brinley-ortho

Your Orthodontic Consultation: What to Expect and Commonly Asked Questions

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 14:27:42 GMT

Welcome to Brinley! To help you feel more comfortable and confident, we’ve put together a guide on what you can expect during your first consultation and answered some of the most common questions we hear from our patients.

What to Expect During Your Consultation

Arrival and Paperwork

As soon as you walk through our doors, you’ll be greeted with a smile by one of our friendly staff members. If you haven’t had a chance to fill out your paperwork beforehand (sent via email or text), no worries! You can complete it in our cozy waiting area before we get started.

Office Tour and Diagnostic X-rays

One of our awesome clinical staff will give you a quick tour of our office, making sure you feel right at home. We’ll then take some diagnostic x-rays to get a clear picture of your oral health and see what’s going on beneath the surface.

Consultation Room and Photos

Next, you’ll head to a consultation room where one of our treatment coordinators will snap some intraoral and facial photos. This helps us understand your unique needs and goals.

Discussion with Treatment Coordinator

Your treatment coordinator will chat with you about your goals and any concerns you might have. They’ll then take your records to the doctor to review.

Review with Doctor and Treatment Recommendations

Both your treatment coordinator and doctor will come back to discuss your case with you. The doctor will share their treatment recommendations and answer any questions you might have.

Financial Proposal and Treatment Plan Details

Your treatment coordinator will then go over a financial proposal with different payment options, so you can find what works best for you. They’ll also explain the treatment plan in detail, using models of teeth, examples of appliances, and educational videos to make everything super clear.

Scheduling Your Next Appointment

Once everything is planned, explained, and reviewed, we’ll help you schedule your next appointment so you can start your personalized treatment plan.

Commonly As ked Questions

We hope this guide helps you feel ready for your consultation. If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to support you every step of the way to a healthier, more beautiful smile!

The Need for Interceptive Orthodontic Treatment

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 14:19:07 GMT

The Need for Interceptive Orthodontic Treatment

What Is Interceptive Orthodontics?

Interceptive orthodontics, also known as early orthodontic treatment or two-phase orthodontic treatment, involves initiating orthodontic care while a child is still growing and has most of their primary teeth. The goal is to direct the child’s growth and development, fixing or preventing certain types of malocclusions (problems with the size, position, or spacing of teeth and jaws). By addressing issues early, we can make future treatment easier and more effective.

Why Start Early?

Assessing Development : The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of seven . By this age, most kids have their first permanent molars and incisors. An orthodontist can evaluate the developing teeth and jaws, providing valuable information about potential problems.
Spotting Subtle Issues : Orthodontists are trained to spot subtle problems even in young children. Early check-ups allow us to identify issues that might become more serious over time if left untreated.
Three Possible Outcomes :

No Treatment Needed : Sometimes no treatment is necessary immediately.
Future Treatment : In other cases, the child will be followed periodically while the face and jaws continue to grow.

Early Treatment : If there’s a problem that could worsen over time, early treatment aims to intercept it.

Benefits of Interceptive Orthodontics

Alignment of Teeth and Jaw : Early treatment helps align teeth and guide jaw growth, setting the stage for a beautiful smile.
Space for Adult Teeth : By creating adequate space, we ensure that permanent teeth come in straight.
Prepared Jaw Growth : Orthodontic appliances can guide facial and jaw growth, optimizing overall development.
Reduced Need for Tooth Extraction : Addressing issues early may reduce the need for extractions later.
Shorter Time in Braces : When treatment starts early, the overall time spent in braces or aligners can be shorter.

Interceptive orthodontics is like planting seeds for a healthy smile. By addressing problems early, we can pave the way for a stunning grin that lasts a lifetime!

Remember, each child is unique, so consult with an orthodontist to determine if your child would benefit from early treatment.

Beyond Braces: The Community-Driven Care of Brinley Orthodontics

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 17:09:58 GMT

Choosing an orthodontist in St. Louis? Experience the difference with Brinley Orthodontics, where local expertise meets community care.

Community Ties that Brace Us Together

At Brinley Orthodontics, we’re more than just experts in smiles; we’re the enthusiastic supporters of the community, and the familiar, friendly faces you see when you come to visit. Our connection to the community isn’t just about location; it’s about the shared moments that make our practice an integral part of your life.

