What Sets Us Apart

LIVE LIFE SMILING

Relationships!

At Clawson Orthodontics you will be welcomed as part of our family the first time you walk through our door. We thoroughly enjoy getting to know our patients and form lasting relationships with them.

It is not uncommon for previous patients to come back just to say “hello” and catch up with the team.

Our top priorities

Our two top priorities are to make sure your experience with orthodontics is amazing and that we help you to achieve your best smile. We are here to make sure your orthodontic journey is as seamless and easy as possible.

We go out of our way to make sure we are utilizing the most up to date treatment techniques that are both patient friendly, efficient, and effective.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions Our Patients Ask During Their Courtesy Consultation

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities, such as misaligned teeth and jaws.

It is generally recommended that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. Early detection of orthodontic issues allows for timely intervention if necessary.

The duration of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the individual case. It can range from several months to a few years. The complexity of the issue, patient compliance, and the chosen treatment method can all influence the treatment duration.

Traditional metal braces, ceramic braces (tooth-colored braces), lingual braces (placed on the back of teeth), and clear aligners (such as Invisalign) are some of the common types of braces available today. Each type has its advantages and considerations.

The application of braces or adjustments may cause temporary discomfort or soreness. However, this discomfort is usually manageable and fades over time as the mouth adjusts to the braces. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used if needed.

Orthodontic visits typically occur every 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the treatment plan. These visits allow the orthodontist to monitor progress, make adjustments, and ensure that the treatment is progressing as planned.

Absolutely! Orthodontic treatment is not limited to children and teenagers. Many adults choose to undergo orthodontic treatment to improve their smiles and correct bite issues.

Retainers are one of the most important parts of treatment. There are several different types of retainers including removable (clear and acrylic) and fixed wire retainers. We will recommend which option is best for each patient.

While wearing braces, it is advisable to avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods that can damage or dislodge the brackets or wires. Your orthodontist will provide a list of foods to avoid and offer dietary guidelines during treatment.

It is especially important to be brushing properly while in braces. Teeth need to be brushed after each meal for 2 minutes. We recommend using a soft bristled brush (electric or manual) and a toothpaste with fluoride. Brush all surfaces of your teeth using a small, gentle, circular motion. It is important to angle your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to your gum line which is a place that plaque often accumulates. You should also be brushing around your braces or appliance to remove any plaque and food that may become stuck.

Flossing should be done on a daily basis. We recommend using a floss threader to weave the floss underneath the wire and get between the teeth. This process takes time initially but cannot be skipped. The more you do it the quicker you will become. Another nice adjunctive to flossing is a waterpik which can be used in addition to flossing to help keep the mouth clean and remove any food debris.

It is normal for your teeth to feel a little sore after getting braces or aligners. Do not worry this will not last forever! This discomfort will typically start a few hours after starting treatment. There are several things you can do to help get through this period:
Eat softer foods the first few days and take smaller bites. A warm saltwater rinse (rinse and spit out) can also help to alleviate some discomfort. If it is more than mild discomfort an OTC pain reliever such as Tylenol or Ibuprofen can be used.
It is also possible that your lips and cheek may become irritated from the braces. We provide wax for all our patients so that it can be placed on the bracket near the area of irritation. Please call our office if you have any questions and we will help you out!

Treatments we offer

Metal Braces

Lightforce

Spark Clear Aligners

Custom Aligners

Early Orthodontics

Adult Orthodontics