The Blog of Dr. Greg Valeriano - Charlotte NC's Invisalign & Damon Specialist

Latest Newsletter

2012-01-20T09:09:00.000-08:00

And we have a WINNER!

2011-12-20T13:36:00.000-08:00

We would like to thank everyone who participated in the Loaves & Fishes food drive! Because of YOU it was a huge success! Your donations of 13,902 food items will help many of those who are in need.

So with great joy we would like to congratulate Sharon Elementary School as the winner of a new Smart Board for collecting 5,301 food items!

One of Sharon Elementary's many donations!

Many thanks again to all for all your donations!

7 more days!

2011-12-08T10:34:00.000-08:00

That's right, only 7 more days until our Food Drive with Loaves and Fishes comes to an end!

Sharon Elementary School and Carmel Middle School are still in our top spots, but Myers Park High School is running close behind, followed by Huntingtowne Farms Elementary School. The contest ends Thursday December 15th, 2011 so hurry and gather those non-perishable food items and bring them to us...for your chance to win a SMART BOARD for your school.

Smile more, Live Longer!

2011-12-01T06:10:00.000-08:00

If you knew that by smiling more, you could live longer...Would you do it? In a new study that was published in 2010, researchers analyzed an old issue of the Baseball Register and its 230 players that were featured. They found that, based on average, the players with gleaming grins lived 4.9 years longer than players with only partial smiles and 7 years longer than those who showed no smile at all. Though we know we cannot solely link big, beautiful smiles to a long life span, we do know that a beautiful smile inspires self confidence and increases positive feelings. Moral of the story? Keep Smiling!

There's still time!

2011-11-28T05:51:00.000-08:00

We have had such a great response to our school contest for a SMART BOARD that we have decided to extend it to December 15th!

Currently Sharon Elementary School and Carmel Middle School are in a close race, with others gaining on their lead! So now is the time- to start kicking it into high gear and get your school to gather items for Loaves and Fishes! Remember, the winning school will receive a SMART BOARD or $2500!

Why are Elastics necessary?

2011-10-24T09:21:00.000-07:00

Elastics are often necessary to correct your bite during treatment.
Unless directed otherwise, elastics should be worn all the time. Since you can take them out to eat and to brush your teeth., this means we expect at least 20 hrs/day, 7 days/week. Consistency is the key to achieving the movement we are looking for.
It is also extremely important that you wear your elastics exactly as prescribed. You should never "double up" elastics and wear 2 at a time. This could actually cause damage to the roots of your teeth.
When you first begin wearing your elastics, soreness can be very common. Be sure to continue to wear your elastics and you should find that the discomfort should diminish within the next few days. If needed, you can take headache medication, such as Tylenol or Advil, while you are getting used to your new elastics.
While I know that wearing elastics can be a challenge, they are an important tool in helping you achieve your beautiful new smile.

We want CANDY!

2011-10-17T09:05:00.000-07:00

It's that almost that time...for HALLOWEEN CANDY! That's right, we are partnering up with our friends at Operation Gratitude again this year. Bring in all your extra Halloween Candy on November 2nd and receive $1 per pound of donated candy. Not only will you have some extra cash in your pocket, but you'll be extending your thanks to all of our men and women serving our country overseas in our military as they will get all of your candy!

It's that almost that time...for HALLOWEEN CANDY!

Enjoy a fall treat!

2011-10-10T09:02:00.000-07:00

Fall is in full swing in the Queen City so while the leaves are changing and we are finally escaping the heat of summer, enjoy this recipe to get you in the Fall spirit!

Marvelous Molasses Cookies

They smell wonderful even before baking, they melt in your mouth, and they are perfectly safe for braces! Yum – the best of gingerbread and ginger snaps in one!

* 1 cup shortening
* 1 cup brown sugar
* 1 egg
* 1/2 tsp salt
* 1/2 cup molasses
* 1/2 cup warm water
* 1 tsp baking soda
* 1 tsp cinnamon
* 1/2 tsp ginger
* 2 1/2 cups flour

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Baking time 11 minutes.

In a large bowl, combine shortening, brown sugar, egg, salt and molasses, using an electric mixer and beating until fluffy. Add cinnamon and ginger. In a small bowl or measuring cup, stir the baking soda into the warm water; add water mixture to the molasses mixture alternately with the flour until well blended.

Drop by tablespoons onto greased cookie sheets. Bake for 11 minutes at 350 degrees. Makes about four dozen. Store in a covered container.

Enjoy from Valeriano Orthodontics

How are Orthodontists different than Dentists?

2011-10-03T08:59:00.000-07:00

"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 Dr. Valeriano started out in dental school and earned a DDS (dental degree), just like your dentist. After dental school however, Dr. Valeriano decided he wanted to learn more about orthodontics, which is one of nine specialties within the dental field. So he 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's a dental expert here to help you through any type of treatment your teeth, jaw and gums might need?

Toothbrush Trivia!

2011-09-26T08:58:00.000-07:00

Before the toothbrush was invented, many people actually brushed their teeth with sticks!

The first time in history that people actively cleaned their teeth was between 4000 and 3000 BC in ancient Babylon (the site where Iraq is now). The Babylonians used “chew sticks” – thin twigs or tree roots that were chewed at the end to loosen the fibers and then used like brushes.

Between 2000 and 1000 BC the ancient Chinese used similar twigs to clean their teeth. But the Chinese took it one step further and used twigs from trees with a nice smell. (Perhaps this was an early attempt at breath freshening?)

The next time you brush your teeth, take a moment to be thankful that you have a nice, clean toothbrush with soft bristles – instead of a stick!

School Contest Update

2011-09-22T08:38:00.000-07:00

Only a few weeks in and we already have one full bin and then some! Can you guess what school is in the lead?? Check on our Facebook page periodically for updates on who is winning!

Want to win for your SCHOOL?

2011-08-25T07:46:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to announce our partnership with Loaves & Fishes this Fall. From September 1st - November 30th, Valeriano patients will have the opportunity to compete for their schools by bringing in non-perishable foods for Loaves & Fishes. The school with the most donated food items will win a SMARTBOARD or a $2500 check, for their school! So get ready- now is the perfect time to help not only our community but your school as well!

For more information on this great contest, go here!

Gather your guesses...

2011-08-23T10:07:00.000-07:00

Clue #8

2011-08-22T10:04:00.000-07:00

Clue #7

2011-08-15T10:03:00.000-07:00

Clue #6

2011-08-08T09:08:00.000-07:00

Clue #5

2011-08-01T09:04:00.000-07:00

Clue #4

2011-07-25T09:01:00.000-07:00

Clue #3

2011-07-18T08:59:00.000-07:00

Clue #2

2011-07-11T08:56:00.000-07:00

Clue #1

2011-07-04T08:48:00.000-07:00

A new Contest is on the way!

2011-06-27T08:37:00.000-07:00

Amazing New Smiles!

2011-06-09T13:59:00.001-07:00

Look at these AMAZING NEW SMILES!

Congratulations to all of our fabulous patients who are sporting a sparkling new smile!

Wish our wonderful patients a great Memorial Day!

2011-05-26T10:40:00.000-07:00

To help you celebrate Memorial Day, here is a great recipe for a patriotic dessert- (that's safe for braces too!)

Delicious Summer Berry Trifle

INGREDIENTS
1 package (3.4-ounce) instant vanilla pudding
4 cups fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries), washed and hulled, plus extra for garnish
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1 cup whipping cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
24 to 36 ladyfingers

Instructions
To make the fillings, prepare the pudding according to the package directions and chill it.

