Category: Invisalign

Top 4 Invisalign® Tips for a Successful Journey

adults go for ice cream after learning Invisalign tips

If you’re on an Invisalign journey with Dr. King, Dr. Welch and our team at Jupiter Orthodontics, you’re in for an amazing, life-changing transformation! We’re here to guide you through the process and ensure that your treatment experience is as smooth and successful as possible, so you can experience beautiful results. 

We’ve got the top 4 Invisalign tips to help you sail smoothly to the finish line. 

1. Use the Invisalign app!

Have you been using the super cool ‘My Invisalign’ smile app? It’s like having your own personal smile assistant in your pocket! 

Download the Invisalign app to track your progress, get cleaning tips and learn more about how Invisalign works, snap a selfie to see a simulated preview of how your new smile can look at the end of treatment, connect with us, set handy reminders and receive notifications to help you stay on track with wearing your aligners and attending your appointments, and so much more!

Using the My Invisalign app is like having an easy, direct line to smile perfection. Stay connected, stay motivated, and let the app join you on your journey. 

2. Keep your past aligners!

It may be tempting to bid farewell to your old aligners as you progress through your treatment. But it’s actually important that you keep your most recent ones! (We’ll discuss this during your complimentary consultation, of course.) 

Your past aligners aren’t just souvenirs; they’re your backup plan! In case you accidentally misplace or damage your current aligners, having your previous ones can keep you on the right track and prevent your teeth from ‘relapsing’ or reverting back to their previous positions.

We suggest you keep at least the aligner prior to the one you’re currently wearing. Then when you come to your appointment, we can recycle your far past trays for you!

3. Check the fit of your aligners regularly.

It’s important to check the fit of your aligners to make sure that they’re hugging your teeth properly. A snug fit means they’re doing their job and moving your teeth efficiently. Your aligners shouldn’t feel loose, and they should be able to ‘snap’ into place as confirmation of a good fit. 

You can use an Invisalign chewie or aligner chewie to help your clear aligners fit properly too! Invisalign chewies are small, cylindrical pieces of soft plastic that you bite down on (with your aligners in place) to properly ‘seat’ your aligners. To use a chewie, bite down on it, move it around different areas of your mouth, and bite down with gentle pressure to help optimize the fit of your aligners. 

You can purchase a pack of Invisalign chewies on Amazon and we’ll provide you with some during treatment if you need them. 

4. Keep your teeth sparkly clean!

Keeping your teeth, gums and clear aligners clean is one of the easiest Invisalign tips and tricks to ensure a successful journey. Clean teeth are healthy teeth; healthy teeth are strong teeth; and strong teeth are most receptive to movement through orthodontic treatment. Don’t eat or drink anything besides water while wearing your aligners so that your teeth and trays can stay nice and clean!

Brush your teeth thoroughly day and night, and after big meals. Floss between each tooth every night too! After you eat, give your clear aligners a good rinse with water and consider brushing/flossing your teeth and/or using mouthwash after eating too. 

Give your clear aligners a gentle brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and soak your clear aligners in a solution like RetainerBrite or with Invisalign cleaning crystals a few nights a week.

By doing everything you can to maintain a clean smile, you’re setting yourself up for success!

Still have questions about your Invisalign journey?

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions! We’re here to support you and give you all of the tips you need to experience a successful Invisalign journey. 

Ready to start your journey? Beautiful smiles are made at Jupiter Orthodontics! Request your complimentary exam with us at our orthodontist office in Jupiter!

What are Invisalign chewies? How do I use them?

teens smiles while using Invisalign chewies

Invisalign® chewies are small but mighty! If you’re on the exciting journey of transforming your smile with Invisalign, using Invisalign chewies can make a big difference in your treatment progress. 

Your friends at Jupiter Orthodontics are here to guide you along your transformation journey so you can experience the best results in the shortest amount of time. Let’s dive into the world of Invisalign chewies, what they are, how to use them, and where to get them! 

What are Invisalign Chewies?

Invisalign chewies, also known as aligner chewies or “Invisalign bite sticks”, are small cylindrical cushions made of a soft, pliable material. These chewies are designed to help seat your aligners properly, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit, by biting down onto the chewie. 

