Invisalign vs. At-Home Aligners: What’s Safer & More Effective?

Have you been thinking about using aligner trays to straighten your smile? Should you go with an at-home option or call your orthodontist in the Asheville, Hendersonville, and Brevard area to sign up for Invisalign? Your dental experts at Blue Ridge Orthodontics have created a brief overview of the pros and cons of each treatment for your information.

Professional In-person Support During and After Treatment

Orthodontists who use Invisalign ensure that every step of the teeth-straightening process is done under their supervision. From creating a treatment plan to taking measurements and deciding when your smile graduates, you enjoy the confidence of their professional guidance. Your orthodontist has the training and years of experience needed for consistent positive outcomes.

If you opt for an at-home aligner, you are wholly responsible for making a mold, uploading results, and interpreting any instructions provided for the treatment. If you are uncertain of its success, you may be left wondering what to do next.

What complications should I worry about using any aligner?

It is possible to encounter some complications during treatment using Invisalign or an at-home model. This can include damage to your gums, creating new bite issues, or even experiencing pain from the aligners.

However, with Invisalign, your orthodontist can spot the problem and take action to stop and reverse the damage. At-home patients may choose to ignore signs of an infection or crowding of existing teeth. That can result in an extended and costly treatment after you think you are done with the aligners.

Getting It Right the First Time

Your at-home aligner kit arrives with a complete set of trays that were printed based on your molds. If you made a mistake creating the molds, the entire treatment plan may be faulty. That could mean having to do it all over again.

More patients who invest in Invisalign trays and their personal orthodontist see better results after the prescribed treatment period. When your doctor says you are finished, you can be confident that your new straight smile will last.

After-treatment: Is it necessary?

Teeth aligners work by basically nudging your teeth into position. The pressure of the trays keeps the teeth in their proper place during treatment. But when you are done, your teeth can retreat back to their original misalignment.

Your orthodontist may prescribe a retainer after you are finished with the Invisalign system. This allows more time for your teeth to cement their proper position.

With an at-home kit, there is no plan or available treatment to follow up on your smile. Some clients notice their teeth becoming crooked again, with no way to work with a professional to prevent it from happening.

Lasting Results that Save You Money

While it is tempting to sign up for an at-home alignment system based on a shorter treatment period and a lower price tag, all of that can vanish when you don’t get the results that you expected. By working with your orthodontist and Invisalign, you can have more left in your bank account upon completion of your initial treatment plan.

Are you ready to sign up for a straighter smile? If the Invisalign system sounds like the better deal for you, give us a call at Blue Ridge Orthodontics for an initial consultation. With offices in Asheville, Brevard, and Hendersonville, there is a location and time that will fit with your schedule.

Invisalign in Hendersonville, NC: Get Straighter Teeth Without the Hassle

You crave a straighter and healthier smile. The only problem? You’re not ready to commit to braces. No worries, as an amazing alternative exists in Invisalign therapy! This popular solution uses clear aligners to gently shift your teeth.

Invisalign is available at Blue Ridge Orthodontics in Asheville, where we support you in achieving your vision of a perfect smile. The decision to get Invisalign may seem simple: what’s not to love about convenient treatments that are practically invisible? There’s far more to consider, however, including where and how your aligners will be constructed.

You want to feel fully confident in your team. After all, not just any clinic can provide the personalized guidance or advanced technologies that drive today’s most inspiring Invisalign success stories.

This is why working with Blue Ridge Orthodontics is so worthwhile. Backed by a strong track record of helping patients achieve beautiful and healthy smiles, we bring a wealth of Invisalign expertise to the table. This knowledge is important because it provides much-needed peace of mind; our patients feel confident that, by the time the Invisalign process is complete, their smiles will look just as dazzling as they’ve hoped. 

Understanding your upcoming Invisalign journey should make it easier to commit to this exciting opportunity. Following an easy and scenic drive, you’ll receive a warm welcome upon arrival at our clinic. Be prepared to schedule checkups every six to eight weeks. These appointments will keep you feeling confident about your treatment plan and your progress.

