Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is an inflammatory condition that affects the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums, bone, and connective tissues. It typically begins with gingivitis, characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which involves the destruction of gum tissue and bone around the teeth, leading to tooth mobility and even tooth loss.

Traditional Treatment Methods

Historically, periodontal disease has been treated with procedures such as scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) and, in more severe cases, surgical interventions like gum grafts and pocket reduction surgery. While these methods have proven effective, they can be uncomfortable and require significant recovery time.

The Revolution of Laser Gum Therapy

Laser gum therapy, also known as laser-assisted periodontal therapy (LAPT) or LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure), is a cutting-edge approach to treating periodontal disease. This minimally invasive procedure utilizes laser technology to target and remove infected gum tissue and bacteria without the need for traditional surgery or cutting.

Benefits of Laser Gum Therapy‍

Minimally Invasive: Laser gum therapy is less invasive than traditional surgical methods, reducing patient discomfort, bleeding, and swelling.‍

Faster Healing: Patients typically experience quicker recovery times due to the precision of the laser, which promotes tissue regeneration.‍

Reduced Infection Risk: The laser’s energy effectively sterilizes the treated area, reducing the risk of post-treatment infections.‍

Preservation of Healthy Tissue: Laser therapy selectively removes diseased tissue while leaving healthy tissue intact, preserving the integrity of your smile.

Less Pain and Discomfort: Patients report minimal discomfort during and after the procedure, often requiring only over-the-counter pain relief.‍

How Laser Gum Therapy Works‍

Evaluation: Your dentist or periodontist will assess the severity of your periodontal disease using diagnostic tools and imaging.‍

Laser Treatment: During the procedure, a dental laser is used to remove diseased tissue and bacteria from the gum pockets around your teeth.

Scaling and Root Planing: The laser also helps in cleaning and smoothing the tooth’s root surface, promoting reattachment of gum tissue.

Tissue Regeneration: The laser’s energy stimulates the formation of blood clots and the growth of new, healthy tissue.‍

Follow-Up Care: After the procedure, your dental professional will provide instructions for post-treatment care and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.‍

Conclusion‍

Laser gum therapy is a game-changing approach to treating periodontal disease, offering numerous benefits over traditional methods. If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease, such as bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or gum recession, consider consulting with a dental professional experienced in laser gum therapy. This revolutionary treatment can help you maintain your oral health, restore your smile, and minimize discomfort during the process. Don’t wait; take the first step toward healthier gums and a brighter smile with laser gum therapy.

The post Laser Gum Therapy: A Revolutionary Approach to Treating Gum Disease first appeared on BB Dental Studio.

The Anatomy of a Mouth Guard

Mouth guards, also known as gum shields or mouthpieces, are protective devices designed to shield a boxer’s teeth, gums, lips, and jaw from injury during a match or training session. They are typically made from materials like latex, silicone, or thermoplastic, and can be customized to fit an individual’s teeth for maximum comfort and protection. Mouth guards are an essential piece of boxing equipment, and they serve several vital functions.

Protection Against Dental Injuries

Boxing involves powerful punches that can land squarely on the opponent’s face. Without a mouth guard, boxers are at a high risk of dental injuries, including chipped, broken, or knocked-out teeth. Dental injuries not only cause pain and discomfort but also result in costly dental treatments. Mouth guards act as a buffer, distributing the force of impact across the teeth and reducing the risk of injury.

Prevention of Lip and Gum Injuries

In addition to dental injuries, boxing can lead to lip lacerations and gum injuries. A well-fitted mouth guard provides a cushioning effect that helps protect the lips and gums from cuts and abrasions caused by accidental blows or head movement during a fight.

Jaw and Concussion Protection

Mouth guards are not only about preserving the appearance of a boxer’s smile; they also play a significant role in safeguarding the jaw and reducing the risk of concussions. When a boxer takes a powerful hit to the jaw, the force can travel up through the skull and potentially cause a concussion. Mouth guards help absorb some of this impact, decreasing the likelihood of concussions and jaw injuries.

