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Invisalign is an excellent option for anyone looking to straighten their teeth discreetly. The clear aligners allow you to achieve a beautiful smile without the hassle of traditional metal braces. If you’re considering Invisalign, you may be asking: How long will I need to wear Invisalign? The duration of treatment depends on your dental needs, but it can range from several months to a few years.

At Southern Maine Orthodontics in Scarborough and Gorham ME, we’re here to guide you through your Invisalign journey and help you understand the factors that impact your treatment time.

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Taking care of your teeth is just as important between orthodontic visits as it is when you’re at the orthodontist’s office. Whether you’re wearing braces, or aligners keeping up with your oral hygiene is crucial to ensuring your treatment stays on track. Here are some helpful tips to care for your smile between visits to Southern Maine Orthodontics in Scarborough and Gorham ME.

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Did you know that straightening your teeth can also improve your overall health? At Southern Maine Orthodontics, we’ve seen firsthand how orthodontic treatment can enhance not only appearance but also well-being. In fact, crooked teeth and poor oral health are linked to serious conditions such as high blood pressure, strokes, and even heart disease. By correcting misaligned teeth, you’ll not only boost your confidence but also experience long-term health benefits. Here’s how straight teeth can make a difference:Read More

Many people put off orthodontic treatment simply because they aren’t sure what the process involves. Dr. Christopher Murphy at Southern Maine Orthodontics is here to break it all down for you, step-by-step.Read More

It’s a common misconception that dentists and orthodontists perform the same functions. While both professions share certain similarities and often collaborate, orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry focused specifically on correcting dental misalignments.

What Does an Orthodontist Do?

Orthodontists, like Dr. Christopher Murphy at Southern Maine Orthodontics, are dentists who have undergone an additional 2-3 years of specialized training in orthodontics, along with extensive hands-on experience through residency programs. The American Association of Orthodontists governs this specialized field, ensuring high standards of care.

These professionals are skilled in diagnosing and treating various dental issues, including misaligned teeth, overcrowded mouths, and bite irregularities, also known as malocclusions. Malocclusions can occur for various reasons, such as early loss of baby teeth, developmental issues, trauma, or improper jaw alignment.

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Getting braces is an exciting step toward a better smile, but it can also feel strange at first. While you might be thrilled about your new journey, it’s normal to feel a bit nervous about what’s to come. In this blog, Dr. Christopher Murphy at Southern Maine Orthodontics discusses what you can expect during the first few days after getting braces and how to navigate this adjustment period.Read More