Using an Invisalign chewie can help ‘snap’ your aligners into place to secure the aligner for maximum effectiveness with each set of aligners.

These chewing exercises will remove any air bubbles between your teeth and aligners. Invisalign chewies can also help stimulate tooth movement and offer relief from discomfort. 

How to Use Invisalign Chewies

It’s super easy to use Invisalign chewies! Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Grab your aligner chewie: They usually come in small packs or can be obtained from your orthodontist.
  2. Insert your aligners: Pop in your Invisalign aligners as usual and ensure that they’re in place.
  3. Bite and chew: Take the chewie and bite down on it gently but firmly. The cushiony material will compress between your teeth, creating gentle pressure that helps the aligners fit snugly against your teeth.
  4. Move it around: For best results, bite and chew on the chewie in various spots, including the front and back teeth, left and right sides, and upper and lower jaws. This ensures that your aligners are completely seated!
  5. Repeat the process: Aim to use your Invisalign chewies for about 5-10 minutes, several times a day. Make it a part of your daily Invisalign routine!

We recommend you use chewies in the morning and at night for about 5 to 10 minutes. If your Invisalign tray is not fitting on one particular tooth, give that tooth extra chew-time each day. 

Can using orthodontic chewies speed up the treatment process?

Using orthodontic chewies can help keep your treatment progress on track so you can experience a beautiful new smile in the shortest amount of time! An effective and efficient treatment process consists of excellent oral hygiene, a commitment to wearing your aligners 20 to 22 hours a day, and using Invisalign chewies regularly to ensure a snug aligner fit.

Where to Buy Invisalign Chewies

We will provide you with a pack of Invisalign chewies when you start orthodontic treatment with us at our Jupiter orthodontist office!

You can purchase a pack of Invisalign chewies on Amazon for under $10. They’re also sold at WalMart!

Are Invisalign chewies reusable?

Invisalign chewies aren’t intended for long-term reuse, but they can be reused for a short period. However, it’s crucial to prioritize hygiene and keep your chewies clean! 

Immediately after using chewies, rinse them with water. If needed, you can use a mild soap or toothpaste to double down and give them a quick clean. Replace your chewies if they become worn out or lose their flexibility.

Still have questions about Invisalign chewies?

Invisalign chewies are part of the secret sauce to ensure a comfortable Invisalign fit and maximum effectiveness throughout treatment! Using them consistently will make a significant difference in your treatment progress. 

Dr. King, Dr. Welch and our experienced team are here to keep you informed! Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions about chewies, Invisalign treatment or any of our other orthodontic treatment options

Ready to start your own journey? Request your complimentary consultation with us at our Jupiter orthodontist office today!

Why Choose A Specialist With Invisalign Experience?

Young girl wearing hat, smiling with trees behind her in fall season

We’re sometimes faced with the decision of what type of doctor or specialist we should see for a diagnosis or treatment. If our condition is in a certain field, say heart health or general health, we’re likely to choose a specialist in that field.

In other words, would you schedule a cardiology appointment with your family doctor? Hopefully not! Family doctors don’t necessarily have the same experience as cardiologists. When you’re looking for a doctor in any field, it’s important to choose one who specializes in your area of need! This is how you ensure the greatest possible results from treatment.

The same goes for your smile! If you or your child is in need of Invisalign® treatment, it’s important that you choose a specialist who has considerable Invisalign experience. Your smile deserves the greatest quality of care, and that means choosing  an expert with years of experience in Invisalign treatment.

Here’s why.

Top 4 Reasons to Choose an Orthodontist with Invisalign Experience

1. An Orthodontist’s Education

Many dentists offer Invisalign treatment, but dentists actually don’t receive the same training that orthodontists do. There are particular distinctions between an orthodontist’s training and a dentist’s training. Both an orthodontist and a dentist complete dental school, but to become an orthodontist, one has to devote an additional 2 to3 years to orthodontic training.

After receiving a certification, orthodontists continue practicing in their field. The best orthodontists pursue ongoing education and stay on the cutting-edge, using the latest technology to ensure outstanding results.

