# Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics > Stay in-the-know while we create your stunning new smile. Check back for tips about orthodontics and recent news from our team. --- ## Pages - [Early Intervention](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/orthodontic-treatment/early-intervention/): Early Intervention Through early intervention, we focus on working with children’s natural growth processes to intercept problematic conditions before they... - [Orthodontist Serving Longwood, FL](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/orthodontist-serving-longwood/): Orthodontist Serving Longwood, FL Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn are your trusted and highly experienced Longwood orthodontists! We create beautiful... - [Orthodontist Serving Lake Mary, FL](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/orthodontist-serving-lake-mary/): Orthodontist Serving Lake Mary, FL Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn are your trusted and highly-experienced Lake Mary orthodontists! We create... - [Patient Forms](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/patient-forms/): New Patient Forms Please fill out your new patient forms online before you visit us for your complimentary consultation, so... - [Thank You - Text us your photos](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/thank-you-text-us-your-photos/): Virtual Consultation Step 3: Text us your photos! Text your photos to (407) 862-1870 Include your name and “virtual consult”... - [Cost of Invisalign](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/cost-of-invisalign/): Cost of Invisalign® We want everyone to experience a beautiful smile and a comfortable treatment process—no matter their budget. When... - [Gold Braces](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/types-of-braces/gold-braces/): Gold Braces Get a 24-karat smile during and after treatment! We offer gold braces for patients looking to straighten their... - [Ceramic Braces](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/types-of-braces/ceramic-braces/): Clear Ceramic Braces Looking for a less noticeable way to straighten your teeth? We offer clear braces in Lake Mary... - [Invisalign for Kids](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/invisalign-first/): Invisalign® First Invisalign is for little smiles too! Children as young as 9 years old can smile with the same... - [Invisalign for Teens](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/invisalign-for-teens/): Invisalign® For Teens We offer Invisalign® Teen for young adults who want to straighten their teeth and improve their bite... - [Invisalign for Adults](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/invisalign-for-adults/): Invisalign® For Adults It’s never too late to live your most confident life! Invisalign is ideal for adults who are... - [Invisalign Attachments](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/invisalign-attachments/): Invisalign® Attachments Invisalign SmartForce® attachments are small, specialized buttons that we use to maximize the effectiveness of Invisalign treatment. These... - [Top 1% Blue Diamond Plus Invisalign Provider](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/invisalign-diamond-provider/): Top 1% Blue Diamond Plus Invisalign® Provider Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics is proud to be recognized among the top 1%... - [Cost of Braces](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/cost-of-braces/): Cost of Braces Meeting our patients’ needs is incredibly important to us! We offer flexible financing options to help you... - [Your First Visit](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/patient-info-first-ortho-exam/): Your First Visit Choosing the right orthodontist for you and your family is a big decision. We don’t take it... - [Life with Braces](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/life-with-braces/): Life with Braces Your new life with braces is exciting! If you’re just starting braces treatment, you may have some... - [Wiewiora & Dunn Ortho Dictionary](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/wiewiora-dunn-dictionary/): Orthodontics Dictionary All 2-Phase Orthodontic Treatment Carriere Appliance Extraction Headgear Orthodontic Appliance 2 Phase Orthodontic Treatment The goal of first-phase... - [FAQ](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/orthodontic-frequently-asked-questions/): Orthodontics FAQs If you have questions, we have answers! We believe patient education is key to creating beautiful treatment results.... - [Emergency Orthodontist](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/emergency-orthodontist/): Emergency Orthodontist Orthodontic emergencies are rare, but they happen – and our team is here for you if you experience... - [Retainers](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/retainers/): Retainers After all of the hard work you dedicate to your braces or Invisalign® treatment, you deserve to love your... - [Virtual Consultation](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/virtual-consultation/): Virtual Consultation Get started from your couch! Start your smile journey from home, or on-the-go! All you have to do... - [Longwood Office](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/longwood-orthodontic-office/): Longwood Orthodontist Office We’re excited to meet you! Welcome to our office. Our Lake Mary orthodontists, Dr. Wiewiora and Dr.... - [Invisalign Retainers](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/invisalign-retainers/): Invisalign® Retainers At Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, we prioritize the long-term success of your orthodontic treatment! After all of the... - [Metal Braces](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/types-of-braces/traditional-metal-braces/): Traditional Metal Braces Metal braces are ideal for children, teens and adults who want a beautiful, healthy smile! What are... - [About Dr. Dunn](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/meet-dr-rick-dunn/): Meet Our Doctors Dr. Rick Dunn Dr. Dunn has more than 34 years of experience in the orthodontic field! He... - [Why Choose Us](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/about-our-practice/): Why Choose Us You and your family deserve special treatment! Dr. Wiewiora, Dr. Dunn and our team are committed to... - [Our Technology](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/ortho-technology-leaders/): Orthodontic Technologies We use advanced technologies to make your treatment experience as comfortable as possible and to ensure accuracy and... - [Common Orthodontic Issues](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/common-orthodontic-issues/): Common Orthodontic Issues Every patient is unique and every case is different! There are common orthodontic problems that we see... - [Orthodontic Treatments](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/orthodontic-treatments/): Orthodontic Treatments Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn are highly-experienced in treating patients of all ages, conditions, lifestyles and smile goals!... - [Braces for Kids](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/braces-for-children/): Orthodontics For Kids Early Orthodontic Treatment We help you make the best decision for your child’s smile, health, and quality... - [Braces for Teens](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/braces-for-teens/): Orthodontics For Teens We specialize in Invisalign® and braces for teens! The teen years are fundamental for building confidence and... - [Braces for Adults](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/braces-for-adults/): Orthodontics for Adults Orthodontic treatment can change your life at any age! Our orthodontists provide the quality of care you... - [Orthodontic Appliances](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/orthodontic-appliances/): Orthodontic Appliances To achieve the desired results from Invisalign® or braces treatment, you may wear an orthodontic appliance before, during... - [Types of Braces](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/types-of-braces/): Types of Braces We offer a number of different types of braces for children, teens and adults looking to achieve... - [Smile Gallery](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/smile-gallery/): Real patients. Incredible results. It’s incredibly rewarding to see our patients’ faces light up with their beautiful new smiles. You’ll... - [Contact](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/contact/): Schedule Your Free Orthodontic Exam We’re excited to meet you and help you smile with confidence! You decide how you... - [About Dr. Wiewiora](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/meet-dr-cara-wiewiora/): Meet Our Doctors Dr. Cara Wiewiora Cara L. Wiewiora, D. M. D. , M. S. D. is your highly-experienced, board-certified... - [Lake Mary Office](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/lake-mary-orthodontic-office/): Lake Mary Orthodontist Office We’re excited to meet you! Welcome to our office. Our Lake Mary orthodontists, Dr. Wiewiora and... - [Financing & Insurance](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/orthodontic-financing-options/): Financing Orthodontics & Insurance Info Cost of Orthodontics We believe that high-quality orthodontic treatment should be accessible to everyone. Everyone... - [About Invisalign](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/invisalign/): The Invisalign® Process We are proud to be Top 1% Blue Diamond Plus Invisalign providers! Results are predictably beautiful with... - [About Our Team](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/meet-the-team/): Meet Our Team You’ll be welcomed by these smiling faces at every visit! Many of our team members have been... - [Sitemap](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/sitemap/): Sitemap - [Blog](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/): Our Orthodontic Blog We want to keep you in the loop! See what we’ve been up to, and learn more... - [Privacy Policy](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/privacy-policy/): Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions GENERAL Wiewiora and Dunn Orthodontics has created this privacy statement in order to demonstrate... - [Home](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/): Your Orthodontist in Lake Mary and Longwood Book Your Free Exam Creating beautiful smiles for generations We are on a... --- ## Posts - [Getting Your Braces Off? Here’s What to Expect](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-to-prepare-to-get-braces-off/): After months (or maybe years! ) of wearing braces, the big day is almost here—you’re finally getting your braces off.... - [Can you get your teeth cleaned while wearing braces? What to Know](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/are-regular-dental-cleanings-possible-while-wearing-braces/): When you first begin orthodontic treatment, it’s common to wonder, “Can you get your teeth cleaned while wearing braces? ”... - [SmileSet vs. Real Orthodontics: Dangers of At-Home Aligners](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/smileset-diy-aligners-dangers/): Have you heard about SmileSet, cheap at-home clear aligners? SmileSet may sound familiar if you remember the SmileDirectClub bankruptcy. SmileDirectClub... - [How Summer Dental Habits Can Fast Track Invisalign or Braces Treatment](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/summer-dental-habits-invisalign-braces/): Summer break = more sunshine, more fun... and more time to focus on your smile. Whether you’re kicking off treatment... - [Can I use a payment plan for Invisalign or braces in 2025?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-payment-plan/): Orthodontic treatment is a priceless investment — but that doesn’t mean cost isn’t a factor. We understand this! We’re always... - [If I lose my Invisalign tray, do I skip to the next one?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/lost-invisalign-tray/): Invisalign® clear aligners are virtually-invisible, making them a convenient treatment option for any type of lifestyle. But let’s be honest,... - [Mental Health Awareness Month: Supporting Our Patients Beyond the Smile](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/mental-health-awareness-month/): May is Mental Health Awareness Month — a time to reflect on how we support one another, both in and... - [Invisalign Palate Expander: How It Works & How It Compares](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-palate-expander/): Orthodontic technology is constantly evolving, and we’re committed to staying at the forefront! One of the latest innovations is the... - [Teeth Shifted After Braces? How to Fix It Without Getting Braces Again](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-after-braces/): So you had braces as a kiddo — and when your braces were removed, you started out strong, diligently wearing... - [March Madness is Coming! Tips to Protect Your Smile During Sports Season](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-and-mouthguards/): Game on! March Madness is almost here, and the competition is heating up. Who’s got your support this season —... - [Invisalign in College: New Semester, New Smile](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-in-college/): As a new semester begins, many college students in Florida are setting new goals—better grades, a healthier lifestyle, and maybe... - [How do straight teeth help prevent gum disease? Surprising facts!](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/straight-teeth-prevent-gum-disease/): February is Gum Disease Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of gum health and its connection... - [Invisalign Stains? How to Clean Invisalign Trays](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-to-clean-stained-invisalign/): The best part about Invisalign clear aligners is their virtually invisible appearance! Your co-workers, friends, or family may not even... - [How Braces have Evolved: From 1000 BCE to 2025](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-braces-have-changed/): If you had braces before the 21st century, you’ll notice that today’s braces have changed drastically! Braces are now faster,... - [Invisalign for Kids: 6 Things Parents Should Know](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-treatment-for-kids/): So your child needs orthodontic treatment, but you’re not too familiar with the benefits of Invisalign® for kids yet? Invisalign... - [How to Feel Confident in 2025: The Power of Invisalign®](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-to-feel-confident-invisalign/): A new year brings the opportunity for fresh starts! What better way to embrace 2025 than by investing in yourself?... - [Don't Forget! Use Your FSA for Braces or Invisalign by the End of the Year!](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/fsa-for-braces-2024/): Can you believe it? It’s almost 2025! That means we’re gearing up for a new year — and FSA deadlines... - [Braces, Invisalign, and Bullying: Oh, my!](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-to-stop-bullies/): October is National Bullying Prevention Month and it’s a great time to talk about why bullies bully, and what you... - [What is the cost of braces & Invisalign in 2024/2025?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/cost-of-braces-2024-2025/): An estimated 4 million people are going through orthodontic treatment at any given time! Why is that? That’s because orthodontic... - [Going Back to School with Invisalign? Top Tips!](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/back-to-school-invisalign-tips/): The relaxing days of summer are wrapping up, and it’s time to gear up for an exciting new school year!... - [Why does my jaw ache when I’m traveling?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/jaw-pain-flying-tmj/): If you were traveling this summer and noticed that your jaw aches after a flight, or you have tension headaches... - [Top Tips for Keeping Teeth Clean with Invisalign®](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/keep-teeth-clean-invisalign/): One of the main benefits of Invisalign® (along with the obvious invisibility of aligners) is the ease of cleaning and... - [Braces are back in style! Can you get them just for looks?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/risks-fake-braces/): If you stay current with pop culture and fashion trends, you’ve probably seen some form of “fake braces” lately. Artists... - [The Ultimate Guide to Eating Out with Braces or Invisalign® in Summer 2024](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/eating-out-with-braces-invisalign/): Summer is the season for sunshine, good vibes and delicious food – especially in Florida! If you’re in orthodontic treatment... - [Where to find a board-certified orthodontist in Longwood or Lake Mary](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/board-certified-orthodontist-in-longwood-lake-mary/): Choosing the right orthodontist is one of the most important parts of ensuring a successful smile transformation and achieving a... - [Why should children have their first orthodontist visit at age 7?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/why-age-7-for-orthodontic-evaluation/): Receiving an orthodontic evaluation at the age of 7 may sound too young to some parents. After all, can a... - [Invisalign was ranked #1 Best Overall Invisible Braces in 2024! Here’s why.](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-best-invisible-braces/): While metal braces are still a highly-effective treatment option, patients now have the option of invisible braces to better suit... - [Waterpik Vs. Flossing: Which is better with Invisalign® or braces?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/waterpik-vs-flossing/): If you’re searching for ways to boost your oral hygiene routine, you’ve likely come across the Waterpik device. A Waterpik... - [What is the quickest way to straighten my teeth before my wedding?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/fastest-way-to-straighten-teeth-before-wedding/): It’s a dream come true! The love of your life has just proposed! You’re floating on cloud 9 as you... - [Orthodontics for seniors: Is 70 too old for braces?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/is-70-too-old-for-braces/): Seniors as you get older and closer to the golden age of retirement, you may be thinking of ways you... - [I lost my Invisalign tray! What do I do?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/lost-invisalign-tray-what-to-do/): Whether you lost your Invisalign tray on vacation or accidentally threw away your Invisalign aligners, either situation can be stressful.... - [Can I switch orthodontists in the middle of treatment?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/can-i-switch-orthodontists-in-middle-of-treatment/): So you’re in active orthodontic treatment at the halfway mark to your beautiful new smile. You’ve gotten to know your... - [Do I still visit my dentist for dental cleanings with braces or Invisalign?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/dental-cleanings-with-braces/): If you have braces or Invisalign® clear aligners, should you continue visiting your dentist every 6 months for professional cleanings?... - [New year, new smile! Top 5 reasons to get braces or Invisalign for the new year](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/top-5-reasons-to-get-braces-or-invisalign-for-the-new-year/): As we welcome a new year, you may start thinking about the goals you want to accomplish this year or... - [I stopped wearing my retainer. Now what?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/stopped-wearing-retainer/): So you went through orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign® in the past. Maybe you started off strong wearing your... - [Is Invisalign worth it?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-worth-investment/): When it comes to modern orthodontics, Invisalign has taken the spotlight as a convenient, nearly invisible solution for straightening teeth.... - [SmileDirectClub is closing! Why it’s happening & What to do](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/smiledirectclub-lawsuit-2/): We heard the recent news about SmileDirectClub closing its doors, and (unfortunately) we’re not surprised! Mail-order clear aligners have been... - [Can Invisalign fix a gummy smile?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/can-invisalign-fix-a-gummy-smile/): In any case of a gummy smile, Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn can create a personalized treatment plan to correct... - [Can you get Invisalign for bottom or top teeth only?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/can-you-get-invisalign-for-bottom-teeth-only/): We often hear new patients ask, “can I get Invisalign® for bottom teeth only? ” and the answer is yes!... - [Smile Stocking Stuffers: Best Gifts for People with Braces or Invisalign](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/stocking-stuffers-braces-invisalign/): The holidays are right around the corner! If you’re starting to think of gifts or stocking stuffer ideas for someone... - [Can I use whitening toothpaste with Invisalign?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/can-i-use-whitening-toothpaste-with-invisalign/): On your journey to your perfect smile with Invisalign®, you may wonder what’s the best way to keep your teeth... - [10 Invisalign FAQs: Your guide to Invisalign treatment](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/top-10-invisalign-faqs-to-treatment/): Hey there, parents! In your busy day-to-day, you may be wondering if it’s still possible to fix your crooked teeth... - [Invisalign® buttons vs. attachments: What's the difference?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-buttons-attachments/): If you’re on the journey to a stunning smile with Invisalign and the experienced Wiewiora & Dunn team, you may... - [How long does a palatal expander stay in?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-long-do-expanders-stay-in/): So you’ve just taken your child in for their first orthodontic exam and as one of our orthodontists is going... - [Where to get Invisalign in Lake Mary](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-in-lake-mary/): So you live in the beautiful Lake Mary, Florida, and you’re ready to experience a smile as bright and sunny... - [Can crowded teeth cause problems?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/can-crowded-teeth-cause-problems/): Whether your family dentist talked with you about braces or maybe you’re just considering orthodontic treatment, you may be wondering... - [Your Guide to Orthodontics When Sick](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/guide-to-orthodontics-sick/): You’re committed to your smile transformation – through the ups and downs, in sickness and in health, right? After all,... - [Top 4 Invisalign® Tips for a Successful Journey](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/4-invisalign-tips-successful-journey/): If you’re on an Invisalign journey with our team at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, you’re in for an amazing, life-changing... - [3 Tips: How to choose between braces & invisalign for your child](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/3-tips-choosing-invisalign-vs-braces/): So your child needs orthodontic treatment, but you’re both having trouble deciding between braces or Invisalign®. We’re familiar with this... - [How old do you have to be to get Invisalign?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-old-do-you-have-to-be-to-get-invisalign/): If you’re thinking you and your child may need orthodontic treatment, getting a complimentary exam is the best way to... - [Bracing for Change: 5 Tips to Ease Your Child's Fears about Orthodontics](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/tips-to-ease-fears-about-braces/): Starting orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign® for the first time is undeniably an adjustment! If you recently scheduled your... - [Common Orthodontic Issues in Children: 4 Signs to Watch Out For](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/4-signs-you-need-braces/): Parents, we know you want the best for your child! Whether your child still has a smile full of baby... - [What to Expect During Your Invisalign Treatment: A Step-by-Step Guide](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-process-step-by-step/): Invisalign® clear aligners were a revolutionary orthodontic treatment when they hit the market in the 90’s and have stayed a... - [What is a virtual orthodontic consultation?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/what-is-virtual-orthodontic-consultation/): Maybe you’ve heard of “virtual orthodontic consultations” recently but aren’t sure what exactly these entail. After all, virtual consultations are... - [Top 5 Best and Worst Drinks for Your Teeth](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/top-5-best-and-worst-drink-for-teeth/): If you often find stains on your teeth, yellowing on your teeth, or even start to notice a cavity appearing,... - [Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist in Longwood or Lake Mary?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/do-i-need-orthodontist-referral/): Before you see a health specialist, you typically need a doctor referral from your primary care provider or family doctor.... - [3 Benefits of cleaning your tongue with braces or Invisalign](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/benefits-of-cleaning-tongue/): In your oral hygiene routine, morning and night, you likely focus on cleaning your teeth. But what about your tongue?... - [Can I use charcoal toothpaste with braces?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/is-charcoal-toothpaste-good-for-teeth/): Charcoal toothpaste has become more popular lately, with well-known brands like Colgate, Crest, Hello and Burt’s Bees entering the charcoal... - [Have braces stayed the same since the 1970s?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-braces-have-evolved/): Spoiler alert: Not even close! If you had braces before the 21st century, you’ll notice that today’s braces have changed... - [Myth Busting: Do braces cause TMJ disorder?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/do-braces-cause-tmj-disorder/): Patients whose TMJ pain became more noticeable during braces treatment may think braces are the cause. Spoiler alert: Studies published... - [Can braces help with teeth grinding?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/grinding-teeth-braces/): Has a friend or partner recently told you that you grind your teeth at night? Or maybe you know you‘re... - [How is hyperdontia (extra teeth growing in the gums) treated?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/hyperdontia-treatment/): If you have extra teeth growing in your gums, or you notice your child has extra teeth growing behind their... - [Can you use your HSA for orthodontics?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/use-hsa-for-orthodontics/): Spoiler alert: Yes you can! Using your HSA to pay for orthodontic treatment is not only possible, but it can... - [How does diet soda affect your teeth?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-does-diet-soda-affect-your-teeth/): Have you ever noticed that gritty feeling on your teeth after you take a sip of soda, whether it be... - [Top 3 Vitamins for Orthodontic Treatment in 2022](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/top-vitamins-in-orthodontic-treatment/): Taking daily vitamins and minerals is one of the easiest ways to improve your health, strengthen your immune system and... - [Can you get braces if you have missing teeth?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/can-you-get-braces-with-missing-teeth/): Spoiler Alert: Yes, you can still get braces with a missing tooth! There aren’t many factors that can disqualify you... - [Back to School with Braces in 2022! Top 5 Tips](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/back-to-school-braces-tips-2022/): *School bells ring in the distance* It’s that time again! School is back in session and if you’re starting off... - [Helping Your Child Cope with Bullies: 5 Tips](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/bullying-braces-how-to-help-to-your-child/): Braces are becoming more popular over recent years with an estimated four million people wearing braces at any given time!... - [How are your braces tightened? And why?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-are-braces-tightened/): So your orthodontist just finished placing your braces and you’re super excited to start seeing your dream smile come to... - [How can digital x-rays enhance your treatment?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/advantages-of-digital-x-rays/): While it’s true that digital x-rays have great picture quality – which is an important advantage – that’s not the... - [What age do kids get braces?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/what-age-do-kids-get-braces/): How old do you have to be to get braces? Is there an age minimum? It’s a valid question! If... - [Braces or veneers? How to make the best decision for your smile](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/should-i-get-braces-veneers/): Dental veneers have become increasingly popular lately – especially among celebrities, ‘influencers’, and reality TV stars! Are veneers the best... - [Can I eat ice with braces?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/chew-ice-with-braces/): If you’re a habitual ice chewer, this one’s for you! When you get braces, do you have to kick that... - [What to Do if You Swallow a Bracket: 3 Steps](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/swallowed-braces-bracket-or-archwire/): So, imagine this. You have braces, and you bite down into a Snickers bar (or Almond Joy, or Payday. .... - [Is it Important to Get a Second Opinion in Orthodontics?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/orthodontist-second-opinion-are-important/): When you’re looking for an orthodontist for you or your child, how do you know which practice is right for... - [2 Tips When Flossing With Braces](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-to-floss-with-braces-tips/): Are you dreading flossing with your new braces? All those brackets, rubber bands, and your archwire can be frustrating to... - [What Happens at Your Orthodontic Exam? 3 Things to Expect](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/what-happens-at-your-orthodontic-exam-3-things-to-expect/): Your first visit to one of our offices, also known as your orthodontic exam or initial consultation, is an exciting... - [Add the Right Mouthwash to Your Daily Routine](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/add-the-right-mouthwash-to-your-daily-routine/): Whether you have braces or Invisalign®, it’s essential that you’re using mouthwash daily! Did you know that when you brush... - [Dentist Visits During Orthodontic Treatment? 2 Tips!](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/visiting-dentist-when-wearing-braces/): Both your dentist and your orthodontist are irreplaceable! Your dentist shouldn’t take the place of your orthodontist, and your orthodontist... - [Please Do Not Try this TikTok Trend at Home!](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/magic-erasers-on-teeth/): We’ve all heard of some crazy TikTok trends, but this one takes the cake! If you haven’t heard, there’s a... - [Behind the Teeth: What is the Quad Helix Appliance?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/quad-helix-appliance/): So your orthodontist recommended a quad helix appliance for you or your child, but what exactly is that? And how... - [Don’t worry! You can get a good night’s sleep with braces.](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/sleeping-soundly-with-braces/): So it’s your first night with braces! You’re excited to be undergoing a life changing transformation, but you also know... - [Fall Recipes: Braces-Safe & Allllll Taste](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/fall-recipes-braces-safe-allllll-taste/): Light that fall-scented candle, turn on your favorite Halloween classic, and let’s pretend it’s fall in Florida! (Technically it is... - [Is it Time to Replace Your Retainer? 5 Signs!](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/replace-your-retainer-to-maintain-new-smile/): So you’ve been wearing your retainer 24/7, because you love your new smile and you want to keep it for... - [What are the Top 5 Halloween Candies & Can I Eat Them with Braces?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/braces-friendly-candy-halloween/): If your child is undergoing orthodontic treatment with a form of braces, does that mean you should avoid Halloween altogether,... - [Whether it’s a Practice or a Game—Protect Your Smile with the Right Mouthguard!](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/whether-its-a-practice-or-game-protect-your-smile-with-right-mouthguard/): So you’re a dedicated sports player and you don’t plan on changing that throughout your orthodontic treatment process. When should... - [Get The Right Information About Clear Braces](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/clear-braces-info/): So you’re thinking about getting clear braces, but want to know all of your options. Making the decision to transform... - [Best Ways to Keep Your Retainers Clean](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/best-way-to-keep-retainer-clean/): If you’re sporting a beautiful new smile after all of that hard work you put into your braces or Invisalign®... - [Your Summer Smiles To-Do List](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/2021-summer-survival-guide-for-braces/): What’s on your summer to-do list? Traveling or vacationing? Swimming and playing sports? Maybe you’re more interested in ‘Netflix and... - [Why More Adults are Getting Braces](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/why-more-adults-are-getting-braces/): It’s true! More adults are proudly getting braces than ever before. In fact, the number of adult orthodontic patients is... - [Sports Mouthguards: Different Types & Proper Care](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/sports-mouthguards-different-types-proper-care/): For anyone who thinks they have to forfeit their love of sports to achieve the perfect smile, we have great... - [Spring Cleaning—Replace that Toothbrush!](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/spring-cleaning-replace-that-toothbrush/): The Springtime is almost here! It’s the perfect time to clean your home and develop some new healthy habits—especially habits... - [Why Choose a Board-Certified Orthodontist?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/why-choose-board-certified-orthodontist/): We’re proud to announce that our very own orthodontist, Dr. Wiewiora, has recently earned her board certification! Many people believe... - [Valentine’s Day Treats: Ones to LOVE and Ones to Watch Out for](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/alentines-day-treats-to-love-and-ones-to-watch-out-for/): It’s almost Valentine’s Day! That means showing love to your favorite people and indulging in some sweet, heart-shaped treats. If... - [Can I Switch Orthodontists During Treatment?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/can-i-switch-orthodontists-during-treatment/): Switching your orthodontist during treatment can sound quite daunting. You’ve gotten to know your orthodontist and your orthodontic team. You’ve... - [Could Your Child Need a Space Maintainer?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/need-space-maintainer/): Just as every child is unique, so are their teeth! Every child’s teeth grow and develop at different rates, often... - [Are You Worried About Orthodontic Headgear?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/orthodontic-headgear-worried/): The idea of braces alone may be enough to make your child or teen nervous about the temporary change in... - [How to Get Your Braces Off Faster](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/get-braces-off-faster/): Many advances have been made in orthodontics that make braces more comfortable to wear than ever before. However, it may... - [A Survival Guide for Going Back to School with Braces](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/braces-back-to-school/): August is national back-to-school month! For students who are starting the new school year with braces for the first time,... - [Orthodontist or Dentist – Which One Do You Need to See?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/orthodontist-or-dentist/): Many people use the terms orthodontist and dentist interchangeably. While both types of doctors treat your mouth, they provide different... - [It Takes an Orthodontist to Outsmart Wisdom Teeth](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/outsmart-wisdom-teeth/): Officially known as third molars, wisdom teeth represent an odd time of transition in the human skeleton during our gradual... - [Broken Braces and Chipped Teeth](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/broken-braces-and-chipped-teeth/): Made of 96% mineral content, teeth are the hardest substance in the human body. Traditional metal braces are made of... - [Malocclusions – What They Are and How to Correct Them](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/malocclusions-what-they-are-and-how-to-correct-them/): The term “malocclusion” is used by orthodontists to identify a condition commonly known as a “bad bite. ” Many people... - [It’s Cheaper Than Ever to Straighten Your Teeth, But is it Safe?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-safe-are-at-home-braces/): With society becoming more and more digitized and people relying on technology, some daily tasks have become much easier. Any... - [How Does Orthodontic Insurance Work?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-does-orthodontic-insurance-work/): Although expensive, people continue to invest in orthodontic treatment, whether for themselves or their children. In some cases it is... - [Considering the Many Types of Braces – Which One is Right for You?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/types-of-braces-for-teeth/): Over four million people in the United States wear braces, and 25 percent of these individuals are adults. With advances... - [How Much Will My Braces Cost?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-much-do-braces-cost/): When people decide to pursue braces, whether it be to improve their bite or for cosmetics, their first question is... - [Invisalign or Braces: Which Should You Choose?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-or-braces-which-should-you-choose/): Since the launch of Invisalign in 2000, over five million people, including more than one million teenagers, have used Invisalign... - [Think Twice About Skipping an Orthodontic Appointment](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/think-twice-about-skipping-an-orthodontic-appointment/): Are you thinking about canceling your next orthodontic appointment because you’re too busy? If so, Dr. Cara Wiewiora and Dr.... - [Steps to Take If You Lose Your Retainers](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/lose-your-retainers/): Let’s face it. It’s difficult to keep track of removable retainers when they’re not in your mouth. They are easy... - [What Happens if I Don’t Wear My Orthodontic Rubber Bands?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/orthodontic-rubber-bands/): Think you can get away with not wearing your orthodontic rubber bands? Dr. Cara Wiewiora and Dr. Rick Dunn say... - [Tips for Playing Sports While You’re Wearing Braces](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/playing-sports-while-wearing-braces/): Have you ever looked carefully at teenagers as they play sports? If you have, you’ve probably noticed that many of... - [Why Use an Orthodontist Instead of a General Dentist for Braces?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/why-use-an-orthodontist-for-braces/): Metal Braces. Clear Braces. Gold Braces. Invisalign. With these options, and so many more, how will you ever choose the... - [Top Ways Braces Can Change Your Life in a Positive Way](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/top-ways-braces-can-change-your-life-in-a-positive-way/): Most people know that braces help straighten teeth. But did you know that straight teeth can have a big impact... - [Foods to Avoid When You’re Wearing Braces](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/foods-to-avoid-when-youre-wearing-braces/): Did you just get braces? If so, your teeth and mouth might be a little sore for a few days.... - [Benefits of an Early Orthodontic Evaluation](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/early-orthodontic-evaluation/): Your child might be too young for braces, but if permanent teeth have erupted, it’s not too early for an... - [Adults Can Get Braces, Too!](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/adults-can-get-braces-too/): Braces for adults? You better believe it. We successfully treat patients of all ages in our friendly office that was... - [When is the Best Time to Begin Orthodontic Treatment?](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/when-begin-orthodontic-treatment/): Don’t worry. If you’ve passed the magic age to begin orthodontic treatment, you are not destined for a lifetime of... - [Tips for Brushing and Flossing with Braces](https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/tips-for-brushing-and-flossing-with-braces/): Brushing and flossing with braces looks complicated. On your very first day with braces, you might wonder, i s it... --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages - Published: 2025-05-10 - Modified: 2025-05-10 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/orthodontic-treatment/early-intervention/ Early Intervention Through early intervention, we focus on working with children’s natural growth processes to intercept problematic conditions before they progress to a severe state. This allows us to use the least invasive treatment approach with the least discomfort for your little one, and create a healthy smile in the shortest time possible. When should my child see an orthodontist? Not every child needs orthodontics, but those who do can benefit from early intervention for a lifetime. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) says children should receive their first check-up at age 7, or earlier if issues are apparent. Age 7 is generally the prime time for one of our experienced orthodontists, Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn, to detect growth issues in the jaws and identify problematic conditions that are about to erupt. This doesn’t mean that your child’s orthodontic treatment will begin at age 7; every child is different and every smile develops at a unique rate. Dr. Wiewiora is your board-certified Central Florida orthodontist with specialized expertise in children’s care, and she does not suggest unnecessary treatment! What is the best age to get braces? Getting braces at age 7, 8, 9 or 10 is common. Conditions that are left untreated into adulthood, or even into the teen years, can lead to further conditions and challenges, and require invasive methods (like jaw surgery) and extended treatment lengths to correct. When you bring your child in for an orthodontic screening before or at age 7, Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn are able to treat these conditions while the jaws are still developing, instead of treating them after the bones have developed and stabilized. This efficient approach allows us to minimize treatment length, and prevent discomfort and challenges for your child. Preventing Vital Challenges By guiding the jaws and teeth into alignment in a more natural and efficient way, we can prevent significant challenges in your child’s life, including: Speech issues Facial imbalances Airway issues Difficulties chewing or biting down Pain in the jaws, teeth or facial bones Poor oral hygiene associated with overlapping teeth Poor self-esteem What to Expect with Interceptive Orthodontics Children’s mouths may be small, but their orthodontic issues are complex! Many orthodontic issues are caused by space issues in the width of the jaws - whether there’s not enough room in the jaws for all teeth to emerge without crowding, overlapping or impacting each other, or too much space in the jaw, which leads to spaced or gapped teeth. Through preemptive orthodontics, we can address spacing issues right away, guiding the jaw bones to grow to the proper width, before they potentially cause a bite misalignment (overbite/underbite) and require more extensive treatment. This may include an orthodontic appliance, like the palatal expander, to prepare the jaw bones for a beautiful set of permanent teeth to emerge, followed by braces or Invisalign® First to align the teeth. Schedule your little one’s first visit today. Parents, we know you want what’s best for your child! We do too.... --- - Published: 2025-03-04 - Modified: 2025-08-14 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/orthodontist-serving-longwood/ Orthodontist Serving Longwood, FL Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn are your trusted and highly experienced Longwood orthodontists! We create beautiful smiles that empower our neighbors and friends to find their best selves. Choose from Invisalign® treatment and different types of modern braces at our orthodontic office near Longwood. We see some amazing patients from the communities of Sanlando Springs, Sweetwater Oaks, Alaqua Lakes, Lake Forest, Heathrow, Meadows West, Wekiva, Sky Lark, and Coventry! Custom Orthodontics Near Longwood Invisalign® clear aligners Traditional metal braces Clear ceramic braces Early orthodontics treatment — Orthodontics for kids Orthodontics for teens Orthodontics for adults Schools We Serve Near Longwood, FL At Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, we’re proud to support local schools in our surrounding communities. We’re always looking for ways to get involved and give back! We create beautiful smiles with custom orthodontic care for students from:Elementary SchoolsLongwood Elementary SchoolSabal Point Elementary SchoolWoodlands Elementary SchoolWekiva Elementary SchoolMiddle SchoolsMilwee Middle SchoolRock Lake Middle School High SchoolsLyman High SchoolOne School of The Arts & SciencesColleges & UniversitiesSeminole State College of FloridaECPI UniversityRollins CollegeFull Sail UniversityUniversity of Central FloridaUCF Sanford/Lake MaryElementary SchoolsLongwood Elementary SchoolSabal Point Elementary SchoolWoodlands Elementary SchoolWekiva Elementary SchoolMiddle SchoolsMilwee Middle SchoolRock Lake Middle SchoolHigh SchoolsLyman High SchoolOne School of The Arts & SciencesColleges & UniversitiesSeminole State College of FloridaECPI UniversityRollins CollegeFull Sail UniversityUniversity of Central FloridaUCF Sanford/Lake Mary “Must-See” Attractions Near Longwood Wekiwa Springs State Park Wekiwa Springs State Park is a nature lover’s paradise, offering many outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy! This beautiful park features crystal-clear springs perfect for swimming, canoeing, and kayaking. With miles of scenic hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and picnic areas, it’s the ideal spot for a peaceful day to bask in nature. Learn more The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art The Morse Museum is a cultural treasure trove showcasing an impressive collection of American art, including works by the renowned Louis Comfort Tiffany. Located in Winter Park, the museum features stunning stained glass windows, intricate jewelry, and decorative arts from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Learn more Lake Eola Park Lake Eola Park is a picturesque, family-friendly destination in the heart of downtown Orlando. This park is perfect for a relaxing day out with its iconic swan boats, peaceful lake, and beautiful walking paths. Enjoy the scenic views, feed the swans, or take a leisurely stroll around the lake. Learn more Popular Longwood Restaurants Terramia Ristorante Terramia is a delightful, family-owned Italian restaurant in Altamonte Springs, offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Known for its fresh ingredients and homemade recipes, Terra Mia serves up classic Italian dishes with a modern twist. From flavorful pasta dishes like Chicken Parmesan to delicious wood-fired pizzas, every meal is made with care. Learn more Fiesta Azul Tequila House Altamonte Springs Fiesta Azul Tequila House is a vibrant, family-owned Mexican restaurant in Altamonte Springs, bringing authentic flavors and a lively atmosphere to the Longwood community. Known for its flavorful tacos, sizzling fajitas, and house-made guacamole, the menu is... --- - Published: 2025-03-03 - Modified: 2025-08-14 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/orthodontist-serving-lake-mary/ Orthodontist Serving Lake Mary, FL Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn are your trusted and highly-experienced Lake Mary orthodontists! We create beautiful smiles that empower our neighbors and friends to find their best selves. Choose from Invisalign® treatment and different types of modern braces at our orthodontic office near Lake Mary. We see some amazing patients from the communities of Timacuan Golf & Country Club, Manderley, Huntington Pointe, Woodbridge Lakes, Fountain Park, Heathrow, Chase Groves, and Lake Mary Woods! Custom Orthodontics Near Lake Mary Invisalign® clear aligners Traditional metal braces Clear ceramic braces Early orthodontics treatment — Orthodontics for kids Orthodontics for teens Orthodontics for adults Schools We Serve Near Lake Mary, FL At Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, we’re proud to support local schools in our surrounding communities. We’re always looking for ways to get involved and give back! We create beautiful smiles with custom orthodontic care for students from:Elementary SchoolsCrystal Lake Elementary SchoolHeathrow Elementary SchoolLake Mary Elementary SchoolLake Mary Preparatory SchoolMiddle SchoolsGreenwood Lakes Middle SchoolMarkham Woods Middle School High SchoolsLake Mary High SchoolSeminole HighColleges & UniversitiesSeminole State College of FloridaECPI UniversityRollins CollegeFull Sail UniversityUniversity of Central FloridaUCF Sanford/Lake MaryElementary SchoolsCrystal Lake Elementary SchoolHeathrow Elementary SchoolLake Mary Elementary SchoolLake Mary Preparatory SchoolMiddle SchoolsGreenwood Lakes Middle SchoolMarkham Woods Middle SchoolHigh SchoolsLake Mary High SchoolSeminole HighColleges & UniversitiesSeminole State College of FloridaECPI UniversityRollins CollegeFull Sail UniversityUniversity of Central FloridaUCF Sanford/Lake Mary “Must-See” Attractions Near Lake Mary Sanford Museum The Sanford Museum is a hidden gem for history lovers, offering a glimpse into the rich past of Sanford, Florida. This charming museum showcases artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that tell the story of the city's founding, its ties to the steamboat era, and the impact of Henry Shelton Sanford. Visitors can explore local history through interactive displays and unique collections, making it a must-visit for those curious about Central Florida’s heritage. Learn more Cranes Roost Park Cranes Roost Park is a vibrant lakeside destination perfect for relaxation and entertainment! Nestled in the heart of Altamonte Springs, this scenic park features a one-mile walkway around Cranes Roost Lake, a stunning floating boardwalk, and picturesque fountains. With an outdoor amphitheater hosting live events, beautifully landscaped grounds, and plenty of space to unwind, it’s a favorite spot for families, walkers, and nature lovers alike! Learn more Harry P Leu Gardens Leu Gardens is a breathtaking oasis where nature and beauty come together! This 50-acre botanical garden in Orlando features stunning floral displays, winding pathways, and a historic home. Visitors can explore lush rose gardens, tropical plants, and towering oak trees draped in Spanish moss. With seasonal blooms, scenic lakes, and educational exhibits, it’s the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll, a family outing, or a nature-inspired adventure! Learn more Popular Lake Mary Restaurants COYOACÁN Mexican Cocina & Tequila Bar (Soon Zacapa Mexican Restaurant & Bar) COYOACÁN Mexican Cocina & Tequila Bar brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to Lake Mary in a warm and inviting setting. Known for its authentic dishes, handcrafted margaritas, and extensive tequila selection, this... --- - Published: 2025-01-03 - Modified: 2025-01-05 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/patient-forms/ New Patient Forms Please fill out your new patient forms online before you visit us for your complimentary consultation, so we can start your journey right away! Child - New Patient Intake Form Adult - New Patient Intake Form SPANISH - Child - New Patient Intake Form SPANISH - Adult - New Patient Intake Form Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-02-29 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/thank-you-text-us-your-photos/ Virtual Consultation Step 3: Text us your photos! Text your photos to (407) 862-1870Include your name and “virtual consult” in the text message. We'll reach back out as soon as possible to begin the journey to your beautiful smile. Send a Text --- - Published: 2024-02-26 - Modified: 2025-03-11 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/cost-of-invisalign/ Cost of Invisalign® We want everyone to experience a beautiful smile and a comfortable treatment process—no matter their budget. When you visit us for your complimentary consultation, we’ll discuss your financial needs and work with you to create a payment plan that makes you and your wallet happy. How much does Invisalign cost a month? All of our treatment plans are 100% personalized for each patient! Your monthly Invisalign cost will depend on a few factors, including: The length of your treatment The severity of your condition The payment plan you choose The additional appliances included in your treatment (if necessary) Your insurance coverage (if you have ortho insurance) Is Invisalign covered by insurance? Yes, it can be! Invisalign is considered medically necessary for a lot of people, which qualifies a portion of your Invisalign treatment costs to be covered by insurance. How much is Invisalign with insurance? Some insurance plans can cover 50% of your Invisalign costs. If your coverage applies, your insurance provider will cover a certain portion of your Invisalign costs, and you can choose one of our flexing payment options to cover the remaining cost of treatment. We accept most major insurance plans. If you have orthodontic insurance, our team will help you file your insurance claims and paperwork to ensure that you get the most out of your benefit. At your first visit to our office, we’ll discuss your insurance coverage and determine your out-of-pocket cost. Have questions about the cost of Invisalign? Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. At your first visit, we’ll answer all of your questions. We’re here to support you throughout your treatment process. At your complimentary consultation, we’ll discuss Invisalign prices and work with you to create a payment plan that meets your needs. Ready to begin your transformation? Get started. Schedule now! Begin your journey today. /* */ "*" indicates required fields First Name*Last Name*Email Address* Phone Number*Message*Checkboxes* I consent to Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics contacting me by phone and/or text solely for the purposes of scheduling an appointment. Your personal data will be processed in accordance with our Privacy Statement. CAPTCHA /* { mutations. forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation. type === 'attributes' && visibilityTestDiv. offsetParent ! == null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender; observer. disconnect; } }); }); observer. observe( document. body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: , }); } else { triggerPostRender; } } );} ); /* ]]> */ Did you know that we’re Top 1% Blue Diamond Plus Invisalign providers? That’s the highest distinction achievable in Invisalign expertise! Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2024-06-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/types-of-braces/gold-braces/ Gold Braces Get a 24-karat smile during and after treatment! We offer gold braces for patients looking to straighten their teeth in style. Gold braces are made of high-quality stainless steel, the same material used for metal braces. Metal braces are then covered in pure 24 karat gold to create gold braces. It sounds pretty fancy to have 24k gold braces, doesn’t it? Not only are these types of braces trendy, but they’re strong, durable and just as effective as traditional braces. How much do gold braces cost? We’re proud to offer gold braces, too! We want you to choose the treatment that works best for your lifestyle because orthodontic treatment should be a positive experience! For all of our treatments we offer a number of affordable payment plans. At your free orthodontic exam, we’ll work with you to create a payment plan that meets your financial needs and helps you achieve your dream smile. If you have orthodontic insurance, your coverage will reduce your costs too! Our team will help you maximize your insurance benefits. How to get gold braces Simply request your complimentary exam with us in Longwood or Lake Mary to get started. At your first visit, we’ll examine your smile and discuss your smile goals, then we can prepare to place your gold braces! You can get gold braces the same day as your consultation. If you’d rather start the process from home, you can request a virtual assessment first. All you have to do is snap a few selfies, tell us about yourself, and we can begin your journey. You’ll receive answers to your questions, as well as a cost estimate for your gold braces treatment and personalized messages from your orthodontist – all in 48 hours, right from your couch. Then, we’ll schedule your in-person exam and prepare for your gold braces treatment. You decide how you get started. We’ll be ready to meet you either way! Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions. Ready to schedule your complimentary exam? Let’s go! Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2024-02-22 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/types-of-braces/ceramic-braces/ Clear Ceramic Braces Looking for a less noticeable way to straighten your teeth? We offer clear braces in Lake Mary and Longwood! Ceramic clear braces work similarly to traditional braces, except ceramic braces have clear brackets and wires that blend in with the natural color of the teeth for a less noticeable appearance. Ceramic braces are specially designed for comfort and durability, with rounded brackets to minimize discomfort. Do ceramic braces take longer? The length of your treatment plan will depend on the severity of your condition! Treatment with ceramic braces can take anywhere from 12 to 36 months to complete. If your case is of minor severity and primarily focused on the aesthetics of the smile, your treatment period will be on the shorter end of the spectrum. For more complex cases with bite misalignments or a severe dental misalignment, your treatment will take a bit longer. How much do clear braces cost? For all of our orthodontic treatments, we offer flexible financing options! At your first visit, we’ll work with you to create a payment plan that suits your budget. The payment plan you choose can help to lower your monthly braces costs, and if you have orthodontic insurance, this will reduce your costs too! Our team will help you file your insurance claims to ensure that you get the most benefit out of your coverage. Have questions about clear braces? We are a family orthodontist here to answer your questions and discuss your options! Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions. Dr. Wiewiora, Dr. Dunn, and our experienced team are here to guide you, so you can experience a positive treatment process while achieving the perfect smile. Ready to get started? Request your complimentary consultation at one of our convenient locations in Longwood or Lake Mary, Florida, today! Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2024-02-22 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/invisalign-first/ Invisalign® First Invisalign is for little smiles too! Children as young as 9 years old can smile with the same high-quality orthodontic treatment as their parents or teenage siblings. The importance of early orthodontic treatment While the baby teeth are still emerging, it's the perfect time to consider orthodontic treatment (or at least an orthodontic assessment). Our orthodontists are able to detect orthodontic conditions that are likely to become problematic if left untreated. Early orthodontic treatment that works with your child's natural smile development can enable us to create a healthy new smile in the shortest time, with the least-invasive treatment approach. Otherwise, conditions left untreated may require jaw surgery or various appliances to correct later in life. Once the jaw bones are done growing, it also takes additional care to correct any associated facial abnormalities or asymmetries. Scheduling an orthodontic screening by age 7 is ideal! Conditions treated with Invisalign First With Invisalign First clear aligners, we can treat a number of orthodontic conditions, including the following: Crooked teeth Crowded teeth Poor bite conditions (overbite, underbite, open bite, crossbite) Gapped teeth Teeth spacing Narrow dental arch Misaligned bite conditions (overbite, underbite, open-bite, crossbite) Thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting Why Invisalign First? Because growing mouths require gentle (yet effective) care. Invisalign First is easy to maintain, comfortable to wear, and accommodating to little patients’ lifestyles. Special Invisalign aligners are custom-made for each smile and designed to work efficiently, alongside the natural development of the teeth and jaw bones. Invisalign accommodates permanent teeth. Invisalign First aligners are uniquely designed to hold space for permanent teeth to grow before they’ve erupted through the gums. Holding these spaces helps to maintain sufficient room in the mouth to prevent teeth from crowding or overlapping. This is particularly beneficial for young patients who have a mixed dentition of baby teeth and adult teeth. Removable clear aligners make it easier to brush and floss. Children can remove their aligners when they eat, brush their teeth, and floss their teeth. This means no food is off limits, and they won’t have to alter their oral hygiene routine to adjust to their treatment. Invisalign First can support young patients as they develop strong oral hygiene habits that benefit their smile for a lifetime. Have questions about Invisalign for kids? We would love to hear from you! Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us or schedule your free exam today! We’re a choice provider for high-quality children's orthodontics in Lake Mary and Longwood, Florida. Dr. Wiewiora, Dr. Dunn and our team are known for their careful and compassionate approach toward our young patients. Schedule now! Set your child up for a lifetime of confident smiles. "*" indicates required fields First Name*Last Name*Email Address* Phone Number*Message*Checkboxes* I consent to Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics contacting me by phone and/or text solely for the purposes of scheduling an appointment. Your personal data will be processed in accordance with our Privacy Statement. CAPTCHA /* { mutations. forEach( ( mutation ) => { if (... --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2024-02-22 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/invisalign-for-teens/ Invisalign® For Teens We offer Invisalign® Teen for young adults who want to straighten their teeth and improve their bite while looking their best. Invisalign technology is the invisible force that works gently, but persistently, to align teeth for a healthy and radiant smile. Why Invisalign for teens? Invisalign is the clear path to a beautiful new smile! With Invisalign, teens can live their lives, enjoy all of their favorite hobbies, and smile confidently while their invisible treatment does the work. Clear Invisalign clear aligners are virtually invisible and undetectable when they’re in place. This modern form of invisible braces is made of BPA-free, latex-free, high-quality, custom-made plastic. Whatever your teen’s day holds - school, work, professional events, hanging with friends - they can smile confidently throughout the day while their clear aligners perfect their smile in secret. Comfortable Invisalign aligners are specially designed for comfort. They’re made of SmartTrack® material, a plastic engineered exclusively for Invisalign. This material makes it easy to take the aligners out and place them back in as you need throughout the day. Your teen’s aligners will be custom-made to fit his or her smile perfectly, so they shouldn’t cause irritation around the cheeks or gums. Convenient One of the major benefits of Invisalign—all of your favorite foods are still on the table! Your teen’s clear aligners are removable, so he or she can take them out to eat food, drink beverages, brush their teeth, and floss their teeth. Invisalign won’t require your teen to adjust their eating habits or their oral hygiene routine. Is my teen a candidate for Invisalign? If you aren’t sure whether Invisalign is right for your teen, we encourage you to request a complimentary consultation with us - or get started from home with a virtual consultation. Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn will examine your teen’s smile, take x-rays and diagnostic photos, and discuss you and your teen’s goals and concerns. We can treat a range of common orthodontic problems, including: Crooked teeth Crowded teeth Poor bite conditions (overbite, underbite, open bite, crossbite) Gapped teeth Teeth spacing If your teen isn’t happy with his or her smile, we can create a customized treatment plan that helps them love their smile. Every teen deserves to feel confident! How does Invisalign Teen work? Using iTero scanning technology, our orthodontists will make quick, precise 3-D impressions of your child’s teeth to begin the Invisalign process. These impressions will be used to create their custom treatment plan with Invisalign for teens. Your teen will receive a set of custom aligners: one for their top teeth and one for their bottom teeth. Every 1 to 2 weeks, your teen will switch out his or her current set of aligners to wear a new set, and every 10 to 12 weeks, you’ll visit our office to receive new sets of aligners. Each set of Invisalign Teen aligners is custom-made to shift teeth closer to the ideal alignment. Your teen will wear aligners for at least 20... --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2025-03-11 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/invisalign-for-adults/ Invisalign® For Adults It's never too late to live your most confident life! Invisalign is ideal for adults who are ready to transform their smile, but prefer a more modern alternative to traditional braces. Why Invisalign For Adults? Adult Invisalign treatment is comfortable, efficient and convenient. You can keep living life on your terms without giving up your favorite foods, hiding your smile, or complicating your oral hygiene routine. Whatever your day holds, between your social and professional life, you can continue smiling, talking, eating, presenting, hosting, dancing - whatever your thing may be - without your orthodontic treatment getting in the way. Conditions treated with Invisalign With Invisalign, we can treat a wide range of orthodontic conditions, from mildly crooked teeth to complex bite misalignments, including: Crooked teeth Crowded teeth Teeth protrusion Poor bite conditions (overbite, underbite, open bite, crossbite) Gapped teeth Teeth spacing Lack of confidence when smiling Depending on your case, your personalized Invisalign treatment plan may include Invisalign attachments and/or an orthodontic appliance, like rubber bands, to improve the effectiveness of treatment. How do I know if I'm a candidate for Invisalign? If you’re interested in Invisalign treatment, we encourage you to request a complimentary orthodontic exam with us! Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn will examine your smile, take x-rays and diagnostic photos, and discuss your goals and any concerns you may have. We provide complimentary orthodontic exams and consultations, because we genuinely want what’s best for you and your smile. You deserve to be informed about your current smile condition, without breaking the bank! Request your consultation in Lake Mary or Longwood, or get started from home first with a virtual consultation. Invisalign for Adults FAQs Why should I choose Wiewiora & Dunn? We’re proud to be some of the most experienced orthodontists in the area! As Top 1% Blue Diamond Plus Invisalign providers, we are recognized for our Invisalign expertise among the top 1% of Invisalign providers in the world. Providing highly-personalized orthodontics in a warm and welcoming setting is our top priority. With our doctors, you’re in the best hands. How much does Invisalign cost? The cost of Invisalign in Lake Mary and Longwood is more affordable with Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics! We offer flexible payment plans to help you manage your Invisalign cost. We also offer discounts for patients’ family members and for patients who use Medicaid. See the full Invisalign process. How long does Invisalign take? Your treatment plan will be 100% personalized to you. While the average Invisalign case may take anywhere from 3 to 18 months to complete, your treatment time may be anywhere in that spectrum. It depends on the severity of your case. At your initial consultation, we’ll be able to give you an estimated treatment length! It’s up to you to commit to wearing your aligners as instructed, in order for you to maintain the shortest treatment length. We're proud to be some of the most experienced orthodontists in the area! As Top 1% Blue Diamond... --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2024-02-22 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/invisalign-attachments/ Invisalign® Attachments Invisalign SmartForce® attachments are small, specialized buttons that we use to maximize the effectiveness of Invisalign treatment. These attachments are tiny and tooth-colored to blend in with the natural appearance of the teeth. They work by minimizing the space between an individual tooth and the aligner, to apply extra pressure on that tooth (or teeth). Though many complex orthodontic conditions can be treated with Invisalign alone, some cases require additional care when aligning the teeth and bite. That’s when Invisalign attachments come into play! What if my Invisalign attachment falls off? Invisalign attachments fall off sometimes—it happens! Similar to metal braces, if you exert too much force on your Invisalign attachments, you may break or loosen your appliance. If your Invisalign attachment falls off, please give us a call and we’ll get you scheduled to visit us as soon as possible to replace the attachment. We don’t want your attachment off for too long, because we don’t want your teeth shifting back to their original position. If you still have the attachment, place it in a ziploc bag and bring it with you to your appointment. These buttons are temporarily bonded to specific teeth to facilitate quicker movement and are available at our Longwood and Lake Mary orthodontic offices. Eating with Invisalign attachments Eating with Invisalign attachments is similar to eating with braces. You have to be considerate of your attachments to avoid damaging them or popping one out of place. Stay away from hard, chewy, or sticky foods and candies. Because these buttons are bonded directly to the teeth, many patients wonder about Invisalign attachments staining their teeth. This is possible if you aren’t cautious with your diet. Foods and beverages with strong dyes or colorings should be avoided, and it’s a good idea to drink coffee with a straw. If your teeth end up stained from your Invisalign attachments, don’t worry! Once your attachments are removed, you can whiten your teeth to treat your stains. Have questions about Invisalign attachments? Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us! We would love to answer all of your questions. You can give us a call at either of our locations in Longwood or Lake Mary, Florida. Ready to begin your smile journey? Request your complimentary consultation with us today, or get started from home with a virtual consultation! Schedule now! Start living your most confident life. "*" indicates required fields First Name*Last Name*Email Address* Phone Number*Message*Checkboxes* I consent to Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics contacting me by phone and/or text solely for the purposes of scheduling an appointment. Your personal data will be processed in accordance with our Privacy Statement. CAPTCHA /* { mutations. forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation. type === 'attributes' && visibilityTestDiv. offsetParent ! == null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender; observer. disconnect; } }); }); observer. observe( document. body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: , }); } else { triggerPostRender; } } );} ); /* ]]> */ Insurance coverage can lower... --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2025-03-11 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/invisalign-diamond-provider/ Top 1% Blue Diamond Plus Invisalign® Provider Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics is proud to be recognized among the top 1% of Invisalign providers in the world! Invisalign designations are earned as a practice reaches a specific level of experience and expertise. The distinction we've earned is the highest distinction achievable. With us, you're in the best hands. What does this mean for you? Highest quality care for your smile As Top 1% Blue Diamond Plus Invisalign doctors, our orthodontists successfully complete at least 280 Invisalign cases a year. Results with Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn are predictably beautiful, and our orthodontists have demonstrated their reliability time and time again. Check out our smile gallery to see the incredible smile results from our past Invisalign patients! You are a candidate for Invisalign We don't even have to meet you to know that you're a candidate for Invisalign! Our level of expertise means everyone can be treated with their preferred treatment method. (Other orthodontists may require braces for extreme cases. ) Our experience also enables us to offer Invisalign treatment for all ages and cases – from simple to complex. We provide Invisalign First for kids, Invisalign for teens and Invisalign for adults. If you were told that you’re not a candidate for Invisalign, we urge you to schedule your complimentary exam with us. We have treated many patients who were previously told (by another provider) that they could not be treated with Invisalign. Affordable Invisalign treatment The makers of Invisalign (Align Technology) extend special discounts to us, due to our expertise, which we then share with our patients! While other Invisalign doctors offer a higher price for Invisalign treatment than other types of braces, Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontic is proud to offer Invisalign clear aligners at the same price as metal or ceramic braces. Schedule your Invisalign consultation today. Don't take a chance on your smile. Choose an Invisalign specialist, proven to create incredible smiles. Together, our orthodontists have a combined 40 years of experience offering high-quality orthodontic treatments using the latest systems and technologies. You won’t find a more experienced orthodontist office in Longwood or Lake Mary, FL. Ready to experience the difference? Request your complimentary exam with us today. Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2024-02-26 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/cost-of-braces/ Cost of Braces Meeting our patients’ needs is incredibly important to us! We offer flexible financing options to help you cover the cost of treatment. When you visit us for your complimentary consultation, we’ll discuss your financial needs and work with you to create a payment plan that works with your budget. How much are braces? There is no set monthly cost of braces. All of our treatment plans are 100% personalized for each patient! We don't believe in 'one-size-fits-all' when it comes to orthodontics. Your monthly costs will depend on a few factors, including: The length of your treatment The severity of your condition The payment plan you choose The additional appliances included in your treatment (if necessary) Your insurance coverage (if you have ortho insurance) How much do braces cost with insurance? Orthodontic insurance can lower the average cost of braces significantly. Your insurance provider will cover a certain portion of your treatment costs and you’ll be responsible for the rest. We accept most major insurance plans. If you have orthodontic insurance, our team will help you file your insurance claims and paperwork to ensure that you get the most out of your benefit. At your first visit to our office, we’ll discuss your insurance coverage and determine your out-of-pocket cost. How much do braces cost without insurance? If you do not have insurance coverage, we’ll work with you to develop a financial plan that makes braces affordable and practical for you. Have questions about the cost of braces? Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’d love to hear from you and discuss the price of braces at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics! We’re here to support you throughout your treatment process—from your first visit to your last visit. At your complimentary consultation, we’ll discuss the cost of treatment and work with you to create a payment plan that meets your needs. We’re proud to offer affordable braces prices. Ready to begin your transformation? Get started today by taking the first step. Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2025-01-08 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/patient-info-first-ortho-exam/ Your First Visit Choosing the right orthodontist for you and your family is a big decision. We don’t take it lightly either. Orthodontic treatment is personal to you, and it’s personal to us. When you visit our office in Lake Mary or Longwood, you’ll see that we genuinely care about our patients. Our top priority is to ensure your comfort and happiness. On day 1, our goal is to show you around, get to know you, examine your smile, explore your treatment options, and create a personalized treatment plan that sets you on the path to a beautiful new smile. Your initial exam is free. Your first visit includes a consultation and comprehensive exam from our experienced orthodontist – and it won’t cost you a thing. We offer no-risk, no-obligation, free exams, because it’s important to us that you feel comfortable with your decision to start treatment with Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics. Before you visit us for your consultation, you can fill out your new patient forms online! This way, your visit will be as efficient as possible. What to expect on your first visit Step 1: Meet the team First, you’ll be greeted with a smile from our friendly team. (That will never change. We’ll always be happy to see you! ) You’ll meet with one of our new patient coordinators, who will give you a tour of the office and get to know a little bit about you. Once you’re comfortable with your surroundings, we’re ready to begin your orthodontic exam. Step 2: Get x-rays, scans & photos Next, one of our experienced orthodontic assistants will use the advanced iTero® handheld scanner to take quick digital impressions of your teeth and bite. The iTero device produces a quick, easy, comfortable digital impression scan (no goopy putty necessary) but it also allows you to preview your predicted treatment results before you begin treatment! You’ll be able to see a digital simulation of your new smile at your very first visit. We’ll take digital x-rays with our low-radiation x-ray machine. If needed, a CBCT scan will be taken to assess areas of concern. Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn will use these diagnostic photos, digital impression scan and x-rays to create your personalized treatment plan! Step 3: Meet your orthodontist Then, we’ll head over to our consultation room where you’ll meet your orthodontist! Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn will perform a detailed exam of your teeth and bite. Your orthodontist will discuss all findings with you, present you with our treatment options, and discuss what you can expect throughout your orthodontic journey. We’ll answer all of your questions and tell you everything you need to know about your braces or Invisalign® treatment. Step 4: Pick your payment plan While your orthodontist is creating your very own personalized treatment plan, our new patient coordinator will sit down with you and work out a financial plan to cover the cost for braces or Invisalign. We’ll discuss your needs, calculate your insurance benefit, review... --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2024-02-26 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/life-with-braces/ Life with Braces Your new life with braces is exciting! If you’re just starting braces treatment, you may have some questions about what to expect. Take a look at these braces FAQs, and if you have any unanswered questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Do braces hurt? We think you’ll be relieved to know that getting braces does not hurt! When we place your braces on, we are simply bonding brackets to your teeth, and attaching your archwires to your brackets. This won’t cause you any pain. The first week you have braces, you may experience some minor soreness as your teeth and gums are adjusting to the support of your braces. You can take some Tylenol® or another over-the-counter pain reliever to counteract the soreness. This should subside after the first week or two. Can I get braces the same day as my consultation? Yes! We’re proud to offer Same Day Braces, so you can leave your first appointment with braces on your teeth. Once you decide to transform your smile, why wait any longer to get started? When new patients ask, “can you get molds/impressions and braces on the same day? ” – they’re pleased to know that we can do it all at your complimentary consultation! We’ll examine your teeth, create your personalized treatment plan, create a custom financial plan, then place your braces. How long will my treatment period be? This will depend on a few factors, including your goals and the outcome you desire from treatment, your overall oral health, your orthodontic condition, the severity of your case, and your diligence in following directions and wearing your appliances (like rubber bands). On average, treatment with Invisalign®, traditional braces and ceramic braces can take anywhere from 12 to 36 months, although in some cases may be longer or shorter. Once Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn completes your complimentary consultation, we’ll have an estimate of how long your treatment period will be. The length of your treatment may change, depending on how quickly your teeth are shifting and whether you wear your appliances as instructed. Can I play sports with braces? Yes, your orthodontic treatment won’t stop you from living your life the way you want to! As long as you wear a mouthguard when playing sports, you shouldn’t have to sit on the sidelines during the season. No matter which type of braces you choose, it’s incredibly important that you wear a mouthguard while playing sports. A mouthguard will protect your cheeks, gums, teeth and other players from damage. What can I eat with braces? You can still eat at your favorite restaurants in Lake Mary or Longwood! You’ll be able to eat tons of delicious snacks, meals and desserts with braces too. During the first week of your treatment, as your teeth and gums are adjusting, you may want to choose softer foods, like pasta, tuna, mashed potatoes, or soup. Knowing what to eat your first week with braces takes some of... --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2025-03-12 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/wiewiora-dunn-dictionary/ Orthodontics Dictionary All 2-Phase Orthodontic Treatment Carriere Appliance Extraction Headgear Orthodontic Appliance 2 Phase Orthodontic Treatment The goal of first-phase treatment is to develop the jaw size in order to accommodate all the permanent teeth and to relate the upper and lower jaws to each other for good facial balance and esthetics. Children sometimes exhibit early signs of jaw problems as they grow and develop. An upper or lower jaw that is growing too much or not enough can be recognized at an early age. If children after age six are found to have this jaw discrepancy, they are candidates for early orthodontic treatment. Because they are growing rapidly, children can benefit enormously from an early phase of orthodontic treatment utilizing appliances that direct the growth of the upper and lower jaws. Thus, a good foundation can be established, providing adequate room for eruption of all permanent teeth and good facial balance. This early correction may prevent later removal of permanent teeth or surgical procedures to align the upper and lower jaws. Leaving such a condition untreated until all permanent teeth erupt could result in a jaw discrepancy that cannot be treated with braces alone. Orthodontic records will be necessary to determine the type of appliances to be used, the duration of treatment time and the frequency of visits. Records will consist of X-rays, and photographs of the teeth and jaw structures. Resting Period (After Phase I Treatment) – In this phase, the remaining permanent teeth are allowed to erupt. Retaining devices may or may not be used during this period. It is best to allow the existing permanent teeth some freedom of movement while final eruption of teeth occurs. A successful first phase will help create more room for teeth to find an eruption path. In other words, at the end of the first phase of treatment, teeth are not in their final positions. This will be accomplished in the second phase of treatment. Selective removal of certain primary (baby) teeth may be in the best interest to enhance eruption during this resting phase. Therefore, periodic recall appointments for observation are necessary, usually on a six-month basis. Second Phase of Treatment – Each tooth has an exact location in the mouth where it is in harmony with the lips, cheeks, tongue and other teeth. When this equilibrium is established, the teeth will function together properly. They will stay healthy and look attractive. This is the goal of the second and final phase of treatment. The second phase is initiated when all permanent teeth have erupted and, usually requires braces on all teeth for an average of 18-24 months. A retainer is worn nightly after this phase to maintain the results long-term. Advantages of Two-phase Orthodontic Treatment – Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a very specialized process that encompasses tooth straightening and physical, facial changes. The emphasis today on living longer, staying healthy and looking attractive requires optimum treatment results. The major advantage of a two-phase treatment is to maximize the... --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2024-02-27 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/orthodontic-frequently-asked-questions/ Orthodontics FAQs If you have questions, we have answers! We believe patient education is key to creating beautiful treatment results. If you don’t see your question here, please feel free to reach out to us. How much are braces and Invisalign? We provide high-quality orthodontic treatment that can be customized to your budget. We accept many HMO and PPO dental insurance plans, and we offer a variety of payment options to meet your needs. We also offer an interest-free, no money down in-house financing plan. We accept CareCredit, LendingClub, Cash, Checks, Visa, American Express, MasterCard, and Discover. What can I do to achieve the best results? Take extra care of your mouth during your treatment. Appliances are strong enough to do their jobs but not enough to stand undue abuse and neglect. Avoid chewing pencils and fingernails and eating hard and sticky foods. Outside of the office, you should keep your braces and teeth EXTRA CLEAN with special care at home. On top of that, make sure to visit your dentist every three months for professional cleanings to ensure your treatment goes swiftly and painlessly. How long will my treatment take? The length of your treatment Wiewiora & Dunn provides varies depending on a number of factors: The complexity of your orthodontic problem. Growth and tissue response to treatment. Level of cooperation from the patient. If every member of the team (the family dentist, orthodontist, and patient) cooperate well, the length of your comprehensive orthodontic treatment can range from 12 to 30 months. What do I do in an emergency? In the event of an emergency, please call our office right away so we can schedule an appointment for you. Please do not come directly to the office without calling first. Once you call, we can create a time to see you and give you the individual attention you deserve. If your emergency occurs after business hours, please call our office. You will be directed to our on-call certified orthodontic assistant who will provide you with guidance. What do I do if I damage my braces? The procedure for what you do after damaging your teeth or appliances varies based on what you’ve done and the severity. Here’s a list of common issues and what you should do if you run into them:Trauma To Your Tooth:Call your dentist and report your trauma. A Bracket Is Knocked Off:Call your orthodontist to explain how it happened. They will determine the best course of action from there. The Archwire Is Poking Your Cheek:Put wax over the area the wire is poking. Schedule an appointment with your orthodontist to have the wire clipped. Ligature Wire Is Poking Your Lip Or Cheek:Use a Q-tip or pencil eraser to push the wire flat against the tooth. If the wire cannot be moved into a comfortable position, cover it with relief wax. Your Brackets, Wires, Or Bands Have Loosened:If the braces have come loose in any way, call our office to determine the appropriate next steps. Save... --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2024-02-22 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/emergency-orthodontist/ Emergency Orthodontist Orthodontic emergencies are rare, but they happen – and our team is here for you if you experience one. Our goal is to see you as soon as possible, so we can remedy the situation and continue your journey to a beautiful new smile. How to handle an orthodontic emergency Fortunately, most situations can be resolved with orthodontic wax and a visit to our office. If you experience a dental emergency, we encourage you to give us a call as soon as possible. We have an on-call team member available to respond to after-hours emergencies. To reach our emergency line, simply call our office and press 1. We want to prevent any complications, discomfort or further damage to your appliances. We also want to keep your treatment plan moving forward! What is an orthodontic emergency? An orthodontic emergency is any unexpected situation you find yourself in that damages your teeth, mouth, braces, or appliance throughout your treatment. Here are the most common orthodontic emergencies: Invisalign attachment falls off Invisalign tray is damaged, warped, or missing Braces rubber band falls off Braces archwire pops out of place Tooth pain or loose teeth Poking wires or metal pieces Any situation that requires an emergency braces repair or gives you discomfort throughout your treatment plan is considered a common orthodontic emergency. In the meantime... In the meantime, we have tips to make you more comfortable until you can visit us. Loose or floating brackets on braces If your braces bracket becomes loose and detaches from your tooth entirely, try to place it in a ziploc bag. If you can’t find the bracket, that’s okay. Just give us a call, and your orthodontist will advise you on the best plan of action moving forward. If you have a floating bracket on your braces and it’s still attached to your wire, be extra careful not to swallow the bracket. Take some orthodontic wax, and place it over the floating bracket to temporarily attach it back to the tooth. This way, the bracket won’t bother your cheeks and you’re less likely to swallow the bracket. If you do happen to swallow your braces bracket, don’t panic. It happens! The swallowed bracket will likely go straight to your stomach with the rest of your food, and pass naturally. If you experience a severe stomach ache, breathing problems, or any unusual symptoms, go to the emergency room. How long can you go with a loose bracket? While a loose bracket is not an urgent situation, it does require your orthodontist’s attention as soon as possible. In other words, you don’t need to drop everything and hightail it to our office, but you should make it a priority to see us within the week! We don’t want a loose bracket to hinder your treatment progress. Poking wires or metal pieces How to fix a poking wire on braces: If your braces wire pops out of place or you have a metal piece bothering you, grab some orthodontic... --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/retainers/ Retainers After all of the hard work you dedicate to your braces or Invisalign® treatment, you deserve to love your smile for a lifetime. Wearing your retainer is the final (and most important) phase of your orthodontic treatment. It’s up to you to maintain your results through proper retainer wear and care! What does a retainer do? Your retainer is worn once your braces or Invisalign treatment is complete, and it plays the key role of holding your teeth in their beautiful new position to prevent them from ‘relapsing’. Once active orthodontic treatment is complete, your teeth are susceptible to ‘orthodontic relapse’, or reverting back to their original pre-treatment positions. Your teeth require a period of retention to ensure that they stabilize in the proper alignment. How long will I wear a retainer after braces or Invisalign? To maintain your new smile, it's important that you wear your retainer every night. Teeth have a tendency to shift throughout life (and that's the last thing you want), so it’s important that you wear your retainer at night, indefinitely. Types of Retainers There are two main types of retainers—permanent retainers and removable retainers. Fixed (or permanent) retainers Permanent retainers are bonded (or cemented) to the teeth. These retainers include a small metal wire, custom-designed to fit behind the teeth. They’re generally bonded to the back surface of the bottom teeth, but can also be used behind the top teeth depending on your condition. Typically, fixed retainers will remain in place for a lifetime to ensure that your teeth don’t shift out of alignment. Maintaining great oral hygiene is essential with these. Removable retainers Unlike permanent retainers, removable retainers are not cemented in place. They're very similar to Invisalign clear aligners: custom-made and printed just for you. Removable retainers come in a set - one retainer for the top teeth and one for the bottom. When you or your child’s treatment is coming to an end, your orthodontist will explain the different types of retainers to help you make the best decision for your lifestyle! Retainer FAQs How long do retainers last? Your removable retainer can last up to 10 years with proper care! Permanent retainers can last decades to a lifetime. How much do retainers cost? Your dental retainer is a part of your orthodontic treatment plan, so it’s included in your initial cost! Unless you damage or lose your retainer, there won’t be an additional retainer cost. At the end of your braces or Invisalign treatment, you’ll receive your custom-designed, removable retainer. To keep it in great shape, we advise you to store your retainer in your designated carrying case every time you take it out of your mouth. This should prevent you from losing or damaging your retainer! What are my 'Dos and Don'ts' with my retainers? Do not... 1. Do not expose your retainers to heat! Your retainer can melt or warp and become ineffective, so it’s important that you do not put them in the dishwasher, use hot... --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2024-02-29 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/virtual-consultation/ Virtual Consultation Get started from your couch! Start your smile journey from home, or on-the-go! All you have to do is snap some pics and tell us a little about yourself, then we’ll reach out to you and answer your questions. Easy peasy. When you request your free virtual consultation, one of our experienced orthodontists (Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn) will review your photos, assess your smile, and tell you if braces or Invisalign could help you reach your goals. We’re proud to be your family orthodontist, providing personalized orthodontics with a convenient treatment experience in Longwood and Lake Mary! Step 1: Take pics of your smile from all angles (like the examples below. ) Step 2: Tell us a little bit about yourself. "*" indicates required fields First Name*Last Name*Email address* Phone Number*Message*Checkboxes* I consent to Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics contacting me by phone and/or text solely for the purposes of scheduling an appointment. Your personal data will be processed in accordance with our Privacy Statement. CAPTCHA /* { mutations. forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation. type === 'attributes' && visibilityTestDiv. offsetParent ! == null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender; observer. disconnect; } }); }); observer. observe( document. body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: , }); } else { triggerPostRender; } } );} ); /* ]]> */ Step 3: Start smiling! You’re all set! We’ll reach out as soon as possible to discuss treatment with you and begin the journey to your beautiful new smile. Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2025-08-14 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/longwood-orthodontic-office/ Longwood Orthodontist Office We're excited to meet you! Welcome to our office. Our Lake Mary orthodontists, Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn, are proud to provide the highest quality of orthodontic care for families in our communities. We serve the Longwood area, including Apopka, Casselberry, Fern Park, Sanlando Springs, Altamonte Springs, Sabal Point, Springs Landing, Sweetwater Oaks, Alaqua Lakes, Lake Forest and Heathrow. Get started today with a complimentary consultation. Book now! (407) 862-1870 scheduling@cflsmiles. com For dental emergencies (407) 862-1870 Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics 2855 W State Road 434, Ste 1011 Longwood, FL 32779 Get directions >> Office Hours Monday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed Your Orthodontist In 32779We’re conveniently located along sparkling Lake Brantley, and about one mile away from both Lake Brantley High School and Forest City Elementary School. We’re also less than a mile from the Oak Groves Shoppes and the Shoppes at Brantley Hall. Meet Dr. Cara Wiewiora Get to know your orthodontist Making Longwood Smile Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/invisalign-retainers/ Invisalign® Retainers At Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, we prioritize the long-term success of your orthodontic treatment! After all of the hard work you put into creating your smile, you should enjoy it for the rest of your life. Custom Clear Retainers We provide both an upper and lower clear removable retainer after braces or Invisalign treatment. These retainers are specifically designed to be worn at night to prevent your teeth from shifting out of place and “relapsing” to their original positions. Lower permanent bonded retainer for extreme crowding For patients with extreme crowding, we may recommend a lower permanent bonded retainer. This wire retainer is placed on the back of your teeth and offers additional, consistent support for alignment. However, it’s important to note that even with the bonded retainer, you will still need to wear the removable lower retainer at night. This combination ensures that all your teeth are held securely in their proper positions, as the bonded wire only extends from canine to canine (covering six teeth). High-tech scans for custom-made retainers To create your custom Invisalign retainers after treatment, we utilize the advanced iTero® scanning technology. When your treatment is complete, we perform a scan of your teeth and order custom retainers based on these precise digital impressions. This advanced scanning process ensures accurate and comfortable retainers that perfectly fit your teeth. Invisalign Retainer FAQs How long does it take to receive your retainers after ordering? Approximately one week after ordering your retainers, we will deliver them to you! During this appointment, we will take a photo of your teeth and check the fit of the retainers to ensure that they are providing optimal support. If you have undergone Invisalign treatment, you’ll be advised to wear your last tray at night to prevent any shifting. How much do Invisalign retainers cost? We believe in transparent pricing with our Invisalign retainers cost! The cost of the retainers and all associated services is included in your initial treatment fee. In the event that a second set of retainers is needed at the deband appointment, we offer a $100 discount, making the total cost $200. If a set of retainers is lost in the future and needs to be reordered, the cost is $300. What if I need to order a retainer replacement? One of the key benefits of our retainers is that as long as you contact us and order a lost retainer before any shifting occurs, we will always have the 3D model of your teeth from your last appointment. This allows us to recreate your retainers based on the accurate position of your teeth, ensuring the best fit and alignment. The cost for ordering a replacement retainer in such cases is $150 per tray. Approximately one week after ordering your retainers, we will deliver them to you! During this appointment, we will take a photo of your teeth and check the fit of the retainers to ensure that they are providing optimal support. If you have undergone... --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2024-02-26 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/types-of-braces/traditional-metal-braces/ Traditional Metal Braces Metal braces are ideal for children, teens and adults who want a beautiful, healthy smile! What are braces made of? We’re proud to use high-quality metal brackets manufactured by American Orthodontics. These high-grade metal alloy brackets are made out of a number of components, including carbon, aluminum, silicon, molybdenum, nickel, and chromium. Stainless steel braces are strong, won’t rust or corrode, and are safe to submerge in water (of course). Your personalized treatment plan with metal braces Throughout your braces treatment, every 6 to 8 weeks (depending on your personalized treatment plan), you’ll visit us to check-in on your progress and adjust your braces. During these appointments, we’ll ensure that you’re on the right track to your radiant, healthy smile! At your braces adjustment appointments, we may replace your archwire and adjust a bracket or two, and you’ll have the option to choose from a variety of colored rubber bands to replace your old rubber bands. You can get creative with your metal braces colors to express your style! How much do metal braces cost? The cost of braces at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics is more affordable! We offer flexible payment plans to help you cover the cost of treatment. Our treatment coordinator will work with you to design a payment plan that meets your needs. Your monthly braces cost will depend on a number of factors, including the length of your treatment, the severity of your pre-treatment condition, and the payment plan you choose. Interested in metal braces? We'd love to help you explore your options! Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at any time. Dr. Wiewiora, Dr. Dunn, and our experienced team are here to guide you, so you can experience a positive treatment process while achieving the perfect smile. Ready to get started? Request your complimentary consultation in Longwood or Lake Mary, Florida, today! Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2024-03-07 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/meet-dr-rick-dunn/ Meet Our Doctors Dr. Rick Dunn Dr. Dunn has more than 34 years of experience in the orthodontic field! He first opened our practice in 1977 and committed to providing the highest quality care for our communities. Dr. Dunn is known for his blend of expertise and compassionate care that ensures each patient receives the highest standard of care. He has lectured on orthodontics in Japan, Brazil, and France, and has been published in major dental publications. For more than 3 decades, Dr. Dunn has dedicated himself to creating personalized treatment plans and beautiful smiles for patients of all ages. He was actually Dr. Wiewiora's orthodontist when she was in orthodontic treatment! Professional Affiliations American Association of Orthodontists American Dental Association Southern Association of Orthodontists Florida Dental Association Dental Society of Greater Orlando Education Bachelor of Science (BS) degree - University of Florida Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) - Medical College of Virginia Orthodontic Residency - University of Alabama in Birmingham Awards & Recognitions Awarded the Burton N. Rudin Award in dental school Member of the Sigma Zeta Honorary Science Society Continuing Education Dr. Dunn has more than 34 years of experience in the orthodontic field! Staying up-to-date on recent advancements in orthodontics is important to him. Since returning home to open his orthodontic practice in 1977, Dr. Dunn has lectured in Japan, Brazil, and France on topics such as invisible braces and treatment of the temporomandibular joint. He has co-authored articles on invisible braces that are published in major dental publications. He is an active member of numerous professional organizations, including the AAO and ADA. Outside the Office Dr. Dunn enjoys spending time painting, taking art classes, running 5Ks, and playing with his grandchildren. Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2025-03-11 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/about-our-practice/ Why Choose Us You and your family deserve special treatment! Dr. Wiewiora, Dr. Dunn and our team are committed to delivering excellence throughout your experience and in your results. We create beautiful smiles for generations. We bring two generations of expertise, serving generations of families in Central Florida! Dr. Dunn first opened our practice in 1977. Since then, we’ve been honored to transform thousands of patients’ smiles, including grandparents, parents and children of the same families. Dr. Wiewiora was actually a patient of Dr. Dunn’s! Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics has been known as a trusted orthodontist in our community for over 45 years. We are dedicated to excellence. Our board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Wiewiora, is known as the most clinically-skilled orthodontist in our area. We stay up-to-date on the latest advancements, techniques and technologies to bring you the best care possible, in the shortest treatment time. As Top 1% Blue Diamond Plus Invisalign providers, our doctors are recognized among the Top 1% of Invisalign providers in the world. We keep it personal. We believe personalization is key to creating an exceptional experience. Every part of your experience, from your treatment plan to your financing plan and the attention you receive at each visit, is personalized to you. Our doctors are eager to speak with you, understand your needs, answer your questions and explain your treatment. Getting to know you is one of our favorite parts of the job! Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2024-02-26 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/ortho-technology-leaders/ Orthodontic Technologies We use advanced technologies to make your treatment experience as comfortable as possible and to ensure accuracy and precision in our results! ITERO® Digital Scanner No Goop, No Mess, No Putty With the iTero Digital Scanner, taking digital impressions is a quick, comfortable process. This advanced scanning technology replaces the need for traditional putty impressions, which means no goop or gagging during impressions! The iTero intraoral scanner creates a precise 3D model of the teeth in only a few minutes. The accuracy of iTero impressions allows us to achieve more predictable results with Invisalign® or braces. Digital iTero® Outcome Simulator With the iTero digital scanning system, we can also show you a preview of your new smile before you even begin treatment. This device produces an outcome simulation of the new smile you could achieve through braces or Invisalign treatment. Getting to take a sneak peek at your future smile is exciting! Digital X-Rays We use digital x-rays to capture images of our patients’ smiles, because they use less radiation to produce high-quality photos. They allow for only an eighth of the exposure that traditional x-rays do! Advanced technology X-rays are also more comfortable for our patients. We simply place a sensor inside of the mouth to generate an X-ray. In-house Dental Lab One of the many things that differentiates our practice from other orthodontists near you is our in-house dental lab! After your braces or Invisalign treatment ends, we’ll use our iTero intraoral scanner to create a digital 3D copy of your beautiful new smile. If you ever lose your retainer, give us a call as soon as possible and we’ll order a new one using your digital smile file – no office visit necessary! But in the case of a retainer emergency, our team is able to create a custom retainer the same day in our dental lab. So you can rest assured your new smile will stay your forever smile. Have questions about our technologies? Looking for an “orthodontist near me”? We would love to meet you! Dr. Wiewiora, Dr. Dunn, and our experienced team are here to guide you and support you along your treatment process, while you achieve the perfect smile. Ready to get started? Request your complimentary consultation at our conveniently located orthodontist offices in Longwood or Lake Mary, Florida, today! Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/common-orthodontic-issues/ Common Orthodontic Issues Every patient is unique and every case is different! There are common orthodontic problems that we see in new patients, but your specific experience, your preferences and your ultimate smile goals make your case one-of-a-kind. Underbite (Malocclusion) With an underbite, the lower jaw extends further than the upper jaw. This condition can cause facial imbalances, cause pain or difficulty chewing and speaking, and can cause the teeth to wear down prematurely as they don’t meet evenly. Underbites are often treated with Invisalign® or a form of braces, and in more severe cases, surgical orthodontics. Overbite (Malocclusion) When the upper jaw extends further than the lower jaw, this characterizes an overbite condition. Depending on how severe the condition is, an overbite can make it challenging to eat and chew properly. In some cases, the lower teeth will meet the roof of the mouth—ouch! Like underbites, overbites are often treated with Invisalign® or a form of braces, and in more severe cases, surgical orthodontics. Crossbite (Malocclusion) When the upper teeth are positioned inside the lower teeth, this is called a crossbite. This may be a posterior crossbite (in the back of the mouth) or an anterior crossbite (toward the front of the mouth). Crossbites can affect individual teeth or multiple teeth in a row. This condition is often the result of irregular tooth eruption, late loss of baby teeth, or thumb sucking during childhood. It can also occur due to a mismatch in the size of the upper and lower jaws. Crossbites are often treated with braces, Invisalign, and/or various types of orthodontic appliances. Crowded Teeth Teeth that are overlapping are considered ‘crowded’. More often than not, crowding is the result of insufficient room in the mouth. When the jaws aren’t wide enough to fit all teeth, the teeth start to overlap each other as they’re emerging. In some cases, crowded teeth can be treated with a palatal expander appliance during childhood, while the jaws are still developing. In severe cases of crowding, your orthodontist will discuss the best treatment route with you! Spacing Issues Although it is normal to have some spaces between primary (baby) teeth, excessive gaps or spaces between the teeth can also be caused by a few factors, including excessive space in the mouth, missing teeth congenitally or due to cavities or trauma, as well as childhood habits (like thumb sucking). Spacing issues are some of the most common orthodontic problems, and are often treatable with braces or Invisalign. Protrusion (Malocclusion) A protrusion, also known as an overjet condition, occurs when the front teeth protrude outward. Commonly called “buck teeth”, an overjet generally results from underdeveloped jaw bones, or thumb sucking. Early orthodontic treatment is an especially effective and efficient treatment option for protrusions. Depending on the severity of the condition, a full treatment of braces may be used for these cases. Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2025-03-11 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/orthodontic-treatments/ Orthodontic Treatments Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn are highly-experienced in treating patients of all ages, conditions, lifestyles and smile goals! We provide personalized orthodontics with advanced technologies and modern treatments in a warm and welcoming environment. Orthodontic Treatment Options Invisalign® for All Ages Get a clearly beautiful smile with expert care and a personalized experience. As Top 1% Blue Diamond Plus Invisalign providers, our doctors are recognized among the top 1% of Invisalign providers in the world. Get Invisalign First for your child, Invisalign for teens or Invisalign for adults! Tell me more Types of Braces We provide affordable braces in Longwood and Lake Mary! Our modern treatment options are designed to help you smile confidently while you undergo your transformation. Choose from Invisalign® virtually-invisible clear aligners, clear ceramic braces that blend in with your teeth, gold braces for a one-of-a-kind smile and metal braces for a traditional look. Tell me more Early Orthodontic Treatment Little smiles require expert care! Early orthodontic treatment with Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics can set your child up for a lifetime of confident, healthy smiles. The AAO recommends that children receive an orthodontic screening by age 7 in order to prevent problematic conditions from emerging. After your child’s complimentary consultation, we’ll determine whether orthodontic treatment is necessary or would be beneficial! Tell me more Orthodontics for Teens The teen years are fundamental for building confidence and strong self-esteem. Orthodontic treatment can help teens love their smile, and empower them to put their best foot forward in life. We provide braces and Invisalign for teens! Tell me more Orthodontics for Adults It’s never too late to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Orthodontics is beneficial at every age! We have esthetic options (Invisalign clear aligners and clear ceramic braces that blend in with your teeth) to suit your style. Tell me more Orthodontic Appliances When Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn creates your custom treatment plan, we may suggest an orthodontic appliance to ensure the greatest results in the shortest amount of time. We offer a variety of orthodontic appliances to treat every condition. Tell me more Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/braces-for-children/ Orthodontics For Kids Early Orthodontic Treatment We help you make the best decision for your child’s smile, health, and quality of life. Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn have years of experience transforming little smiles in Lake Mary and Longwood. When is the best age to get braces or Invisalign? The AAO (American Association of Orthodontists) recommends that children receive their first orthodontic evaluation at age 7. Age 7 sounds young, we know, but this doesn’t mean that orthodontic treatment will begin at this age. Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn will only suggest the right treatment at the right time for each patient. Does my little one need treatment? If any of these symptoms sound familiar, we encourage you to request a complimentary consultation with us! Persistent mouth-breathing Thumb sucking or tongue-thrusting habits Early, late or irregular loss of baby teeth Crooked, crowded or gapped teeth Jaw pain or facial pain Jaw shifting, popping or clicking Difficulty or pain when chewing or biting Inability to chew food properly Digestive issues caused by improper chewing Lack of self-esteem or confidence when smiling An early assessment of your child’s growth gives you the peace of mind that your child is thriving. Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment Early orthodontic treatment is best separated into two phases, designed to work alongside the natural development of the teeth and jaw bones. What Is Phase 1 Treatment? Phase 1 orthodontic treatment is typically completed between the ages of 7 and 10 and is aimed to prepare the mouth for permanent teeth to emerge in a healthy alignment with a sufficient amount of space. During this phase, your child may be treated with a palatal expander appliance to widen the upper jaw and create enough room for permanent teeth to grow. What Is Phase 2 Treatment? This phase generally begins in the early teen years, when all of the permanent teeth have erupted. Phase 2 treatment focuses on aligning the teeth and jaws to create a harmonious facial appearance. During this phase, a full treatment of braces or Invisalign is often completed. Every child develops at a different rate, and your child’s treatment plan will be 100% personalized to his or her needs. At your first visit, we’ll help you make the right choice for your little one! What is the cost of braces for kids? The average cost of braces and orthodontic care can vary greatly, depending on your child’s individual needs. At Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, we believe everyone should have access to high-quality orthodontics at an affordable price. We do everything we can to help our patients manage the cost of orthodontics, including flexible financing with $0 down options, in-house financing at 0%-interest, and more. We'll work with you to develop a financial plan that meets your needs and makes your child's healthy smile affordable. Schedule now! Now is the perfect time to get started. Request a complimentary consultation for your child today. "*" indicates required fields First Name*Last Name*Email Address* Phone Number*Message*Checkboxes* I consent to Wiewiora... --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2025-05-05 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/braces-for-teens/ Orthodontics For Teens We specialize in Invisalign® and braces for teens! The teen years are fundamental for building confidence and strong self-esteem. Orthodontic treatment with Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn can help teens love their smile, and empower them to put their best foot forward in life. Options in Teen Braces Every teen is unique, so it’s important to us that we provide desirable treatment options that allow teens to feel confident throughout their transformation! Our teen patients can choose from: Invisalign clear aligners Clear ceramic braces Gold braces Metal braces Does my teen need treatment? There are a few ways you can determine whether your teen needs orthodontics. If you recognize any of the following signs or symptoms, we encourage you to request a complimentary consultation for your teen! Lack of confidence when smiling or hiding smile regularly Jaws or teeth are disproportionate to the rest of the face Difficulty biting or chewing Digestive issues caused by improper chewing Early, late or irregular loss of baby teeth Crooked, crowded or gapped teeth Grinding or clenching the teeth Thumb sucking / finger sucking habits in childhood Jaw pain or facial pain Jaw shifting, popping or clicking Persistent mouth breathing What is the cost of braces for teens? We do everything we can to help lower the cost of braces or Invisalign for your family. We’re proud to offer flexible financing options including plans with $0 down and plans with 0% interest. We don’t want money to stand in the way of a life-changing opportunity for your teen. The price of braces depends on a few factors, including the length of your teen’s treatment (based on the severity of their condition) and the type of treatment chosen. At your first visit to one of our offices, we’ll discuss your needs and work with you to create a payment plan that makes you feel comfortable. Schedule now! Help your teen live a confident and healthy life. "*" indicates required fields First Name*Last Name*Email Address* Phone Number*Message*Checkboxes* I consent to Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics contacting me by phone and/or text solely for the purposes of scheduling an appointment. Your personal data will be processed in accordance with our Privacy Statement. CAPTCHA /* { mutations. forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation. type === 'attributes' && visibilityTestDiv. offsetParent ! == null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender; observer. disconnect; } }); }); observer. observe( document. body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: , }); } else { triggerPostRender; } } );} ); /* ]]> */ Orthodontic insurance coverage can lower your costs significantly! We’re proud to accept most HMO and PPO dental insurance plans. Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2024-05-16 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/braces-for-adults/ Orthodontics for Adults Orthodontic treatment can change your life at any age! Our orthodontists provide the quality of care you deserve with invisible treatment options that help you smile with confidence. When is it too late to get braces? It’s never too late to get braces or Invisalign®. The age you are when you decide to transform your smile and improve your quality of life is the perfect age to begin orthodontic treatment. There’s more to a smile than just perfect alignment. Adult orthodontics can improve not only your appearance and self-esteem, but your quality of life too. Options in Adult Braces We provide different types of adult orthodontic treatment options to suit your style. On your first visit, you can choose from: Invisalign clear aligners Clear ceramic braces Gold braces Metal braces How do I know if I need orthodontics? Do you love your smile? If the answer is no, that's enough reason to start treatment. You deserve to live your most confident life. If any of these signs or symptoms sound familiar, we encourage you to request a complimentary consultation with us. Lack of confidence when smiling or hiding smile regularly Jaws or teeth are disproportionate to the rest of the face Difficulty biting or chewing Digestive issues caused by improper chewing Crooked, crowded or gapped teeth Grinding or clenching the teeth Jaw pain or facial pain Jaw shifting, popping or clicking Persistent mouth breathing Poor sleep quality What is the cost of braces for adults? Braces for adults cost a reasonable amount with us! The cost of your treatment will depend on a few factors, including the length of your treatment (based on the severity of your condition). We’re proud to offer various discounts, as well as 0% interest in-house financing and outside financing with $0 down. See all of our financing options! At your first visit to our office, we’ll discuss your needs to create a payment plan that works for you. Schedule now! Don't spend another year wishing for a new smile. "*" indicates required fields First Name*Last Name*Email Address* Phone Number*Message*Checkboxes* I consent to Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics contacting me by phone and/or text solely for the purposes of scheduling an appointment. Your personal data will be processed in accordance with our Privacy Statement. CAPTCHA /* { mutations. forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation. type === 'attributes' && visibilityTestDiv. offsetParent ! == null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender; observer. disconnect; } }); }); observer. observe( document. body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: , }); } else { triggerPostRender; } } );} ); /* ]]> */ Orthodontic insurance coverage can lower your costs significantly! We’re proud to accept most HMO and PPO dental insurance plans. Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2024-02-22 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/orthodontic-appliances/ Orthodontic Appliances To achieve the desired results from Invisalign® or braces treatment, you may wear an orthodontic appliance before, during or after treatment. Orthodontic appliances have a variety of uses, including facilitating more efficient tooth movement, holding space in the mouth for permanent teeth to grow, and/or helping to support proper growth and development of the jaw bones. Types of Orthodontic Appliances Palatal Expander A palatal expander is generally used for children with growing mouths. This appliance has a metal center that expands upon activation. The patient will have a special key that can be inserted into the center of the palatal expander to activate it once a day (or as instructed by your orthodontist). Each time the center expander is activated, it opens and widens the jaw bone little by little. Palatal expanders are commonly used to treat narrow palates or narrow jaw bones, enabling the patient’s permanent teeth to grow in a healthy alignment without crowding. TAD (Temporary Anchorage Device) Temporary anchorage devices, or TADs, use small titanium anchors to achieve quicker tooth movement with more efficiency and comfort. These tiny appliances can be used with braces, Invisalign®, or as an alternative to headgear. TADs are anchored into the jaw bone, then attached to individual teeth or braces to improve the efficiency of the tooth and jaw movements. Herbst Appliance The Herbst® appliance is used to correct overbites by shifting the lower jaw forward and the upper jaw backward. The Herbst appliance is generally used for younger patients with growing mouths and can be used with or without braces (although most often this appliance is used with braces). Made of stainless steel bands, the Herbst appliance wraps around the molars, applying pressure to the jaw bones to promote proper development and create a healthy jaw alignment. Nance Appliance The Nance Appliance is a space maintainer appliance used to prevent the upper molars from rotating or moving forward when there is space or a gap between the teeth. The appliance includes two bands that are cemented onto the first molars, and a wire that spans across the roof of the mouth, connecting one molar to the other. An acrylic pad is attached to the wire behind the front teeth, in the roof of the mouth. Lower Lingual Arch The lower lingual holding arch is a space maintainer that uses metal bands around the two lower molars, with a metal wire spanning from the molars, around the inside of the bottom teeth. Used to hold the necessary space in the mouth for premolars to grow, the lower lingual arch appliance establishes the proper foundation that shapes the lower arch in a healthy alignment. Carriere Motion Appliance The Carriere Motion Appliance is used to treat a misalignment in the back teeth. This appliance is attached to the canine tooth and the first molar on the outside surfaces of the top and bottom teeth. With this appliance, an elastic is secured from the top teeth to the bottom teeth to apply gentle... --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2025-03-11 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/types-of-braces/ Types of Braces We offer a number of different types of braces for children, teens and adults looking to achieve a beautiful, healthy smile! When you visit us for your complimentary consultation, Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn will examine your condition, discuss your treatment preferences, and help you make the best decision for you or your child’s smile. Braces & Invisalign® Traditional Metal Braces Traditional silver or metal braces use bracket-and-wire technology to straighten teeth and align the jaw bones. These braces are made of high-grade stainless steel and are specially designed for comfort and durability! Our experienced orthodontists can treat most conditions with metal braces. Treatment with metal braces may last anywhere from 12 to 24 months. Depending on your specific condition, treatment may last longer or shorter than average. With traditional braces, you can customize your braces colors to match your style! Whether you prefer a funky rainbow style or a sleek monochromatic style, you get full creative freedom every time we replace your rubber bands. Tell me more Gold Braces Interested in a more unique alternative to traditional braces? Gold braces function the same as traditional braces, are equally as effective as traditional braces—and add a little extra flair to your smile. Gold braces are made of high-grade stainless steel brackets and archwires, coated in 24-karat gold. You can choose gold-colored elastics to complete your look with a discreet, monochromatic color scheme. Tell me more Clear Ceramic Braces Clear ceramic braces are ideal for patients who want traditional braces, but prefer a more discreet option. These braces are made of durable ceramic materials that blend in with the natural color of the teeth. Using ceramic brackets and transparent rubber bands, ceramic braces can be virtually undetectable when you’re laughing, smiling or speaking! Because they function the same as traditional braces, ceramic braces can be used to treat almost any condition. Ceramic braces may take anywhere from 18 to 36 months to straighten the teeth and align the jaw bones. Tell me more Invisalign® Clear Aligners Our orthodontists have the experience necessary to treat patients of all ages with Invisalign. We offer Invisalign First for kids, Invisalign for teens and Invisalign for adults! No matter your age, we can treat you with Invisalign clear aligners. As Top 1% Blue Diamond Plus Invisalign providers, we're recognized amongst the top 1% of Invisalign doctors in the world. Tell me more Transform your smile with braces or Invisalign near you! Looking for “affordable braces near me”? We offer competitive braces options! Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions about teeth braces or other treatments. Whether you’re interested in invisible braces in Lake Mary or Longwood, or you’re searching for affordable orthodontics in your area, we're here to help you make the best decision for you or your child’s smile. Ready to begin your smile transformation process? Let’s get started with your complimentary exam. (Or, start from home with a virtual smile assessment! ) Don’t wait! A confident... --- - Published: 2024-02-04 - Modified: 2024-02-27 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/smile-gallery/ Real patients. Incredible results. It's incredibly rewarding to see our patients' faces light up with their beautiful new smiles. You'll never forget the day your new smile is revealed! Check out our beautiful before-and-after braces & Invisalign transformations. Posterior Crossbite 4-Bi Extractions Invisalign Invisalign Posterior Crossbite Invisalign Deep Bite Posterior Crossbite 4-Bi Extractions Invisalign Invisalign Posterior Crossbite Invisalign Deep Bite Why everyone's smiling Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-02-01 - Modified: 2024-02-27 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/contact/ Schedule Your Free Orthodontic Exam We're excited to meet you and help you smile with confidence! You decide how you reach out to us. Simply call our office or fill out the request form below to schedule your first visit. One of our friendly team members will reach out to you as soon as possible to find an appointment time that works for you. Appointment Request Form "*" indicates required fields First Name*Last Name*Email Address* Phone Number*Message*Checkboxes* I consent to Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics contacting me by phone and/or text solely for the purposes of scheduling an appointment. Your personal data will be processed in accordance with our Privacy Statement. CAPTCHA /* { mutations. forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation. type === 'attributes' && visibilityTestDiv. offsetParent ! == null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender; observer. disconnect; } }); }); observer. observe( document. body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: , }); } else { triggerPostRender; } } );} ); /* ]]> */ Financial Info We provide high-quality orthodontic treatment that can be customized to your budget. Choose from 0%-interest in-house financing and $0 down outside financing with CareCredit/LendingPoint. We accept most HMO and PPO dental insurance plans and will file your insurance claims to help you receive the max benefit from your plan! What To Do In An Emergency In the event of an emergency, please call our office right away so we can schedule an appointment for you. Please do not come directly to the office without calling first. Once you call, we can create a time to see you and give you the individual attention you deserve. If your emergency occurs after business hours, please call our office. You will be directed to our on-call certified orthodontic assistant who will provide you with guidance. Patient Forms NEW PATIENT FORM INSURANCE CLAIM FORM HIPAA CONSENT FORM PATIENT BOOKLET Schedule Now Get In Touch With Us Today To Schedule A Consultation! We make a sincere effort to offer appointments that meet your scheduling requirements. Please contact us Monday-Friday from 8am – 5pm to schedule your appointment. After-hours messages will be returned promptly. Contact us Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-01-28 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/meet-dr-cara-wiewiora/ Meet Our Doctors Dr. Cara Wiewiora Cara L. Wiewiora, D. M. D. , M. S. D. is your highly-experienced, board-certified orthodontist who is proud to be born and raised in Longwood! Her goal every day is to create beautiful, life-changing smiles all while getting to know each patient and family personally. Throughout her time in school, Dr. Wiewiora has been recognized with more than 5 awards! She's also been published in the Oral Health and Preventive Dentistry Journal. Dr. Wiewiora has demonstrated her commitment to going above-and-beyond to continually expand her expertise in orthodontics, ensuring that she stays at the forefront of advancements in the field. Her dedication to lifelong learning and pursuit of excellence empowers her to deliver unparalleled care to her patients, utilizing the latest techniques and technologies to achieve optimal outcomes with every treatment. Professional Affiliations American Association of Orthodontists American Dental Association Southern Association of Orthodontists Florida Dental Association Dental Society of Greater Orlando Fun fact: Dr. Wiewiora used to be a patient of Dr. Richard Dunn’s – she credits her amazing experience at his practice as what initially inspired her to pursue orthodontics. Education Bachelor of Science (BS) degree - University of Florida Graduated Cum Laude Doctorate of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree - University of Florida College of Dentistry Graduated Magna Cum Laude Inducted into the prestigious Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Honor Society Certificate in Orthodontics - Louisiana State University Master of Science in Dentistry (MSD) degree - Louisiana State University Awards & Recognitions Awarded the Dr. Carroll G. Bennett Award for Academic Excellence in Pediatric Dentistry Awarded The American College of Dentists Students Ethics Award Awarded the J. Jerome Hebert Award for Outstanding Resident Awarded LSU Health New Orleans School of Dentistry Research Day Award Awarded James P. Bordelon, D. D. S. Memorial Award for Clinical Excellence in Orthodontics During her orthodontic training, Dr. Wiewiora performed research on reducing the development of white spot lesions during orthodontic treatment, and her paper has been published in the Oral Health and Preventive Dentistry journal. Continuing Education To provide the best possible care for our patients, Dr. Wiewiora stays up-to-date with the latest orthodontic technology and techniques. She is an active member of the Arnold Palmer Craniofacial Team, where she has the opportunity to give back to the community and work with numerous cleft lip and palate patients. Outside the OfficeWhen Dr. Wiewiora is not perfecting smiles, she enjoys spending time with her wonderful husband, Lee, who is also a native of Longwood, FL – they are high school sweethearts! She also enjoys experiencing everything that beautiful Central Florida has to offer, as well as traveling, making memories with family and friends, reading, cooking and cheering on the Gators. Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-01-25 - Modified: 2025-08-14 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/lake-mary-orthodontic-office/ Lake Mary Orthodontist Office We're excited to meet you! Welcome to our office. Our Lake Mary orthodontists, Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn, are proud to provide the highest quality of orthodontic care for families in our communities. We serve the Lake Mary area, including Heathrow, Sanford, Alaqua Lakes, Timacuan, Fountain Parke, Hanover Pointe, Woodbridge Lakes and Notting Hill. Get started today with a complimentary consultation. Book now! (407) 805-0068 scheduling@cflsmiles. com For dental emergencies (407) 805-0068 Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics 550 Rinehart Rd Lake Mary, FL 32746 Get directions >> Office Hours Monday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed Your Orthodontist In 32746We're conveniently located near Publix Super Markets — the Publix at Cornerstone at Lake Mary and the Publix at Lake Mary Collection. We're also less than one mile away from the AdventHealth Lake Mary ER, and we have the beautiful Timacuan Golf Club around the corner from our office. Meet Dr. Cara Wiewiora Get to know your orthodontist Making Lake Mary Smile Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-01-25 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/orthodontic-financing-options/ Financing Orthodontics & Insurance Info Cost of Orthodontics We believe that high-quality orthodontic treatment should be accessible to everyone. Everyone deserves to live life confidently and smile without embarrassment—and that shouldn’t come at an infeasible cost. To meet your financial needs, we offer customizable payment plans, accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer special discounts. Paying for orthodontics At your complimentary consultation, you'll be able to choose from any of the following payment options: 0% interest, in-house financing Cash payment Check payment Credit card payment (Visa, American Express, MasterCard and Discover) $0 down through CareCredit financing $0 down through LendingClub financing We also offer discounts for patients’ family members and for patients using Medicaid! Orthodontic Insurance We accept most HMO and PPO dental insurance plans, including (but not limited to):AetnaAmeritasBCBSCigna PPO and HMODelta Dental – PPO and PremierFlorida Combined LifeGuardianHumanaLincolnMetLifePrincipalSun LifeTeamCareTRICAREUMRUnited ConcordiaUnited Health CareOur orthodontic team is also proud to offer free exams, valued at $189. It’s our goal to help you achieve the smile of your dreams at an affordable price to you. Still have questions about paying for orthodontics? Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions! To schedule your complimentary consultation appointment, simply call our office, send an e-mail, or request your consultation online. One of our friendly team members will find an appointment time that works with your schedule. Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2024-01-25 - Modified: 2025-05-05 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/invisalign/ The Invisalign® Process We are proud to be Top 1% Blue Diamond Plus Invisalign providers! Results are predictably beautiful with Dr. Wiewiora, Dr. Dunn and our team. We're known for creating a highly-personalized treatment experience and for our doctors' unique attention to detail. We're here to guide you through the Invisalign process to help you achieve a stunning new smile in the shortest amount of time. How Invisalign works You’ll begin your Invisalign process at our orthodontist office in Lake Mary or Longwood! Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn will examine your smile and take digital scans, which are sent off to have your clear aligners custom-designed and printed just for you. Your Invisalign aligners will come in sets, with one custom-designed clear aligner tray for your top teeth and another tray for your bottom teeth. These clear aligners are made of BPA-free, high-quality, flexible plastic with SmartTrack® material designed exclusively for Invisalign. You’ll wear each set of aligners for two weeks, at least 20 to 22 hours a day. After two weeks, you’ll switch your aligners out with the next set. Over time, you’ll notice changes in the alignment of your teeth and in just a few months, you’ll notice a progressively straighter, healthier smile! Benefits of Invisalign Invisalign is invisible: Invisalign aligners are virtually undetectable when they’re in place! No matter the type of lifestyle you live, you can go about your social and professional life confidently while undergoing Invisalign treatment. Invisalign is comfortable to wear: Your Invisalign clear aligners will have smooth, rounded edges, specially-designed to fit comfortably in your mouth without causing irritation. Invisalign is customized just for you: Your Invisalign aligners are custom-made for you and only you. Our orthodontists use the iTero® digital scanner to create 3D models of your teeth and bite in only a few minutes. These digital models are then used to custom-design each aligner so that it fits perfectly in your mouth, and over time, moves your teeth into their beautiful new formation. Invisalign is removable: You can remove your aligners to eat, drink, brush your teeth and floss. You can remove your aligners for special occasions too! You won’t have any dietary restrictions and your favorite foods are still on the table. There’s no need to change your lifestyle with Invisalign; Invisalign accommodates you. Invisalign is effective: Most people start to notice a significant difference only a few weeks into their treatment process! Most treatments are completed within one year, but this can vary depending on the severity of your condition and your diligence in wearing your aligners as instructed. Is Invisalign better than at-home (DIY) clear aligners? Doctor-monitored treatment is always the safer option. Treatment with at-home clear aligners is risky and has been known to result in irreparable damage. During your Invisalign treatment, your orthodontist may make some adjustments to your personalized treatment plan based on your progress. This ensures that you achieve the greatest results in the shortest amount of time. With DIY aligners, you won’t have... --- - Published: 2024-01-25 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/meet-the-team/ Meet Our Team You’ll be welcomed by these smiling faces at every visit! Many of our team members have been with our practice for decades, and are known for going above-and-beyond to create the best experience for our patients and their families. Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- - Published: 2023-10-29 - Modified: 2025-02-13 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/sitemap/ Sitemap --- - Published: 2023-08-16 - Modified: 2024-04-08 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/ Our Orthodontic Blog We want to keep you in the loop! See what we’ve been up to, and learn more about braces, Invisalign® and the treatment process in our orthodontic blog. --- - Published: 2023-07-17 - Modified: 2024-12-04 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/privacy-policy/ Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions GENERAL Wiewiora and Dunn Orthodontics has created this privacy statement in order to demonstrate our firm commitment to privacy. The following discloses our information gathering and dissemination practices and outlines the rules and regulations for the use for these websites: www. centralfloridasmiles. com/   By accessing this website we assume you accept these terms and conditions. Do not continue to use www. centralfloridasmiles. com/ if you do not agree to take all of the terms and conditions stated on this page.   The following terminology applies to these Terms and Conditions, Privacy Statement and Disclaimer Notice and all Agreements: “Client”, “You” and “Your” refers to you, the person log on this website and compliant to the Company’s terms and conditions. “The Company”, “Ourselves”, “We”, “Our” and “Us”, refers to our Company. “Party”, “Parties”, or “Us”, refers to both the Client and ourselves. All terms refer to the offer, acceptance and consideration of payment necessary to undertake the process of our assistance to the Client in the most appropriate manner for the express purpose of meeting the Client’s needs in respect of provision of the Company’s stated services, in accordance with and subject to, prevailing law of us. 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LICENSE Unless otherwise stated, Wiewiora and Dunn Orthodontics and/or its licensors own the intellectual property rights for all material on this website. All intellectual property rights are reserved. You may access this from Wiewiora and Dunn Orthodontics for your own personal use subjected to restrictions set in these terms and conditions. You must not: Republish material from Wiewiora and Dunn Orthodontics Sell, rent or sub-license material from Wiewiora and Dunn Orthodontics Reproduce, duplicate or copy material from Wiewiora and Dunn Orthodontics Redistribute content from Wiewiora and Dunn Orthodontics   This Agreement shall begin on the date hereof. PERSONAL INFORMATION & MESSAGING PROGRAMS Our site uses a variety of feedback and/or registration forms, order forms, online survey forms, and submission forms which require users to give us contact information (like their name and email address). The user’s contact information is used to contact the visitor... --- - Published: 2023-07-17 - Modified: 2025-03-11 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/ Your Orthodontist in Lake Mary and Longwood Book Your Free Exam Creating beautiful smiles for generations We are on a mission to improve lives Welcome to Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, your high-tech, family orthodontist with a personalized touch. We’re not just in the business of straightening teeth. We’re on a mission to improve the lives of our valued patients - one smile at a time. Recognized for our expertise in Invisalign, we provide the special treatment you deserve. Braces For Kids Braces For Kids Braces For Teens Braces For Teens Braces For Adults Braces For Adults Braces For Kids Braces For Kids Braces For Teens Braces For Teens Braces For Adults Braces For Adults Meet Our Doctors Two Generations of Experience We can’t wait to meet you, discuss your needs and treatment options, and begin your journey to a beautiful new smile. Dr. Wiewiora As a board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Wiewiora is known for her commitment to going above and beyond for our patients. Meet Dr. Wiewiora Dr. Dunn Dr. Dunn first opened his orthodontic practice in 1977! He brings you and your family over 45 years of experience. Meet Dr. Dunn Dr. Wiewiora As a board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Wiewiora is known for her commitment to going above and beyond for our patients. Meet Dr. Wiewiora Dr. Dunn Dr. Dunn first opened his orthodontic practice in 1977! He brings you and your family over 45 years of experience. Meet Dr. Dunn Free Online Smile Assessment Get answers before your first visit! Unique 40-Year History We’ve served generations in the Central Florida community. Invisalign Experts Top 1% Blue Diamond Plus Invisalign Providers Free Online Smile Assessment Get answers before your first visit! Unique 40-Year History We’ve served generations in the Central Florida community. Invisalign Experts Top 1% Blue Diamond Plus Invisalign Providers Why People are Smiling in Central Florida Don’t wait! A confident smile begins with a free consultation. I’m ready! --- --- ## Posts - Published: 2025-07-13 - Modified: 2025-08-12 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-to-prepare-to-get-braces-off/ After months (or maybe years! ) of wearing braces, the big day is almost here—you’re finally getting your braces off. You’ve worked hard to achieve your dream smile, and now it’s time to reveal it to the world. But what can you expect during your braces removal appointment? Will it hurt? How long does it take? And what should you do after your braces come off? We’ve got all the answers to help you feel confident, comfortable, and excited for your new smile! TL;DR: What to Know About Getting Your Braces Off It only takes about an hour to remove your braces—much quicker than getting them put on! Braces removal doesn’t hurt, though you may feel slight pressure or tenderness afterward. Your teeth may feel strange or sensitive at first, but that’s normal and temporary. A retainer is essential to keep your teeth from shifting back. Teeth whitening should wait until your teeth adjust post braces removal. Your new smile might feel a little different at first—but it’ll look amazing! Ready to transform your smile? Request a complimentary exam with us today! How Long Does It Take to Get Your Braces Removed? Wondering how long braces removal takes? You’ll be happy to know the process typically takes about an hour or less. Compared to the time it took to place them, the braces removal process is a breeze! How Do Orthodontists Take Braces Off? The process of braces removal is quick and gentle: Bracket removal - Your orthodontist, Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn, will use a special tool to carefully crack the adhesive and pop off the brackets. Glue removal - Then, they’ll scrape off the dental cement that held the braces in place and polish those pearly whites. Time for retainers! Once your teeth are clean, you’ll be fitted for a custom retainer to keep that new smile in place. Pro tip: If you're wondering how to get braces glue off your teeth at home—don't try it! Your orthodontist has the right tools to do it safely. Does It Hurt to Get Braces Off? One of the most common questions we hear is: "Does it hurt to get your braces off? " The answer? Not really. You may feel a little pressure as the brackets are removed. The braces glue, or dental cement, is a strong adhesive so it takes a bit of pressure to release your brackets. Don’t worry, we have specialized tools and a skilled team to make sure these are removed safely and with as little pressure as possible. Some patients feel tenderness or describe their teeth as feeling "loose" or "strange" afterward. That’s usually just from your mouth getting used to all that new space! Overall, It’s similar to how you felt the first few days after getting your braces on—mild discomfort, not pain. So why do teeth hurt after braces removal? The pressure change can cause temporary sensitivity, but it typically fades in a few days to a week. Can You Take Your Braces... --- - Published: 2025-07-03 - Modified: 2025-08-12 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/are-regular-dental-cleanings-possible-while-wearing-braces/ When you first begin orthodontic treatment, it’s common to wonder, “Can you get your teeth cleaned while wearing braces? ” The short answer is — absolutely! Regular dental cleanings are not just possible during orthodontic treatment; they’re essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. While our orthodontic office in Longwood and Lake Mary focuses on straightening your smile, your family dentist provides the professional cleanings you’ll need during braces. TLDR: Dental Cleanings with Braces Yes, you can (and should) get regular dental cleanings with braces. We recommend at least 2 cleanings a year, but your dentist will advise you if you need more frequent cleanings. Dental cleanings help prevent cavities, gum inflammation, and staining. Orthodontists focus on straightening teeth — dentists and hygienists handle cleanings. Regular visits to both your orthodontist and dentist help ensure a healthy, beautiful smile. Why Professional Teeth Cleaning with Braces is So Important Nobody said it’s easy to keep your teeth spotless while wearing braces! Brackets, wires, and bands can make it harder to remove all food particles and plaque, even with great brushing and flossing habits. That’s why teeth cleaning with braces is a must. Most patients need professional cleanings every 6 months, and some benefit from 3–4 per year. These visits remove plaque and tartar buildup, keeping your teeth and gums in top shape while helping to prevent cavities and gum disease. Do orthodontists do cleanings? Some new patients wonder, “Do orthodontists clean teeth? ” The answer is no — your orthodontist’s specialty is straightening teeth and aligning bites, not providing dental cleanings. Our team at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics will guide you on proper home care, but you’ll continue to see your general dentist or hygienist for professional cleanings during treatment. The Role of Regular Dental Checkups During Braces In addition to keeping your smile fresh and clean, your dentist can help address: 1. Tooth Decay Braces don’t protect you from cavities! If decay is found, your dentist will treat it as usual. In necessary cases, we’ll coordinate adjustments to your appliances so treatment can be done. 2. Bad Breath Persistent bad breath can come from food particles trapped around braces, but sometimes it’s caused by other dental or health issues. Your dentist can pinpoint the cause and recommend solutions. 3. Painful or Swollen Gums Irritated gums can be more common when cleaning teeth with braces is tricky. Dental cleaning with braces can help reduce inflammation and discomfort. 4. Stained Teeth While wearing braces, avoid stain-causing foods and drinks when possible. If staining occurs, your dentist or hygienist may help minimize it. After braces are removed, whitening treatments can help you achieve your brightest smile. What to Expect When Getting a Dental Cleaning with Braces The process of cleaning teeth with braces is very similar to a regular cleaning. Your dental hygienist will carefully clean around each bracket and along the gumline, using special tools to remove plaque and tartar that can collect around your braces. In some cases, we may... --- - Published: 2025-06-30 - Modified: 2025-08-01 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/smileset-diy-aligners-dangers/ Have you heard about SmileSet, cheap at-home clear aligners? SmileSet may sound familiar if you remember the SmileDirectClub bankruptcy. SmileDirectClub made big promises about affordable, convenient teeth straightening — only to leave thousands of unhappy customers with complaints, unresolved issues, and damaged smiles. After filing for bankruptcy, SmileDirectClub shut down... but now they’re back under a new name: SmileSet. What You Need to Know If you’re considering at-home clear aligners, you’ll want to hear this! DIY teeth straightening might sound easy and affordable, but it comes with serious risks that could leave you paying far more in the end. Here’s why you should think twice before trusting SmileSet (or any mail-order teeth aligners) with your smile — and why real orthodontic treatment with a board-certified orthodontist at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, is the safest, smartest choice. What’s the Difference Between SmileDirectClub and SmileSet? Essentially, there is no difference. SmileSet is just a rebranded version of SmileDirectClub, a company that faced thousands of consumer complaints and legal battles due to the harm caused by their at-home teeth aligners. Let’s not forget: SmileDirectClub racked up 1,762 complaints with the Better Business Bureau in just three years. They were sued for misleading customers and manipulating online reviews to cover up negative experiences. Patients reported severe dental damage, including advanced gum disease, misaligned bites, and permanent tooth loss. If you’re wondering, Is SmileSet legit? —the reality is, it’s the same risky business under a new name. The Dangers of DIY Clear Aligners Mail-order aligners like SmileSet claim to provide “doctor-directed” treatment, but here’s the truth: You never actually meet your orthodontist in person. Your impressions are done at home, leaving room for major errors. No one is checking your progress in person to ensure your teeth are moving safely. A poorly fitted aligner can cause irreversible damage, leading to tooth loss, gum recession, bite misalignment, and costly corrective treatment. What seemed like a cheap alternative to Invisalign® or custom orthodontic care could turn into a dental nightmare — and a much bigger bill in the long run. The Real Cost of Cheap Aligners SmileSet markets itself as an affordable option, but many SmileDirectClub customers unfortunately found that DIY aligners come with hidden costs: Many were forced to pay for expensive repairs after their treatment went wrong. Some had to restart treatment with a real orthodontist, doubling their expenses. Refunds? Nearly impossible to get, even when aligners didn’t fit properly. The Safe, Rewarding Choice With Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics in Lake Mary or Longwood, you don’t have to take risks. At-home aligners may sound convenient, but we offer a 100% digital experience — meaning you can get the convenience of “at-home aligners” with a trusted and experienced doctor. We offer affordable, high-quality Invisalign treatment with flexible financing that makes expert, orthodontic care accessible to everyone: 0% interest in-house financing CareCredit and Lending Club financing All orthodontic treatments (braces & Invisalign) are the same price here We accept most insurances! It covers more than you may... --- - Published: 2025-06-15 - Modified: 2025-07-31 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/summer-dental-habits-invisalign-braces/ Summer break = more sunshine, more fun... and more time to focus on your smile. Whether you’re kicking off treatment or halfway through your journey, now’s the perfect time to build strong habits that can actually speed things up. If you’re wondering how to make Invisalign® work faster — or how to get braces off fast — it all starts with your daily routine and good summer dental hygiene. Here’s how to take advantage of the season and fast-track your results, from your friends at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics: 1. Don’t forget: Invisalign wear time is everything! Wearing your aligners 22 hours a day is non-negotiable if you want to stay on track — or even finish early. And with fewer distractions from school and after-school routines, summer is the perfect time to build strong wear-time habits. Here’s how to make it easier: Only remove your aligners when eating or drinking (besides water) Keep your Invisalign case with you at all times (Consider getting a spare Invisalign case if you’re on-the-go a lot! ) Set phone reminders if you tend to forget to put them back in Track your wear time Fun tip: If your aligners are starting to feel a little looser than when you first put them in, that’s progress! But don’t skip to the next Invisalign tray unless we’ve told you to. Stick to your aligner schedule so we don’t risk delays or complications. Staying consistent is the #1 way to fast track Invisalign treatment. 2. Keep your smile (and aligners) clean A clean mouth & good summer dental care = a healthy, fast-moving smile. That goes for both braces and Invisalign! For Invisalign patients: Brush your teeth and aligners every day Rinse aligners often Soak them regularly to prevent Invisalign stains Avoid leaving them out or in hot places (like a car! ) For braces patients: Brush carefully after every meal Floss daily Use a proxy brush or water flosser to reach around brackets Good hygiene is how you speed up the braces process and make sure nothing stands in the way of your progress. 3. Keep your Invisalign or braces care kit with you A summer braces care kit or Invisalign on-the-go pouch makes it easier to stay consistent with your routine, even during vacations, sleepovers, or pool days. What to pack: Travel toothbrush & toothpaste Floss or floss picks Invisalign case or orthodontic wax Small mirror Extra aligners or elastics (if needed) Keeping your smile as clean as possible is the best way to speed up Invisalign or braces treatment. So if you’re someone who loves to snack, keeping a care kit on hand is key to a fresh smile! 4. Snack smart to avoid setbacks With braces, certain summer snacks can spell trouble. Sticky, chewy, or crunchy foods can break brackets or bend wires, leading to additional appointments to fix your braces and potential treatment delays. With Invisalign, the rules are simpler — just remove your aligners to eat and brush before putting... --- - Published: 2025-05-14 - Modified: 2025-05-14 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-payment-plan/ Orthodontic treatment is a priceless investment — but that doesn’t mean cost isn’t a factor. We understand this! We’re always looking for ways to make orthodontics more affordable and more convenient for you and your family. If you’re thinking about investing in yourself and transforming your smile, we have some great news for you. Can I use a payment plan for braces or Invisalign® in 2025? Yes, you can! You don’t have to pay in full for orthodontics. At Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, we offer flexible Invisalign payment plans and braces payment options. Here’s how: We create affordable smiles for generations! In 2025, you have a lot more options when it comes to financing Invisalign or braces. On your first visit, we’ll present all of our financing options and help you decide which financing option best meets your needs. In the meantime, here’s what you’ll be able to choose from: 1. Pay over time with flexible financing options. We offer flexible, in-house financing with no interest, as well as CareCredit financing and LendingClub financing. Our flexible, in-house financing option allows you to spread out payments with 0% interest — meaning no hidden fees. Or, choose CareCredit or LendingClub financing for $0 down financing! When you visit Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn, one of our friendly team members will get to know you, chat about your needs, and work with you to create a custom financing plan with an affordable down payment and low monthly payments. 2. Insurance covers more than you may think! Dental insurance can cover a lot more of your orthodontics cost than you may think! We accept most HMO and PPO dental insurance plans, and our team will handle all of the paperwork for you. We’re here to help you receive the maximum benefit from your dental insurance plan! See a list of insurance plans we work with, here. We’ll calculate your orthodontic insurance coverage, apply it to your treatment cost, then work out a custom Invisalign payment plan or braces monthly payment plan to cover the rest. 3. Use your FSA, HSA, or tax refund. Did you know that you can also apply your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) to your orthodontics cost? Using your FSA or HSA for braces or Invisalign is one of the most impactful ways to use either savings account. You can combine your FSA or HSA funds and insurance coverage for even more savings, and then we can work out a 0% interest financing plan to help you manage your remaining balance. If you got a nice tax refund this year, consider putting it toward a smile transformation! A beautiful, healthy smile is the gift that keeps giving for the rest of your life. 4. We offer special discount opportunities too! If you have multiple children who need orthodontics, or your child needs treatment and you’re ready to achieve your best smile too, take advantage of our family member discount! You can save on treatment with us,... --- - Published: 2025-04-28 - Modified: 2025-05-14 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/lost-invisalign-tray/ Invisalign® clear aligners are virtually-invisible, making them a convenient treatment option for any type of lifestyle. But let’s be honest, their transparent appearance means it’s possible to misplace them. If you’ve found yourself saying, “oh no, I lost my Invisalign trays... should I skip to my next set? ” Your team at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics in Lake Mary and Longwood is here to help. Before deciding on your own... Whether it slipped into the trash at lunch or vanished during vacation, losing a tray happens. But the decision to simply skip ahead to the next aligner depends on a few key factors—and it’s not one you should make alone. Always consult your orthodontist before making any changes to the prescribed sequence, as it could affect your treatment progression. We’re here to walk you through exactly what to do if you lose your Invisalign tray, how to avoid losing another one, and why it’s so important to follow the right steps. What To Do If You Lose an Invisalign Tray First and foremost: don’t panic! Losing one can feel like a setback, but don’t worry - we can get you back on track quickly if you reach out to us as soon as you realize they’re gone. Acting quickly is crucial to avoid treatment delays and stay on track for your estimated treatment length. Step 1: Reach Out to Us Always start by calling your orthodontist! We’ll talk about when your tray was lost and how long you wore the tray before it was lost, and take a look at your current aligner schedule. Based on this information, we may recommend: Skipping to the next Invisalign tray if you were close to the end of your wear time (typically day 10–14). Wearing your previous tray to hold your progress if the new tray was just started. Ordering a replacement tray if the timing or fit makes skipping ahead risky. Remember, every smile is different and every treatment plan is unique. What works for someone else (on reddit) may not be the right solution for you, so don’t make the decision to skip without your orthodontist’s instructions. Step 2: Hold Your Progress (If Needed) If you’re instructed to wear your previous tray for a few days while we wait on a replacement, that’s totally normal. Keeping previous trays as a backup for current trays is important. The goal is to prevent your teeth from shifting backward while you wait for the next step. Using a Previous Tray as a Temporary Solution Previous trays can help maintain the current alignment of your teeth, preventing them from shifting out of place in the meantime. However, there are a few things to consider when using a previous tray: Only use a previous tray that is in good condition and has not been damaged. Ensure the previous tray fits properly and does not cause any discomfort. Wear the previous tray for the recommended 20-22 hours a day. Keep in mind that using a previous tray... --- - Published: 2025-04-14 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/mental-health-awareness-month/ May is Mental Health Awareness Month — a time to reflect on how we support one another, both in and out of the office. At Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, orthodontics is more than treatment to us, it’s an opportunity to create positive change in our community. We believe feeling safe, seen, and supported matters just as much as achieving a beautiful smile. Whether you're here for braces or Invisalign®, or you’re tagging along with your kiddo, we want every visit to feel comfortable and uplifting. As we recognize both Mental Health Awareness Month and Mental Health Awareness Week (May 12–18), we're proud to be part of a community that leads with kindness, compassion, and care. Why Mental Health Awareness Matters Mental health is just as important as physical health, and it deserves just as much attention and conversation. What exactly is mental health? The World Health Organization defines mental health as “a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community. ” In other words, it’s not just about getting through the day; it’s about feeling confident, capable, and connected to friends, family, neighbors and the community. Creating space for honest conversations helps break down the stigma and reminds us that we’re not alone. By supporting one another and fostering a caring, judgment-free environment, we can all play a role in building a stronger, healthier community - one smile at a time. How We Create a Healthy Environment At Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, our mission is not only to create beautiful smiles for generations in our community, but to do it through genuine connection with our patients. We know that orthodontic treatment can be a vulnerable experience, especially for teens whose self-esteem and self concept are still developing. That’s why we go the extra mile to make our space feel safe, welcoming, and free of pressure and judgment. By fostering a compassionate environment and treating every patient with respect, we hope to be a small but meaningful part of each person’s support system. From Day One, You’re Family From the moment you walk through our doors on your first visit, we want you to feel welcomed, included, and truly seen. Everyone deserves to feel safe and supported — and that’s the standard we hold ourselves to every day. Our team is committed to providing inclusive care that respects all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. We believe strong connections build strong communities, and everyone should feel like they belong. We’re Here to Listen Every patient and every parent deserves to feel heard — that’s why we make open, honest communication a priority. Whether you have questions about treatment or just want to share how you’re feeling, we’re always here to listen. Because your mental well-being matters just as much as your smile. We Aim to Make Your Smile Transformation Affordable We understand the effect your... --- - Published: 2025-03-17 - Modified: 2025-03-17 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-palate-expander/ Orthodontic technology is constantly evolving, and we’re committed to staying at the forefront! One of the latest innovations is the Invisalign Palatal Expander—a modern, more comfortable alternative to traditional expanders. So how does Invisalign’s new expander compare to traditional methods? We’re here to break it all down: What a palate expander does and why it’s needed How Invisalign’s new palate expander works How it compares to a rapid palatal expander (RPE) and quad helix expander Who may need palate expansion and signs to watch for What Is a Palatal Expander & Why Is It Needed? A palate expander is an orthodontic appliance designed to widen the upper jaw (maxilla) to create more space in the mouth for all teeth to fit comfortably. Expansion is often needed when a person has insufficient space in the jaws, in order to correct bite issues, reduce crowding, and widen the palate to improve airflow. Why Would Someone Need Palate Expansion? Every smile is different, but there are several common reasons why Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn may recommend a palatal expander: Crowded Teeth: When the upper jaw is too narrow, teeth don’t have enough space to emerge in the proper alignment. Expanding the jaw can help avoid tooth extractions in the future. Crossbite Issues: A crossbite happens when the upper jaw is too small, causing the upper teeth to sit inside the lower teeth, rather than outside. Palate expansion can correct this malocclusion (bite misalignment) and prevent future jaw problems. Breathing & Sleep Issues: A narrow palate can restrict airflow, requiring a person to breathe through their mouth, snore, or even develop sleep apnea (a harmful sleep disorder that causes periodic lapses in breathing during sleep). Expanding the jaw widens the nasal passages, improving airflow. Improved Facial Symmetry: A well-developed palate supports balanced facial growth, particularly in children. How the Invisalign Palatal Expander Works The Invisalign Palatal Expander is a removable, custom-designed, 3D-printed appliance designed to gradually widen the upper jaw in a more comfortable and discreet way compared to traditional expanders. Key Features of the Invisalign Palatal Expander Removable Design – Unlike many traditional expanders, this one can be taken out for eating and cleaning, making your hygiene routine easier. Custom 3D Printing – Each expander is custom-designed to fit each patient’s unique smile. Gentle Expansion – Using a gradual force, the Invisalign Expander reduces discomfort. No Metal or Screws – The Invisalign Expander doesn’t require metal frameworks or manual adjustments. How Invisalign Palate Expansion Works A digital scan is taken of the patient’s teeth to create a customized expansion plan. You’ll receive a series of removable expanders that gradually increase the width of the upper jaw. Each aligner is worn full-time, except when eating or cleaning, and is replaced every few weeks to continue expansion. Once expansion is complete, a retention phase ensures the new jaw width remains stable. The Invisalign Palatal Expander for adults is a recent orthodontic advancement, offering a revolutionized way to expand the arch with less invasive measures.... --- - Published: 2025-03-13 - Modified: 2025-03-13 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-after-braces/ So you had braces as a kiddo — and when your braces were removed, you started out strong, diligently wearing your retainer. Fast forward a few years later, and you’re realizing that you abandoned your retainer somewhere along the way — and now you’re noticing some shifting in your teeth. This is known as your teeth “relapsing” after braces, which is a natural process that occurs when your teeth aren’t being supported by your retainer. The good news? You may not need braces again... Here’s what you need to know about teeth shifting after braces: Why Do Teeth Shift After Braces? Teeth naturally move over time due to everyday forces, like chewing, talking, and simply aging. Even after braces, your teeth are always in motion. Without a retainer to hold them in place, they can naturally shift over time. This process, called orthodontic relapse, happens because: Your retainer isn’t being worn regularly. Teeth naturally want to return to their original positions, and without a retainer, they may gradually shift. Aging affects tooth alignment. As we get older, our teeth tend to shift slightly, even if we never had braces. The jawbone structure can change, causing minor misalignments. This is why wearing your retainer regularly is key to holding your smile in place! Daily habits contribute to movement. Teeth grinding, nail-biting, or even sleeping on one side of your face consistently can push your teeth out of alignment. Teeth are always subject to small, natural shifts — and without the support of your retainer, those small shifts can snowball into larger, noticeable shifts over time. This is why continued retainer use is crucial! So, what do I do? If your teeth have shifted but you don’t want to wear braces again, Invisalign® treatment could be the perfect fit. You may not have had the option of Invisalign when you first went through orthodontic treatment! Invisalign works in a series of custom-designed, virtually-invisible clear aligners, or trays, that you wear. They’re designed and printed just for you, and each set of clear aligners works to guide your teeth one step closer to the final result. You don’t have food restrictions with Invisalign, and you won’t have to complicate your oral hygiene routine. Simply take your aligners out to eat, drink (anything other than water), clean and floss your teeth — then pop them back in place to continue your transformation. Nowadays, orthodontic technologies are a lot more advanced, and braces aren’t your only option. Signs That You May Need Invisalign After Braces If you’ve noticed any of the following post-braces teeth shifting symptoms, Invisalign may be the right solution: Your front teeth appear slightly crooked again Your bite feels different You’ve noticed gaps or spacing You’ve noticed difficulty flossing between certain teeth Your retainer no longer fits properly You’re feeling self-conscious about your smile As soon as you start to notice these symptoms, it’s a good idea to seek re-treatment to prevent your teeth from shifting further. If you’re experiencing a minor... --- - Published: 2025-02-28 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-and-mouthguards/ Game on! March Madness is almost here, and the competition is heating up. Who’s got your support this season — Florida Gators, FSU Seminoles, UCF Knights or another favorite? Whether you're hitting the court for a school tournament, a pickup game with friends, or just perfecting your shot in the driveway, one thing’s for sure—basketball is intense, and so is the risk of dental injuries. A split-second impact could do more than just knock you out of the game; it could damage your teeth, gums, or braces. The good news? You can play hard and stay protected with the right mouthguard. Here’s everything you need to know about mouthguards, Invisalign and braces from your team at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics! Expert Orthodontic Care for Your Family We help athletes of all ages and sports to protect their smiles, while achieving a perfect bite. With two locations in Florida, we have an orthodontic office near you in Lake Mary, Fl, and Longwood, FL! Our experienced team—Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn—specializes in providing personalized orthodontics, and providing the guidance you need for a safe and efficient smile transformation. We’re recognized for our Invisalign experience, as Blue Diamond Invisalign providers – the highest distinction achievable! If you’re looking for affordable Invisalign or braces near you, or you have any questions about treatment, we offer easy virtual consultations, so you can get answers conveniently from home! Now, let’s dive into everything you need to know about protecting your teeth during March Madness and beyond. Why Mouthguards Matter What do mouthguards do? A sports mouth guard is a protective device worn over your teeth to reduce the risk of dental injuries. In contact sports, it’s no secret that accidental collisions, falls, balls and stray elbows can cause serious damage to the person on the receiving end of that impact. Your mouthguard acts as a shock absorber, distributing the force of the impact to reduce the risk of chipped teeth, broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, and jaw injury. They also provide a protective barrier that can reduce the likelihood of concussions by stabilizing the jaw and minimizing the force of impact. For athletes, this small but significant investment can be the difference between playing a full season and sitting on the sidelines with an injury! What is a mouthguard used for? Mouthguards help prevent: Chipped or broken teeth – Direct impact can lead to painful fractures. Knocked-out teeth – A common injury in contact sports. Cuts to lips, cheeks, and tongue – Braces and wires can increase the risk of soft tissue injuries. Jaw fractures – A severe impact can damage the jawbone. Concussions – While mouthguards don’t fully prevent concussions, they help absorb impact forces that could contribute to head injuries. Beyond these immediate injuries, long-term dental complications can also arise from failing to wear a mouthguard. Without protection, repeated trauma to the teeth and gums can lead to enamel erosion, tooth sensitivity, and even tooth loss over time. A properly fitted mouthguard ensures that your... --- - Published: 2025-01-27 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-in-college/ As a new semester begins, many college students in Florida are setting new goals—better grades, a healthier lifestyle, and maybe even a new look! Why not make a confident smile part of your fresh start? Whether you're a freshman adjusting to college life or a senior preparing for job interviews, having straight, healthy teeth can boost your confidence and improve your overall well-being. At Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, we understand the unique needs of college students! Starting orthodontic treatment early in the semester gives you time to adjust to treatment before midterms and finals, so you’ll be a confident pro by finals. Why a Confident Smile Matters in College Having straight teeth isn’t just about looks—it’s about health, confidence, and success. Here’s how getting Invisalign in college can make all the difference: Social confidence boost – A confident smile helps you feel more comfortable meeting new people, dating, networking, and standing in front of the class presenting your project like an expert. Make the best first impression – Whether you're interviewing for internships or attending career fairs, a beautiful smile leaves a lasting positive impression. When you look good, you feel good! Loving your smile helps you put your best foot forward. Improve your oral health – Crooked teeth can trap plaque and bacteria, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Even if you’re diligently brushing and flossing every day, you may still struggle with bad breath or gum irritation due to those pesky, unreachable spaces between crooked teeth. Straight teeth are a lot easier to clean and maintain! Enhance your speech – Having properly aligned teeth can make it easier to speak clearly. Not only are students more confident speaking in public with beautiful teeth, but the alignment of your teeth and jaws can also impact how you pronounce and enunciate certain words. Cheers to A+ presentations for the rest of your college career! Why Start Orthodontic Treatment Early in the Semester? More time to adjust: The first few weeks of treatment involve some minor adjustments, like developing a consistent routine of wearing your aligners, cleaning them and getting in the habit of storing them in your Invisalign case. Starting this adjustment early in the semester, when you’re still getting used to your class schedule, playing the ice breaker games and syllabus reviews, helps ensure that you're comfortable before midterms roll around. Less stress, more flexibility: As you know, college schedules get a lot more hectic as the semester progresses. Beginning treatment now means you’ll get your initial consultation out of the way. Plus, you could be well on your way to your perfect smile by the end of spring! If you’re graduating this year, starting Invisalign treatment now will make for stunning graduation pics. Maximize insurance benefits: You probably know that the dreaded moment of being dropped from your parents’ insurance is right around the corner... If you’re still covered under your parents’ dental insurance, this can reduce your out-of-pocket Invisalign costs significantly. Many dental insurance plans... --- - Published: 2025-01-16 - Modified: 2025-01-16 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/straight-teeth-prevent-gum-disease/ February is Gum Disease Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of gum health and its connection to overall well-being. We’re celebrating early with some invaluable education! While most people associate straight teeth with a beautiful smile, few realize that properly aligned teeth also play a crucial role in preventing gum disease. At Wiewiora and Dunn Orthodontics, we’re proud to specialize in creating beautiful, healthy smiles for the whole family. Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn are your experienced orthodontists in Lake Mary and Longwood — bringing you personalized orthodontics in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere! Braces and clear aligners can do a lot more than just improve your smile—they can help protect your gums and optimize your overall health, too. How Dental Health Affects Overall Health Your oral health is closely linked to your overall well-being. Studies have shown that gum disease (periodontitis) is connected to various systemic health conditions, including: Heart disease – Bacteria from gum infections can enter the bloodstream and contribute to heart issues. Diabetes – Poor gum health can make it harder to control blood sugar levels. Respiratory issues – Bacteria from the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs, increasing the risk of infections. Having straight teeth makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene, reducing plaque buildup and lowering the risk of gum disease. How Crooked Teeth Contribute to Gum Disease Crowded or misaligned teeth create tight spaces where plaque and bacteria accumulate, making it harder to brush and floss properly. Over time, this can lead to: Gingivitis (early-stage gum disease) – Red, swollen gums that may bleed when brushing. Periodontitis (advanced gum disease) – Gum recession, bone loss, and potential tooth loss. Straightening your teeth with braces or Invisalign can improve oral hygiene, reducing these risks and promoting healthier gums. The Health Benefits of Teeth Straightening The benefits of braces and Invisalign go a lot further than just a beautiful, straight smile—they provide long-term oral health benefits that help you maintain a healthy smile for life. 1. Easier Cleaning & Less Plaque Buildup Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss, reducing plaque buildup and lowering the chances of gingivitis and cavities. With fewer hard-to-reach areas, your toothbrush and floss can do their job more effectively. 2. Healthier Gums & Less Inflammation Properly aligned teeth reduce pressure on the gums, leading to a lower risk of gum recession and inflammation. This is especially important for patients who already have early signs of gum disease. 3. Reduced Risk of Tooth Wear & Damage When teeth are misaligned, they can grind against each other unevenly, leading to enamel erosion, sensitivity, and even fractures. Braces or Invisalign help distribute pressure evenly, preventing unnecessary wear. 4. Improved Digestion & Overall Well-Being Straight teeth promote better chewing, which aids digestion and helps your body absorb nutrients more efficiently. Since oral health is linked to overall health, improving your bite can positively impact your whole body! Signs of Gum Disease to Watch For Even if your teeth... --- - Published: 2025-01-02 - Modified: 2025-01-02 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-to-clean-stained-invisalign/ The best part about Invisalign clear aligners is their virtually invisible appearance! Your co-workers, friends, or family may not even notice that you’re wearing Invisalign trays, unless you tell them! But if you allow your aligners to stain or turn yellow, suddenly your invisible braces suddenly become not-so-invisible. Here's everything you need to know to maintain a sparkly clean smile and invisible clear aligners: Oh no, my Invisalign is stained! If your invisalign is turning yellow or they smelling a little funky, it means they’re in desperate need for a cleaning! A strong oral hygiene routine and a commitment to clean your trays every day is essential to achieving the best possible smile results. Just like any orthodontic appliance and orthodontic treatment, Invisalign trays have nooks and crannies where bacteria can build up if they're not cleaned thoroughly. We want to avoid this, because this bacteria can lead to cavities and gum disease! Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn are both dedicated not only to straightening your teeth, but keeping them healthy too. When you commit to daily cleaning, Invisalign is super easy to maintain. All it takes is a consistent oral hygiene routine. Here are the 5 best ways to clean Invisalign: 5 Ways to Clean Your Stained Invisalign Trays There are plenty of ways to clean your Invisalign aligners. What really matters is that you commit to cleaning them - but you can choose which Invisalign cleaning method works best for you. 1. Use a mild, antibacterial soap. Yes, a simple soap can do the trick! Use a clear antibacterial soap to ensure that you're eliminating bacteria while preventing further Invisalign stains. Here's how to do it: Simply soak your aligners in lukewarm soapy water for 20 minutes. After soaking, you can give them a gentle scrub with a soft-bristled toothbrush (not your primary toothbrush) and clean in the nooks and crannies on the inside and outside of each aligner. Be sure you give your aligners a good rinse with lukewarm water when you’re done so they don’t leave a soapy taste in your mouth! Essential Invisalign tip: Never use hot water on your aligners. This can cause them to warp and disfigure, making them ineffective. How often should I soak Invisalign? Ideally, you do this each day. It's a quick and effortless way to prevent bacteria buildup and Invisalign stains. Soaking Invisalign aligners doesn’t just eliminate odors and bacteria; it eliminates calcium and mineral deposits that can build up in your aligners. 2. Use distilled white vinegar to clean Invisalign. This cleaning technique is a classic, and it works wonders. Vinegar has gentle disinfectant properties that naturally eliminate odors and bacteria on your aligners, and it's clear so you won't risk staining your Invisalign. This process is simple too! How to clean aligners using a vinegar solution: In a small container, mix white vinegar and lukewarm water (1:3 ratio). Leave your aligners in the solution for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, use a soft-bristled toothbrush (not your primary... --- - Published: 2025-01-02 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-braces-have-changed/ If you had braces before the 21st century, you’ll notice that today’s braces have changed drastically! Braces are now faster, more discreet, more comfortable, more efficient, and more affordable than ever before. Let’s dive into the evolution of braces to see where orthodontics started, compared to where it is now. Braces: Ancient Beginnings Did you know that braces date back as far as 1000 BCE? That’s right — mummies in Ancient Egypt were discovered with metal bands around their teeth, which means that the concept of straightening teeth has been around for thousands of years! Archaeologists have found crude forms of braces made from materials gold wires and animal intestines, specifically catgut — YIKES! These ancient braces featured a cord that was wrapped and winded around each individual tooth to apply pressure to teeth. Nowadays, orthodontists attach a bracket to each tooth with a wire spanning through the brackets and elastics (in traditional braces) to hold brackets to wires, moving teeth comfortably and efficiently. This is a much safer, less invasive alternative to wrapping wires around tooth roots! We’ve even evolved to the point of using custom-designed, 3D-printed clear aligners that are virtually invisible when in place, don’t require any metal pieces and work just as efficiently as braces. Needless to say, braces have come a long way since 1000 BCE — but how did they evolve through the years? Braces: Then and Now Teeth braces were then formally introduced in 1819 by French orthodontist Christophe-Francois Delabarre! With these braces, thick bands (known as cribs) were placed around multiple teeth in a row to hold them in place. “Cribs" were made of various metals, like silver, steel, copper and gold, as well as some woods and rubber. From here, braces continued to evolve over time, bringing us to the modern braces options we offer today at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics! Braces brackets are now smaller and more gentle on sensitive mouths. They’re made with high-quality metal alloys and offer a highly effective way to transform smiles. But how did we get here? Let’s see how braces evolved over centuries: Braces Evolution in the 20th and 21st Centuries What did braces look like in the 50s, 70s and 90s? Braces in the 1950s In the 1950s, stainless steel was being introduced into orthodontics, but this material wasn't entirely accepted for use in the field yet. Toward the end of the 1950s, x-rays also started to be used regularly for orthodontic treatment. While braces were more common in the 50s, they weren’t exactly the type of braces we see today. Braces in the 50s were still wrapped around each individual tooth and bonding adhesive hadn’t been developed for commercial use yet. Braces in the 1970s Braces were still wrapped around individual teeth well into the early 1970s. Then, braces in the 70s took a major leap with modern-day technology! Direct bonding (gluing) of brackets to teeth replaced the previous wrapping technique. 70s braces also featured the revolutionary self-ligating technique that didn’t require... --- - Published: 2025-01-02 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-treatment-for-kids/ So your child needs orthodontic treatment, but you’re not too familiar with the benefits of Invisalign® for kids yet? Invisalign entered the market in 2000, which means it probably wasn’t a treatment option for you if you were in orthodontic treatment as a child. If you’re interested in hearing how effective and advanced Invisalign is, you’re in the right place! As a Top 1% Diamond Plus Invisalign provider (the highest distinction of Invisalign expertise achievable), we’re very familiar with the world of Invisalign. Parents, here’s what you need to know about Invisalign treatment for kids: Are braces “better” than Invisalign? Invisalign vs. braces for kids: Which is better? Braces and Invisalign are very different. While no treatment is inherently ‘better’ than another, it comes down to your family’s preferences and lifestyle. Here are a few differences: Invisalign requires fewer orthodontist appointments. Clear aligners are removable, which means maintaining great oral hygiene won't require any additional steps or specialized tools, Invisalign is just as effective as braces. And with Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, Invisalign costs are manageable with 0% interest, in-house financing, or $0 down through CareCredit or LendingClub! Let’s elaborate on some benefits you might not know about Invisalign First for kids: 1. We can treat the same conditions with Invisalign as we can with braces. There’s a common misconception that Invisalign is not as effective as braces. We’re here to debunk that myth! With Invisalign, our Top 1% Diamond Plus Invisalign provider, Dr. Wiewiora, can treat the same conditions of all complexities as we can with braces. What is the youngest age for Invisalign? Common orthodontic issues, like bite misalignments and jaw irregularities, crooked teeth, crowded teeth and gapped teeth, can be identifiable at age 7 by a highly-trained orthodontist. While some of these conditions may be present due to the natural structure of the teeth and jaws, many conditions are caused by childhood habits, like prolonged thumb sucking, pacifier use, and tongue-thrusting. Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn can treat these complex conditions with Invisalign and prevent challenges (like speech issues, mouth-breathing and jaw pain) associated with bite misalignments. If your child needs treatment, Invisalign for 7-year-olds is highly effective. Braces aren’t the only option any more! 2. Invisalign is ideal for children who play sports! If your child plays contact sports, like football, soccer, cheerleading, basketball or another extracurricular, they will likely feel more comfortable wearing Invisalign. With no brackets or wires, Invisalign eliminates the risk of abrasions to the mouth when a football, soccer ball or elbow comes hurtling toward your child’s face. It’s still important that your child wears a mouthguard during sports, with or without orthodontic treatment! 3. Invisalign requires fewer orthodontist appointments. Between your child’s schedule, family’s schedules and your own schedule, it’s a lot to juggle. Invisalign clear aligners don’t require frequent adjustments. This means you and your little one will only have to visit us when absolutely necessary. Every appointment is purposeful. As much as we’d love to see you every month,... --- - Published: 2024-12-01 - Modified: 2024-12-01 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-to-feel-confident-invisalign/ A new year brings the opportunity for fresh starts! What better way to embrace 2025 than by investing in yourself? If you’ve been holding back in life due to insecurities about your smile, you’re certainly not alone. Studies published in the New York Post reveal: 57% of Americans cover their mouths when they laugh due to insecurity over their teeth 50% of people choose to smile with their mouth closed. 61% of Americans wished they could change something about their teeth. Your smile is one of the first things people notice, and improving it can have a ripple effect from the inside out — boosting your confidence, relationships, and even your career. So, what’s the solution? Let’s explore why getting Invisalign® in Lake Mary or Longwood might just be the best New Year’s resolution you ever make: The Power of Confidence Confidence isn’t just a feeling — it’s a tool that influences how you navigate the world. Research shows that people who are confident in their smiles are perceived as more approachable, trustworthy, and successful! According to a study in Orthodontic Practice US dental journal, “68% of Americans say people who smile are more trustworthy, confident, and approachable, and 76% admit a smile is the #1 physical trait to make a first impression of others. ” And unfortunately, not liking your smile can have the opposite effect. It can lead to feelings of self-consciousness, avoidance of social situations, and even negative impacts on your mental health. Orthodontic treatment isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about empowering you to feel your best. In 2025, it’s time to prioritize yourself. If you have a child who doesn’t feel confident in their smile, help them face life with confidence this year — studies published in the National Library of Medicine show a significant relationship between the presence of malocclusion (orthodontic issues), low self-confidence, and exposure to bullying in young adolescents. How to Feel More Confident in 2025 So, why are so many people saying, “I don’t like my smile”, but not seeking out the solution? Well, many people don’t know that traditional braces aren’t the only option anymore, and that paying for orthodontics is a whole lot more flexible nowadays! You don’t have to sport shiny metal braces if you don’t want to, and you don’t have to pay-in-full for treatment. Plus, you may not realize how much of your orthodontics cost insurance can cover. All it takes is a single orthodontic treatment plan to permanently change your life, or help your child embrace their most confident self. You can start smiling now and pay for Invisalign over time with a flexible, 0% interest in-house financing plan. Invisalign vs. Braces: Should I get clear aligners or braces? Both Invisalign clear aligners and braces are highly-effective solutions to treat orthodontic issues, and boost self-esteem and confidence. When it comes to the better solution between Invisalign vs. braces, it’s all about your personal preferences and lifestyle. While children may love the look of traditional braces with... --- - Published: 2024-11-05 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/fsa-for-braces-2024/ Can you believe it? It’s almost 2025! That means we’re gearing up for a new year — and FSA deadlines are right around the corner. If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), now is the perfect opportunity to use those funds in one of the most impactful ways - for orthodontic treatment. The clock is ticking, and many FSA funds expire at the end of the year, so don’t let that money go to waste. Your team at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics is here to help you make the most of your FSA. Here’s everything you need to know: What is an FSA, and how does it work? An FSA, or Flexible Spending Account, is a special account set up by your employer that allows you to set aside pre-tax dollars to save for qualified medical expenses. Because your contributions are taken out before tax is applied, you get more value for your money. FSAs are awesome, because they can be used for a range of healthcare needs, including orthodontic treatment! Most FSA funds must be used by the end of the year, or they expire. That’s why it’s so important to act now if you’ve been considering orthodontic treatment. Don’t let those funds go to waste! What about HSAs for braces or Invisalign? Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are similar to FSAs, but have a few key differences. These accounts are owned by you (not employer-owned like FSAs) and allow you to make contributions with pre-tax income. The funds in your HSA can also accrue interest, and any growth is tax-free. FSA vs HSA: FSA: These accounts are generally “use it or lose it,” meaning the funds must be spent by the end of the year. FSAs are flexible in what they cover, including orthodontics. These savings accounts do not accrue interest. HSA: Funds in an HSA can roll over year after year. Not everyone is eligible for an HSA, and they’re typically tied to high-deductible health plans. Health Savings Accounts do earn interest. Can you use your FSA for orthodontics? Absolutely! Orthodontic treatments, like braces and Invisalign, are FSA-eligible expenses. Whether you’re interested in orthodontic treatment for yourself or your child, FSA funds can cover a significant part of the cost. At Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, we accept FSA payments, and we’re more than happy to explain the process and help you to get the best value from your account. If you have any questions, just reach out to us! Do you have to use your FSA by the end of the year? In most cases, yes! Be sure to check with your employer to confirm the exact deadline for FSA spending and avoid losing any of your hard-earned funds. Can you use HSA for braces? Yes, orthodontic treatments are eligible expenses for Health Savings Accounts too! If you need braces or Invisalign to correct crooked teeth, crowded teeth, gapped teeth, a bite misalignment or another orthodontic issue, applying your HSA funds can reduce your out-of-pocket cost significantly.... --- - Published: 2024-10-17 - Modified: 2024-11-20 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-to-stop-bullies/ October is National Bullying Prevention Month and it’s a great time to talk about why bullies bully, and what you can do as a parent to help support your child and prevent bullying. The unfortunate reality is that 1 in every 5 students experiences bullying, and it can not only affect your child’s mental health and self-confidence, but the effects often follow them into adulthood too! Your team at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics has put together a comprehensive guide for both parents and children to arm our communities with the facts about bullies. Understanding why people bully The best way to deal with a bully is to start by understanding them. Research from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) says that bullies are often experiencing abuse or neglect themselves. They feel hopeless and act out in aggression or take on bullying as a learned behavior. Other reasons that drive people to bully include low self-esteem, peer pressure, or a need for control. In some cases, bullies might be trying to cope with their insecurities by putting others down. Knowing all these reasons behind why people bully can help parents and teens better understand the heart of the matter and approach bullies with empathy and proactive solutions. How to help your child deal with bullies | Tips for parents Whether your child is facing physical, verbal, or cyberbullying, knowing how to guide your child safely through these complex situations is key. Here are a few helpful tips for parents: Listen and validate their feelings The first step is to create a safe space where your child can share their experiences without fear of judgment. Listening is important to helping them process what’s happening and letting them know they have your support. Reassure them that it’s not their fault they’re being bullied. Encourage confidence and self-love Modeling self-love and acceptance at home can go a long way in helping your child feel more secure. Highlight their inner strengths, such as kindness and intelligence, rather than focusing solely on physical appearance. Teach your child to be assertive with bullies Helping your child develop assertive, non-violent responses to bullying can build up their confidence in dealing with potential bullies too. Encouraging them to respond firmly and without care, or they can walk away from the situation at any time. Your child can win against bullies by taking the fun out of their taunts. Here’s a great video to show your child on how to stop bullies. Consider Invisalign® for treatment Children or teens who are teased about their teeth—whether it's gaps, crookedness, or other issues—can feel self-conscious. Not only can orthodontic treatment help correct orthodontic issues they may be teased for, like overbite or underbite, but it can also help build their confidence! Although braces are making a comeback, not everyone is comfortable rocking them. If your child is concerned about being bullied because of braces or just isn’t a fan of the idea, Invisalign® treatment can be a great and discreet alternative... --- - Published: 2024-09-09 - Modified: 2024-09-10 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/cost-of-braces-2024-2025/ An estimated 4 million people are going through orthodontic treatment at any given time! Why is that? That’s because orthodontic treatment isn’t just an esthetic treatment. In fact, a beautiful smile is simply the result of correcting underlying orthodontic problems, and there are a lot more benefits to braces and Invisalign® that go far beyond the appearance of the smile. Now more than ever, orthodontic treatments are more advanced, more discreet, more effective with shorter treatment times, and more affordable! Let’s uncover the true cost of orthodontics and explore all of your payment options in 2024 & 2025: The Cost for Braces & Invisalign in 2024 & 2025 Meeting our patients’ needs (both financial and treatment needs) is our ultimate priority. We understand that each of our patients is unique, so we offer flexible, custom financing plans to help you cover the cost of treatment. You can choose between: 0% interest in-house financing $0 down with CareCredit financing $0 down with Lending Club financing Cash payment Check payment Credit card payment (Visa, American Express, MasterCard and Discover) Needless to say, you have a lot of options with Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics! When you visit our orthodontist office in Lake Mary or Longwood for your free consultation, we’ll discuss all of our payment options, calculate your insurance coverage if you have dental insurance, and work with you to create a payment plan for affordable braces or affordable Invisalign. Over the past few years, financing orthodontics has become a lot easier and a lot more flexible! How much do braces & Invisalign cost a month? There is no set monthly cost of braces. All of our treatment plans are 100% personalized for each patient! Your monthly costs will depend on the length and complexity of your case, the payment plan you choose and your insurance coverage (if you have ortho insurance). Cost of Braces & Invisalign with Insurance Insurance can cover a significant portion of your treatment cost! Most insurance plans will cover 50% of your total cost, which can make a huge difference in terms of your down payment and monthly payments. Here’s how insurance with braces or Invisalign works: Dental insurance typically comes with an orthodontics benefit (separate from regular dental insurance), which may have a lifetime maximum benefit amount or percentage. This means that if orthodontics is considered medically necessary, your insurance provider may pay out 50% of your cost, with a capped amount that varies based on your specific plan. Your insurance provider will then cover a certain portion of your treatment costs, and you’ll be responsible for the rest. You can choose one of our affordable payment plans to cover the remaining cost of treatment. We accept most HMO and PPO dental insurance plans! Our team will help you file your insurance claims and paperwork to ensure that you get the maximum benefit from your plan. How much do braces & Invisalign cost without insurance? If you don’t have insurance coverage, we'll work with you to develop... --- - Published: 2024-08-27 - Modified: 2024-09-13 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/back-to-school-invisalign-tips/ The relaxing days of summer are wrapping up, and it's time to gear up for an exciting new school year! Your friends here at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics will help you and your child transition smoothly back to the classroom during Invisalign® First or Invisalign® Teen treatment. Let’s dive in to the best Invisalign tips to make this school year a breeze: Getting Started: Invisalign Tips for Beginners Starting Invisalign treatment can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be! You have a whole team supporting you in Lake Mary and Longwood. Here are some essential Invisalign tips for beginners that you and your child can review to set them up for success this school year. Wear Invisalign through the school day: If you’re wondering, “do I wear my Invisalign at school? ” the answer is a resounding YES! To ensure that Invisalign treatment is effective and treatment length doesn’t need to be extended, your child should wear their Invisalign aligners for 20-22 hours a day. Only remove them for eating, drinking (anything other than water), and brushing your teeth. Don’t put your aligners on your lunch tray or in a napkin! Carrying your Invisalign case with you (especially during lunch time) is a must. Any time you take your Invisalign trays out, store them securely in their case to avoid accidentally throwing them away in your napkin or on your lunch tray! This happens more often than you may think! Make a school care kit: It’s a good idea to carry a small kit with an interdental brush to clean between teeth, and a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste. Ideally, you can stop by the bathroom on your way back from lunch to give your teeth a quick brushing, rinse out your aligners and give them a quick brush, then pop your aligners back in and rock a clean, dazzling smile for the rest of the day! Tips for Removing Invisalign Because Invisalign aligners are custom-designed to fit snugly around your teeth, it can take a little technique to remove them. Here are some helpful tips for removing Invisalign Start from the back: Gently use your fingertips to lift the aligners off the molars first. Once the back is loose, gradually work your way forward. Use an aligner hook: An aligner removal tool can make it really easy to hook your aligners and take them out. You can find these on Amazon for under $10! Take your time: No need to rush! Carefully removing aligners will help prevent bending or breaking them. Invisalign Tips for Eating at School Lunchtime just got a whole lot easier with these Invisalign tips for eating: Remove before munching: Always take out aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water to prevent staining and damage. Rinse and repeat: After eating, a quick rinse of both your mouth and aligners keeps your smile fresh and ready to go. Ideally, you can brush your teeth too! Enjoy all of your favorite foods: Take advantage of all... --- - Published: 2024-08-15 - Modified: 2024-09-13 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/jaw-pain-flying-tmj/ If you were traveling this summer and noticed that your jaw aches after a flight, or you have tension headaches when driving for long periods of time, you’re certainly not alone! This pain could be a symptom of TMJ disorder. Your friends here at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics want to help you understand the source of your condition, so you can find the right treatment and relieve your symptoms once and for all. Here’s what we’ll cover: What is TMJ-D? Why does flying with TMJ make the pain worse? What are your TMJ treatment options? First of all, what is TMJ-D? TMJ-D refers to a disorder or dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint (the hinge that connects your jawbone to your skull, located right next to your ear. ) This joint allows you to move your jaw up and down and side to side, enabling you to talk, chew, yawn, etc. When this hinge is not functioning properly and TMJ-D (temporomandibular joint disorder) is present, it can lead to a number of uncomfortable symptoms, including jaw pain, TMJ headaches, TMJ ear aches — and more specifically, pain when traveling for long periods of time. Common Causes of TMJ-D Several factors can contribute to TMJ-D. The most common causes include: Jaw Misalignment (Malocclusion): If your teeth don't align properly, it can place undue stress on your temporomandibular joint, leading to pain and discomfort. Injury: A direct blow to the jaw or a whiplash injury can damage the temporomandibular joint. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Grinding your teeth, especially at night, can wear down your teeth and put pressure on the joint, causing pain and dysfunction. Arthritis: Just like other joints in your body, the temporomandibular joint can be affected by arthritis, leading to inflammation and pain. Symptoms of TMJ-D TMJ-D can manifest in various ways, and the symptoms can range from mild to severe. Some of the most common symptoms include: Jaw pain or tenderness: Pain may be felt in the jaw joint area, around the ear, or in your neck and shoulders. Difficulty chewing: You might experience discomfort or even pain while chewing or speaking. Clicking or popping in the jaw: Some people notice a clicking or popping sound when they move their jaw. This sound might or might not be accompanied by pain. TMJ Headaches: TMJ-D can cause headaches, particularly around the temples. Ear Problems: Flying with TMJ can exacerbate ear problems, leading to earaches or a feeling of fullness in the ears. TMJ and Jaw Pain: Why does traveling make it worse? Traveling, especially flying, can make TMJ symptoms worse. Here's why: Pressure changes: When flying, the change in cabin pressure can affect your ears and jaw. Those with TMJ-D may be more sensitive to these changes, which can cause earaches, headaches and jaw soreness. With TMJ disorder, you may notice pain in your jaw during take-off, when landing, or notice jaw pain or a jaw ache after flying. Stress: Traveling can be stressful, and stress is a known trigger for... --- - Published: 2024-07-21 - Modified: 2024-09-13 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/keep-teeth-clean-invisalign/ One of the main benefits of Invisalign® (along with the obvious invisibility of aligners) is the ease of cleaning and maintaining them. Because you can remove your clear aligners to brush, floss, and clean your aligners, and you’ll sport a fresh new set every two weeks or so, it doesn’t require too much effort to keep your smile clean throughout treatment. That said, maintaining proper oral hygiene and being consistent with your oral hygiene routine with any orthodontic treatment is crucial to achieving the best results. How to Keep Teeth Clean with Invisalign Whether you're new to wearing Invisalign or you’re half-way through treatment, here are some essential tips to keep your aligners clean and your smile sparkling: 1. Brush regularly and thoroughly. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Use a soft-bristle manual toothbrush or soft-bristle electric toothbrush to avoid damaging your gums and enamel. Studies show that using an electric toothbrush can supercharge your oral hygiene routine. In an extensive 11-year study by the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, using an electric toothbrush resulted in 22% less gum recession and 18% less tooth decay in subjects, as compared to using a manual toothbrush! If you don’t have an electric toothbrush, this could be a good investment for you. If you really want to keep that smile sparkling throughout treatment, we recommend brushing your teeth an additional time in the afternoon! Less food debris stuck in your teeth means less bacteria, less plaque, and better oral hygiene. 2. Don’t neglect floss! Flossing should be used alongside brushing to remove plaque and food particles from places where your toothbrush can't reach. This helps keep your teeth and gums clean, prevent cavities and gum disease, and prevent bad breath! Floss thoroughly, at least once each night. 3. Do a quick mouthwash rinse each day. Flossing and brushing are absolutely essential, whether you’re in Invisalign treatment or not, but using an antibacterial mouthwash can really boost your oral hygiene routine and safeguard you from bacteria buildup. Antibacterial mouthwash kills bacteria and freshens your breath. Since bacteria thrive in the warm, moist environment of your mouth, rinsing with mouthwash after brushing and flossing is an easy way to further disinfect your smile with minimal effort. Can you use mouthwash with Invisalign in your mouth? No, it’s best to take your aligners out before you rinse with mouthwash. The coloring ingredients in mouthwash can stain your aligners, and the alcohol in mouthwash can cause them to warp. 4. Stay hydrated! Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Water helps wash away food particles and keeps your mouth hydrated, reducing the risk of dry mouth and bad breath. Plus, when your body is hydrated, it has a better chance of fighting off harmful bacteria and preventing gum disease. 5. Be consistent. Consistency is key! If you’re committed to achieving that perfect smile you’ve always dreamed of, you have to commit to consistent cleaning. Don’t go to bed without cleaning your teeth, and... --- - Published: 2024-07-13 - Modified: 2024-09-13 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/risks-fake-braces/ If you stay current with pop culture and fashion trends, you’ve probably seen some form of “fake braces” lately. Artists like Coi Leray and Steve Lacy are sporting their fashion braces on stage, and Google searches for “fake braces” are spiking. Is it a good idea to get in on this trend? Are there risks involved? We’ll help you make the right decision for your health and future. (Find out which type of braces is the most aesthetic option on the market! ) The surprising dangers of fake braces for fashion Fake braces may seem harmless, but the truth is, they can seriously damage your smile. Orthodontic treatment is not a DIY situation, and at-home braces or DIY orthodontics has proven to cause irreparable damage to people’s teeth and jaws. Even though fashion braces may be considered “fake”, they’re still attached to your teeth and placing pressure on your teeth, which causes teeth to move. If there is no treatment plan guiding the tooth movement process, teeth are likely to move into problematic positions. Fashion braces can create orthodontic problems that weren’t already present, or make present conditions more severe. In many cases, this movement is irreversible! Fake braces cost you more in the long run. One reason people may risk damage to their smile by wearing fake braces is the misconception that fake braces are cheaper than real braces. But DIY orthodontics can cost you a lot more money, time and energy in the long run. If you damage your smile with fake braces and start experiencing the symptoms of an orthodontic problem (jaw pain, facial changes, speech impediment, sleep apnea, etc. ), you will need to visit an orthodontist for professional orthodontic treatment. If you do serious damage to your smile with fake braces, you could require invasive treatment methods, like corrective jaw surgery, or an extensive treatment plan with appliances. We want to avoid this at all costs! With Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, real braces are fashionable. Real braces are more fashionable than you may think. Braces can look cool while creating your new, beautifully-balanced smile. With fake braces, you get the aesthetic of braces, while damaging your smile. With real braces, you get the aesthetic of braces, while improving your smile behind-the-scenes. Aesthetic gold braces are popular among our stylish, fashion-forward patients who want to add a little pizzazz to their smile while they transform their smile. Made of high-quality stainless steel and covered in a gold-champagne hue with a smooth zirconia finish, gold braces have an elevated, high-class look that won’t peel, lighten or discolor throughout treatment. If you’re looking for fashionable braces, gold braces are an iconic solution. Many people choose clear ceramic braces for a more discreet aesthetic, too! Beautiful smiles never go out of style. Fake braces may be the current trend, but beautiful smiles are timeless. They never go out of style. With gold braces, you can ride the ‘fashion braces’ smile trend with the coolest, sleekest braces on the market,... --- - Published: 2024-06-30 - Modified: 2025-06-03 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/eating-out-with-braces-invisalign/ Summer is the season for sunshine, good vibes and delicious food - especially in Florida! If you’re in orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign® this summer, first of all, congratulations! ! We’re so excited for your life-changing journey. Now if you’re heading to the beach or dining out at a new restaurant, you may be wondering what to look for and what to avoid on the menu. We’re here to help! Here’s your ultimate guide to braces-friendly foods at local restaurants in Lake Mary and Longwood, and Invisalign-approved dishes. What is considered a ‘braces-friendly food’? As you know, all types of braces are glued to your teeth and are not removed until the end of your transformation. This means you have to choose your meals wisely to avoid an ‘orthodontic emergency’ (bracket popping off or wire moving out of place. ) The food items that are least likely to damage your braces are considered braces-friendly foods! This may sound restrictive, but don’t worry. There are a lot more braces-friendly food options than you may think. Use this as a chance to branch out this summer and try some new delicious meals! Top Braces-Friendly Foods for Summer 2024 Eating out with braces in Longwood or Lake Mary doesn’t have to be a challenge! There are a ton of different restaurants with diverse menus, just waiting for you to dive in. Here are some of the best braces-friendly meal ideas and local restaurants to find them at! Taco Bowls You can find tex mex almost anywhere! Skip the hard shells and opt for a soft taco bowl filled with rice, beans, grilled chicken, and avocado. Our Lake Mary orthodontist office is located only five minutes away from Don Julio Mexican Kitchen, a modern Mexican restaurant with over 10,000 Google reviews. Give it a try! 2. Pasta Primavera This dish combines pasta with a variety of soft vegetables in a light sauce, making it a perfect choice for munching with braces. Live near our Lake Mary orthodontist office? Try out Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza Lake Mary! 3. Sushi Rolls Who doesn't love sushi? Choose sushi rolls with soft fillings like avocado, cucumber, and cooked fish. California rolls, Philadelphia rolls, nigiri and sashimi are all delicious and braces-friendly! It’s best to avoid crunchy toppings. Our Longwood orthodontist office is located just five minutes from Totoya Sushi, a local favorite for sushi lovers! 4. Grilled Salmon with Mashed Potatoes It’s no secret that Florida is an ideal destination for fresh fish. Salmon is delicious and nutritious, can be seasoned in so many different ways, and is gentle on your braces. Have you tried FishBones near our Lake Mary orthodontist office yet? Some people say they have the best salmon they've ever tried! 5. Fruit Salad Sunny days and fresh fruit go together like pb&j! Opt for a summery fresh salad, stacked high with your favorite soft fruits. Acai Republic is the perfect destination for fruit salads! It’s only a seven minute drive from our Longwood... --- - Published: 2024-06-14 - Modified: 2024-09-13 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/board-certified-orthodontist-in-longwood-lake-mary/ Choosing the right orthodontist is one of the most important parts of ensuring a successful smile transformation and achieving a smile that makes you proud to show off! After all, your orthodontist will be the architect turning your dream smile into a reality. Many people assume that all orthodontists have the same qualifications and all are board-certified. But this isn’t the case; only half of orthodontists out there are board-certified today! Here’s what choosing a Board-Certified Orthodontist in Longwood or Lake Mary means for you: What does board-certified mean? An ABO orthodontist, or an orthodontist certified by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) is an additional and voluntary credential that not every orthodontist puts that time and energy into pursuing. This certification is a lot more than just 3 letters added to the end of these doctors’ names! It means these orthodontists went above-and-beyond and dedicated extra time to advancing and perfecting their skills and techniques, to ensure that their patients receive the best possible results with maximum comfort and efficiency. When an orthodontist earns their board certification, this shows their commitment to meeting the highest standards of orthodontic care, and a dedication to lifelong learning. Now let’s learn how it’s done! How to become board-certified In order to apply for a board certification in orthodontics, you’ll have to become an orthodontist first (of course! ) Here’s what you’ll have to do: Complete a 3-4 year graduate program in dentistry and receive a DDS or DMD (Doctor of Dental Surgery or Doctor of Dental Medicine). Cool fact: these degrees are actually the same, but the name of the degrees varies depending on the college the doctor attended! Complete 2-3 year residency at a competitive CODA-accredited (Commission on Dental Accreditation) orthodontic program. Once you’re an official orthodontist, you’ll be able to apply for board-certification with the ABO! The process to become a board certified orthodontist is split into 2 steps: First, an orthodontist will need to complete and pass a written examination. Think of it like the ACT or SAT. This exam is only offered once a year in April and requires an orthodontist to go to specialized testing centers. Next up is completing a clinical examination, this is a 4 hour exam that rotates between written and oral responses. Once these two steps are complete, an orthodontist earns the title of board-certified and will need to renew their certification every 10 years. That means lifelong learning and improving! How many orthodontists are board-certified? Only about 63% of orthodontists are certified by the ABO. That’s only a little over half of the orthodontists in the world who decide to undergo further certification. Our very own Dr. Wiewiora is included among the few AAO orthodontists that are board-certified. In fact, she is the only board certified orthodontist in Longwood and 1 of the 2 in Lake Mary! Live near Longwood or Lake Mary and want to see all the orthodontists near you? Check out this easy tool to find an ABO orthodontist.... --- - Published: 2024-05-30 - Modified: 2024-05-17 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/why-age-7-for-orthodontic-evaluation/ Receiving an orthodontic evaluation at the age of 7 may sound too young to some parents. After all, can a 7 year old get braces? Have all of their permanent teeth even erupted at this age? The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive their first orthodontic exam by the age of 7 to screen for potential orthodontic problems, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll start orthodontic treatment at age 7 - or at all. Every child is different, with different needs and a unique smile growth rate! The purpose of an orthodontic evaluation with Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics is simply to determine if your child needs orthodontic treatment or would benefit from treatment. Can a 7 year old get braces or Invisalign? Yes, in some cases, a 7 year old can get braces or another orthodontic treatment. Does that mean that your child will need braces at age 7? Not necessarily! It depends on what particular problems are detected during his or her evaluation. Every child develops at a different rate. Typically, the front teeth on the top and bottom dental arch are the first to be lost. These teeth are called the central incisors. Orthodontic treatment is designed to be able to work with a mixed dentition, or a growing mouth of baby teeth and permanent teeth, so braces at age 7 or 8 is possible! Why would braces at age 7 or 8 be necessary? We won’t know if braces are necessary for your child until they receive a braces evaluation (orthodontic exam) from one of our highly-experienced family orthodontists, Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn. Our orthodontists are trained to detect problematic orthodontic conditions before they progress and require a more intensive treatment or a longer treatment process. Some developmental issues and dental misalignments become apparent around age 7, and it’s important that these conditions don’t go undetected and/or untreated. When untreated conditions progress, these can lead to: Chewing difficulties Speech impediments Jaw pain or tooth pain Facial abnormalities Poor self-esteem As the permanent teeth are growing in around age 7, we’re able to identify problematic conditions and create a personalized treatment plan to help guide your child’s teeth and jaw bones into a healthy, beautiful alignment. How early orthodontic treatment works “Braces for 7 year olds” doesn’t have to mean ‘braces’. Orthodontic appliances are often used in the younger years to create sufficient room in the mouth for all permanent teeth to erupt in alignment. Our orthodontists are also highly-experienced in using Invisalign® First for kids, which may be a good option for your little one! Palatal expanders Palatal expanders are one of the most common orthodontic appliances used for children. These appliances are designed to widen a narrow palate, or upper jaw bone, to prevent teeth from growing in crowded or misaligned and to correct the bite on posterior teeth that do not fit together properly. A number of orthodontic problems are caused by narrow jaw bones, and when the jaw bones have stabilized... --- - Published: 2024-05-15 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-best-invisible-braces/ While metal braces are still a highly-effective treatment option, patients now have the option of invisible braces to better suit their lifestyles. If you’ve been considering orthodontic treatment but need a more modern, flexible alternative to braces, this one’s for you! Top-Rated Invisible Braces Over the years, several brands of ‘invisible braces’ have saturated the market. Invisalign® was the first brand to enter the scene in 1998 and has maintained its position as the industry-leading clear aligner. In fact, Invisalign was found to be the #1 best invisible braces in 2024, according to U. S. News! Let’s find out why Invisalign is an ideal treatment option, from your highly-experienced family orthodontist in Lake Mary and Longwood. Is Invisalign worth it? When looking into treatment options, you may find yourself wondering, “is invisalign worth it? ” After all, if you grew up in a time when braces were the only treatment option, you may not know enough about the effectiveness of Invisalign. The short answer is: Yes, Invisalign is worth it if you’re ready to live your most confident life! Invisalign was rated “Best Overall Invisible Braces” by U. S. News, due to the comfort of Invisalign aligners, the predictability and personalization of treatment, and its ability to correct more complex cases. Let’s dive into the exclusive advantages of choosing Invisalign in Longwood and Lake Mary. 1. Removability Invisalign offers flexibility in your lifestyle. While Invisalign needs to be worn around 20-22 hours of the day to ensure the most effective and efficient treatment, you can take your clear aligners out to eat, brush your teeth, floss, and attend important events! If you have an upcoming event that you’d rather not wear orthodontic treatment during, you can temporarily store your aligners in your Invisalign case and track that time in the MyInvisalign App to ensure that you still get your full day of wear in. 2. Fewer visits With Invisalign, you’ll have orthodontist visits every 8 to 12 weeks, as opposed to 4 to 6 weeks with traditional braces. After two weeks (or as long as instructed by Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn), you’ll switch out your current clear aligners for your next, new set. Each set is custom-designed to guide your teeth one step closer to the beautiful end result. Because we don’t have to tighten/adjust any pieces with Invisalign, your appointments will be more spread out than they would with traditional braces. 3. Can handle more complex cases Invisalign has been around for quite a while, which means this technology has had decades of refining and redesigning to improve its efficiency and effectiveness. With Invisalign technology, Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn can correct a wide range of orthodontic issues, from minor to complex. As reported by U. S. News, Invisalign is more equipped to handle complex cases than other brands of aligners! With Invisalign at Wiewiora and Dunn Orthodontics, you’re in the best hands. Take the first step today. If you are searching for the right orthodontist in Lake... --- - Published: 2024-04-24 - Modified: 2024-04-24 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/waterpik-vs-flossing/ If you’re searching for ways to boost your oral hygiene routine, you’ve likely come across the Waterpik device. A Waterpik is a popular brand of water flosser that emits a pressurized stream of water to target plaque, debris, food particles and bacteria. Is this a good alternative to traditional flossing? Let’s find out! Do water flossers work? According to research published in Dentistry Journal, water flossers have proven to reduce plaque, gum inflammation and bleeding. These devices are a highly-effective supplement to your oral hygiene routine. But what if you have braces or Invisalign? Water Flosser Vs. Floss with Braces Can you use a water flosser with braces? You sure can! In fact, Waterpiks are clinically proven to be “3 times as effective as string floss" for patients with braces, and “over five times more effective than brushing alone for the reduction of plaque biofilm. ” For bleeding gums, the Water Flosser was 26% more effective than flossing and 53% more effective than brushing alone! If you don’t have floss threaders (specialized loops that help you insert floss through your brackets and wires), flossing with regular string floss can be challenging with braces. Water flossing doesn’t require you to navigate through brackets and wires, and may be the easier route for you. Water Flosser Vs. Floss with Clear Aligners If you’re in orthodontic treatment with Invisalign, you don’t have any brackets or wires to work around when flossing. However, as we now know, water flossing is more effective at removing plaque and bacteria than traditional flossing, which means you may still choose to use a water flosser! Does a Waterpik replace flossing? While some health organizations recommend water flossing over string flossing, others (like Mayo Clinic and WebMD) say that water flossers are not a sufficient substitute for dental floss. If you aren’t sure whether water flossing is sufficient for your oral hygiene routine, ask your dentist during your next cleaning! Based on your current oral hygiene and any risk factors you have, your dentist may advise that you supplement your routine with a water flosser - rather than substitute. How do I use a Waterpik water flosser with braces? According to WaterPik, here are 6 simple steps to water floss with braces: (Consider using the Orthodontic Tip attachment with a specialized brush to promote plaque removal between braces. ) Fill the Water Flosser reservoir with lukewarm water and place it firmly on the base. Insert the flosser tip and click into the handle. Adjust the pressure control (start at low pressure), lean over the sink, and place the tip in your mouth. Turn the unit on. Close your lips to prevent splashing and let water flow from your mouth into the sink. Starting with the back teeth, aim the tip at the gumline. Pause and lightly brush the area between the teeth and all around the orthodontic bracket or appliance. Proceed to the next tooth until your whole smile is clean! Final verdict: Is a Waterpik better than flossing?... --- - Published: 2024-04-17 - Modified: 2024-05-17 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/fastest-way-to-straighten-teeth-before-wedding/ It’s a dream come true! The love of your life has just proposed! You’re floating on cloud 9 as you look through the pictures and videos, your BFF captured of you and your future hubby’s special moment. But suddenly you find yourself wishing you had a smile as beautiful and radiant as your new engagement ring. After all, every bride (and groom) wants to look their best on their wedding day. You’re in luck if you’re looking to straighten your teeth before your wedding! At Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, we have a few comfortable and efficient treatment options to give you that picture-perfect smile on your big day. Let’s dive in! Start your treatment now! The fastest way to straighten your teeth is by taking the first step - scheduling your complimentary orthodontic exam! Our highly-experienced orthodontists will perform a comprehensive smile evaluation, which includes: digital x-rays, diagnostic photos, and a visual exam. At your first visit, you’ll meet our friendly team and get a sneak peek of what your smile journey with us would look like. At Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, we use advanced technology and proven techniques to treat you to a comfortable and efficient orthodontic experience - as it should be! That’s part of our own standard of care. After all, why stick to traditional when advancements have the ability to help you achieve your dream smile effortlessly? So can I straighten my teeth without braces? Braces are everyone’s first thought when you think of “teeth straightening” or “orthodontic treatment”. While we do offer modern braces options for transforming your smile, braces may not be the ideal choice for your tight wedding timeline. The average treatment length is about 18 to 24 months and not everyone is comfortable sporting braces in their wedding photos. But good news! Our orthodontists offer a discreet alternative treatment for straightening your teeth quickly. Say “I do” to Invisalign! Invisalign® treatment is an incredibly popular choice among brides and grooms for their teeth straightening needs. A series of clear, custom-made trays will apply gentle and consistent force on your teeth, encouraging them to move into healthy alignment. You’ll wear your Invisalign for 20 to 22 hours a day and move onto the next series of aligners every week. Here’s why many bride and grooms choose Invisalign to get their picture-perfect smile: No food restrictions. You can try all the catering and cake samples as you plan out your magical day with your soon-to-be-life-partner! Just simply remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything besides water and brush your teeth before popping them back in. Practically invisible. Invisalign aligners are clear, allowing your budding new smile to shine through without the distraction of brackets and wires. Easy to care for. Unlike braces, Invisalign aligners are removable and allow you to brush and floss as normal. This also means that you’ll be able to focus more of your budget on your wedding than purchasing specialty oral care products to keep your teeth and braces... --- - Published: 2024-03-30 - Modified: 2024-04-24 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/is-70-too-old-for-braces/ Seniors as you get older and closer to the golden age of retirement, you may be thinking of ways you can spoil yourself in “your old age”. You may be considering braces or Invisalign to finally get that beautiful, healthy smile you’ve always wanted and thinking “is 70 too old for braces? ” We at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics firmly believe that age is just a number! After all, healthy teeth move the same at every age - from 6 to 90. Now you’ve experienced some great times and seen some amazing events, why should you deny seeing the dawn of your dream smile? So let's delve into how Invisalign at 70 years old or braces at 60 is possible and how it can benefit you. Why should I consider braces or Invisalign for seniors? Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for teens! In fact, 1 in 4 orthodontic treatments are adults and our team has personally treated seniors that are 80 years young! So whether you’re 50, 60, or 70 and want to straighten your teeth, it’s completely possible and could make your oral hygiene routine easier. How? As we age, our teeth can shift because of natural bone loss, tooth loss, or changes in your habits or oral hygiene routine. This can lead to common orthodontic issues like crowded teeth or spacing issues. These conditions not only affect your confidence in your smile, but can make it hard to easily brush and floss your teeth, and can lead to gum disease. So what other benefits can you get from orthodontic treatment in your golden years? Let’s check out the pros and cons of braces vs Invisalign treatment. Braces pros and cons for older adults Braces may be the type of orthodontic treatment you’re most familiar with. You may have had a friend back in high school who sported braces for a while, or even had them yourself! While today’s braces function the same as their originals, there’s a lot of different styles and advancements made to their design over the last few years. At Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, we offer modern braces in metal, clear, or gold. These use a traditional wire and bracket braces system with modern twists such as smaller brackets and stainless steel wires for more comfortable and efficient treatment. Here’s a few pros to choosing braces for seniors: Improves your oral health. (We talked about this already, but it bears repeating! ) Boosts your confidence. Having a beautiful smile can boost your self-esteem and confidence at any age! More socialization opportunities. With braces, you’ll need more check-ins appointments than with Invisalign. That’s more time we get to spend getting to know you, and vice versa. Functionality. Braces treatment can improve your bite power and function, allowing you to chew and speak with ease and comfort. What are some cons of choosing braces? Higher risk of orthodontic emergencies. While braces hardware is sturdy, accidents can happen. Whether you dig into some sweet potato pie not realizing there’s... --- - Published: 2024-03-15 - Modified: 2024-04-24 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/lost-invisalign-tray-what-to-do/ Whether you lost your Invisalign tray on vacation or accidentally threw away your Invisalign aligners, either situation can be stressful. But not to worry! With Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics on your side, you’ll be able to handle this unexpected bump in your Invisalign journey with ease. Here’s what to do if you find yourself searching for a lost Invisalign tray! Check your Invisalign case! As with any unexpected problem in life, it’s important to stay calm and not panic. Invisalign is a great invisible orthodontic treatment, but their clearness can cause them to be easily lost. That’s why our orthodontists stress the importance of saying “if it’s not in your face, it’s in your case”. Your Invisalign case should be the “go-to” place for your aligners to keep them clean and safe. So take a quick peek inside your case and look around the surrounding area. (Sometimes trays can slip out of the case if it's not closed all the way. So just like when popping in your aligners, you should wait to hear the tell-tale click of the case before setting it down. ) Retrace your steps Whether you stopped at the bar for a frozen strawberry daiquiri on vacation or simply enjoyed dinner out with close friends and family, retracing your steps to when you last saw or had your aligners in can help. By walking back through the last 20 to 30 minutes, you may remember that your aligners are under your dinner napkin or a friend offered to place your case in their bag for safe-keeping. Contact us! Still can’t find your missing Invisalign tray? It’s time to contact your orthodontist! A lost Invisalign tray is an orthodontic emergency and it’s important to keep your orthodontist aware of any issues or damage to your aligners. Doing this ensures your treatment stays on track and that you receive expert advice on how to handle the unexpected. Here’s how to handle a lost aligners scenario: If you’re close to switching to your next set, go for it! If you’ve just started wearing your current set, go back to your previous aligners. We may have you take pictures or schedule an emergency appointment to determine if you need a replacement set. What if you lost just one tray, not both? Still follow these instructions as each aligner set is meant to be worn together. Don't skip wearing your Invisalign tray! While it can be disappointing when you lose an Invisalign tray, that doesn’t mean you should stop wearing your aligners completely. No matter if you’re advised not to move onto your next aligner set, your previous set will help keep your teeth from drifting out of alignment while you wait for a replacement set. After all, you don’t want a small hiccup in your treatment to affect all the hard work you’ve done so far! You live, you learn! Misplacing or losing your Invisalign aligners can be an irksome experience. But like all unexpected problems, you can learn from... --- - Published: 2024-02-28 - Modified: 2024-03-01 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/can-i-switch-orthodontists-in-middle-of-treatment/ So you’re in active orthodontic treatment at the halfway mark to your beautiful new smile. You’ve gotten to know your orthodontist and team, but suddenly, your family is moving. Maybe you’re in a military family (thank you for your service! ) Or maybe mom or dad got a job opportunity in a new city. Whatever the reason may be for relocating, now you have to find a new orthodontist to continue your treatment. Is it possible to switch orthodontists before your braces or Invisalign® treatment is complete? Here’s everything you need to know! Can I change orthodontists? The answer is yes, you can switch your orthodontist during treatment. Life happens! Families relocate. Orthodontic transfers happen all the time. At Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, we’ve had the opportunity to treat many patients who transferred from another orthodontist. Some patients have called us asking, “what if I’m moving and I already have braces? ” We help these patients transfer to one of our convenient orthodontist offices in Lake Mary or Longwood, FL. We’ve also treated patients who were not happy with their orthodontic treatment prior to starting treatment with us. We create personalized treatment plans for these patients and deliver exceptional results. How to Change Orthodontists: Step by Step Switching orthodontists mid-treatment can be done in a few steps. We’ll help you cover all of your bases, from informing your old orthodontist to preparing your new orthodontist, to ensure a smooth transfer process during treatment. 1. Inform your orthodontist. Let your orthodontist know as soon as you find out that you have to relocate to a new orthodontist. The sooner your orthodontist knows, the sooner he or she is able to prepare necessary information for your new orthodontist. If you paid-in-full for treatment, the financial coordinator may have to configure a plan to provide you with a refund. It’s important to allow your orthodontist enough time to prepare for your transfer. 2. Search for orthodontists in your new area. Grab your phone, laptop or computer and search for an “orthodontist near me. ” If you live in Longwood, FL, or any surrounding areas, we encourage you to request your complimentary consultation with Dr. Wiewiora, Dr. Dunn, and our team, of course! While you’re searching for practices near you, check out their Google reviews to learn more about their patient experience. Are the majority of the reviews positive? Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics has more than 345 five-star Google reviews! 3. Pick the right orthodontist for you. Assess each practice’s website. Is it up-to-date? Does it have the resources you’re looking for? Do they have before-and-after photos showcasing their work? Check out the doctors’ pages; do they have the experience you’re looking for? The practice’s online presence should be indicative of their patient experience. Do they provide the same type of treatment that you’re currently in - braces or Invisalign®? And most importantly, does your new orthodontist accept transfer patients? Give them a call to find out! How much does it cost to change... --- - Published: 2024-02-15 - Modified: 2025-03-11 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/dental-cleanings-with-braces/ If you have braces or Invisalign® clear aligners, should you continue visiting your dentist every 6 months for professional cleanings? Can your dentist still clean your teeth if you’re wearing braces? Spoiler alert - YES, it’s actually essential that you still visit your dentist throughout your orthodontic treatment! Here’s everything you need to know: Before you begin treatment Before you begin treatment, it’s important that you receive a professional cleaning from your dentist at least 6 months prior to your initial orthodontic exam. We want to ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy and ready to support your new smile! Throughout your orthodontic treatment with any type of braces or Invisalign, it’s important that you visit your dentist every six months (or as frequently as your dentist requests) for professional cleanings. Your regular orthodontic check-ins and your regular dental cleanings are both essential for creating a beautiful, healthy smile. Can you get your teeth cleaned with braces on? Yes! Your orthodontic treatment shouldn’t impact your dental health. Your regular cleanings are as important as ever. Even with braces, plaque and tartar are still building up. In fact, brackets and wires provide more places for plaque and tartar to accumulate. Your dentist has likely performed a number of dental cleanings with braces and has taken care of plenty of other patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. Dentists are prepared for this! They have special dental tools that work around brackets to remove hardened plaque on your brackets and around your brackets. Your dentist knows how to floss between your teeth and archwires effectively, without damaging your appliances. In some cases, we may temporarily remove your archwires if your dentist needs to reach a certain area. Teeth cleaning with braces may take a little longer than when you didn’t have braces, but it’s important that your dentist has time to clean your teeth thoroughly. Can you get x-rays with braces? Yes you can! You should have x-rays taken regularly, as advised by your dentist. Although your braces are made of metal brackets and wires, they’re safe to undergo x-rays. Routine x-rays are important for detecting tooth decay (cavities) that may not be apparent at first glance. How often should I clean my teeth with braces? Ideally, you’ll brush your teeth after each meal or snack to keep your braces debris-free. This is the best (and easiest) way to prevent bacteria buildup and ensure beautiful results at the end of your treatment. It’s a good idea to carry a braces care kit when you’re at school or work, with a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste, or disposable Colgate® Wisp™ mini brushes for a quick and convenient brushing. Teeth cleaning with Invisalign Dental cleanings are a bit easier with clear aligners. You simply remove your clear aligners for your regular dental cleanings. You may have attachments or buttons with your clear aligners, but they are easy to clean around. When cleaning your teeth during clear aligner treatment at home, you’ll remove your aligners to brush your... --- - Published: 2024-01-30 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/top-5-reasons-to-get-braces-or-invisalign-for-the-new-year/ As we welcome a new year, you may start thinking about the goals you want to accomplish this year or setting some New Year's Resolutions. If you’ve been considering straightening your teeth, 2024 could be the year you finally say “yes” to orthodontic treatment! Why? Because advancements in orthodontics happen all the time (especially in recent years). But what does this mean for you and your smile in the new year? Let’s find out! Here’s the top 5 reasons to get braces or Invisalign. 1. Quick aesthetic transformation At Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, we’re proud to give you the personalized orthodontic treatment you deserve... with braces or Invisalign®. Because of our commitment to continued education, the use of modern technology, and advanced treatment options, your smile transformation doesn’t have to be a long one! In fact, our average patient takes only 12 to 18 months to complete their treatment with us. Some patients even start seeing amazing results within the first 6 months! 2. Will help improve your health The benefits of orthodontics go beyond just a beautiful smile too! Common orthodontic conditions like crooked teeth and overbite can spell disaster for the health and integrity of your teeth and gums, causing improper wear and tear on your enamel and hard to clean areas. Orthodontic treatment will gently move your teeth into healthy alignment. This helps make your oral hygiene routine a breeze and helps improve your oral health (and your overall health too! ) While your body can have a fantastic immune system, it also counts on proper oral hygiene to help keep the bacteria in your body under control. So by undergoing orthodontic treatment and sticking to a strong oral hygiene, you can make caring for your smile and your body that much simpler! 3. Gives you long-term savings A new year can mean a new budget and if you’re not sure you can fit orthodontic treatment into your budget this year, we’ve got information for you! The good news is that your treatment cost will always be upfront with us! Our team will go over your personalized treatment cost, maximize your insurance benefits for you, and map out the financial options available to you at your first visit. But one of the best reasons to get orthodontic treatment in the new year isn’t just the affordable care and payment plans available for you, it’s also the long-term savings you’ll experience! By starting orthodontic treatment now, you can save money in the long-run from the effects these conditions can have, such as dentofacial trauma or even periodontal disease in severe cases. While only 10% of people need medically-necessary orthodontic treatment, the ADA estimates about 50% of people have misalignments that require orthodontic care. So if you have crowded teeth or underbite or any of these signs you need braces now, orthodontic treatment can be a wise investment in your smile and for your wallet. 