Zoom Teeth Whitening

At Imagine Orthodontic Studio, we understand that straightening your teeth may only be one part of your overall smile goal. After, or separate from, your orthodontic treatment, many patients are also interested in making their teeth sparkling white — and we love to help!

If you’re looking for the best teeth whitening treatment in Lakeland, Tampa, St. Petersburg, or Clearwater, request a consultation with us to see how we can help you achieve a stunning smile!

What Is Teeth Whitening, And How Does It Work?

Over time, your tooth enamel can become stained or discolored for a variety of reasons, including age, genetic predisposition, eating or drinking dark-colored items like coffee, and tobacco use. “Teeth whitening” is the term for any process that breaks down these stains and lightens your teeth’s natural color, although the cost and effectiveness can vary significantly between products.

Professional teeth whitening can be completed in an office setting or with take-home kits. Typically, the pros use either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide which can safely and effectively remove stains. Advanced LED lights are often used to speed up the chemical reaction that creates brighter, whiter teeth. In less than an hour, you can expect to see immediate and noticeable results.

While some over-the-counter options also use peroxide on your teeth, you should be wary of those that use abrasive agents to remove surface-level stains. They tend to be less effective overall and can actually harm your teeth with overuse. That’s why we recommend you always look for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance on OTC products and talk to a professional before moving forward with any teeth whitening treatment.

Zoom Whitening

For patients seeking the fastest and most effective in-office treatment, Zoom Whitening is the best option. In a single 45-minute session, this treatment can brighten your teeth by up to eight shades!

The procedure is simple: We apply a layer of whitening gel and arrange the Zoom LED light in place for 15 minutes. This process is repeated for a total of three cycles. Then we wrap things up by applying a paste to protect your enamel and reduce any sensitivity.

While many professional whitening options can cost thousands of dollars, we provide Zoom Whitening at just $500. We believe this convenient, effective, and affordable approach is the best way to whiten teeth in a professional setting.

Professional Take-home Teeth Whitening Kits

Get a dazzling smile on your own time with our professional take-home teeth whitening kits with either the Reflection Advanced Tooth Whitening System or the Opalescence Whitening System. These customized kits feature everything you need to boost the color of your teeth in the comfort of your home.

How do our professional whitening kits work? Just follow these simple steps:

  • Pick up your whitening kit in our office (we suggest storing it in your refrigerator once you get home).
  • When you’re ready, take out your teeth whitening placement trays and apply the whitening gel to the trays using the provided syringe.
  • Place the trays over your teeth, taking care to remove excess whitening gel around the edges with a Q-tip.
  • Keep the tray on your teeth for no more than 15 minutes per session, to help reduce tooth and gum sensitivity.
  • Rinse and reuse the trays for future applications.

Imagine Synapse Dental Pain Eraser

Imagine if you could get your braces tightened without discomfort, sensitivity, and soreness afterward. You can, thanks to our Imagine Synapse Dental Pain Eraser™!

Wire tightening is a fact of life when you wear braces, but the pain and irritation afterward don’t have to be. You can get instant relief from braces tightening thanks to Advanced Pulsewave Technology™.

The Imagine Synapse Dental Pain Eraser is built into all of our braces treatment plans, so you get instant access to pain relief! Even if you aren’t one of our braces patients, you can purchase this product as an add-on to any orthodontic treatment.

The process itself is, of course, completely painless, and you’ll be pain-free for 24 to 48 hours after treatment. It’s the best way to stay comfortable after having your braces tightened or any other treatment at our office. Instead of the usual post-visit soreness and sensitivity, you can feel like your usual self. This is a must-have for any patients that are headed to school or work after treatment and can’t let dental pain get in the way of their day. The only thing you’ll need to think about after braces is how awesome they look and how great your smile is going to turn out!

How Does The Imagine Dental Pain Eraser Work?

The FDA-cleared Dental Pain Eraser allows us to remove the worry of pain from patients in seconds. Through its patent-pending Advanced Pulsewave Technology™, the Imagine Synapse Dental Pain Eraser sends gentle, electric pulses to calm the nerves in the mouth and block dental pain.

The Dental Pain Eraser works wonders based on the alteration of nerve activity, also known as neuromodulation. When electrical impulses are directed toward a specific area of the body, a different non-pain signal in the brain is stimulated, with profound benefit.

Just turn the Dental Pain Eraser on, wait for the flashing blue light at the end of the device to start blinking, and then apply simultaneously, both metal prong ends to soft or hard oral tissue to prevent and alleviate dental pain.

