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Robert W. Bruno, DDS, PC | Orthodontist in New York

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment option that has become increasingly popular recently. This treatment method uses a series of clear aligners to gradually straighten your teeth without needing traditional braces. 

However, like any orthodontic treatment, it is essential to take specific steps to ensure that your Invisalign treatment is as effective as possible. This blog will discuss crucial steps to make your Invisalign treatment plan the most effective.

Step 1: Choose an Experienced Orthodontist in NY

Choosing the right orthodontist is crucial for a successful Invisalign aligner treatment. When selecting an orthodontist, ensure they have experience with Invisalign and a track record of successful treatments. You can look for online reviews or ask for recommendations from friends and family.

Step 2: Follow Your Orthodontist's Instructions

It is crucial to follow your orthodontist's instructions precisely to ensure that your Invisalign treatment is as effective as possible. This includes wearing your aligners for the recommended time, usually 20 to 22 hours daily. You must wear your aligners each day for the recommended amount of time to ensure your treatment and maintain your results.

Step 3: Keep Your Aligners Clean

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for any orthodontic treatment. With Invisalign, you must keep your aligners clean to prevent bacteria buildup and maintain their clarity. You can clean your aligners while you brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear antibacterial soap. Avoid using hot water or harsh cleaners, as they can damage the aligners.

Step 4: Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks

Certain foods and drinks can stain your aligners and compromise their clarity. It is essential to avoid consuming staining substances such as coffee, tea, red wine, and curry while wearing your aligners. If you eat or drink any of these substances, rinse your mouth with water and clean 

your aligners thoroughly.

Step 5: Use Chewies to Ensure Proper Fit

Chewies are small cylindrical foam-like objects that ensure your aligners fit snugly against your teeth. By biting down on the chewies, you can help your aligners fit more snugly and ensure they apply the right amount of pressure to your teeth.

Step 6: Schedule Regular Checkups

Regular checkups with your orthodontist are crucial to monitor the progress of your treatment and make any necessary adjustments. Your orthodontist will assess your progress and ensure your treatment is on track. They may also provide you with a new set of aligners to continue the treatment.

Step 7: Wear Your Retainers

After completing your Invisalign treatment, you must wear retainers to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original position. It is crucial to wear your retainers as instructed by your orthodontist to maintain the results of your Invisalign treatment.

Visit Your Orthodontist in NY | Robert W. Bruno, DDS, PC

Invisalign is an effective orthodontic treatment option to help you achieve a beautiful and healthy smile. However, following these steps is essential to ensure your treatment is as effective as possible. By following your orthodontist's tips, you can maximize the effectiveness of your Invisalign treatment. If you are considering Invisalign over metal braces or any other orthodontic service, consult Dr. Bruno, your qualified orthodontist in NY, to determine if this treatment option is right for you.

Braces in NY

As an orthodontist in Woodside, New York, I often get questions from patients who have just had braces put on, asking how to keep their braces clean. If you wear braces, they require extra care and attention, but keeping them clean and in good condition is manageable with the proper techniques and tools. In this blog, I'll share some tips on how to keep braces clean and healthy.

#1 Brush after every meal

One of the most important things you can do to keep your braces clean is to keep your teeth clean by brushing them after every meal. Food particles can quickly get stuck between the brackets and wires, leading to plaque buildup and tooth decay. To ensure you're getting all the food out of your braces, brush your teeth after every meal, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Remember to brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth for the freshest breath.

#2 Floss every day

Flossing is also essential for people with braces. Flossing around the wires and brackets can be challenging, but special tools, such as floss threaders, can make the process easier. You can also use interdental brushes or water flossers to clean in between your teeth and around your braces.

#3 Use an interdental brush

Interdental brushes are small brushes that can fit between the wires and brackets of your braces. They are an effective tool for removing food particles and plaque from hard-to-reach areas. Be sure to use a brush with a small head and soft bristles to avoid damaging your braces or gums.

#4 Avoid certain foods

Certain foods can get stuck in your metalwork or even damage them, so it's best to avoid them altogether. Some foods to avoid include sticky or chewy candies, popcorn, hard and crunchy foods like nuts and chips, and anything that requires biting with your front teeth, such as whole apples or corn on the cob.

#5 Consider rinsing with mouthwash

Mouthwash can help to kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Rinsing with mouthwash after brushing and flossing can also help to remove any leftover food particles and plaque. Look for a mouthwash made explicitly for use with braces.

#6 Visit your dentist regularly

Regular visits to your dentist or orthodontist are crucial for maintaining the health of your braces and teeth. They can check for any issues with your braces and make adjustments as needed. They can also give you personalized tips on how to keep your braces clean based on your specific situation.

See us for Braces in NY | Robert W. Bruno Orthodontics

Keeping your braces clean requires extra effort, but it's well worth it in the long run. These tips and techniques let you keep your braces and teeth healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment. Talk to your dentist or orthodontist if you have any questions or concerns about your braces. And if you're in Woodside, New York, feel free to stop by my office for a consultation! We offer many types of orthodontic care, including traditional metal brackets, ceramic braces, and even lingual braces. 

