Learn why your child might need an expander before getting braces in Ripley or Parkersburg WV

Why Does My Child Need an Expander?

By Dr. Amy Smith

When you bring your child into our orthodontic office to discuss potential early phase orthodontic treatment options, you may end up hearing your child needs a palatal expander. Not every child who undergoes early orthodontics will need one, but it could be beneficial in certain cases. Expander for Teeth A palatal expander is a small…

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What if I don't wear my retainer after my braces in Parkersburg WV?

What Happens if I Don’t Wear My Retainer?

By Dr. Amy Smith

Your retainer. You remember your orthodontist telling you how important it was, but that was years ago, and you haven’t given it even a second glance lately. It may be collecting dust in some drawer, or maybe it’s lost forever, but no matter what, wearing it is still a big deal. Life happens and it’s…

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Here are some fun facts about retainers you probably didn't know about.

Facts You May Not Know About Retainers

By Dr. Amy Smith

Once you’ve completed orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign, much of the hard work will be over and you can enjoy all of the benefits of your new smile. But that doesn’t mean the work is over completely. You will still need to wear a retainer to avoid regression and to keep enjoying your fantastic…

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Learn the differences of getting a permanent or removeable retainer.

Should I Get a Permanent or Removable Retainer?

By Dr. Amy Smith

After making it to the end of your orthodontic treatment, the last thing you want is to undo some of the work that went into making your perfect smile. Thankfully, the simple solution to preserving your straight teeth is wearing a retainer. In general, the types of retainers for orthodontic patients can be broken down…

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Learn how retainers are made from the best orthodontist in Ripley WV

How Different Types of Retainers are Made

By Dr. Amy Smith

Once you are done wearing braces or Invisalign aligners, you’ll get to unveil your beautiful new smile. However, your work still isn’t quite finished. An essential part of orthodontic correction is maintaining the progress your teeth have made by wearing a retainer. Not everyone will get the same type of retainer since each person’s needs…

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Learn the best ways to keep your retainers clean and safe from Smith Orthodontics in Ripley and Parkersburg WV

How to Keep Retainers Clean and Safe

By Dr. Amy Smith

Your orthodontist has probably told you how important your retainers are to the long-term success of your treatment. They have probably told you wearing your retainers is crucial to maintaining your perfect smile, and they have probably given you advice on the proper care of them as well. Keeping your retainers maintained is a big…

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