Pain Relievers

Over the counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be taken to reduce the inflammation of your gums and alleviate pain caused by your treatment. You should always make sure to follow the proper dosage instructions for any medication you take.

Cold Compress

A cold compress can be used to numb the area and help reduce pain and swelling. This is particularly helpful within the first 48 hours following an adjustment or following the switch to a new set of aligners.

Saltwater Rinse

A saltwater rinse of 1 teaspoon of salt in roughly 1 cup of warm water can help you deal with the soreness in your gums and minor abrasions caused by your orthodontic devices by reducing inflammation and killing bacteria in the area. Warm Water can also help improve the circulation in your gums which can lead to faster healing of sores and cuts that can be caused by your orthodontic device.

Orthodontic Wax

Wax allows you to protect the inside of your mouth from the irritation caused by your orthodontic treatment. It does this by providing a soft, physical barrier between the soft tissue of your mouth and the harder and sharper parts of your orthodontic devices. This method works by softening the piece of wax then applying it directly to the offending area to create the barrier.

Eating Soft Foods

One of the easiest ways to prevent discomfort caused by your orthodontic devices is to stick to soft, easy to chew foods. Eating these foods instead of chewy or crunchy foods will minimize the pressure you place on your teeth and prevent discomfort. Examples of soft foods include yogurt, soup, scrambled eggs and smoothies.

Avoid Acidic Foods

Foods that are high in acid can irritate any sores or cuts caused by your orthodontic device. Examples of high acid foods include things like most fruit, foods that use vinegar for flavoring and many commercial beverages.

Put in New Aligners before bed 

This tip is specific to Invisalign users, if you are going to be switching to a new aligner you should put them in a few hours before bedtime rather than the next morning. This will help you get past the initial discomfort period as your teeth will start to adjust while you sleep, you also won’t be removing your aligner to eat.

Hopefully we have been able to show you several ways you can manage the pain and discomfort that can be caused by Invisalign Aligners and Traditional Braces. If none of these methods have any effect on your pain and discomfort you should contact your orthodontist immediately.

The Hicks orthodontic practice has been around for over 40 years, with Bryan Hicks taking over for his father. Dr. Hicks works hard to give his patients extraordinary outcomes from their orthodontic treatment. 

If you have any questions about this article or need to talk to someone in the office, give us a call at (604) 922-0111.

Invisalign can treat a wide variety of problems

Invisalign is suitable for treating mild to moderate orthodontic problems in patients of all ages. Patients have reported crowded teeth, overbites, underbites, cross bites, improperly spaced teeth and more being corrected using Invisalign. However, Invisalign treatment plans are customized for each individual patient so you will need to discuss with your orthodontist whether your orthodontic concern is correctable using Invisalign.

There is no wrong time to get Invisalign

Patients of all ages seeking an alternative to traditional braces have found an answer in Invisalign. These patients can be elementary aged children just growing into their adult teeth, high schoolers concerned about the look of their smile or even seniors looking to finally correct some longstanding orthodontic concerns and have the smile they always wanted.

What do patients like about Invisalign?

Many patients have lauded Invisalign for its ease and comfort. They like that they can still eat whatever they want, they like that they don’t have to have regular adjustments made and they like that Invisalign retainers don’t make you feel like you have a mouth full of metal and rubber. Patients, especially teenagers or those in public facing careers, regularly remark on how much they appreciate the aesthetic advantages of Invisalign, that being that they are relatively invisible to the casual observer. They also like how easy it is to find out if Invisalign is right for you, with many patients finding the consultation quicker, easier and more painless than they expected.

What do patients say about their results?

Once patients have completed their Invisalign treatment they are extremely appreciative of how easy the whole process is and how much better their smile looks and feels following the treatment. Many patients also feel that they can track their progress as they change aligners, watching their smile change before their eyes.

We hope we have been able to convey to you how patients feel about Invisalign treatment and hope that their success stories can motivate you to see if Invisalign treatment is right for you.

The Hicks orthodontic practice has been around for over 40 years, with Bryan Hicks taking over for his father. Dr. Hicks works hard to give his patients extraordinary outcomes from their orthodontic treatment.

