Learn proper brushing techniques while wearing braces

November 1st was National Brush Day! The best way to celebrate all month long is to make sure you’re equipped with the right tools and techniques to properly brush your teeth. This is even more important if you have braces since you’ll need to take extra care when you brush and floss to ensure your teeth are thoroughly cleaned and your treatment stays on track.

See below to learn more about how to keep your teeth and gums clean during your orthodontic journey with these tips on brushing and flossing with braces. Download a PDF version of these tips.

1. Find a good toothbrush

The brush you use should be flexible so that you can reach every bit of your teeth and gums. You could even take your toothbrushing to the next level with an electric toothbrush!

2. Start brushing on the outside of your teeth

Work your way from one side to the other, using a circular motion to brush each tooth on the outside (i.e., the side you see). Carefully brush around the brackets and wires to ensure that no food particles get stuck.

3. Brush the inside of your teeth

Repeat your circular brushing, this time on the inside of your teeth. While you won’t have as many obstacles to brush around, it’s just as important to do a thorough job on this side of your teeth.

4. Work on the crowns of your teeth

Don’t forget to brush the chewing surface of each tooth! Brushing the crowns of your molars is especially important, as small pieces of food can end up on top of these teeth. Those particles can cause plaque and eventually cavities.

5. Brush your tongue and gums

Once you’re finished brushing your teeth, gently brush your gums and the top of your tongue.

6. Move on to flossing

Flossing with braces doesn’t have to be as tricky as it might seem. A floss threader can make flossing a breeze, but even without one, you can properly floss your teeth. If you have traditional floss, take enough of it out to wrap around each index finger. Use floss threaders or move the floss by hand under the wires to get between the teeth, and floss using a “C” motion. Floss between each tooth to get rid of any remaining food particles that are stuck between your teeth. 

Celebrate healthy teeth all year long

Prevent cavities and keep your teeth in great health by properly brushing your teeth twice a day (and when you have braces, brushing after meals as needed). And if you need any more information about how to properly brush or floss, don’t hesitate to contact one of our offices! We’d be happy to teach you the techniques you need to keep your teeth and gums in the best health throughout your treatment.

With convenient locations in Albany, Glens Falls, Clifton Park, Latham, East Greenbush, and Schenectady, Adirondack Orthodontics is your trusted orthodontic specialist. Book your next appointment or free consultation online today to start your journey toward a healthy, beautiful smile.

Download a PDF version of these tips. 

Have a new look by Spring!

Invisalign can help most people achieve a straighter, healthier smile in one year or less. But if you’re looking to achieve that picture-perfect smile even faster, we have a treatment plan that could help you complete the process in as little as six months: our Express Aligner Treatment (EAT) program.

Envision what you’ll be doing in the spring. Do you have a wedding coming up? Will you be preparing for your graduation? Are you taking the trip of a lifetime? The Express Aligner Treatment can give you a picture-perfect smile by the time you’re ready to say “cheese” for all those photos in the spring!

The Basics of Express Aligner Treatment

The Express Aligner Treatment program begins with an appointment to determine if you’re a candidate. Once treatment begins, we will ensure the aligners are delivered directly to your home, and we will check on the progress of your treatment via remote consultations provided by one of our board-certified orthodontists.

The amazing results of your orthodontic treatment will be covered by our Smile Guarantee: once you complete treatment with us, your smile is 100% guaranteed – for life!

The Benefits of Express Aligner Treatment

Invisalign is known as the most discreet orthodontic choice out there. See some of the reasons to choose this particular Invisalign treatment program:

• Affordable Payment Plans: You can pay with $0 down and 0% interest, and we can help you come up with a payment plan that works with your budget.
• Discreet & Removable: Aligners are virtually invisible when worn and can be taken out when you eat and drink.
• Convenient Scheduling: We have six convenient locations for you to choose from for your initial consultation as well as any future in-person checkups. And as said above, most of your checkups will be virtual!
• Bleaching Kit Included: When you start treatment, we will provide you with a free bleaching kit so you can have teeth that are white and bright, not just straight!

