June 2018 | Dr. Currie's Dentistry Blog

I have been on the lookout for deals on Invisalign. I keep finding products available to order online. Many of them look a lot like Invisalign and use clear aligners. However, they say the results are quicker and what is appealing to me is that they are much cheaper than getting Invisalign at the dentist.

There was one that looked to be a mail-order product and that seemed like a gimmick. But, I found one that I’m very interested in that is boasting itself as “affordable braces.” It sounds like there is an initial appointment where they get digital scans of your mouth and teeth. Then, from there it is all done by mail. Is this a scam or is it a legitimate, safe option? The technology seems to mimic Invisalign nearly identically. Please let me know your thoughts.

Thanks,

Benjamin

Benjamin,

Everyone loves a good deal. However, you must proceed with caution when choosing mail order products. Affordable braces usually mean compromising in other areas. For example, some of these companies use unlicensed technicians or staff. Even though you may go to a local office for the digital scans, there will not be a dentist there. And there’s no guarantee that the person has any kind of dental background who is taking the scan. It is imperative that the scans are done correctly so it is an exact mold of your teeth.

Also, with Invisalign treatment at a dentist’s office, there is regular supervision during the progression of trays. With the mail order options, you are on your own. So, if you don’t love the results, there is nothing you can do.

You also need to realize that these online systems are not Invisalign. The aligners are not the same. In fact, some of the products don’t even mold the aligners to go along your gums. Therefore, there are patients that have complained that they are not comfortable to wear every day. The companies will say that their system works well with buttons or attachments. But, any dentist will say that buttons and attachments are not used unless your bite requires additional corrections. They are only used with Invisalign when they are required, not to get around the fact that the fit isn’t done well.

All that said, it is possible you will see results with the more affordable systems. However, you will likely not see the results you desire. So, even though you are saving cost initially, you may end up having to put more money into treatment down the road.

Hopefully, this answers your questions. Although there are similarities to Invisalign, the treatment is not comparable regarding the dentist supervision and involvement.

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

I am very interested in porcelain veneers because I have always had yellow teeth. As I understand it, porcelain veneers can be made to be any shade of white I’d like. However, I’m wondering how long it will be before the porcelain veneers will lose their luster. Will they eventually turn yellow as my other teeth do after teeth whitening?

– Sheila in New York

Sheila,

Thank you for your question. One of the best things about porcelain veneers is that if they are placed properly and cared for, they will not turn yellow.

However, the natural teeth underneath the porcelain veneer can stain. If the staining is severe, there is a possibility it will show through the veneer. If this occurred, it would look like the veneers have darkened.

To avoid stains to your natural teeth, it is recommended to avoid:

Coffee
Tea
Red wines
Cigarettes/tobacco
Berries (acidic)

It is also imperative to avoid tooth whitening products when you have porcelain veneers because they are highly abrasive. The powerful whitening agents can weaken the glaze that is placed on the veneers for protection. If the protective barrier is damaged, stains can enter in and discolor them.

Also, the proper cement will ensure the porcelain veneers do not turn yellow. As long as you pick an excellent cosmetic dentist, you shouldn’t have to be concerned about it. Most experienced cosmetic dentists already know the importance of correct bonding materials to keep the veneers looking flawless. It is worth mentioning though since anyone can make the claim to be a cosmetic dentist.

Sometimes general dentists can get in over their heads. So be sure to ask about your cosmetic dentist’s credentials, find out if they have done cases similar to yours and ask to see before and after images. Not just any dentist can create beautiful porcelain veneers.

To keep your veneers looking great, it would be a good idea to rinse (or brush) your teeth after meals. This will minimize how long food and dark, staining liquids come into contact with the veneers.

Thank you for your question. Good luck as you consider if porcelain veneers are right for you.

This post is sponsored by Flower Mound dentist Donald H. Currie, DMD

I found an affordable Invisalign product. Is it legit?

Will porcelain veneers turn yellow down the road?

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