Improved Breathing and Oxygen Flow

High-intensity boxing matches require fighters to maintain optimal oxygen intake. Ill-fitted or generic mouth guards can hinder breathing and reduce airflow. Customized mouth guards, on the other hand, are designed to provide maximum protection while allowing the fighter to breathe comfortably. This can improve stamina and overall performance in the ring.

Psychological Comfort

Beyond their physical benefits, mouth guards offer psychological comfort to boxers. Knowing that their teeth, gums, and jaw are protected can boost a fighter’s confidence and focus during a match. This mental reassurance can be a significant asset in the heat of competition.

Compliance with Safety Regulations

Boxing organizations and governing bodies often require fighters to wear mouth guards during official matches. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to disqualification. Therefore, wearing a mouth guard is not only for personal safety but also for adhering to the rules of the sport.‍

In the world of boxing, where athletes engage in intense physical combat, safety should always be a top priority. Mouth guards are a fundamental element of a boxer’s protective gear, providing a shield against dental injuries, lip and gum damage, and potential concussions. Customized mouth guards, in particular, offer a high level of comfort and protection, helping fighters perform at their best while staying safe. It is essential for boxers, trainers, and officials to recognize the importance of mouth guards and ensure their consistent use. In boxing, where words may fail, mouth guards speak volumes about the commitment to safety and the well-being of the athletes in the ring.

The post The Crucial Role of Mouthguards in Boxing first appeared on BB Dental Studio.

What is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as “laughing gas,” is a colorless, odorless gas composed of nitrogen and oxygen. It has been used in dentistry for over a century to alleviate anxiety and discomfort during dental procedures. Nitrous oxide is administered through a comfortable mask placed over the patient’s nose, allowing them to breathe in a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen.

The Benefits of Nitrous Oxide in Dentistry‍

Anxiety Reduction:

Dental anxiety is a significant barrier to receiving proper dental care. Nitrous oxide is an excellent option for anxious patients, as it induces a sense of calm and relaxation without rendering them unconscious. It can help alleviate both mild and moderate anxiety levels.

Pain Management:

While nitrous oxide is not a painkiller, it can reduce the perception of pain and discomfort during dental procedures. Patients often report feeling less pain when under the effects of nitrous oxide, making it easier for them to tolerate necessary treatments.

Quick Onset and Offset:

Nitrous oxide is known for its rapid onset and offset. Within minutes of inhaling the gas, patients start to feel its relaxing effects. Once the procedure is complete, the dentist can easily switch to pure oxygen to help the patient return to normalcy quickly, allowing them to drive themselves home afterward.

Cooperative Patients:

Nitrous oxide sedation does not impair a patient’s cognitive functions or motor skills significantly. Patients remain awake and aware throughout the procedure, making it easier for the dentist to communicate and collaborate with them when necessary.

Minimal Side Effects:

Nitrous oxide is one of the safest forms of sedation used in dentistry. It has minimal side effects and a low risk of complications. It is also suitable for most patients, including children and elderly individuals.

Customizable Sedation Levels:

Dentists can adjust the concentration of nitrous oxide to tailor the sedation level to each patient’s specific needs. This flexibility ensures that patients receive the optimal level of comfort and relaxation during their procedures.‍

Nitrous oxide has revolutionized the dental experience for patients, making it more accessible and less intimidating. With its ability to reduce anxiety, manage pain, and provide a comfortable and cooperative environment, nitrous oxide is a valuable tool in the dental office toolkit.

If you suffer from dental anxiety or find dental treatments uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to discuss nitrous oxide sedation with your dentist. They can help you determine if it’s a suitable option for your needs and ensure that your dental appointments are as stress-free and painless as possible. Nitrous oxide truly is a breath of fresh air for dental anxiety, making trips to the dentist a more pleasant experience for everyone.

The post Nitrous Oxide in Dentistry: A Breath of Fresh Air for Dental Anxiety first appeared on BB Dental Studio.

