Getting your teeth straightened isn’t something just for teenagers anymore. Many adults just like you who have felt uncomfortable with their smiles now have straight, healthy teeth. You can, too! If you weren’t able to get your teeth straightened when you were younger, now is the time to find out more about Invisalign-the clear alternative to metal braces and wires.

Treatment with Invisalign is quick and easy. With Invisalign, you don’t wear metal braces. Instead, your teeth are straightened by wearing a series of clear plastic aligners. The aligners are so inconspicuous that most people won’t be able to tell you’re wearing them. You’ll wear each set of clear aligners for about two weeks at a time, while your teeth move little by little toward the smile you’ve always wanted.  The aligners are worn all the time, except when you’re eating, drinking anything but water, brushing, and flossing.  Because the aligners are removable, you can eat all your favorite foods.

We can’t tell you exactly how long your treatment will take.  But, on average, Invisalign treatment takes about one year.  The cost of treatment is similar in cost to traditional braces. In addition, if you have orthodontic coverage, Invisalign is often covered to the same extent as traditional braces. Drs. Philbin & Reinheimer also offer a variety of affordable payment plans. Our office will be happy to work with you on all of the insurance and financial details.

Be one of the many patients Drs. Philbin & Reinheimer has treated who are enjoying their new smiles.  Call Dr. Philbin & Reinheimer’s office today at 410-263-5600 for a free consultation. Don’t hold back–straight teeth are now within your reach!

The list of advantages of the Invisalign product includes an invisible appearance, comfort, removable, and disposable. Normal, preventative oral hygiene is possible as well, which includes thorough brushing and flossing. Invisalign helps to keep meal time more enjoyable because they are removable, which allows eating and drinking with all of the restrictions that are associated with braces. The aligners are worn for a period of a few weeks then they are disposed of and a new set is then used. Each set has small changes to gradually move teeth closer to their intended, final positions. Slow yet precise changes in the positioning of the teeth with reduce soreness as well because the need to make drastic adjustments from month to month will be gone. Appointments with the dentist will be required every other month, give or take a few weeks, which may add to the convenience factor as well. The overall length of treatment usually lasts less than 18 months and in some cases, half that time.

Everyone wants to have a smile that they can be proud of, but the truth is that most people do not have naturally perfect teeth. Many years ago, unsightly metal braces, head gear, and retainers were the only options available and now Invisalign products enter the marketplace too. If crooked or spaced out teeth are an issue close to you, get on the path to a better smile without the sacrifices of everyday conveniences. There is a growing number of dental professional who are recognized as Invisalign certified professionals with regards to the fitting and adjustment of the aligners, so locating a provider of this product and related services is going to continue to become much more available.

1. When you get braces, you will find that you will feel better about yourself. Before you were perhaps uncomfortable with your teeth, and thus would avoid exposing them through smiling and other activities. You may have even found yourself blushing at the dentist’s office from time to time. But if your teeth were straighter, chances are this would go away. Your self esteem would rise and you would be less fearful. Think about it. Who would you find more attractive: somebody with crooked teeth or somebody with straight teeth? Take a look at yourself in the mirror and try to picture how you might be presented after the deed is done.

2. You can prolong your life. It may sound ridiculous and unbelievable, but it is in fact true. Crooked teeth can lead to heart disease, and if the braces are put on at a young age, this can be prevented. Braces can also help clear the airways that might otherwise be blocked and lead to breathing problems. It is therefore safe to conclude that getting them could assist in keeping you in ideal health.

3. Do you have trouble chewing your food? You may not be breaking what you eat down properly and later become sick as a result. Braces can correct this, and you will soon find that your meals will be less troublesome in the future.

Though a number of people might think taking an exam is more attractive than having braces put in, in the long term there will be many positive things that become known. When you decide to take the plunge, either for yourself or a loved one, you will be changing your life for the better. So, why get braces? Why not? Even if it’s not crucial that you get your teeth straightened, you might still want to put it under consideration. Few have regretted the choice.

When children reach this age, their first permanent incisors and molars have generally erupted to the extent that the orthodontist can diagnose skeletal problems, crowding, and cross-bites. If treatment begins at this age, an orthodontist can also monitor incoming permanent teeth while guiding the growth of the child’s jaw.

Here are some benefits of taking this approach:
? The front teeth will be less prone to injury as they are moved back.
? Patients are usually cooperative at this age, and treatment will help provide the positive self-image they will need in their formative years.
? It will help gain space for the child’s permanent teeth by regulating the width of the lower and upper dental arches.
? It will reduce the probability of impacted permanent teeth and permanent tooth extractions in the future.
? It will assist in correcting the child’s thumb-sucking while regulating any abnormal speech or swallowing problems they may have.