Be sure to apply using slow, methodical, overlapping strokes.

Two-Phase Treatment

Did you know that your child should see an orthodontist by the time they are 7 years old? By this age, an orthodontist can examine the development of your child’s teeth and jaw and intervene before costly orthodontic or tooth alignment conditions arise.

Learn more about Phase One Orthodontic Treatment and how it can improve your child’s smile for life. Request your free consultation today!

What is Phase 1 — Interceptive Orthodontics?

Phase 1 Interceptive Orthodontic Treatment, also known as early orthodontic treatment or Phase 1 orthodontics, is for children who may need additional smile guidance before their teen years. By age 7, your child’s teeth will have developed enough for us to see if they have bite malocclusions (misalignment) forming. If so, an orthodontist will recommend that they receive early orthodontic treatment.

Phase One Orthodontic Treatment typically begins around 7-9 years old and can address many bite problems, such as:

  • Overbites
  • Underbites
  • Crossbites
  • Crowding
  • Crooked teeth
  • Jaw problems
  • Narrow palates

When these bite malocclusions are addressed early, it can decrease the likelihood of painful dental conditions or costly procedures in the future.

What are the Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment?

There are many advantages of early interceptive orthodontics, including:

  • Guiding the growth of your child’s teeth and jaw
  • Preventing their teeth from shifting out of alignment later
  • Decreasing the risk of impacted permanent teeth
  • Reducing the risk of oral injuries
  • Improving lip closure and reducing lip strain
  • Expanding narrow dental arches
  • Avoiding costly future dental procedures
  • Reducing the risk of cavities and tooth decay

What are the Most Common Types of Phase 1 Interceptive Orthodontics?

Phase 1 orthodontic treatment uses several methods to guide your child’s smile, including:

  • Palatal Expanders — These effectively widen the jaw to make room for developing adult teeth and decrease crowding as these teeth emerge.
  • Braces — Getting braces treatment earlier can correct problems before they become more developed malocclusions. This can reduce or eliminate the need for braces later on.
  • Tooth Removal — While we don’t always do this during early orthodontic treatment, removing impacted teeth or baby teeth can encourage permanent teeth to emerge properly without using an Orthodontic appliance.

Is Phase 1 Orthodontics Right for Your Child?

While early interceptive orthodontics can be helpful for children with more serious bite malocclusions, the majority of children do not need it! They may benefit from treatment in their teens or may not need it at all.

The only way to know whether your child needs early orthodontic treatment is to take them for a consultation. If your child exhibits any of the following symptoms, you should schedule an appointment with us.

  • Early or late loss of primary teeth
  • Mouth breathing
  • Difficulty with speech or chewing
  • Protruding teeth
  • A persistent thumb-sucking habit
  • Crowded or crooked teeth
  • Overbites, underbite, or crossbite

Start Your Child’s Early Orthodontic Treatment Plan Today

Your kiddo’s smile is precious, and we know that you want them to enjoy a lifetime of healthy and happy smiles. Early interceptive orthodontics can guide your child’s development and set them on a path toward lifelong dental health. Schedule an appointment with us to evaluate your child’s smile today!

Retainers

Once you’ve finished your orthodontic treatment, you’re probably going to be excited to show off your new smile with pride! Keep in mind, however, that your teeth can naturally drift into different positions over time, so it’s essential to wear a retainer after getting braces in order to preserve your beautiful new smile and protect your orthodontic investment.

Read on to learn more about the types of retainers we offer, their pros and cons, and how to wear your orthodontic retainer following braces. Our professionals at Imagine Orthodontic Studio are happy to offer expert advice to get the right solution for your post-treatment care.

Why is Wearing a Retainer After Braces Necessary?

Retainers are responsible for keeping your teeth in tip-top shape! The smile retention phase is a crucial part of your orthodontic journey because it ensures your beautiful new smile stays put for the long haul. Retainers apply consistent pressure to the teeth, stabilizing the surrounding bone and allowing the tissue to adapt to the new alignment of the teeth, so your teeth don’t shift back into their pre-treatment positions.

Imagine Orthodontics Retainer Assurance Program

We understand that life can be unpredictable, and sometimes accidents happen. Retainers can get lost, damaged, or even accidentally thrown away! That’s why we offer our Retainer Assurance Program, which provides unlimited replacement retainers for up to 6 years after you complete your treatment.

