pm-9pm with over 200 people participating. It was so much fun to see everybody dressed in costume and enjoying themselves. Thank you to everybody who stopped by and said hello! We hope everybody had a great time and we look forward to doing it again next year.

Take a look at our slideshow below, or visit our MySpace page to see the full photo album!

Trick-or-Treat with Vardy Orthodontics!

It’s Halloween – time for costumes, candy, and fun. At Vardy Orthodontics we want you to enjoy every moment of your Halloween, including the sweets; but, if you have braces we encourage you to consider trading your hard/sticky/chewy candies with a friend or sibling for softer candies.

If you can’t find anybody willing to trade with, don’t worry, you can bring in your candy to Vardy Orthodontics for our Candy Buy Back Program! Come trade in your “braces breaking” candy for some softer chocolates and “braces safe” treats and sweets. Have a fun, safe Halloween – from our family to yours!


Halloween Safety Tips

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

Happy Halloween!

It’s almost Halloween, and at Vardy Orthodontics we can’t wait! On October 31st, things get spooky here on 130th W. 78th Street when the entire block is closed off and trick-or-treaters take over! Ghosts, goblins and ghouls, along with our dental hygienists, appointment schedulers, orthodontic insurance specialists, and Dr. Vardy will be there, in costume, to hand out chocolate and glow-in-the-dark toothbrushes.

While you’re out and about on Halloween, be sure and stop by Vardy Orthodontics at 130 West 78th Street; New York, NY 10024. We’d love to see your costume and we look forward to joining you for another frighteningly fun, and safe, Halloween!

Regular Checkups are Important

Are you brushing your teeth twice a day? If yes, that’s great; but, don’t forget that it’s also important to visit the 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 your child how to properly brush and floss their 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!

Good Breath Gone Bad!

Bad breath can be a real downer, especially when you are out on a date with that girl or boy you’ve had a crush on all semester! However, bad breath can be prevented!

Bad breath, or as your doctor may call it “halitosis,” is caused by odor-producing bacteria that grows in your mouth. This bacteria gathers on bits of food in your mouth and between your teeth and release sulfur compounds making your breath smell. Some foods, like garlic and onions, may contribute more to bad breath because of oils the food the food releases, and smoking is also a major cause of bad breath.

There are several myths around bad breath. Here are some common myths and the truth behind it all:

Myth #1: Mouthwash will make my breath smell better

Mouthwash will make your breath smell better, but it is only a temporary fix. If you use mouthwash, just know that you will still need to brush and floss when you get the chance as mouthwash alone will not kill all of the bacteria producing germs in your mouth. When choosing a mouthwash, pick an antiseptic with plaque-reducing compounds. Also make sure any dental products you choose comes with the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of approval!

Myth #2: I brush my teeth; I will never have bad breath

Brushing your teeth will save you from having breath, but the truth is most people only brush their teeth for about 30-45 seconds! You need to brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes, twice a day to give your teeth a thorough cleansing. It’s also important to brush your tongue, which is where a majority of odor causing bacteria like to hang out. Lastly, flossing to remove food and plaque between the teeth will also help reduce your chances of having bad breath!

Myth #3: If I don’t smell it, then my breath is fresh

This is a false assumption in every sense of the word! The truth is that the breath you breathe out is not the same breath coming out when you talk to someone. When you breathe you are not using your throat as you do when you are talking; and when you talk more breath moves over the back of your mouth where bacteria is causing bad breath.

#1 TRUTH: Brush your teeth twice a day (for at least 2 minutes), floss at least once and visit your dentist every six months…this way your breath will always be fresh! Not letting your nerves get the best of you on your date? That’s up to you!!!

$1.50 for a Cavity

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

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

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

Here are some savory options!

• Fresh Fruits (berries, oranges, melon, pears, etc)

• Raw Vegetables (broccoli, celery, carrots, etc)

• Bread

• Pretzels (low salt)

• Milk (low or non-fat)

• Cheese (low or non-fat)

• Nuts and seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc)

• Sliced meat

Getting Married? Smile Bright!

