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What Happens Immediately after Removal of Braces?

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You’ve made it through your course of orthodontic treatment with braces. Whether it’s been two years or more, it is such a liberating feeling when those metal brackets and wires finally are removed. You can truly enjoy your beautiful smile with teeth that are properly aligned now that there is nothing to block the view of your pearly whites. You might think that your journey is over, but there is more to come before you can say that your orthodontic work is complete. Your orthodontist will be your guide, pointing you in the right direction as you think about what to do next.

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What Are the [Pros and Cons] of Hawley Retainer?

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When an orthodontic treatment has been completed, it is common for a Hawley retainer to be fitted and used. If you are unfamiliar or new to orthodontic work, then you may be wondering what is Hawley retainer? Knowing more about this retainer along with listening to your orthodontist will help you in deciding if this is the right retainer for you or your family.

What Is Hawley Retainer?

A Hawley retainer is a piece that is placed inside of your mouth after orthodontic treatment has been completed. The retainer will help to keep your teeth in place in order to keep the high quality work that has been done. It can also help in completing any minor movements that may need to be done.

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How Can Invisalign Help Straighten Teeth and Boost Self-Confidence

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LAST UPDATED: APRIL 24, 2018

How Can Invisalign Help Straighten Teeth and Boost Self-Confidence

Do you find yourself wondering if people are noticing your teeth when you talk? Have you found that you don’t show your teeth when you smile? Are you struggling to be happy with your smile when you do see your teeth in photos?

If you answered yes to any of the above, you have probably thought about working with an orthodontia provider, discovering how you can straighten your teeth, and deciding whether this is the right choice. Straightening teeth as an adult is an important decision – it will require a significant time and monetary investment, and for many adults, they may question whether it is worth it in the long-term, especially given the inconveniences that traditional metal braces can present. Fortunately, you have other options. One of these options, Invisalign, is a modern alternative to traditional orthodontics. If you’re wondering if this treatment option is right for you, read below for more information about how it can help you achieve the perfect smile you’ve been dreaming about!

FAQ

Knowing What To Expect

One of the many benefits of Invisalign is that your orthodontic treatment is mapped in a computer software system. After your orthodontist takes impressions of your teeth, they are sent to the company for analysis. Soon after, the company will send your provider a treatment plan that includes the length of treatment, any attachments or filing that will need to be completed and when, and a clear model of what your teeth will look like when the treatment concludes. When you start your treatment, you will be able to meet with your provider and learn these results – you’ll know exactly what to expect.

The Low Maintenance Option

Unlike the traditional metal alternative, the trays used in this option are plastic molds designed to fit over your teeth and slowly adjust your smile over time. Upkeep and maintenance are extremely easy – you simply remove the trays when you want to eat or drink, brush your teeth, and place them back in when you are done. Traditional braces may require the insertion and removal of rubber bands, careful food removal of bits that get stuck, and restrictions on what you can eat. Since you can remove the plastic trays when needed, you can maintain your diet without worry!

Discrete Treatment

While metal orthodontia is increasingly used by adult patients, they are extremely noticeable. Even though getting your teeth straightened is a rewarding process, you probably don’t want your orthodontic wear to be the first thing others see in your smile! The trays used in this treatment offer patients the ability to straighten their teeth without others knowing that they are doing so. The plastic is clear and, as the name suggests, is nearly invisible – you’ll be able to complete your treatment without worrying if your smile is distracting others.

Comfort of Treatment

When patients choose a traditional orthodontic option, they must be prepared for the discomfort that they will experience throughout the treatment. In addition to soreness at each tightening, many patients have pain at other times due to the metal attachments on their teeth rubbing against the interior of their mouth. One of the many benefits of using a tray-based option is that discomfort is minimal. Although many patients report a feeling of “tightness” when they first switch to a new set of trays, it usually passes within just a couple of days, making this treatment one of the most pain-free orthodontic options.

Cost & Results

Although traditional options are the best for some patients, more and more patients are turning to tray-based treatment, even for very complicated cases. Patients that choose this alternative can expect a treatment lasting for as little as six months and up to two years – generally, a faster treatment plan than you’d expect with metal braces. Additionally, one of the many myths of this treatment choice is cost of Invisalign – that it is far more expensive than traditional options. Since treatment time is usually less, the price is typically similar to or less than metal options. The smile you can have will be just as beautiful and cost-effective as other orthodontic choices. Not only can you improve your smile, but you will find your confidence when smiling and talking vastly improved.

Ready To Take The First Step?

If you want to learn more about whether or not Invisalign is the right choice for you, your first step is to contact an orthodontist for an assessment of your case. Your orthodontist can provide you with information about all options for orthodontic treatment, review whether or not you will be a good candidate for a tray-based option, and provide a length and cost of treatment time. You’ll have the opportunity to ask additional questions that can vary from provider to provider: How often will I need to come in for a tray check? What will my payment options be? Who can I contact if I have a question in between appointments?

