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woman with braces holding toothbrush and braces cleaner

6 Tips for Maintaining Your Clear Aligners and Braces

Written by Identiwrite on . Posted in Orthodontics.

Maintaining your clear aligners and braces is essential for achieving the best results in orthodontic treatment. Whether you have opted for the subtlety of clear aligners or the reliability of traditional braces, following proper care routines will ensure your treatment progresses smoothly and effectively.

Still not decided on clear aligners or traditional braces? Contact Dr. Wint Tun at Harmony Orthodontics. Our orthodontist helps patients in Tomball, Spring, and The Woodlands, TX, determine the best course of action for their smiles. So, don’t wait – get tailored care by calling (832) 699-3683 now! 

In today’s post, Dr. Tun reveals six tips to help you keep your aligners and braces in top condition.

1. Clean Your Aligners and Braces Regularly

One of the most important aspects of maintaining your clear aligners and braces is keeping them clean. For aligners, you should clean them every time you brush your teeth. Use a soft toothbrush and a mild, clear, unscented liquid soap or a specialized aligner cleaning solution. 

For braces, brush your teeth completely after every meal, and don’t forget to clean close to the brackets and wires to prevent buildup and tooth decay.

2. Be Mindful When Eating and Drinking

Maintaining your clear aligners and braces involves knowing when to take them out. Always remove your aligners when eating or drinking anything other than plain water. 

For those with braces, stay away from chewy, crunchy, or sticky foods that can damage the brackets and wires. Additionally, cut food into smaller pieces to make chewing easier and reduce the risk of damage.

3. Store Aligners Properly

Whenever you remove your aligners, stow them in their special container to prevent losing or damaging them. Keeping them out in the open increases the risk of exposure to bacteria, which can cause infections or unpleasant odors. Keeping them in the case also helps prevent accidental damage or misplacement.

4. Follow Your Orthodontist’s Instructions

Following Dr. Tun’s instructions is crucial for maintaining your clear aligners and braces. Adhere to the recommended wear time for aligners (which most professionals suggest wearing for 20 to 22 hours daily) to ensure effective treatment. 

For braces, attend all scheduled appointments for adjustments and follow any specific care instructions provided by Dr. Tun. Ignoring these guidelines can prolong your treatment time and lead to complications.

5. Avoid Whitening Products

While maintaining your clear aligners and braces, it’s important to avoid whitening products. Whitening toothpaste and mouthwash can cause uneven coloring on your teeth because the areas covered by the brackets or aligners won’t be exposed to the whitening agents. 

Stick to regular, non-whitening toothpaste and a fluoride mouthwash to keep your teeth healthy and clean during treatment.

6. Address Issues Promptly

Addressing any issues promptly is vital for maintaining your clear aligners and braces. If you notice any cracks, damage, or discomfort with your aligners, contact Dr. Tun immediately to get a replacement or adjustment. 

For braces, if a wire comes loose or a bracket breaks, schedule an appointment as soon as possible to fix the issue and prevent further damage.

Braces and Clear Aligners Near Tomball, TX

Are you ready for a healthier, more harmonious smile? Contact Harmony Orthodontics today to schedule a consultation for braces or clear aligners. Schedule appointments with our Tomball, TX, dentist online, or simply dial (832) 699-3683 for booking and information. 

A Young smiling woman holding invisalign braces over white background studio, dental healthcare and Orthodontic concept.

Spring, TX, Orthodontist Honestly Reviews Clear Aligners

Written by Identiwrite on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Clear aligners are the fashionable trendsetters of the orthodontic world. They offer patients an easy and nearly invisible way to correct misalignments, resulting in beautifully functional smiles. With several brands available, choosing the right one can be daunting. Luckily, our Spring, TX, orthodontist is here to offer you her honest opinion about each option.

Are you ready for a dazzling smile that looks as great as it feels? Contact Harmony Orthodontics today! Dr. Wint Tun proudly serves patients in the Tomball, Spring, and Woodland, TX, areas, so don’t wait – call us at (832) 699-3683 for a perfect smile now!

