Living With a Bonded Retainer: What to Expect

risingermarketing on February 26, 2025

Had your braces removed? Your orthodontist may have recommended a bonded retainer to help maintain your straight smile. A thick wire is adhered to the back of your teeth in a bonded retainer, sometimes called a permanent retainer, to stop them from moving. While it’s a great way to align your teeth, adjusting to life with a bonded retainer can take some time. Here’s what you can expect.

1. Initial Adjustment Period

When you first get your bonded retainer, it may feel strange. The wire is positioned behind your front teeth, and your tongue may frequently touch it. This sensation is entirely normal, and within a few days, you’ll likely stop noticing it. Some people experience minor speech changes, which disappear quickly as your mouth adjusts.

2. Oral Hygiene and Cleaning

A bonded retainer requires extra attention when it comes to oral hygiene. Since the wire is glued to your teeth, it can trap food particles and plaque. You can follow some of these essential cleaning tips:

● Brushing: Clean around the retainer using a soft-bristled toothbrush to ensure no plaque builds up.

● Flossing: Traditional floss won’t work as quickly, so use a floss threader or a water flosser to clean between your teeth and around the wire.

● Regular Dental Checkups: Your dentist can professionally clean around your retainer to prevent plaque buildup and potential gum issues.

3. Eating With a Bonded Retainer

Most foods will not cause issues, but you should be mindful of certain hard or sticky foods. Biting directly into crunchy foods like apples or hard bread can stress the retainer and may cause it to break. Break tough foods into small pieces and chew them gently to prevent damage.

4. Comfort and Potential Issues

While bonded retainers are durable, they can sometimes come loose or break. If you notice a loose wire or experience discomfort, visit your orthodontist as soon as possible to have it repaired. Ignoring a damaged retainer can lead to teeth shifting over time.

5. How Long Will You Need It?

The duration of wearing a bonded retainer varies from person to person. Some individuals wear theirs for several years, while others may need them indefinitely. Your orthodontist will monitor your teeth and let you know if or when the retainer can be removed.

Smile Brighter Everyday With Risinger Orthodontics
Although wearing a bonded retainer requires more maintenance, it is essential to maintaining your straight smile. With proper cleaning, mindful eating habits, and regular dental checkups, your retainer will keep your teeth in place for years. If you ever have concerns about your bonded retainer, don’t hesitate to contact Risinger Orthodontics in Glastonbury, Connecticut today for expert guidance.

What is the Best Age for Orthodontic Treatment?

Risinger Orthodontics on March 25, 2024

What Is the Best Age for Braces?

March 25, 2024
Dr. Risinger

Ever wondered if there’s a perfect age for braces? While many people associate braces with young middle school smiles, the truth is orthodontic treatment can benefit people of all ages!

Keep reading to learn that while there’s an “ideal” age to get braces, anyone at any age can experience the benefits of expert braces treatment at Risinger Orthodontics, where we create personalized treatment plans for every patient.

Braces for Teens: The Ideal Time for Treatment

There’s a reason why you see so many teenagers with braces! While a consultation will ultimately determine if it’s the right time for orthodontic treatment, the pre-teen and early teen years (ages 10-14) are generally considered the ideal window to begin braces. This is the consensus among many orthodontists because most or all of a child’s permanent teeth have erupted by this age. Additionally, the jawbone tissue is still relatively soft during this time, making it easier to move teeth into their desired positions and to correct misaligned bites.

It’s important to remember that this is a general guideline. Everyone is different, and some children may benefit from starting braces a little earlier or later. To help protect the health and beauty of your child’s smile, consider scheduling an orthodontic consultation for them around age seven to assess their individual needs and determine the optimal time for treatment.

You Have Braces for Kids?

You may be thinking, “A consultation at seven? Why such a young age?” Well, the American Association of Orthodontists actually recommends children see an orthodontist by then! This might seem early, but it allows Dr. Rick and Dr. Reid to assess your child’s developing smile and identify any potential issues like:

Early orthodontic treatment can be a game-changer when it comes to your child’s smile. By addressing minor issues early, it’s possible to prevent the need for full braces later on. Even if they need braces later on, early intervention can make treatment shorter and more effective. Think of it as laying the groundwork for a beautiful smile!

How Old is Too Old for Braces?

