Thursday, December 30, 2010

What is your New Year’s Resolution?


2010 is nearly over, and our team at Dr. Elchahal's office hope all our patients and their families had the merriest of holidays. We wish you all the best for the New Year.

We thought we’d ask: what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2011? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Have a safe and happy New Year!

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Smile, and you might just live longer!

Folks with big smiles may actually live longer than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. Dr. Elchahal has known for quite some time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers at the university did something quite interesting: they looked at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity (ranging from big smile, no smile or partial smile). The players' smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers then took into account other factors that impact life longevity, including body mass index, career length and even college attendance.

The results? Researchers found that players who weren't smiling in the photos died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be 79.9 years old.

The take-away from the new study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting us at Dr. Elchahal's office? If not, give us a call!

Friday, December 17, 2010

Invisalign Winter 2010-11 Family Study

Would you, or someone in your immediate family like to enjoy the benefits of straighter teeth? If so, and if you are willing to participate in a study, then this might be a great opportunity for you.

Dr. Elchahal, a Premier Invisalign Provider, is conducting a study for Align Technology, Inc., the makers of Invisalign. The study is about immediate family members who are undergoing orthodontic treatment together. If you participate in this study, you will receive a $500 discount off our normal Invisalign fee. Excludes treatment fees less than 12 months.

Conditions for the study:
1. You are the immediate family member (spouse, parent, child, sibling) of a current patient of Dr. Elchahal.
2. You begin Invisalign therapy during the Winter of 2010-11. That means initial impressions for therapy are received by Align Technology between December 1st 2010 through Feb 1st, 2011. New patients only.
3. You agree to permit your orthodontic records, including photographs, to be used for educational purposes by Align Technology, Inc., the makers of Invisalign. You must sign an agreement form.

To learn more about this special offer, give us a call! We'd be happy to explain more about the Invisalign system!

Friday, December 10, 2010

Give the Gift that Keeps on Smiling

Give the gift that keeps on Smiling this Holiday season with our Home Whitening Treatment from Dr. Elchahal. What a great way to enhance your smile with brighter, whiter teeth. The great news is that this Holiday offer is not just for our patients but can be given to other family members as well. Each Home Whitening Treatment costs $250 and as our way of supporting Breast Cancer research, $50 dollars from each Home Whitening Treatment sold is donated to Gwinnett Hospital Foundation.

To schedule your Home Whitening impressions give us a call today!

Happy Holidays,

From Dr. Elchahal & Team

Saturday, December 4, 2010

Thanks to Invisalign®, mom and dad can have a perfect smile, too!

Hey parents! Focusing on your kids' teeth and oral health so much that you're neglecting your own? If you've been thinking wistfully about having your own set of perfect teeth, our staff can help! We are specially trained to offer an adult-friendly option for straightening teeth called Invisalign.

This course of treatment consists of a set of clear aligners that are molded to fit your teeth using a proprietary technology. You wear them all day and night, except for meals, brushing, and flossing – when you can easily slip them out to make eating and cleaning a snap!

Because they're clear, your teeth will be steadily straightening – and no one will know it but you!

Please give us a call to set up a consultation, so we can discuss the specifics of your treatment.

Monday, November 22, 2010

Introducing the MTM® No.Trace System


Dr. Elchahal and our team are now proud to offer the MTM® No.Trace System, the completely-unseen treatment that works behind the scenes for those of our patients requiring only minor tooth movement. Unlike traditional braces, MTM® No.Trace brackets are mounted to the back of your teeth and can achieve fantastic results in just 12-24 weeks. Getting MTM® No.Trace brackets at the office of Dr. Alec N. Elchahal is easy and patient upkeep is all but effortless.

If you're considering orthodontic treatment to beautify your smile, but are concerned about your personal comfort, the MTM® No.Trace System may be right for you! To learn more about this groundbreaking orthodontic treatment, you may read more by checking out the MTM® official website, please give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Halloween Costume Contest Winners



Congratulations to the winners of our costume contest, as voted by our office team. We've shared all the photos on our Facebook page, be sure to head over and check them out!

Hamilton Mill Orthodontics Winner- Amanda P.

Johns Creek Orthodontics Winners- Meghana E, Jackson F, and Sebastian M.

Vickery Orthodontics Winners- Spencer B, Sarah A.

Great job everyone, and thank you for participating!

Friday, November 12, 2010

What do you love about Our Office?

From your very first visit to Dr. Elchahal's office, we strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by Dr. Elchahal's work? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with your new smile?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Thank you!