Transform Your Smile 

Invisalign is a big deal for patients. We’ve seen this solution transform patients’ lives, delivering straighter and healthier smiles without the discomfort and appearance of traditional metal braces.

Are you ready to take the next step on your journey towards a smile you desire? Invisalign could be the answer, but it’s essential to understand what this treatment entails thoroughly. We’re happy to answer your questions or address your concerns. We look forward to helping you score the smile of your dreams. Contact us today or book your consultation.

Is Invisalign Worth It? A Breakdown of Benefits vs. Braces

Let’s be honest—choosing to straighten your teeth as an adult is a big decision. And if you’re like many of our patients in Asheville, Brevard, or Hendersonville, you’ve probably asked yourself: “Is Invisalign really worth it?”

We get that question all the time at Blue Ridge Orthodontics, and the short answer is: for many patients, yes—Invisalign is absolutely worth it. But let’s dig a little deeper and break down the benefits of Invisalign vs. traditional braces, so you can decide what’s right for you.



Clear Aligners vs. Metal Brackets: Let’s Talk Appearance

If the thought of wearing braces as an adult makes you cringe, you’re not alone. One of the biggest reasons adults in Asheville and the surrounding area choose Invisalign is because it’s discreet. Invisalign aligners are made from clear, smooth plastic and are practically invisible when worn.

Compare that to metal braces, which are harder to hide—especially in professional or social settings. Whether you’re giving a presentation at the office, meeting friends for brunch in downtown Asheville, or snapping a family photo, Invisalign keeps your orthodontic treatment on the down-low.

Winner: Invisalign
Clear, low-key, and selfie-approved.


Daily Life: Eating, Brushing, and Comfort

Braces come with a list of do-not-eat foods (goodbye popcorn, caramel, and crunchy apples). And let’s not forget the challenge of flossing around metal brackets and wires. Invisalign? No such hassle.

Because aligners are removable, you can enjoy your favorite local eats—yes, even tacos from White Duck or a slice from Mellow Mushroom—without worrying about damaging your orthodontic hardware. Plus, brushing and flossing stays simple: just pop the trays out and stick to your regular routine.

Comfort-wise, Invisalign trays are smooth and custom-fit, while braces can cause mouth irritation from brackets and wires. Most Invisalign patients report only minor pressure when switching to a new tray—more like a tight hug for your teeth than a painful squeeze.

Winner: Invisalign
Eat what you want. Brush like normal. Stay comfy.


Effectiveness and Flexibility

Now, let’s be real: both braces and Invisalign work. The key is choosing the right option for your unique smile.

In the past, braces had the upper hand for more complex cases. But in 2025, Invisalign has come a long way. At Blue Ridge Orthodontics, we treat everything from crowding and spacing to overbites and crossbites using Invisalign—thanks to advanced technology and our orthodontists’ expertise. (Spoiler: the secret isn’t just in the aligners—it’s in the provider behind them.)

Braces might still be better for very severe cases or for patients who struggle with aligner wear time. But if you’re committed to wearing your aligners 20–22 hours a day, Invisalign is just as effective in most cases—and you’ll likely have fewer emergency visits along the way.

Winner: Tie
Both are effective—but Invisalign wins for flexibility and fewer appointments.

Time and Cost: The Truth About “Worth It”

Let’s tackle the two biggest concerns head-on: treatment time and cost.

Many people assume Invisalign takes longer than braces. In reality, treatment times are often very similar. At Blue Ridge Orthodontics, we’ve had plenty of Invisalign patients finish in 12 to 18 months—sometimes even faster. And because your treatment plan is mapped out with precision from the beginning, it can be more efficient than expected.

As for cost? That’s the part that surprises most folks. The price difference between braces and Invisalign has narrowed over the years. At Blue Ridge Orthodontics, the cost of Invisalign is comparable to braces, and we offer flexible financing options to make treatment affordable. Many dental insurance plans cover both equally, too.

When you weigh the convenience, appearance, and lifestyle perks against the price tag, most adults find Invisalign is worth the investment—especially when it’s backed by a skilled team like ours.

