Struggling with a crossbite as an adult can feel overwhelming, especially when told a surgical solution might be required. You might wonder if there’s a way to resolve your dental concerns without invasive procedures. The great news? Invisalign clear aligners may be an option to provide a straightforward, less intimidating path to correction, even for complex cases.

If you’re in the Capital Region, the team at Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics is here to guide you through this journey with over 65 years of experience, a friendly, welcoming approach, and three convenient locations across Troy, Ballston Lake, and Saratoga Springs.

Understanding Crossbites and Why Treatment Matters

A crossbite occurs when your upper teeth sit inside rather than outside your lower teeth. It can involve a single tooth or multiple teeth and may affect the front of your mouth (anterior crossbite) or the back (posterior crossbite). Unresolved crossbites can lead to more serious issues, including:

• Jaw pain and discomfort due to uneven pressure
• Increased wear on your teeth
• Difficulty chewing or speaking clearly
• Poor oral hygiene caused by tight, hard-to-clean areas

Addressing these issues isn’t just about improving aesthetics. It’s about safeguarding your long-term oral health.

Can Invisalign Handle Complex Structural Crossbites?

Many adults believe their crossbite requires surgical expansion to correct, especially in cases involving structural changes to the jaw. In many cases, surgical treatment may be the only option. Though, with its advanced technology and customizable approach, Invisalign offers a promising alternative for many patients.

Invisalign aligners use gentle, consistent pressure to guide teeth into healthier, more functional positions over time. Thanks to advanced techniques like SmartForce attachments and precision trimming, Invisalign can address complex orthodontic issues, including certain structural crossbites.

However, it’s important to note that every case is unique, and the severity of your crossbite will play a role in determining the best path forward. There are also some cases where a crossbite is present, but not causing any structural or dental concerns. In these cases, we may suggest fixing all other bite and alignment concerns while leaving the functional crossbite intact. This is why an orthodontic consultation with experienced providers like Dr. Cooney and Dr. Tyner is essential to determine your best options.

The Invisalign Process at Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics

Here’s what you can expect when pursuing Invisalign treatment with Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics in the Capital Region:

• Complimentary Consultation: Dr. Cooney or Dr. Tyner will assess your crossbite during your complimentary orthodontic consultation, using advanced technology to determine whether Invisalign is the right solution.
• Customized Treatment Plan: If Invisalign is recommended, your aligners will be designed specifically to meet your needs. You’ll receive a clear plan detailing how each stage of the process will move your teeth into better alignment.
• Regular Check-Ins: Throughout your treatment, you’ll visit one of our three convenient locations in Troy, Ballston Lake, or Saratoga Springs for progress checks to ensure you’re on track.
• Beautiful Results: After completing your treatment plan, you can confidently enjoy a healthier, more even smile.

Benefits of Choosing Invisalign for Adults

Adults juggling work and family responsibilities need solutions that simplify their lives instead of complicating them. Invisalign offers several advantages for those looking to address orthodontic concerns:

• Nearly invisible aligners mean minimal impact on your appearance.
• Removable trays provide flexibility for meals and oral hygiene.
• Often faster treatment times compared to traditional braces for similar cases.
• A more comfortable experience thanks to custom-fit aligners and no sharp brackets.

With Invisalign and the expertise of Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics, adults can feel confident pursuing treatment that fits seamlessly into their lifestyle.

What Sets Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics Apart?

With over six decades of dedicated care to the Capital Region, Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics is trusted by families and individuals throughout the area. When you choose to address your concerns with our team, you benefit from:

• A Focus on Patient Comfort: Our family-friendly practice has created a warm and inviting environment where patients of all ages feel at ease.
• Convenience: Three locations mean no long commutes or major disruptions to your day.
• Advanced Technology: From Invisalign’s latest tools to OrthoFi’s flexible payment systems, we make achieving your dream smile as efficient and affordable as possible.
• Complimentary Consultation: Our free consultation and screening programs remove barriers, ensuring you can explore your options with confidence.

At Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics, we believe everyone deserves a confident, healthy smile, and we’re committed to offering a treatment journey tailored to your unique needs and circumstances.

