The Blog of Brian J Kim DDS MSD

February is American Heart Month

2012-02-10T08:53:00.000-08:00

Did you know February is American Heart Month? It’s a great time to take notice of the health of your heart, says Dr. Brian Kim. Cardiovascular disease remains American's number one killer, according to the American Heart Association. Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and heart disease, underscoring the importance of good oral health care.

Visiting our office on a regular basis can help prevent gum disease or at least catch it in its early stages. And because people with dental insurance are more likely to visit their dentist when they should, a healthy mouth begins with a visit to Kim Orthodontics. In observance of Heart Month, Dr. Brian Kim says it’s also important to know your numbers: blood pressure (less than 120/80), cholesterol (less than 200) and BMI (less than 25). If you have any questions about heart health, or about your treatment at (Insert Name of Practice), please give us a call today.

Kim Orthodontics, supporting National Children's Dental Health Month

2012-02-02T14:30:00.000-08:00

At Kim Orthodontics, February is National Children's Dental Health Month, and Dr. Brian Kim and team thought we’d promote good oral hygiene among our patients with a few tips and tricks, courtesy of the American Dental Association.

• 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 insert it 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 cheese, fruits and vegetables and avoid crunchy, sticky, chewy candies that can stick to the teeth. If you eat these snacks, be sure to brush after doing so.

• Carbonated or sugary drinks: these drinks create acids that can damage the teeth when mixed with saliva, so they should be avoided altogether. If you’re going to drink one of these beverages, don’t sip on it throughout the day. Rather, drink it and then brush your teeth.

• Regular dental visits: in addition to seeing our team at Kim Orthodontics during your orthodontic treatment, you should visit your dentist for professional check-ups and teeth cleaning appointments about every six months.

National Dental Health Month aims to increase awareness about the importance of our patients' oral health. If you have any questions about keeping your mouth healthy, or about your treatment with Kim Orthodontics, please feel free to give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

When should you call Kim Orthodontics?

2012-01-23T06:25:00.000-08:00

We hope you all had a wonderful weekend! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Dr. Brian Kim for an appointment. 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, please give us a call at (818) 363-7900 as soon as possible!

Dreaming of a dazzling smile? We can help!

2012-01-17T11:18:00.000-08:00

The fact is, most of us aren’t born with a red carpet smile. And that’s where our team at Kim Orthodontics can help. Of course, orthodontic treatment help make your teeth stay strong, healthy and become perfectly-aligned. But did you know you can get the beautiful straight teeth you've always wanted — without braces?

Dr. Brian Kim and our team at Kim Orthodontics are proud to offer an adult-friendly option for straightening teeth called Invisalign, which uses a series of invisible, removable and comfortable aligners that no one can tell you're wearing. So, you can smile more during treatment as well as after. Not only are the aligners invisible, they are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment. Plus, brushing and flossing are no problem. They are also comfortable, with no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment. And no metal and wires usually means you spend less time at our office getting adjustments. Invisalign also allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan when you start so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, we would love to have you in for a visit at our Granada Hills office. Please give us a call to set one up! A complimentary exam with Dr. Kim can determine if Invisalign is right for you. See you soon!

The benefits of a beautiful smile, from Dr. Kim

2012-01-11T20:35:00.000-08:00

At Kim Orthodontics, we 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 at Kim Orthodontics. 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. See you soon!

Happy New Year from Dr. Kim & staff!

2012-01-03T06:29:00.001-08:00

At Kim Orthodontics, the New Year is a time to look back to the past, and more importantly, forward to the coming year. Our wish is that our patients continue to keep their teeth healthy, as well as wear their rubber bands, headgear and appliances as prescribed during their treatment.

We look forward to meeting those patients who are planning to begin their orthodontic treatment this year - we think it's a great resolution!

Happy New Year from all of us at Kim Orthodontics!

Connect with Dr. Kim on Facebook!

2011-12-27T07:40:00.001-08:00

At Kim Orthodontics, we truly value the relationships we have developed with our patients in Granada Hills and the surrounding San Fernando Valley. Even if you only see us for your appointment on a regular basis, did you know that you can now connect with Dr. Brian Kim and our team on our Facebook page?

We invite you to “like” us at facebook.com/KimOrthodontics. We share office news and updates on our Fan Page, so, please, check it out! By Liking our page, you will receive updates and announcements from our office automatically on Facebook!

See you on Facebook! Happy Holidays!

- Dr. Kim and team

Season’s Greetings from Kim Orthodontics!

2011-12-19T08:19:00.000-08:00

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as our team at Kim Orthodontics reflect 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!

Happy Holidays from all of us at Kim Orthodontics!

Ask Dr. Kim: "I'm 34 - am I too old for orthodontic treatment?"

2011-12-12T09:42:00.000-08:00

Of course not! In fact, our staff at Kim Orthodontics recently read a fascinating statistic: adults getting braces has jumped 24 percent from from just 14 years ago! These days, one of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over 21.

While it's true that braces help make your teeth strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, perhaps another reason for the spike in adult getting brac is this: folks want to look and feel their best. In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned teeth might be the difference between getting a job or that promotion you've been waiting for, adults are choosing - very wisely - to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment at Kim Orthodontics in Granada Hills 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. Brian Kim would love to have you visit for a complimentary consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

Happy Holidays from all of us at Kim Orthodontics!

Share your winter break plans with us!

2011-12-08T10:31:00.000-08:00

Dr. Brian Kim and our team at Kim 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!

The Go-To Mom Talks Invisalign, from Dr. Kim

2011-11-28T09:57:00.001-08:00

We hope you had a great Thanksgiving weekend! Our team at Kim Orthodontics found a great video that discusses the advantages of Invisalign. In the video, Kimberley Clayton Blaine, "The Go-To Mom," discusses the Invisalign and Invisalign Teen treatment and her personal experience with Invisalign.

To determine if Invisalign is right for you, schedule a complimentary initial consultation with Dr. Kim at our Granada Hills office. See you soon!

Kim Orthodontics, giving thanks this holiday season

2011-11-21T06:17:00.001-08:00

With Thanksgiving almost here, it's a great time to ask ourselves what we're thankful for. With our friends and family around us, we celebrate the blessings given to us in the past year. What are you thankful for this holiday season? Do you have any Thanksgiving wishes you would like to share?

Dr. Brian Kim and our entire team at Kim Orthodontics 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 photos to share with us, we’d encourage you to send them along or post them on our Facebook page!

Ask Dr. Kim: “I got my braces. Now what?

2011-11-14T06:47:00.001-08:00

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 before orthodontic treatment began.

Braces are known to trap food particles and make it difficult to brush or remove plaque, which is why Dr. Brian Kim and our team 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 Dr. Kim 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.

Our team at Kim Orthodontics 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 Granada Hills office immediately to schedule an appointment for repair.