With this program, you only need to pay a $20 copay for each replacement retainer, instead of having to pay the total cost out of pocket. You can choose to pay in full or in low monthly payments during your treatment. Remember: wearing your retainer is crucial to maintaining your smile after treatment, and we are here to answer any questions you may have about orthodontic retainers. Schedule an appointment today to learn more about our Retainer Assurance Program and how we can help you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile.

Types Of Retainers

When it comes to retainers, there are two primary types: removable and permanent. You may be provided with only one type of retainer, or you may receive a removable one for your upper teeth and a permanent one for your lower teeth. Every patient’s case is unique, so we will recommend the best kind of retainer for your individual needs.

Removable Retainers

Removable retainers are orthodontic appliances that can be taken out of your mouth and are often used after the completion of orthodontic treatment. These retainers are designed to hold your teeth in place, preventing them from shifting back to their original position after braces or other orthodontic treatment. They can be easily removed for eating, brushing your teeth, or for any other reason, but it’s essential to wear them according to your orthodontist’s instructions to ensure that they are effective in maintaining the alignment of your teeth.

There are 3 types of removable retainers:

Hawley Retainers

Hawley retainers, also known as metal or wire retainers, can be used for both upper and lower teeth. They are made up of an acrylic plate that touches your gums and palate, and wires that sit over and across your teeth. Some dentists may offer to customize the retainer color or even add a pattern.

Hawley retainers are removable and should be taken out when eating or drinking. While they are one of the more affordable options and can last for years with proper care, they are somewhat noticeable, especially when used on the upper teeth. However, after a while, you may transition to wearing them only at night, so visibility becomes much less of a concern.

Essix Retainers

An Essix retainer is a clear, removable device that covers your teeth and sits above your gum line. Similar to clear aligners, these retainers are virtually unnoticeable, making them a popular choice among patients.

Essix retainers are similar in cost to Hawley-style retainers, but may not last as long. You’ll need to remove them when eating and clean them regularly to avoid discoloration. Proper care allows you to keep them for longer while maintaining their clear appearance.

Vivera Retainers

This is a clear retainer produced by the same manufacturer as Invisalign braces. The material used in this retainer is exceptionally strong, reducing the likelihood of breakage compared to other plastic orthodontic appliances.

Instead of using traditional teeth impressions, a laser scan is used to create a custom fit for the retainer. It’s important to note that you don’t need to have previously used Invisalign to be fitted for this retainer.

Permanent Retainers

Permanent retainers, also known as bonded retainers and fixed retainers, are made of a thin metal wire that is bonded to the back of your teeth, typically on the lower front teeth. This type of retainer lasts for many years and maintains your alignment, preventing your teeth from shifting back to their original positions over time.

Pros Of Permanent Retainers
  • Since it doesn’t need to be removed, there’s no risk of losing it!
  • It’s attached behind your teeth, so only you will know it’s there.
  • It has no effect on speech, making it easy to wear in public without feeling self-conscious.
  • It’s securely bonded to your teeth with dental glue, so you don’t have to worry about misplacing it.
  • Designed to withstand everyday use, it’s unlikely to be damaged.
  • The retainer works continuously to keep teeth in place and prevent shifting over time, ensuring a beautiful and aligned smile.
Cons Of Permanent Retainers
  • Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial with a fixed retainer, as it requires more in-depth flossing.
  • Although a fixed retainer may seem sturdy, it’s not indestructible and can be damaged by hard or crunchy foods, potentially requiring an emergency visit to the orthodontist.
  • Depending on your habits, a fixed retainer may wear down or become damaged over time, requiring a replacement.

How to Clean & Care For Retainers

Proper maintenance of your retainer is crucial, as neglecting it can lead food particles and bacteria to accumulate and encourage the formation of plaque. This increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, and results in unpleasant odors. Additionally, clear retainers can become stained if they’re not cleaned correctly.

Since removable and permanent retainers require different care, you may need to use a specific cleaner for each. Our orthodontic team will demonstrate the optimal cleaning techniques, but the following are some general guidelines:

How to Clean & Care for Permanent Retainers

Permanent retainers have many benefits, but they also may increase the likelihood of dental issues, since they create more nooks and crannies in your mouth that will need cleaning. After your treatment, your orthodontist will provide guidelines for caring for your permanent retainer, which may include:

  • Brush around your retainers from various angles with gentle pressure to avoid breakage.
  • Use a floss threader to reach tight spaces and floss up and down in the areas beneath your retainer wire, following detailed instructions from your orthodontist.
  • Ensure that you don’t skip any spaces while brushing and flossing, regardless of their size, since bacteria are more likely to accumulate in small, hard-to-reach areas.
  • Try a water flosser if using a floss threader isn’t effective.
  • Avoid hard foods and seeds that can get stuck in your retainer.
  • Schedule more frequent dental cleanings to keep a close eye on plaque and bacteria.