The Power of Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils and their aromatic compounds to enhance physical and psychological well-being. These oils are derived from various plants and have been used for centuries to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and alleviate discomfort. When incorporated into a dental office, aromatherapy can offer several advantages:

Stress Reduction: Dental anxiety is a common issue that can prevent patients from seeking necessary dental care. Aromatherapy can help create a calming atmosphere, reducing stress levels and making patients feel more at ease.

Improved Patient Experience: The soothing scents of essential oils can distract patients from the clinical environment, making their visit more pleasant and less intimidating.

Enhanced Mood: Aromatherapy can positively affect mood and emotional well-being, creating a more positive overall experience for both patients and staff.

Pain Management: Certain essential oils have analgesic properties and can help alleviate discomfort during and after dental procedures, reducing the need for pain medications.

How Aromatherapy is Used in Dental Offices

Diffusers: Many dental offices use essential oil diffusers to disperse pleasant scents into the air. Common choices include lavender, peppermint, and citrus oils, which are known for their calming and uplifting effects.

Topical Application: Some dental professionals offer essential oil-infused warm towels to patients to enhance relaxation before and after treatment.

Massage and Handheld Devices: Dental hygienists or assistants may use handheld devices with essential oil rollers to provide a brief, soothing massage on a patient’s shoulders or hands before procedures.

Personalized Options: Dental offices may offer a selection of essential oil scents for patients to choose from, allowing them to personalize their experience.

Considerations and Safety

While aromatherapy can be incredibly beneficial, it’s essential to consider patients’ preferences and sensitivities. Some individuals may have allergies or aversions to certain scents. Dental professionals should always seek consent and inquire about any allergies or sensitivities before using aromatherapy.

Aromatherapy is a natural and holistic approach to enhancing the dental office experience for both patients and dental professionals. By creating a soothing and calming environment, dental offices can help reduce anxiety, improve patient satisfaction, and promote overall well-being. As more dental practices recognize the potential of aromatherapy, we can expect to see a more relaxed and comfortable atmosphere at our next dental appointments, making those routine check-ups and treatments a breeze.

The post Aromatherapy at the Dentist’s Office first appeared on BB Dental Studio.

Unfortunately, many patients decide to live with crooked teeth and malocclusion because they don’t want to go through orthodontic treatment with traditional, metal braces and because they have heard a whole host of incorrect information about treatment with Invisalign. Invisalign, however, is an excellent alternative to metal braces, and we are here to set the record straight by debunking seven common Invisalign myths.

The Truth About Invisalign: 7 Invisalign Myths Debunked

1. Invisalign Costs More Than Braces

The truth is treatment with Invisalign and traditional braces cost about the same. The primary factors that determine total treatment costs are more strongly related to a patient’s orthodontic needs, the complexity of the treatment, length of treatment, and individual insurance coverage. If you are concerned about treatment costs, our team can talk with you about your insurance and provide you with an estimate for your orthodontic treatment plan.

2. Invisalign Is Only for Adults

Invisalign is commonly recommended to adults because the success of the treatment depends upon the individual’s ability to adhere to the treatment plan and schedule. Although they are removable for meals and oral hygiene, Invisalign aligners must be worn for 22 hours every day.

That being said, Invisalign provides treatment courses specially designed for teens. These special aligners come with color-coded use indicators that fade from blue to clear to help teens (and parents) make sure the aligners are worn for the prescribed 22 hours each day. Additionally, the aligners come with unique specifications to accommodate growing patients’ changing jawbones and development. Plus, Invisalign for teenagers includes spare aligner trays – just in case an aligner is accidentally tossed at lunchtime.

3. Invisalign Can Only Address Minor Orthodontic Issues

While some cases can be better addressed with traditional braces, Invisalign can address a wide array of more complicated orthodontic issues such as:

• Crooked teeth
• Crowded teeth
• Tooth gaps
• Crossbite
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Open bite

Invisalign aligner trays are customized to each patient’s needs, and the aligner trays can be designed with special attachments for rubber bands and other orthodontic features.

