braces Yorktown Heights NY

Relieving Pain After Adjustment | Braces in Yorktown Heights

Braces in Yorktown Heights

If you are thinking about getting braces and are afraid of the pain that comes after adjustment, you need to discover these tricks! In this blog, we will share with you how to relieve brace adjustment pain as well as show you how to get braces in Yorktown Heights.

Pain After Brace Adjustment

Braces in Yorktown Heights

There are many benefits to getting deciding to seek treatment for teeth misalignment. As you know, one of the most common ways is to get metal braces.

While metal braces are very efficient in correcting teeth alignment, many patients are afraid to get them because of the pain it may cause.

Contrary to popular belief, the pain you feel after getting braces is not caused by the braces themselves. It is actually caused by your teeth moving and adjusting to the braces.

The good news is that there are ways to relieve this pain! Here are some of the most effective ways:

#1 – Massaging Your Gums

One of the best ways to reduce braces-related pain is by massaging your gums. This will help increase blood flow to the area and will also reduce inflammation.

To massage your gums, simply use your fingers to rub them in a circular motion. Do this for about two minutes or until you start to feel relief.

You can also use a warm washcloth to massage your gums. Simply dampen the washcloth in warm water and then rub it over your gums. Do this for about two minutes or until the pain starts to subside.

#2 – Using an Ice Pack

You may also want to try using an ice pack to relieve pain. The cold temperature will help numb the area and reduce inflammation.

To use an ice pack, simply wrap it in a towel and then hold it against your cheek for about five minutes. Repeat this process every few hours or as needed.

If you don’t have an ice pack, you can also use a bag of frozen peas or corn. Just make sure to wrap it in a towel before applying it to your skin.

#3 – Drink a Cold/Iced Beverage

Similar to using an ice pack, drinking an ice-cold drink will help numb the area and can also help reduce inflammation.

Just make sure to drink slowly and carefully to avoid damaging your braces. You may also want to use a straw to bypass your teeth altogether.

#4 – Gargling with Mouthwash or Salt Water

Gargling with mouthwash or salt water can also help relieve braces pain. The mouthwash will help kill bacteria and the salt water will help reduce inflammation.

To gargle with mouthwash, simply mix together equal parts water and mouthwash. Swish it around in your mouth for about 30 seconds and then spit it out.

To make a salt water solution, mix together one cup of warm water and one teaspoon of salt. Swish it around in your mouth for about 30 seconds and then spit it out. Repeat this process several times a day or as needed.

#5 – Applying Local Anesthetic Cream

If the pain is really bad, you may want to try applying a local anesthetic cream. This will help numb the area and provide relief.

To apply the cream, simply follow the instructions on the package. Most creams need to be applied for about 30 minutes before they start working.

You can also ask your orthodontist for a prescription cream. They will be able to provide you with a stronger option that can provide relief for up to six hours.

#6 – Taking Over-the-Counter Pain Killers

If the pain is really bad, you may also want to take over-the-counter painkillers. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the package and only take the recommended dosage. You should also avoid taking painkillers on an empty stomach as this can cause nausea.

#7 – Biting Frozen Teeth Rings

One of the strangest but most effective ways to relieve braces pain is by biting frozen teeth rings. These are basically small plastic rings that you freeze and then bite into.

The cold temperature will help numb the area and the biting action will help massage your gums. You can find these rings at most drugstores or online.

#8 – Eating Soft Foods

If your braces are really bothering you, you may want to stick to soft foods for a few days. This will help reduce the amount of time that your braces are in contact with your teeth and will give your gums a chance to heal.

Some good soft food options include:

  • Applesauce
  • Yogurt
  • Mashed Potatoes
  • Ice Cream
  • Jell-O
  • Cooked Vegetables
  • Soup
  • Macaroni and Cheese

Braces in Yorktown Heights

If you’re still considering braces or are looking for an orthodontist in Yorktown Heights, be sure to check out our website! We offer braces for both children and adults, as well as Invisalign.

Invisalign is another teeth straightening option that uses clear, removable aligners instead of metal braces. This is a great option for adults who want to straighten their teeth without anyone knowing.

If you want to check out Invisalign in Yorktown Heights, Invisalign in Montrose, or Invisalign in Westchester County area, contact us to schedule a consultation! We also cater to patients who want to get braces in Croton-On-Hudson and braces in Putnam County area.

