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Invisalign and Braces in Anchorage, AK

Keeping your teeth clean during orthodontic treatment, whether Invisalign or braces, is vital. We work with a number of orthodontists throughout Alaska who provide convenience and excellent communication with both you and Family First Dentistry for a more enjoyable experience as you straighten your teeth.

Going through ortho is not always convenient. It requires multiple appointments with the orthodontist and dentist throughout treatment. One thing patients may not realize is that while you are in braces, you still see your regular dentist for checkups, cleanings, exams, and x-rays. At Family First Dentistry, we can remove your wires at your dental checkup and send them with you so your orthodontist can put them back on. Usually you see your orthodontist every three months, and we can align that appointment with your dental checkup so you avoid an extra trip.
Close-up of traditional metal braces bonded to the upper and lower teeth

Air Polishing

Our dental hygienists offer a more frequent touch-up cleaning for patients who struggle to keep their teeth clean around brackets and wires. This is not a traditional cleaning. We use a comfortable air polisher that releases powder and water onto the tooth around the brackets and bands, doing an exceptional job removing stubborn debris that is hard to reach during ortho. Air polishing can be done monthly, every three months, or on whatever schedule you and your hygienist decide keeps your teeth healthiest during treatment. It is offered at a reduced cost from a normal dental cleaning, so ask your hygienist about your options.
Adult seating a clear orthodontic aligner over the upper teeth

One Less Trip During Treatment

Most patients see their orthodontist about every three months, and we can line that visit up with your dental checkup. We remove your wires here at the checkup and send them with you, then your orthodontist puts them back on. That removes an entire separate trip to have wires taken off before your cleaning.

Thinking about straightening your teeth?

Invisalign and traditional braces both work, and the right choice depends on your case. Our Anchorage team will show you the difference.

Call 907-562-2820Request a Consultation

Keeping Teeth Healthy in Braces

Plaque buildup and inflamed gums around metal braces caused by poor home care
White spot decalcification along the gumline after braces were removed
Severe decalcification and decay on the front teeth following orthodontic treatment
White spot lesions across the upper front teeth caused by poor cleaning during orthodontics

Cleaning around brackets and wires is difficult, and decay that starts during orthodontic treatment is permanent damage to a tooth that was otherwise healthy. Regular dental cleanings continue throughout treatment, and air polishing is available between them. A recommendation of extra in office fluoride treatments or fluoride toothpaste may be recommended. For younger patients, we watch how the bite and jaws are developing well before braces are on the table, which is part of every pediatric visit. Once treatment is finished, whitening is a common next step.

Clear orthodontic aligner tray held between fingertips
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