4. Invisalign Will Give You a Lisp

Lots of patients choose not to treat their orthodontic issues because they worry that Invisalign will affect the way they speak, giving them a lisp. While this is true to some extent, the fact is that all types of orthodontic appliances can affect the way you speak. This is not unique to Invisalign.

While Invisalign can have a slight impact on your speech, it does not affect everyone in the same way. Also, as long as patients continue wearing and speaking with their aligner trays in, they typically adjust after a couple of days and see their speech return to normal.

5. Treatment With Invisalign Is Slow

Treatment with Invisalign and treatment with traditional braces require about the same amount of time for any patient. The length of treatment depends much more significantly on the complexity and severity of the patient’s case. In other words, the farther the teeth need to be moved, the longer the treatment will take.

Orthodontic treatment with Invisalign (or traditional braces) can take anywhere from a few months to two years, depending on the patient’s needs.

6. Treatment With Invisalign Is Painful

Treatment with both braces and Invisalign work by putting slight pressure on the teeth to gradually shift them into their desired locations and alignment. This pressure can cause a bit of discomfort and slight pain at first. This discomfort is experienced every time a patient has their braces adjusted or every time a patient starts wearing the next aligner tray in their treatment schedule. The discomfort, however, is usually minor and goes away after a day or two.

Invisalign is generally considered to be less painful than traditional braces because the trays are made from smooth plastic that is gentle on the mouth’s soft tissues. Traditional, metal braces can lead to sores and cuts on the tongue, lips, and cheeks, but Invisalign will not.

7. Invisalign Aligners Become Stained and More Noticeable

Invisalign aligners can be removed and brushed clean. Additionally, each set of trays is usually only worn for about two weeks at a time. As a result, the trays do not have time to become stained and discolored before the patient moves on to the next, perfectly clear set.

Find Out If Invisalign Is Right for You: Request a Consultation With Our Roseville Dentist

If you’re looking for an orthodontist in Roseville who offers teeth straightening with Invisalign, look no further than BB Dental Studio. Our Roseville family dentist, Dr. Sara is experienced in providing orthodontic treatment with Invisalign to adults and teenagers. Dr. Sara can talk with you about all of your smile and oral health concerns and help you determine the course of orthodontic treatment that will work best for you and your lifestyle.

To learn more about treatment with Invisalign in Roseville, we welcome you to contact our office today.

The post 7 Myths About Invisalign Debunked first appeared on BB Dental Studio.

To keep your mouth and body healthy so that you can avoid such worsening symptoms and issues, it’s important to take steps to overcome dental anxiety and visit the dentist regularly for routine cleanings and examinations.

At BB Dental Studio, our goal is to provide patients with a luxury, spa-like dental experience where you’ll feel pampered, relaxed, and at home. When you experience dental anxiety, a trip to the dentist is the last thing you want to do. We get it! Our dentist in Roseville has put together a quick list of tips that might work for you to combat your dental anxiety and get the care you need and deserve.

4 Tips for Overcoming Dental Anxiety

1. Communicate

If you have dental anxiety, the most important step you can take to start overcoming your fears is to talk with our dentist and dental care team about your feelings before work begins. By voicing your concerns and goals early, we can slow down, discuss the process of your visit and any necessary treatment options to help you feel more comfortable and at ease during your appointment.

Many patients’ dental anxiety takes root in feeling that they lose control and the ability to communicate when they are in the dental chair. If you feel claustrophobic or out of control during your dental treatments, it’s important to communicate these feelings to our dental care team. We understand and can make accommodations to help you feel more in control and more able to communicate.

For example, we can establish a non-verbal system of communication that allows you to let us know if you need us to stop treatments or if you need to take a break. We are here to support you in your dental care journey, and we will do everything we can to help minimize your anxiety and help you have a positive experience in our office.

