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What is a Virtual Orthodontic Consultation?

July 23rd, 2020

Have you ever “seen” your medical provider via an app or website? The virtual platform made it so that you could communicate your specific health problem, talk to a doctor/nurse, and perhaps even get a prescription filled in the same day.

You may have never realized that “teledentistry” offers something similar. Today, you can “visit” Marina Milstein Orthodontics in Granite Bay without ever stepping foot through our front door! It’s an experience that we call the virtual orthodontic consultation or “online smile assessment.”

 

What is a Virtual Visit?

If you’re still in the early stages of considering braces, the first step is to talk with an orthodontist like Dr. Milstein to find out if you qualify for treatment (and which type.) Thanks to virtual orthodontic screenings, you’re able to complete the process from anywhere!

An online/digital/virtual visit:

  • Fits your busy schedule
  • Is completely free
  • Works for all ages
  • Accommodates social distancing concerns
  • Gives you fast, straightforward answers
  • Securely protects your private information

 

How Does it Work?

At Marina Milstein Orthodontics, we provide an Online Smile Assessment through a safe and secure portal called SmileSnap. The platform allows you to take specific photographs — using your personal device — to capture various angles of your mouth and oral anatomy. From there, the pictures are uploaded and sent directly to Dr. Milstein.

After we’ve had a chance to review your images, we communicate with you through the app to make you aware of Dr. Milstein’s recommendations.

 

No Commitment Necessary

Since orthodontic consultations are crucial for determining if you qualify for braces, an Online Smile Assessment saves you time. You can get straight forward answers about your unique smile needs without having to schedule an appointment or step foot in our office!

Visit our website today to request your own virtual or in-office orthodontic consultation.

 

Five Perks of Choosing Invisalign

July 6th, 2020

Invisalign is the leader in the clear braces industry. The removable, translucent orthodontic aligners offer great benefits, like:

 

1. No Dietary Restrictions

Since there are no brackets or wires, Invisalign wearers won’t have to change their normal diet. Simply take your aligners out then eat or drink whatever you want! Just be sure to store them in a safe place, so that you don’t accidentally lose them if you’re at a restaurant or friend’s house.

 

2. Easy Home Care

Brushing and flossing is a breeze since there are no fixed appliances to work around. Remove your trays to brush and floss as normal. No extra hygiene supplies are required. It couldn’t get any easier. Even your aligners can be cleaned with antimicrobial hand soap and tap water.

 

3. An “Invisible” Orthodontic System

Don’t want other people to see your braces? Invisalign’s design makes the clear trays practically invisible against your teeth. You can really only see them if you’re looking at them from a few inches away. The cleaner you keep your aligners, the clearer they will look.

 

4. Fewer and Shorter Appointments

Invisalign trays aren’t “adjusted” the same way a conventional orthodontic system is. There are no wires or colorful bands to change out. You take your trays with you, so the adjustments are actually taking place at home. As such, our Granite Bay Invisalign patients tend to enjoy brief visits scheduled on a less frequent basis.

 

5. Great for Adults

You’re never too old to enjoy straighter, healthier teeth. Invisalign was designed with adult orthodontic patients in mind. So, whether you’re in your 40s, 50s, 60s, or beyond, these clear aligners can be a reality!

 

Do You Qualify?

Request an in-person or digital orthodontic consultation with our Granite Bay orthodontist today! Dr. Marina Milstein has the expertise you’re looking for to make your Invisalign experience a success.

When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?

June 18th, 2020

Getting braces often seems like a rite of passage for children and teens. Although not all kids need orthodontic treatment, experts and pediatric dentists recommend that each child should have bite assessments to screen them for possible orthodontic complications.

The American Association of Orthodontists and the American Dental Association suggest that parents should bring their child for an orthodontic evaluation by the time they’re 7 years old. At age 7, most kids have a combination of primary (baby) and permanent (adult) teeth, or what we call a “mixed dentition.” This stage of oral development is often crucial when it comes to where adult tooth placement and alignment fall into play.

 

Why do Kids Need Orthodontic Exams?

Early intervention can allow orthodontists like Dr. Milstein to guide adult teeth into proper placement and alignment or lessen the severity of issues so that they can be fine-tuned later on with the second phase of treatment.

Again, not every child needs braces, but catching issues earlier make orthodontic treatment more effective, less complex, and can even reduce the chances of surgery.

 

What Happens During the First Evaluation?

Depending on the exact age and oral development of your child, Dr. Milstein may simply examine their bite and oral anatomy, or also order a series of images or radiographs. Having visual data of tooth eruption patterns and seeing exactly how the teeth bite together can give you — as a parent or caregiver — the answers you need about your child’s future smile.

Be sure to let our Granite Bay orthodontist know if there are any underlying issues, such as speech problems, thumb sucking, or missing teeth that “run in the family.”

During your visit with Dr. Milstein, we’ll review any concerns, findings, and discuss what to expect in the future. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have. Request your consultation today!

Health Benefits of Having Straighter Teeth

June 4th, 2020

There’s more to straight teeth than just a gorgeous smile. It turns out that having straight teeth can also lower your chances of dental problems, disease, and tooth wear. If you’re still contemplating getting braces with our Granite Bay orthodontist, keep these key points in mind:

Straight Teeth are Less Likely to Get Cavities

When teeth are crowded or crooked, plaque is harder to clean away with a toothbrush and floss. Statistically, crooked teeth tend to have a higher cavity rate than straight ones. Adjusting your bite could make it easier to keep your smile clean.

Straight Teeth are Less Prone to Periodontitis (Gum Disease)

Periodontal disease is the #1 cause of tooth loss in adults. In fact, orthodontic therapy (adult braces) is part of an effective care plan for some people with gum disease. Especially if it involves a removable orthodontic system like Invisalign clear aligners.

Aligned Teeth Lower Your Risk of TMJ Disorder

Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) needs perfect tooth alignment to avoid irregular movement. If it’s compromising all day long, it can lead to chronic TMJ pain and headaches.

When Your Teeth Bite Together Properly, They Last Longer

Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the entire human body. But if your teeth bite together incorrectly, they can wear each other down at a rapid pace. The same thing goes for your dental fillings, crowns, or other restorative work.

Fewer Dental Emergencies

Misaligned front teeth are highly susceptible to things like chipped enamel or knocked-out teeth. Bringing your bite back into alignment with braces can help you avoid those painful, scary trips to an emergency dentist.

Schedule Your Orthodontic Consultation Today

Marina Milstein Orthodontics offers in-person and virtual orthodontic evaluations for all ages. Contact us today to reserve yours!

Office Hours:
Monday-Friday 8am to 5pm
Office Hours:
Monday-Thursday 8am to 5pm
Friday: 7am to 4pm
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