Category: Lyons Orthodontics

The Difference Between an Orthodontist and Dentist

The Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist

You’re probably wondering if there’s a difference between an orthodontist and dentist? The short answer is, yes, there is a difference! A dentist and an orthodontist provide different dental treatments. They also have different qualifications as well. While you might already know what a dentist is, you may not know what an orthodontist is. In this article, our Lyons Orthodontics team explains the difference between an orthodontist and dentist.

What is an Orthodontist?

Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that is based on the development of the jaw, face, and teeth to reach its full potential and fulfill its purpose. The use of clear or removable aligners and fixed braces are common to help your face reach its aesthetics.

An orthodontist is a highly qualified specialist who has fist taken training to become a dentist and then has undertaken an additional three-year postgraduate course at Masters or Doctorate level. Orthodontic training posts are usually looked for both before and after a dentist starts his/her training to become an orthodontist as the job requires experience in pediatric dentistry, maxillofacial surgery, and restorative dentistry.

In most cases, specialist training takes place in hospitals associated with university dental schools. Trainees learn the theory of orthodontics and also gain all the experience they need by treating patients under the supervision of more experienced orthodontists.

In general, dentists can provide you with orthodontic treatment, and some dentists perform with a very high standard. Some of the orthodontic treatment includes Invisalign or traditional braces. In majority cases, they would not have the same level of experience and training as compared to a specialist orthodontist.

After having completed training, the orthodontist will stick to orthodontic treatments. They quickly develop the skills and gain the experience by treating different types of cases from highly complex cases to even mild cases. Some of these dental problems may include overbites, underbites, crowded teeth, crossbite, and more.

Should I visit a Dentist or an Orthodontist?

It’s recommended that you visit an orthodontist if you need orthodontic treatment. That way, you can achieve your smile goals and avoid any problems that may occur. Dr. Leeson, a cosmetic dentist in St. Petersburg, FL, adds that orthodontic treatment should always be done by a professional. Otherwise, you may pay the consequences.

If you’re interested in improving your smile, we highly recommend visiting Lyons Orthodontics in El Dorado Hills for a no-obligation, free consultation. Dr. Tim Lyons and his team will take good care of your smile!

New Year Means New Smile

new year means new smile January is an ideal opportunity to set your resolutions and make goals for the year. Many of us tend to focus on resolutions that involve improving their waistline or quitting bad habits, like smoking. However, there are a number of other areas involving your health that you can work on improving, including your dental health. Take the brand new year is your chance to get the healthiest smile that you deserve. Whether you’re in need of bridges, implants, or an orthodontic treatment like braces, this year is your year, and we couldn’t be more excited for you.

Establishing and Improving Home Dental Hygiene

If you’re honest with yourself, how often do you brush and floss your teeth? You should be brushing your teeth at least twice each day, and you should be flossing once a day. When we eat, bacteria and food debris can build up and go between our teeth, which can create an environment perfect for cavities.

Switch out your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. Be sure to use a toothpaste that contains fluoride. Use mouthwash that will rinse and clean your mouth after brushing and flossing.

Straight Smiles Are Smiles You’re Proud to Show Off

Are you dissatisfied with the way that your teeth look? Misaligned teeth can lead us to feel self-conscious about our smile. Meet with your Fair Oaks orthodontist for a free, no-obligation consultation. Find out if Invisalign or traditional braces are the best fit for you.

Whether you’re looking for braces for teens or braces for adults, you’ll find that a brand new year is the best time to get on the calendar at your orthodontist’s office. So, if you’re interested in starting your orthodontic treatment, contact Lyons Orthodontics in El Dorado Hills or Fair Oaks today!

Dental Health Can Equate to Confidence Boosts

Whether you’re taking care of cavities or gaps in your smile, you’ll find that taking charge of your dental health can lead to a boost in your confidence. This is definitely the case when you get orthodontic treatment for teeth that are crooked or otherwise misaligned. Straightened teeth are teeth that you’ll be proud to show off at every opportunity. Many of our Lyons patients feel much more confident after getting their braces off! Check out some of our patient’s reviews to hear about their Just Smile journey.

