Tag: braces

Indulge This Halloween with These Braces-Friendly Foods

October 23, 2023

There’s nothing quite so alluring as Halloween’s creep factor and sweet celebrations. However, when you or your child has braces, it’s important to select safe foods that won’t interfere with orthodontic devices. Read on to learn what foods to avoid with braces (and what you can indulge in instead).

Sticky Foods to Avoid with Braces

Sticky foods and chewy foods are a serious risk to dental devices, as they can get stuck in between brackets and wires. They can also damage your braces or dislodge them, which means an emergency trip to the orthodontist and missed festivities.

Sticky treats to avoid include:

  • Caramel candy
  • Taffy
  • Starburst
  • Tootsie Rolls
  • Airheads
  • Skittles
  • Candy corn
  • Jelly beans
  • Gum
  • Rice Krispies treats

Hard Candy: Another Thing to Reject

Hard candy also never qualifies as braces-friendly food. Sucking on it is a lot of work for your mouth. It’s also normal to unconsciously bite down on hard candy, which could crack or chip a tooth. It could crack your braces or dislodge the glue on one of the brackets.

Some hard candies to avoid this Halloween are:

  • Caramel hard candy like Werther’s
  • Toffee (this could be a double whammy if it’s sticky)
  • Lemon drops
  • Jolly Ranchers
  • Lemon Heads
  • Lifesavers
  • Malt Balls

Anything with nuts in it is also a no-go. This means chocolate bars like Snickers and Ferrero Rocher.

What About Invisalign?

Note that all these restrictions also apply to people with Invisalign, unless you remove the device first. Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment option that uses clear, removable trays to straighten your teeth. They can be especially convenient during the holiday season. If you remember to take them out before indulging in something chewy or hard, you’ll be good to go!

The Award for “Worst Halloween Treat with Braces” Goes To…

Unfortunately, there’s one treat synonymous with Halloween that you should say no to this year. That’s the caramel apple. It’s easily the No. 1 worst thing you can eat when you have braces.

You’re dealing with the stickiness of caramel, but you’re also contending with the hard crunch of an apple. This means you’ll need a really hard bite, and apples are already one of the worst foods for braces.

Delicious Halloween Candy Alternatives

People love chocolate for tons of reasons. It has a unique and delicious flavor. It’s rich and can be creamy.

But the #1 reason people love chocolate is that it can melt in the mouth. This is why it’s a great braces-friendly food. Just make sure that your chocolate doesn’t have nuts inside.

This Halloween, indulge in chocolate candies like:

  • Mini chocolate bars (Hershey’s, Kit Kat, Three Musketeers)
  • Reese’s peanut butter cups (or other brands)
  • Reese’s Pieces
  • Hershey’s Kisses (without nuts)
  • Plain M&Ms

How Hard Is Too Hard for Hard Candy?

It’s best to avoid hard candy if it has a texture like a Jolly Rancher. Stick with soft foods or go for powder-based candy, which is a safe food for braces.

Make sure to brush really well after eating them, though. They’re basically just sugar, so they’ll cause cavities fast if you’re not careful.

Candies you can have include:

  • Pixy Stix
  • Smarties
  • SweeTARTS (though not the chewable kind!)
  • Pez
  • Powder-based candy

Other Treats Kids and Adults Love

You can enjoy other braces-friendly holiday recipes this Halloween, too. Pumpkin-flavored treats like doughnuts, cookies, and pies are delicious and safe foods to eat.

Cake pops also work wonders if you’re looking for a fun Halloween treat. You also might enjoy apple-flavored treats like cider doughnuts, pie, and Danishes.

Just make sure that they have a soft texture rather than a crunchy one.

SouthShore is Here to Help

At SouthShore Orthodontics, we’re committed to giving you all the information you need to stay smart this Halloween. Schedule an appointment to learn more about caring for your braces during the holiday season. We’ll also help you schedule an appointment to make sure everything stayed in place after the holiday is over.

