We’re all about patient education! Check back here for oral hygiene tips and important patient information to support you through your orthodontic transformation.

MARPE Before & After: What Changes Can You Expect?
If you’ve been told you have a narrow upper jaw, crowded teeth, or a crossbite, you may think jaw surgery is your only option. Fortunately,

Is It Time to Straighten Your Teeth? 7 Signs It May Be Time for Orthodontic Treatment
National Align Your Teeth Day is August 11, and it’s a great reminder that a healthy, confident smile can make a lasting difference! But how

Do You Still Need Braces or Clear Aligners After MARPE?
If you’re looking into MARPE treatment for yourself or your teenager, one of the most common questions is: Do you need braces after MARPE? The

Signs Your Child May Need Early Expansion (Even If Their Teeth Look Straight)
Many parents assume that if their child’s teeth look straight, there’s no reason to think about orthodontic treatment just yet. But healthy smiles involve much

Mouth Breathing in Kids: When Is It a Sign of Something More?
It’s common for parents to notice their child sleeping with their mouth open and wonder: why is my child mouth breathing? Occasional mouth breathing in

Tips for Eating with a Palate Expander, MARPE, or MSE Appliance
Getting a palate expander, MSE, or MARPE orthodontic appliance is an exciting step toward creating a healthier, more functional smile, but let’s be honest: eating

How to Care for Your Teeth with a Palatal Expander or MARPE Treatment
If you’ve recently started treatment with a palatal expander, you’re probably adjusting to a whole new routine. Whether you’re using a traditional appliance, an MSE

Using Your HSA for Orthodontics: A Simple Way to Make Treatment More Affordable
If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA), there’s a good chance you’re sitting on funds that can be used for orthodontic treatment, you just

6 Surprising Signs Your Orthodontic Treatment is Working
Starting braces or Invisalign® is thrilling! You leave your first visit feeling proud of yourself and excited about the changes ahead. Then a few weeks

What Really Happens at Your Child’s First Orthodontic Check-Up
February is Children’s Dental Health Month, which means it’s the perfect time to answer one of the most common (and very reasonable) parent questions we

2026 Smile Refresh: What to Do NOW Before Your Best Year Yet
There’s something exciting about a brand-new year! New year, new goals, and that “fresh start” feeling we all love. A lot of us start the

Braces vs Invisalign® vs Expansion Techniques: Which Orthodontic Treatment Is Right for You?
Choosing between braces and Invisalign® can already feel overwhelming — and for some patients, there may be more than two options to consider. The truth

Types of Palatal Expanders (RPE, MARPE & MSE) Explained
Hearing that you or your child may need jaw surgery can feel overwhelming — and trying to sort through the different types of expanders (RPE,

How Long Should You Really Wear a Retainer?
Congrats on your beautiful new smile! You’ve finished treatment, your smile looks amazing, and now the next phase begins. Whether you’ve been wearing your retainer

Orthodontic Health Month: Why Your Smile Matters at Every Age
It’s that time again! October isn’t just pumpkin spice season… It’s Orthodontic Health Month and National Bullying Prevention Month — two very important reasons to

FSA Deadline Alert 2025: Use Your FSA for Invisalign®, Braces, MSE or MARPE
It’s hard to believe 2025 is almost over! As the holidays approach, so does another deadline you can’t afford to miss: your FSA funds. If

Braces Rubber Bands 101: How Elastics Move Your Bite (and How to Wear Them Right)
If you or your child has braces, you’ve probably heard about rubber bands (elastics). They’re an essential orthodontic appliance for many patients — and they’re

Spooky Season is Here: Top Tricks + Treats for Your Smile (+ Trending Costumes for 2025)
Halloween 2025 is all about costumes, candy, and confidence — and your smile deserves to be part of the celebration! Whether you’re walking the neighborhood

Tired All the Time? The Real Reason Could Surprise You…
If you’re waking up tired all the time, even after a full night’s sleep, it’s easy to blame stress, poor sleep habits, or just getting