It’s essential to contact your orthodontist right away if you notice any issues with your permanent retainer. Neglecting a loose or damaged retainer can potentially harm your dental health and your teeth.

How to Clean & Care for Hawley Retainers

  • Clean your retainer while it’s still wet after removing it from your mouth to make it easier to remove any debris before it hardens.
  • Brush your retainer with lukewarm water after each meal. It’s also recommended to brush your teeth at this time.
  • For thorough cleaning, mix mild dish soap with lukewarm water (avoid toothpaste as it can scratch the retainer’s surface). Use a soft toothbrush or denture brush to gently remove plaque and debris.
  • Use a cotton swab to clean the deep grooves and ridges of clear plastic retainers if necessary.

Consult with your dentist about soaking your retainer in a denture or retainer cleaner, such as Efferdent or Polident, and follow the package instructions for timing after mixing a cup of lukewarm water with one tablet of cleaner.

How to Clean & Care for Essix Retainers

To maintain good oral health while wearing an Essix retainer, it is crucial to stick to your regular dental hygiene routine of brushing twice a day and flossing once a day.

Proper care of your retainer can also help prevent plaque buildup and potential cavities or gum disease.

Here are some steps to follow to care for your Essix retainer:

  • Rinse it with cold water before and after using it.
  • Store it in a safe case when not in use.
  • Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or water that could damage it.
  • Brush and rinse your retainer after each meal, using a non-abrasive toothpaste.

How to Clean & Care for Vivera Retainers

  • Clean them immediately after wearing them, using a toothbrush and warm water or dish soap.
  • Soak them in mouthwash or water and Invisalign cleaning crystals for a thorough cleanse.
  • To prevent damage or loss, keep them in a case when not in use.
  • If it breaks, gets misshapen, or starts to feel too loose, switch to the next set.

Retainers FAQ

After braces, you’ll need to wear a removable retainer for four months to a year, and you should only take it out when you’re eating or brushing your teeth. Once the prescribed period ends, your orthodontist will assess whether you need to continue wearing the retainer for a longer duration.

Even if there’s no sign of the teeth moving out of position, your orthodontist may suggest wearing your retainers to sleep, to ensure your teeth remain straight and stable. This recommendation may be for several months or years, or even an indefinite period, depending on the condition of your teeth.

Permanent retainers are bonded to the back of the teeth, making them last many years. This ensures that your smile stays in place without having to remember your removable retainers.

After braces, you’ll need to wear a removable retainer for four months to a year, and you should only take it out when you’re eating or brushing your teeth. Once the prescribed period ends, your orthodontist will assess whether you need to continue wearing the retainer for a longer duration.

Even if there’s no sign of the teeth moving out of position, your orthodontist may suggest wearing your retainers to sleep, to ensure your teeth remain straight and stable. This recommendation may be for several months or years, or even an indefinite period, depending on the condition of your teeth.

Permanent retainers are bonded to the back of the teeth, making them last many years. This ensures that your smile stays in place without having to remember your removable retainers.

Hawley Retainers
5 – 10 years

Vivera Retainers
1 – 5 years

Essix Retainers
1 – 5 years

Permanent Retainers
Up to 20 years

Losing or breaking a retainer can be a frustrating experience, but it’s essential to address the issue as soon as possible. If your retainer is lost or damaged, the first thing to do is to contact our office. We will assess the damage and advise you on the best course of action. In most cases, it’s necessary to have a new retainer made to replace the damaged or lost one.

It’s important to note that going without a retainer can have serious consequences. The longer you go without wearing a retainer, the more likely it is that your teeth will shift back to their original position. This can be frustrating, especially if you’ve just finished orthodontic treatment, but it’s a risk that can be avoided by acting quickly.

Don’t worry if your retainer goes missing or gets damaged – our Retainer Assurance Program has got you covered. When you join, we provide unlimited replacement retainers for up to 6 years after completing treatment, ensuring you don’t have to worry about the cost of replacing them. With this program, you get peace of mind, and the ability to maintain the results of your orthodontic treatment without added stress or expense.