The Express Aligner Treatment program clearly has many advantages. So, what are you waiting for? The team at Adirondack Orthodontics can give you the smile of your dreams sooner than you think.

See If You’re a Candidate

Not everyone is a candidate for Express Aligner Treatment. But if you have a less severe case of misalignment or if you have unfinished orthodontic treatment from another office, this type of treatment may be right for you.

Find out if you’re a good candidate for the Express Aligner Treatment by contacting Adirondack Orthodontics today! We would be happy to provide you with a free initial consultation, discuss financing and payment, and get your treatment started as soon as possible so that you can achieve your perfect smile by spring!

Smile bright and discover everything you need to know about orthodontic treatment

If you’re struggling with teeth that aren’t as straight and healthy as you want, you probably have a few questions about how to achieve the perfect smile. At Adirondack Orthodontics, we’ve taken care of countless patients who have been in similar situations, so we have the answers you’re seeking!

See the answers to some commonly asked questions below.

What is a good age to get braces or Invisalign? What is the average age to get braces?

Most children are typically accessed for orthodontic treatment by age 7. However, there’s no “right” age to get braces or Invisalign – kids, teens, and adults all can benefit from a straight, healthy smile!

How do I pay for treatment?

We make paying for treatment as easy as possible! We are in network with most major insurers and have already negotiated treatment fees with them. Additionally, we make treatment more accessible by helping you maximize your dental benefits with things like FSA/HSA plans. We also offer numerous discounts.

Do I have to pay in full when I start treatment?

Not at all! While you can pay in full at the start, you are also welcome to make smaller payments as treatment goes on at a pace that works with your budget. Quarterly, monthly, annual, or semi-annual payment options are available.

Do you guarantee results?

Yes! We have what we call our “smile guarantee”: your smile is guaranteed for life once you complete treatment with us! If you see your teeth have shifted over the years, contact us. You’ll never pay full price for orthodontic treatment at our practice again.

What can I expect during my first visit?

We’ll provide you with a free exam, X-rays, and photos as needed. We’ll also answer any questions you have, recommend a treatment plan, and discuss a payment plan that works with your budget. Just be sure to provide us with all the information we need to give you the best possible experience during your appointment!

Will I have to wear a retainer after treatment?

Once treatment is complete, we recommend wearing a retainer at night to keep your teeth in place. Fortunately, we offer a Smile Protection Program to help you safeguard your smile for the rest of your life.

How long will my orthodontic treatment take?

Treatment length depends on a variety of factors, and everyone’s orthodontic journey is different. However, we can help most patients achieve their best smiles in one year or less. We also offer Express Aligner Treatment for certain patients. The best way to see how long treatment will take is to schedule a free consultation at one of our six locations.

What if I have more questions?

If you have any more questions or you would like to schedule your first free appointment, please contact us today! With convenient locations in Albany, Clifton Park, Latham, East Greenbush, Glens Falls, and Schenectady, Adirondack Orthodontics is your trusted orthodontic clinic in New York.

We look forward to helping you start your journey toward the perfect smile!

Review the difference between braces and Invisalign.

You’ll consider a variety of factors when deciding what orthodontic treatment best suits your needs, including your budget, lifestyle, and goals. No matter which treatment you select, you can trust that the team at Adirondack Orthodontics will guide you through it at one of our six convenient locations. We provide braces and Invisalign to patients of all ages in Albany, East Greenbush, Clifton Park, Glens Falls, Latham, and Schenectady.

See the main differences between traditional braces and Invisalign below to start thinking about which option is right for you.

Braces: The Traditional Option

Patients and orthodontists have trusted braces for decades for a good reason: braces straighten teeth and give patients perfect smiles. At the start of the treatment, the orthodontist applies brackets to the teeth. Then, wires are placed to connect the brackets. During each appointment, these wires are tightened to slowly move the teeth into the desired positions.

