Orthodontics Blog | Braces Tips and Tricks | Thomas Orthodontics

How Meal Planning Can Help You Get Through the First Week of Braces

Let’s be honest – the first week with new braces can be tough. In addition to navigating new food restrictions, one of the biggest challenges is figuring out what to eat when your teeth are sore and sensitive, That’s where … Continue reading


Tooth Pain: What is Normal and What Isn’t During Orthodontic Treatment

If you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners, some degree of tooth discomfort is expected. After all, these treatments are designed to move your teeth into better alignment using tension and pressure, and that can lead to soreness. … Continue reading


Are There Cons to Clear Aligners?

Clear aligners are an often asked-for alternative to traditional metal braces. And why not? They are nearly impossible to notice and you can remove them to eat and drink, so no foods are off-limits. With so many benefits, it might … Continue reading


Are Mail-In Aligners Safe?

Clear aligner trays are one of the most popular ways for teens and adults to straighten their teeth without having to deal with traditional braces. Clear aligners, like SureSmile, are a great alternative to traditional orthodontics that offer a comfortable, … Continue reading


Why You Still Need Dental Cleanings During Braces

When you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces, it can be easy to become focused on the excitement of achieving a straight, beautiful smile. You may fall into the trap of thinking your orthodontist is the only dental professional you need … Continue reading


Tips for Pain After Getting Your Braces Tightened

Getting your braces tightened is an important part of the orthodontic process, but it can often lead to discomfort and soreness in the day or two following your appointment. While some pain is normal as your teeth shift, there are … Continue reading


Benefits of Clear Aligners at Every Age

When it comes to teeth straightening, many people immediately think of traditional metal braces. And for some, especially as we get older, this can mean avoiding treatment. However, clear aligners are emerging as the go-to choice for many orthodontic patients. … Continue reading


Can I Get Orthodontic Treatment During Pregnancy

Yay, your pregnant! Or, maybe planning to get pregnant sometime soon. That makes this an incredibly exciting time. But as you prepare to welcome your new little one into the world, you may find yourself wondering about your own health … Continue reading


What’s the Difference Between a Dentist and an Orthodontist?

When it comes to maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile, regular visits to dental professionals are essential. However, many people are unsure about the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist and when they might need to see one over the … Continue reading


Types of Malocclusions: Understanding Your Smile’s Alignment

Malocclusion is the technical term for misalignment of the teeth and/or jaw. It affects not only the aesthetics of your smile but also can impact your oral health. In orthodontics, identifying the specific type of malocclusion is the first step … Continue reading


How Long Will I Need to Wear My Clear Aligners?

If you’re considering clear aligners, one of the first questions that might pop into your mind is, “how long will I need to wear them?” It’s a question we get a lot, and understanding the duration of treatment can help … Continue reading


Tips for Your First Weeks of Clear Aligner Treatment

Clear aligners have completely changed how many people straighten their smiles. They offer a discreet and modern alternative to traditional braces, making them the top choice for many patients. However, adapting to life with aligners still comes with its own … Continue reading


Orthodontist-Approved Snacks for Braces Patients

Getting your braces put on is a big step towards achieving your dream smile. However, once you get back to everyday life, you might suddenly find your go-to snacks are a no-go. Braces come with their fair share of lifestyle … Continue reading


What Teens Should Know About Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are becoming more and more popular with teens who want straighter teeth without the visibility and restrictions of traditional braces. If you’re a teen considering aligners, or a parent exploring options, here are some things you should know … Continue reading


Tips for Fitting Orthodontic Appointments Into a Busy Schedule

We know parents are overwhelmed. With school, sports, and other obligations, how are you going to fit orthodontic appointments into your and your kids’ busy lives? Of course, you also know that orthodontic treatment is an important investment, and you … Continue reading


How To Choose an Orthodontist

Are you considering orthodontic treatment to achieve your best smile? If so, you’re on the right track! Orthodontists are the experts when it comes to straightening teeth and aligning your bite. However, selecting the right orthodontist is one of the … Continue reading


Why You Should Care About Your Bite

When most people think about having bite issues, such as an overbite or underbite, they consider it a mostly cosmetic issue. However, your bite can affect a lot more than your appearance. In fact, it can have negative impacts on … Continue reading


