Top Five Most Prevalent Orthodontic Questions Answered

Orthodontics can be traced back to ancient Greek and Roman civilizations before becoming more mainstream thanks to a Frenchman named Pierre Fauchard in the 1700s. Fortunately for all modern patients, there has been a continual evolution from the bygone days. Still, the science of orthodontistry remains a mystery to many people, particularly since there are so many advancements. 

Here are the top 5 questions first time orthodontic patients often ask:

1. What is orthodontic treatment and how does it work?

Orthodontic treatment helps remedy dental irregularities like crowded or misaligned teeth or issues that have been caused by injuries, the improper position of jaw bones or teeth, and accidents.

Malocclusion is the technical umbrella term for all of these issues including crooked and crowded teeth, teeth with large gaps between them, or impacted teeth.

Orthodontic treatment helps straighten your teeth and resolve those issues. Treatment may include a few different methods including traditional metal braces, retainers, clear (ceramic) braces, or clear aligners.

2. Why would orthodontic treatment be for me?

Orthodontic treatment can positively impact long term oral health as well as improve your bite and smile for the rest of your life.

A do-nothing approach can result in headaches and pain from a misaligned jaw. Crooked or crowded teeth can prove more difficult to clean, which can result in poor dental hygiene. 

In addition to health concerns, some people are worried about their appearance. Remedying crooked, crowded or gapped teeth makes smiles more symmetrical.

3. Which orthodontic treatment is the fastest?

In short, orthodontic treatment requires an investment of time and money in order to achieve one’s goals.

It is important to protect your oral health and investment by taking care of your teeth. Oral hygiene is important anyway, but particularly so when teeth are undergoing changes in alignment. Try to prevent yourself from grinding or biting down hard, because this can cause pressure and unnecessary wear and tear.

Attending scheduled appointments is paramount to ensuring the treatment is proceeding as planned and without obstacles. Follow your dentist’s instructions and treatment plan, from how often to brush and floss, to what you should and should not eat, and how much you are to wear your appliance.

4. Which orthodontic treatment is the best for me?

Orthodontic treatment is tailored and customized to the person. The orthodontic treatment that will work the best for you will entirely depend on factors like your current oral health, the severity of your malocclusion and the extent of previous dental work you have already had done. Some people require braces while others just need clear aligners. Personal preference and budget can impact those choices and your orthodontist can walk through the pros and cons of the decision with you.

5. Is there a perfect age for treatment?

Typically, the earlier you start, the easier and more efficient it will be. While not long ago, traditional orthodontic treatment began between the ages of 12 and 14, orthodontic professionals now recognize that starting treatment even earlier can prove incredibly beneficial to their patients.

This early intervention for positive dental health occurs between 7–11 years old and is called interceptive treatment.

Many adults opt for orthodontic treatment and people are good candidates as long as their teeth are generally healthy. Adults should realize that treatment does tend to take longer for them than it does for children.  

Invisalign: How Much Does It Cost To Fix My Smile?

When patients think about orthodontics, they often associate treatment with dollar signs. 

It’s understandable that the cost of orthodontic treatment can make some patients hesitant to explore options. As cost is a concern for many, there are financial factors to take into consideration during the decision-making process. Exact treatment costs are dependent on your requirements, but typically Invisalign treatment is comparable to traditional fixed braces. According to Invisalign, every smile is unique – and so is every budget. 

Let’s start with the basics. The Invisalign system consists of a series of clear aligners that you typically change every two weeks based on the custom treatment plan provided by your dentist or orthodontist. The aligners are custom-made and created individually for each patient according to their specific orthodontic needs. Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners adapt to all lifestyles, as they are removable, discreet, and provide a faster treatment period.  

Included in your Invisalign treatment plan is face-to-face doctor care. Your dentist or orthodontist will walk you through everything you need to know about your aligners so that you’re able to understand the process and adapt to the new change in your life. Everyone’s smile is different, which is why each set of aligners is custom-made based on a 3D digital scan of your teeth, and individually fitted and trimmed to provide a more comfortable appliance experience. 