“Continuing education is the key to maintaining the highest level of excellence possible, and I am a staunch advocate of pursuing it. Attendance at study clubs, seminars, and lectures is on my agenda often throughout the year so that I remain on the cutting edge of orthodontic technology,” says Dr. King.

Dr. King is dedicated to continuously improving his technique for his patients! Ensuring the best results with Invisalign requires this level of care and education.

2. Customized Treatment Plans

We use The King Method approach for the utmost level of customization. This method involves a custom selection of specific techniques and tools that cater to the individual’s condition.

Before beginning any orthodontic treatment, knowing the provider’s experience in orthodontic diagnosis is essential! Along with that, the provider must be up-to-date on the customized treatments available for you.

During your first visit to our office, Dr. King will complete a thorough examination of your teeth. He uses your exam results to determine the best treatment approach for your condition.

Using the unique King Method approach, Dr. King will use a combination of all orthodontic methods fused into a single method to treat patients in a more effective and efficient manner. Through a combination of Dr. King’s Invisalign expertise and his King Method approach, patients can experience faster results with shorter treatment periods and superior results!

3. Diagnosing the Root of the Problem

Although a dentist may have some Invisalign experience, an orthodontist has special expertise in the positions of the teeth and the bite, as well as facial aesthetics.

Orthodontists have special training in understanding how your smile can change your facial profile. Orthodontists identify and treat the root of the bite or tooth misalignment, while dentists are mainly focused on the appearance of the teeth. Successful Invisalign treatment requires an approach that includes both aesthetics and functionality.

4. The cost of Invisalign

Many people believe choosing an Invisalign specialist is more expensive, but this isn’t the case! In fact, the more experience an orthodontist has in Invisalign treatment, the lower they’re able to offer the cost of treatment.

The cost of your Invisalign treatment will depend on:
• Your orthodontic condition and its severity
• The length of treatment required for your condition
• Your individual smile goals

A dentist or orthodontist who doesn’t specialize in Invisalign may require additional resources to treat your condition. This can end up costing you more money!

At Jupiter Orthodontics, our mission is to provide affordable, high-quality treatment to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. We offer several payment options and accept a number of insurance plans to meet the needs of our patients. In other words, the cost of Invisalign is affordable with us!

5. Google Reviews

Pro tip: When choosing an orthodontist for Invisalign treatment, how can you ensure that he or she provides excellent care?

Take a look at their Google reviews!

When picking your specialist, look for reviews online, testimonials on their website, as well as other review sources to ensure that the orthodontist provides a high quality of care. People leave genuine reviews all the time—especially if they’re dissatisfied with treatment! Looking at the orthodontist’s reviews on their Google listing and their website will give you greater insight into their approach to orthodontic care.

At Jupiter Orthodontics, we value our patients’ feedback. (Take a look at our patients’ testimonials!) We are constantly assessing our patients’ feedback to improve our processes and techniques.

It’s critical to consider an orthodontist’s expertise when making a decision for your smile. Undergoing Invisalign treatment requires experience and education, and with a specialist, you’re guaranteed to receive that!

Choose a qualified Invisalign orthodontist today when you  schedule your complimentary exam with us!

What Do I Need To Do For The Best Invisalign Results?

two women, smiling with ice cream, outside, Invisalign results

Over 8 million people have used Invisalign® in the United States! It’s not difficult to understand why Invisalign is so popular; this treatment offers convenience, comfort, and a custom design. When you start your treatment with Invisalign at Jupiter Orthodontics, you’re experiencing the most technologically-advanced clear aligners in the world.

We believe patient education is essential to a successful orthodontic treatment, so we will always provide you with all of the information and resources you need to support you throughout your treatment.

If you are currently undergoing Invisalign treatment, or you’re ready to begin treatment with Invisalign to maximize your quality of life, we have some tips to help you achieve the best Invisalign results!