Options in Braces

If you do need orthodontic treatment, you may be feeling a little nervous. That’s totally normal! Many teens and adults don’t want a mouth full of metal braces for months on end. What you may not know is that during your visit to the orthodontist, Sacramento patients will be presented with a number of treatment options for braces. This could include the Invisalign clear aligners, which is a way to discretely correct your smile without the need for the traditional wires and brackets.

When it comes to Invisalign El Dorado Hills, patients will find that these clear aligners can get them the results they want in much less time than traditional braces.

The start of a new year is your chance to do something to help you and your health. Use January as your opportunity to make those appointments with your dentist and your orthodontist so that you can take control of your dental health. Call Lyons Orthodontics to get on the schedule. Your new smile could just be an appointment away!

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How Long Should I wear My Retainer?

how long should I wear my retainer - Lyons Orthodontics You’ve finally got your braces off! Congratulations! We’re so happy for you and so grateful to have been part of your Just Smile journey. You’re sure to enjoy your new straightened smile, and of course, enjoy some of those foods that you had to avoid. Now that you’re finally free of braces, you’ll need to take good care of your teeth. An important part of your oral care regimen will be wearing your retainer! So, you’re probably wondering how long should I wear my retainer?

Why Wear a Retainer?

This is a question that doesn’t always have one general answer. We know that each patient is special and comes with their own unique challenges. Our teeth are constantly moving and constantly able to be moved and manipulated inside of our mouths. So, this is why it is also why teeth will continue to need support after braces have been removed. Retainers will help keep your teeth in their new positions and help to maintain all of the hard work that was accomplished during your orthodontic treatment.

Types of Retainers

Generally speaking, there are two types of retainers you can get at Lyons Orthodontics – removable retainers and bonded retainers. Removable retainers can be removed for when you need to eat and when they need to be cleaned. Bonded retainers are bonded to your teeth and are not able to be removed. After you’ve had your braces removed, your retainer can provide further support and stabilization for your teeth and bones, to ensure that your bite and newly aligned teeth don’t change once the braces are off. Dr. Brian Leeson, a cosmetic dentist in St. Petersburg, FL, recommends getting a permanent retainer on the lower teeth to ensure that your smile stays straight.

How Long Should I Wear My Retainer?

Maintaining your new beautiful smile is easy with the help of retainers! The majority of orthodontists will recommend that removable retainers are worn for a minimum of 12 months once the braces come off. Dr. Tim Lyons says urgers the importance of wearing your retainer. Especially after having invested a lot of time and money in your braces.

Sometimes, patients, whether they’ve just had braces on top teeth or have had top braces and lower braces, will need to wear their retainer full time for the first six months after treatment. At the 6-month point, they can switch to wearing the retainer just at night to help maintain that beautiful and straight smile.

We understand that wearing a retainer after you’ve had your braces on for so long can be frustrating. The precise duration of wear will be mostly dependent on the type of orthodontic correction and treatment that you have undergone. In the end, wearing your retainer is worth it because you get to keep your beautiful smile in place.

Do you have questions about braces or retainers? Let our Lyons Orthodontics team know. We are here to help you and your family in any way we can. Please contact us at our Fair Oaks or El Dorado Hills office.

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What To Expect When You Get Braces

What to expect when getting braces - Lyons Orthodontics It’s okay to feel a little overwhelmed when you’re thinking about getting braces for your teens or yourself. You may have many questions, some concerns, and you may even be worried about whether they are going to hurt or not. There are some things you’ll need to consider before you start your orthodontic treatment with Lyons Orthodontics.

The Initial Process Before Getting Your Braces

The process for braces varies from patient to patient. It also depends on what type of braces you’re looking for. At Lyons Orthodontics, we offer traditional metal braces and Invisalign clear aligners. During your FREE no-obligation consultation, a Lyons Orthodontics orthodontist or team member will have taken 3D x-rays and other images to formulate your treatment plan. Dr. Tim Lyons will go over each step of your treatment plan and answer all your questions and concerns.