Contact Us to Schedule Your First Orthodontic Appointment

If you live in Minnesota, then you can have an expert examination from a knowledgeable orthodontist at McDermott Orthodontics. Dr. Michael McDermott offers appointments at several facilities, including:

• Baxter – 218-829-1630
• Brainerd – 218-829-1630
• Pequot Lakes – 218-568-5600
• Delano – 763-972-4444

Dr. McDermott has been caring for adults, teenagers and children for 15 years, making sure to provide customized orthodontic devices that include:

• Invisalign – clear plastic aligners for teenagers and adults
• Braces – ceramic, metal and Damon
• Retainers – worn after orthodontic treatment ends

For patients who want to reduce their treatment time, we recommend using the AcceleDent Aura system at home for 20 minutes each night. Schedule an appointment today.

How Can Invisalign Help Straighten Teeth and Boost Self-Confidence

McDermott Orthodontist
708 Elm Ave. E.
Delano, MN
55328
TEL: 763-972-4444

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How to [Floss] Your Permanent Retainer

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Toothbrush, Toothpaste and Floss

Anyone who understands what wearing braces for years has experienced the pain that it brings and the hardship it poses when it comes to cleaning the teeth. Apart from the pain, there are other embarrassing moments that come up when you wear braces. For instance, you might find yourself smiling to your friends, and your brackets and wires are full of food. If you have experienced some of these embarrassing moments, you know that the journey with the braces to the point of removing them cannot be for anything less than a perfect smile. This investment has to be taken care of after braces have been removed using retainers, for the teeth to maintain their correct position. Retainers start their work at this phase. The most common retainers being used are permanent retainers. There are other temporary retainers, but what is a permanent retainer and what is it used for?

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Why Do I Need Teeth Removed for My [Braces]?

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Let’s say you’re new to the orthodontia world. Straight teeth are the goal for your child, which normally includes braces and retainers for most patients. However, your appointment also includes a talk about tooth extraction. You then ask how many teeth should be removed before getting braces. The answer to this question is unique to every patient. Dive deeper into the orthodontia world so that you can learn why tooth extraction is necessary in specific cases.  Read more…

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Are Traditional Braces Cheaper than Invisalign?

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LAST UPDATED: MARCH 27, 2018

Are Traditional Braces Cheaper than Invisalign?

Cost is a major factor that must be weighed into your decision to seek orthodontic treatment. Today, you have many options available to help straighten your teeth and create a more beautiful smile. For most people, it will come down to two main options: Invisalign and the traditional wire braces with which most people are familiar. Understanding the differences between the two types of appliances is critical to deciding whether or not the cost should be a significant factor regarding which way you go with your treatment.

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Braces Removed

Will My [Lips] Look Bigger after I Get My Braces Removed?

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“What will braces do to my lips?” This is a common question asked when considering the use of braces. In reality, braces are seen as lifesavers. People who have used it for over a year are the ones who can appreciate their importance over short time users. Braces do not only help provide proper shape to your dental structure, but they also help in shaping peoples careers. Thanks to the professional orthodontists who ensure that the right braces are uniquely placed to patients who need them. They have made people become more fulfilled with their lives with what they do. Gone are the days when wearing braces makes someone feel odd. Celebrities have also been spotted having them on, and people are feeling much better wearing it in the 21st century. 

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Overcrowding

How to Fix Minor [Overcrowding of Teeth] Without Braces or Invisalign?

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LAST UPDATED: FEBRUARY 27, 2018

Everyone, no matter their age, wants to have teeth that are straight and beautiful. An even smile can boost your confidence and make you feel as though anything is possible. Unfortunately, many people suffer from some kind of issue within their teeth that causes overcrowding, an overbite, an underbite, or any number of other problems. While some of these issues can be directly tackled with the usage of braces and Invisalign, these orthodontic solutions are typically reserved for people who suffer from substantial overcrowding or a large overbite. The key to fixing overcrowding teeth depends on the extent of the crowding. If the crowding you’re experiencing is minimal, it’s possible that you’ll be able to fix this overcrowding without Invisalign or braces.

FAQ

What are retainers?

One of the best ways to fix overcrowding without braces is through retainers which are available in different types for you to choose from. For people who wear braces, retainers are oftentimes used once the braces have been removed as a means of keeping the movements of the teeth intact and to stop these teeth from moving back to their original position. However, if the crowding of your teeth is kept to a minimum, it may be possible to bypass braces or any other orthodontic solution altogether and simply use a retainer in order to straighten your teeth.

The first type of retainer you could use for fixing overcrowding teeth is referred to as a fixed retainer, also known as bonded lingual retainers. These retainers are attached to the inner surface of your teeth through the usage of dental cement. This method of attaching the retainer allows the teeth to remain in their fixed position and will prevent them from shifting in the future. It greatly helps with minimal crowding issues by straightening your teeth and improving your bite.

