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Smile Insights: Empowering Informed Orthodontic Care

American Association of Orthodontists›Resource Center›Smile Insights: Empowering Informed Orthodontic Care
An orthodontist explaining the benefits of aligner treatment to fit into your flexible lifestyle.
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Clear Aligner Therapy: The Discreet Way to Straighten Teeth

Like traditional braces, clear aligners are designed to move your teeth gradually. They put gentle pressure on your teeth to slightly reposition them, straightening them slowly over time. Clear aligners are one of many technological advancements that orthodontists use to create healthy, beautiful smiles. What are Clear Aligners? Clear aligners offer an aesthetic alternative to traditional … Continued

5 min read
An Orthodontist standing in a hallway, ready to discuss what to expect at your first orthodontic appointment.
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What Happens at Your First Orthodontic Appointment? A Step-by-Step Guide

Visiting the orthodontist for the first time can seem daunting, especially when you don’t know what to expect. Luckily, your initial appointment is simply an opportunity to learn more about your unique needs, ask questions, discuss your concerns, and receive expert treatment recommendations. Orthodontic treatment not only helps you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed … Continued

6 min read
The rise of 'fashion braces' trend, highlighting the risks to oral health and the potential for worsening bite and teeth alignment. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) examines the dangers of DIY braces and suggests safe alternatives.
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The Rise of Fashion Braces: Why You Should Avoid This New Trend

We’ve all heard of braces, the traditional metal brackets that create a healthy bite and great smile, but did you know that some people are getting braces just for fun? As shocking as it sounds, “fashion braces” are on the rise, with young people across the nation gluing faux braces to their teeth.  While this … Continued

7 min read
A palatal expander, a dental device used to correct malocclusions such as crossbites and crowding by widening the upper jaw.
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What is a Palatal Expander, and What is it Used For?

A palatal expander is a dental appliance commonly used to help address various teeth and jaw issues, known as malocclusions. Reasons why a patient might need a palatal expander include: Who Might Be a Candidate for a Palatal Expander? A palate expander is most commonly used to treat growing children and young teenagers. An orthodontist … Continued

3 min read
An orthodontist conducting an in-person consultation, thoroughly examining a patient's teeth, jaws, bite, and facial structure to identify orthodontic issues.
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Beneath the Surface: The Critical Role of In-Person Consultations and Orthodontic X-Rays

Orthodontic treatment creates a more aesthetically pleasing smile while ensuring your teeth and jaws are healthy and function properly. This transformative treatment begins with an in-person consultation, where your orthodontist will use X-rays or dental imaging to gain a complete picture of your oral health and create a tailored treatment plan that meets your unique … Continued

7 min read
An orthodontist explaining the financial aspects of orthodontic treatment, highlighting that costs vary based on treatment type, complexity, and duration.
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How Much Do Braces Cost? Financing Options for Orthodontic Treatment

Whether you’re considering braces for yourself or a loved one, the excitement and anticipation of achieving a beautiful smile may be overshadowed by the practical consideration of cost. The financial aspect of orthodontic treatment is a critical consideration that varies widely and no two patients are alike. Treatment costs are influenced by factors such as … Continued

6 min read
A teenage girl taking a selfie, representing Mewing, a DIY facial restructuring trend, with a reminder that tongue posture alone cannot replace proper orthodontic treatment. And there is no scientific evidence to support the Mewing claims.
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Does Mewing Actually Reshape Your Jaw?

Mewing (which, by the way, is not a medical term) suggests that tongue placement can define your jawline. While proper tongue alignment could alter your facial structure, there’s more to it.

3 min read
Female Orthodontists ready to offer guidance to patients that have been negatively affected by mail-order orthodontics.
Treatment

A Message of Support and Guidance from the American Association of Orthodontists

Dealing with SmileDirectClub’s abrupt closure may leave you with many questions and concerns. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) understands how important it is to have a reliable support system, especially when it comes to your health and well-being. If you find yourself in a situation where you are left without treatment options and no … Continued

2 min read
An assortment of different types of candy to highlight what you can and can't eat while wearing braces.
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Guide to Eating Candy with Braces

Avoid damaging your braces and risking your successful orthodontic treatment by learning which candy might loosen the brackets attached to your teeth.

3 min read
Teenage boy on the red carpet with the host and his orthodontists talking about how getting your braces off at the orthodontist office is the best day ever!
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More Than Aesthetics: The Comprehensive Benefits of Straight Teeth

The AAO Consumer Awareness Campaign (CAP) “Straight Talk” series concludes with a video featuring a patient on the day of the removal of their braces, titled “The Best Day Ever.” The video features Dr. Jacquee Schiek, an AAO orthodontist, who reminds the patient, Tim, that the process of moving his teeth was a complex biological … Continued

3 min read