Even if you’ve never set foot in an orthodontist’s office, you have probably heard of Invisalign. This less visible alternative to braces is becoming increasingly popular for patients of all ages from adolescents to adults.
Invisalign straightens your teeth and aligns your bite using clear plastic retainer-like trays that fit over your teeth. You wear a series of aligners, each for about 2 weeks in a specific order to gradually shift your teeth into the desired position.
If you’re considering Invisalign treatment for yourself or your child/teen, consider the top 5 benefits to help you decide if Invisalign may be a good choice.
1. Attractive Smile
One of the primary reasons patients seek Invisalign treatment is to improve their smile. If you have crooked teeth or gaps between your teeth, it can straighten them until they are in a nice straight line. By shifting the teeth into position rather than covering them with veneers, you can keep your teeth in their natural state and still have a better looking smile.
2. Improved Oral Health
The purpose of Invisalign is not merely cosmetic. By straightening your teeth and aligning your bite, you are also improving your oral health. Straight teeth are easier to keep clean, meaning you are less likely to get cavities. A properly aligned bite helps you chew food effectively without damaging your teeth or straining your jaw.
3. Discreet
Invisalign aligners are made of clear plastic that is virtually invisible on your teeth. It won’t affect your smile or appearance in any negative way during treatment. Invisalign replaces the metallic look of traditional braces with a discreet alternative. Unless someone is aware of your treatment, they would most likely not be able to tell that you are wearing your aligners.
4. Comfortable
Invisalign aligners are made of smooth, flexible plastic that won’t irritate the insides of your lips and cheeks. There are no metal wires poking you or rough brackets to cause irritation. Invisalign also works gradually, making it more gentle and reducing soreness that comes from shifting teeth.
5. Convenient
Unlike braces, Invisalign is removable. You can take your aligners out to eat, meaning you don’t have any food restrictions during your treatment. You can also remove them to brush and floss your teeth, meaning you won’t need any special tools or techniques to keep your teeth clean.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Average treatment lasts somewhere between 6 to 18 months. The exact length of treatment depends on the severity of your case and the extent of the movements needed to properly align your teeth and bite. Age is also a factor, as treatment tends to take longer for adults than it does for children and teens.
Am I a candidate for Invisalign?
Invisalign works best for mild to moderate orthodontic cases, meaning not everyone will be an ideal candidate for this treatment. Another factor to consider is the level of responsibility of your child/teen and whether or not they will be able to keep up with their retainers and avoid losing them.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you are interested in Invisalign for yourself or your child/teen, schedule a consultation. After a brief evaluation we can make a recommendation for the best treatment option to achieve the desired results. Call 860-667-8277 or contact us today to learn more and make an appointment.
When you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment, it’s natural to wonder what constitutes an actual emergency versus a minor inconvenience. While occasional discomfort or loose appliances might be expected during treatment, there are situations that require immediate attention. At Greater Hartford Orthodontics, we believe that clarity and guidance can help you tackle these challenges with confidence. This guide expands on common orthodontic emergencies, explains how to manage them, and helps you understand when to contact your orthodontist.
Understanding Orthodontic Emergencies
Orthodontic emergencies can arise from damaged appliances, trauma, or unexpected complications. Knowing how to distinguish between urgent and non-urgent situations not only protects your treatment progress but also ensures your overall health and comfort. When in doubt, it’s always better to consult your orthodontist for advice.
Below, we’ll walk through the most common scenarios patients encounter and lay out practical steps to handle them.
Loose Brackets and Wires
Why Does This Happen?
Loose brackets and wires often result from eating hard or sticky foods, such as popcorn, caramels, or nuts, which can weaken the adhesive holding the bracket in place. Physical impact during sports or accidental bumps against the appliances can also create issues.
Managing Loose Brackets
If a bracket becomes loose, use orthodontic wax to secure it temporarily. This prevents it from moving further or irritating your cheeks and gums. Avoid touching or pulling at the loose component, as this could worsen the situation. Contact your orthodontist promptly to schedule a repair. Timely fixes minimize disruptions to your treatment plan.
