Caring for Clear Aligners

Dr. Lis Bradley, DDS offers ClearCorrect, the clear aligner system that straightens teeth without the metallic look of braces. Another perk of ClearCorrect clear aligners is that they require less maintenance and won’t prevent you from eating certain foods.  Although you won’t have to make too many changes, there are still guidelines you should follow to wear and care for your aligners!

You should remove the aligners each time you eat, but if you do eat anything while wearing the aligners make sure to clean them thoroughly afterwards. It is also best to brush and floss your teeth before putting the aligners back in.  Ideally when wearing clear aligners, you would only drink water. Colorful drinks can stain the aligners and too many hot drinks can eventually warp the plastic.  If you do drink anything other than water while wearing the aligners you should rinse them with warm water afterwards. 

Cleaning the clear aligners regularly is important for your teeth and straightening treatment.  Clear aligners can become discolored over time without losing their effectiveness, but the color can show on your own teeth and continue to darken.  There are several soaking solutions available over the counter, but brushing the aligners is also a sufficient cleaning option.  Do not use toothpaste to brush the aligners because subtle abrasive properties of toothpaste could harm the aligner.  It is best to use mild dish soap and a soft bristle brush to clean the aligners each time you brush your teeth.

To learn more about ClearCorrect and all the services we provide at our practice, visit www.lisbradleydds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Lis Bradley, DDS in Brentwood, TN, call 615-778-0810.

Causes of Gap Teeth

Are you sick of having a gap between your top front teeth? Brentwood dentist Dr. Lis Bradley can help with that! There are a variety of treatments available for gaps between teeth (which are scientifically known as diastemas), but which one is appropriate will depend on what caused the gap to develop.

Sometimes, the gap is due to something as simple as the teeth being small for the size of the mouth. If the gap is small enough, it may be possible for us to cover it using veneers. Our DURAthin brand fit right over a patient’s teeth, sparing them the enamel removal needed for thicker veneers. We may also choose ClearCorrect orthodontic treatment, which will close the gap using invisible, custom-crafted aligners.

However, if the patient is thrusting their tongue against their teeth or has a habit of sucking their thumb, the gap will reopen. Some people also have thick labial frenums, which are the vertical strips of tissue on the inside of the top lip. This could prevent the teeth from closing together and need to be surgically reduced.

Lis Bradley, DDS, operates at 8112 Isabella Ln, Suite 101, Brentwood, Tennessee. To schedule an appointment, visit Lis Bradley or call 615-778-0810.

 

Dangers of DIY Orthodontics

Dr. Lis Bradley is proud to be a certified ClearCorrect provider. In recent years, dentists have been alarmed by a rise in so-called DIY orthodontics. These dangerous practices, advertised as time and money savers, actually pose a severe risk to peoples’ oral health.

Many orthodontists consider their work a form of art. Guiding the movement of living tissue such as teeth through the jaw is a complicated process which requires careful judgment. The jawbone must dissolve and rebuild itself as the teeth migrate across it, which takes time. Unfortunately, stories are circulating on the internet of people who 3D-print their own invisible aligners, allowing them to move their teeth at a faster pace. Doing this prevents the jaw bone from rebuilding, allowing the teeth to shift back to their original position or to become loose and fall out.

If you are suffering from a misaligned bite or unsatisfied with your smile, our office will work with you to provide the best care possible. 

Lis Bradley, DDS, operates at 8112 Isabella Ln, Suite 101, Brentwood, Tennessee. To schedule an appointment, visit LisBradleyDDS.com or call 615-778-0810.