The Berky Orthodontics Blog

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, from Dr. Berky's office

2012-02-02T13:30:00.000-08:00

With February being National Children's Dental Health Month, our team at Dr. Berky's office thought we'd share a few good oral hygiene tips with our patients, courtesy of the American Dental Association, or ADA.

• Teeth brushing techniques: It takes only two minutes to properly brush, using short, gentle strokes and devoting extra attention to the gumline, areas around fillings and hard-to-reach areas such as the back teeth.

• Flossing: hold the floss snugly between thumbs and index finger and place between each of the teeth, making sure to go beneath the gumline and curving the floss around the base of each tooth.
• Snack wisely: choose healthy snacks such as vegetables, fruits and cheese and avoid sticky, chewy candies that can stick to the teeth. If you eat these snacks, make sure to brush after doing so.
• Carbonated or sugary drinks: these beverages create acids that can damage the teeth when mixed with saliva, so they should be avoided altogether. When drinking one of these beverages, avoid sipping on it throughout the day. Rather, have a drink and then brush your teeth.

• Regular dental visits: You should visit us regularly (approximately every six months).

National Children's Dental Health Month, now in its 62nd year, aims to increase awareness about the importance of kids' oral health. If you have any questions about keeping your mouth healthy, or about your treatment with Dr. Berky's office, please feel free to give us a call!

Ask Dr. Berky's office: What’s the deal with mouthwash?

2012-01-26T15:25:00.000-08:00

While mouthwash is not an alternative to regular brushing and flossing, it can help keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. There are several different types of mouthwashes available, and all of them will help do different things for your smile. The most common types of mouthwashes are:

• Fluoride – fluoride is the most used type of mouthwash available, and is used to strengthen the enamel of the teeth while preventing cavities and tooth decay.
• Antiseptic – an antiseptic mouthwash is used to kill bacteria and germs in the mouth. Most commonly used before and after a dental surgery, antiseptic mouthwashes can also help to fight gum disease, and halitosis (chronic bad breath). Antiseptic mouthwashes can affect your sense of taste and may stain the teeth, so it is recommended that you consult your dentist before using this type of mouthwash.
• Combination – a combination mouthwash is designed to help prevent tooth decay, freshen the breath, and maintain the health of your smile.
• Prescription – for patients with gum disease, or any signs of gum disease, you may need a prescription mouthwash. Prescription mouthwashes, like Peridex of PerioGard, are used to treat gingivitis, and other forms of decay.
There are also many different brands of mouthwash. Some common brands include:
• Scope
• Listerine
• Act
• Crest
• Tom’s of Maine (all-natural)
• Plax (anti-plaque rinse)
• Breath Rx
• Orajel
• Targon (special mouthwash made for smokers)
• Rembrandt (whitening mouthwash)
If you are curious about which kind of mouthwash would work best for you, be sure to ask us at your next appointment. If you have a favorite mouthwash, let us know by posting a comment for others to read!
–Dr. Berky's office

Ask Dr. Berky: “How do I prevent tooth decay during my treatment?”

2012-01-20T12:55:00.000-08:00

Great question!

If you are brushing and flossing daily during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Zoltan Berky, we think that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist every 3-to-6 months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting Dr. Berky's office, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

Tooth decay, which is caused by sugars left in your mouth, can turn into an acid, which in turn can break down your teeth. Children are at high risk for tooth decay because adolescents tend to be lax in their oral hygiene habits. Proper brushing and flossing routines, combined with regular dental visits, help keep tooth decay away.

If you have any questions, please be sure to keep ask Dr. Berky or our team during your next adjustment appointment, or ask us on Facebook!

Dr. Zoltan Berky, reminding you to protect your mouth this winter

2012-01-12T15:48:00.000-08:00

With winter sports under way for a lot of our patients, Dr. Zoltan Berky thought it would be a good time to remind our young athletes wearing braces to take care of both their mouth and appliances while participating in contact sports (and non-contact sports) this winter.

More than half of the seven million sports and recreation-related injuries that occur each year are sustained by youth between ages 5 and 24. Sixty-seven percent of parents say their child does not wear a mouth guard, yet, 70 percent say their biggest fear when their child plays is that they will get hurt. Despite the risks, many kids are still not wearing mouth guards and facial protection during games and practices.

Many people think a mouth guard is effective just to protect your teeth. But research has shown mouth guards can also reduce lower jaw impact that causes concussions and other dental injuries. Our staff at Berky Orthodontics encourage you to head over to the American Association of Orthodontists’ website for a quick primer on the importance of mouth guards and facial protection.

We hope this helps you remember to always wear a mouth guard and other forms of protective gear when participating in fall sports! We encourage you to give us a call if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook!

Have you had a check-up lately?

2012-01-05T11:49:00.000-08:00

Even if you brush and floss daily, as well as maintain your braces and visit our office during your orthodontic treatment it is still important to visit your local dentist every 6 months, or as recommended.

Why?

• Your dentist can detect and treat tooth and gum problems that you may have never felt or noticed.
• Even thorough daily oral care may not be enough to prevent cavities and oral decay.
• Frequent visits can allow your dentist to treat a problem early to prevent future complications.
During an oral exam your dentist can 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 visited a dentist in the past six months, please let us know! Dr. Zoltan Berky will be happy to provide a few great references here in the area!

-- Dr. Zoltan Berky & Team

Happy New Year from Berky Orthodontics

2011-12-29T10:21:00.000-08:00

The year is almost over, so we wanted to ask what was memorable about 2011 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2012? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Have a safe and happy New Year, from Berky Orthodontics!

Berky Orthodontics wishes you happy holidays!

2011-12-19T17:29:00.000-08:00

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as our team at Berky Orthodontics reflects on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What do you love about the holidays this year? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for 2012? 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!

Ask Dr. Berky: “I’m 35 – am I too old for braces?”

2011-12-14T15:25:00.000-08:00

Not too long ago, our team at Berky Orthodontics read a fascinating statistic: the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! Yes, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another 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 and sparkling teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing—wisely, we might add—to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Dr. Berky 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. Berky would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

Happy Holidays!

Share your winter break plans with us!

2011-12-09T10:35:00.000-08:00

Dr. Zoltan Berky and our team at Berky Orthodontics want to know: what do your winter plans look like? Do you have any plans for an exciting family vacation? Are you hanging out around town? Catching up on sleep? Spending time with friends? Let us know!

Please feel free to share your exciting winter plans and experiences with us here or on our Facebook page! We would like to wish all of our patients and their families a safe and fun holiday season!

Do we have your current contact info?

2011-12-02T13:21:00.000-08:00

Happy holidays from all of us at Berky Orthodontics! As you probably know, you can always connect with Dr. Zoltan Berky and our team on our Facebook page, but we also encourage you to call us and let us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed!

Please contact our office with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so that we may be able to reach you. Thank you!
- The team at Berky Orthodontics

Happy Thanksgiving, from Berky Orthodontics

2011-11-21T15:00:00.000-08:00

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season knocking at our door, our entire team at Berky Orthodontics wanted to stop for a moment and extend our best wishes to you, our patients, referring doctors and families, for a wonderful Thanksgiving.

As always, if you know anyone we can help, just let us know. We promise to give them the same quality orthodontic care that we have given you.

We hope that this Thanksgiving and holiday season brings fond memories. Thank you for being part of our family.

Are you wearing your mouth guard?

