One of the first questions patients ask when they get braces is, “How long will I have to wear these?” It’s a fair question — everyone looks forward to the day they get their braces off and see that new, confident smile. While most orthodontic treatments take about 18 to 24 months, the truth is that everyone’s timeline is different. Here’s what really determines how long you’ll be in braces — and what you can do to keep your treatment moving smoothly.

Braces are built to handle a lot — but they’re not indestructible. Every once in a while, a bracket might come loose or pop off, and while it’s not unusual, it’s definitely something you want to avoid if possible. Broken brackets can slow down your treatment and cause some unnecessary discomfort.

Here’s what typically causes brackets to break (and how to keep your smile on track).

Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year — costumes, parties, and of course, candy. But if you’re in orthodontic treatment, you might be wondering what’s safe to enjoy and what could turn your fun night into an unexpected trip to the orthodontist.

It’s a common question: “I only have one crooked tooth. Do I really need braces?”

The short answer? Maybe not full braces — but that one tooth might be telling you more than you think. Even a single misaligned tooth can affect your bite, confidence, and long-term oral health. Let’s look at why that happens (and what your options are).

October isn’t just about pumpkins and Halloween—it’s also Orthodontic Health Month! It’s the perfect time to learn more about how a healthy smile goes beyond looks and why orthodontic treatment can make such a difference in your life.

As parents, one of the first things we notice about our children is their smile. Sometimes, though, that smile might show teeth that are crowded together or spaced farther apart than expected. Naturally, this raises the question: does my child need braces?

Braces have been around for centuries—yes, centuries! Orthodontics dates back to ancient times, but the braces most people think of began taking shape in the early 20th century. If you (or your parents) remember the “metal mouth” days, you’ll be happy to know that orthodontics has come a long way since then.

When people think about orthodontics, they usually picture braces or clear aligners straightening teeth. But did you know that something as simple as how you hold your tongue, how you breathe, or how you swallow can actually affect your results? At Shine Ortho Studio, we take a big-picture approach because good oral posture can make a real difference in your smile—and how long it lasts.

Getting braces is an exciting step toward a healthier, more confident smile—but we know it comes with a learning curve, especially when it comes to keeping your teeth clean.

We’re excited to share some big news—Shine Ortho Studio has officially moved into a brand new space right here in Napoleon!

If you or your child snores regularly—or wakes up tired even after what should’ve been a full night’s sleep—you’re not alone. For many families, what seems like “just snoring” is actually something more serious. In some cases, it may be a sign of sleep apnea, a condition that causes repeated pauses in breathing while you sleep.

Didn’t get braces growing up? Stopped wearing your retainer years ago? You’re definitely not the only one. A lot of adults reach a point where they’re finally ready to invest in their smile, and the great news is, it’s absolutely doable.

Finishing orthodontic treatment is a big milestone. Whether you wore braces or clear aligners, seeing your new smile for the first time is a moment worth celebrating. But even after the brackets come off or your last aligner is done, your orthodontic journey isn’t over just yet—because now it’s time to protect the results. That’s where retainers come in.

Whether you’re hitting the soccer field, racing on a bike, or practicing your moves on a skateboard, sports are an important part of staying active and building confidence. But when you’re in orthodontic treatment—especially with braces or other appliances—protecting your smile becomes even more important.

When it comes to orthodontic care for kids, many parents are surprised to hear there may be two phases of treatment—not just one. If your child’s orthodontist has recommended Phase 1 and Phase 2 treatment, you might be wondering what that means and why it’s necessary. At Shine Ortho Studio, we believe that informed parents make the best decisions, so let’s break it down.

If you’ve had or are considering braces, you may be wondering what role your wisdom teeth play in orthodontic treatment. These late-blooming molars are known for causing issues—but are they a guaranteed problem for braces patients? Not necessarily.

Let’s clear up some common myths and explain how wisdom teeth and braces interact.

Getting braces is a big step toward a healthier, more confident smile—but let’s be honest, it comes with a few unique experiences that only fellow braces-wearers truly get. From the awkward first bites to the oddly satisfying moment when your teeth start to shift, here are some things only people with braces understand—and how to make the most of the journey.

When it comes to planning for braces, baby teeth might not seem like a big deal—after all, they fall out eventually, right? But those little teeth actually play a huge role in your child’s long-term dental health, including how their adult teeth come in and whether or not orthodontic treatment is needed later on.

When people think of braces, they often picture teens straightening their teeth for a better smile. But orthodontic treatment is about much more than appearance. In fact, many people—children, teens, and adults alike—can benefit from braces or aligners to improve their oral health, comfort, and confidence.

Keep your aligners clean, clear, and working effectively with these simple tips.