With all that being said, there’s no need to think you missed the boat on starting braces treatment. While treatment might be a bit faster during adolescence, about 1 in 3 orthodontic patients are adults, proving that you’re never too old for braces.

You may not have been able to start braces when you were younger for numerous reasons, but now, you might be more motivated than ever to achieve the confident smile you’ve always dreamed of. When you’re older, you have more freedom to make your own decisions and more control over your finances, which could make your adult years the perfect time for you to get braces.

Plus, there are more treatment options available now than ever before. You can choose a discreet and comfortable option, like Invisalign®, that fits your lifestyle and doesn’t draw attention to your treatment. Whether you’re looking for a confidence boost or want to improve your oral health (straight teeth are easier to keep clean!), braces can be a great investment at any age.

Risinger Orthodontics Has Braces for All Ages in Central CT!

Everyone deserves to feel confident about their grin. At Risinger Orthodontics, we offer braces and other orthodontic treatments for patients of all ages!

Our amazing team has served our Central Connecticut community for over 50 years. We’re passionate about crafting beautiful smiles, and we always make sure your journey with us is comfortable, fun, and personalized. Whether you’re a teen looking for a confidence boost or an adult considering a smile transformation, we’re here to help you achieve lasting oral health.

Schedule a consultation today and let’s discuss your unique smile goals! We can’t wait to help you unlock the smile of your dreams!

Unraveling the Mystery of White Spots on Teeth After Braces

Risinger Orthodontics on February 14, 2024

Unraveling the Mystery of White Spots on Teeth After Braces

February 14, 2024
Risinger Orthodontics

If you’ve recently bid farewell to your braces (hooray!), you might have noticed some unexpected guests: white spots on your teeth.

While these spots might be a bit of a surprise, they’re a common occurrence. But, more importantly, they’re preventable. In this blog, we’ll dive into the causes of white spots from braces, how to avoid them, and what steps to take if they’ve already appeared on your journey to a brighter smile.

What Causes White Spots After Braces?

Discovering white spots on your teeth after braces can be disheartening, especially when you’ve been looking forward to showing off your new smile. Essentially, they are the result of decalcification, where minerals are lost from the tooth enamel, leading to noticeable white spots.

This process is often caused by plaque and bacteria buildup around brackets and bands. Many braces wearers know how challenging it can be to clean thoroughly around brackets, wires, and bands; yet it’s still crucial to do so.

Bacteria and plaque thrive on sugar and starches left behind from our meals and snacks. These bacteria produce acids that attack the tooth enamel, forming white spots that are early signs of cavities.

How to Remove White Spots

White spots from braces do not mean your dream of a brilliant smile can’t come true. Effective at-home and professional treatments are available to significantly reduce or even eliminate those pesky white spots, restoring your teeth to their natural beauty.

If you’re facing this issue, consider the following options:

Consult a Cosmetic Dentist: Often, the most effective way to address white spots is through professional treatment. A cosmetic dentist can evaluate the severity and recommend specific procedures tailored to your needs, such as specialized tooth whitening treatments or polishing.
Remineralization Treatments: These treatments aim to restore essential minerals to your teeth, potentially fading mild white spots. Your orthodontist might have already suggested such treatments, which can strengthen and improve the health of your teeth.
Adopt Rigorous Oral Hygiene Practices: Diligent brushing and flossing can help rebuild tooth enamel and reduce the visibility of white spots. Look for toothpaste specifically made to rebuild enamel, and consult your dentist to ensure it will work for you.
Consider Dental Veneers: For more severe cases, dental veneers might be recommended. These thin coverings are designed to match the color of your teeth and can effectively cover white spots, providing a seamless look.
Inquire About Microabrasion: This technique involves lightly polishing the teeth to diminish the appearance of white spots. It's a minimally invasive procedure that can offer significant improvements.

How to Prevent White Spots on Teeth After Braces

It is completely possible to prevent white spots from braces. With the right practices, you can ensure your teeth remain as healthy as they are straight. Here are our top recommendations for keeping your teeth free from white spots during and after your braces journey.