2011-11-16T14:45:00.001-08:00

With fall sports close to wrapping up and winter sports right around the corner, many patients here at Berky Orthodontics will once again pick up the ball, bring the cleats out of seasonal retirement and hit the fields for the return of sports action! During this time, however, Dr. Zoltan Berky and our team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this fall and winter, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as basketball, wrestling and hockey
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! Dr. Zoltan Berky and team will tell you 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 our office or ask us on Facebook. Stay safe!

I got my braces. Now what?

2011-11-10T12:47:00.000-08:00

We love when patients ask us that question! Now that you’re wearing braces, it’s just as important to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen as you did before prior to your orthodontic treatment.

Braces are known to trap food particles and make it difficult to brush or remove plaque, which is why Dr. Zoltan Berky and our team at Berky Orthodontics recommend that you brush and floss after every meal. We also encourage you to use a proxabrush to help with the smaller areas where your toothbrush doesn’t reach. We encourage the use of fluoride rinse as well; ask us for a recommendation.

When your braces are initially placed, your teeth are likely to be very sensitive. You may experience discomfort for up to 3 or 5 days, which is why we encourage you to eat soft foods during that time. Remember, the less pressure you put on your teeth, the less discomfort you will have.

You may also be thinking, “Okay, so what can I eat?” We would encourage you to avoid eating sticky, hard, crunchy or chewy snacks that can stick to your teeth.

Dr. Berky and team will tell you it’s crucial to regularly check your braces for bent or loose wires and brackets. In the event of a loose/broken wire or bracket, please call our High Point or Greensboro office immediately to schedule an appointment for repair.

Lastly, in addition to visiting Berky Orthodontics during your orthodontic treatment for adjustments, you should visit your dentist for professional check-ups and teeth cleaning appointments about every six months, or as recommended by your dentist.

Questions? Please let us know below or on our Facebook page. You may also give us a call!

Happy November! From Berky Orthodontics

2011-11-03T14:26:00.000-07:00

Happy November, everybody! Believe it or not, we’re almost in full holiday mode! But before our team at Berky Orthodontics forget about the spooky month that was, we’d like to know how you celebrated Halloween! What did you wear? How much candy did you get? Did you have fun?

If you have any photos or videos that you would like to share with us, please send them our way or feel free to post them on our Facebook page!

We hope you all had a happy and safe Halloween! Also, what are you up to this month? Anything exciting happening in your life? If so, we’d love to hear all about it!

Lastly, have you been in for a dental checkup lately? It’s important that you see your general dentist, as well as visiting Dr. Zoltan Berky while you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. If you have questions about your orthodontic treatment or just want some general information, give us a call or ask us during your next visit!

Halloween TIPS from the American Association of Orthodontists

2011-10-27T16:32:00.000-07:00

It’s almost that spooky time of year again and Greensboro and High Point orthodontist, Dr. Zoltan Berky, and our team thought we’d share some Halloween tips from our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists.

Trick-or-treating safety guidelines:

• Young children should always be accompanied by an adult
• Carry a flashlight
• Wear a light-colored or reflective costume
• Choose face paint over masks for young ghosts and goblins
• Have an adult inspect all treats before the children dig in

To protect your braces, steer clear of the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

• All hard candies
• All chewy candies
• Caramel
• Nuts
• Licorice
• Taffy
• Jelly beans
• Hard pretzels
• Bubblegum
• Popcorn (including unpopped kernels)
• Ice

Of course, Halloween does not have to be completely treat-less. Braces-friendly Halloween treats can help you enjoy the “spook-ta-cular” holiday. For example, plain chocolate candy is okay, provided you remember to brush and floss afterwards. Bobbing for apples as well as caramel apples are not recommended. However, you can enjoy thinly sliced apples, dipped in yogurt or creamy chocolate sauce.

Dr. Zoltan looking for foods that are soft, such as soft chocolate that can melt in one’s mouth or peanut butter cups. Overall, candies that aren’t sticky, chewy, hard or crunchy are generally acceptable.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN from the entire team at Berky Orthodontics!

5 tips to avoid plaque, from Berky Orthodontics

2011-10-18T16:16:00.000-07:00

At Berky Orthodontics, we know nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth. Here are five other ways you can avoid that dreaded enemy of the teeth during orthodontic treatment, courtesy of WebMD.

Let’s start with brushing regularly.. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste is vital to a healthy mouth. Make sure you softly brush all the surfaces of your teeth.

Next on the list is flossing daily: a simple daily flossing between teeth clears away plaque before it can cause damage and can also clean plaque at the gum line. Plaque is known to reach the spaces between teeth.

Also, evading a trip to the dentist is probably not a great idea. Let’s say you brush and floss daily. You’re still at risk for plaque. With time, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar. Consider visiting your general dentist at least twice a year or as recommended by your dentist, and you have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your teeth while wearing braces.

You’ll also want to stop avoiding those fruits and veggies. Believe it or not, there are foods out there that play a key role in keeping plaque off our teeth. They include apples, carrots, cucumbers and other raw fruits and vegetables. You can still eat these types of fruits and veggies if you have braces, but be sure to cut them up into bite sized pieces to avoid breaking off brackets.

Finally, before you pick up that candy bar, remember to not give in to your sweet tooth. Consuming sugary drinks or eating candy or other junk food allows sugar to stick to our teeth. The bacteria, then, becomes plaque, which turns into acid and damages our teeth. Avoiding these five bad habits keeps your plaque in check and your mouth as healthy as can be during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Zoltan Berky. If you have any questions, give High Point or Greensboro office call or ask us on Facebook!

Cold season is here, from Berky Orthodontics

2011-10-10T15:27:00.000-07:00

Cold and flu season is here - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that a common cold usually includes sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and coughing. Symptoms can last for up to two weeks.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. Zoltan Berky and our entire staff give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our High Point and Greensboro 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 at Berky Orthodontics, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

And remember to constantly wash your hands and avoid contact with those who are ill! Stay Healthy!

At Berky Orthodontics, October means National Orthodontic Health Month!

2011-10-04T10:26:00.000-07:00

Happy October! For those who don't know, National Orthodontic Health Month. This month-long event is organized by our pals at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Dr. Zoltan Berky and our team realize this is a great opportunity for us and to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene. National Orthodontic Health Month also aims to recognize the dedicated work of orthodontists like Dr. Berky and other dental professionals in High Point and Greensboro.

The AAO recommends patients avoid the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

• Caramel
• Nuts
• Popcorn (including un-popped kernels)
• Taffy
• Jelly beans
• Hard pretzels
• Licorice
• Bubblegum
• Taco chips
• Ice

If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call, ask us on Facebook, or ask Dr. Berky during your visit this month!

A great braces-friendly fall recipe!

2011-09-27T16:06:00.000-07:00

Fall is here, and sometimes we here at Berky Orthodontics just feel like a hot delicious meal is in order. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) made an appetizing (and braces-friendly!) fall dish that is sure to delight. Dr. Zoltan Berky would like to remind you that a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps you achieve the best possible result from your orthodontic treatment.
Pasta Pomodorini
Ingredients:

• ¾ pound spaghetti or spaghetti
• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• ¼ cup sliced garlic
• ½ teaspoon finely minced Calabrian chilies, or 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 pint small cherry tomatoes, stems removed, crushed between your thumb and forefinger
• Sea salt, preferably gray salt
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, each torn into 2 or 3 pieces
• Wedge of Parmesan cheese

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta. While the pasta cooks, heat the 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over moderate heat. Add the garlic and cook until the slivers are golden brown and crisp, then add the chilies and cook for about 30 seconds. Raise the heat to high and add the tomatoes. Simmer briskly to soften the tomatoes and thicken the juices, about 3 minutes. Season with salt. When the pasta is al dente, scoop out about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta. Return the pasta to the warm pot off the heat. Add the sauce and the basil and mix well. Add some of the reserved cooking water if the pasta seems dry. Transfer to a warmed serving bowl and grate Parmesan over the top to taste. Drizzle with a little more olive oil. Serve immediately. Makes 4 servings.

