Orthodontics in Long Beach:

How to Get a Perfect Smile without Old-Fashioned Metal Braces

The field of orthodontics has come a long way over the years. Not long ago, there was only one way to straighten your teeth – with bulky metal braces.

If you had braces as a child, then you probably remember what that was like:

- Clunky metal brackets and wires poking your gums and cheeks
– Painful tightening of the wires every couple weeks
– Difficulty eating without getting food stuck in your braces
– Having to give up the foods you love

Not too fun, right?

Thankfully, Dr. Stella’s FUNtastic Dental & Orthodontics in Long Beach offers a much more convenient orthodontics solution which eliminates these problems: Invisalign “invisible braces.”

Whether you’re searching for adult orthodontist or braces for your child, this new “invisible” technology allows you to get the same great smile without all the discomfort and unpleasantness of having metal braces.

What is Orthodontics?

The American Association of Orthodontists defines orthodontics as the treatment of problems related to teeth alignment, as well as bite and jaw problems in children and adults.

Orthodontist work is performed by an orthodontist – a dentist who has specific training and certification in orthodontics beyond the regular dental school requirements.

In the past, orthodontists didn’t have many options for their patients. Virtually everyone who needed teeth-straightening treatment was given metal braces manufactured by companies like American Orthodontists.

But today, Invisalign by Align Technology is becoming a much more popular alternative for its “invisibility,” effectiveness, comfort and cost.

What makes “invisible braces” different?

For starters, “invisible braces” aren’t really braces at all. Conventional braces use metal brackets that are essentially glued to your teeth. A metal wire is then attached to those brackets and tightened periodically to pull your teeth into their correct place.

Invisalign uses no metal, brackets or wires. Instead, you receive a series of aligner “trays,” which are made of clear, comfortable plastic. These trays are custom-made for you; they simply fit over top of your teeth. The aligners gradually and gently shift your teeth into place. About every two weeks, you replace your aligners with a new set. That’s it!

Where can I get these types of Braces?

Many orthodontists have been slow to adopt the newest technologies in orthodontist dentistry, simply because they don’t know about them.

Fortunately, FUNtastic Dental has extensive experience in Invisalign treatment for both kids and adults, right here in Long Beach. So if you’re searching for orthodontist in Seal Beach, Los Alamitos, Lakewood or any of the other surrounding towns, you don’t have to go far to get this popular solution.

How do invisible braces affect what I can eat?

Unlike regular braces, your Invisalign aligners can be removed at any time. When you eat, you simply pop out the trays, which means there are no food restrictions whatsoever.

With old-fashioned braces, you have to be careful not to eat foods that can damage the wire or knock the brackets off your teeth. But even soft foods can become a mess, because they get stuck in the braces.

With Invisalign orthodontist, both of these concerns are eliminated. You can continue to eat all the foods you like – even hard candies – because you can remove the aligners.

How much does “invisible” orthodontics cost?

Many people incorrectly assume that Invisalign is more expensive than traditional braces, because it’s newer and more popular.

But in fact, the average costs of both solutions are virtually the same. A 2010 patient study found that a typical $5,000 cost for traditional braces was the same as Invisalign. The exact cost of your treatment will of course depend on your individual needs, so just give us a call and we’ll be happy to show you all your options.

What about flossing and brushing?

While orthodontists encourage you to maintain your regular brushing and flossing routine, most people’s habits tend to change when they have conventional braces. That’s because the metal wires make it more difficult to floss (and more time-consuming, too). Plus, you must be careful when brushing to avoid damaging the device.

Remember, with invisible braces, you can pop out the aligners at any time. So, when you need to brush and floss, you simply remove the trays and pop them back in when you’re done. Your oral hygiene habits don’t need to change at all.

Make an appointment to learn more!

There are so many other great advantages to Invisalign. Let us help you decide which orthodontist solution is best for you or your child.

At FUNtastic Dental, we provide a fun, inviting environment for both kids and adults. We are focused on pain-free dental care for all ages, using the best technologies available. Our exceptional dental services are trusted by families all over the area, including Long Beach, Lakewood, Seal Beach, and Los Alamitos.

Contact us today to see why “getting braces” is so much easier at FUNtastic.

Call 562-627-8800 for more information on Pediatric and Adult Orthodontics.