Dealing with Protruding Wires
A dislodged wire can poke or irritate the soft tissues of your mouth. Gently push the wire back into place using the eraser end of a pencil. If the wire remains uncomfortable or continues to poke, cover the tip with orthodontic wax. If you’re unable to manage the discomfort using these steps, schedule an appointment with your orthodontist.
Pro Tip: Always carry orthodontic wax and a small kit with essentials like a pencil eraser and clean tools to address minor issues on the go.
Severe Pain or Swelling
What’s Normal, and What’s Not?
It’s entirely normal to feel some discomfort after an adjustment or when switching to a new aligner tray. Over-the-counter pain relievers, warm saltwater rinses, and cold compresses can help ease this temporary soreness.
However, if pain becomes severe or swelling develops, this may point to a more serious underlying issue. An infection in the gums, cheek, or another area of your mouth is one possible cause and should never be ignored.
When to Call Your Orthodontist
Signs that warrant immediate attention include pain that persists despite medication, swelling that continues to worsen, or signs of an abscess, like pus or a bad taste in your mouth. Reach out to your orthodontist right away. Timely treatment can prevent complications and protect your overall oral health.
Example Case:
One patient reported significant swelling after a bracket came loose and rubbed against the inside of their cheek for several days. While the issue started small, it quickly escalated into a painful sore due to prolonged irritation. Prompt intervention saved the patient from further discomfort and kept their treatment progress on track.
Broken Appliances
Recognizing the Risks
Broken appliances, such as retainers, expanders, or headgear, not only cause discomfort but also risk delaying treatment. For example, a broken retainer might allow your teeth to shift back into their previous positions, undoing months of progress.
Immediate Steps to Take
If your appliance breaks, first inspect it carefully. Remove loose pieces that could become choking hazards but avoid attempting to fix the item yourself. Orthodontic wax can serve as a temporary measure to reduce discomfort, but you’ll want to see your orthodontist to repair or replace the broken device.
Did you know?
Improper storage of removable appliances, like retainers, significantly increases their chances of breaking. Always store them in their protective case when not in use.
Long-Term Solutions
Discuss with your orthodontist whether the broken appliance needs an upgraded design. Some patients benefit from reinforced retainers or other custom modifications based on their lifestyle or treatment progress.
When to Seek Immediate Professional Help
What Qualifies as an Urgent Emergency?
Here are situations that require immediate orthodontic care:
- Trauma: Direct injuries to the mouth, teeth, or jaw from accidents or sports must be addressed right away.
- Continuous Bleeding: If a wire, bracket, or other appliance causes bleeding that doesn’t stop with gentle pressure, contact your orthodontist or visit an emergency dental facility.
- Swallowed Parts: While most swallowed pieces will pass naturally, seek medical attention if you experience difficulty swallowing, chest pain, or a persistent cough.
What If You’re Unsure?
Orthodontic concerns don’t always fall into clear categories of urgent versus non-urgent. If you’re uncertain, it’s always better to reach out. An experienced team like ours at Greater Hartford Orthodontics is just a phone call away. We’re here to guide you and provide reassurance.
Note: Emergency orthodontic consultations often uncover minor problems that could have become serious without early intervention.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontic Emergencies
What if my braces break while I’m traveling?
If you’re unable to visit your orthodontist right away, take these steps:
- Use orthodontic wax to stabilize loose brackets or wires.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods that might worsen the situation.
- Contact your orthodontist to discuss the issue and, if necessary, seek care from a local orthodontist.
How can I avoid orthodontic emergencies?
Prevention starts with proper care. Follow these tips:
- Avoid foods that can damage your braces or aligners.
- Use a mouthguard during sports or physical activities.
- Attend regular check-ins to ensure your braces are functioning correctly.
