Uncategorized | First Class Orthodontics

Average Cost of Invisalign

Posted on February 15, 2019February 28, 2019 by Pres mult

If you’re unhappy with your smile, you might be interested in getting Invisalign. First, though, you want to know the average cost of Invisalign. After you find out how much it costs, you’ll know if it’s the right treatment for you. If it is, you can schedule a consultation and move forward with your treatment.

Let’s dive in and look at the average cost of Invisalign.

The Average Cost of Invisalign – What You Need to Know

It is impossible to determine the average cost of Invisalign since the cost of treatment depends on your unique needs. However, you can look at the cost range to get a better idea of how much you’ll pay.

Invisalign usually runs from $3,500 to $8,000. If your teeth don’t require much straightening, you’ll be on the low end of the spectrum. If your teeth require lots of work, you might end up on the higher end.

Simply knowing the average cost of Invisalign isn’t enough. You also need to look at payment options. Then you’ll realize that your payment options are more important than the average cost of Invisalign.

Payment Options

It’s likely that you want to know the average cost of Invisalign to see if you can afford it. However, affording Invisalign is easier than you might think.

If you have dental insurance, your policy might cover some of the treatment. Some policies cover Invisalign costs of up to $3,500. That makes Invisalign affordable for many people.

If you don’t have insurance, you are likely still worried about how you’ll pay for it. You are no longer just concerned with the average cost of Invisalign, but how you can take the next step and get treatment. Fortunately, some offices offer payment plans. You can sign up for a plan and make monthly payments. If you qualify for a plan, you won’t have to worry about the average cost of Invisalign since you can make small monthly payments.

Learn More About Invisalign

If you want to find out how much Invisalign will cost for you, contact First Class Orthodontics at (516) 292-6484. Dr. Boral and the team at First Class Orthodontics specializes in Invisalign for children and adults. Our Franklin Square, NY office is conveniently located and is a top choice for those in Malverne Park Oaks, North Valley, and other nearby locations.

Foods to Eat with Braces

Posted on January 26, 2019February 13, 2019 by Pres mult

Getting braces definitely makes your mouth feel a little different. At First Class Orthodontics, we want you to feel comfortable eating while you get used to your new braces. The last thing you might be thinking about is eating, but there are certain foods you can easily eat during this process.

Here are some suggestions:

Dairy – soft cheese, pudding milk-based drinks
Breads – soft tortillas, pancakes, muffins without nuts
Grains – pasta, soft cooked rice
Meats and poultry – soft cooked chicken, meatballs, lunch meats
Seafood – tuna, salmon, crab cakes
Vegetables – mashed potatoes, steamed spinach, beans
Fruits – applesauce, bananas, fruit juice
Treats – ice cream without nuts, milkshakes, Jell-O, soft cake

While you might be craving some crunch, there are also several foods to avoid eating when you have braces.

Chewy foods – bagels, licorice
Crunchy foods – caramel candies, chewing gum
Sticky foods – caramel candies, chewing gum
Hard foods – nuts, hard candies
Foods that require biting into – corn on the cob, apples, carrots

We also suggest you drink a lot of water! Think “healthy” during this process. Lots of patients fall into the trap of milkshakes and ice cream when they first get braces. Don’t fall for it! Try another alternative like oatmeal, yogurt or soup. Who knows, you might even end up discovering a new favorite food!

It is also best to avoid soda and other sugary drinks. These are more likely to cause cavities and corrosion while you have braces.

Generally, it is recommended to stick with soft, smooth, easy to chew items. Chances are your mouth is a little tender or sore. This is perfectly normal and expected during your adjustment to new braces. We promise this will not last forever!

Many patients look to cold foods and drinks to help with this. To relieve the pain, we recommend dissolving one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of lukewarm water. Swish and gargle this solution in your mouth for a few minutes (do not swallow the saltwater).

If the pain is more severe and does not go away after rinsing, you can also try taking a pain reliever. It is also not uncommon for your lips, cheeks, and tongue to become irritated for one to two weeks as they toughen and become used to the braces. We would be happy to give you some wax that you can put over the braces to lessen the tenderness. If you need some wax, please let us know.

With braces from First Class Orthodontics, you can finally achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. See what Dr. Boral can do for you, and upgrade your smile by scheduling an appointment today.