It’s Fall. Leaves are turning shades of orange and red, the wind is picking up and getting cooler, and pumpkin patches are full of bright orange pumpkins. Families gather together, kids head out trick-or-treating, and as always, wedding bells are ringing. That's right, Fall is one of the best times of year to tie the knot! If you are gearing up for a wedding this Fall, consider matching that white dress to a perfectly white smile!

At Vardy Orthodontics we offer in-office tooth whitening for the bride, the groom, or the entire wedding party! You get the girls together to get their nails done, and now you can get them together to get their teeth done!

In-office whitening is the quickest, most effective way to achieve whiter teeth. Because we are dental professionals, we have the expertise to use higher percentages of whitening agents than the at-home systems allow. So you can get a brighter white, usually in just one visit!

Give us a ring at Vardy Orthodontics at 917-720-4838 and let us add some extra sparkle to your “I do”!

Is Invisalign Really Customized for Each Patient?

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work. If you were a candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we’d do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we would then look at this current positioning and compare that to the ideal placement of your teeth – in other words, exactly where we would want them to end up.

Next we’d use the software to map out the exact path your teeth would take from now through the end of your treatment. Based on this precise prescription, a set of custom aligners would be created specially for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you’d wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time, each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. And the whole time it would be your secret, since the aligners are virtually invisible!

Dr. Vardy is a certified Invisalign provider. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment,.

Why Is It So Important To Have Straight Teeth?

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

Straight teeth are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque – the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to decay – and because they are easier to keep clean. Plaque can lead to cavities and can increase the risk of gum disease.

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, give us a call at 917-720-4838 to set up a consultation. Dr. Vardy can help you decide whether you could benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Invisable Braces with these two patients

The following 2 patients were treated with Invisalign:

To close spaces

Initial	Final
Initial	Final

To resolve crowding

Initial	Final
Initial	Final

Everybody Benefits from Braces!

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic care; whether it is 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 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! 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, and your life!

Your Friend: Fluoride

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment. You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and protect your mouth and appliances from being damaged. But did you know there is another, often forgotten about, way to keep your teeth clean and healthy during your treatment? Fluoride – a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay – can help keep your teeth strong! Fluoride comes in two varieties, topical and systemic. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth. Topical fluoride includes toothpastes and mouth rinses. Systemic fluorides are swallowed in the form of a dietary supplement. Dentists and orthodontists use in-office fluoride treatments to help protect the oral health of adults and children undergoing dental/orthodontic procedures.

Fluoride used in the dentist/orthodontists office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask your doctor how to purchase professional strength fluoride). A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. After the treatment patients may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. Depending on your oral health or doctor’s recommendation, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six or 12 months. Your doctor may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses for at-home treatment.

When choosing your own fluoride product be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and have met the criteria of the ADA for safety and effectiveness. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

Toothbrush Trivia

People have been brushing their teeth for thousands of years! In fact, the first “toothbrush” was created around 3000BC! Ancient civilizations used a thin twig with a frayed edge to rub against their teeth for cleaning.

The first toothbrush with bristles – similar to today’s toothbrushes – was invented in 1498 in China. Brushes were made out of bone or bamboo with bristles made from the hairs on the back of a hog’s neck.

It wasn’t until 1938 that the first nylon bristle toothbrush was introduced and people quickly became aware of practicing good oral hygiene.

Here are some other interesting facts about your toothbrush (and toothpaste):

· Most people are said to use blue toothbrushes over any other color

· The first toothpaste was used in 500 BC in China and India

· On average, children smile about 400 times per day

· Your toothbrush should be replaced every two months

· The first known toothpaste was used in 1780, Crest was introduced in the US in 1955 and Colgate in 1873

Orthodontic Procedures

Banding

The process of fitting and cementing orthodontic bands to your teeth.

Bonding

The process of attaching brackets to your teeth using special orthodontic cement.

Cephalometic X-ray

An x-ray of your head which shows the relative positions and growth of the face, jaws, and teeth.

Consultation

A meeting with your orthodontist to discuss a treatment plan.

Debanding

The process of removing cemented orthodontic bands from your teeth.

Debonding

The process of removing cemented orthodontic brackets from your teeth.