Starting Your Orthodontic Treatment

For traditional metal braces, the first step typically is to place bands around your back molars. There may be some pressure at first, but you will not feel any pain. The next step will be to apply an adhesive to your teeth so that the braces brackets can be set in place. Each of the brackets is connected with wires and then secured with elastic bands.

According to our friends at Dental One Care, a dental office in Sterling Heights, MI patients won’t feel any pain during placement. The entire process can take between one and two hours. The entire Lyons Orthodontics team is committed to making your Just Smile journey fun and exciting. We want you to achieve the best results possible!

Discomfort After Placement

You may start to feel a bit of soreness in your teeth and gums after the braces have been placed. The feeling should not be unbearable, but your orthodontist will give you a list of things that you can do to soothe your mouth.

The discomfort should typically last for about a week, during which time you’ll be adjusting to the feel of having braces in your mouth. Once the discomfort passes, you should feel just a little pressure. There’s nothing to worry about! The wires and the rubber bands place pressure upon your teeth to gradually move them. Some of the other discomforts you may feel during the first week or so include:

Soreness and pressure in teeth and gums
Soreness or small sores on the inside of lips and cheeks
Inflammation in the gums
Soreness or small cuts on your tongue, typically from running your tongue across braces

This type of discomfort can most often be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Your Folsom orthodontist will be able to offer further advice if they aren’t helping to take the edge off of your pain. Your comfort and happiness are always our top priority. Just remember that a little discomfort means that the treatment is working! Your teeth are transforming into the beautiful and confident smile you’ve always wanted.

Foods to Avoid with Braces

There are certain foods that should be avoided when you have braces. During those first few days and weeks after placement, some specific things can help to bring a bit of soothing comfort to your mouth. These comforting and braces safe foods include the following:

Soup
Mashed potatoes
Macaroni and cheese, or other pasta dishes
Yogurt and frozen yogurts
Cool drinks
Smoothies
Oatmeal
Soft fruits that include berries and bananas

Foods to Enjoy with Braces

Some of the food items that you should exclude from your diet going forward include the following.

Popcorn
Pretzels
Hard or chewy candies
Gum
Fudge, caramels, and toffees

Steering clear from these will help to protect your braces from any damage. Remember we want you to have the best smile experience! Don’t delay the process by breaking your brackets.

The majority of orthodontic patients get used to their braces within a few weeks. There may be some further discomfort periodically when you get your braces adjusted or tightened.

Are you ready to have a beautiful and confident smile? Whether you’re looking for traditional braces or Invisalign in El Dorado Hills, you can find the best treatment and solutions offered at Lyons Orthodontics. Contact us today to start your Just Smile journey!

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6 Stages to Invisalign Treatment

6 stages to invisalign treatment Are you ready to look into your options for braces on teeth that are misaligned? Invisalign is an awesome choice for those who are looking to straighten their teeth but would prefer not using traditional braces.

There are some key benefits to the Invisalign system, with the primary benefit being that the treatment is practically invisible! The aligner trays are also removable, which means that patients can enjoy eating many foods that they want compared to traditional braces. The trays also allow patients to brush and floss their teeth without any issue. Many of our patients at Lyons Orthodontics are happy they chose Invisalign for their Just Smile treatment.

Invisalign is known to be a simple cosmetic treatment. In this article, we’ll discuss the 6 stages to Invisalign treatment. If you’re curious about Invisalign in El Dorado Hills, contact one of our offices! We’ll be happy to see you or your family for a FREE no-obligation consultation.

Stage 1 – The Consultation

Whether you’re looking for braces for teens or orthodontic treatment for adults, you’ll have the same experience during your consultation. During the consultation, our orthodontist will evaluate your smile to determine whether the Invisalign treatment is right for you. Invisalign can address a versatile number of concerns, but unfortunately, it does not work for everyone.