Building Confidence and Comfort at Greater Hartford Orthodontics
Your orthodontic treatment is an important investment in your health and self-confidence, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether it’s an emergency situation or a routine check-in, you can rely on our team to provide expert care in a welcoming, professional environment.
If you’re facing an orthodontic issue or simply have questions about your appliances, don’t hesitate to contact us at Greater Hartford Orthodontics. Our team is committed to helping you stay on track toward your dream smile with comfort and ease.
Invisalign® has been one of the most innovative orthodontic systems for decades. Trusted and proven effective, this treatment is comfortable, convenient, and discreet.
Many patients have heard of Invisalign and want to know whether it can help them with their misaligned teeth. Patients want to know how Invisalign works and what to expect during their treatment.
We have compiled the top 10 questions we receive from our patients and provided thorough answers below. If you have further questions or concerns, we will gladly book a consultation with one of our expert orthodontists.
Invisalign Questions and Answers
1. How does Invisalign work?
The Invisalign system consists of a series of clear medical-grade plastic aligners created using your precise measurements. The aligner series moves your teeth from their original placement to an optimum location. You will change your aligners every one to two weeks.
2. How long does Invisalign treatment take?
The average duration of Invisalign treatment is about 12 to 18 months. However, some patients with minor alignment issues may finish before the first year ends.
3. Who is the best candidate for Invisalign?
Teens and adults with excellent oral hygiene who lack untreated tooth decay and gum disease are ideal candidates. Invisalign can treat mild to moderate misaligned teeth, including overbite, underbite, and crossbite. Patients with missing teeth may need to consider a different orthodontic solution.
4. Does dental insurance cover Invisalign?
If your plan covers orthodontia, you may already have coverage for Invisalign. Call your insurer to verify the details of your plan.
5. What makes Invisalign different from metal braces?
Invisalign possesses several advantages over traditional braces:
- Comfort
- Discretion
- Easy care
- No food restrictions
Metal braces may sometimes be a better choice for patients with severe malocclusion or other needs, but most patients can enjoy all the benefits of Invisalign.
6. Can I eat with my aligners in?
Remove your aligners before you eat or drink anything but water. Doing so may damage them and create prime conditions for tooth decay.
7. What happens if I lose or damage an aligner?
Contact your orthodontist immediately for a replacement.
8. What would happen if I forgot to wear my aligners?
If you forget your aligners, your teeth may drift out of position, setting your treatment back. Wear your aligners 20 to 22 hours daily to keep your treatment on track.
9. Can kids use Invisalign?
Teenagers with all their permanent teeth can use Invisalign. The teen version has special features to help them stay on track with their treatment.
10. How much does Invisalign cost compared to braces?
Invisalign and braces usually cost roughly the same. However, your cost may vary depending on your insurance, provider, and any additional circumstances, such as an overbite or underbite.
Greater Hartford Orthodontics is a welcoming, family-friendly practice located in Newington, CT. We provide comprehensive orthodontic care for patients of all ages and serve residents of the Hartford area and beyond. Contact Greater Hartford Orthodontics for more information on our services and to schedule a consultation.
Invisalign® is a convenient, highly effective orthodontic system that can treat misaligned teeth and restore a healthy, brilliant smile. Without the hassle of braces, Invisalign can bring your teeth into beautiful alignment while protecting your oral health.
Like any treatment, Invisalign has pros and cons. This blog will explain in detail the advantages and disadvantages of this orthodontic system and help you make an informed decision.
Pros of Invisalign:
Discretion
One of Invisalign’s most significant advantages is that it enables patients to keep their orthodontic treatment private. Clear aligners do not attract unwanted attention, and most friends and family will not notice them at all.
Comfort
With no wires, brackets, or sharp edges, Invisalign is the best choice for comfort. The clear medical-grade plastic aligners fit smoothly against soft oral tissues. Becoming accustomed to wearing Invisalign takes only days, and there are no uncomfortable adjustment appointments.
