At Dudley Smiles, we love working to help you and your family discover the smile of your dreams! And while the most common time for orthodontic treatment is still the teen years, there’s never been a better time to seek treatment as an adult! So, what are the most discreet orthodontic options for adults? Let’s find out!

Embracing Orthodontics as an Adult

When you think about orthodontics, you might first picture teenagers with braces. However, adult orthodontics has become increasingly popular as more adults are looking to improve their smiles and oral health. Dudley Smiles, led by Dr. Dudley, offers a range of discrete orthodontic options tailored for adults who want to maintain a professional and unobtrusive look. The shift towards adult orthodontics reflects a growing awareness of the long-term benefits of a healthy, aligned smile, not just for aesthetics but also for overall dental health. Today, adults are embracing the opportunity to correct their smiles, thanks to options that didn’t exist a generation ago.

The Growing Trend of Adult Orthodontics

Adult orthodontics is not just about aesthetics; it’s also about improving dental health and function. With advancements in orthodontic care, treatments are now more efficient and less noticeable, making them an attractive option for adults. This trend is supported by a wider societal acceptance of adult orthodontic treatment, encouraging more individuals to seek out solutions for their dental concerns later in life.

Selecting Discreet Orthodontic Treatments

For many adults, the idea of wearing metal braces can be a big turn-off. Discreet orthodontic options provide an alternative that fits into your lifestyle without compromising on effectiveness. These options allow adults to undergo treatment without feeling self-conscious, making it easier to commit to the process of achieving a healthier, more beautiful smile.

Tailored Orthodontic Strategies

At Dudley Smiles, every treatment plan is customized. Dr. Dudley considers your unique adult orthodontics needs and preferences to recommend the best orthodontic solution for you. This personalized approach ensures that each patient receives the most effective treatment, designed to fit not only their dental needs but also their lifestyle and personal preferences.

Top Discreet Orthodontic Choices for Adults

At Dudley Smiles, we’re proud to offer several discreet orthodontic options for adults. Each has its benefits, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your lifestyle and orthodontic needs. Whether you’re a busy professional, an active parent, or simply someone who values aesthetics, there’s an option that aligns with your needs and goals.

The Appeal of Clear Braces

Clear braces offer the effectiveness of traditional metal braces with a much less noticeable appearance. They’re an excellent option for adults who prefer a more subtle orthodontic solution. This choice is particularly appealing for those who wish to maintain a professional image at work or who are concerned about the visual impact of metal braces on their daily interactions.

The Flexibility of Clear Aligners

Invisalign and Spark Clear Aligners are a popular choice for adult orthodontics, offering the ultimate discretion with removable aligners. It’s ideal for adults looking for a flexible and nearly invisible treatment option. The ability to remove the aligners for special occasions, meals, and dental hygiene makes clear aligners a highly attractive option for many adults seeking orthodontic treatment.

Modern Metal Braces for Adults

While metal braces might not seem like the most discreet option, advancements in design have made them smaller and less noticeable. They’re a reliable choice for adults with complex orthodontic needs. For those requiring more significant dental corrections, modern metal braces offer a time-tested solution that can be customized with colored bands for a more personal touch. With that said, our metal braces don’t require colored bands if you don’t want them.

Why Choose Dudley Smiles

Choosing the right orthodontic practice is crucial for a successful treatment experience. Dudley Smiles offers advanced orthodontic care with a focus on comfort and discretion. Our commitment to utilizing the latest technologies and techniques ensures that every patient receives the highest standard of care.

Expertise and Personalized Care

Our team of orthodontists brings a wealth of experience and a personalized approach to each patient’s treatment plan, ensuring the best possible outcomes. Dr. Dudley and the team’s dedication to excellence and patient satisfaction makes Dudley Smiles the preferred choice for adult orthodontics.

Leveraging Advanced Orthodontic Technologies

We utilize the latest in orthodontic technology and techniques to provide efficient, effective, and comfortable treatment options for our adult patients. This commitment to innovation allows us to offer cutting-edge treatments that reduce discomfort and treatment time.

Dedicated to Your Comfort

Our practice is dedicated to making your orthodontic experience as comfortable and convenient as possible, from the initial consultation to the final reveal of your new smile. Dudley Smiles understands the unique concerns and needs of adult patients, ensuring a treatment journey that respects your time and lifestyle.

Deciding on Adult Orthodontics

Deciding to undergo orthodontic treatment as an adult is a great step towards improving your oral health and achieving the smile you’ve always wanted. Dudley Smiles is here to support you every step of the way, from the initial consultation to the moment you see your new smile for the first time.

Personalized Consultation and Treatment Planning

Your orthodontic journey begins with a detailed consultation, where we discuss your goals and explore the most suitable discreet orthodontic options for you. This initial meeting is crucial for setting the stage for a successful treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and desires.

Starting Your Orthodontic Journey

Once you’ve worked together with Dr. Dudley to find the perfect treatment for you, they’ll lay out a detailed treatment plan for you to follow, and your journey to a lifetime of happy, healthy smiles can get started! This collaborative approach ensures that you are fully informed and comfortable with your treatment plan, every step of the way.

Call Today!

Dudley Smiles is your Issaquah resource for leading orthodontic care, and we want to give you and your family the smiles of your dreams! We hope we’ve given you an idea of some of the most discreet orthodontic treatments available, but if you have any questions, we’re just a phone call away! 

