braces Fayetteville

Absolutely not! Orthodontic treatment for adults is becoming more and more common. In fact, the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! More adults than ever are realizing that orthodontic treatment is not just for kids, and can help improve the aesthetics and health of a smile of any age! In a society where appearance matters and can help make the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing wisely to invest in orthodontic treatment.

Some of the most common reasons our adult patients come to us considering orthodontic treatment include:
• Teeth that are crowded or spaced apart, sometimes as a result of tooth decay or gum disease
• Pain or pressure from crooked teeth or a misaligned jaw
• A bad bite or malocclusion, causing teeth to fit together incorrectly

Most of all though, adult patients come to our office seeking a healthier mouth and a more confident smile! Orthodontic treatment at our office can be successful at any age, and adults especially can appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

As an adult patient, we recognize that you have different needs than our younger patients, and we will work with you to ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment and that your needs are met with understanding and respect from us.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, we would love to have you visit for a consultation. We understand you have a busy schedule, and will work with you to find a time that is convenient for you. Please visit our website or give our office a call to schedule your appointment today!

Orthodontic treatment for adults is becoming more and more common. In fact, the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! More adults than ever are realizing that orthodontic treatment is not just for kids, and can help improve the aesthetics and health of a smile of any age! In society where appearance matters and can help make the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing wisely to invest in orthodontic treatment.

Some of the most common reasons our adult patients come to us considering orthodontic treatment include:
• Teeth that are crowded or spaced apart, sometimes as a result of tooth decay or gum disease
• Pain or pressure from crooked teeth or a misaligned jaw
• A bad bite or malocclusion, causing teeth to fit together incorrectly

Most of all though, adult patients come to our office seeking a healthier mouth and a more confident smile! Orthodontic treatment at our office can be successful at any age, and adults especially can appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

As an adult patient, we recognize that you have different needs than our younger patients, and we will work with you to ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment and that your needs are met with understanding and respect from us.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, we would love to have you visit for a consultation. We understand you have a busy schedule, and will work with you to find a time that is convenient for you. Please visit our website or give our office a call to schedule your appointment today!

Rubber bands, or elastics, can be an integral aspect of orthodontic care, so if Dr. Joseph Catania has prescribed elastics as a part of your treatment, it’s important to follow the directions fully. Elastics help to align your bite or cause teeth to move in different directions and straighten more quickly. We will instruct you how to hook one end to an upper bracket and the other end to a lower bracket so the rubber band goes vertically or diagonally from one bracket to another. The tension of the rubber band produces pressure on the bracket, which causes the teeth to move and straighten. This tension is also sufficient to correct an overbite or an under bite in the jaw.

If rubber bands are a part of your treatment plan, there are a few things to keep in mind. With rubber bands, you won’t be able to open your mouth fully, so they will have to be removed when you eat and reapplied after meal time. Many times, rubber bands are only needed at night, so you won’t need to worry about eating with them. Also, if you try to open your mouth too wide, your rubber bands might snap – so be careful!

Failure to wear your elastics full time or as instructed can lengthen your treatment time and may make it more difficult to achieve an optimal result. But don’t worry; your time in elastics will be well worth it when you see your beautiful, new smile.

Monday, Feb. 20 marks Presidents’ Day, a day known for celebrating of both George Washington’s and Abraham Lincoln’s combined Birthdays. Presidents’ Day was created in 1971, when President Richard Nixon combined the birthdays of two of our most well-known presidents into one single federal holiday. Presidents' Day also marks a hard-earned day off from work and school for a lot of the patients of Dr. Joseph Catania.

Here are a few fun facts about our nation’s presidents:

*Abraham Lincoln, our 16th president, carried letters, bills and notes in his tall stovepipe hat.

*George Washington is the first president to be featured on a postage stamp.

*Ronald Reagan, our 40th president, broke the so-called "20-year curse," in which every president elected in a year ending in zero died in office.

*Abraham Lincoln was the tallest of the U.S. presidents, measuring 6’ 4” tall.

*Virginia is the birthplace of more United States presidents than any other state, followed by Ohio and Massachusetts.

*Harry S. Truman was the first president to have his Inauguration and speeches televised.

Your smile is totally unique, so the time you’ll need to spend undergoing orthodontic treatment will also be unique. Generally, orthodontic treatment will take about two years, and this is for good reason. During this time, your teeth will slowly move into their desired positions, leaving you with a great smile with as little discomfort as possible. Rushing treatment can result in a less than perfect smile with a greater chance of tooth movement after your treatment is complete. Dr. Joseph Catania doesn’t want to waste your time with treatment that won’t retain your smile for the rest of your life.

