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Category: Invisalign

Tips To Make Invisalign in Salem OR More Comfortable

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Invisalign clear aligners have become very well known for the advantages that they offer over colorful braces, while being able to treat many of the same types of cases. Unlike braces, Invisalign aligners are clear, removable, easy to clean, and best of all virtually invisible! The clear aligners are made of smooth thermoplastic for maximum comfort, and each set is worn for about two weeks until being replaced by the next set. However, when wearing a new set of aligners for the first time, some patients may experience slight discomfort or soreness while their mouth and teeth adjust. Here are some tips to make treatment with Invisalign in Salem OR more comfortable:

Take An Anti-Inflammatory To Reduce Swelling and Inflammation

Since the new set of aligners is going to put some pressure on the teeth, some patients will experience a small amount of discomfort or slight pressure. The use of over the counter anti-inflammatories such as Advil, Aleve, or their generic counterparts is quite helpful during the first 12-24 hours of wearing your new set of aligners. In order to avoid any health complications, please be sure to consult with your doctor if you are currently on any medications or have any health issues that may be complicated by taking a non steroidal anti inflammatory drug (NSAID).

Change Your Invisalign Clear Aligners Right Before Bedtime

In addition to taking a dose or two of a doctor approved NSAID, applying your new aligners right  before going sleep will help prevent some discomfort and soreness. This will provide 6-8 hours of adjustment time, so by the time you wake up, your aligners will already have a more comfortable fit.

Use An Emery Board To Smooth The Edges of Your Invisalign Clear Aligners

It is not uncommon for Invisalign patients to place a new set of aligners on their teeth and experience slight discomfort in their tongue or cheek. Invisalign aligners tend to have a rough edge to them, which can be easily resolved by using the smooth side of an emery board. Gently file along the rough edges of the Invisalign aligners to make for a more comfortable fit.

Apply Orthodontic Wax Along the Clear Aligner Edges

Orthodontic wax is a silicone wax that applies clear and has been used for many years by patients that are being treated with braces. In addition to filing the rough edges with an emery board, you can also help reduce or prevent irritation in your gums, tongue, or lip by applying orthodontic wax along the gum line where the Invisalign aligner edges are located. A small strip of wax can be pushed up flat against the gums to prevent the aligners from rubbing against the gums and irritating them.

Use Canker-X on any Gum Irritation

Canker-X is an ointment that is used to treat canker sores and sores in the mouth, and it can also help relieve any discomfort associated with applying a new set of Invisalign clear aligners. This ointment contains benzocaine, which is a topical anesthetic that instantly numbs the area of application for at least a couple of hours. In addition, this also acts a bandage that sticks to gums or lips to provide relief and comfort to any of the areas that may be irritated by the aligners.

Use Biotene & XyliMelts to Moisturize Your Mouth

Invisalign may cause dry mouth for patients that do an extensive amount of speaking during lectures, business meetings, or phone calls. Biotene is a moisturizing mouth spray that helps fight against dry mouth by lubricating the inside of your mouth for hours of additional comfort. XyliMelts are lozenges that are intended to rest in between your cheek and gums in order to coat, soothe, and moisturize the mouth during the work day or throughout a night’s sleep.

Getting Treatment With Invisalign Clear Aligners in Salem OR

We hope these tips will help make your Invisalign treatment enjoyable and comfortable. Dr. Castilla and the team at Castilla Orthodontics are here to answer any questions you may have regarding treatment with Invisalign and Invisalign Teen in Salem, Sublimity, Mt. Angel, Dallas, Keizer, and the surrounding areas of Marion County. Call or text Castilla Orthodontics at 503-399-0721 to schedule a free consultation today, or take an online virtual consultation.

The Average Cost of Braces

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Where Can I Find The Best Price for Braces Near Me?

Dr. Castilla and the team at Castilla Orthodontics are dedicated to providing the best value and flexibility with our payment plans to help our patients afford the cost of braces in Salem, OR. We have successfully treated all types of orthodontic cases with braces while accommodating almost any budget. Through our extensive training, continuing education, and experience, our team has the knowledge and skills to provide beautiful and healthy smiles for your whole family. We also offer the added benefit that all adult patients receive free professional whitening gel at the end of treatment, and we even offer a clear retainer program!

How Much Is The Average Cost Of Braces?