Taking the first step toward orthodontic treatment can be intimidating, but Dudley Smiles ensures you feel confident before starting. We strive to educate our patients on the behind-the-scenes work that goes into braces, such as how they straighten your teeth. Our team will explain how each component functions to help you achieve your smile goals, our treatment options, and average expected costs.

Understanding the Role of Each Brace Element

Braces comprise multiple components that work together to achieve your smile goals. This powerful appliance works effectively thanks to Dr. Dudley‘s expertise. Let’s cover each piece and how they shift your teeth into place. 

Brackets

Brackets are small square components placed on the front of teeth. They anchor other pieces and ensure the right amount of pressure is applied in the right places.

Glue

To ensure your brackets stay in place throughout treatment, a special bonding cement is used to glue them on the front of your teeth. After getting them placed, it may feel as though they are permanently stuck, but this adhesive is made to be removed with the right tools. 

Elastics

Typically used for those with bite issues or whose teeth need an extra push in the right direction, elastics are attached to the hooks of your brackets. They are made of different sizes and strengths to match each patient’s unique case.

Archwire

Completing the bulk of alignment work, the archwire is weaved through each bracket on your teeth to apply gentle, calculated pressure across your mouth. It may be adjusted or tightened during follow-up appointments to ensure your teeth are pushed in the correct direction.

Additional Components

The above pieces are standard for traditional braces and are used in every treatment plan. Some components, such as orthodontic bands, are only used as necessary. Orthodontic bands are stainless steel rings glued onto molars, providing an extra anchor for elastics and other parts. 

Spacers are small rings that are placed between teeth to create extra space in cases of crowding. Also known as separators, they are typically utilized before bands so there is enough room to place the former. 

Lastly, ligatures attach the archwire to your brackets. They come in dozens of bold and muted colors to match your aesthetic preferences. Some brace appliances do not require them, but Dr. Dudley will let you know which of your choices do.

An Overview of Braces

As mentioned, each element that composes your braces is essential in helping you achieve your smile goals. This appliance can resolve many oral issues, including malocclusion, crowding, spacing, and bite complications. 

Many believe that braces are all about making your smile look nice. While this is an excellent treatment benefit, straightening your teeth can also support your general health, like assisting with digestion, jaw or neck pain, and migraines.

How Do They Straighten Teeth?

As each component works together, constant slight pressure is placed on your teeth and gums over a long period to help them reach their ideal alignment. The soft tissue surrounding your teeth is altered as they move and adjust to a new position to protect your oral health. Your teeth move with or without an appliance, so we use braces to guide them along the right path. 

Using the Latest Technology in Placement

Dudley Smiles prioritizes staying abreast of the latest orthodontic technology to provide patients with the most effective and efficient treatment methods. We use the iTero element scanner to create a detailed 3D model of each patient’s teeth to help us determine the best placement and make custom appliances. Our practice also uses diode laser treatment and mini implants to help speed up tooth movement and treatment times.

Our Treatment Options

Metal Braces

Metal braces are likely what you imagine when you think of braces. They have been around for years and remain a reliable treatment option for countless orthodontic patients yearly. This now-modern appliance uses sleeker brackets and slimmer wires to help you avoid irritation inside your mouth throughout treatment. 

Thanks to advancements in the field, metal braces can fix any oral issue, no matter how complex. They tend to be cost-effective because they don’t use the same advanced equipment as other appliances.

Clear Braces

For those interested in a less conspicuous appearance throughout treatment, clear braces are a nearly invisible appliance that many older teens and adults opt for. They use tooth-colored brackets and other components to blend in with your smile so you can confidently show off your teeth’ progress. 

They use the same effective technology as their metal counterpart. Clear braces are also stain-resistant, allowing you to continue drinking your morning coffee or enjoying a glass of wine without worrying about your brackets changing colors.

Do They Hurt? 

Luckily, braces do not hurt! Our team does everything possible to ensure you feel comfortable during and after your appointments and provides the resources and tools you need to succeed. You may feel short-term discomfort as your teeth adjust to the presence of your appliance or after tightenings, but this will go away by itself over time.

Cost of Treatment

You can find the average prices of our braces appliances without insurance below:

Full treatment costs between $4,000 and $7,500. 

If you plan on using dental insurance to cover your orthodontic treatment’s full or partial cost, Dr. Dudley and our team will be happy to discuss its role. Our team strives to keep high-quality care an option for everyone in our community. We will walk you through a rundown of expenses during your free consultation, so no surprises await you later.

Join the Dudley Smiles Family Today!

Dr. Dudley and our team’s top priority is your comfort throughout care and your confidence in the treatment you receive. Should any questions or concerns arise outside of an appointment, our front desk staff will ensure you get the answers you need. Dudley Smiles provides orthodontic services to Issaquah, WA, and the surrounding communities. Schedule your free consultation today and get started on your brand-new smile!

The time to start treatment is now! At Dudley Smiles, our team strives to offer the best orthodontic services to our community while providing a stress-free and fun experience. Before you understand what orthodontic issues you have, you may be wondering which orthodontic treatment you should get. We can answer your questions and help you begin care to get your smile journey started!

What to Consider When Making a Decision

Average Treatment Length

A common question from patients is how long treatment will last. We cannot provide a concrete answer until Dr. Dudley and our team can examine your teeth in person. However, patients typically continue orthodontic care for between one to three years. Some complete their plan sooner than others, depending on the complexity of your case. 

The length of your treatment depends upon a few factors – including your choice of appliance, the current condition of your oral health and teeth position, and the results you want to achieve. Dr. Dudley can give you a more exact time frame during your free consultation.