It’s important that you meet with our Lyons team when you’re considering top braces or any orthodontic treatment. While many dentists are providers for the Invisalign system, they may not have the training that is needed to ensure the best in outcomes.

Stage 2 – The Treatment Plan

Once you and your El Dorado Hills orthodontist have made the design to proceed with the Invisalign treatment, impressions and images will be made of your teeth and your mouth. This data is sent to Invisalign so that the aligner trays can be made as per the specifications provided by your orthodontist.

Stage 3 – Waiting for the Aligners

Once the plans for the aligners have been confirmed, it will take up to a month for them to be made and delivered.

Stage 4 – Wearing the Aligners

Once the aligners are ready, you’ll come into the office to pick up your first set. Each of the aligner trays is different and is designed to be worn in a specific order. Each of the aligner trays should be worn for two weeks at a time. You’ll need to visit our office to switch out your aligners. During that time, we can also see how your new smile is progressing. As the treatment progresses, each of the aligner trays will move your teeth into the newly aligned position, ultimately creating your new and improved smile! Aligner trays can be taken out to eat, drink and clean your teeth, but should otherwise be worn at all times during treatment. If you don’t wear them as they are meant to be worn, your teeth won’t progress in accordance with the plan established by your orthodontist.

Stage 5 – Refining your Smile

Once the very last aligner tray has been worn for its two weeks, you might find yourself done with treatment. You’ll want to visit Lyons Orthodontics to make sure that your treatment is all done! There may be some further adjustments that need to be made. But don’t worry, the end result is worth the wait. Your orthodontist will examine your teeth and may order additional refinement trays so that you can continue with your treatment. It can take up to another month for refinement trays to arrive, and there are typically no additional costs for refinement trays.

Stage 6 – Maintaining your New Smile

Once treatment is completed, you will need to wear a retainer at night. This is so your jawbones have ample time to adjust to the new placement of your teeth. It’s important to wear a retainer immediately after treatment, but it’s recommended that you continue to wear a retainer a few times a week for the rest of your life. This is because the teeth in your mouth are constantly moving and shifting about.

Are you ready to learn more about the Invisalign aligner tray system? Call Lyons Orthodontics to find out whether they are the right option to help you to meet your orthodontic goals.

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National Orthodontic Month

National Orthodontic Month - Lyons Orthodontics Did you know that more than 1.2 million American adults currently have braces? It just shows how important our smiles are to us! There’s even a whole month dedicated to celebrating orthodontic dentistry! At Lyons Orthodontics, we are celebrating National Orthodontic month by spreading awareness about orthodontics!

What Is Orthodontic Treatment?

Dr. Tim Lyons, a Folsom orthodontist, explains that in simple terms, orthodontic treatment is aimed at creating the perfect alignment between your teeth and jaw. There are a variety of ways to achieve your perfect smile. These orthodontic treatments include braces, retainers, Invisalign clear aligners, and many others.

At Lyons Orthodontics, we specialize in creating perfect smiles for our patients. We genuinely care about each smile and the person behind it. The goal is always to give you the smile of your dreams! That’s why we offer a FREE no-obligation, smile consultation. Just contact us at our El Dorado Hills or Fair Oaks location, and we’ll get you started on your Just Smile journey!

The Importance of Orthodontic Treatment

A Healthy Bite. Dr. Tim Lyons points out that a healthy bite is a happy bite. When your jaw isn’t properly positioned, you are at risk of having problems while chewing or speaking, and you could even develop sleep apnea over time. We don’t want that! Invisalign aligners or braces are the perfect solutions to obtaining a healthy bite.

Proper Teeth Alignment. We asked our friend, Dr. Kristina Neda, a dentist in Georgetown, KY, about the importance of proper teeth alignment. Dr. Neda says that when your teeth line up correctly, they work seamlessly, and you will not have any problem as you eat, speak, or smile! Plus, you get that gorgeous smile you’ve always dreamt of.