Brush Regularly and Thoroughly: Make it a habit to brush your teeth after every meal and snack. This helps remove food particles and plaque that can lead to white spots. A travel toothbrush and toothpaste can be lifesavers for on-the-go dental care.
Floss Daily: Using floss threaders or interdental brushes is crucial for cleaning between your teeth and around the braces' brackets and wires. These tools help you reach areas that are difficult to clean with a toothbrush alone.
Limit Sugary and Starchy Foods: These foods contribute to plaque and acid formation. If you do eat them, try to do so during meals and brush your teeth shortly afterward.
Maintain Regular Dental Checkups: Keep up with your scheduled visits to your orthodontist and dentist. They play a crucial role in monitoring your treatment progress and identifying any early signs of white spots or other dental issues.
Use Fluoride Products: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent demineralization. Use fluoride toothpaste and consider incorporating fluoride mouthwash into your daily oral hygiene routine.

Our braces care page goes into more detail about cleaning and caring for your teeth while you have braces. A healthy smile is just as important as a straight one, and at Risinger Orthodontics, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Stop White Spots From Braces Before They Happen

Don’t be afraid to ask your orthodontist what the best methods, toothpaste, and mouthwash are for cleaning your teeth with braces. The importance of regular and thorough brushing and flossing with braces cannot be overstated, especially around the brackets and wires, to prevent white spots on teeth after braces.

Braces can take some getting used to, but don’t worry, we’re here to make it fun and easy! The Risinger Orthodontics team is all about helping you achieve a smile you love. We’re happy to answer your questions, address your concerns, and guide you through a successful and enjoyable orthodontic experience.

What Not to Eat With Braces

Risinger Orthodontics on February 12, 2024

Protect Your Smile! Foods You Can and Can’t Eat With Braces

February 12, 2024
Risinger Orthodontics

When you start your braces journey, you are investing in the look and health of your smile. And just like any investment, you must protect your braces to get a fantastic result – a gorgeous, new smile!

We have tons of braces care tips that will help you keep them clean and functioning efficiently, and this page will dive into the foods you can and can’t eat with braces. Even though your braces from Risinger Orthodontics will be modern, durable, and expertly installed by Drs. Richard and Reid Risinger, eating certain foods can damage them, delaying the completion of your treatment.

If any questions come to your mind as you read about the best foods to eat (and which foods to avoid) with braces, contact us, and one of our team members will gladly answer them for you!

The Importance of Eating Soft Foods With Braces

Whether you choose traditional metal braces or clear ceramic braces from Risinger Orthodontics, you can rest assured that you will have the most modern and durable appliances. However, it’s still essential that you eat soft foods while you progress through your braces treatment.

Your braces’ brackets, bands, and archwires can break if you chomp down on hard, sticky foods. Eating soft foods while you have your braces will also help prevent food from getting stuck in them, making maintaining your dental hygiene a lot (a whole lot) easier.

What Can You Not Eat With Braces

When you get braces, there are several foods you will have to stay away from if you want your treatment to be successful and completed on time. We know no one likes being told what they can’t eat, but trust us, you’ll be glad you avoided these foods when you’re smiling from ear to ear at the end of your treatment.

Here are some of the foods you shouldn’t eat with braces:

Soft Foods You Can Eat With Braces

Wait, it’s not all doom and gloom! We promise! The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends a plentiful variety of healthy, soft foods you can eat with braces. Here are just a few of them:

Milk
Cheese
Soft fruits (bananas, grapes, oranges, etc.) For crunchier fruits like apples, cut them into small bites
Pasta (ravioli, grandma’s macaroni and cheese, spaghetti, etc.)
Steamed or boiled vegetables
Chocolate

Eat the Right Foods for a Successful Braces Treatment

Braces can give you the gorgeous smile you’ve been dreaming of, and the success of your braces treatment will depend on your commitment to keeping them clean and intact. That’s why we always emphasize the importance of eating the right foods with braces.

Dr. Richard Risinger, Dr. Reid Risinger, and the Risinger Orthodontics team will guide you during your braces journey to ensure outstanding results. If you’re already one of our patients, please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns.

If you aren’t one of our patients and are interested in discovering if braces are right for you or your child, schedule your free smile consultation today!

What To Expect At Your First Orthodontist Appointment

Risinger Orthodontics on January 11, 2023

What To Expect At Your First Orthodontist Appointment

January 11, 2023
Risinger Orthodontics

Adults and children seeking orthodontic care for the first time often have questions like, “What happens during your first orthodontic visit?”

