If your child has had an initial consultation with Dr. Jolley and has been recommended for an observation visit, you might be wondering—what exactly does that mean? An orthodontic observation appointment is a crucial step in planning for future orthodontic treatment. It allows us to monitor your child's dental development and determine the perfect time to start treatment for the best possible results.

Why Are Observation Visits Important?

Some kids need orthodontic treatment, but not right away. An observation visit is scheduled when we know a child will need braces or other early orthodontic care but need to wait for the optimal time to begin. This could be due to baby teeth that stil...

Why Candy and Braces Don’t Mix

We often get asked, "Why age 7?" when it comes to a child's first orthodontic visit. It's a great question and one that we're excited to address. As a leading orthodontist, Dr. Jolley agrees with the experts at the American Association of Orthodontics, and believes in the importance of early orthodontic intervention to ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles for your child. Learn why age 7 is the ideal time to schedule that first orthodontic appointment – and maybe for braces.

Early Detection Leads to Early Intervention

By the age of 7, your child's mouth has typically developed enough permanent teeth for our orthodontic team to evaluate their dental health comprehensively. This early asses...

Straight teeth are something that everyone would love to have. However, did you know that orthodontic treatment can do more than just straighten your teeth? Correcting your bite is just as important as straightening your teeth. Read below to fine out why!

What Does "Bite" Mean?

When we talk about bite, we don't mean like the kind you get from a dog - or even getting a bite to eat. In orthodontics, "bite" refers to the way that your teeth fit together. The way that your upper and lower teeth fit when your mouth is closed is called occlusion. An incorrect bite or the misalignment of teeth is called a malocclusion. In most cases, a malocclusion is hereditary, and they are very common.

Improper Bit...

If you’re new to braces or scheduled to get traditional metal braces soon, chances are you’re thinking about what foods you’ll be able to eat. Good news! There are tons of brace-friendly foods that you can enjoy throughout your treatment. It’s true that there are some foods that you’ll need to avoid. However, the list of what you CAN eat is a lot, lot longer than what you can’t.

Foods to Avoid

Unfortunately, there are some foods that can cause your braces damage. Broken wires or brackets can delay treatment time, meaning you will have your braces on longer than planned. Damaging your braces may also physically hurt. That’s why we want to warn patien...

Did you know that there is more behind a straight smile than just the appearance? It is common to think that patients want straight teeth just for the look of a beautiful smile. However, straight teeth can help your overall health as well! Although orthodontics is often considered cosmetic, there are many situations where it can be medically neccesary to avoid serious medical concerns.

Straight Teeth are Easier to Keep Clean

One of the biggest reasons to have orthodontic treatment is because straight teeth are usually healthier teeth. When teeth are crowded or crooked, there are more opportunities for bacteria to build up and places for plaque to hide or be missed when brushing and flossing. ...

Reasons for Adult Braces

Floss First!

Why is it Beneficial?

What is a Crossbite?

What Does “Bite” Mean in Orthodontics?

Do you know how you take your children to well-check visits to their pediatrician and regular checkups with their general dentist? It’s just as important to start factoring in orthodontist visits by the time your child is 7-years old.

Why 7-Years Old?