Monday, November 1, 2010

Dr. Elchahal's Annual Food Drive


Dr. Elchahal and staff will be collecting food for the North Fulton Community Charities 2010 Holiday Program. The Holiday Program will provide over 1000 families with groceries and a Thanksgiving meal. For Thanksgiving donations, we will be collecting food items specifically for a traditional Thanksgiving meal

Below is a grocery store list of suggested items – Please limit your donations to items for Thanksgiving meal.

• Canned Vegetables – Green Beans, Refried Beans, Black Beans, Corn Sweet Potatoes, White Potatoes, Squash, Greens, etc..)

• Boxed Potatoes and Rice – Mashed, Scalloped, White – Brown – Yellow, Boxes or Bags

• Boxed Pasta Mixes – Macaroni, Mac-n-Cheese

• Boxed or Bagged Stuffing Mixes – Cornbread, Herb, Plain, Bags/Boxes

• Bags of Four, Cornmeal, Biscuit Mixes – Wheat, All-Purpose, White

• Boxes of Baking Goods – Cake Mixes, Brownies, Pie Makings

• Cans of Gravy – Turkey, Chicken

• Cans of Fruit – Apple, Cranberry, Cranberry Sauce, Pineapple, Applesauce, etc…

Drop Off Dates & Times


November 1st – November 18th at our Johns Creek Office from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

November 2rd – November 19th at our Hamilton Mill Office from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

November 2nd – November 16th at our Cumming Office from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm



Thank you in advance for your support of this worthy cause.

Friday, October 29, 2010

Cash for Candy


Dr. Elchahal is redefining the phrase “put your money where your mouth is.” This Halloween, trick-or-treaters can bring their excess candy to Dr. Elchahal’s offices in Johns Creek, Hamilton Mill and Cumming during the week of November 1st through 3rd and receive cash back per pound or points on your Smile Rewards Card. Dr. Elchahal is leading this anti-decay movement by giving away dollars in exchange for cavity-provoking candy.

“Ditch the candy, that’s what we’re saying. Visiting your dentist twice a year and brushing daily are great preventative measures, but doing away with excess sweets altogether would really give your teeth a healthy boost” says Dr. Alec Elchahal. “Kids can still have all the fun of trick-or-treating, and their piggy banks will benefit as well.”

Global sugar consumption for kids increases by about 2% annually and currently sits at 50 million tons per year, which means parents need to be sure their kids teeth are being cared for more than ever. Candy, as well as hurting children’s teeth, can lead to hyperactivity and weight gain. In some cases, the wrong types of candy can also lead to broken teeth and damaged braces. Candy will be collected at Dr. Elchahal’s office the week after Halloween on November 1st at the Johns Creek office and on November 2nd at the Hamilton Mill and Cumming offices between the hours of 8am-5pm. The candy must be unopened. Please no bites. It will then be shipped to a local charity. Dr. Elchahal and team are available for more information at 770-622-1177 or visit our website!

Friday, October 22, 2010

Celebrating Our New Locations!



Recently Dr. Elchahal & Team celebrated the open house for two new offices, our relocated Hamilton Mill location, and our brand new location in Cumming, GA. Both open houses were held over October 4th and 5th. Thank you to all who attended these events!

Check out all the fun photos of both events on our Facebook page!

Friday, October 15, 2010

Because Oral Hygiene is Critical to Ortho Success!


We think you'll agree that oral hygiene is critical to the success of every orthodontic treatment, but it can also be one of the most challenging aspects of it. That's why we have introduced an oral hygiene program into our practice. We believe this program will help improve our patient's oral hygiene routine and thereby help reduce the amount of decalcification, periodontal disease and excessively prolonged treatments due to poor tooth movement in a diseased dentition.

Between appointments, we will aim to educate our patients on:

• Properly use of products that we have recommended and/or supplied
• Floss before brush - at least once a day.
• Brush, at minimum, twice a day for four minutes at a time.
• Rinse twice a day for 30 seconds each time.
• Make wise food choices and avoid actions that could damage my braces, such as biting into hard foods and eating foods high in sugar.
• Regularly advise you or your oral hygiene score (Poor - 1, Needs Improvement - 2, Average - 3, Good - 4 , Excellent - 5)

We believe we will be able to provide our patients with the knowledge and tools to help them realize improved oral health throughout their ortho treatment.

Hope this helps!

-Dr. Elchahal and Team

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Cash for Candy

Dr. Elchahal is redefining the phrase “put your money where your mouth is.” This Halloween, trick-or-treaters can bring their excess candy to Dr. Elchahal’s offices in Johns Creek, Hamilton Mill and Cumming during the week of November 1st through 3rd and receive cash back per pound or points on your Smile Rewards Card. Dr. Elchahal is leading this anti-decay movement by giving away dollars in exchange for cavity-provoking candy.