Enjoy this great fall dish and have a great week!

What was your favorite part of Summer 2011?

2011-09-20T09:25:00.000-07:00

The end of Summer and then subsequently the beginning of Fall are just around the corner. Soon the temperatures will cool down, the leaves will start to change, and we’re sure that you’ll be thinking about Halloween costumes and Thanksgiving plans.

But wait! First, we want to know: What were your favorite parts of the Summer of 2011? Did you go on a wonderful family trip? Did you pick up a new hobby? Did you try to spend as much time outside and in the sun as possible?

Share your favorite memories, stories, or photos with us by leaving a comment below or on our Facebook page.

-Dr. Zoltan Berky and team

When should you call Dr. Berky?

2011-09-13T17:28:00.000-07:00

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call High Point and Greensboro orthodontist, Dr. Zoltan Berky.

Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with us:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, give us a call as soon as possible!

Hope this helps,

-Dr. Berky and staff

20 things that can ruin your smile

2011-09-07T22:00:00.000-07:00

At Berky Orthodontics, we know your smile is important. And we know you want to keep it sparkling and looking its very best. Recently, we came across an article that suggests at least 20 things can ruin that perfect smile you have.

These include:

- Sports drinks

- Tobacco
- Coffee
- Wine
- Soft drinks
- Citrus and acidic foods

Dr. Zoltan Berky and our team encourage you to read the rest of the article and ask us here on our blog or during your next visit to our convenient Greensboro or High Point office. For more tips or for general questions about your ongoing dental treatment, we invite you to ask Dr. Berky during your next visit! We also invite you to ask us on Facebook!

A few helpful webisodes about orthodontics

2011-08-31T16:00:00.000-07:00

Dr. Zoltan Berky and his team at Berky Orthodontics would like to point you to a few interesting webisodes about orthodontics, located on the YouTube page of the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

There, they tend to post some very pertinent videos about orthodontic treatment, as well as state-of-the-art technology in orthodontia. These include "Orthodontic Treatment Basics," "Common Bite Problems Seen in Children" and "Does My Child Need Braces?"

We think you may find these webisodes interesting, as well as enlightening. If you have any questions about the videos, or your treatment here at Berky Orthodontics, please give us a call.

The Great Social Media Adventure

2011-08-24T15:17:00.000-07:00

Isn’t social media great? Dr. Zoltan Berky and team love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our interactive Facebook fan page. For social media to work, conversation is vital, and that’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social media is hugely popular these days, we know it is unpredictable and ever-changing.

While we’re taking time to research and decide how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog or Facebook page? Send us your thoughts by posting a comment below or on our Facebook page!

--The team at Berky Orthodontics

Who benefits from braces?....Everybody!

2011-08-17T15:25:00.000-07:00

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Zoltan Berky will tell you that anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic treatment, whether it’s 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, or AAO, 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 complimentary consultation and find out how orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

What are your favorite things about our community?

2011-08-10T10:15:00.000-07:00

Berky Orthodontics, your Greensboro and High Point orthodontist, is situated around some pretty unique neighborhoods. Each is special with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our amazing patients) living within.

Today, Dr. Berky and our team thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about our community? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps a favorite getaway in North Carolina?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods” in North Carolina.

If you need to schedule your next appointment with Dr. Berky, give us a call! Have a great week!

What Do You LOVE About Summer?

2011-08-03T09:44:00.000-07:00

Summer is finally here, and the team at Berky Orthodontics thought we’d ask:

What’s your favorite part about summer? Is it the warm weather? The free time you get? Spending quality time with friends and family? Grilling barbecue in the backyard?

Dr. Berky and team would like to know what makes your summer truly special. Let us know by posting a comment below, or on our Facebook page!

How Does SureSmile Work?

2011-07-27T17:22:00.000-07:00

If you're considering orthodontic treatment in the Greensboro, or High Point area, we encourage you to learn about SureSmile with Berky Orthodontics. When compared to conventional braces, Dr. Berky will tell you that there are several advantages of SureSmile technology, including: shorter treatment times, fewer office visits, less overall discomfort, and high quality results.

Here's a video from CNN that discusses the benefits of SureSmile and how it works:

Kids getting braces at a younger age

2011-07-20T14:42:00.000-07:00

Dr. Zoltan Berky 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 the 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. Berky to assess what the best age for treatment is.

Hope this helps! Give Berky Orthodontics a call if you have any questions about your child’s treatment!

SMILE! Braces are Off!

2011-07-06T16:53:00.000-07:00

It's the moment that you've been waiting for......you have completed your orthodontic treatment and your braces are OFF! Our team at Berky Orthodontics loves that we are able to celebrate this special time with each one of our patients. Here's a video of the Berky Orthodontics' team singing our Braces Off song to a patient of ours. Enjoy!

If you're considering orthodontic treatment in the Greensboro or High Point area, we invite you to call and schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Berky.

Summer FUN with Berky Orthodontics!

2011-06-28T17:29:00.000-07:00

It’s summer here at Berky Orthodontics, a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, hitting America’s open roads or just having fun in the backyard, Dr. Berky and our team want to hear all about it!

We encourage you to post any stories or photos from your adventures to our Facebook wall!

Happy travels!

Orthodontic Emergency Care with Berky Orthodontics

2011-06-22T16:18:00.000-07:00

True orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but when they do occur we are available to you. As a general rule, you should call the office when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can't take care of yourself. We’ll be able to schedule an appointment with Dr. Berky.

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you schedule an appointment with Berky Orthodontics.

The following solutions may help you relieve your discomfort:

Poking Wire: Using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down or place wax on it to alleviate the discomfort.

Loose Bracket or Band: If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. If the wire comes out entirely, wrap the bracket with a tissue.

Loose Wire: Using a tweezers, try to place your wire back into place. If doing this and using wax does not help, as a last resort use a small fingernail clipper to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If your discomfort continues, place wax on it.

Loose Appliance: If your appliance is poking you, place wax on the offending part of your appliance.

Headgear Does Not Fit: Sometimes headgear discomfort is caused by not wearing the headgear as instructed by your orthodontist. Please refer to the instructions provided by your orthodontist. If the facebow is bent, please call our office for assistance. Surprisingly, headgear becomes more comfortable the more it's worn, so be sure you’re getting in the prescribed hours.

General Soreness: When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm salt water mouthwash. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously. If the tenderness is severe, take aspirin or whatever you normally take for headache or similar pain.

Remember, after alleviating your discomfort, it is still very important that you call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem.

June is National Smile Month!

2011-06-15T14:45:00.000-07:00

According to the American Dental Association, a person's smile outranked eyes, hair and body as the most important physical feature, which is why it's important for our team at Berky Orthodontics to support National Smile Month this June.

Show off your pearly whites by posting your favorite smile photos on the wall of our Facebook page. We look forward to seeing what you share!

Pool Safety TIPS from Berky Orthodontics

2011-06-08T10:20:00.000-07:00

It's hot outside and summer is rapidly approaching, and with summer comes lots of swimming! Our team at Berky Orthodontics found some helpful pool safety tips that we’d like to share with you, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Pediatricians.

* Install a fence at least four-feet high around all four sides of the pool. The fence should not have openings or protrusions that a young child could use to get over, under, or through.

* Make sure pool gates open out from the pool, and self-close and self-latch at a height children can't reach.

