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Wigal Orthodontics' Blog

It’s Time to Straighten Up: Why Interproximal Reduction is Recommended

January 23, 2025

an up-close image of a person with crooked teeth

Crooked teeth can pose many oral health problems as well as issues related to self-esteem. Not only can it be harder to keep teeth and gums clean and bacteria-free, but the inconsistency and misalignment that is visibly noticeable can make it hard for children, teens, and adults to smile confidently. If your orthodontist recommends braces, consider this a step in the right direction. However, if they suggest interproximal reduction, don’t be alarmed. Keep reading to learn more about this procedure, why it’s recommended, and how it can help you see the beautiful results you deserve.

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What to Pack in a Braces Survival Kit

January 16, 2025

A teenage boy with a backpack

Congratulations on your new braces! Soon, you’ll have a healthy, beautiful smile to showcase for all your efforts. However, until your treatment is complete, you’ll still need to take extra care of your teeth and gums to ensure that your results turn out as expected, even while you’re away from home.  Thus, your orthodontist recommends packing a braces survival kit to take with you on the go. Here’s everything you need to include in it, so you can keep your mouth clean and healthy whether you’re at work, school, or anywhere else!

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Can I Realign My Bite with My Old Retainer?

December 19, 2024

A woman holding two retainers

If you underwent orthodontic treatment when you were younger, chances are you were given a retainer to wear to maintain your beautiful results. But often in life, patients let good habits (like using your retainer as prescribed) fall by the wayside. Unfortunately, this can result in your teeth shifting back into their old positions, or into other new improper places.

But what happens if you start wearing them again? Will it fix your smile? After all, it seems much easier and more affordable than getting braces all over again. Here’s why you should always wear your retainer, and if your teeth shift you should never rely on it to move them back!

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5 Common Problems with Braces and How to Deal with Them

November 28, 2024

Young man covering his mouth, wearing concerned expression

Braces are one of the most effective and reliable ways to straighten teeth. You can count on them to get the job done! However, it must still be admitted that braces are not perfect. From time to time, you might run into irritating and bothersome issues. What are some of the most common problems with braces, and how can you deal with them? This blog post provides some helpful tips.

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Help! My Invisalign Aligners Won’t Go On!

November 21, 2024

A woman putting on an Invisalign aligner

With Invisalign, your treatment works because your aligners fit securely to your teeth, moving them gradually without the need for wires and brackets. But what happens when they don’t fit correctly? After all, your treatment won’t be successful if you can’t wear your trays. If you’re struggling to put yours on, here are a few suggestions to help get them to go on, and what you should do if they don’t.

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Invisible Adjustments: Does Removing Invisalign Attachments Hurt?

October 17, 2024

Closeup of Invisalign attachments on a man's teeth

Invisalign continues to gain popularity as a more comfortable and discreet orthodontic alternative to traditional braces. However, because there are no wires or bands that can be adjusted, this method sometimes requires a little extra help to realign your teeth or bite effectively. Sometimes, your provider must bond small bumps or “attachments” to exert the proper pressure to move them as needed.

Although they may be required ongoing, these additions are typically removed after completing your Invisalign treatment. If you’re worried that getting these lumps taken off will be painful, continue reading to learn why you can set your mind at ease!

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5 Factors That Influence the Cost of Braces

October 28, 2021

Woman having braces applied to teethMany people consider braces a luxury because they are believed to be expensive; however, people from all walks of life can afford to invest in a straight smile. Over 4 million people in the United States wear braces, with 25% being adults. There are more options than ever to correct bite and alignment issues, so don’t let the cost of orthodontic treatment deter you from achieving the smile you deserve. While there’s not a set fee for braces, here are 5 factors that influence the amount you will pay.

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Back-to-School Tips for Your Teen with Invisalign

August 10, 2021

Teen holding Invisalign before back-to-school

The air is getting cooler and the days are getting shorter, which means it’s almost every parent’s favorite season: back to school! However, you might be a little bit more weary than usual if your little one is a teenager with Invisalign. How can you make sure they don’t fall behind on their treatment when you’re not watching them? Here are a few practical ways you can help make sure your teen with Invisalign stays on track during the school day.

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3 Important Reasons to Wear Your Retainer

July 31, 2021

Woman pointing to her straight teeth

Whether you had traditional braces or Invisalign, few days are as joyous as when you complete your treatment! However, before you leave to celebrate, your orthodontist will provide you with a retainer. After all, the last thing you want is to lose all of your hard-earned results! To keep you motivated to wear yours throughout the years, keep reading for three reasons why they are so important.

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You Asked, We Answered: What Are The Benefits of Metal Braces?

July 16, 2021

Orthodontist holding up model of teeth with braces

Crooked, spaced-out, and otherwise misaligned teeth are not a new concern. In fact, Christophe-Francois Delabarre is credited with using braces back in 1819! Over the years, advancements in technology and the field of dentistry have perfected the treatment, ensuring patients can safely, effectively, and quickly achieve their smile goals. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, then you may be wondering about the benefits of metal braces compared to discreet alternatives, like Invisalign. Here’s the answer!

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