Braces 101: Exploring the Best Types for Your Smile

risingermarketing on May 6, 2025

Choosing to straighten your teeth is a big step, and knowing which braces are right for you can be just as important as deciding to start. With so many options available today, it’s essential to understand the different types of braces and how each works to help you make an informed choice. Take a look at the most widely used types and their benefits.

Traditional Braces
Traditional metal braces are reliable and highly effective for achieving straight teeth. They consist of sturdy stainless steel brackets and wires, held in place with elastic bands to ensure optimal results.

While they are the most noticeable type, they are also highly effective for correcting many dental issues, including severe teeth misalignment. They’re often the most affordable option, making them popular for teens and younger patients.
Ceramic Braces
Want a subtler alternative to standard metal braces? Ceramic models use clear or tooth-colored brackets that blend in with your natural teeth, making them far less noticeable. They’re popular for adults and teens who want effective treatment without the metallic look. While they offer aesthetic benefits, they can be slightly more fragile and prone to staining, so good oral hygiene is essential.
Clear and Removable Aligners
Clear aligners, like Invisalign, have revolutionized orthodontic treatment. These adjustable trays are specially designed to slowly align teeth into their correct positions.

They’re nearly invisible, comfortable, and easy to clean. Because they’re removable, these aligners allow you to eat and brush as you normally would, but they require discipline, as you need to wear them 20–22 hours a day for effective results.

Let Risinger Orthodontics Guide You to the Perfect Smile
Choosing the right orthodontic treatment starts with understanding the different types of braces and having the right team to guide you. Whether you’re considering traditional metal braces or clear aligners, Risinger Orthodontics offers expert care tailored to your smile goals. Contact our office to schedule a consultation!

Can You Eat With Invisalign? Rules For Eating and Drinking

risingermarketing on April 11, 2025

Invisalign has gained popularity as a substitute for conventional metal braces. Straightening teeth is easy now since the clear aligners are detachable and nearly invisible. While this dental innovation sounds fantastic, it does raise questions, one of which is: Can you eat with Invisalign?

Let’s break down the rules for eating and drinking with Invisalign and why it’s essential to follow them.

Why You Shouldn’t Eat With Invisalign

Invisalign aligners are not built to handle the pressure and friction from chewing food since they are made from clear plastic. Eating with them can cause several problems:

Damage to Aligners

Remember to wear your Invisalign responsibly. When you bite down on food while wearing one, it can crack, warp, or stain the aligners.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Proper oral care will get you far, and it’s the same as wearing Invisalign. Food particles can lodge between your teeth and the aligners, resulting in cavities, plaque accumulation, or foul breath.

What About Drinking?

Here’s where it gets tricky. Wearing an Invisalign will restrict you to drinking only water. When you have to drink other beverages, you must remove your aligners. Here are a few reasons why you should not wear them when drinking anything other than water:

● Do you like drinking hot beverages like coffee, tea, or chocolate? You will have to remove your aligners as they can warp its components.
● Sugary or acidic beverages can seep under the aligners and worsen the risk of tooth decay.
● Drinks with any color, like red wine or coffee, can stain the aligners, removing their unique invisible characteristic.

Tips for Eating and Drinking With Invisalign

Wearing these unique aligners will require a small effort to keep your teeth healthy. Pay attention to these few pointers:

1. Always remove your aligners before meals. Keep a clean case with you to store them safely.
2. Clean your mouth by rinsing or brushing before returning the aligners. This helps remove food particles and bacteria.
3. Stick to water when wearing your aligners. Save other beverages for your meal breaks.
4. Be mindful of your time. Ideally, you must wear your Invisalign for 20 to 22 hours daily to ensure it correctly aligns your teeth. Keep your eating and drinking breaks short to avoid falling behind schedule.

Start an Invisalign-Friendly Lifestyle Today
Adjusting to life with Invisalign takes a little planning, especially regarding food and drink. Maintaining a good routine will help you keep track of your treatment and protect your oral health at the same time.