At Castilla Orthodontics, we are proud to say the treatment fee is strictly based on the severity of the case and treatment time. The cost of braces can vary for each patient, since no two patients will have the same exact treatment plan. It is determined by individual factors such as the severity of the bite that needs to be corrected, and the length of treatment. Generally speaking, the cost for fully comprehensive treatment with clear and colorful braces at Castilla Orthodontics ranges from $4450-$5650, which can be financed for $0 Down, $129/month. This price range does not include Phase 1, Phase 2, limited, or surgical orthodontic treatments, which are not common treatments.

Do You Accept My Braces?

We are an in-network provider of Moda and Delta Dental, and also work with:

  • Cigna
  • Regence/Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Met Life
  • Guardian
  • Principal
  • Kaiser Permanente PPO
  • United Concordia
  • Ameritas

If you don’t see your dental insurance listed, please contact us and we’ll be happy to discuss your treatment options and coverage. Insurance coverage will vary for braces, so the best place to start is with a complimentary consultation to learn how your insurance benefits will help pay for your treatment.

How Can I Make The Cost of Braces More Affordable?

During a complimentary consultation, the team at Castilla Orthodontics will evaluate your treatment needs, discuss your goals, and help decide the best treatment option. We will review the available payment methods including flexible financing that breaks down the total cost, and spreads out your monthly payments throughout the duration of care. We also offer extended financing that goes beyond treatment time to lower your monthly payments. Braces requires no down payment, and we offer zero percent financing with no credit checks. We also offer special discounts when treatment is paid in full at the time of the patient’s start, or when multiple family members receive treatment with braces.

Finding The Average Cost Of Braces In Salem, OR

Dr. Castilla and our team at Castilla Orthodontics provide award winning orthodontic treatment in Salem OR. We are here to answer any questions you may have involving Clear Braces and Colorful Braces in Salem, Sublimity, Mt. Angel, Dallas, Keizer, and the surrounding areas of Marion County. Call or text Castilla Orthodontics at 503-399-0721 to schedule a free consultation today, or take an online virtual consultation.

Invisalign Vs. Smile Direct Club

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Are you having trouble deciding between Invisalign vs. Smile Direct Club? At Castilla Orthodontics, we are dedicated to educating our patients about the latest advancements in the orthodontic industry, as well as offering affordable orthodontic treatment in Salem that can accommodate any budget. Here are some things you should consider in deciding between Invisalign with an orthodontist like Dr. Castilla vs. Smile Direct Club.

Where Can I Find Out About Invisalign Vs. Smile Direct Club Near Me?

Our team at Castilla Orthodontics specializes in Invisalign and Invisalign Teen in Salem, OR. As a leading Salem orthodontist, Dr. Castilla is experienced in all forms of orthodontic care and is constantly improving her skills with advanced training. Castilla Orthodontics provides supervised treatment with Invisalign by an orthodontic specialist that has received the necessary education and training to help guarantee the best possible results. We offer free consultations where we can discuss all of your options for achieving your smile goals.

How are Invisalign and Smile Direct Club Similar?

The Invisalign system uses sets of removable, clear aligners to provide the same results as traditional braces. Because the aligners are clear and there is no metal, it is difficult to see them, especially from a distance or in photography. Thus, they are considered a more esthetic or discreet option for orthodontic treatment. Because they are removable, there are no food restrictions and teeth cleaning is much easier.  Each set of aligners is made of a smooth and lightweight high-tech plastic material called Smart Track that gently and gradually shift teeth into alignment. Both Invisalign and Invisalign Teen use this advanced material so you can be certain your teen is receiving the latest technology treatment. Smile Direct Club also uses a set of clear aligners to achieve straight teeth and therefore have all the same benefits of esthetics and removability as Invisalign.  However, it does not use the Smart Track material used by Invisalign.

How are Invisalign and Smile Direct Club different?

Aside from the actual material used to fabricate the aligners, Invisalign and Smile Direct Club have many other differences. Below are some of the major differences:

Cost of Invisalign Vs. Smile Direct Club

While Smile Direct Club is less expensive overall than traditional Invisalign treatment, it is not fair to compare the fees since you are getting two completely different products. Furthermore, you may be surprised to learn that on a monthly basis, Invisalign can still be very affordable. At Castilla Orthodontics, we offer industry-leading financing that allows our patients to afford their treatment even if they don’t have insurance by taking advantage of our in-house, zero-interest, flexible financing. In fact, you can get started with Invisalign for as little as $500 down!

