Smile Confidently With Invisalign

April 22nd, 2013

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Invisalign clear aligner

The Clear Alternatives To Braces

  • No wires or brackets used
  • Custom made for extreme comfort
  • The nearly invisible way to straighten your teeth without braces!
  • Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners that gently and gradually move your teeth to the correct straight position

Why Use Invisalign?

Invisalign is the closest treatment to being invisible which means it is very discrete and no one will know you are wearing them, unless you tell them!

During treatment you are able to easily remove the aligner while you eat and drink, which also allows you to brush and floss your teeth as normal!

One of the biggest problems with traditional metal braces is the fact that they are rather uncomfortable and quite often the metal causes cuts in the cheeks and abrasions. This is not the case with Invisalign! Invisalign has been designed to be a comfortable and relaxing treatment that provides you with all the benefits of having braces, but without any of the negatives!

Before and after - Invisalign

This patient was unhappy his two lateral incisor teeth being too far back and hidden in his smile as well as the gap in-between his lower teeth. Invisalign was used to straighten his teeth in 11 months followed by teeth whitening.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign treatment process 1-3

You discuss your needs with one of our Invisalign dental practitioners. Invisalign can be suitable for minor improvements as well as extensive work Using some special software we are able to show you a model of the proposed treatment so you are able to see the results before you even start treatment! After you have been given your treatment plan and you have decided you would like to proceed. Impressions will be taken to be sent off to the dental labs to make a series of aligners to only fit you

Invisalign treatment process 4-6

You wear each aligner for two weeks before moving on to the next one in the series. The aligners are only removed for eating, drinking, brushing and flossing Every 4-6 weeks you will need to come back and see us until your treatment has been completed After treatment is completed, you will need to have retainers to protect your new smile. We also offer vivera retainers – Invisalign’s answer to after orthodontic care!

On Average:

  • Treatment times vary between 9 to 18 months
  • Patients wear between 18-36 sets of aligners during treatment

Am I Suitable For Invisalign?

Invisalign has been specially designed to treat malocclusions (misalignment of teeth) and is suitable for the majority of people!

Before and after - Invisalign

The patient was unhappy with her lower front teeth especially the lower canine tooth. We used Invisalign to align the teeth in approximately 12 months

Both adults and adolescents (who have partial or fully erupted teeth) are able to enjoy the Invisalign system.

Invisalign can be used to treat:

  • Spacing issues
  • Crooked teeth
  • Teeth that have previously had braces but now have shifted
  • Narrow arches

Before and after - Invisalign

This patient wanted a straighter smile and whiter teeth with invisible braces. Invisalign clear braces was used to align the teeth followed by teeth whitening to brighten the smile. All treatment was completed in 12 months.

For more information or to book your free consultation please do not hesitate to contact us on 01432 272 238 or fill out the short form below.

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Can You Tell Who Is Wearing Damon Braces?

March 28th, 2013

Arrange your free consultation today!

If you would like to find out more information regarding this revolutionary system, please visit our damon braces page or call us on 01432 272 238.

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What is a hawley retainer?

December 20th, 2012

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Hawley Retainer

Hawley Retainers are removable braces that have been made from stainless steel wire and plastic.

What is the function of a Hawley Retainer?

Hawley Retainers keep your teeth straight once your fixed brace has been removed.

How often do I need to wear the Hawley Retainer?

For the first 3 months you will need to wear your Hawley Retainer full time (only taking it out to eat and drink). After this period of time you will only have to wear the retainer at night.

How long will I need to wear the Hawley Retainer?

Following the removal of your fixed brace you will need to wear your Hawley Retainer for at least one year.

However for younger patients we do also recommend that you continue to wear your retainer until your are (around) 22 – As this is when your growth ceases (during the growth period, any new movements can cause relapses in your straight teeth).

What happens if I don’t wear the Hawley Retainer

Unfortunately, you will almost certainly suffer a relapse and your teeth will start to move back to their original, un-straight position.

How do I look after my Hawley Retainer?

