Your dental health and treatment time depends on knowing how to clean your Invisalign retainers.

Maintain your transparency by cleaning your aligners. Their subtlety is one of the main advantages of Invisalign over braces. However, Invisalign retainers can stain if not cleaned regularly.

The staff at Ortho Center OC is here to answer any questions you may have about maintaining your aligners if you are new to Invisalign treatment. We want you to be successful with clear braces. You can discover the best maintenance tips for your aligners below.

Tip #1: Avoid Drinking Hot Beverages

Avoid drinking hot beverages while wearing Invisalign aligners to keep them in proper shape. These can cause the plastic to warp, which could postpone your orthodontic therapy. Make an appointment with your dentist immediately if you unintentionally subject your aligner to extreme temperatures.

Tip #2: Remove Your Invisalign Before Eating

Before each meal, it is essential to remove the trays; the food and beverages you consume can damage and stain your trays.

Food particles also get stuck in the trays. These specks will transfer to your teeth and gums if they stick to your aligners. These particles end up providing the germs needed to produce plaque.

Tip #3: Rinse Your Retainers Frequently

If you leave those plastic trays in, they may become a haven for bacteria that cause bad breath. To get rid of plaque and other debris, ensure to rinse your aligners every time you take them out. Maintaining your trays clean will help you to have fresh breath and healthier teeth.

Refrain from disinfecting your trays with hot water after cleaning. Use room temperature water.

Tip #4: Brush And Floss Your Teeth

Keep in mind that solid particles can get stuck between teeth. Saliva may only be able to remove these particles when using trays after brushing your teeth first.

It’s crucial to practice appropriate oral hygiene while wearing Invisalign trays. After meals, remember to brush and floss your teeth before replacing the trays. You can maintain your aligners and teeth clean in this way.

Tip #5: Keep Invisalign Trays in Their Case

Frequently, patients remove them from their food and beverages while eating and drinking and leave them in their pockets, on their plates, or outside.

Your aligners could suffer significant harm as a result. Even though they are resistant, you don’t want them to maintain their quality. Additionally, leaving your aligners out in the open can encourage the growth of bacteria on your Invisalign.

You will be less likely to lose your Invisalign aligners if you keep them in their case, which will also keep them clean and secure.

Final Thoughts

Maintenance of any orthodontic appliance requires a lot of care and hygiene, and Invisalign trays are one of them. The constant use of these trays, constant cleaning, what you eat, and keeping them in the right place will undoubtedly be determined to get the results you want.

If you are looking for an orthodontist in Orange County, at Ortho Center OC, we have the most qualified orthodontists, providing you with the care and advice you need to get the smile you want. Contact us today!

The application of braces is a memorable moment in a child’s life and development, marking a before and after for their oral health. This process takes time to get used to, so it is necessary to take action and be prepared to make this journey as easy as possible for you and your child.

This article will show you a list of things to do when your child is about to start a braces treatment.

Tip #1: Keep the Necessary Supplies on Hand

Dental wax is a soft and safe shield to cover protruding brackets and wires with a smooth surface. Dental wax comes to the rescue when the annoying and uncomfortable feeling of new braces appears. In addition, you can minimize damage to gums and mucous membranes when a bracket or wire breaks or comes loose by placing a piece of wax.

Tip #2: Soft Foods Will Be Your Best Ally

During the first days of wearing braces, your child should avoid eating hard or difficult-to-chew foods; instead, he can eat soft fruits and cooked vegetables, which are essential for your child’s intake because of the vitamins and minerals they contain.

Some recommended foods are:

• Dairy products: soft cheese, yogurt.

• Grains: rice, noodles, and all types of cooked pasta

• Vegetables: Spinach, vegetable broths, cooked carrots

• Soft fruits: kiwifruit, strawberry, pineapple

Cooking mashed potatoes, smoothies, and pudding are also healthy and wholesome recipes that you can cook for your child. It is advisable to avoid ice cream and soft sweets, as they can cause tooth decay.

Tip #3: Medications Will Help with Pain

Teeth are actively being shifted to new locations every second of the day during orthodontic treatment. The positions of the teeth can change blood flow, which may cause inflammatory reactions, which cause the brain’s pain receptors to fire.

In most cases, pain is reduced by taking over-the-counter analgesics such as aspirin or ibuprofen before or shortly after the sessions.