Slice the strawberries, if you're using them, then toss all of the berries with the lemon juice and the 1/4 cup of sugar. Set aside for 30 minutes to allow the berries to release their juices.

In a medium mixing bowl, whip the cream, vanilla extract, and remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar until soft peaks form. Set aside.

To make the layers, set a layer of ladyfingers (around 7 or 8) on the bottom of a large, clear serving bowl (ours was 4 quarts). Top with the berries with half of the pudding.

Add another layer of ladyfingers, another third of the berries and juice, and the rest of the pudding. Add a final layer of ladyfingers and berries. Top with the whipped cream and a berry garnish.

Refrigerate until you're ready to serve. Serves 8 to 10.

In case you missed it...

2011-05-19T13:19:00.000-07:00

Just in case you haven't been following on our Facebook page CONGRATULATIONS is in order for Blair Connor...the winner of our Ipad contest!

The End is Near...

2011-05-05T13:38:00.000-07:00

It's that time again! We are so excited to announce that we are headed to the movies once again. Join us and Harry Potter for the final film in the series!

Electric vs. Manual...Who is the better toothbrush?

2011-04-19T11:39:00.000-07:00

Those of us who swear by Blackberries, Ipods and Tivo's want the latest, greatest gadget and we're convinced that an electric toothbrush must be better than its manual counterpart...right?

It turns out there's not much difference. WebMD.com cites "a review of nearly 30 studies" that was unable to determine a significant difference in plaque removal between electric and manual toothbrushes. There was other research that did find that the electric toothbrushes that have the bristles move side-to-side did perform slightly better.

If electric and manual toothbrushes are so similar, how should you decide what is the best for you?

Your budget. Electric toothbrushes are more expensive however while some high-end options can cost upwards of $100 you can find some in the $10range.

Your dexterity. People who have limited manual dexterity- may find that an electric toothbrush allows them to reach spots that would otherwise be difficult or impossible.

Your habits. If you have a hard time brushing regularly and you find you enjoy the sensation of brushing with an electric toothbrush, then by all means use the brush that will encourage you to brush most often.

Your patience. Many people do not brush for the full 2 minutes recommended. Some electric brushes come with a timer that helps enforce the proper time of brushing.

No matter what type of toothbrush you choose, it's important to use it correctly. Brush two-three times a day for two minutes each time. And remember that while brushing and flossing daily will help you maintain good oral health, regular professional cleanings are vital in keeping your teeth in tip-top shape.

New Contest!

2011-04-18T05:47:00.000-07:00

Can you help Finnagan match the set of eyes to the right staff member?

What is the best age for my child to see the Orthodontist?

2011-04-12T11:20:00.000-07:00

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic care; whether it is correcting a problem not treated in your younger years, or catching a problem early.

To ensure the best overall treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive an orthodontic consultation as early as age seven. If a problem is evident, taking action early can spare a lot of treatment and expense down the road.

If you never received orthodontic treatment when you were young, don’t worry! You’re never too old for a beautiful smile. Set up an appointment for a consultation and find out how adult orthodontics will transform your smile, and your life!

Mooooove over Gum Disease!

2011-04-05T10:50:00.000-07:00

Is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, it should be! A recent study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease).

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis.

Results of the study show that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease. Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

For more information about keeping your teeth healthy, call us at 704-364-6544 or visit www.valerianoorthodontics.com.

We take your health seriously!

2011-03-29T10:43:00.000-07:00

Do you ever wonder about the sterilization and
infection control policies of your doctor offices?
Well, we would like to tell you about our practices.
In addition to following OSHA guidelines we hire
an outside firm, Total Medical Compliance, to
train and evaluate our protocols. At our most recent
evaluation in February, we were given a
“Clean Bill of Health!”

Calling all Artists!

2011-03-22T10:23:00.000-07:00

Our Calendar Contest is back and we are on the hunt for new fabulous talent!

17 days until the Ipad has a new home!

2011-03-15T10:51:00.000-07:00

It is almost time for us to pick a winner for our Ipad contest! Keep up the hardwork on Facebook, writing Google reviews and sending friends in to see us. All that work is going to pay off for a very special person!

Do you know why your Retainer is important?

2011-03-15T09:15:00.001-07:00

Once we have removed your braces, it's easy to think all the work is done and your teeth need little further attention. But don't underestimate the importance of a retainer. Take this quick quiz to find out exactly why a retainer is important, and more:

1. A retainer is more of a formality than a necessity.
A. True
B. False

2. When should I wear my retainer?
A. As often as my doctor tells me to
B. I should wear it all the time to speed up my treatment

3. How should I clean my retainer?
A. Toothpaste and a brush
B. As long as I brush and floss my teeth, I won't need to wear my retainer
C. A cleaner made specifically for retainers

4. Using my retainer properly will prevent the need to wear braces again.
A. True
B. False

SO, how did you do?
Answers:

1. The answer is B- False. Because a retainer is removable, it is easy to think of it as being less important that your permanent braces were. The truth is that all the work accomplished by your braces could be for nothing without a reatiner. Your braces actively moved your teeth into their proper alignment, but a retainer holds your teeth in place and allows them to settle into position next to eachother.

2. The answer is A- As often as my doctor tells me. We set up a treatment plan tailored to you and your teeth, and every set of retainer instructions in unique, just as each of our patients is unique. We will determine how often you must wear your retainer depending on the particulars of your situation.

3. The answer is A or C- Toothpaste and a brush OR a special-made reatiner cleaner: it depends on the type of retainer you have. Make sure to clean your retainer atleast twice everyday. Don't clean with soap and water- you don't want soap in your mouth! If you use either a Hawley or bonded retainer you should clean it the same way you clean your teeth, by brushing it thoroughly with toothpaste. If you use an Essix retainer we recommend you clean it with a product such as SoncBrite or Reatiner Brite, both of which are made just for this purpose.

4. The answer is A- True. Your braces worked to move your teeth into place and a retainer compliments them by keeping those teeth in order. If you do not use your retainer as prescribed, you risk letting your teeth once again shift out of place.

Questions about your retainer? Call us!
Valeriano Othodontics- 704-364-6544

Announcing a New Partnership!

2011-01-26T08:00:00.000-08:00

Recent Newsletter

2011-01-25T12:10:00.001-08:00

Want an IPAD?

2010-11-29T09:25:00.000-08:00

Have you had your eye on a new, sleek I-Pad? Well here is your chance to win one of your very own!

Here are the 5 things you can do to enter to win:

1) Go to google and write a great review about us or our office
2)Refer a friend to be a "fan" of our page
3)Refer a friend to our office
4)Post a video on our facebook walll
5.) Write a testimonial on our wall.

Each completed task is one entry and there is NO LIMIT on the number of entries! So get busy on Google, or find us on Facebook! Good Luck!

Harry Potter- A HUGE SUCCESS!

2010-11-29T09:14:00.000-08:00

Sending a Thank You to our friends at Regal Cinemas and our GREAT patients for making our Harry Potter movie premiere a great success!

Candy Buy-Back Success!

2010-11-12T07:05:00.000-08:00

We would like to thank all of our great patients and the people of the Charlotte community for coming to our office on November 3rd to give us their unwanted Halloween Candy!

This year, we partnered up with Operation Gratitude to collect Halloween Candy that will then be packaged and sent to our amazing men and women who are serving overseas.

We are so thankful for everyone who donated to this great cause- as we collected over 300 pounds of candy! As an incentive we offered $1 per pound of candy brought in- and found that most just wanted to donate their hard-earned dollars back to the cost of shipping! THANK YOU!

Calling all Harry Potter Fans!

2010-11-11T05:52:00.000-08:00

As most of you know, our fabulous movie premiere is JUST around the corner!

