Types of Braces: Traditional Metal
Traditional metal braces are still the what people tend think of when they picture braces. Here, our Maple Ridge orthodontists tell a little about these classic orthodontic appliances.
News & Updates from the Ridge Meadows Team
Tips & Tricks for Feeling Confident with Braces
You may feel embarrassed or insecure if you have crooked or uneven teeth. But for many people, the solution – braces – can also cause confidence issues. Here are a few tips to help you feel confident when wearing braces.
Invisalign on the Go: What You Need
While you're undergoing Invisalign® treatment there are some essential items that you’ll need to have with you at all times in order to keep your aligners clean and fresh while on the go.
The Importance of Visiting the Dentist During Orthodontic Treatment
While you have braces you will need to visit your orthodontist on a regular basis for checkups and adjustments. But be sure to keep visiting your regular dentist, too!
How do I brush my teeth with braces?
Cleaning your teeth properly becomes even more important when you have braces. Luckily, while you’ll have to take extra time and care, brushing your teeth with braces is quite easy… it just requires a little patience!
Types of Braces: Lingual
Lingual braces sit on the backs of the teeth and are proving to be very popular for people with concerns about the appearance of traditional braces.
Makeup for Braces: Play them up or down?
Depending on your preferences, you may want to highlight your braces, or you may want to hide them a bit. Here are some makeup tips to help you do either!
Should I get teeth whitening after braces?
Many orthodontic patients choose to have their teeth whitened after their treatment. Here, our Maple Ridge orthodontists explain why.
What is an Orthodontic Specialist?
If you need to get your teeth straightened, you know to go see an orthodontist. However, you may not know exactly what an orthodontist's skill set entails. We would like to help educate you on what an orthodontist actually does.
Orthodontic Emergencies: Don’t Panic!
Once in a while, our patients find themselves in an emergency situation related to their braces or orthodontic treatment. Find out how to recognize an emergency, and what to do about it!
A Day in the Life of a Braces-Wearer
If you need orthodontic treatment, you may have some questions and concerns about how treatment will affect your daily life. Here, we address those our patients ask us about most often.
Sore? Try a Saline Rinse
As you progress with your orthodontic treatment, you may feel some soreness in your mouth. A saline rinse can manage discomfort and also promote healing.
Lingual Braces: Pros & Cons
For many people, lingual braces are the best of two worlds when it comes to orthodontic treatment. On one hand, they force consistent wear (unlike removable aligners), but are also invisible when worn. Like any orthodontic treatment though, they have their pros and cons.
Oral Piercings & Braces
Our Ridge Meadows orthodontists generally advise against oral piercings whether you have braces or not, because there are so many health risks associated with them.
Orthodontic Wax FAQs
Orthodontic wax makes your braces treatment go more smoothly! The following are answers to a few of our most frequently asked questions about orthodontic wax.
Types of Retainers
Orthodontic treatment requires a big time commitment, especially considering the fact that, not only do you have to spend months or years wearing braces, you'll also have to wear a retainer after treatment to hold or “retain” the results.
How To Store Your Removable Appliance/Retainer
Taking care of and storing your retainer properly when you aren't wearing it is essential. Here’s how to keep your retainer clean and damage free.
How to Clean Invisalign Aligners (Trays)
With Invisalign, you can remove your aligners (trays) to brush and floss. The aligners need to be cleaned regularly too, so here's how to keep your Invisalign aligners sparkling.
What to Expect: Orthodontic Checkups & Evaluations
Once you begin orthodontic treatment, you will visit your orthodontist regularly to ensure you're making progress and adjust your...
What To Do About Lip & Cheek Irritation
You may experience some discomfort when you are first getting used to your new braces. These ideas and products will help you cope in the meantime!
The Importance of Healthy Primary Teeth
Healthy baby (primary) teeth help children chew and digest their food, and are one of the most important parts of their oral development as they grow up.
Lingual Braces Vs. Translucent Braces
Lingual braces placed behind teeth, effectively hiding them from sight. “Translucent” braces, which have brackets made of a tooth-coloured ceramic, blend in with the colour of your teeth. If you're wondering which option to choose, read on!
Braces on the Go: What to Keep on Hand
What with school, jobs, hobbies and social obligations, most orthodontic patients lead busy lives that keep them away from home throughout the day. This list of essential and practical supplies is what you should keep on hand to care for your braces when you're on-the-go.
Electric Toothbrushes & Braces
Braces need to be cleaned thoroughly and frequently to remove plaque that can build up quickly in their crevices. An electric toothbrush can make brushing your teeth with braces easier and more effective.
In-Ovation System Braces: The Pros & Cons
In-Ovation System self-ligating braces are great for adults and teens who want a more streamlined look, and gentler approach, to orthodontic treatment. Be sure to consider the following factors before choosing this option!