Get the most out of your health savings or flexible spending account

As the year winds down, it’s crucial to evaluate your finances, particularly the funds held within your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA). These accounts are valuable tools for managing out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, offering significant tax advantages. Yet, they also have restrictions, most notably the “use it or lose it” policy for FSAs. This stipulation means that unspent funds may be forfeited at the year’s end, though many FSAs offer a grace period extending into mid-March of the following year. This article explores how these accounts can be optimally utilized for orthodontic care, ensuring your investments contribute to both your health and financial wellbeing.

Understanding HSAs and FSAs

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) differ not only in structure but in application. HSAs are companion accounts to high-deductible health plans (HDHPs), allowing you to set aside pre-tax income for future medical expenses. Contributions roll over annually, offering continuous savings potential. FSAs, typically employer-sponsored, provide similar tax benefits but with annual forfeiture of unspent funds, save for a possible grace period or limited carryover options.

Orthodontics: A Smart Investment for Your HSA/FSA

Orthodontic treatment is often an investment. Utilizing an HSA or FSA can alleviate the financial burden by covering costs related to braces, Invisalign, retainers, and other necessary procedures. November is the perfect time to use the rest of your money to invest in a healthy smile.

At Adirondack Orthodontics, we can help you put those dollars to work. Here are a few spending options:

Clear Your Balance

Paying off outstanding balances reduces financial stress and frees both your mind and finances for the upcoming year. Any amount in your FSA or HSA can contribute to settling these balances, easing your financial commitments.

Enhance & Protect Your Smile

Once orthodontic treatment concludes, maintaining results is paramount. Investing in our Smile Protection Plan safeguards your orthodontic investment, providing you with the whitening kits and retainers you need to keep your smile white and bright.

Buy a New Invisalign Case

Whether your current Invisalign case is old and worn out or you simply want one that better reflects your style, you can use your FSA/HSA towards this purchase.

Act Quickly – Call Us Today!

Now is the perfect time to ensure you make the most of your FSA/HSA before you can no longer use it. The team at Adirondack Orthodontics can help you put your money to work, no matter your orthodontic goals. Contact us online if you’d like to schedule an appointment or utilize any of the above options. We look forward to helping you access the orthodontic services you need at a price you can afford!

Learn how to floss correctly when wearing braces

During orthodontic treatment, maintaining proper oral health habits like brushing and flossing is essential. After all, if you’re investing so much in a healthy smile, you’ll want to make sure you take good care of it! While most people know to regularly brush their teeth, many put off flossing until right before an orthodontic or dental appointment. Unfortunately, failing to floss can result in a dangerous buildup of plaque, which could cause a cavity.

At Adirondack Orthodontics, we aim to equip our patients with dental hygiene knowledge so they can take better care of their teeth. If you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment and you’re not sure how to floss your teeth when you have braces, we can help! Keep reading to learn more.

The Importance of Flossing with Braces

The primary aim of flossing is to remove plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—from the areas between your teeth that aren’t reached by brushing alone. This task becomes even more essential when you have braces, as brackets and wires can obstruct easy access to these regions, increasing the chances of significant plaque buildup and potential tooth decay. Effective flossing is not just about maintaining aesthetics; it involves preventing long-term oral health complications.

Utilize a Water Flosser

A water flosser is a helpful tool for getting those hard-to-reach areas. In fact, according to a study, the Waterpik™ flosser in particular was found to be three times as effective as string floss for orthodontic patients! Your water flosser should come with instructions, but here are a few simple things to remember:

• Fill the water reservoir
• Insert the tip into the handle
• Change to your desired pressure
• Place the tip of the flosser in your mouth
• Turn on the flosser and aim it at the gum line. Then work your way around the tooth, being sure to tend to the brackets and the areas between teeth

Floss By Hand

If you’re used to flossing by hand or a water flosser is cost prohibitive, flossing manually is always an option! A floss threader is affordable and can assist you with flossing with braces. Use the floss threader to help you get the floss behind each wire. Once it’s there, wrap the end of the floss around one finger on each hand. Then, simply floss as you always have; use a “C” motion to get between the teeth and up by the gums to remove food particles.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Flossing with braces may be difficult initially, but several solutions can ease the learning curve:

• Patience is Key: It might take longer to floss when you have braces. Devote this extra time to encourage thorough cleaning as hasty techniques may damage the wires or irritate your gums.
• Gentle Method: Always handle your floss with care to avoid snapping it into your gums. Such rigorousness can lead to discomfort or tears around your braces.
• Consistency and Routine: Incorporate flossing into your regular oral hygiene routine. Aim to floss daily, ideally at night, to remove any remaining particles accumulated during the day.

