
Smilin’ Family Orthodontics: Your Path to a Healthy, Happy Smile
At Smilin’ Family Orthodontics, we specialize in creating beautiful, healthy smiles for patients of all ages. Orthodontics is the dental specialty focused on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws, resulting in not only a more aesthetically pleasing smile but also improved oral health.
Why Choose Orthodontics?
Many factors can lead someone to seek orthodontic treatment. Some patients have functional concerns, such as difficulty chewing, speaking, or even sleep apnea. Others simply want to improve the appearance of their smile and boost their confidence. Orthodontic treatment can be used preventively in children to address potential issues before they develop, or correctively for adults who have been bothered by their smile for years.
Your Unique Treatment Journey
Every smile is unique, and so is your orthodontic journey. Treatment times can vary depending on the complexity of your case. While many patients complete treatment within 12-24 months, some cases may require more or less time.
Common Smile Concerns We Address:
– Overbites
– Overjets
– Crossbites
– Underbites
– Open bites
– Misaligned teeth (crowding, spacing, midline issues)
The Benefits of a Smilin’ Smile
Investing in orthodontic care goes beyond just looks. Straightened teeth offer numerous benefits for your oral and overall health. Here are some of the advantages you can expect:
– Improved bite function
– Enhanced oral health (reduced wear and tear on teeth, improved gum health)
– Easier dental hygiene
– Reduced risk of sleep apnea
– Improved speech
– Increased self-esteem
– Alleviation of TMJ pain
– Reduced headaches
– Your Smile Transformation Toolbox

Smilin’ Family Orthodontics offers a variety of treatment options to achieve your perfect smile. We will work with you to determine the best approach for your individual needs. Here are some common tools we use:
Braces: Traditional metal braces are a time-tested option for achieving beautiful smiles.
Clear Aligners (Invisalign): These virtually invisible trays gradually move your teeth into place, offering a more discreet treatment option.
Additional Tools for Your Smile Journey
Beyond braces and aligners, we utilize various appliances to modify growth and retain the smile that we’ve created:
– Expanders: Used in early childhood treatment to create space in the jaw, preventing future crowding issues.
– Retainers: Worn after treatment to maintain your beautiful new smile.
– Rubber Bands: Help refine your bite towards the end of treatment.
– Wax: Provides comfort by alleviating any irritation caused by braces.
– Chewies: Ensure proper placement of Invisalign trays and promote optimal treatment progress.
At Smilin’ Family Orthodontics, we are committed to helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your orthodontic goals!
FAQ:
How is an orthodontist different from a general dentist?
An orthodontist is a dentist who has received an additional two or three years of specialty training from an accredited orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics residency after dental school. Dr. Lee will work with you to straighten your teeth, address any jaw discrepancies and help establish an aesthetic and functional smile.
What is the best age to visit the orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children should first visit the orthodontist around the age of seven, but there is no age limit for orthodontic treatment if your teeth, gums and jaw bones are healthy. Regardless of age, if you want to improve your smile any time is the best time to visit the orthodontist.
Do I need to have teeth taken out as part of my orthodontic treatment?
The answer to this question depends on your specific concerns and the amount of crowding and dental protrusion you start with. For some patients, it is necessary to remove adult teeth in order to ensure the long-term health and stability of the remaining teeth. Dr. Lee will be able to give you more details after the initial consultation.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
The length of orthodontic treatment can vary depending on your specific concerns and treatment plan. Every patient is unique and each person’s biology can respond differently in response to orthodontic treatment. Dr. Lee will be able to give you more details after the initial consultation, but it is our goal to try and minimize the time and number of visits it takes to establish your best smile.
Is there a way to finish my treatment faster?
There are several ways to accelerate your orthodontic treatment. The easiest methods are: 1) keep all of your scheduled appointments, 2) avoid damaging or breaking any braces or appliances, 3) make sure you visit the dentist and keep your teeth sparkling clean, and 4) faithfully wear your elastics or appliances as directed by your orthodontist. In addition to these guidelines, there are also methods that can accelerate your bone biology to help your teeth move faster. Dr. Lee will be able to give you more details about how we can utilize your own biology to help reduce your treatment time.
I saw an advertisement for aligners delivered directly to my home. Should I order my aligners on-line?
Recently, many companies have started to advertise direct-to-consumer aligners that do not require routine visits to the orthodontist. At Somerville Orthodontics we strongly believe that the best and most stable orthodontic results will be achieved after a thorough, in-person exam, diagnosis, and personalized treatment plan. In addition, regular monitoring of your teeth and bite during treatment is essential to ensure your tooth movement stays on track, that your teeth and gums stay healthy during treatment, and that you are happy with your final result. Moving teeth is a complex medical procedure and there are significant risks in doing it yourself.
Do I need to see a dentist while I’m receiving orthodontic treatment?
Absolutely yes! It is imperative that you see a dentist at least every 6 months (and ideally every 3 or 4 months) while you are receiving orthodontic treatment. The dentist is part of the team and routine dental exams and cleanings will help minimize the chances of developing cavities and gum disease during treatment.
What will happen if I decide not to get orthodontic treatment?
Many people live very long, healthy and happy lives without ever receiving orthodontic treatment. Certain malocclusions can worsen with time and can potentially lead to negative outcomes such as uneven tooth wear, skeletal asymmetry and TMJ concerns. We understand that the decision to start orthodontic treatment can require a significant time and financial commitment. Our team is here to answer your questions and provide all the necessary information so you can make the best decision for you and your family.