How important is your smile? From Dr. Greenberg

At Vickie Greenberg Orthodontics, we offer a different kind of orthodontic experience! Yes, we do provide the highest quality care in the Pasadena and Altadena area by using state-of-the-art equipment and treatments procedures to create for you a gorgeous smile.

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

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

When you're ready to experience the benefits of orthodontic care, contact Vickie Greenberg Orthodontics! Our practice is located in Altadena, North of Pasadena, providing morning, afternoon, and evening appointments, and complimentary consultations for new patients and their families. Call (626) 798-7645 to schedule an appointment.

See you soon!

Get to know your braces! From Dr. Greenberg

Should you need to call Dr. Greenberg's office 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 or ask Dr. Greenberg during your next visit!

Connect with Dr. Greenberg on Facebook!

At Vickie Greenberg Orthodontics, we value the relationships we have developed with our patients in New Altadena, Pasadena, L.A. and surrounding communities. Even if you only see Dr. Greenberg for your appointment on a regular basis, did you know that you can now connect with us on Facebook?

There, we share office news, announcements and any updates, so check it out! By Liking our page, you will receive updates from our office automatically in your news feed!

See you on Facebook!

Talkin' fluoride with Dr. Greenberg

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Vickie Greenberg - 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.

Fluoride used in the dentist’s office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask Dr. Greenberg 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 (ADA) 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!