Speed
Most Invisalign patients complete treatment in about 12 to 18 months, while braces may take as long as 3 years, depending on the complexity of their needs.
Convenience
Invisalign treatment requires fewer orthodontic visits than traditional braces. Patients change their aligners every one to two weeks and visit the doctor approximately once every six weeks for a checkup.
No Food Restrictions
Braces wearers often feel annoyed by having to avoid their favorite foods. Invisalign comes out when patients eat or drink, so they can have anything they like as long as they keep their teeth and aligners clean.
Easier Care
Since Invisalign comes out, patients can effortlessly brush and floss. The aligners are also easy to clean, using branded cleaning crystals or mild antibacterial soap. Patients need not struggle with floss threaders or other assistive devices.
Improved Oral Health
Cleaner teeth mean lower chances of tooth decay and gum disease, which can sometimes be an issue for braces patients. Invisalign also improves oral health because straighter teeth collect less plaque and tartar.
Cons of Invisalign:
Cost
Invisalign is a premium solution, and its convenience may translate to a higher out-of-pocket cost than braces.
Requires More Responsibility
Invisalign patients need to engage more with their orthodontic treatment than braces patients, meaning that Invisalign is appropriate for older teens and adults. Keeping track of aligners and avoiding damaging them can be a challenge.
Must Wear 20-22 Hours Daily
Patients must commit to wearing their aligners at all times, except when eating or caring for their teeth. If patients forget to put their aligners in, their treatment may stall or reverse.
Must Remove to Eat or Drink
Some patients find it difficult to remove the aligners, find a safe place to keep them and replace them after a meal. Always keep your aligners in their case when they are not in your mouth.
Fewer Treatment Options than Braces
Braces are more versatile than Invisalign, allowing for more types of orthodontic correction. If a patient has significant bite issues or needs extensive work, traditional braces could be a better choice.
Guiding Your Invisalign Decision
Selecting between Invisalign and other orthodontic treatments can be challenging. Not every patient is a good fit for clear aligner treatment.
Patients who need orthodontic correction should research their options while considering the pros and cons. Weighing your needs, requirements, and lifestyle can help you make your decision. Speak to a qualified orthodontist to resolve your questions and receive optimal treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign Treatment
Does Invisalign hurt?
Invisalign is considerably more comfortable than traditional braces. The aligners are smooth to the touch and lack sharp edges, so they do not irritate lips, gums, or cheeks. Teeth move gently and gradually without painful adjustment appointments. You may experience short-lived discomfort when you switch to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks.
If I have an overbite, can I receive Invisalign?
Invisalign is an excellent choice for mild to moderate overbites. A qualified orthodontist can add tooth-colored “buttons” and elastic bands to Invisalign treatment to correct overbite, underbite, and crossbite. However, a severe bite problem may require other therapies.
Call Greater Hartford Orthodontics
When considering orthodontic treatment, it pays to know the pros and cons of each treatment. Our orthodontic experts can help you select your ideal treatment based on your needs. Please call our Newington, CT, office at 860-667-8277 to schedule a consultation today.
If you or your child would benefit from braces, you may want to schedule an initial appointment with an orthodontist. You or your child may have the following symptoms:
- Crooked teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Dental bite issues (overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite)
Many patients feel uncertain about their first appointment with an orthodontist and want to know what will happen. This blog provides an outline of your first appointment and explains the best ways to prepare.
Scheduling a Consultation
The first step is scheduling a consultation with a trusted provider. Your family dentist may work with a specific provider, or you may want to research and find your orthodontist independently.
Preparing For Your Orthodontist Appointment
Assemble a list of questions for your orthodontic provider. You will want to know how long they expect treatment to last, how frequent your appointments will be, any dietary restrictions you need to follow, and the various treatment steps.
The provider’s qualifications you should keep in mind include the following:
- Experience treating children and adults
- Activity in local and national professional organizations
- Breadth and scope of available procedures
- Strong connections with the community
Your First Appointment
During your first appointment, your provider will discuss your medical and dental history. They will want to know as much as you can provide about your oral and general health.