Of course, treatment time will vary depending on your specific situation. Very minor tooth movement may only take a few months to correct, while serious malocclusion (poor bite) may need more than two years to correct. Only Dr. Catania will be able to accurately estimate the time your treatment will take. But trust us—it’ll all be worth it in the end!

Dr. Joseph Catania and our team know having an attractive smile puts a spring in your step—or two—as well as increases your self-confidence, no matter if you’re 14 or in your late forties. Smiling not only makes people happy and puts them in a good mood, doing it often can even help you live longer, according to previous studies!

If you’ve been hiding your smile because you have crooked teeth or gaps between your teeth, it’s time to consider orthodontic treatment with Dr. Catania. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to learn how quickly and efficiently today’s most advanced correction techniques can straighten your smile!

Don’t hide your smile any longer—give us a call today to schedule yours or your child’s orthodontic consultation.

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 Dr. Catania and team!

Happy October! For those who don't know, it’s National Orthodontic Health Month. This October also marks the 10th anniversary of our “Candy for Cash” event!

This year's "Cash for Candy" is being held from November 1st through November 10th during office hours. Patients, friends and community members are welcome to bring in candy, which will then be weighed for cash (remember hard, sticky, gooey candies should be avoided with braces). Dr. Catania will buy the candy for $1 per pound. He will also match $1 per pound to Golisano Children’s Hospital. The candy is given to the local food pantries (along with food staples) for holiday treats!

Please don't hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions. Trick-or-treat!

Dr. Joseph Catania, serving Fayetteville, NY and surrounding areas, strives to provide exceptional treatment in an informative and friendly environment. Have you had a great experience at our office?

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Thank you,
The team at Dr. Catania's office

Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Dr. Catania 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. Catania 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 Joseph Catania, DDS to schedule an appointment.

Did you know that back in 2002, Tom Cruise had braces? At the 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. Do you notice any differences in the alignment of his pearly whites? The fact is, movie stars need to look their best for the silver screen, and it wouldn't be possible without orthodontists like Dr. Joseph Catania.

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 Joseph Catania DDS a call at 315-446-3360.

Dr. Catania understands not everyone is thrilled to see their orthodontist. But he wants you to our team strives to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about our office that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment or our friendly staff?

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

The holiday season is upon us, and as Dr. Catania and his team reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What’s your favorite part about the holidays? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for the new year? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year?

We’d love if you shared with us all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

--From the team at Joseph Catania, DDS

Does the thought of having braces bring you down? Dr. Catania 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. Catania 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.

There are three steps. First, Dr. Catania and his team identify the initial tooth position with the patented OraScanner, a wand with a tiny camera attached. The OraScanner creates a precise 3-D digital model of your mouth, which is then uploaded into software that lets Dr. Catania view your mouth and teeth from any angle. Next, 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. Finally, 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, and braces are on the horizon, please contact our office today!

Happy Monday!

Dr. Catania, who serves Fayetteville, Syracuse and surrounding areas, has been receiving some great patient testimonials lately! Check out what our current patients are saying about Dr. Catania and his team! Have a great week!

"Everyone in the office is very friendly and makes the patients feel quite welcome." ~ Jennifer R.

"Everyone on staff is extremely friendly and accommodating, he is comfortable to speak to, takes the time to explain to his patients about their orthodontia, always asks if I have any questions and he always has a SMILE! you can't get that everywhere you go." ~ Marsha S.

"He did a great job with my older child's teeth and is doing the same with my younger child. He has a good disposition and is not condescending." ~ Eric T.

"His commitment to public health. His strong academic background." ~ Peter B.

"He always makes us feel special (like we're his only patient). He is never rushed during appointments and takes a "wait and be patient approach" before application of braces. I also like that he collects winter clothing for the less fortunate." ~ Andrew G.

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. Catania and his team offers SureSmile as well? Just give us a call or stop by the office!

There are so many questions about orthodontics that we never ask, so Dr. Catania took some time to explain the most common concerns.

At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?

Orthodontic treatment can be started at any age. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected at an early age before jaw growth has slowed. Early treatment may mean that a patient can avoid surgery and more serious complications. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child first visit an orthodontist by age seven or earlier if a problem is detected by parents, the family dentist or the child's physician.

What is Phase I and Phase II treatment?

