What helps you or your child relax at Hallman Orthodontics?

Dr. Hallman and our team at Hallman Orthodontics understand not everyone is always thrilled to see their orthodontist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about our Chevy Chase office that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our friendly staff? Dr. Hallman herself?

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call! Have a great rest of the week!

Have a safe and happy New Year, to all our patients, friends, family and all our dental and medical colleagues – see you all in 2011!

Season's greetings from Hallman Orthodontics!

The holiday season is upon us, and as the team at Hallman Orthodontics reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask: What’s your favorite part about the holidays? Being with your loved ones? 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 warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

From Dr. Hallman and her team

Ask Dr. Hallman: “I’m 54 – am I too old for braces?”

At Hallman Orthodontics, nobody, and we mean NOBODY, is “too old” for braces! In fact, our staff read a fascinating statistic recently: adults getting braces has actually jumped 24 percent in the last 15 years!

Of course, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but maybe the reason for the spike in adult braces is this: people want to look and feel great. In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Dr. Linda Hallman can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, we would love to have you visit for an initial consultation. Please give us a call to set one up and have yourself a great rest of the week!

Access your account—any day, any time, anywhere!

At Hallman Orthodontics, we embrace new technology, whether it is through the innovative orthodontic treatments that Dr. Hallman offers, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern office conveniently located in Chevy Chase and serving Bethesda, Somerset, Silver Spring, Kensington, Washington D.C. & surrounding areas.

Did you know that patients at our office have access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our website? You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, from the comfort of your own home, which is especially helpful during the holidays! And, because we know folks sometimes forget, you can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

You, too, can sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button at the top of our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started or ask Dr. Hallman on Facebook!

Giving thanks this holiday season

Dr. Linda Hallman and our entire orthodontic staff at Hallman Orthodontics extend our best wishes to you, our patients and referring doctors, for a wonderful Thanksgiving.

We appreciate the opportunity to work together with you in the creation of your ideal smile, and would like to know: what are you most thankful for this year? Leave us a comment, or if you have any photos or stories to share with us, we encourage you to post them on our Facebook page.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone.

Is your contact information at Hallman Orthodontics current?

We hope you're enjoying your week so far! If you've seen the news recently, you probably know there is nasty weather ahead this fall and winter in Chevy Chase, all across Maryland and across the entire eastern seaboard.

Please help Dr. Linda Hallman and our staff at Hallman Orthodontics get prepared by calling us and letting us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed!

At times of power outages and inclement weather, we need to be able to get a hold of you. Please call us with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so we may be able to reach you. Thank you and Happy Holidays from Dr. Hallman and our entire staff!

Hallman Orthodontics, honoring our veterans

Happy Veteran's Day! We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the veterans and those currently on active duty who have put their lives on the line for the freedoms we all enjoy.

In celebration of Veteran’s Day, Dr. Linda Hallman and our entire team at Hallman Orthodontics would like to share a few fun facts about our flag, our national holiday, and our country’s history!

-Veteran's Day, a day that was originally called Armistice Day, is a time to thank and honor the men and women who have served in our military.

- President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the official legislation for Veteran's Day on June 1, 1954, changing the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veteran's Day

-There are 23.2 million veterans in the U.S.

-The flag was first approved by Congress on June 14, 1777

-Each of the flag’s colors signify different American values - red is for valor and zeal, white is for hope, purity, and cleanliness of life, and blue is for heaven, loyalty, sincerity, justice, and truth

-Research by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) helped develop the CAT Scan, the cardiac pacemaker, and the “Seattle Foot” to give those hurt the ability to run and jump

-When the flag is displayed next to another flag against a wall, the U.S. flag should be on its own right (on the left side when facing the wall).

-Veteran's Day is often confused with Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a time for remembering and honoring the men and women who died while serving our country, or as a result of injuries that incurred in battle. Veteran's Day honors and gives thanks to all veterans who served in our military.

-There are five states with over 1 million veterans in their population – California, Florida, Texas, New York and Pennsylvania.

Thanks again to our veterans! We are so thankful for all who have and are currently serving in the U.S. and abroad.

It's November! What are you up to?

Believe it or not, we’re almost in full holiday mode! But before you go celebrating, Dr. Hallman and team want to know: What are you doing this month?

Anything exciting happening in your life? If so, we'd love to hear all about it!

You can share your stories with us here or on our Facebook page!

--The team at Hallman Orthodontics

The 411 on Halloween treats, from Hallman Orthodontics

For parents worried about their kids going overboard on candies, sugar and other sweets, Halloween is a dreaded annual event (no pun intended).