Schedule Your Complimentary Consultation Today

If you’re wondering whether your complex crossbite can be corrected with Invisalign clear aligners, now is the perfect time to find out. Dr. Cooney and Dr. Tyner are here to provide compassionate care, clear guidance, and cutting-edge solutions to help you achieve your best smile yet.

With locations in Troy, Ballston Lake, and Saratoga Springs, we’re proud to serve patients throughout the Capital Region. Call us at (518) 400-1200 or visit our website to schedule your complimentary consultation, and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile today!

A radiant smile can boost your confidence and transform how the world sees you. But if you’ve experienced minor bone loss in the past, you might be wondering: is clear aligner therapy a safe solution for you?

At Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics in Saratoga Springs, our goal is to help patients of all ages achieve healthy, beautiful smiles while addressing individual concerns like this. With over 65 years serving the Capital Region, Dr. Cooney and Dr. Tyner combine expertise and compassion to guide you through your orthodontic journey.

Understanding Clear Aligner Therapy and Its Benefits

Clear aligner therapy, like Invisalign, has revolutionized how adults can straighten their teeth. These nearly invisible aligners offer a discreet, removable solution, ideal for those who want to improve their smile without the noticeable appearance of traditional braces.

For adults, the appeal of clear aligner treatment lies in the balance of aesthetics, convenience, and effectiveness. Some key benefits of clear aligner therapy include:

• Minimal interference with daily life: Eat, brush, and floss with ease since aligners are removable.
• Custom-made for comfort: Each aligner is tailored to fit your teeth and progress treatment smoothly.
• Shorter visits: Fewer in-office adjustments mean less time in the chair.
• Improved oral health: Straight teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

But what about past bone loss? Let’s explore whether it impacts your ability to safely undergo this transformative treatment.

What Is Bone Loss and Why Does It Matter?

Bone loss in the jaw often occurs when teeth are missing, untreated gum disease progresses, or bone density decreases with age. This can affect the stability of your teeth and how orthodontic treatments like clear aligners work.

However, it’s important to understand that not all bone loss is the same. Minor past bone loss may not disqualify you from clear aligner therapy, especially with an experienced orthodontic evaluation to safely plan your care.

How Does Bone Loss Affect Clear Aligner Therapy?

Bone tissue plays a vital role in supporting teeth as they shift. Orthodontic treatments like clear aligners work by applying gentle pressure to move teeth into their ideal positions through a process called “bone remodeling.”

When there is enough healthy bone, the bone remodeling process proceeds as intended. With minor past bone loss, a careful and customized treatment approach can often account for these changes, ensuring safety and success while achieving your smile goals.

A Safe, Expertly Guided Process with Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics

At Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics, patient safety and confidence in treatment come first. Here’s how Dr. Cooney and Dr. Tyner support adults with concerns about bone loss on their clear aligner journey:

Comprehensive Orthodontic Evaluation

Using modern diagnostic tools, including X-rays and 3D imaging, we assess your oral health, bone density, and bite to ensure clear aligner therapy is a suitable option for you.

Personalized Treatment Plans

No two smiles are the same. Our team customizes every step of your treatment based on your unique needs, including accommodating areas of bone loss to achieve safe and effective results.

Advanced Orthodontic Technology

Using today’s leading clear aligner systems, we provide a precise, comfortable, and efficient treatment experience while minimizing any risks to sensitive areas.

Supportive Care at Every Step

You’re never on this journey alone. With over 65 years of experience in the Capital Region, our team is here to answer your questions, monitor your progress, and keep your treatment on track.

Flexible Options for Every Lifestyle

Achieving your dream smile shouldn’t come with financial stress. That’s why we offer flexible OrthoFi payment plans, helping make orthodontic care accessible to every patient, no matter their individual circumstances.

FAQs About Clear Aligner Therapy and Bone Loss

Is a complimentary consultation available to assess bone loss?

Yes! Dr. Cooney and Dr. Tyner offer complimentary orthodontic consultations for patients in Saratoga Springs and beyond. This makes it easy and risk-free to understand your options before committing to care.

Will I experience discomfort during treatment?

Clear aligners are designed to apply gentle, controlled forces to move your teeth. While mild soreness is normal during the adjustment period, the advanced materials used ensure comfort throughout your treatment.

Can I prevent further bone loss during treatment?

Yes! Practicing good oral hygiene, maintaining regular dental visits, and following your orthodontist’s care instructions can help support your periodontal health while your teeth are being straightened.

