How Long Does It Take for Braces to Work?

Risinger Orthodontics on May 12, 2022

How Long Does It Take for Braces to Work?

May 12, 2022
Risinger Orthodontics

How long are braces usually on? The truth is, it depends! Your overall treatment time will be dependent on the complexity of your case, the type of orthodontic treatment you use, and many other factors.

Learn more about braces treatment duration and how long you have to wear braces. Schedule an appointment with the experts at Risinger Orthodontics today!

How Long Do You Have to Wear Braces?

Before our patients begin their orthodontic treatment, they often ask us how long they’ll need to wear their braces. Since every patient has different needs, there is no hard and fast rule for the length of your treatment time.

On average, patients with mild to moderate bite malocclusions may wear braces for one or two years, while those with more severe malocclusions may need to wear them for up to 3 years.

During your complimentary consultation, Dr. Rick will do a physical exam and digital imaging to get a sense of your bite. After gathering this information, he will talk to you about your goals, what type of treatment is right for you, and the estimated length of your treatment time.

Braces Treatment Duration

With all the advancements in orthodontic technology in recent years, treatments like Invisalign and braces are designed to align your smile faster. Plus, these treatments are sleeker, more comfortable, and require fewer appointments!

Invisalign Clear Aligners

Invisalign clear aligners are the virtually invisible way to get a radiant smile. The aligners are custom-made to fit comfortably and seamlessly over your teeth. Simply wear them 20-22 hours a day for the best results! Dr. Rick is an Invisalign Diamond Plus Provider, meaning he is in the top 1% of Invisalign providers nationwide.

Mild cases take anywhere from 6 months to a year to correct with Invisalign, while more moderate cases may take longer. Not wearing your aligners consistently can also lengthen your overall treatment time.

Metal and Clear Braces

No matter what your smile needs are, metal and clear braces can address almost any bite malocclusion! Using a system of brackets and wires, these braces are designed with comfort and efficiency in mind.

You can even change the color of your metal braces to fit your fashion sense! Plus, if you’re looking for a subtle treatment, clear braces blend into the natural color of your teeth so you can smile bigger during treatment.

Since braces work around the clock to correct your smile, your overall treatment time may be reduced. Depending on the complexity of your case, braces can take a few months and up to 3 years.

Learn More From the Best Orthodontist in Glastonbury

So, how long are braces usually on? Your treatment time will be dependent upon your goals, your chosen type of orthodontic treatment, the complexity of your case, and more.

The only way to know for sure how long you’ll need to wear braces is by scheduling a consultation with us. We’ll help you choose the most efficient treatment for your needs!

Dr. Rick has many years of experience improving smiles across the greater Glastonbury area. If you’re seeking a more radiant smile, schedule an appointment with us today!

How Does Invisalign Work?

Risinger Orthodontics on December 17, 2021

How Does Invisalign Work?

December 17, 2021
Risinger Orthodontics

Invisalign is one of the most convenient and comfortable options for rejuvenating your smile. The secret is in Invisalign’s clear, removable aligners that position teeth properly. Dr. Rick is an Invisalign Top 1% Diamond Plus Provider with specialized knowledge about restoring your smile with Invisalign.

Learn more about how Invisalign works during your complimentary consultation.

How Do Invisible Aligners Straighten Teeth?

The secret to Invisalign is its tray system. Each tray is specially-fitted to improve the shape of your smile. You will receive your first set of trays after your first appointment.

We take the data from your complimentary consultation — as well as the data from millions of successful Invisalign users — to calibrate each aligner to adjust your bite. All you need to do is switch out your current aligner set for the next one in the series every few days. It is important that you wear your trays for 20-22 hours a day. Consistent wear will eventually reveal your beautiful new smile.

While you will need to wear your Invisalign 20-22 hours a day, you will only need occasional check-ups to ensure that your treatment is on-track.

As an Invisalign Top 1% Diamond Plus Provider, Dr. Rick is recognized as one of the country’s elite Invisalign providers. He has advanced knowledge of how aligners work and can treat many more advanced orthodontic issues than other orthodontists.

Learn more about what Invisalign can treat now!

How Long Does Invisalign Take To Work?

Every mouth differs, but Invisalign improves your tooth alignment quickly and gently. Some patients notice improvements in as little as three months, while others wear their aligners nine months or longer for the best results.

The best way to keep your treatment on track is to make sure you wear your aligners for 20-22 hours every day. Regular wear helps lock in your stunning smile. Make sure to replace your aligners with a new set every few days.

Learning how to take care of your aligners is crucial for your treatment. Discover how a few simple steps can help you achieve the best possible results during treatment.