Lifestyle and Aesthetics

Considering how long treatment can take, one of our top priorities is ensuring you feel confident and happy with your appliance choice. As we initially consider the most effective treatment, we understand each of our patients has a different lifestyle, so our team will also listen to your aesthetic desires. 

Whether you are a student in middle school, a professional with a busy schedule, or a college student not always close to the office, Dr. Dudley will provide more insight as to which appliance may be most convenient as well as efficient and help you stay compliant to keep your plan on schedule.

Budget

Our team works hard to find a payment plan that fits your family’s budget to try and eliminate the stress that can come with thinking about the financial side of things. We strive to keep ourselves as an affordable care option for our community members so they can work toward the smile they deserve! 

Dudley Smiles accepts most major insurance plans in Washington and will happily file your claim for you to help maximize your benefits. We can also use your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to help with the orthodontic expense. When you come in, our Dudley Smiles treatment coordinator will walk you through a full breakdown of costs so no surprises await you after beginning treatment.

Your Treatment Options

Clear Aligners

You can straighten your teeth without anyone even noticing with Spark or Invisalign clear aligners. Clear aligners provide an advanced treatment that delivers stunning results with the help of a series of custom-fitted clear trays. These trays are replaced every week as your teeth shift into their position and move closer and closer to perfect alignment. No food restrictions come with clear aligners, as the trays are removed before eating. You will also be able to brush and floss as you normally do.

Patients must remain compliant throughout treatment, as the trays must be worn at least 22 hours per day for your plan to stay on schedule. Dr. Dudley will share if clear aligners is an effective option for you during your free consultation.

Metal Braces

The most recognizable sign of orthodontics is metal braces. Some adult patients may remember them as big and bulky, but thanks to advancements in the field, they are now smaller and more comfortable than ever. Metal braces are made up of brackets, wires, elastics, and other components and shift your teeth through slight constant pressure over a long period. 

They are great at fixing complex dental issues and can shorten your treatment time due to their effectiveness in closing gaps and aligning teeth. They are popular for teenage orthodontic treatment, as they are stronger than the ceramic braces – made out of medical-grade stainless steel. Because they do not use the same expensive equipment as clear aligners or ceramic braces, they remain a cost-effective option for patients looking to straighten their teeth within their budget.

Ceramic Braces

A hybrid alternative to the previous two appliances, clear ceramic braces are the perfect choice for those looking for the strength of metal braces and the aesthetic of Invisalign. They use small, clear, tooth-colored brackets that blend in with your teeth and provide a comfortable feel inside your mouth. Thanks to technological improvements, there’s no need to worry about staining them with coffee, chocolate, or similar dark liquids or foods. The ceramic braces we use are also custom 3-D printed, so they are tailored to your individual teeth.

Dr. Dudley’s Recommendation

When you begin your orthodontic consultation with Dr. Dudley, you will learn the details of any issues present and receive an expert recommendation FREE of charge. He and our team take digital pictures of your teeth, capture x-rays, and review your dental and general health history to understand how we can best help you out and improve your oral health.

This is also a great time to share any questions or concerns you have about your smile journey, aesthetic or lifestyle preferences you would like to have considered when making your decision, and any other accommodations. We take our time during this commitment-free appointment and will happily provide you with the answers you seek.

Why Pursue Orthodontic Care?

Straightened teeth improve their overall function and are a significant step in preserving them to last a lifetime. There are many other health benefits to going through the process as well, including easier oral care maintenance as we eliminate hard-to-reach spots in your mouth, improved speech patterns, and smooth digestion thanks to more effective chewing.

Undergoing orthodontic care can provide patients with a huge confidence boost! Being happy with your smile holds power over your mental health, so it is essential to our team that you are satisfied with your grin and are eager to show it off to the world. Your comfort and confidence are top priorities for us. We will work to ensure we match your needs throughout care.

Discover Your New Smile!

Orthodontic treatment is a life-changing experience; you can be next in line to achieve the smile you deserve! If you feel ready to begin treatment, don’t hesitate to schedule your free consultation with Dr. Dudley and our friendly team at our Issaquah practice to get started. We can’t wait to meet you!

As your time wearing braces comes to an end, you might start thinking about what happens next. Now it’s time to remove your braces so you can maintain your hard work and enjoy your results! Dudley Smiles is here to share what to expect when you get your braces off, covering the appliance removal appointment, the importance of a retainer, and how to adjust to life without braces.

What Happens When Your Braces Are Removed?

The first step involves clipping off the archwire and removing any additional appliance supports, such as elastics and orthodontic bands. Our team will then use special pliers to extract each bracket from your teeth. This step lasts the longest as we do so with care to avoid any pain.

From here, we remove glue residue left on your teeth by smoothing it out with a high-speed drill. This step may be comfortable for some, as drills are typically associated with in-depth dental work, but only we go as far as the surface to get the job done. We assure you this step will be done before you know it.

Your appliance is now completely removed! On the day of your appointment, our expert team will explain the entire process to you in more detail so you will know exactly what to expect and when each step of the way. You can expect it to last no more than an hour.

Will My Teeth Hurt After the Procedure?

Your teeth will need time to adjust to no longer having your appliance. The slight pressure they received for over a year is gone, so you will likely feel soreness as your teeth settle into place and transition into their new alignment. The procedure itself is painless. We do our best to ensure you feel comfortable, taking short breaks and checking how you are doing. 

If you feel uneasy or nervous during the procedure, please let our team know as soon as possible so we can pause and give you a break. 