Next, your orthodontist will take digital impressions of your teeth, using these to determine your needs. Your orthodontist will let you know what type of treatment you or your child would find the most beneficial, from Invisalign to standard metal braces.
Finally, your orthodontist will design and install your appliances to provide the best possible results.
Tips to Help Your Orthodontic Treatment Run Smoothly
- Keep all scheduled dental and orthodontic appointments
- Follow all recommendations, including wearing your clear aligners daily or changing braces elastics when necessary
- Keep your teeth as clean as possible using robust hygiene practices
- If your braces break or lose a part, contact your orthodontist immediately for repairs
Braces Can Change Your Life
If you or your child feel uncomfortable with your smile, braces can improve your self-image and boost your confidence. With a straight, brilliant smile, you will have a better attitude and want to show your smile to the world.
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces
How long do braces take?
On average, braces take about 18 months to 3 years to complete. However, many patients experience shorter treatment times, especially if they need less extensive correction.
Are braces uncomfortable?
After you have become accustomed to wearing braces, the appliances will not be uncomfortable. You may experience some minor discomfort when your orthodontist adjusts your braces, but this should be short-lived.
Call Greater Hartford Orthodontics
Getting braces can improve your oral health and your self-confidence. If you want to know more about braces and how they can help you or your child, please call our office at 860-667-8277. We will gladly answer your questions.
Braces are a versatile, efficient way to achieve a beautiful smile. They can treat orthodontic problems from gapped teeth to severe malocclusion.
Braces treatment averages about two years, depending on the complexity of your alignment issues. We can correct simple misalignments in under 12 months, but more complex cases may need up to three years.
How Braces Work
Braces work by applying gentle pressure to the teeth with a system of brackets, wires, and bands. Directed by your orthodontist, the teeth move gradually into ideal positions.
The parts of orthodontic braces are as follows:
- Molar Bands: These bands go around the back teeth, holding the wires in place.
- Brackets: The orthodontist cements small metal or clear brackets to the teeth, allowing the wire to create tooth movement.
- Archwires: To facilitate tooth movement, the orthodontist tightens the archwire every two to four weeks.
- Elastics: Tiny rubber bands encircle the brackets and hold the archwire in place. Self-ligating brackets (H4 braces) do not need elastics, and they work faster than standard metal braces.
Advantages of Braces
Improve Oral Health
Patients find it more challenging to keep crooked teeth clean. Poor oral hygiene can cause dental problems like tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. After your braces come off, you will enjoy the convenience of keeping your teeth clean.
Build Self-Confidence
If you feel you need braces, you may feel self-conscious about your smile. A brighter, straighter smile can improve your quality of life and make you feel better about yourself.
Correct Bite Problems
Many bite problems, such as overbite and underbite, can cause jaw soreness and expose teeth to excess wear. Well-aligned teeth are better protected from damage.
Braces Options We Offer
Metal Braces
Classic metal braces are the strongest and most versatile option. They are also among the most affordable.
Clear Braces
Clear brackets are not as strong as metal, but they are appropriate for older teens and adults who want to treat their orthodontic issues with more discretion.
H4 Braces
This brand of self-ligating braces allows for faster treatment and does not require changing elastics.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces go on the inside surfaces of the teeth for complete discretion.
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces
How can I keep my teeth healthy with braces?
If you have braces, you need to take extra care to keep your teeth clean. Brushing and flossing may be more challenging, but doing so is vital to your lifetime oral health.
Brush carefully at a 45-degree angle, covering both the tops and bottoms of your brackets. Use an interproximal brush to clear food and debris from behind your wires. Use a floss threader to access your gums.
Are braces uncomfortable?
Your oral tissues will quickly adapt to wearing braces. If you experience discomfort, use orthodontic wax to cover sharp edges.
