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Invisalign Tips Every Patient Should Know

October 27, 2021

Invisalign can be a great solution for those looking to improve the look and feel of their smile. These Invisible aligners are convenient, comfortable and, well, Invisible, so you can help perfect your smile in a discreet way. For this treatment to be the most effective, these are some helpful tips that every Invisalign user should know.

Wear Your Aligners as much as Possible

The most important tip is to wear your aligners as much as possible and according to plan since this is the only way you can get the results you are looking for. You need to wear your aligners for a minimum of 22 hours every single day, only removing them to eat and brush or floss. Be sure to follow your aligner schedule very closely and change out your aligners every week to two weeks as instructed by your dentist in Vancouver, BC.

Use every opportunity to talk a lot to get used to your aligners and to feel more comfortable.

It is natural for patients to shy away from talking after wearing their aligners because they find that they will have a bit of a lisp when they begin their treatment. It can take some time for your tongue, lips and cheeks to get used to this new object in your mouth. But rest assured that your speech will return to normal after a few days. In the meantime, you should talk as much as you can in these first days since the more that you do, the sooner you can adjust to the aligners.

Expect to Experience Sensitivity

It is normal to feel like your teeth are very sensitive in the beginning as well, and this can also happen when you switch to a new aligner. This discomfort that you feel will only be mild, and it will go away, so you shouldn’t panic. In fact, it’s a good sign because it means the aligners are doing their job correctly and that your teeth are moving in their perfect spots in your mouth. You can stick to softer foods and consume things that are room temperature to help cope with the sensitivity. Switching out your aligners before bed is also a good idea because you might be able to sleep through the sensitivity.

Never Eat with Your Aligners in 

It’s pretty important that you take out your aligners before you eat and drink because some food and beverages can warp the fit of your aligners, and they will also cause them to stain. Water is fine to drink while you wear your aligners, though.

Use Your Aligner Case Faithfully

One of the best things about Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. This is something a lot of patients appreciate, and they might even choose Invisalign for this option. While this is great, it can also make it very easy to lose or misplace your aligners, so you should use your case as much as possible to prevent this from occurring. You should never place them on a napkin because they might accidentally be thrown out, and you should always place them in their case when you are not wearing them so that your aligners will stay clean and safe.

Are you looking for a Vancouver Dental clinic that can help fit you for Invisalign? Give Vancity Dental a call today to schedule your first appointment!

5 Stellar Reasons To Whiten Your Teeth

October 13, 2021

Everyone chooses to whiten their teeth for different reasons, and some may do it for confidence purposes or to show their smile at work or school. Everyone thinks that they have some features that are not good enough or things they wish they could change about themselves. As important as it is to be yourself and embrace your own body, when it comes to teeth, there is a way that you can make them look more healthy. Whitening your teeth gives you the chance to have the confidence wheel you are in public settings. You definitely will not be afraid of presentations at work or school anymore.

  • It’s an unfortunate fact, but as you age, so does your body. This means that your teeth will potentially wear down their enamel and become yellow. At the same time, some things are avoidable while aging; teeth whitening will help you improve the looks of your oral hygiene and health.
  • There are many times you will have to attend events. This is when you would feel stuck in a serious problem. There is nothing more upsetting than showing up to an event or celebration in a beautiful dress, suit or gown but having a smile that you are afraid to show. We think that your smile is what lightens up people’s days. That is why teeth whitening services help you gain back that confidence.
  • Make a positive impression with white and shiny teeth. This will help people know that you care about your self-image. People want to hire or be friends with people who know how to take care of themselves.
  • You have a chance to undo the past when you choose to do teeth whitening, especially if you were a person who did not take care of their oral hygiene or health. Many people tend to avoid brushing their teeth and doing basic things to keep them healthy. If you were one of these people, teeth whitening gives you the chance to start over and be more careful with your body.
  • You can get teeth whitening done to make yourself happy and confident. There is nothing more powerful than having the feeling that you are in control of your own life. White smiles can be nice for your career, or they can even make you feel less scared when presenting in front of classmates.

Teeth whitening services have become a larger trend in many adults, teens and even the elderly. Everyone deserves to have the confidence to build their lives and make a grand appearance at work, school or with friends. If you are looking for dentists or teeth whitening in Vancouver, contact Vancity Dental.

