Invisalign® aligners FAQ

How often must I wear my aligners? Can I just wear them when I sleep?

Wearing them only while sleeping isn’t very effective if you’re in comprehensive treatment. Unless we tell you otherwise, we find that clear aligners are most effective when worn 22+ hours per day and removed only for eating, brushing, and flossing.

How do I clean my aligners? 

Always rinse your aligners as soon as they are removed from your mouth. We recommend that you soak your aligner trays with the Invisalign brand crystal cleaning solution every day. This solution removes the bacteria from the aligners. Use a soft bristle toothbrush (not your daily toothbrush) to lightly sweep away any debris that remains after the soak. After soaking, rinse off the aligners and place them back in your mouth.

How long do I wear my set of aligners? 

This varies according to your treatment plan. Generally, aligners work for two weeks before you wear the next set. In some cases, aligners may be worn for as little as a week before they’re switched out. This will depend on your specific treatment plan, so follow Dr. Nowlin’s guidance for best results.

What are the benefits of Invisalign aligners? 

Invisalign aligners are a popular choice because of many benefits:

  • Clear aligners for a more aesthetic appearance
  • Comfortable as it is custom-made to fit your bite
  • Affordable (about the same price as traditional metal braces)
  • Faster treatment
  • Less time spent at the orthodontist
  • No restrictions on food
  • You can carry out your oral hygiene routine much easier than with traditional brackets and wires
Who is eligible for Invisalign aligners? 

Nowlin Orthodontics offers Invisalign® for teens, which is suited to patients aged 12-18 years old. For adults, we offer Smile Express® at-home aligners and Invisalign® aligners for full comprehensive treatment.

Braces FAQ

Are metal braces my only treatment option?

Nope! Nowlin Orthodontics offers a customized approach to orthodontic treatment, so you can choose from ceramic/clear braces, self-ligating braces, and clear aligners.

What are my dietary restrictions with braces? 

When you begin treatment, you’ll need to take special care to avoid any foods that could damage your new appliances. We recommend you choose soft foods to eat with braces at school or work, including any of the following:

  • Dairy – soft cheese, yogurt, pudding, milk-based drinks
  • Breads – soft tortillas, pancakes, muffins without nuts
  • Grains – pasta, soft-cooked rice
  • Meats/Poultry – soft-cooked chicken, meatballs, lunch meats
  • Seafood – tuna, salmon, crab cakes
  • Vegetables – mashed potatoes, steamed spinach, beans
  • Fruits – bananas, apple sauce,
  • Treats – ice cream without nuts, milkshakes, gelatin, soft cake
What foods should I avoid with braces?

It is very important to avoid foods that could result in broken brackets, loose wires, or broken appliances. Examples of foods that you should avoid:

  • Chewy foods such as bagels, fruit leathers, or beefy jerky
  • Sticky foods like caramel candy, licorice, and marshmallows
  • Crunchy foods like chips, raw carrots, raw celery, and popcorn
  • Hard foods such as hard candy, hard breadsticks, or pizza crust
  • Foods that require biting into such as corn on the cob and apples. You can still enjoy these foods by slicing the apples or removing the corn from the cob.

A common question we hear is: “How long after getting braces can I eat normal foods?” We tell patients that it’s best to avoid foods that can damage braces throughout the treatment period. If you can’t say no to the craving, eat with extreme caution.

How do I brush my teeth with braces? 

Your step-by-step guide to brushing with braces:

  1. Before brushing, rinse your mouth with water to dislodge any food particles stuck between the wires or brackets.
  2. Begin brushing at the gum line, using a 45-degree angle of approach.
  3. As you move towards the brackets, brush from both the top and the bottom.
  4. Make sure the bristles reach under wires and around brackets. This process may take some extra time in the beginning, but it will become routine for you once you’re used to it. 
  5. Be sure to follow up with thorough flossing to remove any remaining food particles or debris.
What toothbrush is best to use with braces during treatment?

We recommend using an electric toothbrush such as Sonicare or Oral-B. If you decide not to use an electric toothbrush, use a toothbrush with soft bristles.

Do braces hurt? 

Generally, braces do not hurt, but when you first get them, you may feel a little sore or uncomfortable immediately afterward. Soreness is normal, and it’s temporary. 

One thing that helps is a saltwater rinse:

  1. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in a full cup of lukewarm water. 
  2. Swish it around your mouth for a few minutes. 
  3. Repeat, if needed. 

If soreness persists, taking an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help. Lastly, if you have lip, cheek, or tongue irritation in the weeks after getting braces, use your orthodontic wax to help alleviate the problem quickly.

How long will I have my braces? 

The amount of time that you will need to wear braces varies, depending on several things such as the severity of your bite problem. Most patients need to wear braces for 12 to 24 months, but this can be shorter or longer depending on your case. Dr. Nowlin will discuss this with you and give you a general idea of what you can expect. Several months into your braces treatment, we can measure your progress and provide a more accurate update regarding how much longer you can expect to wear braces.

How much do braces cost in Oklahoma?

The cost of braces depends on which type of braces you choose, how long you will need treatment, and any other factors that might be unique to your treatment plan. Our treatment coordinators offer payment plans that can work with your budget and get you the orthodontic care that you need.

Can I return to work or school the day I receive braces? 

Yes. Generally, you’ll be able to return to school or work the same day.

Can I play sports with braces? 

Yes, you can still play sports with braces. It’s highly recommended that you wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and your appliance. Please ask Dr. Nowlin about mouthguard options.

Am I too old for braces? 

No matter how old you are, the answer is no. There is no age limit for braces and Nowlin Orthodontics provides braces for children, teens, and adults. Modern adult braces are more discreet, more comfortable, and more effective. More adults are choosing orthodontic treatment now than ever before.

Is it normal for my teeth to wiggle or feel loose during treatment? 

Don’t panic if your teeth begin to feel a little loose. This is a normal part of the treatment process. Your braces must first loosen your teeth to move them into the right position. Once your teeth have been repositioned, they will stabilize and no longer feel loose.

General orthodontic FAQ

At what age should I schedule my child for a consultation?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic consultation at the age of 7. By this age, most children have several permanent teeth starting to surface, allowing Dr. Nowlin to effectively evaluate a child’s orthodontic condition. In certain cases, early evaluation allows us to identify missing permanent teeth or jaw growth and habit problems that can be easily corrected if caught early. Our Rising Star program helps children avoid future problems and potential costly corrections.

Can I drop my child off for an appointment? 

Yes. We understand your busy schedule, and we are happy to help make the most of your time. On some occasions, we may request to speak with you when you return, so we ask you to check in with our concierges before dropping off your child. You can also schedule any remote care treatment check-ups by using the Smile Doctors Anywhere app.

Does my family dentist have to schedule my appointment with an orthodontist?

We love dental referrals, but your dentist does not need to make an appointment. Most patients call us directly and mention the dentist who referred them. We always love to send a thank you note to our local dentists.

How much does orthodontic treatment cost in Oklahoma?

The cost of braces or Invisalign aligners depends on the length of treatment and the type of treatment you choose. We are happy to develop a payment plan that meets your budget.

SERVING BIXBY, GLENPOOL, JENKS, SAPULPA, & THE SURROUNDING TULSA AREA

Visit South Tulsa’s Award-Winning Orthodontics Team

Nowlin Orthodontics – Bixby

11910 S Memorial Dr, Bixby, OK, 74008-2170
nowlin orthodontist staff

Nowlin Orthodontics – Glenpool

519 E 141st St, Glenpool, OK, 74033-3588