Getting Started with Invisalign or Smile Direct Club

With Smile Direct Club, you have to visit a Smile Shop to get a digital scan of your teeth and bite or if you don’t live near one, then you will receive a kit that allows you to take impressions (molds) of your teeth at home. This  can lead to some frustration and even inaccuracies, especially since you’ve probably never done this yourself. With Invisalign, instead of visiting a Smile Shop, you visit a doctor’s office where you get to meet the doctor who will be doing the treatment and they will take scans of your teeth as well as x-rays to make sure you don’t have any cavities or periodontal (gum) disease that could make it dangerous to move teeth.

Convenience of Invisalign Vs. Smile Direct Club

Smile Direct Club is designed to eliminate visits to an orthodontist by allowing treatment to be completed from home. Once your aligners are ready, you will receive your aligners in the mail and then the rest is up to you. You can send pictures via email to the dental professional at Smile Direct Club so they can check your progress, but of course this is a limited way to examine your teeth and bite. With Invisalign, you go to your orthodontist’s office to get your aligners. During this visit, your orthodontist will check your aligners in person, to make sure they are fitting great and there are no issues. There is a misconception that with Invisalign, you have to have monthly visits with your doctor, but nothing could be further from the truth! At Castilla Orthodontics, our Invisalign patients come to our office every 12 to 15 weeks for progress checks. Thus, you have the convenience of not having to go to your doctor every month and the security of having your doctor available in person, should you have a question, concern, or issue with your treatment.

Level of Supervision of Invisalign Vs. Smile Direct Club

If you have any questions or concerns about your treatment, you can call Smile Direct Club where they have multiple customer care representatives that can assist you. You can even email your provider. With Invisalign, you can call or email your doctor’s office as well.  However, you also have the option of seeing your doctor in person so that he or she can directly, and in person, examine you to see what is going on with your aligners, your teeth, or your treatment in general. Furthermore, your orthodontist is available to directly communicate with your primary care dentist should you get dental work during treatment that affects the fit of your aligners, or if you are planning cosmetic work after you straighten your teeth such as composite build-ups or porcelain veneers.

Capabilities of Invisalign Vs. Smile Direct Club

By its very nature, Smile Direct Club aligner treatment does not involve x-rays, elastics, or attachments. Attachments are small, tooth-colored ridges made of dental composite resin, a material very similar to what your dentist uses for tooth-colored fillings, that are bonded or glued to certain teeth during Invisalign treatment. These are used only on certain teeth which require more difficult movements and being tooth-colored, blend in with your teeth. Thus, Smile Direct Club treatment is limited to more simple cases where you are mainly improving the alignment of the front teeth and not necessarily fixing the bite. On the other hand, Invisalign can treat all types of cases, including advanced cases. This is due to their well-adapting material, the use of attachments, and the direct in-person supervision of an orthodontist.

Why Choose Invisalign With A Certified Orthodontist?

While Dr. Castilla and the team at Castilla Orthodontics do not have anything negative to say about Smile Direct Club, it is important to understand that this type of treatment is not for everyone. If you are looking for cosmetic improvement and not bite correction or ideal alignment of your teeth, then Smile Direct Club may be an acceptable option. However, it is important that you are very careful and make sure your teeth and gums are healthy enough to undergo orthodontic movement safely. Since your doctor will be monitoring you remotely and without x-rays, you will have to figure this out on your own by contacting your family dentist. If you are looking for bite correction to get a healthy bite that will help you keep your teeth for a lifetime, as well as beautifully aligned teeth (not just a cosmetic improvement), then Invisalign treatment with a certified orthodontist such as Dr. Castilla is the way to go.

Finding the Difference of Invisalign Vs. Smile Direct Club

In conclusion, Dr. Castilla and our team at Castilla Orthodontics are experts in various forms of affordable orthodontic treatment, including limited orthodontic treatment for minor to moderate corrections. We are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding Invisalign and Invisalign Teen in Salem, Woodburn, Keizer, Sublimity, Mt. Angel, Dallas, and the surrounding areas of Marion County.

Traveling with Invisalign

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Straightening teeth with Invisalign clear aligners in Salem, OR is a specialty of Dr. Ana E. Castilla and the team at Castilla Orthodontics. They know that when away from home, Invisalign is a portable and convenient method of orthodontic treatment for busy travelers.

