All Posts in braces

October 12, 2018 - No Comments!

What Happens if My Teen Loses an Aligner?

A common concern among parents whose teens wear aligners is the possibility of losing them. This is normal and even the most responsible teen might lose one occasionally. If this happens, don't worry - you're covered. Most dental practices will replace up to six aligners during your teen's Invisalign treatment and they'll obtain a replacement at no extra cost. This can give you some relief, recognising that what you intend to pay won't increase as the treatment continues. Nevertheless, it's important you check with your provider's policy because variations might occur across different clinics. Here's a list of measures to take in case your teen loses an aligner.

Don't Progress Early

Your teen might be tempted not to disclose about the lost aligner and simply advance to the subsequent treatment phase. However, aligner trays purposely seek to advance the teeth in minuscule movements over a period of time. Advancing when the teeth haven't shifted appropriately into position could alter treatment from the initial plan prescribed by your teen's orthodontist. Your teen could try the subsequent set of aligners to see whether they fit. However, only if he or she was close to completing the former treatment phase.

If the tray doesn't fit correctly, don't force it. It might indicate that the lost aligner hadn't finished its role. We don't advocate for going backward with the treatment since it will slow down your teen's progress and could alter his or her treatment altogether.

If a Teen Loses an Aligner, Consult Your Orthodontist First

Before deciding what to do, it's imperative you consult your orthodontist who will make the best decisions depending on your care plan. It's important that if your teen does require replacement trays, to pick them up as quickly as possible.

Your orthodontist will advise if it's possible to move to the subsequent set of trays. This is when you will discuss if and how the schedule will change.

Be Proactive

To avoid the possible stress that accompanies the loss of aligners, teens should protect the trays all the time. It means being mindful of where they're placed when removed during a meal and following the recommended schedule.

Before you panic about your teen losing his or her aligner trays, understand that it's normal. Moreover, you can take certain measures to ensure your teen's teeth remain on the right track.

If you are still worried that your teen might be prone to losing their aligners, try looking into the pros and cons of Invisalign vs Braces. Your orthodontist will be able to recommend which solution is best for your teen's lifestyle. Contact Profile Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

September 28, 2018 - No Comments!

How Long Does Invisalign Last?

Invisalign clear braces have become a popular alternative to metal braces for teens and adults alike. The treatment involves clear, almost-invisible aligners and a customised plan for your teeth. If you are considering Invisalign treatment, you may be wondering how long Invisalign lasts; including how long the treatment period is, and what the long-lasting results are.

Once the initial treatment period has been completed, the results from months of wearing Invisalign aligners are designed to last a lifetime.

Length of the Invisalign Treatment

Each Invisalign treatment plan is unique depending on your teeth. The orthodontist will develop a custom treatment plan which will involve a series of invisible aligners. Every two weeks, the patient will receive a new set of aligners, with each set gradually applying pressure to promote movement.

In order to gradually move teeth into the desired position, the Invisalign trays must be worn for 22 hours each day. You can remove the aligners when eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth.

Patients will be required to visit their orthodontist every four to six weeks to ensure the treatment is progressing. On average, treatment takes around 12 months.

How long does Invisalign last? Designed to Last a Lifetime

Your experience doesn’t end once your Invisalign treatment has your smile exactly where you want it to be. No matter what kind of orthodontic treatment you have received, you may have to wear retainers for some time to avoid the teeth shifting back to where they used to be. The retainers will help maintain results, protect your Invisalign investment, and keep your teeth in line for a lifetime.

For your Invisalign treatment to last the rest of your life, make sure to keep up with your treatment regimen. Visit your orthodontist as often as required and change your Invisalign aligners on schedule. And finally, wear the retainers when needed, for as long as instructed. You should not need metal brackets, frequent dentist visits or painful wires to keep your teeth in position after the Invisalign treatment.

September 21, 2018 - No Comments!

How Long Does It Take For Invisalign To Start Working?

It is relatively common for patients using Invisalign or other types of Clear Aligners to start seeing changes early. Sometimes in as little as six weeks into their treatment. Once you've made the decision to use Invisalign Clear Aligners to straighten your smile, it's natural to ask "How Long Does It Take For Invisalign To Start Working?"

Your individual results may start to become noticeable more quickly, or take a little more time depending on your unique smile needs and the nature of your bite. More complex cases, including those such as severe misalignment, gaps between the teeth or overcrowding, will require longer treatment duration overall.

It’s been Six Weeks and I Don’t See Results – Why?

If you’ve hit the six week mark with your aligner trays and you don’t feel like you are seeing results, don’t worry. They’re definitely still working and moving your teeth where they need to be to reveal a beautiful, straight new smile. The nature of some smiles simply means that the changes may not be as noticeable at the beginning of the treatment. Rather, the changes will become more obvious over time. Keep in mind that more involved cases are going to require more time to move the teeth. Correcting more complicated dental concerns will naturally take a little longer, and so results to start to appear more slowly.

It's important to choose a specialist orthodontist as your Invisalign provider. Only an experienced orthodontic professional will be able to plan your treatment schedule and deliver the results you want.

How Long Does It Take For Invisalign To Start Working? See results in as little as 6 weeks

How Long Does It Take For Invisalign To Start Working? A New Smile Every Two Weeks

Orthodontists will provide patients with a new set of aligner trays every two weeks, no matter the total length of treatment. These trays are custom created based on individual needs. Each set of trays are designed to promote straighter teeth with every passing day. The result is an ever-changing smile, which is why many patients will be able to start seeing results so quickly. Even better, the transformation won’t be hidden from view, so pictures can be taken along the way. Take a new photo every time you receive new aligners. Then, place them side-by-side to track the changes in your smile more acutely than in a mirror.