Here, our Spring, TX, orthodontist reviews the most common clear aligners, ranking them based on effectiveness, comfort, ease of use, and customer satisfaction. Let’s get started! 

1. Invisalign®: The Industry Leader

As of 2022, Invisalign produces the most clear aligners of any brand, indicating its position as the industry leader in clear aligner therapy.

Effectiveness

Invisalign is highly effective for a wide range of orthodontic issues, addressing most minor to severe cases with ease. The system employs SmartTrack material, which provides light yet persistent force to move teeth predictably.

Comfort

Users consistently report high comfort levels. Our Spring, TX, orthodontist carefully crafts each set of aligners using 3D imaging technology, ensuring a precise fit.

Ease of Use

Invisalign is particularly easy to wear and remove, making daily activities like snacking and brushing hassle-free. 

Customer Satisfaction

Invisalign boasts a high satisfaction rate, with users appreciating the professional support from certified orthodontists (like Dr. Tun) and dentists throughout the treatment.

2. SmileDirectClub: The Leading Direct-to-Consumer Option

Busy patients may feel attracted to direct-to-consumer options, like SmileDirectClub, because they eliminate visits to an orthodontist.  

Effectiveness 

SmileDirectClub is intended for mild to moderate alignment issues. This means that patients with complex cases may not be eligible for this clear aligner option.

Comfort

SmileDirectClub aligners are comfortable but may not fit as precisely as Invisalign due to the lack of in-person dental oversight.

Ease of Use

Many patients can start with a simple at-home impression kit or a visit to a SmileShop for a 3D scan. Then, aligners are delivered to your doorstep, and you follow the treatment plan remotely.

Customer Satisfaction

Mixed reviews exist, with many praising the convenience and cost-effectiveness. However, some users report issues with fit and customer service.

3. Candid: A Hybrid Approach

Candid combines remote treatment with in-person visits.

Effectiveness 

Candid’s hybrid model ensures better outcomes for mild to moderate cases compared to purely remote options.

Comfort

Similar to other clear aligners, Candid aligners are made from smooth, medical-grade plastic, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Ease of Use

In-person and remote monitoring during Candid treatment strikes a balance between convenience and professional oversight.

Customer Satisfaction

Generally positive, with users appreciating the blend of in-person and remote care, leading to a higher level of confidence in their treatment.

4. ClearCorrect: A Close Competitor

Many orthodontists view ClearCorrect as Invisalign’s main competitor, but what does our Spring, TX, orthodontist think?

Effectiveness

It offers effective treatment for a range of orthodontic issues, though it may not have as advanced technology as Invisalign.

Comfort

ClearCorrect aligners are slightly thinner, which some users find more comfortable, although they may be less durable.

Ease of Use

A trained dental professional oversees ClearCorrect treatment, ensuring personalized care. 

Customer Satisfaction

Users are generally satisfied, though some report longer treatment times compared to Invisalign.

Explore Clear Aligners with Our Spring, TX, Orthodontist 

Invisalign remains the top competitor in clear aligners due to its effectiveness, comfort, and professional support. If you’d like to learn more about Invisalign or other aligners, contact Harmony Orthodontics today. You can request a consultation online, or you can call our Spring, TX, orthodontist at (832) 699-3683 for more!

woman holding a retainer

Spring, TX, Orthodontist Explains: Why are retainers so important after braces?

Written by Identiwrite on . Posted in Tomball Orthodontist.

Are you ready to talk about the unsung heroes of the orthodontic world? That’s right – retainers! Our Spring, TX, orthodontist is here to explain why these simple devices are your smile’s best friend after braces and Invisalign®.

Do you want to talk about smile-aligning treatments with a top-rated Spring, TX, orthodontist? Contact Dr. Wint Tun at Harmony Orthodontics today. You can request information and appointments by calling (832) 699-3683 now.

Why retainers?