Dr. Barry Glaser, our esteemed orthodontist, continuously strives to provide excellence in orthodontic treatments and uses cutting-edge technology to provide the best service possible. You can expect exemplary treatment from Dr. Glaser as you seek a more comfortable and beautiful smile from our office.

We’re looking forward to getting you the smile of your dreams!

Read More

Braces Near Me In Cortlandt Manor NY

Have you been searching for “braces near me” in Westchester County but you’re not sure which orthodontist is best for you? Glaser Orthodontics in Cortlandt Manor can provide you with the treatment you need. At Glaser Orthodontics, our goal is to offer affordable orthodontic care such as braces and clear braces to all of our patients.

What Are Braces And How Do They Work?

braces near me

Braces are an orthodontic treatment that fixes a variety of misalignment issues of the teeth and jaws, including crossbite, overbite, underbite, open bite, crookedness, gaps between teeth, and overcrowding. They feature multiple parts that work together to gradually shift teeth into alignment over a period of time.

Brackets are bonded to the front of each tooth using an adhesive. An archwire runs through each bracket and is the mechanism primarily responsible for putting pressure on the teeth to move them. To apply this pressure, Dr. Glaser tightens the wire during your appointment and will tighten it again at follow-up appointments to maintain pressure. In addition, elastic bands will add additional pressure later on in your treatment.

Braces are typically made of stainless steel or titanium alloys.

What Are The Types Of Braces?

As a result of advances in orthodontics, patients have more options today than they did a few decades ago. You can choose from several different types of braces, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Traditional Metal Braces

The traditional metal braces feature small brackets with an archwire and elastic bands. Treatment time is usually faster and the hardware is more comfortable. They are also the most affordable and popular choice.

Ceramic

Ceramic braces feature bigger brackets but are less noticeable because they can be clear or match your natural tooth color. However, they can stain and are a little more costly.

Self-Ligating

Self-ligating braces take braces innovation to a whole new level that reduces the time spent in the chair during appointments. This is because of a special hinged door mechanism on the brackets that clips the wire in, allowing Dr. Glaser to tighten the wire more easily. They are available in metal or ceramic, but can also be more expensive.

Lingual

Lingual braces are the most expensive type of braces but are also the least noticeable because they are bonded to the back of your teeth instead of the front. However, they can also be more uncomfortable and can alter the way you speak.

Invisalign

This option doesn’t feature brackets or a wire at all. Invisalign is a series of clear removable aligners that patients wear 22 hours a day. They are made of multiple layers of medical-grade plastic and treat the same problems as braces. Instead of a wire, you switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks to start a new stage of shifting, which reduces the number of follow-up appointments.

Invisalign costs around the same as traditional braces and treatment time is generally shorter, not to mention that it’s easier to clean and has no dietary restrictions.

How Long Do Braces Take?

braces near me

The average patient will complete treatment in 15-18 months, but treatment time could be shorter or longer depending on several factors such as the severity of your problem, how well your teeth respond to the pressure, and how well you take care of your teeth and hardware. Braces work 24 hours a day and you don’t have to worry about remembering to put them back in your mouth since they are not removable like Invisalign.

Are There Dietary Restrictions?

Unfortunately, some foods can get stuck in or even damage your hardware, which is why patients have to follow some dietary restrictions until the completion of treatment. For example, you should not chew gum or eat popcorn. You should also avoid hard candies, raw carrots, taffy, and corn on the cob, just to name a few. Follow the instructions your orthodontist provides. If you are unsure about eating something call Glaser Orthodontics and ask. We’ll have an answer for you.

Are Braces Easy To Clean?

Seeing a Dentist During Orthodontic Treatment

Because braces are not removable, it will be a little more difficult to clean them. Your regular toothbrush and toothpaste will work just fine. Try to clean every nook and cranny you can in order to prevent the growth of bacteria that causes tooth decay and gum disease. Wearing braces increases your risk of developing these problems simply because your teeth are harder to clean.

Don’t forget to floss either. If you need help, try using a floss threader or an oral irrigator. Cleaning between your teeth is tedious but is also necessary. An interdental toothbrush can also help you clean hard-to-reach places.

The most important thing you can do to keep your teeth and braces clean is to schedule a dental cleaning. Your dentist will be able to give your teeth and braces a thorough cleaning and check for potential problems such as cavities that could cause a setback in your treatment.

Are There More Follow-up Appointments?