5 Tips to achieve the best Invisalign results

  1. Store your aligners properly.Be careful to not misplace your aligners! Even though one of the benefits of Invisalign is their transparent appearance, this also means that they can be easy to misplace if you don’t store them in your carrying case.It is important to carry your Invisalign case with you to avoid losing them or throwing them away by mistake.
  2. Floss and brush your teeth regularly.With Invisalign aligners and braces, you should always floss and brush your teeth regularly. It is important that you are dedicated to brushing your teeth two to three times a day, not only to prevent stains, but to prevent gum disease, and bacteria build-up too!Flossing is essential.Flossing helps to remove the food particles lodged between your teeth to minimize your chances of developing gum disease.Pro tip: Invisalign is removable, so you can take your aligners out to brush and floss after every meal. Consider carrying a small travel toothbrush, so you can clean your teeth as often as you need. Be sure to rinse your aligners with lukewarm water periodically throughout the day.
  3. Wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day.For your aligners to be effective, it’s important to wear them for at least 22 hours each day. At your initial consultation with Dr. King, he will discuss your expected treatment length with you. The length of your treatment will depend on your specific case, but if you don’t wear your aligners as instructed, you’re likely to experience a longer treatment than initially expected! However, if you follow all instructions you’ll be seeing results before you know it.Dr. King advises you to wear your Invisalign aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day, and only remove them to eat, brush, floss and drink liquids other than waterWearing your clear aligners as instructed by Dr. King is crucial for staying on track with your treatment, maximizing your results, and ensuring an efficient treatment process!
  4. Wear your retainer after your treatment is completed.Completing your Invisalign treatment is certainly a reason to smile! To keep your smile in its beautiful new position, you will need to wear a retainer as the final phase of your orthodontic treatment. The goal of a retainer is to hold your teeth in place while they stabilize and settle into the jawbone.Dr. King will advise you on how often to wear your retainer as your Invisalign treatment comes to a close. At first, you’ll wear your retainer day and night to support your teeth and gums and prevent them from shifting. If you don’t wear your retainer and your teeth revert to their previous position, you’re reversing all of the work you and Dr. King put into your new smile!
  5. Don’t miss your orthodontic appointments! Last, but certainly not least, it’s important that you attend all of your orthodontic appointments and follow Dr. King’s instructions throughout your treatment. Your regular orthodontic appointments are critical for monitoring your progress and making any necessary adjustments to improve your treatment process. At your appointments, don’t be shy to ask Dr. King any questions. The more you know, the better!

We are confident that you’ll be extremely satisfied with your Invisalign results when you choose treatment with Dr. King! If you completed treatment with another orthodontist and you’re unhappy with your invisalign results, or you’re currently in treatment elsewhere and are unhappy, we encourage you to reach out to us. We are 20,000 beautiful smiles strong—and counting!

Ready to begin your journey to a healthy, confident smile? Request your free orthodontic exam with Dr. King today! Visit our Jupiter office, or schedule a virtual smile assessment without leaving your home.

We are on a mission to provide affordable, high-quality treatment to every family, regardless of their financial situation!

Three Easy Steps To Keep Your Teeth White With Braces

How to keep teeth white with braces, Jupiter, girl with blonde hair smiling with braces

Are you planning to start treatment with braces soon, or your treatment is coming to an end and you’re scared of stained teeth? We know teeth stains may be a cause for concern for some people, but we have tips to help you achieve the smile you’ve always desired—without the stains!

The first thing to keep in mind is that braces themselves don’t stain your teeth; braces are made of high-grade materials that don’t rust or cause discoloration.
It’s the build-up of plaque and food particles that can cause your teeth to turn yellow.

As your Jupiter Orthodontist, we are here to help you navigate your life with braces with three easy steps to keep your teeth white and your oral hygiene at its best!

3 Tips to Avoid Teeth Stains

1. Brush Your Teeth Thoroughly

Your mouth is home to over 700 types of bacteria, so you can imagine how much bacteria is on your teeth and around your gum line if you don’t brush diligently! Brushing your teeth at least twice a day can minimize plaque and bacteria that cause the teeth to stain. It can also ward off gum disease!

Committing to oral hygiene habits not only prevents stains, but it can also have a profound impact on your health and longevity. Consider using an interproximal orthodontics brush to optimize your results and clean the hard-to-reach spaces between brackets and wires!

