Invisalign®
Invisalign® is a set of clear removable aligners that are worn over the teeth. These aligners can be removed to allow you to eat, brush, and floss normally. Invisalign® is comfortable, convenient, and easy to use.
Teeth that are crowded, gapped, or misaligned are more difficult to clean. Over time, this can lead to increased risks of tooth decay and gum disease. Crowded and misaligned teeth are also more prone to crack and wear. Straightening with Invisalign® can protect against these issues.
Invisalign® is a non-invasive, aesthetic solution for straightening teeth. If your teeth are crowded, gapped, or misaligned, Invisalign® can give you a healthier, more beautiful smile.
First, you will have a consultation with Dr. Jill Moniz. We will determine if you are a good candidate for using Invisalign®. A 3D model is created of your teeth. This model is used to design the steps of your individualized treatment plan. With this model, you can see what your teeth will look like after treatment.
Invisalign® aligners are custom-fabricated for your teeth. You will wear your aligner for 22 hours a day, only removing to eat and brush and floss your teeth. Every two weeks, you will change to a new, slightly straighter aligner.
Invisalign® patients experience less pain, discomfort, and mouth sores than patients with traditional metal braces. Invisalign® also has a lower risk of plaque buildup during treatment since you can remove aligners for proper brushing and flossing.
At The Schiff & Moniz Dental Group, we can help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile with Invisalign®. To schedule a consultation, contact our office.
Retainers
Most comprehensive orthodontic treatment will involve the use of braces or aligners. In either case, your treatment involves minor movement of your teeth to correct misalignment. This ensures both a straight smile and an even bite.
However, braces are not the only stage needed for a permanent orthodontic solution. Once your braces have been taken off, the retention phase begins. It is vitally important to follow through with retention to maintain your newly straight smile after treatment. Your final orthodontic results depend on your retainer, so be sure to keep your appointments with our team even after your braces have been removed.
There are a few distinct types of retainers that may be recommended to you:
- Clear Retainers: A removable, transparent plastic tray that fits over your teeth.
- Traditional Retainers: A removable appliance made of acrylic and a wire that sits on the front side of your teeth.
- Bonded Retainer: A thin, fixed wire that is temporarily bonded to the lingual (tongue) side of the anterior teeth.
Our doctor will provide you with the retainer option that is best suited for your orthodontic treatment plan. Your retainer should be worn as often as instructed. Your teeth have been in active treatment for months or even years. Wearing your retainer is crucial for ensuring that your teeth do not shift back out of their corrected positions.
When it is not in your mouth, keep your retainer in its case. Bacteria can build up on your retainer, making it less hygienic and affecting the fit. Regular cleaning to remove these bacteria is a vital part of proper retainer care.
To clean your retainer, brush it gently with a wet toothbrush. Disinfect your retainer by soaking it in a cleansing solution. Thoroughly rinse the appliance with cold or room temperature water before placing it back in your mouth. Hot water can cause the retainer to lose its proper shape, so should be avoided.
For more information about proper care and use of your retainer, contact our office.