The removable nature of Invisalign means that it can be cleaned on the go, wherever there is a sink and a toothbrush. Invisalign wearers often travel with a small kit of a toothbrush and some toothpaste and floss. Whether travelling by train, plane, or bus, Invisalign is the clear alternative to braces.

Benefits

  • Simplicity
    Invisalign clear aligners fit into a carry-on bag, purse, or pocket. Invisalign is made of a clear thermoplastic material that fits snuggly over the teeth and is practically invisible. It is removable by the wearer to eat, brush, or floss. They’re also easy to carry; your dentist or orthodontist will supply a carrying case that easily fits into a pocket or purse.
  • Adaptability
    A series of Invisalign trays are worn throughout the course of treatment with Invisalign, and each new tray set gradually moves the teeth, progressively, until you’ve reached your treatment goals. Frequent office visits for physical adjustments to your traditional braces are not necessary.
  • Invisibility
    Because the Invisalign trays are completely clear, they are unnoticeable during normal social interaction. Invisalign patients can be confident when meeting people, attending events, and doing business while wearing the aligners. It’s almost like you’re not even wearing braces (great for photo-ops when seeing the sites).
  • Flexibility
    Invisalign clear plastic aligners are made of a soft plastic material, but their real flexibility is in their invisibility and their removability. Invisalign wearers are undergoing orthodontic treatment while working, playing, talking, and smiling with no one knowing they are wearing an orthodontic appliance. And when it’s time to eat, Invisalign pops out easily.

For travelers, a strict schedule of frequent adjustment appointments with their orthodontist is not practical. When on the go, Invisalign patients know they are being treated with a discreet, effective, and easy-to-wear solution to their orthodontic needs.

Dr. Castilla and the professionals at Castilla Orthodontics are experts in treating their patients in Salem, OR, with Invisalign clear
aligners. To find out more, call: 503-399-0721.

Dr. Ana E. Castilla and the team at Castilla Orthodontics are experts in Invisalign. If you have any questions pertaining to braces, clear braces, Invisalign, or Invisalign Teen in Salem, OR, Stayton, OR, Sublimity, OR, Monmoth, OR, Keizer, OR, or Marion County, OR, or the 97383 zip code area, or would like to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Ana E. Castilla, contact Castilla Orthodontics at: 503-399-0721.

How Can I Afford Treatment From an Orthodontist?

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Dr. Castilla, a certified orthodontist in the Mt. Angel, OR area, is finding new and successful ways to help his patients receive the treatment that they need without breaking the bank. The team at Castilla Orthodontics are experienced in helping their patients afford orthodontic treatment.

If you’re thinking about getting orthodontic treatment for either your child or yourself, then be sure to carefully consider the cost. Don’t worry, there are many financial options to explore.

Payment Plans

Many orthodontists like Dr. Castilla are able to make treatment with braces more affordable for their clients by spreading out the cost of treatment over a period of time with a flexible financing plan, usually coinciding with the term of treatment. To make the payments more affordable, ask your orthodontist if it’s possible to extend the payments beyond the removal of your braces. Third-party financing is also available to help patients pay for their orthodontic treatment.

The Right Type of Braces (From the Right Orthodontist)

There are several orthodontic treatment options to explore, each with its own costs and benefits. Some methods work better than others for specific orthodontic issues. For example, braces work more efficiently as the individual brackets adhered to the teeth allow orthodontists to use a wider range of methods to move the teeth within the mouth. In contrast, clear aligner systems like Invisalign aren’t as effective in treating more severe malocclusions (the misalignment of teeth). Invisalign clear aligner trays have advantages over braces in that the aligners are practically invisible to the casual observer, and they are removable, allowing you to eat whatever you’d like. If you are interested in Invisalign and want a general idea of what it might cost, check out this Invisalign Cost Calculator.

Dental Insurance

Make sure that you check with your insurance provider before you start treatment to be certain that you’re covered under your dental plan. It’s also possible to purchase supplemental orthodontic insurance if your current coverage isn’t right for you.

Initial Consultation

The best way to estimate the cost of a plan of orthodontic treatment is to schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Castilla. Early intervention in orthodontics can ensure a more effective and permanent treatment outcome. Once a patient’s orthodontic needs have been evaluated, you can then discuss the treatment options available, payment plans, and insurance coverage.