Find out if you’re a suitable candidate for clear aligners using either SureClear aligners or Invisalign: Enquire Now.

September 14, 2018 - No Comments!

What Insurance Companies Cover Invisalign?

Invisalign has quickly become known as a more reliable, faster and more convenient smile straightening solution than its traditional metal wire and bracket counterpart. However, as with any orthodontic treatment plan, patients need to know and understand the cost of their investment. A major factor in the final cost of Invisalign is understanding whether your health insurance provider will cover orthodontic care, and to what extent. So, what insurance companies cover Invisalign? There are many different insurance companies that may extend their benefits to cover costs associated with the orthodontic treatment, but it depends on each individual plan.

Ask Your Health Insurance Company About Covering “Orthodontic Care”

If a health insurance plan does cover major dental, Invisalign treatment will likely be covered as orthodontic care, a benefit that is included on most dental plans. 

Patients can determine whether Invisalign treatment will be covered through contacting their insurance providers directly. Patients should discuss their intentions and clarify any coverage before moving forward with their orthodontist. This will ensure there are no surprise costs at any time during the treatment process.

Ask Your Orthodontist Whether Your Misalignment is a Medical Issue

In some cases, an insurance provider may place restrictions on their coverage. This may mean that, unless your specialist orthodontist deems the treatment medically necessary, your insurance could deny coverage. Speak with your orthodontist to discuss whether Invisalign is addressing a medical issue, or if the treatment is strictly for cosmetic purposes. Contacting your provider directly will help to determine what insurance companies cover Invisalign, dependant on your individual needs. 

find-out-what-insurance-companies-cover-invisalign-aligners

Take into Consideration Lifetime Limits when asking what Insurance Companies cover Invisalign

A 'lifetime limit' may be another restriction in your coverage. If there is a lifetime limit on your plan, check to see what it is. Also, determine if you have already applied any treatment towards this total. If your dental plan covers Invisalign costs, it can save anywhere between 25 to 50 percent of the final total. However, a lifetime limit could still have you paying more out of pocket than anticipated. Particularly if it catches you by surprise.  So always check with your insurance company to clarify your coverage before committing to any treatment.

 

July 26, 2018 - No Comments!

What is the Best Age to Get Braces?

The Best Age to Get Braces

When is it a good time to get braces? Braces treatment can correct such concerns as an underbite, overbite, crooked teeth and overcrowded teeth.  These dental imperfections can grow worse over time and braces can improve facial appearance and self-esteem. Braces are often an ideal solution to correct your smile, but the best age to get braces depends on the individual.

When to See the Orthodontist

The best age to first see the orthodontist is between the ages of 7-9 years. This can identify any developing growth issues relating to a child's teeth, bite or jaws.  The Profile Orthodontics "Grow with Us" program monitors these issues while each child grows.  Simple issues can be identified and easily rectified which means orthodontic treatment can then be commenced at the correct time for the child's development.

Phase I Treatment

Before a child's permanent teeth have come through and while they are still growing, an Orthodontist can intercept developing issues that might worsen with age.  This takes maximum advantage of growth for optimal results.  It can improve the relationship of the upper and lower jaws, allowing more normal future growth and development.  Referred to as Phase I, this treatment may use dental hardware such as removable or fixed plates depending on the child’s needs.

Not every child will need Phase I treatment.

Phase II Treatment

Phase II is when the orthodontist decides it is the best time to commence full braces.  To achieve optimal results, phase II is generally started during the teenage years.  This is when there is the most growth to work with.  Braces can be used at nearly any age but the treatment may be more invasive the older it is commenced.

The Right Age Is Different for Everyone.

There are many benefits of orthodontic treatment, and it's important to start treatment at the right time. If you have concerns, speak with your dentist and orthodontist to determine when braces may be right for you or your child. Contact Profile Orthodontics to make an appointment today. 

July 5, 2018 - No Comments!

Your Vacation Checklist for Travelling with Braces

What to Take with You When Travelling with Braces

The holiday season is never far away, and this typically means considerable travelling to visit friends and family. If you have braces, the idea of travelling with braces might seem complex. However, you don't need to worry because it's easier than you think.

Since you'll pack toiletries and clothes for your vacation, it's only sensible to leave room for oral hygiene essentials. If you're wondering what to carry for the trip, ensure you include these items in your travel kit.

Floss Threaders

You can easily pick up an extra toothpaste or toothbrush in the event that you forget yours back home. However, it can be more challenging to access floss threaders. They're crucial for getting floss between your braces' wires, enabling you to sweep food particles from between the teeth.

Dental Wax

Dental wax is especially important if you're new to wearing braces, which can occasionally cause irritation on the soft tissues. As your teeth move, the braces might cause mild irritation of the gums or cheeks.

You'll discover dental wax is the best means of decreasing this irritation because it protects the soft tissues against the braces' hard components. Therefore, you should carry some for application to the area that's causing abrasion.

Travel Mirror

A portable and foldable mirror is a great addition to your travel kit because it will help ensure you don't miss anything while flossing. You'll also spot if there's food in your braces following a meal.

Pain Relief for Braces

As braces realign your teeth, you might occasionally experience minor pains or aches and the last thing you want is disruption during your vacation. We recommend you pack ibuprofen or acetaminophen when travelling.

These over-the-counter pain relievers are beneficial for managing orthodontics-related pain and other minor pains that could interrupt your trip.

Tweezers

You should always be ready for minor emergencies. If you have metal braces, tweezers help manipulate the wire and possibly restore it in place.

Travelling with braces shouldn't be an inconvenience as long as you implement the necessary precautions. Packing with your oral health in mind will ensure you have a great relationship with your braces, both at home and abroad. 

If you have queries regarding your braces, contact your orthodontist for expert advice.