Can I drink coffee & tea with Invisalign?

If you’re considering getting Invisalign to straighten your teeth, you might be wondering if you can still enjoy your favorite beverages like coffee and tea. After all, we all rely on our daily dose of caffeine to kick-start our mornings or get through a long day. The good news is that you can still indulge in your favorite hot beverages while undergoing Invisalign treatment. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure the best results. Let’s dive into the details.

Can you drink coffee/tea with Invisalign?

Yes, you can still enjoy your coffee or tea while wearing Invisalign aligners. However, there are a few precautions to keep in mind. Hot beverages can warp your aligners, making them unsuitable for aligning your teeth. Heavily colored beverages like coffee and tea can potentially stain your aligners, making them more noticeable. To prevent this, it’s best to remove your aligners before consuming anything besides cold or room temperature water. This will not only help maintain the clarity of your aligners but also prevent the risk of warping them due to the heat. Remember to wait until your beverage has cooled down before putting your aligners back in.

Here are a few tips for drinking coffee or tea with Invisalign:

1. Remove your aligners: Taking out your aligners before enjoying your beverage will help prevent staining and warping.

2. Rinse your mouth: After drinking coffee or tea, rinse your mouth with water to minimize the chances of any residue sticking to your teeth or aligners.

3. Brush and floss: It’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene while wearing Invisalign. Brushing and flossing after consuming coffee or tea will help remove any potential stains and keep your teeth and aligners clean.

4. Use a straw: If you can’t resist sipping your favorite drink while wearing your aligners, consider using a straw. This will help minimize contact between the liquid and your aligners, reducing the chances of staining.

How many hours a day should you have Invisalign in?

To ensure the best results, it’s crucial to wear your Invisalign aligners for at least 20-22 hours a day. This means you should only remove them when eating, drinking (except for water), brushing, and flossing. Consistency is key in achieving the desired outcome within the estimated treatment time. Remember, the more you wear your aligners, the more effective they will be in straightening your teeth.

Come to Advanced Orthodontics for your Invisalign treatment

If you’re considering Invisalign treatment and want to achieve a beautiful, straight smile, look no further than Advanced Orthodontics. Dr. Benjamin Larrabee and Dr. Prashansa Sharma-Makwana are experienced orthodontists who can guide you through the process and provide you with personalized treatment plans. With their expertise and state-of-the-art technology, you can rest assured that you’re in good hands.

Don’t let the fear of giving up your favorite beverages hold you back from getting the smile you’ve always wanted. Contact Advanced Orthodontics today at (480) 357-4900 to schedule your consultation. Our friendly team will be happy to answer any questions you may have and help you take the first step towards a confident, straight smile with Invisalign. Don’t wait any longer – let us transform your smile!

Whether you’re interested in Invisalign for yourself or for your child, you may be wondering how much your treatment will cost at Advanced Orthodontics. Of course, the best way to find out is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Larrabee or Dr. Sharma at either our Mesa or Chandler office locations. But in the blog below, we’ll go over the costs, things that contribute to the overall treatment price, and some other helpful information about Invisalign treatment. 

How Much Does Invisalign Treatment Usually Cost? 

Invisalign treatment usually costs somewhere between $3,000 and $9,000, though most patients will pay somewhere between $4000 and $6000 for comprehensive care. However, it’s hard to give a true “average cost” for Invisalign. 

That’s because every patient is different. When you come to Advanced Orthodontics, we will develop an Invisalign treatment plan that’s customized just for you. There’s no such thing as “one size fits all” orthodontics, so there’s a lot of variation in how much your treatment may cost. 

What Factors Affect The Cost Of Invisalign? 