An affordable choice, braces may work best with your budget. Another advantage of getting braces is that you don’t need to remember to take an aligner in and out; braces go wherever you do! You can also get a fresh look with every appointment by choosing colorful bands that let you express your personality or celebrate the season. And if you choose clear bands, your braces can be less noticeable.

Invisalign: The Best Option

Invisalign has become extremely popular in recent years. In fact, over 15 million people have chosen Invisalign to address their orthodontic needs! This treatment involves a series of clear aligners that slowly move your teeth into the desired positions. Since the aligners are clear when they’re in use, this is the most discreet option. The aligners are also removed when eating, so patients can continue to enjoy all their favorite healthy foods.

At Adirondack Orthodontics, we’re proud to have earned the distinction of being a Diamond Invisalign Provider, which means we rank among the top 1% of Invisalign providers in the country!

Invisalign vs Braces for Kids, Teens, and Adults

• How Much They Cost: While the costs of both Invisalign and braces vary, Invisalign tends to be the more expensive option. However, it’s important to factor in dental insurance coverage and available discounts before you determine which option is more affordable for you and your family.
• How They Look: One of the most common reasons our patients choose Invisalign is that it’s a discreet option. Invisalign comes in a series of clear aligners, while braces involve metal brackets being placed on the teeth for the duration of the treatment. If you want a less obtrusive treatment, Invisalign may be the best option for you.
• How They Feel: Moving your teeth into their proper positions, no matter the method, can be an uncomfortable experience. However, braces tend to be a little more uncomfortable because brackets are not just placed on the front of teeth but around the back molars as well. This can result in discomfort inside of your mouth.
• How Convenient They Are: Braces are easy to manage because your orthodontist does all the work during your appointment. Invisalign requires you to take the aligners on and off and use them in the correct sequence. However, this also means that Invisalign makes it easy to floss and brush your teeth, and you won’t have to forget any of your favorite healthy foods. Braces require you to limit or stop eating certain foods and maneuvering a toothbrush and floss around the brackets and wires can be difficult.
• How Well They Work: Fortunately, following your orthodontist’s instructions will mean that Invisalign and braces are equally effective. When it comes to the end result, you don’t need to choose one over the other.

See What’s Best for You – Call Us for a Consultation

You can trust that our team will give you the perfect smile with the treatment that works best for you. The best way to determine which one will suit your needs is to call or contact us online to schedule a consultation. We can provide you with an exam and let you know the advantages of each type of treatment and recommend one for you.

With convenient locations in Albany, Clifton Park, Latham, East Greenbush, Glens Falls, and Schenectady, Adirondack Orthodontics is your trusted orthodontic clinic in New York. Let’s work together to achieve your best smile!

Enjoying the season without compromising your smile

Summer is the season when people love to go on vacation and enjoy the sweeter things in life! However, while people undergoing orthodontic treatment can safely enjoy most summer fun, anyone with braces will know that they should be a little more careful about what they eat. 

It is pretty common knowledge that people with braces should avoid foods that are hard or sticky, as they can get stuck in the brackets, leaving sugar on the teeth and causing tooth decay. Some of the worst foods to eat with braces include caramel, gum, and popcorn. 

If you want to continue enjoying these sweet treats and sticky goodies, Invisalign may be the ideal orthodontic treatment for you, as you can take the aligners out when eating. If you do have braces, however, this doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some of the best summer snacks still!  

Here are a few sweet (and savory) summertime treats we’ve put together for your eating pleasure.

1.  Fruits

Watermelon, bananas, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and ripe/soft fruit are fine to eat with braces. Plus, these fruits are perfect for cooling down on a sultry day or enjoying while on a picnic!

2. Seafood

Most types of seafood are perfectly fine to eat if you have braces, including fish, crab meat, lobster meat, and more. If you’re someone who craves fresh seafood in the summer, go ahead and indulge!

