Patient Forms: Adult | Youth

Invisalign, Invisalign Adult, Invisalign Teen

Foods to Avoid With Invisalign

Wait a second. Wasn’t I promised that I could eat anything I want if I chose Invisalign!? Yes, you were. With braces, you have to stay away from any foods that are sticky, crunchy, or chewy – with Invisalign, that is all fair game. And really all foods can be had without much worry.

Wait a second. Wasn’t I promised that I could eat anything I want if I chose Invisalign!? Yes, you were. With braces, you have to stay away from any foods that are sticky, crunchy, or chewy – with Invisalign, that is all fair game. And really all foods can be had without much worry.

That being said, there are a few items that you may want to avoid in order to keep your Invisalign crystal clear. Your daily diet can not only stain teeth but also the aligners and attachments. So what food and drink items top this list? Keep scrolling. 

  1. Coffee. Not only can it stain, but it’s very acidic. You definitely want to remove your aligners when drinking this sweet, sweet nectar because not only will it discolor your Invisalign aligners, any acidic liquid that gets trapped under the aligner and on your teeth can weaken the enamel over time. Be like me and remove our aligners and even consider sipping your cup of joe through a straw.
  1. Soft drinks. Pop, soda, Coke – whatever you call it, we recommend staying clear. This is one of the worst things to have with your aligners in and drastically increases your chances of developing cavities on all of your teeth. If you must indulge, we recommend taking your aligners out and brushing well OR at least swishing with some water before placing your aligners back in
  1. Red wine. Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Gris, Riesling – you are golden. For our reds, you will want to remove your aligners for the same reasons as coffee above.
  1. Turmeric. This middle eastern spice is typically found in hot beverages and delicious dishes. In my opinion, this spice is totally trending now, too. Because of the orange-like tint to this spice, not only should you remove your aligners while eating this, but this is one where you should try and rinse with some water before reinserting them. 
  1. Saffron. This is another delicious spice that tastes great with risotto, but is not worth the yellowing it can cause on your pearly whites. Treat this like turmeric: remove your aligners while consuming and rinse with water (or even better – brush your teeth) before reinserting. 
  1. Ginger. One last spice that is great for weight loss, but bad for staining. Treat this like turmeric too.

Get started on your Invisalign journey by contacting Dunegan & Cole Orthodontics. We are Diamond Plus Invisalign Providers, which means we treat more patients with Invisalign than any other dentist or orthodontist in the Gainesville, VA area. Schedule a free consultation today to get started!

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Braces, Featured, Invisalign

Invisalign Vs. Traditional Braces – What Should I Do?

Invisalign Vs. Traditional Braces – What Do I Do? This is a question that we get daily as we consult with patients on the treatments available to achieve that perfect smile. It’s no wonder…a great smile can go a long way.

Scientific research suggests that people who smile are perceived as more attractive and confident than those who do not flash their pearly whites. When it comes time to invest in orthodontics to improve your beautiful smile, choosing the best option can be daunting. Comparing Invisalign to traditional braces is a great way to determine what orthodontics make most sense for your unique smile.

How is Invisalign Different?

Unlike traditional braces, in which brackets are affixed onto each tooth and connected by wires, Invisalign corrects orthodontic problems using multiple sets of clear trays. These trays are specially formed to fit your teeth, allowing you to wear them 24/7.

Aesthetics

One of the primary advantages of Invisalign is that the clear trays are nearly invisible. Particularly for adults self-conscious about appearing professional with traditional braces, Invisalign can correct orthodontic issues without capturing the notice of others. Their nearly invisible appearance is one of the topmost reasons that orthodontic patients choose Invisalign.

The complexity of the Orthodontic Problem

Invisalign works well for people who have relatively minor problems, such as crooked teeth or small gaps in between teeth. For more complex problems, particular issues with bite or vertical problems (i.e., one tooth being significantly higher than another), traditional braces may be better at pulling teeth into alignment.