On Saturday, November 20th at 10:00am all of our patients are invited to experience Part One of the Final Harry Potter story!

Each patient is allowed to bring one friend with them to this great event. Most of you are probably signed up already, so it is time to come to our office to pick up your tickets!

We can't wait to see you at the movies!

Meet Finnagan!

2010-11-10T05:48:00.001-08:00

Meet the newest addition to our Valeriano Team!

About a month ago, we launched a new contest to help us find a name for this new member to join our team. Yes, he is an adorable monkey from the jungle in Africa!

Congratulations goes out to Maddie Dugan- who gave this cute guy a sweet name!

Keep a look out for Finnagan at all of our great events!

New Winners!

2010-10-11T12:37:00.001-07:00

As most of you know, Flat Dr. V came back for another summer filled of fun and adventures. Here are our winners!

Furthest Away: Carly Levi

Most Creative: Melissa Hauter

Funniest: Dylan Mask

Most Adventurous: Will Sutton

They were all the winner of a Target Giftcard! Many thanks to all of our great patients and parents who sent in their photos.

Introducing our newest addition to our team...

2010-09-30T10:41:00.000-07:00

So, next time you are in our office- submit your idea to help name our Mascot!

Summertime Newsletter

2010-09-07T12:34:00.000-07:00

Congratulating Janie on a Great 10 Years!

2010-08-24T06:54:00.000-07:00

Here are some fun pictures from our laser tag adventure!

Do you know what it takes to avoid cavities?

2010-07-06T09:25:00.000-07:00

We want all of your teeth to live long, health, pain-free lives. Cavities are one of the most frequent detriments to your oral health- but they can be avoided! Take this quick quiz to test your knowledge on the topic of cavities.

1. Which age group is most likely to get cavities?
a. Children and Teens
b. Adults
c. Babies
d. none of the above

2. You must give up all sugary foods and drinks to avoid cavities.
a. true
b. false

3. Cavities only happen on the chewing surface of your teeth.
a. true
b. false

4. Which of the following has been shown to prevent cavities?
a. peppermint
b. bananas
c. xylitol
d. none of the above

How do you think you did?

Answers:

1. D- None of the above. Cavities don't care what age you are, so its extremely important to take care of your teeth no matter how old you are.

2. B- False. You don't have to give up your favorite sugary treats forever to keep your teeth in good shape. You just have to be proactive when you do indulge. This means to brush after you have a sugary treat. Remember, the less exposure your teeth have to sugar, the better.

3. B- False. Cavities can happen on any surface of the tooth. So, its important to make sure you are brushing and flossing all the hidden nooks and crannies.

4. C- Xylitol. This substance can now be found in chewing gum, toothpaste and mouthwash. This substance became known after studies had shown that it shows promise in reducing the risk of cavities.

So, now you know what you can do to keep your teeth beautifully clean and cavity free!

Flat Dr. V is Back!

2010-06-15T08:16:00.000-07:00

For those of you who have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of Flat Dr V...he is back!

SO get busy on your summer vacation and don't forget to let us know where you go!

See our great works of ART!

2010-06-10T06:22:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to our great patients who submitted their wonderful works of art for our Calendar contest!

Announcing our School Year Calendar Winners!

2010-05-27T08:27:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to announce our 2010-2011 SchoolYear Calendar Winners...

Congratulations goes out to:

*Ethan Andersen
*Parker Bartol
*Sarah Bradley
*Baxter Dulin
*Liana Gainsboro
*Julia Hannum
*Kristen Hobler
*Rachel Morgan
*Lindsay Owens
*Stephen Pappas
*Victoria Scurlock
*Lacey Weller
*MacKenzie Zinkil

We had so many great submissions- Many thanks to all of our great patients who are such great artists!!

Our "Guess Our Weight" WINNER!

2010-04-29T09:02:00.000-07:00

Congratulations go out to our awesome patient....

Andrew Young!

He guessed our collective weight right on the nose and was the winner of a gift card to the White Water Center.

Way to go Andrew!

Get to know our staff...a little bit more!

2010-04-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

What is an Orthodontic Emergency?

2010-04-14T04:06:00.000-07:00

Fortunately orthodontic emergencies are very rare. Loose bands, brackets or wires are only an emergency if they are causing excessive discomfort or swelling which cannot be relieved with wax or other home cures.

Should you have an orthodontic emergency- please contact us to schedule an appointment for us to make you comfortable. This way, we will be able to accomodate you in a timely manner.

You can also visit our website, www.valerianoorthodontics.com and view the instructional care and emergency videos for further information.

We take your health seriously!

2010-03-24T09:28:00.000-07:00

Can you guess our TOTAL WEIGHT?!

2010-03-02T07:04:00.000-08:00

Considering Invisalign? Questions every patient should ask.

2010-02-23T05:31:00.000-08:00

1. Am I a candidate for Invisalign?

Invisalign can be a great treatment choice for many people who desire a more beautiful smile but unfortunately it is not the right choice for every one. Invisalign works best for mild to moderate crowding or spacing and in those situations treatment results can be tremendous. It does not work as well with severe crowding or spacing or to correct significant bite problems. To know if you are a candidate an orthodontic consult is necessary to determine if Invisalign is right for you. In our practice diagnostic photos and x-rays are done in combination with a thorough exam.

2. What if Invisalgn doesn't provide me with the result that I desire?

As an orthodontic specialist, I am able to use additional orthodontic methods to achieve excellent results for my patients. In fact, it is very common for Invisalign patients to wear braces as part of their treatment. Fortunately, the braces are usually worn for a short period of time and usually in the lower arch only.

3. What training is necessary to become an Invisalign provider?

To become an Invisalign provider an orthodontist or dentist must attend a "weekend" training and certification course provided by Invisalign. Although the aligners are made by Invisalign, it is the treating clinicians responsibility to determine how and where the teeth will be moved. A clinician must possess a thorough understanding of orthodontic principles.

4. Is Invisalign treatment easy?

Yes and no. For the patient it is generally an easy process with minimal discomfort. As an orthodontist, it is one of the most challenging things I do on a daily basis. As a provider of Invisalign for over nine years and having successfully treated hundreds of patients, I can safely say that it is generally much easier to move teeth with braces than with Invisalign.

5. How do I keep my teeth straight after treatment?

Long term, life time retention is the only way to ensure that you will maintain a beautiful smile after your treatment is complete. While many dentists and orthodontists use the final aligners as retainers, I do not believe that is an adequate solution. Since most patients find it difficult to wear removable retainers for the rest of their lives, I place bonded retainers on the vast majority of my Invisalgn patients. We also provide removable retainers which are generally worn only at night time. With a "belt and suspenders" approach, I do everything possible to help my patients maintain their beautiful smile for their entire life.
Please remember: Invisalign is just a tool for straightening teeth. Just as a carpenter uses many tools to build a house, I use many different appliances to move teeth. If your goal is straight teeth and a beautiful smile be sure your Invisalign provider has all the tools!

Have a knack for drawing or painting? If so, we want Y-O-U!

2010-01-27T13:12:00.000-08:00

So get busy creating those fabulous works of art for your chance to be featured in our School year Calendar and win great prizes!

Happy Holidays from the Valeriano Crew!

2009-12-31T06:42:00.000-08:00

Wishing our wonderful patients, families and friends a very happy Holiday season. We hope your New Year will be filled with long last memories and beautiful smiles!

We had our annual Christmas lunch at Red Rocks this year- it was delicious and filled with Holiday spirit. Thanks Dr. V!!

Dr. V opening his gift from us...tickets to see Jerry Seinfeld!

CONGRATULATIONS are in order for....