Embrace Your Smile with Confidence

If you’ve experienced minor past bone loss, clear aligner therapy could be the perfect solution for enhancing your smile and self-confidence. At Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics, we’ve spent over 65 years helping families across the Capital Region achieve their best smiles in a warm, family-friendly environment. 

With three convenient locations in Troy, Ballston Lake, and Saratoga Springs and flexible financing options through OrthoFi, creating the smile you’ve always wanted has never been easier.

Take the first step today. Schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr. Cooney and Dr. Tyner by calling (518) 400-1200 or visiting our website. A healthy, beautiful smile is moments away, let’s make it happen together!

If you’ve recently started Invisalign treatment, you might have heard about “attachments,” or maybe you’ve noticed your child or teen asking questions after their first appointment. At Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics in Saratoga Springs, we know how important it is to feel confident in your treatment.

You’re taking a monumental step toward a healthier, straighter smile, and understanding each part of the process can help you feel more comfortable every step of the way. With decades of experience, Dr. Cooney and Dr. Tyner, your trusted orthodontists, have been helping families in the Capital Region achieve perfect smiles in a comfortable environment.

Invisalign, paired with attachments, is one of the advanced tools we use to provide discreet and effective orthodontic care for patients of all ages. But what exactly are Invisalign attachments, and why are they so important for your treatment? Let’s dive in!

What Are Invisalign Attachments?

At first glance, Invisalign aligners might look like they don’t require any adjustments beyond regular wear. However, for certain tooth movements to occur, Invisalign attachments play a vital role. These tiny, tooth-colored “bumps” are bonded to the surface of your teeth to help your aligners apply just the right amount of force for optimal results.

Attachments are made from a composite resin material that blends in with your natural teeth, making them barely noticeable. These small bumps act like handles your aligners can grip onto, ensuring the necessary pressure for guided movement of your teeth. Your doctors digitally prescribe the specific shape and size of these anchors depending on how each tooth needs to move. Every attachment is designed specifically for you! Whether it’s correcting rotations, closing gaps, or ensuring more intricate alignment changes, attachments are essential for successful orthodontic outcomes.

How Do Invisalign Attachments Work?

Once your treatment plan is developed, adding attachments is a quick and simple process. One of our Dental Hygienists will apply the composite material directly to your tooth surface using a safe bonding agent. This process is painless and only takes a few minutes per tooth.

Your aligners will then clip snugly over the attachments, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit for optimal tooth movement. The attachments remain in place throughout your treatment and are easily polished off once your Invisalign journey is complete.

Benefits of Invisalign Attachments

Although the idea of adding “extras” to your treatment might seem intimidating, attachments are a game-changer for ensuring the success of your Invisalign plan. Here’s why they’re so valuable:

• Increased Effectiveness: Attachments allow Invisalign to treat a wider range of orthodontic issues, enabling complex movements that aligners alone can’t achieve.
• Discreet Appearance: Made from tooth-colored resin, attachments blend seamlessly with your smile, keeping the low-profile appearance of Invisalign intact.
• Shorter Treatment Time: By improving the efficiency of tooth movements, attachments may help you achieve your desired results faster.
• Comfort and Convenience: Attachments are small, unobtrusive, and easy to care for, ensuring your daily routine stays uninterrupted.

When combined with flexible payment plan options, achieving your dream smile is made easier and more affordable than ever at Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics.

Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign Attachments

Are attachments painful to wear?

Not at all. Most patients find attachments to be completely painless. While you might notice a slight adjustment period as your lips and cheeks get used to having bumps on your teeth, any minor discomfort typically fades within a few days.

How should I care for Invisalign attachments?

Good oral hygiene is key! Be sure to brush and floss regularly to keep your attachments and surrounding teeth clean. You can floss and brush right around them like normal with your toothbrush and toothpaste.

Will attachments stain?

Attachments are generally resistant to staining, but it’s still a good idea to avoid excessive consumption of highly pigmented foods and beverages. Be sure to brush after drinks or meals that would make you more prone to staining such as  teas, coffee, foods with tumeric, etc. Be sure to keep your regular dental cleanings with your general dentist.

Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Invisalign Journey?

At Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics, we’re here to make your Invisalign experience seamless and successful. Located in Saratoga Springs and proudly serving the Capital Region for over six decades, our practice prioritizes comfort-first care and accessible treatment options. With Dr. Cooney and Dr. Tyner’s expertise and cutting-edge Invisalign technology, achieving a confident, radiant smile has never been more achievable, or convenient.

Whether you’re curious about attachments, looking for a complimentary consultation, or ready to schedule treatment for yourself or your child, our friendly team is here to help you every step of the way. Book your complimentary consultation today through our website or by calling (518) 400-1200. Let’s create a smile you’ll love for years to come!

Misplacing an Invisalign aligner can be frustrating, especially when you’re committed to staying on track with your orthodontic treatment. At Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics in Troy, we understand that life happens, and that sometimes means an aligner goes missing. 

Whether you’re a busy parent, an active teen, or an adult balancing work and health goals, it’s essential to know exactly what to do if you lose an aligner so your smile transformation stays uninterrupted.

First Things First: Don’t Panic

If you’ve lost your Invisalign aligner, you’re not alone. Patients occasionally misplace them while eating at a restaurant, traveling, or even cleaning. While it’s important to act quickly, it’s just as important to stay calm. Here are immediate steps to take:

• Retrace your steps: Check all common places like your car, pockets, napkins, and cases.
• Use your previous aligner: If the current tray is truly lost, use your prior set to prevent teeth from shifting back.
• Store safely: Always carry your Invisalign case to reduce the risk of misplacement when you take out your aligners.
• Contact your orthodontist: Call Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics right away so we can recommend next steps based on your treatment plan.

Why Prompt Action Matters

Each set of Invisalign aligners is custom-designed to move your teeth gradually. Losing even one tray can delay results or, worse, lead to minor setbacks in tooth alignment.

• Delays in wear time may extend overall treatment duration.
• Skipping guidance from your orthodontist can cause complications in the fit of future trays.
• Tooth movement starts to regress if an aligner isn’t worn for several days.

Patients at Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics benefit from early intervention and ongoing guidance. If you’re under our care in Troy or nearby, our team will help minimize disruption to your plan.

What Your Orthodontist Will Do

When you let us know an aligner has gone missing, we’ll determine the best solution based on your unique stage in treatment. In most cases, one of the following options will apply:

• Advance early: If you’re only a few days away from switching to a new set of trays, we may advise moving ahead to the next aligner.
• Order a replacement: If moving forward isn’t ideal, we can quickly reorder a replacement through Invisalign.
• Digital records access: Thanks to our advanced technology, including 3D treatment planning, we can precisely replicate your aligner if needed.

In our Troy office or any of our Capital Region locations, you can expect prompt, personalized care. Doctors Cooney, Tyner and their team use every tool available to keep treatment flexible and convenient, even when the unexpected happens.

How to Avoid Losing Your Aligner Again

Prevention is always better than correction when it comes to aligners. These simple habits can save time, money, and frustration:

• Always use your case: Never wrap aligners in napkins or place them in your pocket or purse unprotected.
• Set reminders: Use phone alerts when removing aligners to ensure you replace them promptly.
• Limit removal locations: Only take them out in predictable spots like home or work to reduce chances of loss.

Our patients across the region appreciate that we offer complimentary orthodontic consultations for new patients, as well as our proactive, educational approach. Early screenings and regular check-ins help children, teens, and adults maintain successful Invisalign progress and avoid setbacks.

Need Invisalign Help in Troy? We’re Here For You!

If you’re in Troy and have lost your aligner, don’t worry, help is just a call away. The team at Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics is here to keep your treatment on track with expert guidance and compassionate care. Call us today at (518) 400-1200 to schedule a visit or request a new aligner. Your smile is too important to leave to chance, and we’re here to support every step of your Invisalign journey.

Beginning orthodontic treatment is a big decision for any family, and understanding what to expect can ease nerves and build confidence. At Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics in Ballston Lake, we believe that every patient deserves clear information about their journey to a healthier, more confident smile.

Whether you’re a parent exploring options for your child or an adult seeking discreet solutions like Invisalign, your personalized treatment plan will follow a carefully designed process with specific goals, customized to your needs every step of the way.

What Are the Phases of an Orthodontic Treatment Plan?