If you want to learn more about Invisalign, contact Risinger Orthodontics in Glastonbury, Connecticut. We can provide all you need about this convenient alternative to conventional metal braces.

Understanding the Different Phases of Braces Treatment

risingermarketing on March 26, 2025

Orthodontic care and treatments follow a step-by-step process to ensure the overall goal is achieved and you have a straighter and healthier smile. While patient conditions and situations differ, the phases that each individual goes through are quite similar. If the result you’re after is aligned teeth, then braces treatment might be for you. Let’s explore the various stages of this orthodontic solution so you know what to expect.

Pre-Braces: Consultation, Assessment, and Treatment Plan

Before you become ready for your braces, you and your orthodontist must prepare a few things. During the first consultation, your teeth and their position will be assessed to study the specific treatment that suits you. Your teeth and gum health will also be checked.

As part of your clinical orthodontic evaluation, X-rays will be performed. Orthodontic X-rays show the roots of your teeth and jawbones and allow your orthodontist to check for underlying oral health issues. If there is a sign of gum disease or any other problems, they must be treated first before your braces are applied.

After the initial assessment, you will be asked to return for a second consultation. This is where a detailed treatment plan will be presented to you. It will include all the available options for you, after which you or your parents will have to decide if you wish to proceed. The orthodontist will then explain all the stages you will go through and answer any of your questions.

Treatment Stage

This is the active phase of your treatment, starting with the application of the braces. Dental glue will be applied to each tooth so the brackets will adhere properly. Next, the archwires will be added once the brackets are in place.

The first phase of treatment involves leveling and aligning your teeth into the desired position. To ensure your teeth keep moving correctly, you will be scheduled for visits every four to eight weeks for braces adjustments.

Once alignment has been achieved, gaps and bites in your teeth will be addressed next. The final stage of your treatment involves fine-tuning the alignment and bite. Depending on your treatment, a fixed or removable retainer will be recommended by your orthodontist, which you must use after your braces are removed.

Post-Braces

After removing your braces, you must wear your retainers full-time for at least three months. After this period, your orthodontist will check if you need to continue wearing it full-time or only for 12 hours a day. You will also make regular dental visits to see if your teeth are maintained in the correct position.

Ask Us Anything About Your Smile Journey

If you want to know anything about the stages of your orthodontic treatment, do not hesitate to reach out to us at Risinger Orthodontics in Glastonbury, Connecticut. We’d be more than happy to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have.

What You Need To Know About Adult Orthodontics

risingermarketing on January 3, 2025

What You Need To Know About Adult Orthodontics

January 3, 2025
Dr. Risinger

In recent years, there has been a positive shift in people’s perceptions and attitudes about getting orthodontic treatment, which includes having teeth straightened. Braces, which used to be only common among teenagers and younger people, and other orthodontic solutions are becoming increasingly popular among adults.

It is great to see more individuals recognize that the value of adult orthodontics goes beyond appearance. It helps improve overall well-being by fixing teeth and alignment issues, preventing oral health problems down the line. Let’s explore the various aspects of orthodontic care for adults in this guide.

The Need for Adult Orthodontics

Just because adults have permanent teeth does not mean there’s nothing more we can do about alignment or bite issues. Our teeth can naturally shift, even as we age, and when this happens, orthodontic solutions are, more often than not, the answer. Seeking orthodontic care is vital to help avoid the deterioration of oral health as well as potential health complications in older age.

The Factors Behind the Popularity

Advancements in dental technology, various treatment options, and accessibility are among the top factors in the rising trend of adults looking to improve their smiles. If you want straighter teeth, metal braces are no longer the only option. Those who prefer more discreet solutions can now choose clear aligners, which can be conveniently removed while eating, brushing, and flossing.

