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Orthodontics

Meet Dr. Wray

Our In-House, Board Certified Orthodontist

Dr. Wray is a Board Certified Orthodontist and is dedicated to helping her patients achieve the smiles of their dreams. She is up-to-date with current orthodontic techniques and has completed Invisalign certification and Incognito certification (a technique using braces hidden behind the teeth).

A Florida native, Dr. Wray received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of South Florida, graduating Summa Cum Laude with a major in Biomedical Sciences. She attended dental school at the University of Florida College of Dentistry where she completed an advanced education honors program in orthodontics. Upon graduation, she was inducted into the prestigious Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society.

After receiving her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree, Dr. Wray attended a 3-year orthodontic residency at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio where she earned her Certificate in Orthodontics as well as a Master’s degree in Cellular and Structural Biology.

Dr. Wray is an active member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the American Dental Association, Mid-Atlantic Society of Orthodontists, and the College of Diplomates of the American Board of Orthodontists.Dr. Wray and her husband share a love of teeth. He is currently serving in the US Navy as a periodontist. They reside in Montgomery County with their dog, Lola. Dr. Wray enjoys traveling, baking, and running.

 

About Orthodontics

If your child is self-conscious about smiling, having braces can greatly improve the way he or she looks and feels.

When treatment is complete, your child will have an amazing, healthy smile, as well as the confidence to show it off! We want you and your child to feel comfortable and confident throughout the entire orthodontic experience, so our practice is dedicated to making sure that your child receives the quality care they deserve.

How Orthodontic Treatment Works

Orthodontic appliances are made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. They may be removable or they may be brackets bonded to the teeth. By placing a constant, gentle force in a carefully controlled direction, braces slowly move teeth to the proper position.

Gone are the days when a metal band with a bracket was placed around each tooth. Orthodontic patients can now choose brackets that are clear or metallic, and in some cases, customize the color of the appliance. Wires are far less noticeable, and the latest materials are designed to move teeth faster with more comfort.

Duration of Treatment

Depending on several factors, including age, treatment method, and how minor or severe your child’s case is, treatment time varies and can last between one and three years. Receiving interceptive, or early treatment, can also help provide a quicker treatment time later on in life. Another big factor to a successful treatment is your child’s cooperation. The more involved and diligent your child is, the quicker and more efficient treatment will be.

Before beginning your child’s orthodontic care, our doctor will discuss all of your child’s options and provide an estimate for how long full treatment may take. Please contact our practice to schedule an appointment and learn more about orthodontics and the treatments we provide.

Types of Braces

Traditional Metal Braces

metal braces

Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces and are more comfortable today than ever before. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces straighten teeth by using metal brackets and archwires. With metal braces, there is the option of adding colored elastics (rubber bands) for a more unique and colorful smile.


Clear (Ceramic) Braces

clear braces

Ceramic braces are made of clear materials and are therefore less visible on the teeth than metal braces. For this reason, ceramic braces are used mainly on older teenagers who have cosmetic concerns. While they are visually less prominent, they do require more attention to oral hygiene, as ceramic braces are larger and more brittle than their metal counterparts. For these reasons, ceramic braces tend to be used more on upper front teeth rather than on lower teeth.


Clear Aligners

invisalign

Clear aligners are a series of invisible, removable, and comfortable acrylic trays that straighten the teeth like braces. Not only are the aligners invisible, they are also removable, allowing your child to eat and drink without concern while in treatment. Plus, this helps to make brushing and flossing less of a hassle. The aligners are comfortable and have no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment.


Lingual Braces

lingual braces

Lingual braces are hidden behind the teeth and are therefore “invisible” when your child smiles. Lingual braces are 100% customized to match the shape of the teeth. Lingual braces are a very reasonable option for athletes, models, actors/actresses, and musicians who play wind instruments.