Orthodontic care typically unfolds over three main phases. Each phase plays a critical role in transforming your smile while ensuring long-term comfort, function, and stability:

• Initial Evaluation & Diagnostic Phase: This phase begins with a complimentary consultation at our office. During this visit, one of our orthodontists will conduct a comprehensive screening and growth tracking to assess jaw development, tooth alignment, and identify the best timing for treatment.
• Active Treatment Phase: Once treatment begins, you’ll receive custom appliances, such as braces or Invisalign aligners, designed to guide your teeth into healthier positions. This phase includes regular check-ins to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments.
• Retention Phase: After the desired results are achieved, retention is key. We’ll provide you with a customized retainer plan to maintain your new smile and protect your investment.

Each phase is carefully timed and monitored, ensuring optimal results tailored specifically for children, teens, or adults.

Why Timing Matters in Orthodontics

The timing of orthodontic care can make a significant difference, especially for younger patients. With early evaluations, families can identify issues before they require more complex interventions. At Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics, we offer a no-cost growth and development tracking program that allows families to:

• Monitor dental and jaw growth through regular screenings
• Prevent or intercept problems while the jaw is still developing
• Begin treatment at the most effective and affordable time

Even if treatment isn’t immediately necessary, this proactive approach provides peace of mind and helps families plan confidently for the future.

Setting Clear Goals for Every Smile Journey

A successful orthodontic plan starts with clear goals. Our team works with you to define the outcomes you desire, whether that’s improved function, aesthetics, or both. Every treatment plan is personalized and designed with the following objectives in mind:

• Achieve proper bite alignment for long-term oral health
• Create space or resolve crowding as necessary
• Enhance your facial profile and smile aesthetics
• Address lifestyle needs, such as removable options for busy teens or working professionals

We prioritize comfort and discretion, especially for adult patients who prefer less noticeable options such as Invisalign. As a top-rated Invisalign provider in the Capital Region, we offer expertly guided treatment with proven results, ideal for patients seeking a more subtle path to a straighter smile.

Ongoing Support and Communication You Can Count On

Throughout your orthodontic journey, communication and comfort are key. At Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics, you’re never left wondering what comes next. We foster a family-friendly, supportive environment where patients of all ages feel informed, comfortable, and confident. You can expect:

• Consistent progress updates from Dr. Cooney, Dr. Tyner, and our experienced clinical team
• Flexible scheduling at one of our Troy, Ballston Lake, or Saratoga Springs locations
• Friendly, personalized care reflecting our strong ties to the local community

From your first visit to final results, we’re here to guide you through every phase of care with compassion and expertise.

Start Your Orthodontic Journey Today

Ready to take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile? Contact Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics in Ballston Lake today at (518) 400-1200 to schedule your complimentary consultation. Our team is here to answer any questions and help you or your child feel welcome and supported from the very beginning.

When considering orthodontic care, most people picture a straighter smile. While that’s certainly one goal, timely and efficient treatment delivers benefits far beyond aesthetics. At Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics in Saratoga Springs, Dr. Cooney, Dr. Tyner and their experienced team know that both the timing and selection of the right treatment approach can make all the difference in comfort, duration, and success for both kids and adults.

Why Timing Matters More Than You Think

Orthodontic treatment isn’t just about moving teeth, it’s about creating a healthy, functional bite that supports lifelong oral health. At Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics, early evaluation allows for proactive planning.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children receive their first screening by age 7, and for good reason. Benefits of early orthodontic evaluation include:

• Identifying and addressing issues before they worsen
• Guiding jaw development to reduce future complications
• Improving facial symmetry and oral function
• Creating space for incoming adult teeth to minimize crowding

Dr. Cooney and Dr. Tyner offer complimentary orthodontic screenings in Saratoga Springs, making it simple for families to gain valuable insights without a financial obligation. Whether it leads to early intervention or simply peace of mind, timing truly is everything.

Efficient Treatment that Prioritizes Your Time

Orthodontic care has evolved, and efficiency is now central to the patient experience. Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics leverages advanced technology and decades of expertise to reduce treatment times while ensuring excellent outcomes. 