Guide to Choosing the Best Orthodontist in Tampa for Your Child

August 31, 2023

Did you know that as many as 75% of children could benefit from braces?

It’s crucial to do everything you can to improve your child’s dental care and oral health. Are you wondering if your child needs braces to ensure straight teeth and a healthy smile?

Read on to discover ways to find the best orthodontist near you.

Double-Check Qualifications and Credentials

Are you stumped about where to begin your search for the right orthodontist? If so, you should know how important it is to pick someone who is well-trained and boasts the right qualifications. You should find an orthodontist who has finished all the schooling and training needed to care for teeth.

Are you unsure how to tell who is qualified and who isn’t? It’s a good idea to check if they have the proper documents. For instance, most established dentists have their educational achievements framed on their office walls.

Also, see if they’re part of influential groups like the American Association of Orthodontists. This helps you know they’re a good choice and can give your child the best care.

You and your child will have peace of mind by going the extra mile and confirming their skills. This fact can even help your kid know that they’re in safe hands before undergoing any orthodontic treatment.

At Southshore Orthodontics, Dr. Matt Ahrens and Dr. Mary Shehata are board-certified, and professional affiliations include the American Association of Orthodontists and the Florida Dental Association.

Oral Care Experience Can Make a Huge Difference

Are you still hesitant about your dentist options? Experience counts when it comes to taking care of your child’s teeth. It’s better to go for an orthodontist who has worked with kids for a long time.

This is because they know how to make kids feel comfortable and unafraid. They also know the best ways to treat dental problems most associated with children.

When choosing an orthodontist, look for someone with a long track record working with children. They’ll know what to do to make the treatment go well.

From using lollipops to kneeling to their level, an experienced orthodontist can handle any issues that might come up. Instead of having to reschedule, they can soothe your child’s worries.

This makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved. The dentist should take the time to answer your questions and tell you what to expect.

Comprehensive Services Ensure Customization

Getting the right care for your child’s teeth can make all the difference. That’s why it’s a good idea to pick an orthodontist who offers many treatment options. When an orthodontist has comprehensive services, you can choose between different options for making your child’s teeth better.

For example, some kids might need traditional braces with metal wires. Others may prefer clear aligners that are less noticeable. Having choices means you and your child can decide together what works best for their situation.

Having comprehensive services also means the dentist can create a treatment plan that fits your child’s unique needs. They’ll know which treatment will work better for your child’s teeth.

It should never be a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, you should expect a treatment plan  tailored for your kid.

Another good thing about comprehensive services is that the orthodontist can adjust the plan. This will help if your child’s needs change during treatment. Since they have different options to choose from, they can find the best way to help your child’s teeth stay on track.

At SouthShore Orthodontics we specialize in skilled pediatric care. Our expert orthodontists will take the time to assess your child’s unique situation to provide a personalized treatment plan.

The Consultation Is a Vital Step Toward Straight Teeth

At some point in your search, you’ll have a list of your top dentist options. Prioritize an orthodontist who values open communication and provides a thorough consultation.

During the consultation, the orthodontist should assess your child’s oral health and discuss potential treatment plans. They should have no problem addressing any questions or concerns you may have. This is also an excellent opportunity to see how they interact with your pride and joy.

Effective communication ensures that you and your child understand the treatment process and what you should anticipate.

Our comprehensive consultations at SouthShore Orthodontics include an x-ray and a customized treatment plan!

See What Other Parents Have Said About Orthodontic Care

Before jumping into a decision, take the time to read reviews from other parents and patients.

Positive feedback can provide insights into the quality of care and the orthodontist’s approach to treatment. Negative reviews are also worth reading because they help recognize possible red flags.

We’re proud to provide the best care in Riverview, Fla. — the proof is in our patient testimonials.

Look for a Convenient Location for Braces in Tampa, Florida

Orthodontic treatment often calls for several or more appointments over an extended period.

Choosing an orthodontist with a convenient office location and flexible scheduling options can simplify the treatment journey. Consider an orthodontist whose office is accessible from home, work, or your child’s school.