4. You have more options than ever before Orthodontic treatment isn’t just braces anymore... --- - Published: 2024-01-15 - Modified: 2024-03-01 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/stopped-wearing-retainer/ So you went through orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign® in the past. Maybe you started off strong wearing your retainer every night after treatment. Then, one night, you left your retainer in its case... and that turned into multiple nights... and months... and maybe even years! Now you're left wondering, “what do I do? Do I try to fit my retainer back in? Have my teeth moved out of place? ” Your Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics team is here to answer your questions! Here’s everything you need to know: The unfortunate tale of orthodontic relapse Neglecting your retainer for an extended period of time can lead to orthodontic relapse. When your teeth “relapse”, they move out of their beautifully-aligned post-treatment positions and start to revert back to their original pre-treatment positions. Worst case scenario! But if you’re reading this blog because you stopped wearing your retainer, you already know about orthodontic relapse. So here’s what you can do moving forward: Should I wear my retainer if it doesn’t fit? If your retainer doesn’t snap into place without forcing it in, please do NOT try to make it fit. This can break your retainer - or worse, damage your smile. It’s important that you reach out to us, let us know that your retainer no longer fits, and we can discuss next steps! Why do teeth move after braces or Invisalign? Whether your teeth moved after braces years later or just months later, the reason behind it is the same: The bone and tissues that support your teeth have minds of their own. Our bodies are constantly moving, growing and readjusting throughout life. Without the guidance of your retainer holding your teeth in the new positions we created, your teeth will continue moving and readjusting. Retainers help stabilize your teeth in their new positions, allowing the surrounding bone and tissues to adapt and retain the changes. Now what? So, what are your options? If you start wearing your retainer again, will your teeth move back? It depends on how long it’s been since you wore your retainer consistently. If your retainer fits back in your mouth and snaps into place without forcing it, then yes, your retainer can guide your teeth back in line with consistent wear. It may feel tight if you haven’t worn it for days or weeks; that just means there’s some realigning to do. If you haven’t worn your retainer for months or years, and it doesn’t fit your smile anymore, do not force your retainer in place. Orthodontic retreatment will be necessary to re-correct the alignment. Orthodontic Relapse Treatment (or Orthodontic Retreatment) Let’s be honest. You didn’t plan on going through more than one orthodontic treatment, and it’s not the most exciting news to hear. The good news is that most cases of retreatment are a lot shorter and less costly than first-time orthodontic treatment. Your second case will likely be a minor case, compared to the complexity of your initial treatment. Retreatment leverages your... --- - Published: 2024-01-02 - Modified: 2025-01-02 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-worth-investment/ When it comes to modern orthodontics, Invisalign has taken the spotlight as a convenient, nearly invisible solution for straightening teeth. Whether you’re a teen, adult, or parent considering Invisalign for your little one, you might find yourself wondering: Is Invisalign worth it? Spoiler alert: Yes, it is! Let’s break down why Invisalign is a game-changer in orthodontics and why it could be the perfect choice for you and your family. Why Choose Invisalign? Invisalign aligners are designed with advanced technology to deliver results as effective as traditional braces. But here’s the kicker — they’re discreet, removable, and comfortable. From day one of treatment, you can smile confidently with a virtually-invisible treatment. Nobody has to know that you're undergoing orthodontic treatment! Invisalign is ideal for all types of lifestyles — busy adult lifestyles, social teen lifestyles, and lively kiddo lifestyles. (We provide expert Invisalign for all ages at our orthodontic offices in Lake Mary and Longwood! ) Whether you’re dealing with a complex alignment issue or a minor case affecting just a few teeth, Invisalign is a modern solution that fits seamlessly into your life. Play Sports with Confidence One of the standout benefits of Invisalign is its compatibility with an active lifestyle. If you’re an athlete, Invisalign lets you play sports without worry. Unlike braces, which can sometimes cause discomfort or injuries during contact sports, Invisalign aligners are smooth and fit snugly over your teeth. For added protection, you can even remove your aligners during games and practices to wear a sports mouthguard instead. This flexibility ensures you can focus on your performance, not your orthodontic treatment. Is Invisalign Worth It for Adults? For adults seeking to improve their smile, Invisalign offers a subtle, professional solution. No awkward metal braces during work meetings or social events — just a clear, polished path to a perfect smile. Plus, with the flexibility to remove your aligners for meals and oral hygiene, Invisalign integrates effortlessly into adult routines. Is Invisalign Worth It for Minor Cases? Even for minor cases, Invisalign is worth it. Whether it’s closing small gaps or adjusting slightly crooked teeth, Invisalign aligners offer precise, targeted movement. Minor cases often require shorter treatment times, so you could see results even faster! You can get Invisalign for one crooked tooth, Invisalign for a few crowded teeth, or Invisalign after braces if you had braces as a child and didn't wear your retainer after, and experience the convenience of custom clear aligners while touching up your smile. How Long Does Invisalign Take? The average Invisalign treatment takes 12-18 months, though minor cases can sometimes be completed in as little as six months. The exact timeline depends on your unique orthodontic needs and how dedicated you are to wearing your aligners. Remember: wearing your aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day is essential for staying on track! On your first visit, Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn will examine your smile and create your custom treatment plan. We'll be able to tell you how... --- - Published: 2023-12-15 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/smiledirectclub-lawsuit-2/ We heard the recent news about SmileDirectClub closing its doors, and (unfortunately) we’re not surprised! Mail-order clear aligners have been known to cause irreparable damage to their patients’ precious smiles. We genuinely hope that you haven’t been negatively impacted by SmileDirectClub mail-order care. As experienced orthodontists, it’s reassuring to know that there is less risk of people experiencing smile-related issues in the future! We want you to know that we’re here for you and your family, and we’re not going anywhere! We’re proud to be Lake Mary and Longwood’s first choice for families seeking the highest quality orthodontic care for kids, teens and adults. What happened to SmileDirectClub? Here’s what we know about the SmileDirectClub bankruptcy, as reported by AP News: SmileDirectClub filed for bankruptcy at the end of September 2023, due to a near $900 million debt. SmileDirectClub has been sued for "unlawfully using non-disclosure agreements to manipulate online reviews and keep customers from reporting negative experiences to regulators. " SmileDirectClub has also run into a number of legal battles stemming from the health risks their patients have been susceptible to, particularly patients developing advanced gum disease and their "doctors" misdiagnosing cases. In the last 3 years, the Better Business Bureau has reported that SmileDirectClub racked up a whopping 1,762 complaints from consumers! What to do if you’re currently in treatment with SmileDirectClub All you have to do is request a complimentary consultation with us, and we’ll help you achieve the beautiful smile you deserve - with safe, personalized, high-quality orthodontic care. You and your family’s smiles deserve the absolute best. That includes highly-personalized care, expert treatment monitoring from a 5-star orthodontist, convenient locations, and flexible financing options with NO hidden fees. Your health, safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. No two patients are the same - not their smiles, lifestyles, preferences or needs. Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn create custom treatment plans on an individual basis. At every visit, you’ll see your highly-qualified, personal orthodontist who knows you, understands your needs, and remembers the little details about you! We offer flexible financing options and create custom payment plans to suit your budget. Choose from 0% interest in-house financing, CareCredit financing, LendingClub financing, and more. We also offer discounts for patients’ family members and for patients using Medicaid! We bring you expert orthodontics for all ages. Our orthodontists have decades of experience creating beautiful smiles for children, teens and adults. You can choose from a range of modern orthodontic treatments, including Invisalign® clear aligners, clear braces, gold braces and metal braces. We’ll start with a complimentary consultation and free orthodontic exam to assess your current smile, then create a custom treatment plan that ends in your perfect smile. Why should you NOT consider mail-order/DIY clear aligners? Misdiagnoses With online orthodontics or Invisalign online (like SmileDirectClub), you are your own doctor. These companies will send you a DIY impression kit with a putty material that you bite into, then send back to the company through the mail. There is... --- - Published: 2023-12-09 - Modified: 2023-12-09 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/can-invisalign-fix-a-gummy-smile/ In any case of a gummy smile, Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn can create a personalized treatment plan to correct your condition and help you feel confident in your smile! Being a Diamond Plus Invisalign Provider, we’re ranked in the top 1% of all Invisalign providers in the world! Our doctors possess the certification and extensive experience to treat a wide range of orthodontics conditions. So you can rest assured our orthodontists are highly-experienced in Invisalign treatment... including cases of fixing gummy smiles. So, “can Invisalign fix a gummy smile? ” we say Yes! Through Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn’s combined expertise in dentistry and orthodontics, they’ll create a comprehensive treatment plan that will optimize both the aesthetics and functionality of your smile. What causes gummy smile? If your gums reveal themselves when you smile, this is called a “gummy smile”. Also called “excessive gingival display”, gummy smiles are present when at least 2 mm (millimeters) of excess gum tissue is on display. Some common causes are: Orthodontic issues. Unhealthy teeth and jaw alignments can show more gum tissue than normal. Genetics. Some people are born with excessive gum tissue. Hyperactive lip muscles. Muscles in the upper lip can stretch too high causing more gum tissue to show than usual. Different types of gummy smiles There are four different classifications of gummy smiles, including: Anterior - Excess gum tissue shows above the front teeth (typically in between the two canines) in the upper jaw. This especially the case for an overbite gummy smile, as your upper jaw protrudes more than a healthy one which leads to more gum showing than usual. Posterior — Excess gum tissue shows above the back teeth in the upper jaw. Mixed — Excess gum tissue shows above the front teeth and back teeth in the upper jaw. Asymmetric — Excess gum tissue shows on just one side of the mouth in the upper jaw. How to fix a gummy smile When you visit us for your complimentary consultation, Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn will perform a comprehensive orthodontic exam (using advanced digital imaging) to assess your teeth, gums, and jaw alignment. Your orthodontist will then use these high-quality images, along with your digital impressions taken by our iTero® scanner, to determine the most effective route for gummy smile correction. Any of the following treatment options (or a combination of treatments) may be included in your personalized treatment plan: Invisalign - Orthodontic treatment using Invisalign can be effective for minor cases of gummy smiles. Using Invisalign will move the teeth into the right position and correct the patient's bite, which results in significantly less gum tissue exposure. An appliance called TADs (titanium anchorage devices) may be implanted into the patient's bone during orthodontic treatment. These mini, temporary implants help move the teeth into their optimal positions and can fix more severe cases of gummy smile. Gingivectomy - A gingivectomy, or gummy smile surgery, helps reshape excess gums to real the natural shape of the teeth. This... --- - Published: 2023-11-30 - Modified: 2023-11-30 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/can-you-get-invisalign-for-bottom-teeth-only/ We often hear new patients ask, “can I get Invisalign® for bottom teeth only? ” and the answer is yes! Invisalign clear aligners are available for the bottom teeth or top teeth of your jaw. You may think that orthodontic treatment means you or your child must have a full set of braces or Invisalign, but that’s not true! In fact, thanks to advancements in orthodontic technology, we’re able to treat common orthodontic issues only showing in the top or bottom teeth. Let’s discuss if this may be the best treatment option for your unique smile needs! What is partial Invisalign treatment? When you get braces or Invisalign for the bottom or top teeth, this is called single-arch treatment or partial Invisalign treatment. Although the majority of our Invisalign patients are treated using both arches (aka full orthodontic treatment), certain cases are best suited for a single-arch treatment. On your first visit with us, Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn will perform a comprehensive orthodontic evaluation to determine the best course of treatment that suits your unique smile needs. All this can be done during your free consultation at our Lake Mary or Longwood office. Single-arch treatment doesn’t involve just customizing aligners for your bottom or top teeth only and then monitoring your progress. Our orthodontists are also concerned with the alignment of your bite, which involves making sure your bottom and top teeth are in healthy alignment with each other. Who can get Invisalign just for bottom teeth? In certain cases, you can achieve your dream smile by using Invisalign only on your bottom teeth. However, this may not be true for you and only a comprehensive exam with an Invisalign expert can tell you if partial Invisalign treatment is best for you. So what makes you a candidate for Invisalign bottom teeth only? Single-arch treatment is common if: You have mild crowding or spacing on only top or bottom teeth. You’ve experienced orthodontic relapse, aka you had orthodontic treatment before but haven’t been wearing your aligners. Your child is receiving early orthodontic treatment to pave the way for a more comprehensive treatment in the future. How much does Invisalign for top teeth only cost? The cost of single-arch Invisalign treatment is just like full Invisalign treatment cost, it varies from patient to patient. There’s many factors at play when considering your Invisalign cost so the best way to determine your unique cost is by visiting Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics for your free orthodontic exam. Our team can also help lower your Invisalign costs through maximizing dental insurance benefits, special discounts, and by including our affordable in-house payment plans or other financing options. Still have questions about Invisalign for bottom or top teeth only? A lot of things come into play when creating a beautiful, healthy smile. A complimentary consultation with our expert Invisalign doctors will determine the best treatment plan for you and give you a beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. As Top 1% Invisalign providers, Wiewiora... --- - Published: 2023-11-15 - Modified: 2025-03-11 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/stocking-stuffers-braces-invisalign/ The holidays are right around the corner! If you’re starting to think of gifts or stocking stuffer ideas for someone who’s currently wearing braces or Invisalign®, or someone who’s considering orthodontics, we prepared the ultimate guide to make it easy on you. Bring on the holidays, festivities, and beautiful, healthy smiles! Here are the top stocking stuffer ideas (for all budgets) from your team at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics: 1. Water flosser/Waterpik® A water flosser is like a mini power washer for your mouth! A modern flossing solution, water flossers use a gentle stream of pressurized water to clean between teeth and along the gum line. Benefits: These devices are highly effective at removing food particles and plaque from teeth, and they’re super easy to use. They help prevent gum inflammation and gum disease, keeping breath fresh and teeth sparkly. Using a water flosser during orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign is particularly beneficial, because it can clean areas where your toothbrush can’t reach and can make oral hygiene maintenance a lot easier! Where to get one: Brand name Waterpik water flossers can range anywhere from $40 all the way up to $140. You can also grab one on Amazon for about $25! They’re the perfect practical stocking stuffer for people in orthodontic treatment, and anyone who wants to keep their smile clean and healthy. 2. Pack of Colgate® Wisps Colgate Wisps are portable, mini toothbrushes prepasted with freshening toothpaste, a freshening bead and soft bristles on one end, with a soft pick on the other end to clean hard-to-reach spaces. Benefits: These mini, disposable toothbrushes are super convenient for on-the-go cleaning with braces or Invisalign. They don’t take up much space and fit easily in a purse or bag; they don't require you to carry toothpaste; they’re perfect for removing food particles between teeth and between brackets and wires. You can use one in just a few minutes, then toss it in the trash and enjoy fresh breath and clean teeth! You don’t even have to rinse with water afterward (but you may want to so you can swish away any food particles if you’re wearing braces. ) Where to get one: You can buy a pack at Walmart, Target, most grocery stores and drug stores, or online! Amazon sells brand name Colgate wisps (4-pack) for $17, but also sells off-brand alternatives (24-pack) for $20. These are the perfect stocking stuffers for a fresh mouth on-the-go. 3. Invisalign Stickables™ Invisalign Stickables are small, colorful accessories that you stick to clear aligners to decorate your smile. They’re the perfect stocking stuffer idea for teens, kids, or anyone who likes a one-of-a-kind smile and is in the midst of an Invisalign transformation! Benefits: Stickables come in a variety of shapes, colors and icons, with 100 stickers per pack. You can choose from different themes, including animals, emojis, food, sports, holidays, shapes, limited edition shapes and so much more. They're easy to apply and wear, and they allow you to show off... --- - Published: 2023-10-30 - Modified: 2023-10-30 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/can-i-use-whitening-toothpaste-with-invisalign/ On your journey to your perfect smile with Invisalign®, you may wonder what’s the best way to keep your teeth white and bright during your treatment. In your google search, you may find some suggestions about using whitening toothpaste and wonder if it’s true... can you use whitening toothpaste with Invisalign? Well our Invisalign doctors here at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics are here to give you the scoop on the safety and effectiveness of using whitening toothpaste during your time in Invisalign. So can you? Yes! You can absolutely use whitening toothpaste to brush your teeth during your Invisalign journey. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign clear aligners are removable so there’s no worries about a two-toned smile once your treatment ends. Just simply remove your aligners and brush your teeth with your favorite whitening toothpaste as normal. Note: do not use whitening toothpaste to clean your Invisalign aligners. If you need some doctor-approved methods of cleaning your aligners, check these out! But what if I have Invisalign attachments? Whitening teeth with Invisalign attachments or buttons can cause a noticeable difference in the shades of white in your smile after treatment. As Invisalign buttons and attachments are small, tooth-colored bumps bonded to your teeth, it’s best to wait until they are removed before using any teeth whitening toothpaste or product. But not to worry! You can still keep your teeth bright and white with Invisalign attachments or buttons. 3 tips for whitening teeth with Invisalign attachments or buttons Brush your teeth after every snack and meal. Doing so before putting your aligners back in not only helps keep your teeth white, but stops your aligners from yellowing or harboring plaque. Keep your regular dental check-up appointments. The best teeth whitening with Invisalign is a professional teeth cleaning at your general dentist’s office. This removes plaque, stains, and tartar (a substance that can only be removed by a certified dental hygienist)... helping the natural white of your teeth shine through! Talk with your orthodontist. If you're considering whitening your teeth, it’s always a great idea to address this with your orthodontist. They’ll be able to recommend a safe, effective route that protects your smile in progress and gives you professional results! Choose expert Invisalign treatment and care with us! Our Top 1% Invisalign doctors understand the desire to have a beautiful bright smile and we’re here to assist! Please reach out to us if you have any questions about using whitening toothpaste at any time during your Invisalign transformation. Ready to begin your Invisalign transformation? Request your complimentary consultation with us at our orthodontist office in Longwood or Lake Mary today! --- - Published: 2023-10-09 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/top-10-invisalign-faqs-to-treatment/ Hey there, parents! In your busy day-to-day, you may be wondering if it’s still possible to fix your crooked teeth and get the smile you’ve always dreamed of. And if you can benefit from orthodontics, can your 7-year-old or teenager benefit too? Well the team at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics is here to tell you “yes”! And even better... you’ll be able to embark on your smile journey together using a discreet and comfortable treatment, Invisalign clear aligners. Now you may have more questions about this popular orthodontic treatment so we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 Invisalign FAQs, just for you: 1. What is Invisalign and how does it work? Invisalign® is one of the most popular clear aligner systems on the market today - and with good reason! This teeth-straightening system uses a series of clear, removable aligners to apply consistent, gentle force to move your teeth and jaws into healthy alignment. The best part? They’re custom-made just for your smile! So each tray will give you a comfortable and discreet fit. 2. How long does Invisalign take to fix an overbite? While how long you wear your Invisalign aligners, varies from patient to patient, Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn will assess and diagnose the severity of your overbite (and any other orthodontic conditions you may have) at your complimentary orthodontic consultation. During this time, we’ll go over your personalized treatment plan, including your treatment timeline. 3. What are the Invisalign instructions I need to follow? Sticking to your treatment plan is an important part of your Invisalign journey. The standard for Invisalign instructions is as follows: Only drink water with your aligners in, other beverages like coffee or juice require aligner removal. Only remove your aligners for eating, brushing, and flossing. Always rinse off or clean your aligners before putting them back in. Clean your aligners daily using safe and approved methods. 4. How long per day should I wear Invisalign clear aligners? On average, you should wear your Invisalign aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day. Your orthodontist will include your unique timeframe in your treatment plan. Complying with your wear time is going to give you the best possible smile results - and when your aligners aren’t in, they’re not applying the forces needed for healthy tooth movement. 5. What is the average treatment time for Invisalign? Just like how long you’ll wear your aligners on a day-to-day basis, the length of Invisalign treatment varies by case. While the average Invisalign treatment time length is 12 to 18 months for adults, your orthodontist will include your treatment estimate in your personalized treatment plan. 6. I had braces before and didn't wear my retainers. Can Invisalign help me? Yes! Invisalign can be a simple and discreet way to correct any shifting due to orthodontic relapse. Just be sure to wear your aligners as prescribed to reveal that beautiful, healthy smile again! 7. Why should I choose an orthodontist over DIY/mail-order companies? Orthodontists are experts... --- - Published: 2023-09-30 - Modified: 2023-09-30 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-buttons-attachments/ If you're on the journey to a stunning smile with Invisalign and the experienced Wiewiora & Dunn team, you may have heard of Invisalign buttons and Invisalign attachments. Or maybe you haven’t heard of them yet! Either way, we’ll dive into what these are, how they work, and how they differ. The Basics Before we delve into the nitty-gritty details, it's important to understand that both Invisalign buttons and attachments serve the same fundamental purpose: they enhance the effectiveness of your Invisalign treatment. These small additions provide the aligners with leverage, allowing them to exert precise forces on your teeth, ultimately guiding them into their beautiful new positions. Not everyone requires Invisalign attachments or buttons. You may go your entire treatment experience without using these, or you may get them right away! It all depends on your personalized treatment plan. What are Invisalign attachments? Invisalign attachments are small, tooth-colored bumps attached directly to specific teeth. Attachments are made of a tooth-colored composite material that blends seamlessly with your natural teeth. Their purpose is to create anchor points for the aligners to promote more complex tooth movements. How do they work? Attachments reduce the amount of space between your teeth and the aligner, to create a more snug fit and increase pressure where the attachment is. In response to the pressure, your tooth will move away from the area of pressure in order to try to lessen the pressure. This gradually guides the tooth in a specific direction, based on the precise location of the attachment. Invisalign attachments come in various shapes and sizes; some are rectangular, while others are circular or triangular. The shape of the attachment is designed to correspond to the movement needed for each individual tooth, and if you need them, yours will be chosen based on your personalized treatment plan! Now, what are Invisalign buttons? What are Invisalign buttons? Invisalign buttons are essentially a type of Invisalign attachment. While attachments are bonded directly to the tooth, Invisalign buttons are attached to the aligner. They function similarly to attachments by providing additional leverage to create precise tooth movements. How do they work? Invisalign buttons, also called Invisalign hooks, are used as anchors to attach rubber bands that apply persistent pressure to the jaws to guide the upper and lower jaw into proper alignment. Rubber bands are often used with braces, but they work the same way with Invisalign! For example, if you have an underbite (meaning the lower jaw juts out further than the upper jaw), you may wear rubber bands attached to a button on the top teeth, toward the back of your mouth, and a button on the bottom teeth, toward the canines. This would apply pressure that pulls the lower jaw backward and the upper jaw forward. If you require Invisalign buttons, Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn will explain how they work and how to wear your rubber bands properly to ensure a successful transformation! How are Invisalign attachments and buttons removed? Because Invisalign... --- - Published: 2023-09-15 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-long-do-expanders-stay-in/ So you’ve just taken your child in for their first orthodontic exam and as one of our orthodontists is going over their recommended treatment plan for your kiddo, you hear the word “palatal expander”. If you immediately thought of some kind of alien vs predator device, we promise you it’s not that sinister! While Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn will explain your child’s braces or Invisalign treatment in detail (including any supplemental orthodontic appliances), you may find yourself with more questions after leaving our offices. That’s ok! Our team is here to answer your questions and provide you with expert resources to read on your own if you’d like... . like this blog! Are you considering orthodontic treatment and wondering how long you'll have to wear those expanders? So let’s address a few common questions about palatal expanders - from acronyms to how long they have to wear them. What is an RPE in orthodontics? Now the most common palatal expander used in our practice is called an RPE, which stands for Rapid Palatal Expander. These work great with patients who are still growing (like kids and teens). Just like their name suggests, an RPE will expand your child’s narrow palate to help make room for their overcrowded teeth or unhealthy bite (or crossbite). The rapid part comes into play because your child will be turning their expander every day. What’s turning a palate expander like? Does it hurt? This is one of THE most common questions parents and kids have. And where the most hesitation about starting orthodontic treatment can happen. While it might seem intimidating at first, it’s a simple process. As for what it feels like, your child may experience some discomfort the first few days or shortly after a turn. This is normal as the pressure exerted causes healthy movement. So “how many turns for a palatal expander? ” is usually the next question that follows this one. The answer is not simple! Because every child is different, the number of turns varies. Your child will have regular check-ins with our orthodontists to see how their progress is going and recommend a number of daily turns with a minimum and maximum. Once your child’s expander is placed, their orthodontist will give you a special key that fits into the expander and demonstrate how to use it. You or your child will insert the key and gently turn it. Doing so, gradually widen the expander and in turn your child’s palate. How long do expanders stay in? Now, for the question of the hour! While most in early orthodontic treatment wear an expander for 3 to 6 months, your child’s unique timeframe depends on a few different factors, such as: Age. A 6-year-old typically wears an expander for less time than a 15-year-old as their palate is still in the earlier stages of fusing, which means easier movement (NIH). Severity of orthodontic condition(s). Depending on how complex your child’s orthodontic condition is or if they have more... --- - Published: 2023-08-30 - Modified: 2023-08-30 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-in-lake-mary/ So you live in the beautiful Lake Mary, Florida, and you're ready to experience a smile as bright and sunny as the weather? We've got you! If you’re looking for a high-quality, family orthodontist in Lake Mary, we’d love to introduce ourselves. Expert Invisalign Treatment for Your Family We invite you to Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics for a free consultation and smile exam! Our Lake Mary orthodontist office is conveniently located at 550 Rinehart Rd. , Lake Mary, FL 32746. If you’re interested in Invisalign for you or your child, come meet our team and let’s discuss your needs. We want you to be able to explore your options and gain a genuine understanding of your current smile condition without financial obligation. We are proud to have earned one of the highest distinctions of Invisalign expertise achievable. As Diamond Invisalign Providers, we are Lake Mary's leading provider of Invisalign. Only the top providers, of over 50,000 Invisalign certified dentists and orthodontists in North America, have achieved this exclusive status! If you choose Invisalign with Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, you’re in the best hands. Here’s what you can expect: How does Invisalign work? Invisalign works in a series of custom-designed, high-quality clear plastic trays that fit snugly around your teeth. They apply the perfect amount of pressure to guide your teeth into alignment. With each new set of clear aligner trays that you wear, your teeth move one step closer to their ideal positions! Let’s break down the steps of the Invisalign process: Step 1: Come meet us! If you live in Lake Mary, you’ll get started at our Lake Mary orthodontist office! (But we also have another location in Longwood in case you live closer to that area. ) You’ll get to meet one of our highly-experienced orthodontists, Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn, who will perform a thorough smile exam at no cost. Your first visit is on us! We’ll take a digital, 3D scan of your teeth with the advanced iTero® device, and we’ll get to show you a simulated preview of your beautiful end results before you even begin treatment. We’ll take some diagnostic photos of your smile, discuss your needs, preferences and goals from treatment, and use all of this info to design your 100% personalized Invisalign treatment plan. Step 2: Get your custom aligners! Once we create your personalized treatment plan, we can get started! Your clear aligners will be custom-designed just for you. You’ll wear your first set of aligners for one to two weeks, depending on your personalized treatment plan. It’s important that you keep your clear aligners in place for 20 to 22 hours, so they can work their magic! Step 3: Change your aligners and smile! Approximately every two weeks, you'll switch your current set of aligners out for a new set of aligners. You’ll wear your clear aligners day and night, only taking them out to brush your teeth, floss, and clean your aligners. It’s that simple! Just wear your clear... --- - Published: 2023-08-15 - Modified: 2023-08-15 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/can-crowded-teeth-cause-problems/ Whether your family dentist talked with you about braces or maybe you’re just considering orthodontic treatment, you may be wondering if it’s worth it! At Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, we believe that a beautiful, healthy smile is worth the journey. And it doesn’t hurt to know a little more about how your teeth can affect your quality of life. One common orthodontic problem that many new patients come to us concerned about is crowded teeth. So let’s explore how crowded teeth affect your smile health and how this condition is treated! What causes crowded teeth? Your smile starts to become overcrowded when there isn’t enough room in your jaw for your teeth to fit in their healthy spaces. A few different factors can cause crowding, such as: Genetics. Yes, orthodontic conditions are often hereditary! Because genes are responsible for creating everything from your eye color to your nose shape, they also play a part in how your smile grows and develops. So if you needed braces as a child, your children may need them too. Tooth shape. Every tooth in your mouth isn’t the same shape as they all serve different purposes - from incisors to molars and canines. But having more peg-shaped teeth than normal can cause overcrowding. Early tooth loss. Your baby teeth play a vital role in the health of your adult teeth! Not only do they allow you as an infant and beyond to chew solid foods, but they also preserve the space for adult teeth to emerge. So whether your child lost baby teeth earlier than most due to decay or an accident, it’s important to schedule an orthodontic evaluation around age 7 so crowding doesn’t become an issue for them. Poor habits: Thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting, or using a pacifier beyond age 4 can greatly affect how your child’s teeth grow and develop. Because the repetitive force can negatively affect the healthy development of their palate, causing crowded teeth (especially in their front teeth). Congenital disorder or rare conditions. These abnormalities found at birth (or in pregnancy) can cause orthodontic issues like crowded teeth such as those with cleft palate or hyperdontia. How does teeth crowding affect your smile? There’a few different ways to refer to this orthodontic condition: overlapping, overcrowding, or crowded teeth. It’s easily noticeable as your teeth look bunched together, often crooked or twisted and overlapping. Because of the way crowded teeth are spaced together, they can cause problems with your overall oral health and more: Low self-esteem. Because crowded teeth are easier to spot than most orthodontic conditions, it’s unfortunately often the target of bullies. If you’re experiencing crowded teeth as an adult, it can also impact your self-confidence as those with teeth in healthy alignment are seen as more attractive and intelligent. Speech difficulties. In some cases, crowded teeth can affect your speech. So if you or your child has trouble pronouncing “s” and “sh” sounds, teeth crowding may be to blame. Hard to clean teeth. Crowded teeth tend to... --- - Published: 2023-07-30 - Modified: 2023-07-30 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/guide-to-orthodontics-sick/ You’re committed to your smile transformation - through the ups and downs, in sickness and in health, right? After all, your beautiful end results will be worth the wait! So what happens if you catch a bug or wake up feeling under the weather during treatment? We’re here to answer FAQs about being sick with braces or Invisalign®, and give tips on how to handle your orthodontic commitments when you’re not feeling so great. Good hygiene = Healthy recovery When you're sick, maintaining good oral hygiene is even more crucial. Your mouth is a direct route to the rest of your body, so a clean mouth is the key to a healthy body. You’re already keeping your braces or Invisalign aligners pretty clean (right? ! ) - but on your sick days, it’s important to go the extra mile. Maintaining clean braces or aligners can help you kick the sickness much sooner than if you continue putting the same sickness-causing bacteria back in your mouth. Tips: If you have braces, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean around your brackets and wires thoroughly after each meal. While you may typically brush your teeth twice a day when you’re feeling well, brushing your teeth three to four times a day when sick can make the difference! If you have Invisalign, be sure to disinfect your aligners once daily in a cleaning solution (like Retainer Brite or a homemade mix of equal parts white distilled vinegar and water). When should I change my toothbrush after being sick? It’s important that you replace your current toothbrush with a fresh, clean toothbrush after you’re sick! The bacteria that caused your sickness can continue growing within toothbrush bristles and reintroduce the illness back into your body while your body is trying to heal. Experts advise that you replace your toothbrush once you start feeling better, in order to “make sure lingering bacteria doesn’t lead to reinfection or get passed on to family members” (Cleveland Clinic). Should i cancel my orthodontist appointment if I have a cold? Yes. As a general rule of thumb, if you're not feeling well, please give us a call to reschedule your appointment. We would rather you rest up and visit us when you’re feeling better! If you have cold or flu symptoms, we want to help prevent you from feeling worse and prevent the spread of germs. Rescheduling your appointment is better for you and for our team. Stay hydrated! Fluids are your friends! It’s crucial that you stay hydrated when sick. Hydration helps the body fight off infections and prevents dehydration, which, consequently, helps prevent symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and dizziness. Staying hydrated is essential for healing from your illness, but also for maintaining clean teeth with braces or Invisalign. Proper hydration promotes saliva production, which helps prevent dry mouth and reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Drinking water also helps rid your teeth of food particles and debris that can otherwise contribute to bacteria buildup, plaque... --- - Published: 2023-07-05 - Modified: 2023-07-05 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/4-invisalign-tips-successful-journey/ If you're on an Invisalign journey with our team at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, you're in for an amazing, life-changing transformation! We're here to guide you through the process and ensure that your treatment experience is as smooth and successful as possible, so you can experience beautiful results. We’ve got the top 4 Invisalign tips to help you sail smoothly to the finish line. 1. Use the Invisalign app! Have you been using the super cool ‘My Invisalign’ smile app? It's like having your own personal smile assistant in your pocket! Download the Invisalign app to track your progress, get cleaning tips and learn more about how Invisalign works, snap a selfie to see a simulated preview of how your new smile can look at the end of treatment, connect with us, set handy reminders and receive notifications to help you stay on track with wearing your aligners and attending your appointments, and so much more! Using the My Invisalign app is like having an easy, direct line to smile perfection. Stay connected, stay motivated, and let the app join you on your journey. 2. Keep your past aligners! It may be tempting to bid farewell to your old aligners as you progress through your treatment. But it’s actually important that you keep your most recent ones! (We’ll discuss this during your complimentary consultation, of course. ) Your past aligners aren’t just souvenirs; they're your backup plan! In case you accidentally misplace or damage your current aligners, having your previous ones can keep you on the right track and prevent your teeth from ‘relapsing’ or reverting back to their previous positions. We suggest you keep at least the aligner prior to the one you’re currently wearing. Then when you come to your appointment, we can recycle your far past trays for you! 3. Check the fit of your aligners regularly. It’s important to check the fit of your aligners to make sure that they're hugging your teeth properly. A snug fit means they're doing their job and moving your teeth efficiently. Your aligners shouldn’t feel loose, and they should be able to ‘snap’ into place as confirmation of a good fit. You can use an Invisalign chewie or aligner chewie to help your clear aligners fit properly too! Invisalign chewies are small, cylindrical pieces of soft plastic that you bite down on (with your aligners in place) to properly ‘seat’ your aligners. To use a chewie, bite down on it, move it around different areas of your mouth, and bite down with gentle pressure to help optimize the fit of your aligners. You can purchase a pack of Invisalign chewies on Amazon and we’ll provide you with some during treatment if you need them. 4. Keep your teeth sparkly clean! Keeping your teeth, gums and clear aligners clean is one of the easiest Invisalign tips and tricks to ensure a successful journey. Clean teeth are healthy teeth; healthy teeth are strong teeth; and strong teeth are most receptive to movement... --- - Published: 2023-06-28 - Modified: 2023-06-28 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/3-tips-choosing-invisalign-vs-braces/ So your child needs orthodontic treatment, but you’re both having trouble deciding between braces or Invisalign®. We’re familiar with this dilemma! So let’s talk more about each option and your child’s preferences. A common concern we hear from kids is having a “brace face” throughout treatment. In fact, 41% of teens think it’s embarrassing to wear braces! But aren’t braces highly-effective at straightening teeth and isn’t Invisalign expensive? We know you want to make the best decision for your child’s health while also staying within your budget so we’re here to support you with the facts. Here’s a few tips for deciding between braces vs Invisalign treatment for your child. Are braces “better” than Invisalign? First of all, no one treatment option is “better” than the other! Both braces and Invisalign are effective treatment options for correcting orthodontic conditions and giving your child a beautiful, healthy smile. At the end of the day, it all comes down to which one your family decides on. That being said, we’ve got a few tips for choosing the best orthodontic treatment option for your child. Tip #1: Understand your child’s orthodontic condition(s) At your child’s first orthodontic exam, one of our highly-experienced orthodontists will examine your child’s teeth and bite to determine which conditions are affecting their smile. Your child may have one, two, or more orthodontic issues responsible for their malocclusion (bad bite), this is common! While many orthodontic problems require a trained orthodontist’s eyes to detect, others are pretty obvious to parents and kids alike. Common orthodontic problems such as crowded teeth, crooked teeth, spacing or gaps, and some bite conditions, like overbite and underbite, can be noticeable. And these conditions happen when unhealthy teeth or jaw development occurs like losing a tooth too early or just genetics! Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn love to talk about everything orthodontics so be sure to ask them any questions or concerns you may have about your child’s orthodontic conditions or the treatments offered to you. They make time during every exam to make sure you and your child leave your first visit feeling comfortable and informed. Tip #2: Evaluate your child’s lifestyle and personality As parents, you know your child best! We encourage families to talk over each treatment option together and listen to your child’s concerns or hesitations. A few questions to consider during your chat are: Is your child in sports? Parents of kids or teens who play contact sports like football or basketball will often choose Invisalign over braces because they feel more comfortable about their child’s safety during practice and games. Do they have concerns about their appearance? If your child is already a little self-conscious about their looks, consider the aesthetic advantages of Invisalign vs braces for teenagers, as Invisalign is a more discreet option. Is your child more enthusiastic about one treatment above all others? It's important to consider your child’s preferences. You want them to feel comfortable and motivated during treatment so they can get to... --- - Published: 2023-06-24 - Modified: 2023-06-24 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-old-do-you-have-to-be-to-get-invisalign/ If you’re thinking you and your child may need orthodontic treatment, getting a complimentary exam is the best way to find out! But you may also be wondering if Invisalign is an option for them and you. This is a common question that many new patients have so pause that search for "how old do you have to be to get Invisalign" because we’ve got all the answers to your Invisalign age questions! Let’s discuss Invisalign age requirements and talk about common concerns for older adults undergoing Invisalign treatment. What is the best age for Invisalign or clear aligners? Clear aligners, such as Invisalign®, offer a comfortable and efficient solution to achieve a beautiful, healthy smile, all while providing a discreet teeth straightening experience. And Invisalign isn’t limited to just teens and adults; children are also excellent Invisalign candidates! But the best age for Invisalign isn’t actually a specific number, but depends on factors such as the condition of your smile, your dental maturity, and your lifestyle. Typically, children are ready for orthodontic treatment around the age of 7 when most of their permanent teeth have emerged. However, the best way to determine the optimal time for Invisalign treatment is by scheduling a complimentary exam with a highly qualified orthodontist. If you request your orthodontic consultation with Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, you can rest assured that our highly-experienced orthodontists, Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn will only recommend treatment if it is necessary for your child's orthodontic health. Being a Diamond Plus Invisalign Provider, we’re ranked in the top 1% of all Invisalign providers in the world! Our doctors possess the certification and extensive experience to treat a wide range of orthodontics conditions, some only other orthodontists can treat with traditional braces. We can even treat kids with Invisalign First® aligners - specially-designed aligners for young patients with mixed dentition (baby and adult teeth). Invisalign is also an excellent choice for teens and adults as well; capable of addressing a broad range of orthodontic issues, including crooked teeth and jaw misalignments. How old do you have to be to get Invisalign? Invisalign clear aligners are for all ages! While orthodontic treatment is commonly associated with teenagers, Invisalign is just as beneficial for kids and adults too. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that every child receive an orthodontic exam at age 7, but that doesn’t mean they’ll need treatment or that it’s too late for you as an adult. The best part of Invisalign is that it’s custom made for each smile so you can embark on your smile transformation whenever you feel ready. Regardless of your age, the perfect time to begin Invisalign treatment is whenever you decide to start your smile journey. Invisalign age 60 and maximum age for Invisalign Invisalign is not limited by a maximum age either! As long as you’re in good oral health, you can be an Invisalign candidate at age 60 or older. In fact, the oldest patient we’ve ever treated... --- - Published: 2023-06-05 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/tips-to-ease-fears-about-braces/ Starting orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign® for the first time is undeniably an adjustment! If you recently scheduled your child’s free consultation and your child is feeling a bit nervous about what’s to come, or your child just started orthodontic treatment and has some concerns about their new life with braces, we’re here for you. Here are 5 tips to help your child brace for change, and ease their fears about braces for kids, Invisalign for kids, or orthodontics: How to prepare for braces 1. Start with an open and honest conversation! Communication is key. When you and your child visit us, we’ll do our part to help resolve any preconceptions about braces or orthodontic treatment, but it’s helpful for you to start the conversation at home too! Explain why your child needs orthodontics and how it’ll benefit them - in terms of their health and self-esteem. Tell them that orthodontic treatment is common, and many of the people they know will undergo orthodontics in the future or have already gone through it. From our experience, children who feel in-the-know and in-the-loop about the decision to start treatment tend to feel more comfortable with the process! 2. Explain the process of getting braces or Invisalign. If your child is anxious about what to expect when you visit us, use our website as a resource to prepare them for the experience. Head over to our “Your First Visit” page to find out what you and your child can expect during your complimentary consultation and orthodontic exam. You can learn about the process in detail on that page, but here’s a quick summary to familiarize you: First, we’ll welcome you and your child with smiling faces! We’ll acquaint you with our team and office to ensure that you’re both comfortable. Once we’re ready to begin the orthodontic exam, your friendly, experienced orthodontist (Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn) will assess your child’s smile by taking some quick digital x-rays and digital impressions. After gathering all of the necessary smile data, your orthodontist will design a personalized treatment plan for your child! It’s that easy! We’ll help you decide whether braces or Invisalign is best for your child, based on his or her lifestyle and preferences. 3. Talk about the coolness factor in orthodontic treatment! Orthodontic treatment is cool! ! Many of your child’s favorite celebrities, actors, actresses and influencers have worn braces or Invisalign to achieve their movie-star smiles. It may be helpful to research a few celebrities who proudly and publicly went through orthodontic treatment and talk to your child about them. Justin Bieber, Zac Efron, Miley Cyrus, Khloe Kardashian, Zendaya and Billie Eilish all went through orthodontic treatment! If your child knows that someone he or she looks up to has gone through the same process and come out successfully on the other side, this may give them the confidence and motivation they need to start their own journey too. If you’ve worn braces or Invisalign, talk about your experience... --- - Published: 2023-05-23 - Modified: 2023-05-23 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/4-signs-you-need-braces/ Parents, we know you want the best for your child! Whether your child still has a smile full of baby teeth, or their permanent teeth have made an appearance, you’ve probably wondered, “How do I know if my child needs braces? ” It can be tricky to identify orthodontic problems on your own, before you get a professional (free) orthodontic exam! Your team at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics is here to help you acclimate to the world of orthodontics. Here are some of the most common telltale signs you need braces or Invisalign® clear aligners! 1. Crowded or crooked teeth Crooked teeth and crowded teeth are two of the easiest orthodontic conditions to identify. If you notice that your child has teeth that are overlapping each other, growing at an angle, or positioned outside of the alignment of surrounding teeth, this indicates a need for orthodontic treatment. When teeth aren’t in alignment, it can be particularly difficult for children to brush and floss around each tooth thoroughly, which can increase the risk of cavities (tooth decay) and gum disease. Crooked/crowded teeth can also affect your child’s self-esteem and confidence! Signs to watch out for Teeth that appear crowded or overlapping Difficulty biting or chewing food Difficulty speaking or pronouncing certain words Lack of confidence when smiling 2. Overbite or underbite Children whose jaw bones are not aligned may have an overbite or underbite condition. An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth excessively. This causes the upper teeth to hang over the lower teeth, making the chin and lower jaw bone appear recessed. The opposite of an overbite, an underbite occurs when the lower front teeth protrude past the upper front teeth. This causes the lower jaw bone to jut forward, and the upper teeth may sit inside of the lower teeth when the mouth is closed. Both types of malocclusions (misalignments) can cause problems with chewing and speaking, jaw bone development, facial symmetry and proportion, and affect the overall appearance of the smile. Signs to watch out for Teeth that appear to be sticking out or protruding Difficulty biting or chewing food Difficulty speaking or pronouncing certain words Recessed chin Lack of confidence when smiling 3. Crossbite A crossbite occurs when the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth toward the back of the mouth, causing an improper alignment of the jaw. This can lead to jaw pain and discomfort, as well as premature wear and tear on the teeth. Signs to watch out for Difficulty biting or chewing food Grinding or clenching of teeth Jaw pain or discomfort 4. Spacing issues Spacing issues occur when there are gaps between the teeth. This may be caused by a missing tooth, missing teeth, or teeth that are too small in proportion to the jaw bone. Spacing issues can impact the appearance of the smile and make it difficult to properly clean between the teeth, leading to an increased risk of tooth decay (cavities) and gum... --- - Published: 2023-05-18 - Modified: 2023-05-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-process-step-by-step/ Invisalign® clear aligners were a revolutionary orthodontic treatment when they hit the market in the 90’s and have stayed a favorite since! In fact, there’s been an increase in their popularity among teens and adults since 2020. With these clear aligners offering a virtually invisible, comfortable, and discreet treatment, it’s no wonder there’s 1. 6 million smiles being transformed by Invisalign - and the number keeps growing! If you're considering Invisalign for your smile, here's what you can expect during your treatment - step by step. Step 1: Scheduling a consultation with a Top 1% Invisalign provider The first step in the Invisalign process is to schedule a consultation with an Invisalign doctor. While general dentists may offer Invisalign treatment too, an orthodontist has the specialized training to diagnose and treat your orthodontic condition(s) starting at the root! Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn are not only both certified Invisalign providers, but our practice holds the highest Invisalign status available, Diamond Plus! What does that mean for you? You can get Invisalign treatment with expert Invisalign doctors in Central Florida! When you schedule a complimentary Invisalign consultation at our Longwood or Lake Mary offices, one of our orthodontists will evaluate your teeth, jaws, and help determine whether Invisalign is the right treatment option for you. Included in your initial exam, are diagnostic photos and digital x-rays which will show us the complete picture of your dental and orthodontic health. Step 2: Creating a custom treatment plan Using the images, scans, and notes from your orthodontic exam, one of our highly-experienced orthodontists and our friendly team will then present to you your custom smile transformation plan! This comprehensive plan will break down your treatment details, including the length of treatment, cost, and expected results. If you decide to move forward with Invisalign, our team will get started on your treatment process right away. The first part is taking some digital scans of your teeth using a 3D intraoral scanner called iTero®. You’ll be able to see a cool 3D image of your teeth and gums being built as we take pictures using a handheld wand. This process takes about 5 minutes to complete and you won’t feel a thing! Step 3: Receiving your Invisalign aligners Once your Invisalign treatment plan is finalized, your scans will be sent straight to the Invisalign labs from the iTero! Your orthodontist will then create your personalized treatment plan that we’ll be able to share with you the day you start treatment! Invisalign will then create a series of custom aligners that are designed just for your smile. We will deliver your Invisalign aligners and attachments the day you start treatment and walk you through instructions for wearing your Invisalign for the best possible smile results. Treatment with Invisalign takes an average of about 15 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of your case. While everyone's experience is unique, most people find that Invisalign is a comfortable and convenient way to straighten their teeth and achieve... --- - Published: 2023-04-02 - Modified: 2023-04-02 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/what-is-virtual-orthodontic-consultation/ Maybe you’ve heard of “virtual orthodontic consultations” recently but aren’t sure what exactly these entail. After all, virtual consultations are relatively new! We’re here to answer your questions and tell you everything you need to know about virtual orthodontic consultations. We’ll discuss: How and why virtual consultations gained popularity Why we offer virtual smile assessments Can you do a virtual consultation for Invisalign? What you can expect from a virtual consultation How to request one Safer care with virtual consultations Up until recently, you had to travel to a new orthodontist office for your initial consultation. Technology wasn’t yet at the point where orthodontists could assess your smile, send you cost estimates and begin your orthodontic treatment plan through your phone - all in a timely manner. During the COVID pandemic, when everyone’s health and safety were at the forefront of our minds, telemedicine and virtual care took off! We started offering virtual orthodontic consultations as a way of still serving our community by providing quality orthodontics - in a way that was safe and convenient for new patients. Whether you’re looking for a way to minimize in-person contact, or you have school/work/children duties that make it difficult to take time out of your day to drive to an orthodontist, completing a virtual smile assessment is the perfect way to start the treatment process conveniently on your terms. What to expect with a virtual orthodontic consultation When you complete a virtual orthodontic consultation, you’ll get to connect with one of our orthodontists and find out if you’re a good candidate for Invisalign® or braces - without leaving your home! Yes, you can start the Invisalign treatment process right from your home! Virtual consultations apply to all types of orthodontic treatments. To get started, all you have to do is Head over to our Virtual Consultations page Tell us a little about yourself or the person who needs treatment, by filling in the form Snap a few photos and hit “Send! ” Within 24-48 hours, you’ll receive your personalized smile assessment and cost estimate from Dr. Dunn or Dr. Wiewiora! Then, all you have to do is schedule a complimentary, in-office exam to come see us and get ready to bring your smile to life! By the time you visit us for your in-person orthodontic exam, you’ll be one step ahead of the game. Benefits of virtual orthodontic consultation Virtual orthodontic consultations are convenient, easily-accessible from anywhere with an internet connection, and free! You don’t have to take time off work or school to visit an orthodontist and start the treatment process. Instead, you can kick back on the couch and complete a virtual consultation at a time that works best for you. If you live in a rural or remote area, virtual consultations can be a convenient solution for you to find out if you’re a good candidate for orthodontics. A free virtual consultation is an excellent way for you to explore your treatment options, get a better understanding of... --- - Published: 2023-03-29 - Modified: 2025-05-05 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/top-5-best-and-worst-drink-for-teeth/ If you often find stains on your teeth, yellowing on your teeth, or even start to notice a cavity appearing, you may be wondering why and how this keeps happening. Sometimes the beverages you drink can be to blame! But what drinks are bad for your teeth? And what can be done to stop discoloration and cavities from occurring? Here’s everything you need to know about the effects of beverages on your oral health. So what drinks are bad for your teeth? The first step in getting a brighter smile is making sure you have a strong oral hygiene routine in place, especially if you’re in braces or Invisalign® treatment (as sticky beverages have more surface area to cling to). Brushing your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste twice a day for 2 minutes, flossing once a day, and following it up with one of the best mouthwashes for ortho smiles is the best at home prevention! Once that’s in place, it’s time to evaluate your beverage choices. Here’s the top 5 worst drinks for your teeth. 1. Soda Soda is probably one of the worst drinks for your teeth - both regular and diet types! Regular sodas such as lemon-lime or cola are high in sugar and additives that create the perfect environment for tooth decay-causing bacteria to flourish. Diet soda has the same effect on your teeth due to the highly-acidic additives used in place of sugar to make a sweet tasting beverage. If you’d like the full lowdown on the effects of soda on your teeth, check out this blog! 2. Wine This one is for our adult ortho patients! It may be common knowledge that red wine causes tooth stains but did you know that white wine can be just as harmful to your teeth? Yes! We’re talking red, white, and bubbly; all types of wine are acidic. In fact, wine falls between a 2. 9 to a 4. 2 on the pH scale. With the average glass of red or wine being a 3. 5 in acidity. To give you an idea of how acidic that is, the scale is 0-14 with 0 being the most acidic and 14 being alkaline (basic). This highly acidic drink begins to mix with your saliva and within 30 minutes, the pH level in your mouth lowers, causing acid erosion on your teeth (we’ll talk about this a little later! ) 3. Black tea or coffee With 66% of Americans drinking coffee every day, we’re all too familiar with the stains or discoloration coffee can cause on our teeth. But did you know that black tea has the same staining capabilities? That’s because black coffee and black tea fall within the same range on the pH scale, making them an acidic beverage, aka a catalyst for acid erosion on your teeth. While we’re not saying you should stop drinking coffee or tea, knowing where your beverages fall on the pH scale can give you crucial insight on protecting your teeth... --- - Published: 2023-03-14 - Modified: 2023-03-14 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/do-i-need-orthodontist-referral/ Before you see a health specialist, you typically need a doctor referral from your primary care provider or family doctor. So does that apply to orthodontists too? Spoiler alert: No, you do not need a dentist referral to begin your orthodontic journey. Nothing has to stand in the way of your beautiful new smile! You get to take control of your future and decide when you want to see an orthodontist. How to visit an orthodontist without a referral The process is simple. All you have to do is request a complimentary exam with Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics! We’ll take care of the rest. Your first visit to us is 100% free, and it includes: Comprehensive exam, including a physical exam, digital x-rays, digital impressions and diagnostic photos Personal, one-on-one consultation with a highly-experienced orthodontist Finance and insurance review to create a custom payment plan Review of your treatment options, including metal braces, gold braces, clear braces, and Invisalign® clear aligners Once your consultation and exam are complete, we can begin your treatment journey! Your dentist’s role in your orthodontic treatment While it’s not necessary for you to get an orthodontist referral from your dentist, your dentist still plays a critical role in your orthodontic treatment and your dental health. Before you begin orthodontic treatment, it’s important that your dentist assesses your teeth and gums to ensure that they’ve healthy and ready to support your braces. You will still need to visit your dentist every six months, or as often as instructed by your dentist, in order to keep your smile clean and to help us achieve the best possible results from orthodontic treatment. How do you decide which orthodontist to visit? Since you don’t need a referral from a dentist, how do you decide which orthodontist to entrust with your smile? Here are a few factors to help guide your search: 1. Location You’ll want to visit an orthodontist located near you. You’ll be seeing your orthodontist regularly, every 6 to 8 weeks or so, and you won’t want to travel an hour there and back every time. If you live near Lake Mary or Longwood, come visit us at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics! 2. Experience Choosing an orthodontist for you or your child is a big decision! It’s not one to take lightly. When deciding which orthodontist to get started with, consider the orthodontist’s skill and experience. How many years has the orthodontist been practicing? Are they a member of professional associations? Dr. Wiewiora is a highly experienced and skilled orthodontist born and raised in Longwood, FL. She has performed research on reducing the development of white spot lesions during orthodontic treatment, and her paper has been published in the Oral Health and Preventive Dentistry journal! Dr. Dunn has more than 34 years of experience in the orthodontic field. He opened his orthodontic practice in 1977! Dr. Dunn has co-authored articles on invisible braces and has been published in major dental publications. Both of our orthodontists are active... --- - Published: 2023-02-10 - Modified: 2025-06-03 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/benefits-of-cleaning-tongue/ In your oral hygiene routine, morning and night, you likely focus on cleaning your teeth. But what about your tongue? Is there any benefit to cleaning your tongue? Here’s everything you need to know about cleaning your tongue, including the benefits and how to use tongue scrapers, for a healthy, beautiful smile! Bad bacteria Vs. Good bacteria For the most part, bacteria in our mouths is normal and we have about 20 billion bacteria in our mouths at any moment. These bacteria reproduce every five hours, so if you don’t brush your teeth for 24 hours, those 20 billion bacteria become 100 billion bacteria! A lot of these bacteria are “good” and beneficial for defending your teeth and gums, freshening your breath and aiding the digestive process. “Scientists have identified more than 700 different species of oral bacteria that live in the mouth and make up your oral microbiome. ” However, there are also “bad” bacteria that do just the opposite: cause bad breath and foul odors, cavities, gum disease, heart disease, and other diseases in the body. Needless to say, minimizing the “bad” bacteria and keeping a clean mouth is essential for maintaining a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in the mouth to prevent disease. Cleaning your tongue can play a major part in helping you achieve and maintain a beautiful smile for years to come. Top 3 benefits of brushing your tongue 1. Cleaning your tongue removes bacteria Bacteria flourish between taste buds and within the crevices of the tongue. Cleaning your tongue helps to remove additional bacteria that you may be missing during your brushing routine. Studies published in the National Library of Medicine have shown that tongue scrapers (we’ll get to these in a minute) can reduce bacteria by 75%, while using only a toothbrush reduces bacteria in the mouth by 45%. That’s a significant 30% difference in bacteria, just from using a tongue cleaning tool! Reducing bacteria in your mouth will help prevent bad breath and bad tastes in the mouth, as well as gum disease, cavities and associated health conditions. 