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!

Happy New Year from Dr. Dougherty & team!

2010 has come and (almost) gone, so Dr. Dougherty and our team thought we’d ask: what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you most looking forward to in 2011? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

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

Ask Dr. Dougherty: What is two-phase treatment and when is it necessary?

Great question. Usually patients in orthodontic treatment at our Sherman Oaks office already have their permanent teeth, but in some cases we have to start treatment earlier, even before the patient’s permanent teeth come in. Dr. Dougherty calls 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.

In order to catch early problems, Dr. Dougherty and our team recommend that children have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven (and so do our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists). To learn more about two-phase orthodontics, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Dougherty, please give us a call or ask us on Facebook.

Happy Holidays!

Dr. Dougherty and team want to know: What should we blog about?

As 2010 winds down, Dr. Harry Dougherty & our team strive to continue blogging about important topics related to braces, oral health and your treatment.

To help us continue blogging through 2011, however, we'd like your feedback: What would you like us to focus on our blog or Facebook page in the coming weeks and months? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Dr. Dougherty or our team for a while and just haven't found the right opportunity? Give us your ideas by posting here or on our Facebook page!

We hope you have a great rest of the weekend!

What helps you relax at our office?

Dr. Dougherty and team understand not everyone is thrilled about visiting their orthodontist. But here at the office of Dr. Dougherty, we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. Today, we’d like to know: What is it about our office that makes you comfortable or puts you or your child at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our courteous staff? Dr. Dougherty himself?

Let us know by posting on Facebook or by giving us a call!