“Ditch the candy, that’s what we’re saying. Visiting your dentist twice a year and brushing daily are great preventative measures, but doing away with excess sweets altogether would really give your teeth a healthy boost” says Dr. Alec Elchahal. “Kids can still have all the fun of trick-or-treating, and their piggy banks will benefit as well.”

Global sugar consumption for kids increases by about 2% annually and currently sits at 50 million tons per year, which means parents need to be sure their kids teeth are being cared for more than ever. Candy, as well as hurting children’s teeth, can lead to hyperactivity and weight gain. In some cases, the wrong types of candy can also lead to broken teeth and damaged braces. Candy will be collected at Dr. Elchahal’s office the week after Halloween on November 1st at the Johns Creek office and on November 2nd at the Hamilton Mill and Cumming offices between the hours of 8am-5pm. The candy must be unopened. Please no bites. It will then be shipped to a local charity. Dr. Elchahal and team are available for more information on their website.

Friday, October 1, 2010

October Marks the National Orthodontic Health Month!

October symbolizes the transition into the Fall season and of course, Halloween! For our team at [Practice Name], 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 check out this article to learn more about sweets and braces. We appreciate your help in spreading the word!

Friday, September 24, 2010

Smiling Faces in Places Winners


Congratulations to the winners of our "Smiling Faces in Places" contest: Leah, Sarah, Maddie and Jayson. Check out photos of all t he winners on our Facebook Page, and thank you for everyone who entered! We have also shared a few photos of the patients who participated in our Sports Jersey Week- Jordan and Travis!

Friday, September 17, 2010

Flossing and Braces: Tips from Dr. Elchahal

While braces are invaluable for correcting teeth alignment and improving your dental health and your smile, it is no secret that they can also make life more complicated – temporarily. One of the biggest concerns while wearing braces is proper dental hygiene, and flossing with braces is not the most graceful activity.

But because your braces can catch food and allow plaque to build up around them, increasing the risk of gum disease, it is more important than ever to floss every day. Fortunately there are products to help you successfully floss around and between your braces, and they are easy to use:

Floss Threaders

A floss threader is perhaps the most common tool to help you floss with braces. Made of a special, rigid floss, a threader works like a sewing needle. First, pull your floss through the loop at the end of the threader and tie a knot. Then guide the straight end of the threader underneath your archwire and pull it away from your gums until it is completely through. Once you have the threader through your braces, take hold of the floss and begin flossing as usual.

Stiff-Ended Floss

Made with a bendable but rigid segment at its end, this special floss works much the same as a floss threader. Simply maneuver the stiff end under the archwire of your braces, pull it through, and continue to floss normally.

FlossFish

The FlossFish is a small implement, about the size of a toothpick, used to extend floss underneath your braces. Slip one end of your floss through the small hole at the tip of the FlossFish and pull it through. Holding your floss tight against the body of the FlossFish, insert the shaft under the archwire, in between each bracket. Work the shaft and the floss carefully to remove plaque between your teeth as you would when flossing normally.

Monofilament or Multifilament?

There are two types of floss available: nylon, also known as multifilament floss, and PTFE, or monofilament floss. Nylon floss, which is available waxed or unwaxed, is the more common of the two. When flossing with braces you may find that nylon wax will begin to tear when pressed against the archwire or brackets. If this is the case you may consider monofilament floss, which, while more expensive, is virtually shred-resistant.

Oral Irrigators


An irrigator, such as a Waterpik®, works by shooting a very fine jet of water between and around teeth to clear away plaque and food. This system can make cleaning around your braces much easier.

Remember to always follow flossing with brushing and rinsing. For brushing with braces, we recommend using a combination of a regular soft toothbrush and a proxabrush for cleaning between braces. As always, let us know if you have questions about the best way to keep your teeth clean and healthy while you’re in treatment.

Friday, September 10, 2010

Our Favorite Recipe This Month - Nacho Chicken Casserole

We've found a great recipe for orthodontic patients to enjoy tortilla chips guilt free. Check out the recipe for a great braces-friendly nacho chicken casserole below. Give it a try!

• 1 ½ cups cooked chicken finely shredded
• 2 cups crushed nacho-cheese tortilla chips
• 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• ½ cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°.
In a bowl, combine the first six ingredients. Combine the cheeses. Stir half of the cheese into the chicken mixture. Transfer to a 1qt. Baking dish coated with nonstick cooking spray. Sprinkle with remaining cheeses. Bake, uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.

Hope this helps!

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Get Fall Started with Dr. Elchahal & Team!

The summer may be over, but the fun doesn't need to stop yet! We are excited to announce a few upcoming events and contests at our John's Creek, Hamilton Mill and Vickery orthodontic offices.