Start Your Treatment with an Invisalign Top 1% Diamond Plus Provider

For over 52 years, Risinger Orthodontics has helped people around Glastonbury achieve radiant smiles. Invisalign’s lightweight aligners provide more freedom and enhanced comfort during your treatment.

As one of the elite 1% of Invisalign providers, Dr. Rick can help you achieve unparalleled results with Invisalign. Get started on your smile journey by calling our office at 860-633-8321 or scheduling your complimentary in-person or virtual consultation now!

What Can Invisalign® Fix?

Risinger Orthodontics on December 13, 2021

What Can Invisalign® Fix?

December 13, 2021
Risinger Orthodontics

Invisalign aligners have given patients more freedom than ever before. These sleek, customized, clear trays apply gentle pressure, which helps put teeth into their proper placement. However, Invisalign can’t address all orthodontic issues.

For over 52 years, Risinger Orthodontics has treated each patient with care, addressing their individual orthodontic needs with lasting results. Because Dr. Rick is an Invisalign Top 1% Diamond Plus professional, he understands how to get the most out of your treatment.

Learn more about what Invisalign can fix during your complimentary consultation.

What Can Invisalign Fix?

Invisalign is one of the most advanced technologies in orthodontic appliances. Here are some of the most common concerns that Invisalign addresses:

Open Bites

Open bites — or a misaligned bite — can make eating difficult. People with open bites have a noticeable gap that keeps the teeth on the top lifted above the bottom set of teeth, even with the mouth closed. In most cases of open bites, Invisalign adjustments address any spatial issues and resolve bite problems.

Gap Teeth

Too much space between teeth allows room for food to build up. Invisalign aligners apply moderate pressure to the teeth that readjust their placement and reduce gaps.

Crowding

Crowding occurs when the teeth are too compressed to fit comfortably in the jaw. Crowded teeth often turn sideways in the gums. Invisalign helps straighten crowded teeth and gradually realigns them for a more natural smile.

Overbites and Underbites

Overbites occur when the top teeth extend too far in front of the bottom teeth. Biting, eating, and even talking can create difficulty for people with overbites. Only expert orthodontists like Dr. Rick know how to get lasting results for overbites with Invisalign.

Underbites

Underbites occur when the bottom teeth extend too far in front of the top teeth. This condition causes difficulty while eating, biting, and talking. Underbites occur when the bottom teeth extend too far in front of the top teeth. Again, underbites require the supervision of an Invisalign expert.

Crossbite

In crossbite conditions, a patient’s top teeth are positioned inside the alignment of the bottom teeth. Invisalign shifts crossbites into a better position within the gums.

What Can Invisalign Not Fix?

A combination of Invisalign and braces — or other dental and orthodontic treatment methods — may be required for more advanced orthodontic needs.

Some conditions that may not benefit from intervention with Invisalign include:

Tooth Shape

Extremely pointed teeth or short and overly round teeth produce difficulties for aligners. Jagged teeth are less conducive to gripping and are typically more resistant to Invisalign’s gentle forces.

Tooth Position

Invisalign adjusts overcrowded teeth with slightly rotated positions. However, the degree of rotation can determine Invisalign’s effectiveness. In some cases, the degree of rotation or the tilt of a tooth (forward or backward) may call for more involved steps.

Large Gaps

Currently, the advanced technology only moves gaps up to 6mm in space. More significant gaps may demand other forms of tooth correction.

Intrusion and Extrusion

Leveling the height of teeth — especially in the back area of the mouth — may require braces. That said, Invisalign can be effective in milder cases, especially when extrusion and intrusion occur in the front area of the mouth.

Midline Movement

The midline is an imaginary line that runs down the middle of your face. This spot is where your teeth should align. When tooth alignment strays significantly from the midline, it may signify that Invisalign won’t provide optimal results. However, in mild cases of midline movement, Invisalign may still be an option.

Dental Work

Patients who have undergone previous dental work should seek orthodontic advice before starting Invisalign treatment. Dental implants like crowns, veneers, and bridges change the shape of your teeth. Be sure to discuss any previous or upcoming dental work with Dr. Rick before beginning your treatment.

Is Invisalign Right For You?

Invisalign has earned a superior reputation for helping people achieve the smile of their dreams. However, every person has unique needs. The best way to know if Invisalign is right for you is to schedule a complimentary consultation. As an Invisalign Diamond Plus Provider, Dr. Rick has unparalleled insight into getting results with aligners.

People across Glastonbury have relied on Risinger Orthodontics to get the smile they’ve always wanted. Call our office at 860-633-8321 or schedule your consultation — available in-person or virtual.

Is Invisalign Better Than Braces?

Risinger Orthodontics on December 13, 2021

Is Invisalign Better Than Braces?