But of course, the advantages come with an attached price tag. It’s important to speak with your dentist or orthodontist at your initial consultation to receive an estimated cost. Next, we’ll list the factors that affect the cost of Invisalign and contribute to the total amount you might pay:

• Your specific oral health needs and how much work needs to be completed to achieve the healthy smile you desire

• Any coverage your third-party insurance plan provides

• Your location and average prices for Invisalign treatment in your city 

• The dentist’s time for his/her work

 

On the Invisalign website, there are three different ways listed that explain how to potentially pay for your treatment. Each case and treatment plan is unique to the patient, so it’s recommended to always speak with your dental professional first to see what options are available.

1. Healthcare savings account

A healthcare savings account (HSCA) is an employee benefit that offers reimbursement for a range of health and dental expenses. It’s a non-taxable health benefits bank account that allows you to save and pay for your out-of-pocket health care-related expenses. And this may include Invisalign treatment! The advantage of using an HCSA is that you don’t pay taxes on the money that you put into the account. Speak to your employer and benefits provider to learn more.

2. Third-party insurance coverage

Many third-party insurance plans cover Invisalign treatment the same way they cover braces. Though only a portion may be covered, it’s recommended to speak with your provider so that you can learn more about your specific benefits package. Oftentimes, your dental office can also call your insurance provider to inquire about your plan and the details of your coverage.

3. Monthly payment plans

Many doctors offer flexible and affordable monthly payment plans. This provides an opportunity to make small payments throughout your treatment, rather than paying for the entirety of your treatment up front. Consult with your dental office to learn more about potential payment plans offered to patients. 

With a high success rate of correcting misaligned teeth, Invisalign is a great orthodontic treatment option for mild to moderate cases. Speak to your dental professional to see if you’re a candidate and be sure to explore all options that fit your budget. 

Clear Aligners: 8 Things to Know to Help Make a Clear Choice

If you’re reading this, you’re likely trying to decide whether you or your child should invest in clear aligner orthodontic treatment. Everyone desires a beautiful, straight smile, but for some, this can be hard to attain.

Clear aligners are the modern way to straighten teeth. It’s the fastest orthodontic treatment option that straightens teeth with the use of removable and invisible braces. It provides desired results and a significantly less number of treatment sessions over a reduced period. Clear aligner trays are a popular orthodontic choice because they are removable, discreet, and convenient. 

In this article, we’ll break down eight important factors to consider when deciding if clear aligner treatment is the right choice for you.

1. Clear aligners are custom-made for your mouth

Made from clear, medical-grade plastic, aligners are created individually for each patient. They are customized to fit your specific dental structure and are created based on the severity of your case and individual needs. A digital scanner is used to create a 3D image of your teeth and based on the scans, a series of clear aligner trays are designed to gradually shift the teeth into proper alignment as prescribed by your dentist or orthodontist. 

2. Clear aligners transform your smile discreetly 

Gone are the days of being embarrassed about a mouth full of metal. Unlike traditional metal braces, a series of virtually invisible plastic aligners will straighten your teeth over time and work similar to traditional metal braces, but with one major difference: they are removable. And most importantly, you have the opportunity to watch your smile change over time and witness the difference clear aligners make on your smile throughout the entire treatment process.

3. Clear aligners treat orthodontic issues quickly

Depending on the severity of your orthodontic needs, patients typically start to see results within the first six weeks of treatment. But this requires patient compliance. It’s important to wear your aligners for at least 22 hours a day for optimal results. In addition to a proper and regular oral hygiene routine, it’s important to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings, and to be aware of the amount of time the aligners are removed from your mouth. If you want to achieve great results, it’s important to stay on track and be dedicated to your treatment plan. 

4. Clear aligners allow you to maintain an easy dental hygiene routine 

With traditional braces, maintaining a proper oral care routine can be challenging. Food particles and bacteria can become trapped in the brackets and wires. With clear aligners, you can remove your trays before eating and drinking. But even with this convenience, it’s essential to still maintain a regular oral hygiene routine. It’s very important to brush and floss your teeth after eating or drinking anything other than water to avoid bacteria buildup and tooth decay.