A Smile as Unique as You

Imagine an orthodontic practice that remembers your name, celebrates your milestones, and tailors every aspect of your care to suit your individual needs. That’s the promise we fulfill every single day. We’re not just aligning teeth; we’re crafting a care journey that respects your unique concerns and aspirations. Our attention is always yours, and our treatments are carefully designed with your best interests in mind.

Flexibility and Innovation

Our independence from big corporations allow us the freedom to ensure that innovation and adaptability are at the forefront of your care. Whether it’s embracing the latest orthodontic advancements or providing flexible payment options, we strive to make orthodontic care accessible to everyone.

Experience the Brinley Difference

Step into our state-of- the-art office and feel the Brinley difference the moment you walk through the door—from the warm greeting as you walk in, to the welcoming ambiance that makes every visit a pleasant experience. And, yes, while you’re here, you get to enjoy our complimentary beverages, free WiFi, and in-office theater. It’s all part of how we ensure your comfort matches the excellence of our orthod ontic care.

In an era where the corporate shadow looms large, Brinley Orthodontics stands tall as a testament to prioritizing personalized, community-focused care. We’re here to craft beautiful smiles and foster lasting relationships in our community one patient and smile at a time. Schedule your free consultation with Brinley Orthodontics today and join a community

that celebrates every smile.

Brace Yourself: Shattering the Top 3 Myths About Adult Braces

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 19:53:17 GMT

As adults, it’s easy to perceive things today as we did when we were kids. But as the world continues to evolve and technology improves how we approach self-care, many of those old perceptions go away.

● We aren’t attached to the wall by a cord anymore when speaking on the phone.

● We don’t need to carry a book of CDs in our car to listen to music (also, what’s a CD?).

● We don’t need to go out to the driveway to get the newspaper.

These changes have all been accepted and adopted seamlessly, but for some reason, we still see braces as an inconvenience. Why is that?

Let’s Straighten Out the Myths

Today, braces and aligners are not only comfortable and stylish, but can be invisible… and even removable .

Brackets and aligners have come a long way in the last few decades. In fact, they’ve become so convenient that more and more adults are deciding to finally straighten their teeth, or revisit their alignment needs. Whether stainless steel braces, ceramic braces, or removable aligners, there is now a perfect solution for smiles of all ages.

Let’s break down the three myths surrounding adult braces.

1. “They’re only for kids and teenagers.”

You ar e never too old to get braces. Today, parents are walking out of their orthodontist’s office alongside their children with the confidence that orthodontic treatment will help a chieve the smile they’ve always wanted. But heads up, Mom: Your 12-year old will keep an eye on your taffy and popcorn intake, too. :-)

Orthodontics can benefit people of all ages, growing up doesn’t have to count you out. S traight teeth are healthier teeth, as they’re easier to clean and in a more stable position within the bone.

Find out what treatment options will work best for you and see the difference.

2. “They’re so painful.”

Not anymore. Application, maintenance, and removal of braces or aligner attachments has never been more simple.

Today’s more flexible material enables smoother and more gentle movement of your teeth. You or your child will never have to deal with the pain that came with old-school appliances.

3. “Braces are ugly.”

It could be argued that braces were never ugly. They’ve always been as small and unintrusive as the latest technology would allow.

But today, they’re either practically, or completely , invisible. Even the tradition al stainless steel braces are designed to be smaller, more durable, and extremely easy to keep clean.

Ceramic braces are made of clear materials and are typically used on the upper teeth so that they are less visible when smiling or talking. Most of the archwires used to align your teeth are available in white so they aren’t as noticeable as traditional metal wires. Clear and comfortable acrylic aligners are the real game-changers, though. They offer invisibility as well as the option to remove them when eating or brushing your teeth.

4. BONUS MYTH: “I can’t afford them.”

All of the latest options in dental alignment are available to you at a comfortable price. We know that cavities in the wallet can be as troublesome as the ones in your mouth, so getting clear, esthetic, and lightweight braces with Brinley Orthodontics can happen with any insurance, and comes with 0% financing.

That’s something to smile about.

Your smile is one of the few things you use all day, every day.

So smile now, pay the rest later.

We offer today’s best options for getting braces at all ages, ones that bust all the old myths. With the help of cutting edge technology like Invisalign, Brinley Orthodontics can make braces disappear from your perfect smile.