Winner: Invisalign (with an asterisk)
The value is in the experience—and in the long-term confidence you gain.


Final Thoughts: So… Is Invisalign Worth It?

If you’re an adult in Asheville, Brevard, or Hendersonville thinking about straightening your teeth, Invisalign is probably your best bet. It’s discreet, comfortable, and designed for busy lives. At Blue Ridge Orthodontics, we’ll help you figure out if it’s right for your specific smile—and we’ll be with you every step of the way.

Still unsure?
Come in for a free consultation at Blue Ridge Orthodontics. We’ll answer all your questions and help you decide whether Invisalign or braces will get you to your smile goals fastest—and in a way that fits your life and budget.

Call or text Blue Ridge Orthodontics today to schedule your consultation in Asheville, Hendersonville, or Brevard. Your new smile starts here.

Invisalign in Asheville, NC: Why More Adults Are Choosing Clear Aligners

If you’ve been thinking about straightening your smile as an adult, you’re not alone—and you’re not the only one in Asheville considering Invisalign. More and more adults across Western North Carolina—from the breweries of South Slope to the sidewalks of Hendersonville—are choosing clear aligners as a comfortable, discreet way to boost their confidence and oral health. And here at Blue Ridge Orthodontics (BRO), we see this trend firsthand.

So, why are so many adults in Asheville, Brevard, and Hendersonville saying yes to Invisalign? Let’s break it down.

Confidence Without the Clunky Look

Gone are the days when braces were just for teens. Adults today want a straighter smile, but they don’t want the hassle—or the visibility-of—of metal brackets and wires. Invisalign clear aligners offer a nearly invisible way to straighten your teeth, so you can keep living your life without feeling self-conscious.

Whether you’re giving a presentation at work, catching a show at the Orange Peel, or grabbing dinner downtown, Invisalign lets you smile confidently through it all. We’ve had patients from Asheville and beyond tell us how surprised they were by how many people didn’t even notice they were wearing aligners. That kind of subtlety is hard to beat.

A Lifestyle-Friendly Option for Busy Adults

If you’re juggling work, family, and everything else life throws your way, braces can feel like one more thing on your plate. With Invisalign, that stress disappears. The aligners are removable, which means you can take them out to eat, drink, brush, and floss—no food restrictions, no complicated floss threaders.

Love hitting up Hendersonville’s apple orchards in the fall or grabbing tacos at White Duck downtown? You don’t have to change a thing. Invisalign fits your life, not the other way around. And at BRO, we offer flexible appointment scheduling across our Asheville, Brevard, and Hendersonville offices, so you can fit check-ups into your routine with ease.

Tech-Savvy Solutions and Personalized Treatment

Many of our adult patients are surprised by how high-tech Invisalign treatment has become. At Blue Ridge Orthodontics, we use 3D scanning to take digital impressions of your teeth—no goopy molds involved. That scan creates a personalized treatment plan, and you can even see a digital preview of your future smile before you start.

Every aligner is custom-made for your teeth, and our team monitors your progress at regular intervals to make sure everything’s on track. If you’re worried about results, rest easy—Invisalign isn’t just for minor tweaks anymore. Thanks to years of innovation, it can now treat a wide range of cases, including crowding, gaps, and overbites.


You’re Not Too Old—You’re Right On Time

One of the biggest myths we hear at BRO is: “Aren’t I too old for braces?” The answer? Absolutely not. We’ve helped patients in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and even 60s get the smile they’ve always wanted. In fact, more than one in four orthodontic patients today are adults, and Invisalign is leading the charge.

If you’ve been waiting for the right time, this is it. The process is easier than ever, and with locations in Asheville, Brevard, and Hendersonville, BRO is here to help make it even more convenient. Whether you’re a young professional, a busy parent, or a retiree ready to invest in your smile, Invisalign could be exactly what you’ve been looking for.

Ready to take the next step?
Contact Blue Ridge Orthodontics today to schedule your free Invisalign consultation in Asheville, Brevard, or Hendersonville. It’s never too late to smile with confidence—and we’re here to help every step of the way.