Dr. Linda Hallman and our team will tell you all those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, but these treats are known to damage teeth, as well as braces! Did you know sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them? This can cause tooth decay and cavities! Sour and fruity candy, such as Starburst and Skittles, are the worst for your child’s teeth since these candies have a low pH value, which is known to ruin enamel. In addition, we also want your child to steer clear of sticky, chewy, gummy and nutty goodies.

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists recommend softer treats, such as soft chocolate or peanut butter cups, or melt-in-your-mouth foods. Trick-or-treaters who indulge should make sure they brush and floss between teeth, around brackets and at the gum line. If damage occurs, call Hallman Orthodontics as soon as possible.

Staying healthy this cold season, from Hallman Orthodontics

It's fall, and the cold and flu season is once again upon us. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, says that a common cold usually includes sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and coughing. Symptoms are known to last for up to two weeks, according to the CDC.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. Linda Hallman and our staff at Hallman Orthodontics give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our Chevy Chase office at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces. For the protection of other patients and our staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

To protect your toothbrush from bacteria, follow these steps:

• Wash your hands before and after brushing

• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen

• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster

• Replace toothbrush after every cold or flu or every 3-4 months when bristles appear worn

Hope this helps! Stay healthy!

Hallman Orthodontics, supporting breast cancer research!

Last Friday, our staff at Hallman Orthodontics participated in Lee National Denim Day. We wore our jeans to work to help raise money for breast cancer research. Thank you to everyone who participated! Wearing your jeans helped support a great cause!

Read more about Lee National Denim Day and have a wonderful week!

Ask Dr. Hallman: Why are regular checkups so important?

In addition to October being National Orthodontic Health Month, as we discussed last week, did you know this month also marks National Dental Hygiene Month? Fall is here, and Halloween is coming soon, but now it is more important than ever to maintain good oral hygiene during your treatment at Hallman Orthodontics.

Our staff will tell you - especially this month - that while all those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, these treats can damage your teeth and braces as well! Sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them - this can cause tooth decay and cavities! After eating these candies, be sure to wash your mouth out with water, drink milk or eat a few slices of cheese. These will help neutralize the acid in your mouth.

Besides cavities and tooth decay, many people do not realize that good oral health and hygiene are important to your overall health too - research has discovered the connection between periodontal disease and other major health concerns, such as heart disease! Therefore, it is important to maintain a good oral hygiene routine: see your dentist here in Chevy Chase every six months, brush and floss daily and use an antibacterial mouthwash.

Hope this helps! Enjoy your weekend!

- Dr. Hallman and team

Hallman Orthodontics, supporting National Orthodontic Health Month!

We hope you're having a great Friday!

October is National Orthodontic Health Month, and our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have included information on protecting your braces, including tips for trick-or-treaters, braces-friendly Halloween recipes, facts about braces and treats you should avoid while wearing braces.

Dr. Linda Hallman and our staff recommend you check out the AAO's website as well for helpful tips on keeping your braces in tip-top shape. If you have any follow-up questions about keeping your braces in tip-top shape, please feel free to give us a call at 301.654.7910, ask us on Facebook or ask Dr. Hallman during your visit at our convenient Chevy Chase office!

Have a great weekend!

Tell us your story! Why do you choose Hallman Orthodontics?

At Hallman Orthodontics our goal is balancing nature and technology to create the optimal smile for you. We look at every patient as a whole to ensure you get all the personalized attention you deserve. Dr. Linda Hallman is a specialist in anatomy, dentistry, and orthodontics, allowing us to provide comprehensive care for your overall health.

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our convenient Chevy Chase office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can write a review on our Facebook page or on our Google listing!

Ask Dr. Hallman: Which foods should I avoid during treatment?

Good question. There are a variety of foods Dr. Linda Hallman wants you to avoid while you're wearing braces. Some foods can occasionally damage braces, but certain foods can bend the wires or even break the brackets on your braces. If you’re wearing braces, you should avoid starch, sugar and gummy foods, as these foods can be difficult to remove during brushing. Foods that are high in sugar and starch tend to cause plaque, cavities and even tooth decay.

Avoid tough meats, hard breads and raw vegetables such as carrots and celery. Before long, you'll be able to bite a cucumber again. But you'll need to protect your orthodontic appliances when you eat for as long as you're wearing braces.