Financial Considerations for Invisalign in Riverview

There’s no denying that orthodontic treatment is a long-term investment in your child’s oral health and confidence. Before finalizing your choice, ask about the cost of treatment.

You should also find out about available payment plans. It’s important to know whether the orthodontist accepts your insurance or not.

A transparent discussion about financial matters helps you plan for the cost of treatment without any surprises.

Are You Ready to See the Best Orthodontist in Tampa?

SouthShore Orthodontics is here to help. Our board-certified, experienced dentists use the latest and greatest technology to provide the most thorough orthodontic care. We take our time to provide a personalized treatment plan to fit your child’s unique needs. Plus, we offer flexible payment plans and financing options to fit every budget.

We’d love to see your kid smile, so schedule an appointment with SouthShore Orthodontics today.

Custom-Designing Your Future, One Smile at a Time

May 21, 2022

You’re probably not new to the idea of orthodontic care, regardless of whether or not you’ve received it yourself in the past.

But just because the treatment itself doesn’t sound new, that doesn’t mean it will actually be the same this time around. But don’t worry — we actually mean this in a good way!

In other words, what we’re trying to say is that modern technology allows us to now customize smile treatments more than ever before. Here’s what this might mean for you:

Considerations Involved in Custom Smiles

A custom smile is pretty much exactly what it sounds like: dental and orthodontic care that is specially tailored to your unique smile!

In particular, customization may come into play when it comes to your tooth color. Porcelain crowns, for example, need to match the surrounding teeth in both shade and hue in order to not stand out.

Today, the continual rise of dental technology is largely to thank for such individualized care and solutions.

How Custom Smiles Align with Your Goals

One of the most important instances wherein a patient needs a custom smile design? When it comes to orthodontic realignment.

Particularly if the patient will be utilizing clear aligners to achieve a straighter smile, the trays themselves must be customized if they are to successfully guide the teeth into place without causing any harm to the jaw or other facial features.

And that’s where revolutionary digital technology comes in! By generating 3D scans of a patient’s dental landscape, the orthodontist may provide treatments that are increasingly…

  • Comfortable
  • Discreet
  • Efficient
  • And more

What’s more? Invisalign isn’t necessarily your only option for custom aligners.

State-of-the-Art Smiles with SouthShore Orthodontics

Here at SouthShore Orthodontics, we don’t just offer Invisalign — we also provide our own in-house manufactured aligners: Simply SouthShore!

Simply Southshore is doctor-designed and directed by our very own Dr. Matt Ahrens. Additionally, both the digital scanning and 3D printing processes are completed on-site, meaning you or your child will be able to undergo treatment sooner and for a more affordable price.

“This product is great for the individual who maybe previously had some orthodontic treatment and in the years since has had some shifting occur,” Dr. Ahrens explains.

And if clear aligners aren’t the best treatment for your smile, we can also provide other customized treatments using:

So, are you ready to receive exceptional orthodontic service in a relaxing environment? Then it’s time to reach out to SouthShore Orthodontics! Smile bigger, smile healthier, and smile longer. Call us today at 813-815-0080 today to schedule your appointment for customized care.

Alternative Options to Braces

April 13, 2022

One of the factors most likely to deter patients from taking the plunge with traditional braces? The metal.

From the discomfort of the brackets pushing against the soft skin inside the cheek to the general insecurity that comes with a smile full of metal, let’s be honest: many patients are looking for an alternative that brings them both physical and emotional comfort.

And if you’re beginning to wonder what that all may entail, we’re here to answer your questions:

#1 — What Alternatives Are There?

If a patient needs the strength of traditional brackets and wires but would also prefer a more discreet solution, ceramic braces offer the ideal middle ground. This is because “the ceramic material used in these braces can be either clear or tooth-colored,” Healthline explains.