Do’s and Don’ts After Whitening Your Teeth

September 17, 2021

There are many reasons you might consider having your teeth whitened, the most common being a boost of self-esteem. Everyone wants to feel good in their own skin and their body, this is why teeth whitening services are available for anyone who has struggled with oral hygiene over the past few years. Many people who brush their teeth constantly still manage to have yellow teeth because they either drink too much coffee or eat too much acidic food. You should know things after you have your teeth whitened, and this is to make sure your money does not go to waste.

Do’s

Always make sure to have good oral hygiene before seeking teeth whitening services near the area you live in. If you have struggled with being able to keep up with brushing twice a day or flossing, you should start now if you want your teeth whitened. This is only to ensure that your money won’t go to waste and that your enamel will not begin to wear down. It is best to go to your dentist for a cleaning before you have your teeth whitened. They will give you information regarding the health of your teeth and whether there is potential tooth decay. They will also inform you if you have an oral disease, which is not safe to do teeth whitening with.

Don’ts

Do not ever try to whiten your own teeth with weird DIY tricks that you may have seen on social media. When you try to whiten your own teeth this way, it can cause more damage to your teeth. There are some products that people use that can actually decay their mouth’s enamel and bone structure. Some people even try to use baking soda and lemon to strip the stains on their teeth, this only ruins your enamel more. Try not to have your teeth whitened often, this can make them more sensitive which outweighs the good from bad.

Teeth whitening services are great if you want to feel confident again, although you cannot do it if often it is a great service to lighten your smile a bit at a time. Teeth whitening services give you the self-confidence that you have been missing, so you don’t have to be afraid to present projects in front of co-workers or classmates. If you are looking for Invisalign, teething whitening or dental clinics in Vancouver, make sure to contact Vancity Dental.

3 Tips For A Squeaky Clean Retainer

August 18, 2021

Those who have retainers know the hassle of having to clean their retainers almost every night, and this goes for all brace wearers out there. It is something which you might not have the energy to do when you have come to the end of an exhausting day, or even something which you don’t really want to do every night. So what are the alternative ways to have a clean retainer to wear every night? That’s something which many people like you may be wondering and is something which would definitely make your life easier. Having to worry about one less thing can give you the chance to take a breath and relax. 

  • Rinse your retainer with water. It can be as easy as turning on the tap and letting cool water run over your retainer to clean any gears of Slavia. After you take your retainer, you should clean it before putting it back in.
  •  Brush with toothpaste. Something which you use to clean your teeth every day can actually be used to clean your retainer. Believe it or not, your retainers hold plaque and bacteria from your own mouth, toothpaste works to clean your retainer just like it would with teeth. 
  • You can use baking soda to make sure your retainers are fully cleaned. Sometimes your retainers will start to appear as a yellow tint. This Is something that you want to avoid from happening, and fi does baking soda works well to clean any stains or any plaque buildup in your retainer.

When you use these tips to clean your own retainer, we can assure you that your teeth will be staying healthy and glowing. You want to make sure that you are taking care of your own retainer just as much as you would with your own teeth. If you are looking for dental clinics, teeth whitening, or a dentist office in Vancouver, BC, make sure to contact Vancity Dental.

At-Home Oral Healthcare Tips

April 7, 2021

Oral healthcare is very important, and a good at-home oral hygiene routine is a must so that your teeth and gums stay healthy. Self-care is something you need to take very seriously, and the following tips will ensure you have a healthy mouth:

Clean Your Toothbrush

A lot of people focus only on their teeth and forget about their toothbrush, but this can be problematic, so make sure you spend some time cleaning your toothbrush. Always wash your hands with soap before and after you touch your toothbrush, as this will avoid spreading anything to or from your mouth. You should also always rinse your toothbrush before and after every use to soften the bristles and eliminate any food particles or hardened toothpaste from the previous use. You can do this by holding your toothbrush under hot water to eliminate germs and disinfect it.