Tip #4: Organize Your Child’s Events

After having braces, your child’s mouth will be sore for a few days, and it will take some time for them to feel completely at ease wearing them, especially when eating. For these reasons, you should avoid scheduling any occasions that call for a lot of talking or eating in the days following the placement of braces.

Conclusion

Every orthodontic process takes time; therefore, because you want the best for your children, it is necessary to take this process as carefully as possible. Everything that involves the maintenance of your oral health helps to prevent health problems.

We must remember that the pain will pass and that braces are temporary, and that the results will be the most beneficial, and this will be possible with the commitment of your child and the orthodontist.

Working with a good orthodontist will make you and your child confident in their orthodontic treatment. That’s why by contacting us, you can be sure that our orthodontist in Orange county will discuss your child’s process and answer any questions you may have.

During your visit to an orthodontist, you may not understand exactly what needs to be done with your teeth. Therefore, you must ask the correct questions to identify your specific problem or to prevent future dental concerns. Given the volume of information found, doing your research might be confusing. However, below are a few topics you can ask your orthodontist in Orange County before beginning treatment.

● Dental Issue Cause

It could feel like your dental pain or discomfort suddenly came out of the blue. Nevertheless, your oral issue often has a simple cause. Your teeth may not be getting the proper amount of cleaning and flossing, or they may be affected by a pre-existing medical condition. Consult with your orthodontist about ways to avoid this problem in the future or about any efforts you may take to lessen the harm done to your teeth. In some cases, they might suggest particular appliances or items that can strengthen your teeth and reduce the risk of the same thing happening again.

● Steps for Treatment

You should prepare before visiting your orthodontist in Orange County for treatment. Before an orthodontist treats your teeth, you might need to avoid consuming or drinking for some time. Contact the orthodontist’s office for more information on how to prepare for the particular dental procedure that will be done on your teeth.

● After Treatment

You can have some lasting pain or discomfort after more involved operations. To reduce the risk of infection or to help you manage pain after the treatment, you might need to take certain medicines. It’s essential to understand how to care for yourself following orthodontic treatment. Additionally, it will be necessary to go through the expected course of the healing process and any potential red flags. You might have to cut back on some foods or liquids while healing. It might include meals difficult to chew or those with little seeds, like strawberries, that could get caught in your braces. A list of appropriate foods to consume after treatment should be provided to you by your dentist.

● Materials or Medications Employed

You should go through all the tools and medicines they’ll be employing before starting orthodontic treatment, especially if you have a history of allergic reactions. Please inform your orthodontist if you have any food or substance allergies, particularly latex. Your orthodontist will take the necessary measures to keep you protected and comfortable.

Always feel comfortable talking about your treatment with your orthodontist. At Ortho Center OC, we are committed to staying on the cutting edge of dentistry and patient communication. Before any treatment, we take the time to discuss any dental health issues you may have. Knowing your goals and desires will help us provide you with all the information necessary to achieve a beautiful and healthy smile. Contact us for more information!

Do you need braces, but you’re not sure what type is the most suitable for you? Check on all these types of braces we provide.

Braces are the most commonly used orthodontic treatment recommended to patients. However, there are many other types of braces, and all of them have their advantages and disadvantages, but to know the one that suits you better, you have to consult your orthodontist.

Let us explain to you a little bit about these types of braces:

Metal Braces

A metal brace is a type of orthodontic appliance. It is usually made of metal and consists of two brackets attached to the teeth with screws. The brackets are fixed with a wire or ligature. The wire or ligature is tied to the bracket on the opposite side.

This type of brace realigns teeth so that the patient’s bite can utilize them properly.

Invisalign

Patients who use Invisalign wear their clear aligners over their natural teeth. The aligners snap into place in the mouth and gradually shift the teeth to straighten the bite, ensuring healthy and attractive smiles. Invisalign is a fantastic option for those who want to change their smile without undergoing traditional orthodontic treatment.

Invisalign systems have been used by thousands of people worldwide since 1996.

Six in 6

Six in 6 braces is a new trend taking over the world. It is a brace with six pieces of metal on each side and six screws on the back.

It is designed to give an illusion of being more fitted and slimming than traditional braces. The metal pieces help people with their posture and support their jaw, while the screws on the back ensure that it stays in place.