Wondering how the cost of your Invisalign treatment plan will be determined at Advanced Orthodontics? Here’s a look at some of the top factors that may change your estimated treatment cost: 

• Treatment complexity – Modern Invisalign plans are very flexible and can be used to treat overbites, underbites, crooked teeth, crowded teeth, gaps in your smile, and more. In general, you’ll pay a higher price if you have more complex dental needs, and vice-versa. 
• Total treatment time – This goes hand-in-hand with the complexity of your treatment. More complicated orthodontic issues take more time to treat, which means more sets of Invisalign aligners and more visits with the team at Advanced Orthodontics. 
• Doctor expertise – At Advanced Orthodontics, we’re a certified Diamond+ Invisalign provider. This means that we’re in the top 1% of all Invisalign providers, which means that we get exclusive discounts on lab fees and other related treatment costs. By passing these savings on to our patients, we make your treatment more affordable. 
• Delays and setbacks – If you don’t wear your aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours per day, this could lead to treatment delays. These kinds of delays and setbacks may increase the overall cost of your Invisalign treatment in Mesa, AZ. 

Will Dental Insurance Cover The Cost Of Orthodontic Treatment? 

This depends on the type of insurance you have. Most types of dental insurance do not cover the cost of orthodontics for adults. However, it’s much more common for insurers to cover orthodontics for kids and teenagers.

If your child’s dental insurance does cover orthodontics, it will usually pay for a percentage of their treatment, and will have a “lifetime maximum.” After this maximum is exceeded, your insurance policy will no longer contribute to treatment. 

If you have questions about insurance coverage for you or your child, we recommend consulting with your insurer or looking at your policy documents directly. The team at Advanced Orthodontics can also help you learn more about your benefits and if they will cover orthodontic treatments like Invisalign. 

Our Payment Plans Make It Easier To Get Invisalign Treatment 

Paying thousands of dollars upfront for Invisalign treatment isn’t always an option for everyone, and we understand that. That’s why at Advanced Orthodontics, we offer in-house, interest-free payment plans for orthodontic treatment. 

With our in-house financing, you can get your Invisalign treatment or your child’s orthodontic treatment right away and pay over time with affordable monthly payments. This helps split up the cost of orthodontic care and allows you to get a healthier smile without breaking the bank. 

Schedule Your Invisalign Consultation In Mesa, AZ Today! 

Invisalign is a fantastic alternative to traditional braces for kids, teenagers and adults. If you’re interested in learning more and you’d like an estimate for the cost of treatment, Advanced Orthodontics can help. We’re always accepting new patients in Mesa, AZ, and we’d love to meet you and your family. Give us a call at (480) 357-4900 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with Dr. Larrabee or Dr. Sharma today.

Are you experiencing dental issues that make you self-conscious about your smile? Do you find it difficult to chew or speak properly? If so, you may be in need of orthodontic treatment. Dr. Benjamin Larrabee and Dr. Prashansa Sharma-Makwana, the leading orthodontists at Advanced Orthodontics in Mesa, AZ are here to help. With their expertise and state-of-the-art techniques, they can transform your smile and improve your oral health. In this blog, we will explore the signs that indicate you might need orthodontic treatment and the various options available to you. 

When is Orthodontic Treatment Needed? 

Orthodontic treatment is necessary when there are issues with the alignment of your teeth and jaws. While some problems are obvious, others may be more subtle. If you experience any of the following signs, it’s time to schedule a consultation with Dr. Larrabee or Dr. Sharma: 

• Crooked or Misaligned Teeth: Teeth that are crowded, rotated, or overlapping can affect your bite and make it harder to clean your teeth properly, leading to oral health issues. 
• Overbite or Underbite: An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth excessively, while an underbite is when the lower teeth protrude beyond the upper teeth. Both conditions can cause jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and speech problems. 
• Crossbite or Open Bite: A crossbite is when the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, and an open bite is when the upper and lower teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed. These conditions can lead to uneven wear on the teeth and jaw joint problems. 

Signs You Need Orthodontic Treatment 

If you’re unsure whether you need orthodontic treatment, look out for these common signs: 

• Difficulty Chewing or Biting: If you experience pain or discomfort while chewing or biting, it may indicate a misalignment issue that requires orthodontic intervention. 
• Speech Problems: Certain orthodontic issues can affect your speech, causing lisps or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds. Orthodontic treatment can help correct these issues and improve your speech. 
• Chronic Jaw Pain: Misaligned teeth and jaws can put undue stress on the jaw joint, leading to chronic pain and discomfort. Orthodontic treatment can help alleviate this pain by properly aligning your teeth and jaws. 