How 12 Year Old Molars Affect Your Orthodontic Treatment

A large percentage of orthodontic patients get their treatments during the teen or pre-teen years. This includes patients who choose both braces and clear aligners. And, understandably, parents are deeply concerned about the impact of 12-year-old molars on orthodontic treatment. … Continue reading


How Orthodontics Prevents Gum Disease

When you think about orthodontics, you picture straighter teeth, a more confident smile, and an improved facial aesthetic. But there’s more to orthodontic treatment than meets the eye. Did you know that orthodontic care is a powerful tool in preventing … Continue reading


The Most Common Causes of Misaligned Teeth

Misaligned teeth, also known as malocclusion, can hinder both your dental health and your self-esteem. But why, exactly, do teeth become misaligned? Are we simply born to have crooked teeth, or do environmental factors play a role? The answer is … Continue reading


Orthodontic Options for Patients with Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety is more common than you might think, with over one-third of people experiencing some level of dental anxiety (that’s more than one out of every three people!). Unfortunately, dental anxiety can be a significant barrier to many patients … Continue reading


Clear Aligner Tips for the Holiday Season

Deck the halls with your brighter smile! If you couldn’t tell, we’re excited for the holiday season. Almost as excited as we are for the straighter smile you are working towards with your clear aligners. Holiday Tips We know you … Continue reading


Can Straightening Your Teeth Boost Your Career Prospects?

Have you ever wondered if having straighter teeth could positively impact your job prospects and career advancement? The answer might surprise you. Straighter teeth can mean a better first impression, improved confidence, and a higher chance of success in interviews … Continue reading


Speech Problems Helped with Orthodontics

When most of us think of braces or clear aligners, we think primarily about aesthetic goals. For the most part, orthodontics is typically associated with straightening teeth and perfecting smiles, not functional concerns or overall health and well-being. However, the … Continue reading


Happy National Orthodontic Health Month!

Did you know that October is National Orthodontic Health Month? Let’s find out why it is so important to learn more about orthodontics and to celebrate the journey towards a straighter, healthier smile. What is Orthodontics? First of all, we … Continue reading


Can Braces Help Make My Face More Symmetrical?

There is more to orthodontics than just straightening your smile. In fact, braces (or clear aligners) can do things many patients may not even realize. Of course, they align teeth, but they also can adjust bite and improve overall dental … Continue reading


Teeth Shifting After Braces? Here’s What to Do

Braces may be a major investment of time and money. But one that comes with the promise of a beautiful, straight smile as the light at the end of the tunnel. But what happens when, after all that time and … Continue reading


Helping Your Teen Cope with Orthodontic Treatment Challenges

The teenage years come with many exciting milestones. However, you also know that these years can also present specific challenges, such as orthodontic treatments. These treatments, while necessary, can prove to be stressful and uncomfortable for your teen – and … Continue reading


Surviving a Sleepover During Orthodontic Treatment

For a teenager, there’s nothing quite like the adventure of a sleepover – late-night chats, binge-watching favorite movies, and creating unforgettable memories with friends. But, when you’ve just started your orthodontic treatment, a sleepover might come with a bit of … Continue reading


The Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid with Clear Aligners

Clear aligners have transformed the way people straighten their teeth. Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners offer flexibility, invisibility, and comfort. However, like any dental treatment, there are certain common mistakes that patients should avoid to ensure optimal results. 1. Not … Continue reading


Tips for Taking Great Photos with Braces

Braces offer a solution to various orthodontic issues that you might dislike in your photos, including overcrowding, crooked teeth, and bite problems. However, when you first get braces, it can be challenging to feel comfortable and confident when posing for … Continue reading


Orthodontic Treatment and Wisdom Teeth

Your smile is an important asset, and orthodontic treatment plays a key role in contributing to your overall appearance and self-confidence by correcting misaligned teeth. But a common factor that often puzzles patients and their parents is what impact wisdom … Continue reading


What You Need to Know About Braces and Gum Health

If you’re considering getting braces, or if you already have them, you may be wondering how orthodontic treatment will affect your gum health. Braces can make it more difficult to brush and floss, which can lead to plaque buildup and, … Continue reading


