Q&A with Dentist Ask A Question

posted on Feb 14th, 2024

Fluoride (said like floor-eyed) is a mineral that occurs naturally in soil, water, and air that has been shown to prevent cavities, or tooth decay.

posted on Aug 30th, 2023

Invisalign can sometimes be used if you have dental implants, but it largely depends on the position of the implants and your specific orthodontic needs. We will evaluate the feasibility during your consultation and may need to collaborate with your oral surgeon to create your treatment plan.

posted on Aug 30th, 2023

 Invisalign can be effective in treating mild to moderate overbites or underbites. For severe cases, more traditional orthodontic treatments or surgical interventions may be necessary. We can evaluate your specific situation during your consultation at Royal Dental Whittier.

posted on Aug 30th, 2023

One of the advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners can be removed, allowing you to eat whatever you like. However, it's crucial to maintain a balanced diet and avoid foods that can lead to cavities or gum disease. Always brush your teeth before reinserting your aligners.

posted on Aug 30th, 2023

It's generally okay to wear your Invisalign aligners while swimming in a pool. However, it is not advisable to wear them in hot tubs or saunas as the heat can warp the plastic. Additionally, if you're swimming in a natural body of water like a lake or ocean, it's best to remove them to prevent possible loss or damage.

posted on Aug 30th, 2023

Retainer use after completing Invisalign treatment varies from patient to patient. Initially, you'll likely need to wear a retainer full-time for a few months. After this initial phase, you may switch to wearing it only at night. We'll provide specific recommendations based on your case.
 

posted on Aug 30th, 2023

There is no strict age limit for using Invisalign. It's suitable for teenagers, adults, and even older adults as long as they have good oral health. However, Invisalign may not be suitable for younger children whose teeth are still growing.

posted on Aug 30th, 2023

While using Invisalign does not directly cause cavities, poor oral hygiene during treatment can increase your risk. It's crucial to maintain good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing and flossing, to prevent cavities and other dental issues.

posted on Aug 30th, 2023

 Invisalign is one of the original clear aligner systems and has a well-established track record. It uses patented SmartTrack material, which provides a better fit and easier insertion and removal compared to some other aligner brands. It also often involves fewer office visits than other systems, making it convenient for many patients.

posted on Aug 30th, 2023

Yes, Invisalign can be an effective treatment for crowded teeth. The aligners gradually move your teeth to create more space and align them properly. However, the effectiveness of Invisalign for treating crowded teeth will depend on the severity of the crowding, which we can assess during your consultation at Royal Dental Whittier.

posted on Aug 30th, 2023

Invisalign aligners are made from medical-grade, BPA-free thermoplastic. The material is FDA-approved and designed to be biocompatible, making it safe for extended contact with your gums and teeth.

posted on Aug 30th, 2023

At this time, Invisalign aligners are not recyclable through mainstream recycling programs. However, it's always best to bring your used aligners to your appointments at Royal Dental Whittier, where we can dispose of them properly.

posted on Aug 30th, 2023

No, chewing gum with your aligners in place is not recommended as it can stick to and damage the aligners. If you want to chew gum, make sure to remove your aligners first, and brush your teeth before reinserting them.

 

posted on Aug 30th, 2023

Yes, it is possible to switch from traditional braces to Invisalign, but the feasibility depends on your specific orthodontic issues and how far you've progressed with your current treatment. We can assess your suitability during a consultation at Royal Dental Whittier and develop a customized treatment plan if you decide to make the switch.

posted on Aug 30th, 2023

Determining if Invisalign is right for you involves a thorough dental examination, including X-rays and possibly 3D scans. We'll assess the complexity of your alignment issues, your oral health, and your aesthetic goals. We'll also consider factors like your lifestyle and discipline in wearing aligners as prescribed.

posted on Aug 30th, 2023

While it is technically possible to treat just the upper or lower teeth with Invisalign, doing so might result in a misaligned bite. Each case is unique, and during your consultation at Royal Dental Whittier, we can discuss whether single-arch treatment is appropriate for you.

posted on Aug 30th, 2023

Yes, Invisalign is often effective for closing gaps between teeth. The aligners exert gentle pressure to shift your teeth closer together. During your consultation at Royal Dental Whittier, we will assess the size and location of the gaps to determine if Invisalign is the most effective treatment for your specific case.

posted on Aug 30th, 2023

While Invisalign can provide permanent changes to the alignment of your teeth, the key to maintaining these results lies in proper post-treatment care. Typically, after completing your Invisalign treatment, you'll need to wear a retainer to keep your teeth in their new positions. Your compliance in wearing this retainer as instructed is crucial for lasting results. We'll discuss the specifics of post-treatment care during your visits to Royal Dental Whittier.

