A straighter smile can improve more than appearance. Properly aligned teeth may be easier to clean, while a balanced bite can support comfortable chewing and protect teeth from uneven wear. At Queen City Dental Arts, Dr. Meghan Stenvall provides personalized orthodontic care for teens and adults.
Every patient begins with an evaluation of their teeth, bite and treatment goals. We discuss the options that may fit your needs and help you make an informed decision. Depending on your smile, we may recommend Six Month Smiles® or Invisalign® treatment.
Personalized Care for a Healthier, Straighter Smile
Orthodontic treatment may help patients with crowded teeth, gaps, crooked teeth or certain bite concerns. Moving teeth into healthier positions can create a more balanced smile and make daily oral hygiene more manageable.
Your recommended treatment will depend on the movement needed, your oral health and your preferences. During your consultation, Dr. Stenvall will determine if one of our discreet options is appropriate or if an orthodontic specialist would better address your needs.
Personalized Care for a Healthier, Straighter Smile
Six Month Smiles offers two discreet ways to improve the teeth that show when you smile: clear braces and invisible aligners. Clear braces use transparent brackets and tooth-colored wires that remain in place throughout treatment. Six Month Smiles invisible aligners use removable trays that can be taken out for meals, brushing and flossing.
Both options focus primarily on cosmetic alignment rather than complex bite correction. Many eligible patients complete treatment in approximately six months, although timelines vary. Six Month Smiles may be suitable for adults with crooked, crowded or spaced teeth. Dr. Stenvall will evaluate your smile and recommend the option that best fits your needs.
Invisalign® Clear Aligners
Invisalign treatment uses a customized series of clear, removable aligners to gradually reposition the teeth. The aligners fit closely over your smile and contain no metal brackets or wires. You can remove them while eating, brushing and flossing, allowing you to enjoy your usual foods and maintain your normal hygiene routine.
For predictable progress, Invisalign aligners must be worn for the recommended time each day and changed according to your treatment plan. Invisalign treatment can address many mild to moderate alignment concerns, but candidacy depends on your bite and needs. Dr. Stenvall will evaluate your smile and explain the results you can reasonably expect.
Keeping Your Results on Track
Successful orthodontic care requires consistent home care and regular appointments. Patients with removable aligners must follow their prescribed wear schedule. Patients with Six Month Smiles braces should clean carefully around brackets and wires to prevent plaque buildup.
After active treatment, you will receive instructions for wearing a retainer. Teeth naturally tend to shift over time, so retention is important for protecting your new smile. Continued dental exams and cleanings will also help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Ready to explore orthodontics in Charlotte, NC? Call us at 704-542-6533 to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics
How Do Six Month Smiles and Invisalign Treatment Differ?
Six Month Smiles uses fixed clear brackets and tooth-colored wires to focus primarily on visible front teeth. Invisalign treatment uses removable clear aligners and may address a broader range of alignment concerns. Your evaluation will reveal which approach better suits your smile.
Will Treatment Really Take Only Six Months?
Six Month Smiles often takes about six months for eligible cases, but timing varies. Invisalign treatment length depends on the movements required and how consistently the aligners are worn. We will provide a personalized estimate before care begins.
Can I Eat Normally During Treatment?
Invisalign aligners are removed for meals, so there are no treatment-related food restrictions. Six Month Smiles patients should avoid hard, sticky or chewy foods that could damage brackets or wires.
Will I Need a Retainer Afterward?
Yes. A retainer helps maintain the new positions of your teeth after either treatment. We will explain how often to wear it and how to keep it clean.