Orthodontic appliances

These may be made of ceramic, plastic or metal, and while some are brackets that are bonded to the teeth, others are removable. Braces gradually move teeth to the desired position with a constant, gentle pressure that is carefully controlled. Today, patients can opt for brackets that are clear or have a metallic color, along with the color of the ties orthodontists use to hold the wire in place. The wires are less conspicuous than they used to be, and the newest innovations can do the job while causing the patient less discomfort. Also, those who choose traditional metal braces can now add colored elastics for a one-of-a-kind smile, which appeals to many children.

Based on the child’s growth pattern and the severity of their dental problem, treatment may take from one to three years. This is difficult to estimate at the start, because growth rates often vary widely. In addition, if the child is cooperative in using the recommended headgear or rubber bands, this will be a deciding factor in causing the treatment regimen to produce the desired results.

More people than ever are being treated by orthodontists who are members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). Patients wearing braces need to pay special attention to keeping braces, teeth and gums clean during orthodontic treatment.

“By following their orthodontist’s guidance on dental hygiene and avoiding certain foods while wearing braces, patients will be on track to a lifetime of healthy teeth and a beautiful smile,” says Dr. James J. Caveney, president of the AAO.

Plaque is the reason that patients need to be vigilant about dental hygiene during orthodontic treatment. If plaque is left on teeth and around braces, patients may develop swollen gums, bad breath, scarred and discolored teeth, and even cavities. When plaque is removed regularly during treatment, patients are rewarded with the best possible results in the shortest time possible.

To help patients in their fight against plaque, orthodontists recommend the following tools:

1. Toothbrushes (manual, travel and power varieties);
2. Fluoride toothpaste;
3. Dental floss;
4. Interproximal brush-tiny, cone-shaped brush that is designed to slip under the archwire and remove plaque and food particles in hard-to-reach spots around brackets and between teeth; and
5. Fluoride rinse.

Once a patient has the proper tools, they can fight plaque by following these guidelines. To begin, patients should clean their teeth at least four times a day (after each meal and before bed) with a soft, rounded-bristle manual or power toothbrush in good condition and a fluoride toothpaste. And their orthodontist’s instructions on how to properly brush with braces should be followed.

“A travel toothbrush is a great way to make brushing more convenient when away from home,” says Dr. Caveney. “But if no toothbrush is available after a meal out, at least rinse the mouth thoroughly to clear most large food particles.”

Brushing alone, however, will not remove all of the plaque. Floss should be used at least once every day between teeth, around brackets and at the gumline. Reusable floss threaders help patients maneuver dental floss between archwires and teeth. Pre-cut floss with ready-made threader tips can be helpful as well.

Patients also need professional cleanings at the dentist’s office at least every six months to keep teeth and gums in top condition during orthodontic treatment. Even with diligent attention to daily dental hygiene, professional cleanings are key in removing plaque build-up.

And while patients are working at keeping braces, teeth and gums clean, they should try to avoid some potential braces-busting foods. Those foods include anything that is hard, sticky, crunchy or chewy-like taco chips, caramels, hard pretzels, taffy, unpopped popcorn kernels, peanuts-even sugarless bubblegum.

Softer foods and a good diet are important to successful orthodontic treatment. A balanced diet provides nutrients that are essential to bones and tissues undergoing change during treatment. And fresh vegetables such as carrots and celery are okay to eat, provided they are cut up in small pieces rather than bitten.

Orthodontic patients who follow these tips will be rewarded with a healthy, beautiful smile. Attention to oral hygiene is especially important for people with braces, for strong, healthy teeth.

What is a TAD?
A TAD is a miniature screw that we position in the mouth. It serves as an anchor for moving specific teeth in the most controlled and predictable way possible. TADs are made of a sterile medical-grade titanium alloy. They eliminate cumbersome appliances (e.g., headgear) and allow us to treat certain cases better and faster than ever before. TADS are truly revolutionizing orthodontic treatment.

How exactly is the TAD positioned?
After numbing the area where the TAD is to be placed, we use gentle pressure to insert it through the gums and into the bone between your teeth.  While it’s normal to assume that the procedure would be painful, it is actually pain-free.  We apply a fast-acting numbing gel where the TAD will be inserted.  After the gel desensitizes the area topically we use a small amount of local anesthetic that completely numbs it.  You may feel some slight pressure during insertion but no pain.  The entire procedure takes only a few seconds.

How long will the TAD need to stay in place?
As the name implies, the anchorage device is temporary and is typically removed in a few months when it is no longer needed to assist in tooth movement.

Will it hurt to remove it?
No. The entire process takes only a few seconds.

Will I have pain after the TADS are placed?
No.  Some patients say they feel a little pressure for a short period afterward.  Only a few patients have reported needing to use an over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprophen.

What if it aches the next day?
There is no call for alarm.  Minor aching associated with a new tooth movement is not only normal, but expected; however, if you have concerns, simply call our office and we’ll make an appointment to see you.  We’ll probably suggest that you take an over-the-counter remedy to lessen the ache.

What if the TAD or its attachment causes an irritation inside my cheeks or lips?
For immediate relief, you may be able to cover the attachment that is causing the irritation with a cotton swab or a small amount of wax.  Call the office and we’ll give you instructions and/or make an appointment to see you.