Stay smiling!

Five Kinds of Foods To Avoid With Braces

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 21:10:38 GMT

Having braces put on can be exciting: it’s the first step in the journey to a better, healthier smile. However, life with braces is a little different than life without them– especially when it comes to meal time! There are quite a few foods, including some favorites and chow-time staples, that just don’t get along with braces. Learning what they are and making the effort to avoid them can be the difference between a bright, straightened, on-time smile, or a stained smile that takes far longer than it should.

Sticky Foods

Sticky foods wreak havoc on your braces! Caramels, gummy bears, taffy, and gum can bend, and worse, break the wires of your braces. They can also separate your brackets from your teeth, possibly extending your time in braces. These sweet treats are tempting, but you’re better off avoiding them while your braces are on.

Hard & Crunchy Foods

Like sticky foods, hard & crunchy foods can bend the wires of your braces and knock off your brackets. These are usually snack foods (the most tempting): chips, hard candies (think Jolly Ranchers), hard cookies, and crackers. The last snack in this group: popcorn. Sitting down to watch a movie without it might seem impossible, but it’s worth avoiding to prevent broken brackets and extended treatment time.

Chewy Foods

Chewy foods can be just as damaging as Hard or Sticky foods. Eating chewy foods with braces on can often break your brackets. They can be difficult to clean from under your wires which can lead to cavities and gum disease!

Bagels, beef jerky, licorice and pizza crust are some examples of chewy foods to avoid. If you absolutely cannot live without bready pizza crust and bagels, breaking them into small pieces and chewing them with your back teeth is a good idea– but avoiding them all together is even better.

Foods You Bite Into

This category might be one of the most frustrating for patients with braces. Biting into foods like apples, corn on the cob, and worse yet– burgers and hot dogs, could cause bent wires and broken brackets. It’s best to cut some of these summer cookout favorites into smaller, bite-sized pieces and avoid biting into them straight on.

Acidic / Sugary Beverages

You might think your favorite juices and sodas are exempt from this sort of list. A nice, tall glass of Coca-Cola can’t break a bracket or bend a wire, can it? No, but what it can do is damage your tooth enamel. Acidic and Sugary beverages all cause tooth decay, damaging the enamel and leaving behind white spots. These spots are often permanent, even after your braces are removed!

It may seem like a big sacrifice to forego your favorite foods while you’re getting your teeth straightened, and it is. But, when you’re taking proper care of your teeth and not having to come in to repair broken brackets or replace bent wires, the time flies! Do yourself a favor and avoid the foods on this list to fasttrack your way to a better, brighter smile.

There's More to a Smile than Straight Teeth!

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 21:41:36 GMT

There's More to a Smile than Straight Teeth!

Believe it or not, there is more to a healthy smile than just straight teeth! Your Confident Smile Starts HERE! At Brinley Orthodontics, we want to make sure that you have a beautiful and healthy smile. Our Oral Healthcare Experts offer customized treatment plans to help you get the smile of you've always dreamed of – book your FREE consultation with Dr. Brinley today!

Midline

The starting point of any smile design is the facial midline, an imaginary vertical line drawn between the front two upper teeth. For optimal aesthetic value, the facial midline should be in the middle of the face. Here at Brinley Orthodontics, midline symmetry is always a goal of orthodontic treatment to ensure a healthy, beautiful smile.

Facial Balance

What is facial balance? Facial balance is typically studied by dividing the face into horizontal thirds and vertical fifths. “Aesthetically pleasing” faces typically fit into those facial proportions! At Brinley Orthodontics, Facial balance is always a goal of orthodontic treatment to ensure a healthy, beautiful smile.

Gummy Smile

The health and appearance of your gums are essential elements in your smile! Excessive gingival display (a gummy smile) can be caused by several factors such as genetics and vertical growth pattern. A gummy smile will not improve on its own, but it can be treated. Explore our customized treatment plans that treat a variety of common orthodontic issues, including excessive gingival display!

Narrow Smile

Having a narrow smile means that your upper jaw and palate have a more tapered shape than the average mouth. The easiest way to determine the wideness of your smile is to count the number of teeth that show when you smile naturally. Seeing six or fewer front teeth indicates a narrow smile. Narrow smiles typically show dark in the corners - this is also known as dark buckle corridors. Having a narrow smile is fairly common and can be fixed with orthodontic treatment from the experts at Brinley Orthodontics!