5. Clear aligners must be removed when eating or drinking

A major benefit of clear aligner treatment is that the braces are removable. Unlike traditional braces, you do not have to restrict your diet. Simply remove the trays before eating or drinking anything other than water, and be sure to brush and floss your teeth before reinserting. A helpful tip is to always carry a travel sized oral hygiene kit for brushing on the go. 

6. Clear aligners should always be cleaned properly 

To effectively clean clear aligners, soak them in a special solution designed for specifically for aligners, use a denture cleaner, or simply rinse the trays thoroughly with cool water. It’s not recommended to brush your aligners with a toothbrush and toothpaste, as toothpaste contains ingredients that are too abrasive. This could cause your aligners to become scratched or damaged. 

7. Clear aligner treatment requires fewer in-office appointments

Clear aligner orthodontic treatment requires fewer appointments than traditional braces. At the beginning of your clear aligner treatment, you’ll receive a series of trays. Typically, aligner trays are changed every two weeks for the next slightly adjusted set of aligners in the series. There’s no need for adjustment or tightening appointments but your dentist or orthodontist will still recommend occasional appointments to check the progress of your treatment plan. In most cases, you will also need to be fitted for a retainer at the end of your treatment. This will help ensure your newly straighten smile stays in its place. 

8. Clear aligners will only be effective if patients are compliant

Patient compliance is crucial in orthodontic treatment involving removable appliances. Simply put, you will be the reason why your orthodontic treatment is effective or not. As previously mentioned, aligners must be worn for at least 22 hours a day. You can help shorten the treatment process if you do your part at home. This entails wearing the aligners for the recommended time, keeping them clean, and continuing with scheduled appointments with your dentist. 

Looking to Change Your Smile? Invisalign Could Be For You!

The power of a smile can help you feel more confident at any age. But is your fear of braces holding you back? It may be time to reconsider.

Many people are under the assumption that braces are displeasing and embarrassing, but thanks to clear, aesthetic aligners, you can show off your smile instead of metal brackets and wires. A common frustration amongst patients is that they believe they missed their opportunity to correct their smile – but if you’re a candidate for Invisalign, it’s never too late.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a treatment plan consisting of a series of custom-made clear aligners that apply gentle pressure to the teeth to shift them into proper alignment. The treatment is simple, comfortable, and discreet for patients with mild to moderate orthodontic needs. 

First, you’ll meet with your orthodontist to map out a custom treatment plan just for you. Using advanced technologies, a 3D digital scan of your teeth, along with a series of photographs and diagnostic digital X-rays, will guide your orthodontist to provide personalized treatment plan options. From the scans and 3D images, custom-fit aligners will be specifically designed for you. 

Invisalign clear aligner trays are made with smooth, medical-grade plastics that are comfortable to wear after the initial transition period. Invisalign is required to be worn for at least 22 hours a day and trays are typically changed every two weeks to achieve optimal results. Invisalign is also very easy to use, making patient compliance easier than ever.

So, what are the benefits of undergoing orthodontic treatment with Invisalign? 

Straighter & Healthier Teeth

Misaligned teeth are a common dental issue, but the benefits of having straight teeth go far beyond cosmetics. Simply put, straight teeth are healthy teeth. Straighter teeth are easier to clean, reducing the chances of tooth decay and gum disease. Crowded teeth may make brushing and flossing more challenging with the risk of missing food particles and bacteria. Though results of using Invisalign will vary depending on the individual treatment plan, as long as you’re compliant, you can expect to see results in as little as six weeks. 

Improved Oral Hygiene

A major benefit of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. This allows you to continue living your life with minimal restrictions. That being said, it’s still extremely important to stay on top of your oral hygiene routine. After removing your aligners to eat or drink anything but water, you must get into the habit of immediately brushing and flossing your teeth. Bacteria and food particles can become trapped in your teeth and trays, which can eventually lead to tooth decay and cavities. With Invisalign, your oral care routine will become more diligent – and your dentist will be proud. 