So, picture this: you’ve just bid farewell to your braces. Your teeth are feeling freer than a bird on a sunny day, and you’re ready to flaunt that new, perfectly aligned smile to the world. 

But wait, hold the phone – there’s still one more step to go before you’re officially done with your orthodontic journey. Enter: the retainer.

Now, you might be thinking, “Why do I need a retainer after all that time with braces?” Well, strap in, because our Spring, TX, orthodontist is here to tell you why retainers are so incredibly important!

Keeping Those Teeth in Line

Think of your retainer as the guard rail that keeps your teeth in check after the braces come off. You see, even though your teeth have been straightened, they still need a little support to stay in their newfound positions. Otherwise, even two weeks without proper retention could jeopardize your newly straightened smile!

Preventing Relapse

Just like a trampoline without springs, your teeth might try to bounce back to their original misaligned positions if left to their own devices. But fear not! Wearing your retainer as directed by our Spring, TX, orthodontist can help prevent any unwanted relapse and keep that smile shining bright.

A Custom Fit for Your Pearly Whites

Unlike off-the-shelf products, your retainer is custom-designed and crafted to fit your unique dental landscape. It’s like having a cozy little home for your teeth to snuggle into, ensuring maximum comfort and effectiveness.

Say Cheese – Forever!

Let’s face it, you didn’t go through all that time and effort with braces just to let your smile slip back into its old ways. Wearing your retainer as prescribed can help maintain that picture-perfect grin for years to come, ensuring your investment in your smile pays off big time!

Easy Peasy Maintenance

Unlike braces, which require regular adjustments and special care routines, retainers are a breeze to maintain. Just pop them in at night (or as directed by our Spring, TX, orthodontist) and give them a quick rinse in the morning – it’s that simple!

Your Ticket to Orthodontic Freedom

Remember those pesky food restrictions and extra careful brushing and flossing routines you had to follow with braces? Well, say goodbye to all that hassle! With your trusty retainer by your side, you can enjoy all your favorite foods and breeze through your oral hygiene routine without skipping a beat.

Confidence Booster

There’s nothing quite like the confidence that comes with a beautifully aligned smile. By wearing your retainer as recommended by our Spring, TX, orthodontist, you’re not just maintaining your dental health – you’re also boosting your self-esteem and radiating positivity wherever you go!

Visit a Top-Rated Spring, TX, Orthodontist Today

Whether you’re bidding farewell to braces or simply looking to maintain that stunning smile, our Spring, TX, orthodontist is here to help. Learn more by calling Harmony Orthodontics at (832) 699-3683 or schedule an appointment with Dr. Tun online!

man touching his face because of braces pain

From Our Spring, TX, Orthodontist: 6 Ways to Beat Braces Pain

Written by Identiwrite on . Posted in Tomball Orthodontist.

Embarking on the journey to a straighter smile with braces can be a transformative experience, but it’s not without its challenges. One common hurdle patients frequently encounter is minor discomfort after getting braces and after adjustments. Luckily, our Spring, TX, orthodontist is here to give you six tips for a pain-free braces journey. 

Are you looking to enhance your smile? Orthodontic solutions may be an ideal way to get that healthy, head-turning smile you’ve been dreaming of. Contact Dr. Wint Tun at Harmony Orthodontics in Spring, TX, at (832) 699-3683 to see how we can help!

If you’ve recently gotten a new set of braces or have just had an adjustment made to a current set of braces, then you might be feeling a little uncomfortable. In today’s blog, we give you six ways to beat braces pain.

1. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief

When the ache sets in, over-the-counter pain relievers (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen) can be your best allies. However, it is always ideal to consult our Spring, TX, orthodontist or your regular healthcare provider before taking any medications. 

2. Cold Compresses for Soothing Relief

Cold compresses are a simple yet effective way to alleviate pain and reduce swelling after braces installation or adjustments. Just be sure to protect your skin by wrapping cold compresses in a cloth before applying it to the face. Even 20 minutes of cold compression can offer numbing relief and a significant reduction in swelling.