Invisible aligners, too, can shift the teeth back into alignment without drastically changing the appearance of one’s smile during treatment. A patient needs only to wear and clean their trays regularly — which will then be changed every six weeks or so to continue the orthodontic process.

#2 — What Alternatives Are Right for Me?

The option that is best suited to a patient depends entirely on their individual smile. Even if a patient has an idea of what kind of treatment they want, they may need another form of orthodontic care.

That’s why you should never order invisible aligners online without first consulting an orthodontist.

“Because of orthodontists’ extensive education and familiarity with the many types of ‘appliances’ (devices used to move teeth/align jaws) available, they can knowledgeably suggest what is right for you, based on your treatment goals and lifestyle needs,” according to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAC).

For example, as mentioned previously, invisible aligners cannot be used to correct all smiles. This includes instances of…

  • Overcrowding
  • Overbite
  • Underbite
  • And more

#3 — Who Should I Seek Treatment With?

At the end of the day, what kind of treatment you’ll undergo, as well as how long it may take, will depend entirely on what you and your chosen orthodontic team agree on. Thus, you’ll want to find a trusted orthodontist with a history of providing comprehensive treatment.

So why not reach out to SouthShore Orthodontics?

When you work with our team, you’ll find exceptional results in a welcoming environment for patients of all ages! What’s more, we offer Invisalign in addition to Simply SouthShore, custom-made clear aligners that are printed right here in our own office!

Call our office today at (813) 815-0080 today to schedule your FREE consultation.

Counting Down to Orthodontic Care: All About Average Treatment Times

March 13, 2022

Patience may be a virtue, but let’s face it — we all want beautiful smiles sooner rather than later. And when you’re preparing to go undergo orthodontic care, it’s natural that you find yourself wondering…

Just how long will this take?

Don’t worry! If you’re in a rush for answers, we’ll get you up to speed in no time:

Filing Through the Factors and Variations

The amount of time one will undergo orthodontic treatment can vary widely based on their individual situation. For example, clear aligners and braces typically involve different timeframes.

“A comprehensive 2019 study found that people with clear aligners wore them for a shorter amount of time than those with traditional metal braces,” according to Healthline. “But those wearing clear aligners had less severe alignment issues than those wearing metal braces.”

Specifically, treatment involving clear aligners may take up to 12 to 18 months on average.

Other factors that may influence how long treatment will take include:

  • Age
  • Bone density
  • Jaw alignment
  • Overcrowding
  • Teeth gaps
  • Material preference
  • And more

Back to Braces Basics

Generally speaking, fixed braces — which may be traditional metal or ceramic — take a minimum of a year on average. In particular, the Oral Health Foundation specifies that it may take between 12 to 24 months overall, depending on the patient.

“Patients with braces typically visit the orthodontist every six to ten weeks, until teeth are aligned properly,” the American Association of Orthodontics explains (AAO).

Oftentimes, this is because patients who need fixed braces don’t just need an alignment of their teeth, but they may also need a correction of their jaw in the cases of an under- or over-bite. Such patients are not eligible for clear aligners.

Seamless Smiles with SouthShore Orthodontics

Overall, the good news is that “orthodontic treatment often is more comfortable and takes less time than it did years ago,” as reported by the Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA).

What’s more, when you choose to see the orthodontic experts at SouthShore Orthodontics, you’ll also get exceptional results in a welcoming environment!

Here at SouthShore Orthodontics, we offer a variety of braces for all ages as well as Simply SouthShore — custom-fit clear aligners made in-house just for you! Regardless of what you need, you’ll find a renewed smile and a relaxing team when you visit.

Learn more or schedule with us today by calling (813) 815-0080!

A Passion for Our Patients: All About Patient-Centric Technology

February 13, 2022

The point of a practice is to put the patients first — and there’s no such thing as being too focused on an individual’s care. Consequently, shouldn’t an orthodontist’s technology be just as patient-centric as the whole of the team?

We think so.