This is just one example of how newer treatments address the many concerns of adults who need orthodontic care but might be discouraged for various reasons. Another aspect that has vastly improved is accessibility and cost. Flexible payment and financing options are now widely available, and some insurance plans provide partial coverage, making orthodontic care less daunting.

Common Adult Orthodontic Issues

Orthodontic treatments for adults often address issues that were either untreated or inadequately resolved during childhood. These include malocclusion or misaligned teeth, crowded teeth or overcrowding, underbites, overbites, and crossbites.

Apart from affecting one’s appearance, these dental problems can lead to worse oral health issues. For example, crowded teeth can be harder to clean, resulting in severe tooth decay and gum disease. Thus, dealing with these issues is not just for improved cosmetics but also for functional and long-term health.

Achieve a Straighter, Healthier Smile No Matter Your Age

It’s never too late to start your journey toward a more beautiful and healthier smile. Let Risinger Orthodontics in Glastonbury, Connecticut help you choose the best treatment plan that suits your lifestyle, budget, and needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

What To Consider Before Choosing a Local Orthodontist

risingermarketing on December 5, 2024

What To Consider Before Choosing a Local Orthodontist

December 5, 2024
Dr. Risinger

If you need orthodontic treatment and care, it’s essential to find an orthodontist who will provide you with the highest quality and level of service. But with hundreds of practitioners listed in your area, how do you choose one? Here are some factors to consider when looking for a local orthodontist:

Credentials

Start by visiting the website of the American Board of Orthodontics. Next, create a list of orthodontists in your area who are board-certified and with confirmed active dental licenses. If a practitioner refuses to show proof of their license, remove them from your list—you want to make sure you’re getting proper care from a qualified professional.

Duration of Practice

Consider choosing an established practice since their years in business has most likely allowed them to fine-tune their operations, increasing your chances of receiving outstanding customer service and patient care. In addition, a practice that’s already been around for quite some time will already have reviews and feedback from previous clients.

Location

Take note of the location of your options since orthodontic care is not a one-time thing. Any treatment that you receive will require regular visits, from the consultation and treatment proper to the follow-up care. Make sure that the practice that you choose is located within an accessible location to your home or workplace.

Services Offered

Not all orthodontists offer the same services and treatments. Therefore, it is important that you consult various practitioners, and allow them to assess your specific condition and recommend the best treatment they see fit. This will help you review the options so you can make an informed decision. Keep in mind that you shouldn’t be pressured to choose the most expensive treatment available.

Reviews and Reputation

Before choosing an orthodontic practice in your area, try to ask your friends, family, neighbors, etc., if they have had any experience with an orthodontist in the past. If they have, ask them about the quality of the service they received and how they were looked after.

Doing this will help you learn what to expect and find a reputable practice. If no information from your inner circle is available, check online reviews to find out which ones have a positive reputation.

Start Your Journey Toward a Straighter and Brighter Smile

Our team at Risinger Orthodontics in Glastonbury, Connecticut is dedicated to helping our patients achieve a fantastic smile and boost their confidence. Reach out to us today to schedule a free consultation and explore the right orthodontic treatment for you. We look forward to serving you!

Adult Invisalign Treatment: Is It Worth It?

risingermarketing on November 5, 2024

Adult Invisalign Treatment: Is It Worth It?

November 5, 2024
Dr. Risinger

More and more adults are realizing that it is not too late to invest in a healthier and straighter smile. Clear aligners, particularly the brand Invisalign, have made this possible and more accepted. If you are wondering if this type of orthodontic treatment is worth the money and effort, this article is for you. Let’s explore what Invisalign is, why it is a popular option, and whether it is a worthwhile choice.

Invisalign: An Overview

Invisalign are clear, plastic, custom-made aligners used to straighten teeth and correct bite problems. They can also address crowded teeth and gaps. You wear them for 22 hours a day and change your aligners every few weeks to shift your teeth into their desired position based on your treatment plan.

What Are the Treatment’s Features?