How to Care for Your Teeth

Oral Hygiene Upkeep

One of the most essential steps in maintaining long-term oral health is maintaining a routine of oral hygiene practices. These include brushing and flossing your teeth in the morning and at night, using mouthwash, and scraping your tongue to help support the process. Each of these steps gets rid of loose pieces of food between your teeth and removes built-up tartar and plaque.

Stay Hydrated

Water will become your new best friend! Water has many beneficial properties, including fluoride, which can be found in toothpaste and mouthwash. It works to prevent tooth decay and strengthen your enamel. Having a glass of water after a meal also helps to flush away lingering plaque or small particles of food left behind.  

Managing Pain Relief

As your teeth transition into this new phase of your oral health, you may feel some minor pain for the next few days. It will remedy itself naturally with time, but if it gets in the way of your everyday routine, you can do a few things to fix it. 

Swish your mouth with warm salt water. This will help eliminate any lingering harmful bacteria in your mouth, often the source of sore gums and teeth. You can also ask Dr. Dudley what over-the-counter pain medications he recommends for your symptoms.

Why Is Wearing a Retainer Important?

Just as your teeth have moved into the perfect alignment with the help of your braces, they can move back when left without support. That being said, Dudley Smiles provides each patient with retainers. Retainers are custom-made appliances that fit right atop your teeth and prevent them from moving out of the desired position.

You will receive a unique schedule on when to wear them during your follow-up, but Dr. Dudley typically suggests wearing them full-time for up to six months after removing your braces. After that, only during the nighttime is necessary. However, there is no harm in wearing your retainer longer than prescribed if you accidentally leave it in.

Types of Retainers

Fixed: Comprised of a thin, curved wire, this permanent appliance is bonded to the back of your front four to six teeth to prevent relapse into their original position. We don’t do these routinely, but do recommend them on a case-by-case basis.

Removable: Made of plastic, metal, or a combination, this custom-fit appliance can be removed, allowing flexibility and more straightforward oral hygiene. 

Some patients get a different kind of retainer for their bottom and top teeth, depending on their specific case. If you misplace or damage your retainer, please contact our office so we can offer you a replacement.

Adjusting to Life Without Braces

Calluses

As your mouth gets used to not having your braces attached, you may notice changes inside your mouth, such as calluses. These are small, hardened areas of skin in the mouth that typically form due to friction caused by wires or brackets. You may not notice them until after your appliance is removed, but rest assured, they will go away with time.

Eating May Feel Different

For over a year, you have been eating a soft-food diet. We recommend slowly transitioning back to crunchy and hard foods to allow your teeth to get used to the sensation again. They may also feel tender right after your appliance is removed, so take as much time as you need.

Discoloration

Once covered by brackets, your teeth can now be easily cleaned. Because they were covered for an extended period, you may see spotty yellow discoloration in certain areas. These will naturally disappear, but you can speed up the process with regular oral hygiene upkeep. If you still notice patchy areas, ask Dr. Dudley when you can consider teeth whitening after treatment. 

Time To Show Off Your Beautiful Smile!

Now that you understand more about what awaits you at the end of treatment, we hope you are as excited as we are! Dudley Smiles continues to be a source of support for you, even after treatment is complete. We proudly serve Issaquah and the surrounding communities with expert orthodontic services. Contact our office today, and our friendly team can schedule you for a free consultation!

If your teeth have become discolored or stained over the years due to dark food and drink, tooth trauma, or age, Dudley Smiles holds the tools and expertise to provide you with a brighter smile, thanks to Zoom Teeth Whitening! Our skilled team is ready to help patients with personalized care and tailor our services to your needs. Read on to learn more about our treatment options and how to maintain your new smile!

So, What is Zoom Teeth Whitening?

An effective cosmetic procedure, Zoom Teeth Whitening has the power to completely change the appearance of your teeth and make you feel great about your smile again. Many patients decide to whiten their teeth to improve the aesthetics of their smile and boost their confidence. If you feel uncomfortable smiling in front of others, consider this treatment your transformative solution!

When To Hold Off On Treatment

There are some instances in which you should wait on pursuing teeth whitening, including emerging cavities and gum disease. Dr. Dudley recommends addressing these common complications first to avoid unnecessary irritation. 

Recent dental work, including crowns, fillings, and veneers, also needs time to properly settle and heal before exposing your teeth to another procedure. We can discuss your eligibility during a free consultation or at your next appointment!

The Teeth Whitening Process

As mentioned, we offer two different Phillips Zoom in-office treatments, depending on your budget and the intensity of the whitening you are looking for.

Phillips Zoom Whitespeed

An affordable option for those looking to brighten their teeth, Phillips Zoom Whitespeed is a great choice when starting treatment or if are simply looking to touch up the work already done. Treatment only takes ten minutes, and you can expect your teeth to be four shades whiter in the next half hour! 

The process involves a simple, two-layer application. When you come into our office, we will take note of the current shade of your teeth and prep them and your gums for treatment with a quick cleaning. We then apply a thin layer of whitening varnish to each of your teeth. This layer dries almost instantly. The second layer shields your teeth from extra sensitivity with a protective sealant. 

Just like that, the treatment is complete! All you need to do is brush your teeth within a half hour after application to brush off the varnish.  

Phillips Zoom Quick Pro

Phillips Zoom Quick Pro paints your teeth up to eight shades brighter in just 45 minutes for even more dramatic results. This more comprehensive whitening process can eliminate old stains and discoloration.