Conclusion

Book your FREE consultation with Brinley Orthodontics today and start on the path to the perfect, healthy smile! No matter your situation, the experts at Brinley Orthodontics will work with you to give you the beautiful smile you deserve!

Orthodontic Treatment for Adults

brinleyortho@gmail.com (Christine Brinley) — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 21:07:02 GMT

Orthodontic treatment is no longer just for teens. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists states that one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. Many adults are choosing to receive treatment because they understand the importance of maintaining their health, and they want to feel better about their appearance. Adults everywhere are taking advantage of the opportunity to receive orthodontic care, and now you can too.

Common reasons why adults are considering orthodontic treatment :

A bad bite or malocclusion, causing teeth to fit together incorrectly
Teeth are crowded or spaced apart, possibly leading to tooth decay or gum disease
Abnormal jaw pain or pressure that is caused by crooked teeth
Desire for a healthier mouth and a more confident smile

Treatment Options for Adults

For many adults, the thought of having metal braces is enough to discourage them from receiving treatment. However, today's orthodontic treatment options offer a variety of braces and appliances that are comfortable, aesthetic, and customized to meet your needs. Types of braces include:

Clear braces
Ceramic braces
Self-ligating braces
Lingual (behind the tooth) braces
Invisible braces
Traditional metal braces

The difference between adult orthodontics and orthodontics for children and teens :

The main difference between treating adults and children or teens is that the jawbones of younger patients are still developing. For adults, these bones have stopped growing, which may make orthognathic surgery possible to align the jawbones. Other differences include:

Gum or bone loss (periodontal disease) — Adults are more likely than children to experience gum recession or even bone loss due to gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease. Patients with straighter teeth are less likely to get gum disease.
Worn or missing teeth — Over time teeth can become worn down and shift into different positions that can only be corrected with orthodontic care. Missing teeth can cause other teeth to shift and tilt, creating a bad bite and increasing the possibility of gum disease.
Incomplete orthodontic treatment as a teen — Many adults received some orthodontic treatment as a child or teen, but never completed their treatment. As an adult, they choose to complete their orthodontic treatment to achieve the healthy, beautiful smile they always wanted.

Our practice also recognizes that adults and children have different needs, and require a different level of attention and care. We will work with you to ensure that you receive the most appropriate treatments, and that your needs are met with understanding and respect from us.

Why should you consider orthodontic treatment ?

Straight teeth are healthy teeth — Teeth that are properly aligned are easier to keep clean with flossing and brushing, and may help prevent other health problems.
A beautiful, straight smile builds confidence — Orthodontic treatment can help boost your self-confidence, giving you a better quality of life and the freedom to smile without holding back!
Mouths left untreated can get worse — Not receiving orthodontic treatment when it's needed can create long-term health issues costing you more in the end.

To learn more about the benefits of adult orthodontics, please contact our practice to schedule an appointment. We understand that you have a busy schedule, and we will work with you to make sure each office visit is as convenient as possible.

Orthodontics for Teens

brinleyortho@gmail.com (Christine Brinley) — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 21:02:57 GMT

Braces, retainers, and everything else that you want to know about orthodontics!

You've just heard the three words that every teen dreads: “YOU NEED BRACES!”

Braces! What now?

Don't worry! Braces aren't nearly as scary as you may think. In fact, braces today come in a variety of styles, materials, and colors, making life with braces much easier, more comfortable, and even more stylish than in the past.

How long will I have to wear braces?

The amount of time it takes to treat your smile with braces depends on three key factors:

Early treatment — Early treatment allows orthodontists to monitor the growth of the jaw and recommend further orthodontic treatment if it becomes necessary. Not everybody receives early orthodontic treatment, and in some cases it may be recommended that a patient wait until they are older to receive treatment.
What needs correction — The amount of treatment needed to correct a problem will determine how long the process takes. Different patients react to treatments differently, so while it may take one patient only 12 months to complete their treatment, it may take another patient 24 months. Treatment times can vary depending on how quickly your body responds and how much work is needed to give you the show-stopping smile you expect.
YOU! — Your willingness to use the appliances your orthodontist gives you plays a major role in the length of time it takes to complete your treatment. Always remember to take care of your braces and appliances; this truly will help make your treatment shorter!

