Entries by Perry Stevens

What is the Cost of Invisalign in Minnesota MN?

May 18, 2022 /0 Comments/in /by

Invisalign in Minnesota costs between $3,000-$7,000 on average. Orthodontic treatment with Invisalign is a fantastic alternative to metal braces. Braces’ metal parts can cause discomfort around gums and mouth, while Invisalign’s clear aligners are comfortable and essentially invisible. The cost of Invisalign tends to be higher than that of braces.  Perry StevensPerry heads up a […]

Tooth Extraction for Braces Or Invisalign – Do Orthodontists Pull Teeth?

April 7, 2022 /0 Comments/in , /by

We found this post on Reddit while researching this blog post. Many people are concerned about the idea of having their teeth extracted for braces or Invisalign, since nobody wants to undergo this procedure. Here’s the good news: most patients said it was worth it. To learn more, click here. Perry StevensPerry heads up a dynamic […]

When Should Your Child See an Orthodontist?

March 21, 2022 /0 Comments/in /by

Even if there are no signs of orthodontic problems, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children have their first check-up with an orthodontist as soon as they are aware a problem exists. Around the age of 6 to 7 years, children have a mix of baby (primary) and permanent teeth. Perry StevensPerry heads […]

What Causes White Spots on Teeth?

March 17, 2022 /0 Comments/in /by

Dental fluorosis, caused by too much fluoride consumption, is a common cause of white spots on teeth. Children usually experience this when teeth break through the gums. A condition that causes thin enamel is enamel hypoplasia, which occurs when teeth are still developing. But let’s delve into the different types of shite spots that can […]

Power Chains – (2022 Ultimate Guide)

March 15, 2022 /0 Comments/in /by

What are power chains? Often made from elastic materials, power chains consist of a number of interconnected rings. Adding them to braces applies more pressure to a specific area of your mouth. Teeth can be aligned using them, as well as gaps between teeth. Perry StevensPerry heads up a dynamic marketing team that has help […]