3. Ice Cream

Soft-serve ice cream is a braces-friendly option that allows you to indulge in the classic summer treat without worrying about damaging your braces. Unlike traditional hard ice cream, soft-serve is much gentler on braces and less likely to cause discomfort. Whether you prefer classic vanilla or adventurous flavors like mango or matcha, soft-serve ice cream is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your smile.

4. Smoothies

Smoothies are another fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of summer while keeping your braces safe. Blend together a combination of fruits, such as berries, peaches, and pineapple, with some yogurt or milk for added creaminess. You can even sneak in some leafy greens like spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost. Smoothies are not only delicious and braces-friendly but also a great way to stay hydrated during the hot summer months.

5. Milkshakes

Milkshakes are a quintessential summer treat, and the good news is that they can be enjoyed even with braces! Add your favorite flavors, such as chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry, along with a scoop of soft ice cream. You can also throw in some ripe bananas or peanut butter for extra creaminess and flavor. Just be sure to avoid any hard or crunchy toppings like nuts or candy that could potentially damage your braces.

Protect your smile this summer

Plenty of other foods can help you beat the heat and cool down without interfering with your braces. Just remember that some foods should be cut into smaller pieces. And, of course, don’t forget to follow daily tooth brushing and flossing guidelines to take care of your teeth while enjoying the summer!

Happy National Smile Month! Each year, this campaign encourages awareness of various oral health issues, educates people, and equips them with the tools to care for their teeth. This year’s theme is Brush for Better Health!

At Adirondack Orthodontics, we believe that good oral health should always be accessible and attainable. That’s why, in addition to being the best orthodontist in Schenectady, Albany, East Greenbush, Clifton Park, Glens Falls, and Latham, we also aim to provide education on how to properly care for your teeth so you can achieve your ideal smile! 

It’s Never Too Late to Care for Your Teeth

One of the best ways to maintain healthy teeth and gums is to brush and floss regularly using the proper techniques. While brushing your teeth with braces may require a little extra effort, Invisalign offers an orthodontic solution that makes maintaining good oral hygiene easy! Since the aligners are removable, you can simply take them out to brush and floss. Plus, we offer Invisalign for all ages, from kids to teens to adults. 

Regardless of whether you have braces or Invisalign, as you progress throughout your orthodontic treatment, your teeth will become easier to clean!  

A Straight, Healthy Smile Is Within Reach

So many people worry about the cost of orthodontics. Adirondack Orthodontics aims to provide affordable braces and Invisalign. We’ve made orthodontic services accessible for our patients to ensure everyone can access the care they deserve. Here are just a few of the ways we can help you afford our services:

• Customized payment plans that work with your budget
• Discounts for teachers, families, military service members, and others
• Participation with most insurances and help with filing paperwork
• CareCredit options if you don’t have insurance

If you have any questions about cost, financing, and insurance options, don’t hesitate to contact our team. We will work one-on-one with you to make your journey to the perfect smile as stress-free as possible.

Celebrate National Smile Month with Us

We hope you, your family, and your friends take a few moments to consider how you can care for your teeth. Be sure to share this message of accessible oral care with everyone in your community, so we can all put our best smile forward this National Smile Month!

Still looking to start your journey to the smile of your dreams? Adirondack Orthodontics was voted Best Orthodontist in the Capital Region for the fifth year in a row. Whether you are looking for affordable braces in Schenectady or you want to see if you are a candidate for Invisalign in Albany, call or text us to set up a free consultation today!

What’s the Difference?

While orthodontists and dentists are both essential to maintaining your oral health and contributing to your overall well-being and confidence, these two medical professionals focus on different goals for your teeth, jaws, and mouth. Let’s take a look at some of these key differences, and why Adirondack Orthodontics is the answer to your search for the “best orthodontist near me.” 

The Difference Between Dentists & Orthodontists

Dentists are most focused on the health of your teeth and gums. Most dental professionals recommend that you visit your dentist twice a year for a dental cleaning and checkup to monitor the health of your teeth and ensure you don’t have any cavities or signs of decay. In addition to performing checkups and filling cavities, dentists can extract teeth, place crowns, and perform root canals. Many also offer aesthetic services like teeth whitening.