* Never leave children alone in or near the pool, even for a moment.

* Keep rescue equipment (a shepherd's hook - a long pole with a hook on the end - and life preserver) and a portable telephone near the pool. Choose a shepherd's hook and other rescue equipment made of fiberglass or other materials that do not conduct electricity.

* Avoid inflatable swimming aids such as "floaties." They are not a substitute for approved life vests and can give children a false sense of security.

* Children may not be developmentally ready for swim lessons until after their fourth birthday. Swim programs for children under 4 should not be seen as a way to decrease the risk of drowning.

* Whenever infants or toddlers are in or around water, an adult should be within arm's length, providing "touch supervision."

Have more questions about your children and their safety this summer? Give us a call!

Braces 101 with Berky Orthodontics

2011-06-02T10:33:00.001-07:00

If you ever sustain damage to your braces and need to call Berky Orthodontics, we can help you more effectively if you can tell us exactly which piece is in trouble! Here’s a handy diagram and corresponding list of all the parts that make up your braces.

Elastic Tie: Tiny rubber band that fits around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Archwire: The main wire that acts as a track to guide the teeth along. It's changed periodically throughout treatment, as teeth move to their new positions.

Loop in Archwire: Frequently used for closing space left by an extraction. Many archwires don't have a loop.

Bracket: Small attachment that holds the archwire in place. Most often, a bracket is cemented directly onto the tooth's surface, eliminating the need for a band.

Headgear Tube: Round, hollow attachment on the back bands. The inner bow of the headgear fits into it.

Coil Spring: Fits between brackets and over archwire to open space between teeth.

Tie Wire: Fine wire that is twisted around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Band: A thin ring of metal fitted around a tooth and cemented in place. The band provides a way to attach the brackets to the tooth.

Hook: Welded or removable arm to which elastics (rubber bands) are attached.

Elastic (Rubber Band): Small rubber band that is hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth.

Berky Orthodontics, wishing you a safe and relaxing Memorial Day Weekend!

2011-05-25T08:51:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day weekend, a time to remember and honor the men and women lost while serving for our country. Memorial Day is also the unofficial start of summer, and for many folks in High Point and Greensboro, getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the classroom or the office spells sweet, sweet relief.

What about you? What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend? Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, or just hitting the great American open roads, we’d like to hear all about it!

Our entire team at Berky Orthodontics wishes you a happy, safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

What’s on your reading list?

2011-05-18T13:49:00.000-07:00

With the school year close to winding down for a lot of our patients at Berky Orthodontics, we wanted to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year, but reading is a vital step in brain development and literacy. And if you needed any more reason to read, May marks “Get Caught Reading Month.”

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great reads? Ask us for suggestions, and Dr. Berky and our team would be happy to provide a few. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas on what to read next!

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your book picks or your all-time favorite novels or literature on our Facebook page!

What are patients saying about Berky Orthodontics?

2011-05-09T10:35:00.000-07:00

Berky Orthodontics, serving Greensboro, High Point and surrounding areas, has been receiving some great patient reviews lately! Check out what our current patients are saying about orthodontist, Dr. Zoltan Berky, and team!

“It has been a great experience. My daughter was able to get braces due to the payment options available. She loves her braces. Thank You!”-Tammy P.

“I have been very pleased with my experience. The service is very professional and the staff is very friendly.”-Dru H.

“This office is awesome! Trish even made me coffee this morning.”
-Brionna Bennett

“The staff here is very nice and I have had a great experience.”
-Tyler N.

“Wonderful, friendly and prompt staff. I have and will continue to recommend Dr. Berky for orthodontic services. You guys are the best!”
-Jacquetta J.

If you are considering orthodontic treatment, please give Berky Orthodontics a call to schedule your free consultation with Dr. Berky!

Liz Weavil, This Month's Featured Employee from Berky Orthodontics

2011-05-05T09:11:00.000-07:00

Liz Weavil graduated from Guilford Technical Community College in 2005. She has been working in the dental field for six years, two of which have been with Dr. Zoltan Berky. Liz was recently promoted from Clinical Assistant to Clinical Coordinator where her duties include maintenance of various supplies, and clinical staff support and training. Liz loves to spend time with her family and friends, especially her two nieces Tori and Taylor, and another niece is on the way! She also enjoys boating, traveling and running. She has a great passion for helping her patients create beautiful and healthy smiles.Liz and her boyfriend, Tanner
Liz playing with her nieces, Tori and Taylor

Come say hello to Liz during you next visit to Berky Orthodontics. If you need to schedule your next appointment with Dr. Berky, please give us a call.

Celebrities get braces, too!

2011-04-27T14:47:00.000-07:00

Did you know that back in 2002, Tom Cruise had braces? During this time, he was 40 years old and filmed Minority Report, Austin Powers in Goldmember and the Last Samurai. Check out his smile in Jerry Maguire, Rain Man or The Firm and compare to the post-braces Tom Cruise in Valkyrie or Tropic Thunder. The fact is, movie stars need to look their best for the silver screen, and it wouldn't be possible without orthodontists like Dr. Zoltan Berky.

In fact, lots of Hollywood stars have had orthodontic treatment. Check out this slideshow of famous faces with braces. If you’ve thought about getting the perfect smile you’ve always wanted, please give Berky Orthodontics a call.

April is National Facial Protection Month

2011-04-19T16:03:00.000-07:00

Wouldn’t you believe it, it’s already springtime! It's also National Facial Protection Month and springtime brings an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of kids damaging their precious mouths and pearly whites. If you have braces and you play spring sports, it's important that you consult Dr. Zoltan Berky for special precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing spring sports such as baseball, soccer, lacrosse and others. Be sure, however, to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements we are trying to achieve. http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif

In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances damaged, please schedule an appointment with Berky Orthodontics.

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 if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Berky Orthodontics.

You're Never Too Old to Treat Yourself to a New Smile!

2011-04-15T14:07:00.000-07:00

Did you know one in every five orthodontic patients is an adult? We’re living longer and technology is improving, making orthodontic treatment an appealing and safe option for patients of all ages. As the trend toward treatment later in life grows, we’re seeing braces on parents as well as children – and even adult celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Gwen Stefani and Nicholas Cage have shown off their braces. It’s never too late to look and feel your best with Berky Orthodontics!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment with Dr. Zoltan Berky. The physical process for moving teeth is the same, young or old, which means it’s never too late to address issues such as an overbite or underbite, crooked or crowded teeth, or jaw disorders.

How Do I Get Started?

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, we’ll make a consultation appointment with you. During this meeting we will perform a general assessment of your oral health, discuss options for treatment, and answer any questions you may have. We will also discuss matters of cost and insurance. The next step is an orthodontic records appointment in which we take x-rays, photos, and an impression of your teeth. This information drives your unique treatment plan.

What Are the Benefits?

Straightening your teeth can improve your smile, your self-esteem, and your dental health. Technologically advanced new treatments make it easier to identify the option that best fits your lifestyle. Modern techniques and materials have made braces and aligners more effective, comfortable and unobtrusive than ever.

If you think you might benefit from orthodontic treatment, give Berky Orthodontics a call, so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs.

At Berky Orthodontics, what puts you at ease?

2011-04-08T09:51:00.000-07:00

Dr. Zoltan Berky and team understand not everyone enjoys visiting 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 Berky Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or Dr. Berky?

Let us know by posting here, on our Facebook page, or by giving us a call!

Brandy Shewcow--This month's featured employee from Berky Orthodontics

2011-04-01T11:06:00.000-07:00

Brandy Shewcow has been working in the dental field for over 15 years. She is the oldest of Dr. Berky’s children, and finds great joy working with her family. Orthodontics has always been a part of her life, and working in her father’s orthodontic practice came naturally to her as she got older.