2. Cleaning your tongue supports better digestion Food digestion begins in the mouth, where we have specialized enzymes in our saliva that break down food to make for easy, quick digestion in the stomach and intestines. Cleaning your tongue first thing in the morning can help to activate those digestive enzymes in the saliva, supporting the digestive process throughout the day! This can help you keep tummy aches at bay, give you more energy throughout your day, and help you maintain a healthy weight. 3. Helps you experience beautiful results from braces or Invisalign® If you have braces or Invisalign, you know that oral health plays an important role in your treatment progress. You’ve seen how food can get trapped in your brackets and wires, or between your teeth, and you can imagine how that leads to bacteria growth and bad breath! During orthodontic treatment, keeping your smile clean is more important than ever... --- - Published: 2023-01-29 - Modified: 2023-01-29 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/is-charcoal-toothpaste-good-for-teeth/ Charcoal toothpaste has become more popular lately, with well-known brands like Colgate, Crest, Hello and Burt's Bees entering the charcoal toothpaste market. Is this trend worth the try? Is it a good idea to use charcoal toothpaste during braces treatment with Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn? Here’s everything you need to know: What is charcoal toothpaste? Charcoal toothpaste uses activated charcoal, which is a fine-grain powder made from wood, coconut shells, and other natural substances. Activated charcoal is highly absorbent, acting like a sponge, to pull out toxins and lift stains from the enamel (the surface layer of the teeth). Is charcoal bad for your teeth? Charcoal is mildly abrasive, and over time, it can wear down your enamel. Brushing your teeth with activated charcoal is a slippery slope. While charcoal toothpaste may remove surface stains in the short run, it can cause your teeth to yellow over time and become more sensitive as it damages your enamel. Your enamel has the critical responsibility of protecting the sensitive inner layers of your teeth. It protects your teeth from damage due to chewing, biting and grinding teeth. Enamel does not grow back. Once it’s gone, it’s gone. Preserving your enamel by avoiding abrasive materials and minimizing contact with sugary acids is key. The American Dental Association (ADA) does not currently approve of any toothpastes with activated charcoal. Due to charcoal's abrasiveness, the importance of preserving enamel, and the ADA not approving charcoal toothpaste, charcoal is not the best ingredient to use on your teeth. Charcoal toothpaste and braces Charcoal toothpaste isn’t known to damage braces. Your braces are very strong and durable. However, charcoal can get stuck within brackets and wires, leaving black specks behind. Brushing aggressively can loosen a bracket, wire or elastic. Adding abrasive charcoal toothpaste to the mix can add even more pressure to your braces and increase the risk of them breaking. Is a charcoal toothbrush safe? A charcoal toothbrush is a toothbrush that has bristles infused with activated charcoal. These bristles are typically attached to a wooden/bamboo handle. Charcoal bristles are believed to absorb bacteria and help prevent bad breath. However, like charcoal toothpaste, charcoal toothbrush bristles are abrasive and damaging to tooth enamel. Charcoal toothbrushes do not have the ADA’s seal of acceptance and therefore are not safe to use. Is charcoal mouthwash safe? Based on a study published in the National Library of Medicine, “There is insufficient evidence to substantiate the therapeutic and cosmetic marketing claims of charcoal-based mouthwashes, including antimicrobial activity, anti-halitosis, tooth whitening, periodontal disease control, caries reduction and tooth remineralisation, among others. ” In other words, there is not enough evidence to prove that charcoal-based mouthwashes provide any benefits for neither cosmetics nor health. Charcoal mouthwash is therefore unnecessary and potentially damaging to enamel. Try a mouthwash that has been approved by the ADA instead! Is charcoal floss safe? Like charcoal toothpaste and charcoal mouthwash, using charcoal floss is a gamble. Charcoal particles can wear down enamel and make you more... --- - Published: 2023-01-13 - Modified: 2025-01-02 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-braces-have-evolved/ Spoiler alert: Not even close! If you had braces before the 21st century, you’ll notice that today’s braces have changed drastically. Braces are now more compact, durable, efficient and discreet than ever before. Let’s dive into the evolution of braces to see where orthodontics started, compared to where it is now. Braces then and now Teeth braces were first introduced in 1819 by French orthodontist, Christophe-Francois Delabarre! As you can imagine, the first type of braces wasn’t exactly aesthetically-appealing. These braces were made from a cord composed of animal skin, which was also referred to as 'catgut' - YIKES. During this time, headgear was also commonly used to establish an anchor that would guide the top and bottom jaw bones into alignment. (Today, we can do this with rubber bands/elastics attached to a hook on the top and bottom braces. ) Before modern advancements, braces featured a cord that was wrapped and winded around each individual tooth. Nowadays, orthodontists attach a bracket to each tooth with a wire spanning through the brackets and elastics (in traditional braces) to hold brackets to wires, moving teeth comfortably and efficiently. This is a much safer, less invasive alternative to wrapping around tooth roots! Braces evolution in the 20th and 21st centuries What did braces look like in the 50s, 70s and 90s? Braces in the 1950s In the 1950s, stainless steel was being introduced into orthodontics, but this material wasn't entirely accepted for use in the field yet. Toward the end of the 1950s, x-rays also started to be used regularly for orthodontic treatment. While braces were more common in the 50s, they weren’t exactly the type of braces we see today. Braces in the 50s were still wrapped around each individual tooth and bonding adhesive hadn’t been developed for commercial use yet. Braces in the 1970s Braces were still wrapped around individual teeth well into the early 1970s. Then, braces in the 70s took a major leap with modern-day technology! Direct bonding (gluing) of brackets to teeth replaced the previous wrapping technique. 70s braces also featured the revolutionary self-ligating technique that didn’t require the use of elastic bands to adhere brackets to wires. Around the 1970s, lingual braces were also invented. With lingual braces, brackets are attached to the back, tongue-side surfaces of the teeth and are completely hidden when a patient speaks or smiles. However, these techniques weren’t widely-accepted yet, because they required special training from orthodontists who weren’t quite ready to reinvent their approach yet. Braces in the 1980s & 1990s Next came the invention of clear braces in the early 1980s, but traditional metal braces took off first. By the 1990s, traditional braces with colored rubber bands were the most popular form of treatment. This was the same decade that Invisalign® clear aligners were born! From the 1990s on, there were a variety of esthetic treatment options available to everyone. Braces have only become more aesthetically-appealing, more efficient with shorter treatment times, less noticeable, and overall, more desirable than... --- - Published: 2023-01-06 - Modified: 2023-01-06 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/do-braces-cause-tmj-disorder/ Patients whose TMJ pain became more noticeable during braces treatment may think braces are the cause. Spoiler alert: Studies published by the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dentistry have shown there to be no evidence that braces cause TMJ disorder. In fact, braces can be a part of the solution to TMJ pain! Here’s everything you need to know to experience relief and bust the myth of braces causing TMJ disorder. What is TMJ disorder? TMJ is short for 'temporomandibular joint'. This joint is located in the jaw, connecting the jaw bone to the skull. Your TMJ is essentially a hinge that allows your jaw to open, close, slide forward, backward and side to side. With TMJ disorder, this joint is not functioning properly and movement of the jaw is weakened or hindered, which can cause issues with the jaw, nerve pain, facial muscle pain, clicking and locking in the jaw, and difficulty chewing. What causes TMJ disorder? This disorder results from a strain in the TMJ, which can occur when a disk in the jaw moves out of alignment or erodes due to wear and tear, or an impact damages the joint. Any of the following causes can lead to a compromised TMJ: Bruxism: clenching and grinding your teeth habitually Trauma that causes damage to the jaw or neck Stress Arthritis Jaw or teeth misalignments that cause tension in the jaw Can braces cause TMJ disorder? Braces are not known to cause TMJ disorder. However, this condition can become more apparent as the teeth are moved into alignment, which may lead a patient to associate TMJ disorder with braces. During the first few weeks of orthodontic treatment, as your teeth and gums are adjusting to the pressure of your braces, this pressure may cause clenching and grinding habits, which can contribute to TMJ disorder. Because there are a number of factors and potential causes that play into TMJ dysfunction, it’s difficult to pinpoint a single cause. Can braces fix TMJ disorder? Yes! Braces can be one of the most effective treatment solutions for TMJ disorder. If your case of TMJ dysfunction is caused by misalignments in the teeth or jaw bones, braces can help relieve symptoms and prevent the disorder from progressing. For cases that are treatable with braces or Invisalign®, one of our experienced orthodontists (Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn) can create a personalized treatment plan that aligns your jaw bones and repositions your teeth to establish an even, healthy alignment and a healthy overlap between the top and bottom teeth. We won’t know whether your case is treatable with orthodontics until you visit us for a complimentary exam. On your first visit to one of our orthodontist offices in Longwood or Lake Mary, we will perform a thorough exam of your teeth and bite and discuss any symptoms you may be experiencing so we can help guide you toward the right decision for your smile. What if I get TMJ dysfunction after braces? Though it is not... --- - Published: 2022-12-23 - Modified: 2022-12-23 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/grinding-teeth-braces/ Has a friend or partner recently told you that you grind your teeth at night? Or maybe you know you‘re guilty of grinding your teeth. You may be wondering how to stop and what’s behind your urge to grind teeth. There are a few different causes as to why you may be clenching or grinding your teeth (otherwise known as bruxism). So let’s explore them to see if orthodontic treatment could help you with your bruxism. Here’s everything you need to know about teeth grinding and braces: What is bruxism? ‘Bruxism’ is the term used to describe grinding or clenching teeth subconsciously. This may occur during the day, during sleep, or day and night. It’s estimated up to 30% of people grind or clench their teeth. Pinpointing the exact cause of bruxism can be difficult, as there are a number of factors that may be at play. Potential causes of bruxism include: Misalignment in the teeth and/or jaw bones Dehydration Caffeine consumption Stress due to changes in the environment or within the family Medical conditions, like cerebral palsy Certain types of medications, specifically antipsychotics and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors How do braces help with teeth grinding? When your teeth or jaws are not in healthy alignment, more than the beauty of your smile is affected. A bad bite can prevent the proper function of your jaws, throwing off the perfect harmony that your jaw muscles and joints work in. That’s why those with bruxism will often have a sore jaw or earaches. And enough teeth grinding can even cause TMJ-D (temporomandibular joint disorder). So can braces stop teeth grinding? Yes, braces can help reduce or eliminate bruxism symptoms! The main focus of orthodontics is the correction of malocclusions, aka fixing bad bites (NCRDSCB). So braces help with teeth grinding by treating it at the source! At your first visit with us, our team will take x-rays, diagnostic photos, and take a digital impression of your smile. Then Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn will perform a visual exam of your teeth and bite, present your personalized treatment plan to you, and discuss your treatment options. Our bruxism braces patients have the choice of: Metal traditional braces Clear ceramic braces Gold braces Can braces cause teeth grinding? No, orthodontic devices do NOT cause teeth grinding. But it can be easy for those in treatment to assume so as you may find yourself grinding your teeth more in the first few weeks of orthodontic treatment. This is normal with bruxism braces patients as tooth movement begins and your jaw bones adapt to the forces being exerted on them. Our orthodontists will recommend a night guard during treatment as teeth grinding is more common and often more intense at night. Your night guard will be able to displace the 250 pounds of pressure placed on your teeth, jaws, and braces when you grind your teeth. (Plus night guards are great at protecting your cheeks and lips from your brackets if you’re a side sleeper.... --- - Published: 2022-11-17 - Modified: 2025-03-11 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/hyperdontia-treatment/ If you have extra teeth growing in your gums, or you notice your child has extra teeth growing behind their baby teeth, you probably have a few questions! “Hyperdontia” (excessive teeth) can be alarming and concerning if you aren’t familiar with this condition. Here’s everything you need to know about this unique condition, including causes, risks and potential treatment options. What is hyperdontia? Hyperdontia is an orthodontic condition characterized by an excess of teeth growing in the mouth. This could be an extra tooth behind the front teeth, extra teeth behind the back molars, or extra teeth growing in the gums. These additional teeth are called “supernumerary teeth” and can develop almost anywhere in the mouth. Who does hyperdontia affect? While hyperdontia can affect anyone at any age, this condition is present in an estimated 0. 1% to 3. 8% of adults with permanent teeth and an estimated 0. 3% to 0. 6% in children with primary teeth. Extra teeth growing in adults is twice as common in men than in women. What causes hyperdontia? Hyperdontia is relatively rare and causes include a variety of genetic disorders and syndrome. Hyperdontia causes include cleft lip and palate (a birth defect caused by the area above the mouth not fully developing), cleidocranial dysplasia (a condition that causes an abnormal formation of bones in the skull) and trichorhinophalangeal syndrome (a rare disease that leads to bone and joint malformations). Is hyperdontia dangerous? Hyperdontia is not "dangerous", however, it can lead to a number of challenges that affect a person’s quality of life. With extra teeth, a person may experience: Poor oral hygiene due to difficulties reaching each tooth Increased risk of cysts forming in the mouth Speech difficulties Difficulty biting or chewing food Root resorption (the body starts to break down surrounding tooth roots and tissues) Facial irregularities due to the jaw bones accommodating an excess of teeth How is hyperdontia treated? The primary treatment route for hyperdontia is hyperdontia surgery, which involves extraction of additional teeth, followed by a full treatment of braces or Invisalign to realign the teeth and jaw bones. However, since cases of hyperdontia are unique with a number of varying factors that affect the patient’s condition, effective treatment routes differ from case to case. While some cases will require tooth extraction, other cases of hyperdontia may be treatable with orthodontics alone and no surgery required. Treatment will depend on the age of the patient, the location of the supernumerary teeth, and other existing conditions (like crowding or missing teeth). When you visit Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn for a complimentary consultation, your orthodontist will perform a comprehensive exam of your teeth and bite to determine the best treatment route for you. If you have impacted teeth (teeth stuck in the gum tissue), this can affect surrounding teeth and cause malocclusion (misalignment in the teeth). Missing teeth due to hyperdontia can also cause surrounding teeth to drift toward the open spaces, which can create a severe misalignment and lead... --- - Published: 2022-11-03 - Modified: 2022-11-03 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/use-hsa-for-orthodontics/ Spoiler alert: Yes you can! Using your HSA to pay for orthodontic treatment is not only possible, but it can also lower your costs and give you greater value for your money. Here’s everything you need to know about HSAs for orthodontics- so you can make the best decision for your smile (and your wallet). What is HSA or FSA? HSA stands for Health Savings Account, which is a type of savings account that allows you to set money aside (pre-taxed) to be used for qualifying medical expenses. This money can then be withdrawn tax-free and dedicated toward healthcare deductibles, copays or out-of-pocket costs. The portion of your orthodontics cost that isn’t covered by your insurance company may be covered by your HSA account. HSA funds are tax-deductible, tax-deferred and tax-free! Since HSA money goes into your account untaxed and comes out of it untaxed, this allows you to get even greater value from your HSA funds than you would from your typical checking or savings account. An FSA, which stands for Flexible Spending Account, is essentially a less-flexible version of an HSA. For example, FSA funds may not be able to roll over to the next year if benefits aren't used by the end of the year. FSAs are also owned by your employer, whereas HSAs are personal savings accounts. Can you use HSA for braces? You sure can! In fact, any orthodontic treatment deemed necessary after your free initial orthodontic exam can be considered a qualified medical expense for your HSA. Orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign® clear aligners is not just for cosmetic benefits. While orthodontic treatment can and will improve your appearance and confidence drastically, it can also improve your quality of life and a number of major functions related to your teeth and jaw bones. For example, orthodontic treatment can help widen the jaw bones and free blockages from the airways to improve breathing and sleeping quality. Some cases of sleep apnea can be treated with orthodontics alone. For many people, orthodontic treatment is medically necessary to improve their quality of life and can therefore be covered by HSAs. Do HSA funds roll over to the next year? Yes, unlike FSA accounts, all money in an HSA account rolls over to the next year. If you have a healthcare FSA from your employer that does roll over, you’ll only be able to carry over about $570 from your 2022 contributions to 2023. If you have an FSA, it’s a good idea to use those funds before the year ends in order to receive the maximum benefit! We encourage you to request your complimentary exam with us to get the treatment process started and make the most out of your 2022 FSA! How do you use an HSA for orthodontics? The steps you’ll need to take to apply your HSA funds to your orthodontics costs will depend on your specific provider. However, there are a few common ways to access or redeem your savings. Use your... --- - Published: 2022-10-27 - Modified: 2022-10-27 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-does-diet-soda-affect-your-teeth/ Have you ever noticed that gritty feeling on your teeth after you take a sip of soda, whether it be diet, sugar-free, or regular? This feeling stems from the highly acidic ingredients present in all forms of soda. It’s not a secret that soda has negative effects on not only your physical health, but your dental health as well! Maybe you opt for sugar-free or diet sodas instead, in the hopes that these drinks are less harmful. On the contrary, if you’re considering your dental health, diet soda is not a healthier alternative to regular soda! Though diet sodas have significantly less sugar than regular sodas, sugar isn’t the only ingredient harming your teeth. In fact, the most harmful components in sodas are highly acidic additives. What are highly acidic additives? To compensate for the lack of sugar in diet sodas they use highly acidic additives. The levels of certain acids like phosphoric acid, citric acid, and tartaric acid are higher in diet sodas. These acids are too intense for our teeth, so as they come in contact with our enamel, they perform a sort of “acid attack” on our teeth. This “acid attack” occurs for nearly 20 minutes after consuming soda. During this time, your enamel is under constant attack and destruction by these additives clinging on to your teeth. This means, if you’re a casual, consistent diet soda sipper, your teeth are constantly under attack throughout the day! Diet sodas can cause dental erosion So what type of damage do these highly acidic additives in diet soda do to your teeth? They cause dental erosion! Dental erosion is the process by which your enamel is eroded and eventually destroyed. As your enamel is the outermost protective layer of our teeth, maintaining a healthy enamel is absolutely imperative for protecting the sensitive foundation of your teeth. Over time, as your enamel continues to erode, this sensitive foundation of your teeth is exposed with no layer of protection. Once the enamel is significantly destroyed, there is no way to regenerate this layer naturally. So, don’t let your enamel erode to the point of no return! What damage does dental erosion lead to? The destruction of enamel, or dental erosion, initially leads to tooth sensitivity. As the outermost protective layer of your tooth is deteriorating quite rapidly from the acids in diet soda, the inner, sensitive foundation of your tooth is left to fend for itself. This foundation becomes increasingly sensitive without protection. With increased tooth sensitivity, it’s uncomfortable to eat mildly cold foods, mildly hot foods, and sugary foods. As the teeth are slowly decaying without the enamel, they become exceptionally vulnerable to cavities. Consider kicking your soda habit! Your enamel is absolutely vital for protecting your teeth! If you drink enough diet soda to erode your enamel, you will find yourself paying quite a bit of money and undergoing quite a few procedures to artificially ‘fix’ your teeth. If you just can’t put the diet soda down, avoid the... --- - Published: 2022-10-20 - Modified: 2022-10-20 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/top-vitamins-in-orthodontic-treatment/ Taking daily vitamins and minerals is one of the easiest ways to improve your health, strengthen your immune system and shine bright like a diamond! You can take certain vitamins to grow your hair, help clear your skin complexion, and improve your brain function, so are there vitamins that can help support your teeth throughout orthodontic treatment too? Yes there are! If you’re ready to discover which vitamins you can take with braces, this one’s for you. The Role of Vitamins in the Body Taking vitamins has a range of benefits, from improved eyesight and greater heart health, to reduced stress and anxiety, brighter skin complexion and stronger teeth! Vitamins are a one-stop solution for living a healthier and happier life. Our bodies are filled with natural vitamins that facilitate proper function and growth of our cells - and our cells are responsible for everything that goes on in the body. In fact, our bodies are just a big, beautiful clump of cells. Certain vitamins hold certain benefits. For example, Vitamins C, D and E are three of the best vitamins to support healthy skin cell function. To strengthen your teeth and gums, you can focus on adding more calcium, vitamin D, magnesium and potassium to your diet or through supplements. Vitamins and Orthodontic Treatment So how does this all apply to you during your treatment with braces or Invisalign® clear aligners? Vitamins that support your teeth, gums and jaw bones can promote healthy tooth movement, speed up the orthodontic process, and help you reveal a bright smile when your orthodontic treatment is complete! Top 3 Vitamins to Support You Through Orthodontic Treatment 1. Calcium Calcium is a no-brainer when it comes to your smile. Calcium is a powerhouse for bones and teeth. It strengthens enamel, the outer protective layer of the teeth that has the key responsibility of preventing cavities, discoloration and erosion. It's recommended that young adults intake about 1,300 mg of calcium daily. This will help support your teeth and provide them with the strength they need to move quickly and healthily for the best treatment results. Adding calcium to your diet: You can find loads of calcium in milk, cheese, yogurt and leafy vegetables (like spinach, kale and collard greens). Try adding an extra slice of cheese to your lunch, or grabbing a milk on the go. You can also choose a calcium vitamin or supplement to get your daily dose! 2. Magnesium Magnesium is a key mineral essential for the proper development of the jaw bones and gums - two very important parts of your smile. Magnesium (along with other minerals) comprises the structure of the teeth and helps maintain bone density. In order to move your teeth to a beautiful new formation through orthodontic treatment, we need strong teeth and jaw bones that can react appropriately to your braces' guidance. Magnesium also works hand-in-hand with calcium, helping the body absorb calcium. Double win! Adding magnesium to your diet: You can find magnesium in beans... --- - Published: 2022-09-30 - Modified: 2022-09-30 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/can-you-get-braces-with-missing-teeth/ Spoiler Alert: Yes, you can still get braces with a missing tooth! There aren’t many factors that can disqualify you from orthodontic treatment with our experienced orthodontists, Dr. Dunn and Dr. Wiewiora. Braces may be recommended for a patient with missing teeth for any number of reasons. At your free orthodontic exam, your orthodontist will perform a full exam of your smile to help you determine the best treatment route moving forward. If you have missing teeth and need orthodontics, our orthodontists have the experience necessary to help you achieve your goals! In the meantime, here’s everything you need to know about getting braces with missing teeth: What causes missing teeth? The most common causes of missing teeth include: Traumatic injury Gum disease Tooth decay Oral cancer Congenital condition (condition present at birth) The American College of Prosthodontists estimates that 120 million U. S. Americans are missing at least one tooth! Why would I need braces with missing teeth? If you have missing teeth, you may or may not need orthodontic treatment. It all depends on the positions of your teeth and the alignment of your jaw bones. In many cases with missing teeth, the surrounding teeth will start to drift to fill the spaces. As teeth drift, this can create new orthodontic problems, including crowding and malocclusions (bite misalignment). Missing teeth can actually create orthodontic problems at any stage of life. Orthodontic problems can affect your quality of life, including your confidence and self-esteem, chewing and bite functionality. Braces with Missing Teeth Braces may be used while teeth are missing! In some cases, the patient may require a space maintainer to preserve the space created by a missing tooth or teeth. Space maintainers prevent teeth from drifting over and creating a more severe misalignment. If the missing tooth needs to be replaced, we can use a space maintainer to hold space for the restoration as well. If your case requires a space maintainer, your orthodontist will explain the process to you! Braces can then be placed on teeth to close any gaps, hold certain gaps open or create more space in the mouth. Can I get braces with missing molars? Yes, in many cases, patients can still get braces with missing molars. Depending on your specific case, we may recommend Invisalign® clear aligners or braces, along with an appliance. Either way, we will guide you toward a solution that helps you love your smile. Request your complimentary exam with Wiewiora & Dunn Ortho! The best way to determine whether you’re a good candidate for orthodontic treatment is by visiting us for your complimentary consultation. It’s free - what do you have to lose? ! One of our experienced orthodontists will perform a full examination of your smile and present your treatment options to help you make the best decision for your smile. It takes $0 to find out if you’re a good candidate for orthodontics! You deserve to live your most confident life. If you’re looking for a top... --- - Published: 2022-09-22 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/back-to-school-braces-tips-2022/ *School bells ring in the distance* It’s that time again! School is back in session and if you’re starting off the school year with a fresh metal grill, you may have mixed feelings. It’s only natural. Your experience doesn’t have to be awkward. Braces treatment is a lot less challenging than you may think. Your friends here at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics have the pro tips you need to go back to school with confidence. (We have a feeling this is going to be your best school year yet. ) 1. Be selfie-ready at all times with a braces care kit. Don’t let your breakfast linger into lunch with you! Carrying a braces care kit is ideal for keeping your smile clean and avoiding the embarrassing realization that you had a piece of lettuce in your teeth the whole time. Consider any of these items for your handy kit: Mini toothbrush Mini toothpaste Floss Interproximal brush Pocket mirror Orthodontic wax You don’t have to carry too many items or spend more than $5! As long as you have a travel-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste, you’re good to go. Keeping your teeth clean will help you maintain excellent oral hygiene. After breakfast, lunch and snacks, bring your braces care kit to the bathroom for a quick cleanse. Clean teeth = great breath + exceptional treatment results. 2. Keep it cool with a refillable water bottle. Bring your coolest water bottle to school and refill it a few times each day. You’ll see the benefits pretty quickly! Water plays an important role in your orthodontic treatment journey, from your dental health to your mental health. Drinking water strengthens your teeth and helps keep your braces clean! If you want a beautiful set of pearly whites (and good breath), it’s a good idea to keep water on hand. Drinking water is great for your mental health. Studies show that it reduces the risk of anxiety and depression! Water is your skin’s best friend; it’s proven to have a positive effect on skin appearance and can even prevent acne! Plus, drinking more water means more bathroom breaks - and more bathroom breaks means more chances to use your braces care kit. 3. Don’t take risks with your precious smile! Life is all about taking risks - safe risks, that is. Ask that girl or guy out. Learn how to play the drums. Try out for the main role in the next play! Why not? Live a little! However, one risk you don’t want to take this school year (or ever) is stepping onto the field or court without your mouthguard. Leaving your teeth exposed to a ball spiraling toward your face or another player’s elbow is a dangerous, painful, and expensive risk. According to studies published by the American Dental Association, “individuals who do not use mouthguards have more than twice the increased risk of orofacial injury. ” Wearing a mouthguard reduces the chances of dentofacial injuries in collision sports by 27. 6%! Your mouthguard... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2022-09-20 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/bullying-braces-how-to-help-to-your-child/ Braces are becoming more popular over recent years with an estimated four million people wearing braces at any given time! With new technological advancements that make braces more customizable and less noticeable than ever before (like clear ceramic braces), braces don’t hold the stigma they once did. However, children in school can still be critical of peers who have unique qualities - and that can unfortunately include a unique smile. The facts about braces and bullying According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, 66% of adolescents were teased about their physical characteristics; malocclusions (dental misalignments) were found to have a significant correlation to bullying. Another study revealed that of the children who were bullied for their teeth, 78% reported that they were no longer being bullied once they began orthodontic treatment! While this is a hopeful statistic, we would like to see that 100% of children are not bullied for their teeth, their braces, or any reason whatsoever. October is National Bullying Prevention Month, so we’re kicking it off early by spreading awareness! Parents, here are 5 tips to handle childhood bullying. Tips to handle bullying with your child Tip #1: Listen to your child. First things first, hear your child out. Bullying is a serious matter, and it’s important that your child knows he or she has your support through it all. Children shouldn’t have to feel alone as they navigate challenging situations in life! Listen to your child’s concerns and know when to raise the issue to school administration if necessary. Tip #2. Model self-love and self-acceptance. Modeling self-love and confidence for your child goes a long way. Parents’ habits dictate their children’s habits. If you look in the mirror, smile and call yourself beautiful, your child is likely to do the same! Lead by example and show your child that they have plenty of qualities to love. Self-love is the best defense against bullying. Compliment your child’s positive attributes and emphasize the ones that lie below the surface. Qualities like kindness, intelligence and creativity should be celebrated above physical appearance. Tip #3: Show your child that their favorite celebrities had braces too! Braces are a normal part of growing up and many of our favorite celebrities and influencers had braces too. It may help to show your child pictures of popular stars in orthodontic treatment. Emma Watson, Gabrielle Union, Gwen Stefani, Justin Bieber, Miley Cyrus, Ariel Winter, Kendall Jenner, Venus and Serena Williams, Niall Horan, Emma Stone, Beyonce and Dwight Howard all went through orthodontic treatment to experience a confident, movie-star smile! Tip #4: Remind them that wearing braces is something to be proud of. Your child can be proud of the self-discipline and patience it takes to achieve a healthy and beautiful smile! This is something to be proud of, not made fun of. In a few months' time, your child will get to reveal an incredible smile that improves their health and boosts their self-esteem. Let them know that anything they... --- - Published: 2022-08-26 - Modified: 2025-03-11 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-are-braces-tightened/ So your orthodontist just finished placing your braces and you’re super excited to start seeing your dream smile come to life before your eyes! Next thing you know the orthodontic assistant is saying something about scheduling your “braces tightening appointment”? If that gives you images of a metal crank against your braces wire, with a background of evil laughter, we promise it’s nothing like the Halloween special you’re envisioning! “Braces tightening” or braces adjustment appointments are just simply visits where your orthodontist will make the necessary adjustments to your braces to keep you on track to your beautiful, healthy smile! But “how are braces tightened” and “”does getting braces tightened hurt? ” Those are two of the most common questions from new braces patients and we’re happy to answer them. Time to brace yourself for a discussion all about braces! How do braces work? The best way to understand the “why” behind braces adjustments is by understanding exactly how braces work. Your brackets, archwires, and rubber bands all work in harmony by applying constant, gentle pressure on your teeth. There’s a common misconception that your tooth roots are fixed in your jawbone, but that’s not the case! There’s so much more anatomy below the gumline than just your jawbones. And the part that goes through the most change during your orthodontic treatment is your alveolar bone, the bone that holds your tooth roots in place. As your teeth begin to trail along into healthy alignment, your alveolar bone will break down and rebuild to continue its job in stabilizing your teeth. This is why it’s important to stick with healthy foods during orthodontic treatment - not just for the safety of your braces hardware, but also to give your body the nutrients it needs for quick and successful tooth movement. While there’s no danger to your health if you miss your braces tightening appointment, if you don’t reschedule within the week, you could be extending your time in braces! Your braces and teeth will just stay as they are until adjusted by your orthodontist. How do they tighten braces? Now “braces tightening” is a residual term better used to describe ancient orthodontics, when early experts actually used steel wires in place of rubber bands. Think of tuning a guitar, but it’s your teeth instead! Sounds a little uncomfortable, eh? You’ll be happy to know that braces hardware and the braces adjustment process has advanced tremendously since then! At your braces adjustment appointment, Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn will use an orthodontic tool to remove your elastics (as these will wear out from the consistent, gentle pressure exerted on them). Next, your orthodontist will assess your progress to see if your teeth are moving in the direction and angle as expected. Then they’ll adjust your archwires with the help of an orthodontic tool or replace them with new, thicker wires to take your teeth to the next stage in their journey! How often do braces get tightened? The average braces adjustment... --- - Published: 2022-07-22 - Modified: 2022-07-22 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/advantages-of-digital-x-rays/ While it’s true that digital x-rays have great picture quality - which is an important advantage - that’s not the only reason we choose to use digital x-rays for our patients at Wiewiora and Dunn Orthodontics. Digital x-rays have a number of advantages, all of which are aimed to make your experience better! Here’s what you need to know about how Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn use digital x-rays and the advantages of modern x-rays: What are x-rays used for? Why are x-rays necessary in the first place? X-rays are taken so that our orthodontists can get a clear view of your teeth and the underlying bone structures. Without x-rays, we wouldn’t be able to see the roots of the teeth and structure of the jaw bones - which are fundamental in creating your personalized treatment plan. The Advantages of Digital X-rays 1. Digital x-rays produce high-quality images. Digital x-ray images are clear, detailed, and have great contrast. This aids your orthodontist in examining bone structures, teeth and gum tissue, spotting orthodontic problems and performing a comprehensive examination. With digital x-ray images, our doctors can zoom in on images, zoom out or rotate the imaging if necessary to create a precise treatment plan. Traditional x-rays, on the other hand, are processed on film, which doesn’t allow for these image-enhancing tools. 2. Digital x-rays minimize radiation exposure. Digital x-rays can reduce radiation exposure by more than 80% (compared to traditional radiography! ) Digital x-ray machines are more sensitive than traditional x-ray machines, which requires significantly less radiation to create an image. It’s important that we minimize radiation exposure, as it can damage DNA in our cells and increase the risk of various cancers. Digital x-ray radiation dose is minimal and not considered dangerous to health. 3. Digital x-rays allow for convenient electronic storage. Digital x-rays are easy to store, access and transfer (if necessary. ) Electronic storage is a lot more convenient than physical storage, and it reduces the chances of x-rays being lost or misplaced. If you ever need your x-rays sent to your dentist or other practitioner, we can deliver them electronically in only a few minutes! 4. Digital x-rays are environmentally friendly. Digital imaging is kinder to the environment, because it eliminates unnecessary chemicals and waste from traditional x-rays film processing. To process the x-ray image, a number of chemicals are washed over the film. These chemicals then become toxic waste, which destroys habitats in the environment. Digital x-rays don’t require chemicals or paper materials to process images. Instead, they’re downloaded to our database, stored electronically and printed only if necessary. 5. Staying modern and up-to-date is important to us. We pride ourselves on being a modern practice with experienced orthodontists who use advanced techniques and technologies. We’re always looking for new ways to improve our patient experience and make the treatment process more comfortable and efficient! Throughout all of our treatments and technologies, we choose to use the best for our patients. Still have questions about digital... --- - Published: 2022-06-14 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/what-age-do-kids-get-braces/ How old do you have to be to get braces? Is there an age minimum? It’s a valid question! If your child hasn’t received his or her first orthodontic exam yet, how do you know when to start orthodontic treatment or schedule your child’s first exam? Contrary to popular belief, children should receive their first exam before all of their permanent teeth have emerged. According to the AAO (American Association of Orthodontists), the optimal time is around age 7. Why should your child receive an orthodontic evaluation when they don’t have all of their permanent teeth yet? Our orthodontists, Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn, are highly experienced in assessing growing mouths and detecting child orthodontic issues before they fully develop. Many orthodontic problems are rooted in the alignment or width of the jaw. All of the permanent teeth do not need to be fully erupted for our orthodontists to identify these problems. In fact, it’s often better to treat alignment problems before all of the permanent teeth and jaws have fully developed. If we recognize that your child would benefit from early orthodontic treatment to prevent aid in proper growth of the jaw and eruption of permanent teeth, then we will make that recommendation. Can a 7-year-old get braces? Yes, a 7-year-old can get braces! Although it’s beneficial to receive an orthodontic exam at this age, this doesn’t necessarily mean your child will get braces at age 7. Early orthodontic treatment is most effective when it’s broken up into two phases that compliment the natural development of the teeth and jaws. Our goal during the first evaluation is to assess the skeletal and dental relationship, and determine its relation to your child’s chronological and dental age. Our orthodontists can detect problems, like a narrow palate, missing teeth, asymmetries or a malocclusion (misalignment), around age 7. What happens if my child needs treatment? During your child’s orthodontic exam, if we determine that a problematic condition is present or will soon arise, we may suggest that they begin phase 1 treatment. This may include an orthodontic appliance, like a palatal expander, to correct a crossbite or partial brackets to create a sufficient amount of space in the mouth for all permanent teeth to grow. Using appliances around this age is ideal, because they work alongside the natural development of the teeth and jaws. This can reduce or even eliminate the need for future treatment. (As some conditions progress and the bones are further developed, jaw surgery may be necessary treatment. If we intervene with treatment before the condition progresses, your child may only require braces to treat the condition. ) Once there’s enough space for permanent teeth to grow, we may determine that braces at age 8 or 9 would be beneficial. Phase 1 treatment generally begins around the ages of 7 to 10, and phase 2 treatment often follows once most of the permanent teeth have erupted. Every child develops at a different rate, so your child may be ready for... --- - Published: 2022-05-04 - Modified: 2022-05-04 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/should-i-get-braces-veneers/ Dental veneers have become increasingly popular lately - especially among celebrities, ‘influencers’, and reality TV stars! Are veneers the best solution to achieve a beautiful smile? Or are braces better in the long run? It’s true that both braces and veneers are highly-effective, highly-transformative treatment options - but they aren’t necessarily interchangeable. Veneers can’t treat orthodontic conditions, and braces can’t fix cosmetic conditions (like cracks or chips in the teeth). The best treatment decision for you will depend on your goals! Here’s what you need to know to make an informed decision between dental veneers or braces. What are dental veneers? Dental veneers are tooth-colored shells or covers that mimic a natural tooth. A dentist attaches the veneer on the front surface of a tooth to fix cosmetic concerns, such as cracks or chips in the teeth, discoloration, or irregular shape/size. Veneers are typically made out of a porcelain or resin material, and they’re designed to look identical to a healthy natural tooth. Braces Vs. Veneers The main difference between braces and veneers (in terms of how these treatments improve smiles) is that dental veneers are cosmetic, whereas braces are foundational or structural. Dental veneers will improve the surface appearance of the smile, but braces change the structure of the smile - from the jaw bones to the crowns of the teeth - which, in turn, improves the appearance of the smile. For this reason, veneers and braces have two very different jobs. Conditions that are purely cosmetic and don’t require any changes in the positions of the teeth or jaw bones can be covered with a dental veneer. Conditions that originate in the jaw position or dental alignment should be taken care of by Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics! Should I get veneers or braces? The best treatment option for you will depend on your specific concerns about your current smile and your goals with treatment. There are pros and cons to all treatment options (like most things in life), so it’s important that you know the facts before you make a decision. While dental veneers and braces are both highly effective treatment options to help people regain confidence in their smile, there are situations or conditions that are best treated with veneers - and conditions that would benefit more from a personalized orthodontic treatment plan from Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics. Situations where a dental veneer may be the best solution: You have a chipped or cracked tooth or teeth You have a discolored tooth or teeth Your teeth are worn down Your teeth are discolored You have irregularly shaped teeth: some teeth are smaller or have an abnormal shape Situations where braces or Invisalign may be the best solution: You have a bite misalignment: overbite, underbite, open bite, cross bite You have gapped teeth or spaced teeth Your top and bottom teeth don’t meet in the front or back properly You have crooked or crowded teeth You have functional issues: pain or difficulty... --- - Published: 2022-04-27 - Modified: 2025-05-05 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/chew-ice-with-braces/ If you’re a habitual ice chewer, this one’s for you! When you get braces, do you have to kick that habit or can you continue wreaking havoc on your ice machine? Here’s what you need to know about chewing ice with braces: Chewing ice with braces: can I do it? Unfortunately, ice is on the “foods to avoid with braces” list. Ice in your drink is okay, but chewing ice with braces is a bad idea. (That includes frozen slushies with large ice pieces too! Slurp your slushy through a straw - don’t chew it. ) Similar to the dangers of chewing hard food or candies, chewing ice can result in bent wires, loose dental cement, and a broken bracket or two. What’s up with ice chewing? If you’re curious about the cause behind habitual ice chewing, you’ll find this interesting! The habit of chewing or craving food or items that have no nutritional value has a name; it’s called “pica”. Pagophagia (compulsive ice chewing) is a type of pica. Other common types of pica include dirt, rocks, clay, and paper! As it turns out, ice pica is often caused by a nutrient deficiency - specifically an iron deficiency. Iron-deficiency can cause fatigue, so some researchers believe that ice pica is the body’s subconscious way of keeping the brain and body alert with low ice temperatures that boost energy. While ice pica is often associated with anemia, the specific cause behind ice pica is still unclear. Crush the ice habit! If you’re a perpetual ice chewer, it may be a good idea to visit your primary care provider and ask them to assess for any nutritional deficiencies. Maybe you have a mild iron deficiency - or maybe you just really like ice. Either way, visiting your doctor will give you peace of mind that your habit is just a habit and not a sign of an underlying condition. Not only can chewing on ice damage your brackets and wires, but it can cause chipped teeth, cracked teeth, destroyed enamel, sore jaw and facial muscles, and damage to any crowns or fillings you have. Chewing ice cubes causes the enamel to expand, which - over time, creates cracks in the enamel and can deteriorate the protective enamel over time. Unfortunately, enamel can’t be naturally regenerated either. It’s important that we do everything we can to preserve and protect our precious enamel! We recommend crushing the ice habit to prevent any damage to your beautiful smile. Here’s what you can do to crush the habit: 1. Try replacing ice with baby carrots! Baby carrots or sliced carrots are just as crunchy as ice, but won’t do as much damage. These veggies can satiate your crunch cravings, add more nutrients to your diet, and help protect your teeth from damage. 2. Chew sugar-free gum. While it’s not a good idea to chew sugar-full gum with braces, you can still chew ADA-approved sugar-free gum! This can alleviate your chewing cravings, without contributing to sugary... --- - Published: 2022-03-24 - Modified: 2025-06-03 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/swallowed-braces-bracket-or-archwire/ So, imagine this. You have braces, and you bite down into a Snickers bar (or Almond Joy, or Payday. . ) and realize, “oh snap! I swallowed a braces bracket! ” What do you do now? Here’s everything you need to know about what happens if you swallow a bracket or swallow a retainer wire. What happens if you swallow a braces bracket? Swallowing a braces bracket is rare, but it does happen. The good news is: more often than not, you won’t experience any serious repercussions from a swallowed braces bracket. Our bodies are strong and resilient! Regardless, it’s important to be prepared in case it happens. What to do if you swallow a bracket: 3 Steps Step 1: Keep calm, cool and collected. Don’t panic if you swallow your bracket. Most of the time, your bracket will pass naturally. Your stomach acids will dissolve as much of the bracket as they can, and the rest will end up in the toilet. Step 2: Be cautious of any symptoms you experience. Stay cognizant of any symptoms that appear in your body. Although most of the time, brackets pass through the esophagus, down to the stomach, through the intestines and out through the rectum, it is possible (but rare) that the bracket becomes lodged somewhere in the body. If the bracket becomes lodged, a person may experience symptoms, such as pain when swallowing, chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe stomach pain, and abdominal pain. In the event that you experience any of these symptoms, have someone take you to the emergency room or call an ambulance immediately. Step 3: Schedule an appointment with your orthodontist! Assuming the bracket passed naturally and no health complications occurred, you can schedule an appointment with our team at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics to have your bracket repaired. We want to get you back on track with your orthodontic treatment as soon as possible to prevent your teeth from shifting out of place. One missing bracket shouldn’t affect your treatment progress, as long as it’s replaced relatively quickly. In the meantime, if your missing bracket creates an irritating piece or wire on your braces, use some orthodontic wax to cover the sharp end or poking wire. Ortho wax can come in handy for a number of scenarios during your braces treatment! What to do if you swallow a retainer wire If you swallow a braces wire or retainer wire, again - don’t panic. The wire will likely be passed naturally - the same way that a bracket would pass. Studies show that “once a foreign object reaches the stomach, it has an 80% to 90% possibility of passing through the gut with no problems. Less than 1% of foreign bodies have caused a perforation” (JBR Journal of Interdisciplinary Medicine and Dental Science). In a case report published by the JBR Journal of Interdisciplinary Medicine and Dental Science, a young patient swallowed part of his braces archwire. Doctors planned to remove it via surgical procedure, but the... --- - Published: 2022-03-17 - Modified: 2024-03-06 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/orthodontist-second-opinion-are-important/ When you’re looking for an orthodontist for you or your child, how do you know which practice is right for you? Is it possible to “try out” an orthodontist before choosing one? Yes, you can—and we encourage you to do so! We offer complimentary consultations that include a thorough examination of your smile, so you can visit our office, get to know our team and doctors, and get a feel for our patient experience before you make your decision. Why would I need a second opinion in orthodontics? Getting a second opinion in your orthodontic treatment can help assure you that you’re making the best decision for you or your child! If you visit a practice and aren’t quite sure if the environment is the right fit for you, don’t hesitate to try out another practice. You want to feel 100% confident and comfortable in your decision to sign a contract with your orthodontist and begin a life-changing journey. You’ll be spending time with your orthodontist regularly, so it’s important that they’re friendly, professional, personable, and knowledgeable. Take note of how you feel in the office too! Is it a comfortable place to be? Is it clean and modern? Do they offer the type of treatment you're looking for? You and your smile deserve the absolute best care possible, so don’t be afraid to set your standard! At Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, we provide complimentary first visits, with no cost, no risk and no obligation, because we’re confident that you’ll have an exceptional experience at either of our offices in Lake Mary or Longwood. If you visited another orthodontist, and you’re interested in getting a second opinion and trying out another practice before making your decision, we encourage you to request your complimentary consultation with us. The Doctor You Choose Matters Your orthodontist is the one who creates your smile, not your braces or Invisalign! The orthodontist behind your treatment plan matters. When choosing your orthodontist, it’s important that you assess his or her qualifications. If the orthodontist is a member of the AAO (American Association of Orthodontists), this is a great indication that he or she has the experience, education and training you deserve. Try using the AAO orthodontist locator to find an AAO certified orthodontist near you! Consider the orthodontist’s experience, certifications, and any previous training they’ve had too. How long has the orthodontist been practicing? Have they earned an orthodontic certification? Which professional memberships or affiliations are they a part of? Dr. Wiewiora is a member of the AAO, as well as five other professional dental associations and societies! She has been published in the Oral Health and Preventive Dentistry Journal and works as a member in Arnold Palmer Craniofacial Team, helping treat patients with cleft palate and cleft lip. Dr. Dunn has over 35 years of orthodontic experience! He is a member of the AAO, as well as four other distinguished dental associations. Dr. Dunn has delivered international lectures on invisible braces and TMJ treatment and... --- - Published: 2022-03-10 - Modified: 2022-03-10 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-to-floss-with-braces-tips/ Are you dreading flossing with your new braces? All those brackets, rubber bands, and your archwire can be frustrating to maneuver around. But don’t lose hope! If you want to achieve your dream smile, it’s important to commit to a good oral hygiene routine! Why is flossing important? Flossing is absolutely essential—with or without braces. No matter the type of orthodontic treatment you choose (Invisalign® or braces) or if you don’t undergo treatment at all, you still need to make flossing a part of your daily oral hygiene routine. As the ADA (American Dental Association) says, “Cleaning between teeth removes plaque that can lead to cavities or gum disease from the areas where a toothbrush can’t reach. ” Your toothbrush brushes the surfaces of your teeth, but think of all the spaces between your teeth, where food particles get stuck and bacteria starts to build up over time. Not flossing with braces will leave food particles stuck between your teeth and under your gums leading to plaque build-up, gum disease, and cavities. Here’s 2 tips on how to make flossing with braces quick and simple! Tip #1: Use Orthodontic Floss Threaders When Flossing The most frustrating part of flossing with braces is threading floss through your braces archwire. That’s where an orthodontic floss threader comes in handy! These thin loops of plastic make it easy to guide your floss around orthodontic devices to get all those difficult to reach areas. After your braces are placed, our orthodontists can recommend appropriate floss threaders for you, like Gum® Eez-Thru® Floss Threaders. Here’s how to use floss threader: Cut about 18 inches of waxed floss and thread it into the loop portion of your threader Tie floss around the threader loop Using the pointed end of the needle, gently guide the threader under your archwire and wrap the ends of the floss around your pointer finger. Form the letter ‘C’ with your floss, hugging to the side of one tooth. Gently move floss back and forth, slowly rising up to tuck under the curve of your gum and back down. Repeat on the next tooth, taking care not to use the same section of floss Gently pull floss from wire your archwire to move onto the next section of your braces Continue until the sides of all your teeth have been cleaned! Tip#2: Use a WaterPik to Floss Waterpik® is an ADA-accepted brand of oral irrigators or water flossers. It’s easily the most popular tool to use when flossing with braces! Waterpiks use a stream of pulsating water to remove food particles and plaque from your teeth and gums; so there’s no need to worry about maneuvering floss through or around your brackets and archwire! Let’s check out the steps on how to floss with braces using a Waterpik: Fill reservoir with warm water then return reservoir to base. Select a flosser tip and click into the handle (For first use, set the pressure control dial to high. Point the tip into the... --- - Published: 2022-02-08 - Modified: 2024-03-06 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/what-happens-at-your-orthodontic-exam-3-things-to-expect/ Your first visit to one of our offices, also known as your orthodontic exam or initial consultation, is an exciting visit! We’ll familiarize you with our Longwood or Lake Mary office and ensure that you feel comfortable, informed, and excited to transform your smile. So what exactly happens at your orthodontic exam? Here are 3 things you can expect to experience at your orthodontic exam! 1. Your orthodontist will examine your current smile! When you visit us for an orthodontic exam, either Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn will be your orthodontist. You’ll meet your orthodontist and get to know a little bit about each other! Your orthodontist will perform a visual exam of your smile, then take some diagnostic x-rays and photos to gain the full picture of your teeth, gums and jaw bones. Next up are your digital impressions! We’ll use our iTero® Element™ scanner to take accurate and precise digital impressions of your mouth, without the discomfort and messiness of traditional impressions. We’ll use all of this information, from your visual exam, x-rays and digital impressions, to create your personalized treatment plan! 2. You’ll choose a treatment! At your orthodontic exam, we’ll help you explore your treatment options so you can choose the best one for you! Your orthodontist will discuss the pros and cons of braces, Invisalign®, and/or any appliances that may help you achieve your ideal smile. After Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn examines your smile, your orthodontist will determine whether a full treatment of braces or Invisalign is best for your case, or if an appliance would be more efficient first. The best treatment option for you will depend on a few factors, including your specific condition, the severity of your condition, your age, and of course, your preferences. We’ll listen to your concerns and talk about your lifestyle to help you decide between braces or Invisalign. If you’re interested in braces, we offer three different kinds! Choose from metal braces, gold braces, and clear ceramic braces. 