On the other hand, orthodontists focus specifically on the alignment of your teeth and jaw. Underbites, overbites, and misaligned teeth are a few of the issues that an orthodontist can work to solve, as these problems can cause everything from a loss of confidence to gum disease and sleep apnea. An orthodontist will assess your teeth and develop a personalized treatment plan to move your teeth into the correct positions. You’ll get a straight smile that adds to your self-confidence. In addition, properly aligned teeth can be easier to keep clean and healthy! 

Proudly Preferred by Dentists & Patients Alike

Your dentist and orthodontist will work together to help you achieve your ideal smile. Many dentists partner with Adirondack Orthodontics and refer their patients who need orthodontic services like braces and Invisalign to us because of our cutting-edge treatments, range of financing solutions, and years of experience.

However, it’s important to note that a recommendation isn’t the same thing as a referral, and neither is required to become a patient of ours. Even if your dentist hasn’t recommended a specific orthodontist by name, the team at Adirondack Orthodontics can still serve you! All you have to do is schedule an appointment at your nearest location so that we can get to know you and your needs.

We are a Diamond+ Invisalign provider, putting us in the top 1% of all Invisalign providers certified to offer this treatment. Simply put, we give you compassionate, personalized treatments while doing whatever it takes to ensure you get your ideal smile that is ready for all of life’s little moments.

Achieve Your Best Smile with Adirondack Orthodontics

There are many ways to discover Adirondack Orthodontics, from searching for “Albany braces” or “orthodontist in Schenectady” to simply wondering “what is the cost of Invisalign near me?” Whether you were referred to us by your dentist, you found us through an online search, you saw us win the Times Union’s Best Of award, or you were told about us by a friend, we are so glad you are considering us as your trusted orthodontist.

Turn to the orthodontist trusted by dentists throughout Albany, Clifton Park, East Greenbush, Glens Falls, Schenectady, and Latham, NY: Adirondack Orthodontics! We can get you started with a free consultation and tell you more about the many ways we can tailor our services to meet your needs. New patients are encouraged to visit this page to get a better idea of what to expect on their first visit. We look forward to seeing you.

The Fourth Year in a Row!

Thank you to all our amazing patients, we have once again been recognized as the winner of “Best Orthodontist” in the Capital Region by Times Union for 2023! We’re proud to have earned this prestigious title for the fourth year in a row because it shows us the impact that we’ve had on families in the communities we serve. We have been grateful for the support of our patients as we have expanded to bring excellent care closer to home, now with six conveniently-located orthodontic offices.

Why Patients Choose Our Team

We’ve become the top orthodontist in the region for many reasons, but it all starts with the first in-person consultation and evaluation. Patients can visit whichever of our six locations is most convenient for them. Here’s how it works:

• A board-certified orthodontist will design your treatment plan. Your first free appointment will include complimentary X-rays, a 3D scan, and a free orthodontic evaluation. Your orthodontist will design your smile plan based on your needs.
• Our team will customize a payment plan for you. After evaluating your insurance details and any FSA or HSA information, we can tell you about our discounts for teachers, military members, and families. We can then create a payment plan that works with your budget.
• You’ll start treatment immediately! In many cases, you can start your treatment the same day! You shouldn’t have to wait another moment to start your orthodontic journey and achieve the smile of your dreams.

We are dedicated to working with you to ensure your customized treatment is accessible to you, so you’re sure to get the results you need.

Find Out for Yourself

See why everyone from East Greenbush to Schenectady and beyond is raving about their experience with our team. Call or text us today to schedule your free consultation! We would be happy to tell you more about how braces, Invisalign, or one of our other orthodontic services could give you your ideal smile.