If you have any questions about this article or need to talk to someone in the office, give us a call at (604) 922-0111.

Wearing Invisalign trays for the long periods of time required by the treatment can make your mouth feel a little strange. At first you will experience minor discomfort and mild tenderness in the area, but that discomfort should go away in less than a week and in the future when you swap out for a new tray the discomfort should only last a day or two before your mouth acclimates to the feeling. The trays will also feel tight at first, as they are forcing your teeth to conform to a specific position, but they will grow looser over time as your teeth settle.

It might also feel strange to speak when you first start using Invisalign trays, with many patients finding that they experience a lisp during the first week of treatment. This can be alleviated by speaking as much as possible to get your mouth used to the trays. The removal and reinsertion of your Invisalign trays also have a bit of a learning curve but with practice it should quickly become second nature. This practice is important as you need to remove your Invisalign trays regularly to eat or drink.

Many patients find that they become more conscious of their eating habits while undergoing Invisalign treatment due to the need to stop and remove their trays before they take a bite, leading to less snacking and sipping throughout the day. You will also need to remove your trays for cleaning, something that should be done at least twice a day. We recommend cleaning your trays when you brush and floss your teeth in the morning and in the evening as combining the two activities can make the new addition to your routine easier to remember.

We hope that we have been able to provide you with a good understanding of what you may encounter when undergoing Invisalign treatment. If you are interested in Invisalign or other orthodontic services, please feel free to contact our office.

The Hicks orthodontic practice has been around for over 40 years, with Bryan Hicks taking over for his father. Dr. Hicks works hard to give his patients extraordinary outcomes from their orthodontic treatment.

If you have any questions about this article or need to talk to someone in the office, give us a call at (604) 922-0111.

Invisalign is a popular alternative to braces that uses a series of clear retainers to gradually straighten your teeth over the course of your treatment. The treatment is usually quicker than traditional braces and can often be completed in less than 6 months. Invisalign retainers are also more comfortable than traditional braces as they are uniquely molded to fit your teeth. Your doctor will take a 3d scan of your teeth and use it to create a customized treatment plan that fits your needs. The retainers apply the right amount of force to your teeth in the right place and at the right time to straighten your teeth.

Each retainer is used for a set period before being exchanged for another retainer in the set. The retainers themselves are made of clear plastic and are virtually invisible when worn, hence the name Invisalign. Unlike traditional braces Invisalign retainers do not come with any dietary restrictions, you can eat and drink what you want during the treatment period because you can remove them while eating. The retainers are worn at all times during the treatment period and are only removed for eating, drinking and cleaning.

We hope that today’s blog has provided a clear picture of what Invisalign is and how it works, and we hope you will contact Dr. Hicks to discuss if Invisalign treatment is right for you.

The Hicks orthodontic practice has been around for over 40 years, with Bryan Hicks taking over for his father. Dr. Hicks works hard to give his patients extraordinary outcomes from their orthodontic treatment.

If you have any questions about this article or need to talk to someone in the office, give us a call at (604) 922-0111.

Is Invisalign Comfortable?

Most patients report that Invisalign does not cause any discomfort. These aligners are composed of a flexible thermoplastic material called SmartTrack®, which reduces discomfort significantly. Plus, there are no metal brackets that may cause cheek irritations.

You might experience a little discomfort or pressure initially, which is pretty standard with any orthodontic treatment. However, most people find this sensation fades away after a few days of adjusting to their new aligners.

Can You Eat and Drink with Invisalign?

Absolutely! That’s one of the perks of rocking Invisalign. There are no restrictions on your diet. Invisalign can easily be removed when you eat or drink any beverage other than water. Just remember to brush before you pop them back in.

Is Invisalign the Right Fit for Everyone?

Invisalign is not always suitable, as there are complex orthodontic cases that might require traditional braces. Things like severe crowding, intricate malocclusions, or an extreme shift in tooth alignment might still need a heavy-duty approach.

Whether Invisalign aligners are a good fit for you will depend on your unique orthodontic needs and situation. So, drop by to see an Orthodontic Specialist like Dr. Bryan Hicks to get a personalized consultation.