Braces Your Way!

Our practice offers a variety of braces, types, and styles to choose from. Some common options include:

Ceramic braces
Invisible braces
Lingual braces
Traditional metal braces

Orthodontic braces are a big part of life for many people your age. While braces may have had a bad reputation in the past, today's braces make it easy to look good and feel good! Please contact our practice to schedule your next orthodontic checkup.

Orthodontics for Children

brinleyortho@gmail.com (Christine Brinley) — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 20:59:54 GMT

While there is no exact age for children to begin orthodontic treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends visiting the orthodontist around age seven.

By this age, most children have a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth, making it easier for the orthodontist to diagnose and correct tooth and jaw problems sooner and without surgery.

Early treatment allows your orthodontist to:

Correct and guide the growth of your child's jaw to help the permanent teeth come in straight
Regulate the width of the upper and lower arches
Create more space for crowded teeth
Avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions later in life
Correct thumb sucking and help improve minor speech problems

For parents, it's not always easy to know if your child may need orthodontic treatment.

Here are a few things to look for that may mean your child needs to see an orthodontist:

Early or late loss of baby teeth
A hard time chewing or biting food
Mouth breathing
Finger or thumb sucking
Crowded, misplaced, or blocked teeth
Jaws that pop or make sounds when opening and closing
Teeth that come together abnormally, or do not come together at all
Jaws and teeth that are not proportionate to the rest of the face
Crowded front teeth around age seven or eight

Please contact our practice to schedule an appointment for an orthodontic evaluation. Early treatment now will give your child a healthy, beautiful smile for the future.

10 Signs It’s Time to See an Orthodontist

brinleyortho@gmail.com (Christine Brinley) — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 17:40:40 GMT

Getting braces or Invisalign seems like a right of passage these days. That being said, the only way to really know if you need orthodontia is to get a professional’s opinion. Keep reading for 10 signs that it might be time to make an appointment with an orthodontist.

Overbite or Underbite

An overlap of your top teeth (overbite) can cause dental issues and should be corrected to avoid premature tooth wear. Similarly, tooth wear can happen with an overlap of your lower teeth onto your top (underbite) as well. Both issues are normally treated by aligning your jaws or teeth

Openbite

When the top and bottom teeth don’t touch, it’s called an open bite. This can make it difficult to bite or chew foods and, while sometimes genetic, open bites can also be caused by prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use as a young child.

Crossbite

If top and bottom teeth don’t line up on the side when the mouth is closed, there is most likely a crossbite. This causes teeth to wear unevenly and can be fixed by aligning the teeth or jaws, depending on where the issue is coming from.

Jaw or Mouth Pain

Some orthodontic issues are more felt than they are seen, but that doesn’t make them any less significant. If you experience jaw or mouth pain on a regular basis, you should see an orthodontist right away to determine the cause of your discomfort.

Speech Issues

There are lots of reasons why someone could have trouble with not being able to speak clearly, one of which is an orthodontic issue. If you have trouble saying certain words, or if you notice your child is struggling, it may be time to schedule an appointment with an orthodontist.

Early Loss of Baby Teeth

If baby teeth have fallen out much earlier than the permanent teeth can replace them, the adult teeth can be affected. When this happens, permanent teeth don’t always have the chance to develop and grow in properly. Alignment issues, gaps, & jaw issues can all stem from these hiccups in the development of permanent teeth.

Crowded Teeth

Crowded teeth are one of the most common signals that it’s time to see an orthodontist. Though most people are concerned about the way this looks, it’s not just a cosmetic problem. Crowded teeth can make it difficult to chew or speak, and can trap food in places difficult to reach using conventional cleaning methods. This can cause decay and gum diseases like periodontitis and gingivitis.

Large Gaps Between Teeth

Gaps between teeth often indicate a habit or mismatch in tooth size. Closing these gaps can not only improve the aesthetic aspect of a smile, but it also can help to fix jaw alignment. Gaps between teeth also leave the gum tissue exposed and at risk for being affected by plaque, inflammation, and infection.

Bad Breath

Frequent or persistent bad breath, even after brushing and flossing, may be a sign that bacteria are being trapped between crooked or crowded teeth. Pockets or gaps that can lead to infection in the gums might also be present, and could be affecting breath freshness.

