What Do I Do After Completing Invisalign Treatment?

June 9, 2023

Whether you are considering Invisalign or you have recently completed your Invisalign treatment, you may be wondering what the next steps are once treatment is completed. There are some additional steps you need to take for aftercare to ensure you maintain your new, beautiful smile.

At Severns Dentistry & Orthodontics, we've put together a guide to help you understand how to care for your new smile once Invisalign treatment is complete.

Why is Aftercare After Invisalign Important?

After your treatment is over, you need to begin proper aftercare to maintain your smile. Whether you have traditional braces or Invisalign, the same steps need to be taken to prevent undoing your results which can lead to:

Teeth starting to shift again
Incomplete remodeling of the retaining bone and tooth socket
Teeth moving back to a misaligned state
Wasting time and money invested in your smile

What Is Involved in Aftercare?

Your aftercare will begin with wearing a retainer to prevent the teeth from shifting out of their new, aligned positions. Your dentist will customize your retainer to ensure a proper fit.

You will need to wear your retainer as recommended by your dentist. You will likely need to wear a retainer for life, but the amount of time you have to wear one each day will lessen. You will begin by wearing one all the time, and over time you will gradually reduce how long you have to wear the retainer.

What Type of Retainers are There?

There are two types of retainers, fixed and removable. The fixed retainer is made of a thin metal wire that is glued to the back of the teeth. These retainers are made to be permanent and offer you the extra reassurance that your teeth won't move after Invisalign treatment. You will need to clean and care for this device since it can get food buildup on it.

Removable retainers come in two varieties; the wire retainer called the Hawley retainer and the clear retainer that looks like an Invisalign tray and is typically called an Essix or 3D retainer. With the wire retainer, there is a custom-molded plastic piece that sits against the roof of your mouth with a thin metal wire that wraps around the front side of your teeth.

Clear retainers will rest over the top of your teeth, just like an Invisalign aligner. These are great because they are clear and go unnoticed. Be sure to keep your retainers clean, just like you did with your aligners.

How Do I Care for My Retainers?

When using retainers, it's important to properly care for them. When wearing your retainer, be sure to remove them when you are eating or drinking hot beverages. The retainers should also be cleaned and rinsed at least once a day. If you notice that the retainer fits differently or it has become too difficult to remove or put in, this means the retainer is damaged and will need to be replaced.

Expert Invisalign Treatment in McMurray

At Severns Dentistry & Orthodontics, we specialize in Invisalign treatment. McMurray patients can rely on our experienced staff for top-tier orthodontic care. Contact us today to learn more!

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Author: Natalie Severns, DMD

Upon graduating from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Severns specialized in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. She then did an externship in London, England, at the prestigious Guy’s Hospital. At this hospital, she learned top therapies in Dentofacial Orthopedics to provide her patients with the best possible facial esthetics.

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What Causes Teeth Sensitivity and How to Manage It?

December 23, 2024

Tooth sensitivity can be a frustrating and painful experience, often triggered by everyday activities like eating, drinking, or even brushing. For many, the sharp, temporary discomfort can feel like a mystery, leaving them unsure of how to find relief. Understanding the causes and treatment options for tooth sensitivity is the first step toward a pain-free smile. At Severns Dentistry, we provide comprehensive care to address dental concerns, including tooth sensitivity, and our team is here to help you manage this common condition. If you’re seeking expert dental care or need an orthodontist in McMurray, we’re here to ensure your oral health remains a top priority. Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity Tooth sensitivity, also known as dentin hypersensitivity , occurs when the underlying layer of your teeth (dentin) becomes exposed. This can happen for several reasons: 1. Enamel Erosion The enamel is the protective outer layer of your teeth. When it wears down due to aggressive brushing, acidic foods, or teeth grinding, the dentin underneath becomes exposed, leading to sensitivity. 2. Receding Gums Gum recession can expose the roots of your teeth, which lack protective enamel, making them more vulnerable to sensitivity. 3. Tooth Decay and Cavities Damaged or decayed areas of your teeth can create pathways to the nerve endings in the dentin, resulting in sensitivity. 4. Cracked or Chipped Teeth Cracks or chips in a tooth can expose the dentin or even the inner pulp, causing sensitivity and sometimes severe pain. 5. Post-Orthodontic Treatment Sensitivity After orthodontic adjustments or treatments, some patients experience temporary sensitivity as their teeth and jaw adapt to new alignments. 6. Acidic Foods and Beverages Frequent consumption of citrus fruits, soda, and other acidic items can erode enamel and increase sensitivity. 7. Teeth Whitening Products Some over-the-counter whitening treatments can temporarily irritate the teeth, especially if the enamel is already compromised. How to Manage Tooth Sensitivity Managing tooth sensitivity often begins with identifying and addressing the root cause. Here are some tips and treatment options to help alleviate discomfort: 1. Use a Desensitizing Toothpaste Toothpastes specifically formulated for sensitive teeth can block the pathways that lead to nerves, reducing sensitivity over time. Brands like Sensodyne are popular for this purpose. 2. Practice Gentle Brushing Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush and use gentle, circular motions when brushing. Avoid scrubbing too hard, as this can wear down enamel and irritate gums. 3. Limit Acidic Foods and Drinks Reducing your intake of acidic items can help prevent further enamel erosion. Drinking through a straw can minimize contact with your teeth, and rinsing with water afterward can neutralize acids. 4. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene Regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings can help prevent gum disease, cavities, and other issues that contribute to sensitivity. 5. Dental Sealants or Bonding For exposed dentin or worn enamel, your dentist may recommend sealants or bonding materials to protect sensitive areas. 6. Fluoride Treatments Professional fluoride applications can strengthen your enamel and reduce sensitivity. 7. Address Bruxism (Teeth Grinding) If grinding your teeth at night is causing sensitivity, your dentist may recommend a custom mouthguard to protect your enamel. 8. Orthodontic Care For those dealing with misalignment or jaw issues contributing to sensitivity, consulting an orthodontist in McMurray can provide long-term relief and improve overall dental health. When to See a Dentist If your tooth sensitivity persists or worsens despite at-home care, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a dental professional. Severe or ongoing sensitivity can be a sign of a more serious issue, such as: Advanced gum disease Deep decay or infection Significant enamel loss At Severns Dentistry, we offer personalized treatment plans to address sensitivity and improve your oral health. From preventive care to advanced solutions like sealants and orthodontic treatments, our team is equipped to help. How Orthodontics Can Help with Sensitivity Misaligned teeth or bite issues can contribute to uneven wear on enamel, gum recession, and increased sensitivity. Working with an orthodontist in McMurray can correct these issues, reducing sensitivity and preventing further damage. Treatments like braces or aligners can also improve overall oral health by making teeth easier to clean and less prone to decay or gum problems. Preventing Tooth Sensitivity While tooth sensitivity can often be managed, prevention is always the best approach. Here are a few tips to keep your teeth healthy and sensitivity-free: Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Floss regularly to remove plaque and prevent gum disease. Avoid clenching or grinding your teeth. Visit your dentist or orthodontist regularly for cleanings and check-ups. Trust Severns Dentistry for Your Dental Needs If you’re struggling with tooth sensitivity or need orthodontic care, the team at Severns Dentistry is here to help. We offer comprehensive dental services, including expert care from an orthodontist in McMurray, to ensure your smile stays healthy and strong. Schedule an appointment with Severns Dentistry to learn more about managing tooth sensitivity and improving your oral health. Let us help you smile with confidence!