Lastly, in addition to visiting Dr. Kim's office 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.

What are your November plans?

2011-11-10T09:34:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, we’re almost in full holiday mode! But before you go celebrating, Dr. Brian J. Kim and our team at Kim Orthodontics want to know: What are your plans for November? Do you have plans for Thanksgiving? Are you planning a winter vacation? If so, we’d love to hear all about it!

You may share your stories with us below, or by posting on our Facebook page!

–The team at Kim Orthodontics

Happy Halloween from Kim Orthodontics!

2011-10-31T07:12:00.000-07:00

Trick-or-treat! In the spirit of today's sweet and spooky holiday, Dr. Brian Kim and our staff at Kim Orthodontics would like to remind all of our patients in Granada Hills and the surrounding San Fernando Valley to be safe while celebrating with friends and family. The American Association of Orthodontists were kind enough to provide trick-or-treaters with some tips for a ghoulishly good time.

A few Halloween safety guidelines before you head out:
• 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, including sticky, chewy, gummy and nutty goodies. If you happen to damage your braces, please give us a call immediately at (818) 322-4152. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone.

We wish you all a safe, fun and happy Halloween!

Emergency care with Kim Orthodontics

2011-10-25T19:52:00.000-07:00

At Kim Orthodontics, we know true orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but when they do occur we are available to you. As a general rule, you should call our Granada Hills orthodontic 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 to resolve the problem.

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you schedule an appointment with our office. When working with your appliances, you need to know the names of the parts of your appliances so you are able to identify what part is broken or out of place. After alleviating your discomfort, it is very important that you still call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem. Allowing your appliance to remain damaged for an extended period of time may result in disruptions in your treatment plan. Click here for video instructions or give us a call to learn more! We hope you're off to a great Halloween season!

Love your smile? Then we invite you to review Kim Orthodontics on Google!

2011-10-19T20:53:00.000-07:00

At the office of Dr. Brian Kim, we provide technologically advanced orthodontic care in an inviting and comfortable environment. Our patients are the focus of everything we do, and it is our goal to create smiles that exceed their expectations.

Whether you've visited Dr. Kim for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about our Granada Hills office. There are lots of places on the Internet where you may share your reviews, but we'd like to direct you to our Google Places Page to write a review of us - it only takes a moment!

You may write your review here.

Thank you in advance and enjoy the rest of your week!

"Dentists, Orthodontists ... What's the Difference?"

2011-10-11T20:59:00.000-07:00

“Dentists, Orthodontists, they’re all the same right?” We hear our patients asking this question as they wonder about the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. Before becoming an orthodontist Dr. Brian Kim started out in dental school and earned a dental degree, just like your dentist. After dental school however, Dr. Kim 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 in Dr. Kim to help you through any type of treatment your teeth, jaw and gums might need?

At Kim Orthodontics, October marks National Orthodontic Health Month!

2011-10-04T12:55:00.001-07:00

October is National Orthodontic Health Month, and our staff at Kim Orthodontics wanted to remind all of Dr. Brian Kim's patients to be careful when they bite into their treats this month. Remember, caramels, taffy, nuts, bubble gum, popcorn kernels and suckers are some of the foods you should be avoiding this Halloween Season! Indulging in these foods can break your braces and lengthen your treatment time!

Of course, Halloween doesn’t have to be completely treat-less. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have provided a helpful list of tips and braces-friendly recipes for the Halloween Season.

Enjoy and have a great rest of the week!

Ask Dr. Kim: What’s the deal with coffee and tea?

2011-09-28T13:44:00.000-07:00

At Kim Orthodontics, we know a lot of people enjoy a hot-brewed coffee or tea in the morning, followed by a cola (or more coffee) in the afternoon. But what many don’t know is that both coffee and tea are especially tough on your teeth – especially during orthodontic treatment – because tannic acid (the substance that makes the dark color) etches into the pits and grooves of tooth enamel, and can stain your pearly whites brown.

So, if you can't give up that morning cup o’joe, what can you do? Dr. Brian Kim and our team suggest rinsing with a glass of water after every cup. If you enjoy iced coffee or tea, drink your beverage with a straw so that tannins don’t make contact with your front upper and lower teeth. Even if you’re not a big coffee drinker, we encourage you to swish and swallow some water at the end of each meal. Water, after all, helps neutralize acids left in your mouth after eating and also reduces cavity-causing bacteria.

And if you’re one of those folks who just needs their morning coffee or tea, Dr. Kim and our staff suggest using a colored ligature instead of a clear or white one. If all else fails, ask us to use tie wires instead of elastic ligatures as tie wires do not stain at all.

We hope this helps! Let us know if you have any questions below or ask us on Facebook!

September is Self-Improvement Month, from Kim Orthodontics

2011-09-22T12:29:00.000-07:00

These days, Americans everywhere are putting greater emphasis on health, fitness and self-improvement, and more people are seeking orthodontic treatment to improve their smile. September happens to be Self-Improvement Month, and our team at Kim Orthodontics know that orthodontic treatment is an investment in self-improvement that will reap benefits for a lifetime. And, recent advances in orthodontia, such as Invisalign and more effective brackets and wires, now make orthodontic treatment more palatable for many interested in obtaining that beautiful smile.

Not only does orthodontic treatment give you that beautiful smile, it can also benefit your dental and general health. If teeth are poorly aligned, removing plaque and tartar by brushing and flossing alone may be difficult. A poor bite may result in fractured or excessively worn tooth surfaces, and the extra stress caused by a poor bite may even result in problems with your jaw joints.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. Brian Kim would love to have you visit for a complimentary consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

See you soon!

Connect with Dr. Kim on Facebook!

2011-09-13T21:32:00.000-07:00

Breaking bad habits with Dr. Kim

2011-09-05T11:33:00.000-07:00

At Kim Orthodontics, we know good dental health requires only a few minutes a day. We thought we’d provide some practical advice on how to improve your or your child’s smile between your adjustment visits with Dr. Kim.

Start by brushing your teeth twice a day. Proper brushing techniques are an essential part of maintaining good oral health during your orthodontic treatment, as well as preventing gum disease. More care and time are needed to adequately brush your teeth when you are wearing braces. Brushing daily helps remove decay-causing plaque from tooth surfaces. Please consult Dr. Kim if you would like us to review brushing techniques with you or your child. The use of a mechanical toothbrush such as a Sonicare or Oral B can aid in removing plaque around braces. Flossing daily will also prevent plaque to build up between the teeth and prevent stains between your teeth. Research has shown the bacteria of gum disease has been linked to coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes and memory loss. Lastly, we encourage you to throw away old toothbrushes and replace them every 2 or 3 months, or after an illness.

We hope this helps! If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Kim Orthodontics or ask your general dentist during your next scheduled visit! Or, ask us on Facebook!

