Author Archives for Terri Lively

IPR: Why We Recommend it Sometimes for Modern Orthodontics

July 19, 2022 4:37 pm Published by Comments Off on IPR: Why We Recommend it Sometimes for Modern Orthodontics

Image by Евгения Касьянова from Pixabay Sometimes when we have modern orthodontics for an adult, we recommend Interproximal Reduction (IPR) as part of the treatment plan. Let’s look at why we might need it to get you the smile you always wanted with modern orthodontic treatment. What is Interproximal Reduction? IPR is resizing... Read more


TMJ Disorders: What Every Patient Should Know

June 14, 2022 3:14 pm Published by Comments Off on TMJ Disorders: What Every Patient Should Know

  Image by Sammy-Sander from Pixabay Modern orthodontics can give you the smile you always wanted. However, did you know that it can also prevent damage to essential supporting structures in your oral cavity?   In addition to fixing crowded or crooked teeth, modern orthodontic treatment can also change how your teeth come... Read more


What Is Hybrid Treatment, and is it Right for My Smile?

May 18, 2022 9:46 pm Published by Comments Off on What Is Hybrid Treatment, and is it Right for My Smile?

Image by Messan Edoh from Pixabay  When we treatment plan with patients, we often talk about braces or clear aligners. However, we sometimes discuss improving patient smiles with braces and clear aligners. This second option is called Hybrid Treatment, and here are a few things you should know about what it is to determine if this is... Read more


Why Modern Orthodontic Treatment Takes the Time it Takes

April 15, 2022 6:48 pm Published by Comments Off on Why Modern Orthodontic Treatment Takes the Time it Takes

Image by  @Nile  and Pixabay. Most of my patients have a common question: How long will I be in orthodontic treatment? Unfortunately, my answer is a very unsatisfying: It depends. Or maybe something even worse: As long as it takes. The answer is different—and frustrating—because the length of your modern... Read more


Getting Attached: Using SmartForce Attachments

March 14, 2022 5:43 pm Published by Comments Off on Getting Attached: Using SmartForce Attachments

    We use Invisalign clear aligner therapy at our Long Beach orthodontic practice. A modern orthodontic treatment known for its invisibility and convenience during treatment, Invisalign is almost undetectable to other people.   However, some cases require a little extra to get the results we want. So, we might... Read more


Retaining Your Smile: Everything You Need to Know About Retainers

February 15, 2022 9:36 pm Published by Comments Off on Retaining Your Smile: Everything You Need to Know About Retainers

Once you finish treatment, it’s all about the retainer. Retainers are dental appliances that keep teeth from moving out of their corrected positions during modern orthodontic treatment. In other words, retainers retain your smile.   Let’s take a closer look at the types of retainers we use, why they might... Read more


5 Reasons Adults Should Consider Starting Modern Orthodontics

January 17, 2022 4:07 pm Published by Comments Off on 5 Reasons Adults Should Consider Starting Modern Orthodontics

Image by PublicDomainPictures from Pixabay   We know how it goes. There is always something else that is more important than investing in braces for yourself as an adult. From car repairs or purchases to school trips and club sports to buying a home or moving up to a new one, there is... Read more


Broken Brackets: What to Do Over the Holidays

December 23, 2021 3:34 am Published by Comments Off on Broken Brackets: What to Do Over the Holidays

Image by Robin Higgins from Pixabay With holiday celebrations looming over the next couple of weeks, many patients in braces will face some difficult food choices at parties and family gatherings. Many once-a-year dishes will be served, creating temptation to eat things that are not on your orthodontist’s approved list... Read more


TAD: Non-Surgical Gummy Smile Correction

November 17, 2021 1:44 am Published by Comments Off on TAD: Non-Surgical Gummy Smile Correction

  Correcting bite problems and overcrowding in the mouth is something you know an orthodontist can do. But did you know that your orthodontist can correct how much of your gums show in your smile, too? Even better, did you know this modern orthodontic treatment does not have to involve... Read more


Early Orthodontics: What Your Child May or May Not Need in Modern Orthodontic Treatment

August 17, 2021 8:48 pm Published by Comments Off on Early Orthodontics: What Your Child May or May Not Need in Modern Orthodontic Treatment

Image by Parent Rap at Pixabay   Orthodontics has the reputation for being a pre-teen or teenage rite of passage. However, there are some cases where earlier treatment can lead to an easier orthodontic treatment later.   The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that all kids see an orthodontist... Read more