At Dr. Bryan Hicks Orthodontics, we understand that you might have a lot of questions and concerns regarding Invisalign. We’re committed to simplifying this journey for you. Contact us today to get started.

The Hicks orthodontic practice has been around for over 40 years, with Bryan Hicks taking over for his father. Dr. Hicks works hard to give his patients extraordinary outcomes from their orthodontic treatment.

If you have any questions about this article or need to talk to someone in the office, give us a call at (604) 922-0111.

Tip #1: Wear Your Aligners as Directed

The flexibility to take off your aligners is one of Invisalign’s benefits. Additionally, unlike conventional braces, Invisalign doesn’t impede your ability to eat and is easily removed when flossing or brushing.

However, just because they can be easily removed, it does not mean they should spend much time out of your mouth. It’s crucial to wear your Invisalign trays as directed by your orthodontist, usually for 20-22 hours each day. Make it a habit to wear your aligners except when eating or performing oral cleaning. This way, you ensure that your teeth continually shift into their desired positions.

Tip #2: Clean and Care for Your Aligners Properly

Maintaining good dental hygiene and undergoing treatment depend on keeping your aligners clean. Every time you take them out of your mouth, gently rinse them under lukewarm water to avoid discoloration and warping. Avoid using hot water since it could harm or deform the plastic.

Plaque or buildup that forms while wearing your aligners can be removed with mild toothpaste. To get a deeper clean, you should occasionally soak Invisalign in a cleanser.

Tip #3: Attend Regular Check-Ups with Dr. B Hicks

Throughout your Invisalign treatment, routine checkups are essential for tracking your progress and making any required adjustments to your plan. Therefore, attending all follow-up appointments arranged by Dr. B. Hicks is crucial. During these appointments, our team can assess your development, make any necessary adjustments, and ensure your treatment is on schedule.

Contact Dr. B. Hicks today if you’re ready to experience the transformational power of Invisalign.

The Hicks orthodontic practice has been around for over 40 years, with Bryan Hicks taking over for his father. Dr. Hicks works hard to give his patients extraordinary outcomes from their orthodontic treatment.

If you have any questions about this article or need to talk to someone in the office, give us a call at (604) 922-0111.

The biggest problem with crowded teeth is that it does not correct itself. To fix the condition, orthodontic equipment is required. The most common forms of treatment include braces or Invisalign.

Invisalign can fix crowding by gradually shifting the position of teeth through constant pressure. Because of this, Invisalign trays must be worn for the entire day except when eating or cleaning them or brushing your teeth. Those who follow their Invisalign plan closely can achieve straight teeth in as little as one year.

What Causes Crowded Teeth?

Crowding can also be caused by a lack of space in the mouth, jaw abnormalities, or unusually large teeth. When there is not enough room for teeth to grow straight, they tend to bunch up or overlap with one another.

Why Choose Invisalign?

If you want to correct teeth crowding, Invisalign is often the top choice. Invisalign is a form of a clear aligner that works by slowly moving the teeth so that they gradually shift out of their misaligned position. Invisalign trays are impossible to detect and can be quickly removed when eating, drinking, brushing, or flossing.

Unlike braces, Invisalign trays are continuously replaced to meet the changing shape of your mouth. The aligners are made from a polymer material with some flexibility which moves teeth and stabilizes them in a healthy position.

Invisalign is a great choice because of its proven effectiveness in correcting crowded teeth. If you are dealing with crowded teeth or want to learn more about Invisalign, contact Dr. B Hicks Orthodontist today. We are happy to answer any questions.

The Hicks orthodontic practice has been around for over 40 years, with Bryan Hicks taking over for his father. Dr. Hicks works hard to give his patients extraordinary outcomes from their orthodontic treatment.

If you have any questions about this article or need to talk to someone in the office, give us a call at (604) 922-0111.

When Should I Remove My Invisalign?

Invisalign appliances can be removed at any time, but regularly removing your aligner will allow more room for your teeth to move, which will delay the correction process. Therefore, Invisalign should be worn throughout the day unless you are eating or cleaning your teeth.

Is Invisalign as Effective as Braces?

Invisalign is a very effective form of dental correction. The trays are hard to detect and are very easy to remove. For most patients, Invisalign is worn for a shorter time when compared to traditional braces.