Coming up soon is Sports Jersey Week, from September 7th through September 10th. Wear your favorite sports jersey to your appointment to receive extra points on your Smile Reward Card!

Starting today, our exciting new Fall contest begins! Enter "Dear Dr. E, Thankful is Me" contest by writing about what you are thankful for this holiday season. We will chose 3 winners to receive 5 extra points on their Smile Reward Card. The contest runs from today, September 1st through November 27th.

Hope everyone is having a great start to their school year so far!

Friday, August 27, 2010

Play It Safe This Fall- Wear a Mouthguard!


Mouth guards are vital to protecting your teeth from sports related injuries while participating in sports, such as football, soccer, baseball, hockey and basketball, just to name a few. To help raise awareness, the American Association of Orthodontists has partnered with the National Alliance for Youth Sports and NFL hall of famer Emmitt Smith to stress the importance of mouthguards in sports.

With fall sports like football getting started, don't forget to pack that mouth guard! In addition, the AAO has provided the following tips for keeping your kids safe on the field this spring. Please remind them to:

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

All of these can reduce injuries. Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements Dr. Elchahal is trying to achieve.

Give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment.

Thursday, August 19, 2010

Your pal, fluoride

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment. You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and protect your mouth and appliances from being damaged. But did you know there is another, often forgotten about, way to keep your teeth clean and healthy during your treatment? Fluoride – a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay – can help keep your teeth strong! Fluoride comes in two varieties: topical and systemic. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth. Topical fluoride includes toothpastes and mouth rinses. Systemic fluorides are swallowed in the form of a dietary supplement.

Fluoride used in the dentist/orthodontists’ office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask your doctor how to purchase professional strength fluoride). A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. After the treatment patients may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. Depending on your oral health or doctor’s recommendation, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six or 12 months. Your doctor may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses for at-home treatment.

When choosing your own fluoride product, be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and have met the criteria of the ADA for safety and effectiveness. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

A few helpful webisodes about orthodontics, from Dr. Elchahal & Team



We 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 our office, please give us a call.

Thursday, August 5, 2010

Why the Damon® System?

Something big is happening in the orthodontics world, and it’s no other than Damon braces, which allow your teeth to move more comfortably and easily than traditional braces. With the Damon System, achieving that perfect smile will be faster and easier than you ever thought possible.

Here’s why Damon® is better:

With the new Damon braces, we can achieve terrific results and finish your treatment faster. Depending on your case, this may mean saving many months of treatment! After analyzing your specific needs, we will be able to provide you with a treatment plan that will have you smiling soon! Because Damon braces are very precise and effective, we can reduce the need for many of the time-consuming and complicated procedures that are used with traditional braces. Because Damon braces work more efficiently, fewer adjustments are required. As a result, your appointments will be faster and fewer in number. Due to the unique design of this new braces system, we can move your teeth into their correct positions with much less discomfort than traditional braces. Also, Damon braces are small, very comfortable, and easy to keep clean.

Dr. Elchahal is a certified Damon System provider in Hamilton Mill, Vickery and Johns Creek, GA. To learn more about the Damon System or your treatment, please give us a call.

Friday, July 30, 2010

With Dr. Elchahal & Team, 24/7 access to your account

At the orthodontic practice of Dr. Alec Elchahal, we embrace new technology, whether it is through the innovative orthodontic treatments that we offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern offices serving Johns Creek, Hamilton Mill, and Vickery, GA.

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

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

Friday, July 23, 2010

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

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

Thursday, July 15, 2010

VIckery Orthodontics Grand Opening Drawing Winner


Congratulations Kyle Reichardt, winner of our Vickery Orthodontics grand opening drawing. Kyle has already started treatment at our new Vickery location in Cumming, GA and on his way to having a beautiful smile.

Friday, July 9, 2010

What can I expect during my consultation?

When you first come in for your initial consultation, Dr. Elchahal will conduct a comprehensive examination to assess your oral health. This will better enable us to determine the best treatment method for you.

Your orthodontic evaluation will consist of an oral and facial examination to assess your oral health. At this initial, complimentary consultation, we will have you take intraoral and facial photographs as well as panoramic and cephalometric X-rays to help determine the proper orthodontic treatment method. We find that many patients are not ready for treatment when examined. In those cases, the patient is placed on a recall program and the family is sent a reminder in the future to come back for an orthodontic re-evaluation.

If you are seeking orthodontic treatment for your child, our staff asks that both you and your child attend the initial consultation. We feel it is important that both you and your child completely understand Dr. Elchahal’s recommendations before we proceed with treatment.

Give us a call today and schedule a consultation! We look forward to hearing from you!