Are there alternatives to jaw surgery? Exploring Non Surgical Jaw Alignment
When most people hear the words “jaw surgery,” it can feel intimidating. The thought of a lengthy procedure, recovery time, and the invasive nature of

Can I use a payment plan for Invisalign or braces in 2025?
Orthodontic treatment is a priceless investment — but that doesn’t mean cost isn’t a factor. We understand this! We’re always looking for ways to make

MARPE vs MSE: What’s the difference & which one is right for you?
If you’ve been told that you need jaw surgery to correct a narrow upper jaw, we have good news… you may have non-surgical options at

Why Patients Travel Nationwide for Maxillary Skeletal Expander (MSE) Treatment with Dr. Matsumoto
When it comes to specialized care like MSE treatment, finding the right orthodontist makes all the difference. At Matsumoto Orthodontics & Periodontics, patients from across

Mental Health Awareness Month: Supporting Our Patients Beyond the Smile
May is Mental Health Awareness Month — a time to reflect on how we support one another, both in and out of the office. At

Should I get a 2nd opinion before choosing an orthodontist?
So you visited an orthodontist and received an orthodontic exam, but you aren’t sure if you’re ready to start treatment yet. Is it possible to

Have you heard of Supermouth yet?
Looking for ways to simplify your oral care routine while in orthodontic treatment and enhance your smile results at the end of your braces or

How do straight teeth help prevent gum disease? Surprising facts!
February is Gum Disease Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of gum health and its connection to overall well-being. We’re celebrating

How braces have evolved: From 1000 BCE to 2025
If you had braces before the 21st century, you’ll notice that today’s braces have changed drastically! Braces are now faster, more discreet, more comfortable, more

How to Feel Confident in 2025: The Power of Invisalign
A new year brings the opportunity for fresh starts! What better way to embrace 2025 than by investing in yourself? If you’ve been holding back

Top 7 Cartoon Characters with Braces: Building Confident Smiles
Over the years, cartoon characters with braces have shed an inspiring light on the traditional orthodontic experience, encouraging kids and teens alike to embrace their

What to Eat Your First Day (and Week) with Braces
It’s no secret that the first week with braces comes with some lifestyle adjustments. After all, you’re on a journey to create a stunning new

Braces, Invisalign, and Bullying: Oh, my!
October is National Bullying Prevention Month and it’s a great time to talk about why bullies bully, and what you can do as a parent

My Child Snores Loudly: Is It Pediatric Sleep Apnea?
If you’ve noticed your child snoring loudly, it might seem harmless or even a little cute at first! But when snoring is frequent and loud,

Back to School with Braces or Invisalign? Top Tips!
The relaxing days of summer have come to an end, and it’s time to gear up for an exciting new school year! Your friends here

The Ultimate Guide to Eating Out with Braces or Invisalign in 2024 & 2025
If you’re in orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign®, first of all, congratulations! We’re so excited for your life-changing journey. Now if you’re dining out

Bracing for Change: 5 Tips to Ease Your Child’s Fears about Orthodontics
Starting orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign® for the first time is undeniably an adjustment! If you recently scheduled your child’s free consultation and your

Where to find a board-certified orthodontist in Wilmington (Porters Neck)
Choosing the right orthodontist is one of the most important parts of ensuring a successful smile transformation and achieving a smile that makes you proud

Why should children have their first orthodontist visit at age 7?
Receiving an orthodontic evaluation no later than age 7 may sound too young to some parents. After all, can a 7 year old get braces?