Foods you should avoid include:
• Chewy foods: bagels, hard rolls, licorice
• Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice, chips
• Sticky foods: caramels, gum
• Hard foods: nuts, candy
• Foods you have to bite into: corn on the cob, apples, carrots
• Chewing on hard things (for example, pens, pencils or fingernails) can damage the braces. Damaged braces will cause treatment to take longer.

If you have any questions on which foods you should be avoiding and why, we invite you to give us a call at 301.654.7910 or ask one of our team members during your next visit at our convenient Chevy Chase office! We also definitely encourage you to check out this helpful article about eating with braces, courtesy of Parenthood.com.

Have a wonderful rest of the week!

When should your child visit Hallman Orthodontics?

Chevy Chase orthodontist Dr. Linda Hallman will tell you that braces were originally considered to be best appropriate for teens. But these days, kids as old as seven are beginning their orthodontic treatment. Because preadolescent kids are typically not self-conscious, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists suggest it could be a good idea to start early.

Experts, however, say it depends on the treatment required. Some children who get braces at an early age end up in a second phase of treatment, and end up having braces well into their teenage years despite starting young.

Most orthodontic treatment begins between ages nine and 14, and the folks at AAO estimate most orthodontic treatment lasts from one to three years, with two years being the average. It’s important, however, that children be screened no later than age seven for Dr. Hallman to assess what the best age for treatment is.

Hope this helps! Give us a call at 301.654.7910 if you have any questions about your child’s treatment! Remember, our staff at Hallman Orthodontics serve Chevy Chase, Bethesda, Somerset, Silver Spring, Kensington, Rockville, Washington DC & surrounding communities.

We hope you had an amazing Labor Day weekend!

Have you scheduled your fall appointment?

Schools are back in session in Chevy Chase, Bethesda and surrounding communities, which means it's a good time for Dr. Linda Hallman and our staff to remind all our patients about the importance of scheduling your fall appointment in advance. With school, clubs, sports and other activities to consider this fall, we know that it can be challenging to find time to visit Hallman Orthodontics in the coming months. To accommodate all our patients' busy schedules, it's important that you plan ahead for your appointments so that we can provide you with an appointment time that is convenient for you (and your parents).

As always, please remember to give us advanced notice if you're unable to make your regularly-scheduled appointment. If our staff receive enough notice, we can schedule another patient for that appointment. Feel free to give us a call at 301.654.7910 if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your fall appointment.

See you this fall and have a wonderful weekend!

The importance of mouth guards, from Dr. Linda Hallman

With the summer (sadly) here for another five weeks, our team at Hallman Orthodontics would like to take this time to remind our young athletes wearing braces to take care of both your mouth and appliances while participating in contact sports (and non-contact sports) this month. After all, we know this is a busy time of year sports-wise, whether you're playing baseball in the park across the street or getting ready for a season of high school football.

Remember, only by using a mouth guard can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. So, the next time you're in for a visit with Dr. Linda Hallman, we encourage you to ask us for a mouth guard, and we will provide one!

We hope you've had a GREAT summer! Don't forget about our patient contests! See you soon.

National Smile Week at Hallman Orthodontics!

Now through Friday, it's National Smile Week, and an ideal time to remind our patients at Hallman Orthodontics to practice good oral hygiene to keep those teeth shining during your orthodontic treatment at our Chevy Chase office! This includes brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding foods that can stain your teeth such as tea and coffee and visiting your general dentist as recommended.

There are two main reasons to maintain good oral hygiene during your treatment:

• To keep the teeth and gums clean so the teeth won't rot and the gums won't recede away (you'd want to keep your teeth clean for this reason whether or not you are having orthodontic treatment).

• Clean teeth and healthy gums will promote better tooth movement with a healthier result. It may sound absurd, but your body has only so much energy to spend on your mouth so when it is busy fighting decay and periodontal disease, tooth movement slows down considerably.

Perhaps another great reason to smile is this: smiling can actually help you live longer according to a recent study! So keep smiling and have a great rest of the summer!

At Hallman Orthodontics, easy and reliable access to your account any day, any time!

Access to your account, whenever you want, wherever you want it. Sounds nice, simple and convenient, doesn’t it?

Patients at Hallman Orthodontics enjoy access to their individual account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our helpful website. You may look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages! Take a look at a few patient reviews about this helpful service called OrthoSesame:

"Think this is a great idea. I could look up when Spencer's next appt. is. Also, I see my account is paid up to date. I like that for as long as it will last...!" ~ Frank C.

"I could finally see my treatment pictures online! That was pretty unbelievable." ~ Delila C.