Brush Your Teeth Twice A Day For Two Minutes

This is a rule you must follow so that you brush properly. Always use a clean, soft-bristled toothbrush and if you are using a manual one, make sure you hold it at the right angle and brush gently in a circular motion. If you prefer an electric toothbrush, brush gently in a gliding motion and make sure you brush every tooth. Regardless of the type of toothbrush you use, you need to brush for two minutes to ensure your teeth, gums, and tongue are all clean.

Follow Your Routine

No matter how busy and hectic life gets, it is very important that you stick to your routine. This is the only way your mouth will remain healthy, so do not skip this task because you need to brush your teeth every morning and every night. It’s also a must that you floss because brushing alone will not help keep your mouth healthy. You need to brush and floss daily because debris and plaque will collect between your teeth, and flossing will help clean the hard-to-reach areas. Flossing will also lower your risk of developing gum disease and heart disease, so it is very important that you include this step in your daily routine.

Limit Your Consumption Of Sugary Snacks And Acidic Beverages

These foods and drinks will harm your teeth and will impact your oral health negatively. Acid will wear away the enamel on your teeth, so you will no longer have a protective layer, and cavities will form as a result. This is a serious issue that can lead to a number of problems but limiting acidic drinks, and sugary foods will prevent this from happening.

Change Your Toothbrush Regularly

This should be done every three months so that your brush cleans your teeth effectively.

If you want a bright and beautiful smile, the dentists at Vancity Dental can help! Whether you need teeth whitening or a regular check-up, our clinic does it all, so if you are in Vancouver, BC, give our office a call today!

Why Teeth Whitening Is So Popular

February 18, 2021

Cosmetic dentistry is very popular because it provides people with confidence and gives them smiles they will want to show off. Teeth whitening, in particular, is very popular and is a dental treatment that is very much in demand, and here are the reasons why:

It Can Improve Your Smile And Its Appearance

Sodas, teas, wine and coffee all cause stains and you will see your teeth change colour over time. Discolouration can affect your smile’s appearance, even if you have perfectly straight teeth but whitening treatments can help. They will provide you with whiter teeth and you will notice an improvement in your smile. Your teeth will sparkle and you will want to smile more as a result.

It Can Boost Your Confidence

When you love your smile, you will feel happier overall and this will boost your self-confidence. Whether you have a big event coming up or have a date planned, your self-esteem will soar and you will feel like a whole new person. Even simple things like talking to people will feel easier because of your pearly whites.

It Can Provide You With A Healthier Mouth

Your oral health is very important and if this suffers, your general health will suffer as well. Poor oral hygiene can lead to a number of very serious problems, including heart conditions, so you need a good oral hygiene routine that you practice daily. Teeth whitening procedures will remove stains, which will allow your teeth to become stronger and healthier, so your entire mouth will benefit as a result.

It Is Affordable

Some cosmetic procedures will require you to empty out your bank account but teeth whitening is very affordable and you will see results. You will be able to improve your appearance without going under the knife and can update your look without emptying out your wallet.

It Is Safe If Done In A Dental Office

Not only will teeth whitening provide you with results, the treatments are also very safe, so you will have peace of mind. Having your dentist complete this treatment is ideal because they will not cause any damage to your gums or tooth enamel, which is a possibility if you use over-the-counter products. Your dentist will use customized whitening trays that fit your teeth perfectly so the process will be safe and comfortable.

It Can Minimize The Look Of Wrinkles

Teeth whitening will not get rid of wrinkles but it will minimize their appearance because white teeth tend to shift peoples’ focus and they will notice your beautiful smile as opposed to the few wrinkles you may have on your face.

If you are interested in teeth whitening, Vancity Dental can help. The dentists at our clinic can help with all of your dental needs, so if you are in Vancouver, BC, and want a brighter smile, give our office a call today!

Do Aligners Like Invisalign Hurt?

January 18, 2021

Aligners are a great way of achieving straighter teeth but a common concern that many people have is the pain aspect of these treatments. It is natural to wonder and worry about aligner discomfort and most people want to know if they hurt before proceeding with this treatment option.

While you may experience minor pain and some discomfort, the good news is that aligners are tolerable, and in most cases, the process can be easily managed. Aligners will cause your teeth to move, which is their intended purpose, and this can result in minor aches but it is bearable and the end results will be well worth some discomfort.