Phase I, or early interceptive treatment, is limited orthodontic treatment (i.e. expander, Herbst, Facemask, headgear, or partial braces) before all of the permanent teeth have erupted. Such treatment can occur between the ages of six and ten. This treatment is sometimes recommended to make more space for developing teeth, correction of crossbites, overbites, underbites, or harmful oral habits. Phase II treatment is also called comprehensive treatment, because it involves full braces when all of the permanent teeth have erupted, usually between the ages of eleven and thirteen.

Would an adult patient benefit from orthodontics?

Absolutely!! Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age. Everyone wants a beautiful and healthy smile. Between 30-40% of our patients are adults.

How does orthodontic treatment work?

Braces use steady gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into their proper positions. The brackets that are placed on your teeth and the arch wire that connects them are the main components. When the arch wire is placed into the brackets, it tries to return to its original shape. As it does so, it applies pressure to move your teeth to their new, more ideal positions.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Treatment times vary on a case-by-case basis, but the average time is from one to two years. Actual treatment time can be affected by rate of growth and severity of the correction necessary. Treatment length is also dependent upon patient compliance. Maintaining good oral hygiene and keeping regular appointments are important in keeping your treatment time on schedule.

Do braces hurt?

The placement of bands and brackets on your teeth does not hurt. Once your braces are placed and connected with the arch wires, you may feel some soreness of your teeth for one to four days. Your lips and cheeks may need one to two weeks to get used to the braces on your teeth.

Will braces interfere with playing sports?

No. It is recommended, however, that patients protect their smiles by wearing a mouth guard when participating in any sporting activity. Mouth guards are inexpensive, comfortable, and come in a variety of colors and patterns.

Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?

No. However, there may be an initial period of adjustment. In addition, brace covers or wax can be provided to prevent discomfort.

Should I see my general dentist while I have braces?

Yes, you should continue to see your general dentist every six months for cleaning and dental checkups, or more frequently as recommended.

Got more questions? Give us a call at 315-446-3360. We'd love to hear from you.

Should you need to call Dr. Catania in case you sustain any damage to your braces, 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.

--Dr. Catania

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we do at Dr. Catania's office is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. And since the aligners are virtually invisible, nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Catania is a certified Invisalign provider. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, give us a call at 315-446-3360.

Bad breath can be a real downer, especially when you are out on a date with that girl or boy you’ve had a crush on all semester! However, at Dr. Catania's office, we want you to know that bad breath can be prevented!

Bad breath, or as your doctor may call it “halitosis,” is caused by odor-producing bacteria that grows in your mouth. This bacteria gathers on bits of food in your mouth and between your teeth and release sulfur compounds making your breath smell. Some foods, like garlic and onions, may contribute more to bad breath because of oils the food the food releases, and smoking is also a major cause of bad breath.

There are several myths around bad breath. Here are some common myths and the truth behind it all:

Myth #1: Mouthwash will make my breath smell better

Mouthwash will make your breath smell better, but it is only a temporary fix. If you use mouthwash, just know that you will still need to brush and floss when you get the chance as mouthwash alone will not kill all of the bacteria producing germs in your mouth. When choosing a mouthwash, pick an antiseptic with plaque-reducing compounds. Also make sure any dental products you choose comes with the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of approval!

Myth #2: I brush my teeth; I will never have bad breath

Brushing your teeth will save you from having breath, but the truth is most people only brush their teeth for about 30-45 seconds! You need to brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes, twice a day to give your teeth a thorough cleansing. It’s also important to brush your tongue, which is where a majority of odor causing bacteria like to hang out. Lastly, flossing to remove food and plaque between the teeth will also help reduce your chances of having bad breath!

Myth #3: If I don’t smell it, then my breath is fresh

This is a false assumption in every sense of the word! The truth is that the breath you breathe out is not the same breath coming out when you talk to someone. When you breathe you are not using your throat as you do when you are talking; and when you talk more breath moves over the back of your mouth where bacteria is causing bad breath.

#1 TRUTH: Brush your teeth twice a day (for at least 2 minutes), floss at least once and visit your dentist every six months…this way your breath will always be fresh! Not letting your nerves get the best of you on your date? That’s up to you!!!

Hope this helps! From Dr. Catania's office!

"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. Catania started out in dental school and earned a DDS (dental degree), just like your dentist. After dental school however, Dr. Catania 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?

Some people wonder why we work so hard to give our patients straight teeth. Of course it’s nice to have a smile full of evenly aligned teeth, but did you know that straightening your teeth can keep them healthier? Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime.