3. Orthodontic Wax for Irritation

If your braces are causing sore spots in your mouth, then orthodontic wax can be a game-changer. Our Spring, TX, orthodontist can provide you with wax during your appointment, but it’s also available at most pharmacies. 

Apply a small amount of wax to the areas where the braces are rubbing against your cheeks or lips to create a protective barrier, preventing further irritation.

4. A Softer Diet for Tender Days

In the days following a brace adjustment or installation, sticking to a soft diet can significantly reduce discomfort. Our Spring, TX, orthodontist recommends easy-to-chew foods, like:

  • Yogurt
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Smoothies
  • Soups

Our Spring, TX, orthodontist also recommends avoiding hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can worsen the pain and potentially damage your braces.

5. Warm Saltwater Rinses for Oral Hygiene

Saltwater rinses are an easy and natural way to aid in both hygiene and pain relief after braces. Mix a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and swish the solution around your mouth for about 30 seconds. This natural remedy can help reduce inflammation, promote healing, and keep your mouth clean during the sensitive post-braces period.

6. Maintain Consistent Orthodontic Checkups

Regular checkups with our Spring, TX, orthodontist are essential not only for monitoring the progress of your treatment but also for addressing any concerns or discomfort you may be experiencing. Communicate openly with our team about your pain levels, and don’t hesitate to ask for advice on managing discomfort. 

Meet our friendly Spring, TX, orthodontist today!

While the road to a straighter smile may have its bumps, incorporating these six effective strategies can help you beat the pain and make your braces journey more comfortable. Want to learn more about braces and other orthodontic treatments? Contact Harmony Orthodontics online here or at (832) 699-3683 for more information and appointments.

woman with gapped teeth

Your Orthodontist in Spring, TX, Explains Everything You Need to Know about Gapped Teeth 

Written by Identiwrite on . Posted in Tomball Orthodontist.

Dental misalignment can take many different forms, ranging from mild to severe. Gapped teeth, or diastema, is usually one of the mildest orthodontic issues. Still, though it is typically less problematic, it can sometimes cause dental health problems. Equally important, gapped teeth can have a dramatic effect on your self-esteem. Fortunately, an orthodontist in Spring, TX, can provide a variety of treatment options to give you a smile you are proud to share!

At Harmony Orthodontics, Dr. Wint Tun offers traditional braces, as well as Invisalign® and other orthodontic appliances. During a complete consultation, she can determine whether your gapped teeth are causing health problems. Then, if needed, she will recommend the most effective treatment for you. Dr. Tun respects the unique beauty of everyone’s smile and will never pressure you into unnecessary treatment.

Contact us to schedule your consultation. 

What causes gapped teeth?

Diastema is defined as a space between teeth greater than 0.5 mm. Although gaps can appear anywhere in your dental arch, they are especially common between the two upper front teeth. Causes of diastema include:

  • Age: Children are more likely to have spaces between their teeth, which will close when the larger adult teeth come in.
  • Genetics: If your parents had gapped teeth, you are more likely to have them, too. 
  • Tooth size: If your teeth are small compared to your jawbone, spaces may appear between individual teeth. 
  • Gum tissue: Your labial frenum is the tissue that runs between your upper lip and your gums. If this tissue is too large, it can cause a space to develop between your teeth.
  • Gum disease: Periodontitis can lead to gum recession, which, in turn, may cause your teeth to shift in your mouth. 
  • Poor oral habits: Prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use can cause the front teeth to shift. Similarly, a tongue thrust, in which the tongue pushes forward when swallowing, can result in diastema.

When are gapped teeth a problem?

In many cases, gapped teeth aren’t a problem from a medical standpoint. But if your gapped teeth are crowding the nearby teeth, you will likely require treatment. And, of course, if diastema is caused by gum disease, you will need periodontal care to prevent tooth loss and significant discomfort. 

