Archive for category: BRO News

Share this entry

Life with Braces or Aligners: School-Friendly Tips for Western NC Students

/by

Braces are part of growing up, worn by over half of children and teens. This procedure can improve dental health and create a gorgeous smile, but it takes some work. While basic dental routines seem simple from the comfort of home, things get a bit more complicated when you arrive at school. Between different foods and busy bathrooms, you may wonder how to follow your orthodontist’s recommendations.

The good news? A few minor adjustments can make a world of difference. Below, we’ll share all the secrets to navigating school life in Western North Carolina, all while keeping your braces and your teeth as clean and comfortable as possible.

Choosing the Right Lunch

Life with braces may require a few adjustments to your diet. You may be taking a break from taffy and popcorn, or you may need to cut your food into smaller pieces. These mealtime or snacktime routines might feel straightforward at home, where you have plenty of alternatives in the pantry. Still, braces don’t need to stand in the way of an enjoyable school lunch.

You’ll enjoy far more control over your lunchtime experience if you pack your own food. Skip the crunchy nut butters and difficult-to-chew apples, opting instead for grapes or pitas with hummus. Hot lunches add extra complications. There are only so many options available in the lunch line, after all, and they might not always work well with braces. When in doubt, stick with softer foods like spaghetti or grilled cheese sandwiches. If you have lunch after an adjustment, opt for cold foods that can help ease mild discomfort.

Cleaning Teeth at School

After lunch, you might notice food stuck in your teeth. What is the best time and place to remove/clean? Right after lunch, as you visit the school bathroom. It shouldn’t take long to clean your teeth, but you’ll need to pack the right supplies. Bring a travel kit, complete with a small toothbrush and toothpaste, plus braces-friendly floss or flossers.

If you feel awkward, try different bathrooms at different times of the day to get a feel for which are less busy so you can brush and floss in peace. You may be surprised to discover that many other students clean their teeth at school.

Taking Time Out for Orthodontic Appointments

The right mealtime and hygiene routines can set the stage for a successful braces journey, but orthodontic appointments are just as important. At times, these may be scheduled during the school day.

These daytime appointments shouldn’t have a huge impact on your school experience. Your Western NC orthodontist can provide a letter to explain the need for the visit, which, in most cases, will last just half an hour. Check with your teacher to discover what you missed and what you need to make up. It’s possible that you may experience a little discomfort after your appointment. This should fade away quickly, but, in the meantime, cool water may help.

Child and Teen-Friendly Care at Blue Ridge Orthodontics

Your braces adventure doesn’t have to be stressful. At Blue Ridge Orthodontics, we’re all about making kids and teens feel comfortable and confident. Serving Asheville, Brevard, and Hendersonville, we’re here to help you or your child score a beautiful and healthy smile. Call 828-537-5338 or fill out our contact form to learn more.

Share this entry

Your First Week with Invisalign: Tips for a Smooth Start

/by

You’re excited to show off your dream smile, and you think Invisalign will help you achieve it. Simple, discreet, and wonderfully convenient, Invisalign holds the secret to a straighter and healthier smile. First things first, which is to start with an initial consultation with Blue Ridge Orthodontics. We’ll use 3D computer imaging to create a precise scan — no messy impressions needed!

Next, you’ll receive your set of trays, which you can start wearing as soon as your orthodontist gives you the go-ahead. Week one with Invisalign will be a breeze. Still, it’s natural to feel nervous. We’ll walk you through all the essentials below so you can get your Invisalign journey off to a strong start. 

The Invisalign Learning Curve

Like anything new, it takes time to adjust to Invisalign. This learning curve includes both inserting and removing your aligners. This seems straightforward. In reality, aligners can feel a bit cumbersome when you’re not used to them. With practice, you’ll adjust. Soon, this will be a natural part of your daily routine, as straightforward as brushing and flossing your teeth. 

You may need to start brushing after every meal, rather than just twice a day. Aligners keep teeth enclosed, after all, so it’s easier for food particles to remain trapped against the teeth.