Call Greater Hartford Orthodontics
Braces can improve your self-image and boost your oral health. For more information about braces, please call our Newington, CT, office at 860-667-8277. We would gladly schedule a consultation with Dr. Cos.
Invisalign® is a fast, discreet orthodontic system that teens and young adults prefer. While braces can take up to three years, Invisalign treatment typically lasts between nine and 18 months. Some patients may see permanent results sooner.
The Invisalign Process
Invisalign uses 3-D digital technology to create a series of custom aligners made of advanced, medical-grade plastic. The aligners gradually move your teeth into ideal positions as you progress through the series.
Step 1: Consultation
You will meet your orthodontist to determine whether you are a good candidate for Invisalign. Most older teens and adults with minor to moderate orthodontic issues meet the criteria.
You will discuss your treatment expectations with your orthodontist and have the opportunity to ask questions. Your orthodontist will create a clear treatment plan and ensure you understand the process.
Step 2: Design
To design the trays, your orthodontist will take digital impressions of your mouth using the proprietary iTero intraoral scanner. A digital impression is fast, comfortable, and significantly more accurate than the messy impressions you may remember.
Digital impressions allow your orthodontist to see your oral anatomy in 3-D and plan the movement of each tooth over time. Invisalign software helps to turn the designs into aligner plans.
Step 3: Manufacture
The orthodontist transmits the data to the Invisalign lab, where expert technicians create your aligners using advanced materials.
Step 4: Treatment
When your aligners return from the lab, you will have a fitting where your orthodontist will ensure they are comfortable and made accurately.
You will wear each aligner for roughly one to two weeks and change to the next in the series. You must see your orthodontist approximately every six weeks to check your progress.
In nine to 18 months, you will have a beautiful, well-aligned smile with no hassle and discomfort associated with traditional braces.
Step 5: Retainer
Retainer use after treatment is essential to protect your investment. Wearing your retainer as directed ensures that your teeth will settle in new positions and not slip back to their original locations.
Best Uses of Invisalign
The following orthodontic conditions respond best to Invisalign treatment:
- Crooked teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Gapped teeth
- Rotated teeth
- Minor to moderate bite issues (overbite, underbite)
Advantages of Invisalign
Faster Than Braces
One of Invisalign’s top advantages is that it can be faster than braces for some orthodontic conditions.
Comfortable
Smooth plastic aligners have no sharp edges, brackets, or wires to irritate soft oral tissues. Since the aligners fit close to your natural teeth, you may forget you are wearing them.
Discreet
Many teens and adults feel anxious about braces because they believe the treatment will attract unwanted attention. Invisalign allows patients to keep their orthodontic work private.
Improved Oral Health
Compared to braces, Invisalign patients have significantly better gum health. Removable trays allow patients to keep their teeth cleaner, reducing their chance of gum disease and tooth decay.
Eat What You Like
With Invisalign, you will not need to stop eating your favorite foods. Steak, apples, popcorn, corn on the cob, and candy can stay on the menu.
Tips for Success With Invisalign
- Practice excellent oral hygiene, brushing your teeth and flossing as your orthodontist recommends
- Thoroughly clean your aligners daily, avoiding hot water and abrasive toothpaste
- Wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours every day, removing them only to eat, drink, and keep them clean
- If you lose or damage an aligner, inform your orthodontist as soon as possible to obtain a replacement
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign
Who is a good candidate for Invisalign?
Patients should have excellent oral hygiene habits. They should be responsible enough to follow directions and wear their aligners for 20 to 22 hours daily. They should have all their permanent teeth, no missing teeth, and their jaws should have finished growing.
Why should I see an orthodontist for Invisalign treatment?
While many general dentists receive training to prescribe Invisalign, only a qualified orthodontist can provide expert care. Orthodontists receive years of additional training in the science of moving teeth and creating permanently beautiful smiles.