Friday, July 2, 2010

Wishing You a Happy & Safe Independence Day

This upcoming Sunday - which happens to be Independence Day, of course - Dr. Elchahal and our staff will celebrate our nation's 234th birthday. For most folks, the Fourth of July is a chance to celebrate and commemorate America's Declaration of Independence. It's also a time for every American to pay homage to all our soldiers, past, present and future - who lost their lives in battle - and the brave servicemen- and women who place themselves in harm's way every day so that we may continue enjoy our freedoms.

Today, we thought we'd ask: what are your Fourth of July weekend plans? Are you heading to a barbecue? A picnic? Hitting the open road with family? Having fun in the sun?

Whatever you might be doing over Independence Day weekend, our entire staff hope you have a great week and a safe and happy Fourth of July weekend! Feel free to post your Independence Day photos on our Facebook page!

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Welcome Back Yolana!


She's back - please join us in welcoming Yolana back on our team after being gone for fourteen months. We are so happy and excited to have her rejoin our team.

Friday, June 18, 2010

Vickery Orthodontics Open for Business!


It's finally open - Vickery Orthodontics located at 5067 Post Road, Suite 201, Cumming, GA 30040. Our official open date was Tuesday, June 15th and look forward to seeing new and old faces at our new location.

Friday, June 11, 2010

The advantage of Invisalign Teen™ with Dr. Alec Elchahal

We know image is everything. At an age when image is so important, the thought of having metal brackets and wires constantly attached to teeth may intensify the already-delicate confidence of today's teens. But... not to worry! There is a clear alternative to traditional braces! The team and Dr. Elchahal thought we'd remind you that Invisalign Teen™ gives you a whole new way to wear braces for a "clearly" amazing smile!

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

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

Friday, June 4, 2010

Smile--June is National Smile Month!

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

Dr. Elchahal 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!

-- Dr. Alec Elchahal & team

Friday, May 28, 2010

New Hamilton Mill Location Opening


Before the memorial day weekend, we wanted to update everyone that our brand new Hamilton Mill office will be open for business on June 4th. Come visit us at 2055 Hamilton Creek Pkwy, Suite 100, Dacula, GA 30019.

Enjoy the long weekend!

-The Smiles by Elchahal Team

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Hamilton Mill Orthodontics Celebrates Grand Opening of LEED Certified Office



Check out the press release that PracticeWorks just put out about Dr. Elchahal's Hamilton Mill Office recently becoming the first LEED Certified orthodontic office in Georgia!

Office ties together green technology and state-of-the-art treatment

ATLANTA – PracticeWorks, LLC, the exclusive maker of KODAK Dental Systems, announces one of their customers, Dr. Alec Elchahal, has been awarded the Gold Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification by the U.S. Green Building council. This office is the first LEED certified orthodontic office in Georgia.

Hamilton Mill Orthodontics, located in Dacula, GA is a 5,400 square-foot orthodontic office that uses state-of-the-art technology and design to offer their patients exceptional treatment and comfort. The new office opens June 1st, 2010.

LEED certification offers third-party verification that the building was designed and built using strategies aimed at improving performance such as energy savings, water efficiency, CO2 emissions.

“Receiving the LEED certification was very important to us as we thought about how to design our new office,” said Dr. Elchahal, owner of Hamilton Mill Orthodontics, Johns Creek Orthodontics and Vickery Orthodontics. “There are many opportunities to make an office environmentally friendly but we took the extra steps to get the certification knowing our patients would appreciate the difference.”

In addition to their innovative design, Dr. Elchahal and his team use KODAK ORTHOTRAC Practice Management Software which allow them to operate using electronic charting, thus rather their paper usage. Technology was also considered when purchasing imaging equipment. The office uses the redesigned KODAK 8000C Digital Extraoral System for lower radiation exposure.

“We are excited to be a part of Dr. Elchahal’s new practice, offering great features to help his practice be more environmentally and patient friendly,” said Susan Whitt, orthodontic product line manager at PracticeWorks. “Our research and design team is constantly looking for ways to upgrade and improve digital imaging systems and practice management software to fit the needs of a busy practice, further improving patient care.”

To obtain product information on products to request a demo, contact a PracticeWorks representative at (800) 944-6365 or visit www.kodakdental.com. To learn more about Dr. Elchahal’s office, visit www.smilesbyelchahal.com


For over 13 years, Dr. Elchahal has provided state-of-the-art orthodontic care by utilizing the latest technology to create natural and healthy smiles. Thousands of his patients are smiling because of it.

