The Hello Ortho Journal
Notes from the chair.
Honest answers to the questions we get asked most. Written by Dr. Lamberton and the Hello Ortho team.
Featured · Treatment
Invisalign or braces? An honest 2026 comparison.
Both work. Both have tradeoffs. Here's how to think through which is actually right for your smile, your timeline, and your budget — without the marketing spin.
Dr. Jordan LambertonMay 20266 min read
Phase I
When should your kid see an orthodontist for the first time?
The American Association of Orthodontists says age 7. Here's why — and what actually happens at a Phase I evaluation (spoiler: usually not braces).
Dr. Jordan LambertonApril 20265 min read
Affordability
How orthodontic financing actually works (and why it's not as scary as you think).
Patient Harbor. Insurance benefits. FSA / HSA. In-house plans. We break down every option and show you what an adult Invisalign case really costs in monthly terms.
Christy, Office ManagerApril 20264 min read
Technology
What's an iTero scanner — and why does it matter for your treatment?
A quick walkthrough of the digital impression technology behind every Invisalign case at Hello Ortho. No goop. No gagging. 3 minutes.
Dr. Jordan LambertonMarch 20263 min read
Adult
It's never too late: adult orthodontics in your 30s, 40s, and beyond.
More than a third of orthodontic patients today are adults. Here's what makes adult treatment different — and how to start without anyone at work noticing.
Dr. Jordan LambertonMarch 20267 min read
Retention
How to actually take care of your retainer (so it doesn't end up in the trash by accident).
A short, practical guide to retainer wear, cleaning, replacement, and the most common retainer-eating culprits (looking at you, kitchen napkin).
Larissa, Clinical AssistantFebruary 20264 min read
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