At Risinger Orthodontics, we want to make your transition into a new smile as smooth and easy as possible. We provide a comfortable environment where we examine the framework of your teeth and map out a unique plan for your orthodontic care.

If you want to enhance your smile with the help of a qualified, caring orthodontic team, book an appointment at Risinger Orthodontics today!

Can You Get Braces On Your First Orthodontist Appointment?

Some patients ask, “Can you get braces during your first orthodontist appointment?”

We use your first appointment as preparation for your smile journey. We may not place braces during the first appointment, but we will take the first steps toward a healthier smile.

At Risinger Orthodontics, we examine your teeth, finding any gaps, crowding, or over or underbites that might need addressing during your treatment. Diagnostic tools like our iTero® digital scanner and digital x-rays help get a sense of your needs.

After reviewing your x-ray results, our team will work with you to determine what type of orthodontic treatment suits your budget, lifestyle, and the specific needs of your teeth. We’ll also estimate how long your treatment should take.

So, What Happens At Your First Orthodontist Appointment?

Think of your first appointment as a time to develop a strategy to provide the best orthodontic care possible for your unique smile. During this visit, you’ll get to know the team at Risinger Orthodontics. Our orthodontic experts develop an understanding of your dental needs, walking you through every detail of treatment, including

• Introductions – getting to know our qualified orthodontic team
• Paperwork and dental history – Providing proper documents to aid your orthodontist in choosing the appropriate plan to achieve your healthiest smile
• Initial exam and imaging – x-rays and tooth molds that help map out your treatment process
• Review exam results and pick a treatment plan – Working with your orthodontist to determine the best course of action to align your teeth
• Come prepared with questions – a time to ask how long, how often, and what is best for my teeth
• Go over financing and payment plans – Deciding which braces fit into your budget, if you will be using dental insurance, and which payment plan suits you
• Schedule an appointment to place your appliances – Deciding when to begin the next step in your orthodontic care

Introductions

At Risinger Orthodontics, we provide plenty of comforts to make you feel right at home during your initial visit. Our waiting room features a movie theater, a video arcade, personal headsets, fun contests, cookies, and ice cream. You and your family can meet our friendly team, who will give you an office tour and answer questions about our top-of-the-line treatment facilities.

Paperwork And Dental History

Understanding your dental history allows us to prepare your personalized care plan. We will ask you to fill out some forms about your medical and dental history. Be sure to bring any x-rays or other dental documents to your appointment so that we can build on your unique dental foundation.

Initial Exam And Imaging

During your initial exam, our diligent team will have you brush your teeth to prepare for the examination. We will examine your oral structures with dental tools, dental molds, and x-rays. This allows our team to observe any cavities that need filling before orthodontic care, the shape of your teeth, and any crowded, gapped or misaligned teeth.

Review Exam Results And Pick A Treatment Plan

After examining your teeth, you and the team at Risinger Orthodontics will work together to choose the best treatment plan for your unique smile. Often orthodontic treatments address dental issues and any misalignment in the jaw or facial structure caused by misalignments.

Some cases require specialized care from traditional braces, while some patients wear Invisalign to improve their smile. During your review, you will develop a better understanding of your dental needs and how long your treatment should take.

Come Prepared With Questions

The decision to wear braces and improve your smile is a big one. We want you to ask any questions during your initial visit.

Often our patients ask:

• What types of food should I avoid with braces?
• What are the different types of braces?
• How long do braces take to work?
• How often do I need to go to the orthodontist after braces?
• How much does orthodontic treatment cost?
• What payment plans do you offer?
• How long will I need to wear a retainer after my braces are removed?

Whatever the question, we seek to walk with you through the treatment process and provide all the guidance you need. You can even visit our website to learn more about braces care and cleaning.

Go Over Financing Options & Payment Plans

Every patient deserves a great smile and dental health.

One of the first questions new patients ask is, “How much does treatment cost?” Various factors, including the type of braces, your case condition, and the length of your treatment will determine the overall cost. That said, the average cost for braces and Invisalign before insurance can range from $2,500-$7,000.

Call our office today, and we will work with you and your budget to provide the orthodontic care you need. We accept just about every orthodontic insurance and provide a variety of financial options to help make braces and other orthodontic care affordable.

