Archives for February 2018

Should I dispose of my Invisalign trays after the flu?

Posted on February 21, 2018 by goodtooth.

I was so exited to get started on my Invisalign treatment and have been doing it for about a month. Everyone in my family and several co-workers and friends have come down with the flu. So far, I haven’t gotten sick. However, I think it’s only a matter of time.

Do I need to dispose of the Invisalign aligners if I get the flu? Usually that’s what I do with my toothbrush after being sick. But, the aligners are much more expensive. Do I have to have a new one made or can I sanitize it in another way without pitching it?

-Catie in North Carolina

Catie,

Thank you for your question. Actually, throwing away your toothbrush after being sick is a ploy by toothbrush companies. You don’t need to dispose of your toothbrush after being sick and that also includes your Invisalign aligners.

The cold or flu is usually a specific type of virus. While you are sick, your body creates antibodies, which ultimately overcome the virus. Then, you start feeling better. When your body develops these antibodies, you should be immune to it. So, any germs or viruses left on your toothbrush or aligners would no longer make you sick.

There is always a possibility of picking up a new strain, while your body is busy fighting the current strain. In that case, you may get sick again or have a prolonged illness. But, the good news is that you don’t need to dispose of oral hygiene products. Viruses can be shared through saliva to another person. That is why you don’t share a glass with those that are sick. And washing your hands is always the best defense against cold and flu germs.

This is a good opportunity to remind you that staying hydrated during illness is imperative. Plenty of fluids and a lot of rest, as well as avoiding sugary drinks will help you get healthy as soon as possible.

Also, sugar in general (drinks, sweets, etc.) is really bad for Invisalign users. The sugar can become lodged on your teeth inside your aligners. This increases the risk for tooth decay too. So plenty of water as a general rule of thumb is a good practice throughout your Invisalign treatment. Always brush your teeth and rinse your aligners after eating or snacking too. These tips will have your smile looking straight and beautiful very soon!

This post is sponsored by York PA dentist Donald H. Currie, DMD.

Stain was used on my Lumineers. Is this normal?

Posted on February 9, 2018 by goodtooth.

I just had several Lumineers placed on my front teeth. I’ve had them done in the past a long time ago. This time, the dentist stained the Lumineers when they came in. He told me that the stain would make them look more natural. The problem is that I specifically asked for a really white smile.

No surprise that I am unhappy with the results. When I called back in he had me come back in. He proceeded to drill the top layer off of the Lumineers so they are whiter. Now, I’m left with oddly shaped, dull and let’s be honest, very ugly looking teeth. I’m feeling like I flushed over $10,000 down the toilet.

Was drilling the correct way to handle it?

-Pam in South Carolina

Pam,

Unfortunately, there isn’t much that can be done to correct your new Lumineers. However, if they look terrible enough, you may be able to pursue a refund.

First, you will need to enlist the help of an expert cosmetic dentist in your area. It’s safe to assume that your current dentists didn’t know what he is doing. In fact, less than two percent of dentists actually have the ability and skills to create a beautiful smile makeover. Generally, if a dentist is placing Lumineers, it’s a strong indicator they are not one of those two percent.

Many excellent cosmetic dentists don’t do Lumineers because they look fake and bulky. A cosmetic dentist that is passionate about creating beauty, Lumineers deliver average results. Traditional porcelain veneers, placed by a great cosmetic dentist will give you the wow factor. If the new cosmetic dentist is convinced that the original dentist botched your Lumineers, you may be able to get some pressure and hopefully receive at least a partial refund. Sadly, having the work redone is really your only option at this point.

As for the staining on the Lumineers. This technique was taught in dental school to make teeth appear more natural-looking. Dentists are taught that really white teeth look fake. However, if your desire was really white teeth, he should have listened to you. Most cosmetic dentists will go the extra mile to listen and work with patients to manage expectations and results. Then, they will prescribe the correct color based on your input.

Thank you for sharing your story. Hopefully, it will be helpful to someone that is looking into Lumineers or interested in cosmetic dentistry.

This post is sponsored by York PA dentist Donald H. Currie, DMD.