5 Signs It’s Time to Visit an Orthodontist: What You Need to Know

Keeping your teeth healthy seems straightforward: you must brush, floss, and visit the dentist. That’s what some people think; however, orthodontic health is equally important. Orthodontists focus on correcting teeth and jaw irregularities, playing a pivotal role in ensuring a healthy, functional, and attractive smile. Recognizing when to seek an orthodontist’s expertise can be crucial for oral health. Here are five signs that indicate it might be time to visit an orthodontist, highlighting the importance of timely orthodontic intervention.

5 Signs to Visit Orthodontist

If Your Teeth Are Shifting

Shifting teeth is more than a cosmetic concern; it can indicate underlying dental issues. This shift can manifest as noticeable gaps, overcrowding, or misalignment. Besides impacting your smile’s aesthetics, shifting teeth can complicate oral hygiene, increasing tooth decay and gum disease risks. Orthodontic treatment can effectively address these shifts, ensuring your teeth are correctly aligned and easier to maintain.

If You’re Having Trouble Speaking

Speech is intricately linked to the alignment of your teeth. Misalignments, such as an overbite, underbite, or crossbite, can impede your ability to articulate words, leading to speech impediments or pronunciation difficulties. If you notice changes in your speech, especially if they coincide with dental development issues, it’s wise to consult an orthodontist to explore potential corrective measures.

If You Have Discomfort While Eating

Eating should be a pleasurable and pain-free experience. However, misaligned teeth or jaw issues can make it challenging and uncomfortable. If you find yourself avoiding certain foods due to difficulty chewing or experiencing pain during or after eating, it strongly indicates that your dental alignment needs attention. An orthodontist can diagnose the problem and provide solutions like braces or aligners to make eating enjoyable again.

You Aren’t Happy with Your Smile

The impact of a smile on self-esteem and social interactions can’t be overstated. If you hide your smile due to crooked teeth, gaps, or other alignment issues, it’s time to consider orthodontic treatment. Modern orthodontics offers a range of options, from traditional metal braces to discreet clear aligners, ensuring a solution fits your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. A consultation with an orthodontist can open the door to a smile you’re proud to show off.

If You Have Mouth Soreness

Chronic mouth soreness might stem from teeth grinding, misaligned bites, or TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. Persistent soreness shouldn’t be ignored, as it can lead to more severe complications if left untreated. An orthodontist can identify the root cause and suggest appropriate treatment plans, providing relief and preventing further dental complications.
Blue Ridge Orthodontics
Recognizing these signs and taking action is vital for maintaining your oral health. Schedule an appointment at Blue Ridge Orthodontics by calling 828-585-6045 and embark on the journey to a healthier, more confident smile.

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Debunking Myths about Wisdom Teeth and Braces

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Wisdom teeth are third molars located at the back of the mouth that were once essential but are now rendered unnecessary due to improved dental health and dietary changes. Myths surrounding wisdom teeth and orthodontic treatment abound, leading to excessive worry and expense. Contrary to popular belief, not everyone requires wisdom teeth removal, even when braces are necessary. This article aims to debunk prevailing myths and illuminate the truth.

Myth: Wisdom Teeth Must be Extracted Before Braces

F A C T Orthodontists evaluate wisdom teeth before treatment. Removal may be recommended if there isn’t enough space for them to erupt. However, if there is sufficient room, the orthodontist may suggest monitoring them during treatment. Reasons for removal include repeated gum infections, decay affecting adjacent teeth, irreparable decay, infections or cysts, and pain caused by wisdom teeth.

Myth: If Wisdom Teeth Erupt After Braces, You Should Panic

F A C T After investing in braces, it’s natural to be cautious about your teeth. While it’s important to schedule a check-up with your orthodontist after noticing wisdom teeth eruption, there’s no need for immediate panic. If you diligently wear your retainers as advised, the slight pressure exerted by wisdom teeth on surrounding teeth can be effectively countered. Wearing the retainer until the next appointment ensures that your teeth maintain proper alignment and position.

