Orthodontics Specialist

AnaBella Family and Cosmetic Dentistry

Clara H. Song, DDS

Cosmetic, Family and General Dentistry located in Bellevue, WA

If you’re hoping for a straighter smile, orthodontics can deliver. This area of dentistry is a specialty for Clara Song, DDS, of AnaBella Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, located in Bellevue, Washington. Dr. Song offers several options to help straighten your teeth and can guide you toward the treatment right for your needs. Call the office today to set up a visit, or try the easy online booking tool.

Orthodontics Q&A

What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is focused on correcting teeth misalignment. Some issues orthodontic care can improve include:

  • Crowded teeth
  • Retention of baby teeth
  • Extra or missing teeth
  • Jaw growth problems
  • Spacing issues
  • General misalignment

Not long ago, traditional metal braces were the only option for achieving a straighter smile. Advancements in dental technology have led to a wide range of orthodontic options, and a solution for virtually every set of alignment needs. 

Why correct a misaligned smile?

Most people only think of the aesthetic aspects of orthodontics. While there are significant cosmetic improvements possible through orthodontics, there are also serious dental health benefits. 

Crowded or misaligned teeth are more difficult to keep clean, increasing your chances of dental decay. An uneven bite also places undue pressure on certain teeth, which can lead to fractures or worn-down teeth. In some cases, misalignment can lead to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), a painful condition. 

Severe misalignment can also negatively impact your jaw health. Correcting these issues ensures your bite is evenly distributed and there is no excess pressure on your jaw joints. 

What are some alternatives to traditional metal braces?

If you want a straighter smile without a mouth full of metal, there are multiple more discreet options. Dr. Song has extensive experience with Invisalign® and Myobrace®, two options that deliver impressive results without metal brackets and wires. 

Invisalign uses a series of clear plastic aligner trays to slowly shift your teeth into optimal positioning. You simply wear your aligners at all times except during meals and dental hygiene routines. Every few weeks you will switch to a new set of trays and come in for periodic checkups as your treatment progresses. 

Myobrace takes a preventive approach and works by correcting poor oral habits and aligning the jaw in children. The device is removable and only needs to be worn overnight and a few hours during the day. Myobrace also guides your child’s teeth into proper alignment, which can prevent the need for later orthodontic care. 

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Song to explore these and other orthodontics options. Booking takes just moments online or over the phone, so take the first step toward a straighter and more beautiful smile.