Schedule An Appointment To Place Your Appliances

After finishing all the paperwork, examinations, questions, and financing, you can make an appointment to begin your orthodontic treatment. We’ll provide all the information you need about regular visits and how to care for your appliances.

Occasionally, you may need dental work before wearing braces or other appliances. Make sure you schedule any suggested appointments to make quick progress toward your new smile.

Book Your First Orthodontist Appointment Today!

Don’t worry about setting your first orthodontic appointment. At Risinger Orthodontics, your teeth are in qualified, caring hands. We adjust smiles and improve lifestyles for many patients throughout Central Connecticut.

Book an appointment today or call us to learn more about our orthodontic services for kids and adults.

When to Start Orthodontic Treatment

Risinger Orthodontics on October 31, 2022

Curious about when to start orthodontic treatment? Learn some of the signs from Connecticut’s most trusted orthodontist now.

Is Orthodontic Treatment Necessary?

Risinger Orthodontics on September 7, 2022

Is Orthodontic Treatment Necessary?

September 7, 2022
Risinger Orthodontics

According to The American Association of Orthodontists, at least 3 out of 4 people need orthodontic treatment. It’s no wonder why so many people want to know why orthodontic treatment is necessary.

The benefits of a beautiful smile are endless, providing many life-changing benefits.

At Risinger Orthodontics, we assist patients in obtaining a healthy, bright smile for their healthy, bright future.

Schedule an appointment to learn more about how we help you achieve your best smile.

When is Orthodontic Treatment Necessary?

Braces and other orthodontic treatments create the ideal environment for permanent teeth to grow correctly, providing a healthy bite, aligned teeth, and improved jaw alignment.

Some signs why orthodontic treatment is necessary include:

• Baby teeth that obstruct the growth of permanent teeth
• Crooked teeth that cause brushing difficulties
• Gapping teeth that cause sensitivity in gums
• Misaligned bites (Over or underbites) that cause difficulty eating and speaking

Many other factors lead to the need for orthodontic care. Scheduling a complimentary consultation is the best way to know if an orthodontic treatment makes sense for you.

Correct Bite Issues

A misaligned bite affects the alignment of your jaw. Occasionally, untreated bites lead to issues like TMJ (pains affecting the temporal mandibular joint and other parts of the face.)

Orthodontic treatment addresses this pain by guiding the teeth into a better position.

• An underbite – when the bottom teeth protrude further forward than the top teeth
• An overbite – when the bottom teeth position themselves too far back to meet with the top teeth
• An open bite – when a gap keeps the upper and lower teeth from meeting
• A crossbite – when a crooked upper tooth positions itself behind the bottom teeth

Addressing misalignment issues through orthodontic care improves the way you eat and your bone structure. To ensure healthy tooth growth, patients should address misalignment issues as early as possible.

Fix Crowding

Orthodontists highly recommend braces to reposition crowded teeth. The gentle adjustment of these teeth makes cleaning them more manageable and reduces the risk of cavities.

Resolve Speech Problems

Crowded teeth, misalignment, and other dental problems can affect your speaking and eating. These necessary processes become easier and more natural with orthodontic treatment.

Improve Self-Esteem

Wonky teeth keep people from embracing their fullest potential. If you hide your teeth behind a closed-mouth smile, braces can give you the confidence to smile and laugh whole-heartedly.

Prevent Cavities & Decay

The hygiene of your teeth affects your health. Problems like gingivitis, tooth decay, and cavities occur more often in crooked teeth because they are harder to clean. Correcting your alignment with braces creates a more effective teeth-cleaning routine.

Why is Early Treatment Beneficial?

Orthodontists recommend an initial appointment for children ages six and seven. While all children need orthodontic care at this age, others benefit from minor intervention adjustments.

Phase 1 Orthodontics can include palatal expanders to encourage proper structuring of the bones in the mouth, partial braces, or retainers.

When is Orthodontic Treatment NOT Necessary?

In some forms of early development, orthodontists do not recommend treatment, especially for children without any signs of misalignment or tooth structure problems.

You can quickly determine whether or not your child needs orthodontic treatment by visiting Risinger Orthodontics. During your complimentary consultation, our team of experts will determine if your child’s oral growth is sufficient or needs some help from orthodontic treatment.