Get the Healthy Smile of Your Dreams!

The team at Adirondack Orthodontics is standing by to give you your ideal smile. But we can’t do that without your help. Make sure you floss each day, in addition to brushing your teeth, to keep your teeth healthy and plaque-free. If you have any further questions about how to floss, reach out to us. We’d be happy to help!

For more dental hygiene advice, review our guide on how to brush your teeth with braces.

Embrace change with a new smile

Autumn is here, and there’s no better time to consider starting adult orthodontic treatment! Between the cozy fires, changing leaves, and festive pumpkin spices, fall is a season of transformation, making it perfect for embarking on your journey to a new smile. Here are some compelling reasons why fall is a great time to start your orthodontic treatment.

More Availability and Convenience

With the kids back in school and summer vacations coming to an end, fall gifts you with more personal time. This added availability makes it easier to schedule and keep up with orthodontic appointments. Fall gives you the space to focus on your own healthcare needs, including visits to your orthodontist.

Preparation for the Holidays

Starting your orthodontic treatment now means by the time the holiday season rolls around, you’ll already be adjusted to your braces or Invisalign. The initial discomfort will be behind you, meaning you can dive into your holiday bucket list without any interruptions.

Optimal Health Management

Aligning the start of your orthodontic treatment with the beginning of the fall season gives you ample time to properly manage and incorporate new oral care habits into your daily routine. Orthodontic treatments require particular attention to cleaning and routine check-ups; fall sets a calm pace that can help you get into the habit of maintaining increased oral hygiene.

Learn more about brushing with braces or cleaning and maintaining your Invisalign aligners on our blog.

Looking Ahead to Next Year

Starting in the fall not only gives you a head start before the holidays but also primes you for a stunning transformation to greet next summer! It’s the perfect time frame to notice significant progress and give yourself a confidence boost as the year ends and a new one begins.

Align Your Start with Insurance Benefits

Fall also coincides with the end of the calendar year. This is a critical period for utilizing any remaining dental insurance benefits or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) dollars. Many insurance plans operate on a calendar year basis, so starting your orthodontic treatment in the fall allows you to maximize these benefits and possibly even double up on your coverage when the new year begins.

Easy Scheduling and Less Wait

Orthodontists tend to be busier during the summer months due to families trying to fit treatments around their schedules. The pace typically slows down in the fall, making it an excellent time to start treatment with potentially shorter wait times and more flexible appointment availability.

Building Healthy Routines

Fall signifies a return to routine for many families, making it an ideal time to integrate new care habits necessary for orthodontic treatment. With school schedules back in place, it’s easier to establish a consistent, effective oral care routine that complements your orthodontic process.

Let Us Help!

Get started on your journey to a perfect smile by scheduling a free consultation with Adirondack Orthodontics online. Our convenient locations in Albany, Clifton Park, East Greenbush, Glens Falls, Latham, and Schenectady, NY help kids and adults achieve straight, beautiful smiles.

Discover 10 fun facts about Adirondack Orthodontics

Happy National Orthodontic Health Month from the team at Adirondack Orthodontics! To celebrate this important month, we decided to share fun facts about our practice with you.

1. Blue Diamond+ Status

We’re proud to set ourselves apart as a top tier Blue Diamond+ Invisalign provider. This means that we’ve treated over 10,000 cases, putting us in the top 1% of Invisalign providers in North America.

2. Highly Specialized Team

Our team of orthodontic specialists are extensively trained in the field and have been recognized for their expertise and excellence. For example, Dr. Berenshteyn was named one of the Capital Region’s 40 under 40 by the Albany Business Review in 2019.