Clean your Hawley Retainer over a sink with water in (to prevent any damage in case you drop the retainer). DO NOT USE toothpaste as some products will damage the plastic of the retainer. Instead, use a toothbrush and soap to gently clean all over the retainer followed by a rinse with warm water. You can also by cleaning agents to help look after your retainer (please feel free to ask us for more details).

I have lost or damaged my Hawley Retainer – What do I do?

In the event that your Hawley Retainer has been lost or damaged, please contact us ASAP to arrange a replacement.

If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact us.

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An honest British Smile for start of 2011

August 31st, 2011

Instinctively, we all know the power of a wonderful smile. But research from the US now suggests that the British smile itself can be something to smile about.

A Psychologist has analysed US and UK smiles and the 45 facial muscles used to produce them. He found such sharp differences between the way Americans and Brits smile that researchers could spot the difference accurately over 90% of the time.

The British smile by pulling the lips back and upwards, exposing the lower teeth, whilst American part their lips and stretch the corners of their mouth. We Brits are more likely to raise our cheeks when we smile, showing our crows feet at the corners of the eyes- giving rise to a more sincere smile, which is harder to fake. The most representative British smile was considered to be restrained but dignified which scientists have titled The Prince Charles. Most US smiles by contrast are far less expressive.

So, we Brits may have a head start in the global smile league, but too often we throw our advantage away through poor oral hygiene and strained teeth.

Hereford Dental Clinic concentrates on those key treatments people really want – cleaner, whiter and straighter teeth in really convenient locations with life friendly times and a customer friendly people.

Call Hereford Dental Clinic for a free consultation on teeth straightening.

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Could bullying be linked to dental appearance

August 27th, 2011

According to a report published in the latest issue of the British Dental Journal (BDJ), one in eight adolescents with prominent, or irregular shaped teeth have experienced bullying, with a negative effect on their self-esteem and quality of their oral health.

The authors found that the children, aged between 10 and 14 years, were at an increased of being teased or bullied by their peers if they had certain dental features: these included maxillary overcrowding; a cleft lip, with or without a cleft palate; an overjet and a deep overbite (i.e. prominent teeth).

They also expressed concern that psychosocial factors are not considered when assessing a child’s need for orthodontic treatment; although they acknowledged that the relationship between the shape of teeth, self-esteem and bullying is a complex one.

Currently the severity and need for orthodontic treatment within the UK is judged on occlusal (bite) and aesthetic impairment without consideration of psychological factors warn the authors of the British Dental Journal report.

Commenting on the reports findings, the British Dental Associations Scientific Adviser, said: As studies show that having well-aligned teeth can influence our ability to make friends and progress in our careers, it’s not surprising that young children pick up on societies ideal of what is perceived to be attractive early on.

Because prominent or irregular shaped teeth can affect a child’s self-esteem, or make them the subject of teasing or bullying at school, its important that these factors are taken into account when referrals for orthodontic treatment are considered.

 

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Improved, Clear Aligner Therapy

August 21st, 2011

Align technology has launched Invisalign G3, building on the improved feature set introduced to the Invisalign treatment option line introduced in 2010.

Class II and III treatments reportedly make up approximately 40 per cent of all patients in a dental practice, and often require the use of interarch elastics to provide anchorage control during treatment. Doctors previously had to manually cut the aligners to accommodate the use of elastics. However, the new appliance addresses this barrier with new Precision Cuts, which are doctor-prescribed cuts in the aligners to accommodate the use of orthodontic elastics.

New SmartForce features include an Optimized Rotation Attachment for premolars (previously available only for canines), Power Ridge feature for lower incisors (previously available only for the upper incisors), and a lingual Power Ridge feature for upper incisors.

Evolution of the ClinCheck software reportedly makes it easier and more intuitive for doctors to create and optimise Invisalign treatment plans. Using the new drag-and-drop interfaces, doctors have the flexibility to specify the placement and the type of Precision Cuts and attachments on the clear aligners.

The Invisalign Doctor Site is a secure website where doctors access Invisalign patient records, review and approve ClinCheck treatment plans, view their account status, order treatment supplies, and more.