Routinely getting food stuck in your teeth can create a haven for bacteria that can cause gum disease and tooth decay. Orthodontics help eliminate gaps or pockets that trap food particles and give you a better chance at fighting off bacteria.

Constantly Getting Food Stuck Between Teeth

Knowing when it’s the right time to talk to an orthodontist about you or your child’s teeth can be difficult, but these 10 tips should set you on the path toward the right answer. To make your hunt even easier, we suggest starting the conversation with Brinley Orthodontics in the bi-state area. Visit Brinley online at www.brinleyortho.com to learn more about orthodontic treatments and schedule a consultation.

Top 10 Things to Look for In An Orthodontist

brinleyortho@gmail.com (Christine Brinley) — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 17:25:42 GMT

100 You deserve a smile that lights up a room — but where do you start? With so many orthodontic treatment options available and updated technology, it can be intimidating to begin your research. We’ve compiled a list to simplify your journey to straight teeth.This is a subtitle for your new post

1.) Friendly Staff

Choose a practice with a friendly helpful attitude. The best way to do this? Give them a ring! Listen to your gut - does the receptionist make you feel comfortable?

2.) Experience/ Education

Your ortho should be well-educated and experienced. Ask about their credentials and past successful treatments. You’ll be glad you did!

3.) Comfortable Waiting Room

P ick a practice with a comfortable, calm waiting room. Some practices like Brinley Orthondotics go above and beyond - boasting iPad stations, complimentary beverages, and a movie theater!

4.) Cutting-Edge Technology

A doctor that utilizes updated technology cares about your smile. Companies like Suresmile use 3-D imaging and robots to deliver the best smile to their patients. Ask your ortho if they use this cutting-edge technology!

5.) Appointment Flexibility

You’re busy enough without stressing over your appointments every few weeks. Find an ortho that offers evening appointments, and ease some of that stress!

6.) Variety of Treatment Options

A good orthodontist knows that every patient is unique. Your specialized needs could require traditional brackets, aligners, retainers, or a number of other treatments. Your ortho should be prepared for your customized care!

7.) Free Consultations

Make sure to ask if the practice offers free consultations. If they require an initial payment just to assess your treatment, their main concern could be profits above your teeth!

8.) Finance Options

If the orthodontist doesn’t offer financing with competitive interest rates, you deserve better! A great ortho like Brinley offers zero percent interest - AND no credit check!

9.) On-Time Appointment

Your time is valuable, and a good doctor knows that. You should get into your appointment on time and get out efficiently.

10.) Insurance Options

Don’t let your insurance company hold you back! A great ortho accepts ALL forms of insurance — because everyone should have access to a beautiful smile!

Choosing the right orthodontist for you or your child can be daunting, but with these 10 tips in tow, your search will be a breeze! To make your hunt even easier, we suggest Brinley Orthodontics in the bi-state area. Regardless of the doctor you choose, know you’re in good hands if they provide these 10 attributes.

Give Yourself a Perfect Smile at ANY Age!

brinleyortho@gmail.com (Christine Brinley) — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 16:45:59 GMT

Your smile is yours forever! At Brinley Orthodontics, we want to make sure that you have a happy, healthy smile throughout your lifetime. Our Oral Healthcare Experts specialize in creating picture-perfect smiles through personalized use of Adult Braces, Invisalign, and other oral health procedures/applications. It’s NEVER too late to give yourself the smile you’ve always dreamed of – book your FREE consultation with Dr. Brinley today!

Oral Health is Our Priority

At Brinley Orthodontics, we understand that no two patients are the same,so we offer FREE personalized consultations to ensure every patient gets a customized treatment plan to give them a healthy smile for life. Adult Braces can help promote your overall oral health in a number of ways, including:

Providing straight, healthy teeth.
Helping patients keep their teeth longer.
Reducing the need of tooth replacement.
Ensuring teeth are in the proper place to reduce wear and tear.

Braces are for ALL Ages

At Brinley Orthodontics, we’re seeing more and more patients in their older years of life, including some patients in their 80s. With life expectancy on the rise, it is never too late to give yourself the smile of your dreams. As long as your bones are healthy, you can utilize braces to give yourself a happy, healthy smile! Even if you’ve already had braces, you can get them again to improve your smile.