Knowing what to expect will help with the treatment, so if you are considering aligners like Invisalign, expect to deal with tooth movement and aligner fit, which can lead to tenderness and pressure, both of which are very common. Aligners cause your teeth to shift, so there will be some discomfort during the course of your treatment. Most people will only notice this pain when they take their aligners out and place them back in, as this might trigger that pain. It’s important to know that pressure is a good sign because it means your aligners are working. Minor discomfort means your aligners are doing their job, so do not be concerned when this happens because it takes a small amount of pressure for your teeth to realign. While it may not feel great, it is part of the treatment. Some people may also experience tongue and gum irritation if the edges of the aligner rub against your cheek, tongue or gums. You may experience irritation as a result but your orthodontist may be able to provide you with some recommendations to help find a solution.

Several aligners are needed during the treatment process and the pressure is usually at its greatest whenever you make the switch because of the discrepancy between the shape of your new aligner and the alignment of your teeth. This will cause you to feel some discomfort but over time, your teeth will start to shift and will conform to fit the aligner. Once this happens, your pain should subside and your mouth will begin to relax. The discomfort is the result of your teeth moving into their new positions so that you can have straighter teeth and a more beautiful smile.

When it comes to aligners like Invisalign, you will likely experience mild discomfort as opposed to pain but this discomfort will usually ease within a couple of days after your aligner tray change. Both the pressure and any tooth movement will decrease and the feeling of tightness will subside.

If you are interested in Invisalign treatment, Vancity Dental can provide you with more information. Our clinic will help you achieve a beautiful and healthy smile and our dentists can help with all of your dental needs, so if you are in Vancouver, BC, give our office a call today!

6 Invisalign Hacks That Will Blow Your Mind

December 10, 2020

If you’re considering Invisalign but are overwhelmed with all of the information out there, the following guide will help clarify the information that you need to know:

You Need Your Invisalign Case

Your case is just as important as the aligners themselves because it will provide you with a safe place to store them in. No matter where you go, make sure you have your case by your side so that you don’t end up placing your aligners in a napkin and discover that it has been thrown away. Your case is your friend, so make sure it’s with you at all times.

You Cannot Chew Gum

If you are a fan of gum, you need to say goodbye because you can never chew gum whilst wearing your aligners as they can cause permanent damage.

You Are Allowed To Wear Lip Gloss Or Lipstick

Some people think they need to give up their favorite makeup products once they start with Invisalign but this is completely false. All you have to do is find the right products so that you feel comfortable and most people claim that matte lipsticks work best. Even if you see a lipstick mark on your aligner, you will be able to wipe it off easily.

Invest In A Good Nail File

Sometimes, aligners may come with unexpected sharp edges that can cut your tongue or mouth but a good nail file can help with this problem. All you have to do is file that spot down and you will instantly notice a difference. This will also prevent you from having to go back to your dentist for minor issues because you will be able to fix them quickly and easily at home. If the problem persists or you notice something more serious, do not try cutting your aligner and do not use other tools as you can end up damaging them. If that’s the case, contact your orthodontist instead.

Switch To Your New Aligners Before You Go To Sleep

It’s always better to move your teeth into their new positions for an undisrupted period of time and there’s no better time for this than while you sleep. This is also ideal because you will generally experience mild discomfort whenever you switch to your new aligners, so if this happens while you sleep, you may not notice it.

Do Not Eat Sweets

Coloured lollipops and lozenges can lead to cavities, and can also stain your aligners and cause them to change colour. You will be stuck with an unappealing colour until your next aligner change, so try to avoid sweets in general.

Vancity Dental can provide you with more information regarding Invisalign treatments. Our dental clinic will ensure you have a smile you’re proud of and our dentists will take care of all of your dental needs. If you’re looking for a reputable clinic in Vancouver, BC, give our office a call now!

What’s the Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist?

October 16, 2020

Orthodontists and dentists do share some similarities, although they are different professions. They both help patients achieve beautiful and healthy smiles but do this differently. Dentists cover a wide range of oral health issues like cavities, gum disease or missing teeth, while orthodontists focus solely on tooth and jaw alignment. Orthodontists are dentists who continued their training in an accredited university for an additional three years and specialize in orthodontics. They are qualified to provide treatment options that can help straighten a patient’s teeth. Often, dentists and orthodontists work together to provide patients with the best possible results when it comes to the appearance and health of their teeth.