An Aesthetically Pleasing Smile. At Lyons Orthodontics, we take smile transformations seriously. We’ll be here every step of the way, making sure that you are on track for the perfect smile. If you’re on the fence about starting your Just Smile journey, see one of our orthodontists in El Dorado Hills or Fair Oaks.

What You Can Do This National Orthodontic Health Month

Since this is a National Orthodontic Health Month, you may be wondering what you can do to join in on the fun! Our Lyons Orthodontics team wants you to grab a friend or family member and try the following:

First things first, visit Lyons Orthodontics for you or your child’s first orthodontic assessment. This visit will allow Dr. Tim Lyons to identify any developing issues and make an action plan. Plus, you’ll get to see how awesome our orthodontic offices and team members are!
Ask your local orthodontist some questions about starting orthodontic treatment. There are some misconceptions about orthodontic treatments, so if you’re unsure, just ask! Our Lyons team is happy to help you with anything you or your child needs.
Lastly, ake ortho-friendly plans for Halloween! Stock up on pure yummy chocolate instead of hard and chewy candies. Educate your family members about the best and worst Halloween candy for your teeth.

We look forward to meeting you and your family this October at our El Dorado Hills and Fair Oaks Lyons Orthodontics offices! We’re so excited to help you start your Just Smile Journey.

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Everything About Mouthguards

Everything about moutguards - Lyons Orthodontics Close your eyes for a moment and picture how your life would be if you lost your front teeth. Suddenly, it would become difficult for you to eat, talk, or even smile. If you’re playing contact sports without a mouthguard, this could happen to you! We know how important your smile means to you, which is why we offer free custom-made mouthguards to local athletes!

Mouthguards are a standard safety precaution that will protect any blow to the face. This protection minimizes the injuries that you would have suffered to your lips, face, tongue, or jaw.

Usually, the upper teeth are exposed to most of the trauma, which is why mouthguards are made to cover the upper teeth.

We’ll make you a custom fit mouthguard right away!

When Should I Wear a Mouthguard?

Your comfort and safety is our number one priority, in and outside our dental offices. Sports and recreational activities can be all fun and games until someone gets hurt! It’s always best to be more safe than sorry. If your child is an athlete, make sure they use a mouthguard during their sports or recreational activities. If you don’t have one, stop by our dental office in El Dorado Hills or Fair Oaks

Kids aren’t the only ones who should be wearing a mouthguard. Anyone who engages in contact sports or any other vigorous recreational activity is at risk of facial and mouth injuries, and that is why our offer of free custom-fit mouthguards extends to every local athlete.

Gymnasts, skaters, and people in other non-contact sports also face a risk of trauma to the face and mouth. So, stop by our dental office today!

Types of Mouthguards

There are many types of mouthguards out there! Here are the different options:

Custom-made Mouthguards

These are specially made for YOU! At Lyons Orthodontics, we know how important it is to protect your smile. We make sure your custom mouthguards Fit your unique smile. To make sure your custom mouthguard is custom, we’ll need to take dental impressions of your teeth. Once that’s done, you’ll be on your way with your mouthguard! Due to the high-quality materials used to make these mouthguards, they tend to be the most expensive option. Don’t forget, local athletes, get FREE custom mouthguards at our El Dorado Hills and Fair Oaks offices.

Boil and Bite Mouthguards.

The next best option if you are unable to get custom-fit mouthguards at your dentist is the boil-and-bite mouthguard. This type of mouthguard is available at your local drugstores and sports goods shops. When you buy this mouthguard, you will need to boil it in water and then put the softened mouthguard in your mouth so that it can adapt to the unique shape of your oral structures. Boil-and-bite mouthguards come with manufacturer’s instructions, so follow those instructions to get the best possible protection from these devices.

