Ferry Orthodontics answers your Invisalign questions

Are you wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you're in treatment? You're not alone in your concerns! Dr. Michael Ferry and our team thought we’d share this list of questions and answers for anyone pondering Invisalign treatment at Ferry Orthodontics.

How exactly does Invisalign work?
Using 3-D computer imaging technology, Invisalign creates a series of custom-made, clear aligners exclusively for your teeth, based on the treatment plan that we specify for you. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.

Will I experience pain during treatment?
Most people experience temporary discomfort for a few days after a new aligner is placed. This feeling of pressure is normal and is a sign that Invisalign is working by sequentially moving your teeth to their final destination.

Can other people see that I'm in treatment?
One of the benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.

Can I smoke during treatment?
We discourage smoking while wearing the aligners as they may become discolored.

Are there any foods I shouldn’t eat while in treatment?
You can eat normally during the entire course of treatment. One of the advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. Simply take the aligners out before each meal, brush when you're finished eating, then reinsert the aligners afterward.

What about chewing gum?
We recommend removing your aligners for all meals and snacks, as gum and other chewy substances can stick to the aligners.

How often must I wear my aligners?
Aligners should be worn all day, except when eating, brushing, and flossing.

Will my speech be affected by the aligners?
As with any orthodontic treatment, aligners may temporarily affect your speech. If this does happen, your tongue will adjust within a day or two and your speech should return to normal.

How do I clean my aligners?
The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water.

How often must I visit the office during treatment
For most patients, visits every 4-6 weeks are frequent enough for us to determine that your treatment is progressing properly. We will provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan.

If you have additional questions about the Invisalign treatment, please give our office a call.

A few helpful webisodes about orthodontics, from Ferry Orthodontics

Dr. Michael Ferry and his team at Ferry Orthodontics would like to point you to a few interesting webisodes about orthodontics, located on the YouTube page of the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

There, they tend to post some very pertinent videos about orthodontic treatment, as well as state-of-the-art technology in orthodontia. These include "Orthodontic Treatment Basics," "Common Bite Problems Seen in Children" and "Does My Child Need Braces?"

We think you may find these webisodes interesting, as well as enlightening. If you have any questions about the videos, or your treatment here at Ferry Orthodontics, please give us a call.

The importance of retainers, from Ferry Orthodontics

If you recently completed treatment at Ferry Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Michael Ferry will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, however, always provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed by Dr. Ferry is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime.

To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Ferry, please read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth or give us a call!

The benefits of fluoride, from Ferry Orthodontics

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment at Ferry Orthodontics. You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and protect your mouth and appliances from being damaged. But did you know there is another, often forgotten about, way to keep your teeth clean and healthy during your treatment? Fluoride – a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay – can help keep your teeth strong! Fluoride comes in two varieties: topical and systemic. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth. Topical fluoride includes toothpastes and mouth rinses. Systemic fluorides are swallowed in the form of a dietary supplement.

Fluoride used in the dentist or orthodontists’ office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask your doctor how to purchase professional strength fluoride). A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. After the treatment patients may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. Depending on your oral health or doctor’s recommendation, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six or 12 months. Your doctor may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses for at-home treatment.

When choosing your own fluoride product, be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and have met the criteria of the ADA for safety and effectiveness. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

What are patients saying about Ferry Orthodontics?

Ferry Orthodontics, serving Cranston, Wakefield and the surrounding areas, has been receiving some great patient reviews lately! Check out what our current patients are saying about Dr. Mike Ferry and team!

“Dr. Mike took the time to put my daughter at ease, not only by explaining what would happen at the appointment, but also by giving her the time to explain her history and give her thoughts.” -- Gwenyth

“I cannot begin to express how wonderful we have been treated throughout many years with Ferry Ortho. I miss the senior Dr. Ferry and hope he is in good health and enjoying retirement. Dr. M. Ferry and Kim are terrific also!” -- Karen

“ Dr. Ferry and his staff are AWESOME!!! Also, that photo scavenger hunt idea is going to be fun. :)” -- Hillevi

“At this point in time I feel the office is doing an excellent job; makes me think that this is what service used to be like decades ago and I wish more offices would come back to this. Really like the latest office contest, very nice idea and motivator.” -- Grant

“You rock!” -- Jack

Thank you for all of the kind words. Personalized care is the number one priority at our office. We make sure that all of our patients are seen by Dr. Ferry at each visit, and he is always available for any questions or concerns that you may have. We look forward to seeing you at your next appointment!