by Eric Pulizzano | Aug 27, 2026 | Blog
Key TakeawaysWear retainers consistently after braces or aligners, starting with full-time wear for the first few months, then nighttime-only after three months, as teeth can shift without retention even years after treatment.Choose between three main retainer types:...
by Eric Pulizzano | Aug 27, 2026 | Blog
Key TakeawaysDigital smile planning creates a preview of your future smile by analyzing your entire face, not just teeth alone, considering how teeth relate to lips, facial structure, and expressions in photos.Research shows patients using 3D digital simulations rate...
by Eric Pulizzano | Aug 27, 2026 | Blog
Key TakeawaysWear your retainer full-time for the first few months after braces, then switch to nighttime-only wear long-term, as teeth can shift at any age due to natural bone changes and aging.Never force a retainer that feels tight or doesn't fit properly;...
by Eric Pulizzano | Aug 27, 2026 | Blog
Key TakeawaysSurgical acceleration methods (corticotomy, piezocision, micro-osteoperforations) show the strongest evidence for time savings, with studies reporting average treatment reduction of 7.07 months, but they involve minor surgery with potential swelling and...
by Eric Pulizzano | Aug 27, 2026 | Blog
Key TakeawaysCBCT scans should only be used when findings will change treatment planning, not routinely; digital intraoral scans are radiation-free alternatives for standard treatment planning.Orthodontists follow the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable)...