We will begin with a quick cleaning of your teeth and apply a layer of whitening gel on your teeth. Shining our blue LED lamp on your teeth will help in expediting the process. This will be repeated three times throughout the treatment. Upon reaching the shade you want your teeth to be, Dr. Dudley will apply a special post-treatment gel to prevent your teeth from feeling sensitive.

In no time, you will see the results of treatment! You will get to bring a take-home whitening kit and customized whitening trays home so you can touch up your smile whenever you’d like. 

The Phillips Zoom Difference

Dudley Smiles is proud to provide our patients with a reputable dental care brand that continues to deliver stellar results. The comfort of quick treatment times in our office and the flexibility of offering take-home kits afterward help patients maintain their results at their convenience. 

With Zoom, you can expect noticeable results in just one visit and can even be added to the end of a follow-up appointment so you can benefit from this treatment in no time. Zoom’s unique formula keeps people with sensitive teeth in mind by working to proactively avoid irritation of gums and teeth. 

Maintaining Your Brand New Smile

Personal Oral Hygiene Upkeep

When you keep up with your general oral hygiene after a procedure, you are already making the right decisions to maintain your newly whitened smile. By brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day, specifically using a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste, your teeth are sure to stay in excellent condition for longer!

When you start to notice signs of staining, touch up your teeth with your take-home whitening kit as soon as you can before it starts to set in.

Drink Lots of Water

Water is an excellent natural tooth cleaner. If you cannot brush your teeth after a meal, don’t forget to swish it around in your mouth to prevent dark-staining food and drink items from lingering on your teeth for too long and making their way into the porous tooth enamel surface. You can also use a straw to avoid contact between teeth and staining substances.  

Prioritize Your Regular Cleanings

To keep your teeth healthy and white, attending your bi-annual dental cleanings as well as follow-up appointments with Dr. Dudley is essential. Both of your dental care teams will help you monitor your teeth and provide early diagnoses when we see something concerning. Our goal is to keep your grin in perfect condition!

Brighten Your Smile Today!

Whitening your teeth is your next step toward a healthy smile! Dr. Dudley and our team at Dudley Smiles strive to make treatment as efficient and effective as possible, no matter your goals. We proudly provide expert orthodontic services to Issaquah and the surrounding communities. Give our office a call today, and we can schedule your free consultation!

At Dudley Smiles, we get beginning braces treatment is a big decision, and understanding precisely the journey you are embarking on is very important! Our team can answer your big questions, such as how braces work. What treatments are available? And what does each little piece do? We are here to answer each of those questions and more!

What Are Braces and How Do They Operate?

This small but mighty appliance can fix various orthodontic issues, including malocclusion, bite complications, and crowded teeth. Dr. Dudley and our team of friendly professionals are committed to helping you through each phase of the process. 

Braces work in slow motion over the course of one to three years, putting small amounts of pressure on your teeth through the help of a wire and a set of brackets. During check-ins, we will keep track of your progress and make minor adjustments until you achieve a fantastic and functional smile.

Types of Treatment

Metal Braces

The most traditional sign of orthodontics, metal braces advance each year and provide reliable treatment for any dental issue you present. No longer the bulky and uncomfortable appliances it was, these are as light and sleek as they come. Our high-quality stainless steel can withstand everyday wear and tear, so you don’t have to worry about metal braces falling out of place or breaking on you.

Clear Braces 

A perfect option for older teens and adults, clear braces offer an aesthetic treatment option that combines the reliability of metal braces with the discreet illusion of a nearly invisible appliance. The brackets match the color of your teeth, allowing them to blend in with your smile so you can wear them with no change to your confidence. They are even stain-resistant, allowing you to continue drinking dark liquids like coffee, tea, and wine without issue.

What Are The Phases of Braces Treatment?

Level and Align

To begin your treatment, Dudley Smiles focuses on the best level and general alignment for your teeth. Our team works to have them all sitting right next to each other by placing pressure in each necessary direction to create a solid foundation for the next phase.

Bite Adjustments

Once your teeth are generally aligned, Dr. Dudley will work on bite adjustments. Depending on your case, this step may take longer for some than others. You can expect to have any overbite, underbite, crossbite, or gapped teeth issues solved during this phase and see notable changes.

Fine-Tuning

Towards the latter half of treatment, Dr. Dudley will fine-tune specific teeth so your smile will be as best aligned as possible. He puts his orthodontic expertise to work by making minute adjustments to your appliance or wires.

How To Upkeep Your Braces 

Eating Habits

As durable as your appliance is, our team stresses the importance of staying away from sticky or crunchy foods while wearing braces to not put unnecessary pressure on them. Saying no to foods such as gummies, hard candies, nuts, and hard crackers will help prolong the life of your braces. This is a great time to try new foods you would have otherwise passed up!

Protection From Mouthguards

To keep your teeth safe throughout treatment, we recommend sports players wear mouthguards while in action. They can absorb the blow of any fall or injury you may suffer, so your teeth can stay protected. We hope you stay safe from harm, but if you experience an accident, check on your teeth and braces immediately in case of a loosened tooth or broken appliance. Both are fixable with timely action.

Keeping Up With Oral Health

Dr. Dudley can answer any questions that may arise when it comes to the best way to brush or floss your teeth with braces on. It can be tricky to reach every corner with a bracket or wire in the way, but it is vital you ensure you keep your teeth clean from plaque or pieces of food nudged under part of your appliance. Spending extra time caring for your teeth in the morning and night pays off at the end of treatment.