"I am able to check when my appointment is, especially when I have lost the appointment sticker. I am also able to look up my sons files and see his before pictures. Also, updating my profile has been a lifesaver. I also get e-mails from Sesame to confirm appointments." ~ Kimberly Z.

"Dr. Hallman is keeping up with the sign of the times." ~ Teresa P.

"Dr. Hallman is always cutting-edge!" ~ Martha F.

"I am able to do what I need to do without being put on hold from a secretary. All my information is up to date and easily accessible without having to call and request it or even pay a fee to have it sent to me. It's always there for my convenience." ~ Kimberly Z.

All the kids are doing it! From Hallman Orthodontics

Braces today are “cool” and—many would say—even “fun.” They're not our words - these were among the findings of a 2010 nationwide survey of moms whose kids are going through or have had orthodontic treatment recently. New technologies such as Invisalign, advanced computer software, color options and even popular celebrities sporting stylish braces are making orthodontic treatment more comfortable, fashionable and cool for today’s teens.

The study, conducted on behalf of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists for February’s National Children’s Dental Health Month, found 86 percent of moms reporting that braces are cooler today than when they were children. Sixty-nine percent of moms also said wearing braces makes their children feel cool, and 81 percent reported their children’s experience with orthodontic treatment as either positive or extremely positive.

Has your child visited Hallman Orthodontics for an initial consultation? If not, please give us a call at 301.654.7910 and let us help your child begin the journey to a gorgeous smile!

Ask Dr. Hallman: Can Invisalign really improve my oral health?

Yes, in fact Invisalign's clear aligners can help you with oral health issues. When considering treatment options, patients often ask Dr. Linda Hallman how Invisalign treatment is so different than traditional braces. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign than you may know. Invisalign, which we provide at our convenient office in Chevy Chase, is a series of removable aligners that are nearly invisible. Besides straightening your teeth, did you know that Invisalign can improve your oral health? Here’s how Invisalign can help improve your health, while shaping your beautiful smile:

Healthy gums: Straight teeth allow a close fit for gums. This lessens the gum stress that is caused by crowded or widely spaced teeth, thus also reducing red and swollen gums.

Easy cleaning: Invisalign is removable, therefore brushing and flossing is easier and you are able to maintain a healthy mouth. These habits are vital to avoiding tooth decay, plaque, and gum disease.

Improved speech and chewing: Properly-aligned teeth don’t have the discomfort or compound speech impediments that can be caused by crowded teeth or a deteriorating jawbone.

If you have any questions about Invisalign, just ask Dr. Hallman the next time you’re in for a visit this summer. Or, you may post your question on our Facebook page!

Enjoy the weekend everyone!

Five helpful summer travel tips, from Hallman Orthodontics

At Hallman Orthodontics, we know most people take a vacation during the summer, and often forget to pack the most important of things. Recently, our staff came across this article from ParentsAsk.com that outlined five important tips for summer travel with children. We strongly encourage you to give this article a read if you’re heading out with the family this summer. Here are even more tips you can use to ensure your vacation packing – and the traveling itself – goes as smooth as possible!

Happy traveling, and don't forget to take your toothbrush with you to enter our contest! This summer, we invite you to take your toothbrush with you, and take a photo with it at your vacation destination. The most creative photo or the farthest destination will win a special prize. You may post your photos to our Facebook page or send them to us at:

Linda A. Hallman, DDS, PhD
5530 Wisconsin Ave, Suite #1525
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
info@hallmanorthodontics.com

Featured patient review for Dr. Linda Hallman!

Once in a while, our staff at Hallman Orthodontics get patient reviews that make us really proud to do the work we do ever day: creating beautiful smiles for our patients in Chevy Chase and surrounding communities in Maryland. Recently, we received a testimonial from Kimberly, whose son is a patient of Dr. Hallman's. Here's what Kimberly wrote:

"I love that Dr. Hallman is family oriented; I don’t feel like my son is just another patient or paycheck for her office. Dr. Hallman always takes her time with us and is always willing to work with us no matter the situation. I truly feel she puts her patient’s needs above her own and for that I am grateful and truly appreciative. Dr. Hallman is more than a great orthodontist; she is a GREAT person." ~ Kimberly Z.

Thanks for writing in, Kimberly! Dr. Hallman and team are glad to create beautiful smiles for your child!

Summer patient contests at Hallman Orthodontics!

Come in to our office and you'll notice a net with beach balls in it! We challenge you to guess how many balls are in the net and YOU could win an iTunes gift card!