From digital impressions to strategic treatment planning, every step is optimized for convenience and effectiveness. Here’s how treatment at our Saratoga Springs office supports efficiency:

• Custom treatment plans tailored specifically to each patient’s needs
• Options like Invisalign that fit into busy lifestyles without dietary restrictions or discomfort
• Fewer in-office visits due to modern tracking tools and predictable movement
• On-time treatment finishes rooted in experience and precision

It’s not about rushing the process. Rather, our approach is all about smart, responsive care that adapts to each patient’s timeline.

Choosing the Right Time as an Adult

Orthodontics isn’t just for children and teens. Many adults in Saratoga Springs are choosing to address long-standing dental concerns or enhance their smile with discreet, flexible options like Invisalign.

At Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics, adults can expect an experience rooted in respect, privacy, and efficiency. Here’s why adults consider orthodontics with Dr. Cooney, Dr. Tyner and their orthodontic team:

• Invisible aligner systems that fit seamlessly into professional environments
• Fewer appointments necessary even with complex cases
• Long-term oral health benefits, including reduced wear and easier hygiene routine

It’s never too late to invest in your smile, and with trusted care from Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics, results are closer than you think.

How Long Does Treatment Really Take?

Every patient’s treatment time is different, but when managed effectively, the journey is faster and more comfortable than many expect. At Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics, the emphasis is on realistic timelines backed by decades of local experience.

Whether you seek minor adjustments or more advanced correction, transparency is key from the start. Wondering what influences treatment time? Here are a few factors:

• Age and the complexity of the dental issue
• Consistency in appointments and appliance wear
• The type of treatment used (traditional braces vs. Invisalign)

The team at our Saratoga Springs office will walk you through every detail during your complimentary consultation, so you understand exactly what to expect, no surprises, just personalized care that works.

Your Healthier Smile Starts in Saratoga Springs

If you’re wondering whether now is the right time to begin orthodontic treatment, Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics is here to help. With a 60+ year legacy in the Capital Region and a dedicated team in Saratoga Springs, Dr. Cooney and Dr. Tyner offer trusted guidance, flexible treatment options like Invisalign, and care you can count on. Call (518) 400-1200 today to request your free consultation and take the first step towards a confident, healthy smile that lasts.

For any child or teen, fitting in can be challenging, especially when you’re going through orthodontic treatment. Thankfully, Invisalign is a discreet and more comfortable alternative to metal-bracket braces. There are a few specific things that can worry your teen when going back to school with Invisalign, so here are a few tips and tricks to make sure your child is set up for success. 

• How to maintain good oral hygiene during the school day

It’s always important for your child to have good oral hygiene, but during any orthodontic treatment, oral hygiene is of higher importance. At a minimum, it is recommended your child brushes their teeth after every meal. Be sure to pack them a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste, and encourage them to brush their teeth in the bathroom after lunch, or send a school excuse that they need a trip to the nurse’s office after eating. We understand this may be challenging to implement in their busy schedules, so we recommend in a pinch, swish really well with water or chew a piece of sugar-free gum for a few minutes to remove large food debris. They can then do a thorough brush when they get home. 

As it is important to keep up with good brushing, flossing is just as important to clean the contacts in between the teeth. It is recommended to floss each night. To help encourage your child to regularly floss, we recommend getting floss picks. The handles tend to make flossing easier for kids and it will limit the amount of contact between fingers and mouth. 

Oral hygiene not only applies to your teeth, but to the clear aligners as well. It is vital that your child continuously cleans their Invisalign aligners. Good practices include rinsing the aligners each time they are taken out before putting them into the case. Aligners should be brushed with a toothbrush and a small amount of toothpaste each night. Aligners can also be soaked in retainer cleaning crystals a few times a week to keep them fresh. 

• Eating during the school with Invisalign 

Wearing aligners is a lifestyle change, especially when it comes to eating while at school. It might be challenging to encourage your child to take the aligners out at the lunch or snack times. If your child does not feel comfortable taking them out at the table, we encourage them to go into the bathroom to remove their aligners on the way to the cafeteria, place them in their case, and place their case in a safe location.