2. Avoid Whitening Toothpaste

Some people may opt for whitening toothpaste, thinking it’ll prevent teeth staining. However, this method will actually make the problem worse! Whitening toothpaste can reduce the enamel responsible for the natural, beautiful shine on your teeth. It’ll also lighten the exposed tooth surfaces that aren’t covered by your braces brackets. Before you purchase any whitening products throughout your treatment, consult with Dr. King! He’ll help you make the best decision for your smile.

3. Use Flossing Threaders
Flossing threaders can make a huge difference in your treatment! Unfortunately, not enough people are flossing their teeth regularly. Research shows that only 37% of the American population flossed their teeth in 2016. Flossing regularly can maximize the results from your smile transformation. Flossing can help to prevent gum disease and tooth decay and clean the areas where a regular toothbrush can’t reach.

If you’re still wondering what you can do to keep your teeth white while having braces, we are here to help you! (Many of our patients choose Invisalign® clear aligners, because they’re removable and practically invisible. With clear aligners, there aren’t any brackets or wires to get in the way of your toothbrush or floss threaders!)

The Jupiter Orthodontics team is here to support you throughout your treatment. We don’t want you to fear yellow or stained teeth emerging after your treatment. Seeing your new smile is incredibly exciting—especially when you take the necessary precautions during your treatment to avoid stained teeth!

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our office. If you’re ready to begin your smile journey, take the first step by requesting your free consultation today.

You can rest assured that you’re in the best hands when you visit Dr. King at Jupiter Orthodontics!

What You Should Know When Drinking With Invisalign

Young blonde girl smiling holding her clear aligner, What You Should Know When Drinking With Invisalign, Jupiter Orthodontics

One of the many perks of Invisalign® treatment is that it requires minimal lifestyle changes! Invisalign is designed to be clear, convenient, removable, discrete and effective! While there are not many restrictions with Invisalign clear aligners, there are some drinking restrictions while your aligners are in place. Understanding when to take out your aligners is important in protecting your smile and your investment!

When you visit us for your free orthodontic exam, Dr. King will tell you everything you need to know about Invisalign treatment. He will take the time to discuss any temporary dietary changes you’ll have to make to ensure that your treatment is as effective, efficient, and comfortable as possible.

The Safest Drink for Invisalign

The best thing you can do (not only for your health, but for your clear aligners too) is drink water! Water is the only drink you can have without removing your aligners. Invisalign trays are prone to stain, and can become damaged or warped by hot beverages. More importantly, drinking sugary beverages while wearing your Invisalign trays is bad for your teeth!

When you drink sugary, carbonated beverages while wearing your trays, those sugars are trapped on the surface of your teeth and between your teeth. This can lead to plaque build-up, and eventually tooth decay!

If you happen to drink something other than water while wearing your trays, don’t worry! Simply remove your clear aligners, rinse them under water, and use a travel toothbrush to brush your teeth and aligners.

Drinks to Avoid while Wearing Invisalign

Invisalign clear aligners are clear for a reason, and we want to help you keep them that way! It’s important to know that casually drinking green tea, coffee, alcohol or smoothies with invisalign can damage your aligners and potentially harm your teeth. Be in-the-know on which drinks you should avoid to prevent damage to your aligners and to ensure a successful, timely treatment!

Here is a Quick List of Drinks to Avoid while Wearing Invisalign :

  • Hot drinks
  • Teas
  • Coffee
  • Wine and Beer
  • Soda
  • Juice
  • Carbonated/sparkling water
  • Milk
  • Smoothies

Invisalign and Hot Drinks

It’s no secret that Invisalign and coffee do not mix well! After all, coffee is infamous for staining the teeth, so imagine what it can do to your aligners!While that is true, coffee and other hot drinks can do more damage than just staining your aligners.! Drinking coffee and hot drinks with Invisalign can permanently damage your aligners, because heat naturally warps plastic. When clear aligners become warped, they no longer fit as well as intended, which can create an ineffective treatment.

This is why it is also important to remember that you should clean your aligners with room temperature water. Boiling or soaking your aligners in hot water can damage your trays and affect the fit and comfort as well.