Benefits of Braces in NY

For a good reason, adult braces have become increasingly popular in recent years. While many people want braces to improve their smile, the benefits go far beyond cosmetic reasons. In this guide, we explore the many benefits of getting braces, particularly for New Yorkers who live in a fast-paced, image-conscious city.

Improved Oral Health

One of the most significant benefits of adult braces is improved oral health. When teeth are misaligned, they can be challenging to clean properly, leading to plaque and bacteria buildup. It results in tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems. By straightening your teeth, you can make it easier to brush and floss effectively, reducing your risk of oral health issues.

Reduced Risk of Jaw Problems

Misaligned teeth can cause jaw problems, such as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). This condition can cause pain, clicking and popping in the jaw, headaches, and difficulty chewing. Straightening your teeth can reduce the strain on your jaw and your risk of developing TMJ. 

Improved Digestion

Believe it or not, straightening your teeth plays a huge part in improving your digestion. When teeth are misaligned, they can make it difficult to chew food correctly, leading to digestive problems. By straightening your teeth, you can improve your ability to chew food, which aids in digestion and improves your overall health.

Boost in Confidence

While the health benefits of adult braces are significant, it's also important to acknowledge the cosmetic benefits. Having straight teeth can boost your self-esteem, particularly in a city like New York, where appearances are often valued highly. A straighter smile can make you feel more confident in social and professional situations, helping you to put your best foot forward.

Increased Career Opportunities

In addition to boosting your confidence, having straight teeth can open up new career opportunities. In industries where appearance is essential, such as entertainment, modeling, and sales, having a straight smile can give you a competitive edge. Additionally, studies have shown that people with straight teeth are perceived as more successful and intelligent than those with crooked teeth. Only that can be a significant advantage in the job market.

More Comfortable Experience

For many adults, the idea of getting braces can be daunting. However, advances in orthodontic technology have made the experience much more comfortable than it used to be. Today's braces are smaller, more discreet, and more comfortable than their predecessors, making the experience of wearing them much more manageable. Additionally, many adults opt for clear aligners, such as Invisalign, which are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating and cleaning.

Get Your Braces in NY | Bruno Braces

While the cosmetic benefits of adult braces are undoubtedly significant, the health benefits are equally important, particularly for fast-paced New Yorkers. 

If you're considering adult braces in NY, don't hesitate to consult with Dr. Bruno. He is happy to discuss all the orthodontic treatment options, like ceramic braces, lingual braces, and traditional metal brackets. Call Robert W. Bruno, to learn more about the types of braces, treatment times, and even the cost of braces. We have a passion for orthodontic care and creating beautiful straight smiles.

Invisalign in Queens, NY

Are you tired of feeling self-conscious about your misaligned teeth? Are you interested in straightening your teeth discreetly? Look no further than Invisalign in Queens, NY.

Invisalign align technology is virtually invisible and a popular alternative to traditional metallic braces for those with mild to moderate orthodontic issues. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for achieving the best results with Invisalign aligners. Here are four tips for keeping your teeth and Invisalign aligners clean during your treatment:

#1 Brush Your Teeth Daily

First and foremost, brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice daily is essential. It is especially crucial when wearing aligners, as they can trap food particles and bacteria, leading to plaque buildup and tooth decay. Also, brushing and flossing will help keep your aligners fresh and clean. Consider using an interdental brush to clean between your teeth and aligners.

#2 Clean Your Invisalign Aligners Regularly 

The aligners should be cleaned with a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner, such as clear Invisalign cleaning crystals or mild hand soap. It would help if you avoided toothpaste, as it can scratch the aligners and make them less clear. After cleaning, rinse the aligners thoroughly with cool water and dry them with a lint-free cloth.

#3 Remove Aligners While Eating 

Removing Invisalign will prevent food particles from getting trapped and allow you to properly clean your teeth and aligners after eating. It is also essential to avoid eating or drinking anything that could stain your aligners, such as coffee, tea, and red wine.

#4 Practice Good Oral Hygiene 

While wearing Invisalign aligners, it is critical to keep up with your regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Your orthodontist will monitor your progress and ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy during treatment. They can detect any potential issues, such as tooth decay or gum disease, and address them promptly.

In summary, it is crucial to maintain good oral health and hygiene while undergoing Invisalign treatment. Brush and floss your teeth and aligners at least twice a day, remove them while eating, avoid staining foods and drinks and keep up with regular dental check-ups. By following these tips, you can achieve the best results and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.

Get Your Invisalign in Queens, NY

At Robert W. Bruno, DDS, we specialize in providing Invisalign treatment to help our patients achieve the straight teeth of their dreams. Dr. Bruno works with you to create a personalized orthodontic treatment plan that meets your specific needs and goals.

Don't wait any longer to take the first step toward your perfect smile. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and determine if Invisalign is the right choice. Our friendly dental staff will be happy to answer any questions and help you get started on the path to a straighter, healthier smile. 

Don't let crooked or misaligned teeth hold you back any longer. Take control of your oral health and appearance with Invisalign in Queens, NY. Call us today and schedule an appointment!