All posts by Dr. Charles Kimes

An Insider’s Guide to Invisalign

Cosmetic Dentistry

Who wouldn’t want a healthy, beautiful smile? At Overland Park Dentistry, we understand the importance of having one, which is why it is our goal to make achieving that as easy and painless for our patients as possible.

One of our most common recommendations for getting that perfect smile is Invisalign. To help you understand the product, we put together a handy list of frequently asked questions below!

What Is the Difference Between Invisalign and Braces?

While both braces and Invisalign were designed to straighten smiles, there are a couple of key differences between the two. Instead of permanent, sharp metal, Invisalign uses smooth, comfort plastic aligners. These aligners can be removed so that patients can brush and floss their teeth normally, in addition to eat whatever foods that they want.

Does Invisalign Really Achieve the Same Results as Braces?

Yes! Invisalign uses a custom-made series of aligners created specifically to fit a patient’s mouth. In fact, your doctor will map out a precise treatment plan, including the exact movements of your teeth. You will be able to see what your teeth will look like at each stage until you have reached the desired smile.

Related read: More About Overland Park Dentistry’s Cosmetic Services

How Long Will It Take to Straighten My Smile?

Not all patients have the same journey to a perfect smile. We do say that for teens, the length of treatments is comparable to that of braces. Patients will typically wear their Invisalign aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day and meet with their doctor every six  weeks to track progress.

Will Invisalign Correct My Overbite?

Invisalign can not only help to correct an overbite, but it can also fix crowding, spacing, a crossbite, and an underbite. Each patient will be able to see which areas need correcting as a part of their treatment plan.

What Does the Invisalign Treatment Look Like?

  1. Talk to an Invisalign provider
  2. A customized treatment plan is created for you
  3. Receive your new custom aligners
  4. Wear a new aligner every two weeks
  5. Reveal your new smile and keep it looking great

What Are the Aligners Made Out of?

Invisalign uses aligners that are made of a thermoplastic material uniquely developed for the Invisalign treatment plan. The aligners look similar to teeth-whitening trays and are virtually invisible.

Don’t see the answer to your question? The team at Overland Park Dentistry is happy to answer any questions that you may have, just give us a call at, (913) 647-8700 for our South Overland Park office and (913) 341-2380 for our North Overland Park office.

8 Dental Tips to Celebrate Children’s Dental Health Month: Plus, An Activity Pack for Kids

Dental Health Tips

Did you know that February is National Children’s Dental Health Month? To celebrate, the team at Overland Park Dentistry put together some helpful tips, plus an activity pack, for your children to learn the importance of oral health.

Dental Health Tips for Your Kiddos

Educating your children on dental hygiene is extremely important for a healthy smile and teeth. Share these tips with them:

  • Looking for a healthy smile? Brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day!
  • Healthy foods to help with a sparkling smile: apples, carrots, broccoli, celery, cabbage, cauliflower, grapes, yogurt, mangos, squash, tomatoes, melons, bananas, water.
  • Visit your dentist two times a year!
  • Don’t eat a lot of sugar.
  • Wear a mouthguard when playing sports.
  • Be sure to floss daily.
  • When brushing your teeth, don’t forget to brush your tongue.
  • Drink water instead of pop.

How to Brush Teeth

When brushing your teeth with your children, share these helpful tips on proper brushing:

  • Hold toothbrush at a 45-degree angle
  • Move along the gum line in a back and forth motion
  • Brush both the front and back of each tooth, plus the top
  • Don’t forget to brush the tongue

Activity Pack for Kids

To help them learn these tips, the American Dental Association put together this interactive activity book. It’s full of coloring, games, stories, and more. Do your children a favor and print this out for them this month! You will both be glad that you did.

Are you looking for a family dentist? Give the Overland Park Dentistry team a call today at, (913) 647-8700 for South Overland Park or (913) 341-2380 for North Overland Park.