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Achieving a Healthy, Beautiful Smile


October 30th, 2023

Having the kind of beautiful smile that turns heads for all the right reasons is a dream for many, but thanks to the advances of modern orthodontics, there’s no reason it can’t be a reality for you.

Taking Care of Your Teeth and Your Health

The most important first step to a healthy and beautiful smile is making sure you’re taking care of your teeth and gums. Whilst this may not be the most exciting advice and may even seem too obvious, getting everything right on a daily basis can make a huge difference, and no amount of cosmetic work will outweigh poor dental care.

This doesn’t need to be complicated though, and simply brushing your teeth well, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash will be enough for most alongside regular dental appointments. These appointments are essential for identifying any issues with your teeth or dental hygiene practices and also provide a good opportunity to ask about anything that may be concerning you.

Teeth Straightening for the Perfect Smile

Once you’re confident you’ve got your dental health in order, we can then help you to build on this foundation by using orthodontic treatment in order to improve the alignment of your teeth, leading to a smile you’ll be proud of. There are different types of orthodontic treatments out there, and each have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s best to have an understanding of some of the most popular options. That way you can work together with your orthodontist to decide which treatment is right for you.

Clear Aligners

These are the most modern option and are many patients’ preferred choice, offering many advantages over traditional braces. Although you’ll still experience some discomfort occasionally, this is a lot milder than you would expect from braces, with the aligners exerting a gentle pressure as they gradually guide your teeth into a better alignment.

They also offer a lot when it comes to flexibility and hygiene, as they are incredibly easy to remove and reinsert. This allows you to remove them for cleaning and for you to brush and floss without them being in the way. Although they can potentially be seen by others, the clear plastic makes them very discreet, and it’s unlikely that anyone will notice you’re wearing them. If you’re looking for clear aligners in San Francisco, contact the team at Camilo Riaño Orthodontics today.

Lingual Braces

Unlike traditional braces, lingual braces are attached to the back (lingual) surface of your teeth. This makes them virtually invisible from the front, making them the most discreet option available, even more so than clear aligners. This can be great for those who are very concerned about the immediate aesthetic impact of wearing braces or aligners, but it can cause some soreness, irritation, and difficulty pronouncing certain sounds during the first few weeks after fitting.

They are also a bit more difficult to keep clean than aligners and traditional braces as they sit behind the teeth. 

Traditional Braces

The alignment option you’re likely most familiar with, traditional braces use a system of brackets, bands, and wires attached to the front of the teeth to gently guide them into their ideal positions. Although they may seem outdated, they’re still a perfectly viable option that delivers great results.

Your Next Steps

If you’re ready to take the next step towards having the perfect smile you’ve always dreamed of, then it’s time to book a consultation (in person or virtual) with Camilo Riaño Orthodontics. We’ll be able to discuss your options with you in detail and work with you to determine the best way for you to get the beautiful smile of your dreams.

Contact Camilo Riaño: Your San Francisco Orthodontist


77 Van Ness Ave #303
San Francisco, CA 94102

Office Hours


Mon: 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM
Tues: 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM
Wed: 9:15 AM - 6:00 PM
Thur: 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM
Fri: 7:45 AM - 3:30 PM
Sat: By Appointment Only
Sun: Closed

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