I stopped wearing my retainer. Now what?

adult stops wearing her retainer

So you went through orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign®/SPARK™ in the past. Maybe you started off strong wearing your retainer every night after treatment. Then, one night, you left your retainer in its case… and that turned into multiple nights… and months… and maybe even years! Now you’re left wondering, “what do I do? […]

Can I switch orthodontists in the middle of treatment?

son hug dad as they move to switch orthodontists

So you’re in active orthodontic treatment at the halfway mark to your beautiful new smile. You’ve gotten to know your orthodontist and team, but suddenly, your family is moving. Maybe you’re in a military family (thank you for your service!) Or maybe mom or dad got a job opportunity in a new city. Whatever the […]

Do I still visit my dentist for dental cleanings with braces or Invisalign/SPARK?

adult at the dentist getting dental cleaning swith braces

If you have braces or Invisalign®/SPARK™ clear aligners, should you continue visiting your dentist every 6 months for professional cleanings? Can your dentist still clean your teeth if you’re wearing braces? Spoiler alert – YES, it’s actually essential that you still visit your dentist throughout your orthodontic treatment! Here’s everything you need to know: Before […]

Should I get veneers or Invisalign/braces in 2024?

adult sisters smile and debate veneers vs invisalign

Dental veneers have become a lot more popular lately! If you’re on Tiktok, Instagram or Facebook, you’ve probably seen some of your favorite ‘influencers’ sporting new veneer smiles. Are you considering veneers for yourself? Are porcelain veneers a good alternative to Invisalign®/SPARK or braces treatment? We’re here to help you understand the realities of dental […]

Smile Stocking Stuffers: Best Gifts for People with Braces, Invisalign or SPARK

girl wearing santa hat smiles about Stocking stuffer ideas

The holidays are right around the corner! If you’re starting to think of gifts or stocking stuffer ideas for someone who’s currently wearing braces, Invisalign® or SPARK™, or someone who’s considering orthodontics, we prepared the ultimate guide to make it easy on you. Bring on the holidays, festivities, and beautiful, healthy smiles! Here are the […]

How to see smile progress in the 2023 Fall school year!

teens pose for a selfies at the orthodontist in the Upstate of SC

Hey to all our students in treatment! Whether your teen is rocking through their smile journey or you’ve taken the plunge as an adult for your teeth straightening journey, we’re glad you’re here. As we go into the 2023 Fall school year, you may be more than ready to start seeing some significant movement with […]

Bracing for Change: 5 Tips to Ease Your Child’s Fears about Orthodontics

kids make funny faces wearing braces for kids

Starting orthodontic treatment with braces, Invisalign® or SPARK™ for the first time is undeniably an adjustment!  If you recently scheduled your child’s free consultation and your child is feeling a bit nervous about what’s to come, or your child just started orthodontic treatment and has some concerns about their new life with braces, we’re here […]

3 Benefits to cleaning your tongue during orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners

Girl showing her tongue out

In your oral hygiene routine, you likely focus on brushing and flossing your teeth. But what about your tongue? Is there any benefit to cleaning your tongue?  Here’s everything you need to know about cleaning your tongue during orthodontic treatment with braces, Invisalign® or Spark™ clear aligners. We’ll discuss the benefits of cleaning your tongue […]

Can clear aligners treat hypodontia (multiple missing teeth)?

Woman wondering if clear aligners can treat hypodontia (multiple missing teeth)

When you’re missing multiple teeth, your first thought may be to go the route of dental implants to gain back your smile. While dental implants are a quick way to replace missing teeth, they’re also a permanent solution. Meaning, once they’re in, they can’t be moved during orthodontic treatment like natural teeth.  So if you’re […]

Can braces stop teeth grinding?

Woman in pain wondering if braces can stop teeth grinding

Has a partner or friend recently told you that you grind your teeth at night? Or maybe you know you‘re guilty of grinding your teeth, you may be wondering how to stop and what’s behind your urge to grind teeth. There are a few different causes as to why you may be clenching or grinding […]