Dental Blog

When people think of orthodontics, they usually think of straight smiles. Alignment is one part of the picture, but the truth is more complex and much more important for long-term oral health. Misaligned teeth and jaws can lead to worn enamel, gum disease, TMJ pain, and even breathing issues. Yet many people still think orthodontics is only for kids or for improving appearance.

In reality, orthodontics is a specialized field of medicine that uses principles of tooth movement and jaw growth to improve both function and form. Treatment aims to balance the relationship between teeth, bones, muscles, and the airway across all ages.

At the center of successful orthodontic care is accurate diagnosis, personalized planning, and a deep understanding of dental anatomy. Orthodontists like Dr. Brendon Swenson—who holds advanced specialist credentials—apply this expertise to help patients achieve far more than a better-looking smile.

Aligning teeth is more than just improving appearance. Misaligned teeth—whether crowded, spaced, or rotated—are harder to clean. This can lead to plaque buildup, gum inflammation, and premature enamel wear. An uneven bite also strains the muscles and joints involved in chewing.

Orthodontic treatment helps correct these issues. While the cosmetic improvement is significant, the real advantage is restoring balance and function, improving hygiene access, and supporting long-term oral health.

If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and thought, “I wish I had straightened my teeth years ago,” you’re not alone. Thousands of adults are now discovering that orthodontic treatment isn’t just for teens—and that Invisalign is the discreet, modern way to get the confident smile they’ve always wanted.

Invisalign is a flexible, pleasant option made for adults that can help you get ready for a significant life event, move up in your job, or just do it for yourself.

Braces have come a long way over the years, but some outdated beliefs still make people second-guess orthodontic treatment. Whether you’re a teen considering braces or an adult finally ready to straighten your smile, you might be surprised at what’s fact—and what’s fiction.

Let's get the facts straight. Here are five of the most frequent fallacies regarding braces, along with the facts that prove them wrong.

At Swenson Family Orthodontics in Lewiston, Idaho, we know how much a confident smile matters, no matter your age. Many adults and teens want straighter teeth but worry about the challenges of traditional braces, the cost of orthodontic care, and how it will affect their everyday lives. Invisalign delivers an affordable, discreet solution that’s perfect for people of all ages, without compromising results.

Parenting a teenager is a journey full of big decisions—like orthodontic care! Helping your teen achieve a healthy, straight smile is one of those essential choices that can impact their confidence, oral health, and even how they feel about themselves for years to come. Whether you’re just exploring your options or gearing up for that first consultation, we’ve got your back. Let’s break it down so you feel informed, prepared, and empowered to support your teen’s orthodontic journey.