When you work with Blue Ridge Orthodontics, you can expect plenty of guidance. We will teach you how to put in (and take out) your aligners. We’ll also provide helpful oral hygiene suggestions.

 What does it feel like?

Aligners apply gentle pressure to your teeth, allowing them to straighten gradually. At first, this pressure may feel slightly uncomfortable. Some soreness is to be expected, but this should be temporary. Before you know it, this sensation will fade away. At no point during your Invisalign experience should you feel severe pain or discomfort.

Limit discomfort by eating soft foods for a few days, such as yogurt, oatmeal, or soup. If needed, you can also use an over-the-counter pain reliever. When in doubt, always ask your orthodontist for advice.

Another adjustment to expect is that speaking may seem difficult at first. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself lisping. You’ll adjust quickly, and any lisp should disappear after a few short days.

Embrace Invisalign at Blue Ridge Orthodontics

Discover a brand-new smile with help from Blue Ridge Orthodontics. We’re excited to introduce you to the wonders of Invisalign. As a VIP partner, we’ve been named one of the top one percent Invisalign providers, two years in a row!

Ready to begin your Invisalign journey in Asheville, Brevard, or Hendersonville? Contact the Blue Ridge team and get started today.

Share this entry

Can Teens Use Invisalign®? Here’s What Parents Need to Know

/by

Yes, teens can use Invisalign®—and for many, it’s a great choice. If your teen needs orthodontic treatment but doesn’t love the idea of metal braces, Invisalign® offers a more low-key, flexible option that still gets real results. It uses a set of clear, removable aligners to move teeth gradually into place, and it’s nearly invisible when worn. For teens who care about how they look in photos or don’t want braces to get in the way of sports, music, or everyday life, that can be a big deal.

But let’s be real: Invisalign® only works if you actually wear the aligners. They’re supposed to be in for 20 to 22 hours a day, which means taking them out only for eating, brushing, or quick breaks. If they’re constantly off, left in a backpack, forgotten on a lunch tray, or taken out for hours at a time, the treatment will drag on or won’t work as planned. It’s not just about starting the process, as it’s about sticking with it every day.

That’s where maturity and responsibility come in. Invisalign® gives more freedom than braces, but it also demands more self-discipline. If a teen tends to lose things or forget routines, it can be a challenge. Some orthodontists still offer optional wear indicators (small colored dots on the aligners that fade the more they’re worn), which can help track use, but ultimately, it comes down to honesty and consistency.

From a comfort perspective, most teens prefer Invisalign® over braces. Aligners are made from smooth plastic, so there are no wires poking your cheeks or brackets causing sores. And since you can take them out, eating is way easier, no banned snacks or worrying about popcorn at the movies.

It’s also worth noting that Invisalign® isn’t right for everyone. This process works best for mild to moderate alignment issues, like small gaps or slightly crooked teeth. For more complex cases, traditional braces may still be the better option. That’s why an orthodontic consult is important to figure out what will actually work.

Bottom line: teens can use Invisalign®, and many love the freedom and look it offers. But success depends on daily habits. If your teen is up for the responsibility, Invisalign® can be a smooth, discreet path to a better smile.

Share this entry

How Long Does Invisalign® Take? Timelines Explained by Experts

/by

Invisalign® offers a discreet way to straighten a patient’s teeth without the metal brackets and wires of traditional braces. Using clear, removable aligners, it gradually shifts teeth into alignment. A normal concern for patients considering this option is how long treatment will take. While the exact timeline depends on individual needs, a general range and outline several key factors that can influence how long it takes.

Most Invisalign® treatments can last, in general, between 14 and 20 months. For those with only minor issues like small gaps or mild crowding, results may be achieved in as little as six months. More involved cases, such as significant bite problems or major tooth rotation, can require up to two years or longer. Since every smile is unique, treatment plans are customized based on the complexity and goals of each case.