Different parts of orthodontic braces

February 27, 2022 /0 Comments/in /by

An appointment or braces can be a scary thought for some. You may wonder what goes into the procedure or how much it will hurt. An orthodontic appliance will have many different parts. Your orthodontist will know what parts are going to do what movements.FACT:You need not fear the placement of wires and brackets of traditional braces. In this post, we’ll show you what the different parts of braces are and what they do. Let’s get going.BracketsBraces have a bracket that attaches to a tooth’s crown with special dental cement. The bracket is a small rectangle piece that attaches to your tooth’s front. The wires hold the archwire against the teeth. The brackets are available in silver or gold stainless steel. Or in clear or porcelain to blend in with your teeth.What is a Clear Bracket?This is a bracket constructed from a ceramic material that matches the color of a tooth. Some patients prefer to avoid braces because the braces are less visible.Fun Shapes for The KidsWhen your child is interested in adding a bit of fun to the braces, you can purchase brackets in different colors, such as footballs, stars, or hearts. They function exactly like regular brackets making the procedure equally efficient. Certain brackets have small hooks which help fix bite problems.Self ligating BracketsSelf ligating brackets that need no rubber bands. They function the same as traditional braces with rubber bands. Less changing and appointment are needed.Power ChainA Power Chain is arranged through rubber o-ring rows. These are similar to chains because each small rubber piece is tied to the next one. The chains are spread across multiple brackets, and the chain is wrapped around the ring. As chains contract, the tooth ties are pulled together.This is used as part of the process for shifting a tooth along an archwire or closing space. Power chains may come in clear, gray, and varying shades of color.Coil SpringsA coil spring may be added to your braces if you have teeth that are too close together. With the archwire and brackets placed over the springs, the teeth are gently separated and more space is created. Herbst AppliancesHerbst appliances are orthopedic devices that help in modifying growth in useful ways. Unlike other headgear that is removable, this Herbst appliance is permanently mounted. The upper jaw can be kept facing forward and helps increase the lower jaw’s growth ability.Although one can place his lower jaw a little forward while using Herbst appliances, he can open & close and move his jaw in a normal manner.Elastics (Tiny Rubber Bands)Elastics are rubber bands the therapist applies between an upper arch bracket and lower arch bracket to create the force to move teeth. There are tooth-colored elastic as well as very colored ones.The elastic tends to stretch over time you should change it every single day, this allows you to maintain effective teeth movements. Our elastic bags give you a few extra bags to use as you require.It is necessary that you wear elastics properly to achieve optimum results and that braces are properly removed.More Parts of Orthodontic BracesSeparatorsSeparators (or spacing strips) are small rubber bands that help in forming a space in front of the front teeth. These can be used in molars with metal bands around them. Teeth are usually close together.The separator between the teeth should be placed in thickness. The separator pushes a few teeth apart to allow bands to be inserted around these teeth.[embedded content]O-RingsOrings are rubber rings that attach each anchor to an archwire. Using a stretchable O-ring, Dr Burkey and his team attach them to an archwire. The O-ring is usually gray or white to match the bracket and is available in a variety of fun colors.(A self-ligating bracket has no rings as the bracket has a small door opening to secure the archwire.)ArchwiresThe archwire is what keeps your teeth moving. Archwires are tiny strands that have metal screws glued onto brackets by removing a small clip (self aligned securing brace) or a rubber band.The thinner wire makes teeth move better than the thinner wire. Arch wires are frequently changed in rechecks for changes in tooth tensions.LigaturesThey make children and teens feel amazed by braces in general. The girls make their wardrobes around them. Ligatures are tiny plastic bands that connect wires to brackets.It comes with several different colors and adjustment is performed. Patients can choose different combinations at the same time, making the visit fun.BandsBands are placed on back teeth or on molar bones and molars. Your orthodontist may use their instrument to place it under your back teeth so it fits correctly. Most orthodontic bands use attaching wires to enable archwires to be carried through.What Are Invisalign®Aligners?An Invisalign® orthodontic treatment plan is used for a mild to moderate malocclusion. A variety of dental issues affect people over generations. This can be caused by problems in your jaws or teeth.Invisalign Clear aligners are designed to align the bite gradually. The shape and size of the aligners will adjust according to the movements in your teeth.Easily removed from top and bottom teeth. Invisalign aligners are great for teens and young people seeking treatment. A retainer will be the same as the aligners.ConclusionA good oral expert will know what any part of your braces is. He or she will also know how to implement Invisalign treatment to maximum effect.If you maintain good oral health techniques during the treatment, it’s likely that your smile and bite will become perfect. Whether you want to get full orthodontic perfection or to address issues, we can advise you. Get in touch with our orthodontic office today to schedule your first appointment with Dr. McDermott.Talk to us about insurance coverage on treatment and Invisalign cost too.

Invisalign With Cavities

February 27, 2022 /0 Comments/in /by

Wearing Invisalign aligners with cavities is a common subject matter. Traditional braces have their oral hygiene routine. Invisalign aligners have theirs. To prevent cavities while undergoing Invisalign treatment read on. Below are facts and tips on why and how to deal with harmful nasties while wearing clear aligners.

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Can I still get Invisalign if I Have a Cavity?
Invisalign providers are often asked by patients to fill cavities. The theoretical answer is yes, but the practical answer is no. Dentists and orthodontists suggest repairing the cavity. This is the first thing to do.
In most cases, as the cavity develops, it takes precedence over misalignments. For Invisalign aligners to work well resurface the tooth after the cavity. And remove any debris from the tooth.
What if Cavities Develop During Invisalign Treatment?
Invisalign can lead to cavities and can cause serious side effects. As with all other instruments, it is essential that any tooth decay is addressed before the use of aligners continues, And that you should always remove the aligners immediately.
Until satisfactory work filling that stops developing cavities hold off on wearing the trays. Regain the smooth surface needed for the plastic mold to work efficiently. Or, your orthodontist may agree that you can continue wearing the trays with the cavity.
Depending on how the filling is created, it is often possible that a skilled dentist recreates the shape. It eliminates needing new alignments.