2. Comfort Menu

Relaxation and comfort techniques can help you reduce the mental thoughts and physical signals of anxiety. Meditation and breathing exercises are very popular and effective for managing stress, and we recommend practicing these before, during, and after your appointment if dental anxiety is creeping up.

Additionally, our office provides patients with a Comfort Menu full of items or services you can add-on to your visit that are designed to help ease anxiety and increase comfort in the dental chair. These items include a pillow, blanket, noise-cancelling headphones, music or TV, essential oils, and more.

3. Create Calm

If you suffer from dental anxiety, any other source of stress on or around the day of a dental examination can exacerbate the anxiety you experience in the dental chair. For this reason, we encourage patients with dental anxiety to schedule their appointments on days when they don’t have much else going on. Select a time that will be convenient for you so that you won’t have to worry about being late or juggling a lot of other appointments in your day.

If your experience around visiting the dentist is calm, then your time in our office will feel calmer, too.

4. Sedation Dentistry

If your dental anxiety is preventing you from getting the care you need, there are sedation dentistry options available at our practice to help you relax before and during your visit, whether you’re here for a cleaning or a more complex treatment. We offer a variety of sedation techniques, ranging from mild sedation to moderate and sleep dentistry.

Experience the Luxury Difference

If you experience dental anxiety and have been putting off prioritizing your oral health because of it, our compassionate dental care team is ready to show you what a difference pampered, concierge-level care can do for you.

To learn more about sedation dentistry and how you can keep your peace of mind while accessing the dental care you need, we welcome you to contact our office today.

The post 4 Tips for Overcoming Your Dental Anxiety first appeared on BB Dental Studio.

The Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry: How a Cosmetic Dentist Can Change Your Life

We believe every smile is beautiful, but it’s natural for patients to see imperfections in their natural smiles that they would like to correct. Plus, additional factors often impact a smile’s appearance throughout life such as staining, injuries, medication side effects, and disease. Our goal with cosmetic dentistry is to help our patients see and bring out the beauty in their smiles and features.

Cosmetic dentistry aims to improve and enhance a smile’s appearance, and this can help patients increase their confidence, improve the first impressions they make, and simply feel better about themselves.

Additionally, cosmetic dentistry can be especially impactful for patients whose physical appearance is essential to their professional lives. This is often the case in industries and careers like modeling, television, news, film, stage acting, and even in businesses like real estate. Having a beautiful, healthy smile will help patients cultivate an appearance that leaves a more professional and attractive impression.

Transformative Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments

Some of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments include the following:

Professional Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening is the simplest and least invasive way to improve and elevate the overall look of your smile. Professional whitening lifts stubborn stains and creates an evenly bright, white, and refreshed-looking smile. With professional whitening, patients can quickly, safely, and precisely achieve their desired level of whitening.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are the most popular treatment option for replacing one or more missing teeth. This treatment option not only looks and feels just like a natural tooth, but it also helps to support the ongoing health, strength, and integrity of the jawbone.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a discreet way to correct a misaligned bite (malocclusion), straighten crooked teeth, and create space in an overly crowded smile. The orthodontic treatment uses clear aligner trays to gently and gradually shift the teeth into the desired, more balanced alignment within the mouth.

Porcelain Veneers

Dental veneers can be used to mask one or two minor imperfections or completely transform the appearance of a smile.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a highly versatile treatment that can be used to create composite veneers, correct the size or shape of a tooth, fill in a tooth gap, or to fix a chipped tooth.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns completely cap and cover the visible portion of a tooth. They are used to seal and protect a patient’s natural tooth while creating a new, aesthetically pleasing look.

The Power of Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry

While some cosmetic treatments (like dental veneers and teeth whitening) offer purely aesthetic benefits, others also provide restorative benefits in addition to improving the look of the patient’s smile. For example, dental bonding, dental implants, dental crowns, and dental bridges can be used to improve the aesthetic appearance of a patient’s smile in addition to restoring the smile’s function, strength, and health.