3. Lifetime Smile Guarantee™

We keep patients smiling – for good. We provide a Lifetime Smile Guarantee™: once you complete your treatment with us, your smile is 100% guaranteed for the rest of your life.

4. ABO Certification

Our orthodontists are board certified by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO). This extensive process requires measurable accomplishments in patient care with a vetting process by the examining board. Only one-third of orthodontists hold this certification!

5. 10,000 & Counting

We have transformed over 10,000 smiles across the Capital Region since opening for business, making us your trusted partner for quality orthodontic treatment.

6. Treating All Ages

It is never too late to start orthodontic treatment, and our patients come from all stages of life. We love transforming smiles for patients as young as 5 and for those as old as 85.

7. Getting Involved with the Community

We believe in making our community a better place to live. In addition to providing the Capital Region with amazing orthodontic treatment, we are sponsors of several sports and dance leagues in the area, including Shen track, South Colonie girls softball league, the Robovines, and more.

In 2019, we provided the largest-ever donation of orthodontic treatment in the Capital Region, treating 25 underprivileged children in our area.

8. Flexible Financing

Our patients can take advantage of insurance benefits, financing, and custom payment plans to help them afford the orthodontic treatment they need.

In addition, we offer discounts on treatment to families with multiple patients, teachers, Military Service members, and more!

9. Best of the Capital Region

The Times Union’s Best of the Capital Region user poll allows members of the community to rate their preferred orthodontist – and we’ve been ranked in the #1 spot for the last five years in a row!

10. Multiple Locations for Your Convenience

Our six offices cover the entirety of the Capital Region, ensuring you can find convenient orthodontic treatment no matter where you are located. Schedule your next appointment in Albany, Clifton Park, East Greenbush, Glens Falls, Latham, or Schenectady.

We hope you’ve enjoyed reading about the team at Adirondack Orthodontics. These are just a few of the reasons our patients love turning to us for all their orthodontic needs in the Capital Region! If you’re ready to join them and celebrate National Orthodontic Health Month by improving your oral health, please book your consultation today.

Achieve your dream smile in time for your wedding day

Your wedding day should be absolutely perfect, from the venue and clothing to the flowers and cake. And when you look back on photos of your special day, you should remember how amazing you looked and felt. While you are making wedding day decisions, there’s another crucial element that takes a little more planning but will make you or your future spouse feel beautiful, inside and out, long after your wedding day: a straight, healthy smile.

At Adirondack Orthodontics, we believe that every bride (and groom!) deserves the gift of a perfect smile, and with Invisalign, we can help you achieve just that in as little as six months.

5 Reasons to Say ‘I Do’ to a Straighter Smile

Invisalign is a revolutionary teeth-straightening system that uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners to move your teeth into the desired position. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign is nearly invisible, making it the perfect choice for future brides or grooms who want to straighten their teeth discreetly.

• Aesthetic and Discreet: With clear, virtually invisible aligners, Invisalign allows you to straighten your teeth without the noticeable wires and brackets of traditional braces. You can smile confidently in all your pre-wedding photos and events.
• Affordable with Financing: Invisalign is more affordable than ever, especially with easy financing options like CareCredit. We participate with most insurances and also offer special promotions, including $1,000 off treatment for engaged couples!
• Efficient and Effective: Many Invisalign users achieve their desired results in just six months. By starting your Invisalign journey well before your wedding day, you will have plenty of time to perfect your smile. If for whatever reason your treatment isn’t 100% done by the time of your wedding, we have options to have  attachments removed for the wedding day and put back on after!
• Confidence Booster: A beautiful smile can significantly boost your confidence, allowing you to shine on your special day. Invisalign helps you achieve that perfect wedding smile, ensuring you feel your best from the inside out.
• Comfortable and Convenient: Invisalign aligners are custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth. They are comfortable to wear and removable, making it easy to maintain your oral hygiene and enjoy all your favorite foods without restrictions.