Yes, the wire will need tightening every four to six weeks or so, which means you need to visit Dr. Glaser every one to one-and-a-half months to maintain pressure on your teeth so they continue to shift into alignment. It may seem frustrating to schedule so many appointments, but the results are worth it.

How Much Do Braces Cost?

The average patient can expect to spend $3,500 to $8,000 on braces treatment. Of course, the cost of braces varies from patient to patient. Your location, the length of treatment time, the severity of your problem, and the experience level of your orthodontist are all factors that will determine the final cost.

The good news is that Glaser Orthodontics offers low monthly payment plans that fit just about any budget and zero percent interest financing. Dental insurance also usually covers at least part of the cost of treatment, which can save you thousands of dollars. We accept most dental insurance providers and major credit cards. We’ll even help you file an insurance claim.

Choosing Braces Near Me In Cortlandt Manor NY

Dr. Glaser and our team of professionals at Glaser Orthodontics are experts in orthodontic treatment. We are happy to answer all of your questions or concerns regarding braces, clear braces, Invisalign, or Invisalign Teen in Cortlandt Manor NY, Croton-On-Hudson NY, Briarcliff Manor NY, Buchanan NY, Montrose NY, Yorktown Heights NY, and surrounding areas of Westchester County NY. Contact Glaser Orthodontics today to schedule a complimentary consultation by calling 914-739-6400 today!

Read More

What Foods To Eat With Braces

Where Can I Find Braces In Cortlandt Manor NY?

Our team at Glaser Orthodontics specializes in orthodontic care including braces, clear braces, Invisalign, and Invisalign Teen in Cortlandt Manor NY. We are dedicated to providing high-quality orthodontic treatment at an affordable cost that accommodates any budget. We understand the importance of brushing and flossing regularly with braces to ensure teeth and gums remain healthy.

What Foods Can I Eat With Braces?

Braces may require some patients to alter their diet in order to avoid damaging braces such as broken brackets or wires. An orthodontist in Cortlandt Manor NY recommends that you eat softer foods such as rice, pasta, steamed vegetables, and fruit. Even desserts such as ice cream or yogurt are recommended, as the cold can provide relief for irritation.

What Foods Should I Avoid With Braces?

what foods to eat with braces cortlandt manor nyCrunchy sticky, or chewy foods can damage braces, leading to additional appointments with a Cortlandt Manor orthodontist and lengthen treatment time. When you follow Dr. Glaser’s instructions about what foods to eat with braces, you will achieve optimal results. If you have braces, you should avoid the following foods:

  • Caramel, gum, or hard candy
  • Apples, popcorn, or pretzels
  • Bagels, rolls, or pizza crust

How To Avoid Damaging Braces

Keeping your teeth clean is an important part of orthodontic treatment, and it may take some time to adjust to brushing with braces. However, it can take years to straighten teeth with braces, and any damage to wires or brackets will increase the length of your treatment. To prevent damaging braces, select a variety foods you are able to eat comfortably and safely. If you are looking to achieve straighter teeth, but do not want to alter your diet or appearance, Invisalign is an ideal option. Both Invisalign and Invisalign Teen provide the same results as traditional braces while remaining removable and nearly invisible.

Finding Out The Best Foods To Eat With Braces In Cortlandt Manor NY

In conclusion, our team at Glaser Orthodontics are experts in orthodontic treatment. We are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding braces and what foods to eat with braces in Cortlandt Manor NY, Croton On Hudson NY, Buchanan NY, Peekskill NY, Yorktown Heights NY, and the surrounding areas of Westchester County NY. Contact Glaser Orthodontics to schedule a free consultation today. Call now 914.739.6400.

Read More

Invisalign Costs

 

You Are Your Best Investment

 

It’s true. No matter what you’ve believed in the past, a confident, radiant smile can be within reach. And if you think about it, improving your smile is an important investment, because you’re doing it for yourself.  Dr. Barry Glaser of Glaser Orthodontics will make sure you can have one of the best smiles in Westchester County.

How Much Does Invisalign Costs?

There are many factors that determine your Invisalign costs and treatment: how extensive the issues you want correcting are, how long your treatment plan will last, and the specific treatment details prescribed by Dr. Glaser in his Cortlandt Manor office.

We strive to make Invisalign affordable to everyone. You can get a beautiful, healthy and straight smile for as low as your monthly cell phone bill.

