After a nice winter break, school is back in session! And that means its time to learn more about orthodontics! While many patients are aware of their different treatment options, there are still some gray areas. And what about those who already have braces, but don’t even know what is in their mouth, and how to care for it? You may still have a few questions, and of course, orthodontics is not something that teachers in school can educate you on. Luckily, Glaser Orthodontics has come to the rescue! Glaser Orthodontics of Westchester County, NY, has all the answers you need to your braces and Invisalign curiosities.
- What are the benefits of Invisalign over traditional braces? As an Invisalign Elite Preferred Provider, Dr. Glaser and his team believe in the great ways that Invisalign can fix your smile in a nontraditional way. Unlike regular braces, there is no uncomfortable metal or wires. Invisalign is just clear, comfortable plastic that makes you more self confident in your looks as well. Invisalign is also unique in that it is removable- making eating and brushing a breeze.
- I already have braces, but I know nothing about the different parts in my mouth. What are braces made up of? This question is often overlooked. However, it is important to know what your braces are made of so that if something breaks or goes wrong, you can identify a course of action. Teens and adults alike should be aware of their treatment components. First, brackets are the metal or ceramic pieces that attach directly to the tooth. Arch wires are the metal pieces that run along the teeth through the brackets. Elastics ligatures are the part that physically attaches the archwire to the bracket. They are small loops of metal. In some cases, patients may also have hooks or rubber bands. Hooks attach to the tooth and hold the rubber band in place. The rubber band provides special force on the tooth.
- How can I best care for my teeth while undergoing treatment? Often, people with braces or Invisalign can feel confused about how to keep their dental hygiene normal. The answer is simple. For Invisalign patients, it is much the same as before you began treatment. Just remove the aligners and brush twice a day. Make sure to floss as well! For traditional braces patients, it is also important to brush at least 2 times a day, though it may be necessary to brush after every meal. Make sure to remove extra food that may have been caught in the braces by brushing or using special tools (ex. WaterPik), and do not whiten while braces are on. The whitening treatment cannot reach behind brackets, and will leave discoloration when braces are removed.
- Now that I know how a little more about orthodontics, how can I get started with treatment? Now that you know the benefits of Invisalign, and how to care for traditional braces, it is important to decide what kind of system you are ready to put on, or when to make your next appointment with us. We can speak with you about all your personalized treatment options. Glaser Orthodontics services patients of Cortlandt Manor, Yorktown, Montrose, Peekskill, and more. Feel free to set up a free consultation, or visit us online for more information. Call or contact us to schedule your appointment today!