• Meeting the recommended wear time

Invisalign aligners simply won’t work if they are not worn for the recommended hours per day. This ensures the teeth are moving to the correct places in a specific amount of time. It may be helpful to remind your child that your orthodontist will know if your child is not wearing the aligners for the specific amount of time, since your teeth will not be adjusted as much as they expect. It is important for your child to know that if they are not wearing the aligners for the minimum amount each day, the longer the treatment process will take. We recommend batching snacks and meals rather than grazing throughout the day to minimize taking the aligners in and out. Since you can keep the aligners in while drinking plain water, we recommend sticking with water as your preferred drink throughout the day, saving other types of drinks for during meal times when the aligners are out.

Many parents understandably get nervous their child will not be compliant throughout treatment with Invisalign. Since Cooney Orthodontics is the top VIP Diamond Invisalign provider we have worked with thousands of Invisalign cases from age 7-80. We see great compliance with Invisalign throughout all age groups, and more importantly some amazing results with this more comfortable, lower maintenance, and predictable treatment process.

If you are seriously considering Invisalign, hear a first hand account about the experience as told by Rich from Albany, NY. He recently finished up his active treatment at our Troy office where he saw both Dr. Tyner & Dr. Cooney.

Why is a smile important to you?

I was fortunate to have a really nice natural smile without braces growing up, but I let it deteriorate over time. Now with social media and zoom meetings your smile is on display more than ever. This is especially true as “masks optional” starts to become increasingly a healthy norm again in our area (Albany, NY).
At all times of day your smile and overall oral health is going to be on your mind. It plays a major role in your health and happiness, so it was the right time to make the investment in myself with the right Invisalign provider!

Why did you choose Invisalign?

If only presented with the option of traditional braces I don’t believe I ever would have had orthodontic treatment done. The ease of treatment, and knowing Cooney Orthodontics was the most experienced provider in the area, made it a really easy choice.

My bite wasn’t perfect, but it wasn’t something that bothered me and I didn’t think it was too bad. Upon completing active treatment I finally could appreciate how far it was off previously and how now I could more effortlessly smile in a way I loved each time.

How long did you have Invisalign?

I was in active treatment for about 14 months, and my treatment was accelerated using AcceleDent. I didn’t have all that many appointments, and the ones I did were always enjoyable. To make sure I could complete treatment on time I had to make sure I wore my clear aligners for as close to 22 hours per day as I could. The treatment time really flew by and I consistently saw improvement and knew I was on the right path with each aligner swap.

Did you have any fears or concerns prior to your appointment?

Prior to getting my smile back in order with the help of my amazing general dentist (shoutout Dr. Maestro & his team at Maestro Dental Wellness), I really hated the thought of sitting in any dental chair ever again. When I was ready to start Invisalign I tried to get over any fears by imagining the first day that someone would tell me I had a great smile. With my smile needing some fixing I knew I had a pretty complex road ahead to help fix my bite, but my dentist & Cooney Orthodontics worked hand-in-hand to ensure any fears were mitigated and questions were answered. Most importantly that the process was simple because I had a real guide in the process.

Describe your experience at your first appointment.

My appointment was interesting because it was Halloween. So, I showed up with a bit of a funky smile that threw off the docs a bit. It’s wonderful that there are two Board Certified Orthodontic Specialists with Dr. Cooney & Dr. Tyner. The appointment was great though, and after getting my attachments put on, I was on my way to a healthier smile.

What was the hardest part of having Invisalign?

I have a pretty bad gag reflex and was never able to wear sports mouthguards growing up. I was quite worried that I wouldn’t be able to wear my Invisalign retainers for the appropriate amount of time and after awhile I really started to forget they were there.

The rubber-bands were hard to get on at first, but you really become a pro once you practice a few times.

Is Invisalign painful?

It’s only painful if you let it be. In the beginning I’d forget to take the steps like slightly wearing down any edges with an emery board or using orthodontic wax. I talk a whole lot, so after a day of this I’d have a cut up mouth. I soon learned my lessons and the pain went away.

What is your advice to those thinking about choosing Invisalign?

Find an orthodontist that feels like a true partner on your smile journey. They should also be someone who will work well with your general dentist. It’s so important that they are collaborating because there are decisions that need to be made together. Look for someone with iTero Scanning machines – they’re great for your consultation as you don’t have to take messy impressions.

Would you recommend Invisalign to someone?

I recommend it to anyone who can make that commitment to themselves or their family member. Your smile is an investment you get to use only while you’re living so the sooner the better. It didn’t take long to hear that first, “You have a great smile”, and it felt as great as expected.