Invisalign Payment Options

  • 5% discount for payment in full
  • Low and no down payment options are available
  • Finance free extended monthly payments to fit your budget
  • Various payment arrangements to coincide with your Flex Plan needs
  • Most major credit cards accepted

Insurance

If your dental plan covers orthodontic treatment, you may also qualify for Invisalign. Talk to your insurance provider to determine the extent of coverage for your treatment.


Dr. Barry Glaser and the team at Glaser Orthodontics are the experts in Invisalign, Invisalign Teen, braces and clear braces. He provides these orthodontic services to residents of Cortlandt Manor NY, Westchester County NY, and Putnam County NY. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Barry Glaser, contact Glaser Orthodontics at: 914-739-6400.

Read More

Average Cost Of Braces

average cost of braces cortlandt manor ny

Where Can I Find The Cost Of Braces Near Me?

The average cost of braces in Westchester, NY ranges from $2999 – $6999. However, the price differs for each patient and is based upon specific individual needs. The factors that determine your personal cost of braces include:

  • Severity of issues being corrected
  • The length of treatment
  • Insurance coverage

Our team at Glaser Orthodontics specializes in orthodontic treatment including braces and clear braces in Cortlandt Manor NY. Every patient who receives braces begins with a complimentary consultation, where Dr. Glaser will assess your needs and design a custom treatment plan.

How Much Is The Average Cost Of Braces In Cortlandt Manor?

The average cost of braces is different for each patient on a case-by-case basis. The braces cost is usually dependent on specific individual factors such as the location of treatment, the complexity of issues to be treated, and the number of visits required with a Cortlandt Manor orthodontist. However, the cost of braces in Cortlandt Manor may be cheaper than surrounding areas such as higher income neighborhoods or larger cities.

How Can I Make The Cost Of Braces More Affordable?

average cost of braces cortlandt manor ny

At Glaser Orthodontics, we understand the cost of braces may become overwhelming to any budget. As a result, we accept multiple payment methods as well as offering flexible financing options. Financing allows patients to break down the total cost of braces and spread them out into smaller payments throughout the duration of treatment.

Does My Insurance Cover The Cost Of Braces?

If orthodontic treatment is included apart of your insurance coverage, you may receive the benefits of reduced out-of-pocket-expenses. Our goal is to make treatment affordable for all patients. As a result, we accept most major insurance providers. During your initial visit, we will discuss all available options in order to decide the best choice for you.

Finding The Average Cost Of Braces In Cortlandt Manor NY

Dr. Glaser and our team at Glaser Orthodontics are experts in orthodontic treatment. We are here to answer any questions you may have involving braces and clear braces in Cortlandt Manor NY, Croton-On-Hudson NY, Jefferson Valley NY, Yorktown Heights NY, and surrounding areas of Westchester NY. Contact Glaser Orthodontics to schedule a free consultation today! Call now (914) 739-6400.

Read More

Invisalign Vs. Braces

invisalign vs braces cortlandt manor ny

At Glaser Orthodontics, our goal is to provide the best orthodontic care options to all of our patients. As a result, we offer braces, clear braces, Invisalign, and Invisalign Teen in Cortlandt Manor NY, Croton-On-Hudson NY, Yorktown Heights NY, and surrounding areas of Westchester County NY.

How Do They Compare?

invisalign vs braces cortlandt manor nyInvisalign and braces are both used to attain the same results of straighter teeth. However, each option has different features that may be a better fit for certain patients and lifestyles. Our team at Glaser Orthodontics will be there every step of the way to make sure we provide the right choice for you.

Invisalign

The Invisalign system uses sets of clear aligner trays to gently and gradually move teeth into their proper alignment. Clear aligner sets are usually worn for about 2 weeks until they are substituted for the next set in the series. During an initial free consultation with a Cortlandt Manor orthodontist, Dr. Glaser will digitally capture your dental impressions in order to create a treatment plan with your specific needs in mind.

Braces

Metal braces work by bonding brackets to the front of teeth that are designed to apply continuous and gradual pressure to gently align teeth over time. Braces are made of stainless steel brackets and archwires that are tightened periodically throughout treatment to maintain constant pressure and achieve desired results.

What Are The Benefits?

Invisalign has become the clear alternative to braces. They work the same way braces do to straighten teeth without any restrictions or limitations.

Traditional metal braces are typically what comes to mind when people think of orthodontic treatment. Many patients often ask why metal braces are still so relevant when there are clear options available. This is because traditional braces hold their own set of benefits.