Several factors play a role in determining how long Invisalign® treatment takes:

  • Severity: Mild cosmetic corrections are typically faster to treat. More serious issues, including bite misalignment or multiple rotated teeth, usually require a longer timeframe.

  • Daily Wear Time: The aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. Skipping days or frequently removing them for extended periods can delay progress and extend the overall treatment period.

  • Age and Dental Health: The younger the patient is, can experience faster results due to more adaptable bone structure. Still, healthy gums and teeth are essential at any age for successful treatment.

  • Technology and Supervision: Advances in aligner materials and digital tracking have made Invisalign® more efficient. With tools like SmartTrack and virtual monitoring, patients may see more precise and sometimes faster results.

While treatment time matters, the focus should always be on achieving a stable, healthy, and well-aligned bite. Digital imaging and customized planning during the first consultation help provide a realistic estimate based on your specific case. Wearing aligners as instructed and attending regular checkups are essential for completing treatment on schedule.

Contact us at Blue Ridge Orthodontics today to set up your appointment.

Share this entry

Blue Ridge Diamond+ Invisalign Provider Status—What It Means for You

/by

Invisalign helps you achieve a more perfect smile by using the clear, removable aligners to straighten your teeth. They achieve the same results as braces while being nearly invisible and can be taken out for 2-4 hours a day, allowing you to eat the same foods and clean your teeth as you always did. Once you’ve decided on this advanced treatment, how do you find a dentist who excels at it?

What Is a Diamond+ Invisalign Provider?

This designation is awarded to a dental professional who has demonstrated a high level of experience and expertise in treating patients with Invisalign clear aligners. At Blue Ridge Orthodontics, we are the only practice in Western North Carolina to hold this distinction. This puts us in the top 1 percent of Invisalign providers in North America for the second consecutive year. This badge of honor signifies that we treat at least 800 Invisalign cases every 6 months at our convenient locations in Asheville, Brevard, and Hendersonville.

What Does It Mean for You?

This high volume of skill rewards you with many benefits:

  • Experience. Because we treat more patients, we can develop more expertise and a deeper understanding of dental challenges and potential solutions. You can come to us with confidence, knowing that we can address any issue that your particular case might present.
  • Advanced Innovations. As a Diamond+ Invisalign Provider, we regularly have access to the latest Invisalign innovations, which we use to improve our dental technology and techniques.
  • Proven Results. We can only reach this number of patients by continuously achieving successful outcomes that satisfy our patients’ needs. Our goal is to build a strong connection with you by empathizing with your feelings, explaining your treatment options, and doing what we can to make you feel relaxed and comfortable. Our processes practically ensure that your treatment outcome will be effective.

Why Choose Us?

The experienced, knowledgeable and friendly team at Blue Ridge Orthodontics emphasizes outstanding customer service as we deliver high-quality and professional orthodontic care. We use state-of-the-art treatment options, such as computer-designed dental appliances and iTero 3D scans with no radiation. We are excited to offer Invisalign as an alternative method of straightening your teeth that eliminates the need for braces.

We appreciate our patients’ trust through appreciation events, regular contests, and a patient rewards program that awards points for being on time for appointments, referring friends, and wearing dental appliances as instructed. To encourage dental positivity in kids, young patients can choose something from our prize box at each visit. We also care for our local community by contributing money and volunteering time to support charitable groups, school sports teams, and non-profit organizations.

How to Get Started

To experience Diamond+ Invisalign service in person, please contact us at Blue Ridge Orthodontics for a complimentary consultation. We’ll give you a complete oral exam with X-rays and tailor a custom plan for you.

Share this entry

What to Expect During Your Invisalign Treatment at Blue Ridge Orthodontics

/by

Starting Invisalign is an exciting step toward a straighter, more confident smile—but we get it, the process can feel a little mysterious at first. That’s why at Blue Ridge Orthodontics, we walk you through everything from day one. Whether you’re visiting our Asheville office or stopping in at our Brevard or Hendersonville locations, our team is here to make your Invisalign journey simple, supportive, and stress-free.

