Smile CSRA

Getting My Invisalign Attachments, Buttons, and Elastic Bands

by Leave a Comment

It’s been a few weeks of my new life with Invisalign attachments, buttons, and bands, but I can honestly say it’s been a pretty simple transition. Before I get into my experience with them, I thought it would be important to describe what each of them actually are. Before I received my attachments and buttons, I actually thought those were interchangeable terms. I feel like I’m learning a whole new language!

invisalign attachments buttons

What are Invisalign Attachments?

Attachments are small tooth-colored dots of dental bonding that are placed on certain teeth. They may be rectangular, square, circular, ellipsoidal or triangular in shape. The shape and placement of a button changes based on the purpose it serves. Attachments may promote tooth rotation, translation, intrusion or extrusion.

What are Invisalign Buttons?

Buttons are small plastic or metal brackets that serve as anchors for bands. One button may be placed on an upper eyetooth and the other on a lower molar, with an elastic band running between them.  In some cases, one of the anchor points may be the Invisalign® aligner itself. 

What are Invisalign Bands?

Bands are small elastic loops that hook onto the buttons. The thickness (or strength) of the bands varies based on need. The purpose of the buttons and bands are to correct any bite issues by encouraging proper alignment.

The longest Invisalign appointment for me, to date, has been the one where I received all of these extra bits and pieces. I was in the office for about an hour and a half while they applied each attachment and button. I’d keep that in mind when you finally schedule that appointment! I’d also recommend, if possible, to do it later in the day in case you have any irritation or soreness. The process itself didn’t hurt, but there is definitely a transition period after having them applied. It was difficult for me to eat for a day or two after I received my attachments, because they seemed sharp against my mouth as I chewed. A few days later, I barely noticed them!

The amount of attachments you receive is totally dependent on your individual Invisalign case. Some people have none, some people have a few, and some people have them on every tooth. I have attachments on every tooth but my top and bottom front teeth, two buttons on my back molars, two anchor points on my top aligner, and a band on each side of my mouth. And yet I still don’t feel annoyed by them! I’d say that is a huge success. The only things that have really continued to affect me in the slightest are my bands. I don’t open my mouth as wide to talk now, so my speech has changed a little bit. Other than that, none of my Invisalign additions are all that noticeable.

If you have any more questions, feel free to leave a comment!

Orthodontics: Fact or Fiction

by 1 Comment

Movies and television would have you believe that the only people who wear braces are middle schoolers, and that the only options available include headgear and pounds of metal. That is simply not the case! We’ve decided to bust through the fiction and give you the honest facts about braces.

truth about braces

Myth: Orthodontic treatment is only for crooked teeth.
Fact: While a crooked smile is a common reason to seek orthodontic care, orthodontic interventions can also help with a wide range of dental health problems. From an overbite to jaw misalignment, Dr. Carter can help with many problems associated with your teeth, gums, and jaws.

Myth: Orthodontic treatment is just for kids.
Fact: Although children and teenagers often visit the orthodontist to get braces, the number of adults who choose to work on their smiles is increasing every year. No matter your age, a consultation with an orthodontist is always an option. It is never too late to smile with confidence.

Myth: Traditional metal braces are the only option.
Fact: Times have definitely changed. Advances in orthodontic technology mean that there are many options! Make sure to ask Dr. Carter about Invisalign® and other less-visible alternatives if you are concerned about having traditional metal braces.

Myth: Orthodontic treatment is too expensive.
Fact: At Carter Orthodontics, we work closely with patients to find ways to make the payment process a breeze. From helping with insurance to providing great payment options, we can make sure you find a price that is right for you.

Myth: Braces are painful and the treatment lasts many years.
Fact: In general, patients painlessly adapt to life with braces after the initial adjustments. In regards to treatment length, it varies from person to person. Some people may be required to wear braces for just a few months!

My First Invisalign Appointment

by 2 Comments

Before heading to my first Invisalign appointment, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. I had been wearing a pendulum appliance for months leading up to this appointment, so I was just excited to get that out.  I had a feeling getting and wearing trays would be a breeze compared to a permanent retainer. I was right!

After they removed my pendulum and took more “before” pictures, they started the Invisalign fitting process. I had heard horror stories of orthodontist using gross goo to take the impressions, but at Dr. Carter‘s office they use an awesome handheld imaging device.

After a few minutes of scanning, the computer created a rough digital image that exactly mirrors my smile, in all of its crooked glory. The really cool thing about the image was that it was able to show me all the angles. I honestly never realized just how bad my overbite was until I saw the 360 degree view of it. Yikes, you guys.

first invisalign appointment

A few minutes after that, the computer had produced a finalized version of my smile, along with a predicted outcome after I’m done with all of Invisalign trays. At my next appointment, they will show me the official Invisalign predictions, but they explained that this one would be pretty darn close. I have to say, I definitely like the new smile much, much better. It’s really cool to see then end goal when you’re starting a process like this!

predicted invisalign results

And with that, my first appointment was over. It was a really simple, pain free process and it was also seriously neat to watch my smile change on the screen. Now I’m officially on my way to a healthy, new smile. I couldn’t be more excited to share the Invisalign process. If you have any questions about anything so far, leave me a comment. I’ll do my best to fill you in!

In the meantime, if you’re interested in getting started, schedule your free consultation today.

Should You Get Invisalign or Traditional Braces?

by Leave a Comment

Having a great smile can make a huge difference in your life. We’ve already discussed the health benefits of wearing braces, but there are many other reasons to choose to work on your smile. When it comes to straightening your teeth, choosing the best option is often a very personal decision. This post will help you understand the difference of two common choices: Invisalign and traditional metal braces.

smiles

How are they different?

Braces improve your smile using metal brackets affixed onto each tooth connected by wires. Invisalign corrects orthodontic problems using a set of clear aligner trays. You wear braces at all times, while Invisalign aligners can be removed to eat or drink.

Aesthetics

One of the obvious advantages of Invisalign is that the clear trays are nearly invisible. This is particularly beneficial for adults who are self-conscious about appearing professional with traditional braces. Similarly, teens may feel more comfortable using the aligners because their friends will be less likely to notice them.

Orthodontic Problem

While Invisalign is proven to treat many cases for many people, there are a few instances when it may not be appropriate. Invisalign works well for people who have relatively minor problems, such as crooked teeth, some crowding, or gaps. Braces are still a great choice for people with severe bite issues or other complex orthodontic problems.

Eating and Drinking

Like we previously mentioned, Invisalign trays are removable. You must take them out to eat or drink. You have to make sure to keep up with them while you have them out. However, unlike traditional braces, you are not limited in the foods you may eat. You can still have chewy or sticky foods with Invisalign, as long as you brush before putting them back on.

In the end, you will have to make this decision along with your orthodontist. Contact Carter Orthodontics to better understand which choice might be right for you.

Four Advantages of Straight Teeth

by Leave a Comment

Straight teeth aren’t just for looks! A beautiful smile will benefit you in many, many ways. Here are four of them:

four advantages of straight teeth

To read more, check out our post on the health benefits of braces. And if you’re ready to take the first step to a healthy new smile, sign up for a free consultation with Carter Orthodontics.