This trend is becoming increasingly popular among women who want to look more stylish while maintaining their healthy posture.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are more comfortable than metal braces because they’re not as rigid or heavy, which provides more freedom of movement for the patient’s mouth. The wire is made up of two materials: ceramic and metal, with the ceramic being flexible while the metal is stiffer, so it provides support where needed and allows movement in other areas.

Braces can help prevent dental problems, such as tooth decay, gum disease, and cavities. They also help improve the appearance of teeth and the overall health of your mouth. They’re not just for aesthetic purposes, as many people would think. Besides improving your oral health, they have other benefits, such as improving speech and eating, better self-esteem and self-confidence, and more. Braces can be effective for many problems in the mouth, which is why they are so popular. So, if you’re looking for the best orthodontist in Orange County to start your treatment, contact us now!

If you’re considering getting Invisible Aligners for your teeth, you’re probably wondering what their advantages and disadvantages are. Today we will explore them in terms of cost, requirements, symptoms, comfort, and treatment time so you can decide if this is a viable option.

Cost

The cost of invisible aligners is comparable to other forms of orthodontic treatment. It will depend on the length of the treatment, dental professional, and intervention. Invisalign is an excellent option for straightening your teeth without wearing traditional braces. It’s possible to perform most of your daily activities while wearing the aligners, which means they’re comfortable and convenient.

Most insurance plans will cover the cost of invisible aligners, but impressions are not covered. If you have insurance, you may qualify to receive a larger rebate.

Comfort

Invisible aligners are virtually invisible orthodontic appliances. They fit over the teeth and gradually move them into the desired position. While invisible aligners are often more affordable than traditional braces, they may not work for some people.

The best advantage of invisible aligners is that they are removable. Unlike conventional braces, invisible aligners can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing. However, they do need to be worn for 22 hours a day. Additionally, invisible aligners can cause little irritation and pressure on the mouth.

Requirements

Invisible aligners can be used to treat crooked or misaligned teeth. Each is customized to move the teeth slowly, thereby correcting the misalignment. Invisible aligners typically take less time to complete than traditional braces. You should keep track of your progress by visiting your orthodontist regularly to check the results of your treatment.

Invisible aligners can be used for adults or teenagers with mild crowding or spacing problems. It is important to note that orthodontic treatment for children can be challenging. Typically, clear orthodontic aligners are only used for mild crowding and spacing problems and those with only minor issues. Children with severe crowding or gaps may require more complex treatment to correct the malocclusion.

Symptoms

While it’s rare for a person to experience any significant discomfort, there are a few potential signs and symptoms of invisible aligners. The most common ones are minor and transient. During the first few days, patients may experience longer soreness, sensitivity to foods, and burning.

Treatment Time 

Invisible Aligner treatments usually take less time than traditional braces, but it depends on the problem. While you can still see the results, you must wear the aligners for at least 22 hours a day, or you may end up needing more than one course of treatment. If you are unsure how long invisible aligner treatment will take, ask our team of experts.

Invisible Aligners are great orthodontic treatment, however, as mentioned before, they are not made for everyone. Come to The Orthodontic Center of Orange County, and we will examine your case and come up with the best solution. We have the best orthodontist in Orange County. Contact us today!

Orthodontic patients now have a variety of metal and ceramic choices to select from (not to mention clear aligners). While this is unquestionably a good thing because it allows for more individualized care, we also realize that patients may find it a bit confusing sometimes. In this article, we’ll take a closer look to better understand the options available.

Metal Braces

The time-honored metal braces are still the most popular treatment for many people. They’re an effective and affordable way to straighten your teeth. But what about if you’d like a different look for your braces? Metal braces come in many different styles and designs, and some may be more appropriate for some cases. Let’s look at these options and how they compare.

Traditional metal braces are made of brackets that are attached to the teeth. Each one is connected to the archwire with small rubber bands or metal ties. The orthodontist tightens the brackets to move the teeth into the proper position. Self-ligating braces also use trap-door technology to keep the wire from coming undone. Another style of metal braces is known as lingual braces. It is inserted behind the teeth, so the brackets can’t be seen.

Ceramic Braces

Unlike very noticeable metal braces, ceramic braces are nearly invisible. They function similarly to metal braces but are made of tooth-colored materials that mimic the color of the teeth. Ceramic braces have clear wires and brackets, making them the preferred choice of patients who aren’t interested in Invisalign or lingual braces. This option is also less noticeable and more convenient for patients who want to avoid the embarrassment of constantly worrying about their appearance.