Have the Unforgettable Day You Deserve

Starting your Invisalign journey is simple. During your initial consultation at our office, we will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. Imagine walking down the aisle with a smile that radiates joy and confidence. With Invisalign, you can turn this dream into a reality. Don’t wait—schedule your consultation with our office today and take the first step towards the wedding gift of your dreams: a healthy, beautiful smile!

Examining your orthodontic options

Children who have misaligned teeth, an underbite, an overbite, or another orthodontic issue shouldn’t wait until adulthood to address the problem. All these issues can and should be solved early with orthodontic treatment! The team at Adirondack Orthodontics offers traditional metal braces and Invisalign to ensure our patients get the treatment that fits their needs.

But which treatment is right for your child or teen? Here are five things to consider as you review your options.

1. Affordability

Finances play a crucial role in any medical treatment decision. At Adirondack Orthodontics, we believe that all orthodontic options should be affordable for families, which is why we frequently offer special promotions to help reduce costs. We also work with most insurance providers and offer payment plans custom tailored to fit your budget. Because of these options, families are able to choose the treatment you and your child feel most comfortable with, whether that’s traditional braces or Invisalign.

Find more ways to save on orthodontic treatment on our blog.

2. Comfortability

Orthodontic options vary in terms of comfort, especially immediately after implementation. Invisalign is generally considered to be the most comfortable option since it doesn’t involve metal parts that can irritate the mouth. Metal braces might cause initial discomfort or irritation, but this usually subsides as your child gets used to wearing them.

3. Hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial during orthodontic treatment. Invisalign’s removable aligners make it easy for your child to brush and floss as they normally would, keeping their teeth and aligners clean with minimal extra effort.

With metal braces, maintaining oral hygiene requires more effort due to the additional surfaces that need cleaning. However, we provide resources and guidance to ensure your child has all the tools and knowledge needed to keep their mouth healthy regardless of which orthodontic treatment they decide on.

Learn more in our home care guide for braces and Invisalign.

4. Personality and Discreteness

Younger kids may love showing off their personality through traditional metal braces that can be customized with different colored bands. For older kids and teens, Invisalign may be more desirable as the discreet option that is virtually invisible.

5. Removability

Invisalign aligners can be taken out during sports, meals, and oral hygiene routines, which can make eating and cleaning teeth easier. While this flexibility may make it easier for aligners to be misplaced or forgotten, in our experience most children adapt to this responsibility quickly and easily.

Traditional metal braces are fixed in place, reducing the chance of loss but requiring more diligent care, especially when it comes to avoiding certain foods that can damage the braces.

Learn about which foods you can and cannot eat with orthodontics on our blog.

Find the Right Treatment for Your Child – Call Us Today!

Choosing the right orthodontic treatment for your child is a significant decision, and the team at Adirondack Orthodontics is here to support you every step of the way. We’ll ensure your child is prepared for their orthodontic journey and will work towards achieving a healthy, beautiful smile. If you have any questions or need more information, don’t hesitate to contact our office. Schedule your first free consultation today, and let us help you make the best choice for your child’s orthodontic needs.

Transform your child’s smile during this hectic time of year

Going back to school can be nerve-wracking for children and teens. The excitement of new classes, meeting new friends, and preparing for after-school activities can also bring stress. Amidst this busy schedule, managing orthodontic appointments and maintaining traditional braces can be a challenge. Luckily, there’s another option! Invisalign offers a convenient and stress-free way to straighten teeth, making the school year smoother without compromising your child’s busy lifestyle.

Flexibility and Convenience

One of the most significant advantages of Invisalign is its flexibility. Unlike traditional braces, which require frequent adjustments and can be cumbersome during school activities, Invisalign aligners are removable. This means your child can easily take them out during meals, sports, or musical instrument practice, making them an ideal choice for active students.

Discreet and Comfortable

Invisalign aligners are made from smooth, clear plastic, making them virtually invisible. Your child can confidently participate in school events, give presentations, and socialize without feeling self-conscious about their appearance. Additionally, the smooth material reduces the likelihood of irritation and discomfort that often comes with metal braces, ensuring your child remains comfortable throughout their treatment.

