Your first orthodontic visit is an exam, not a procedure. Expect digital records, a look at how your teeth and bite fit together, a plain-English explanation of your options, and the cost in writing. Most visits take under an hour. If you have never seen an orthodontist before, the unknown is usually the uncomfortable part. […]
What Happens at Your First Orthodontic Visit? Read More »
Both self-ligating and traditional braces are proven, effective ways to straighten teeth, and both remain popular options for teens at Elite Orthodontics. The main difference between self-ligating and traditional braces is how the archwire attaches to each bracket: self-ligating brackets use a small built-in sliding door to hold the wire in place, while traditional brackets
Self-Ligating vs. Traditional Braces: What’s the Difference? Read More »
Yes — kids can get Invisalign. A version called Invisalign First is designed specifically for younger patients, roughly ages 6 to 10, who are still in the mixed-dentition stage with a combination of baby and permanent teeth. As we cover in our guide to what Invisalign is and how it works, the core aligner technology
Can Kids Get Invisalign, or Is It Just for Teens and Adults? Read More »
A few common signs suggest your child may benefit from braces: visibly crowded or gapped teeth, baby teeth that fall out unusually early or late, ongoing mouth breathing or thumb-sucking past the toddler years, and a bite that looks noticeably overlapped, underbitten, or crossed. None of these signs mean treatment is automatically needed, but they’re
How Do I Know If My Child Needs Braces? Signs to Watch For Read More »
Today’s braces come in several forms — traditional metal, ceramic, and self-ligating (including a gold self-ligating option) — each offering a different balance of appearance, comfort, and convenience while working toward the same goal: a straighter, healthier smile. At Elite Orthodontics, we offer all of these options so patients in Bowie, Washington, DC, and Glenn
What Are the Different Types of Braces Available Today? Read More »
Invisalign is a series of custom-made, virtually invisible clear aligners that gradually shift your teeth into place, giving you the results of traditional braces without brackets or wires. Each aligner in the series is worn for one to two weeks before you switch to the next one in the sequence, slowly guiding your smile toward
What Is Invisalign and How Does It Work? Read More »
Most orthodontists, including the American Association of Orthodontists, recommend that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, enough permanent teeth have usually come in for an orthodontist to spot early signs of crowding, bite problems, or jaw growth issues, while there’s still plenty of time to guide treatment if it’s
What Age Should My Child First See an Orthodontist? Read More »
