Orthodontics (also referred to as dentofacial orthopedics) is a specialized form of dentistry focusing on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial differences.

If you want to improve the look and feel of your smile, then any age can be a great age to see the orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist around the age of seven; however, orthodontic treatment is not exclusive to children and teens, with about one in every five orthodontic patients being over the age of 21. Whether you’re considering treatment for yourself or for a child, any time is a good time to visit the orthodontist.

How can I take care of my teeth throughout orthodontic treatment?

• Remember to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day.
• Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride and ask your orthodontist or family dentist if you need a fluoride rinse. This will help prevent cavities!
• If you take out your retainer or aligner to eat, make sure you brush your teeth, floss, and remember to keep it safe in its case so that it does not get lost or broken. If it’s not in your face it’s in the case!
• Keep your aligners and retainers clean by brushing them gently with a toothbrush and toothpaste. You may also soak the appliance in denture cleaner as instructed by your orthodontist. Do not put your retainers or aligners in boiling water or in the dishwasher.
• During your treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar, which increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth, causing more plaque and possibly cavities.
• Avoid sticky and chewy foods (caramel, chewing gum, gummy bears), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes), or any foods that could possibly get stuck in braces (corn on the cob, soft bagels, ribs, taffy, etc.).
• Be sure to schedule your routine checkups with your family dentist. It is recommended that you continue to visit the dentist every six months.

In fact, when aligners are worn as prescribed, which is approximately 22 hours a day, Invisalign is a faster treatment option that braces. The reason for this that with Dr Gimlen’s experience with the system we can move teeth in all 3 dimensions at the same time which makes treatment faster. When traditional braces are utilized, we can only move the teeth in 1 dimension at a time and therefore usually take longer, often by approximately six months’ time.

If you play a contact sport, it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth. If a mouthguard is needed during orthodontic treatment, we provide a boil and bite free of charge. Patients in traditional braces may have more lifestyle adjustment needs than if treated using Invisalign. 

Simply call our practice! Our front desk staff will be happy to help schedule your next appointment at your convenience. If you are a new patient or have been referred to our practice, please let us know and we will provide you with all the information you need at your complimentary initial exam 310.545.6525.