The aligners are thin, lightweight, and comfortable to wear. Unlike metal braces, they do not have wires and brackets that sometimes irritate the cheeks and gums. They are also removable, allowing you to eat anything you want without worry. This feature makes cleaning very easy and maintenance convenient.

Another feature of Invisalign is the precision of its technology. Before even starting the treatment, you can see a virtual representation of the final results due to the advanced digital planning and scanning technologies.

Why Is It Popular?

The subtlety of the aligners, because they are clear and almost invisible, appeals to many individuals. You can have your teeth straightened without it being too noticeable, which is one of the top reasons why there are lots of adult Invisalign users. It is especially beneficial to professionals who want a discreet orthodontic solution.

Its near-invisibility, combined with other features like comfort, convenience, and efficiency, is what makes it a preferred treatment for many people. This modern solution allows anyone to upgrade their smiles without compromising their lifestyles.

Is Invisalign Worth It?

Many people, both younger and older ones, have seen great results from Invisalign. But deciding if it is for you comes down to whether the benefits and features of this treatment fit your goals, lifestyle, and budget.

While Invisalign cannot fix all orthodontic issues, it is a very effective treatment for many conditions. Having straight teeth helps reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay and prevents major problems, contributing to overall health and well-being.

Schedule a Consultation With an Invisalign Diamond Top 1% Provider

Invest in your smile with the help of Risinger Orthodontics in Glastonbury, Connecticut. Book a consultation today to discuss your goals and the treatment that suits your specific needs.

Why Go to an Orthodontist for Invisalign or Braces?

risingermarketing on October 2, 2024

Why Go to an Orthodontist for Invisalign or Braces?

October 2, 2024
Dr. Risinger

If you have misaligned or crooked teeth or any similar condition, and you want a straighter smile, various dental treatments are available to address them. Depending on the severity of your case, the two most common options are wearing braces or Invisalign. The next step is to find out which treatment is right for you by consulting a dental professional.

In relation to this, one popular question that people seem to be asking is: Should I go to a dentist or orthodontist for Invisalign or braces? General dentists are knowledgeable and skilled dental professionals, but orthodontists have the advanced training, experience, and expertise in correcting alignment and bites. Here are additional reasons to consult an orthodontist:

Orthodontists Have a Deeper Understanding of Dentofacial Concerns

Beyond dental school, orthodontists complete special training focused exclusively on the movement of facial bones, teeth, jawbones, and soft tissue. This results in an in-depth and comprehensive knowledge of dentofacial orthodontics and orthopedics.

Selecting an Experienced and Trusted Dental Service Provider

Many patients share overwhelmingly positive experiences when consulting with an orthodontist. This is due to their specialized knowledge and ability to adequately answer all questions regarding tooth movement and every step of the treatment process.

Ensuring Long-Term Satisfaction and Peace of Mind

When you choose an orthodontist as your provider, with their hands-on experience and concentrated expertise, you are making a worthwhile investment in your oral health and overall wellness.

Investing in Proper Treatment for Great Results

Orthodontists are better positioned to deliver the best treatment since aligning bites and straightening teeth is their focus and what they do best. You can think of it this way: just as a general doctor is not a surgeon, a general dentist is not an orthodontist.

Work With the Leading Orthodontist in Glastonbury, Connecticut

Turn to Risinger Orthodontics for a full range of treatment options and comprehensive orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults. We have been in business for several decades, and we are passionate about providing exceptional services and the best possible patient experience. Contact us today to book a free consultation.

Learn the Difference Between Metal Braces and Ceramic Braces

Risinger Orthodontics on September 3, 2024

Learn the Difference Between Metal Braces and Ceramic Braces

September 3, 2024
Dr. Risinger

Years ago, metal braces were the traditional—and sometimes the only—treatment for people with misaligned or crooked teeth and other orthodontic issues. Due to advancements in technology, however, other types of braces have been developed, providing patients with more orthodontic solutions. One such option is ceramic braces.

