Ortega Orthodontics Blog

After months (or years) of avoiding certain foods, using special tools to complete your oral hygiene routine, and dealing with everything else that comes with braces, it’s time to see your new and improved smile! After your orthodontist removes your braces, congratulates you on completing your treatment, and sends you on your way, you may have one important question on your mind: What now? Keep reading to learn what you can expect from life after braces.

When you first get braces, the excitement of straightening your teeth may cause you to brush diligently, floss daily, and attend every follow-up appointment. However, after a couple of months of treatment, your previous enthusiasm may wane. In fact, you may even be tempted to skip your routine adjustment visits altogether. If you’ve found yourself considering something similar, then read on as an orthodontist in Jacksonville shares the importance of follow-up appointments, the dangers of damaged braces, and what to do in an orthodontic emergency.

Are you ready for some staggering statistics? According to the American Association of Orthodontics, over one-third of U.S. adults are unhappy with their smile. Plus, 78% of Americans perceive adults with crooked teeth to be unsuccessful, 22% believe a better smile would lead to a better love life, and 48% have untagged themselves from a picture on Facebook between they didn’t like their smile. Fortunately, that’s where braces come in! Read on for information on adult braces in Jacksonville.

You have recently gotten Invisalign clear aligners. You’re ecstatic to finally achieve your dream smile, but what do you do until then? How do you enjoy yourself on a night out when you need to keep your Invisalign in for most of the day? You don’t want to have to completely miss out on all of the appetizers and fun drinks. How can you have it all at once? Continue on for a few tips on having fun, drinking, and eating with Invisalign.

If you’re self-quarantining during COVID-19, then you’re doing all you can to stay healthy and prevent the spread of the virus. Many businesses are closed, including orthodontists, who’s services are seen has elective. So, what should you do if you have an orthodontic emergency during this period of social distancing? It’s always important to call your orthodontist first before doing anything—many times they will be able to help you work through the issue over the phone. However, here are some easy tips you can use for DIY orthodontic emergencies to stay healthy and safe.

Did you and your teen just learn that they’ll need to get braces? Are they resistant to the idea of having metal wires and brackets in their mouth? Invisalign Teen offers a faster, more discreet, and more comfortable alternative that can improve your child’s oral health and boost their confidence. It makes sense that you would want to make an informed decision based on what’s best for your child, especially since this involves their future health. Here are five facts you should know about this modern treatment before you tell your teen, “Yes, you can get Invisalign.” 

Are you getting excited about starting Invisalign treatment to get the straighter smile you’ve been wanting for? This modern orthodontic treatment is more comfortable and less noticeable than metal braces, but it’s still a commitment that requires you to wear the aligners for at least 22 hours each day. In order to see the results you want, you’ll need to power through the awkward adjustment period which typically takes place over the first week. Read on for four tips t get you through the first week of Invisalign treatment. 

DIY braces instructions have been popping up across the internet and gaining popularity by famous vloggers. When it comes to your teeth, they’re not indestructible, and attempting to do your own dental work can have serious impacts that can’t be reversed. When something sounds too good to be true, it usually is, especially in this case. No amount of paper clips, super glue, and rubber bands could possibly be good for your mouth. Read on to learn about 5 reasons you shouldn’t give yourself braces and why it’s best to leave it to the professionals.