Last updated 16 hours ago
As its name suggests, Invisalign is a type of cosmetic dental treatment that allows you to discreetly straighten your teeth in a way that is virtually invisible. Throughout your Invisalign treatment, you will need to wear a series of custom plastic aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day. You will receive a new set of plastic aligners approximately every two weeks during your treatment.
The duration of your Invisalign treatment will depend on the complexity of your case, but in general, treatment lasts between seven months and a year. Your treatment begins when your dentist creates a digital impression of your teeth. This impression is used to create a unique treatment plan and your customized plastic aligner trays. Once you are given your plastic aligners, you will need to wear them for the majority of the day. You can, however, take them out when you eat and brush your teeth. Every two to three weeks, you will need to visit your cosmetic dentist to receive a new set of aligner trays.
Would you like to learn more about Invisalign treatment? Call Dr. Kenn Kakosian, D.D.S., P.C. of Manhattan at (646) 833-0582.
Last updated 7 days ago
If your teeth aren’t aligned properly, this misalignment—or malocclusion—can make removal of plaque and bacteria through brushing extremely difficult. As these bacteria build, your risk of developing oral health problems like gum disease and tooth decay increases. In addition, misaligned teeth can lead to jaw problems and excessive tooth enamel wear. As your dentist will tell you, the Invisalign system can help prevent these oral health issues by straightening some of the most common misalignment problems.
Gapped Teeth
Abnormal continued growth of the jawbone can lead to the development of gapped or unevenly spaced teeth. This type of misalignment can also be due to missing teeth, which causes the surrounding teeth to shift out of place. Having gaps between your teeth leaves portions of your gums unprotected, which can lead to gum problems and an increased risk of developing gum disease.
Overbite
An overbite occurs when the upper teeth protrude over the lower teeth. This kind of oral health issue is caused by genetics, bad oral habits, or overdevelopment of the bone that supports the teeth. If you have an overbite, you may develop gum problems, speech problems, irritation, wear on the lower teeth, and painful jaw problems.
Underbite
An underbite occurs when the lower teeth extend beyond the front teeth. This problem is usually caused by undergrowth of the upper jaw, overgrowth of the lower jaw, or a combination of both. You may also develop an underbite if you are missing some of your upper teeth, as this can prevent the normal function of your front teeth and molars. An underbite can lead to painful jaw and joint problems as well as tooth wear.
You can get started on the Invisalign treatment process by contacting Dr. Kenn Kakosian, D.D.S., P.C., at (646) 833-0582. Our Manhattan practice focuses on both general and cosmetic dentistry services to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. We are also dedicated to creating a welcoming and comfortable treatment environment for our patients.
Last updated 14 days ago
The hormonal changes that occur with pregnancy also affect the sensitivity and health of women’s gums. In fact, 70% of pregnant women develop gingivitis, or inflammation of the gum tissue. This is a serious oral health concern because failure to treat gingivitis can lead to more serious dental issues including infection and advanced periodontal disease.
This video answers some of the most common questions that pregnant women have regarding their oral health and visiting the dentist. During pregnancy, it is especially important for women to practice thorough oral hygiene habits including brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. Not only can this help decrease the chances of developing gingivitis, but also protect the health of the developing baby.
Learn more about maintaining your oral health during pregnancy by visiting the office of Dr. Kenn Kakosian, D.D.S., P.C. You can schedule an appointment at our Manhattan dental office by calling (646) 833-0582.
Last updated 21 days ago
One of the main benefits of choosing Invisalign over traditional metal braces is that the removable aligners allow you to clean your teeth throughout the treatment period. Once treatment is complete, you may be interested in additional options for enhancing the appearance of your healthy new smile. Here’s a look at some cosmetic dentistry procedures that can help you improve your smile following Invisalign treatment:
Teeth Whitening
Even though you were able to remove your clear aligners to brush your teeth during the Invisalign treatment process, your teeth may still be discolored from years of drinking coffee, smoking, or eating dark foods. Scheduling professional teeth whitening at your dentist’s office is a great way to remove unwanted stains and discoloration from the surface of your teeth. Unlike at-home treatments, in-office treatments are supervised by a dentist to ensure that the whitening agent only targets your teeth, not the surrounding gum tissue.
Tooth-Colored Fillings
If you have developed a cavity, it’s important to immediately schedule an appointment with your dentist to have the cavity filled. Failing to treat this dental problem can lead to more serious oral health issues including infection and gum disease. Thanks to advances in cosmetic dentistry, there are now state-of-the-art plastic and porcelain materials available for fillings that can mimic the look and feel of your natural tooth enamel. You can also ask your dentist about replacing old amalgam fillings with tooth-colored fillings.
style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 13px;">Dental Implants
Dentists can use dental implants to replace missing teeth. If you are missing one or several teeth, a dentist can replace them with implants, which secure permanently to the jawbone. The root of the implant is topped with an abutment. This abutment allows your dentist to secure the replacement tooth to the implant for natural, long-lasting results.
To learn whether you are a good candidate for a cosmetic dentistry procedure, schedule an appointment with Dr. Kenn Kakosian, D.D.S., P.C. For 25 years, Dr. Kakosian has provided patients with exceptional dentistry services. You can reach our New York City office by dialing (646) 833-0582.
Last updated 28 days ago
Learn more about teeth whitening and lingual braces by reading through the resources below. Contact the practice of Dr. Kenn Kakosian, D.D.S., P.C., by calling (646) 833-0582 to schedule an appointment for general or cosmetic dental services today!