Eating and Drinking

Invisalign trays are removable, meaning that you cannot eat or drink while wearing them. Unlike traditional braces, however, you are not limited to the food you can eat. Chewy, sticky, or hard foods may be eaten, provided that you brush your teeth before reinserting the Invisalign trays.

In the end, only can weigh the pros and cons of Invisalign versus traditional braces. Consult with us here at Dunegan & Cole to understand how these orthodontic interventions may work for your unique situation. Schedule a complimentary consultation today to find out if you or your child could benefit from orthodontic treatment.

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Invisalign

Taking Care of Your Invisalign Aligners

Taking care of your Invisalign® aligners is very easy!  It’s actually one of the reasons Invisalign® has quickly become one of the most desired treatment options with Dunegan & Cole Orthodontics.

There are some simple guidelines for caring for them, as long as you go by them you will have no complaints.

  • Don’t eat or drink while wearing your aligners. The aligners can be damaged by food, and drinks can cause discoloration.  Sugar from clear drinks can also get caught behind the aligners, causing tooth and gum problems.
  • Avoid chewing gum because it can stick to the aligners and be difficult to remove.  It may also dislodge the aligners frequently and cause them to become loose over time.
  • After eating or drinking always brush before putting your aligners back in.  If this isn’t possible still rinse with water before replacing aligners and brush as soon as possible.
  • Brush your aligners with a toothbrush every day to keep them clean and to make sure that the inside surface that rests on your teeth all day is very clean.

Patients love the fact that their aligners are able to be removed to care for them, and this is a big plus for orthodontic treatment. It reduces the time to get ready to go to bed each night, and is less annoying than dealing with traditional braces. For best results while using Invisalign® always keep your appointments with Dunegan & Cole Orthodontics. You will not be disappointed!

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Adult Treatment, Invisalign Adult

Orthodontic Treatment Options for Adults Available

Are you looking for orthodontic treatment options as adult? You are not alone! Each year, more adults are seeking orthodontic treatment to achieve the smile they always wanted.

People of all ages are choosing to straighten their teeth. The advancements in technology and materials provide many options that suit most every lifestyle.

Treatment Options

In the constantly evolving world of orthodontics, the requirements of adult patients are easily accommodated. There are so many treatment options available today that you are sure to find a straightening system that is perfect for you. New methods, materials and new technologies make it possible for Dunegan & Cole Orthodontics to provide:

  • Invisalign – an invisible straightening system
  • Faster treatment time
  • Ceramic or clear brackets, which are less noticeable
  • Fewer office visits
  • More comfort and flexibility

Benefits of Braces at Any Age

At Dunegan & Cole Orthodontics, braces are more comfortable and convenient than ever before. If you are looking to improve your dental health and your self-esteem forever, consider the benefits of orthodontics at any age:

  • Braces improve oral health by straightening teeth and making it easier to remove plaque.
  • Braces improve your ability to speak, chew and bite correctly.
  • Orthodontic treatment helps prevent periodontal disease, reduces bone loss, and prevents excess wear of tooth surfaces.
  • Braces improve the appearance of your face and smile, which naturally brings higher self-esteem.

Orthodontic Evaluations for Adults

Orthodontic treatment for adults is a slightly different than treatment for children and teens, but not much! A full evaluation takes place before orthodontic treatment begins. This is to examine, address, and control issues more common to adults including:

  • Periodontal disease
  • Jaw disorders such as TMD (temporomandibular disorder)
  • Gum recession
  • Missing, broken, or excessively worn teeth

Other doctors and dental specialists may need to join in on a team effort for specific treatment. These issues rarely stop orthodontic treatment from being the very best option! These evaluations are important to make sure your results will be exceptional.

At Dunegan & Cole Orthodontics, we take pride in creating beautiful healthy smiles. We are looking forward to meeting you and evaluating your orthodontic requirements. Together we will choose a system that is robust enough to achieve your smile goals quickly and seamlessly fit into your lifestyle. Call today (703)753-4996 for your complimentary consultation.

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