Call Hereford Dental Clinic on 01432 272238 for more information.

 

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Resolve Overcrowding with Ortho Appliance

August 14th, 2011

One of the leading trends in cosmetic dentistry in recent years has been adult orthodontics. Patients keen to emulate their favourite stars are reportedly opting for minimally invasive treatments that will give them the smile they desire.

Launched in May 2011, the Oralign orthodontic appliance promises a method of interdental stripping and a small, discreet removable appliance to resolve the problem of overcrowding in one or both arches, without affecting the rest of the mouth.

The companies technicians use x-rays, photos and full mouth impressions taking during consultation to provide you with costing, treatment plan and a projected outcome. You can then offer your patients the appliance, which, according to the company, can straighten teeth in less than 14 weeks when worn for just 14 hours a day, including overnight. The retainer that accompanies the appliance is then fixed in position to prevent relapse. We offer clear braces at Hereford Dental Clinic call 01432 272238 for information.

 

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Soft Drinks Doesn’t Degrade Orthodontic Wires

August 12th, 2011

According to a new study in Acta Odontologica Scandinavia, researchers have said that sugared soft drinks and juices do not appear to degrade the physical and chemical properties of nickel titanium orthodontic wires.

According to a recent report, researchers from the University of Bologna evaluated the effect of Coca Cola, orange juice, and Gatorade on the Young’s modulus, hardness, surface topography, and chemical composition of nickel-titanium-based orthodontic wires.

The report stated that the researchers cut 32 specimens (20mm in length) from the straight portion of performed 0.019 x 0.025-inch nitinol heat-activated archwires and randomly divided into four groups of eight specimens each: Group A1 (Coca Cola) regular), Group A2 (Santal orange juice), Groups A3 (Gatorade), and Group B (distilled, deionized water). Each specimen was immersed in 10mL of one of the soft drinks or the control for 60 minutes at 37?C.”

The study concluded that there were no significant differences between the groups either in the young’s modulus or hardness after the selected soaking protocol.

besides some surface colour changes, the topography and the chemical composition of the wires were not affected by the immersion in any of the chosen soft drinks, they noted.

For more information on orthodontics please contact us on 01432 272238.

 

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A Guide on Braces Retainers in Hereford, Worcester and Worestershire

July 9th, 2011

Retainers

Now that you have retainers you may have some questions you would like answered.

What is a retainer and how important is it that I wear it?

 

Retainers are designed to keep your teeth straight and can either be removable or fixed to the teeth. Now that your teeth are straight, if your do not wear your retainer, your teeth are likely to drift towards their original positions. If this happens it may be difficult, if not impossible, to correct.

How long will I have to wear the retainers?

 

This will vary according to how your teeth originally looked, before the orthodontic treatment was started. However, as a general rule you will be asked to wear a removable appliance for at least 6 months. This may mean wearing it all the time at first, before going on to just night time wear. You will be advised if long term wear is required.

How might the retainer affect me?

 

Your speech will be different. Practice speaking with the brace in place e.g. read out loud at home on your own, and in this way your speech will return to normal within a couple of days. You may also find yourself swallowing a lot to begin with. This is quite normal and will pass quickly.

If you have a fixed retainer then you will need to take extra care to keep it clean.

Can I eat normally?

 

Whether you have been instructed to eat with you appliance in or out you should take care to avoid:

  • Eating sugary things such as cakes, biscuits, and sweets, etc. between meals.
  • Fizzy drinks, including diet drinks, or excessive amounts of fruit juice.

What about toothbrushing?

 

It is important that you brush well three times per day and use a fluoride toothpaste. If possible carry a toothbrush with you for use after lunch. Take the brace out to clean your teeth. You should also gently brush the brace, taking care not to damage the wires.

 

 

 

 

Can I remove the brace?

If the brace is removable but you have been asked to wear it full time, it should only be removed for cleaning. When it is not in your mouth it should be in its protective box. Do not click the brace in and out with your tongue as this can cause the brace to break. If the retainer can’t be worn because it is being repaired, your teeth may not remain straight.