Graduating top of his class in 1995, Dr Elchahal received his doctorate degree in dentistry after completing four years of training at The Medical College of Georgia, School of Dentistry. He then went on to complete another two and one-half years of specialty training in orthodontics during his residency a The Medical College of Georgia. While an orthodontic resident, Dr. Elchahal completed a two years Masters degree in oral biology from The Medical College of Georgia School Graduate Studies. His master degree research focused on studying the use of radiology in evaluating the effect of orthodontic treatment and growth of children and adolescents. In addition to his training as an orthodontist, Dr Elchahal has completed the rigorous additional study and examinations required to become certified by The American Board of Orthodontics. He is among a small number of orthodontists in the United States to earn this level of recognized excellence in the specialty of orthodontics.

In addition to his private practice, Dr Elchahal is a member of many professional associations including the American Association of Orthodontics, Georgia Assocation of Orthodontics, Southern Association of Orthodontics, American Dental Association, American Lingual Association of Orthodontics and the American Society of Dentistry For Children.

Dr. Elchahal is committed to excellence in every aspect of his professional and personal life. He is a devoted husband to his wife Marlo, and a loving father to his three children Ryan, Lilya and Lara. In his free time, Dr. Elchahal enjoys running, skiing, outdoor activities and spending time with his family and friends.

About PracticeWorks Systems, LLC
PracticeWorks Systems, LLC, is the exclusive maker of KODAK Dental Systems, including ORTHOTRAC Software. KODAK Dental Digital Imaging and Practice Management Systems help dental professionals streamline workflow and enhance patient care by enabling them to capture, share, and use images and information easily and effectively. PracticeWorks is part of Carestream Health, Inc.’s dental systems group. Carestream Health is a leading provider of dental and medical imaging and IT solutions, serving customers in more than 150 countries. For more information, or to contact a PracticeWorks representative, call (800) 944-6365 or visit www.kodakdental.com.


Thursday, May 13, 2010

Celebrities get braces, too!

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. Elchahal!

In fact, lots of Hollywood stars have had orthodontic treatment. Check out this slideshow of famous faces. If you’ve thought about getting the perfect smile you’ve always wanted, please give us a call at 678-894-7818.

Friday, May 7, 2010

Extra Points on your Rewards Card are just a click away!


Dr. Elchahal and team strive for five. A successful practice doesn't just happen. It is the result of a strong commitment to excellence in our treatment and relationships with patients and doctors. We'd like to take a moment to thank you for showing your confidence in our practice by recommending us to your friends, family members and colleagues. One great way for you to share your experience with us is by writing your testimonial on one of our social media networks. For your convenience, you may find links on our website under testimonials. Please notify Dr. Elchahal and team that you have done so by emailing us at braces@smilesbyelchahal.com to receive 10 points on your Smiles Reward Card.

Thursday, April 29, 2010

The Braces Cookbook: Kid Tested, Orthodontist Approved!

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

Anyone with braces knows that it's important to avoid sticky foods, crunchy foods, hard foods, chewy foods, and so on. It's easy to look at the list and think, "What can I eat?" The Watermans' new book tackles that question with creative and thorough answers in the form of 50 braces-friendly recipes, plus additional tips and advice – enough to reassure any doubter.

Neatly divided into chapters such as Definitely Deserved Desserts and Be-Nice-To-Me Beverages, The Braces Cookbook offers a broad assortment of recipes from main courses and sides to breakfasts and snacks. An all-around guide, the book also offers suggestions for packing lunches, preparing quick meals, and handling parties and restaurants, where the food selection isn't under your control. There's even a section of tips for dealing with the soreness that can arise in teeth and gums when braces are adjusted.

Purchase The Braces Cookbook for your kitchen, and pick up an extra copy or two – they make great gifts!

-Alec N. Elchahal, Orthodontist Johns Creek, Suwanee, Dacula GA

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

2010 Contests with Dr. Elchahal & Team

Have you seen the list of our contests for 2010? We've just built a new contest section of our Facebook Fan Page, which you can check out by clicking here! Dr. Elchahal and his team are all about providing the Johns Creek, Hamilton Mill, Suwanee, Dacula and surrounding communities with a fun orthodontic experience. Let us know if you have questions about any of our exciting contests, or give our office a call!

Friday, April 16, 2010

Movies Under the Stars with Dr. Elchahal and Dacula Family Festival

The Dacula Family Festival and Dr. Alec Elchahal & Team are proud to present
Movies Under the Stars!

Where: 5055 Post Rd. Cumming, Ga, 30040*

What: Enjoy our FREE MOVIE SCREENINGS. Movies start at 8:15pm. For best seating, come early and bring a blanket or comfortable low-back chair!