The Components That Build Your Appliance

Brackets

Placed on the front surface of each tooth, brackets are small square structures that anchor the archwire along with other components as they work to shift your teeth into place.

Archwire

One of the most essential features of your braces, the archwire, is what is interweaved with your brackets and, in turn, places measured pressure on all of your teeth to create a straight smile.

Glue

Glue, or bonding cement, is used to attach your brackets to the front surface of your teeth. Trying to loosen a bracket may feel impossible by hand, but rest assured, the glue is made to easily come off of your teeth when using the right orthodontic tools.

Spacers

Spacers take the form of tiny elastic rings that fit between your teeth and create even spacing. They are typically used in back molars when crowded teeth need to make space for a metal band to be comfortably placed over them.

Metal Bands

Bands anchor your archwire in place to keep it from shifting around so that your teeth don’t start to move in the wrong direction. It is placed comfortably on your back molars so you cannot feel it. We usually use these on molars if the patient has a crown or if they need something extra, like an expander.

Rubber Bands

The archwire applies much of the pressure required in realignment, but sometimes, teeth need an extra push in the right direction. In this case, rubber bands do just that by attaching to the hooks on your upper and lower brackets. 

Let Us Help You Navigate Braces Treatment!

Serving Issaquah and the surrounding community with high-quality orthodontic care is what we do best! Let our team and your braces do the job of improving your smile and reap the benefits. Whether you are searching for a free consultation or would like more questions answered about the next steps, feel free to call us, and we will be happy to walk you through things.

Here at Dudley Smiles, we are proud to be a team that is passionate about what we do. Providing many options to improve upon their smile, we love to meet new patients and introduce them to the office that has become our family. Let us take a moment to share with you the team behind the magic of your straight smile and what you can expect from your first appointment!  

Meet Our Orthodontist

Education

After attending Pepperdine University for his undergraduate degree, Dr. Dudley continued on to the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry for his Doctorate of Dental Surgery. He completed his special orthodontic training at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine, earning an Orthodontic Certificate and Master of Science in Dentistry. 

Upon graduation from the University of Colorado, he moved with his wife back to the Pacific Northwest. He has been a private practice orthodontist since 2012. 

A native of Mercer Island, he now lives with his wife and three children in the nearby city of Sammamish.

Dr. Dudley’s Dedication to His Patients

Dr. Dudley believes that orthodontic treatment can be embraced at any age, allowing a fresh start for your smile whenever you are ready to begin. He has seen his patient’s quality of life and confidence improve over their series of visits with him and our team. He credits his own orthodontist with changing his life for the better at an early age and hopes to share that same positivity with his patients!

Dr. Dudley’s Role In Providing For Your Health

The Job of an Orthodontist

An orthodontist is an oral healthcare provider specializing in the correction of teeth and jaw alignment. Aided by our fantastic team of experts, Dr. Dudley relies on our orthodontic assistants, patient and treatment coordinators, receptionists, and financial coordinators. They help keep the office running as smoothly as it does, as we all help to provide the best care to our patients.

Common orthodontic services we provide at Dudley Smiles include metal and ceramic braces as well as clear aligners, such as Spark & Invisalign! Our goal is to help you feel more confident in your smile through high-quality treatment plans and expert care. With Dudley Smiles, you have multiple options to straighten your smile successfully.

Start Your New Smile With Dudley Smiles!

At Dudley Smiles, our biggest hope is you walk out of the office with more self-confidence than when you first came. We are always eager to help you begin your orthodontic journey to a new smile! Call our Issaquah office today at 425-321-2926 for a consultation free of charge!
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Do you think your child might need braces, but you’re unsure when the best time to begin treatment is? Do you want treatment for yourself but are worried you’ve missed the acceptable time frame for braces? Well, we’ve got good news for you! Dr. Dudley’s dedication to mastering different treatment options means that he has the ability to treat patients of all ages, from seven to 77 and beyond, at Dudley Smiles! But when’s the best age to get braces? Keep reading to find out!

Braces 101

Braces are like tiny train tracks for your teeth. They’re made up of little stations called brackets connected by a railway line known as the wire. Those colorful or tooth-colored bands you see on each bracket are the elastics that hold everything together like magic! 

Braces work by guiding your teeth to their perfect spots, giving you that dreamy smile. Though the idea of braces has been around for ages, today’s versions are super cool, comfier, and oh-so-effective. 

Dudley Smiles proudly offers their Issaquah community modern metal braces, aesthetic clear braces, and removable braces with Invisalign!

Why Do People Get Braces?

Ever wonder why people rock shiny metal smiles? Braces aren’t just a fashion statement! They’re all about creating perfect harmony in the mouth. Some people have teeth that love to crowd together like fans at a concert, while others have gaps for a dance floor. Then there are those whose teeth prefer to face away from the stage, crooked and turned. Braces are the ultimate organizer, helping teeth work together perfectly. The result is a fabulous show-stopping smile that helps with chewing, speaking, and oral health. 

When’s The Best Age To Get Braces?

There’s no best age to get braces. Everyone’s orthodontic journey is different, and your readiness depends on my factors, not just your age. First and foremost, individual dental needs matter. Some kids might have issues best addressed early, while others can wait longer to begin treatment. Family history plays a role too. If you or your significant other needed braces as a young child, there’s a chance your kiddo might follow suit. Then there’s the matter of growth. Everyone grows at their own pace; sometimes, the jaw or teeth might need a little extra time before starting orthodontic treatment.

With that said, different age groups have distinct advantages. Let’s check them out now.