Aesthetic Braces & Invisalign

Say goodbye to the old “braceface” or “metal mouth” stereotypes. With advancements in oral health technology, it’s never been easier to give yourself a happy, healthy smile that looks great. At Brinley Orthodontics, we offer aesthetic options to fit your needs and straighten your teeth, including:

Ceramic Braces
Invisalign
And More!

Book your FREE consultation with Brinley Orthodontics today and start on the path to the perfect smile! No matter your situation, the experts at Brinley Orthodontics will work with you to give you the beautiful smile you deserve! You use your teeth all day, every day– they’re one of the best things you can invest in!

NEW Virtual Consultations

brinleyortho@gmail.com (Christine Brinley) — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 16:38:32 GMT

Everyone deserves a beautiful smile they can be proud of and show off to the world! However, maintaining top-of-the-line orthodontic treatment can be difficult while managing a busy, on-the-go lifestyle. Brinley Orthodontics is here to help provide it’s same world-class orthodontic treatment through our all-new virtual consultations.

Virtual consultations are an easy-to-use platform available at patients’ fingertips. Through a short questionnaire and a series of photos of your teeth, Dr. Brinley and her talented staff can devise an individualized treatment plan to help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of.

Setting up your virtual consultation is easy, just visit our website and sign up through your smartphone. If you are using a laptop or PC, you will be directed to provide a phone number to receive a link to use our platform.

From there, you will be led through a questionnaire about your teeth, basic contact information, insurance information, and a few more simple questions. After that, you will be directed to take 5 photos of your teeth on your smartphone, which will allow us to create your personalized treatment plan.

From there, Dr. Brinley and our treatment coordinator Kelly will review your info and photos to put together a plan for your smile. We will reach out to you within 1-2 days to go over your treatment recommendations, your insurance coverage, and all of our payment options.

After that, you can schedule to get started down the path to your brand new smile. At your first appointment we will take our own set of photos as well as diagnostic x-rays to confirm the treatment plan that you were sent, and Dr. Brinley will review it with you before starting treatment that day.

No matter what life throws at you, the experts at Brinley Orthodontics are here to give you the beautiful smile you deserve! Through our virtual consultations, you can learn about your smile & find options that fit you and your busy lifestyle. Contact us today to start your FREE virtual consultation to get started on the path to a more confident life!

Invisalign® vs. Braces

brinleyortho@gmail.com (Christine Brinley) — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 16:31:31 GMT

When it comes to orthodontics, there are many options available to give patients the perfect smile that they desire. Each method has its own specific pros and cons, based on the type and desired outcome. There are several factors that can influence a decision when it comes to a straight smile, including appearance, cost, lifestyle, and goals of the treatment. Whether a patient is looking for traditional metal braces, or looking to go the clear and convenient route of Invisalign®, Brinley Orthodontics is the place to go!

Not all patients are alike, so some options for orthodontic treatment are better than others for each specific case. The best way to know which option is the best for you is to seek a professional opinion from a trained orthodontist, like Dr. Brinley . While there are advantages to different types of treatment, there are also differences that can play a major role in the lives of patients. Read on to learn about metal braces and Invisalign® and learn which one is best for you!

Invisalign®

Invisalign ® clear aligners are a revolutionary breakthrough in orthodontics, which allow patients to enjoy the best of both worlds – freedom and beautiful straightened teeth. Here are some of the major aspects of Invisalign® clear aligners:

Appearance: Invisalign® provides the same effects of traditional braces without the appearance. These aligners are small, thin, plastic trays that form to your teeth making them virtually invisible. Most people won’t even know you’re going through treatment!

Comfort: Invisalign® clear aligner trays are not only smooth and comfortable to wear, but they’re also removable which allows you to live your life as you regularly would. Aligners are comfortable, fit well, and are easy to put on and take off.

Hygiene: Proper oral care is essential to promote healthy, beautiful teeth with Invisalign®. This includes proper hygiene. Patients will need to keep teeth and gums free of food through frequent brushing and flossing. Teeth should be completely spotless when aligners are placed in the mouth

Eating/Drinking: Invisalign® is completely removable. That means you can continue doing all the things you normally would, from brushing and flossing to eating whatever you like. However, it is recommended to avoid drinking soft drinks, flavored waters or sports drinks of any kind with aligners as they can lead to staining and decay of teeth.