Fewer Office Visits

With a busy school schedule, finding time for regular orthodontic appointments can be challenging. Invisalign requires fewer office visits compared to traditional braces. Typically, we schedule check-ups every 4-8 weeks to monitor progress and provide new sets of aligners. This means less time out of school and more time focusing on academics and activities.

Easy Maintenance

Maintaining oral hygiene with traditional braces can be time-consuming and difficult, often requiring special tools to clean around brackets and wires. Invisalign aligners, however, can be easily removed for brushing and flossing, promoting better oral hygiene and reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease during treatment.

Effective Results

Invisalign is not just convenient; it’s also highly effective. Using advanced technology, we create a personalized treatment plan for your child, ensuring precise and predictable results. Whether addressing mild or complex orthodontic issues, Invisalign can help achieve a straight, beautiful smile.

Start the School Year with a Smile

As you prepare for the new school year, consider the benefits of Invisalign for your child’s orthodontic treatment. With its flexibility, convenience, and effectiveness, Invisalign can seamlessly fit into your child’s busy schedule, allowing them to focus on their studies and activities while working towards a beautiful, confident smile.

Our team at Adirondack Orthodontics specializes in giving children, teens, and adults their ideal smiles – in one year or less, in many cases! We are proud to be an Invisalign Blue Diamond Provider, which recognizes us as part of the top 1% of Invisalign providers in the country.

Contact us today to book a free initial consultation for your child. We have six locations throughout the Capital Region to best serve you, and we would be happy to assess your child’s needs and go over treatment options.

Understanding the benefits of orthodontic treatment for bite issues

If you’re suffering from poorly aligned teeth, you probably already know that orthodontia can help solve this issue. Braces and Invisalign can straighten your teeth and give you a smile to be proud of! But did you know that orthodontic treatment can also solve common bite issues?

Common Bite and Alignment Issues

While you may just see your teeth as “crooked,” there are terms that can help better define the spacing or alignment issue you’re experiencing. Here are five of the most common ones:

1. Crossbites

A crossbite occurs when a patient’s top and bottom don’t meet as they should when biting down. Crossbites are often caused by genetics, habits like thumb sucking, or permanent teeth that haven’t yet erupted. Children who suck their thumb as they are developing are often more susceptible to developing a noticeable crossbite that will continue to become exaggerated as their permanent teeth come in.

2. Overbites

When a person’s upper teeth protrude over their lower teeth by a significant amount, this is referred to as an overbite. In many cases, lower teeth bite into the roof of the mouth and push out the upper teeth, resulting in excessive overjet, or the distance between the upper and lower teeth. Overbites and overjets can be caused by genetics, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), missing teeth, and bad dental habits such as teeth grinding.

3. Underbites

An underbite is when the lower teeth protrude beyond the upper teeth when the mouth is closed. It’s often noticeable by the appearance of a “bulldog-like” jawline, where the lower jaw juts out prominently. While it may seem like a purely cosmetic issue, underbites can lead to various complications if left untreated, including difficulty chewing, speech problems, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

Genetics, prolonged childhood thumb sucking, irregular tooth growth, and jaw development issues are some of the potential causes of an underbite.

4. Open Bites

If a person’s upper and lower teeth don’t touch, this is called an open bite. An anterior open bite occurs when front teeth don’t touch. This causes an aesthetically unpleasing smile as well as issues with proper jaw function impacting speech and biting capabilities. A posterior open bite is when back teeth don’t touch. This is usually a result of side tongue thrusts or poor dental habits prevalent in children. Symmetric open bites are typically caused by consistent tongue thrusts, while asymmetric open bites are caused by poor habits that impact dental health such as thumb sucking.

5. Deep Bites

A deep bite occurs when the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower front teeth when the mouth is closed. While some overlap is normal, an excessive deep bite can lead to various dental issues if left untreated, including wear on the teeth, jaw pain, and even difficulties in chewing and speaking.

Genetics, excessive childhood thumb sucking, teeth crowding, irregular jawbone development, and missing teeth can potentially create a deep bite.

The Dangers of Misalignment

Dental misalignment can make it difficult to chew and speak properly. Alignment issues also can cause everything from headaches and jaw pain to tooth loss and gum recession. Ignoring your bite issues can result in long-term, expensive, and painful problems.

