Talkin' Invisalign Teen™ with Dr. Gerling

Image is everything, especially for teenagers. And in an age (and culture) when image is so important, the thought of having metal brackets and wires constantly attached to teeth may intensify the already-delicate confidence of today's teens. But... not to worry! There is a clear alternative to traditional braces! Our team at the office of Dr. John A. Gerling thought we'd remind you that Invisalign Teen™ gives our teens a whole new way to wear braces for a "clearly" amazing smile!

You're probably wondering, "OK, Dr. Gerling, how does Invisalign teen work?"

Well, much in the same fashion as Invisalign, but with a few added characteristics tailored specifically to teenagers’ lifestyles. For example, Invisalign Teen is designed with “compliance indicators” that fade from dark to light during the two week period that particular tray is used and once it has faded teens know to change trays. Each aligner comes with up to six free individual replacement aligners in case the original aligner ends up broken or lost - another big benefit for Dr. Gerling's patients!

The treatment period for Invisalign Teen varies from nine to 18 months. To learn more about these clear aligners, please contact us at (956) 687-2004 and we’ll answer any questions you may have about Invisalign Teen!

We hope you're enjoying your Memorial Day weekend!

Dr. Gerling and team, breaking down the myths and facts about orthodontics

Trust us when we say Dr. Gerling knows there are quite a few myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) flying around these days. But before you buy into those myths, our doctor thinks you should get the facts! We came across a great site that helps set the record straight (no pun intended). Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at Dr. Gerling's office, feel free to give our team a call at (956) 687-2004.

What do you love about Dr. Gerling and team?

Dr. Gerling and team fully understand that not everyone enjoys visiting their orthodontist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about John A. Gerling DDS that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly professional staff? Is it Dr. Gerling himself?

Let us know by posting here, on our Facebook fan page or by giving us a call!

Invisalign: is it for everyone? Dr. Gerling and team explain...

Perhaps you're wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities. You might be wondering: Will Invisalign slur my speech? Will people know I'm in treatment? At John A. Gerling DDS, we'll tell you that you're not alone in your concerns! Dr. Gerling and our team thought we’d take a moment and discuss these clear aligners today.

To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment at our office, the first thing Dr. Gerling does is take an impression of your teeth as they are now - and digitize it. Using special software, Dr. Gerling looks at the current positioning of your teeth and compares it to the way your teeth should look.

Next, we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. The best thing about it all? Nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Gerling is a Certified Invisalign® Provider. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, please give us a call at our McAllen office and have a great weekend.

Dr. Gerling wants to know: What should we blog about?

By now, you probably know how our blogging process works: Week after week, Dr. John Gerling and our creative staff blog about important topics pertinent to orthodontic care and your well-being, including innovative orthodontic techniques we offer.

This week, we thought we’d step back and ask you, our readers: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the always-changing field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog in the coming months? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Dr. Gerling for a while now? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook fan page!