Additionally, orthodontic treatment with Invisalign not only creates a straighter, more balanced, and more symmetrical smile but also improves the health of a patient’s teeth. Crooked teeth and malocclusion (a misaligned bite) can increase a patient’s risk for tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, and all the problems associated with temporomandibular joint disorder. By straightening a patient’s smile, we not only improve its appearance but also the patient’s health and comfort.

Used in conjunction with restorative treatments, cosmetic dentistry allows our dentist to design beautiful smiles for our patients that are also healthy and high-functioning. With both cosmetic and restorative treatments, we help our patients achieve beautiful and healthy smiles for life.

Elevate Your Smile, Enhance Your Life: Request a Consultation with Our Cosmetic Dentist in Roseville, CA

At BB Dental Studio, we take pride in transforming our patients’ smiles and improving their lives with restored oral health and smiles that make everyone feel happy. Our dentist, Dr. Sara Zeidan, provides patients with comprehensive restorative and cosmetic dental treatments including teeth straightening with Invisalign, professional whitening, and dental implants in Roseville. To learn more about how the art of smile design could improve your life, we invite you to request a consultation with Dr. Sara today!

The post Cosmetic Dentistry Changes Lives first appeared on BB Dental Studio.

The Pros and Cons of Invisalign for Older Adults

Invisalign is an effective orthodontic treatment for addressing a wide array of orthodontic concerns. Like all orthodontic treatment options, it has a set of advantages and potential disadvantages that patients should consider before deciding on any particular treatment plan.

Invisalign Pros

The primary advantages of Invisalign include:

• Discreet Orthodontic Appliance – Invisalign’s clear aligner trays are virtually invisible during wear which means adults can discreetly undergo orthodontic treatment, straightening their teeth without the need for highly visible metal braces.

• Comfortable Treatment – The aligner trays are made of smooth plastic which is gentle on the mouth’s soft tissues. As a result, patients do not develop any sores on their lips, tongue, or cheeks that often arise with traditional metal braces.

• Does Not Limit Diet – The aligner trays can be removed for meals, so patients can continue enjoying all of their favorite foods with no dietary restrictions.

• Promotes Jawbone Strength – Orthodontic adjustment will help to stimulate and strengthen the jawbone.

• Includes Fewer Dental Visits – Invisalign requires fewer dental checkups during treatment than traditional braces.

• Simple Oral Hygiene and Care Routine – Oral hygiene with Invisalign is simple and does not require any of the special oral hygiene tools needed with traditional braces.

Invisalign Cons

Some potential drawbacks of Invisalign treatment for older adults include:

• Less Effective for More Severe or Complex Cases – More complex or severe orthodontic issues might not be effectively addressed with Invisalign or might require a multifaceted treatment plan.

• Requires Self-Discipline – Invisalign aligner trays must be worn for at least 22 hours each day for treatment to be effective. As a result, they require a patient to have good self-discipline.

• Aligners Can Be Lost – Since they are removable and clear, the aligner trays can easily be misplaced. If you think you might have trouble keeping track of your aligner trays, then Invisalign might not be the right option for you.

• Period of Adjustment – Invisalign aligner trays are designed to fit snuggly over the teeth. As a result, most patients go through a period of adjustment during which they might find their speech slightly affected by the aligners. Most patients adjust and resume normal speech after one or two weeks of wear.

Is Invisalign the Right Orthodontic Treatment for You?

There are many different approaches to orthodontic treatment, and each has its own set of advantages and drawbacks. The one that’s best for an adult patient depends on the patient’s needs, orthodontic case, and treatment preferences. Invisalign is an excellent option for many patients. For others, alternative orthodontic treatment approaches might be better. Following an examination and consultation, our dentist can help you determine which treatment option is right for you.

Get a Straighter, Healthier Smile with Invisalign in Roseville

If you want to address your teeth alignment and bite issues, there is no need to search for an orthodontist in Roseville; our dentist, Dr. Sara Zeidan, is highly qualified and experienced in orthodontics for older adults, including treatment with Invisalign. We encourage you to take the first step in improving your oral health and your smile’s appearance by contacting our office to request an Invisalign consultation at BB Dental Studio today.