If you or someone you know is exploring any of these two treatments, it might be confusing or even overwhelming to understand each one. To help you figure out these two types of braces, let’s look at how they work and differ.

Metal Braces: Stainless Steel Brackets Bonded to Your Teeth

These work through the arch wires, which apply consistent pressure on the brackets attached to the teeth to align them over time. They can address even the most complex bite malocclusion cases, with treatment usually taking anywhere between 18 and 24 months. Do note, though, that this will depend on the patient’s condition and specific needs.

From being too noticeable and, at times, uncomfortable, traditional metal braces have become smaller, sleeker, and more compact, providing additional comfort and convenience to patients. But there’s no avoiding the aesthetic impact, given that they are visible metal brackets.

They remain the most common option despite the availability of other types of braces and aligners. One factor might be the cost; they are almost always the cheapest solution.

Ceramic Braces: Clear Braces That Are More Discreet

These are made from translucent materials, with pressure gently and gradually applied to the teeth to align them without being noticeable. Treatment duration can take from 18 to 36 months, in some cases taking longer than metal braces to achieve the desired results. While they are suitable for most orthodontic patients, in extreme cases or those where major changes are required to the teeth’s structure, they might be less effective.

Because they are nearly invisible, many prefer ceramic to metal braces since they help maintain a normal appearance while undergoing treatment. They are also generally more comfortable and less painful than metal, as they do not irritate the gums or sides of the mouth.

The higher-quality materials used in these braces affect their cost, making them more expensive than the metal option.

Let Risinger Orthodontics Help You Achieve Your Smile Goals

At Risinger Orthodontics in Glastonbury, Connecticut, we believe that cost shouldn’t stand in the way of achieving a straighter and brighter smile. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation to assess which treatment suits you best and discuss financing options that fit your budget.

Various Ways of Cleaning Invisalign Clear Aligners

Risinger Orthodontics on August 2, 2024

Various Ways of Cleaning Invisalign Clear Aligners

August 2, 2024
Dr. Risinger

Invisalign is an orthodontic solution that must be worn for more than 20 hours a day to achieve positive results. This required duration of usage, however, can inevitably lead to food particles and buildup inside your aligners. Luckily, it is very simple to keep your Invisalign clean, which helps ensure you maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine.

Let’s explore how you can effectively wash your Invisalign aligners and remove stains and buildup using items commonly found in your home.

For Daily Cleaning
You can use clear, mild soap and a soft-bristled toothbrush for your day-to-day cleaning of your Invisalign. This will remove the bacteria and debris from meals that accumulate throughout the day.

Do note that you should not use the same toothbrush that you use for your teeth to avoid cross-contamination. Additionally, avoid scented and colored soaps to prevent the development of a bitter taste and stains on your aligners.

For Stain Removal
Using a hydrogen peroxide solution is an easy way of removing stains from your Invisalign. Just mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and lukewarm water in a container that can hold both Invisalign trays, and then let them soak for 20 to 30 minutes. Next, rinse the aligners thoroughly. For stubborn stains, it might take several tries until you see an improvement.

For Hard Buildup Removal
White vinegar can remove hard buildup from your Invisalign. Dilute one part vinegar in three parts water, and soak your Invisalign for 15 to 20 minutes.

Next, rinse them and remove any plaque that was loosened up by the vinegar using a soft toothbrush. Be reminded, though, that the smell of vinegar might linger even after rinsing. You can soak your Invisalign in plain water after the initial rinse to help remove the smell, but be prepared to deal with the faint smell that might remain longer.

Consult an Orthodontist for Your Invisalign and Other Dental Concerns
Keep your mouth and teeth healthy and bacteria-free by cleaning Invisalign clear aligners the right way. By doing this, you will also get the most out of your treatment, giving you the smile you’ve always wanted. To learn more about how to care for your aligners or to ask about other available treatment options, contact Risinger Orthodontics in Glastonbury, Connecticut. We look forward to hearing from you.