If you’re thinking about beginning treatment, here’s exactly what you can expect during your Invisalign experience at Blue Ridge Orthodontics.

Your Initial Invisalign Consultation

It all starts with a relaxed, informative consultation. When you walk into our office, you’re greeted by a friendly team that truly cares about your smile goals. We’ll chat about what Blue Ridge Orthodontics can do for you, discuss any concerns you have, and take a look at your teeth to determine if Invisalign is right for you.

One of the coolest parts of your first visit? We use a digital 3D scanner to create a super-accurate model of your smile—no messy impressions needed. This scan allows us to design a personalized treatment plan tailored just for you. Many patients love seeing a digital preview of how their teeth will shift over time. It’s like getting a sneak peek at your future smile.

If you decide to move forward, we’ll finalize your plan and place the order for your custom aligners.

Your First Set of Aligners

Once your aligners arrive (usually within a few weeks), we’ll bring you back in for your fitting. We’ll check the fit of your first trays and may place small, tooth-colored attachments on some of your teeth. These tiny bumps help your aligners apply just the right amount of pressure to move your teeth effectively.

Don’t worry—attachments are subtle and typically unnoticeable to others. We’ll also give you clear instructions on how to wear and care for your aligners. Most patients need to wear them 20 to 22 hours a day, only taking them out to eat, drink anything other than water, and brush or floss.

It might take a couple of days to adjust, but most people find their aligners surprisingly comfortable and easy to incorporate into their routine.

Living with Invisalign

Once you’re up and running, your Invisalign journey becomes part of your daily life. You’ll switch to a new set of aligners every week or two depending on your plan, and you’ll check in with us every 6 to 10 weeks for a quick progress appointment.

These check-ins are simple and efficient. Since there are no wires to tighten or brackets to adjust, most visits are quick—just enough time to make sure everything’s moving as it should and to hand off your next batch of aligners. And with Blue Ridge Orthodontics’s multiple office locations in Asheville, Brevard, and Hendersonville, you can choose the spot that’s most convenient for your lifestyle.

You’ll also have our team available by phone or text if you have questions between visits. Lost an aligner? Need tips for cleaning? We’ve got your back.

Finishing Strong: The Final Steps

As you near the end of your treatment, we’ll assess your results and decide if any refinement trays are needed to perfect your smile. These are pretty common and help make sure everything lines up just right.

Once your treatment is complete, it’s time to celebrate! We’ll take final photos of your new smile and provide custom retainers to help maintain your results. Wearing your retainer as directed (usually just at night) keeps your teeth looking amazing for years to come.

At Blue Ridge Orthodontics, your Invisalign journey doesn’t end when you take your last tray out—it ends with a confident smile and a team that’s cheering you on every step of the way.

Thinking about starting Invisalign? Schedule a free consultation with Blue Ridge Orthodontics in Asheville, Hendersonville, or Brevard. We’re ready to make your journey as clear and easy as your new aligners.

Share this entry
Share this entry

Whiter, Brighter, Happier: Unleash Your Confident Smile with Teeth Whitening

/by

A confident smile shines in any room. It’s a reflection of one’s self-esteem and often the first thing people notice. While many elements make a beautiful smile, the brightness and cleanliness of one’s teeth are essential. Over time, our teeth can lose their natural shine for various reasons. Fortunately, teeth whitening procedures can restore that radiant look.

Where Do Teeth Stains Come From?

Every day, our teeth get exposed to various substances that can discolor them. Food and drinks, such as coffee, tea, and berries, can stain the teeth’s surface. But beyond dietary choices, other factors like smoking, aging, certain medications, and even genetics can influence the color of our teeth.

Types of Teeth Stains

Stains on teeth are typically placed into two categories:

Extrinsic Stains: These stains on the enamel layer of the teeth are often caused by foods, beverages, or smoking. Professional cleanings can usually remove these stains.