Stock Mouthguards

This type of mouthguard is inexpensive, and it comes ready to use. You just put the mouth guard over your teeth and hope that it fits and does its work. However, orthodontists in El Dorado Hills, CA, explain that stock mouthguards come with a number of shortcomings. They usually provide the least amount of protection to your teeth since the mouthguard doesn’t fit well. Stock mouthguards can also make it hard for you to talk or breathe because they tend to be bulky.

Mouthguards and Braces

You’ve got to protect your smile, especially if you wear braces! Why are mouthguards important for people with braces? The mouthguard acts as a barrier between the brackets, wires, and mouth. In this way, injuries to the cheeks and gums can be avoided.

As already mentioned, mouthguards usually protect the upper teeth, but people with braces or fixed dental bridges on the lower teeth also need this protection. Contact Lyons Orthodontics at the El Dorado Hills or Fair Oaks office so that we can make for you a custom-fit mouthguard for the upper and lower teeth!

Taking Care of Your Mouthguard

Our courteous staff and orthodontists at Lyons Orthodontics are always available to check your mouthguard and let you know if it is due for replacement. However, if you notice that your mouthguard has any sign of wear, no longer fits or is otherwise damaged, have it replaced immediately because it will no longer be giving you the protection that you need.

Orthodontists in El Dorado Hills, CA, also say that kids and teens are still in the growing phase, so it is necessary to change the mouthguards more frequently to accommodate the changes in your smile.

Keep the following care tips in mind if you use a mouthguard:

Rinse and brush the mouthguard. Rinse your mouthguard in clean water and then put some toothpaste on a toothbrush and brush the mouthguard thoroughly. This should be done before and after the mouthguard has been used.
Have the mouthguard evaluated by your El Dorado Hills dentist during your dental checkup and professional teeth cleaning.
Get a sturdy container where you can keep or transport your mouthguard.
Refrain from leaving your mouthguard in hot water or under direct sunlight since your mouthguard could become distorted and will no longer fit.
Keep your mouthguard out of reach in case your pets think it’s a chew toy.
Check your mouthguard for damage and fit. Change it if it fails this inspection.

Still have questions about mouthguards? Give us a call or visit us at Lyons Orthodontics in Fair Oaks and El Dorado Hills, CA. Our experienced professionals will respond to all your queries and make you a custom-fit mouthguard if you are a local athlete.

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Is Invisalign Treatment Painful?

Is Invisalign Treatment Painful - Lyons Orthodontics One of the most frequent questions that patients ask us about Invisalign at Lyons Orthodontics is whether Inisalign treatment is painful. This question is usually asked by parents who are haunted by the pain they experienced back in the day when they wore metal braces. We understand that no parent wants their child to experience pain. Rest assured, you will not feel as much pain as the traditional braces used to cause, just a small amount of discomfort here and there.

Sources of Mild Discomfort With Invisalign

Since Invisalign trays are designed to move teeth from their current positions to the more desirable positions, it is normal to feel some discomfort during the initial stages of this movement.

For some people, a minimal amount of discomfort is felt as a result of the aligners rubbing against their teeth. This soreness normally subsides as one gets used to having these Invisalign aligners in the mouth.

How to Alleviate Invisalign Pain and Discomfort

The professionals at Lyons Orthodontics in El Dorado Hills, CA explain that Invisalign aligners were designed to address the shortcomings of metal braces. For this reason, there are many steps that can be taken by your El Dorado Hills orthodontists to alleviate any pain that you may feel during their orthodontic treatment. These helpful measures include the following:

1. Smoothening the Edges

Some Invisalign pain can be due to sharp or rough portions existing on the edges of the aligners. If you bring such an anomaly to the attention of the experts at Lyons Orthodontics, the edges will be smoothed and the problem will be no more.

2. Painkillers to Relieve Invisalign Discomfort

Sometimes, your orthodontist may recommend painkillers to help eliminate the pain you feel during the first days when you wear a new set of aligners. Most people feel that the discomfort is managable and opt out of taking painkillers.

3. A Cold Compress

Using a cold compress is a remedy that patients can safely make use of at home when their Invisalign aligners are causing discomfort. This cold compress should not be left in place for more than 10-15 minutes. Use the cold compress as many times throughout the day as you can so that the pain can be kept at bay.