Back to school with Dr. Kim

2011-08-29T14:23:00.000-07:00

Now that many of the schools in Granada Hills and the surrounding San Fernando Valley are back in session, Dr. Brian Kim would like to remind all of our patients about the importance of scheduling appointments in advance. With school, clubs, sports and family duties to consider, we know that it can be challenging to find time to visit Kim Orthodontics this fall. In order to accommodate all of our patients’ busy schedules, it is important that you plan ahead for your appointments so that we are able to provide you with an appointment time that is convenient for you.

As always, please remember to give us advanced notice if you’re unable to make your regularly-scheduled appointment. If we receive enough notice, we might be able to schedule another patient for that time. Feel free to give us a call if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your fall appointment.

We’ll see you soon and hope summer is winding down nicely for all our patients!

Ask Dr. Kim: Now that I have braces, what can I eat?

2011-08-24T07:54:00.000-07:00

You just got braces at Kim Orthodontics, and Dr. Brian Kim has informed you that during your orthodontic treatment you will want to avoid eating anything sticky, hard, crunchy, or chewy. What does this leave for you to eat? Lettuce? Yogurt? Nothing?

Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, created a variety of “braces-friendly” recipes that will allow you to enjoy your favorite treats without interfering with your orthodontic care!

Recipes include main dishes, side dishes and even yummy desserts! After all, a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps the patient achieve the best possible results from orthodontic treatment.

If you have any questions about the recipes listed or about the foods you should be avoiding during your orthodontic treatment, please give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Connect with Dr. Kim on Facebook!

2011-08-15T13:33:00.001-07:00

Smile Week at Kim Orthodontics

2011-08-10T09:51:00.000-07:00

It’s National Smile Week, and a GREAT time to remind our patients at Kim Orthodontics to practice good oral hygiene to keep those teeth shining during your orthodontic treatment!

Here are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Week for many, many years to come:

* 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 your orthodontic treatment
* Visit your dentist regularly (every 6 months or as recommended by your dentist)!

And remember to smile at people you come across throughout the week, whether you know them or not. Smiles are contagious, and are a good thing to give and to get. We hope you’re all having a relaxing summer!

- Dr. Kim and team

Summer fun with Dr. Kim!

2011-08-03T11:40:00.000-07:00

It’s summer here at Kim Orthodontics, a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbeque, a camping trip, baseball game or just having fun in the sun, we want to hear about it! Leave a comment here on our blog or Facebook page and tell us about your summer!

Happy (and safe) travels!

Are dental checkups important during your orthodontic treatment? You bet.

2011-07-27T09:59:00.001-07:00

If you're brushing twice a day and flossing during your treatment, we think that's wonderful. But, don’t forget that it’s also vital for you to visit your dentist every six months (or as recommended) in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting Kim Orthodontics, of course). Our team and Dr. Brian Kim will tell you regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral hygiene.

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

Your general dentist will also 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, please schedule an appointment or ask us for a recommendation - Dr Kim and our staff will be happy to provide a list of some great dentists in Granada Hills or San Fernando Valley!

What’s on your mind?

2011-07-19T20:37:00.001-07:00

As the hot California summer progresses, our team at Kim Orthodontics strive to continue writing about important topics related to orthodontics and your treatment at our office.

To help us continue doing that through the course of the summer, Dr. Brian Kim and team would like to ask you, our readers: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the always-changing and exciting field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog in the summer months? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Dr. Kim for a while? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook page!

We hope you’re having a great week!

Ask Dr. Kim: When should my child come in for a consultation?

2011-07-14T22:32:00.000-07:00

Great question! Many parents in Granada Hills and surrounding areas believe they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to visit Dr. Brian Kim for a consultation, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. When, exactly? Age seven, according to our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, who recommend that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven.

That’s right—seven.

You might be thinking: "What’s so great about age seven?" Enough permanent teeth have arrived for Dr. Kim 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 Kim Orthodontics to schedule a consultation! Summer is a great time to come in for a visit!

Does Dr. Kim have your current contact info?

2011-07-07T23:21:00.000-07:00

We hope you’re having a great week and a great summer so far! If you are planning on traveling with family this summer or think you might not be able to make it to your scheduled adjustment appointment with Dr. Brian Kim, please let us know ahead of time so that we may be able to accommodate you, as well as schedule another patient at that appointment time.

Also, we ask that you give us a call and and let us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed! Please call us with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so we may be able to reach you.

Thank you! Enjoy your weekend!

Patriotic fun facts with Dr. Kim!

2011-07-01T16:53:00.000-07:00

On Monday, Dr. Brian Kim and our team will be busy celebrating America's 235th birthday. And because we know our patients love fun facts, we thought we'd provide you with some fun facts about Independence Day! Have a great Fourth of July weekend everyone, and we'll see you next week!!

- Independence Day was first celebrated in Philadelphia on July 8, 1776.

- An estimated 2.5 million people lived in America in July 1776. Today, an estimated 309 million people reside in the United States.

- The major objection to being ruled by Britain was taxation without representation, which meant that people didn't want to be taxed by a government that did not represent them.

- In 1941, Congress declared 4th of July a federal legal holiday. It is one of the few federal holidays that have not been moved to the nearest Friday or Monday.

- The stars on the original American flag were arranged in a circle to ensure that all colonies were equal.

- America's mascot, the bald eagle, can achieve speeds of up to 200 miles per hour when making a predatory dive. During a normal flight, bald eagles can travel up to 30 miles per hour.

- The American flag patch is backwards on U.S. Army uniforms. The reason? The blue field on the flag (the part with the stars) faces forward to symbolize carrying the American flag into battle.

- Someone who specializes in the history of flags is called a vexillologist.

- The word ‘patriotism’ comes from the Latin patria, which means ‘homeland’ or ‘fatherland.’

- According to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, Americans consume over 150 million hot dogs during their Independence Day festivities.

- Speaking of food, there's a 1-in-6 chance the beef on your backyard this Independence Day weekend grill came from Texas. The Lone Star State is America's leader in the production of cattle and calves.

"Hey Dr. Kim! What's the deal with retainers?"

2011-06-23T21:57:00.000-07:00

If you've recently completed treatment at Kim Orthodontics, our entire staff would like to congratulate you, again! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Brian Kim 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, 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. Kim is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for an entire lifetime.

Love your smile? Tell the world ALL ABOUT IT!

2011-06-17T16:29:00.001-07:00

At the office of Dr. Brian Kim, we provide technologically advanced orthodontic care in an inviting and comfortable environment. Our patients are the focus of everything we do, and it is our goal to create smiles that exceed their expectations.

Whether you've visited Dr. Kim for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about our Granada Hills office. There are lots of places on the Internet where you may share your reviews, but we'd like to direct you to our Google Local Page to write a review of us - it only takes a moment!