Call Greater Hartford Orthodontics
If you want to pursue Invisalign treatment, please call our Newington, CT office at 860-667-8277. Dr. Cos would enjoy meeting you and explaining how Invisalign can change your life one tooth at a time.
Invisalign® provides impressive results with few of the drawbacks of traditional braces. Comfortable, quick, and discreet, Invisalign can help transform your smile.
Invisalign uses a series of graduated aligners to shift teeth into their best positions gently. Each aligner moves a few teeth, gradually building your ideal smile. You can show off your results in just 12 to 18 months.
Advantages of Invisalign
Comfort
The medical-grade plastic aligners are strong, smooth, and comfortable to wear, making treatment simple. After you become accustomed to the aligners, you will hardly notice them on your teeth.
Discretion
Adults and older teens often dislike getting braces because they don’t want the extra attention. They may also worry that braces will interfere with their personal or professional image. Invisalign lets these patients keep their treatment private.
Versatility
Researchers find that Invisalign is as effective as braces. The system can correct simple cases of crooked and gapped teeth. With an orthodontist’s expertise, it can also treat bite issues and more complex issues.
Better Oral Health
Many patients find brushing and flossing around braces challenging, which can lead to a higher risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Researchers have found that Invisalign allows patients to maintain better gum health during and after treatment.
Fewer Orthodontic Visits
With braces, most patients must visit the orthodontist every few weeks for an adjustment. Tightening wires can cause discomfort. With Invisalign, you only need to move to the next aligner in the series. You will only need to visit your orthodontist about every six weeks.
Good Candidates for Invisalign
- Adults and teens are eligible
- Able to follow treatment instructions
- Ready to wear the aligners 20-22 hours daily
- Excellent oral hygiene
- Ability to properly care for aligners
- No missing teeth
Starting Your Invisalign Journey
If you need orthodontic treatment, Invisalign can help you straighten your teeth like braces without the hassle. We will gladly meet with you for a consultation to determine whether you are a good candidate for Invisalign and what you can expect from your treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign
Why should I see an orthodontist for Invisalign?
Many dentists receive training to prescribe Invisalign and provide adequate treatment. However, an orthodontist is a true expert in moving teeth. They receive significantly more specialist training and experience with treatment methods like Invisalign. If you visit an orthodontist, you will get better, more efficient results.
How do I care for my aligners at home?
The clear plastic aligners are durable but need special care. Clean them with non-whitening toothpaste and a soft brush. Whitening toothpaste may be too abrasive for the smooth, transparent plastic material. You can also use Invisalign’s branded cleaning crystals for a brighter sparkle.
Call Greater Hartford Orthodontics
We look forward to meeting you and helping you reach your oral health goals. Please call our Newington, CT, office at 860-667-8277 to book your consultation today.
You may have noticed swollen, tender gums if you or your child has braces. Standard braces have many wires and brackets, making it challenging to keep teeth and gums clean and healthy. In addition, some patients’ gums react to new braces by swelling and overgrowing.
This blog will explain how to combat swollen gums when you have braces and offer solutions for keeping your teeth sparkling clean.
Why Do Gums Swell With Braces?
Braces patients’ gums can swell for several reasons. Most braces patients are adolescents, meaning that the natural hormones in their bodies make it more likely that gum tissue will swell and bleed easily. Gum tissue sometimes grows down too far over the tooth in reaction to new braces, and this tender, new tissue may swell.
Gingivitis can also cause gum swelling. As the first stage of gum disease, gingivitis deserves attention from your orthodontist or family dentist. A dental practitioner should check at the patient’s next appointment and determine the cause of swollen gums.
How to Manage Swollen Gums
Improve Oral Care
Step up your child’s at-home oral care routine, including detailed flossing and careful brushing multiple times daily. Use interproximal brushes and floss threaders, if necessary, to reach between teeth and avoid wires.
Many children and teens may be reluctant to clean swollen gums due to discomfort. However, this will only make the problem worse. Your family dentist or orthodontist can help them understand the importance of positive oral care.