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

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

Carlene, Board Certified Orthodontic Technician

Carlene's duties at Dr. Catania's office include chairside patient care, ordering, and roles as Budget Coordinator and OSHA Coordinator. She has worked in the field of orthodontics since 1987 and with Dr. Catania since 1989. Her favorite thing about working with Dr. Catania is his level of caring about his patients, and she loves how happy the final result makes the patients and how it affects their self-confidence.

Karen, Dental Assistant

Karen serves as Records Technician and takes care of sterilization in the office. She has worked in the field of orthodontics since 2002 and with Dr. Catania since 2002. Her favorite thing about the practice of orthodontics is watching patients' progress and seeing the results of their treatment. She says Dr. Catania is a friendly, outgoing person who is great with patients. Karen is a native of Syracuse, NY, and has lived in Cicero, NY since 2004. She has a 16-year-old daughter, Kayleigh and enjoys running and pilates.

Kimberly, Board Certified Orthodontic Assistant

Kimberly's duties include chairside patient care, cleanup, sterilization, and inventory control. She has worked in the field of orthodontics since 1988 and has worked with Dr. Catania since 1989. Kimberly's favorite thing about the practice of orthodontics is the change in someone's personality and self-esteem after braces come off. Her favorite thing about working with Dr. Catania is that he jokes with his patients and makes them feel at home. She enjoys working with the children, making friendships with adults, and watching patients grow up and then see their children come into the office for treatment. A native of Chittenango, Kimberly has lived in Kirkville since 2003. Her family includes her husband, Allen, and her son, Alexander (age 3-1/2). When away from work she enjoys swimming, knitting, and gardening.

Midge, Dental Hygienist

Midge's clinical duties include assisting with the placement and removal of braces and all it entails. She has worked in the field of orthodontics since 1978 and with Dr. Catania since 1987. Her favorite thing about orthodontics is the fantastic smiles that are created during treatment and often seeing positive personalities blossom due to the increased confidence a better smile can give patients. Midge is proud of Dr. Catania's research for "better orthodontics" — using new technologies to move teeth in a kinder and gentler manner. She loves the people she meets at work and has always told people, "Everyone has a story." She finds it enriching to meet people and learn who they are and what fantastic lives they lead. A native of Waterville, NY, Midge has lived in Syracuse since l987. Her family includes her son, Adam (age 14), and dog, Cleo. When away from work she enjoys co-ed recreational volleyball and SU sports (football and basketball).

Rose, Office Manager

Rose's role at Dr. Catania's office includes supervising employees, handing collections, serving as Computer Administrator and backup Treatment Coordinator, and overseeing Accounts Payable, billing, and insurance. She has worked in the field of orthodontics since 1974 and with Dr. Catania since 1989. She loves learning new technology advances regarding treatment and appreciates the fact that the doctor is great with kids and wonderful at wanting to implement latest techniques to improve treatment. Rose's favorite part of her job is seeing the wonderful changes in patients' self-confidence and being able to help families with financial problems obtain orthodontic treatment. Rose is a native of Syracuse, NY, and lives with her husband, Peter, and cat, Einstein. Away from work she enjoys working out, walking, sewing, reading, knitting, crocheting, and traveling.

Sara, Treatment Coordinator

Sara's duties around the office include welcoming new patients and families and educating patients and parents regarding their individual treatment plans. She guides patients through initial visits and assists them with financial and insurance processing. Sara has worked in the field of orthodontics since 1988 and with Dr. Catania since 1989. Her favorite thing about practicing orthodontics is that Dr. Catania and his team are a family. "Our patients sense this," she says. "Adults and children actually look forward to coming to our office because we make having treatment so much fun." She appreciates that Dr. Catania relates well to each patient, whether a child, teen or adult, and finds it very satisfying to see the benefits of orthodontics, knowing that she contributed to the result.

Congratulations to:

Alec Beaton!
Zoe Meighan!
Kirsten Russell!

They are our latest "A" Team winners. They each won a $20 gift card to Target just for keeping their teeth clean!

* Many thanks to Ally Egan's mom, Janice, for offering her personal training skills at Fitness Forum as a contest prize. Jacob and Karen Larosche's mom, Patty, won the personal training sessions!

* Kyle Zimmer's mom, Cynthia, won our Mother's Day drawing for a Spa day at Visage!

* Andrew and Emma Powlin's dad, Michael, won our Father's Day drawing for a car detailing!

Our Share-A-Smile program is a great success! Joshua Goddard was the excited winner of a 20" LCD TV with built in DVD player!

Contact us for more informations about are Share-A-Smile program!