EXPERT
Dr. Alan R. Heller, D.D.S., M.S.
Orthodontist
Dr. Alan Heller practices Orthodontics in Laurel, MD. Comprehensive orthodontic treatment includes metal wires that are inserted into orthodontic brackets, which can be made from stainless steel or a more aesthetic ceramic material. The wires interact with the brackets to move teeth into desired positions. Being advanced in the field, Dr. Heller may also use Invisalign or other aligner trays that have been designed to align a patients? smile. As an orthodontist, Dr. Heller must recognize various characteristics of a malocclusion or dentofacial deformity, define the nature of the problem, including the etiology if possible, and design a treatment strategy based on the specific needs and desires of the patient.
Dr. Alan R. Heller, D.D.S., M.S.
- Laurel, MD
- Accepting new patients
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Does getting braces tightened hurt more than getting them on?
For most patients the first few days after getting braces are the most uncomfortable. After each subsequent appointment there may be some discomfort but usually less than the first READ MORE
For most patients the first few days after getting braces are the most uncomfortable. After each subsequent appointment there may be some discomfort but usually less than the first time.
Is it normal for adults to have braces?
It is completely normal. Though most adults choose to be treated with clear aligners we still have plenty of adult patient that are in braces for a variety of reasons. some don't READ MORE
It is completely normal. Though most adults choose to be treated with clear aligners we still have plenty of adult patient that are in braces for a variety of reasons. some don't want the responsibility of remembering to keep aligners in while others have problems that are better treated with braces.
Can I have orthodontics even if I have an underbite?
Absolutely. If the underbite is mild, braces alone may be sufficient to correct the problem. If it is more severe, braces combined with jaw surgery will be required.
Why do my braces hurt when I eat sweets?
If sweets cause pain you likely have a cavity. Please see your dentist for an exam to find the source of the pain.
Can I do a deep cleaning on my teeth with orthodontics?
Deep cleaning can be done with braces in place. It is more difficult than without braces, but should be just as effective.
What to do when you can't afford Invisalign?
Many offices offer a third-party financing options so that you can start treatment with no money down. Some even have an interest-free option. In my office, we often recommend READ MORE
Many offices offer a third-party financing options so that you can start treatment with no money down. Some even have an interest-free option. In my office, we often recommend patients postpone the treatment for several months, but set aside (or even pay) an amount equal to the monthly payment the doctor requires until you have set aside enough for the down-payment. This way you know you will be able to afford the monthly payments and you don't ever really have to come up with the down-payment.
Can you talk with Invisalign?
After a day or two you should be completely comfortable speaking with Invisalign aligners. They are thin and very well adapted to your teeth. They won’t feel insecure at all. Your READ MORE
After a day or two you should be completely comfortable speaking with Invisalign aligners. They are thin and very well adapted to your teeth. They won’t feel insecure at all. Your tongue will get used to them and your speech will be imperceptibly affected.
What foods can't you eat anymore with braces?
With braces it is best to avoid foods that are hard, crunchy or sticky. Especially bad are caramel and taffy for example. Also you need to avoid chewing on ice, pens, etc.
What are the disadvantages of dental braces?
The primary disadvantage is that braces can interfere with proper oral hygiene. It is important to take extra time to make sure everything is kept very clean. Also, at times braces READ MORE
The primary disadvantage is that braces can interfere with proper oral hygiene. It is important to take extra time to make sure everything is kept very clean. Also, at times braces can be uncomfortable.
Is 35 too old for braces?
Absolutely not. You can get braces at any age.
What is the maximum age to get braces?
There is no maximum age. I’ve seen patients into their 80s. Teeth will move at any age.
How do you floss when you have braces?
Hard to explain with words. A video would be best. Here is a good one. https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=Flossing+for+Braces&&view=detail&mid=A60BCDDBE26BD95A1B4EA60BCDDBE26BD95A1B4E&&FORM=VRDGAR&ru=%2Fvideos%2Fsearch%3Fq%3DFlossing%2Bfor%2BBraces%26FORM%3DVDMHRS READ MORE
Hard to explain with words. A video would be best. Here is a good one.
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=Flossing+for+Braces&&view=detail&mid=A60BCDDBE26BD95A1B4EA60BCDDBE26BD95A1B4E&&FORM=VRDGAR&ru=%2Fvideos%2Fsearch%3Fq%3DFlossing%2Bfor%2BBraces%26FORM%3DVDMHRS
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=Flossing+for+Braces&&view=detail&mid=A60BCDDBE26BD95A1B4EA60BCDDBE26BD95A1B4E&&FORM=VRDGAR&ru=%2Fvideos%2Fsearch%3Fq%3DFlossing%2Bfor%2BBraces%26FORM%3DVDMHRS
Is root scaling good before braces or Invisalign?
19 is a bit young to need root scaling. If you do need it, get it done and have a follow-up to make sure the gums are healthy before beginning any tooth movement.
Does Invisalign or braces make your teeth more yellow?
Your teeth may appear more yellow due to staining of the adhesive that hold braces in place. Likewise if you have bonded attachments aiding aligners during the alignment of your READ MORE
Your teeth may appear more yellow due to staining of the adhesive that hold braces in place. Likewise if you have bonded attachments aiding aligners during the alignment of your teeth they may stain. Your teeth should be back to normal when everything bonded to your teeth is removed at the end of treatment.
Can you bite into an apple with braces?
I would recommend cutting the apple into sections as the skin is a bit tough to bite through with the front teeth.
Can an orthodontist provide Invisalign?
An orthodontist is the best place to go for Invisalign treatment. While Invisalign is a great tool for treatment it is still just a tool. Diagnosis and treatment planning are best READ MORE
An orthodontist is the best place to go for Invisalign treatment. While Invisalign is a great tool for treatment it is still just a tool. Diagnosis and treatment planning are best done by an orthodontist.
How should I sleep with tooth pain from braces?
I’d recommend a combination of Ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Pain should greatly improve a couple days after each adjustment.
Can a tight retainer damage your teeth?
It may if it has metal parts scraping against the teeth. This can be adjusted by your orthodontist.
Do braces move your teeth every day?
For a period of time after each adjustment the teeth will move every day. This may be from 1-8 weeks depending on the type of wire and the size of the adjustment
Which painkiller is best after getting braces?
I recommend a combination of Ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