3. We’ll create a payment plan that suits your needs. We’ll talk finances too. Before you start treatment, you’ll sit down with one of our team members to discuss the cost of treatment. We’ll present our financial options to you and discuss our 0%-interest in-house financing options, as well as outside financing with CareCredit or LendingClub. If one of your family members has already started or completed treatment with us, you’ll receive a treatment discount! The cost of your treatment will depend on a few things, including the length of your treatment plan and the type of treatment required. From here, we’ll also calculate your dental insurance benefit if you have insurance! We accept most HMO and PPO dental insurance plans, and we’re proud to offer discounts for patients using Medicaid. You’ll hear all of this at your orthodontic exam too, of course. Can I choose a virtual consultation? Yes you can! Although, it’s important to know that your virtual consultation cannot take the place of your in-person... --- - Published: 2022-02-01 - Modified: 2025-06-03 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/add-the-right-mouthwash-to-your-daily-routine/ Whether you have braces or Invisalign®, it’s essential that you’re using mouthwash daily! Did you know that when you brush your teeth, you only reach 25% of your mouth (Listerine®)? Reaching all of the spaces on your teeth, between your teeth and around your brackets and wires is key to maintaining a healthy smile and experiencing the best results from your treatment. That’s where mouthwash comes into play! Gargling with mouthwash daily is a simple commitment with major health benefits. Mouthwash helps you eliminate plaque and bacteria, prevent gum disease and cavities, and freshen breath. So it’s settled; mouthwash is great - but is every mouthwash great? With so many mouthwash options out there, how do you know which mouthwash is best for braces and Invisalign? Here’s what you need to know! Can you use mouthwash with braces and Invisalign? Yes you can and should! Mouthwash will not damage your braces. Your braces are made of high-quality, high-grade materials that won’t rust or corrode. With Invisalign, you simply remove your clear aligners to brush, floss and gargle with mouthwash. You don’t have to worry about ingredients harming your clear aligners, because they won’t be in your mouth when you rinse! The Importance of Using Mouthwash Daily with Braces or Invisalign When you’re wearing braces, you have plenty of spaces for food particles to wedge themselves, debris to get stuck, and bacteria to grow. Using mouthwash daily helps to remove any particles left behind after brushing and flossing, and kills bacteria growing in hard-to-reach spaces. Mouthwash is just as important with Invisalign, even though your aligners are removable. Your toothbrush and floss can’t reach every space in your mouth, so a liquid antibacterial rinse is the perfect supplement to your routine. Cleanse your smile and leave your breath smelling fresh morning and night with mouthwash! What is the best mouthwash for braces and Invisalign? It’s best to use an antibacterial, alcohol-free, fluoride mouthwash to clean your mouth, without disrupting your oral microbiome (the natural balance of chemicals in your mouth). Though alcohol is used in a number of popular mouth rinses, it can actually do more harm than good. Have you experienced that near unbearable burning sensation when gargling mouthwash? That’s the alcohol! Alcohol is extremely drying/dehydrating and rather harsh on the skin and gums. It’s infamous for disrupting the microbiome, throwing your natural pH out of whack, and worsening common oral conditions, like gingivitis. It’s best to avoid alcohol mouthwash. Fluoride, on the other hand, is beneficial for your teeth and gum health. Fluoride is a mineral that helps to prevent cavities and reverse early stages of gum disease (gingivitis) by strengthening the protective tooth enamel. When you strengthen the enamel, you give your teeth the best chance at protecting themselves against harmful bacteria and plaque. Fluoride is essential for strengthening your teeth. So now we know to avoid alcohol and look for fluoride and antibacterial properties. Let’s explore a few of the best mouthwashes for braces and Invisalign: Ortho... --- - Published: 2021-12-28 - Modified: 2021-12-28 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/visiting-dentist-when-wearing-braces/ Both your dentist and your orthodontist are irreplaceable! Your dentist shouldn’t take the place of your orthodontist, and your orthodontist shouldn’t take the place of your dentist. Your regular orthodontic check-ins (with Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn) and your regular dental cleanings with your dentist are both essential for creating the beautiful smile you’re looking for. Here are two tips for visiting the dentist during orthodontic treatment! Tip #1: Visit your dentist every 6 months. Tip 1 to achieve a perfect smile is visiting your dentist every 6 months for professional cleanings. If your dentist advises you to visit them more frequently, then visit them as often as they tell you! Your dentist monitors your oral hygiene and he or she is able to see things in your smile that you aren’t able to, so it’s important that you listen to your dentist’s guidance. Professional cleanings are essential for detecting and intervening with problematic conditions, like gum disease or tooth decay, before they progress and possibly become irreversible. These cleanings are also one of the only ways you can remove harmful plaque and tartar from the teeth. As plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth and harden, they can be near impossible to remove without the right tools. When you add orthodontic treatment to the mix, your teeth can be increasingly prone to bacteria growth around your brackets or under your aligners. Tip #2: Get your teeth cleaned as soon as your braces or Invisalign treatment is complete too. Teeth cleaning after braces and Invisalign can leave you with a sparkly, radiant smile! As soon as your braces are removed or you take your clear aligners out for the last time is the perfect time to get another dental cleaning. If you wore traditional metal braces, ceramic braces or gold braces bonded to the front surfaces of your teeth, you may notice some discolored spots on your teeth when your braces are removed. This is totally normal and a professional dental cleaning should take care of this. You can also whiten your teeth once your braces are removed to eliminate these spots! Can you get your teeth cleaned with braces on? So we know that we can have our teeth cleaned as soon as our braces are removed, but what about when your braces are still on your teeth? Can you get your teeth cleaned? Yes, you can! Your orthodontic treatment shouldn’t impact your dental health. Your regular cleanings are as important as ever. Dentists are prepared to work around your brackets and wires! They use special dental tools to remove hardened plaque on your teeth, between your teeth, on your brackets, and around your brackets. They know how to floss between your teeth and archwires effectively, without damaging your appliances. In some cases, we may temporarily remove your archwires if your dentist needs to reach a certain area. Teeth cleaning with braces will take a little longer than when you didn’t have braces, but it’s important that your dentist... --- - Published: 2021-12-15 - Modified: 2021-12-15 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/magic-erasers-on-teeth/ We’ve all heard of some crazy TikTok trends, but this one takes the cake! If you haven’t heard, there’s a recent trend of teens using Magic Erasers to clean and whiten their teeth. Yes, you heard that correctly—chemical Magic Erasers on teeth. TikTok trends are notorious for popularizing dangerous ideas, and this is one that you should certainly not partake in. If you’ve been considering taking a Magic Eraser or melamine sponge to your teeth, we’ve got a lot to talk about! Your team here at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics is here to keep you informed and help spread awareness about the dangers of participating in trends that can damage your health. We want to help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile with a safe treatment experience! Can you use a Magic Eraser on your teeth? No, you should never use a Magic Eraser or melamine sponge on your teeth or skin. Magic Erasers can cause irreparable damage! Although people report whiter teeth after using a Magic Eraser, there’s a reason for this—and it’s one that could lead to lifelong dental problems. Let’s dive into the mystery of the Magic Eraser and why a melamine sponge should never be used on the teeth. Magic Eraser Ingredients Melamine foam is the main ingredient in a Magic Eraser, and it contains a chemical called formaldehyde-melamine-sodium bisulfite copolymer. Although this chemical isn’t known to cause any serious health complications on its own, it’s an abrasive ingredient and not something you want to ingest or place near your gums. The health and safety warning on a Magic Eraser box reads, “DO NOT USE ON SKIN OR OTHER PARTS OF THE BODY. USING ON SKIN WILL LIKELY CAUSE ABRASIONS. KEEP OUT OF REACH OF TODDLERS AND PETS TO AVOID ACCIDENTAL INGESTION. ” If the company itself advises you not to ingest this product, it’s a good idea to heed that warning! It’s never a good idea to place unknown ingredients and chemicals in your mouth. Melamine Sponge and Teeth Enamel The layer of enamel on your teeth serves the very important function of protecting the teeth from damage. Tooth enamel is actually considered the hardest mineral substance in the body, even stronger than bone. The enamel is an excellent protector against damage caused by our regular daily functions, like eating, chewing, biting, grinding and crunching. This outer layer also helps to prevent cavities; as the enamel decays (when we do things like use a Magic Eraser on our teeth), the teeth become far more susceptible to developing cavities. When the main ingredient in Magic Erasers, melamine foam, is mixed with water, it becomes a highly abrasive material similar to sandpaper. Using melamine sponge and Magic Erasers on your teeth is a direct route to enamel decay. Once tooth enamel is destroyed, it can’t be brought back! While there are ways to strengthen the minerals that remain, the protective outer layer of enamel cannot be rebuilt. Magic Eraser and Braces/Invisalign® It goes without saying that nobody... --- - Published: 2021-12-03 - Modified: 2021-12-03 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/quad-helix-appliance/ So your orthodontist recommended a quad helix appliance for you or your child, but what exactly is that? And how does it work? When you come in for your first visit, Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn will tell you everything you need to know about wearing and caring for any orthodontic appliance. But for now, let’s talk about the quad helix. Quad Helix Appliance The quad helix appliance helps give your smile room by widening your upper jaw. If you or your child has a crossbite or crowded teeth, a quad helix is extremely effective in correcting these common orthodontic conditions. What does a quad helix look like? A quad helix starts off as a straight stainless steel wire and is bent into shape by your orthodontist to create a customized appliance for you. This ‘U’ shaped appliance has four active helix springs— hence the name “quad helix”—and sits in the roof of your mouth. Two metal loops are secured around your top molars and metal attachments (lingual wires) are welded to these bands. A quad helix can be removable or bonded to the teeth. While there are many other types of expanders, the quad helix is unique because it comes pre-loaded. This means you don’t have to worry about activating or widening the expander using a key. All quad helix adjustments are done in our Lake Mary or Longwood office with one of our experienced orthodontists! Treatment with a Quad Helix Appliance A quad helix appliance will slowly push your teeth out over the course of 3 to 6 months depending on the complexity of your condition. Our orthodontists typically use this orthodontic device to treat the following conditions in children and adults: Posterior crossbites This happens when your upper teeth are too narrow compared to your lower teeth, causing a misalignment between your lower jaw and upper jaw. You’d have to shift your jaw to either the left or the right to have your teeth aligned. Crossbites of this type can cause excessive wear or damage to your teeth, jaw pain, or a noticeably uneven jaw. Crowding Your mouth needs room for crowded teeth to align properly. This is where the quad helix comes into play so you can begin braces or Invisalign treatment and achieve the smile of your dreams! Narrow top arch A narrow upper arch can lead to problems with your airway. If you have a narrow palate, you have less room for your tongue. This causes your tongue to sit back further in your mouth, restricting your airway. An untreated narrow top arch increases your risk of sleep apnea and reduces your sleep quality. Check out our Smile Gallery to see before and after pictures of treatment with a quad helix appliance. Caring for your Quad Helix Appliance Because a quad helix is typically fixed or bonded to your teeth, it’s extremely important to maintain a good oral health routine! Gently brush your teeth, gums, and appliance at least twice a day with fluoride... --- - Published: 2021-11-23 - Modified: 2021-11-23 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/sleeping-soundly-with-braces/ So it’s your first night with braces! You’re excited to be undergoing a life changing transformation, but you also know that the first week with braces requires some minor adjustments. Is there anything to be worried about? Can you still get a good night’s sleep with braces? Of course you can! We’ll help you do it. Here’s what you need to know about sleeping with braces with 5 top tips to sleep soundly through the night. How to Sleep with Braces Tip #1: Keep your teeth and gums clean. Committing to a thorough oral hygiene routine is more important than ever when you have braces. It’s crucial that you clean your gums, clean between each tooth, and clean the spaces between your teeth and braces before you go to bed. By keeping your teeth and braces clean, you prevent any unhealthy symptoms from developing. Symptoms like inflamed gums, tender gums, yellow teeth, toothaches or bad breath due to poor oral hygiene can be pretty uncomfortable and distracting when you’re trying to sleep. Keeping your teeth and braces clean will serve you in many ways! Tip #2: Try sleeping on your back. If you tend to sleep on your side or stomach, try sleeping on your back for a few nights. When you lay on your side and stomach, your cheeks are pressed against the pillow, which can irritate your mouth. By sleeping on your back, the contact between your braces and mouth is minimized, so your cheeks can relax without being pushed against your braces. If you continue to sleep on your side, that’s okay! You don’t have to worry about any considerable dangers when it comes to sleep position. You may just wake up with a bracket imprint on the inside of your cheeks and some minor soreness that goes away pretty quickly. Tip #3: Use dental wax if needed. Dental wax, or orthodontic wax, can come in super handy with tender cheeks or gums. Wax can be placed over any brackets or wires that tend to irritate your cheeks. Before you go to bed, simply pull off a few pieces of orthodontic wax, place them over any brackets or wire ends that need attention - or place some wax on all of your brackets - to give your cheeks some relief. While you sleep, the wax will provide a comfortable barrier between your braces and your mouth, so you can sleep soundly and wake up rested. You don’t have to worry about swallowing any wax while you sleep too. Most brands use non-toxic, natural substances, like carnauba wax, beeswax or paraffin wax. Make sure that the brand you choose uses non-toxic ingredients, so if you dream of a juicy burger and mistake the wax for your next bite, you won’t get sick... you’ll just be a little disappointed. Tip #4: Use Tylenol if you have to! During your first week with braces, it’s normal to experience some soreness in your gums. If you’ve been eating soft foods and... --- - Published: 2021-10-29 - Modified: 2021-10-29 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/fall-recipes-braces-safe-allllll-taste/ Light that fall-scented candle, turn on your favorite Halloween classic, and let’s pretend it’s fall in Florida! (Technically it is officially fall, but the Florida weather takes a while to catch up. ) What better way to celebrate than with some braces-friendly, undeniably-delicious, fall-inspired recipes? If you’re going through orthodontic treatment, you know eating with braces requires some caution. To prevent damage to your brackets or wires, it’s best to avoid any food that’s especially sticky, hard or chewy until your braces are off and your new smile is revealed. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some seasonal sweets! It just means you can branch out and try some different recipes that won’t require a braces repair. You never know which recipe could become your new favorite. Check out these delicious, fall-inspired recipes from your favorite team here at Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics to kick off the season. Pumpkin Fudge (Delish Recipe) Fudge ingredients: 3. 5 cups of white chocolate chips 1 (14-oz. ) can sweetened condensed milk 1/3 cup pumpkin purée 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice, plus a little more for dusting (optional) 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract A pinch of kosher salt Instructions: Line an 8”-x-8” pan with parchment paper and grease with nonstick cooking spray. In a large microwave safe bowl, combine white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk. Microwave on medium power for 1 minute intervals, stirring after each minute, until smooth. Fold in pumpkin purée, pumpkin spice, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Pour into the prepared baking pan and place in the refrigerator for 3 hours, or until the fudge is set. Sprinkle with more pumpkin spice, cut into squares, and enjoy! Home-Made Apple Pie (Recipe by Erin Merhar) Ingredients for the pie crust: 2 1/2 c. all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting 1 tsp. kosher salt 1 c. cold, unsalted butter (cubed) 6 tbsp. very cold water 1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar Ingredients for the apple pie filling: 8 large apples, such as Granny Smith or McIntosh (about 4 pounds total), peeled and thinly sliced 1/2 c. granulated sugar 1/4 c. all-purpose flour 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp. kosher salt 2 tbsp. unsalted butter, cut into small pieces 1 tbsp. heavy cream Directions: For the pie crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. With a pastry cutter, gradually cut the cold butter into the flour until pea-sized pieces form. In a small bowl, combine the cold water and apple cider vinegar. Add the vinegar mixture to the flour/butter mixture 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing gently in between each addition. Stir together until all of the ingredients are incorporated and the mixture holds together when pinched with your fingers. Turn the mixture out onto a clean countertop and knead 4 to 5 times until combined. Divide the dough into two evenly sized balls and flatten each to a disk shape, about 1/2-inch thick (with minimal cracks). Wrap with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours (or up to 2 days).... --- - Published: 2021-10-25 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/replace-your-retainer-to-maintain-new-smile/ So you’ve been wearing your retainer 24/7, because you love your new smile and you want to keep it for a lifetime. You’ve got the right idea! After wearing your Essix retainer consistently for six months, you’re ready to reduce your wear to nights only. Two years go by, and you wonder, “wait... does this thing ever need to be replaced? ” We’re glad you asked! It certainly does. As you can imagine, since you’ll be wearing your retainer every night (at least), it will wear down over time. You will need a replacement retainer to ensure that your teeth don’t “relapse” or revert back to their original, pre-treatment position. How often you should replace your retainer depends on the type of retainer you have and how well you take care of it. Let’s dive into all things replacement retainers: When do I replace my retainer? If you tend to neglect your retainer, leave it in napkins and mistake it for trash (this happens a lot! ), or leave it on the table and your dog gets a hold of it, you’re probably going to be visiting Dr. Wiewiora or Dr. Dunn for a replacement retainer sooner than later! The best way to prolong your retainer’s life is by cleaning it 2 to 3 times a day (everytime you brush your teeth), soaking it in a cleaning solution regularly, and storing it in a clean retainer case any time it’s not in your mouth. If you give your Hawley retainer the TLC It deserves, it can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years. Essix clear retainers typically last about 3 years before they need to be replaced. Your retainer may need to be replaced sooner than the average replacement time; it all depends on how you care for it. How do I get a new retainer? If any of the 5 signs below apply to you, it may be time to get a new retainer. Simply contact our team and let us know that you need a replacement retainer! If you weren’t previously one of our patients, we can still create a new retainer for you. We will discuss retainer costs when you visit us or reach out to us. 5 Signs That You Should Replace Your Retainer 1. You lose your retainer. This one is probably the easiest way to determine if you need a new retainer. If you lose your retainer, you’ll have to get a replacement retainer. This happens more often than you may think! Retainers end up in the trash wrapped in a napkin, in the dog’s mouth, at the restaurant you just ate at, in your hotel drawer—it happens. If you lose your retainer, it’s important that you give us a call as soon as possible. We want to prevent your teeth from shifting, especially if it’s toward the beginning of your retention phase when the teeth are most susceptible to moving. 2. Your retainer doesn’t fit. Your retainer may become loose or feel like... --- - Published: 2021-10-15 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/braces-friendly-candy-halloween/ If your child is undergoing orthodontic treatment with a form of braces, does that mean you should avoid Halloween altogether, buy some braces-friendly snacks, and have your own party? (Actually... that’s not a bad idea. ) Good news: braces won’t stop your child from trick-or-treating. Parents, you won’t have a sad child on Halloween night. On the other hand, it’s true that not all of the Halloween candy is still on the table if your child has braces. Kids may have to make some trade deals with friends in order to maximize their braces-friendly snack arsenal. Let’s dive into the Top 5 Halloween Candies that are certified braces-friendly—and the ones that aren’t so braces-friendly. Best Candy for Braces As an orthodontic practice, it wouldn’t be fair for our Top 5 Halloween Candies to not be braces-friendly. In no particular order, here’s our lineup: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups Sugar cookies Kit Kat bars Jelly beans Three Musketeers You can’t go wrong with the festive, Halloween-themed Reese’s! All of these candies are soft enough for you to bite into with braces, without risking a broken bracket, and they aren’t sticky enough to leave you with a gooey mess. Here are some other braces-friendly ideas: Hershey’s chocolate bars Hershey’s kisses Ice cream sandwiches Soft cookies without nuts: chocolate chip cookies, peanut butter cookies Cupcakes Milky Way Worst Candy for Braces These are the candies you should try your best to avoid with braces: Hard candies: Biting into a jawbreaker, Jolly Rancher, Runt or Life Saver could land you right in our exam chair with a broken bracket or loose wire. Not only can some hard candies damage your braces, but they can also damage your teeth! Be extra careful with hard Halloween candy and avoid it as much as possible. Sticky candies: Those sticky candies that require some serious chewing - you know the ones - should be donated to your friends’ bags this Halloween. A Laffy Taffy, Starburst, Now & Later or caramel-filled candy can stick to your brackets and wires, get lodged between your teeth and braces, or pull a wire loose while you’re chewing. Nuts: Snickers, peanut M&M’s, PayDay, Peanut Brittle, and chocolate-covered almonds unfortunately come with some risks when you have braces. Nuts are infamous for getting stuck in wires and stuck between teeth. Similar to hard candy, biting down on a nut can disrupt your treatment and require a replacement bracket. There are tons of different candies out there. Don’t limit yourself to old habits and favorites; try something new! If you aren’t sure whether your favorite candy is a braces-friendly snack, we encourage you to reach out to us or ask us at your next check-in appointment. The Spooky Truth about Oral Hygiene & Halloween A broken bracket or loose wire isn’t the only thing to worry about with Halloween candy. As we all know, candy has a lot of sugar—and sugar often means cavities. It’s not necessarily the sugar that creates the cavities. It’s the bacteria... --- - Published: 2021-10-12 - Modified: 2021-10-12 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/whether-its-a-practice-or-game-protect-your-smile-with-right-mouthguard/ So you’re a dedicated sports player and you don’t plan on changing that throughout your orthodontic treatment process. When should you wear a mouthguard? Whether you’re a soccer player or football player, you’re undergoing treatment with Invisalign® or braces, or you’re in a practice or a game, it’s essential that you wear your mouthguard anytime you’re playing. Even if you’re not in orthodontic treatment, wearing a mouthguard is just as important. Sports players who wear mouthguards are about 82% to 93% less likely to suffer dentofacial (facial bone and jaw) injuries than sports players who don’t wear a mouthguard, according to the ADA. Most sports have at least some risk of injury, including collisions or impacts to the mouth that may be forceful enough to knock a tooth out. Taking a high-speed ball to the face, colliding with another player or falling on the ground can leave you clutching your mouth, hoping all of your teeth are still intact. So you know why it’s essential that you wear an orthodontic mouthguard, but how do you mold a mouthguard and which mouthguard is best for braces? Here’s what you need to know. Different Types of Mouthguards There are different types of mouthguards, including stock mouthguards, boil-and-bite mouthguards, and custom-fitted mouthguards. Stock Mouthguards Stock mouthguards are one-size-fits-all mouthguards that are relatively easy to put in place and take out, but these are relatively bulkier and are the least protective type of mouthguard. To wear a stock mouthguard, you simply pop it in place. No molding necessary! Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards A boil-and-bite mouthguard can be molded to fit your teeth. These mouthguards are made of thermoplastic material that softens when it’s warmed in boiling water. Soak your mouthguard in boiling water for about 30 seconds. You can then lay the mouthguard on a towel to try, then place it in your mouth and bite into it for about 20 seconds. Once it’s molded, place the mouthguard in ice water for about a minute or two. Voila! Your boil-and-bite mouthguard is molded to your smile. Custom-Fitted Mouthguards Custom-fitted mouthguards are the most comfortable mouthguard, and the most expensive. These ones are custom-made to fit your exact smile. Custom mouthguards can be created in-store with some companies, or created through mail with your own smile impression kit with other companies. Because your custom mouthguard is custom-designed for your smile, once it’s created, it’ll be a perfect fit. You don’t have to mold it further. Which mouthguard is best for braces & Invisalign? When you’re going through orthodontic treatment, the purpose of braces or Invisalign is to transform your smile by guiding your teeth into a new, desirable position. With fitted mouthguards, these ones are designed to fit the position of your teeth at the moment you take the mold. Because orthodontic treatment serves to realign the teeth, a fitted mouthguard will hold the teeth in their pre-treatment position. During ortho treatment, it’s best that you wear a stock mouthguard to prevent your mouthguard from interfering with... --- - Published: 2021-09-09 - Modified: 2021-09-09 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/clear-braces-info/ So you’re thinking about getting clear braces, but want to know all of your options. Making the decision to transform your smile is an easy one, but the number of advancements in orthodontics has created a plethora of treatment options! The question of which type of braces is better is up to you. Because every mouth is unique and everyone’s preferences are different, there’s no one treatment option for everyone. Our certified orthodontists, Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn, are here to answer your questions about clear braces for adults so you can get the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve. Clear braces vs metal Clear braces and metal braces are both highly effective orthodontic treatments to correct any of these problematic orthodontic issues: tooth gap bite misalignments crowded teeth crooked teeth Here’s what you need to know about clear braces pros and cons: Cons Clear braces aren’t as strong as metal braces Clear braces may be a discreet treatment option, but are they just as strong as metal braces? Not exactly. Metal braces are made of high-grade stainless steel while clear braces are made of high-quality ceramic materials—yet both of these materials are susceptible to damage. While clear braces may not be as strong as stainless steel braces, there are many benefits to clear braces over metal braces. Pros Clear braces are virtually undetectable As a working professional or a social butterfly, you may be worried about “metal mouth” if you go the traditional metal braces route. But your journey to a beautiful, healthy smile can be done discreetly with clear braces for adults. Each bracket is made of high-quality ceramic materials that blend in with the natural color of your teeth, creating a practically invisible appearance. Paired with transparent rubber bands, no one would know you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment unless you tell them. Clear braces are comfortable If you’re looking for comfort, clear braces can be a great alternative for your smile journey! Clear braces are made from smooth ceramic materials and are smaller than metal brackets. No mouth irritation! What’s the price of clear braces for adults? Because no smile is the same and many factors affect clear braces price, there’s no fixed cost for everyone. At your complimentary consultation, our experienced orthodontists will customize a treatment plan designed 100% for you. We work with you and your budget to help design an affordable payment plan to cover the cost of your treatment. We want you to get the smile you deserve at the price you can afford. Clear braces vs Invisalign Are there more options for clear braces for adults? Yes! Invisalign clear braces are the most popular teeth-straightening option for adults. You get enhanced comfort and convenience with Invisalign clear braces. Each tray is smooth and custom-fit for you and only you. They’re easy to remove, clean, and virtually invisible in appearance. With these clear braces for adults, we can treat the same orthodontic conditions as we can with ceramic and metal braces. Our Invisalign process is... --- - Published: 2021-08-19 - Modified: 2021-08-19 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/best-way-to-keep-retainer-clean/ If you’re sporting a beautiful new smile after all of that hard work you put into your braces or Invisalign® treatment, you’ll surely want to keep that smile for the rest of your life! But how do you do that? To retain your smile, maintain your retainer. It’s a bit of a tongue-twister, but it’s true! If you take care of your retainer, it will take care of you. Retainers need regular care and maintenance to be able to support your beautiful new smile. Let’s dive into proper retainer care and explore these topics: How to clean retainers using safe household products Should you use a denture cleaner for retainers? How to take care of a dirty retainer Removing plaque on a retainer How often should you clean your retainer? How to Clean Your Retainer We recommend you clean your retainer every time you clean your teeth... which is hopefully twice a day. It’s a good idea to do a deep clean once a week, too, by soaking your retainer in a disinfecting solution. (Keep reading to learn about different soaking solutions! ) How to Clean Retainers with Vinegar Vinegar is one of the most effective ways to clean a dirty retainer and remove hardened plaque. If you’re in the unfortunate situation of wondering how to remove mold on a retainer, white vinegar is safe - and it’s something most people already have in their kitchen! Combine equal parts of distilled white vinegar and water in a small bowl. Soak your retainer in the solution for about 20 minutes. Thoroughly rinse your retainer in lukewarm water, then you can pop it back in your mouth! Cleaning your retainer immediately when you remove it from your mouth and not storing your retainer while it’s wet will prevent mold from building up in the first place. How to Get Rid of Plaque on a Retainer It’s easiest to remove plaque from your clear retainer while it’s still soft. Hardened plaque can be difficult to remove! This is why it’s essential that you clean your retainer everyday to prevent plaque from hardening. The simplest method to remove plaque is to use a mild, non-abrasive, antibacterial soap as a retainer cleaning agent and a soft toothbrush. To remove plaque from your retainer, start by rinsing off any debris with cold running water. Apply a small amount of retainer cleaner (vinegar solution or antibacterial soap) and use the toothbrush to scrub the inside and outside of the retainer to gently remove the plaque. Rinse off the residue by running the retainer under lukewarm water. If the plaque has started to harden, you can soak it in a vinegar solution to loosen it and make it easier to remove with a toothbrush. Create a solution using equal parts water and vinegar to soak your plastic retainer for about 20 to 30 minutes. Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub away the plaque, then rinse your retainer under lukewarm water. The Bottom Line If you commit to... --- - Published: 2021-08-09 - Modified: 2021-08-09 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/2021-summer-survival-guide-for-braces/ What’s on your summer to-do list? Traveling or vacationing? Swimming and playing sports? Maybe you’re more interested in ‘Netflix and do nothing at all’? Whichever way you prefer to do it is the right way to do it. That’s the beauty of summer. For some kids and teens, there are no questions asked when it comes to doing what they want, when they want during summer. But what about kids or teens with braces? Do they have to sit on the sidelines until next season? Nope! If you have braces, you don’t have to sit out on any games or cancel any hangouts. Your treatment won’t stop you from living your best life this summer. As an orthodontist in Lake Mary and Longwood, we know all about the summer, the Florida heat, and the necessary lifestyle adjustments that come with it... Check out these tips and tricks to help you stay cool, calm, collected, and on-track to a beautiful smile this summer. 1. Make a braces care kit... . And carry it everywhere you travel. Okay, you don’t have to bring it everywhere—but you might want to. Gather some necessities, like braces-friendly floss, a small tube of toothpaste, a travel-sized toothbrush, interdental brush, and especially some orthodontic wax. It may be a good idea to add an over-the-counter pain reliever, like Tylenol, depending on how far along you are in your treatment or how recent your last adjustment appointment was to minimize any soreness. You’ll never know when you may need any of these tools, and orthodontic wax can come in really handy if a bracket or wire irritates your cheeks while traveling. 2. Eat cautiously... but don’t be too hard on yourself. Traveling can make it pretty difficult to stick to your normal diet. When you don’t have access to your fridge, you’re forced to eat at restaurants or pick up snacks at Publix on the way. Having to eat out isn’t the worst thing in the world. (It may be one of the best parts of vacationing actually. ) Trying new foods is always a good time! But if you have braces, you may be nervous about which foods are off limits and which ones are still on the table. If you’re on vacation-mode, you may be in the mood for some guilty pleasure foods. You can still have pizza (no crunchy crust), brownies (no nuts), chicken nuggets, chicken tenders, soft tacos with all the fixings, ice cream, mac and cheese, slushies and french fries... the possibilities are endless. Just be sure to stay cautious of your braces. Opt for softer foods, and avoid hard, crunchy or chewy foods to prevent damaging your brackets or wires. 3. Don’t take risks! Wear a mouthguard. If there is any chance that you can damage your mouth during a sport or activity you’re playing this summer, wear a mouthguard! Mouthguards are absolutely essential for protecting your teeth, cheeks and gums from impact. Whether you play basketball, soccer, football or tennis, or... --- - Published: 2021-07-27 - Modified: 2021-07-27 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/why-more-adults-are-getting-braces/ It’s true! More adults are proudly getting braces than ever before. In fact, the number of adult orthodontic patients is at an all time high (as reported by the American Association of Orthodontists). How many people have braces? A few years ago, one in four orthodontic patients was an adult. Today, one in three patients is an adult! The numbers don’t lie... But what causes this influx of adults with braces? It’s safe to say adults are understanding the true value of transforming their smile with braces or Invisalign®. People have realized that braces aren’t just for kids or teens; orthodontic treatment is for anyone who wants to live their most confident life—at any age. No matter what age you are when you decide that you want a beautiful smile, that’s the perfect age to begin treatment. Reasons to Get Braces (for Adults) Experience newfound confidence. If you’re an adult and you feel self-conscious when you smile, that’s enough reason to get braces! You deserve to live your best life—and that includes feeling confident in your smile. Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn have created thousands of beautiful smiles for adults just like you. Our team is highly trained and experienced in adult orthodontics! You can rest assured that we have your best smile in mind. Orthodontic treatment will help you put your best smile forward, so you don’t have to hide your teeth, hold back the laughter or avoid situations that put you in the spotlight. You deserve to do it all and more! Adults have options! One of the reasons many adults have been hesitant to undergo orthodontic treatment in the past is because they don’t necessarily want to wear traditional braces. While we truly believe getting braces as an adult is nothing to be ashamed of, we understand the desire for a more discreet treatment method. That’s why we provide options for our adult patients. Choose from clear ceramic braces, or a form of invisible braces, Invisalign® clear aligners. (We offer Invisalign for teens and kids too! ) Invisalign uses a series of virtually-invisible, clear, custom-made plastic aligners to create beautiful, healthy smiles. No matter what your day holds, you can wear Invisalign confidently, knowing that your treatment is undetectable. More adults are getting braces than ever before, because they’re not limited to traditional braces. Adults have options nowadays! Believe it or not, braces are affordable. Did you know braces for adults are a lot more affordable than when you were a child? Not only have new, efficient technologies enabled us to reduce the cost of braces, but we also offer a number of affordable payment plans to help you manage the cost of braces. We offer a range of payment options for braces, including 0% interest in-house financing, outside financing with CareCredit and LendingClub, and we offer discounts for family members and discounts for patients using Medicaid! You can also get started with a complimentary exam, valued at $189. We truly do everything we can to make... --- - Published: 2021-03-24 - Modified: 2025-05-05 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/sports-mouthguards-different-types-proper-care/ For anyone who thinks they have to forfeit their love of sports to achieve the perfect smile, we have great news for you! You don’t have to sit on the sideline during your orthodontic treatment—that’s why mouthguards were created. Mouthguards are critical not only to protect braces from being broken or damaged, but most importantly, to protect your mouth from impact. In many contact sports, mouth guards are required—and rightfully so! Especially when you’re undergoing treatment with braces, wearing a mouthguard is essential for protecting your mouth. There are a number of different mouth guards you can choose from. No matter which type you choose, what’s important is that you wear it for every practice and every game. Can you play football with braces? Absolutely! Your orthodontic treatment won’t stop you from enjoying your favorite sports. Regardless of which sport you play, whether it’s generally high-impact or low-impact, you can still play with a sports mouthguard throughout your treatment. How do I choose the best orthodontic mouthguard for sports? There are a few main types of orthodontic mouthguards for sports, including boil-and-bite, custom-fitted and stock mouthguards. Stock mouthguards are one-size-fits-all mouthguards that are relatively easy to put in place and take out, but are generally bulkier and are the least protective type of mouthguard. With a boil-and-bite mouthguard, you mold it to fit your teeth. Made of thermoplastic material, boil-and-bite mouthguards soften when they’re warmed with lukewarm water. You can then bite into the mouthguard to shape it to your teeth. Custom-fitted mouthguards are the most comfortable mouthguards and the most expensive. These ones are custom-designed to fit your unique smile. Depending on the specific sport you play and what level of impact you generally experience when you're playing, one type of mouthguard may be better suited for you. We can help you decide which type is best for you! How to Clean Your Mouthguard? Just like a retainer, your braces or Invisalign clear aligners, mouthguards can harbor bacteria. It’s extremely important that you clean your mouthguard everyday with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Be sure to use non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging your mouthguard. If you prefer to use soap, you can use a mild, alcohol-free, antimicrobial soap and cold water to gently scrub your mouthguard. You can soak your mouthwash once or twice a week in a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and vinegar. Here’s how to soak your mouthguard: Rinse your mouthguard with cool water. Put it in a glass and cover it with vinegar. Let it soak for 30 minutes. Rinse the mouthguard and glass with cold water. Put the mouthguard back in the glass and cover it with hydrogen peroxide. Let it soak for another 30 minutes. Let the mouthguard dry. If you have any questions about how to wear a mouthguard, how to clean it or which type you should choose, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us! Our experienced team is here to provide you with the information you need... --- - Published: 2021-03-23 - Modified: 2021-03-23 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/spring-cleaning-replace-that-toothbrush/ The Springtime is almost here! It’s the perfect time to clean your home and develop some new healthy habits—especially habits that lead to a beautiful smile. Let’s start off our Spring cleaning by replacing our toothbrush. (You’ll thank yourself later! ) How do I know when to replace my toothbrush? That’s a good question! When your toothbrush starts to fray and the bristles point outward in all directions, it’s time to replace your toothbrush. If you’re brushing as often as you’re supposed to (at least twice daily), your toothbrush should start to fray every 3 to 4 months. You should be replacing your toothbrush 3 to 4 times a year. Using your toothbrush past its lifecycle can make your brushing routine relatively ineffective. Toothbrush bristles are specially-designed to clean the bacteria, plaque and leftover food particles from the inner surfaces, outer surfaces and chewing surfaces of your teeth. For this to work, the bristles need to be firm and positioned upward, not outward. Best Toothbrush for Braces Whether you choose a manual toothbrush or an electric toothbrush is up to you. Both are effective for keeping your teeth in beautiful shape. How frequently and how thoroughly you brush is what’s important! Always choose a toothbrush that has the ADA Seal. (This means the toothbrush has been evaluated for safety and efficacy by the American Dental Association. ) Best Manual Toothbrush for Braces As listed by the American Dental Association (ADA), here are a few of the best options: Colgate Classic (Pokey) Toothbrush CVS Health Children’s Stripe Manual Toothbrush Medline Supersoft Nylon Toothbrush PRO-SYS Sensitive Toothbrush (See other manual options! ) Best Electric Toothbrush for Braces If you prefer an electric toothbrush, consider any of these ADA-approved options: Arm & Hammer Spinbrush Pro Series Battery Powered Toothbrush Oral-B iO Series Phillips Sonicare ProtectiveClean quip Electric Toothbrush (adults or kids) Many of these electric toothbrushes also have specially designed “ortho heads” to most effectively clean teeth with braces! (See other electric options! ) Best Toothpaste for Braces There are tons of different options with toothpaste. Although the type of toothbrush you choose (manual or electric) won’t affect a good oral hygiene routine, the type of toothpaste you choose (whitening, sensitive, tartar control, etc) does have an impact. Choose a toothpaste that checks off the following boxes: Contains fluoride Has tartar control or gingivitis control Has the ADA Seal Tastes good! ! Fluoride helps to strengthen your enamel to protect against cavities (tooth decay). Tartar/gingivitis control helps to prevent tartar deposits and gum disease from developing. Both of these are essential for a healthy, strong smile! What about Invisalign®? The same goes for toothbrush and toothpaste options with Invisalign treatment. Choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride, has tartar/gingivitis control, tastes good, and has the ADA Seal. Should I use a soft toothbrush or medium toothbrush? The ADA recommends that you use a soft-bristle toothbrush! Toothbrushes with harder bristles can actually damage your gums, increase their sensitivity, cause them to bleed and recede. You... --- - Published: 2021-02-16 - Modified: 2021-02-16 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/why-choose-board-certified-orthodontist/ We’re proud to announce that our very own orthodontist, Dr. Wiewiora, has recently earned her board certification! Many people believe that all orthodontists are board-certified, but this isn’t the case. In fact, as of January 18, only about 33 percent of orthodontists are certified by the American Board of Orthodontics. A board certification is undeniably an incredible achievement, but what exactly does it take to become certified? Here’s what you need to know: What is an ABO Board Certification? ABO (American Board of Orthodontics) certification is a voluntary credential that represents an orthodontist’s personal and public commitment to the standards of specialty practice and lifelong learning. The ABO Certification process requires the completion of peer-developed, externally validated written and clinical examinations. A board certified orthodontist has reached this level of achievement by pursuing additional voluntary education and ongoing self-assessment. The American Board of Orthodontics is the only orthodontic specialty board recognized by the American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists. An board certified orthodontist has not just completely prepared as a dentist, including having finished an graduate program in dentistry to get their DDS or DMD (Doctor of Dental Surgery or Doctor of Dental Medicine), however they have likewise done a residency at a Commission of Dental Accreditation (CDA) affirmed orthodontic program for an extra 2-3 years to be prepared explicitly in orthodontics and dentofacial muscular health. Also, a board certified orthodontist must renew their certification every 10 years. Orthodontists do more than straighten teeth. Orthodontists understand the intricacies of growth development and facial structure. Orthodontists consider the alignment on the jaw and the bite, not just the movement of teeth. Some dentists offer orthodontic treatment plans, yet they don't have the extensive education and training that an orthodontist does. Although many Dentists offer braces, only 5% of Dentists are Orthodontists, and only 1% have completed their board certification exams to become a board-certified orthodontist. Board certified orthodontists are remarkably qualified in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of orthodontic problems. They’re devoted to creating beautiful smiles with exceptional attention-to-detail. Have any questions? If you have any questions about what an ABO Board Certification is, or what it means to have a board-certified orthodontist, we encourage you to reach out to us! We are so proud of Dr. Wiewiora’s achievement and we’re here to answer any questions. Ready to start your smile transformation with a board-certified orthodontist? Get started by requesting your complimentary exam today. --- - Published: 2021-02-11 - Modified: 2021-02-11 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/alentines-day-treats-to-love-and-ones-to-watch-out-for/ It’s almost Valentine’s Day! That means showing love to your favorite people and indulging in some sweet, heart-shaped treats. If you’re currently undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces, the idea of sweet treats might have sounded an alarm for you! How do you celebrate Valentine’s Day, while protecting your braces and avoiding certain treats? We’ve got you covered! We want you to enjoy all of your favorite holidays with braces-friendly candy and festive chocolates that won’t damage your brackets or wires. What candy can you eat with braces on Valentine’s Day? Many people think candies are completely off-limits with braces. Fortunately, this isn’t the case! There’s a variety of candy you can eat with braces—cautiously. Here are a few ideas: Heart-Shaped Chocolates Here’s to anyone wondering, “can you eat chocolate with braces? ” Yes you can! Most Valentine’s chocolates are soft and won’t damage your braces. That means boxed chocolates and truffles are still on the table. Although, chocolates that have hard nuts or extremely chewy centers should be avoided. Biting into a hard nut can pop an archwire loose or break a bracket. Chewy centers can do the same! Try to avoid chocolates with caramel or toffee centers. Once the chewy candy gets stuck to your brackets or wires, it can be pretty difficult to get it off. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries Say yes to delicious chocolate-covered strawberries! Festive strawberries are a popular Valentine’s treat, and you can enjoy them—guilt free. Strawberries that are dipped in chocolate or white chocolate, and covered with crushed nuts or heart-shaped sprinkles are okay to eat with braces! It’s important to be cautious of the size of the nuts, though. Don’t bite into any large nuts, and try to avoid the harder ones, like almonds. Crushed peanuts are often used to coat chocolate-covered strawberries and those are typically soft enough to gorge on, while keeping your braces intact. Ice Cream and Cake Cake, ice cream and ice cream cake are braces-approved! Treat your tastebuds with any of these delicious options: Yellow cake Red velvet cake Chocolate cake Cookie cake Strawberry chocolate mousse cakes (YUM) Cheesecake Tiramisu Cupcakes Heart-shaped ice cream cake Most ice creams and cakes are soft enough to keep your braces in perfect shape while you enjoy them. But remember to avoid ice creams and cakes with hard candies, hard nuts and extremely chewy or sticky ingredients. Flowers, Candles and Stuffed Animals Flowers, candles and stuffed animals are braces-approved, because you don’t eat them! (Hopefully... ) Valentine’s Day isn’t just about pink treats, heart-shaped candies and truffle chocolates. You can give a fellow braces-wearer any of these awesome gifts, or receive them from your Valentine without worrying about your orthodontic treatment. After all, who doesn’t love a beautiful bouquet of flowers, warm-scented candles and stuffed teddy bears? ! What if I have Invisalign®? With Invisalign, you can enjoy any treats you’d like! Hard candies, chewy caramel, crunchy nuts—nothing is off limits. That’s because Invisalign is removable, so you get to remove your clear aligners... --- - Published: 2020-03-26 - Modified: 2020-03-26 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/can-i-switch-orthodontists-during-treatment/ Switching your orthodontist during treatment can sound quite daunting. You’ve gotten to know your orthodontist and your orthodontic team. You’ve gotten in the routine of parking in (relatively) the same spot, and checking-in for your appointment is basically muscle memory at this point. Now life is throwing a wrench in your groove, and you’re faced with the need to switch your orthodontist during treatment. Is it possible? The answer is: yes, you can switch your orthodontist during treatment. Life happens! People move. Families relocate. Orthodontic transfers occur all the time. How to Ensure a Smooth Transfer Switching orthodontists mid-treatment can pose a minor challenge. Each orthodontist has a different technique for treating patients, so the approach your new orthodontist takes to your treatment may differ from the approach you’re familiar with. Covering all of your bases, from informing your old orthodontist to preparing your new orthodontist, is critical to ensure a smooth transfer process during treatment. Inform your orthodontist: Let your orthodontist know as soon as you find out that you have to relocate to a new orthodontist. The sooner your orthodontist knows, the sooner he or she is able to prepare necessary information for your new orthodontist. If you paid-in-full for treatment, the financial coordinator may have to configure a plan to provide you with a refund. It’s important to allow your orthodontist enough time to prepare for your transfer. Use AAO resources: To make the transition easier, the AAO (American Academy of Orthodontists) offers a transfer form for patients in active treatment! This transfer form ensures that your previous orthodontist and new orthodontist are on the same page with the status of your treatment, including any appliances in use, financial information, records for transfer, and specifics of your current treatment plan. Conduct your own research: Be sure to research your new orthodontic practice to see the treatment options they offer. Do they provide the same types of braces or Invisalign® as your old orthodontist? The same appliances? Ask these questions at your initial consultation. And most importantly, does your new orthodontist accept transfer patients? If the practice doesn’t accept transfer patients, it’s time to find one that does! Are you looking to transfer to a new orthodontist in Longwood or Lake Mary? We are proud to be your family orthodontist near Orlando, FL. We will help you throughout the entire process to enable a smooth transfer. Dr. Wiewiora, Dr. Dunn and our orthodontic team strive to keep our patients as informed and comfortable as possible throughout the treatment process. If you’re ready to schedule your free orthodontic exam with us, we can’t wait to meet you! --- - Published: 2019-12-12 - Modified: 2019-12-12 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/need-space-maintainer/ Just as every child is unique, so are their teeth! Every child’s teeth grow and develop at different rates, often outside of what is considered “average” for their age — and that is okay. If your child has lost a baby (primary) tooth earlier than expected, or if your child has had a tooth extraction as a result of decay, he or she may be eligible for a dental space maintainer. A space maintainer will aid in ensuring your child’s permanent adult teeth grow in properly. They are often used as part of larger orthodontic treatment plans for children. When properly cared for, space maintainers should not cause any prolonged discomfort to your child as his or her other teeth continue to grow. Types of Space Maintainers Pediatric dental space maintainers simply maintain the space that is left behind after a baby tooth is prematurely lost so that the permanent tooth can grow in properly without other teeth shifting in the way and causing problems. Space maintainers for children are made of either acrylic or metal, and are specially customized by the orthodontist to fit your child’s mouth and oral needs. Dental space maintainers come in two categories — removable and fixed. Removable space maintainers are generally acrylic and function somewhat like orthodontic appliances. They may include artificial teeth to fill in the space left from a prematurely lost baby tooth until the permanent tooth is ready to grow in. Fixed space maintainers are available in more varieties. Crown and loop, and unilateral space maintainers each maintain space for a single tooth. Whereas the unilateral space maintainer connects to a metal loop while wrapping around the outside of the tooth, the crown and loop functions as a dental crown covering the tooth while attached to the loop. Another type of fixed space maintainer is a distal shoe, which is placed into the gumline for a molar. Finally, a lingual space maintainer is more often used when there are multiple missing teeth, and it functions bilaterally while cemented to the molars and connected via a wire placed inside the lower front teeth. Getting Your Child Used to a Space Maintainer While a space maintainer should cause no pain, your child may take a few days to become accustomed to wearing it. Minor discomfort can be expected in the first few days, but should last no longer. Contact your orthodontist or dentist, depending on who placed the space maintainer, if prolonged discomfort occurs. Your child may also initially experience a difference in speech if they have a removable space maintainer. This will pass as your child is able to adjust his or her speech while wearing the space maintainer. Proper Care Proper care of a space maintainer is essential to its effectiveness. Slacking on oral hygiene, mishandling the space maintainer, skipping orthodontist and dentist appointments, and not avoiding certain foods can all cause complications. Be sure to learn how to thoroughly clean your child’s space maintainer, and ensure that your child is... --- - Published: 2019-11-05 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/orthodontic-headgear-worried/ The idea of braces alone may be enough to make your child or teen nervous about the temporary change in his or her appearance, and the initial idea of needing orthodontic headgear can seem even more anxiety-increasing. However, the good news is that developments in orthodontics over the years have led to the creation of more discreet, comfortable and effective orthodontic headgear appliances. To ease your worries, let’s gain a deeper understanding of the purpose of orthodontic headgear, how it works and what options are available. Why Is It Needed? Not everyone who needs braces will also need a headgear appliance. The purpose of orthodontic headgear is to help correct severe bite problems by adjusting jaw alignment, whereas braces focus solely on correcting the alignment of teeth. Generally, severe cases of malocclusions — the proper term for jaw misalignments — are caused by or are directly related to the position of the jaw. Common severe malocclusions that may require orthodontic headgear include: Retrognathism, also known as an overbite — This occurs when the upper jaw and upper front teeth overlap the lower jaw and lower front teeth. Prognathism, also known as an underbite — This occurs when the lower jaw and front teeth overlap the upper jaw and front teeth. Crossbite — This occurs when both upper and lower teeth overlap at the same time, usually causing difficulty biting down. Overjet — Similar to an overbite, overjet occurs when the upper front teeth extend outwards at a more horizontal angle, which can cause difficulty eating and speaking. Open bite — This occurs when the front teeth do not overlap or touch the lower teeth when biting down, thus leaving an open space. Every case for orthodontic treatment is unique, however, and all complications are treated differently in order to provide the most effective and comfortable results. Some patients may require headgear appliances, while others may not. How Does It Work? Orthodontic headgear refers to appliances and attachments worn on the head to help correct the jaw’s alignment and aid in the braces’ function of aligning the teeth. The two primary categories of orthodontic headgear are cervical, high-pull headgear and reverse-pull face masks. Additional attachments to the primary headgear device can include elastic bands, coil springs, J-hooks, lip bumpers, retainers, power chains and facebows. While all of these headgear pieces may sound overwhelming, orthodontic patients will not need all of them, and they are very easy to adjust in order to wear comfortably. Some relieving news is that some orthodontic headgear appliances are removable for eating and cleaning, but it should be worn the full recommended number of hours per day, depending on the appliance and your orthodontic needs. Slacking in consistency of wearing orthodontic headgear can greatly prolong treatment and the time required to wear both headgear and braces. While children may initially feel self-conscious about needing orthodontic headgear in addition to braces, younger patients often experience a much shorter requirement time period. The Future Is Now Thanks to advancements... --- - Published: 2019-09-13 - Modified: 2019-09-13 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/get-braces-off-faster/ Many advances have been made in orthodontics that make braces more comfortable to wear than ever before. However, it may be safe to say that anyone who has braces would rather see the end result of straighter teeth sooner rather than later. In our latest blog, we look at the steps you can take to help get your braces off faster. The Importance of Rubber Bands Rubber bands are a common addition to braces treatment plans. Attached to small hooks on select brackets, rubber bands for braces can be essential to straightening teeth that need a light extra force compared to others. These rubber bands help your teeth to properly align all at the same speed for optimal straightening. If you want your teeth to straighten out as quickly as possible with braces, it’s important to wear your rubber bands every single day. Taking them out to play with, forgetting to put them back in after taking them out for eating or simply getting lazy about daily wear can all slow down the time you need to wear your braces. Foods to Avoid You may think it harmless to occasionally indulge in a sticky or hard treat, but even a seemingly innocent choice with the wrong foods can potentially cause much longer-term damage and complications with your braces treatment. Chewing hard items like candy, ice or even non-food items can bend or seriously damage your brackets and wires. When it comes to other solid foods that are safer to eat, it’s still important to cut them into smaller pieces—especially for raw fruits and veggies. Sodas and carbonated drinks are also wise to avoid, as the stickiness can also interfere with your dental care. Important foods to avoid include: Hard candy Chewy candy Gum Ice Chips Popcorn Nuts Cookies Soda Cleaning and Maintenance Maintaining proper oral hygiene is always important, but it is even more so with dental braces. Keeping your teeth clean with daily brushing and flossing will help your teeth straighten out with greater ease. Gum disease or tooth decay caused by poor oral hygiene can prolong the time needed to wear your braces. Because keeping up a thorough oral care routine can be tricky at times, consider using an electric toothbrush as just one tool to ease the process. After the Braces Are Removed Congratulations—you finally got through the process of having braces! However, the work isn’t quite finished. Your mouth will require special oral care for the rest of your life in order to maintain your straight teeth and confident smile. After your orthodontist removes your braces, you will be fitted with an oral retainer that you will need to wear every night while you sleep. It may sound bothersome, but your teeth will naturally shift and undo the work of braces without a retainer. Stay consistent in wearing your retainer every night, and in no time you will barely even notice it. Slacking on putting in your retainer before bedtime could potentially lead to needing braces... --- - Published: 2019-08-07 - Modified: 2019-08-07 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/braces-back-to-school/ August is national back-to-school month! For students who are starting the new school year with braces for the first time, school may seem like a very difficult place to navigate. However, it isn’t as stressful as it may seem. Every student—whether new to dental braces or an experienced patient—should know what supplies to keep packed in their backpack, what to bring for lunch, how much water to drink and what to do for sports activities. This survival guide is sure to take much of the worries away of starting school with braces for students and parents alike. Making a Braces Supply Kit Metal braces may seem like an overwhelming new responsibility, but a supply kit makes daily care of braces at school a breeze. Because it’s especially important to keep food particles out of the mouth with braces, it is essential to pack a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss. Additionally, extra rubber bands should definitely be included, as rubber bands are easily broken and lost. Wax will be a life-saver in the case of wires or brackets that may start to irritate the mouth. Finally, a pocket-sized mirror will minimize the need to frequently use restroom mirrors to check that food isn’t caught between braces and teeth. All of these items should fit comfortably in a small bag or case that is easily portable between the backpack, restroom, home and other activities. What to Pack for Lunch When possible, packing a lunch to bring to school is the best way to ensure that the right foods are being eaten with braces. There are plenty of options for delicious, creative and braces-friendly lunchtime meals from home, which are likely to be much better than school-provided lunches. Sticking with softer items will help avoid food getting caught in braces and reduce potential irritation. Therefore, crunchy items like chips, nuts, whole apples, or raw carrots should be avoided—as well as large pieces of meat that can get stuck between teeth. Safe foods to eat with braces include: Soft dairy products (e. g. , yogurt, cottage cheese, string cheese) Roasted or baked hard fruits (e. g. , pears, apples) Naturally soft fruits (e. g. , bananas, blueberries, grapes, peaches) Hard boiled or deviled eggs Fruit smoothies Soft crackers (e. g. , oyster crackers, Goldfish) Naturally soft raw veggies (e. g. , peppers, cucumbers) Steamed/roasted/grilled veggies and hummus The Importance of Hydration Staying hydrated is important to staying healthy. It’s even more essential when it comes to having braces. Water is great at clearing out any remaining food particles from the teeth and braces that might get missed in brushing or flossing. Additionally, water acts as a neutralizer to the acids that can build up in the mouth from eating. Not to mention, staying hydrated helps prevent the mouth from getting dry, which can cause irritation in the mouth from the brackets and wires of braces. Keeping a water bottle handy ensures that students can maintain healthy hydration at all times. Plastic water bottles can work... --- - Published: 2019-07-16 - Modified: 2019-07-16 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/orthodontist-or-dentist/ Many people use the terms orthodontist and dentist interchangeably. While both types of doctors treat your mouth, they provide different specialized services. It may seem confusing at first, but the differences are actually easy to understand. Let’s take a look at the differences between an orthodontist and a dentist, as well as which one you may need. Knowing the Differences Dentists and orthodontists may work together in the same practice, but it’s more common to find them with separate practices in order to focus more individually on the needs of each patient. At our practice, Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, Dr. Cara Wiewiora and Dr. Rick Dunn solely provide orthodontic treatment. The main differences between dentists and orthodontists are: Training Specialization Treatment Training When it comes to training and education, orthodontists and dentists begin at the same starting point. To become a dentist, a person must complete four years of undergraduate education and four years of dental school. After completing their studies, dentists must pass a rigorous written exam and a clinical licensing exam before they're qualified to practice. Qualified dentists include the letters DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or DMD (Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry or Doctor of Dental Medicine) after their names. An orthodontist, on the other hand, will pursue further training after earning a license and dentistry degree. This additional education requires over 4,000 hours of training and two to three years of residency experience. Specialization Dentists focus on overall oral health. The American Dental Association (ADA) defines their duties as follows. Diagnosing oral diseases. Promoting oral health and disease prevention. Creating treatment plans to maintain or restore the oral health of their patients. Interpreting X-rays and diagnostic tests. Ensuring the safe administration of anesthetics. Monitoring growth and development of the teeth and jaws. Dentists also perform restorative and cosmetic dentistry procedures, such as crowns, bridges, veneers, bonding and teeth whitening. Treatments an Orthodontist Can Provide An orthodontist specializes in correcting teeth and jaw alignment. You may need an orthodontist if you have a misaligned jaw, crowded teeth, gaps between teeth or other similar problems. While some dentists may provide a small number of orthodontic services, they generally do not provide the same high level of specialization and experience an orthodontist offers, nor can a dentist offer as many treatment options for alignment issues as an orthodontist. Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics offers many treatment options. Our priority is to help you achieve an optimal, confident smile through correcting bites and alignment. Our treatment options include traditional metal braces, ceramic (clear) braces, gold braces, Invisalign, and even more specialized treatment plans according to your specific needs. Additionally, our state-of-the-art iTero® Element™ scanner provides a less invasive, more comfortable and more accurate digital impression of your mouth compared to traditional methods. As orthodontists, we are committed to providing compassionate individualized care with consistently positive corrective results. Which is Right for You? You will always need to see a dentist for regular checkups. At times, dentists may be able to provide... --- - Published: 2019-06-20 - Modified: 2019-06-20 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/outsmart-wisdom-teeth/ Officially known as third molars, wisdom teeth represent an odd time of transition in the human skeleton during our gradual adaptation to our environment and modern way of life. As the jaw bone (mandible) has become smaller – a development generally attributed to changes in diet – wisdom teeth persist in growing. They have yet to get the message that they aren’t necessary, and often cause problems when they assert themselves. For this reason, those not-so-wise wisdom teeth typically need to be extracted. What Are Wisdom Teeth? Wisdom teeth are the last set of teeth to erupt (or not – continue reading), which occurs between the ages of 16 to 25 – hence their popular name. There is one third molar on each side of the jaw, both upper and lower, for a total of four. Unlike the first and second molars, however, the modern jaw has little room to accommodate the third. It is more often than not crowded by adjacent teeth. The Problems With Wisdom Teeth An impacted wisdom tooth is the most common condition resulting from this lack of real estate. An impacted tooth occurs when the third molar fails to erupt from the gum, or only partly erupts. Issues that can develop include pain, infection, swollen and/or bleeding gums, a swollen jaw, gum disease, tooth decay and difficulty opening your mouth. The growth of cysts in the jawbone can also occur – which could damage the roots of nearby teeth or destroy the bone that supports your teeth. Whether partially or fully impacted, the wisdom tooth may: Grow at an angle toward the next tooth (second molar) Grow at an angle toward the back of the mouth Grow at a right angle to the other teeth, as if the wisdom tooth is "lying down" within the jawbone Grow straight up or down like other teeth but stay trapped within the jawbone When Should Wisdom Teeth be Removed? Many people may know they have impacted wisdom teeth, yet chose to do nothing until they experience pain or discomfort. According to an article by Colgate, dentists often prefer to remove wisdom teeth when patients are in their late teens or early 20s, before they cause problems. At this age, the roots have not solidified in the jawbone, and are easier to remove than in older patients. Removing wisdom teeth later in life also carries a slightly higher risk of damage to a major nerve in the jaw, called the inferior alveolar nerve. Younger patients often recover from sedation faster, as well. For those getting braces, your orthodontist may recommend wisdom tooth extraction before treatment begins, or after completion. A general dentist can extract wisdom teeth, but if teeth are impacted, an oral surgeon will be necessary. An oral surgeon is a specialist in removing wisdom teeth and is licensed to perform IV sedation, which puts the patient in a semi-awake state. The advantages to IV sedation include an absence of anxiety during the surgery, no sense of the... --- - Published: 2019-05-14 - Modified: 2025-06-03 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/broken-braces-and-chipped-teeth/ Made of 96% mineral content, teeth are the hardest substance in the human body. Traditional metal braces are made of stainless steel, an extremely durable material. However, both can be damaged or broken. Damage to either teeth or braces can necessitate an emergency visit to the dentist or orthodontist. Can Braces Break? Damage to braces typically involves the bracket or wire, which are the most fragile components. According to Colgate, common causes include: • Eating the wrong foods – such as nuts, popcorn, etc. • Sustaining an injury to your mouth – usually the result of not wearing a mouth guard during sports activities. • Brushing teeth incorrectly or too vigorously. • Using a toothpick or flossing roughly. If your bracket is broken or your wire is detached from your bracket, it is important to see your orthodontist immediately. Broken braces wire can poke the gum inside your mouth and cause bleeding and significant pain. When you schedule the appointment, you will be asked to specify the level of damage to the bracket and wire so your orthodontist can properly repair your bracket during the appointment. Can You Get Braces With a Chipped Tooth? A chipped tooth occurs when a small piece of enamel detaches from the tooth. Biting down on hard foods or ice, falling on your face, playing contact sports without a mouth guard, or teeth grinding are potential causes. A chipped tooth, depending on the size, can displace a filling and expose a dental nerve – as well as create the opportunity for tooth decay. Before you start orthodontic treatment, Dr. Cara Wiewiora or Dr. Rick Dunn will recommend that you have damaged teeth restored to prevent further damage or related issues (such as decay) during the length of treatment. In the case of teen and adult patients with existing crowns, your orthodontist may recommend Invisalign rather than traditional metal braces. How to Avoid Broken Braces and Teeth Avoiding broken braces and teeth is all about caution. Follow your orthodontist’s list of foods to avoid. Don’t chew ice or use your teeth to perform tasks – that’s what bottle openers, pliers and scissors are for. By the way, the advice in the previous sentence applies to everyone, not just those who wear metal braces. Grinding your teeth (known medically as bruxism) also causes damage, but may have a dental basis – such as an abnormal bite or missing or crooked teeth – or a medical basis, such as a sleep disorder. If you play team or contact sports, a mouth guard is essential safety equipment. According to statistics, at least 5 million cases of knocked out or broken teeth are reported each year, most of which occur during sports. Not enough athletes wear mouth guards, which is why sports is one of the highest causes of dental emergencies. In addition to practicing caution, you should be mindful of the condition of your teeth and braces. Being proactive before an issue becomes a dental emergency can prevent even... --- - Published: 2019-04-10 - Modified: 2025-06-03 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/malocclusions-what-they-are-and-how-to-correct-them/ The term “malocclusion” is used by orthodontists to identify a condition commonly known as a “bad bite. ” Many people have malocclusion to some degree, which may not require treatment for minor cases. However, diagnosing malocclusion to determine its severity (or potential severity) and correcting it as early as possible is important for numerous reasons, including oral health, overall health, facial aesthetics and self-esteem. Learning the basics about malocclusions can help you have a well-informed conversation with an orthodontist when seeking treatment for yourself or your child. Basically, a malocclusion is an incorrect relationship between the maxilla (upper arch) and the mandible (lower arch), or a general misalignment of the teeth. Simply stated, not all of the upper and lower teeth make contact with each other. Such poor alignment can be the result of genetic factors combined with poor oral habits (such as thumb-sucking), or other factors during early childhood. There are three classes of malocclusions: Class I – The occlusion is typical, but there are spacing or overcrowding problems with the other teeth. Class II – The malocclusion is an overbite (the upper teeth are positioned further forward than the lower teeth). This can be caused by the protrusion of anterior teeth or the overlapping of the central teeth by the lateral teeth. Class III – Prognathism (also known as an “underbite”) is a malocclusion caused by the lower teeth being positioned further forward than the upper teeth. An underbite usually occurs when the jawbone is large or the maxillary bone is short. What are the Different Types of Malocclusions? In addition to the major classes of malocclusion, there are many different types: Overcrowding – This is the most common type of malocclusion, which is caused by a lack of space – resulting in crooked, overlapping teeth. Overjet – The top row of teeth extend past the lower teeth horizontally, causing problems with eating and speech. Overbite – The upper jaw overlaps with the lower jaw. Most people have a slight overbite, but a more pronounced overbite can lead to damage to the gums. Crossbite – This is when the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth. Underbite – A crossbite affecting the front teeth. This is known as an anterior crossbite. Spacing – A spacing issue refers to abnormal space between two teeth. This can be caused by missing teeth, small teeth, tongue thrusting and thumb sucking. A large space between two teeth is called a diastema. Open bite – When the front teeth do not overlap the lower teeth when biting down. An open bite malocclusion can be caused by abnormalities with the position of the jaw and teeth. How Can You Correct a Malocclusion? Scheduling a consultation with an orthodontist is the first step in correcting any type of malocclusion. The diagnostic process will include X-rays and a complete examination to determine the malocclusion class and type, as well as factors that contributed to the condition. After a diagnosis has been made, the orthodontist will determine... --- - Published: 2019-03-20 - Modified: 2025-03-11 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-safe-are-at-home-braces/ With society becoming more and more digitized and people relying on technology, some daily tasks have become much easier. Any item or service can be accessed with the click of a button. But, should dental care be given the same level of online accessibility as ordering food? Do-it-yourself orthodontics have been becoming more and more popular, with people needing orthodontic surgery opting for the cheaper option with less in-person visits. The American Association of Orthodontists have reported that nearly 13% of its member orthodontists have seen patients who have tried DIY orthodontics. But, orthodontists have been cautioning against this option for what irreparable damage that can be caused to your teeth and mouth. What is DIY Orthodontics? Every time you visit a mall, you’ve probably seen pop-up stores or vendors that offer digital impressions. Using these digital impressions, the technician at the pop-up provides you with a DIY dentistry kit, which includes a set of clear aligners for you to pop in your mouth. From there, that is where your interaction with this technician will end. You will be on your own, with your orthodontic care left to yourself. In some cases, people with dental problems who need braces are creating their own DIY braces, which provides a whole host of issues connected to the pressure applied to the teeth. They use a method called gap banding, which includes using regular or orthodontic rubber bands to close the gaps between the teeth. The reason many patients opt for this option as opposed to conventional orthodontist visits is the price. You can save up to 50% by choosing do-it-yourself orthodontics. You are also saving time by not having to run over to the orthodontist on a regular basis. Do-it-yourself orthodontics allow people to get the work they always wanted, with more convenience and less expense. But, convenience does not equate to quality – and there are some areas in which cutting costs can ultimately result in greater expense, not to mention serious health issues. Why DIY Orthodontics are Dangerous The main concern orthodontists have about DIY dentistry is whether a person should undergo a complex medical procedure without the supervision of a medical professional. The complexities of dental care extend beyond just what the eye can see, so correcting purely from an aesthetic basis has led many orthodontists to question the effectiveness of DIY orthodontics. The list of drawbacks includes shrinking gums, jawbone damage and lost teeth. By avoiding meeting with an orthodontist altogether, you are potentially preventing the diagnosing of a serious dental issue that a non-medical professional cannot detect. For example, you could be suffering from periodontitis, an inflammation of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. According to the Center for Disease Control, about 50% of people have some form of periodontitis. If your teeth are realigned in an affected area, it can lead to further breakdown of the bone without the possibility of rebuilding. From there, a tooth can be pushed out of the bone and... --- - Published: 2019-02-21 - Modified: 2025-06-03 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-does-orthodontic-insurance-work/ Although expensive, people continue to invest in orthodontic treatment, whether for themselves or their children. In some cases it is to improve image, while for others it is medically necessary. In either scenario, people strive to find the most affordable avenue to achieve the optimal desired outcome. Keep reading to learn about your options to obtain a healthy, attractive smile. Are Braces Covered Under Dental Insurance? More often than not, there is an age limit with your orthodontic benefits. Therefore, it is ideal that you seek orthodontic treatment at an earlier age. This is important as treatment time often increases with age, which inflates the cost. Only one percent of plans will fully cover the cost of braces, while most will pay a partial amount. You may determine your coverage by contacting your insurance carrier directly with information regarding the procedure, and – if possible – an estimated cost. Although plans vary, there are a few points to understand about dental insurance that often carry across policies and providers. If braces are covered under your plan, there is likely a lifetime maximum to your insurance. Take note of this max, as the cost of braces may reach or exceed it. In some cases, there are waiting periods that require enrollment prior to treatment. Finally, if you have recently switched insurance carriers, you should wait until the effective date of the policy. Otherwise, your braces will not be covered. Different Types of Dental Insurance Braces or other orthodontic treatments, such as Invisalign, can be expensive. There are several dental insurance options that may help you afford the treatment you or your child needs. Employer-Sponsored Dental Insurance – Dental insurance is often a part of an employee's healthcare package, which determines the plan and level of coverage. Speak to your human resources department regarding an age limit, lifetime maximums, waiting periods and other details. Individual Dental Insurance – If your employer does not provide dental insurance, some companies may offer it independently. Unfortunately, these may not provide orthodontic coverage at all, and if they do, they may not include coverage for adults. Discount Plans – While discount plans are not considered dental insurance, they allow you to obtain services at a lower cost. These plans are increasing in popularity, and many offer reduced prices for adults, including orthodontics and cosmetic procedures. It can be purchased in addition to dental insurance, or if you have already capped your payout. Orthodontic Benefits Payment Plan If you have dental insurance, you may have orthodontic benefits. Separate from dental insurance, these benefits are paid by your insurance carrier to the orthodontist over the course of your treatment. Some benefits are paid at a percentage, up to a set maximum. After the maximum is reached, you pay the remaining balance throughout treatment. Some orthodontic plans have a co-pay, and the insurance company pays the rest. However, in some cases the benefit is still covered at a percentage. At Wiewora and Dunn Orthodontics, we accept many HMO and... --- - Published: 2019-01-17 - Modified: 2024-03-11 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/types-of-braces-for-teeth/ Over four million people in the United States wear braces, and 25 percent of these individuals are adults. With advances in both appearance and comfort, an ever-increasing number of people are seeking to improve their smile with braces. Determining which option is right for you, however, can be challenging. Keep reading to learn about the types of braces available today, and how each treats various malalignment conditions. Metal or Traditional Braces The most recognized form, metal or traditional braces, remain one of the most affordable, yet noticeable types to date. However, brackets have become smaller and more comfortable than they were previously, and the timeline for treatment has decreased. This is partially due to the new heat-activated variation – archwires – which utilize your body heat, and claim to decrease discomfort. Ceramic or Clear Braces Similar in both size and shape to metal braces, clear or ceramic braces are less noticeable and are a great choice for those that want a more aesthetic option. The brackets are clear and are made to match the natural color of your teeth. It is important to note that this variation is slightly more expensive than traditional braces, and are vulnerable to staining. To remain the same color throughout treatment, they must be well-maintained. Platinum or Gold Braces While platinum or gold braces have no advantages over traditional braces, they do offer relief to patients with a nickel allergy. However, those who choose platinum or gold braces typically do so for their appearance and not because of an allergy. They are especially popular among female patients for their similarity to jewelry. Invisalign Consisting of a series of trays, Invisalign is a set typically ranging between 5 and 50 custom-made aligners that are replaced every one to two weeks. Made of thin clear plastic, it is comfortable and invisible, making it the most popular choice for treatment for teens and adults. There are a few orthodontic situations where Invisalign may not be the best option for you, but due to advances in technology, Invisalign can now predictably treat the majority of orthodontic cases. Removed for teeth cleaning and eating, it has no restrictions for eating and drinking. However, teeth should be brushed thoroughly before placing the trays back in the mouth. To determine which type of braces are best for your situation, speak to your orthodontist. While you may have a preference between some options for appearance reasons, you will be limited based on your unique oral health needs. Read our previous blog, to learn the average price of braces. At Wiewiora and Dunn Orthodontics, we provide a range of braces to suit our patients and address their individual situation. With advanced digital impressions, the process to achieve a healthy smile is comfortable and efficient. Contact us today to schedule your appointment, and begin your journey to the smile of your dreams. --- - Published: 2018-12-18 - Modified: 2024-03-11 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/how-much-do-braces-cost/ When people decide to pursue braces, whether it be to improve their bite or for cosmetics, their first question is often the same. How much will braces cost? There are several elements that factor into the final cost of braces, which vary upon the individual. Learn some of these factors, and why braces differ in price for a child, versus an adult. Determining the Cost of Braces First and foremost, your unique dental issues will determine the options that are available to you. Not every type of braces perform equally. They can be less or more effective in a variety of areas, from shifting the jaw to closing gaps, or straightening teeth. The extremity of the problems that need to be resolved will also dictate the amount of time required. The worse the dental issue, the longer it is likely to take to correct, and the more it may cost. Prices also increase based on appearance. More and more, people want procedures that are less noticeable. This can come at a steeper price, due to both the necessary materials and skills of the orthodontist. A board-certified orthodontist who is a specialist in their field, or has dedicated extensive time to this practice, will cost more. Be sure to factor the expertise of an orthodontist into your budget, and do your research before going forward. The following are treatment options and their average cost nationally: Traditional metal brackets: $3,000-$6,000 Tooth-colored ceramic braces: $4,000-$8,000 Invisible braces, like Invisalign, removable for eating and brushing: $3,000-$8,000 Lingual braces, which are attached on the back of the teeth: $8,000-$10,000 It is important that you consider costs that may emerge following braces. These additional costs may include replacement retainers if they become lost or broken, and/or restorative work with your general dentist post-orthodontic treatment. Braces for Kids If you are deciding whether to invest in braces for your child, the sooner the better. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a child receive their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of seven years old. The younger a child is, the easier the corrections are. Not only will the treatment be more effective since they are growing, but it will take less time and therefore cost less. This is usually due to treatment during the growth of the jaw, instead of after. Some bite discrepancies can only be corrected while a child is growing. If these bite discrepancies are not addressed during this timeframe, surgery may be the option for correction later. For best results, make sure your child complies with the orthodontist’s instructions and practices good oral hygiene. Braces for Adults Increasingly, adults are seeking braces to correct overbites, improve their ability to chew, and properly clean their teeth. Because a pleasing aesthetic effect during treatment is a high priority for most adults, Invisalign and clear braces are popular choices. If you are thinking about getting braces as an adult, make sure to also keep in mind when they will come off. Depending on their personal... --- - Published: 2018-11-19 - Modified: 2025-03-11 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/invisalign-or-braces-which-should-you-choose/ Since the launch of Invisalign in 2000, over five million people, including more than one million teenagers, have used Invisalign clear aligners to transform their smiles. While this option has introduced a revolutionary method of treatment, many question whether Invisalign or traditional braces are better. At Wiewiora and Dunn Orthodontics, we offer both Invisalign and traditional braces for the safe and efficient treatment of misaligned teeth and improper bite. We are proud to be a Gold Plus member of Invisalign, a status achieved by treating many Invisalign cases. Learning about the advantages and limitations of each will make you better informed during your initial consultation. Benefits and Drawbacks In deciding which treatment avenue to take, there are pros and cons to each option. Most often, these vary based on the age of the patient. Adults are often concerned with budget, while teens tend to focus on their self-image. While the choice between traditional braces and Invisalign can be difficult, consider which of these areas are more important to you. Although the choice is ultimately up to you, give serious consideration to your orthodontist’s recommendation. Your doctor recommends a particular course of treatment based up his or her knowledge of the advantages and limitations of each technology, and your unique situation. Traditional braces have the advantage in treating more complex issues – such as teeth that are crowded, crooked, protruding or with irregular spacing – that Invisalign can not. Well-known to consumers, Invisalign heavily appeals to those who prefer comfort and aesthetics. The shell is thin and invisible when worn, versus comparatively bulky metal braces. Transparent and compact, Invisalign aligners slide on and off with ease and minimal discomfort. Patients will still experience some soreness as their teeth shift, but will not experience the tissue injury associated with traditional braces. This means less risk of bruising, irritation and bulky wax to reduce abrasive contact. It is important to note however, that due to the ease of removal, patients who opt for Invisalign must be diligent in wearing their aligners. One of the most important aspects of braces versus Invisalign is how your oral hygiene practices can impact your results. Regular brushing and flossing is still required, even more so with traditional braces. As metal brackets are attached directly to each tooth and connected with an archwire, your reach can be limited. Without proper care, patients can experience gum disease or tooth decay from trapped food particles. For many, time and visit requirements may rank high on the list. Metal braces must be tightened by your orthodontist every month. Invisalign aligners are changed every two weeks, and visits are every four to six weeks. The overall time required to reach correction varies based on the level of alteration necessary, and a patient’s commitment to the orthodontist’s instructions. Metal brace bands should be worn as directed, and aligners for 22-to-24 hours a day. Invisalign is well-known for its ability to be easily removed – which provides convenience for eating foods that would get... --- - Published: 2018-10-01 - Modified: 2018-10-01 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/think-twice-about-skipping-an-orthodontic-appointment/ Are you thinking about canceling your next orthodontic appointment because you’re too busy? If so, Dr. Cara Wiewiora and Dr. Rick Dunn say please don’t. If you’re currently undergoing orthodontic treatment, it’s important not to miss your scheduled appointments. Things come up in everyone’s life that makes it necessary to postpone a visit from time to time. But it’s never advisable to skip an appointment entirely without rescheduling it as soon as possible. Missing an orthodontic appointment is not recommended for several reasons. The most obvious is that it can prolong your treatment. Prolonged treatment means you’ll be in braces longer. Most people want to wear braces for the shortest time possible. This is why attending every scheduled appointment is essential. Following are examples of important reasons to not skip an orthodontic appointment: Your braces require adjustments If you are wearing metal braces, ceramic braces, platinum gold braces, or any other type that utilize brackets and wires, they need periodic adjustments. Alterations to or “tightening” your braces cause your teeth to move into correct alignment gradually. For the fastest movement possible, we typically adjust braces every 6-8 weeks. You might need rubber bands At your regular orthodontic appointments, we evaluate your teeth and your progress. If you require rubber bands, we provide them and teach you how to place them on your brackets. A skipped appointment means we have to wait several weeks until we can assess your teeth and decide whether or not you need rubber bands. We monitor the health of your teeth During your periodic orthodontic appointments, we evaluate your teeth and gums and make sure everything looks healthy. Many patients have difficulty keeping their teeth clean while wearing braces. Every time we see you, we examine your mouth for signs of poor brushing or flossing. This gives us the chance to remind or teach you how to keep your teeth and gums in excellent condition for the duration of your orthodontic treatment. Wearing braces too long is not advisable The longer you wear braces, the harder it is to keep your teeth clean and your gums in great shape. Everyone wearing braces knows how difficult it is to floss! Also, we don’t want your teeth to reach a plateau for optimal movement. Essentially, getting you in and out of braces as quickly as possible is your goal and our goal. We Like Seeing You... Often It might seem like you’re at our Longwood or Lake Mary offices very frequently during your orthodontic treatment. The truth is, you are! Regular adjustment appointments are typically required every 6-8 weeks. Nonetheless, every visit has an important purpose. And, the same is true for our Invisalign patients. If you are unable to make it to a scheduled appointment, please contact us as soon as possible. It’s important to let us know you can’t be here so that we can give your allotted time to another patient. We realize that life is busy, which is why we are happy to reschedule... --- - Published: 2018-08-31 - Modified: 2018-08-31 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/lose-your-retainers/ Let’s face it. It’s difficult to keep track of removable retainers when they’re not in your mouth. They are easy to lose, break, or temporarily misplace. Countless retainers are accidentally thrown in school cafeteria trash cans around the world every year. And, mischievous pets love stealing them from a bathroom counter and hiding them under a bed. No matter your age, losing them at some point during your orthodontic treatment is a real possibility. No matter the specific reason for your lost retainers, never fear. They are replaceable. If you lose yours, make sure to let us know as soon as possible. The faster we replace them, the less likely your teeth will shift out of alignment when you can’t wear them. If you lose your retainers, here’s what to do: Carefully look for them. The moment you discover they are missing, don’t panic. There’s a good chance they are misplaced, and you will find them. Retrace your steps and look everywhere. Sometimes, it’s best to wait a day or two before declaring a permanent loss. Schedule an appointment. If you lose your retainers, replacements are necessary. Please call our office as soon as you realize they are lost. We take an impression of your teeth at your appointment and make you brand new ones within 30 minutes. Wear your new retainers as instructed. The orthodontist instructs you to wear retainers for a certain number of hours per day for a reason. They are meant to retain your teeth in the correct position and prevent movement. Nobody wants their teeth to shift out of alignment after such a long time wearing braces. They are an essential tool that keeps your teeth looking straight and beautiful. Take great care of your retainers! Once you’ve lost a set of retainers, you’ll undoubtedly make a better effort to keep track of your replacements. Losing them is stressful. It’s also time-consuming to schedule additional orthodontist appointments. It’s beneficial to keep track of them and put them in a safe and secure place when they’re not in your mouth. Don’t Let Your Teeth Shift Out of Alignment Without retainers, your teeth are at risk of slowly reverting to their pre-braces position. Nobody wants to go through years of wearing braces only to have their teeth eventually end up crooked! Fortunately, if you lose your retainers, it’s relatively simple to obtain a replacement set. If you eventually find your original set weeks or months after you have new ones, please bring them to your next appointment. We may be able to adjust them to fit. If so, you’ll have a backup pair in case of another misplacement. At Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics, our goal is the same as yours – straight teeth and a healthy smile for a lifetime! --- - Published: 2018-08-01 - Modified: 2018-08-01 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/orthodontic-rubber-bands/ Think you can get away with not wearing your orthodontic rubber bands? Dr. Cara Wiewiora and Dr. Rick Dunn say Think again! If you’re in braces, chances are you’ll be required to wear rubber bands for at least a short period during your treatment. Rubber bands apply pressure and help move your teeth into the correct position. Even though they are small, they are a powerful orthodontic tool. When it comes to rubber bands, one size does not fit all. Orthodontic rubber bands come in various sizes, strengths, and widths. If you’ve been instructed to wear them, make sure to use the specific rubber bands given to you. Substituting the correct bands with a friend’s rubber bands or rubber bands that were given to you a few months ago does more harm than good. Using the right orthodontic rubber bands is the best way to ensure success. What if I Don’t Wear Them? Simply put, Dr. Wiewiora and Dr. Dunn will know if you do not wear your orthodontic rubber bands. Keep in mind that it’s not possible to wear rubber bands for just a day or two and expect positive results. The effect of wearing orthodontic rubber bands takes place gradually. Following are a few incentives for wearing rubber bands as instructed: Keeps your treatment on schedule. If rubber bands are part of your orthodontic treatment, it’s vital to follow our instructions. Avoiding rubber bands can extend your orthodontic treatment for a significant length of time. Rubber bands are easy to put on and take off. Even though your first attempt at putting on rubber bands might be a challenge, the process is simple. Before you know it, you’ll be able to put on and take off rubber bands without looking in a mirror. Wearing them is practically effortless! They are removable for eating and brushing. Don’t worry. You can remove your rubber bands when you eat and clean your teeth. Simply re-apply the rubber bands afterward. Not everyone must wear them full-time. Depending on your phase of treatment, you might be instructed to wear rubber bands any time you are not eating or brushing. Or, you might be asked to wear them for just a few hours a day. Have Questions About Orthodontic Rubber Bands? We welcome your questions about rubber bands! If rubber bands are part of your orthodontic treatment, we will explain how to use them when you’re here for your appointment. Please follow provided instructions and don’t stretch your rubber bands before putting them on! If you are new to rubber bands and your teeth are sore, please do not stop wearing them as prescribed. It can take a few days to get adjusted to wearing them. Just like you might feel soreness after a regular orthodontic appointment, discomfort subsides within a few days. However, if you have any concerns, please contact us at our Longwood or Lake Mary offices. We are here to reassure you that your rubber bands are doing their job and... --- - Published: 2018-06-04 - Modified: 2025-05-05 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/playing-sports-while-wearing-braces/ Have you ever looked carefully at teenagers as they play sports? If you have, you’ve probably noticed that many of them are wearing braces. Do you wonder how they engage in physical activities and contact sports without injuring their teeth or harming their metal brackets and wires? If so, you’re not alone. But wearing braces is absolutely no reason to sit on the sidelines. Follow your orthodontist’s instructions if you are worried about hurting your mouth while engaging in physical activities. Taking extra steps to safeguard your teeth and braces helps make playing sports more enjoyable. Using caution and adding a bit of protection goes a long way! Tips for Keeping Your Mouth Safe Athletic Mouthguard If your child already has an athletic mouthguard, it may not fit during his or her orthodontic treatment. Braces with brackets and wires require extra space in the mouth, which makes some pre-existing mouthguards impossible to use. Any child that participates in contact sports should wear a mouthguard that fits correctly. We have mouthguards that we can provide to your child and/or we can recommend certain brands of mouthguards that are preferred during orthodontic treatment. Please talk with us about your options next time you’re in the office. Use All Required Protective Gear An athletic mouthguard is vital, but so is all the other protective gear for your sport. Please do not attempt to engage in physical activities without wearing complete protective equipment. A mouthguard may protect your teeth, the inside of your cheeks, tongue, brackets, and wires, but it cannot protect all other parts of your body! Make sure to wear a mouthguard in conjunction with all other safety gear. Always Keep Your Eye on the Ball When playing a sport, it’s essential that you pay attention at all times. During your time as an orthodontic patient, do everything possible to avoid getting hit in the face. Avoiding dangerous situations on the playing field helps avert painful injuries and time-consuming orthodontic repairs. Use Caution When Sitting in the Stands Just because you’re a spectator at a sporting event does not mean you are exempt from possible injuries. Anyone in the stands who is wearing braces should remain vigilant. Balls and sporting equipment is often inadvertently hurled into the crowd during a game or competition. Those who are not paying attention can get hit and injured. If you are in braces, make sure to raise your hands to protect your face if you see a ball or sports equipment flying towards you! Visit Your Orthodontist After an Injury If your face or mouth is injured while playing sports, make sure to call us as soon as possible. It’s crucial that we evaluate your teeth and braces to make sure there is no significant damage. Please do not wait weeks or months to let us know that you sustained a facial injury. Don’t Give Up Playing Sports Because of Braces! There is no reason to refrain from playing sports while you are undergoing orthodontic treatment.... --- - Published: 2018-05-07 - Modified: 2018-05-07 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/why-use-an-orthodontist-for-braces/ Metal Braces. Clear Braces. Gold Braces. Invisalign. With these options, and so many more, how will you ever choose the best orthodontic option? If you’re in the process of exploring all the possibilities, a consultation with an orthodontist is highly recommended. Many general dentists offer a limited scope of orthodontic treatments in their office. Given this, should you use a general dentist for braces, or should you use an orthodontic specialist who focuses solely on orthodontic treatments – and nothing else? All dentists, regardless of their specialty, attend and graduate from dental school. However, specialists must complete 2-3 years of additional training during a residency program, in their chosen area of expertise. By the time an orthodontist is working in private practice, he or she has treated thousands of patients for a full range of routine and complicated orthodontic issues. Reasons to use an orthodontist instead of a general dentist for braces: Complete Range of Options A general dentist might offer one or two orthodontic options. The most common being clear aligners such as Invisalign® or ClearCorrect®. On the other hand, an orthodontist offers a wide range of choices and will help you select the best treatment for your unique needs and goals. Able to Handle Complex Cases Not only is an orthodontist able to quickly recognize and identify a challenging case, but an orthodontist also knows which treatment is the fastest and most effective. A complex case is best handled by an orthodontist and not by a general dentist. Just like in the medical field, it is best to seek care from a doctor who specializes in and focuses on your specific needs. Sole Focus on Orthodontics An orthodontist sees orthodontic patients every day, all day long. A general dentist typically spends a majority of the day seeing patients that require fillings, crowns, and other general dentistry issues. While a general dentist may know how to straighten a patient’s teeth, this is not necessarily their area of expertise. Up-to-Date on Latest Trends Because an orthodontist focuses only on orthodontics, it’s easy for him or her to stay well-informed on the most progressive trends, options, products, and techniques. It’s difficult for a general dentist to spend quite as much time focusing on such a precise specialty. Skilled Support Staff When you’re under orthodontic care, you want everyone involved to have extensive experience. Orthodontist assistants are experienced with brackets, wires, aligner trays, or any appliance that is part of your treatment. At an orthodontic practice, you can rest assured that everyone in the office is extremely knowledgeable about the process. Office Designed for Patients of All Ages Most orthodontic offices welcome young children, teens, and adults alike. Orthodontic offices are appealing to patients of all ages and designed with age-appropriate amenities. If you opt for orthodontic treatment from a specialist instead of a general dentist, your regular dentist will communicate and work collaboratively with us to help you reach your orthodontic goals. Have your dental records sent from your general dentist’s... --- - Published: 2018-04-03 - Modified: 2018-04-03 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/top-ways-braces-can-change-your-life-in-a-positive-way/ Most people know that braces help straighten teeth. But did you know that straight teeth can have a big impact on your health, quality of life, and self-image? If you are considering braces for adults, teens or children, it’s beneficial to know the many ways in which braces can change your life in a positive way. How will braces change my life? Improved confidence. If you look in the mirror, smile, and don’t like the appearance of your teeth, braces are the answer! When you love your reflection, it boosts your confidence. Improved confidence can help improve your personal life, social life and professional life. Relief from headaches and jaw pain. Misaligned teeth cause some people to suffer from headaches and TMJ pain. If you are suffering from headaches, jaw pain or ear pain, the alignment of your teeth might be the source of the problem. Braces can help! Reduce teeth chips. If your teeth protrude or if your bite does not come together properly, you are at a higher risk of chipping them. When orthodontic treatment straightens your teeth, they will be less susceptible to chipping or breaking due to an injury or accident. Simpler to clean your teeth. Crooked and overlapping teeth are challenging to clean. When two or more teeth are too close together, they cannot be brushed properly. This makes it difficult to remove food particles that get stuck. The result is often bad breath, tooth decay, and food getting lodged in between teeth that you can’t feel – but that others can see. Reduce speech problems. If you suffer from a speech issue because of misaligned teeth, braces can help. A speech problem can negatively affect your life in many ways. From childhood bullying to being denied a job as an adult, a speech issue due to orthodontic issues is something that is important to address at the youngest age possible. Easier to chew food. Do you avoid certain foods because they are too difficult to bite or chew? Avoiding food, especially healthy food such as hard fruits and vegetables, because you cannot bite or chew properly is unfortunate. Straight teeth help solve this problem. Fewer cavities and gum problems. When it’s nearly impossible to clean your teeth properly because of misaligned, crooked or crowded teeth, the result is often cavities and periodontal disease. Straight teeth are important because healthy teeth and gums have an impact on your overall health. People will compliment you. What’s better than a stranger complimenting your beautiful smile? Not only will strangers notice your straight teeth, but people you know will also comment on your enviable smile. When your orthodontic treatment is over, get ready for others to say nice things about your smile for many years to come! You’ll smile more. When you know your teeth are straight and your smile looks fantastic, you’ll want to show it more often. People who smile often seem happier and more satisfied with their life. This can result in personal and professional... --- - Published: 2018-03-06 - Modified: 2025-05-05 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/foods-to-avoid-when-youre-wearing-braces/ Did you just get braces? If so, your teeth and mouth might be a little sore for a few days. It might be difficult to bite into and chew the type of food you usually eat. But don’t worry. Within a short period of time the tenderness will subside, and you’ll feel normal again. Don’t Let Food Damage Your Braces! Once you get used to your new braces, don't automatically return to your pre-braces diet. But it’s important to understand that certain types of food can get stuck in between your brackets and wires, making it difficult to clean your teeth. Hard, sticky, and crunchy food items can damage your braces and can even cause a bracket to pop off or a wire to break! It’s not necessarily difficult to identify specific foods to avoid. In general, foods that are challenging to bite and chew can cause problems. Even though it requires a bit more thought and planning, following a recommended “braces diet” should help prevent avoidable problems. Here’s a list of foods to avoid when you’re wearing braces: Hard Foods: Examples of hard food items include: popcorn, nuts, hard bread, raw and hard fruits and veggies (that are not cut into smaller pieces), hard pretzels and chips, and corn of the cob. You should also avoid chewing on hard items such as ice and hard candy. Sticky & Chewy Food: Caramels, gum, licorice, toffee, fruit snacks, and similar types of food and candy can cause bands, brackets, and wires to bend or fall off. If you must eat sweets, choose something that won’t stick to your braces. Good examples are soft chocolate or ice cream. Large Food: Putting a large food item or too much food into your mouth all at once can cause problems with your braces – even if the food is relatively soft. It’s advisable to take small bites of food to decrease your risk of damaging your braces. Chewing food with your back teeth can help keep your front brackets from breaking loose. Hard Items (Not Food-Related): It can be difficult to break a habit. If you regularly bite your fingernails, chew on a pen or pencil, or open packages with your teeth, now is a good time to stop. Biting or chewing on hard, non-food items can cause damage. So... What CAN I Eat? Hopefully eliminating hard, sticky, and chewy foods from your diet during your orthodontic treatment won’t make you feel discouraged. There are plenty of foods that are perfectly acceptable to eat while you’re wearing braces. After a few weeks in braces, you’ll get used to making optimal choices, such as: soft fruit, cooked veggies, eggs, dairy products including yogurt and cheese, and soft bread. If you have any questions about what types of food you should avoid and what types of food are acceptable, please ask! We hope you won’t feel deprived of delicious food during your orthodontic treatment. We want you to enjoy the process of achieving straight teeth and... --- - Published: 2018-02-05 - Modified: 2018-02-05 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/early-orthodontic-evaluation/ Your child might be too young for braces, but if permanent teeth have erupted, it’s not too early for an orthodontic evaluation. Most children do not require braces or any other type of orthodontic appliance until most or all their baby teeth have been replaced by adult teeth. However, there are some situations in which early intervention can help reduce the length of time braces must be worn later. It’s never too early to learn as much as possible about your child’s oral health. And, it’s important to remember that just because you visit an orthodontist for an early evaluation does not mean your child needs braces next week. The primary purpose of an evaluation is to give you professional insight into your child’s orthodontic prognosis. Detecting Problems at a Young Age Few people have perfectly aligned permanent teeth. Some of the most common problems that require orthodontic treatment include: Crowding Overbite Underbite Cross Bite Spacing Issues Crooked Teeth Too Much Space Extra Teeth Missing Teeth And More... An evaluation at a young age can help you understand potential orthodontic issues that may develop in the future. Even if orthodontic treatment is not recommended at the young age of six or seven, taking a “wait and see” approach can be very insightful. Planning for Braces When we evaluate your child at an early age, there is ample time to plan for the right type of treatment at precisely the right time. Even though braces can be worn at any age, there is an optimal time for orthodontic treatment – which can vary from one child to another – but it is typically before the child completely stops growing. By bringing your child in for an orthodontic evaluation when he or she is around the age of seven, you will have the benefit of being able to plan for braces. In many cases, planning for braces involves visiting us every three, six or 12 months for a follow-up appointment to keep close tabs on the development of your child’s teeth. Peace of Mind As a parent, you might look at your child’s smile and wonder if the tooth that looks crooked is going to cause major problems for your child as he or she grows older. Or, you might have noticed that your child’s thumb sucking habit is causing your child’s teeth to protrude in an unusual way. We will address these issues, and others, during your child’s initial evaluation. The purpose of an early-age evaluation is to provide you with guidance and a proposed treatment plan for your child – even if treatment will not begin for several years. Consultations are Complimentary We offer free evaluations to patients of any age. And you do not need a referral from a general dentist to schedule an appointment. We offer complimentary consultations even if you’ve started orthodontic treatment at another office. It’s never too early to gain a better understanding of your child’s oral health. Starting orthodontic treatment at the optimal time... --- - Published: 2018-01-02 - Modified: 2018-01-02 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/adults-can-get-braces-too/ Braces for adults? You better believe it. We successfully treat patients of all ages in our friendly office that was designed for the comfort of everyone – regardless of age. When you’re here, don’t be surprised to see kids and adults waiting to be called for their appointment. Adults can benefit from orthodontic treatment for any number of reasons. Some of the most common include: Crowded or Crooked Teeth An Underbite or an Overbite A Cross Bite A Painful Jaw Problem Spaces Between Teeth Previous Loss of Permanent Teeth with Restorative Needs Straight Teeth... and So Much More While braces might provide you with the straight teeth that you’ve always wanted, there are many other benefits to undergoing orthodontic treatment as an adult. Did you know that crooked teeth are more difficult to keep clean? Crooked teeth can actually contribute to the development of tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, a misaligned jaw can cause symptoms such as headaches, snoring, and dizziness. If you have misaligned teeth and/or you are experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms, please contact our office for a complimentary consultation. We are happy to examine your teeth, gums, and jaw, and to have an in-depth conversation about how braces might help improve your oral health and your overall quality of life. Metal Braces? No Thanks. As an adult, the thought of wearing traditional metal brackets for several months or years might leave you feeling apprehensive about the orthodontic process. However, there’s no need to worry. We have several options for adults that are hardly noticeable. The most common types of braces that adults typically choose are: Ceramic Braces – clear brackets that blend with your teeth Lingual Braces – brackets are applied to the back of your teeth instead of the front Invisalign® – a series of clear, removable aligners are worn over the teeth Sometimes, adults do opt for metal braces – which is perfectly acceptable and may result in a quicker treatment period. Every person is unique, and one orthodontic method might be recommended over another to treat a specific problem. The best way to learn more about your optimal treatment plan is to schedule an informational appointment with our office. We want you to be happy with your choice and to experience the best possible outcome. Should I See an Orthodontist or a General Dentist? Many general dentists offer orthodontic treatment in their office – including options such as metal braces, ceramic braces, and Invisalign®. However, we recommend that you visit us for a consultation if you are thinking about getting braces. An orthodontist has advanced, specialized training to help adults with orthodontic issues that range from mild to complex. We’ve probably helped many other adults with problems similar to yours, and we have extensive experience with every aspect of the process. During your treatment, you should absolutely continue with bi-annual visits to your regular dentist for professional cleanings, exams, and all other dental procedures. Will Braces Work? Absolutely. In almost all cases,... --- - Published: 2017-12-04 - Modified: 2017-12-04 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/when-begin-orthodontic-treatment/ Don’t worry. If you’ve passed the magic age to begin orthodontic treatment, you are not destined for a lifetime of misaligned teeth. It may be a relief to learn that orthodontic treatment can begin at almost any age. Children as well as adults can achieve orthodontic success through traditional braces, clear aligners, or another type of appliance. In a perfect world, all children would see an orthodontist for an evaluation at or around the age of seven. This does not necessarily mean that children need braces or an orthodontic appliance at this young age. It simply means an early-age orthodontic screening can help determine the optimal time for beginning treatment. If your child is over the age of seven, or if you are an adult who needs braces, it’s never too late to schedule an initial consultation with an orthodontist. Many children do not see us for the first time until they are teenagers. And, adult patients are quite common and make up a significant percentage of our patient base. Why Braces? Your smile is one of the first things people notice when they meet you for the first time. Many parents want their children to benefit from the results of a straight and sparking smile as they grow into adults. Many people are aware that you never have a second chance to make a first impression. Therefore, it’s important to make sure your first impression makes a positive statement. Braces are highly advantageous for quite a few reasons. As a matter of fact, braces can help with more than simply creating an aesthetically pleasing smile. Braces can also correct the following orthodontic issues: Speech problems that are a result of misaligned teeth Inability to effectively clean teeth because of crowding Difficulty chewing certain foods due to gaps between teeth If you have any questions or concerns about braces, make sure to schedule a complimentary consultation. We are here to make sure you completely understand the orthodontic process, to help you make the best possible decision about your treatment plan, and to assure you that braces can affect your life in a beneficial way. Don’t Wait If you are an adult and would like more information about braces or clear aligners, don’t wait to schedule a consultation. It’s not uncommon for adults to want braces – even though they may have had braces when they were young. When teeth are not maintained with a retainer, they can gradually shift out of alignment. This is not an uncommon problem, but it’s a problem that can oftentimes be fixed with Invisalign® (clear aligners). If you’re older than a teenager, there is no best time to undergo orthodontic treatment. If you are an adult, don’t wait any longer because there’s no reason to delay a complimentary consultation. During your appointment, you’ll be provided with quite a bit of information about your teeth, jaw, and bite. You’ll also learn about your orthodontics options and about how treatment may benefit you in countless ways. --- - Published: 2017-11-06 - Modified: 2025-05-05 - URL: https://centralfloridasmiles.com/blog/tips-for-brushing-and-flossing-with-braces/ Brushing and flossing with braces looks complicated. On your very first day with braces, you might wonder, i s it even possible to floss in between all those wires and brackets? Take it from an orthodontist – – it might require a bit more time and effort to keep your teeth clean while wearing braces, but brushing and flossing while undergoing orthodontic treatment is entirely possible. When you take the time and effort to effectively brush and floss while you’re wearing braces, the end result will be worthwhile. Once your braces come off, your perfectly straight, bright, and sparkling teeth will make you proud to show off your smile. Brushing and Flossing For obvious reasons, food particles can easily get trapped around your brackets and wires and in between your teeth when you’re wearing braces. This is precisely why you must take extra effort to clean all surfaces of your teeth, all around your brackets and wires, and in between each tooth. Brushing Tips: If any piece or part of your braces or orthodontic appliance is removable (such as rubber bands), take them out before brushing To prevent damage to your brackets and wires, use a soft-bristle toothbrush Don’t be too forceful while brushing – using a slow circular motion will allow your brush to effectively clean around your brackets Use different angles with your toothbrush while brushing to maneuver the bristles behind the wire Use the correct type of non-whitening fluoride toothpaste If you have any questions or concerns, ask us for complete tooth brushing instructions Flossing Tips: Don’t avoid flossing just because it requires extra effort Use a dental floss threader to make flossing easier and more efficient Floss every tooth – even the teeth in the back of your mouth Use dental floss at least once a day – and more if you have food stuck in between your teeth Stick with waxed floss which is less likely to get snagged or caught on wires or brackets Remember, keeping your teeth clean is essential for maintaining your oral health while you’re in braces. See Your Regular Dentist One of the most common questions we get from our patients and their parents pertains to regular dental cleanings and exams during orthodontic treatment. In almost every instance, we recommend that you see your regular dentist for a professional cleaning at least twice a year. A bi-annual visit to your regular dentist will help keep your teeth and gums healthy, and your dentist will be able to monitor any oral health issues not related to your orthodontic treatment. For example, during your regular appointment, your dentist will check for signs of decay. If you have a cavity, braces will not prevent your dentist from treating it. If your dentist has any questions or concerns about your teeth or your orthodontic treatment, he or she is welcome to contact our office and we will work collaboratively to help solve any current or potential oral health problems. Your regular dentist is no... --- ---