Imagining Your Life With Invisalign

Are you wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you're in treatment? You're not alone in your concerns! Following are a list of questions and answers for anyone pondering Invisalign treatment.

How exactly does Invisalign work?

Using 3-D computer imaging technology, Invisalign creates a series of custom-made, clear aligners exclusively for your teeth, based on the treatment plan that we specify for you. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.

Will I experience pain during treatment?

Most people experience temporary discomfort for a few days after a new aligner is placed. This feeling of pressure is normal and is a sign that Invisalign is working by sequentially moving your teeth to their final destination.

Can other people see that I'm in treatment?

One of the benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.

Can I smoke during treatment?

We discourage smoking while wearing the aligners as they may become discolored.

Are there any foods I cannot eat while in treatment?

You can eat normally during the entire course of treatment. One of the advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. Simply take the aligners out before each meal, brush when you're finished eating, then reinsert the aligners afterward.

What about chewing gum?

We recommend removing your aligners for all meals and snacks, as gum and other chewy substances can stick to the aligners.

How often must I wear my aligners?

Aligners should be worn all day, except when eating, brushing, and flossing.

Will my speech be affected by the aligners?

As with any orthodontic treatment, aligners may temporarily affect your speech. If this does happen, your tongue will adjust within a day or two and your speech should return to normal.

How can I clean my aligners?

The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water.

How often must I visit your office during treatment?

For most patients, visits every 4-6 weeks are frequent enough for us to determine that your treatment is progressing properly. Dr. Cory Liss will provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan.

SureSmile in Calgary, Alberta

When you visit our office, not only will you receive the same exceptional treatment and service we always offer, but you will have the chance to take advantage of our advanced orthodontic technologies. We are pleased to offer the SureSmile® technology. What could be better?

SureSmile® is the most sophisticated technology available to traditional orthodontic treatment. The advanced digital technology is what separates the SureSmile® System from conventional orthodontics. By utilizing customized arch wires, SureSmile® can deliver:

* Shorter Treatment Times

* Fewer Office Visits

* Less Overall Discomfort

How is this possible? With SureSmile® orthodontics, our assistants use a handheld oral scanner to capture 3-D images that allow Dr. Liss to build a precise 3-D computer model of your teeth. Treatment planning occurs on the computer where Dr. Liss maps out your entire treatment and designs ideal positions for your teeth.

With this information, Dr. Liss determines the most efficient way to move your teeth to create the desired result. Your wires are then bent utilizing a robotic mechanism that creates the perfect movement to create your winning smile.

SureSmile In Action!

We've blogged about SureSmile before, but today, we wanted to show it to you in action! Check out exactly how exciting it is when the expertise and experience of Dr. Liss meets the precision of a robot:

Understanding Cavities From Cory Liss Orthodontics

One word nobody wants to hear when they visit the dentist is Cavity! That’s right, the dreaded cavity; but what exactly is a cavity and how do they happen? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger.

So, what causes a cavity? A cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

Yes, cavities can be repaired by your dentist, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)
• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach
• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink
• Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up

--Dr. Cory Liss

Cory Liss Orthodontics Around the Web

If you've ever visited us at Cory Liss Orthodontics, you already know that we love connecting with our patients. We love the ability to communicate with all of you online too! Besides our web site and our blog, Dr. Liss is on many other networks too!

* Share a video with us, or watch one of ours on YouTube

* Become a "fan" of Cory Liss Orthodontics on Facebook

* View and comment on our photos on MySpace

See you around the web!

--Cory Liss Orthodontics

Summer Fun with Cory Liss Orthodontics!

Its summer here at Cory Liss Orthodontics, a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed on a trip, a camping trip, or just having fun in the sun, we want to hear about it! Leave a comment on our blog and tell us about your summer!

Happy Travels,

-From Cory Liss Orthodontics

A Patient Testiominal for Cory Liss Orthodontics

We just received quite a wonderful, heartfelt letter from a patient who wanted to show their appreciation of Cory Liss Orthodontics, and we wanted to share it with you:

Dr. Liss,

‘Thanks’ only begins to express the appreciation I feel for the treatment, friendly service and professional manner that you, and your staff, always displayed during my treatment. I am driven to write and express what a huge impact your work has had on me.

Orthodontic treatment was not even a consideration in my youth. So, I dealt with the shame of my crooked teeth with a closed mouth. Initially, the joy and excitement of having my braces removed was certainly due to the physical restraint, but I was not prepared for the psychological relief that was about to happen to me. I noticed the remarkable difference (even with braces on) straight teeth were having on my life.

Dr. Liss, you have always been humble in your role in my treatment, insisting that is has been due to ‘my’ hard work, but you must accept my sincere thanks for making such a huge difference in my life.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Paul W.