Impressions

The process of making a model of your teeth by biting into a soft material that hardens into a mold of your teeth. Your orthodontist will use these impressions to prepare your treatment plan.

Invisalign®

An alternative to traditional braces, Invisalign straightens your teeth with a series of clear custom-molded aligners. Invisalign can correct some, but not all, orthodontic problems.

Ligation

The process of attaching an archwire to the brackets on your teeth.

Panoramic X-ray

An x-ray that rotates around your head to take pictures of your teeth, jaw and other facial areas.

What Others Say about us

Here are a few highlights, to read all of the responses we have received click here.

"I, for one, certainly was mae to feel very much "at home" and I appreciated your hospitality. Everyone I had the opportunity to meet today was nice, friendly, helpful and warm."- Doug

"Thank you for the talk we had the other day. It really matters to me that I fully understand issues relating to Katja's treatment, and our conversation helped me to claify the situation. I appreciate the time you took to discuss her little mouth with all of its tribulations..." - Bruce

"Now that I have my braces off, I can smile freely and with confidence. I'm so proud of my new smile that I've taken to carrying around my "before and after" photo to show to friends!" - Jay

"Dear Dr. Vardy,
Thank you sooooooooo much for all your hard work. My teeth really look amazing and I have gotten many complements on them.
People have asked who my orthodontist way!" - Samantha

Dr. Vardy responded "Cha, since you don't want to wear visible
braces, I suggest we use lingual braces on you. Before you know it, your teeth and
smile will be perfect." Dr. Vardy corrected Cha's teeth within a year and a half. "People
ask me if these are my own teeth since they look so great! I never had anyone comment
on my smile and teeth before!"- Cha

What our patients have said

"She (Dr. Vardy) is very smart and cares about getting all the details just right. She also is concerned that our family understands each step of the process and takes the time to explain why it is being done." - Laura

"My orthodontist, Dr. Iris Vardy, is very thorough and meticulous. She is also sensitive to childrens fears and is a highly competent individual interims of dissolving any notions about the discomforts of orthodontia." - Fontaine

"Dr. Vardy is the best. She is always accomadating and does her utmost for her patients. She is concerned, caring and extremely competent." - Joy

"The combination of professionalism and warm atmosphere. The staff is knowledgeable and very gracious. One thing I was dismayed to see at our visit yesterday was a television in the waiting room and it was on. This takes away from the the comfortable atmosphere I always associated with the waiting room- it is intrusive." - Nina

"Her skill and knowledge, her ability to comfort parents and children, her availability, her work ethics, her personality, her office." - Beth

Early Treatment - Great Results

As early as the age of 7, it is possible to redirect growth to restore function and self-esteem. Early/Phase 1 Interceptive treatment is generally limited to one year and is determined by a bite or facial growth pattern that if left unattended will result in a negative consequence.

Initial	Final
Initial	Final
Initial	Final

Orthodontic First Aid

True orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but when they do occur we are available to you. As a general rule, you should call the office when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can't take care of yourself. We'll be able to schedule an appointment to resolve the problem.

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

The following solutions may help you relieve your discomfort:

- Poking Wire -

Using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down or place wax on it to alleviate the discomfort.

- Loose Bracket or Band -

If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. If the wire comes out entirely, wrap the bracket with a tissue.

- Loose Wire -

Using tweezers, try to place your wire back into place. If you do this and using wax does not help, as a last resort use a small fingernail clipper to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If your discomfort continues, place wax on it and call our office.

- Loose Appliance -

If your appliance is poking you, place wax on the offending part of your appliance.

- Headgear Does Not Fit -

Sometimes headgear discomfort is caused by not wearing the headgear as instructed by your orthodontist. If the facebow is bent, please call our office for assistance. Surprisingly, the headgear may hurt less if it's worn more, so be sure you're getting in the prescribed hours.

- General Soreness -

When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater mouthwash. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously. Placing Orabase® on the affected area may help; this can be found in your local pharmacy. If the tenderness is severe, take Aspirin or whatever you normally take for headache or similar pain.

The lips, cheeks and tongue may also become irritated for one to two weeks as they toughen and become accustomed to the surface of the braces. You can put wax on the braces to lessen this. We'll show you how!

