No one wants to visit the dentist and be told that they have a cavity. Even less desirable is hearing news of a cavity from your orthodontist. While it’s important to keep up with preventive care and regular teeth cleanings and exams, when you are wearing braces, it’s necessary to be extra diligent about caring for your teeth. Continue reading →

Emergencies are never convenient – that’s why they’re called emergencies – and while orthodontic emergencies are very rare, it’s important to know how to take care of an uncomfortable and unexpected situation until you’re able to sit in an orthodontist’s chair for professional help.

If you are dealing with an appliance problem, like a painful retainer or clear aligner, or experiencing extreme pain, you should call your orthodontist’s office immediately. If your emergency occurs outside of normal business hours, there will likely be instructions on your orthodontist’s voice mail telling you what actions to take. Continue reading →

For teens who are reluctantly submitting to orthodontic treatment, one way to get over the angst of being a “metal mouth” for a few years is by showing some creativity and personality when it comes to the rubber bands – and there is a spectrum of options.

Young braces-wearers may actually look forward to their monthly visit to the orthodontist when they have the opportunity to choose new rubber band colors. They might be stuck with the metal braces for a while, but the elastic bands that go over each bracket to secure the archwire in place can change regularly. Continue reading →

There are engagement parties, fittings, and appointments with pastry chefs, caterers, jewelers, and more. Weddings take time to plan and organize, and while many brides- and grooms-to-be may consider losing weight for the big day, some people may not give a thought to their smile until it’s too late.

If you’re getting married later this year, don’t panic. There is still time to straighten your smile. And the best news is – you don’t have to do it in an obvious way. You may want a beautiful, beaming smile for your wedding photos, but that doesn’t mean you want to be a “metal mouth” throughout the planning journey. Continue reading →