When: May 9th- Night at the Museum

June 12th- Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

July 10th- Twilight *this movie starts at 9:30pm

August 14th- Where the Wild Things Are

September 11th- Princess Diaries

Thursday, April 8, 2010

The New & Improved Dr. Elchahal's Smile Rewards Program


We are pleased to announce the new and improved Dr. Elchahal's Smile Rewards program, officially launching next Monday, April 12th! Patients can expect more points, more prizes, and most importantly, more FUN! Ask about this exciting new program at your next appointment, or give our office a call!

Friday, April 2, 2010

Trust a Preferred Invisalign Provider in Johns Creek, Cumming and Dacula

For the Johns Creek, Dacula, and Cumming communities considering orthodontic braces, Consider Invisalign, the nearly invisible way to achieve your best smile which has been used by more than a million patients. We are an Invisalign Preferred Provider, which means we meet a strict set of requirements by the creators of Invisalign. That means you can rely on our skills and experience to provide you – and your teeth – with the best possible outcome.

How Invisalign Straightens Your Teeth
The Invisalign system uses a set of clear aligners that are custom-created for your mouth to reposition and straighten your teeth. These aligners are tailor-made for your teeth and are completely removable, requiring no metal wires or brackets. The aligners work in stages: each aligner is worn for about two weeks before being replaced by the next in the sequence, moving your teeth exactly according to the prescription we’ve created for you.


What it Means to Work with a Preferred Provider

We’re proud to be an Invisalign Preferred Provider, as designated by Align Technology, the company that created the Invisalign system of treatment. Being a Preferred Provider means that we have successfully completed the advanced training needed to treat patients with Invisalign aligners. We have continued experience with a wide variety of Invisalign cases, as we regularly treat patients with Invisalign. We also attend ongoing clinical training classes in order to maintain our qualification as a Preferred Provider in Johns Creek and surrounding areas.

Please contact us with any questions you have about the Invisalign system, or give us a call to set up a consultation so we can determine if Invisalign is a practical option for you. You can also visit our web site for more information about Invisalign treatment at the orthodontic practice of Alec Elchahal.

Friday, March 26, 2010

Access your account—any day, any time--with Smiles By Elchahal

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

Patients at our offices enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our web site. 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 web site by clicking on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started!

--Dr. Elchahal & Team

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Join Dr. Elchahal and Staff for the Midway Family Festival Grand Opening

Come join Dr. Elchahal and Staff for the Midway Family Festival Grand Opening on Saturday, March 20th located
at 5067 Post Road,Suite 201 Cumming, GA 30040 starting at 10:00 am with the dedication and concluding at 7:00 pm with a movie in the park. Midway Family Festival is the location of our new Cumming office, which will be opening at the end of April. We have a full day of fun events planned, check out the schedule below!

10:00 am
Welcome/Dedication of Ballfield

10:30 am
Ribbon cutting with all stores

10:30 am -12 pm
8u Baseball game

10:45 am -11:30 am
The Warehouse

11:00 am
Face Painter (11 - 2)
Balloon Artist (11 - 2)
Caricaturist ( 11 - 1)

11:30 am
North GA Youth Choral performance 11:30 am - 12:00 pm

12:05 pm - 12:35 pm
Master Chin-Tae Kwon Do exhibition

12:45 pm - 1:30 pm
The Warehouse

1:35 pm - 3:35 pm
Karin Mervis - muralist

7:00 pm
Movie in the park (Angels in the Outfield)
Cotton Candy

Hope to see you there!

Friday, March 12, 2010

Dr. Elchahal is Going Green in Dacula, GA

Our Hamilton Mill office in Dacula, which is relocating next month to 2055 Hamilton Creek Pkwy, Suite 100, Dacula, will be the first LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certified Orthodontic Office in Georgia!

Dr. Alec Elchahal designed the office to reflect his commitment to the well being of his patients, staff and environment. He wants to demonstrate the relationship between one's oral health and the health of our environment to our patients. He is very excited about this project and the opportunity to serve the community.

LEED is the nationally recognized benchmark for green building and operations governed by the U.S. Green Building Council. The office will be constructed with products with a high-recycled content and salvaged materials. In the day-to-day operations, Dr. Elchahal will use energy efficient products such as lighting, water consumption as well as recycling.

Friday, March 5, 2010

What’s so special about an Orthodontist?

"Dentists, Orthodontists, they're all the same right?" We hear our patients asking this question as they wonder about the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. Before becoming an orthodontist Dr. Elchahal started out in dental school and earned a DDS (dental degree), just like your dentist. After dental school however, Dr. Elchahal 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?

Thursday, February 25, 2010

Our 2010 Calendars Are Here!

Stop by our office and pick up your calendar. We now have "Theme Week". A theme week in our office is when you wear something to your appointment that goes along with the monthly theme. You will receive 2 points on your Smile Rewards Card for participating in our "Theme Week". Visit our website for additional information.