The post Invisalign Pros and Cons for Older Adults first appeared on BB Dental Studio.

What can you expect during treatment with Invisalign? It all starts with a consultation. From there you’ll get your aligners and will change them every so often. Learn more about the steps involved in the Invisalign process.

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a system for straightening teeth and the bite. It’s a much more advanced form of orthodontic treatment compared to traditional metal braces.

Depending on the degree to which you need to straighten your teeth and how well you follow your treatment plan, you could see the results from Invisalign in as little as six months.

Invisalign in Roseville: Step by Step

If you’ve decided that Invisalign is right for you or your teen, it helps to know what to expect during the treatment process. Let’s walk you through the typical Invisalign treatment, step by step.

1. Schedule a Consultation With a Roseville Dentist

The first step is to schedule an Invisalign consultation with your dentist. During your first visit, your dentist will examine your teeth and talk about your goals.

We’ll discuss what Invisalign can and can’t do for you to help you determine if it’s the right treatment. While Invisalign can help straighten teeth, it’s not the right option for all orthodontic concerns.

We’ll also give you a general idea of what to expect while you’re receiving treatment with Invisalign. The aligners are designed to be discrete, but they do require you to wear them for at least 22 hours a day. That’s perfectly fine for plenty of people, but not always ideal or appropriate for others.

2. Capture Images of Your Teeth and Develop a Treatment Plan

You’ve heard the details about Invisalign, and your dentist has let you know that you’re a great candidate for treatment. The next step is to get images of your teeth. Your dentist will do this in the office using a 3-D scanner. After scanning your teeth, we’ll develop a treatment plan that will slowly adjust your teeth until you have the smile you’ve dreamed of.

Using the images captured during the 3-D scanning, Invisalign will create clear aligners that are custom-fit to your mouth. We’ll let you know when they’re ready to pick up and will give you more detailed instructions for wearing them at that time. You’ll swap out your aligners every few weeks so that your teeth are gently pushed into a more aligned position.

3. Wear and Care for Your Aligners

Practically no one will know you’re wearing Invisalign unless you tell them. The aligners are clear and sit snugly against your teeth. They put gentle pressure on your teeth, causing them to move ever so slightly.

To get the most out of your treatment, you’ll want to wear your aligners for up to 22 hours a day. The only times you should remove them are when you’re eating or drinking. Before you put them back on your teeth, be sure to brush your teeth. To keep your aligners clean, rinse them with water and gently brush them with a toothbrush. You can also use a cleaning system to keep your aligners looking fresh and clear.

You can expect to change your aligners every one or two weeks, based on your treatment plan. You need to change aligners to see the results from your treatment. Each new set of aligners is slightly different from the previous one, which helps guide your teeth to their new position. Don’t worry if the aligners feel slightly uncomfortable at first – that’s a sign that they’re working!

4. See Your Orthodontist in Roseville Regularly

You’ll want to keep in touch with your dentist throughout your Invisalign treatment. Ideally, you’ll come into the office for a check-up every six to 12 weeks. During your check-ups, your dentist will monitor your teeth’s progress and answer any questions you have about your treatment.

At your check-ins, your dentist may take another scan of your teeth and may recommend changing your aligners. It all depends on the progress you’re making. Some adjustments may be necessary. If that’s the case, don’t stress about it. Everyone’s treatment plan and experience is unique. You can feel confident that your dentist is doing what it takes to get you the smile of your dreams.

5. Keep up the Good Results With a Retainer

You’ve done it! You finished with your last aligner. Congratulations, but your Invisalign journey isn’t over yet. You’ll need to wear a retainer to maintain your results.

For the first six months after treatment, you’ll wear the retainer at all times, taking it out only to eat and drink. It’ll be a lot like the Invisalign treatment itself. After six months, you can switch to wearing the retainer only at night.