At Hallman Orthodontics, we also have lots of patients who like to travel during the summer. That, of course, gave Dr. Linda Hallman and team an idea for a summer contest.

This summer, we invite you to take your toothbrush with you, and take a photo with it at your vacation destination. The most creative photo or the farthest destination will win a special prize. You may post your photos to our Facebook page or send them to us at:

Linda A. Hallman, DDS, PhD
5530 Wisconsin Ave, Suite #1525
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
info@hallmanorthodontics.com

GOOD LUCK and have a fantastic Independence Day weekend!

Dr. Linda Hallman, reminding you to visit the dentist during your treatment

If you're brushing twice a day, as well as flossing, that's phenomenal. But, remember that it’s also important for you to visit the dentist every six months in addition to brushing their teeth a couple times a day (and visiting Hallman Orthodontics during your treatment). Our staff will tell you regular dental checkups are vital for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can:

• Check for problems that might not be seen or felt
• Detect cavities and signs of tooth decay
• Treat oral health problems early
• Show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth during your treatment

During an oral exam, your dentist will check the health of your child’s mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups also typically include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If your child has not been to the dentist in the past six months, it’s time for you to schedule an appointment!

If you don't have a general dentist in Chevy Chase, Silver Spring, Bethesda, Somerset or nearby communities, please ask and Dr. Linda Hallman and our team will be happy to provide one!

This summer, read! From Hallman Orthodontics

Last week, our team at Hallman Orthodontics asked you, our amazing patients, about your summer plans. Today, we thought we'd ask about your summer reading plans!

With summer only weeks away, some of us at Dr. Linda Hallman's office have been thinking a lot about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easier to go play ball with friends or kick back and watch television, but reading during the summer is a vital step in being prepared for classes in the fall and maintaining your skill level.

Out of ideas for great summer reads? Ask us for suggestions, and our staff (as well as Dr. Hallman) will be happy to provide some great book ideas. You may also ask a local librarian here in Chevy Chase for ideas or check out various summer reading lists that we came across last week.

Happy reading everyone and enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Tell Dr. Hallman and team about your summer plans!

At Hallman Orthodontics, we can hardly believe summer is around the corner. As the school year comes to an end for a lot of Dr. Hallman's patients, the days get longer and the temperatures begin to climb in Maryland, there’s no better way to beat the heat than jump into a pool or cool off under the shade with a beverage (non-sugary, of course). For a lot of our patients in Chevy Chase, summer brings a chance to get away from it all and escape everyday life, if only for a week or two. For others, it means a season of relaxation and relief from homework and other duties.

How about you?

What are your plans for summer? Do you have any interesting plans for a summer vacation? Does your family have a reunion planned? Our team would be interested in how you are all spending your summer vacations. If you’re going somewhere exotic, fantastic! If you're going camping, awesome! Even if you're staying at home, we know that can be fun, too.

Please feel free to share your summer plans and experiences with us on our Facebook page as the summer rolls right along!

Saving face with Hallman Orthodontics this summer

Wouldn’t you believe it, summer is just around the corner! At Hallman Orthodontics, our team knows that the summer months bring with them an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of our athletes damaging their teeth. If you're playing sports this summer, it's important that you consult Dr. Linda Hallman for special precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard. Mouth guards are advised for playing spring sports such as baseball, soccer, lacrosse and many, many others.

We were reminded about the need to wear mouth guards after reading an article recently about hockey great Keith Tkachuk needing reconstructive surgery after taking a puck to the mouth. Tkachuk’s gruesome injury underscores the need for all of our patients to use facial protection at all times when out on the field.

In case of any accident involving the face, we want you to check your mouth and appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances are damaged, please schedule an appointment to see Dr. Hallman immediately. And don’t forget to ask us—Dr. Hallman will be more than happy to provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment!

Our team at Hallman Orthodontics will tell you that only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Please give us a call at 301.654.7910 if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment with Dr. Hallman.

Enjoy the rest of the week everyone!

Dr. Linda Hallman and team, supporting National Physical Fitness and Sports Month!

May is almost gone, but not before we recognize it as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. Twenty-seven years ago, President Reagan encouraged Americans of all ages to include more physical activity into their lives, and the reminder is even more important today, as kids everywhere are distracted more by TV, video games and social networking. Kids living an active lifestyle can improve their health, productivity and overall well-being, and best of all? It doesn’t have to take a lot of time!