Increased Comfort Level

Unlike traditional metal braces, there is no need for tightening and adjustment appointments, but you will be required to visit your orthodontist every six to eight weeks to track your progress and pick up your new sets of aligners. Since the aligners are made from smooth plastic and are custom fit to hug your teeth, they can be quite comfortable. You will experience some discomfort in the transition period, whether it’s your first set of trays or when changing to a new set, but with time, you will hardly notice you’re wearing them. And thanks to the transparent plastic, no one else will notice them either! 

Self-Esteem Booster

Many studies have proven that confident smiles have a direct impact on your self-confidence and self-esteem. However, having an imperfect smile can cause unwelcome anxieties and stress. If you are taking the necessary steps to correct your smile, it’s important to be patient, compliant, and most importantly, excited about the opportunity to not only improve your smile but your overall health and happiness. 

Over ten million people have used Invisalign clear aligners to transform their smiles as it’s the most advanced treatment clear aligner system available on the market. With Invisalign, you have the opportunity to watch your smile transform. Get ready to achieve lasting results because you’ll want to keep smiling every single day. 

Important Tips for Drinking and Eating with Clear Aligners

We know that life with braces isn’t always easy, especially when it comes to food. If you’re a candidate for clear aligner orthodontic treatment, congratulations on not having to restrict your diet! Unlike traditional metal braces, clear aligners allow you to enjoy all of your favourite foods and drinks without major restrictions. 

But even with this added benefit, it’s still important to take proper care of your clear aligners and follow the treatment plan set out by your orthodontist to ensure that you receive the best results from your treatment. 

To achieve desired results, clear aligners must be worn for at least 22 hours a day. Though you may be tempted to continuously remove your trays to eat throughout the day, the treatment requires you to wear the aligners as much as possible. Keeping track of the total time you remove the aligners every day is necessary to make sure that you’re getting the recommended daily wearing time in. 

Alongside tracking wear time, there are tips to follow when it comes to eating and drinking.

Always remove your clear aligners before eating or drinking anything but water

This may seem like an inconvenience but orthodontic treatment requires patient compliance to achieve optimal results. But think of this as an advantage – your braces are removable! Those with traditional metal braces struggle daily with eliminating foods, and are constantly dealing with food particles getting stuck in the wires and brackets. Eating or drinking anything but cold water with your aligners can result in plaque build-up and future tooth decay. Not to mention, you could potentially damage, crack, or stain your aligners. 

Try to limit your sugar intake

Did you know that sugary foods and drinks cause an acid attack on your teeth for up to an hour after you eat, eventually leading to tooth decay? If sugar or food is left sitting in your aligners, it may cause future cavities. To reduce decay and the potential risk of staining your pearly whites, it’s best to avoid, or try to limit, sugary snacks. If you can’t seem to kick your sweet tooth, brush immediately after eating and rinse your mouth with an alcohol-free fluoride mouthwash to neutralize the plaque acids.

Brush your teeth before inserting your aligners after eating

After eating or drinking anything other than water, it’s recommended to brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in. This will remove any food or bacteria from your mouth. Clear aligners are custom-made to hug your teeth, so you don’t want any food or bacteria to linger. A helpful tip is to carry a travel toothbrush kit with you at all times that includes your aligner case, toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss. In a situation where you can’t brush your teeth after eating, simply rinse your mouth and aligners with cool water. Keeping your teeth and aligners clean will prevent cavities from developing and will keep your clear aligners in perfect condition. 

Create an eating schedule

Since clear aligners are required to be worn for the majority of the day and night, a helpful tip is to plan your mealtimes. This will ensure that you’re still getting enough nutrition throughout the day, but also that your treatment doesn’t become compromised. As previously mentioned, it’s recommended to wear your aligners for at least 22 hours a day. Since you have to remove your aligners each time you eat, this may help limit your snacking habits and provide encouragement to be more mindful about the foods you’re consuming. 

With the ability to remove your aligners, you have the freedom to continue enjoying all of the foods and drinks you love. But it’s important to remember that you still need to be dedicated and compliant when it comes to your treatment plan. Feel free to indulge but be sure to follow these tips to ensure that your treatment and progress is successful.