Call us to schedule at (516) 292-6484 or visit us at 380 Dogwood Avenue Franklin Square, NY 11010.

When Should Children Have Their First Orthodontic Visit?

Posted on December 26, 2018 by Pres mult

Where Can I Find The Best Orthodontist In Franklin Square NY?

Our team at First Class Orthodontics are experts in orthodontic treatment in Franklin Square NY. As a leading orthodontist, Dr. Boral specializes in treating patients of all ages and dental conditions. As a result, we are able to provide thorough and effective treatment that achieves optimal results as quickly as possible.

When Should A Child Have Their First Visit With An Orthodontist?

There is no set age for a child to have their first orthodontic visit. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist around age 7, once their permanent teeth come in. At this age, many issues including uneven bite and overcrowding are apparent and treatable. Starting the process early allows a Franklin Square orthodontist to be able to identify problems and decide the best treatment options available.

What Happens During A Child’s First Visit With An Orthodontist?

At the first visit, a Franklin Square orthodontist examines your child’s teeth, mouth, and jaw. We evaluate a child’s current condition from teeth alignment, bite positioning, chewing functionality, and more to identify any arising problems. Dr. Boral may take X-rays of the teeth and mouth to see positioning and whether any permanent teeth are still coming in. These digital images allow for an orthodontist to determine the best form of orthodontic treatment available to fix the necessary issues.

What Are The Benefits Of Early Orthodontic Treatment?

The goal of early treatment is to intercept any developing orthodontic problems, eliminate the causes, and provide adequate space for future permanent teeth. Some patients require a second course of treatment after all permanent teeth are in to shift teeth into their best positions. An orthodontist may recommend treatment while a child still has some baby teeth for conditions including:

Underbites
Crossbites
Abnormal bites
Excessively spaced teeth
Overcrowded and missing teeth
Pacifier or thumb sucking that is affecting teeth or jaw growth

Finding Out When Children Should Have Their First Orthodontic Visit

In conclusion, our team at First Class Orthodontics are experts in orthodontics. We are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding braces, Invisalign, or when children should have their first orthodontic visit in Franklin Square NY, West Hempstead NY, Valley Stream NY, Elmont NY, and Garden City NY. Contact First Class Orthodontics today to schedule a free consultation. Call now (516) 292-6484.

How Does Thumb Sucking Affect Teeth?

Posted on November 8, 2018 by Pres mult

What Is Thumb Sucking?

Thumb sucking is a habit and natural reflex for children and infants. Sucking on thumbs, pacifiers, or other objects may create a feeling of security or soothe them to help with falling asleep. Thumb sucking is a stereotypical habit of babies, so it may feel unnatural to intervene. However, breaking the habit of thumb sucking is important to avoid causing developmental issues in the mouth.

How Can Thumb Sucking Affect My Child’s Teeth?

Once a child’s permanent teeth come in, thumb sucking may affect the proper alignment of the growth of teeth and jaw. The intensity of thumb sucking is a factor that determines the level of damage. Some children who are aggressive thumbsuckers may develop problems with their baby teeth early on. The force of thumb sucking can cause teeth to tip forward, which leads to complicated malocclusions such as open bites, crossbites, or overjets. These issues may require the need for orthodontic treatment such as braces or Invisalign later in life.

What Are The Consequences Of Thumb Sucking?

Thumb sucking, similar to pacifiers, may assist very young children develop jaw muscles. However, after that, it quickly becomes an issue. Thumb sucking is a habit that may cause a child to withdraw and ‘zone out’ instead of interacting. While thumb sucking may appear like an innocent habit, the results can affect your child’s health later on in their adult life. The long-term negative consequences of thumb sucking include:

Narrowing of the jaw
Shrinking the airway
Altered breathing
Poor swallow patterns
Misaligned teeth
Hindered speech
Abnormal tongue placement

When Should Children Stop Sucking Their Thumbs?

Children usually stop sucking their thumbs between the ages of two and four years old, or by the time their permanent front teeth start to erupt. If you notice abnormalities in your child’s primary teeth or are concerned about your child’s thumb sucking, consult with a Franklin Square orthodontist such as Dr. Boral. Remember, the older a child gets the more difficult breaking this habit can be.

