Orthodontics is a dental specialty that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting dental and facial abnormalities. Orthodontists treat patients of all ages, including children, adolescents, and adults. They use devices like braces, retainers, and bands to straighten teeth, correct bite problems, close gaps, and realign jaws.
Orthodontists can also identify developing problems and take action to resolve them before they become more severe.
Introduction to Invisalign
In the not too distant past, metal braces were very noticeable, uncomfortable and embarrassing to wearers, especially if your school mates liked to dish out unflattering terms about someone’s “metal mouth”. Flash-forward to today, and new orthodontia appliances like Invisalign have become popular alternatives to fixed metal braces.
The Invisalign products we use at Carrollton Smiles involve the wearing of a clear, removable tray, or trays, crafted from comfortable plastic that’s worn over your teeth during the day and while sleeping. Nearly unnoticeable to others, Invisalign has become a welcomed introduction for teeth straightening for Dr. Bhandaru’s patients with busy lifestyles, including teenagers, in-lieu-of wearing traditional metal braces.
Why Should I Choose Invisalign?
For starters, Invisalign aligners, or “trays”, are almost invisible to others, and removable when brushing your teeth or eating. It’s been our experience that the trays are also very comfortable to wear, and easy to maintain. But Invisalign isn’t for everyone, as metal braces still perform best for people with more complicated teeth and bite misalignments. Overall, these are some of the reasons why our patients choose to wear Invisalign products to restore their natural smiles:
- No eating discomfort due to removable tray feature
- Gently realigns your teeth where they need to be
- Can brush and floss your teeth completely when the trays are removed
- Appliance is easy to care for
- Smooth plastic used in trays is very comfortable and doesn’t rub against gums and cheeks
- Improves a wearer’s self-confidence because of “invisibility” factor
- Invisalign is more affordable and cost-effective than they thought!
How do I Get Started Wearing Invisalign?
Plan on wearing Invisalign aligners for 6 to 18 months, which will depend on your level of compliance and the initial condition of your teeth and mouth. To customize your Invisalign trays, Dr. Bhandaru will first conduct a thorough mouth examination to determine if the appliance is right for you based on your misalignment. If you’re a candidate, our staff will then take X-rays, pictures and dental impressions to create a precise 3-D image of your teeth and mouth. That information is sent to our lab, and individualized Invisalign trays created within a few business days. We will call you when they’re ready, and upon pick-up provide you with detailed wear and care instructions. When your Invisalign treatment is finished, you’ll have a new smile to enjoy and share with others for years to come!
If you’d like more information on the transformative outcomes enjoyed by Invisalign wearers, or to schedule an initial Invisalign consultation with Dr. Bhandaru, call Carrollton Smiles in Carrollton, TX today at (972) 245-3455!
Introduction to Braces
Braces might be considered a rite of passage for young people, much like getting a first driver’s license. An array of wires, brackets, and springs provide combinations for numerous treatment scenarios. Sometimes clear brackets and tooth-colored wires can help hide the hardware, leading to an ideal outcome with minimal display during the process. Dr. Bhandaru will help you explore the options and timing if braces fit your treatment scenario.
While orthodontics can solve nearly every possible tooth alignment problem, successful treatment relies on good patient compliance. Wearing elastic bands consistently, keeping follow-up appointments for adjustments, and practicing outstanding home care can lead to a positive outcome. This commitment involves frequent preventive visits with your hygienist as well, a strategy that helps avoid cavities around brackets. The Carrollton Smiles team specializes in helping our orthodontic patients enjoy a successful outcome: a gorgeous, healthy smile.
Orthodontics with braces involves teeth straightening and jaw alignment, combining beauty and function. Identifying problems early in development may allow easier treatment with better results, but it’s never too late to discuss ways to enhance a smile!