The Connection Between Oral Posture and Your Orthodontic Results
Alexis Kruse Alexis Kruse

The Connection Between Oral Posture and Your Orthodontic Results

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.

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How to Keep Your Teeth Clean with Braces
Alexis Kruse Alexis Kruse

How to Keep Your Teeth Clean with Braces

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.

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Can Orthodontics Help With Snoring or Sleep Apnea?
Alexis Kruse Alexis Kruse

Can Orthodontics Help With Snoring or Sleep Apnea?

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.

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Why Retainers Matter—And What Happens If You Don’t Wear Yours
Alexis Kruse Alexis Kruse

Why Retainers Matter—And What Happens If You Don’t Wear Yours

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.

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Mouthguards Matter: Protecting Smiles with Braces During Sports
Alexis Kruse Alexis Kruse

Mouthguards Matter: Protecting Smiles with Braces During Sports

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.

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What’s the Difference Between Phase 1 and Phase 2 Orthodontic Treatment?
Alexis Kruse Alexis Kruse

What’s the Difference Between Phase 1 and Phase 2 Orthodontic Treatment?

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.

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Do Wisdom Teeth Affect Braces? What You Need to Know
Alexis Kruse Alexis Kruse

Do Wisdom Teeth Affect Braces? What You Need to Know

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.


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Things Only People With Braces Understand
Alexis Kruse Alexis Kruse

Things Only People With Braces Understand

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.

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Why Baby Teeth Matter for Future Braces
Alexis Kruse Alexis Kruse

Why Baby Teeth Matter for Future Braces

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.

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Common Reasons Orthodontic Treatment Might Be Right for You
Alexis Kruse Alexis Kruse

Common Reasons Orthodontic Treatment Might Be Right for You

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.

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