Invisalign in Queens, NY

I know what you are thinking - another baseless weight loss claim. It is easy to assume that Invisalign aligners might help with weight loss since they must be worn as much as possible and not while eating. However, despite claims of Invisalign and weight loss, the general consensus is that there is no link between tooth aligners and weight loss.

But, some patients are reporting side effects like minor weight fluctuations and as much as 10 or 15 pounds of weight loss due to the “Invisalign Diet” and orthodontic treatment. So what’s the deal, you ask? Why do patients see changes in their weight? 

Below, we have hypothesized about what could lead some teens and adults to lose weight during their Invisalign treatment. 

It Helps Cut Down on Snacking 

The Invisalign treatment plan requires you to wear your aligners for 22 hours daily. This rule allows only two hours for oral hygiene, eating, or other activities requiring removal. 

Eating is impossible while wearing the trays because the pressure of biting down will break them. So, patients who tend to graze on snacks throughout the day notice the impulse is much less. Meals and snacks have to be carefully planned. Each time a patient decides to eat, they have to undergo a long process of removing the trays, eating, brushing their teeth and trays, and then replacing them back in their mouth.  

Removing the trays is easy but typically done in privacy. If someone brought a dozen donuts to the office break room, pulling the aligners out to enjoy that sweet treat may not be worth it. And those who do indulge are highly advised not to slip the clear aligners over the food residue left on their teeth.

Dr. Bruno, your provider of Invisalign in Queens, NY, says wearing Invisalign causes patients to pause and think before eating something. From a nutritional point of view, this is not such a bad thing after all. 

More Self Awareness 

Even though the alignment trays are customized and practically invisible, patients still report being aware of the trays several times a day. It can lead to more self-awareness of their general appearance and spark an interest in improving other aspects of the body. Some may start diets as part of a general trend of overall self-improvement. 

Tender Teeth After Adjustments 

When a patient first gets a set of aligners or when they move up to the next stage of trays, many people report feeling soreness in the teeth and gums from the adjustment period. Although this usually lasts only for a day or two, some patients say the tenderness has led to a lack of interest in eating to avoid pain. It could lead to overall weight loss, but in most cases, appetites soon return as the mouth adjusts. Any weight loss during the adjustment period is usually balanced out as the patient feels more comfortable.

Get Your Invisalign in Queens, NY

While Invisalign in Queens, NY, is not scientifically linked to weight loss, treatment does offer the opportunity to reexamine your diet while straightening your teeth. It can be a successful way to promote oral health and increase confidence. And because treatment can take several months to a few years, why not use that time to develop mindful eating habits? The more you can cut down on processed foods and sugar, the better.

Schedule an appointment for Invisalign in Queens, NY, with Dr. Robert W. Bruno, DDS.

Invisalign in Queens, NY

So, you have concluded that you are ready for straight teeth. And you have decided that Invisalign in Queens, NY, is the way to go. So, how do you take care of Invisalign, you ask? It simply comes down to making daily habits and new routines. 

Please don't worry about having to make new adjustments in your life. Follow our eight simple tips, and you'll be on your way toward a straighter and healthier smile.

#1 Wear Your Aligners

It seems obvious, but this step is easier to neglect than you might think. You should wear your aligner for at least 22 hours per day. You must take them out only to eat, drink and clean them.

As your teeth straighten, you may start to slag off and lose the urgency to wear the aligners as prescribed. This will ultimately lead to a longer treatment time. So please get in the habit early and wear those aligners up to the last set. 

#2 Change Your Trays on Schedule

Every two to three weeks, a new set of aligners are given to continue straightening your teeth a little more than the previous set. You'll have a new smile by the time you get your last set of invisible aligners. 

Your treatment is a pretty precise schedule. Although it is not guaranteed, your treatment has a projected end date. Work to change your trays on time to keep pace and aim for your projected end date. 

#3 Keep Your Old Aligners

When you get your new aligners, please hold on to the last set. We highly recommend keeping them in case you lose your current aligners. Wearing the old trays while waiting for your new replacement is a way to protect your progress. 

#4 Good Oral Hygiene

Wearing Invisalign aligners increases the chances of harmful bacteria in your mouth. The best way to combat this buildup is to have good dental health through regular brushing and flossing. 

#5 Clean Your Aligners

Toothpaste and mouthwash are standard bathroom items. These products are great for brushing your teeth but not for clear aligners. Toothpaste is mildly abrasive and will scratch the thermoplastic. The bristles will worsen by changing the scratches from clear to cloudy.

One more thing, please don't soak your aligners in mouthwash. Mouthwash contains colorants that risk staining your aligners. 

#6 Remove Aligners Before Eating and Drinking

Remove your aligners before eating and drinking to avoid bacterial buildup. Food trapped in your aligners leads to bacteria and bad breath. 

Dark beverages like coffee, tea, and soda will stain your aligners. So take them out for everything but when drinking water. 

#7 Rinse Regularly

Rinse your aligner trays often throughout the day. Rinsing removes lingering particles that could contribute to bad breath and discoloration. 

#8 Protect Your Aligners

Time and time again, we have heard stories of people keeping their trays in a napkin while eating. It almost always leads to them landing in the wastebasket. Keep a hard case on hand to hold and protect your aligners when taken out or accidentally thrown away. 

Visit Robert W. Bruno, DDS, For Invisalign in Queens, NY

If your teeth are crowded or have bigger spaces than you like and don't want the hassle of metal braces, then an aligner treatment plan is the way to go. Invisalign can give you straighter teeth like traditional braces with no metal in sight. Call us at Robert W. Bruno, DDS, for an appointment.

