Invisalign Braces Explained

If you need your teeth straightened, you’re probably trying to decide between Invisalign clear dental aligners and traditional metal braces…right? There are some distinct differences between the two. Your orthodontist in Overland Park, KS, would be happy to go over everything with you. But until then, we are going to go over Invisalign braces and what you need to know about them.

What Are Invisalign Braces?

Invisalign is the brand name of one of the clear dental aligners on the market. They utilize sets of computer-generated plastic molds to straighten your teeth over time gradually.

How Do Invisalign Braces Work?

Your orthodontist will create computer-generated images of your mouth and teeth. The orthodontist will then use those images to make custom dental aligner trays for your teeth. You will change out those trays over several months until your teeth are straight.

Unlike traditional braces that use metal wires to shift your teeth into place, Invisalign braces use sets of clear plastic molded trays to shift your teeth into their proper position gently.

The Benefits of Invisalign Braces

Invisalign braces in Overland Park, KS, are very popular because of their many benefits.

  • They are invisible, so they provide you with a better appearance.
  • They don’t use metal wires and brackets, so they are more comfortable.
  • There are no diet restrictions like there are with metal braces because you remove them when you eat.
  • They are removable, making it easier to brush, floss, and eat.
  • They are suitable for both children and adults.

The only drawback (that’s really not a drawback for most people) is that you must have enough self-discipline to wear them for 22 hours daily. If you don’t, they won’t work as intended.

How Long Do You Have to Wear Invisalign Braces?

On average, the Invisalign treatment takes somewhere between 6 – 18 months or so. The length of time they must be worm will differ for each person and will depend on the severity of your dental issues.

Are You Looking for an Orthodontist in Overland Park, KS?

If you want to look into getting Invisalign clear braces, please Contact Bulleigh Orthodontics today. We offer a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere and would love to show you how getting Invisalign clear aligners will change your life!

Types of Braces

The Pros and Cons of Lingual Braces

If you need braces, you probably don’t want them to be visible. When most people think about braces, they picture the traditional metal braces that are placed on the fronts of your teeth. However, there are other options, like lingual braces. But what are lingual braces? Your orthodontist in Shawnee, KS, can tell you all about them. But for now, let’s go over lingual braces and how they work.

Lingual Braces Explained

Lingual braces in Shawnee, KS, are hidden from view because they are placed on the backs of your teeth versus being placed on the fronts like traditional metal braces. They still work just like traditional metal braces, with one exception.

Lingual braces are actually more effective when it comes to correcting certain oral issues. For example, lingual braces work better for correcting gaps between your teeth and fixing a deep overbite.

How Do Lingual Braces Work?

The process for how lingual braces work isn’t much different than that of traditional metal braces. The only difference is they are placed on the backs of your teeth versus the fronts. The way they move your teeth is pretty much the same.

The Pros and Cons of Lingual Braces

There are plenty of reasons to choose lingual braces, especially if you don’t want your new braces to be visible; therefore, the pros of getting lingual braces far outweigh the cons.

Pros:

  • Invisible from the Outside
  • Effectively Correct Bite Issues
  • Customized for Maximum Comfort and Efficiency
  • Can Correct a Wide Range of Orthodontic Issues

Cons:

  • Harder to Clean and Maintain
  • A Bit More Uncomfortable Than Traditional Braces (this is debatable)
  • More Expensive Than Traditional Braces
  • Can Cause a Temporary Lisp

Are You Looking for a Reputable Orthodontist in Shawnee, KS?

If you need braces and want to discuss options like lingual braces, please Contact Bulleigh Orthodontics for an exam and consultation. We will go over all your options with you, along with our recommendations. Then you can decide which one is right for you.

Bulleigh Orthodontics

How to Make Wearing Braces More Comfortable

Braces in Overland Park, KS, are a temporary challenge but one that will reward your child (or you) with a beautiful smile for the rest of their life. So, the minimal discomfort your child will feel is a very small price to pay for a lifetime of confidence and the social rewards of having a perfect smile.

Your orthodontist will go over all the details with you. And here, we are going to give you some tips on how to make wearing your braces more comfortable.

What Makes Braces Hurt?

Braces hurt due to the constant gentle pressure on your child’s teeth during the alignment period. In addition, when your child first gets their braces, it will take time for their mouth to get used to the wire mechanisms that are used to shift and align their teeth.

When Do Braces Stop Hurting?

Fortunately, after the initial adjustment period of about three days, the pain and irritation caused by braces is manageable. Your orthodontist in Overland Park, KS, will go over the different ways to make your braces more comfortable. But until then, here are some things you can do to help with that.

How to Make Wearing Braces More Comfortable

  • Apply an Orthodontic Wax
  • Use a Saltwater Rinse
  • Eat Soft Foods
  • Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
  • Practice Good Oral Hygiene
  • Avoid Hard, Crunchy, and Sticky Foods
  • Enjoy Some Ice Cream (and other cold foods)
  • Apply Topical Anesthetics
  • Apply an Ice Pack
  • Perform a Gum Massage
  • Maintain a Positive Attitude
  • Consider Getting Invisalign Clear Aligners Instead

Are You Looking for a Reputable Orthodontist in Overland Park, KS?

If your child (or you) needs braces, please Contact Bulleigh Orthodontics today to schedule an exam. We are highly trained professionals and are proud to offer outstanding orthodontic care for your entire family.