Avoid Hard Foods
Chewing on hard or crunchy foods can make gum swelling worse. While your child’s gums swell, advise them to eat a softer diet.
The Consequences of Periodontal Disease
Swollen gums are not unusual for braces patients. They could swell for benign reasons like hormone changes but also exhibit signs of gingivitis.
You or your child could have gingivitis if the swollen gums are tender to the touch or bleeding when brushed or flossed. Reversing gingivitis early on is key to protecting you from the serious effects of periodontal disease later in life.
If gingivitis goes untreated, it eventually progresses to full-blown periodontal disease. The end stages of periodontal disease may result in tooth loss. If your gums swell with braces, it is not too late to protect your healthy teeth for a lifetime.
Promote Excellent Oral Hygiene
Braces have amazing effects on your smile, but caring for them can be challenging. Keeping up with your oral hygiene or that of your child is a must with braces. To prevent lifelong oral health issues, take action now.
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces
How long will I have to wear braces?
Braces take approximately 18 months to three years for most patients. Depending on your orthodontic issues, you or your child may have a longer or shorter treatment time.
How do I use a floss threader?
A floss threader works like a thin, soft, blunt-tipped sewing needle. Simply thread the floss through the eye and use the threader to guide the floss between the teeth.
Call Greater Hartford Orthodontics
If you have swollen gums, visiting your orthodontist for an evaluation is a good idea. Please call our Newington, CT, office at 860-667-8277 to schedule an appointment with one of our orthodontic specialists.
Braces are an effective and highly versatile orthodontic system. When you have braces, small gaps in your teeth will close relatively quickly, starting at about six to nine months. If you have multiple gaps in your teeth, it may take about 12 months to 2 years to close them with braces.
Causes of Teeth Gaps
The most common cause of gapped front teeth is a low-seated frenulum that keeps the teeth from meeting. The frenulum is a fold of skin that attaches the upper lip to the gum.
Other causes include having small teeth, large jaws, unerupted permanent teeth, and an absence of teeth in the jawbone.
Effects of Gapped Teeth
Many patients feel self-conscious about gapped teeth. Gapped teeth can also affect your oral health. If your teeth have a large gap, you may not have room in your mouth for teeth that need to erupt, disrupting your bite.
Correcting Teeth Gaps With Braces
Gapped teeth are among the most common reasons patients choose to receive braces. Braces are a cost-effective way to achieve permanent tooth realignment. While clear aligners also work to correct gaps, braces are more versatile and appropriate for children and adult patients.
Before you receive braces, your orthodontist will thoroughly examine your teeth and determine whether gaps interfere with your bite or the eruption of other teeth. They will take a complete set of 3-D digital impressions with the iTero® Element Digital Impression Scanner, making a model of your teeth to plan your treatment.
Braces Options We Offer
Metal Braces
Metal braces are the most cost-effective option. They are appropriate for all ages and have great flexibility in treating misaligned teeth.’
Clear Braces
These braces come with clear brackets, making them less visible on the patient’s teeth and allowing some discretion in treatment.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are attached on the inside of the patient’s teeth, giving the control and versatility of braces while keeping brackets and wires out of sight.
H4® Braces
Self-ligating braces need no elastics or metal ties to hold the wire on the brackets.
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces
Are braces uncomfortable?
There can be some discomfort when you adjust to wearing braces and sometimes after adjustments, but it should be minor. Use orthodontic wax on the brackets and wires if they rub against the inside of your lips and cheeks.
After I have braces, will my teeth stay in place?
If you wear your retainer as prescribed, you will not lose the hard work you put into your orthodontic treatment. If you ever need a tooth extraction after treatment, replace the tooth immediately to avoid alignment problems and the reappearance of gaps.
Call Greater Hartford Orthodontics
If you have gaps in your teeth and want a beautifully aligned smile, please call our Newington, CT, office at 860-667-8277. You can schedule a consultation with Dr. Cos to plan your treatment.