The U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services encourages people to exercise one hour every day of moderate intensity physical activity (such as playing sports or brisk walking) or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity (jogging, dancing and jumping rope). At Hallman Orthodontics, we always encourage our patients to stay fit by exercising or participating in sports. However, we want to remind you to always wear a mouth guard or other forms of facial protection when playing sports. To learn more about how often your child should exercise, we recommend you give us a call or check out these articles about kids and exercise, courtesy of KidsHealth.org.

Happy Monday and enjoy your week everyone!

Share your experience at Hallman Orthodontics with the world!

Serving Chevy Chase, Bethesda, Somerset, Silver Spring, Kensington, Washington DC and surrounding communities, our goal at Hallman Orthodontics is balancing nature and technology to create the optimal smile for you. We look at every patient as a whole to ensure you get all the personalized attention you deserve. Dr. Linda Hallman is a specialist in anatomy, dentistry, and orthodontics, allowing us to provide comprehensive care for your overall health.

Whether you've visited Dr. Hallman for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about how our office is faring! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice with the rest of the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local page and write a review there. Or, you may review us on Yelp if you wish. After all, reviews help Dr. Hallman and team create more beautiful smiles!

You may write a review here. Thanks in advance and have a great week! We look forward to reading your reviews!

Patient contest: Where in the world is my toothbrush?

At Hallman Orthodontics, we have lots of patients from other countries or who like to travel during the summer.

That gave us an idea for a summer contest.

Take your toothbrush with you, and take a photo with it at your destination. The most creative photo or the farthest destination will win a special prize.

For more information, we encourage you to give us a call at 301.654.7910!

Happy and safe travels - and don't forget those toothbrushes!

Wishing you a happy Mother's Day, from Dr. Hallman and Hallman Orthodontics

Our entire team at Hallman Orthodontics know that Mother's Day - which falls on this coming Sunday, May 9 - is special to each and every one of us. Everybody looks forward to Mother's Day because it's a special moment to thank them and tell them that we appreciate and love them.

We would like to take this time to wish all our moms a very enjoyable Mother's Day this Sunday. Thanks for the love you give your kids, for driving them to our office and always having a smile on your face.

And kids? Are you out of ideas for what to get for mom? Then check out this helpful video about clever, inexpensive Mother's Day gift ideas, courtesy of a recent segment on Good Morning America. We're sure mom will love whatever you come up with!

Fun facts with Dr. Hallman!

At Hallman Orthodontics, we know people love fun facts - LOVE THEM. The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that our team at Hallman Orthodontics thought you might enjoy.

• There are nearly 4 million people in orthodontic treatment throughout the United States. Three out of four are younger than 18.

• The first mechanical treatment for correcting irregular teeth was suggested by Gaius Plinius Secundus (A.D 23-79).The American Association of Orthodontists is comprised of more than 12,000 members in the United States, Canada and abroad.

• The time required to complete orthodontic treatment ranges from 12 to 36 months depending on the nature and severity of the problem.

• Of the 160,000 dentists in the United States and Canada, 8,000 are practicing orthodontists.

• The cement that attaches the braces to the teeth is now made with a special fluoride-releasing substance.

• Wires activated by body heat used in today's braces originally were developed by NASA for use in the space program.

• In addition to alleviating or preventing physical health problems, orthodontics can boost self-esteem as treatment aligns teeth, jaws and lips.

• Famous orthodontic patients include: Dr. Joyce Brothers, Hale Irwin, Cher, Diana Ross, Phyllis Diller, Chelsea Clinton, Whoopi Goldberg, Daisy Fuentes and Brandi.

10 helpful Facebook tips for parents, from Hallman Orthodontics

At Hallman Orthodontics, we embrace all forms of technology, and would like the parents of our wonderful patients to do so as well. We know that parents tend to sign up for Facebook accounts and ‘friend’ their kids, often as a way to keep a close eye on their online activities. Last fall, parenting expert Vicki Courtney wrote a helpful post on the things parents should and shouldn’t do while surfing through their kids’ Facebook profiles. Dr. Hallman and our team at Hallman Orthodontics thought you might benefit from reading Vicki’s interesting piece.

Here are Vicki's “Top Ten Facebook No-Nos for Parents,” designed specifically for those moms and dads who aren’t sure whether they’ve crossed the line in monitoring their kids’ presence online.

We hope you find this article informational. Please let us know what you think and have a great week!

Ask Dr. Hallman: What, exactly, is malocclusion?