Orthodontist in Queens

When first finding out they'll be getting braces; your kid likely will have many questions. Some might be excited and see orthodontics as a rite of passage. In contrast, others may be nervous or even embarrassed to have a mouthful of metal. They also might not be too keen that they'll have to avoid certain beloved foods during treatment.

Each question is valid; we get it from teens and their parents in our practice. What we have found in most cases is that kids are afraid of the unknown. At Robert W. Bruno, DDS, your orthodontist in Queens, we recommend parents ease nerves and help their children understand what to expect. By preparing emotionally for braces, you'll be surprised that some kids can even get excited about their future with orthodontics. 

#1 Learn About Braces Together

Let's be honest; getting braces can feel overwhelming for everyone. The first step to preparing for orthodontics is to learn everything you can before treatment starts.

Learn about the changes that will be made, from the foods to avoid to the activities they might have to sit out. Learn how to brush and floss to prevent tooth decay. After thorough research and a clear discussion of what is expected, you will all feel more equipped for a life with braces.

#2 Let Them Know They're Not Alone

Not many people are thrilled about getting braces because they think they'll be the only person going through it. But chances are they already have several friends or classmates with braces. An estimated 80% of teens will have some orthodontic care.

Reminding your kids that they are not the first person to get braces can help them get more comfortable with the idea. If you wore braces as a teen, share your experience with them and how it improved your oral health and confidence. Tell them about all the celebrities and athletes who had braces. 

For example, Christiano Ronaldo, Venus Williams, Beyonce, Justin Bieber, and even Tom Cruise, amongst many others. Once your kid sees how standard they are in adolescence, they'll feel better about wearing braces and get excited about a beautiful smile. 

#3 Plan Ahead for Discomfort

There is discomfort with orthodontic treatment as the teeth shift and move to their desired position. Traditional metal braces can cause additional irritation to the inside of the mouth. Have mild pain killers and even some Oral Gel on hand when the teeth and jaws get sore. 

If the brackets are poking into your cheeks and causing sores, place orthodontic wax over that part of the braces to reduce irritation. Being proactive about managing discomfort will ensure a positive experience.

#4 Stock up on Soft Foods

There is a list of banned foods when you have braces, including sticky, chewy, hard, or crunchy foods. Anything that has to be bitten into, like apples, or corn on the cob, is a bad idea. Make lives easier by stocking up on softer foods like yogurt, soups, smoothies, steamed veggies, or ice cream. 

#5 Keep your eye on the Prize

Depending on the treatment plan, they'll have to wait many months for a straight smile. To keep them motivated, help them look ahead to the end of treatment when they see their perfect healthy smile. Focusing on the outcome will encourage them to stay on track and comply with their orthodontist's instructions.

Visit Robert W. Bruno, DDS | Dentist in Queens

Do you have crooked teeth and are interested in learning more about braces? If you live around Queens, New York, give Robert W. Bruno, DDS, a call. We provide teens and adults with all types of braces, Invisalign treatment, and Invisalign Teen.

Orthodontist Near Me | Robert W. Bruno DDS, PC

With so many dental professionals, finding the best orthodontist for your family can quickly become overwhelming. It's not always easy to find that perfect someone that can give you the beautiful smile of your dreams. 

So, do you go to your general dentist, or do you go to an orthodontist? Read our tips below on how to find the best orthodontist near you.

#1 Credentials 

Not every dentist is a specialist in orthodontics. An excellent way to ensure they are specialists is to look them up on The American Association of Orthodontists website (click here). This helpful website lists specialists who graduated from accredited orthodontic programs in the US. 

#2 Referrals & Recommendations 

Seek referrals from oral surgeons in the Woodside area. Oral surgeons work with all the local orthodontists and can easily compare their work. A dentist may only work with a couple of orthodontists, whereas an oral surgeon usually works with dozens.

Ask your family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. Did they or someone they know receive braces or Invisalign to straighten their teeth? Are they happy with their orthodontic care and dental health now? 

#3 Google Reviews

Another great source of information is the internet. Search "orthodontist near me" in Google to see each practice in your area and how their patients rate them. Each orthodontist should provide a website link with tons of information about the services offered. 

The internet is an incredible information resource, but you should also take it lightly. Websites don't always accurately portray the quality an orthodontist provides.

Spend a bit of time reading reviews for all the orthodontists you're considering. Happy patients don't necessarily write positive reviews. No dental professional can always make every patient content, but a pattern of terrible reviews is usually a bad sign.

#4 Location and Atmosphere

The most important thing you should do is pay an in-person visit to each practice you're considering. What is your initial impression? Is it easily accessible and not too far out of your way?

Remember that you will receive dental care monthly until your treatment finishes. Is the staff helpful and happy? Do you feel comfortable in their care? Is it a state-of-the-art practice, and what is the overall vibe? 

#5 Insurance and Financing 

It's critical to find a balance between budget and expertise. Don't compromise the quality of your oral hygiene and health care to minimize dental costs. 

Ensure the orthodontist you choose accepts your insurance or offers financing options, such as out-of-pocket prices, package deals, or payment plans.

Call Robert W. Bruno DDS, PCPC | Orthodontist Near Me in Woodside

Once you've found the "best orthodontist near me" for your needs, the next step is to schedule an appointment. Give Robert W. Bruno, Orthodontist in Woodside, a call. We offer many orthodontic treatment options like ceramic braces, Invisalign, and self-ligating braces to give you the perfectly straight teeth you've always wanted. 

We love serving the community of Woodside. Please contact our dental office or stop by; we may be the perfect fit for you.