Traditional vs. Self-Ligating Braces: What’s the Difference?

When most people think of braces, they think of traditional metal brackets and wires. However, advancements in the field of orthodontics have led to several other teeth-straightening solutions, including self-ligating braces. But how are they different from traditional braces, and how can you tell which option is right for you? Read on to learn the answers!

Since traditional braces come with some dietary restrictions, you might be thinking that this holiday season is going to be lacking in the food department. After all, with no gooey caramel, sticky toffee, and crunchy pecan pie on the menu, what’s left? Fortunately, a lot! Keep reading to learn eight braces-friendly holiday foods that are delicious and orthodontist-approved.

Did you know that the Huffington Post found that 600 million pounds of candy are purchased each year for Halloween? That’s 34 pounds per person in America alone! If you’re planning to indulge your sweet tooth this spooky season, then it’s of the utmost importance that you are choosy. Otherwise, you could develop cavities or accidentally sustain an orthodontic emergency. To help prevent that from happening, keep reading to learn the “best” and “worst” Halloween candy with braces.

Did your child get braces over the summer? Then you may be a bit stumped on what to include in their school lunches. After all, if no crunchy, hard, sticky, or chewy foods are allowed, then what’s left? Luckily, packing a braces-friendly lunch doesn’t have to be complicated. Keep reading to learn a few orthodontist-approved options (as well as what to avoid) this semester!

Orthodontic issues can range from small gaps between teeth to severe overcrowding. If you’re unhappy with your smile due to misaligned teeth or an uneven bite, don’t let your age stop you from pursuing the smile of your dreams – there’s no upper age limit for braces! In fact, there are several reasons you’re never “too old” to talk to your orthodontist about your treatment options.

Discussions surrounding orthodontics are often focused on two treatments: traditional braces and Invisalign. Since they are both effective, safe, and reliable, many patients ask themselves, “Which one is right for me?” It’s a fair question, and it ultimately depends on your unique dental needs and smile goals. Until your personal consultation with your orthodontist, you can learn more about Invisalign vs. braces right here!

Whether you just started orthodontic treatment or began last fall, if this is your first time having braces during the summer, don’t panic – straightening your teeth won’t prevent you from enjoying the warmer months! Of course, there are a few things you should keep in mind to prevent an orthodontic emergency. After all, the last thing you want is for a bite into some popcorn at the movie theater or a rogue ball during volleyball to cause you to fall off-track with your treatment plan. To prevent that from happening, keep reading for the ultimate summer survival guide.

Invisalign is well-known for being an effective, discreet, and convenient teeth-straightening solution. After all, the aligners are both completely clear and entirely removable. While the latter will certainly make flossing with Invisalign easier than traditional braces, there are still a few best practices you should implement to help keep your teeth and gums healthy. To learn what they are, read on!

After months or years of wearing your metal brackets and wires, have you finally come to the end of your orthodontic treatment? Congratulations! Although this is a moment you’ve highly anticipated, you may be surprised that you feel a bit nervous. Does getting your braces removed hurt? What happens next? Don’t worry – you can keep reading to learn what to expect from the removal appointment and why you should prioritize wearing your retainer.

Orthodontic treatment of any kind can take some adjusting to. After all, having metal brackets and wires in your mouth is going to feel unnatural at first! What many patients are surprised to hear, however, is that they need rubber bands on their braces. How could something so small be so important? If you’ve asked yourself the same question, keep reading to learn what they do, how they work, and some important tips for wearing them.