December 13, 2021
Risinger Orthodontics

Invisalign’s advanced clear aligners allow patients to straighten their smiles with less-noticeable appliances. Invisalign can successfully address many orthodontic conditions. However, no two people are alike. Some people may need braces to help with their smiles.

Almost every day, patients ask us: “Is Invisalign better than braces”? As a board-certified Invisalign Top 1% Diamond Plus expert, Dr. Rick knows how to get superior results out of your treatment.

Learn more about the differences between Invisalign and braces by booking a complimentary consultation today.

Is Invisalign More Expensive Than Braces?

Every patient has unique needs. Without a complimentary consultation, it is difficult to answer the question is Invisalign more expensive than braces. This is because each person will have different treatment needs.

That said, Invisalign treatment ranges from $2,500-$7,000. Likewise, braces can range in price from $2,000-$7,500. These figures do not include any insurance coverage.

During your complimentary consultation, we will provide you with a better idea of your out-of-pocket costs.

What’s the Difference Between Braces and Clear Aligners?

Patients often consider four details when deciding on the best orthodontic plan for their individual needs:

The cost
Comfort
The appearance
The degree of tooth alteration

Understanding the pros and cons of each method helps patients make the best decision possible.

Pros of Clear Aligners

Some of the reasons patients love Invisalign include:

Visual appeal: With advanced technology, Invisalign uses nearly imperceptible trays to align your teeth.
Increased Comfort: Invisalign places gentler forces on the teeth as it repositions them. With no wires, brackets, or other metal pieces, patients bypass scarring, cuts, and irritation of the gums and tissues in their mouth.
Convenience: patients using Invisalign aligners typically enjoy fewer orthodontist visits, simplified hygienic care (since the removable trays are easy to clean), and fewer dietary restrictions.

Cons of Clear Aligners

While unarguably the most cosmetically appealing plan, Invisalign treatments only address some of the advanced orthodontic issues that braces alleviate. Some of the negatives of wearing Invisalign aligners include:

Added Responsibility – Keeping up with your trays, cleaning them, and wearing them 22 hours a day is essential. Neglecting these responsibilities will prolong treatment.
Advanced Orthodontic Issues – Invisalign’s success depends on the degree of turned teeth, the distance between teeth, and the irregularity of a patient’s bite. Braces may be a better option in more advanced cases.
Previous or Planned Dental Work – Patients with prior or planned dental procedures should consult an orthodontist before beginning treatment. Caps, crowns, and dental bridges restrict gripping and alter the shape of a patient’s mouth, making Invisalign a less beneficial option than traditional braces.

Although Invisalign can’t address every issue, you would be surprised to learn how many people can benefit from treatment. Dr. Rick is among the top 1% of Invisalign providers in the U.S. As an Invisalign Platinum Plus Provider, he can address many advanced conditions with aligners.

Pros of Braces

Some of the benefits of braces include:

Work around the clock – Braces are constantly working to improve your smile.
Decisive movement – Braces address advanced orthodontic needs like severely crooked teeth, gaps, and overbites.

Cons of Traditional Braces

While traditional braces provide many benefits in orthodontic care, patients often avoid them for these reasons:

Discomfort – Braces are sometimes bulky and uncomfortable. Along with the worries of broken wires and brackets, patients also must come in for more regular check-ups.
High Maintenance – Learning how to care for your braces involves new flossing methods, brushing, and dietary restrictions.
Visibility – Even with tooth-colored or clear brackets, braces are more visible than Invisalign.
Inconvenience – While patients typically wear braces for a shorter time, they may require more regular orthodontist appointments.

Which is Better: Braces or Invisalign?

Invisalign and braces both offer stunning results for teens and adults. At Risinger Orthodontics, our patients enjoy a family-friendly environment that prioritizes their needs and comfort. It’s why people have trusted us with their smiles for over 52 years.

There’s never been a better time to learn about your options! Schedule a complimentary consultation now to learn more.

What Can I Eat With Invisalign?

Risinger Orthodontics on November 11, 2021

What Can I Eat With Invisalign?

November 11, 2021
Risinger Orthodontics

Invisalign is one of our most popular treatments, and for good reason. Clear aligners are nearly invisible, improving your smile with comfort and confidence.

One of the biggest perks of Invisalign is that you have the freedom to eat or drink almost whatever you want! Learn more about what you can eat with Invisalign, what foods to avoid, and more.

Can You Eat With Invisalign On?

While there’s almost no limitation to what you can eat with Invisalign, you should avoid eating or drinking most foods with your aligners in. Your teeth produce a lot of force while eating, which may damage your aligners. Eating with Invisalign can also catch food particles and stain your aligners.

There are some exceptions to this rule. We recommend that if patients drink something with their aligners in, to rinse their mouth out soon afterward. That also goes for soft foods like yogurt, ice cream, or oatmeal.

