Often the first step of orthodontic treatment is an expander. Expanders, or palatal expanders, are orthodontic appliances that increase the space between the halves of the upper jaw. While that sounds scary and painful, expanders are very common! Many young and growing orthodontic patients have expanders, and they can help make sure you don’t have to undergo surgery later!

Losing teeth is an exciting time in any child’s life. The tooth fairy starts making appearances in your household and adult teeth start to grow in. What’s exciting for your kids might raise some fears and questions for the parents. It’s common to wonder if your child is losing teeth at the right time, or too slowly, or even too quickly. These concerns are normal, and a reason why it’s good to get your child into the orthodontist starting at

Braces don’t mean you have to say goodbye to sweets! While it’s true that some candies can damage your braces and extend your treatment time, there are still plenty of delicious options you can enjoy safely. Knowing what’s safe and what’s not can help you protect your investment in a straighter, healthier smile. In this guide, Dr. Vahid Babaeian shares the best and worst candies for braces, along with tips to keep your teeth and orthodontic appliances in great shape.