Does Invisalign Cause Tooth Decay?
Many people have stories about Invisalign causing cavities and other dental complications. The alignment itself wasn’t the problem. It may sound harsh, but we should look into what the alignments are.
When properly placed, Invisalign braces hold the teeth securely in place. This traps particles of food underneath the aligner, allowing bacteria to easily eat it. Since the aligners are worn throughout the day, it is possible to get tooth damaged during their use.
Invisalign treatment does not directly cause tooth decay to the patient’s teeth. The ill-proper use of the aligners can.
Do Aligners Create a Bacteria Breeding Ground?
Every time someone puts the tray on after they’ve eaten, it’s possible that it’s an ideal place for bacteria to develop. Is it true? Yes. If you don’t clean your mouth when you eat and put the aligner back inside, you can trap harmful bacteria.
FACT: Just make sure you wash your aligners and mouth after eating.
Taking care of Invisalign Trays
Invisalign braces are usually worn for around 22 hours. The remaining time must be used to take out aligners and clean teeth. Proper care must be taken to rid the aligners of trapped food particles must only remain in place a couple of hours after being cleaned.
TIP: Place aligners in the protective case when you don’t need them. 
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Ways to Combat Cavities During Invisalign
You can avoid the worry of cavities during Invisalign treatment. Below are the basic ways to keep the nasties at bay by keep your Invisalign trays clean.
Practice Good Oral Health
Invisalign correction braces prevent saliva from reaching your teeth. Invisalign patients need to have a healthy mouth to prevent abrasions. It doesn’t take much to forget to brush and floss and clean the braces.
TIP: Brush and floss twice daily and rinse in morning and evening routines.
See The Dentist
Your dentist needs to check you at least twice a year. A hygienist will compliment your oral health by conducting a deep clean.
Avoid Sugary Delights
Sugary drinks and snacks are great to eat but enemies to our teeth. Limit consumption while wearing Invisalign aligners.
Hydration is Your Friend
Hydration is key while wearing Invisalign aligners. Saliva will not reach the tooth. This means less defense. Keep the mouth watered as much as possible.
Smoking is Not
Gum recession is a result of smoking. This may affect the aligners seating on the tooth. Stop or curtail smoking during Invisalign treatment.
Tongue Brushing is Awesome
You should brush your tongue. Bacteria live by the billion upon it. Brush away the nasties every time you brush your teeth.
Conclusion
Cavities during Invisalign treatment are a concern. A good expert will know if you need to fix the issues before and during treatment.
Gluck Orthodontics is a trusted name in orthodontic care. Dr. Gluck is a board-certified orthodontic specialist. He is also a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics.
Here at Gluck Orthodontics, we proudly provide our patients with the very latest in orthodontic care plus a little something extra from the friendly staff that we like to call ‘The Gluck Experience.’
To schedule your initial orthodontic consultation, call us at 615-269-5903. Or visit us online or in-person for an appointment today.

Invisalign Not Tracking (Is This Normal ?)

February 24, 2022 /0 Comments/in /by

Invisalign treatment is great in many ways. Less pain. Less mess. And most of all fewer appointments than you get with traditional metal braces. Clear aligners are great for seeing the transformation and you only need to send a scan from your phone.
Your scan will tell the orthodontist if the next trays are good to go. Sometimes, your scan will show your Invisalign not tracking. Read on for the full lowdown on why your aligners are not seated and what to do about it.

What Does Tracking Mean?
Tracking is a term that refers to the fit of your aligners over the teeth. If your aligner is tracking well, the mold will match the shape of the teeth. This means the planned movement is correct.
Bad tracking means the aligner is loose. It may not fit over the tooth so there is no proper movement.
Signs of Bad Tracking
What are the signs of bad tracking? If you can see or your scans reveal bad tracking will show in the following ways:

Air bubbles are visible
Each arch fits in a different manner
The gingival is not covered to an acceptable degree

Is it Common For Invisalign Trays to Track Badly?
Nearly half of Invisalign treatments will need adjusting during the treatment plan. It could be due to many reasons. Do not panic if you find yourself in this situation. The issue is correctable in a quick fashion by the orthodontist, learn more here.
New scans and new aligners may be needed. Or, a change in user behavior might be able to help the aligners track well.

How do I Get Invisalign Treatment Back on Track?

Invisalign Chewies help you position properly.
Wear your alignment device for at least 20 (20+) hours daily.
Invisalign treatment review.
Backtracking to the previous aligner for a suitable time.