What if the TAD comes loose?
On occasion, a TAD might become a little loose.  In most cases this minor mobility is nothing to be concerned about; however, if you feel the TAD is excessively loose, or it is causing you discomfort, call the office and we’ll make an appointment to see you to determine if the amount of give is normal.

How do I keep it clean?
Rinse with chlorhexidine two to three times per day for the first seven days.  Dip a soft toothbrush in the chlorhexidine and brush lightly around the miniscrew during the first week.  Brush the “TAD” as if it is a tooth thereafter.  Contact the office if you experience any swelling or persistent pain.

Orthodontists have used TADs since 1983 and oral surgeons and orthopedists have used miniature screws like this for decades longer.  Recent refinements in the devices and the procedures for their use have propelled the application of TADs to a heightened level in orthodontics.  With TADs, orthodontic treatment options have never been greater.  We are proud to be at the forefront of this exciting technology and feel confident that your experience with it will be comfortable and the results exemplary.

Invisalign Special Event

Drs. Philbin and Reinheimer will be providing Invisalign treatment consultations to answer your questions about Invisalign treatment, the clear way to straighten teeth. If you have wondered if Invisalign is right for you, ask the scheduling coordinator to schedule you for an appointment for this special event.

For eligible* Invisalign Special Event patients:

• Complimentary consultation
• $500 off your Invisalign treatment
• Hurry! Offer ends December 31, 2009.
• Financing options available

Space is limited to the first 20 appointments.
* Ask the scheduling coordinator about Invisalign Special Event patient eligibility.

Drs. Philbin and Reinheimer
802 Bestgate Road Suite B Annapolis MD 21401
101 St. Claire’s Place Suite 104 Stevensville MD 21666, MD (410)263-5600
www.marylandbraces.com

*Invisalign Special Event and associated promotions are hosted and sponsored by Drs. Philbin and Reinheimer / 802 Bestgate Road Suite B Annapolis MD 21401 and not by Align Technology, Inc.

Braces are the beginning, but the system makes the smile.
Certified Damon System doctors combine three key components, which when used together, deliver faster treatment, fewer appointments, greater comfort, and consistent high-quality results:

1. Damon passive self-ligating braces that eliminate the need for elastic or metal “ties”. With Damon tie-less braces you can experience treatment without tightening.

2. Light high-technology shape-memory wires
that move teeth faster and require fewer adjustments.

3. A new clinically proven treatment approach
that aligns your teeth and enhances your facial aesthetics - usually without extractions or rapid palatal expanders.

Conventional braces on the left are tied in with elastics, which cause friction and pressure, making treatment slower and less comfortable. Damon braces use a slide mechanism to hold the wire, which allows teeth to move more freely, quickly and comfortably.
Damon braces are designed to be discreet, comfortable and easy to keep clean. Without the elastic ties which attract and collect plaque, Damon braces make dental hygiene easy during treatment.

Your initial consultation with your dentist or orthodontist, is oftentimes offered free of charge. During this visit, you’ll discuss the issues you have with your teeth and what kind of results you would like to see. Once your doctor decides your situation is suitable for Invisalign treatment, a treatment plan will be mapped out with your goals in mind. Then, impressions and pictures of your teeth will be taken for digitization purposes.

The impressions of your teeth will be digitized in order for your doctor to work with a computerized 3-D image of your teeth. Then, your doctor will plan your tooth movements throughout your entire treatment timeline. You’ll be able to see a virtual representation of your teeth before, during, and after completion of the Invisalign process so you can see what your smile should look like when you’re done with treatment.

From your doctor’s precise treatment plan, customized aligners are created with advanced technology for you to wear at each stage of your treatment. While the number of aligners varies for each individual situation, a full set of treatment typically includes 20-30 aligners per arch.

You should wear your aligners at all times, with the exception of eating and drinking, in order to complete your treatment in the timeline determined by you and your doctor. You’ll go in for occasional checkups, to monitor your progress and to receive your next set of aligners. During the entire treatment process, you’ll be able to watch your teeth gradually moving into place. Your smile will, little by little, move into something you’d like to show off. The people around you will be sure to notice your new-found confidence.

Choosing the Invisalign system is a smart decision on your part because the advanced technology provides you with customized treatment to give you a smile that suits you. And even with all that superior technology, we make it easy for you to get Invisalign.
Ora Reinheimer

Our telephone number has not changed: (410) 263-5600.
There is ample, convenient parking attached to the building. Driving directions and more information about the relocation will be posted on our website.

We remain committed to providing you with the best care possible, in the most comfortable setting for you and your child’s needs.  We appreciate the confidence you have in our practice and are committed to providing you with the highest quality of care, delivered with thoughtfulness and compassion.
Please call us with any questions you may have. We look forward to continuing to care for you in our new location.

Best regards,
Drs. Philbin and Reinheimer