What to Know When Wearing Your Aligners

Your Invisalign aligners are meant to be snug! Don’t be alarmed if they’re a bit tricky to get on and off, especially when you first start wearing a new set. Think of it this way, a tight fit means that the aligners are doing their job.

You’ll need to wear your aligners consistently to get results. If you’re a parent of a teen who’s undergoing Invisalign treatment, you can look at the blue markers on the aligners to confirm that they’re wearing them for the recommended 20 to 22 hours a day.

The Benefits of Invisalign

Compared to traditional braces, there are many benefits of Invisalign treatment.

• Less interference in your activities: Invisalign won’t disrupt your life or keep you from doing the hobbies and activities you love. You can swim, play sports and go about your daily life with Invisalign.
• No worry about “metal mouth”: You’re waiting for the after photo when you get orthodontic treatment, but what the “during” photos? Since Invisalign’s aligners are clear and discrete, you won’t end up with a “metal mouth” or be embarrassed by your photos during the treatment time.
• Eat what you want: Braces restrict what you can eat. Invisalign doesn’t. Since you remove the aligners while you eat and drink, food won’t get stuck in them. Just make sure you brush before putting the aligners back into place.
• Easy maintenance: No more visiting the orthodontist for adjustments or fussing around with stray wires. Invisalign aligners are a snap to care for. You can clean them with warm water and a toothbrush or invest in a cleaning system to keep them as clear and bright as possible.

Schedule Your Consultation With a Roseville Family Dentist Today

Are you ready to give Invisalign a try? Contact BB Dental Studio in Roseville to schedule a consultation!

The post The Invisalign Process first appeared on BB Dental Studio.

The Power of Canine Companionship

Dogs have long been known for their remarkable ability to provide emotional support and comfort to humans. Their nonjudgmental nature, unconditional love, and keen sensitivity to human emotions make them ideal candidates for offering solace to those in distress. Recognizing this, dental practices around the world have begun incorporating therapy dogs into their patient care programs.

Benefits of Dental Therapy Dogs

Reduced Anxiety: The presence of a therapy dog can significantly reduce feelings of anxiety and stress associated with dental visits. Simply petting or interacting with a dog releases endorphins, which are natural stress-relievers. This can lead to a more relaxed state of mind, making the dental experience less daunting.‍

Distraction: Dental therapy dogs provide a pleasant distraction from the clinical environment. Engaging with a furry friend can help take one’s mind off the dental procedure, making it easier to cope with any discomfort or anxiety.

Trust-Building: Establishing trust between the patient and the dental team is crucial. The presence of a therapy dog can help foster this trust, as patients associate the positive experience with the dental practice as a whole.‍

Positive Associations: Through conditioning, patients can develop positive associations between their dental visits and their interactions with therapy dogs. Over time, this can lead to a shift in perspective, where the dental visit is no longer feared but anticipated with a sense of comfort.‍

Improved Mood: Interacting with dogs can boost mood and alleviate feelings of depression. This positive emotional state can extend beyond the dental visit, contributing to an overall improvement in mental well-being.‍

Real-Life Success Stories

Numerous anecdotes highlight the remarkable impact of dental therapy dogs:‍

Sarah, who had avoided the dentist for years due to intense anxiety, found herself eagerly looking forward to her appointments after her dental clinic introduced therapy dogs. The calming presence of the dog made her visits enjoyable and less nerve-wracking.‍

John, a young boy with autism, struggled with sensory issues during dental procedures. The presence of a therapy dog provided him with comfort and sensory stimulation, allowing for smoother dental appointments.‍

Conclusion

Dental anxiety is a genuine concern that can hinder people from receiving necessary dental care. However, the introduction of therapy dogs into the dental setting has introduced a powerful and heartwarming solution. The companionship and support of these gentle creatures have the potential to transform dental visits from anxiety-inducing experiences to opportunities for positive connection and healing. As the trend of dental therapy dogs continues to grow, we can expect to see more individuals stepping into dental offices with wagging tails and open hearts, ready to face their fears with newfound courage.

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