Orthodontics

Why Oral Hygiene Matters During Orthodontic Treatment Keeping your teeth clean during orthodontic treatment is one of the most important parts of protecting your smile. Brackets and wires create extra spaces where plaque and food particles can collect, making daily oral hygiene even more important for patients with braces. How to Brush Your Teeth With…

Orthodontic Treatment Isn’t Just for Kids Many adults assume they missed their opportunity for orthodontic treatment—but that’s simply not true. Today, more adults than ever are choosing braces and clear aligners to improve their smiles, confidence, and long-term oral health. For patients in Midlothian and Richmond, VA, adult orthodontic treatment has become more comfortable, discreet,…

Do You Need a Referral to Visit an Orthodontist? Many people assume they need a dentist referral before scheduling an orthodontic consultation—but that’s not always the case. At Dabney Orthodontics, patients throughout Midlothian and Richmond, VA can schedule consultations directly without a referral. Can You Book an Orthodontic Consultation Yourself? Yes. Whether you’re interested in…

How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment Usually Take? One of the first questions many patients ask is how long orthodontic treatment will take. The answer depends on several factors, including the complexity of your case, the type of treatment you choose, and how consistent you are throughout the process. For patients in Midlothian and Richmond, VA,…

Do Clear Aligners Hurt? If you’re considering clear aligners, it’s completely normal to wonder whether treatment will be uncomfortable. The good news is that most patients describe clear aligners as mild pressure rather than pain. For adults and teens in Midlothian and Richmond, VA, clear aligners are often considered more comfortable than traditional braces. Why…

Orthodontic Treatment Isn’t Just for Teens More adults than ever are choosing orthodontic treatment to improve their smiles—and clear aligners have made the process more convenient and discreet. For adults in Midlothian and Richmond, VA, clear aligners offer a flexible solution that fits into busy lifestyles. Why Adults Choose Clear Aligners Discreet Appearance One of…

What Counts as an Orthodontic Emergency? Orthodontic emergencies are more common than many patients realize—but most can be handled quickly and easily. If you have braces or clear aligners, knowing when to contact your orthodontist can help prevent discomfort and protect your treatment progress. Common Orthodontic Emergencies Broken Bracket A loose or broken bracket is…

What Foods Should You Avoid With Braces? Starting braces is exciting—but adjusting your eating habits is an important part of protecting your treatment. Certain foods can damage brackets and wires, leading to unnecessary repairs and longer treatment times. For patients in Midlothian and Richmond, VA, knowing what to avoid can help keep treatment on track.…

Why Wearing Your Retainer Matters After completing orthodontic treatment, your retainer plays a critical role in maintaining your results. Many patients assume their teeth will stay in place permanently—but without consistent retainer use, teeth can gradually shift over time. Do Teeth Really Move After Treatment? Yes—teeth naturally want to return to their original position. This…

When Should Your Child First See an Orthodontist? One of the most common questions parents ask is when their child should first visit an orthodontist. According to orthodontic guidelines, children should have their first orthodontic evaluation around age 7. For families in Midlothian and Richmond, VA, early evaluations help identify potential issues before they become…