She is the mother of three wonderful children, Skylar (12 years old), Aiden (8 years old), and Ellie (6 years old). Brandy and her husband of 15 years, Keith, enjoy camping and spending time outdoors. She graduated magna cum laude from High Point University with a BS in Psychology. She serves on the PTO board at Brown Middle School and works with Fair Grove Elementary as well as the Leadership Development Team at Emerywood Baptist Church.

Next time you visit Dr. Berky at Berky Orthodontics, make sure to say hello Brandy.
Brandy at her High Point University graduation ceremony.

Brandy and Cathy Davis (Berky Orthodontics' patient).

The Shewcow Family.

What Will YOUR Smile Look Like After Orthodontic Treatment?

2011-03-29T14:04:00.000-07:00

It is sometimes hard to believe the transformation your smile undergoes during orthodontic treatment. Berky Orthodontics loves to see our patients’ smiles light up when they see their new smile in the mirror for the first time. For those of you who haven’t yet started or finished your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Zoltan Berky, have you ever wondered what your new smile might look like after treatment?

The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO for short, has recently launched a new tool called “Virtual Smiles”, which shows what your smile might look like after orthodontic treatment.

Check out the Virtual Smiles tool, and call Berky Orthodontics to get started on improving your smile today!

The Oral Health Effects of Smoking

2011-03-22T10:27:00.000-07:00

Everybody knows that smoking causes lung cancer, but did you also know that smokers and tobacco users are susceptible to a variety of oral health problems at a faster rate than non-smokers?

It’s true! Smoking is responsible for almost 75 percent of gum disease in adults; and, similar to smokers, adults who smoke pipes and cigars, as well as those using smokeless tobacco, are just as susceptible to gum disease and other tobacco related health problems.

As soon as you use tobacco products, you become more likely to experience any of these oral health problems:

• Oral cancer
• Gum disease
• Tooth loss
• Loss of bone in the jaw
• Gum recession
• Delayed/impaired healing process after oral surgery or any other treatment
• Decreased success rate of dental implant (tooth replacement) procedures
• Mouth sores
• Loss of your sense of taste and smell
• Bad breath
• Tooth and tongue stains

If you are interested in protecting your oral health, we strongly recommend you quit using tobacco products! The following steps are recommended by the Surgeon General to help you quit smoking and using tobacco:

• Get ready – set a quitting date and remove all materials from your home, car and office
• Get support
• Learn new skills and behaviors
• Get medication and use it correctly
• Be prepared for relapse or difficult situations

For support, start with Berky Orthodontics! We can help by recommending different options to help you quit, and above all we will support you throughout the quitting process. We are dedicated to helping you protect your oral health – and quitting smoking is significant step in the right direction.

Foods to Avoid during your Orthodontic Treatment

2011-03-15T13:12:00.000-07:00

There are a variety of foods Dr. Zoltan Berky 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

Also, 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 Berky Orthodontics a call or ask our staff during your next visit.

Ask Dr. Berky: What’s so bad about nail biting?

2011-03-08T13:51:00.000-08:00

We’ve all heard that biting your nails is an awful habit, but you many wonder- really- what’s so bad about it? Recently, our team at Berky Orthodontics found an interesting article that discusses how biting your nails affect your teeth and oral health.

Nail biting, also known as Onychophagia, is a common habit among various age groups, including primarily children, teens and young adults. Nail biting is generally triggered by stress and most often decreases with age. That being said, nail biting is unsanitary, unattractive, as well as unhealthy for your teeth!

Here’s why:

• It’s unsanitary. Your nails are dirty, almost twice as dirty as your fingers! Hence, biting your nails is just asking for germs and bacteria.
• No good things come to your teeth. Nail biting causes your teeth to constantly be chewing, which is not good for them. This excessive motion wears your teeth down faster than a non-nail biter’s and puts a large amount of stress on your front teeth- contributing to teeth misalignment.
• Braces don’t love it either. Braces already put pressure on teeth, nail biting ads unnecessary pressure, further stressing your teeth and weakening their roots.
• It can be costly. Nail biting can result in up to $4,000 in additional dental bills over one lifetime, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Yikes!

What can you do about it?

Now that you know how harmful nail biting can be, it’s time to take action to break your nail biting habit. Try to be conscious of your fingernails and to keep them looking good- this will help you resist the temptation. Ask Dr. Zoltan Berky or visit the article for tips on how to break a nail biting habit.

Good luck!

-Your friends at Berky Orthodontics

What, exactly, is Malocclusion?

2011-03-02T16:34:00.000-08:00

Malocclusion, or what Dr. Zoltan Berky 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 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.

Dr. Berky 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 Berky 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.

Avoid a Cold or the Flu with these Simple Steps

2011-02-24T14:16:00.000-08:00

It’s that time of year to start thinking about protecting yourself and your family from the flu. Here are some simple steps you can take to help yourself avoid colds and the flu this season:

• 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

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. Zoltan Berky and our team give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our 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.

Hope this helps and give us a call if you have any questions! Stay healthy!

The Importance of Retainers, from Dr. Berky

2011-02-17T10:56:00.000-08:00

If you recently completed treatment at Berky Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Zoltan Berky will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, however, always provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed by Dr. Berky is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime. There is also some helpful information on the Retainer Page on our website.

To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Berky, please read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth or give us a call!

This month’s featured Berky Orthodontics employee, Kathy Zienert

2011-02-08T08:45:00.000-08:00

Kathy is a great team member at Berky Orthodontics who is always looking for ways to make our patients feel comfortable and happy while visiting our practice. She enjoys working with patients of all ages, and making sure they each person’s orthodontic experience is as positive as possible. Kathy has been working with Dr. Zoltan Berky for over five years.

Now here’s Kathy to tell you a little more about herself:

“I have been married to Keith for 14 years. I have 2 Sons (Billy & Chris). Chris is married to my wonderful daughter-in-law Jordan and lives in Arkansas and Billy is engaged to Heather whom is also wonderful and he lives in High Point. I have a very cute Chihuahua named Doti, who is the little girl of the family. My husband loves running marathons for special causes and his favorite is in Florida for Breast Cancer. We enjoy traveling there for this wonderful event. In my spare time I enjoy traveling and spending time with my family and friends.”

Kathy and her husband Keith.

Kathy's son Billy and his fiance Heather

Kathy's son Chris and his wife Jordan

Keith and Kathy's little girl, Doti

Come meet Kathy and the rest of the amazing Berky Orthodontics team by coming in for a complimentary consultation. Give our office a call to schedule your visit.

Now that I have braces, what can I eat?

2011-02-03T10:18:00.000-08:00

You just got braces at Berky Orthodontics and Dr. Zoltan Berky has informed you that over the next several months you will want to avoid eating anything sticky, hard, crunchy, or chewy. What does this leave for you to eat? Lettuce? Nothing?

Luckily, there was someone else wondering the same thing when she first got braces! Brenda Waterman, 13, decided she was going to find a way to have her cake and eat it too, so she created a variety of “braces-friendly” recipes that allow you to enjoy your favorite treats without interfering with your orthodontic care! Her cookbook, “The Braces Cookbook: Recipes you (and your Orthodontist) will Love,” gives patients a variety of delicious recipes, safe to eat with braces; plus additional tips and advice for packing lunches, what to eat at parties, and braces-friendly restaurant dishes! There’s even a section with tips for dealing with the soreness that can occur when your braces or appliance are adjusted. Enjoy the foods you love – even with braces!