You may write your review here.

Thank you in advance and enjoy your weekend!

Tell Kim Orthodontics about your summer plans!

2011-06-06T21:49:00.000-07:00

At Kim Orthodontics, we just can't believe it's already June. As the school year comes to an end for a lot of Dr. Kim's patients, the days get longer and the temperatures begin to climb, there’s no better way to beat the heat than jump into a pool or cool off from the hot California sun under the shade with a beverage. For a lot of our patients, summer brings a chance to get away from it all and escape every-day life, if only for a week or two. For others, it means a season of relaxation and relief from homework and other duties.

What about you?

What are your plans for summer? Do you have any interesting plans for a summer vacation? Does your family have a vacation or family reunion planned? We want to see when and how you are all spending your summer vacations. If you’re going somewhere exotic, fantastic! If you're going camping, awesome! Even if you're staying at home, that can be fun, too.

Please feel free to share your summer plans and experiences with us on our Facebook page as the summer rolls along!

Smile! June is National Smile Month!

2011-06-01T16:50:00.000-07:00

Now that June is here, our team at Kim Orthodontics thought we’d tell you June is National Smile Month, and a good time to remind all our patients to practice good oral hygiene between your visits to our Granada Hills office, as well as your general dentist.

Below are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Month for many, many years to come:

* 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 your orthodontic treatment
* Visit your dentist regularly (every 6 months or as recommended by your dentist)!

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call, ask Dr. Kim during your next visit or ask us on Facebook!

"My son is turning 7 - when should we visit for a consultation?"

2011-05-22T18:59:00.000-07:00

Great question! Our team at Kim Orthodontics 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 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. Brian Kim to assess what the best age for treatment is.

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions about your child’s orthodontic treatment at Kim Orthodontics! We hope you have a WONDERFUL rest of the weekend!

Love your smile? Tell the world ALL ABOUT IT!

2011-05-14T08:31:00.000-07:00

At Kim Orthodontics, we provide technologically advanced orthodontic care in an inviting and comfortable environment. Our patients are the focus of everything we do, and it is our goal to create smiles that exceed their expectations.

Whether you've visited Dr. Kim for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about our Granada Hills office. There are lots of places on the Internet where you may share your reviews, but we'd like to direct you to our Google Places Page to write a review of us - it only takes a moment!

You may write your review here.

Thank you in advance and enjoy your weekend!

What’s on your reading list? From Kim Orthodontics

2011-05-05T19:47:00.001-07:00

With the school year close to winding down for a lot of our patients at Kim 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. Brian Kim 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!

Orthodontic fun facts, from Dr. Brian Kim

2011-04-29T12:45:00.000-07:00

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 Kim 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.

"Now that I have braces, what can I eat?"

2011-04-20T07:01:00.000-07:00

You just got braces and Dr. Kim 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!

Ask Dr. Kim: “I’m 37 – am I too old for braces?”

2011-04-11T21:12:00.001-07:00

Get to know your braces! From Dr. Kim

2011-04-06T15:54:00.000-07:00

If you ever sustain damage to your braces and need to call Kim 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.

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!

Connect with Kim Orthodontics on Facebook!

2011-03-31T14:36:00.001-07:00

Play it safe this spring, from Dr. Kim

2011-03-22T17:19:00.000-07:00

Wouldn’t you believe it, it’s already springtime! The spring months, however, bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of kids damaging their precious mouths and pearly whites. If you play sports, it’s important that you consult Dr. Brian Kim 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.

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 Kim Orthodontics. And don’t forget to ask us—Dr. Kim will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment.

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 Kim Orthodontics.

Ask Dr. Kim: Who benefits from braces?

2011-03-15T10:47:00.000-07:00

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Brian Kim 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 with Kim Orthodontics 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 at Kim Orthodontics. Set up an appointment for a free consultation with Dr. Kim at our Granada Hills, CA office and find out how orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

With Kim Orthodontics, access to your account any day, any time

2011-03-07T11:39:00.000-08:00

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

At Kim Orthodontics, we embrace technology, whether it's through the innovative orthodontic treatments Dr. Brian Kim offers, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern office located in Granada Hills.

Did you know that patients at our office have access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our helpful website? You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, from the comfort of your own home! 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 at (818) 363-7900 if you have any questions about getting started!

Invisalign patient testimonial [Video]

2011-02-27T20:09:00.000-08:00

Dr. Brian Kim and team came across this video recently, and realized that it's just what folks considering Invisalign need to see. Invisalign gets a ton of promotion online (including here on our blog), but people rarely get the see a clear cut, unbiased, point of view from someone who actually has chosen to straighten their teeth with Invisalign.

At Kim Orthodontics, we get quite a lot of requests for Invisalign. We always let our patients know about the stages of Invisalign, as well as how one might first react to it. But, to hear it from someone actually wearing these clear aligners is something else.

Check out this video of a patient who has been wearing her aligners for only 10 minutes! 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 FREE initial consultation, so we can discuss the specifics of your treatment.

Presidents' Day Fun Facts!

2011-02-20T20:35:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow 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 our patients at Kim Orthodontics.

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 0 died in office.

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

*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.

Complimentary Consultations at Kim Orthodontics

2011-02-14T11:00:00.000-08:00

At Kim Orthodontics, we provide technologically advanced orthodontic care in an inviting and comfortable environment. Our patients are the focus of everything we do, and it is our goal to create smiles that exceed their expectations.

One of our commitments is meeting with you to help you explore all or the options available to you or your child. We offer complimentary consultations for those interested in orthodontic treatment. During this time, you'll have time reserved with Dr. Brian Kim, who will assess your particular needs as well as discuss treatment options available and answer any questions you may have. We place a high value on making sure you have complete information before beginning treatment.

If you have been thinking about obtaining the dazzling smile you’ve always wanted, we invite you to give us a call at one of our office in Granada Hills.

See you soon!

Kim Orthodontics, supporting National Children's Dental Health Month

2011-02-06T20:50:00.000-08:00

Ask Dr. Kim: What are "Dentofacial Orthopedics"?

2011-01-30T08:50:00.000-08:00

You may have noticed that Dr. Brian Kim specializes in "Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics." While most people have heard of orthodontics, many are confused by the "dentofacial orthopedics" part of the title.

Not to worry - we can explain!

You probably know that an orthodontist like Dr. Kim straightens teeth, and indeed: "ortho" comes from the Greek for "straight" or "correct," and "dontic" from the Greek for "teeth." But what about dentofacial orthopedics? "Dentofacial" is "teeth" plus "face" while "ortho" again means "straight" and "pedic" is from the Greek for "child."