2009-12-02T07:36:00.000-08:00

John Demas- who was the proud winner of our Panther Contest. Can you find the 10changes?

Could you find all of the changes? If not, here they are:
1-Panther on helmet is gone
2- #17 is now #89
3-Yard line by left arm is now gone
4- Person walking by left arm is gone
5-Panther on jersey has a red bow
6-Superbowl logo on jersey is gone
7- Stadium light on top right is gone
8-Strips on pants of person next to the right arm are gone
9-Red flag is removed from bench
10-White logo on black collar is gone

Great job to all of our patients who played! Be on the lookout for our next contest!

New faces in braces!

2009-11-10T09:50:00.001-08:00

Dr. V is the proud owner of a new set of braces!

Interested in a New Smile? Come see us for our Special Invisalign Day!

2009-10-06T05:04:00.001-07:00

So, what are you waiting for? Call us today, 704.364.6544 to reserve your special consultation to discuss your options!

Announcing our Flat Dr. V Winners!!

2009-09-29T07:44:00.000-07:00

Flat Dr. V once again had a fabulous summer vacation- thanks to you our great patients...

Here are our winners!

The Funniest- Despina did a great job creating Flat Dr V from memory, so he didn't miss out on a great vacation!
-Despina Giotis

Most Historical- The signing room in Independce Hall (The Declaration of Independence was signed here)
-Katherine Burkart

Longest Distance Traveled- Taj Mahal,India
-Ro Panuganti

Best Animal Photo- Miss Lily
-Cameron Maibodi

Most Adventurous- ATV in Wyoming
-Brittany & Alexandra Halberstadt

Best Celebrity- Richard Petty (they also sent in photos of Richard Childress & Rusty Wallace!)

-Drew & Sara Hebeisen

Coldest Location- Switzerland

-Alex & Mia Kosarek

We also had more fabulous entries- thanks to all of our patients who submitted their photos. Flat Dr. V had an awesome summer vacation! Keep on the look out for more photos!

We are pleased to Announce...

2009-09-23T10:40:00.000-07:00

Dr. Valeriano has once again been voted by his peers as one of Charlotte's Top Dentists! Because topDentists™ is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey in which hundreds of dentists and specialists throughout the Charlotte area cast thousands of "votes" on the abilities of other dentists and specialists and also because listings cannot be purchased, inclusion in topDentists™ is considered a singular honor. Be sure to check the November issue of Charlotte Magazine or www.usatopdentists.com to see Dr. Valeriano listed as one of Charlotte's Top Dentists!

Help Dr. V Intercept Crooked Teeth!

2009-09-22T08:44:00.001-07:00

Its time for our new game! In celebration of a new football season, Dr. V has decided to join the Panthers this year to intercept crooked teeth! So, next time you are in the office for your visit- take a moment to try your luck at our new game. You could be the winner of 2 tickets to a Panthers Game!!

Orthodontic Emergency

2009-09-14T07:09:00.000-07:00

What is an Orthodontic Emergency?

A blow to the face or jaws causing loose or broken teeth

and soft tissue trauma is a medical emergency and

should be seen immediately in an emergency room or by

their general dentist. Our office is not equipped to handle

these situations and we will only want to make

“repairs” to orthodontic appliances after the true

emergencies are treated.

Fortunately orthodontic emergencies are very rare.

Loose bands, brackets or wires are only an emergency if

they are causing excessive discomfort or swelling which

cannot be relieved with wax or other home cures.

Should you have an orthodontic emergency–

please contact us to schedule an appointment

for us to make you comfortable.

Also you may visit our website:

http://www.valerianoorthodontics.com/

for further information.

Harry Potter....A SUCCESS!

2009-08-11T08:50:00.001-07:00

We had a fabulous time with all of our great patients during the premiere of Harry Potter and The Half Blood Prince! Here are a few photos from this great event...and be on the look out for more photos soon!

Meet our Winners!

2009-07-23T12:39:00.000-07:00

Every May and June there is a special day reserved for celebrating caring Mothers and Fathers. This year we recognized our patients devoted parent by asking our patients to tell us what makes there Mom or Dad so special. The winning mom received a gift certificate to spend a day at the spa and the winning dad received a gift card to Lowe's!

Out of the great entries that were submitted, two were chosen as our winners!

Congratulations Jack and Haley!

Come with us to the movies!

2009-07-06T13:30:00.000-07:00

You and a special friend are invited to the premiere of

Harry Potter and The Half-Blood Prince

hosted by Dr. Valeriano and Team!

When: Friday, July 17th 2009

Where: Regal Cinema's- Phillips Place

Time: 9:30-12:00

Please sign up for this event as soon as possible as space is limited and they are filling up quickly!

To sign up for this fun premiere, you may fill out an invitation that can be found in our office or call us at 704.364.6544

In order for us to reserve a spot for you and your special friend, we will need the following information: The patients name, Email for the reservation confirmation and ticket to be sent to, a primary phone number and the name of the friend that you would like to bring! Please note this film is rated PG-13.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Valeriano Orthodontics Is Greening Their Practice!

2009-06-02T22:46:00.000-07:00

There are so many things we do at Valeriano Orthodontics to make sure you are taken care of every step of the way throughout your orthodontic treatment. And you know what else? We take care of the environment too!

We are a chartless/paperless office! This helps us manage our patients progress together, as well as provide them with the best orthodontic care possible.

All of our x-rays are digital in our office, which is less radiation for our patients which is very important, and it is less toxins for the environment too!

We also have an in house lab, that makes a lot of our appliances and a lot of our retainers. This is a great benefit to our patients (and their parents) as they do not have to wait for a long turn around time to receive their appliances, and it saves on fuel too!

So if you are looking for an orthodontist in North Carolina who cares about our patients and cares about the environment too! Then Valeriano Orthodontics is the place for you!

Hope to see you soon.

More Exciting News About Valeriano Orthodontics Patients

2009-05-22T15:15:00.000-07:00

At Valeriano Orthodontics, we are so excited about all the advancements in our patients life. So lets congratulate them!

Maren D., raced her mountain Bike at Renaissance Park. Her Season is 6 weeks long and she recently took home First Place!
Great Job Maren!

Artist Alert! Our patient Anne N. is an extremely talented artist. You can see her work at www.anneneilsonfineart.com

Did you know...Only 5 percent of boys who start out in Cub Scouts achieve Eagle
Scout by age 18? We are proud to announce that several of our patients, including Charlie M., Kevin L, and Brian and Clark O. have all become Eagles! Great Job guys!

If you are doing something exciting or new with your life, let Valeriano Orthodontics know! We would love to feature your achievements.

Valeriano Orthodontics' Patients In The News

2009-05-15T13:33:00.000-07:00

We have so many outstanding patients at Valeriano Orthodontics who are doing exciting things with their lives. So we want to take a moment and congratulate a few who have shared their experiences with us!

Mary G. and Margaret P. both recently donated their hair to Locks of Love. This generous act will help children suffering with cancer, and let them know that people care.

Nicole L. is broadening her horizons and is part of a student exchange program. She will be traveling to Limoges, France in October.

Stephanie S. is in the ACIS art competition for her school this year.
Good Luck Stephanie!

Molly S. is in a student exchange program and will be traveling to Paris and
Limoges for 2 weeks. Au revoir!

As always, if you are doing something exciting in your life, share it with Valeriano Orthodontics! We would be thrilled to feature you in our Patients in the News!