In general, it’s best to simply remove your aligners and place them in their storage case. Then you can enjoy whatever food and drink you want!

What Should I Do After Eating?

Proper Invisalign care is crucial to keeping your aligners and teeth in good condition. In order to prevent food or bacteria from getting trapped in your mouth, you should always brush your teeth and aligners after every meal. If you can’t manage to brush your teeth, you can always rinse them with lukewarm water.

Not cleaning your Invisalign can have consequences to your aligners and to your health. When food gets stuck in your aligners, it can lead to unsightly stains and make your treatment more noticeable. Plus, these food particles can break down to become plaque, increasing your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, or other dental health problems.

What Food and Drinks to Avoid With Invisalign

Invisalign gives you additional freedom to eat and drink whatever you want, as long as you brush your teeth and aligners well afterward! Be sure to remove your aligners before consuming food and drinks like:

Hard or crunchy foods: chips, pretzels, popcorn, and the like can damage the teeth and interfere with your bite alignment.
Soda and candy: sugary snacks and drinks can break down the enamel of your teeth and increase bacteria in the mouth.
Sticky foods: caramel, taffy, gum, and similar foods tend to stick to the teeth, accelerating bacteria growth.
Coffee, wine, and pigmented beverages: Dark pigments discolor and stain aligners, and hot beverages can warp the plastic.

If you do plan on consuming any of these foods, be sure to remove your aligners. Afterward, be sure to clean and rinse your teeth and Invisalign. Practicing good oral hygiene with aligners helps lock in your smile results.

Get Clear Aligners With Glastonbury’s Premier Invisalign Diamond Plus Providers

Invisalign’s removable and discreet design allows patients to live life to the fullest. With some simple cleaning and care, Invisalign clear aligners give you the freedom to smile wide and eat whatever you want!

We’ve been improving smiles across Central Connecticut for more than 50 years. Trust your smile with the Invisalign Diamond Plus providers at Risinger Orthodontics. Schedule an appointment today!

Is Invisalign Cheaper Than Braces?

Risinger Orthodontics on November 5, 2021

Is Invisalign Cheaper Than Braces?

November 5, 2021
Risinger Orthodontics

Invisalign is a virtually invisible orthodontic treatment that gives you a healthy smile. However, many prospective patients wonder: is Invisalign more expensive than braces?

Learn more about Invisalign cost, the difference between Invisalign and braces, and how our Invisalign Diamond Plus experts can help you get the smile you’ve always wanted. Schedule your free consultation today!

What’s the Difference Between Invisalign and Braces?

There are many types of orthodontic treatment. That being said, orthodontic treatment isn’t the same for everyone. Whether you get Invisalign or braces will depend on your specific smile needs.

Here are some benefits of Invisalign and braces:

Advantages of Invisalign

Invisalign clear aligners are the most discreet way to get a straight smile. These state-of-the-art plastic aligners get switched out every few weeks to gently bring your teeth into the correct position. Here are some reasons our patients love Invisalign:

• Sleek and comfortable design
• Noticeable results in as little as 6 weeks
• Fewer appointments
• Fewer dietary restrictions

Advantages of Braces

Braces are a tried-and-true orthodontic treatment that can address most types of bite malocclusions. New advances in orthodontic technology have made modern braces more sleek and comfortable than ever before! Here are some reasons our patients love braces:

• Quicker treatment time
• Can address many types of bite misalignments
• Works around the clock to fix your smile

Which is Cheaper: Braces or Invisalign?

Without examining your bite, it’s hard to estimate how much braces or Invisalign will cost for you.

There are many different factors that affect the cost of orthodontic treatment, such as the length of treatment time, the severity of the misalignment, and how much your insurance will cover.

At Risinger Orthodontics we want you to have the best treatment for your needs! That’s why we do not charge more for Invisalign than for braces.

We know that orthodontic treatment is a big step and that you may be wondering about how you will pay for your visits. That’s why we offer a variety of financing options for your needs.

If you’re curious about Invisalign cost or braces cost, contact our office to learn more. We can discuss your options and customize a payment plan, especially for your budget.

Get Premium Invisalign & Braces in Central Connecticut

At Risinger Orthodontics, we know that every patient’s smile is different. Excellent patient care and peace of mind are our top priorities.

We’ve been crafting beautiful smiles across Central Connecticut for more than 50 years! As an Invisalign Diamond Plus provider, we are among the top 1% of Invisalign providers in the nation.

It’s always a great time to upgrade your smile. Whether you get Invisalign or braces, Risinger Orthodontics can help you achieve your dream smile. Begin your smile journey by calling our office at 860-633-8321 or scheduling your in-person or virtual consultation.