If you’re a patient that needs to see an orthodontist in the Mt. Angel, OR area and are concerned about the costs associated with treatment, consider a consultation with Dr. Castilla. For more information or to schedule your free consultation, don’t hesitate to contact Castilla Orthodontics today!

Dr. Ana E. Castilla is the expert orthodontist of Castilla Orthodontics. If you have any questions pertaining to braces, clear braces, Invisalign, or Invisalign Teen in Mt. Angel, OR, Sublimity, OR, Monmoth, OR, Keizer, OR, Salem, OR, Marion County, OR, or the 97383 zip code area, or would like to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Ana E. Castilla, contact Castilla Orthodontics at: 503-399-0721.

What Do I Need to Make My Invisalign Treatment Successful?

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Dr. Castilla and her team at Castilla Orthodontics know what’s needed to ensure your treatment with Invisalign in the Dallas, OR area is successful. These clear aligners are convenient, discreet, and removable by the wearer. They must be worn conscientiously, however, to be effective. Commitment, and a few handy tools, will guarantee patients of Dr. Castilla a successful treatment outcome.

Trays

A computer program called “ClinCheck” is used to determine a course of treatment with Invisalign. From this data, the aligner trays are custom made for each patient. Invisalign is made of a clear thermoplastic material that is nearly invisible while being worn.

Cleaning Materials

Most orthodontists like Dr. Castilla say that the best method to keep your clear aligners clean is simply to brush them with toothpaste and rinse them in a denture cleaning solution. An Invisalign cleaning kit is available online. Special cleaning crystals remove plaque from your aligners within about 15 minutes. Pantry items like white vinegar can be effective in a pinch.

Retainers

Teeth aren’t rigidly set in the jawbone. They are fixed in place by a collection of fibers called periodontal ligaments. After orthodontic treatment, the ligaments need to become used to the new placement of the teeth, and it’s possible for the teeth to move back or shift into their previous positions. A retainer, worn at night, will keep teeth in their new position as the ligaments adjust.

Commitment

Invisalign clear aligners need to be worn to be successful. Brushing and flossing daily, cleaning the trays, and wearing your aligners conscientiously are the tools every patient needs to achieve success in their treatment. Commitment to wearing and maintaining the your aligner trays is key to a successful treatment outcome.

Get Started with Invisalign in the Dallas, OR Area

With your Invisalign trays, some effective cleaning materials, a retainer, and a good attitude, you can ensure that your treatment with Invisalign will be a success. If you’re looking for an Invisalign provider in the Dallas, OR area, the team at Castilla Orthodontics can help. If you have any questions or if you’re ready to achieve the smile of your dreams, don’t hesitate to contact Castilla Orthodontics today!

Dr. Ana E. Castilla and the team at Castilla Orthodontics are experts in Invisalign. If you have any questions pertaining to any other treatments like braces or clear braces in Dallas, OR, Sublimity, OR, Monmoth, OR, Keizer, OR Salem, Marion County, OR, or the 97383 zip code area, or would like to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Ana E. Castilla, contact Castilla Orthodontics at: 503-399-0721.

Invisalign vs. Braces: Which is the Real Winner?

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Of all of the treatment plan options Dr. Ana Castilla of Castilla Orthodontics near Monmouth, OR, most patients choose treatment with either traditional metal braces or Invisalign clear aligners.

When considering a plan for orthodontic treatment, it can be difficult to decide which plan is best for you or your child’s needs. So many factors need to be considered (price, length of treatment, comfort and convenience, visibility). It can be difficult to divine which pros outweigh which cons.

No matter which treatment plan you choose, braces or Invisalign, they both address similar issues and offer similar treatment outcomes. Invisalign provides patients with an invisible, comfortable, and convenient orthodontic appliance; braces provide patients with a reliable and proven solution that is designed to treat even the most difficult cases.

Dr. Castilla offers both types of treatments and is here to explain the upsides and downsides of each orthodontic treatment approach.

Some differences between braces and Invisalign:

Braces

Today’s metal braces are more comfortable and less noticeable in the mouth. Braces are constructed of a bracket, bonding, or band and an archwire that controls the movement and realignment of your bite, teeth, and jaw. Braces provide the quick treatment outcomes that some patients are looking for. Younger patients tolerate metal braces especially well. Metal braces:

  • Can handle all types of orthodontic cases.
  • Require extra care and handling when brushing and cleaning teeth.
  • Come with some common-sense food restrictions.