Here is a delicious, sneak peek recipe from “The Braces Cookbook:”

Wonderful Waffles

Forget the recipe that came with your waffle iron – this recipe will redefine fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. The secret to delicious waffles is letting the batter "sit" for five minutes before pouring into the waffle iron. Top cooked waffles with syrup, jam, fresh fruit or even whip cream. Makes about 5 servings!

Preheat your waffle iron according to the directions. You may want to lightly spray it with vegetable oil before heating.
• 3 cups flour
• 2 Tbl + 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 Tbl sugar
• 4 cups milk
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
In a large bowl, whisk (or use electric mixer on low) together all ingredients. Let batter sit for about five minutes to activate the baking powder.

When waffle iron is ready, pour about 1/3 cup of batter onto each of the four squares (experiment with your iron – you don't want the batter overflowing). Gently close the cover and set your timer as the manufacturer suggests. Do not lift the cover while they bake. When done, carefully lift one edge with a flat spatula and pull the waffle away from the iron. Keep waffles warm on a plate under a clean dishtowel while the others bake.

Enjoy!

-Your friends at Berky Orthodontics

Top ten tips for keeping your BRACES sparklin’ clean

2011-01-26T14:10:00.000-08:00

Keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever when you have braces. Food bits have more spots than usual to hide in your mouth, so you must be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. If you remove plaque regularly during treatment, you'll experience better results and shorter treatment time. Keep plaque at bay with these top ten tips:

1. One tooth at a time. When you brush, take time with each individual tooth – at least 10 seconds each – and pay careful attention to the spots where your teeth touch your braces.

2. It’s all about the angles. Brush the tops of your teeth and braces with your brush angled down toward where they meet. Brush the bottoms of your teeth and braces with your brush angled up.

3. The tooth, the whole tooth, nothing but the tooth. While the front surface of your teeth may seem like the most logical to clean, it’s equally important to clean the inner surface of your teeth (tongue side) as well as the chewing surface. And be sure to clean along your gum line – a key spot for plaque buildup.

4. Step 1: eat, step 2: clean. While you’re in treatment, it’s important to brush after every meal. Bits of food can easily get caught between braces and teeth, and these food bits interact with bacteria in your mouth to cause decay. The longer food is in contact with your teeth, the greater opportunity for plaque to form. If you are eating somewhere that you can’t brush, thoroughly rinse your mouth with water.

5. Like a Boy Scout, always be prepared. The easiest way to be sure you can brush after every meal is to get in the habit of taking a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss with you wherever you go. Designate a special container just for your teeth-cleaning tools and keep it in your purse, backpack, or laptop case.

6. Remove the moving parts. If you have elastic bands or headgear, remove these parts before you brush or floss.

7. Fluoride is your friend. Fluoride helps prevent cavities. Be sure to brush with fluoride toothpaste, and rinse with fluoride mouthwash.

8. Pointy brushes reach tiny places. Interproximal brushes (sometimes called proxa brushes or interdental brushes) are cone-shaped and come in very handy for reaching spots around your braces that standard brushes can’t.

9. Find the floss for you. Regular floss works for some patients, but others find it easier to work with a floss threader, which helps you get the floss into tight places. Other patients like an all-in-one product called Superfloss, which comes with a stiff end for easy threading, a spongy section for cleaning wide spaces, and regular floss for narrow spaces.

10. Make time for the pros. It’s your job to take care of the everyday cleaning. But make sure to visit your dentist regularly while in treatment, to get the deep, thorough cleaning that only a professional can provide. If you need help finding the right Dentist for you, feel free to contact our office - we’d love to help!

Hope this helps!

-Dr. Berky and Team

Connect with the Braces Brigade!

2011-01-14T16:30:00.000-08:00

At Berky Orthodontics, our patients want to get as much out of their treatment as possible. That includes asking a lot of questions and making sure they take care of both their appliances and oral health.

Would you like to learn more about what to expect during orthodontic treatment, from someone with firsthand experience? Well, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recently developed the Braces Brigade blog, where past, present, as well as future orthodontic patients from coast to coast document their (or their child’s) orthodontic journeys. The blog will serve as a source of guidance for others as the patients undergo orthodontic care.

Our team encourages you to visit the Braces Brigade blog to read these great and informative blogs—who knows, maybe you’ll learn a thing or two! As always, don’t hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions about the Braces Brigade or your own orthodontic treatment!

This Year, Make a New Year’s Resolution to Smile About!

2010-12-30T09:43:00.000-08:00

Let’s face it- when was the last time you managed to keep a New Year’s resolution? We at Berky Orthodontics believe the key to sticking to a goal is picking one that is both reasonable and attainable. If you haven’t yet picked a New Year’s resolution, consider setting one that will improve your oral health!

For example, resolve to brush and floss daily. Good oral hygiene only takes a few minutes a day, and can make a big difference in your oral health, especially with braces! For more oral health-themed resolutions for you and your family, check out this article.

We would love to see what you come up with, share with us by commenting on this post or on our Facebook page. Whatever your New Year’s Resolution, we wish you the very best for 2011!

-Happy New Year!

Season’s Greetings from Berky Orthodontics!

2010-12-22T13:36:00.000-08:00

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as the team at Berky Orthodontics
reflects on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What do you love
about the holidays this year? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for 2011? 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.

--The team at Berky Orthodontics

“If you want the best…..It’s Dr. Berky and his staff!”

2010-12-17T13:14:00.000-08:00

“I was first a patient with Dr. Berky about 10 years ago. I wore braces for four years and in that amount of time you get to know the people quite well. I’ve always recommended Dr. Berky and only Dr. Berky. Wearing braces that long you tend to notice teeth a lot and as conversations go you ask with Orthodontist they went to or are going to. It was worth every single one thousand, four hundred and sixty or so days of wearing them. I have received many compliments over the years about how beautiful my teeth are. I always say thanks to Dr. Berky, and of course tell them where the office is located. So, naturally being as happy with Dr. Berky as I have been, and the staff being as friendly and professional as they are, I wouldn’t choose another doctor to put braces on my daughter and neice. Just the last visit for the girls, on the way home they were both talking about how sweet the staff and how kind every one treats them. For me and my family: Thumbs way up for Dr. Berky and staff!”

Want to leave a review of your own? Head to our Google Places Page to get started!

The Latest Fun at Berky Orthodontics

2010-12-10T13:47:00.000-08:00

Our Harry Potter Drawing winner, Becca B. Congratulations Becca, enjoy your Visa gift card!
Congratulations to Brody for being our excellent oral hygiene featured patient. Keep up that brushing and flossing!
This quarter's featured family is the Sutphin family. All the children have been patients of Dr. Berky. Photo courtesy of Bob Henderson with Henderson Photography.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

Dr. Berky and team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. It's a big food holiday, so be careful what you eat with those braces! If you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we'd encourage you to send them along or call our office and ask how.

Gobble Gobble!

Greensboro United -LEAGUE CHAMPIONS!

2010-11-16T13:37:00.000-08:00

Can you spot Dr. Berky in this picture?

A Few Patient Testimonials for Dr. Berky & Team

2010-11-12T14:27:00.000-08:00

Berky Orthodontics, serving Greensboro, High Point and surrounding areas, has been receiving some great patient reviews lately! Check out what our current patients are saying about Dr. Berky and team!

“We started going to Dr. Berky in High Point 10 years ago. When we moved to Summerfield we were excited to learn he had an office in Greensboro.