Essentially, while orthodontics entails the management of tooth movement, dentofacial orthopedics involves the guidance of facial growth and development, which occurs largely during childhood. In both cases, appliances are frequently used – the more familiar braces for orthodontics, and other specialized appliances like headgear and expanders depending on what facial abnormalities are present. Sometimes orthopedic treatment may precede conventional braces, but often the two are accomplished at the same time. So if your child gets braces and headgear, he's undergoing orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics!

Because Dr. Kim is skilled in both areas, he is able to diagnose any misalignments in the teeth and jaw as well as the facial structure, and can devise a treatment plan that integrates both orthodontic and dentofacial orthopedic treatments.

We hope that helps! Contact our Granada Hills orthodontic office and schedule a complimentary consultation for your child. It’s never too late to get a great smile, and we can’t wait to help you get started.

Connect with the Braces Brigade!

2011-01-22T15:54:00.000-08:00

At Kim 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.

Our team at Kim Orthodontics 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 at our Granada Hills office if you have any questions about the Braces Brigade or your own orthodontic treatment with Dr. Kim!

January featured patient review for Kim Orthodontics!

2011-01-16T10:04:00.000-08:00

Dr. Brian Kim and our staff got a fantastic testimonial recently from Daniel K., a father of a current patient. Here's what Daniel had to say:

"Woohoo! It is as good as it gets! My 11 yr old daughter Hannah got her braces yesterday...unfortunately, she got my overbite and crooked lower teeth so with a tinge of guilt and concern I had to get them for her or I can see a life long regret! ... I have a 5 year old too that I had to take to the consultation and he was thrilled to see a 3 screen game area to keep him entertained! He didn't want to leave! But back to what is really important...Dr. Kim uses the best quality materials on your braces and uses the most sophisticated and up to date machines to diagnose and perform treatment on your teeth! The consultation is very informative as they have documentation of past patients and examples of "before" and "after" treatments depending on your condition. Emphasis on "we don't take shortcuts" is comforting and gives u confidence that you are getting the best and effective treatment plan! Dr. Kim has a great staff - friendly, courteous and professional! And most critical...Dr. Kim is a great guy, highly skilled and can tell he loves what he does!"

Thanks for writing in, Daniel! At the office of Dr. Kim, we provide technologically advanced orthodontic care in an inviting and comfortable environment. Our patients are the focus of everything we do, and it is our goal to create smiles that exceed their expectations. Serving Granada Hills and the surrounding San Fernando Valley, Dr. Brian Kim is your orthodontic specialist, offering traditional braces and Invisalign invisible braces for children, teens and adults.

Ask Dr. Kim: Why are regular dental checkups so important during orthodontic treatment?

2011-01-08T15:57:00.000-08:00

Great question. If you're brushing twice a day and flossing during your treatment, we think that's wonderful. But, don’t forget that it’s also vital for you to visit your dentist every six months (or as recommended) in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting Kim Orthodontics, of course). Our team and Dr. Brian Kim will tell you regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral hygiene.

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

Your general dentist will also 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, please schedule an appointment or ask us for a recommendation - Dr Kim and our staff will be happy to provide a list of some great dentists in Granada Hills or San Fernando Valley!

What are cavities, and how do you avoid them while you're wearing braces?

2011-01-02T15:08:00.000-08:00

At Kim Orthodontics, we know one word nobody wants to hear when they visit their dentist is Cavity! That’s right, the dreaded cavity; but what exactly is a cavity and how do you get one? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger.

So, what causes a cavity? Well, a cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic, and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

Yes, cavities can be repaired by your general dentist, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities while you’re wearing braces:

· Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily

· Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)

· Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth and braces where your toothbrush can’t reach

· Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat or drink

· Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Brian Kim

We hope that helps! Give us a call to learn more about keeping your braces and oral health in tip-top shape! Happy New Year!

Happy New Year from Kim Orthodontics!

2010-12-26T17:07:00.000-08:00

2010 is almost over—and what a year it was! Dr. Brian Kim and our staff thought we’d ask: what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you most 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, to all our patients, friends, family and all our dental and medical colleagues in Granada Hills and surrounding areas. Thanks for voting for us as in KCAL 9’s “Best of the Best” – we appreciate all of you and will see you in 2011!

Getting social with Kim Orthodontics

2010-12-18T17:17:00.000-08:00

At Kim Orthodontics, we embrace technology, whether it’s through the innovative orthodontic treatments Dr. Brian Kim offers at our Granada Hills pffice, our high-tech web site or our Facebook fan page. We love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our fan page. For social media to work, however, conversation is vital, and that’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social networks like Facebook and Twitter are hugely popular these days, we know they're unpredictable and ever-changing.

While Dr. Kim and our staff take a little time to research 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 in the coming weeks or months? Send us your thoughts or give us a call! Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

What helps you relax at Kim Orthodontics?

2010-12-12T16:41:00.000-08:00

Dr. Brian Kim and team know not everyone is always tickled about visiting their orthodontist. But at Kim Orthodontics, we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. Serving Granada Hills and the surrounding San Fernando Valley, we provide technologically advanced orthodontic care in an inviting and comfortable environment. Our patients are the focus of everything we do, and it is our goal to create smiles that exceed their expectations.

We’d like to know: What is it about our office that makes you comfortable or puts you or your child at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff? Could be something about Dr. Kim?

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

Ask Dr. Kim: What's the deal with retainers?

2010-12-06T14:39:00.000-08:00

If you recently completed treatment at Kim Orthodontics, our entire staff would like to congratulate you, again! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Brian Kim 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, 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. Kim is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for an entire lifetime.

To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment, please visit our website for instructions and read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth. You may also give us a call at (818) 363-7900!

We hope you all had a great weekend!

KIM KASH!

2010-11-29T15:14:00.000-08:00

We are very excited to introduce our KIM KASH rewards program. You have a chance to earn great prizes by being a great patient! Successful orthodontic treatment is a team effort, and it requires a lot of help and cooperation from you. To reward you, we have prizes that you can win on our KIM KASH Wheel of Fortune.

KIM KASH can be earned for keeping good oral hygiene and brushing well, keeping your appointments and being on time. KIM KASH can be earned by wearing your appliances, such as your orthodontic elastics, headgear and not breaking any braces. You can also earn KIM KASH by doing extra things, such as community service, getting good grades or improving your grades.

Once you earn 50 KIM KASH dollars, you can redeem them for a chance to spin the Wheel of Fortune. The wheel has fun prizes, such as gift certificates, video games, movie tickets, iPods, and much more!

Give us a call to enroll today! For official KIM KASH rules, please head to our website!

Kim Orthodontics, giving thanks this holiday season

2010-11-22T08:15:00.000-08:00

Cold and flu season is here - replace your toothbrush!