Invisalign

Invisalign aligners give the patient a more flexible approach toward treatment and is recommended more for adults and teens. Invisalign clear aligners give patients easy-to-care-for usability, form-fitting comfort, and the flexibility needed to function confidently throughout their day while wearing an orthodontic appliance. Orthodontic treatments with Invisalign with Dr. Castilla allow patients to eat almost any type of food (because they are removable by the patient);  brush and floss their teeth normally (i.e., without the hassles involved with brushing and flossing while wearing a fixed appliance), and ultimately take on their day-to-day activities without the worry of being pegged as a braces wearer.

  • Aligners are clear (virtually invisible).
  • Aligners are removable (so you can floss, brush, and eat as usual).
  • Aligners are made of a plastic (which won’t irritate the soft tissue inside your mouth).

Invisalign is an essentially invisible fix that let patients conduct their day without their orthodontic appliance affecting the appearance of the teeth and mouth. Invisalign clear plastic aligner trays are easy to keep clean and ensure healthy dental development for the wearer. Invisalign aligners do require the patient to wear the appliance as long as 22 hours a day.

Get informed

Dr. Ana Castilla and Castilla Orthodontics near Monmouth, OR can help you make the most appropriate decision for your orthodontic treatment. Whether you are considering traditional braces or treatment with Invisalign, schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Ana Castilla call our office at: 503-399-0721

Does Treatment with Invisalign Hurt?

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Dr. Ana E. Castilla and the team at Castilla Orthodontics near Keizer, OR are knowledgeable and experienced orthodontic professionals. They are sensitive to their patient’s lifestyles, needs, and treatment goals when undergoing orthodontic treatment with Invisalign. A concern that patients express when considering orthodontic treatment is the amount of discomfort they may experience throughout the course of treatment. Different treatments have different pros and cons.

Braces Can Be Uncomfortable.

Invisalign clear aligner trays are an effective and convenient alternative to traditional braces. Treatment with Invisalign can help the patient achieve the same results they would achieve with traditional braces, but without the discomfort of traditional braces with metal brackets and wires.

Will Invisalign Hurt Too?

Treatment with Invisalign involves graduating progressively through a series of trays over a period of time (the trays are switched out about every two weeks). Invisalign uses a lightweight and nearly invisible removable plastic tray to straighten teeth. The Invisalign trays gradually move your teeth into their new, optimal positions. Invisalign is made of a smooth, pliable thermoplastic material that fits snugly over the wearer’s teeth. Invisalign aligners exert a gentle pressure to move teeth into their new optimal position, and the adjustment period is brief. Invisalign is less likely to cause pain to the wearer than traditional braces.

How to Cope.

Over-the-counter pain relievers are often all that are needed to treat any discomfort experienced while being treated with Invisalign. Dr. Ana E. Castilla and Castilla Orthodontics help their Invisalign patients relieve any uncomfortable feeling of pressure with Invisalign Aligner Chewies. These small cylinders of a pliable synthetic material are often distracting to and effective for the patient when they experience discomfort from the Invisalign trays. When chewed on, they can help relieve the sense of pressure and help to better fit the Invisalign tray around teeth.

Moving Forward.

Wearing a retainer after treatment with Invisalign is often indicated to keep the teeth from drifting back to their old positions. A retainer is the best insurance to maintaining a newly aligned, functional, and healthy set of teeth.

Invisalign has quickly become the most popular orthodontic treatment option at Castilla Orthodontics. Treatment with Invisalign is more comfortable than treatment with traditional metal braces, and it goes almost completely unnoticed by others. Dr. Ana E. Castilla can help you achieve your dream smile with more comfort and more convenience than with traditional braces. To find out more about Invisalign or to schedule an appointment with the team at Castilla Orthodontics near Keizer, OR, call Dr. Ana E. Castilla at: 503-399-0721

How Do I Keep My Invisalign Clean?

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If you have recently been fitted for Invisalign in Salem, OR, the team at Castilla Orthodontics would like to congratulate you on getting one step closer to a confident and healthy smile! Dr. Ana Castilla knows that while Invisalign is in your mouth doing the important work of straightening teeth, it’s also crucial to keep your Invisalign aligners clean. The Castilla Orthodontics team recommends that their patients follow these tips to keep their Invisalign clear aligners clean and working properly.