Get Rewarded For Your Sparkling Smile At Valeriano Orthodontics

2009-05-08T16:23:00.000-07:00

At Valeriano Orthodontics, we are always looking for different ways to reward you - our patient - for your efforts throughout your treatment. Maintaining good oral health is important, and it’s also important to continue visiting your dentist for
regular six month checkups even during your orthodontic treatment. We want to reward you for taking care of your teeth, so we’ve started our new oral hygiene program!

Next time you visit our office we will give you an Oral Health (OH) card. Take
this card to your dentist the next time you go for your semi-annual checkup and teeth cleaning. Ask your dental hygienist to sign and date your OH card, then bring the signed card back to us at your next appointment and we will enter you into a drawing to win 50 dollars - cash!

We will also reward your dentist for doing such a great job with helping to keep your teeth clean during your treatment.

Valeriano Orthodontics Support The Charlotte Reads Program

2009-05-01T12:26:00.000-07:00

At Valeriano Orthodontics, we know that children love to read.

But unfortunately, there are many children and adults out there who don’t know how to read or have never experienced the joy and wonder that comes with getting lost in a good book.

That is why we at Valeriano Orthodontics support the Charlotte Reads program and we are again collecting new
and gently used books...which can be anything from a nursery rhyme to a John Grisham novel!

Upcoming Mother's and Father's Day Contest at Valeriano Orthodontics

2009-04-30T09:51:00.000-07:00

Every May and June there is a special day reserved for celebrating our caring Mothers and Fathers. At Valeriano Orthodontics this year, we plan on recognizing our patients devoted parents.

During the next couple months, we want you to write us a paragraph expressing what makes your Mom and Dad so special. Be creative! It can be a poem, a song, a story.

We will post our winners throughout the office, on our web site and in our newsletter.

Plus your Mom or Dad will receive a special prize from Valeriano Orthodontics.

Keep an eye out at your next appointment for the details and get ready to tell us why you have the best parents around!

Invisalign Day at Valeriano Orthodontics

2009-04-21T08:53:00.000-07:00

Dr. Greg Valeriano will be providing Invisalign treatment consultations to answer your questions about Invisalign treatment, the clear way to straighten teeth. If you have wondered if Invisalign is right for you, ask our scheduling coordinator to schedule your appointment for this special event.

For eligible* Invisalign Day patients:
Either $400.00 off your Invisalign treatment or
24 month, no interest financing.
Space is limited to the first 20 appointments.

Call today about Invisalign Day patient eligibility.
Gregory F. Valeriano, DDS,PA (704)364.6544

Congratulations to Kate and Andrew for Winning the Second Harvest Food Drive at Valeriano Orthodontics

2009-04-17T09:52:00.000-07:00

Awhile back, Valeriano Orthodontics held a Second Harvest Food Drive to raise food for the food bank and help families in need. We had a great turn out and were able to make a difference in our North Carolina community.

Thank you to everyone who participated. The winners for the contest were Kate B. and Andrew M! Here are photos of the winners themselves.

Congratulations to Margaret from Valeriano Orthodontics

2009-04-10T15:13:00.001-07:00

Announcing Valeriano Orthodontics' newest VIP Club winner! Margaret S!

Our VIP's are patients who are currently being monitored in our Growth and Development Program. They become our VIP members and are entered into drawings by showing us their VIP cards at their appointments.

So Congratulations are in order to….. Margaret S!

From Valeriano Orthodontics

Guess How Many? David Did at Valeriano Orthodontics

2009-04-03T10:24:00.000-07:00

Remember back a couple of months when we had that delicious jar full of treats at the front desk? It was Halloween time and we asked you to guess how many pieces of candy were in the jar? Well someone guessed it right, the winner? David M!

Congrats, David! From Valeriano Orthodontics

1.50 for a Cavity -- Valeriano Orthodontics

2009-03-27T09:32:00.000-07:00

Vending machines are a quick way to satisfy hunger. You put in $1.50 and you get back a candy bar, bag of chips or even a soda…but that’s not all! Vending machines not only dispense sweet treats and caffeine bursts, but they also dispense cavities!

Every time you chow down on that chocolate bar the bacteria in your mouth have a party feasting on the sugar. The sugar quickly turns into acid; that’s right, ACID!!! The acid sits on your teeth and eats away at the tooth’s natural enamel (the stuff that protects your tooth from decay). When this enamel is eaten away by the acid on your tooth, you get a cavity! Brushing your teeth after eating a sugary treat can help prevent cavities; but before you indulge remind yourself: “can’t brush? Hold the sugar!”

When choosing a snack, consider these nutritional options that will not only satisfy your hunger and that “sweet tooth”, but won’t cause acid build up resulting in cavities:

--Fresh Fruits (berries, oranges, melon, pears, etc)
--Raw Vegetables (broccoli, celery, carrots, etc)
--Bread
--Pretzels (low salt)
--Milk (low or non-fat)
--Cheese (low or non-fat)
--Nuts and seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc)
--Sliced meat

Hope these tips help from Valeriano Orthodontics

Molasses Cookies from Dr. Valeriano

2009-03-19T15:29:00.000-07:00

The wisdom of the ages tells us that necessity is the mother of invention. Brenda Waterman, age thirteen, offers new proof of this proverb. When getting braces mandated cutting a list of foods out of her diet – including her much-loved treat of caramel apples – she devised a work-around recipe that let her indulge her craving. This clever replacement for caramel apples was the inspiration for The Braces Cookbook: Recipes You (And Your Orthodontist) Will Love, which Brenda created along with her mom, Pam Waterman.

Get a sneak peak with the following recipes:

Marvelous Molasses Cookies

They smell wonderful even before baking, they melt in your mouth, and they never harden up. Yum – the best of gingerbread and ginger snaps in one!

* 1 cup shortening
* 1 cup brown sugar
* 1 egg
* 1/2 tsp salt
* 1/2 cup molasses
* 1/2 cup warm water
* 1 tsp baking soda
* 1 tsp cinnamon
* 1/2 tsp ginger
* 2 1/2 cups flour

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Baking time 11 minutes.

In a large bowl, combine shortening, brown sugar, egg, salt and molasses, using an electric mixer and beating until fluffy. Add cinnamon and ginger. In a small bowl or measuring cup, stir the baking soda into the warm water; add water mixture to the molasses mixture alternately with the flour until well blended.

Drop by tablespoons onto greased cookie sheets. Bake for 11 minutes at 350 degrees. Makes about four dozen. Store in a covered container.

Enjoy from Valeriano Orthodontics

Digital Imaging at Valeriano Orthodontics, More Results with Less Radiation

2009-03-12T11:04:00.000-07:00

At Valeriano Orthodontics, we use digital imaging for all of our x-rays. This exposes our patients to much less radiation than previous x-rays used!

We are also able to view the patient's x-rays at any workstation in our office, so that we can manage the patient's progress together. It's a great way to show our parents and patients the x-rays so they can monitor their progress. At Valeriano Orthodontics we care about our patients and want them to be involved in the treatment process so they can watch their smile evolve!

Our Philosophy at Valeriano Orthodontics

2009-03-05T13:09:00.001-08:00

At Valeriano Orthodontics, we have a Philosophy we would like to share with you. We believe wholeheartedly in providing our wonderful patients with the best care possible.

• We treat the face first. While traditional orthodontic treatment has focused primarily on “a good bite,” we believe that our primary objective is to create a beautiful smile and enhance facial esthetics to improve the bite.

• A beautiful smile is more than just straight teeth. We always evaluate and treat the smile on a “micro level.” We reshape teeth and change their proportions, evaluate smile lines and recontour gingival with a laser.

• We create beautiful faces for a lifetime. Orthodontic treatment affects how the face looks today and how it will look in the future. Our goal is to do what is best for the “aging face.”