Fortunately, orthodontia can correct these issues over time, giving you relief from dental pain and ensuring a healthy, confidence-boosting smile.

How Orthodontic Treatment Works

After assessing your teeth and taking X-rays, our orthodontist will come up with a treatment plan to correct your bite issue, using either braces or Invisalign. Both work in a similar way, slowly moving your teeth into the desired positions for optimal smile health. Braces use brackets that are placed on your teeth and then connected with wires. Invisalign, on the other hand, uses a series of clear plastic aligner trays that are customized to move your teeth bit by bit over time.

Whichever treatment best suits your needs, you can trust that your overbite, underbite, or other alignment issue will be a thing of the past once you’re finished!

Make an Appointment Today

If you’re experiencing dental pain or are having trouble chewing or speaking and you think it may be due to bite issues, call on our team at Adirondack Orthodontics. All our treatment plans are backed by our Smile Guarantee™, so you know you’ll get the orthodontic treatment you need and deserve.

We would be happy to schedule your free initial consultation – and help you get your best smile in one year or less! Contact us today to make an appointment at one of our six convenient locations in the Capital Region.

Key factors to consider when selecting your orthodontist

Some decisions are low-stakes and fine to decide on a whim, like where you’ll go for dinner or what movie you’re going to watch. But when it comes to choosing someone to provide health services to you, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Your decision should involve much more thought, planning, and research.

If you’re looking for an orthodontist, the process might seem overwhelming. Most people don’t know what sets an amazing orthodontist apart from the pack. Fortunately, we’ve put together a list of must-haves to keep in mind when choosing an orthodontist.

Unmatched Comfort & Convenience

A top-tier orthodontist prioritizes your comfort and convenience throughout your treatment journey. This begins with flexible scheduling options to accommodate your busy lifestyle. Look for orthodontists like Adirondack Orthodontics, which boasts multiple locations across the Capital Region, ensuring accessibility and convenience for patients.

Moreover, a comfortable patient experience is crucial for reducing anxiety and ensuring a positive treatment outcome. We pride ourselves on providing inviting waiting areas and a range of amenities to keep patients at ease during their appointments. From friendly staff to modern offices, every aspect is designed to enhance your comfort and overall satisfaction.

Lifelong Results

When you choose the right orthodontist, you’ll have peace of mind that your provider will stand behind their services and protect your smile for years to come.

At Adirondack Orthodontics, all our plans are backed by our Smile Guarantee™. That means that your smile is 100% guaranteed for life! If you eventually notice that your teeth have shifted, call us to schedule an appointment, and we’ll be sure to help.

Flexible Payment & Financing Options

Affordability should never be a barrier to achieving a healthy, beautiful smile. A reputable orthodontist understands the financial considerations involved in orthodontic treatment and works closely with patients to explore flexible payment and financing options.

At Adirondack Orthodontics, our team is dedicated to ensuring that treatment remains financially accessible to all patients. We are proud to partner with patients to make sure their insurance covers our services, even when they want to utilize FSA/HSA benefits. We can also help you learn more about financing options like autopay, zero-interest financing, paid-in-full discounts, and third-party payment options. And we make it easy to pay your bill online!

Proven Expertise

Additional certifications and credentials can show that an orthodontist goes the extra mile to provide treatment for patients. Nothing will give you confidence in your healthcare provider like knowing that they’ve gone above and beyond to learn everything they can about their profession.

One designation that sets Adirondack Orthodontics apart from other orthodontists is that we are an Invisalign Diamond Provider. That means we are in the top 1% of more than 50,000 Invisalign-certified dentists and orthodontists in the U.S.

By choosing a provider with proven expertise, you can have confidence in the quality of care and the outcomes of your treatment.

Make the Right Choice – Call Us Today

When it comes to selecting the right orthodontist, Adirondack Orthodontics emerges as the best choice for patients seeking unparalleled comfort, convenience, and expertise in the Capital Region. With a steadfast commitment to patient satisfaction and lifelong results, we embody excellence in orthodontic care.

