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

You may have noticed that Dr. Harry Dougherty specializes in "Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics." While most people have heard of orthodontics, many are confused by the "dentofacial orthopedics" part of the title.

Not to worry - we can explain!

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

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

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

We hope that helps! Contact our Sherman Oaks office and schedule a complimentary consultation for your child. It’s never too late to get a great smile, and we can’t wait to help you get started. de

Love your smile? Tell the world all about it!

At the office of Dr. Harry Dougherty, it is our goal to provide the best treatment possible in a comfortable and supportive environment. Combining the right mix of personal care, high technology and continuing education, we maintain a commitment to our patients in every facet of our practice.

Whether you've visited Dr. Dougherty for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about how our office has fared during your orthodontic treatment! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local listing and write a review there.

After all, your generous reviews help Dr. Dougherty create more beautiful smiles in Sherman Oaks and surrounding communities. Thanks in advance, and we hope you have a terrific week!

You may write your review here.

Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King

Today, our country celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who was a thinker, leader and civil rights champion. In the 1950s and ’60s, Dr. King recognized the need to bring about social justice, and worked tirelessly to instill tolerance in our nation, strengthen America’s communities and move the nation forward. This weekend, tens of thousands of people of all ages and races in Sherman Oaks and all over southern California spent their time building, giving and renovating our communities to help celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend. Did you have the day off? If so, did you participate in any service- or community-building projects?

We’d love to know about your activities and events this MLK Jr. Day. If you have any video or pictures you’d like to share, please pass them along! If you’re not sure how, give us a call!

Dr. Dougherty and our entire team are proud of all our patients, families and colleagues who continue to make a difference in our community!

Technology helps you relax at Dr. Dougherty's office

It used to be that people were terrified to see the orthodontist. And Dr. Dougherty understands that some patients are still nervous. But fear not! The days of fear and loathing when driving to an orthodontist appointment are gone! And it’s all due to technology. That’s right, technology has allowed orthodontists everywhere to zero in on patient care and comfort.

For example, braces are much more comfortable and the treatment time has been reduced. In addition, the advances in the orthodontic field have permitted digital photos and X-rays of your mouth, patient charting and improved communications between doctor and patient.

It is our goal to provide the best treatment possible in a comfortable and supportive environment. Combining the right mix of personal care, high technology and continuing education, we maintain a commitment to our patients in every facet of our practice.

If you have any questions about how Dr. Dougherty uses state-of-the-art technology at our Sherman Oaks office, give us a call and ask!

All about cavities, from Dr. Dougherty

At the office of Dr. Harry Dougherty, we know one word nobody wants to hear when they visit their dentist is Cavity! Yes, the dreaded cavity; but what exactly is a cavity and how do you get one? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger.

So, what causes a cavity? Well, a cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

Yes, cavities can be repaired by your general dentist, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities while you’re wearing braces:

· Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily

· Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)

· Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth and braces where your toothbrush can’t reach

· Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat or drink

· Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Dougherty

We hope that helps! Give us a call to learn more about keeping your braces and oral health in tip-top shape! Happy New Year!