Review: Smiles by the Bay Orthodontics in Annapolis, Maryland

No one wants to be told that they need braces, but if it happens to you and you live in or near Annapolis, Maryland, why not check out Smiles by the Bay Orthodontics?

An Orthodontics Story

Let me start from the beginning. When I was fourteen, my dentist said that I needed braces to correct my teeth. My parents did the financially sensible thing, and asked me if I really wanted to have braces. As a teenager concerned with my image, I emphatically responded "No!"

However, I had a baby tooth that never decided to go ahead and fall out, and over the years it made my adult incisor grow through the roof of my palette. As an adult, I decided that I wanted to rectify the situation.

Finding the Right Orthodontist

I didn't want to make a rash decision, and so I visited several orthodontists in my quest to find the one suited to the task of modifying my precious teeth.

The first few orthodontists who I visited did not paint a good picture of orthodontia. Invariably, their offices were crowded, and I had to wait longer than I would have liked for my appointment. In addition, they all seemed to tell me different things - one wanted to give me traditional braces, while another assured me the process could be completed with Invisalign. I started to have doubts about the whole process.

And then, I met Dr. Mary Trahar. She'd just started her own practice, Smiles By The Bay Orthodontics, in a beautiful, airy new office in West Annapolis. She gave me the facts without any pressure, and didn't try to use any underhand sales techniques on me (as others had done). She was surprised that I had been recommended Invisalign, because I needed some pretty serious work done on my teeth. Dr. Trahar walked me through the entire process of getting braces, and intelligently and thoroughly answered all of my questions. It was an easy decision to choose her as my orthodontist.

Getting My Braces

I won't say that getting braces was a pleasant experience (I don't think that it ever is), but Dr. Trahar's warmth and concern for my well being made my experience the best it could be, given the circumstances.

When I arrived for my scheduled appointments, I often went straight to the chair as soon as I arrived, and if I did have to wait, it was never for long. The staff at Smiles by the Bay are some of the friendliest people I've ever met, and I quickly developed friendships with all of them. I didn't have any big issues with my braces (except for sitting on my plastic retainer and breaking it once), but Dr. Trahar let me know that she would always be available should any problems arise.

I will say that I've had my braces on a little longer than I expected, but that's just because Dr. Trahar wants my teeth to be perfect. She's let me know that I can have them off if I decide that I'm ready, but I trust her judgment.

My Recommendation

If you're in the market for braces, I whole-heartedly recommend Dr. Trahar and Smiles By The Bay Orthodontics. I'm convinced that you can't find a better orthodontist in the Annapolis area.

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