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how long will i need braces? Smith Orthodontics in Parkersburg and Ripley, WV

How Long Will I Need Braces?

If you recently learned that you need orthodontic treatment, you may be wondering, “How long will I need braces?” While the length of time will vary depending upon many factors, the average length of time is between one and three years. Typically, there are three main categories that play a role in the length of your orthodontic treatment

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Do Braces Cause Gum Recession? Smith Orthodontics in Parkersburg and Ripley, WV

Do Braces Cause Gum Recession?

With the start of the new year, you might be considering getting braces to improve your smile. While there are multiple benefits to braces and orthodontic care, you might worry that braces cause gum recession. If this is one of your concerns, keep reading to learn more about the relationship between gum recession and braces. What is gum

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braces with missing teeth Smith Orthodontics in Parkersburg and Ripley, WV

Can You Get Braces with Missing Teeth?

Orthodontic treatment can address a variety of issues, many of which can be fixed through the use of braces. A question the staff at Smith Orthodontics often gets is, “Are braces right for me?” And in most situations, the answer is yes. But what if you are missing teeth due to age, genetics, an injury, or poor dental

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gummy smile Smith Orthodontics in Parkersburg and Ripley, WV

How Can I Fix My Gummy Smile?

Since your smile is the first thing people notice about you, you want to make sure it looks its best–which can make having a gummy smile, or excessive gingival display, embarrassing. You might feel so self-conscious about it that you want to hide your smile, which is something no one should have to feel. You know that orthodontic

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how to take the best photos with braces Smith Orthodontics in Parkersburg and Ripley, WV

How to Take the Best Photos with Braces

You’ve gotten your braces on, and you’re on your way to a healthier smile. Getting braces is a big milestone for many, but some people feel self-conscious about smiling before their treatment is done. While you shouldn’t feel this way, since your smile is beautiful either way, there are ways to feel more comfortable taking photos with braces.

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avoid tooth stains with braces Smith Orthodontics in Parkersburg and Ripley, WV

How to Avoid Tooth Stains From Braces

If you wear braces, you are probably looking forward to the day you can see your newly straightened teeth. Admiring your beautiful smile is an amazing reward for diligently taking care of your teeth and oral health. You likely envision a mouthful of straight pearly whites staring back at you. However, there are times when teeth may be

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how to treat injuries from braces Smith Orthodontics in Parkersburg and Ripley, WV

How to Treat Injuries from Braces

Obtaining an injury to your face or mouth can be scary because even the smallest cut can produce a lot of blood. The gums, tongue, and lips have a larger blood supply than other areas of the body, which can cause these areas to bleed heavier than an arm or leg injury. This means even the smallest injury

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see the orthodontist Smith Orthodontics in Parkersburg and Ripley, WV

How Often Do I Have to See the Orthodontist and Why?

When you are first beginning orthodontic treatment, you may wonder how often you or your child will need to see the orthodontist. The short answer is it depends upon a variety of factors, including your specific orthodontic treatment plan. This article will cover how frequently you should see the orthodontist if you are an established client wearing traditional

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open bite

What Is an Open Bite?

One common dental condition requiring orthodontic treatment is an open bite. An open bite means your top and bottom teeth do not touch when your jaw is fully shut, leaving a space or gap between them. Left untreated, open bites get worse over time and can cause several painful issues, including headaches and earaches, wear and tear on

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Top Braces Rubber Band Colors for Summer

Top Braces Rubber Band Colors for Summer

Traditional braces offer one of the best ways to correct misaligned teeth and achieve a perfect smile, but wearing them doesn’t have to be a drab affair. Choosing rubber band colors for your braces allows you to customize your smile and show off your sense of personal style. With hundreds of shades to choose from, the combinations are

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