Is Invisalign Right for Me?

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 13:17:35 GMT

Once upon a time, if you wanted to straighten out your smile, that meant wearing uncomfortable, gaudy metal braces. While braces are still a common solution for straightening out teeth, they are no longer the only option. Invisalign has emerged as a popular alternative to metal braces and could go a long way toward improving your smile. If you’re wondering whether this solution is right for you, we’ll cover some key considerations below. Should you have further questions, it’s time to talk with a local orthodontist.

You Want to Minimize Aesthetic Disruptions

One of the key reasons that Invisalign has become so popular is that this solution doesn’t disrupt your looks as much as traditional braces do. Many people will never even realize you're wearing aligners. According to IBISWorld, revenues for orthodontists grew at a 5.7% CAGR over the previous five years. There’s a good chance that Invisalign and its cosmetic advantages played a role in that growth.

You Are Committed and Consistent

Invisible aligners can typically be removed. If you’re eating a meal, for example, or getting photography taken, you might remove your aligners for a short period. This is typically fine, just make sure you follow the advice provided by your local orthodontist. However, if you skip wearing your Invisalign aligners on a frequent or constant basis, it will prove detrimental to your treatment. A non-removable solution, like braces, might be a better fit if you struggle with consistency.

You Don't Have Complex Dental Issues

Invisalign can handle various issues, including crooked teeth or significant gaps. That said, in some cases, complex issues require a different solution. Especially crooked teeth might be better straightened out with metal braces, for example. You can chat with a local orthodontist to learn if Invisalign will work in your situation.

You Have All of Your Adult Teeth

Often, orthodontists will recommend that patients wait until they are 13 years or older to start treatment. It’s not necessarily the specific year that is important, but instead making sure that all the adult teeth have arrived (excluding wisdom teeth). Most patients will reach this point by the age of 12 or 13, but some patients may need a bit more patience.

If you’d like to learn more about Invisalign, you should contact a local orthodontist . These dental experts can help you go over options and find the best solution. Feel free to contact Neibaur Family Orthodontics if you need assistance.

Learn More About 3 Important Orthodontic Services

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 20:04:34 GMT

You likely associate orthodontic services with straightening teeth, but they also offer other treatments that improve your smile and oral health. Learning your options helps determine if seeing an orthodontist could benefit you. Here's an overview of three common services besides realignment that orthodontists provide.

1. Teeth Whitening

One of the most popular orthodontic services is professional whitening to brighten stained smiles. Over time, foods, drinks, smoking, genetics, and age can yellow teeth. An orthodontist can dramatically whiten your smile, either in-office or using take-home kits that work more gradually. Both methods are more effective than store-bought strips and trays. In-office power whitening rapidly boosts brightness in one visit. Your orthodontist covers your gums, paints hydrogen peroxide whitening gel on your teeth, and then shines a special light to activate the gel for maximum lightening. This combo can make teeth up to eight shades brighter in one session, in our experience.

2. Palate Expanders

Some orthodontic patients, often children, have upper jaws too narrow to fit all teeth. This causes crowding, misalignment, and bite issues. Palate expanders, or removable appliances worn in the upper mouth, create space so teeth can shift into the proper position. These devices feature a split screw anchored to the back teeth with bands. You'll twist an attached key daily per your orthodontist's instructions, slowly pushing the expander's sides outward. This expands the upper jaw, making room for straightened teeth and ensuring proper facial growth.

3. Gingivectomies

Gingivectomies treat advanced gum disease by removing infected, swollen, or dead gum tissue. Your orthodontist numbs the area, then trims diseased gums with scalpels and scrapers. This allows your gums to reattach tightly to teeth again as they heal. Though usually performed by periodontists, orthodontists may recommend gingivectomies if gum issues are affecting tooth/bite alignment. Trimming infected gums helps stabilize teeth during movement. It also reduces gum pocket depth for better at-home brushing and flossing to prevent reinfection.

More and more people are looking to have their whitest, straightest, and best smile on display for the world to see. According to IBIS World, in 2023, the orthodontist market revenue is expected to reach $22.4 billion. While many people believe the world of orthodontic services solely consists of braces, aligners, and retainers, it also consists of services such as teeth whitening, palate expanders, and gingivectomies. If you want to achieve your best smile, an orthodontist can help. Schedule a consultation with Neibaur Family Orthodontics today and let us help you to get the smile you have been dreaming of.

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