When your custom aligners are made, a sheet of the Invisalign plastic is first heat-softened, and then vacuum-formed (sucked down) over a model of your teeth, thus giving the aligner its precise shape. Drinking hot beverages with your aligners incan alter the intended precision of your trays.

What Will Stain Invisalign?

It is important to remember that your Invisalign clear aligners are easily stained. Drinking juices, red wine, or coffee with Invisalign can cause discoloration in your trays. We encourage you to only drink water while wearing your aligners, but if you accidentally stain them, we have a fix! Soaking your aligners in a retainer cleaning solution, like Retainer Brite®, can effectively minimize these stains.

Retainer Brite is the #1 doctor-recommended brand to cleanInvisalign trays, retainers, night guards and any other removable dental appliance! You can use these tablets to clean and disinfect your aligners with the professional strength of a dental office at home. Keeping your clear aligners clean is essential for maintaining your oral health. If you don’t take cleaning measures seriously, bacteria can build up in the aligners, which can cause health complications for your teeth and gums.

Invisalign and Drinking with a Straw

We have a lot of patients ask if they can still drink whatever they want if they use a straw with Invisalign. While you may have heard of this trick for teeth whitening, it does not work in regards to keeping your aligners safe. Hot drinks will still cause heat damage, and sugars can still be trapped in your teeth.

It is important to remember that while these drink restrictions sound like a downside to Invisalign treatment, Invisalign clear aligners are made to be comfortable and fit your lifestyle. When you compare the dietary restrictions with braces vs Invisalign, you’ll find that clear aligners are much easier to manage!

Still Have Questions About How to Care for Your Invisalign Aligners?

We are happy to answer any questions you may have about getting started with Invisalign and protecting your aligners! Our goal is to help you choose the best treatment option for you. We encourage you to schedule your free exam or reach out to us at our Jupiter office (561-747-5766) today!

Clear Aligner Therapy: Which aligner is right for you?

Woman holding Invisalign, ClearCorrect, Clarity clear aligners to teeth at Jupiter Orthodontics in Jupiter FL for clear aligner therapy

As clear aligners have become increasingly popular, countless brands are popping up left and right with the promise of effective clear aligner therapy.

So, how do you know if clear aligners are right for you?

The first few things Dr. King will help you to determine:

  • What is your current orthodontic condition?
      • Do you have a mild to moderate malocclusion (poor bite)?
      • Are your teeth crooked or gapped?
  • What goals do you hope to achieve through orthodontic treatment?
      • Are you hoping to completely realign your bite and restructure your appearance?
      • Are you hoping to straighten your teeth and experience a more confident smile?
  • What are your preferences, based on your lifestyle?
      • Do you have personal or professional commitments that may require a metal-free orthodontic treatment?
      • Are you seeking an unnoticeable, practically-invisible treatment?

Did you answer yes to the majority of these questions? You may be the perfect candidate for clear aligner therapy!

If you still aren’t quite sure whether clear aligners are right for you, take the first step by requesting your free orthodontic exam with Dr. King. He is here to educate you and help you understand all there is to know about your options in orthodontic treatment.

Now, how do you determine which clear aligner is right for you?

“Aligner therapy is all about the doctor, not the company that makes the aligner.” -Dr. King

Dr. King says it best! Each company that creates clear aligners has its own pros and cons. That’s why your team at Jupiter Orthodontics is here to help you pick out the right clear aligner for you.

We currently provide a variety of clear aligners, including Invisalign®, Clarity™ and ClearCorrect aligners.

No matter the brand of clear aligners you choose, what’s most important is the personalized treatment plan that Dr. King creates to suit your specific condition, needs, goals, lifestyle and preferences. Dr. King applies the King Method to all of his patients’ treatment plans, which allows him to provide better results in a shorter amount of time! Combining his vast knowledge with his extensive experience in orthodontics, Dr. King has a comprehensive understanding of which technique is best for each of his patients.

So, when it comes to clear aligner therapy, as long as you’re choosing clear aligners approved by a top orthodontist like Dr. King, the type of clear aligner is not necessarily the concern.

The main concern with clear aligner therapy is the doctor you choose. If your doctor isn’t exceptionally experienced with clear aligners, your treatment can be ineffective or even damaging, regardless of the brand.