A Smile Journey That’s Unique to You

Every smile journey at Adirondack Orthodontics is different because all our patients are different! Whether you’re struggling with an overbite, underbite, crowded teeth, or crooked teeth, we can design a plan to give you the smile you’ve always wanted at a price that works with your budget while using a treatment that fits your lifestyle. If you have been searching for braces in Albany or Invisalign in Schenectady, Adirondack Orthodontics is here to help. We offer both of these orthodontic treatment options at all six orthodontist offices. 

Your Personalized Treatment Plan

We start by providing every one of our clients with a FREE complimentary consultation. During this appointment, we’ll take X-rays to examine your teeth and jaw. During the next part of your free orthodontic evaluation, the doctor will sit down and discuss your treatment preferences! Finally, we will take a 3D scan so we can start customizing a plan just for you. Whether you’re looking for traditional braces or Invisalign, we can help you make an informed decision.

Here are a few questions we will ask when crafting your treatment plan:

• Do you want to continue to enjoy all the healthy food you love?
• Do you want a more discreet option?
• What is your budget?
• What does your ideal smile look like?

Additionally, we will discuss how long your treatment will need to be to accomplish your unique smile goals.

Your Customized Payment Plan

For most people, finances play a big part in their care. At Adirondack Orthodontics, we work hard to ensure everyone can afford the treatment they need. We’ll create a completely customized payment plan designed to fit your budget. We participate with most insurances to help you make the most of your dental benefits, and we offer zero-interest financing. Plus, we have various discounts and offers to help families, teachers, military service members, and more.

We aim to provide affordable braces and Invisalign. Simply let us know about your situation during your first appointment, and we will put together a plan that helps you achieve your perfect smile!

Your First Consultation – Call Us Today!

The team at Adirondack Orthodontics has helped countless patients accomplish their smile goals. We are there for you at any of our six convenient locations, with Invisalign and braces in Albany, Schenectady, and beyond. Call us today to schedule your free consultation and get started on your smile journey! We’d love to put together a personalized plan for you.

Find out which orthodontic option you may be better suited for.

Are there some parts of your smile that you are less than satisfied with? Have you been on the hunt for an orthodontist in Albany who can help? Chances are you already know that an orthodontist can correct overbites, crowded teeth, crooked teeth, underbites, tooth gaps, and other dental issues you may be experiencing. You may even already know the main two methods of doing so: braces and Invisalign. What you may not know is if you’re a better candidate for Invisalign or braces.

The most common question we hear from new patients at our orthodontic office in Albany is: “What treatment is right for me?” Read on to better understand the answer to this question.

Who is a Candidate for Invisalign?

Good candidates for Invisalign include those who:

• Want a discreet option. If you need to treat your dental issues without the whole world watching, Invisalign’s series of clear aligners may be the answer.
• Want to eat what they want. Invisalign aligners can be removed at will, while braces stay on for the duration of treatment. If you want to enjoy sticky, chewy, or hard food during treatment, you might want to try Invisalign.
• Don’t want to deal with brackets and wires. While braces are comfortable enough for some, others might find the brackets and wires unpleasant and prefer the ease of Invisalign.

When is Invisalign Not an Option?

Good candidates for braces include those who:

• Aren’t sure they’ll remember to wear the aligners. You’ll need to wear your aligners at least 22 hours a day to have the desired effect. If you think you’ll forget to wear them, braces may work better for you.
• Are smokers. One key benefit of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear. However, smoking can stain your aligners. Braces would be the better choice in this case.
• Have severe dental problems. Patients who have a severe overbite or underbite typically need braces. These bite conditions can be signs of more serious concerns that require a targeted treatment plan.

The best way to determine the right orthodontic treatment for you is to schedule a consultation with the best orthodontist in Albany: Adirondack Orthodontics! We can examine your teeth, take any necessary X-rays, and get to know your goals and budget. Then, we can suggest the best course of treatment to give you your ideal smile!

Whether you are looking for Invisalign or braces in Albany, or you are located in the surrounding areas, we have an orthodontic office near you. With six convenient locations, we may be closer than you think, so call or text us today to schedule your appointment!