The Benefits Of Invisalign

Invisible Clear and undetectable so no one has to know about your orthodontic treatment.
Removable Clear aligners can be removed whenever necessary to eat or clean.
No diet restrictions Enjoy all of your favorite foods and snacks during treatment.
No discomfort from wires or brackets Composed of smooth, lightweight plastic for maximum comfort.

The Benefits Of Braces

More effective for complex issues Capable of fixing more serious orthodontic issues that may not be attainable with Invisalign.
Less discipline necessary for success Keep treatment going at all times! The freedom of clear aligners requires more obedience and discipline for the same results.
No additional cleaning needed Aside from routine brushing and flossing.

Choosing Between Invisalign Vs. Braces In Cortlandt Manor NY

Dr. Glaser and our team at Glaser Orthodontics are experts in orthodontic care. We are happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding braces, clear braces, Invisalign, and Invisalign Teen in Cortlandt Manor NY, Yorktown Heights NY, Jefferson Valley NY, Buchanan NY, Montrose NY, and surrounding areas of Westchester County NY. Contact Glaser Orthodontics to schedule a complimentary consultation today. Call now (914) 739-6400.

Read More

How Can I Make Wearing Braces More Fun for my Child?

braces near yorktown heights ny

The idea of having to wear braces to correct an orthodontic issue is not a fun prospect for a kid near Yorktown Heights NY. For parents, getting your child to look forward to their treatment may be a tough sell. But braces are often a necessary step in helping a child’s teeth to grow in strong, straight, and functional. They can be, however, visible, uncomfortable, and limiting for the child wearing them. Dr. Barry Glaser and the team at Glaser Orthodontics know that the time, effort, and expense put into orthodontic treatment now will bring lifelong benefits to the child in terms of a healthy mouth, straight teeth, and a secure self-image. They have ways that can help your child come to terms with the idea of wearing braces and maybe even make wearing braces more fun.

  1. Braces-friendly Cooking

To provide your kids with some motivation for good brushing and flossing habits, give them some positive reinforcement. Baking some favorite (soft) desserts is a great way to spend time together with your child and to illustrate how good food and good times are all still available to them while they are wearing braces.

  1. Colored Bands

Some orthodontic treatment plans require the patient to wear rubber bands around their braces. Colored bands are now quite common and come in an array of colors to choose from. Have your child consider a color scheme like the colors of their favorite sports team, their school’s colors, or holiday colors. It’s also fun to have them pick just one of their favorite colors, with the possibility of changing them during adjustment visits.

  1. Make Orthodontic Visits Something Special

The folks at Glaser Orthodontics say that it’s great to plan a special activity after a successful visit to the orthodontist. There are lots of fun things to do near Yorktown Heights! Going to the park, seeing a movie, or playing their favorite video game together will get children excited for their orthodontic appointments. It can be anything really, just consider what your child enjoys and try to turn that into something that both of you can enjoy together.

  1. Make a Photo Album of Their Progress

A photographic timeline of your child’s orthodontic development will show them that their braces are working and that dedication to their treatment will leave them with great looking straight teeth. Dr. Glaser says that this is also extremely helpful to him, as he can analyze copies of the pictures to see your child’s progress.

  1. Make a Game of Brushing

Keeping good oral hygiene is a major part of orthodontic treatment, and can speed up the treatment process. Several products on the market today that are designed to help children understand and enjoy good oral hygiene. There are interactive apps for smartphones and tablets that are free. One called “Magic Timer”  was recently rated “Best New App for Kids.” The app works in conjunction with several Oral-B toothbrushes with themes like princesses, Disney characters like Goofy and Donald, or superheroes that will reward a child with “stickers” for brushing for two minutes and for brushing twice a day.

If you’re looking for an orthodontist near Yorktown Heights that can provide orthodontic treatment with braces for your kids and make it fun, then Dr. Glaser and the team at Glaser Orthodontics can help. Call 914-739-6400 to speak with a Glaser Orthodontics associate and put your child on the path to healthy, beautiful teeth!


Dr. Barry Glaser and the team at Glaser Orthodontics are the experts in braces. If you have any questions pertaining to braces, clear braces, Invisalign, or Invisalign Teen in Yorktown Heights, NY, Cortlandt Manor, NY, Cold Spring, NY, Croton-on-Hudson, NY, Westchester County, NY or the 10598 area, or would like to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Barry Glaser, contact Glaser Orthodontics at: 914-739-6400.

