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Mar 29

Scared of Getting Braces? How to Ease Anxiety and Start Your Smile

By Braces

Let’s be honest—no one’s thrilled to hear they need orthodontic treatment. Somewhere between imagining a mouth full of metal and hearing horror stories from that one cousin who had headgear in the ’90s, your nerves kick in.

Sound familiar?

If you’re feeling anxious, you’re not alone. We’ve met countless patients who came in feeling unsure, even scared—only to leave wondering why they didn’t start sooner. The truth? Most of the fear around getting orthodontic care is based on outdated myths, not reality.

So let’s break it down, without the fluff.

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Mar 16
tax for braces

Are Braces Tax Deductible? Understanding Medical Expense Deductions for Orthodontics

By Braces

Braces can be a costly investment, but they may also qualify for a tax deduction if they are medically necessary. To claim this deduction, your total medical expenses must exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI). This includes treatments for yourself, your spouse, or your dependents.

The IRS recognizes orthodontic care as a legitimate medical expense, meaning you can potentially deduct the cost of braces if they correct bite issues, prevent future dental problems, or address current health concerns. However, purely cosmetic treatments, like whitening, do not qualify.

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Feb 21

Retainers After Braces: Your Essential Guide to a Lasting, Perfect Smile

By retainers

Congratulations—your braces are off! That’s a huge milestone, but now comes the important part: keeping that beautifully aligned smile in place.

Teeth have a natural tendency to shift, even after years of orthodontic treatment. Without a retainer, all that effort could slowly unravel, causing teeth to move back to their original positions. Think of retainers as insurance for your smile—a simple but essential step in maintaining your orthodontic results.

Not sure if you’re choosing the right retainer? Curious about costs? We’ve got you covered. Learn how much retainers cost and what to expect when making this long-term investment in your smile.

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Feb 09

Foods to Avoid When Wearing Braces – What NOT to Eat & Safe Alternatives

By Braces

Getting braces is a big step toward a perfect smile, but it comes with temporary food restrictions. Imagine this: You’re about to bite into a crunchy apple, but—snap!—a bracket comes loose, leading to an emergency orthodontist visit.

The truth is, some foods can break brackets, bend wires, or get stuck in your braces, delaying treatment. But don’t worry! You can still enjoy delicious meals with a few smart modifications.

At Hulse Orthodontics, we help patients navigate the journey to a stunning, healthy smile. A few simple dietary adjustments can make all the difference in keeping your braces intact and your treatment on track!

👉 Worried about discomfort? Read our guide on how to manage pain with braces.

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Jan 26

Dry Mouth With Braces – 7 Proven Solutions

By Braces

Dry mouth is a common issue for people with braces. It can be uncomfortable and may increase the risk of dental problems. Braces can affect saliva flow, making it harder for saliva to coat all surfaces of the teeth and gums.

The good news? There are simple and effective ways to manage dry mouth while wearing braces. From staying hydrated to using specialized oral care products, you can keep your mouth comfortable and healthy throughout your orthodontic journey.

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Jan 25

Can You Get Braces While Pregnant? A Guide for Expectant Mothers

By Braces, Invisalign

Pregnancy is an exciting time filled with change, but what about those braces you’ve been considering? Is it safe to start orthodontic treatment now? The good news: absolutely! With the right care and guidance, improving your smile during pregnancy is not only possible but also beneficial for your dental health.

At Hulse Orthodontics, we’re here to make your smile journey smooth, safe, and stress-free during this special time.

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Dec 28

White Spots On Teeth From Braces (How To Avoid)

By Braces

Braces are a fantastic way to achieve a straight, beautiful smile, but some patients may notice white spots on their teeth after the braces are removed. These spots, known as decalcification, can be an unexpected setback for those striving for perfection.

“White spots are more than just an aesthetic concern; they reveal underlying issues such as enamel demineralization and poor oral hygiene.”

In this guide, we’ll cover why white spots occur, how braces contribute to their development, and the best ways to prevent and treat them. With this knowledge, you can protect your smile throughout your orthodontic journey.

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Dec 14

Invisalign Cutting Tongue & Irritation: Causes & Remedies

By Invisalign

Are you experiencing tongue irritation or cuts from Invisalign aligners? While Invisalign is widely praised for its convenience and near-invisible appearance, some users face discomfort due to sharp or rough tray edges. These issues, though common, are manageable with the right strategies.

In this article, we’ll explore why tongue irritation happens, how to address it effectively, and ways to prevent it from recurring. By following these tips, you can ensure your Invisalign journey is as smooth and comfortable as possible.

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Nov 16

Invisalign’s Warranty Duration and Limits (2024 Guide)

By Invisalign

Did you know your Invisalign treatment includes a warranty that could safeguard your smile for up to five years? Invisalign goes beyond simply providing aligners; it offers a warranty designed to protect your investment and ensure your orthodontic journey is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Understanding the finer details of this warranty—what’s covered, how to stay eligible, and what to do in case of issues—can make all the difference in maximizing its benefits. Let’s break it down.

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Oct 23

Can You Get Braces With a Crown? What You Need to Know

By Braces

Braces are an excellent option to correct misaligned teeth and bite issues. But what if you have a dental crown? Can you still proceed with orthodontic treatment? The good news is that having a crown doesn’t exclude you from getting braces! However, there are important considerations to keep in mind for a smooth and successful treatment.

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