Thus, we’d like to take a moment to review the patient-centric technology that is changing the community’s overall experience while in the chair:

Talking About Teledentistry

Particularly following the COVID-19 related lockdowns in 2020, patients have needed the ability to contact their care providers safely and without the necessity of physical contact. Thus, teledentistry offers a patient-centric solution that also protects physicians from potential viral transmission.

What’s more, teledentistry saves patients money in that they no longer have to pay for the gas required in commuting to an in-person appointment.

And when it comes to pediatric patients? Well, teledentistry also offers a more comfortable alternative, as parents and young patients who might otherwise experience anxiety while in the chair can now make contact with their dentist from the safety of their own home.

The Innovation Of 3D Imaging

Many adults who underwent orthodontic treatment in their youth are familiar with the painstaking process of having a dental impression made in-office. Messy, time-consuming, and sometimes unpleasant in taste, it’s simple to say that the impression process was probably less than desirable.

Thankfully, 3D scans of the individual’s teeth are now available, rendering the entirety of the planning process more precise and patient-centric.

Not only can 3D digital scans provide accurate imaging of all measurements the orthodontic team might need, but it also makes it easier for them to generate a preview of the final results, thereby keeping the patient informed before treatment begins.

Why Be Patient When You Can Print?

One of the difficulties in straightening one’s teeth is remaining patient. Particularly for patients undergoing treatment via clear aligners, waiting for each custom tray to be completed adds another stretch of in-between time that can never seem to go fast enough.

Thankfully, in-house 3D printers are now changing the game.

With this innovative technology at hand, orthodontic teams can both render and generate custom-designed trays for each patient while on-site. Thus, the total wait time is reduced and the overall treatment process can continue smoothly and as planned.

For example, here at SouthShore Orthodontics, we offer Simply SouthShore aligners for life’s everyday shifts! Featuring in-house care and in-house innovation, Simply SouthShore is an affordable alternative to commercial aligners that is also ideal for retreatment.

But if you’re not a candidate for clear aligners, don’t worry — we also offer a variety of options for all ages.

So, are you ready to receive exceptionally patient-centric service in a welcoming environment? Then it’s time to schedule with SouthShore Orthodontics! To learn more about our team and services, reach out to us today by calling (813) 815-0080.

Your smile is our passion.

Hello, Halitosis: Why is My Child’s Breath So Bad?

January 13, 2022

A little bad breath here and there is normal. If we’ve eaten something particularly pungent or had to cut our two minutes’ worth of toothbrushing time short because we ran late before work, chances are we won’t spend the day smelling like cinnamon or mint.

But when your child has bad breath, you have to pay more attention. And if their bad breath persists for prolonged periods of time, then action becomes necessary.

The problem? You don’t know how to act until you know what, exactly, has caused it.

The Origins of Oral Odors

First and foremost, infections and disease may be the leading cause of your child’s bad breath, otherwise referred to as “halitosis.” Your child’s tonsils, for example, may be the culprit.

“Healthy tonsils should be pink and spot free, but infected ones are red, inflamed, can have white spots and smell terrible,” Colgate explains. “Bacteria can collect in the pits of swollen tonsils and, paired with the sour smell of infection, can cause bad breath.”

Similarly, diabetes, sinus infections, and even stomach infections can also cause unpleasant oral odors.

Otherwise, be on the lookout for mouth breathing. Mouth breathing and snoring at night — in dry mouth in general — can dissolve their saliva faster, thereby allowing odor-causing bacteria to remain in their mouths longer.

Solutions for the Sordid Smell

The first place to start in curing bad breath is, as always, helping your child remain diligent in their dental practices. Flossing, brushing for two minutes, and — if they’re old enough – using mouth wash twice a day can drastically improve the way their breath smells throughout the day.

Luckily, there are also a few other options you can try.

“To get more saliva moving in your mouth, try eating healthy foods that require a lot of chewing, like carrots or apples,” the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends. “You can also try chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candies. Your dentist may also recommend artificial saliva.”