• We can achieve great results in most patients without extraction of permanent teeth or jaw surgery. Extractions are done when it is an enhancement to the facial features. We never remove teeth just to “fix the bite.”

• We use low force and low friction braces with high tech wires to move teeth as quickly and with as little pain as possible.

• Since it is a vital component to great orthodontic treatment, we strive to provide our patients with excellent communication. We believe that our “Patient Manager System” is the best way to continually improve and enhance communication.

• We believe in positive motivation and are always looking for new ways to keep our patients involved.

• We combine the latest technology with excellent clinical skills and expertise.

• We believe in lifetime retention and we will do everything possible to make that an easily achievable goal for our patients.

• We are truly grateful for all of our wonderful patients and parents that have given us the opportunity to serve them. We hope that orthodontic treatment will do more than create beautiful smiles—we believe that we can positively change lives!

Say Cheese! Valeriano Orthodontics

2009-02-26T15:32:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered why we take so many photos as a part of our orthodontic treatment? Quite simply, it’s all about the face! Traditional orthodontics uses plaster teeth molds and focuses primarily on the teeth and "bite." While a good bite is an important part of treatment for my patients, at Valeriano Orthodontics, my primary objective is to create beautiful faces and smiles. As you probably know, we take digital photographs of the face and teeth as part of every new patient exam and periodically throughout treatment. These photos help me evaluate the teeth and jaw position as it relates to the entire face. I can then use all the tools of modern orthodontics to create the best smile for each patient. Here are some examples:

Expansion versus extraction
--For many years, extraction of permanent teeth was the primary treatment plan for most patients with moderate to severe crowding regardless of their facial shape. While extraction is still a good choice for full and protrusive facial features, it can have an undesirable effect on most patients who exhibit a flatter profile. For these patients, a wider, fuller smile is a more desirable outcome and extracting teeth will not produce the desired effect. With the help of Damon and other low-force, self-litigating braces, we are able to perform treatment with fewer extractions. The changes and enhancement to the face of these patients is nothing short of remarkable.

Gummy Smile and the Soft Tissue Laser
--With photographs, I also evaluate the gingival (gum) tissues and contours and how they relate to your smile. Simple soft tissue procedures can often be accomplished to eliminate a "gummy smile" or uneven gingival tissue. With the addition of a soft tissue laser, we will soon be able to perform some of these procedures in our office. These laser procedures can be done with a simple topical anesthetic and no injections! The soft tissue laser will be a great benefit to our patients and their smiles.

Tooth Positioning in preparation for cosmetic dentistry
--Patients who seek veneers and other "quick-fix" cosmetic dental procedures are sometimes disappointed with their outcomes. Often these patients would have benefited from orthodontic treatment done in conjunction with their cosmetic dentistry. I am fortunate to work with many talented cosmetic dentists who send their patients to Valeriano Orthodontics for an orthodontic evaluation before starting cosmetic procedures. With patient photographs, X-rays, and the internet, I can communicate with my dental partners in an extremely efficient and timely manner.

While my staff and I are not professional photographers, we are experts in using photography and modern orthodontic techniques to create beautiful smiles and faces for our patients.

Remember to Always Smile for the Camera!

Dr. Greg Valeriano

Valeriano Orthodontics Patient Reviews

2009-02-19T15:02:00.000-08:00

At Valeriano Orthodontics, we provide superior orthodontic services to meet the individual needs of each of our patients. Just see what our patients are saying!Everyone is so friendly. Dr V. is great and really knows what he is doing. I like seeing the same person every time I go. They understand you and your situation. My manager Leslie is so sweet and takes her time to get to know you. It’s great customer service.
-Carrie B.

What I like best about Dr. V. is that he is soooo nice to kids and he makes a scary braces visit turn into a visit that I enjoy going to.
-Brian G.

Valeriano Orthodontics is high tech, with lots of nice people, and fun all over the place. It is animated, not just a typical orthodontics office. I love it!
-Carol G.

Dr. V. is patient and explains treatment plans clearly. The front office staff is warm and great!!! They have quick and convenient appointment hours, a game room for kids, and a variety of magazines.
-Nwamaka E.

Dr. Valeriano is very informative and straight to the point. He is very gentle and made the braces transition easy.
-Janice M.

Dr. V. is very considerate of my daughters. He treats them with respect and kindness - he's easy for them to talk to. They are comfortable asking him questions. He explains procedures so that they understand without making them feel like they asked a stupid question. He doesn't compare my daughters to each other. They are individuals (one is more sensitive to pain then the other, one never seems to have problems, the other always has something going on. Thanks Dr. V!
-Karen E.

Friendly, technologically advanced office and prompt is what you find at Valeriano Orthodontics. We love them!
-Willow R.

Valeriano Orthodontics Learns New "Tricks of the Trade" at the Damon Forum

2009-02-12T13:26:00.000-08:00

To end January and start the New Year off right, my staff and I attended the Annual Damon Forum in Phoenix, Arizona. I was accompanied by our patient managers, Dana and Kim, and our treatment coordinator, Sheena. We were thrilled with the experience and the ability to learn more about the Damon System. With our continued education and passion for orthodontics, we continue to better your smile year after year!

As you may know, Damon braces offer many benefits compared with conventional braces. Their advanced technology creates less tension, which eliminates much of the discomfort associated with conventional braces. This leads to shorter treatment times with fewer appointments and the end result is a quicker, brighter smile.

We are eager to share this information with you and happy to answer any questions you may have. You can ask us at your next visit, or give us a call at anytime at 704-364-6544. We’d love to hear from you!

Get to Know the Valeriano Orthodontics Team

2009-02-06T16:00:00.000-08:00

Sheena - Treatment Coordinator
Sheena has been with Valeriano Orthodontics for the past year as the Treatment Coordinator and has over 7 years of Orthodontic experience. She came to Charlotte from Phoenix, Arizona about 2 years ago with her husband. When she isn’t welcoming new patients into the practice, she remains busy playing mom to her 3 year old Yorkie-Pomeranian, Bella and traveling to see her family in Arizona and Kentucky. Sheena’s understanding nature along with her high level of professionalism, allow her to extend great customer service to all of our patients.

Dana - Patient Manager
Dana has been with Dr. Valeriano and our team for 11 years as one of our patient managers. She currently resides in Charlotte with her cat Snowflake. When she isn’t working with patients, she spends much of her time traveling, naming Wilmington, Charleston and any Caribbean Island as her favorite places to visit. Dana’s vast experience combined with her superior orthodontic skills, make her an invaluable asset to our team.

Leslie - Patient Manager/Growth & Development Coordinator
Leslie has been with our team since 2006 but has over 10 years of orthodontic experience. In addition to her role as a Patient Manager, she also monitors our young patients before treatment as our Growth & Development Coordinator. She is a native of Rock Hill, South Carolina but recently relocated to Charlotte with her two cats, Mr. Mollie and Tonya. Leslie has a true outdoorsy side and she enjoys camping, hiking and canoeing. Our patients feel they are coming to visit a friend thanks to Leslie’s infectious smile and genuine personality.

Mary Jo - Scheduling Coordinator
Mary Jo, the sweet voice you hear when calling our office, has been with Valeriano Orthodontics since 2001 and has over 30 years of orthodontic experience. She currently resides in Lancaster, South Carolina with her two boxers, Rocky and Alex. She is the proud mother of 3 daughters and loves to be “Mimi Jo” to her grandchildren. We know that you will recognize her the next time you come to our office, as she is the smiling face with that great southern charm, ready to welcome you into our orthodontic family.