posted on Aug 29th, 2023

To get started with Invisalign, schedule a consultation with us at Royal Dental Whittier. During this visit, we'll evaluate your teeth, discuss your goals, and determine if Invisalign is the right treatment option for you. If it is, we'll take impressions or digital scans of your teeth to create your custom aligners.

posted on Aug 29th, 2023

Generally, you'll need to visit Royal Dental Whittier every 6 to 8 weeks to monitor your progress and collect your next set of aligners. These visits are important to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned.

posted on Aug 29th, 2023

Invisalign is generally considered to be a safe treatment option. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects. These can include temporary discomfort, and in rare cases, allergic reactions to the material of the aligner. We'll discuss all potential risks during your consultation at Royal Dental Whittier.

posted on Aug 29th, 2023

Invisalign is designed to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. The aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for short periods, allowing you to eat and drink what you want. However, it's crucial to wear them for the recommended 20 to 22 hours a day for optimal results.

posted on Aug 29th, 2023

Yes, you can play sports while wearing Invisalign aligners. However, for contact sports, it's recommended to remove the aligners and wear a protective mouth guard to safeguard your teeth.

posted on Aug 29th, 2023

Some patients report a slight lisp when they first start wearing Invisalign aligners. However, this usually subsides within a few days as your tongue gets used to having the aligners in place. Practicing speaking with the aligners in can speed up this adjustment process.

posted on Aug 29th, 2023

It's best to remove your aligners before consuming any beverages other than water. Both alcohol and coffee can stain your aligners and teeth. If you do consume these beverages, remember to clean both your teeth and your aligners thoroughly before reinserting them.

posted on Aug 29th, 2023

Smoking is not recommended while using Invisalign, as it can stain the aligners and possibly affect the success of the treatment. Additionally, smoking poses its own set of oral health risks, and I would strongly advise against it.

posted on Aug 29th, 2023

If you lose or break an aligner, it's important to contact us at Royal Dental Whittier immediately. Depending on where you are in your treatment cycle, we may advise you to wear a previous set of aligners, your next set, or order a replacement set.

posted on Aug 29th, 2023

Yes, wearing a retainer after completing your Invisalign treatment is crucial to maintain the new position of your teeth. The type and duration of retainer wear will be discussed during your final stages of treatment at Royal Dental Whittier.

posted on Aug 29th, 2023

It's important to clean your Invisalign aligners daily. You can use the Invisalign cleaning system or simply brush them with a soft toothbrush and rinse them in lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water, as it could warp the aligners. Regular cleaning is crucial to avoid buildup of bacteria and plaque.

posted on Aug 29th, 2023

Invisalign can treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, including overbites and underbites. However, the effectiveness of treatment depends on the severity of the issue. During your consultation at Royal Dental Whittier, we'll assess your specific condition and determine if Invisalign is the right treatment option for you.

posted on Aug 29th, 2023

The cost of Invisalign treatment can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of your case and the length of your treatment. We can discuss pricing and payment options during your initial consultation at Royal Dental Whittier.

posted on Aug 29th, 2023

Yes, Invisalign is suitable for teenagers and offers a variant called Invisalign Teen that comes with compliance indicators to monitor wear time. The treatment can effectively correct a wide range of orthodontic issues commonly found in teenagers. Just like with adults, the success of the treatment depends on the patient's compliance with wearing the aligners for the recommended duration.

posted on Aug 29th, 2023

 For optimal results, you should wear your Invisalign aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day. They should only be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. Failure to wear the aligners for the recommended amount of time can slow down the treatment process and may require additional aligners to achieve the desired results.

posted on Aug 29th, 2023

One of the benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable, allowing you to eat and drink whatever you like. However, it's crucial to remove the aligners before eating and to clean your teeth before putting them back in. This helps to prevent staining and maintain good oral hygiene throughout your treatment period.

posted on Aug 29th, 2023

The duration of your Invisalign treatment will vary depending on the complexity of your case. On average, treatment takes about 12 to 18 months, but you'll start to see improvements in your smile within a few weeks. Regular appointments at Royal Dental Whittier will help us track your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

posted on Aug 29th, 2023

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to straighten your teeth. Unlike traditional braces, there are no metal brackets or wires. The aligners are custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth and are replaced approximately every two weeks. They apply consistent pressure on your teeth, gradually shifting them into their proper positions. We'll schedule regular check-ups at Royal Dental Whittier to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.