That being said, if your child’s bad breath persists despite implementing the aforementioned lifestyle changes, it’s time to see your dentist. If the cause is oral, their team will be able to help you make a plan of action. If not, they will know when to direct you to your primary care doctor for further answers.

A Breath of Fresh Air with SouthShore

If you’re planning to tackle the heavy burden of halitosis — and if you’re also ready to straighten your child’s smile — SouthShore Orthodontics can help!

Not only do we offer a variety of options for aligning your child’s teeth (including clear aligners, various braces, and more), but our team also offers exceptional services in a relaxing environment. In short, we can’t wait to keep your smile as healthy and happy as possible!

Ready to learn more? Then contact our team today to schedule your FREE consultation by calling (813) 815-0080! We welcome new patients of all ages.

A Matter of the Mouth: Food, Pain, and What to Expect

December 17, 2021

As you and/or your child prepare for the coming appointment where your wires and brackets will be applied, it’s natural to feel on edge. Particularly for those who anticipate some level of pain, a fine thread of fear may even creep in, making it more difficult to feel excited for the orthodontic journey to come.

Thankfully, we can help to assuage those fears.

If you have questions about what discomfort you may experience, or how best to avoid future discomfort, simply read on below:

The Particular Pains of Orthodontics

When a patient first has their braces applied, they might not experience any immediate pain or discomfort.

“However, within a few hours, the gentle pressure that the braces put on the teeth will start to take effect,” as reported by Medical News Today. “The pressure of the braces slowly pulling the teeth into alignment can create pain and discomfort, which could last from a day or two to about a week.”

To put it simply, braces-related discomfort is perfectly normal.

That being said, if the pain is sharp, debilitating, or lasts more than a week, it is time to contact your orthodontist to determine what may be wrong.

The Challenge of Chewing

The consistency of some foods is liable to break, bend, or otherwise damage orthodontic appliances. Hard and/or sticky snacks, in particular, are the most likely to cause such difficulties.

“Any food that you need to bite into to eat is prime for breaking braces,” according to the American Dental Association (ADA). “You can get around this by cutting the food, such as corn off the cob or rib meat off the bone, or slicing apples and chopping carrots into small, bite-size pieces.”

Otherwise, we recommend generally steering clear of some of the following foods:

  • Nuts
  • Popcorn
  • Gummies
  • Gum
  • Hardshell tacos
  • Pizza crust
  • Hard crackers
  • And more

Safe, Comfortable Smiles with SouthShore

Should food pull a wire or bracket out of place, don’t panic — you might be able to correct it at home.

Cleveland Clinic, for example, recommends using the eraser end of a pencil to try to gently push it back into position. However, “if you can’t reposition the wire, cover the end with orthodontic wax, a small cotton ball, or piece of gauze until you can get to your orthodontist’s office.”

SouthShore Orthodontics, for example, will be there should you find yourself in need of emergency orthodontic care!

To learn more about what may constitute an orthodontic obstacle, or if you’re ready to schedule an appointment with our skilled team, contact us today by calling 813-815-0080. We offer exceptional service in a relaxing environment, and we can’t wait to keep you smiling!

Perfecting Your Senior Pictures: When to Get Braces to Achieve a Picturesque Smile

November 18, 2021

The end of high school heralds the time wherein your child will officially embark upon adulthood, meaning you’ll want to immortalize every moment you can during those final years.

And their senior pictures are especially likely to hold the attention of the whole family.

Consequently, it makes sense that you and/or your child feel particularly motivated to undergo orthodontic treatment — and have it finished — by the time they step in front of the camera. And if that’s a priority, here’s what you need to keep in mind in terms of timing:

The Early Bird Gets… The Perfect Smile

When it comes to orthodontic treatment, it’s common for parents to wonder: How early is too early? Well, that depends.

“Even though most people think of pre-teens and teens when they think of orthodontics, there are good reasons your child should get an orthodontic evaluation much sooner,” according to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). “[The AAO] recommends a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7.”