To embark on your journey to a straighter, healthier smile, schedule your initial consultation today. Our dedicated team is ready to provide personalized care and support every step of the way. Don’t settle for anything less than the best when it comes to your dental health—choose Adirondack Orthodontics for a transformative orthodontic experience!

Learn what to do if you experience a problem with your braces or Invisalign

Orthodontic treatment is a journey toward a healthier, more aligned smile, but like any journey, it can come with unexpected bumps along the way. While taking proper care of your braces or Invisalign aligners will lessen the chances that you’ll have an orthodontic emergency, unforeseen issues can still arise. When an emergency arises, you’ll want to be able to turn to a knowledgeable orthodontist for help.

The Importance of Professional Guidance

One of the many benefits of working with the orthodontists at Adirondack Orthodontics is that you can access the help of an experienced professional at a moment’s notice. Unlike companies that offer DIY tooth-straightening solutions, we won’t leave you high and dry when you have questions or concerns. Adirondack Orthodontics is your source for professional orthodontic treatments and guidance during the entire process. If you ever have an orthodontic emergency, we will be there to help.

But what do you do when a problem arises with your braces or aligners, especially if you can’t get to our office right away? Keep reading to learn more about some of the most common emergencies and how we can help you handle them.

Broken Wires & Loose Brackets

Wires and brackets are essential components of braces. While this situation doesn’t happen often, they can sometimes become loose or break under enough pressure. If this happens to you, take the following actions immediately:

• Orthodontic Wax: If a wire is poking out and causing discomfort, you can use orthodontic wax to cover the sharp end and prevent it from irritating your mouth.
• Clipping the Wire: If the wire is protruding too much and wax isn’t enough, you can sterilize a pair of nail clippers or small wire cutters and carefully clip the wire. Ensure you only clip the wire as a last resort and be cautious not to swallow any pieces.
• Contact Your Orthodontist: Schedule an appointment as soon as possible for a professional repair. Continuing treatment with damaged components can hinder progress and cause more discomfort.

Damaged Aligners

Invisalign aligners are designed to be durable, but they can still crack or break under certain circumstances. If this happens to you, you can take the following steps:

• Use Previous Aligners: If your current aligner is damaged and cannot be worn, revert to wearing your previous set to maintain your progress.
• Contact Your Orthodontist: Notify your orthodontist immediately to arrange for a replacement. Avoid skipping aligners as it can delay your treatment and affect your results.

Lost Retainers or Aligners

Misplacing retainers or aligners is a common issue, especially if they are not stored in their designated case. We recommend always putting your retainers or aligners in the same place to reduce this risk.

The only way to manage a lost retainer or aligner is to contact our team for replacement. If your aligners were lost, then as suggested above, you can wear your previous set of aligners until you receive a new set. But if you lose your retainer, you’ll simply have to wait until it’s replaced.

Intense Mouth Pain or Sores

Some discomfort is expected with braces and aligners, especially after adjustments or switching to a new set of aligners. However, excessive pain or the development of sores can indicate a problem. The following tips can help with mouth pain or sores:

• Orthodontic Wax: Use wax to cover any brackets or wires causing irritation.
• Saltwater Rinse: Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to alleviate pain and promote healing.
• Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort.
• Contact Your Orthodontist: If the pain is intense or persistent, contact your orthodontist to discuss the symptoms and schedule an appointment if necessary.

Preventing Orthodontic Emergencies

While not all emergencies can be prevented, there are steps you can take to minimize risks:

• Follow Care Instructions: Adhere strictly to the care guidelines provided by your orthodontist, including dietary restrictions and cleaning protocols.
• Regular Check-ups: Attend all scheduled appointments to ensure your treatment is progressing smoothly and any potential issues are addressed promptly.
• Protective Gear: If you have braces, wear a mouthguard during sports or physical activities to protect your teeth from damage.

Turn to Adirondack Orthodontics

The team at Adirondack Orthodontics will equip you with the tools and knowledge you need to prevent orthodontic emergencies as much as possible. But should an emergency occur anyway, we’re here to help. Contact us if you have further questions about how to handle your situation.