Finding Out How Thumb Sucking Affects Teeth In White Plains NY

Dr. Boral and our team at First Class Orthodontics are experts in orthodontic treatment. We are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding thumb sucking or how thumb sucking affects teeth in Franklin Square NY, West Hempstead NY, Valley Stream NY, Elmont NY, and Garden City NY. Contact First Class Orthodontics to schedule a free consultation today. Call now (516) 292-6484.

The Truth Of How Alcohol Effects Your Teeth

Posted on October 9, 2018 by Pres mult

Where Can I Find The Truth About How Alcohol Affects Your Teeth?

Many patients wonder the truth of how alcohol affects your teeth. Our team at First Class Orthodontics specialize in orthodontic care. As a leading Franklin Square orthodontic office, Dr. Boral is dedicated to providing patients with the necessary knowledge to maintain a healthy smile. As a result, we treat patients of all ages for a wide range of dental needs.

Does Alcohol Damage Teeth?

Moderate alcohol consumption can be considered apart of a healthy lifestyle. However, alcohol isn’t generally considered “healthy.” Alcohol abuse is the second most common risk factor for oral cancer. The short and long-term effects alcohol has on your mouth, gums, and teeth include:

Gum disease
Tooth decay
Mouth sores
Higher plaque levels
Permanent tooth loss

How Does Alcohol Affect Your Teeth?

The effect that alcohol has on your teeth is determined by specific factors such as the sugar content, the amount of alcohol, the amount of citrus if you drink with a straw, and other individual factors. Alcohol affects teeth by causing:

Staining – the color in beverages comes from chromogens, which attach to tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is compromised by acid in alcohol, which causes the staining of teeth.
Dryness – beverages that are high in alcohol cause dryness in the mouth. Saliva keeps teeth moist and helps remove plaque and bacteria from the tooth’s surface.
Other damage – tooth damage related to alcohol consumption is increased by chewing ice or adding citrus to your drinks, which can weaken or break teeth.

Finding The Truth Of How Alcohol Affects Teeth

Dr. Boral and our team at First Class Orthodontics are experts in dentistry and orthodontic care. We are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding how alcohol affects teeth in Franklin Square NY, West Hempstead NY, Valley Stream NY, Elmont NY, and Garden City NY. Contact First Class Orthodontics to schedule a free consultation today. Call now (516) 292-6484.

Do Pacifiers Affect Babies’ Teeth?

Posted on September 14, 2018October 9, 2018 by Presmult Dev

Many parents often wonder, “Do pacifiers affect babies’ teeth?” Pacifiers can provide babies with a soothing sensation, which keeps them content and provides a feeling of relaxation. However, frequent pacifier use may cause dental issues and complications as teeth develop. Our team at First Class Orthodontics will educate you on how it’s possible to give your baby a pacifier and avoid the problems it may cause.

What Are The Benefits Of Pacifiers?

Any parent who has seen a baby content with a pacifier doesn’t doubt the benefits of its use. In fact, pediatric research shows that pacifier use in very young babies shouldn’t be discouraged, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry advises that pacifiers are preferred over the habit of thumb-sucking. Pacifiers for babies have the power to provide pain relief, relaxation, and comfort whenever necessary. Doctors publishing with the American Academy of Family Physicians explain that pacifiers actually have a positive influence on kids between one and six months old. Children who use pacifiers have shown to have a reduced risk of sudden infant death syndrome.

What Is Pacifier Teeth?

Pacifier teeth is a condition that may occur as a result of extended pacifier use. A baby’s mouth and teeth begin forming in the womb and continue to grow throughout childhood. Any object held in an infant’s mouth for long periods during this important time can affect tooth positioning and dental development. According to the AAPD and American Dental Association, the dental effects of frequent pacifier use include:

Crooked teeth
Problems with jaw alignment
Protruding front teeth
Changes to the roof of the mouth

What Age Should My Baby Stop Using A Pacifier?

Parents can avoid the risks of their baby developing pacifier teeth by weaning their baby away from the pacifier by age two. By this age, some dental effects may be seen, but the greatest changes appear in children older than four years. Pacifiers have also shown to increase the risk of ear infections in babies older than six months.

What Are The Effects Of Pacifiers On A Babies’ Teeth?