Of course, if your child receives orthodontic care earlier in life, they are more likely to have their bright smiles in correct alignment by the mid-teens. Thus, if your goal is to optimize their grin before it’s time for their senior photos, today is never a bad day to get the ball rolling!

Strategizing Pediatric Care

According to Nemours Kids Health, the length of time a child may spend with brackets and wires is dependent upon the specific types of misalignments the orthodontist is trying to fix. However,  “the average [length of time] is about two years.”

In many cases, young patients with Invisalign or other forms of clear aligners — like our own Simply SouthShore aligners — may also take up to 12 to 18 months to reach the completion of their treatment plan. That being said, in these cases, a student may require a smaller timeframe of treatment time, as aligners are typically used to correct less extensive abnormalities.

Simply put, if your child starts their orthodontic treatment in their teen years, we recommend that you begin the process between the ages of 14 and 16. This way, should they need up to two years of treatment, their braces should be off before the start of their senior year.

Timely Solutions With SouthShore

From the initial consultation where you’re brimming with questions to the final treatment day where you’re ready to see your child emerge from brackets and wires, here at SouthShore Orthodontics, we’re ready to help your whole family achieve their picture-perfect smiles.

We offer traditional braces, ceramic braces, and various options for clear aligners to ensure you can undergo the most efficient and effective care possible.

So, are you ready to learn more or schedule an appointment? Then it’s time to contact the team here at SouthShore Orthodontics by calling (813) 815-0080! We offer exceptional results in a welcoming environment, and we can’t wait to both straighten and brighten your smile.

How Long Will My Orthodontics Treatment Take for Braces and Invisalign?

October 17, 2021

From the fear of physical discomfort to the general sense of insecurity one feels when the metal brackets are applied, we understand that many orthodontic patients are crossing their fingers and hoping for a treatment option that concludes sooner rather than later.

Of course, that depends entirely on what your teeth currently look like and how, exactly, you’d prefer to undergo the alignment process.

But that being said, how often does treatment usually take? And how might that differ between Invisalign and braces?

Is It Possibly Time For Invisalign?

“The length of treatment depends on multiple factors, like how complex your case is and how often you wear your aligners,” Invisalign explains. “On average, Invisalign treatment time is 12 to 18 months, though you can start seeing results in a matter of weeks.”

Specifically, clear aligners are designed to treat mildly crooked or misaligned teeth. Capable of eliminating gaps between teeth or eliminating overlapping of the teeth, it is not suited for patients with extremely crooked teeth or in cases where the jaw bone itself needs to be shifted in order to ensure a safe and proper treatment process.

Thus, as Invisalign is generally suited for less severe orthodontic complications, treatment may often take less time.

Counting Down To Basic Braces

Traditional braces are the recommended treatment for patients who:

  • Have a severe overbite
  • Have a severe underbite
  • Are likely to forget to wear their clear aligners
  • Are too young to keep up with cleaning their clear aligners
  • And more

“How long your child will need to wear braces depends on the problems the orthodontist is trying to fix, but the average is about two years,” according to Nemours Kids Health. “After that, your child might wear a specially molded retainer.”

Otherwise, for older teens and adults, the treatment process is again dependent upon multiple individual factors, particularly as the jaw bone is no longer growing for this age group.

“The entire process may take longer for you than for a child or adolescent,” Harvard Health clarifies. That being said, the average treatment for adults also lasts approximately two years.

Aligning With The Bottom Line

Regardless of whether your treatment entails clear aligners, traditional braces, ceramic braces, and another appliance, here at SouthShore Orthodontics, we’re equipped to help you achieve a renewed, healthy smile in a warm and friendly office!

What’s more, we have our own in-house method of creating custom-fit clear aligners: Simply SouthShore. These aligners are designed to treat slightly misaligned smiles or individuals that have previously undergone orthodontic treatment.

So are you ready to learn more and embark on your journey to a brighter smile? Then contact our team today by calling (813) 815-0080! We look forward to providing you with exceptional results in a welcoming environment.