4. Adjust the Switchover Timing

Another tip that our Lyons Orthodontics team suggests, is that patients are deliberate about when they change out their clear aligner trays. We have found that the Invisalign discomfort some people complain about is at its worst during the first 24 hours. This is due to the exerting pressure on your teeth when the new tray is exerting pressure on the teeth to move. For that reason, they recommend that you switch your new trays just before you go to bed. In this way, the tray will adjust your teeth while you sleep and there will be minimal discomfort when you wake up.

5. Adjust Your Food Choices

When you have just switched to a different set of aligners, try to avoid crunchy, crispy and chewy foods. Instead, opt for softer foods that will not put an added strain on your teeth as you chew. This change will minimize the discomfort that you feel during your orthodontic treatment with Invisalign aligners.

Contact Lyons Orthodontics if you feel pain while wearing Invisalign aligners. Our experienced professionals will assess your condition and recommend the best remedy so that the discomfort or pain that you feel doesn’t stand in the way of attaining the objectives of the orthodontic treatment that you are undergoing.

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A Parent’s Guide to Invisalign for Kids

guide to Invisalign for kids - lyons orthodontics If you are a parent who is considering Invisalign as a way to straighten your child’s teeth, then keep reading to find all the answers to your questions!

How Soon Can Invisalign Be Started for Kids?

In the past, kids needed to lose all their baby teeth before they could start any orthodontic treatment. While that traditional way of straightening teeth is still available, advances in dental technology have made it possible for Lyons Orthodontics to treat kids at a younger age!

Dr. Tim Lyons explains that the new way to treat kids involves using Invisalign aligners which are specifically designed to address the needs of kids. The primary objective of these devices is to enlarge the arch of kids’ mouths. This means that an orthodontist in El Dorado Hills can start treating your child as young as seven years old.

Will the Child’s Snack and Meal Options Have to Change?

The experts at Lyons Orthodontics are very much aware of the difficulty of providing braces-friendly snacks and meals to children with braces.

However, you do not need to worry about providing different snacks for your child using Invisalign aligners! Your child can still eat everything that they used to eat because the Invisalign aligners can be removed at mealtimes and then put back after the meal.

Will I Have to Buy Special Dental Care Products?

When you get your child started on Invisalign Teen, they will continue to brush and floss as they did before the orthodontic treatment. Therefore, once your child leaves Lyons Orthodontics with a set of aligners, you will not have to buy anything else to maintain the child’s dental hygiene!

The Invisalign kit has everything you will need for your child’s treatment because the orthodontic devices are designed to be complete systems, unlike the traditional metal braces that require you to buy an angled toothbrush and special flossing thread.

How Does the Cost of Invisalign Compare With the Cost of Metal Braces?

When Invisalign was first brought to the market, the device was more costly compared to traditional metal braces. However, as dental technology has advanced, the cost of these clear aligners have reduced.

Additionally, our Fair Oaks orthodontist accepts all major dental care PPOs! Many of these cover a portion of the Invisalign cost. You can also talk to Dr. Tim Lyons about available payment plans if you are partially insured or not insured at all.

How Can My Kid Maintain the Aligners?

We asked our friend, Dr. Christopher Green, a dentist in Parker, Colorado, about maintaining Invisalign aligners. Dr. Green recommends that you teach your child how to brush and rinse the aligners in lukewarm water each day in order to keep them clean. He says it is also helpful to ask the child to refrain from chewing gum with the aligners on because this could damage them. Remember to ask your dentist about a case for the aligners. This will provide a safe container for the aligners, and your child will be less likely to misplace or lose them.

What Can Be Done If My Child Lost Their Aligner Set?

If your child were to lose his or her Invisalign aligner set, contact Lyons Orthodontics immediately. The orthodontist will assess your child and either issue a replacement set of aligners, or even switch to the next set if your child was close to the date when the switch was due to be made.