The long-term use of a pacifier changes mouth shape and the alignment of teeth. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the overuse of pacifiers affects mouth and teeth development the same way as long-term thumb-sucking. As a child’s upper front teeth tip forward, teeth may become crooked, which leads to biting problems. There may also be changes in jaw alignment and tooth positioning. The American Dental Association states that other symptoms of pacifier teeth include open bite and changes on the roof of the mouth.

How Do I Stop My Baby From Using A Pacifier?

At First Class Orthodontics, we understand that encouragement and praise are the best tools for breaking a pacifier habit. Praising your baby for not using a pacifier, and providing a reward can create a sense of motivation to stop. If children use pacifiers when feeling anxious, try avoiding stressful situations and offering cuddles and other comforts. For young babies who need some extra soothing at times, pacifiers provide the perfect feeling of reassurance. As long as pacifier use doesn’t become frequent, there is no risk of developing pacifier teeth.

Finding Out How Pacifiers Affect A Babies’ Teeth In Franklin Square NY

Dr. Boral and our team at First Class Boral Orthodontics are experienced in pediatric dentistry. We are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding your baby’s teeth or how pacifiers affect a babies’ teeth in Franklin Square NY, West Hempstead NY, Valley Stream NY, Elmont NY, and Garden City NY. Contact First Class Orthodontics today to schedule a free consultation. Call now (516) 292-6484.

Best Franklin Square Orthodontic Office

Posted on July 26, 2018December 27, 2018 by Presmult Dev

Where Can I Find The Best Franklin Square Orthodontic Office?

Our team at First Class Orthodontics specializes in braces, clear braces, Invisalign, and Invisalign Teen in Franklin Square. Our office is dedicated to providing patients with a positive, helpful, and caring environment that they look forward to every time.

What’s The Best Age To Visit A Franklin Square Orthodontic Office?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that child have their first visit with an orthodontist by age 7. We are experienced in early treatment and orthodontics for children and teens of all ages. However, it is never too late to receive orthodontic care, We also specialize in adult orthodontics including Invisalign. In fact, about every 1 in 5 of our patients is over the age of 21. No matter whether you are looking for orthodontic treatment for yourself or your child, First Class Orthodontics provides the best orthodontic care in Franklin Square NY.

What Can The Best Franklin Square Orthodontic Office Help Treat?

Dr. Boral is a leading orthodontist in Franklin Square NY. As a result, our team at First Class Orthodontics is experienced in treating many common orthodontic issues including:

Overcrowding – excessive crowding of teeth
Open bite – front teeth don’t touch
Deep overbite – lower front teeth bite into palate
Underbite – lower front teeth in front of upper teeth
Missing lateral incisors – one of the most common teeth to be missing
Irregular spacing – gaps between teeth
Overjet – protruding front teeth

Finding The Best Franklin Square Orthodontic Office

In conclusion, Dr. Boral and our team at First Class Orthodontics are experts in orthodontic care. We are here to answer any questions you may have involving braces, clear braces, Invisalign, and Invisalign Teen in Franklin Square NY, West Hempstead NY, Valley Stream NY, Elmont NY, and Garden City NY. Contact First Class Orthodontics to schedule a free consultation today. Call now (516) 292-6484.

Get the smile you want. Faster.

Posted on July 13, 2018September 27, 2018 by Presmult Dev

Are you thinking about having a smile tune-up? Ask Dr. Boral how easy it can be with Invisalign Teen. It is designed with today’s youth in mind. These clear, removable orthodontic aligners can straighten your teeth without the need for metal wires and brackets. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign Teen aligners are comfortable, nearly invisible, and removable, which allows you to remove them as you eat your favorite foods and brush and floss your teeth. Invisalign Teen motivates teenagers to enjoy life without restrictions while promoting better overall dental care.

Key features of Invisalign Teen

Teenagers are constantly on the move and require special options when it comes to their braces. Invisalign Teen utilizes the same technology as Invisalign for adults; they consist of a series of clear plastic aligners that gradually move the teeth. Extra features designed especially for teens include:

Customization to fit your mouth correctly and comfortably
Removable and nearly transparent to ensure you can eat with freedom and smile with confidence
Six free individual replacement aligners in the event that your aligners become misplaced or lost

How does Invisalign Teen work?