Invisible Braces for you!

Dr. Vardy is a Certified Invisalign Provider

Consider Invisalign to get the beautiful straight teeth you've always wanted — without braces. A complimentary consultation with Dr. Vardy can determine if Invisalign is right for you.

- What is it? -

Invisalign uses a series of invisible, removable, and comfortable aligners that no one can tell you're wearing. So you can smile more during treatment as well as after. Invisalign is made with 3-D computer imaging technology, and has been proven effective. More than 70% of orthodontists in the US and Canada are certified to treat with Invisalign.

- Why would I want it? -

Not only are the aligners invisible, they are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment, plus brushing and flossing are no problem. They are also comfortable, with no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment. And no metal and wires usually means you spend less time in your doctor's office getting adjustments. Invisalign also allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan when you start, so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.

- How does it work? -

You wear each set of aligners for about 2 weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. As you replace each aligner with the next in the series, your teeth will move — little by little, week by week — until they have straightened to the final position Dr. Vardy has prescribed. You'll visit Dr. Vardy about once every 6 weeks to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned. Total treatment time averages 9-15 months and the average number of aligners worn during treatment is between 18 and 30, but both will vary from case to case.

How to Find Us

- Address -

Vardy Orthodontics P.C.
130 West 78th Street
New York, NY 10024

- Contacts -

Phone:	(917) 720-4838
Fax:	(212) 579-6871

Emergency Contact

For emergencies, please call our direct phone number 24/7.

- Orthodontic Office Hours -

Monday:	12:00pm - 8:00pm
Tuesday:	12:00pm - 8:00pm
Thursday:	12:00pm - 6:00pm

Adult Patient Night

Thursday:

6:00pm - 9:00pm

Invisalign® Night

One Thursday Per Month:

6:00pm - 9:00pm

* FREE RECORDS
* Refreshments will be served.

Business Hours, Emergency Care & Cleanings Only

Wednesday:	12:00pm - 6:00pm
Friday:	12:00pm - 6:00pm

Your First Visit

At the first visit to the orthodontist, diagnostic records are made to determine the best course of treatment. Complete diagnostic records typically include a medical/dental history, clinical examination; photos of the patient's face and teeth, X-rays, and study models. This information is used to develop a custom treatment plan for each patient. These records are also helpful in tracking the progress of treatment as the teeth move under orthodontic care.

- Consultation -

After the doctor has evaluated your records, your treatment plan is discussed in detail, including the cost for your particular case.

- Regular Appointments -

The appointment for appliance placement (braces, expanders, etc.) usually takes from one to two hours. You will then be seen at regular intervals 4 to 8 weeks apart for an adjustment, which takes 20 to 40 minutes. Patients are seen by appointment only. We make every effort to be on time for our patients, and ask that you extend the same courtesy to us. If you cannot keep an appointment, please notify us immediately as your appointment time is specifically held to treat you and may be of value to someone else.

- Payment & Office Policies -

The cost of treatment depends on the severity of the patient's problem. You will be able to discuss fees and payment options before treatment begins. For your convenience, we accept payment by VISA, MASTERCARD, and AMERICAN EXPRESS.

Invisalign Video

I'm working on getting my Queer Eye video up on this blog... it is on my orthodontic website if you want to check it out. I assure you though, this Manhattan orthodontist will have the video up on this blog soon! Until then, I came across an educational video about Invisalign and thought that this would be something worth showing you. If you're considering Invisalign and live in the New York City area, please visit my Upper West Side office... until then, don't hesitate to post questions to this blog!

Vardy Orthodontics on Queer Eye for the Straight Guy

In May of 2006, at our little office on 78th Street a star was born! The hit Bravo TV series Queer Eye for the Straight Guy was filmed here featuring our very own Dr. Iris Vardy. It was lights, camera action all day! There were celebrities rushing around and make up crews giving us all the final touch. Then at the big moment Dr. Vardy surprised one very lucky young man with a smile and some good news. It was the day that all of our patients anticipate, the day the braces are removed! Dr. Vardy removed his braces effortlessly while chatting with superstars Kyan and Jai!

Check back soon for a post of the video!