2010-11-15T13:34:00.000-08:00

Fall is upon us, and with it comes the dreaded cold and flu season. After recovering from your cold, Dr. Brian Kim will tell you one of the most important steps you can take to avoid becoming reinfected is replacing your toothbrush!

Germs can linger on the bristles, and you risk prolonging your sickness by continuing to use the same toothbrush. Be smart - keep a spare, just in case! To protect your toothbrush from bacteria all year long, consider the following tips:

• 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 your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Worn bristles are less effective in properly cleaning your teeth, and can actually be damaging to teeth if used too long!

Hope this tip helps! Feel free to call us at Kim Orthodontics at (818) 363-7900 if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook. Have a great week!

Connect with Kim Orthodontics on Facebook!

2010-11-08T14:01:00.000-08:00

Happy Halloween from Kim Orthodontics!

2010-10-30T17:52:00.000-07:00

Trick-or-treat! In the spirit of this weekend's sweet and spooky holiday, Dr. Brian Kim and our staff at Kim Orthodontics would like to remind all of our patients in Granada Hills and the surrounding San Fernando Valley to be safe while celebrating with friends and family. The American Association of Orthodontists were kind enough to provide trick-or-treaters with some tips for a ghoulishly good time.

A few Halloween safety guidelines before you head out:
• 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, including sticky, chewy, gummy and nutty goodies. If you happen to damage your braces, please give us a call immediately at (818) 322-4152. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone.

We wish you all a safe, fun and happy Halloween weekend!

The power of Invisalign at Kim Orthodontics [Video]

2010-10-24T21:40:00.000-07:00

Dr. Kim and our team have blogged about Invisalign in previous posts, but today thought we'd share a helpful video for those who are intrigued by the idea of straightening their teeth without using traditional metal braces. The Invisalign system at the office of Dr. Brian Kim is a state-of-the-art system of clear, removable aligners that we proudly offer to adults and teens at our convenient Granada Hills office. We have plenty of resources on our website to check out about Invisalign, or give our office a call at (818) 322-4152 for a complimentary consultation to learn if this revolutionary new treatment option is right for you!

Not only are the aligners invisible, they are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment. Plus, brushing and flossing are no problem. They are also comfortable, with no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment. And no metal and wires usually means you spend less time in our office getting adjustments. Dr. Brian Kim is a Certified Invisalign® Provider in Granada Hills and the surrounding San Fernando Valley. Dr. Kim is also a Best Orthodontist in the San Fernando Valley Nominee for 2010.

Ask Dr. Kim: What's the deal with Halloween candy?

2010-10-15T07:50:00.000-07:00

For all you moms and dads who are worried about kids going overboard on sugar and other sweets, Halloween - which is right around the corner - is a dreaded annual event.

All those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, but these treats can damage your teeth and braces too! Did you know sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them? This can cause tooth decay and cavities!

Sour and fruity candy, such as Starburst and Skittles, are the worst for your child’s teeth – these candies have a low pH value, which can ruin enamel. So instead of candy, our staff at Kim Orthodontics encourages you to try these braces-friendly Halloween treats.

If you or your child do eat candy this Halloween season, try to limit the amount of these candies you eat, and when you do eat them, either rinse your mouth with water afterward, drink some milk or eat some cheese.

Hope this helps! Have a great weekend!

- Dr. Kim and the Kim Orthodontics staff

Dr. Brian Kim and team support National Orthodontic Health Month!

2010-10-06T09:58:00.000-07:00

Share your story with us! Why did you choose Kim Orthodontics?

2010-09-28T13:07:00.000-07:00

At Kim Orthodontics, we provide technologically advanced orthodontic care in an inviting and comfortable environment. Our patients are the focus of everything we do at our convenient Granada Hills office, and it's our goal to create smiles that exceed their expectations.

But we’re wondering: What made you choose Dr. Brian Kim for your orthodontic treatment?

Whether you’ve just come in for a complimentary consultation or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can write a review on our Facebook page or on our Google listing.

Lastly, we've mentioned this before, but we are absolutely honored to be chosen as the "Best of the Best" in Granada Hills and the San Fernando Valley ... and encourage you, our wonderful patients and supporters, to vote for us online! You may vote here.

Voting ends Dec. 31st! Let's see those votes - you may vote here.

Thank you in advance, and we hope you're having a great week!

Kim Orthodontics, reminding you to protect your mouth this fall

2010-09-21T10:42:00.000-07:00

With fall sports just around the corner for a lot of our patients, Dr. Brian Kim thought today would be a good time to remind our athletes in treatment to take care of both their mouth and appliances while participating in contact sports (and non-contact sports) this fall.

You should ALWAYS wear a mouth guard when playing sports, but especially this month. Why? September is National Childhood Injury Prevention Month.

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.

Our staff at Kim 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!

When should you call Kim Orthodontics?

2010-09-11T14:12:00.000-07:00

We hope you're having a wonderful weekend! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Dr. Brian Kim for an appointment. 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, please give us a call at (818) 363-7900 as soon as possible!

Dr. Brian Kim, your Granada Hills Damon® System braces provider

2010-09-03T10:09:00.000-07:00

Our staff at Kim Orthodontics are pleased to offer our patients The Damon® System. Damon braces allow your teeth to move more comfortably and easily than traditional braces. Thanks to these innovative new braces, achieving your perfect smile will be faster and easier than you ever thought possible.

Here’s why Damon® braces work better than traditional braces:

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. Brian Kim is a certified Damon System provider in Granada Hills and San Fernando Valley. To learn more about the Damon System or your treatment, please give us a call at (818) 363-7900. Have a wonderful Labor Day weekend!

Love your smile? Then we invite you to review Kim Orthodontics on Google!

2010-08-27T16:54:00.000-07:00

At the office of Dr. Brian Kim, we provide technologically advanced orthodontic care in an inviting and comfortable environment. Our patients are the focus of everything we do, and it is our goal to create smiles that exceed their expectations.

Whether you've visited Dr. Kim for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about our Granada Hills office. There are lots of places on the Internet where you may share your reviews, but we'd like to direct you to our Google Local Page to write a review of us - it only takes a moment!

You may write your review here.

Thank you in advance and enjoy your weekend!

Kim Orthodontics nominated for Best of L.A.!

2010-08-20T10:01:00.000-07:00

Dr. Brian Kim and our entire staff at Kim Orthodontics are proud to be nominated as the best orthodontic office in Los Angeles by KCAL9! At the office of Dr. Kim, we provide technologically advanced orthodontic care in an inviting and comfortable environment. Our patients are the focus of everything we do, and it is our goal to create smiles that exceed their expectations.

We are honored to be chosen as the "Best of the Best" in Granada Hills and the San Fernando Valley and encourage you, our wonderful patients and supporters, to vote for us online! You may vote here.

Voting ends Dec. 31st! Let's see those votes - have a GREAT weekend!