How often will I now need an appointment?

 

You will not need to be seen so often now the retainers are in place. You will be advised about this.

Do I need to see my regular dentist?

 

Yes it is a good idea to visit your regular dentist now that you are wearing retainers since it will be easier to check your teeth for decay. This is particularly so if your previous brace was fixed to your teeth.

What do I do if I play contact sports?

 

You should obtain a new gumshield now you are in retention.

What do I do if my retainers break?

 

Ring up for an appointment as soon as is reasonably possible. Do not wait for your next routine appointment as your teeth may move whilst not wearing your retainers.

If you have any further questions that you feel you would like to ask, then please write them down and bring them with you to your next appointment. It is important that you fully understand what is involved in having orthodontic treatment before you decide to go ahead.

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A Guide on Removable Braces in Hereford & Worcester, Worcestershire

July 8th, 2011

Removable Dental Braces

Now that you have a removable dental brace you may have some questions you would like answered first.

Can I eat normally?

Yes you should be able to eat normally. It is important you keep the brace in whilst eating unless you are otherwise instructed.

Although it may be difficult at first, eating with the brace in will become easier with time. After each meal remove the brace and rinse it thoroughly. For your orthodontics to work well in the shortest possible time it is important you take care of your teeth and brace. In order to avoid damage to both, you should :

  • Avoid eating toffees, boiled sweets, sugared chewing gum, chocolate bars, etc.
  • Avoid fizzy drinks (including diet drinks) and excessive amounts of fruit juice.
  • Take care eating hard foods which might damage the brace such as crunchy apples, crusty bread, etc.

Will it be Sore or Painful?

It is likely to be sore for about 3-5 days each time the brace is adjusted. If necessary, painkillers such as the ones you would normally take for a headache may help (please read the instructions on the packet).  If the brace rubs your lips or cheeks, you will be given some wax to help with this.

How else might it affect me?

Your speech will be different. Practice speaking with the brace in place e.g. read out aloud at home on your own, and in this way your speech will return to normal within a couple of days. You may also find yourself swallowing a lot to begin with. This is quite normal and will quickly pass.

What about the effect on toothbushing?

It is important you brush well three times per day and use a fluoride toothpaste. If possible carry a brush with you for use after lunch. Take the brace out to clean your teeth. You should also gently brush the brace, taking care not to damage the wires. A daily fluoride mouthrinse should also be used last thing at night, after toothbrushing. Failure to keep your teeth and brace clean will lead to permanent scarring of your teeth.

Can I remove the brace?

Yes, but you should only remove it for cleaning. Do not repeatedly click the brace in and out with your tongue as this will break the wires and increase the length of time the treatment will take.

How long will treatment take?

It usually takes between 6 -24 months but will vary according to how severe your case is. Failed and cancelled appointments, or repeated breakages of the brace will increase the length of time the treatment will take.

How often will I need an appointment?

You will need regular appointments during treatment for the brace to be adjusted.

Do I still need to see my regular dentist?

Yes. It will be important you still have check-ups with your dentist throughout orthodontic treatment so that your teeth can be checked for decay.

What do I do if I play contact sports?

It is recommended you wear a gumshield. This will also be the case if you enjoy riding a bicycle, roller-skating, or skateboarding. You will be advised about this.

What if I play a musical instrument?

If you play a wind instrument, particularly the flute or a brass instrument, then a fixed brace may make it more difficult. You will need to discuss this with your music teacher.

What if my brace breaks during treatment?

You will need to contact the practice for an emergency appointment for the brace to be repaired. Repeated breakages will slow down the treatment and increase the overall treatment time. As a rule every time the brace is broken 1 – 2 months is added onto the normal treatment time of 6 – 24 months. If you repeatedly break the brace, treatment may be stopped, leaving your teeth in a worse position that when you started.

If you have any further questions that you feel you would like to ask, then please write them down and bring them with you to your next appointment. It is important that you fully understand what is involved in having orthodontic treatment before you decide to go ahead

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