MONTHLY THEME WEEK
January 10th - 14th Pajama Apparel
February 8th - 12th Valentine's Day Apparel
March 8th - 12th St. Patty's Apparel
April 12th -16th Baseball Caps
May 10th - 14th Crazy Sunglasses
June 14th - 18th Flip-Flops
July 12th - 16th Patriotic Apparel
August 9th - 13th Fun Socks or Slippers
September 7th - 10th Sports Jerseys
October 27th - 29th Halloween Apparel
November 15th - 19th Food Drive
December 13th - 17th Holiday Sweaters

--Dr. Elchahal & Team

Friday, February 19, 2010

New Technology at Our Office


Dr. Elchahal recently acquired a new state-of-the-art 3D imaging system. With the new Kodak 9000 3D system technology, Dr. Elchahal can perform a wider range of diagnoses and treatments with exceptional improvement in patient care and services. The video above shows the type of 3D imagery that we are able to collect with this new Kodak 9000 3D imaging system.

Friday, February 12, 2010

It's never too late to straighten your teeth!

Many people think that if they didn't have braces in junior high, they've missed the only chance to straighten their teeth. But more and more, we see a strong trend in orthodontics: adults who realize the time is still ripe.

Consider Chicago resident Sally Borla, retired and in her 50s, didn't dream she'd ever wear braces. After treatment, she couldn't imagine why she hadn't started earlier. "I'd always related braces to young people, but I guess I'm living proof that it doesn't matter how old a person is," Borla said. "When I look in the mirror, I can hardly believe that the smile looking back at me is mine."

And because orthodontics closes up spaces between teeth or eliminates crowding, patients have found it's easier to keep them clean. Michael Smith of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, said he noticed fewer problems with tartar buildup since braces had realigned his teeth and jaws when he was in his late 20s. "I do believe my teeth will last a lot longer," said Smith, now in his 30s.

Maria Castro of Brandon, Florida, was 91 ("and a half," she'd add) when her braces came off. Castro said her smile was a source of pride until one of her teeth began to slip behind its neighbors when she was in her late 80s. When her family dentist told her that her teeth, gums and supporting bone were in good shape – and her son, an oral surgeon, concurred – she said, "Why not?"

Why not, indeed? One out of every five people in orthodontic treatment is over the age of eighteen. So if your teeth aren't as straight as you'd like, and you find yourself jealously eyeing your pre-teen's braces, give us a call at 678-894-7818.


There's no age limit on the perfect smile.

Friday, January 22, 2010

Before & After at Smiles by Elchahal



Have you ever wondered what patients look like before and after their treatment at the office of Alec N. Elchahal? Above is a snapshot of Stephen, one of Dr. Elchahal's patients. Stephen is one of many patients whose smiles (and lives) have been transformed by treatment at our office. For more proof, head over to the Before & After page on our web site!

If you're considering orthodontic, please give us a call. Enjoy your weekend!

Friday, January 15, 2010

Patient Reviews for Dr. Elchahal and his orthodontic team!

We love seeing all of the kind words that our patients have said about Dr. Elchahal and the team. We wanted to share a few with you. If you'd like to write a review for Dr. Elchahal, head to our Google local listing and share your comments!

"Your staff was always joking and laughing with me and always helpful, very personable. (Your facility) Was always clean with a touch of class. Very nice and pleasing to come for check ups. Thanks for my smile!" – Terry

"Very together! Very organized, good attitude and service! Your staff attitude is very friendly, informative, and helpful. Your facility is fun and friendly. The atmosphere makes visiting less painful. All employees were exceptional. Will gladly have my son come here for his braces!!" – Hope

"Your staff is always cheerful and patient. You have a very convenient location. All emergency issues scheduled promptly. Everyone was skilled and professional in demeanor." – Anonymous

"Great experience-staff always friendly and happy to see us! Your staff is always polite and helpful. Our insurance changed several times during treatment. The staff was always patient and accommodating with changes." – Diane

"Everyone is really knowledgeable about their job. Professional and friendly atmosphere, genuine concern for patient care. Service was always above and beyond our expectations. Very organized and appointments planned well to decrease waiting time. All the staff is exceptional!" – Sharon

Friday, January 8, 2010

Top Ten Tips for Cleaning Your Braces

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:

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Remove the moving parts. If you have elastic bands or headgear, remove these parts before you brush or floss.
Fluoride is your friend. Fluoride helps prevent cavities. Be sure to brush with fluoride toothpaste, and rinse with fluoride mouthwash.
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.
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.
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.

Hope these tips help!

-Dr. Elchahal