Are you reading this summer?

2010-08-13T16:33:00.000-07:00

Traveling this August? Heading on a camping trip? Lying on a hammock, resting in your backyard?

Summer is a great time for kids to enjoy friends and family activities, but it’s also is a great time for them to continue learning, maintain the skill level and prepare for the school year (which is only less than a month away.

Out of ideas? Ask us for suggestions, and Dr. Brian Kim and team would be happy to provide a few titles. You may also ask a librarian here in Granada Hills for some ideas or check out these summer reading lists we came across this morning.

Happy reading and have a GREAT weekend!

Invisalign®, giving parents in San Fernando Valley something to smile about

2010-08-06T13:18:00.000-07:00

Hey parents! Focusing on your kids' teeth and oral health so much that you're neglecting your own? If you've been thinking about having your own set of perfect teeth, our staff at Kim Orthodontics would love to help! Dr. Brian Kim is specially trained to offer an adult-friendly option for straightening teeth called Invisalign in the San Fernando Valley and surrounding areas.

Invisalign, which consists of a set of clear aligners that are molded to fit your teeth, are to be worn 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 at (818) 363-7900 to set up a complimentary consultation, so we can discuss the specifics of your treatment.

Happy Friday! We hope you're having a great summer!

Retainers 101, from Kim Orthodontics

2010-07-28T16:00:00.000-07:00

If you recently completed treatment at Kim Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Kim 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. Kim is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime.

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

Dr. Kim protecting you from Skin Cancer this summer

2010-07-19T11:02:00.000-07:00

As the summer days become warmer here in Granada Hills, CA, our team at Kim Orthodontics want to stress the importance of sun protection. As you're lounging by the beach, at the park, or even with friends in the backyard, it is important that you take care of your skin and eye health. That's why we wanted to share a few facts on sun safety that we came across today in Better Homes and Gardens.

Do you love spending time in the sun?

Don't forget to apply sunscreen! Sunscreen is categorized primarily by its Sun Protection Factor, or SPF, which represents how long it takes UVB light to redden skin. If you're spending extended periods of time in the sunshine, sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater is recommended. According to Susan Chon, associate dermatology professor at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, one ounce of sunscreen should be applied to your entire body every two hours, or after swimming or sweating. UV protection sunglasses, wide brim hats, and clothing can help shield your skin and eyes from harmful sun rays.

For more sun protection tips, read this full article on sun safety. Have a fun and safe week!

-Your friends at Kim Orthodontics

With Kim Orthodontics, 24/7 access to your account

2010-07-15T11:32:00.000-07:00

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

Patients at our office enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our website. You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

Take a look at a few patient reviews about this service:

"I like receiving financial reminders so that I don't fall behind on payments. And I like the convenience of being able to pay online." ~Jennifer

"You can log in anytime you want to look at x-rays, appointments and ask questions." ~Betty

"I can easily check my appointments if I do not remember my schedule." ~Cecilia

"Dr. Kim's (Ortho Sesame) service sets him apart as a professional whom is keeping up with the needs of his patients. In this day in age, the internet is very accessible and a much more convenient way to keep in touch with your doctor." ~Jennifer

"My orthodontist is committed to providing his patients with the best customer service, not only in his office but outside as well, by the use of this website." ~Gabriel

It's so easy to sign up for this convenient service! Just visit our website and click on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started!

Parental Spotlight: 7 tips for traveling with teens

2010-07-08T11:44:00.000-07:00

Hey Parents! Are you planning that perfect vacation for the whole family? At Kim Orthodontics, we know that summer is the season when many families choose to hit the open road—or catch a flight—to make those memories together. That’s why we want to share a few tips for summer travel from our friends at Yahoo! Shine.

1) Have your teens set the pace—and even the itinerary. No teen wants to be dragged around a city that they have no interest in, by allowing everyone a voice in the trip itinerary, children and parents alike become more invested in the vacation.

2) Everyone offers up a playlist. A trip soundtrack isn’t complete without a hodgepodge of every family member’s favorite music tracks!

3) Set a limit on phones/electronics use. This decision has to be specific to your family, but a good rule of thumb is that if you’re setting the rules for minute limits or check-ins that all family members should stick to them—not just teens and tweens.

4) Keep food and drinks on hand. Sometimes a snack is all you need to stay cheery- hunger can oftentimes create unnecessary arguments and tension between families.

5) Don’t make them clean the hotel room. While on vacation, the same rules that apply at home for cleaning don’t necessarily apply while staying in a hotel.

6) Set a gift shop budget. These costs can add up quickly, so be sure to set limits ahead of time!

7) Give them a little freedom. When traveling with tweens and teens, it is important that they are able to have some areas, maybe a five-block radius or even the hotel lobby, where they are able to wander without the whole family.

We hope these tips are useful for helping you plan that perfect family vacation this summer! For more articles on parenting and for the parenting pick of the day, check out Yahoo! Shine. Also, if you have any great family vacation photos, feel free to post them on our Facebook page!

Happy travels,

-Your friends at Kim Orthodontics

Hey, Moms! Have you signed the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge?

2010-06-29T11:33:00.000-07:00

Here at Kim Orthodontics, we care about your pearly whites, and we want to help keep you protected from sports injuries that can be damaging to your beautiful smile. As a way of ensuring that children are using proper facial protection equipment the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO) has introduced the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge.

Mouth guards are vital to protecting your teeth from sports related injuries while participating in sports, such as football, soccer, baseball, hockey, and basketball, to name a few. The Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge is a way for moms nationwide to make a commitment to protecting their child's smile from facial injuries.

Last month, we discussed the importance of using facial protection when exercising in our National Physical Fitness and Sports Month blog. Today, we at Kim Orthodontics are inviting moms to take action by visiting the Moms for Mouth Guards website and taking the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge.

Have a safe week everyone!

-- Your friends at Kim Orthodontics

Share your summer plans with Kim Orthodontics!

2010-06-26T21:16:00.000-07:00

It's summer here at Kim Orthodontics, a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to an exotic destination, barbecuing, hitting the open roads with family, or just having fun in the backyard, we want to hear about it! Drop us a comment on our Facebook fan page and tell us about your summer adventures!

Happy and safe travels,

-Dr. Brian Kim and staff

Ask Dr. Kim: Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?

2010-06-20T19:34:00.000-07:00

At Kim Orthodontics, access your account anytime!

2010-06-15T09:48:00.000-07:00

At Kim Orthodontics, we embrace technology, whether it's through the innovative orthodontic treatments Dr. Brian Kim offers, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern office located in Granada Hills.

Did you know that patients at our office have access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our helpful website? You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, from the comfort of your own home! 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 at (818) 363-7900 if you have any questions about getting started!