There are a few key differences between orthodontists and dentists and the following information will clarify these aspects:

Dentists

Dentists must complete a general dental degree and are in charge of your overall dental health. They can provide a number of different services, including dental cleanings and tooth repair but do not deal with braces or aligners. If a patient needs orthodontic treatment, their dentist will refer them to an orthodontist.

Dentistry is more of a broad medical specialty that deals with the teeth, gums, nerves and jaw. Dentists encourage good oral hygiene and provide services that can help with tooth decay, root canals, gum disease, crowns, bridges, veneers and teeth whitening.

Orthodontists

Orthodontists must complete a dental degree followed by a three year specialist degree. They are experts in facial growth and dental development and are specialists in tooth and jaw alignment. They can provide a number of different treatments, including retainers, clear aligners and traditional braces. They will help you pick the option that is most suitable for you by providing their professional opinion.

Orthodontics is a specialty branch within dentistry that focuses on the straightening of teeth and the correction of bites and occlusions. They specialize in the alignment of teeth and provide services that can help with crowded teeth, overbites, underbites and, of course, misaligned teeth. Most people who require orthodontic services have crooked teeth but orthodontists can do more than just help with this and can assist with overcrowded teeth, crossbite and spaces between teeth. They can also help with the treatment of temporomandibular disorders and any additional problems with the patient’s jaw.

Both orthodontists and dentists help patients improve their oral health. While they focus on different aspects, the goal is to keep your teeth healthy. All orthodontists are dentists; however, not all dentists are licensed orthodontists, so make sure you clarify this information before asking a general dentist to complete orthodontic work.

Vancity Dental in BC can help with all of your dental needs. Whether you are interested in Invisalign or want teeth whitening, our dental office can help, so if you are in the Vancouver area and are looking for a reputable dentist, give our office a call today!

Help! My Gums Hurt When I Floss!

October 16, 2020

Flossing is an important part of any teeth cleaning routine; it gets at the more stubborn residue or substances that brushing can’t get to and keeps your gums healthy. Naturally, flossing can leave you some discomfort and there’s even some bleeding to be expected (especially if you haven’t flossed in a while), but if the pain starts to become unbearable, then there are some things you can do to help.

Gentleness is Key

Over-aggressive flossing is one of the key reasons for gum bleeding and soreness; your gums are a sensitive part of your mouth, so being too rough with them naturally leads to consequences. Take it slow, be patient, and be consistent. If you do, you’ll be able to “train” and condition your gums and lessen the occurrences of bleeding and pain over time.

Different Tools

There are a variety of alternative tools for flossing that can also help reduce pain and bleeding. One is a water floss machine, more commonly known as a water pick. This works by basically shooting water in between your teeth and parts of your mouth to help dislodge food and plaque; it’s a common tool of dentists and come with a variety of different attachments to help you get at those harder to see and reach areas.

Non-abrasive floss is another alternative. These floss types are coated in a soft and gentle material that lessens gum irritation and can help ease your gums into better oral hygiene habits.

Interdental brushes act like tiny toothbrushes between your teeth and are easier to use than traditional floss while being just as effective; they’re one of the best options if you have braces.

Soft-picks are another good choice; a combination of an interdental brush and a dental pick, they’re disposable plastic picks with rubber bristles and soft tips that do minimal damage to gum tissue. They can help mitigate a majority of the bleeding and pain associated with flossing.

Located in downtown Vancouver, Vancity Dental is dedicated to making you look forward to dental visits. With two experienced dentists, highly qualified dental staff, and a modern, well-equipped clinic, we’re focused on providing you a personal and friendly experience. We offer a variety of dental services from teeth whitening to Invisalign teeth straightening techniques; we even offer cosmetic and Botox services! Our affordable services and painless dentistry will leave you feeling great while preventing a dent to your wallet. Book an appointment now at vancity.dental or call 604-687-1137 to give yourself that smile you’ve always dreamed of.

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