Read More

Do Braces Hurt?

braces in montrose ny

Orthodontic treatment with braces can hurt occasionally, but most often, the “hurt” reported by a patient is more of a “discomfort.” The best way to avoid and reduce any possible pain or discomfort is to keep a conscientious care schedule. Dr. Barry Glaser of Glaser Orthodontics knows that a patient who is consistently experiencing pain or discomfort associated with their braces near Montrose, NY should be examined for any problems with their orthodontic appliances.

Why do braces hurt?

The mouth is a very sensitive part of the body. Adding new brackets, wires, and other appliances to the teeth may cause an orthodontic patient some occasional pain or discomfort. But most people don’t understand or even care why they are in pain. Pain from orthodontic treatments with braces may be cause by a variety of factors:

  1. Irritation inside the mouth: Your mouth will need a few days to adjust once they have been fitted and your teeth and gums are interacting with your appliances for the first time. These new additions to your teeth require your mouth to get comfortable with their presence. However, once the two are comfortable, the irritation will ease over time.

  2. Broken bracket: Your braces are constantly working. Because of this, there is always a possibility that something can break. Broken brackets should be expected, and they happen to almost everyone at least once during treatment. This can cause some pain and irritation because the broken bracket may poke at or tear the delicate surfaces in the mouth (especially if you have traditional metal braces). If this occurs, make an appointment with Dr. Barry Glaser and Glaser Orthodontics near Montrose NY, as soon as possible to fix the problem and make sure no further problems or pain occurs.

  3. Shifting of teeth: Braces shift your teeth to give you the healthy, picture-perfect smile you’ve always dreamed of. It’s important to know that the shifting of the teeth is what causes the most pain when it comes to braces. When your braces are tightened, they are working harder to align your teeth and essentially changing your teeth’s position in your mouth.

How do I keep my braces from hurting me?

To help you avoid minor pain or discomfort during your course of treatment:

  • Avoid hard foods. Dr. Barry Glaser says that hard foods should be avoided, especially after an adjustment appointment. The extra effort to chew these foods may cause or exacerbate any discomfort the patient may already feel. When your braces hurt, stick to soft foods such as pasta, mashed potatoes, yogurt, bananas, etc.

  • Take over-the-counter or doctor-prescribed medication. When your teeth are hurting,  Dr. Barry Glaser recommends taking an over-the-counter medicine that to lessen any pain. Medicines such as Tylenol, Advil, or Aleve can help ease the pain until your teeth and gums get used to their new positioning.

Braces may hurt, at least initially, because of how they work inside the mouth. The result with this orthodontic treatment, however, is a mouth of straight, functional, and healthy teeth and gums.


Dr. Barry Glaser and the team at Glaser Orthodontics are the experts in braces. If you have any questions pertaining to braces, clear braces, Invisalign, or Invisalign Teen near Montrose, NY, Peekskill NY, Cortlandt Manor, NY, Cold Spring, NY, Croton-on-Hudson, NY, Westchester, NY, or surrounding areas, or would like to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Barry Glaser, contact Glaser Orthodontics at: 914-739-6400.

Read More

How Do I Floss With Braces?

Braces Jefferson Valley, NY

Dr. Barry Glaser and the Glaser Orthodontics staff take the time to instruct each of their orthodontics patients in the Jefferson Valley, NY area how to floss while they are being treated with braces. Wearing braces on the teeth can make good oral hygiene habits difficult to perform, can create spaces where food debris can collect, and they provide an environment for bacteria to thrive. Good brushing and flossing techniques and habits while undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces is often a challenge, but flossing with braces can be accomplished effectively once equipped with a little advice.

Why floss with braces?

The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) advises that flossing is just as important as brushing in a conscientiously applied regimen of good oral hygiene. Toothbrushes are great for cleaning plaque from the fronts and back surfaces of the teeth, but they simply cannot reach the sides, in between the teeth, and along the gumline. Food debris in the mouth feeds bacteria. The bacteria in the mouth creates acid that causes bad breath and breaks down tooth enamel. Flossing removes most of this acid-causing food debris to keep teeth healthier and breath fresher. All of this becomes even more prevalent while undergoing treatment with braces because of the brackets and wires that often become a catch-all for food and bacteria.

Get in the game.