Invisalign Chewies
Small rubbery devices about the thickness of a pen help correct the tracking by squashing the aligner up and down onto the arch. Chewing on these helps seat the plastic around the teeth.
Chewing is paramount when starting a new set of aligners. Plus, it will mean less discomfort for the first few days.
Chew for 5 minutes when putting in the aligners. You can chew whenever you like to for added efficiency.
Wear The Aligners for 22 Hours a Day
The success of treatment depends on patient compliance. Wearing aligners properly will keep the treatment plan on schedule.
Take out for eating and drinking colored liquids. And for brushing and flossing only.
Treatment Plan Review
You can seek a treatment plan review if you or your ortho feel that a change in action is needed. Scans will be taken and a new set of aligners may be ordered.
Try Backtracking
Backtracking is a term used to describe the act of going back to the previous aligner set. This will help set the teeth ready for the ill-fitting aligners in the near future.
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What Are Other Reasons For Bad Tracking?
There are other reasons for your aligners not tracking well. You may lose or break a retainer. This will mean waiting for a replacement. Tracking may be affected when restarting.
If you keep removing the aligners for reasons like snacking or smoking then you’ll find tracking affected. Good tracking relies on the aligners being in place.
Warping the aligner is easier than you think. drinking warm or hot drinks will heat up the plastic material and warp the shape. Even if the misshaping is tiny the tracking can still be affected.
Aligners are often warped by the wearer leaving them in heat. Places like the window sill or glove box may heat up enough to melt the plastic material. Always ensure aligners are placed in the box and left out of sunlight.
Smoking with aligners in can coat the plastic in nicotine and affect the tracking.
It is never a linear process but treatment should move as planned. Biological movements are not an exact science. Keep to the tips above for maximum efficiency during treatment and bad tracking will not be an issue.
Try a Different Provider
Your orthodontist may not have gotten the treatment right. You are advised to seek alternative expert advice if your ortho fails to provide accurate fits, adjustments or continues to avoid questions. The ortho cannot by law refuse your decision to move to another provider.
Always seek a top-rated provider. You can find a local Invisalign expert through their website. Look for DIAMOND or GOLD level to satisfy your tooth straightening needs.
Are Invisalign Clear Aligners Painful?
Around 50% of wearers feel slight pain during alignment treatment. Usually, the pain is characterized by tenderness and tension. Sometimes this discomfort is only noticeable during a meal or if taken out for cleaning.
Conclusion:
At Childers Orthodontics in Illinois, our orthodontist can oversee your Invisalign treatment from start to finish. We are open for new Children, teenagers, and adults to have an examination. Dr. Childers ranks in the top 1% of Invisalign providers in the USA.
Bad tracking and fear of a bad result are common concerns for many Invisalign patients. We will explain all in easy-to-understand formats. So you can rest assured of your treatment quality to get a straighter smile.
Dr. Kyle R. Childers offers expertise in all procedures. This is to reduce the amount of time required for wearing orthodontic devices. Call us to schedule your first appointment for an orthodontic evaluation.
I obtained a Bachelor of Science degree at Southern Illinois University and then received my Doctorate of Medical Dentistry at the University of Kentucky. After, I attended the University of Tennessee to complete my Master of Science in Orthodontics degree.
I consider every minute of continuing education to be vital for my patients and myself. Staying current with the latest trends, techniques, and technologies within my field allows me to improve treatment efficiency and provide higher quality results for each person I treat.

How Xerostomia Affects Braces & Invisalign (What is Xerostomia)

February 23, 2022 /0 Comments/in /by

Last Updated on February 22, 2022 by Gio GreenardYour new braces may be giving you a new sensation. Dry mouth is common when wearing braces. Called Xerostomia in medical terminology. Dry mouth affects many who have a mouth full of metal and rubber bands or Invisalign aligners. It is not dangerous but can affect your oral health. Read on for the full lowdown on a dry mouth with braces. Let’s get cracking. What is Xerostomia Exactly? Xerostomia refers to a dry mouth in medical terminiolgy. This can be a condition or a syndrome. Insufficient saliva production occurs in the mouth. …

Why You Should Get An Orthodontist Second Opinion

February 17, 2022 /0 Comments/in /by

Should I get an orthodontist second opinion? Seeking an expert like an orthodontist is a big moment. You and your new doctor must match. And, the opinion on treatment seems plausible and affordable. Your treatment may involve Invisalign or traditional style wire bracket braces. The result rests on the expert evaluation first set out and followed. That is why you should read on for information about why and how to get that important second opinion. Let’s get going…

Table of Contents

FACT:
As with any medical treatment plan, the doctor is key to success. The braces are a tool for the knowledge of the expert. Always get a second opinion even third and fourth expert evaluations. Ensure you take the following information on your adventure.
Is it Worth Getting a Second Opinion on Braces?
Always seek a second opinion for orthodontic treatment, as not all orthodontists use a similar technique for correcting alignment issues or malocclusions. Technological advances have extended orthodontic treatment options.
What Are Good Types of Treatment to Seek?
There are good types of treatment to ask an orthodontist. Depending on the issues presented, you may need traditional braces. Invisalign treatment may suit your malocclusions better. There are also teen versions of both of these types and lingual braces are placed on the back of the teeth for extra secrecy if you wish.
These are all uniform in what they do, the difference is in the provider. An expert will choose the correct method and have a vision of the whole treatment. 
When buying a service, you’ll look for the best for the price. When seeking to correct your smile, you need to balance this with skill and experience.
You should shop around. Take into account all the versions given by all the experts. The doctors will base your needs on their experience and knowledge but they will all do the same methods for the examination process.