Malocclusion, or what Dr. Hallman calls “bad bite,” is the improper alignment of teeth and/or jaws. When your teeth and jaws are not properly aligned, it may impact your bite, the ability to properly care for your teeth, your gum tissue health and, yes, even your appearance.

Although most people experience some form of malocclusion, it is generally is not severe enough to require corrective measures. If your malocclusion is serious enough, however, treatment at Hallman Orthodontics may be necessary to correct the issue. The most common solution for malocclusion, of course, is orthodontic treatment. The actual course of treatment, including the length of time you will require braces, will be determined by severity of your malocclusion. The goal of your treatment is to move your teeth into the proper position and correct any misalignment in the jaw. If overcrowding is causing the problem, Chevy Chase orthodontist Dr. Hallman may need to remove one or more teeth as part of treatment.

At Hallman Orthodontics, we use the most advanced technology in the field in order to ensure that you receive the best possible results. If you have any questions about malocclusion, please give us a call and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have.

Dr. Linda Hallman talks facial protection

April, also known as National Facial Protection Month, is upon us, and for Dr. Hallman and our staff at Hallman Orthodontics that only means one thing: it’s once again time to remind our dear patients to protect their faces and pearly whites. Above is a helpful video with helpful tips from our friends at the AAO about staying safe on the ball field this spring. According to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, children, high-school athletes and adults will have more than 5,000,000 teeth knocked out in sporting events this year.

That's why we're doing our part to spread the word on facial injuries!

We hope the above video helps. If you have any further questions about any of the tips offered in the video, please contact our staff at Hallman Orthodontics, and we’ll try to answer any question you may have. And remember to have fun and stay safe!

Beware, it's April Fools' Day! From Hallman Orthodontics

April 1st is traditionally known as April Fools' Day. Dr. Hallman would like if you shared a great story about a trick you played, or someone else played on you, on this silliest of days.

Feel free to post them here or on our Facebook page, and have a great rest of the week!

Let's talk retainers, from Dr. Linda Hallman

If you recently completed treatment with Dr. Linda Hallman, our professional team would like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Hallman will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized.

Retainers provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes, Dr. Hallman says. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime.

If you have additional questions about retainers or your treatment here at Hallman Orthodontics, please give us a call at 240-383-1233. Our staff would love to hear from you!

Tell Hallman Orthodontics: What's on your mind?

Week after week, Dr. Hallman and our dedicated staff blog about important topics pertinent to orthodontic care and your well-being. This week, we thought we’d step back and ask: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the always-changing field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog? Perhaps there’s something you’ve been wanting to ask us for a while now? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook fan page!

So … take it away and our team will try to answer any questions you may have!

Ask Dr. Hallman: Am I too old for braces?

Who’s afraid of “metal mouth” and the appearance of braces? Not adults, apparently. Recently, our staff at Hallman Orthodontics read a fascinating statistic: adults getting braces has jumped 24 percent from just 14 years ago! Yes, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another reason for the spike in adult braces is this: cosmetics. In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Dr. Linda Hallman can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. Hallman would love to have you visit for a consultation. Give us a call to set one up!

Hallman Orthodontics, supporting National Nutrition Month

March has arrived, and that can only mean one thing: it’s National Nutrition Month. Every March, Dr. Linda Hallman and thousands of dentists and hygienists celebrate National Nutrition Month. This March, Dr. Hallman and our team want you to think diabetes, obesity and periodontal disease, and how healthful eating and physical activity may improve periodontal health.

At Hallman Orthodontics, we know small changes really can make a big difference, and the American Dietetic Association (ADA) has some advice on ways to start improving your diet this March:

• Focus on fruits and vegetables: Add a serving each day to one meal and increase it every few weeks. Adding more of these foods into your diet is important whether you buy frozen, fresh or organic.

• Think fresh, think local: From farmer’s markets to community-supported agriculture, you have many options to find new, fresh foods here in Chevy Chase and surrounding communities.

• Make every calorie count: When you are choosing between options, focus instead on the one with more of the vitamins and nutrients that you need. Sometimes, foods with fewer calories aren’t always the healthiest options.
• It’s tempting, but…: If you have a sweet tooth, have fruit and yogurt for dessert. If you crave a snack in the afternoon, enjoy some trail mix or nuts.

• Expand your horizons: Try a fish you’ve never eaten before or find a new vegetable recipe. By testing yourself, you might find new health favorites to add to your regular grocery list.

If you have additional questions about periodontal disease or keeping yourself and your mouth healthy, please give us a call!

