Dr. Noah's Dentistry Blog

Questions About Dentistry Answered

Archives for June 2019

Don’t Like My Invisalign Dentist

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I’m probably sounding like a prude but I don’t like my dentist who has been providing me with my Invisalign. He is crude and tells off-color jokes every time I’m there. I did mention it to the desk once and they apologized and said, “That’s his way of keeping things light.” He’s not my normal dentist anyway. Mine planned to get Invisalign certified but hadn’t done it yet, so I’ve just bee seeing the other dentist strictly for Invisalign. Do I have to stick it out with him or can I switch to another dentist? Will I have to start over? I’m happy with the Invisalign, just not the dentist.

Kim

Dear Kim,

Upper Invisalign Aligner

You don’t sound like a prude to me, just refined. That’s a good thing. It sounds like your dentist lacks some professionalism. I’m glad to hear you are happy with your Invisalign treatment, though. It has a very high patient satisfaction rate.

You can certainly switch dentists at any time, even if you are in the middle of a particular treatment. Ethical obligations require your dentist to cooperate with your new dentist by providing all the materials, scans, x-rays, treatment notes, etc. needed to continue your treatment.

While you’re looking, keep wearing your aligners. Be sure to check the dentist’s reviews to ensure you don’t end up with another dentist who makes you uncomfortable.

Invisalign Pro Tip

When you switch dentists, you can ask him to provide you with tooth whitening gel during your treatment. Many patients don’t realize their Invisalign aligners can double as teeth whitening trays. This allows them to whiten and straighten their teeth simultaneously.

It’s like getting a mini smile makeover. There is only a minimal cost for the gel, which saves you money having your teeth whitened later.

Obviously, this isn’t necessary, it’s just a way to be proactive saving money down the line. Best of luck finding your new dentist.

This blog is brought to you by Tulsa Dentist Dr. Ryan Noah.

How Long Will I Need this Retainer?

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I had braces in my teens. My teeth have done fine in past years but then started to shift again. I went to see a new orthodontist as an adult. He said I had a couple of options. I could re-do braces or wear my retainer again for a while and see if that helps. I opted for the retainer. It does move my teeth back into position. He suggested six months of wearing it full-time, then switching to nighttime wear for an equal amount of time. I followed through on that, but when I “graduated” from the retainer, I noticed that by the next day two of the teeth had shifted again. I’ll put the retainer back in and the cycle repeats. Is there anything I can do about this?

Morgan

Dear Morgan,

While this isn’t considered “normal” it does happen. For some reason, your teeth aren’t ready to stay in place on their own yet. I have a couple of suggestions for you.

When Teeth Won’t Stay in Place After Braces

You will need to wear a retainer full time for an indefinite period of time. One thing you can do in this case is have a lingual retainer made. This is a retainer which will be bonded to the back of your teeth. This is invisible to everyone else. The downside to this procedure is it is very difficult to get the teeth clean. You will need a floss threader to get in there.

Teeth whitening trays in a blue case
Teeth Whitening Trays Can Double as a Retainer

Another option is to use teeth bleaching trays as retainers. These are completely clear so no one will know you are wearing them. They do have the additional benefit of allowing you to whiten your teeth at the same time. Giving you both a straight and white smile simultaneously.

While many cosmetic procedures do require some expertise and post-doctoral training, teeth whitening does not. Any family dentist can do this for you.

My advice is to speak with your orthodontist and discuss these options in depth and decide which you think is best for your situation. It would also be good for him to investigate what is going on with the shifting.

This blog is brought to you by Glenpool Dentist Dr. Ryan Noah.