Another type of retainer that can be used for overcrowding without Invisalign or braces is a removable retainer. Removable retainers have several advantages compared to others since it can be readily removed at any time you want, while still providing much of the same results as a fixed retainer. However, these retainers are easy to lose and very expensive to replace, so you’ll want to heavily consider your options before settling on removable retainers. While these retainers can be removed at any time, it’s recommended that you only remove them during special occasions or for simple relief in the event that they become too irritating for your mouth.

Both removable retainers and fixed retainers can be used on the upper or lower portions of the teeth, which largely depends on where the corrections and adjustments need to be made. Before you’re provided with a retainer, a consultation will first take place to identify whether or not your overcrowding issues even qualify for this orthodontic solution. In the event that they do, the orthodontist on hand will be able to answer any of your questions and will provide you with everything you need to know about wearing the retainer and how long it will take to see the results that you’re looking for.

What Is The Treatment Time with Retainers?

In the event that you select retainers for the slight overcrowding of your teeth, you may wonder how long you’ll need to wear the retainers before the teeth have moved into their proper position. There are a couple of things that you should be aware of. For one, if you choose a fixed retainer, it’s important to understand that these retainers are designed to be used on a long-term basis, even after they’ve stopped moving your teeth. Since they’re cemented into place, the only way to remove them is by returning to your orthodontist.

However, when using these fixed retainers for slight movements associated with overcrowding, your teeth will likely move into their correct position within three to six months, though it’s recommended to wear them longer so as to ensure that your teeth don’t revert to their original position. If you choose to wear a removable retainer, the treatment time will likely be slightly longer than with a fixed retainer, due primarily to the fact that you’ll remove them from time to time. You can expect to wear this retainer for six months to a year before the achieving your desired results.

What are Palatal Expanders?

While retainers are the most commonly used remedies for overcrowding without braces, it’s also possible to correct the minor issue using palatal expanders. A palatal expander is a type of appliance that’s commonly used to widen the upper jaw and the roof of the mouth. The result of using this appliance is providing more room for your teeth to grow, which can actually be beneficial for a wide range of orthodontic issues.

In regards to overcrowding, when your child’s palate is narrower than it should be, the upper teeth may not be able to accommodate the growth of permanent teeth once they start to erupt, which can cause issues and a greater necessity for braces. With the expansion of the upper jaw, the overcrowding problems are directly addressed and your teeth can be properly straightened.

What are the Benefits of Straightened Teeth?

There is a wide array of benefits associated with straightened teeth that might be appealing to you if you’ve never had straight teeth before. For instance, you’ll have a more beautiful smile that will look great in pictures and will boost your self-confidence, which could make a difference in doing well on a job interview or being more sociable.

Straightened teeth also mean that brushing your teeth will be much simpler, as there will be less spaces for food and other particles to get stuck. Crooked teeth can also cause undue pressure to the jaw and eventually lead to headaches. With a better bite, you’ll be able to eat and chew foods better as well.

If you believe that your teeth are slightly overcrowded and you would like to make sure that your smile is as beautiful and straight as possible, call us today to set up your initial consultation. Our orthodontists have the capabilities necessary to ensure that all of your orthodontic needs are well taken care of.

 

How to Fix Minor Overcrowding of Teeth Without Braces or Invisalign?

McDermott Orthodontist
708 Elm Ave. E.
Delano, MN
55328
TEL: 763-972-4444

 

flared teeth

How do I fix my flared teeth [after braces]?

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Braces and other orthodontic care can be an important part of a healthy smile and mouth. If your teeth are overcrowded, it can lead to problems with self-esteem, talking, eating and doing other normal everyday activities. Unfortunately, many people assume that they can simply go for braces and be done with treatment in a matter of just a few months. In fact, braces are not the only treatment that most orthodontists recommend, as there are other appliances needed such as retainers and spacers to properly correct the teeth. Also, it is not at all uncommon to deal with flared teeth after having braces removed. In order for you to know how to fix flared teeth after braces, you need to speak with your orthodontist on your available options.

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The Importance Of Wearing Retainers After Treatment

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LAST UPDATED: JANUARY 30, 2018

The Importance Of Wearing Retainers After Treatment

Unfortunately, everyone wasn’t born with a perfect smile. Many children are born with an overbite, and underbite, crowded teeth, or gaps in their teeth. This is where braces and Invisalign can help. When you take your child to the orthodontist for either of these treatments, your child will need to wear them for a year or more. Once the treatment is over, it isn’t the end. Once the braces and Invisalign come off, your child will be fitted with a retainer. Not every child gets the same retainer schedule. It depends on the child and their treatment provider’s recommendation. Regardless of the instructions that you receive, you should make sure that your child wears their retainer as directed. There are several reasons that it is so important.

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