Get Answers to Your Orthodontic Questions Today!

Understanding why orthodontic treatment is necessary is vital for achieving a smile that brightens everyone’s day. No matter where you are in life’s journey, Risinger Orthodontics has a proven track record of helping children, teens, and adults.

For over 52 years, we have been Glastonbury’s preferred orthodontist. Schedule a complimentary consultation now to learn more about the benefits of orthodontic treatment.

What Are the Different Types of Braces?

Risinger Orthodontics on September 1, 2022

What Are the Different Types of Braces?

September 1, 2022
Risinger Orthodontics

As you begin the journey to improve your unique smile, you may wonder, “What are the different types of braces?” and “which is right for me?” With the help of our team at Risinger Orthodontics, deciding what kind of braces fit your individual needs and your lifestyle is easy!

Risinger Orthodontics offers a sophisticated variety of braces, including metal braces, ceramic braces, and removable, nearly invisible aligners. Learn more about the different types of braces!

Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional Metal Braces remain a tried and true orthodontic treatment, especially for patients with advanced orthodontic needs. This classic appliance uses a system of guide wires held to the teeth with brackets and rubber bands. Over time the device directs the teeth into optimal placement for smiling, eating, speaking, and enjoying life.

Advancements in braces technology have alleviated the pain once associated with getting braces. Easy adjustments and smaller, smoother brackets are some benefits modern metal braces offer.

Clear Braces

While clear braces use the same method for tooth alignment as traditional metal braces, they are much less visible than metal braces. Patients seeking a healthier smile can skip the metal brackets and silver wires, enjoying a more discreet approach to a healthy smile. While most orthodontists upcharge for clear braces, we keep our braces costs the same so patients can get the care they want!

Discuss proper cleaning methods with our orthodontic experts at Risinger Orthodontics, as the clear elastic ties on these braces may develop stains.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners provide comfort and inconspicuousness for patients seeking braces without bulky brackets. The sleek, clear, removable trays adjust teeth gently over time. Often, clear aligners go unseen and unnoticed.

While clear aligners are sought after by many, not every orthodontist has the skills and experience to get results with aligners. As an Invisalign Diamond Plus provider, Dr. Rick has unmatched insight into how to use aligner technology to restore your smile.

Self-Ligating Braces

These braces look nearly identical to metal braces. They even come with ceramic or metal finishes. Self-ligating braces rely on a system of clips and doors to grip the wires and adjust teeth automatically.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are perhaps the least sought-after. These braces may cause increased friction between the brackets and the tongue. The position of the appliance can affect the patient’s speech.

Which Type Of Braces is Right For Me?

Every form of braces comes with new responsibilities. Deciding which braces fit your orthodontic needs and lifestyle requires the help of an orthodontist.

During your consultation, we will consider factors like hygiene, aesthetics, price, and results and the best treatment plan for you. We work one-on-one with our patients to find the right fit for your lifestyle.

Learn More About The Different Types of Braces Offered at Risinger Orthodontics

At Risinger Orthodontics, we provide healthy smiles that we hope to help you maintain for a lifetime. Making decisions about braces may seem hard, but with our guidance, you’ll be on your way to a smile that you cannot help but show off.

If you are interested in finding out more about braces, call us at 860-633-8321 to set up your complimentary consultation.

How Often Do You Go To The Orthodontist After Braces?

Risinger Orthodontics on August 10, 2022

How Often Do You Go To The Orthodontist After Braces?

August 10, 2022
Risinger Orthodontics

Now that your braces are off, you can finally enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile. Of course, you will need to preserve their new alignment.

At Risinger Orthodontics, we follow a post-braces treatment plan that helps you maintain the ideal position of your teeth. This plan typically involves very easy virtual retainer checks.

These small steps in caring for your teeth make all the difference in preserving your upgraded smile.

Post-Braces Treatment and The Importance of Retainers

Dr. Rick recommends wearing a retainer to keep your smile in its ideal position. These custom-fit retainers are shaped to help your new smile stay in place. Wearing it is important because your teeth can often shift back into their pretreatment position without a retainer.

Dr. Rick suggests wearing your retainer as often as possible for 3-6 months (while the teeth are more susceptible to movement). After 3-6 months (with Dr. Rick’s approval), patients can switch to wearing retainers while sleeping.