Early Treatment

Starting orthodontic treatment at a younger age lays the groundwork for a lifetime of radiant smiles. Young gums and bones are like soft clay, eager to be shaped. This flexibility allows Dr. Dudley to spot and address sneaky teeth or jaw issues before they become more challenging.

Early treatment can also streamline later treatments, making them quicker and smoother. It’s like prepping the canvas before painting a masterpiece, ensuring every stroke (or tooth!) falls perfectly in place.

We recommend your child receive their first smile assessment at age seven, but not all children who need braces will start care so young. Some might be able to wait until their teen years. Those that do need treatment will likely receive treatment in two phases. To learn more about the two-phase treatment, click here!

Teenagers

Ah, the early teen years! A time of funky hairstyles, discovering your favorite bands, and…braces? You bet! The teen years are the most common age range to get braces because the mouth is still growing and evolving during, making it an ideal time to guide those rebellious teeth into their rightful places.

The decisions and actions taken during the teenage years can set the stage for adulthood. By addressing orthodontic concerns now, teens can enter their adult years with a healthy, beautiful smile, reducing the need for further, more invasive treatments down the line.

Adults

More and more adults are hopping on the braces train, proving it’s never too late to chase that dream smile. Whether you missed the orthodontic train in your younger years or your teeth shifted later in life, there’s no age limit to straightening things out.

Now, you might be thinking, “Braces at my age? Really?” Absolutely! With today’s orthodontic wonders, adults don’t have to settle for the traditional metal look! Sleek options, like our clear braces and Invisalign, are discreet enough to go unnoticed during those board meetings or date nights.

Build Your Personalized Treatment Plan With Dudley Smiles!

Every smile is different, so every treatment plan we produce is, too! What works for one patient might not work for another, so we create personalized treatment plans for all our patients.

Discover your or your children’s tailored orthodontic journey at a free consultation with Dr. Dudley at Dudley Smiles! Remember: Orthodontic treatment is about more than a straight smile. It’s about investing in a healthier, more confident you. 

We can’t wait to work with you! See you soon!

Today at Dudley Smiles, we want to tell you all about the two-phase treatment. This specialized orthodontic approach can set the stage for a lifetime of beautiful smiles. Let’s dive into understanding this treatment, its benefits, and how it could be the key to gifting your child a confident, radiant smile.

What Is Two-Phase Treatment?

The treatment is appropriately named “two-phase” because it consists of two distinct stages. 

Phase One, also known as the early treatment, typically begins while a child still has most of their baby teeth. This phase aims to correct any significant problems affecting the jaw’s growth and development, ensuring enough space for the permanent teeth to come in straight. 

Phase Two starts a few years later once all the permanent teeth have erupted, typically around the early teenage years. This phase involves placing full upper and lower braces to perfect the tooth alignment and bite.

It’s important to note that not every child or orthodontic issue requires two-phase treatment. But if recommended, it can set the stage for a lifetime of beautiful smiles.

Does My Child Need Two-Phase Treatment?

Two-phase treatment is reserved for children who start orthodontic care between the ages of seven and ten. In fact, for best results, the American Association of Orthodontics encourages parents and guardians to bring children to their first orthodontic appointment by age seven. Why are younger children the best candidates for two-phase treatment? Because this is a time of significant growth and development, making it an ideal window to address specific orthodontic issues. However, it’s important to remember that every child is unique, and the need for two-phase treatment depends on their unique bite needs.

What types of orthodontic issues need to be addressed by two-phase orthodontic treatment? The answer includes a wide range of conditions. For instance, two-phase treatment could be beneficial if your child has an underbite, crossbite, overcrowding, or spacing issues. It’s also helpful in correcting harmful oral habits that can affect the jaw’s development, like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting. Other red flags you might notice in your child are speech impediments, protruding front teeth, or teeth that don’t come together correctly when your child closes their upper and lower jaws.

Dr. Dudley can help you determine if your child qualifies for orthodontic care and will create a treatment plan for your child if necessary.

The Benefits of Two-Phase Treatment

There are a few potential benefits. Let’s check some common ones out.

• Improved Facial Symmetry: One of the benefits of two-phase treatment is its ability to guide the jaw’s growth, leading to improved facial symmetry. This transformation enhances your child’s natural beauty and ensures proper jaw function.

• Prevention of More Serious Problems: Early intervention with two-phase treatment can prevent more serious orthodontic issues. By addressing potential problems early, we can save your child from needing more invasive treatments like surgery in the future.

• Reduced Treatment Time in the Second Phase: Because we tackle significant issues in phase one, your child can finish phase two quicker than if they had skipped phase one. Faster overall treatment time means less time wearing braces during those crucial teenage years.

• Increased Effectiveness of Treatment: Two-phase treatment can make the second phase more effective. Braces or aligners can do their job more efficiently with major issues already corrected in phase one, so your child will not be as uncomfortable in phase two.

• Prevention of Tooth Extractions: By guiding the jaw’s growth and aligning the teeth early, two-phase treatment can often prevent the need for tooth extractions. That’s a win for everyone!

• Improved Oral Health: Correcting alignment issues early on in life can make it easier for your child to develop and maintain good oral hygiene, improving their oral health and setting the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

• Boost in Self-Esteem: Last but certainly not least, having straighter, healthier teeth and a more balanced facial appearance can give your child a significant boost in self-esteem that makes it easier for them to connect with others and feel confident in their abilities throughout their life.

These are just some benefits you and your child can look forward to! 