5 Benefits of Getting Braces as an Adult

  One of the biggest misconceptions about orthodontic treatment is that it’s only for kids and teenagers. But the truth is, it’s never too late to invest in your smile! More and more adults are choosing orthodontic treatment, and it … Continue reading


Braces Tips for Athletes

Playing sports with braces doesn’t have to be a challenge. We are here to help you play smart and safe while maintaining your winning smile. By following these tips, you can protect your teeth, stay on track with your orthodontic … Continue reading


Lost an Aligner? Here’s What You Should Do Right Away

When it comes to achieving a flawless smile, clear aligners have become the go-to choice for many patients. While they’re a fantastic alternative to traditional braces, aligners come with their own set of challenges. One of the most common issues? … Continue reading


How Braces Can Help Impacted Teeth

Did you know that braces can do a lot more than just make your smile look better? Orthodontic treatments can mean healthier teeth overall. And this includes treating tooth impaction. That’s right; braces can actually be an effective solution for … Continue reading


How Clear Aligners Teach Teens Responsibility

Clear aligners are an effective and popular alternative to traditional metal braces, providing a comfortable and discreet way to straighten teeth. There a several reasons patients choose aligners over braces. But what many parents don’t realize is that one benefit … Continue reading


Hot to Talk to Your Child About Braces

You may have been thinking about orthodontic treatment for your child for a long time, but that doesn’t mean your child knows that braces are on the horizon. And at some point, after you realize that braces or other treatments … Continue reading


Most Frequently Asked Questions About Ceramic Braces

It is natural to feel concerned about how your appearance might change during orthodontic treatment. After all, much of our self-image is tied to what we see in the mirror and how we believe others perceive us. At the same … Continue reading


Do I Need a CPAP if I Have Sleep Apnea?

Are you newly diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea? This can be a scary and confusing time, and you may have lots of questions. Is sleep apnea a big deal? What are the risks? What is a CPAP, and is it … Continue reading


Is it Too Early to See an Orthodontist?

Even if you have been diligent about bringing your child to the dentist since their very first baby tooth poked through (or even sooner), you may be curious about when to see an orthodontist. Early dental care is tied to … Continue reading


7 Things You Should Never Do While Wearing Clear Aligners

Patients love clear aligners since they offer a lot of freedom during your treatment and are barely noticeable. But while your aligners might look great as you straighten your teeth, there are a lot of important rules to keep in … Continue reading


New Years Resolutions That Actually Improve Your Health

Does it seem like you resolve to be healthier every year but never seem to keep that resolution? Do you ever wonder why it is so hard to stick with? Unfortunately, we tend to make goals that are very difficult … Continue reading


Your Complete Guide to Surviving the Holidays with Braces Part 2

Welcome to our second installment of your holiday braces guide. Last time we talked about what foods you should avoid and what delicious holiday treats you can enjoy. This post will give you some additional tips to get through the … Continue reading


Your Complete Guide to Surviving the Holidays with Braces Part 1

The holiday season may be your favorite time of year, but going into the holidays for the first time with braces can cause a lot of concern. Don’t worry, we are here to guide you through some of the pitfalls … Continue reading


How to Save Money on Clear Aligners

Paying for clear aligners can seem like a very tall order. Many people put off getting orthodontic treatment for fear of the cost. We do not want you to be intimidated by pricing or have to wait to straighten your … Continue reading


Why Braces are an Investment, Not an Expense

If you are considering braces for yourself or a family member, chances are you are seeing dollar signs. Worrying about the cost of braces is a big reason people put off getting braces. If you are wondering whether braces or … Continue reading


What Halloween Candy Can I Eat With Braces? (And What to Avoid)

If it is your first fall with braces, you may be wondering if you can enjoy some Halloween candy this year. And while we are not going to encourage you to binge on sugary candy too much, we know you … Continue reading


Why Do I Have to Wear Rubber Bands on My Braces?

Getting braces can be a challenge. And when you add the hassle of rubber bands, we understand your frustration. But learning why you need rubber bands and what they are doing to help straighten your teeth can make the process … Continue reading