Orthodontic Options: Invisalign and Braces 

At Advanced Orthodontics, Dr. Larrabee and Dr. Sharma offer a range of orthodontic options tailored to your needs. Two popular options are Invisalign and traditional braces. 

Invisalign
This revolutionary treatment involves wearing a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually shift your teeth into their proper position. Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, comfortable, and allow you to maintain your oral hygiene routine without any hassle. 

Braces
Traditional braces consist of metal brackets and wires that apply gentle pressure to move your teeth into alignment. They are highly effective for correcting complex orthodontic issues and are available in various styles, including ceramic braces that blend with your teeth for a more discreet look. 

Call Advanced Orthodontics Today 

If you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, it’s essential to seek professional orthodontic care. Dr. Larrabee and Dr. Sharma at Advanced Orthodontics have the expertise and experience to provide you with the best treatment options for your unique needs. 

Don’t delay improving your smile and oral health any longer. Call Advanced Orthodontics at (480) 357-4900 to schedule a consultation today. Our friendly team is ready to answer your questions and guide you towards a confident, healthy smile.

Dr. Benjamin Larrabee and Dr. Prashansa Sharma-Makwana of Advanced Orthodontics understand that maintaining a healthy diet is crucial, especially when you have braces. While braces work wonders in aligning your teeth and giving you a beautiful smile, they also require some dietary adjustments to ensure their effectiveness and prevent any damage. In this blog post, we will discuss why there are foods you shouldn’t eat or avoid with braces, as well as provide you with a list of the top 5 foods to eat and avoid when you have braces. 

Why There Are Foods You Should Eat or Avoid with Braces 

Braces are delicate appliances that require care and attention. Certain foods can pose a risk to the brackets and wires, potentially causing damage or even extending your treatment time. Hard, sticky, or crunchy foods can easily get stuck in your braces or exert excessive pressure, leading to broken brackets or wires. By understanding which foods to eat or avoid, you can protect your braces and ensure a smooth orthodontic journey. 

Top 5 Foods to Eat When You Have Braces 

1. Soft Fruits and Vegetables: Opt for softer options like bananas, berries, cooked vegetables, and mashed potatoes. These foods are gentle on your braces and provide essential nutrients for a healthy diet. 
2. Dairy Products: Milk, yogurt, and cheese are excellent sources of calcium and vitamin D. They are also soft and easy to chew, making them ideal for individuals with braces.
3. Soft Meats: Tender meats such as chicken, fish, and lean beef are great options for braces wearers. Remember to cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces and chew with your back molars to avoid any unnecessary strain on your braces. 
4. Grains and Pasta: Cooked rice, pasta, and soft bread are braces-friendly alternatives to hard and chewy grains. These options are easy to eat and won’t cause any discomfort.
5. Smoothies and Soups: Blended fruits and vegetables or warm soups are not only delicious but also a convenient way to consume essential nutrients. They are easy to consume and won’t put your braces at risk. 

Top 5 Foods to Avoid When You Have Braces 

1. Hard Candies: Sticky candies can easily get stuck in your braces, making them difficult to remove and cause brackets to come unglued. Additionally, the excessive sugar content can lead to tooth decay, which can complicate your orthodontic treatment.
2. Popcorn: Popcorn kernels can get lodged between your teeth and braces, causing discomfort or even damage. It’s best to avoid this crunchy snack during your orthodontic treatment. 
3. Nuts and Seeds: While nuts and seeds are nutritious, they can be hard and difficult to chew with braces. Opt for nut butters or consume them in a ground or blended form instead. 
4. Hard and Crunchy Snacks: Hard pretzels, chips, and crackers should be avoided as they can break your braces or get stuck in them. Choose softer alternatives for a braces-friendly snack.
5. Carbonated and Sugary Drinks: Carbonated beverages and sugary drinks can contribute to tooth decay and enamel erosion. It’s best to stick to water or opt for sugar-free alternatives to protect your teeth and braces. 

Schedule Your Appointment Today! 

At Advanced Orthodontics, we are committed to providing you with the best orthodontic care and guidance throughout your treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about your braces or would like to schedule an appointment, our team is here to help. Contact us at (480) 357-4900 or visit our office in Mesa, AZ. Take the first step towards a healthier, more beautiful smile today!