Orthodontics can change many things about your smile, from the spaces between your teeth to your bite to the alignment of each tooth. For many people, investing in orthodontics is about more than having straighter teeth—it’s about having the confidence to smile more often. When considering orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign, you may be wondering …
Can Braces or Invisalign Change Your Face Shape? Read More »
IPR stands for interproximal reduction. Interproximal reduction is a technique that has been used for decades in dentistry, most commonly in orthodontics, to create more space for tooth movement and help teeth fit together more appropriately for a beautiful smile [1]. During an interproximal reduction procedure, your oral healthcare professional will remove a small amount …
If you’ve pursued orthodontic treatment, chances are you have seen or heard about elastic bands (also called rubber bands) used to help move teeth in some cases. These bands can be clear or colorful and help orthodontists correct misaligned bites and properly position teeth in combination with traditional braces. But how exactly do elastic bands …
You likely have a lot of things on your list in preparation for your child going back to school. Between getting new supplies and outfits, meeting with teachers, stocking the fridge with healthy snacks, and getting the kids to bed at a decent hour, there’s a lot going on. However, although the back-to-school time of …
Make a Dental Checkup a Part of Your Child’s Back-to-School Checklist! Read More »
One common question people have when pursuing orthodontic treatment is whether it will change the shape of their face. The answer is yes, there is certainly potential for orthodontics to positively influence the shape of your face, especially when correcting bite issues. Improper bites and misaligned teeth can make asymmetrical features of your face more …
Can Orthodontic Treatment Change the Shape of Your Face? Read More »
Invisalign is a discreet and effective way to straighten teeth, correct a misaligned bite, and close gaps. This clear aligner system works with customized trays that are changed every few weeks as your teeth gently shift into place. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible in the mouth and are fully removable for eating and drinking. …
An improper bite, also called a malocclusion, is a misalignment between the top and bottom jaw. Malocclusions can affect your appearance and even the function of your teeth and jaw, which can lead to discomfort and other problems. There are several different kinds of improper bites, including overbites, underbites, cross bites, and open bites. For …
Braces aren’t without their drawbacks, but when you have a beautiful, straight smile after your treatment is complete, the time you had with braces will feel well worth it. Whether you have traditional metal braces, lingual braces (which are applied to the backs of your teeth rather than the front), or ceramic braces, it’s important …
Thumb sucking is a natural self-soothing practice of most babies and children. Most children will grow out of this habit on their own once they get out of their toddler years and reach pre-school or kindergarten. However, some children will continue to suck their thumb. While it may seem harmless, prolonged thumb sucking can cause …
Can Thumb Sucking Cause Your Child to Need Braces? Read More »
First Impression Orthodontics is proud to announce that Dr. Lu has been voted to be the 2023 President of the Virginia Association of Orthodontists (VAO). As of March 30, 2023, Dr. Lu assumes his position as the president of this non-profit organization, which has been furthering the art and science of orthodontics since 1961. Since …
Dr. Lu is the 2023 President of the Virginia Association of Orthodontists Read More »