Traditional Braces

Traditional braces have been used by orthodontists to treat a variety of orthodontic issues for decades in both children and adults. Here are some of the major aspects of traditional metal braces:

Appearance: Traditional braces are very visible in a patient’s mouth, with apparent brackets, rubber bands, wires, etc. However, there are a multitude of options to customize braces to fit the style and personality of the patient, including colors, metal types, and even tooth colored brackets.

Function: With traditional, non-removable braces, the brackets and wires are working constantly to straighten your teeth which can speed up treatment! Typically, treatment lasts between one and three years, depending on the patient’s age, treatment method, and severity of case.

Comfort: Through the duration of treatment, there may be some slight discomfort associated with braces, especially when they are first installed and following adjustments. There are ways to reduce discomfort with saltwater and wax. Many patients become so used to their braces that they forget they have them on.

Hygiene: The most important part of wearing braces is proper oral care to promote healthy, beautiful teeth. This includes proper hygiene. Patients will need to keep teeth, gums and braces free of food and drinks through frequent brushing and flossing.

Eating/Drinking: While wearing braces, it is best to avoid hard foods which can break wires as well as sticky foods which may pull wires and brackets out of place. Additionally, it is best to avoid soft drinks and sugary drinks to help promote strong tooth enamel and fight against cavities.

Conclusion

No matter what method of orthodontic treatment you prefer, the experts at Brinley Orthodontics are here to give you the beautiful smile you deserve! Contact us today to schedule a FREE consultation to see what options are best for you and get started on the path to a more confident life!

5 Smile-Worthy Benefits of Palatal Expanders

brinleyortho@gmail.com (Christine Brinley) — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 16:12:28 GMT

5 Smile-Worthy Benefits of Palatal Expanders

A major benefit of receiving orthodontic treatment in childhood is that it's possible to take full advantage of the natural growth process to treat or even prevent future dental issues. A palatal expander is a device designed to help orthodontists do that.

Palatal expanders create more space in a child's mouth by gradually widening the upper jaw. Although this might sound scary, it's really quite painless and easy to manage. Keep reading to find out how palatal expanders could help your child!

1. It widens your jaw to make room for more teeth

The palatal expander "expands" (or widens) the upper jaw by putting gentle pressure on the upper molars and premolars each time an adjustment is made. This helps reduce crowding because as it widens the jaw, it creates space for new permanent teeth. Down the road, this will help prevent the need for teeth extraction when it comes time for orthodontic work.

2. Helps Alleviate Airway Obstruction

Expansion of the upper jaw can facilitate breathing through the nose, as it expands the nasal airway. For young children, especially those who breathe heavily through their mouth, this can help with a wide range of common health issues. Palatal expanders have been found to have positive effects on bed wetting, teeth grinding, snoring, & can even reduce the risk of sleep apnea!

3. Correction of Crossbite

When a child's upper jaw is too narrow to fit correctly with the lower jaw, the back top teeth will bite inside of the lower teeth instead of outside. This can be corrected by widening the upper jaw, which is exactly what palatal expanders are for! Whether your child suffers from a unilateral or bilateral crossbite, expanders can solve the issue & set them up for a smooth experience with orthodontia later down the line.

4. Prevents Teeth Impaction

Sometimes when a child’s teeth are overcrowded, it doesn’t leave room for new growth to break through. When a tooth that hasn't come in (erupted) yet and is blocked by existing teeth, they become impacted which can be painful & requires oral surgery to fix. Widening the upper jaw allows the teeth to erupt into proper positions on their own.

5. You’ll get that Hollywood smile!

When the upper jaw is narrow, the fit between the upper and lower back teeth is affected, forcing a child to (subconsciously) pick one preferred chewing side. In so doing, the lower jaw is kept off to the opposite side (which accentuates the crossbite of the teeth) & could result in permanent asymmetry. Expanding the upper jaw early can remove the dental interferences and allow the lower jaw to “center” itself below the upper jaw for an aesthetically pleasing, broad “Hollywood smile”!

When it comes to the oral health of your child, being proactive is always the best course of action. If you’re considering orthodontic care or want to learn more about how palatal expanders could be right for your child, set up your complimentary consultation with Brinley Orthodontics today.

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5 Smile-Worthy Benefits of Palatal Expanders

5 Smile-Worthy Benefits of Palatal Expanders

1. It widens your jaw to make room for more teeth

Overbite or Underbite