However, Invisalign may not be effective for all dental issues. It is important to consult with a professional orthodontist before settling on a particular device.

Visit Dr. B Hicks Orthodontist for a Professional Assessment

At Dr. B Hicks Orthodontist, we use a variety of assessments and equipment to accurately diagnose dental issues. Our team uses braces, Invisalign, and retainers to effectively correct alignment problems.

We want to help you patients feel comfortable, secure, and confident when choosing a form of orthodontics. Our doctors and assistants will answer any questions and provide different treatment options for all patients.

If you have questions about Invisalign or would like to book an appointment, contact us today.

The Hicks orthodontic practice has been around for over 40 years, with Bryan Hicks taking over for his father. Dr. Hicks works hard to give his patients extraordinary outcomes from their orthodontic treatment.

If you have any questions about this article or need to talk to someone in the office, give us a call at (604) 922-0111.

What is Invisalign and How Does it Work?

Invisalign is a brand of dental appliances used primarily to straighten teeth. Instead of wearing the same pair of braces for months, Invisalign works with a series of clear plastic trays that are worn for weeks. All trays are made by 3D Computer Generated Imaging Systems and designed uniquely for each patient’s mouth.

When wearing an Invisalign tray, invisible wires and tiny plastic supports bands move teeth into the desired position. The trays need to be updated and worn consistently. Each Invisalign tray is worn for a few weeks before it is replaced.

For most treatment plans, there are up to 20 trays used in total. Each Invisalign tray is shaped slightly differently, and diligent usage will gradually straighten teeth alignment.

How is Invisalign Different from Other Braces?

Invisalign allows patients to straighten their teeth with removable aligners, which minimize discomfort and cleaning issues associated with traditional metal braces. Traditional braces cannot be removed easily, making flossing, and brushing challenging. Additionally, the clear aligners are much more comfortable to wear than traditional braces.

How Will I Know How Often I Should Wear My Invisalign?

Ideally, a patient should wear their Invisalign all day. They will not hinder the ability to talk, smile, or drink while wearing them. They can be removed before eating or drinking but should be placed back on afterward.

A licensed orthodontist will determine how often you should wear the aligners based on the alignment of your teeth. You may need to wear them once or twice a week, every day, or every other day.

If you are interested in Invisalign, contact Dr. B Hicks Orthodontist for an expert assessment.

The Hicks orthodontic practice has been around for over 40 years, with Bryan Hicks taking over for his father. Dr. Hicks works hard to give his patients extraordinary outcomes from their orthodontic treatment. O

If you have any questions about this article or need to talk to someone in the office, give us a call at (604) 922-0111.

There are a few concerns regarding Invisalign for teenagers and children. One of the most notable is how long Invisalign Aligners need to be kept in. The required amount of time for treatment is wearing the aligners for 20-22 hours a day, removing them when you eat and then brushing your teeth afterwards before replacing the aligner. This diligence is essential for the treatment and may be too difficult for some teenagers, especially younger teenagers, to keep up with.

One other issue is that for any orthodontic appliance that is removable, there is always the risk of “losing” it. So, parents have to assess if the child understands the importance of knowing where their appliances are at all times.

Thankfully, the aligners for teens come equipped with special blue compliance indicators that show whether the aligners are being worn for the proper amount of time. Invisalign Aligners are also designed for comfort and do not have any metal or hard rubber that may make them unpleasant to wear for long periods of time. Regardless, it is important for parents to determine whether their child is responsible enough to manage the aligners and how much help will be required to get the most out of the treatment.

Officially, Invisalign Aligners can be used by patients as young as six to correct emerging orthodontic concerns and generally, if a child or teenager would be considered old enough for braces, they should also be old enough for Invisalign. However, it is important to note that not every orthodontic ailment can be treated with Invisalign and it is important to speak to your Orthodontist to ensure that you are receiving the right treatment for you.

The Hicks orthodontic practice has been around for over 40 years, with Bryan Hicks taking over for his father. Dr. Hicks works hard to give his patients extraordinary outcomes from their orthodontic treatment.

If you have any questions about this article or need to talk to someone in the office, give us a call at (604) 922-0111.