Be sure to wear your retainer as often as recommended and complete all virtual appointments to keep your teeth gleaming in their new, proper place.

How Many Orthodontist Appointments After Braces?

After completing your braces treatment, you will only need to complete quick virtual retainer checks. These check-ups involve uploading photos of your teeth with your retainer in place. If we identify any issues, we’ll have you come in for an office visit.

Going too long without a retainer causes teeth to relapse into their previous positioning, undoing the hard work of your braces. If you lose your retainer, call Risinger Orthodontics immediately. Our team of helpful orthodontic specialists will assist you in replacing the retainer.

Continue Your Smile Journey With Risinger Orthodontics

Taking care of your teeth is a journey. After finishing your braces treatment, you’ll need to follow a few new routines to care for your teeth. Appliances like retainers let you enjoy the freedom of your new smile while also increasing its longevity.

We are here to help you achieve and keep healthy, straight teeth. Contact our post-braces treatment experts today to learn more about retainers and the best plan for you.

Which is Cheaper: Braces or Invisalign Clear Aligners?

Risinger Orthodontics on July 25, 2022

Which is Cheaper: Braces or Invisalign Clear Aligners?

July 25, 2022
Risinger Orthodontics

Orthodontic patients today have more treatment options than ever before to achieve a stunning smile. From traditional braces to ceramic braces and Invisalign®, there are orthodontic options that fit your needs and your lifestyle.

One of the most important aspects of any orthodontic decision is cost. You may be wondering about the cost difference between braces and Invisalign. Let’s look at each system and the variables that determine the cost of treatment.

No matter which treatment you use, it’s always a great idea to invest in the health of your smile! Schedule your complimentary consultation to discover what makes us the best braces and Invisalign provider in Central Connecticut!

Invisalign vs Braces Cost?

The cost of any orthodontic treatment is determined by various factors, including:

Since we love Invisalign and find it works so well, we do not charge different prices for each service. All of our patients can choose Invisalign or braces without paying more. As long as they are candidates for both treatments — which most people are! That way, you can find the option that matches your needs.

Many orthodontists charge more depending on the type of treatment. However, we provide all orthodontic treatments at an affordable rate of $2,500 to $8,500. These estimates do not include insurance, which can substantially reduce the cost of treatment.

During your complimentary consultation, Dr. Rick will examine your teeth and discuss your treatment options, possible timeline, and costs.

We also offer our patients several financing options so you can find the treatment option that is best for you.

Traditional Metal Braces vs. Invisalign

Traditional metal braces provide an efficient, reliable, and effective treatment for patients with crooked or misaligned teeth. Unlike the braces of yesteryear, today’s modern braces are lighter, more discreet, and more comfortable than ever.

More about metal braces:

Risinger Orthodontics is the leading braces provider in Central Connecticut! Schedule your complimentary consultation to learn how braces can help.

Invisalign is a state-of-the-art treatment option that uses virtually invisible plastic aligners. The trays apply gentle pressure to your teeth. You will receive new trays every couple of weeks that move your teeth into position.

Invisalign can treat overbites, underbites, open bites, crowded, misaligned teeth, and more! Plus, Invisalign’s sophisticated technology helps everyone from children, teens, and even adults get a beautiful smile.

More about Invisalign:

Dr. Rick is in the top 1% of Invisalign providers in the U.S. He has helped many people in Central Connecticut achieve fantastic results!

Clear Braces vs. Invisalign

Ceramic braces — sometimes known as clear braces — use brackets, wires, and elastic bands to correct orthodontic issues. Clear braces use tooth-colored ceramic material that blends into the natural color of your teeth.

More about clear braces:

Which Option is Right for Me?

Orthodontic treatment is as unique as the patients who need it. While braces and Invisalign can improve your oral health and help you achieve a healthy, radiant smile, everyone’s needs will differ. Dr. Rick’s top priority is providing you with the best treatment that fits your case, budget, and lifestyle.

During your complimentary consultation, Dr. Rick will:

Regardless of your treatment method, the team at Risinger Orthodontics will support you every step of the way.

We can’t wait to show you why we are the best orthodontic provider in Central Connecticut! Call our office at 860-633-8321 to get started on your journey to a better smile.