Tracey - Patient Manager
Tracey is one of our newest team members and we are thrilled to have her. She is a Charlotte native and a graduate of Charlotte Catholic High School. After working several years in the Insurance industry, she has since completed the Dental Assisting program with CPCC and is now energetically learning the world of orthodontics. When not at the office she loves to travel, play with her dog- a Springer-Spaniel named Maggie and enjoys supporting The Panthers! With Tracey’s enthusiasm and caring nature, she makes a great patient manager who is eager to coach her patients through treatment.

Jennie - Patient Manager
Jennie has been with Valeriano Orthodontics since 2004 and has over 11 years of Orthodontic experience. She is a proud wife and a mother to her two children. They have 2 cats, Rascal and Gabby, and also 3 dogs, Stumpy, Maggie and Patches- it’s no wonder she stays busy! When Jennie isn’t at the office, she can usually be found at the ball field or on the road to the beach to visit family. With Jennie’s genuine and supportive qualities, she is a significant part of our team.

Kim - Patient Manager
With over 15 years of experience in orthodontics and 3 years with our team, Kim has all the skills of a terrific patient manager. She is a wife and a proud parent to her teenage daughter and little Chihuahua, Bailey. Kim is a rabid hockey fan and can usually be spotted banging on the glass at the hockey rink cheering for the Checkers. With Kim’s passion for orthodontics and love of her patients, she quickly becomes a part of their family.

Janie - Financial Coordinator
Janie is our Financial Coordinator and has been part of the Valeriano Orthodontic Team for 10 years. She is a North Carolina native and has lived most of her life in Charlotte. When she is not busy raising her 3 active children, Janie is our office “Dare Devil.” Scuba Diving, Para-sailing, Mountain Climbing- she will do anything that is dangerous! Janie “wears several different hats” for our team and excels in all areas. Whether it is navigating through the difficult Insurance world or facilitating flexible financial arrangements, our patients find Janie to be an indispensable member of our team.

Kelly - Patient Manager
Kelly joined the Valeriano Team in 2004 as one of our patient managers and has over 10 years of orthodontic experience. She is a Washington native who moved to the Charlotte area in 2004. She is a wife and a proud mother to her rambunctious 2 year old son. When she isn’t busy being a mom, she can be found spending time outdoors, whether it be biking, hiking or even canoeing! Kelly’s terrific clinical skills combined with a soft and caring personality make her a star on our team.

Introducing Valeriano Orthodontics' Patient Hygiene Program!

2009-01-29T08:10:00.000-08:00

At Valeriano Orthodontics we’re always looking for different ways to reward you - our patient - for your effort during throughout your treatment. Maintaining good oral health is important, and it’s also important to continue visiting your dentist for regular six month checkups even during your orthodontic treatment. We want to reward you for taking care of your teeth, so we’ve started our new oral hygiene program!

Next time you visit our office we will give you an Oral Health (OH) card. Take this card to your dentist the next time you go for your semi-annual checkup and teeth cleaning. Ask your dental hygienist to sign and date your OH card, then bring the signed card back to us at your next appointment and we will enter you into a drawing to win 50 dollars - cash! We will also reward your dentist for doing such a great job with helping to keep your teeth clean during your treatment.

This is a great opportunity to be rewarded for simply keeping your smile in sparkling condition!

Give Kids a Book, and Support a Good Cause with Valeriano Orthodontics

2009-01-23T09:56:00.000-08:00

Children love to read; but, unfortunately there are many children out there who don’t know how to read or have never experienced the joy and wonder and imagination that comes with getting lost in a good book. Our practice supports the Charlotte Reads program and we are again collecting new and gently used books. Books that are donated will support the Charlotte Reads and Classroom Central’s annual “Give Kids a Book” book drive.

We are encouraging all of our patients to please bring in any unwanted books to your next office visit. By making a donation you will be entered into a drawing to win a Joseph-Beth’s Booksellers gift card. All of the books that are donated will be given to children and families who are unable to buy books on their own. Any type of book is welcome, from Nursery Rhymes to John Grisham novels as reading is for all ages!

Thank you for your support, and for your willingness to share the gift of words!

Refer a Friend to Valeriano Orthodontics and You Could Win a Limo & Pizza Party!

2009-01-16T16:44:00.000-08:00

As many of our patients would probably tell you, we have an awesome patient referral program here at Valeriano Orthodontics!

Every time one of our great patients refers a friend or family member they are entered into a quarterly drawing to win a limo and pizza party! The winning patient gets to choose five of their friends to join them as they are whisked away to Brixx Pizza where they enjoy a day of food and fun!

Check out a couple pictures from our most recent limo and pizza party! The drawings are held every quarter. If your name is not drawn, don’t worry! You still have a chance to win because we do not remove any of the names not drawn! Get out there and start referring everybody you know and you could be our next pizza and limo party winner!

We thank you for your support, and appreciate all of the referrals we have received over the years. Without you we wouldn’t have such a wonderful opportunity to make people smile!

Katherine Heigl Struggles with Crooked Teeth - Dr. Valeriano

2009-01-09T17:10:00.000-08:00

Everyone struggles with little imperfections. Making crooked teeth straight, stained teeth sparkling white and chipped teeth smooth is part of what I do as an orthodontist. The sense of renewed self confidence that comes to my patients after having some sort of reconstructive work is what makes my job worthwhile.

Consider Katherine Heigl, award winning actress, and considered by many the Grace Kelly of our day. She describes struggling with crooked teeth her whole life until finally there came a point when she said "enough is enough!" She decided to do something to straighten her teeth.

I think you will enjoy this clip. Please feel free to leave comments, tell me what you think! Have you ever struggled with this same problem? Have you felt the relief of smiling to reveal a straight, bright smile after hiding crooked ones for so long? Contact us so we can hear your story, or help you create a new beautiful smile and a story of your own!

When Are Two Phases of Treatment Necessary? - Valeriano Orthodontics

2009-01-02T08:48:00.000-08:00

Usually patients in orthodontic treatment already have their permanent teeth – they are pre-teens, teens and adults. But in some cases we have to start treatment earlier, even before the patient’s permanent teeth come in. We call 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
• A mouth growing in a way that doesn’t leave enough room for all the permanent teeth to come in
• A severe malocclusion, or bad bite, which means the jaw doesn’t fit together correctly

In these cases we will start early and do one round of treatment – phase one – while the patient still has their 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. We’ll follow up with phase two usually a few years later, when permanent teeth are in place. Generally phase two involves standard braces.

In order to catch early problems, we recommend that children have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven (and so does the American Association of Orthodontics). However, if your dentist or pediatrician sees any sign that early treatment might be necessary, he or she may recommend your child visit our office even sooner.

Dr. V Reminds You That Regular Checkups Are Important!

2008-12-26T09:49:00.000-08:00

Are you brushing your teeth twice a day? If yes, that’s great; but, don’t forget that it’s also important to visit the dentist every six months in addition to brushing your teeth a couple times a day. Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can:

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

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

Valeriano Orthodontics' Holiday Hours - Charlotte, NC

2008-12-19T11:01:00.000-08:00

The holiday season is upon us, and that means in the next couple weeks Valeriano Orthodontics will have special office hours.

Dr. Valeriano will be out of the office the week of December 22nd through the 28th.

The 22nd and 23rd are office administrative catch-up days. A few members of our team, including a patient manager, will be in the office from 8am to 5pm. If you have an orthodontic emergency during this time please call our office and we will be able to help you.

We will be “CLOSED” December 24th, 2008 through December 29th, 2008.

December 29th and 30th we will be open from 8am to 5pm.

On December 31st our practice will be open from 8am to 2pm.

Our office will again be “CLOSED” January 1, 2009 (New Years Day) and January 2, 2009.