An oral health and teeth examination will take place.
Your best treatment type will be diagnosed after X-rays and assessments.
The type and cost of the treatment will be explained with images and computer models on screens.

FACT: Never pay for expert evaluations. Never pay until you have a solid knowledge of the expert evaluation and have agreed that is the best course for you or your child.
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Why a Second Opinion Anyway?
Respected schools of medicine like Yale have studied and tracked patients in their quest to find an orthodontist. The study found 25% of patients received a second diagnosis, found a differing plan. The remaining received the same diagnosis. Three-quarters of people. A majority for sure.
The individual opinion of an expert will differ across the broad medical spectrum of orthodontists. The same skills are used by all. Skills learned in a long schooling journey. This vigorous training allows the doctor to envision the treatment journey and to know the result.
The differences are a lot too. You may find one expert puts more effort into one small faction when another places emphasis on another area. This will become apparent in the examination. Look for differences like:

The technology used in the office
Cost
Treatment
Types of Appliances

Is a second opinion for Invisalign Treatment Important?
Invisalign treatment is the go-to treatment for teens and younger patients. There are new and easier ways to check on the quality of the expert and the office team. Invisalign has a grading system open to all on the website. Look for the top players who have achieved Platinum and Diamond levels.

A Second Opinion Gives Other Insights
Price comparison is not the only thing that differs. Choosing orthodontic treatment is a juggle of cost, expertise, and comfort with the ortho. If you find a cheaper provider make sure where the cost savings are. Inexperience may mean the ortho or dentist is new to the type of treatment.
Or, it may mean the price is quoted without the all-important retainer cost factored in. Always ensure the retainer is costed in the agreement.
Replacements within the treatment, things like wires, rubber bands, and aligners may cost more. These costs will differ between experts.
FACT: Aftercare and emergency costs should also be considered
Do Orthodontists Get Annoyed When You Get a Second Opinion?
No. Orthodontic treatment is a business and a medical procedure. It is common to try to find the best course in this industry.
If you find an orthodontist angry at you seeing others, think again if he or she is right for you.
Find an Independent Orthodontist
Independent good orthodontists may cost a little more but you get personal treatment. This ability to concentrate on your needs in-depth is worth the extra cost. An independent ortho will be housed in the same office(s) and ready and knowledgeable about your treatment.
Other corporate offices may change the expert during treatment and will have many patients. The level of care is not as in-depth as with an independent orthodontist.
You may find better and more up-to-date equipment with an independent ortho too. Machines like iTero scanning are well sought after for Invisalign orthodontic patients
Disagreement Over Treatment Options
Ask questions that can help you understand what the ortho is thinking. Sometimes an orthodontics specialist can only use certain skills, so they will use these techniques if it isn’t another suitable option. The best orthodontist is versatile and can tailor a unique treatment plan to meet your specific needs.
Can Orthodontic Treatment go Wrong?
As with any medical procedure, orthodontic treatment can fail. The risk of this is negated by the experience and expertise of the expert orthodontist.
Can I Switch Orthodontist After Treatment?
It’s possible for a patient to switch their orthodontist after treatment. If you are unhappy with the service do see another doctor. Changing experts during treatments is not recommended. Only use this as a last resort.
Get an Expert Evaluation
Gluck Orthodontics is a trusted name in orthodontic care. Dr. Gluck is a board-certified orthodontic specialist (a distinction only one-quarter of all practicing orthodontists today can claim). He is also a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics.
Here at Gluck Orthodontics, we proudly provide our patients with the very latest in orthodontic care plus a little something extra from the friendly staff that we like to call ‘The Gluck Experience.’
To learn more about tongue thrust and oral health, schedule your initial orthodontic consultation, call us at 615-269-5903. Or visit us online or in person.
Why You Should Get An Orthodontist Second Opinion