Most patients who choose to treat gapped teeth do so for cosmetic reasons. For them, orthodontic treatment makes them feel more confident in social and professional situations. Many people, however, are proud to rock their gapped teeth. Celebrities like Eddie Murphy, Willem Defoe, Madonna, and Michael Strahan consider their diastema to be a part of their signature look.

What are my treatment options?

If you decide you would like to treat your diastema, your orthodontist in Spring, TX, may recommend one of the following:

You could also visit a cosmetic dentist for veneers or bonding, but these treatments won’t close larger gaps or correct any other alignment issues.

Contact an Orthodontist in Spring, TX

To schedule your orthodontic consultation, contact Harmony Orthodontics today. Send us a message online or call 832-699-3683.

woman holding Invisalign clear aligners on purple background

Orthodontist in Spring, TX, Answers Invisalign® FAQs

Written by Identiwrite on . Posted in Invisalign.

In the realm of orthodontic treatments, Invisalign has earned a winning reputation as a revolutionary option, offering a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces. As the popularity of Invisalign continues to grow, so does the curiosity surrounding this innovative teeth-straightening method. Our orthodontist in Spring, TX, is here to shed some light on clear aligner therapy.

Your first step toward a straighter smile begins with an Invisalign consultation at Harmony Orthodontics near Spring, TX. Schedule yours today at (832) 699-3683! 

It’s good to have questions about orthodontic treatments. Here, our orthodontist in Spring, TX, answers frequently asked questions about Invisalign to share some wisdom on this transformative treatment.

1. What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is an orthodontic solution that has been around for decades. The system uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners to shift and straighten teeth incrementally over several months. 

2. How does Invisalign work?

The treatment process begins with a consultation with our orthodontist in Spring, TX. At this appointment, our team creates a 3D digital model of the patient’s teeth. Based on this model, we then create a series of custom aligners specially crafted to fit their teeth. 

Invisalign patients wear each set of aligners for about two weeks before transitioning to the next set of aligners in their treatment plan. As patients progress through the series, their teeth gradually shift into the desired position.

3. Can Invisalign treat all types of orthodontic issues?

While Invisalign is effective for treating a wide range of orthodontic issues (including overcrowded teeth, gaps, and bite irregularities) it may not be suitable for complex cases. Our orthodontist in Spring, TX, assesses each patient’s specific situation during their consultation to determine if Invisalign is the right fit for them.

4. How long does Invisalign treatment take?

The duration of Invisalign treatment varies based on individual needs. In some cases, our orthodontist in Spring, TX, can remediate minor misalignments in six months. However, on average, Invisalign treatment may take anywhere from 12 to 18 months or even longer.

Luckily, patients can speed up their treatment timelines by adhering to beneficial practices, such as:

  • Wearing aligners for no less than 22 hours daily
  • Conducting sufficient oral hygiene after snacks and meals
  • Replacing aligners weekly rather than every other week

5. Is Invisalign painful?

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign is generally considered more comfortable. However, patients may experience some initial discomfort or pressure when switching to a new set of aligners. Fortunately, this discomfort is only temporary and is a positive sign that the treatment is progressing favorably. 

6. Can I eat and drink with Invisalign?

Of course! A major perk of Invisalign is that patients can take out their aligners before eating. This means that they can enjoy all their favorite foods without the restrictions that come with traditional braces. 

Just remember – patients must rinse and gently brush their aligners with lukewarm water and brush their teeth before reinserting the trays after eating. 

7. Is Invisalign suitable for all ages?

Invisalign is a versatile treatment option suitable for most children, teens, and adults. In fact, our orthodontist in Spring, TX, recommends early orthodontic intervention as early as seven years old.

Visit Our Orthodontist in Spring, TX

These are just a few questions that patients commonly ask our orthodontist in Spring, TX. If you have more questions about Invisalign, don’t be shy – contact the team at Harmony Orthodontics today! Patients can request information and appointments online, or they can call us at (832) 699-3683.