His office staff is wonderful and efficient. We never have to wait and everyone has a smile and is very friendly. My son is now a senior in high school and has a handsome smile; my daughter is a freshman in high school with a beautiful soon to be braceless smile. I have a third grader that will need braces soon. I wouldn’t think of going anywhere else.” ~ Kristin G.

“Everyone at Dr. Berky’s office was always very pleasant and professional. Dr. Berky is excellent!” ~ Sheila S.

“I am very satisfied with the great job Dr. Berky did. When visiting his office, the staff was always kind.” ~ Adiam T

“I could not be anymore pleased with the overall experience. I have and will continue to refer people to Dr. Berky.” ~ Ashley S.

“I have never encountered such great customer service as I have with Dr. Berky and his staff. When I called for a consultation, the experience was so amazing. I was greeted with wonderful and useful information. Dr. Berky himself called me the evening before my appointment to see if I had any questions before my first visit. I was amazed! Within 5 minutes of arriving to my appointment Dr. Berky came out and introduced himself personally. Thank you Dr. Berky and staff for welcoming me as a new patient.” ~ LaToya H.

Access your account—any day, any time

2010-11-04T16:47:00.000-07:00

Access to your account, 24/7. Sounds simple and convenient, doesn’t it?

Patients at our offices enjoy 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, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

You, too, may sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started!

A few Halloween safety tips

2010-10-28T15:08:00.000-07:00

Trick-or-treat! In the spirit of October’s sweet and spooky holiday, Halloween, Dr. Berky & team would like to remind all of our patients to be safe while celebrating with friends and family. The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has provided trick-or-treaters with some tips for a ghoulishly good time.

A few Halloween safety guidelines:
• Young children should always be accompanied by an adult
• Carry a flashlight
• Wear a light-colored or reflective costume
• Choose face paint over masks for young ghosts and goblins
• Have an adult inspect all treats before the children dig in

Many treats can cause havoc for trick-or-treaters who are going through orthodontic treatment. If you happen to damage your braces, please give our doctors and staff a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone.

A Great Braces Friendly Halloween Recipe

2010-10-22T06:42:00.001-07:00

Our team know how tempting this time of the year can be on our sweet tooth. With all of the caramel, candy corn, and lollipops that are often passed around to trick-or-treaters, we realize that it can sometimes be hard to find hard, chewy, sticky, and crunchy candy alternatives.

However, there is good news! Today, we would like to share a great braces-friendly Halloween recipe with all of our patients, courtesy of the American Association of Orthodontics, or AAO, and “The Braces Cookbook” by Pamela Waterman. This Spider Bites recipe is delicious, and provided that you remember to brush and floss after indulging, this is a cookie that won’t bite back!

Spider Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 cup shortening
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 Tbsp. water
• 1 Tsp. vanilla
• 2 eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cocoa
• 1 Tsp. salt
• ½ Tsp. baking powder
• 1 package black rope licorice, cut into 1-inch pieces**
• 1 small tube of white (or color of choice) frosting
• Toothpicks

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

In a large bowl, combine shortening, sugar, water, and vanilla. Beat until smooth. Add eggs into the mixture and blend. Slowly mix in flour, cocoa, salt and baking powder using low-medium speed. Drop tablespoon helpings of mixture onto ungreased cookie sheets and roll each helping into a ball.

Bake 9 minutes at 375 degrees. The batch should produce around three dozen cookies.

Let cookies cool for about 10 minutes. Then using a toothpick, create four small holes in either side of the cookie. Still using the toothpick, push one end of a piece of the cut licorice into each hole, creating the “legs” of the spider. Once all eight pieces are in place, create eyes or decorate at will using the white frosting. Then eat and enjoy!

**Licorice can sometimes stick to braces; parents should monitor

Regular checkups are essential in maintaining good oral health

2010-10-14T15:27:00.001-07:00

Are you brushing and flossing daily properly during your orthodontic treatment? If yes, that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist every 3-to-6 months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting our office, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

Your general dentist can check for problems that might not be seen or felt, detect cavities and early signs of decay, treat oral health problems early and show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth.

During an oral exam your dentist can 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, let us know during your next visit and we will provide a few great references in the greater High Point and Greensboro areas!

Orthodontic fun facts, from Berky Orthodontics

2010-10-07T16:37:00.001-07:00

Everyone loves fun facts. Fun, fun, fun! The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that our team at Berky 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.

October Marks the National Orthodontic Health Month!

2010-10-01T10:23:00.000-07:00

October symbolizes the transition into the Fall season and of course, Halloween! For our team at Berky Orthodontics, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), and orthodontic patients around the country, October also marks the National Orthodontic Health Month. This month is a great time to remind patients of the importance of strong oral hygiene and a braces-friendly diet, especially since many of the sticky and sweet Halloween treats can be harmful to braces and other orthodontic appliances.

Candy remains a huge part of Halloween for tens of millions of American kids each year. The National Confectioners Association says 93 percent of children in the United States go trick-or-treating, and estimates candy sales will be higher this year than ever. Candy is not all bad in moderation, but can lead to big problems in excess! It can lead to tooth decay, broken or chipped teeth, and delayed orthodontic treatment time due to broken or loose appliances and braces. Get the facts about Halloween candy and orthodontics by asking us! You can also learn more on the AAO’s National Orthodontic Health Month website. We also appreciate your help in spreading the word!

August Back to School Giveaway

2010-09-24T13:46:00.000-07:00

For the month of August, Dr. Berky & Team gave away four $50.00 Back to School gift cards. The lucky recipients were Denise B, Crystal C, Haley T, and Crystal P. Congratulations! Check out all their photos on our Facebook page!

Who benefits from braces?

2010-09-16T15:14:00.000-07:00

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic treatment, whether it’s 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, or AAO, 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, as well as your life!

All the cool kids do it!

2010-09-10T07:40:00.001-07:00

Braces today are “cool” and—many would say—even “fun.” These were among the findings of a 2010 nationwide survey of moms whose children are going through or have had orthodontic treatment. New technologies such as SureSmile, advanced computer software, color options, and even popular celebrities—Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Danny Glover, Serena Williams—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.

Different color options and the ability to change colors, for example, provide exciting ways for young patients to customize appearances. That enthusiasm helps them to feel good about their orthodontic treatment with Dr. Berky, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

Has your child or teen visited Berky Orthodontics in Greensboro & High Point, NC for a consultation? If not, please give us a call and let us help your child begin the journey to a gorgeous smile!

Congratulations to our July Winners!

2010-08-31T13:14:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Anthony Miller, Joshua Ashworth, Jasmine Hill and Sara Steinbach, the High Point and Greensboro winners of the Berky Orthodontics July drawing, and each recipients of a 1-year North Carolina Zoo Family Membership! We've also shared a few photos on our Facebook page, check them out!

The Berky Family's Horse Riding Endeavors

2010-08-24T08:03:00.000-07:00

Dr. Berky's two daughters, Maggie and Hannah, are competitive horse riders, and we wanted to share a bit of news about their recent accomplishements. Maggie, who rides Rollingwoods Meant To Be ("BB") in the Hunter Jumper category, recently qualified for the USEF National Pony Finals in Lexington, KY. She placed 49th out of 89th in her division, competing against people from all around the country.

Hannah competes in the Western All-Around, and rides her prize Pop's Prize ("Pretty Boy"). She competes competitively, and actually shows in the APHA Western All-Around Division. We've included two photos here on the blog, but check out our Facebook for the rest!

Am I too old for braces?