Visit Dudley Smiles For More Information!

Choosing an orthodontist for your child’s two-phase treatment is a decision you shouldn’t take lightly. You should be picky when choosing an orthodontist for your child. You want someone like Dr. Dudley, with the expertise, experience, and genuine commitment to patient care necessary for a pleasant treatment journey and stunning results.
Schedule a free consultation at our Issaquah office to get your child’s initial assessment! We’d love to assist you in forming your child’s treatment plan!

Transitioning into orthodontic treatment can be confusing and intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! Looking for answers online can be exhausting and frustrating, especially when some orthodontists have differing opinions! We always suggest our current and new patients go straight to the source—Dudley Smiles! That’s why we have compiled some orthodontic FAQs in one spot for easy referencing and quick answers to common inquiries.  

What Is The Best Age For Treatment?

Despite being commonly associated with teenagers, orthodontic work is actually for people of all ages! 

The American Association Of Orthodontists encourages children to be examined by an orthodontist before age seven. Though most children will not need to start care so young, and some might not even need to start at all, it is best to have them examined early so potential problems can be found and dealt with early. The earlier we catch them, the easier they are to improve! Orthodontic work is often easier to perform on children because their bones have not solidified yet, saving your child time, money, and discomfort when they are older.

But don’t let that discourage you from considering care when you’re older. It might take a little longer or different treatment methods, but you’re still a qualifiable candidate as an adult! You’re never too old to invest in your smile! 

Everyone deserves a beautiful, functional smile they are proud of, regardless of age, and Dudley Smiles has you covered.

How Can Orthodontics Benefit You?

There are many reasons someone would want or need orthodontic treatment, but in summary, orthodontic care can significantly improve your overall quality of life! 

Physical Health

Did you know that improper placement of the teeth and jaw can also lead to health complications? Malocclusion can complicate oral hygiene, and a misaligned jaw can make chewing challenging. If left untreated, this could cause tooth decay, dry mouth, choking, heartburn, gum disease, and more. 

These conditions can create discomfort or pain. Improper jaw alignment can also cause pain in the TMJ joint, which can become permanent if not dealt with.

Mental Health

Did you also know that crooked teeth can lower your self-esteem and be seen as aesthetically unappealing to some people? This unfavorable perception can negatively impact your chances of getting a job, having second dates, and making friends. Those with misalignments are more likely to suffer from loneliness, depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues than those with straight teeth.

Orthodontic treatment can address both health and cosmetic concerns, allowing you to like what you see in the mirror and spend less time in front of it trying to improve it.

Do Braces Restrict Your Diet?

Technically yes…and no! It all depends on the kind of braces you have!

Those with removable braces do not need to change their diets since they must remove their clear aligners for eating and drinking. However, to maintain the transparency of their aligners for as long as possible, we suggest avoiding products that can stain your teeth, like coffee, tea, wine, or tomato-based items. The residue it leaves behind on your teeth can transfer to your trays and produce discoloration, making them more visible to others. Still, we don’t require Invisalign patients to change their diets because the trays are changed every two weeks. So, even if the trays become stained, you will have a new set to wear shortly!

On the other hand, if you have fixed braces, like our metal option, you will be required to change your diet to protect your oral health and the excellent condition of your braces. The wrong kinds of food can get stuck in and break your braces, so watching what you eat is critical! Unapproved food can also make oral hygiene a frustrating challenge if you cannot thoroughly clean your mouth. Like Invisalign patients, clear braces patients are encouraged to avoid staining food and drink, but again, it’s unnecessary. We swap out your clear ligatures every six to eight weeks.

Do Braces Hurt?

Again, the answer is yes and no! Wait, don’t click away! Let us explain! Your braces can be uncomfortable, but they should not hurt!

New braces, whether removable or fixed, can cause some irritation as your mouth adjusts to the foreign object in the mouth. It can pinch and poke at your cheeks, but you can relieve this with Orajel or orthodontic wax. After every wire adjustment appointment or putting in a new aligner for the first time, you will have a similar tenderness. Any swelling and soreness you get from this can be treated with ice packs or over-the-counter pain medications.

But your braces should not hurt! Unless you have experienced a trauma or injury, your braces are broken, or they are ill-fitting, you should be fine. If your braces are causing you real pain that surpasses discomfort, please contact Dudley Smiles immediately so we can find and fix the issue!

Are Retainers Necessary?

You bet! They are crucial to the orthodontic process. During active treatment, your mouth becomes moldable like clay because your bones are breaking down and reabsorbing. This action, known as remodeling, is how we are able to move your teeth! When active treatment is over, and we finish your braces phase, your mouth is still (metaphorically) “soft and squishy,”  and your teeth still can move around. And they will take advantage of that! Your teeth have excellent memories and prefer their original locations to the new ones. They will try to return “home.” That’s what your retainer is for! It holds your teeth in place as the mouth solidifies and adapts to its new layout.

At first, you may need to wear your retainer 24/7, except for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene. At times, some patients can wear start retainer wear just at night. Over time Dr. Dudley will slowly reduce the amount you need to wear it. (Patients with fixed retainers need to speak to our orthodontist team about the duration of use.)

Have More Questions? Visit Dudley Smiles! We Have The Answers!

Orthodontic care can be life-changing, and we encourage all to consider it if you ever think you need it. To find out which treatments you qualify for, schedule a free consultation with us!

If you are not quite ready to start care yet, contact our Issaquah office to get answers to your questions.
Click here to see more orthodontic FAQs!