Ensure that your clear aligner therapy yields the results you’ve always dreamed of when you choose Dr. King as your orthodontist.

Following your orthodontic treatment, Dr. King will continue to monitor your progress every 6 months at no charge to you! At Jupiter Orthodontics, we promise high-quality treatments with the greatest level of attention to each and every patient.

When you request your free orthodontic exam with Dr. King, you’re taking the first step toward achieving a beautiful, healthy smile! We provide affordable orthodontics in Jupiter, FL. Reach out to us today to discuss your options with clear braces, adult orthodontics or braces for kids!  Dr. King and the entire Jupiter Orthodontics team are proud to serve the Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, and Hobe Sound, FL communities.

5 Signs You Need Orthodontics

young friends, school, happy, Invisalign, happy smile, Jupiter Orthodontics

Orthodontic treatments serve a cosmetic purpose as well as a major functional purpose. The right orthodontic treatment can improve your functionality, increase your self-confidence and quite literally change your life!

How do you know if you can benefit from orthodontics? Here are 5 signs that you should begin treatment!

1. You breathe through your mouth
One telltale sign that you need orthodontic treatment is mouth-breathing. Mouth-breathing has everything to do with the openness of the airways, relative to the width of the jaw. When the jaw is considerably narrow, the airways are blocked or obstructed and it’s difficult to breathe easily through the nose. Mouth-breathing can lead to sleep apnea, which can be life-threatening if it goes untreated! To improve your breathing, Dr. King will create a customized treatment plan to expand your jaw and open your airways.

2. You hide your smile
If you ever hide your smile or feel self-conscious when you grin, it’s time to begin orthodontic treatment! If your teeth are crooked, gapped, crowded or you have a visibly poor bite, we have the orthodontic treatments to give you the confident smile you deserve. It’s never too late to recreate your smile, and the right orthodontic treatment will leave you with a smile that you want to share.

3. Your top and bottom teeth don’t meet evenly
Do you find it difficult or uncomfortable to chew food? This can indicate a poor bite condition. When your top teeth don’t meet your bottom teeth evenly, this can affect your jaw function, your airways and even your posture! Poor bite conditions include overbites, underbites, open bites and crossbites. If you notice your top teeth jutting over your bottom teeth, your bottom teeth extending beyond your top teeth, or you experience difficulty chewing, Dr. King can create a personalized treatment plan that brings your jaw into perfect alignment to improve its functionality.

4. You have a speech impediment
If you have a lisp or speech impediment, this may be attributed to your orthodontic condition. A malocclusion, or poor bite condition, makes it difficult to bring your top and bottom teeth together evenly to pronounce certain sounds, like ‘s’ and ‘z’. If there are any unintended openings between the teeth while the tongue is trying to enunciate, this will create a lisp. These open spaces often occur in openbites and overjets. Through orthodontic treatment, Dr. King can expand the jaw and realign the top teeth with the bottom for proper speech ability.

5. Your child’s teeth are growing out of alignment
Children should visit the orthodontist by age 7. During this time, baby teeth are falling out and permanent teeth are erupting through the gums. This is the perfect time to consider orthodontic treatment, before the adult teeth stabilize. Once the adult teeth stabilize, they may reveal a problematic condition that affects functionality or appearance. Dr. King is highly trained in detecting problematic orthodontic conditions before they fully emerge. By assessing the alignment of your child’s teeth during his or her malleable years, we can intervene before the condition affects the quality of your child’s life. When your child completes his or her free initial consultation with Dr. King, this does not mean he will recommend that your child begins orthodontic treatment immediately. Unlike many other orthodontists, Dr. King will determine the optimal period for your child to begin treatment, and he will continue to monitor your child’s progress for months or years to follow at no cost to you!

No matter how severe you or your child’s orthodontic condition, Dr. King will create a personalized treatment plan that brings you to your ideal smile. If you notice any of these 5 telltale signs throughout the day or night, give us a call to discuss how orthodontics can benefit you.

We provide adult orthodontics, braces for kids, clear braces and more to the Jupiter, Florida community. Request your free exam with Dr. King to get started today!