2010-08-19T14:23:00.000-07:00

Recently, our staff at Berky Orthodontics read a fascinating statistic: the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! Yes, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another 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 and sparkling teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing—wisely, we might add—to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Dr. Berky 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. Berky would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

Distinguishing the myths and facts about orthodontics, from Berky Orthodontics

2010-08-13T08:33:00.000-07:00

Trust us when we say Dr. Berky and our staff know there are quite a few myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) floating around these days. But before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists set the record straight (no pun intended) and have provided some information that sheds some light on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at Berky Orthodontics of High Point and Greensboro, NC, feel free to give us a call.

The advantage of SureSmile®

2010-08-06T10:43:00.001-07:00

Does the thought of having braces bring you down? The team at Berky Orthodontics understands that one of the biggest concerns for orthodontic patients with braces is the length of their treatment.

But you’re in luck, because Dr. Berky specializes in SureSmile, high-tech braces that are revolutionizing the orthodontic industry. SureSmile, which combines digital 3-D imaging, has computer-aided treatment planning and customized archwires to straighten teeth about 40 percent faster than traditional braces. The SureSmile program calculates the exact shape and pattern of the teeth and bends and cuts the braces wires, with more precision than traditional braces.

The SureSmile system allows us to create your entire treatment plan prior to treatment, using special computer software to analyze the 3-D model of your mouth and develop a custom archwire treatment. SureSmile’s robotic technology bends Shape Memory Alloy archwires, which can “remember” your prescription.

Results

With SureSmile’s specially programmed archwires, your teeth move more directly into their intended positions. The result for our patients is shortened treatment time and a more comfortable experience in braces.

Once the braces are on it’s only a matter of time before they are taken off revealing beautiful, straight, healthy teeth. With traditional braces a patient is expected to schedule 18 to 20 office visits over two years. With SureSmile, patients average seven to 10 visits and can have their braces off within half the time!

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, please contact Dr. Berky today!

Age 7 is the magic number for an orthodontic check-up

2010-07-30T15:17:00.001-07:00

Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Dr. Berky for a consultation, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That’s right—seven.

Ok, so what’s so great about age seven, you ask? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for Dr. Berky 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.

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 are detrimental to good oral hygiene. So, if your child is nearing his or her seventh birthday, give us a call at our Greensboro or High Point offices to schedule an appointment.

3D Imaging and Orthodontics in Greensboro & High Point, NC

2010-07-16T14:35:00.000-07:00

At Berky Orthodontics, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality, most technologically advanced treatment to our patients. One such innovation that we have incorporated into our practice is the use of 3 dimensional imaging with the i-CAT system. 3D imaging with i-CAT provides numerous benefits to our practice and our patients, and we are one of the only offices in the area to have this technology!

An article on the benefits of 3-D imaging and orthodontics was published just this week in the New York Times, and it is a great example of how technology has completely revolutionized the field of orthodontics. We do our best to be early adopters of technology if it benefits our patients, such as the i-CAT the high tech SureSmile system! With i-CAT, we are able to approach orthodontic cases from a more complete perspective- 3 dimensional imaging allows our treatment to be far more precise. Learn more about i-CAT, SureSmile, and other orthodontic innovations Dr. Berky & Team utilize by giving us a call!

Ask Dr. Berky: Why is it so important to have straight teeth?

2010-07-09T11:04:00.001-07:00

Some people wonder why Greensboro & High Point, NC orthodontist Dr. Zoltan Berky and our team work tirelessly to give our patients straight teeth. Of course it’s nice to have a smile full of evenly aligned teeth, but did you know that straightening your teeth at Berky Orthodontics can keep them healthier? Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime!

Straight teeth are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque—the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to tooth decay; and they are easier to keep clean!

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, please give us a call to set up a consultation. Dr. Berky can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Upcoming and Past Events at Berky Orthodontics

2010-06-30T14:09:00.000-07:00

Part of our goal here at Berky Orthodontics is to ensure your treatment with us is enjoyable and fun! Each month, we like to hold some sort of contest or drawing for our patients, and we are excited to announce some of our plans for this summer!

In May, we awarded four patients with Wet & Wild Water Park season passes. Just this past month, We had a drawing for Dr. Berky's referring general dentist's offices and their staff in Greensboro & High Point. We gave out four beach bags filled with summer-time goodies. Congratulations to the following winners:

Dr. Claire Wilson - Lynette Whitt
Drs. McGhee & Brandyberry - Renee White
Drs. Goldenberg, Applebaum, & Pierce - Melissa Victorelli
Drs. Hanna & Weston - Nikki Price

The winners of our June Win-Win Drawing were Ben, a patient at Dr. Berky's office, and Tonia from Dr. Beshears' office. In July, we plan to give four lucky patients family NC Zoo memberships.

To stay up to date with the latest events and contests at Berky Orthodontics, continue to check back on this blog, or better yet, "Like Us" on Facebook. This will enable you to receive automatic updates from us!

The Berky Orthodontics Wet & Wild Season Pass Contest Winners

2010-06-23T15:02:00.000-07:00

This past month, Dr. Berky held a drawing for four lucky winners to receive a Wet & Wild water park season pass. For each winner, we took a short video of them being presented with their season pass from Dr. Berky. Congratulations to all four of our winners from the Greensboro and High Point offices: Caroline, Luke, Rosa & Austin!

Stay tuned for new contests and events at Berky Orthodontics by "liking" us on Facebook. You will receive regular updates automatically to your profile!

Berky Orthodontics Reminding you to Smile! Its National Smile Month!

2010-06-11T15:38:00.000-07:00

It’s June already! Where does the time go?

Dr. Berky and team are excited to tell you June marks National Smile Month, a great time to remind our patients to brush, floss, practice good nutrition at home (and over the summer) to avoid cavities and gum disease, among other dental health issues.

After all, there’s more and more evidence that suggests folks with gum disease are more at risk for serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and strokes.

Here are a few easy steps you can improve your oral health at home:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth and braces
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during orthodontic treatment.
* Visit your general dentist regularly (usually every six months apart).

If you have questions about any of the tips here, we encourage you to give us a call! We hope you had a relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

–Berky Orthodontics of Greensboro & High Point, SC

SureSmile makes the rounds on ABC’s “The Doctors”

2010-06-03T16:30:00.000-07:00

On a recent episode of ABC's "The Doctors," Dr. Thomas Lee of Oxnard, California, was interviewed in front of a live audience and demonstrated SureSmile technology and discussed treatment benefits for orthodontists and their patients. Dr. Lee's 14-year-old patient, Nina, who had just completed SureSmile treatment, was part of the segment as well, and spoke positively about her SureSmile treatment experience.

SureSmile is a software program that facilitates the precise positioning of a patient’s teeth placement for orthodontic braces. Did you know Dr. Berky is a certified SureSmile provider? Give us a call or check out our web site to learn more about SureSmile at Berky Orthodontics!

Meet Our Orthodontist

2010-05-26T16:31:00.000-07:00

Doctor Zoltan Berky earned his undergraduate and dental degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Following Dental School, he served as an officer in the United States Army Dental Corp for 13 years. During that time, he received his Certificate of Orthodontics and his Master's Degree in Oral Biology from the University of Louisville. He also served in the North Carolina National Guard for 9 years and retired at the rank of Colonel in 2005.

Dr. Berky is a Board Certified Orthodontist, a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics and an active member of the American Association of Orthodontists. He is also a member of the American Dental Association, North Carolina Dental Society, Guilford County Dental Society and the High Point Dental Society.

Dr. Berky is a Christian and he and his wife, Debby, have been blessed with a large family. He played soccer competitively at UNC-CH and maintains his passion for the sport by playing in the Greensboro Adult Soccer League. In addition to spending time with his family, he also enjoys horseback riding.