Intrinsic Stains: These stains are present inside the tooth and are caused by various factors such as medications, trauma, or excessive fluoride use during childhood. These stains are more difficult to remove than extrinsic stains and require professional treatment.

The Dangers of Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Products

While there are countless products available for teeth whitening at home, ranging from whitening toothpaste to strips, they come with their own set of risks. Some of these include:

  • Uneven Whitening: Over-the-counter products might not provide uniform whitening, leading to patchy results.
  • Gum Irritation: These products can irritate the gums or cause burns if not used correctly.
  • Tooth Sensitivity: The chemicals in these products can increase sensitivity, especially if overused.
  • Ineffective Results: In many cases, these products can’t address deeper stains, leading to unsatisfactory outcomes.

Professional Teeth Whitening at Blue Ridge Orthodontics

If you’re considering teeth whitening, turning to professionals is the safest and most effective choice. At Blue Ridge Orthodontics, we provide:

  • Personalized Treatment Plans: Our experts assess your teeth’s color and condition and then tailor a whitening plan for you.
  • Safe Procedures: We use tested and safe procedures that ensure the health of your teeth and gums remain uncompromised.
  • Effective Results: With professional equipment and expertise, we can address extrinsic and intrinsic stains, offering a brighter and more consistent result.
  • Post-Treatment Guidance: After the procedure, our team provides guidance on maintaining your bright smile and addressing any potential sensitivity.

How To Maintain Your Bright Smile

Once you’ve achieved that dazzling smile, it’s essential to maintain it. Here are some tips:

  • Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings to remove surface stains and keep your teeth healthy.
  • Mind Your Diet: Reduce consumption of staining foods and beverages. If you indulge, consider using a straw or rinsing your mouth afterward.
  • Quit Smoking: Smoking not only stains your teeth but has multiple health risks.
  • Use a Whitening Toothpaste: While these don’t provide dramatic results, they can help maintain the brightness achieved after a professional teeth whitening procedure.
  • Follow Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss daily.

Blue Ridge Orthodontics

If you’re ready to show off a brighter, whiter, and more confident smile, reach out to the experts at Blue Ridge Orthodontics. We prioritize your dental health while ensuring you achieve your desired aesthetic results. Call our office at 828-585-6045 and schedule an appointment today.

BROR Monthly Special

Share this entry

Braces-Safe Holiday Food Guide

, /by

With the holidays quickly approaching, the opportunity to indulge in popular holiday foods is also getting closer. Holiday foods can be hard to turn down, but some of these staple treats can cause unwanted difficulties with braces. So what holiday foods are braces-safe and which treats should you skip until you get your hardware off?

As your Western NC orthodontic specialists, Blue Ridge Orthodontics is excited to provide you with a braces-safe and non-safe holiday food guide so that you can plan ahead and enjoy this fun-filled time. Here is your comprehensive guide of foods to enjoy or avoid during the holiday season:

Braces-Safe Holiday Drinks

  • Eggnog
  • Apple Cider
  • Hot Chocolate

Braces-Safe Holiday Main Course

  • Soft Cheeses
  • Fresh Fruits
  • Pigs in a Blanket
  • Dips (Spinach Dip, Hummus, Etc.)
  • Turkey
  • Ham
  • Soft-Cooked Fish
  • Mash Potatoes
  • Baked Sweet Potatoes
  • Candied Yams
  • Stuffing (Without Nuts)
  • Brussel Sprouts
  • Casseroles
  • Cooked/Soft Vegetables
  • Cranberry Sauce
  • Mac and Cheese
  • Biscuits 

Braces-Safe Holiday Desserts

  • Pie (Without Nuts)
  • Cake or Brownies (Without Nuts)
  • Soft Cookies
  • Cheesecakes

As you can see, there are many holiday favorites that you can enjoy while wearing braces! However, there are still some holiday treats you should avoid. Here are a few holiday snacks you should steer clear of while wearing your braces:

Non-Safe Holiday Foods for Braces

  • Candy Canes
  • Hard Candies
  • Crunchy Cookies
  • Caramel Apples
  • Peanut Brittle
  • Nuts
  • Caramel Corn
  • Raw Veggies
  • Meat on the Bone
  • Corn on the Cob
  • Anything with Nuts 
  • Hard Dinner Rolls
  • Pecan Pie
  • Brownies with Nuts

It is important to take care of your smile over the holidays with many tempting treats around. While there are a few items you should steer clear of, for now, just remember that soon you will be able to enjoy all of these tasty treats with your beautiful, straight, and healthy smile designed by Blue Ridge Orthodontics. Check out our other braces-safe snack guide. For any questions regarding how we can help you through your journey to a bright and healthy smile, check here for more info. 

 

Share this entry

Invisalign®: Things You Should Know

, /by

Nearly everyone has some orthodontic alignment issue. These issues can be the result of genetics or lifestyle. While most misalignments don’t require correction, some do, such as crowding, impacted teeth, or other uncomfortable ailments.

Corrective Orthodontics

Wire braces were the most common form of teeth straightening until recent decades. Braces can work wonders, but in the early 90s, aligners were created to serve the same purpose. Some orthodontists will still recommend wire braces in specific scenarios, but overall, Invisalign aligners have become very popular. Not only are they virtually invisible, but they take less time to correct some orthodontic issues.

What are Aligners?

Aligners are a set of transparent, plastic orthodontic devices that are molded to fit over one’s teeth and used to correct their alignment. The aligners progressively shift the teeth using gentle force. They are available for all ages. So let’s look at what using aligners is like.

Wearing Aligners

To get the desired results, aligners must be worn for 22 hours daily. These convenient teeth-straightening tools are removable for eating, drinking, brushing your teeth, etc., but must be reinserted when done. The most prominent problem orthodontists encounter with aligners is self-discipline. Therefore, if you choose Invisalign, make sure you are prepared to wear your aligners for the suggested time.

Comfort

Aligners are shifting your teeth into a new place, so naturally, there will be pressure. After your initial set, you will be changing your aligner trays bi-weekly. Your teeth will become accustomed to the shifting, and you won’t notice the pressure as much.

Oral Hygiene

Unlike traditional braces, aligners make it easy to keep up with oral hygiene and maintenance. You can still brush, floss, and whiten your teeth as usual.

As far as maintaining your aligners, it’s simple. Brush them just as you do your teeth, at least once daily. Use non-abrasive cleaner or toothpaste; you could even purchase the brands explicitly made for aligners. Also, take into account the importance of your final retainer, which will keep your teeth in the desired position you worked so hard to achieve.

Treatment Time Frame

Also, as mentioned, there is a possibility that invisible aligners can reduce your treatment time. This may not be the case with more severe cases, but as far as simple straightening, you can see results fairly quickly and sometimes even wrap up your treatments within a year.

Blue Ridge Orthodontics

Are you concerned about your teeth alignment? Blue Ridge Orthodontics can help. We can evaluate your teeth, discuss your concerns, and then develop a treatment plan to make the corrections needed, including using Invisalign aligners. Contact our office at 828-537-5363 and schedule an appointment.

BROR Monthly Special

Maps were disabled by the visitor on this site. Click to open the map in a new window.Click to load Google Maps

Come Visit Us!

Asheville

1915 Hendersonville Road
Asheville, NC 28803
828.687.0872

Brevard

4 Market Street, Suite 4204
Brevard, NC 28712
828.884.7122

Hendersonville

1714 Old Village Road
Hendersonville, NC 28791
828.693.0202

Hours

Monday

8am – 5pm

Tuesday 

8am – 6pm

Wednesday

7am-6pm

Thursday

8am-5pm

Friday

8am – 4pm

Weekends

Closed

Clinic hours vary by location. Please call our scheduling time during these hours.

Follow Us