Mouth guards, orthodontics and sports with Dr. Linda Hallman

At Hallman Orthodontics, we know how important it is to protect your face while playing sports. The spring and summer months bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of damaging your precious mouth and pearly whites. Dr. Linda Hallman and our team also know sports-related injuries are common among children. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get hurt while playing sports such as football, basketball, baseball and soccer. That’s why Hallman Orthodontics are doing our part to spread the word that facial sports injuries can be avoided simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. Ask us—Dr. Hallman will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment.

In addition, the AAO has provided the following tips for keeping your kids safe on the field. Please remind them to:

• Wear mouth guards during contact sports
• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eye wear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant—even as a spectator

All of these can reduce injuries. Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements Dr. Hallman is trying to achieve. Lastly, please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Hallman Orthodontics.

Helping you stay safe during the snow storm, from Hallman Orthodontics

With the intense weather conditions expected in Maryland the next couple days, Dr. Hallman and our team at Hallman Orthodontics thought it would be a good time to remind you, our valued patients (and parents) to be safe when out and about. Here are a few helpful tips to get through the snow storm.

*Winterize your vehicle
*Drive, accelerate, and brake slowly
*Pack an emergency road kit and learn common emergency signs
*Make sure you install tire chains
*Learn how to fix a flat tire and jump start a car
*Stay safe!

If you don't feel safe going out, you can always reschedule your appointment. At Hallman Orthodontics, our patients' well-being is our primary concern, and that includes staying safe (and warm) on the roads during this storm! If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call!

Facebook Fan Page for Hallman Orthodontics!

Did you know Hallman Orthodontics is on Facebook? Our fan page provides you the latest news from Dr. Hallman, our staff and our practice. We invite you to connect with us and be "in the loop" for all things Hallman Orthodontics.

Become a "fan" today and have a great rest of the week! From Dr. Hallman and the entire team at Hallman Orthodontics!

As always, let us know if you have any questions by giving us a call!

Dr. Hallman wants to know: What do you love about our community?

Hallman Orthodontics, located in Chevy Chase, and serving surrounding communities, is situated around some pretty unique neighborhoods, including Bethesda, Somerset, Silver Spring, Kensington and Washington, D.C. Each is special with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our wonderful patients) living within.

Today, Dr. Linda Hallman and our team thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about Chevy Chase and aforementioned communities? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps a favorite Maryland getaway?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in Chevy Chase, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods.” And, who knows, we might post your response on our social networks!

The advantage of Invisalign Teen™ at Hallman Orthodontics

Dr. Hallman knows image is everything. At an age when image is so important, the thought of having metal brackets and wires constantly attached to teeth may intensify the already-delicate confidence of today's teens. But did you know there is a clear alternative to traditional braces? The team at Hallman Orthodontics thought we'd share some information about Invisalign Teen™, which gives teens everywhere a whole new way to wear braces for a "clearly" amazing smile!

For many teens, Invisalign Teen offers a trouble-free, clear alternative to traditional braces; and not only that, but it offers them the chance to have straight teeth without losing self-confidence!

So how does Invisalign Teen work? Much in the same fashion as Invisalign, but with a few added characteristics tailored specifically to teenagers’ lifestyles. For instance, Invisalign Teen is designed with “compliance indicators” that fade from dark to light during the two week period that particular tray is used and once it has faded teens know to change trays. Each aligner comes with up to six free individual replacement aligners in case the original aligner ends up lost or broken. Another big benefit for the patient!

The treatment period for Invisalign Teen varies from nine to 18 months. If your teen is considering orthodontic treatment, please give us a call and we’ll answer any questions you may have about Invisalign Teen. Dr. Hallman is a certified Invisalign Teen provider.

Enjoy the rest of your week!

Ask Dr. Hallman: When should my child get an orthodontic check-up?

Many parents assume they must wait until a child has all of his or her permanent teeth, only to find that treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Some orthodontic problems are easier to correct while the jaw is still growing. Consequently, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven.

What’s so great about age seven? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for an orthodontist to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites, and open bites can be detected, says Dr. Hallman.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age provides one of two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, a healthy prognosis will provide immediate peace of mind.

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and detrimental to good oral hygiene. So if your child is nearing age 7, give us a call at Hallman Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

What puts you at ease at Hallman Orthodontics?

Dr. Hallman and the team at Hallman Orthodontics understand not everyone is thrilled to see their orthodontist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about our office that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our friendly staff? Dr. Hallman herself?

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call! Have a great rest of the week!