The advantages of regular checkups, from Kim Orthodontics

2010-06-08T11:15:00.000-07:00

Granada Hills orthodontist Dr. Brian Kim wants to know: Are you brushing twice a day? If yes, that’s great to hear! But, don’t forget that it’s also vital for you to visit your dentist every six months (or as recommended) in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting Kim Orthodontics, of course). Our team and Dr. Kim will tell you regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral hygiene.

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

During an oral exam your general 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, please schedule an appointment or ask us for a recommendation - Dr Kim and our staff will be happy to provide a list of some great dentists in Granada Hills or San Fernando Valley!

Ask Dr. Kim: Are any of those rumors about orthodontics true?

2010-05-31T10:19:00.000-07:00

Dr. Brian Kim knows there are a lot of myths and half-truths flying around these days when it comes to braces and orthodontics. But, before you buy into those myths, Dr. Kim and our professional staff at Kim Orthodontics think you should get the facts first! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of orthodontics, and we encourage you to check them out before settling for rumors about braces!

If you have any questions about any of these myths & facts, or your treatment at Kim Orthodontics, please feel free to give us a call at (818) 322-4152!

We hope you're having a relaxing Memorial Day weekend! We'll see you soon!

Kim Orthodontics, supporting National Physical Fitness and Sports Month!

2010-05-24T09:21:00.000-07:00

May is almost over, but not before we stop and recognize it as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. In 1983, President Reagan encouraged Americans of all ages to incorporate more activity into their lives, and the reminder is even more important today, as kids everywhere are distracted more and more by TV, social networking and video games. But kids living an active lifestyle can - and do -improve their health, productivity and overall well-being.

At Kim Orthodontics, we always encourage our patients to stay fit by exercising or participating in sports. We want to remind you, however, to always wear a mouth guard or other forms of facial protection when playing sports. To learn more about how often your child should exercise, we recommend you check out these helpful articles about kids and exercise, courtesy of our friends at KidsHealth.org.

Happy Monday and have a great week everyone!!

What sets Kim Orthodontics apart?

2010-05-15T14:39:00.000-07:00

Choosing the right orthodontist to help you attain a beautiful smile is very important. Dr. Brian Kim and our dedicated staff have one goal: treat our patients the way we'd like to be treated. Our mission is to give our patients individualized, face-focused care.

So, what sets our office apart from the rest in Granada and San Fernando Valley?

Dr. Kim is the only orthodontist at the practice, giving him the opportunity to get to know every patient and offer care with continuity. In addition, we are the only practice in the San Fernando Valley with hours on Saturday, and our office is equipped with Wi-Fi and the reception area has video games for entertainment before or after treatment.

With us, you're never bored - we have a rewards program that encourages patients and often helps shorten treatment time. Lastly, we offer patient education and patient-focused treatment. We value questions and feedback because when patients have questions, this means they care about their treatment.

To learn more about what sets Kim Orthodontics apart from other offices, please give us a call or ask us at your next appointment with Dr. Kim!

Talkin' Invisalign® with Dr. Kim

2010-05-13T15:48:00.000-07:00

Are you wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you're in treatment? You're not alone in your concerns! Dr. Brian Kim and our team thought we’d take a moment and discuss these clear aligners today.

To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment at Kim Orthodontics, the first thing we do 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, Dr. Kim uses 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. The best thing about it all? Nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Kim is a Certified Invisalign® Provider in San Fernando Valley and surrounding areas. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, please give us a call at our Granada Hills office.

Ask Dr. Kim: Why are straight teeth so important?

2010-05-06T14:50:00.000-07:00

Some people wonder why Granada Hills orthodontist Dr. Brian Kim works so tirelessly to give his 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 Kim 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!

At the office of Dr. Kim, we provide technologically advanced orthodontic care in an inviting and comfortable environment. Our patients are the focus of everything we do, and it is our goal to create smiles that exceed their expectations. In addition to traditional metal braces, we offer Sapphire Clear Braces, clear aligners (Invisalign) for teens and adults, as well as Damon® System self-ligating braces.

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. Kim and our staff can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from treatment at Kim Orthodontics.

What are patients saying about Dr. Brian Kim?

2010-04-27T15:15:00.000-07:00

Last week, we asked you, our wonderful patients, what you most liked about Dr. Kim and our staff. Well, we received some pretty generous reviews, and thought we’d share a few with you today. Please feel free to contribute your own thoughts about Kim Orthodontics! Dr. Kim and team love getting patient testimonials!

"They made me feel very welcome." ~ Betty E.

"Professionalism. Cleanliness. Friendliness. Convenience. Competitiveness." ~ Odelynne M.

"He is very experienced, has a neat workspace, and motivates his patients to keep their braces in good condition. He is also able to provide all treatment infomation at the click of a mouse." ~ Armando S.

"Dr. Kim's work is AMAZING! We are very pleased with his service and his staff. All offer a warm and kind service to the patientes and make feel everybody welcome!" ~ Cecilia S.

"Dr. Kim and his wife are easy going and are a respectable couple. They have excellent customer relations skills and are very accomodating. There isn't a question unanswered when asked. The office has a welcoming atmosphere with a friendly staff. I highly recommend Dr. Kim." ~ Reynaldo M.

What do you love about Brian J. Kim DDS?

2010-04-21T16:05:00.001-07:00

From your very first visit to Brian J. Kim DDS, our team strives to provide superior orthodontic treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. Serving Granada Hills and the surrounding San Fernando Valley, our patients are the focus of everything we do, and it is our goal to create smiles that exceed their expectations.

Today, we thought we’d ask you, our phenomenal patients: Have you been especially impressed by Dr. Kim? Did our professional 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 months, we’d love to hear your feedback. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call! We hope to post some reviews next week!!

Meet Our Orthodontist

2010-04-12T09:34:00.000-07:00

Dr. Kim has been providing orthodontic care in southern California for over 10 years. He has dedicated his practice to providing individualized care, and he only provides treatment with the highest standards for every patient. His office uses the latest in technology to provide you with the highest quality treatment possible. He knows that the decision you make for a beautiful smile is an important one and one that lasts a lifetime.

Dr. Kim is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, a distinction held by a small percentage of orthodontists nationwide. His research has been published in the journal Seminars in Orthodontics. He is an Invisalign Certified Provider and he continually participates in continuing education courses throughout the year.

Dr. Kim is an active member of the American Dental Association, American Association of Orthodontists, Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, California Association of Orthodontists, California Dental Association and the San Fernando Valley Dental Society.

Being a native of Los Angeles, Dr. Kim enjoys the cultural diversity of the city with its adjacent beaches and mountains. Along with his wife, Nicole, and daughters, Charlotte and Naomi, he loves spending time together as a family. When not concentrating on orthodontics, Dr. Kim is a rabid Cal Football fan, follows the Lakers with a passion and works on improving his golf game.