We will reopen again on Monday, January 5, 2009 at 8am.

Even while our office is closed we will have a patient manager on-call in case you have an orthodontic emergency. You can retrieve our patient manager’s number by calling our office at (704) 364-6544 and listening to the current recording.

We wish all of our patients and their families a happy holiday season and a wonderful New Year!

Keep Your Teeth Clean and Healthy!

2008-12-12T11:04:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for a great way to keep your teeth clean and healthy in addition to brushing and flossing, we recommend using new MI Paste. This product has the ability to deliver calcium phosphate and fluoride directly to the teeth, helps prevent tooth decalcification, can repair any permanent stains, and can also reduce tooth sensitivity.

So how do you use MI Paste?

• Apply the paste at bed time after a thorough brushing

• Place a pea sized amount on your finger and rub onto teeth at the gum line and areas of decalcification (permanent staining). Repeat for other arch

• Leave the paste in place for 3 minutes and then rub the teeth with your tongue

• Do NOT eat, drink or rinse after use for at least 8 hours

This product is not recommended for anyone with an allergy to milk protein or hydroxybenzoates.

Lactose intolerant patients CAN use MI Paste.

MI Paste is not to be used in place of your regular toothpaste. This is a wonderful product that can give great results if used regularly. This product is available for all of our patients to purchase in our office, and makes a wonderful stocking stuffer!

Holiday Foods to Avoid - and Tasty Treats to Eat

2008-12-05T11:00:00.000-08:00

Having braces can be tough, especially during the holiday season when there are so many delicious treats everywhere. While it may be tempting, we always recommend that our patients avoid any foods that are hard, chewy, sticky or gooey. Hard foods can break brackets and sticky foods will easily get caught in the bracket and wires.

We still want you to enjoy this time of year though, so here are some suggestions of foods that are “braces-friendly” and will still taste every bit as sweet!

• Soft candies like chocolate or fudge WITHOUT nuts
• Soft cookies
• Cake or pie

As always, remember to brush and floss after eating!!!

Calendar of Events for Valeriano Orthodontics

2008-11-21T16:43:00.000-08:00

At Valeriano orthodontics we’re always looking for new ways to make our office a fun, inviting place for all of our patients. To keep things interesting, we have several different contests taking place right now!

Here is a list of our current contests:

• Second Harvest Food Drive – this is a great opportunity for everybody involved! Bring in non-perishable food items to our office now through December 31st and help support those in our community who are in need this holiday season. Your donation will automatically enter you to win a Target gift card.

• How many? – if you’ve been to our practice lately you will have noticed a giant jar of candy sitting on our front counter! All of our patients are invited to guess how many pieces of candy are in the jar. The patient with the closest guess will win the entire jar!

Ongoing Contests:

• Limo Party – we want to reward to your referring your friends and family members. Every time one of our patients refers a new patient to our practice, they are entered into a drawing for a pizza and limo party at Brixx Pizza. The winner gets to choose five friends for their personal limo party; so get out there and start spreading the word!

• V-Bucks – orthodontic treatment can be difficult; there are so many restrictions on what you can and can’t eat, how to brush your teeth, when to wear your appliances, and so on. Dr. Valeriano and his team want to reward patients for taking care of their appliances, being on-time for their appointments, and having good oral hygiene. We give out patients V-Bucks (monopoly money) that our patients can save and cash in for gift cards to Brixx, Target, Ben and Jerry’s, Abercrombie and Fitch, Dicks Sporting Goods, and many more.

• VIP Program – this is our program geared toward our patients who are not quite ready to start orthodontic treatment, but we are still watching them grow and develop to know when orthodontic treatment might be necessary. VIP members get to enter into our drawing for our “BIG prize!” VIP members be sure to bring your VIP cards to your next appointment. If you are part of our Growth and Development program and do not have a VIP card yet, please ask for one at your next visit!

Extra, Extra, Read all about it:

• Fall Newsletter – we just sent our fall newsletter last week! In the newsletter you will find information about our staff, new contests, and helpful information regarding insurance, healthcare savings, and more! If you have not received your newsletter through the mail, you may pick one up in our office or feel free to call us at (704) 364-6544 and we will mail you a copy!

We believe that orthodontics is more than just creating beautiful smiles; we want your time spent with us to be fun and rewarding!

Everybody Benefits from Braces!

2008-11-14T16:56:00.000-08:00

Mooooove Over Gum Disease!

2008-11-07T16:48:00.000-08:00

Flat Dr. V Travels the World!

2008-10-24T08:28:00.000-07:00

Flat Dr. V and his friends have been traveling the world and sharing stories all summer long, and now he’s returned to Charlotte, North Carolina with tales of faraway places and tons of great photos!

This summer patients of all ages participated in Valeriano Orthodontics’ Flat Dr. V contest. In September each patient submitted photos of their summertime travels to enter the contest and win a special prize. Pictures were judged based on nine different categories, and one winner was chosen for each category. The pictures are amazing and it is clear that Dr. V had a busy summer with tons of exciting adventures!

Here are the winning photographs of each of the nine categories. Contest winners won a gift card to Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream – Yum!

Winners:

Most Creative – Shannon Foster (imitating Flat Dr. V)
Funniest – Tucker Albert (tug-o-war dogs)
Most Historical – Everett Echevarria (Rome)
Farthest – Amy Button (Sydney, Australia)
Tastiest – Morgan and Olivia Gerik (Hershey Bars in Hershey, PA)
Most Daring – Gray Vandyke (scuba diving)
Best Celebrity – Annie Whitney (Mike Minter of the Carolina Panthers)
Strangest – Aaron Dozzi (Albert Einstein)
Best Animal – Jacob Price (picture not available)

Watch our slide show and see some of the great pictures that were submitted for our Flat Dr. V contest. Please click here to view ALL of the amazing pictures we received!

Married? Smile Bright!

2008-10-13T09:01:00.000-07:00

It’s Fall. Leaves are turning shades of orange and red, the wind is picking up and getting cooler, and pumpkin patches are full of bright oranges pumpkins. Families gather together, kids head out trick-or-treating, and as always, wedding bells are ringing. That's right, fall is one of the best times of year to tie the knot! If you are gearing up for a wedding this fall, consider matching that white dress to a perfectly white smile!

At Dr. Valeriano's we offer in-office tooth whitening for the bride, the groom, or the entire wedding party! You get the girls together to get their nails done, and now you can get them together to get their teeth done!

In-office whitening is the quickest, most effective way to achieve whiter teeth. Because we are dental professionals, we have the expertise to use higher percentages of whitening agents than the at-home systems allow. So you can get a brighter white, usually in just one visit!

Give us a ring at Valeriano Orthodontics at 704-364-6544 and let us add some extra sparkle to your “I do”!

Yet another wonderful smile!

2008-10-08T08:27:00.000-07:00

Our office received this beautiful card and we wanted to share it with you.

Dear Dr Valeriano -

As the front of the card says - we should all use the gifts He has given us. You all exemplify that command! With each individual gift you have provided such a welcoming and cheerful office and service. You all put patients at ease with your relaxed nature. We never heard an unkind word or anyone ever snapping at another. The front desk never made us feel as foolish as we already felt when we missed an appointment or came at the wrong time. Your outreach mission is a constant reminder of the needs of others and that charity can be found everywhere. I loved how you emphasize positive reinforcement over reprimands! You were always efficient, on time and attentive. Can you tell how thrilled we have been with our association? It was a joy to watch our daughter glance in mirrors yesterday at her beautiful smile! Again - you have given the gift of pride, confidence, and happiness! Thank you for such an outstanding experience!! Many thanks!

From our family to yours.