When deciding which braces to choose, it is important to understand what each type will cost. This is because traditional metal braces typically cost cheaper than ceramic braces. Depending on the severity of your orthodontic problem, your insurance may cover some of the cost of ceramic braces.

Which Is Best for You?

The best option will mainly depend on the situation in terms of the care and the cost when deciding between metal and ceramic braces. It’s best if you consult with an expert. Schedule an appointment to discuss your treatment options with our knowledgeable and friendly team. Contact us today!

Braces are still one of the most frequent and effective procedures for treating bite issues and misaligned teeth for both children and adults. Also, adults are becoming more interested in them because of the many options accessible nowadays.

Braces accomplish the same thing regardless of age: they move and straighten teeth and correct bite problems. But what are the differences between child and adult orthodontics? Well, today we will share them with you.

Adults Have Fully Developed Teeth

One of the most significant differences between orthodontic treatment for adults and children is that adult teeth and jaws are completely developed while children’s teeth and jaws are still growing. It is easier to make alignment changes to the teeth and jaws of younger patients since they are still in the process of oral growth.

Adults’ bones have calcified, and the tissues around their teeth have settled into their current positions by the time they reach adulthood. The process of realignment is made a little more difficult by these conditions, which are referred to as biomechanical limits.

Past Tooth Extractions

Several adults have had one or more teeth extracted before, which can sometimes cause orthodontist problems. Unless old extraction sites are restored with sections of prosthetic bone, they may not be viable places for teeth to shift into. Because adult bone does not respond to pressure in the same way that developing bone does, closing gaps between teeth produced by extractions – and keeping them closed – can sometimes be challenging.

Bite Correction

Correcting a malocclusion or inadequate bite is one of the most common reasons patients seek orthodontic treatment. In an older patient with a deep overbite, there is generally not enough space in the mouth to make room for the teeth to shift back without removing one or more teeth.

The orthodontist has additional possibilities to fix the bite in children and teenagers. The jaw will commonly respond to aligners and dental appliances. In the case of adults, the orthodontist may decide to fix the bite. Rather than aiming for perfection, the goal is to restore your smile as much as the conditions allow.

Adults’ Reaction to Braces

A great benefit that adults have when it comes to braces treatments is experience. Before scheduling a visit with an orthodontist, most adults have a good idea of what to anticipate. Previous dental procedures provided the information and exposure. And they can be relaxed and willing, which makes the procedure easier.

Children, on the other hand, are more hesitant to seek care. When working with children, an orthodontist may have to use a different approach.

Orthodontic treatment can vary significantly between children and adults, as you can see, but if you are an adult looking for braces, don’t worry! Although they may seem a little more difficult to work with older people, they’re nothing that good orthodontic practice cannot handle. Such as Invisalign and Braces in Buena Park. Here we are experienced and trained to handle any orthodontic treatment. We will work with you to provide you with the smile you’ve always dreamed of. Contact us today!

When patients get braces, they are often concerned about continuing to eat their favorite foods. Although it may be hard to put your favorite foods away, it is a crucial part of avoiding unexpected complications with your braces. We know that figuring out what you can and can’t eat might be challenging, so we want to share with you these general guidelines to keep your braces and teeth safe while eating.

Begin by Eating Soft Foods

Your teeth may be uncomfortable for a few hours after you get your braces on, which is very normal. It proves that your braces are working.

Begin by consuming soft meals like fruit smoothies, noodles, mashed potatoes, and rice. These foods are less likely to harm your braces or bring pain and discomfort to your sensitive, aching teeth since they are simpler to chew.

Avoid Hard or Chewy Foods

Before you consume anything while wearing braces, think about how long it will be in your teeth. If the response is a prolonged time, such as in the case of hard candies, there’s a higher chance of harming your braces, so you should avoid it. This is also true for chewy candy, like taffy and caramel, which have a high chance of being stuck in your braces’ bands or wires for an extended period.

Avoid Gatorade and Soft Drinks

These beverages are highly acidic and full of sugar, both of which will permanently damage the enamel of your teeth. Water and milk are both healthier options. Soft drinks and Gatorade should be reserved for exceptional occasions. They should never be consumed for an extended time, and after drinking, we recommend brushing properly or rinsing with water to reduce the amount of damage.