Can you get fake braces just for looks/fashion?
If you stay current with pop culture and fashion trends, you’ve probably seen some form of “fake braces” lately. Artists like Coi Leray and Steve

What is the quickest way to straighten my teeth before my wedding?
It’s a dream come true! The love of your life has just proposed! You’re floating on cloud 9 as you look through the pictures and

Do I still need to visit the dentist with BRIUS®, Invisalign® or braces?
If you have BRIUS, braces or Invisalign, should you continue visiting your dentist every 6 months for professional cleanings? Can your dentist even clean your

Can I switch orthodontists in the middle of treatment?
So you’re in active orthodontic treatment at the halfway mark to your beautiful new smile. You’ve gotten to know your orthodontist and team, but suddenly,

February is Gum Disease Awareness Month! Top 5 Facts
February is the perfect time to shine a spotlight on one of the most common yet often overlooked oral health issues: gum disease. At Matsumoto

SmileDirectClub is closing! Why it’s happening & What to do
We heard the recent news about SmileDirectClub closing its doors, and (unfortunately) we’re not surprised! Mail-order clear aligners have been known to cause irreparable damage

Should I get veneers or Invisalign/BRIUS braces in 2024?
Dental veneers have become a lot more popular lately! If you’re on TikTok, Instagram or Facebook, you’ve probably seen some of your favorite ‘influencers’ sporting

Gingivectomy 101: Understanding the Procedure and Its Benefits
So you’re in the middle of your smile transformation with braces, BRIUS® or Invisalign® and start to notice an offsetting feature to your budding new

Smile Stocking Stuffers: Best Gifts for People with Braces, BRIUS or Invisalign
The holidays are right around the corner! If you’re starting to think of gifts or stocking stuffer ideas for someone who’s currently wearing braces, BRIUS®

Can I use whitening toothpaste with BRIUS® braces?
On your smile transformation journey with BRIUS truly invisible braces, you may wonder how to keep your teeth white and bright from day 1 –

10 Invisalign FAQs: Your guide to Invisalign treatment
Hey there, parents! In your busy day-to-day, you may be wondering if it’s still possible to fix your crooked teeth and get the smile you’ve

Invisalign® buttons vs. attachments: What’s the difference?
If you’re on the journey to a stunning smile with Invisalign and the experienced Matsumoto Orthodontics & Periodontics team, you may have heard of Invisalign

Can crowded teeth cause problems?
Whether your family dentist talked with you about braces or maybe you’re just considering orthodontic treatment, you may be wondering if it’s worth it! At

How long does a palatal expander stay in?
So you’ve just taken your child in for their first orthodontic exam and as Dr. Matsumoto is going over their recommended treatment plan for your

Where to get Invisalign in Wilmington, NC, at Porters Neck
So you live in the beautiful Wilmington, North Carolina, and you’re ready to experience a smile as bright and sunny as the weather? We’ve got

Your Guide to Orthodontics When Sick
You’re committed to your smile transformation – through the ups and downs, in sickness and in health, right? After all, your beautiful end results will

Esthetic crown lengthening & orthodontics: What you need to know
If you’re considering orthodontic treatment and are bothered by a “gummy smile”, you may wonder if there’s an all-in-one treatment out there for you. The

What are Invisalign chewies? How do I use them?
Invisalign® chewies are small but mighty! If you’re on the exciting journey of transforming your smile with Invisalign, using Invisalign chewies can make a big

Importance of Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment (Interceptive Orthodontics)
Phase 1 Orthodontics, also called interceptive orthodontic treatment or interceptive orthodontics, is an early intervention approach designed to address dental issues in children between the

Dos & Don’ts of Wearing Invisalign
So you’ve done your scans, waited patiently for your Invisalign® clear aligners to come in, and now they’re finally here! If you were a little

Common Orthodontic Issues in Children: 4 Signs to Watch Out For
Parents, we know you want the best for your child! Whether your child still has a smile full of baby teeth, or their permanent teeth

What to Expect During Your Invisalign Treatment: A Step-by-Step Guide
Invisalign® clear aligners were a revolutionary orthodontic treatment when they hit the market in the 90s and have stayed a favorite since! In fact, there’s