Like any orthodontic treatment, Invisalign Teen requires a customized treatment plan created by Dr. Steven Boral. Generally, each set of aligners is worn for approximately two weeks and removed when you brush, floss, eat, and drink. Your teeth will gradually move with the series of aligners, which typically ranges from 18 to 30 aligners in total. You’ll visit our office at 380 dogwood avenue in Franklin Square, every eight to ten weeks to check your progress.

Invisalign Teen introduces a whole new way to make your smile straight without the unappealing look and hassle of traditional metal braces. This revolutionary method of correcting smiles is being used by teens everywhere, including right here at Steven Boral, DDS, to straighten their teeth with confidence. Please contact us at 516-292-6484.

Is invisalign teen right for my children?

Posted on July 13, 2018October 11, 2018 by Presmult Dev

Straightening your teeth with traditional braces used to be something of a public affair. While traditional teeth-straightening methods yielded high-quality results, it was also essentially impossible to wear them undetected as you went about your day. The visibility of braces could be especially troubling to teens in the high-stress environment of high school and even during the early years of college.

With Invisalign Teen, Dr. Steven Boral and our team will tell you that many of those concerns are no longer as relevant as they once were. Invisalign Teen aligners are constructed out of a plastic that is both smooth and clear, in all likelihood friends and family members won’t even realize your teen is wearing them. The smooth and clear plastic also makes the aligners much more comfortable than traditional braces. That means you won’t have to deal with something large and obstructive in his or her mouth.

Additionally, the Invisalign Teen aligners are specifically made to be removable when the need arises. Your son or daughter won’t have to worry about getting food stuck in the alignment trays because they can be pulled out before a meal and popped back in afterwards. Invisalign Teen wearers can remove the aligners before brushing, which allows them to make sure their teeth are free and clear of all obstructions.

Invisalign Teen aligners also allow wearers to keep doing all the activities they have previously enjoyed. If your teen plays sports, for example, he or she won’t have to worry about a mouth filled with metal brackets getting injured during play. If your teen plays an instrument, he or she won’t have to worry about traditional braces affecting normal playing techniques. The aligners will remain both comfortable and convenient during all of those activities and more.

If your teen is concerned about physical appearance and worried that braces will adversely affect his or her life for a year or more, Invisalign Teen treatment with Dr. Steven Boral is definitely the right choice. Teens don’t have to be shy about their smile, won’t have to change any of the activities they normally do, and will still get all the benefits of straight teeth when the process is completed.

For more information or to schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Steven Boral, please give us a call at 516-292-6484 at our convenient Franklin Square office.

What’s the best dental floss?

Posted on July 13, 2018July 20, 2018 by Presmult Dev

Dental floss is similar to a lot of products that depend mainly on the consumer’s preference. Fact is, floss comes in a wide variety of flavors, coatings, and other variations, but all types of floss essentially do the same thing. After all, that is what is most important: that the dental floss you buy is functional—cleaning the areas in between your teeth. If you want to know what the best dental floss is, the answer is the kind that enables you to successfully and regularly clean those areas. So to help you find the right type of floss for you, here are some options.

Flavored Dental Floss

Many people that floss prefer a flavored dental floss because it freshens their breath even more than unscented floss. The latter can also take on the smells associated with bacteria in your mouth. And we all know how bad that can be. So, if flavored dental floss is what you prefer, and it allows you to floss your teeth regularly, then it is automatically best for your mouth.

Flossers

There are also products on the market called flossers, which usually consist of a plastic instrument with strung floss and a pick on the opposite end. This option can be both effective at cleaning the areas in between your teeth and scraping off plaque. These flossers also come flavored in mint and various other varieties.

Gentle Dental Floss

Some people find that typical dental floss is too harsh on their gums. For that reason some companies make floss with soft coatings that are less abrasive on the gums. For the most part these types of floss are just as effective as regular floss, and for those people that require a more sensitive approach to flossing, especially when just starting out, this is the best option.

Of the aforementioned options, it is difficult to name an absolute best type of floss. However, Dr. Steven Boral and our team say that the type of floss that works best for you, giving you the greatest chance of succeeding at regular flossing, is the best. For more information on floss, contact our Franklin Square, NY office.