Duffin Adams Gimlen Orthodontics answers the question: Why is it so important to have straight teeth?

Some people wonder why the team at Duffin Adams Gimlen Orthodontics 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 to set up a consultation. Our doctors can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Happy New Year!

Happy Holidays from Duffin Adams Gimlen Orthodontics!

The holiday season is upon us, and as the doctors and their team at Duffin Adams Gimlen 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 safe, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

--The team at Duffin Adams Gimlen

What makes Duffin Adams Gimlen Special?

People always ask us, "What makes you so great?" And here's our answer:

The majority of our patients have been referred to our office by their dentist, friends and/or family members. We view this as testimony that our office is highly regarded for the results we achieve and the way we care for our patients.

Drs. Duffin, Adams and Gimlen have over 70 years of combined experience delivering quality orthodontics and creating beautiful smiles. Our patients not only benefit from this experience but from having access to three orthodontists. All doctors are members of the American Association of Orthodontists, Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontist, American Dental Association and Western Los Angeles Dental Society.

The doctors feel it is essential to be at the forefront of all the technological advancements in orthodontics. They and the staff attend numerous education programs each year in order to stay current with the ever-changing field of orthodontics. The doctors encourage innovation and creativity in each other and in their team.

Our entire team is experienced, well-trained and dedicated to providing a superior level of orthodontic treatment and personalized care. We maintain the highest standards in the field of orthodontics. We adhere to the CDC guidelines for sterilization and infection control assuring your health and safety.

Our state-of-the-art equipment includes digital radiography and imaging and computerized communications so you can access your appointment and account information from your home computer. The doctors see our patients at every visit. The bands and bracket placement and the wire activations are done by the doctors only.

Our office has been Invisalign certified since February 2000. We are designated by Invisalign as Premier Providers (top 5% of offices in the United States). We strive to stay on schedule and not keep our patients waiting; we know your time is important. We take pride in being able to provide quality orthodontics to second and third generation family members.

Patient reviews for Duffin Adams Gimlen Orthodontics

Duffin Adams Gimlen Orthodontics, serving Manhattan Beach, El Segundo and surrounding areas, has been receiving some great patient testimonials lately! Check out what our current patients are saying about our doctors and their staff! Happy Monday!

"We had my son's first appointment and everyone was friendly and helpful." ~ Nicole W.

"Everyone in the office is very respectful, professional and treat the kids in such manner. The office is clean, calm and organized." ~ Gloria C.

"Very user-friendly on all levels -- staff and doctors alike. On time with appointments (even though we were ten minutes late!). Took time to explain any questions we asked (including those of my nine-year-old son who was "along for the ride." ~ Andrew R.

"We have heard wonderful things about our orthodontist which is why we chose to go to this office. He explained all procedures to us and did not jump the gun on braces!" ~ John O.

"Great chairside manner with my children." ~ Jim B.

Dispelling myths about orthodontics, from Duffin Adams Gimlen Orthodontics

Our doctors and staff 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 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 orthodontics. Check them out today and give us a call if you have any questions!

Is fluoride your friend? You bet it is!

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 the team at Duffin Adams Gimlen Orthodontics 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.

Hope this helps! Take care of your teeth, smile bright and give us a call if you have any questions!

What's the connection between your mouth and your heart? Duffin Adams Gimlen Orthodontics explain...

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 result 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 Duffin Adams Gimlen 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.

Hope this helps! The team at Duffin Adams Gimlen Orthodontics