What's the difference between a Dentist and an Orthodontist?

"Dentists, Orthodontists, they're all the same right?" We hear our patients asking this question as they wonder about the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. Before becoming an orthodontist, Drs. Simon, Haerian, and Ludwig all started out in dental school and earned a DDS (dental degree), just like your dentist. After dental school however, Drs. Simon, Haerian, and Ludwig decided they wanted to learn more about orthodontics, which is one of nine specialties within the dental field. So they stayed in school for a few more years and became an expert in orthodontics, which focuses on tooth and jaw alignment and bite problems like overbites and under bites.

Other dental specialties you may have heard of include endodontic (focusing on the soft tissue inside your teeth), periodontic (focusing on the gums and other tissues surrounding your teeth) and prosthodontic (focusing on restoring and replacing damaged teeth).

Isn't it nice to know there are dental experts here at Drs. Simon, Haerian, & Ludwig to help you through any type of treatment your teeth, jaw and gums might need?

Ask Drs. Simon, Haerian, & Ludwig: What is Malocclusion?

Malocclusion, or what Drs. Andre Haerian, Eugene Simon and Jennifer Ludwig call “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 even your appearance.

Most people experience some degree of malocclusion, but it generally is not severe enough to require corrective measures. If your malocclusion is serious enough, however, treatment may be necessary to correct the issue.

Our doctors will tell you that untreated malocclusion can lead undesirable mouth problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, or chipped and cracked teeth. 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.

At Drs. Simon, Haerian, & Ludwig, 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.

Best Orthodontic Practice in Toledo OH, two years in a row!

We are so excited! At the 2010 Best Of Toledo Award Show, Drs. Simon, Haerian, & Ludwig won "Best Orthodontic Practice in Toledo," for the second year in a row!

Here's a slideshow with pictures from the event. Enjoy!

As always, feel free to give us a call with any questions you might have or if you need to schedule your next appointment.

Miss America Party at the office Drs. Simon, Haerian & Ludwig!

It might have been a cold night on January 15th in Sylvania, Ohio, but patients of Drs. Simon, Haerian & Ludwig still managed to have a good time! The Lunch and Learn room in our Sylvania office was transformed with glittering stars and golden garlands as Ohio and Michigan patients alike gathered to cheer on Miss Ohio, Becky Minger, as she competed for the title of Miss America.

Becky underwent years of orthodontic treatment at Drs. Simon, Haerian & Ludwig to correct an overbite; but when the MARA and braces came off, her confidence turned on. Becky’s beauty was always there inside and now that she was no longer self-conscious, it’s reflected on the outside too. Becky had the talent, the smarts, and the look to win Miss Ohio which gave her the chance to compete for numerous scholarships and the coveted title of Miss America.

Even though Miss Ohio and Miss Michigan didn’t make it to the final fifteen, we were very happy to have some of our great patients on board for a night of pizza, popcorn, and paparazzi. We also managed to keep the night going by holding our own pageant in the office. Cara was crowned Miss Ortho Diva with Ali and Erica as runner ups. At the office of Drs. Simon, Haerian and Ludwig orthodontics, we consider ALL of our patients are winners!

--Drs. André Haerian, Jennifer R. Ludwig, Eugene Simon and team

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month!

One in four parents says their child has had an injury during an organized sport resulting in a trip to the emergency room, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO. That why Drs. Eugene Simon, Andre Haerian, and Jennifer Ludwig and team at Drs. Simon, Haerian, & Ludwig thought February—also known as National Children’s Dental Health Month—would be great time to remind our patients to be mindful of their braces and teeth while playing sports. Here are a few tips to stay safe on the field this spring, courtesy of the AAO:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Drs. Simon, Haerian, & Ludwig . Stay safe and have fun!