Myth: Braces Aren’t Considered for Impacted Wisdom Teeth

F A C T Braces can effectively treat impacted teeth, although not in every case. Sometimes, an orthodontist can create space or use braces to reposition an impacted tooth. However, limited jaw space can make it challenging to accommodate impacted wisdom teeth, often necessitating their removal due to lack of space. Even when braces cannot be applied directly to an impacted tooth, they can help reposition adjacent teeth affected by the impaction. By realigning these teeth, braces can restore proper alignment and reduce the risk associated with exposed roots.

Myth: After Braces, There’s No Need to Worry About Wisdom Teeth

F A C T Wisdom teeth typically emerge between ages 17 and 25, often after orthodontic treatment. It is a misconception to assume that braces automatically create space for wisdom teeth. In many cases, the jaw may not have sufficient length to accommodate these teeth. Patients who have completed orthodontic treatment should continue regular check-ups to monitor the progress of their wisdom teeth. If the wisdom teeth erupt, they can cause overcrowding and compromise the results achieved through braces. You can preserve the hard-earned progress toward a perfect smile by staying vigilant.

Myth: Wisdom Teeth Can’t Be Extracted While Wearing Braces

F A C T It is possible to have wisdom teeth removed during orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist may recommend extracting the teeth and will coordinate with your dentist or oral surgeon to carry out the extractions. The timing will depend on individual circumstances and treatment needs before, during, or after braces. The coordination between orthodontic and dental professionals ensures the smooth progression of your orthodontic journey while addressing wisdom teeth concerns.

 

Blue Ridge Orthodontics
Are you seeking the perfect smile? Blue Ridge Orthodontics can help. After a thorough examination, we can develop a treatment plan to give you the dazzling smile you desire. Contact us at 828-537-5338 and schedule an appointment today.

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Braces-Safe Holiday Food Guide

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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

 

Invisalign®: Things You Should Know

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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.

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How to Know if Your Child Should See an Orthodontist

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If your child has good dental hygiene habits, you may think they are safe from needing braces or aligners. However, over four million people in the U.S. wear braces, approximately 75% of whom are children under 18. This article will discuss when a child needs to visit an orthodontist and how the orthodontist analyzes the problem.

When Should a Child See an Orthodontist?

Several signs may show that a child needs to see an orthodontist. Some of the most common issues are:

  • Crowding or spacing of teeth
  • Overbite or underbite
  • Crossbite
  • Open bite
  • Teeth that are protruding
  • Teeth that aren’t aligned properly
  • Difficulty biting or chewing
  • Speech problems
  • Breathing issues

An orthodontist can assess your child’s dental and facial growth and suggest the best approaches to addressing any issues.

How an Orthodontist Diagnose a Child’s Dental Problems

An orthodontist diagnoses a child’s dental problems through a comprehensive examination. During the consultation, the orthodontist checks the child’s teeth, jaw, and facial structure to determine if anything is problematic or needs to be cared for.

This process may include taking X-rays, photographs, and teeth impressions. After the examination, the orthodontist provides a customized treatment plan for the child’s needs. Then, the child’s progress must be monitored and checked to ensure the treatment works correctly.

At What Age Should Children Visit an Orthodontist?

Children should generally have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This may seem young, but it’s essential to catch any potential orthodontic issues early on while the child’s jaw and teeth are still developing.

At this age, the orthodontist can assess the child’s bite and jaw growth patterns to determine if any problems may require intervention. Early detection and treatment can often prevent more serious issues from developing later.

Benefits of Early Orthodontic Care for Children

Early orthodontic care for children can have numerous benefits. Primarily, it helps the orthodontist detect potential problems before they become severe, saving time and money and preventing discomfort in the future.

Here are some potential benefits of early orthodontic care for children:

  • Improved tooth and jaw alignment
  • Reduced risk of tooth decay and gum disease
  • Improved speech development
  • Better chewing and digestion
  • Enhanced facial aesthetics and self-esteem
  • Avoidance of more invasive and expensive treatments later in life

Blue Ridge Orthodontics

For more information on pediatric orthodontics, contact Blue Ridge Orthodontics. We provide care for all ages. Contact us at 828-585-6045 and schedule an appointment today.

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