Matsumoto Orthodontics & Periodontics Celebrates Its Newly Opened Office
Pictured (l to r): Chloe, Fabiola, Karen Matsumoto, and Dr. Ken Matsumoto, DMD, MS, ABO WILMINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA, April 20, 2023 – Matsumoto Orthodontics

Top 5 Best and Worst Drinks for Your Teeth
If you often find stains on your teeth, yellowing on your teeth, or even start to notice a cavity appearing, you may be wondering why

Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist in Wilmington?
Before you see a health specialist, you typically need a doctor referral from your primary care provider or family doctor. So does that apply to

Can I still get clear aligners with multiple missing teeth?
When you’re missing multiple teeth, your first thought may be to go the route of dental implants to gain back your smile. While dental implants

It’s National Children’s Dental Health Month!
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. The ADA (American Dental Association) and our team are using this month as an opportunity to educate our

Can you get braces with hyperdontia?
If you have extra teeth growing in your gums, or you notice your child has extra teeth growing behind their baby teeth, you probably have

Can I get Invisalign if I grind my teeth?
Has a partner or friend recently told you that you grind your teeth at night? Or maybe you know you‘re guilty of grinding your teeth,

The Evolution of Braces: How Orthodontic Treatment Has Changed Over Time
Orthodontic treatment has come a long way from the bulky metal appliances of the past. While the goal has always been the same—creating healthier bites

Can orthodontic treatment fix black triangles in teeth?
What Are Black Triangles Between Teeth? Black triangles are small dark spaces that appear near the gumline between two teeth. Dentists and orthodontists often refer

The Best Vitamins & Nutrients for Healthy Teeth During Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment is about more than straightening teeth. Healthy teeth, gums, and bone all play an important role in creating a successful smile transformation. Whether

Braces & Bullying: 5 Tips to Help Your Child
Braces are becoming more popular over recent years with an estimated four million people wearing braces at any given time! With new technological advancements that

How to Properly Maintain Your Retainer
Once your braces, Brius, or Invisalign® treatment is complete, how do you maintain your beautiful new smile for years to come? To retain your smile,

Your Guide to Flossing with Braces
So you’re preparing for your new life with braces and you’re wondering how to floss properly. It’s a fair question. Flossing with braces does require

5 Tips for Going Back to School with Braces in 2022
Summer break in Wilmington has come to an end and school is back in session! We’re ready to make this school year the best one

5 Key Tips to Clean Braces and BRIUS
With any type of braces you choose, keeping your smile clean throughout treatment isn’t difficult! All you need are some tips and tricks under your

Can orthodontics fix a gummy smile?
In any case of a gummy smile, Dr. Matsumoto can create a personalized treatment plan to correct your condition and help you feel confident in

How can CBCT imaging enhance your treatment?
Spoiler alert: CBCT scans produce clearer, more precise images than digital x-rays! While this is a valuable advantage, it isn’t the only reason we choose

What to Expect Your First Day with Invisalign
It’s normal to be a little nervous about starting orthodontic treatment. It’s a new experience, after all! Before you begin Invisalign® treatment with Dr. Matsumoto,

Should I get veneers or braces?
Dental veneers have become increasingly popular lately, with a number of celebrities, ‘influencers’, and reality stars sporting new veneer smiles. If you don’t have your

New to braces? Here’s what to expect!
So it’s your first week with braces? What an exciting time! Whether you chose BRIUS invisible braces, clear or metal self-ligating braces, or Invisalign clear

What Happens At Your First Orthodontist Appointment?
So you’re preparing for your first orthodontic appointment ever— how exciting! You’re about to embark on a life-changing journey. But first, you may be wondering

4 Steps to Choose the Right Orthodontist
With a number of different orthodontists to choose from, how do you know which one is best for you and your family? What type of

Matsumoto Orthodontics & Periodontics Announces Grand Opening With $1,000 Off Special Savings for the Community
WILMINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA. – The Wilmington orthodontic community has a new member. Matsumoto Orthodontics & Periodontics celebrates its grand opening with a special offer. Patients