For the best treatment outcomes, Dr. Tim Lyons advises that your child keep the Invisalign aligners on for at least 20 hours each day. You can even monitor how well your child is adhering to this requirement by checking the blue indicators on the aligners. These fade as they react with saliva, so a set of aligners which is worn for fewer hours will not exhibit a significant change in the color on the indicator. Visit Dr. Tim Lyons, a Folsom orthodontist, for more information about how Invisalign Teen can be useful for your child!

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How to Eat With Braces

eating with braces - lyons orthodontics For most people, adjusting to eating with braces is the biggest challenge they have yet to face! If you are one of those people, this brief guide compiled by the dental care experts at Lyons Orthodontics in El Dorado Hills is perfect for you!

How to Eat With Braces

Opt for soft foods.
Avoid sticky or crunchy foods that could damage the brackets of your braces.
Cut your food into smaller pieces.
Take smaller bites of food.
Eat slowly and chew your food carefully.
Avoid biting into corn on the cob, apples burritos, and other similar foods.
Use your back teeth to chew.
If sensitivity develops while you eat, ask Dr. Tim Lyons for pain relievers.

You may notice that your teeth no longer fit together like they used to before you got the braces. Lyons Orthodontics experts explain that this feeling is due to the changing position of your teeth, and it can make the act of eating feel awkward. Eating slowly is the best solution to still enjoy your meal without putting your oral health and the orthodontic devices at risk.

What Are the Recommended Foods For When You First Get Braces?

If you just got new braces, or your current set has just been tightened, you are better off eating liquid or soft foods, like mashed potatoes, yogurt, meal replacement shakes and soup.

Dr. Tim Lyons, a Folsom orthodontist, recommends that you eat cold foods, like ice cream, to ease any discomfort or pain you may be experiencing. Make sure that those cold foods don’t have anything crunchy in them and avoid biting hard into them while you eat.

As you get more used to having braces, you can gradually shift back to your normal favorite foods. Talk to your Fair Oaks orthodontist for advice about when and how to make this transition.

As you decide what food to eat, remember that sections of your braces, such as the ligatures, may be stained by pigmented foods (beetroot, curry sauce and blackcurrants, for example). Try your best to avoid these foods as much as possible.

What Snacks Are Okay for People With Braces?

The professionals at Lyons Orthodontics in El Dorado Hills advise patients to refrain from eating snacks like crunchy chips and popcorn when they start wearing braces.

Softer snacks, such as applesauce, soft cheeses, soft cookies, and muffins are safe to eat if you wear braces. Although, don’t overdo the sugary snacks as a way to compensate for missing out on the crunchy snacks. Excess sugar isn’t good for your teeth and overall health, and getting braces can be a good time to adjust your sugar intake accordingly!

To make it easier to avoid overconsumption of sugary snacks, stock up on healthy snacks, like bananas, blueberries, and yogurt.

Recommended Eating Habits for People With Braces

Our busy lives have forced us into the habit of taking big bites of food eating in a hurry. However, if you wear braces, this style of eating will not only cause you pain, but it will also endanger the different components of the braces, like the brackets.

Dr. Tim Lyons recommends that you make a deliberate effort to bite small pieces of food and then chew them slowly so that you don’t put your braces at risk. Eating slowly can help you enjoy your food more and digestion!

Sterling Heights dentist, Dr. Farhart, suggests that another helpful eating habit is consuming plenty of water with your food. This habit is good for two main reasons. The first reason is it will help you swallow the small bites of food if you are finding it difficult to chew the food thoroughly. The second reason is the water you drink will rinse the mouth so that any food particles stuck on your braces are washed away. This makes maintaining oral hygiene even easier!

You must check your braces each day to see if anything is out of sync. If you see anything abnormal, contact us at Lyons Orthodontics immediately regardless of having a scheduled visit planned within the coming days. Prompt attention to any defect will prevent any injuries by damaged braces and allows your orthodontic treatment to stay on course!

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