Tag Archives: switching dentists

Clear Braces versus Invisalign

This may sound strange, but I didn’t know “clear braces” and “Invisalign” were different things. I talked to my dentist about doing Invisalign and he sent me for a consultation with the orthodontist, who then began talking about clear braces. We went through the whole process of treatment plans, impressions, x-rays, insurance, and they even took my down payment. I don’t know if I ever should have caught on, but I know they never explained it to me.

So, the big day comes where I think I’m getting my aligners and they start messing around with my teeth, so I finally ask if all that is necessary since I’m just there to get my aligners. That’s when they tell me they’re putting real braces on my teeth.

I’m 34. I work in a professional setting. I didn’t want regular braces. So, then the orthodontist comes back over and explains how I really have to use regular braces to correct my smile and how he’s certain he explained that to me. He didn’t. I know he didn’t. But, he makes his case and I go along with it. Disappointed, but I figure, at least they’re clear.

We’re a month in and they’re a hideous shade of yellow. I look ridiculous. My teeth look gross, like I don’t brush them. And no amount of brushing them is helping.

Would this have happened if I did Invisalign? Should I have insisted on it? And, if I should have done that, is it too late to switch?

Thanks,

Eric

Dear Eric,

Invisalign aligner
Invisalign: The adult solutions to braces

I’m sorry you are having such a frustrating experience. Theoretically, any kind of plastic can yellow like that, but you don’t see it as much with aligners because people aren’t supposed to be eating or drinking with them in and you replace them every couple weeks.

You May Still Be a Candidate for Invisalign

The good news is, you still may be a candidate for Invisalign. While it used to be only the most ideal cases were candidates for Invisalign, these days they can take on all but the most challenging cases.

It sounds like this orthodontist’s communication skills are lacking. You can ask him about switching over, but it doesn’t address the underlying issue—they didn’t give you all the information you needed. It’s worthwhile to have a consultation with another dentist or two to see if you’re a candidate for the aligners.

You Might Also Be Able to Fix Your Yellow Braces

Usually, the bands get changed out once per month, so you’re either due for a change or coming due for one. That will give you a chance to start fresh. Unfortunately, if you have habits like smoking, it’ll be an uphill battle to keep them clear.

Ultimately, the choice is yours—only you know whether it’s worth the trouble of trying to switch at this point. However, if you’re a candidate, you can switch at any point. If you decide to switch dentists, which I would not blame you for, he is ethically obligated to send all the diagnostic x-rays, etc. to your new dentist.

This blog is sponsored by Lafayette, LA Dentist Dr. Mike Malone.

Are CEREC Crowns Worth Switching Dentists?

I need to get a dental crown. My sister told me to make sure and get a CEREC crown, but my dentist said he doesn’t do those. My sister seemed to think it was really important. Is it worth switching dentists to get one?

Amelia L. – Ft. Worth, TX

Amelia,

The only real benefit to CEREC crowns is they can be done in one appointment.  While it is convenient, I wouldn’t necessarily think it’s worth switching dentists.

The reason it can be done in one appointment is that it is milled on site from a single block of porcelain.

The bigger issue would be where the crown is being placed. If it is a front tooth, you’ll want to be certain your dentist is experienced and artistic with cosmetic issues. You want to make sure that he can make the crown look both beautiful and natural.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Mike Malone.