Take Smaller Bites

Rather than chewing into larger bits, cut your meal into bite-sized pieces. To make an apple more manageable with braces, cut it into thin slices rather than biting into it. Taking efforts like these will help you manage discomfort and protect your braces while also providing you with additional nutritional alternatives.

Brush your Teeth After Every Meal

With braces, what you do after you eat is just as essential as what you eat. Even if you avoid all of the foods listed above, it is significantly more probable that food will become trapped in your braces. So, be careful and keep a toothbrush with you at all times so you may clean your teeth after each meal. It’s also a good idea to bring floss with you to remove all the food out from between the brackets so that any remaining food doesn’t sit on your teeth and cause harm.

Use your Back Teeth to Chew

Your back teeth are stronger and bigger than your front teeth. Using your front teeth to rip or tug at meals is not a good idea.  Place tiny portions of food toward the back of your mouth instead.

Drink Water

It is also beneficial to drink plenty of water while eating, as this will soften the foods and make them easier to swallow. Drinking water can also help you dislodge food stuck in your braces while you’re eating. You should always carry a bottle of water with you.

Chew slowly

Always eat more slowly and thoroughly. If your teeth are very sensitive, you’ll probably be doing this anyway, but if you’re hurrying, make sure to slow down and chew slowly.

All of these tips will make it easier for you to eat with braces, but remember that it is best if you always consult everything with your dentist, especially if you’re having any issues with your treatment. Here at the Invisalign and Braces in Buena Park, we are always ready to assist you and bring you excellent service with our exceptional group of dental professionals on our staff.  Contact us today!

Invisalign is a clear, comfortable, and discreet way to straighten your teeth in a short time. While you would never purposefully prolong your treatment, there are a few common bad habits that can cause significant delays or damage to your Invisalign. That’s why we want to share 6 things that you should avoid when you are wearing them.

• Wearing Invisalign Trays Without Brushing First

Brushing is especially necessary for people who are wearing aligner trays as part of their orthodontic treatment. If you don’t brush your teeth adequately before wearing your aligners after eating, food particles from your meal could become trapped between and against your teeth inside the trays. This increases the number of germs in the mouth and raises the risk of tooth decay.

• Leaving the Trays Laying Out

When you are not using your aligners, you must keep them in their case. If you keep them out in the open, you risk exposing them to airborne infections and bacterial growth. You’re more likely to lose or damage your aligners if you don’t keep them in their respected case.

• Changing your Aligners Late

When it’s time to switch to a new aligner, your dentist will let you know. Many patients, unfortunately, fail to replace their aligners on time, and it takes them an extra day or two to remember. While an extra day may not seem like a big deal, keep in mind that by the time you’ve worn the aligner for the recommended amount of time, it’s already shifted your teeth as far as it can. You’re not gaining much (if any) benefit from that extra day of wear. So, if you change your aligners late frequently, your Invisalign treatment may need to be extended by a month or two to adequately straighten your teeth.

• Forgetting to Remove your Aligners When Eating or Drinking

Except for pure water, you should avoid eating and drinking while wearing Invisalign aligners. The aligners aren’t designed to withstand the force of chewing. Food and drinks might also become stuck between the aligners and your teeth. This not only puts you in danger of cavities, but it also stains your teeth. Finally, eating or drinking while wearing Invisalign might discolor the aligners, defeating the purpose of the almost invisible treatment.

• Exposing your Aligners to Heat

Your aligners can wrap if you clean them in hot water, drink a hot beverage while putting them on, or leave them in a heated place. This will change the fit of your trays, potentially affecting your results. Make sure they aren’t exposed to excessive heat. If you’re rinsing them, make sure the water is lukewarm rather than boiling. When sipping a hot beverage, always remove them out of your mouth.

• Using Harsh Cleansers on your Aligners

Toothpaste can be abrasive, causing your aligners to scrape, this will make them stand out more. Also, stay away from harsh soaps, particularly those that are colored or scented. When you put your aligners back in, they may cause discoloration and won’t taste very good.

If you avoid these bad habits, your Invisalign treatment will go as smoothly as possible. At Invisalign and Braces in Buena Park, we will walk you through your treatment and provide you with advice; we want nothing more than to provide you with the best results possible. Contact us today!