A floss pick is an instrument that is effective at keeping braces clean and clear of food debris. A piece of dental floss spans a space at one end, kind of like a harp. The other end is a tapered point that can be used to force food debris from behind the wires, around the brackets, and in between the teeth. Floss picks are available for both children and adults and may be either reusable or single use. A floss threader is a thin piece of plastic with a loop at the end to hold the floss. The plastic piece is threaded above or below the wires to access the spaces between teeth. You can learn more about the different kinds of orthodontic floss and find out which is the best for you here.

Up your game.

There is actually a technique for flossing that is proven to help effectively remove plaque from teeth. Carefully manipulating the dental floss between the teeth and into a “C” shape is a good method to clean the back surfaces of the teeth, including down by the gumline. Make an up-and-down motion against the tooth, keeping the floss tight against the surface. Floss each tooth individually and move in sequence. Keep going until each tooth has been flossed. A Waterpik water flosser is an oft recommended method of flossing. It may be more effective than dental floss and works with a pulsating stream of water to flush out food or particles stuck between teeth and gums and to remove the plaque that can build up on braces.

Stay on the scoreboard.

A conscientious oral hygiene regimen including a fluoride toothpaste, anti-plaque mouthwash, and thorough flossing is the program patients near Jefferson Valley, NY can rely on to keep their mouth after braces clean, healthy, and in the best condition possible. Dr. Barry Glaser and the team at Glaser Orthodontics coach their patients to a winning treatment outcome every time. They are important teammates in their patients oral health care. For more information about how to floss with braces, or to schedule an appointment, contact Glaser Orthodontics today at:  914.739.6400

Read More

Braces vs Invisalign: Which is the Real Winner?

Braces vs Invisalign Jefferson Valley, NY

 Of all of the treatment plan options Dr. Barry Glaser of Glaser Orthodontics near Jefferson Valley, NY, most patients choose treatment with either traditional metal braces vs Invisalign clear aligners.

When considering a plan for orthodontic treatment, it can be difficult to decide which plan is best for you or your child’s needs. So many factors need to be considered (price, length of treatment, comfort and convenience, visibility). It can be difficult to divine which pros outweigh which cons.

No matter which treatment plan you choose, braces vs Invisalign, they both address similar issues and offer similar treatment outcomes. Invisalign provides patients with an invisible, comfortable, and convenient orthodontic appliance; braces provide patients with a reliable and proven solution that is designed to treat even the most difficult cases.

Dr. Barry Glaser offers both types of treatments and is here to explain the upsides and downsides of each orthodontic treatment approach.

Some differences between braces and Invisalign

Braces

Today’s metal braces are more comfortable and less noticeable in the mouth. Braces are constructed of a bracket, bonding, or band and an archwire that controls the movement and realignment of your bite, teeth, and jaw. Braces provide the quick treatment outcomes that some patients are looking for. Younger patients tolerate metal braces especially well. Metal braces:

  • Can handle all types of orthodontic cases.
  • Require extra care and handling when brushing and cleaning teeth.
  • Come with some common-sense food restrictions.

Invisalign

Invisalign aligners give the patient a more flexible approach toward treatment and is recommended more for adults and teens. Invisalign clear aligners give patients easy-to-care-for usability, form-fitting comfort, and the flexibility needed to function confidently throughout their day while wearing an orthodontic appliance. Orthodontic treatments with Invisalign with Dr. Barry Glaser allow patients to eat almost any type of food (because they are removable by the patient);  brush and floss their teeth normally (i.e., without the hassles involved with brushing and flossing while wearing a fixed appliance), and ultimately take on their day-to-day activities without the worry of being pegged as a braces wearer.

  • Aligners are clear (virtually invisible).
  • Aligners are removable (so you can floss, brush, and eat as usual).
  • Aligners are made of a plastic (which won’t irritate the soft tissue inside your mouth).

Invisalign is an essentially invisible fix that let patients conduct their day without their orthodontic appliance affecting the appearance of the teeth and mouth. Invisalign clear plastic aligner trays are easy to keep clean and ensure healthy dental development for the wearer. Invisalign aligners do require the patient to wear the appliance as long as 22 hours a day.

Get informed

Dr. Barry Glaser and Glaser Orthodontics near Jefferson Valley, NY can help you make the most appropriate decision for your orthodontic treatment. Whether you are considering traditional braces vs Invisalign treatment schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Barry Glaser call our office at: 914.739.6400

Read More