  • Saliva and plaque may collect on the Invisalign aligners, and that creates the perfect home for harmful or odor-causing bacteria. It is important to clean your aligners every time you take them out. (You take your aligners out before you eat, right?) Brush your aligner the same way you brush your teeth; with a little bit of toothpaste and a toothbrush. You should also brush and floss your teeth while you’re at it. That will help to reduce bacteria also.
  • Soak your aligner in a product like Invisalign Cleaning Crystals, Retainer Brite, or even denture cleaner once or twice a week. Avoid a colored denture cleaner; it may stain or color your aligners.
  • Avoid foods that may stain your aligners. Tea, coffee, wine, and sodas stain the aligners most often. Hot drinks may warp the plastic trays into a position that no longer fits on the teeth, thus extending treatment time.
  • Wear Invisalign conscientiously. Invisalign clear aligners need to be worn to work. The trays are removable to eat, but they need to be worn to be effective. Do not keep the Invisalign tray out of your mouth for longer than is necessary to eat, brush, or floss.

Keeping your Invisalign aligners clean is easy, and it’s a very important part of the overall treatment. Just remember, whenever you brush your teeth, brush your aligners too. To make sure you remember, the team at Castilla Orthodontics recommends that you make a small Invisalign cleaning kit for when you’re on the go. Include a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss to keep your teeth and Invisalign sparkling clean!

If you have any more questions on keeping your Invisalign clean, or want to schedule an appointment, give Dr. Ana Castilla a call. You can reach Castilla Orthodontics in Salem, OR by calling: 503.399.0721

Can Pre-Teens Get Invisalign Too?

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There is no “yes-or-no” answer. The decision, ultimately, will be made by the patient’s parents and their dentist or orthodontist. As long as your pre-teen has a fully developed set of teeth, Invisalign can be used in treatment. Invisalign clear aligners are generally safe for developing pre-teens, and the resulting tooth placement lasts a very long time. A consultation with Dr. Ana Castilla and the team at Castilla Orthodontics can help you determine the best course of orthodontic treatment for your child in Marion County, OR.

Imagine being treated with a set of braces that are virtually undetectable.

That’s the beauty of Invisalign clear aligners. Invisalign costs around the same as treatment with traditional braces, but is more discreet, more comfortable, and more easily worn than metal braces. Being treated with Invisalign in Marion County, OR by Dr. Ana Castilla of Castilla Orthodontics can correct a patient’s orthodontic issues without anyone ever noticing that they are wearing braces.

Invisalign clear aligners as an alternative to metal braces.

Image and self-esteem are critical personal issues for developing children, teens, and adults with a less-than-perfect smile. Dr. Ana Castilla says that the real appeal of Invisalign clear aligners is the freedom to eat and drink whatever you want without worrying about damaging your dental work. Invisalign Teen clear aligners are removable by the wearer, making cleaning, eating, and active pursuits more comfortable.

Traditional braces are fixed.

That means they can’t be removed by the patient, and the various metal parts can cause irritation and pain in the mouth. Invisalign trays are made of clear plastic and can be removed and replaced at will. They only require a few simple cleanings each day that they are worn. And unlike braces, Invisalign clear aligners require only about 22 hours of use – less than the 24/7 hours presence of traditional metal braces.

Follow the instructions.

Pre-teens being treated with Invisalign risk interrupting the progress of their treatment by forgetting to wear the appliance. An Invisalign patient is afforded the opportunity to remove the trays before eating, and a pre-teen patient may forget to replace them in their mouth afterwards.

Assuming your pre-teen is qualified for treatment with Invisalign, make sure too that they understand how to wear, clean, and store the Invisalign trays. For some pre-teens, it is easy to follow instructions at home, but in school your child may forget some of the responsibilities that come with being treated with Invisalign. With conscientious care and application, your pre-teen’s treatment with Invisalign will ensure a great set of healthy, straight teeth that will serve them well for a lifetime.

Invisalign works well for adults and teens, but only a professional like Dr. Ana Castilla can help decide if Invisalign treatment in Marion County, OR is the correct course of action to take in regard to your child’s orthodontic care. To learn more about treatment with Invisalign, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ana Castilla, call Castilla Orthodontics in Marion County, OR at: 503.399.0721