7 Delicious Wines that Won’t Stain Your Teeth

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Like many good people in North Carolina, we enjoy a nice glass of wine on a pleasant evening. The problem is that wine can pose a problem for your teeth. Let’s be clear, stained teeth don’t look good when combined with invisible aligners. Fortunately there are a number of wines that taste great and won’t stain your enamel nearly as much as some other popular options. If you are a candidate for Impressions invisible aligners, than you’ll want to keep these in mind!

Am I A Candidate?

We’ve compiled a list of great vinos that go easy on your pearly whites (and on the bank account!) so that you can keep your selection interesting this year.

1) Oaked Chardonnay

Chardonnay continues to hold its title as most popular white wine varietal on Earth, and as such has some truly spectacular options. If you are someone who loves the taste of a bold red wine with lots of oak, you may find the transition to Chardonnay a smooth one. Oaked Chardonnays tend to be buttery, bold and easy to drink, plus they don’t have all the color and tannins of a heavy Cabernet Sauvignon that can cling to teeth, affecting their color. Try something from Australia or California for a tasty wine that goes down easy.

2) Vinho Verde

Vinho Verde is a white wine from Portugal that is incredibly refreshing. Think of the most thirst-quenching dry lemonade of your life with a cool 10+% ABV thrown in for good measure. Several grapes are typically blended to create this gorgeous sipper, and you can usually find rose options as well. Enjoy this extra long summer while sipping on some vinho verde! The best part is, that this wine shouldn’t ever cost you more than $10, which is a great!  You know we know something about what makes a great deal…

3) Chenin Blanc

Chenin Blanc’s beauty lies in how absolutely versatile it is as a grape. Most wine experts agree that there is a style for every wine drinker. Chenin Blanc can make a crisp, lean wine full of tart fruits and gorgeous notes of chamomile. It’s can also be an age-worthy, oaked option similar to a Chardonnay. The array of flavors, variable levels of sweetness, and tingling acidity makes the hunt for Chenin Blanc a constant adventure. Two regions that excel with this grape are South Africa and the Loire Valley in France, both of which should be readily available at your favorite local wine store.

4) Gamay

Otherwise known as Beaujolais一the region in France where this grape originally came from一Gamay is a super light, very drinkable red wine. Many have compared its flavor to something like a Pinot Noir, with lots of red fruit and beautiful earthy notes. The important thing about Gamay is that it is meant to be consumed right away and does not benefit from aging, which makes it a perfect light-bodied red wine that will keep staining to a minimum. French Beaujolais is always an acceptable option, but recently the Gamay coming out of Spain has been equally delicious and offered at a lower cost.

5) Pinot Gris/Grigio

Since both wines come from the same grape, they can essentially be considered interchangeable, but Pinot Gris AKA Pinot Grigio is a top contender on this list. The primary flavors in Pinot Gris are citrus-forward, tasting like lime and lemon munched alongside a delicate pear with just a hint of white flower. Pinot Gris is a very lovable wine and can range slightly in flavor, depending on where in the world it comes from. Italian wine tends to be very dry and acidic, while French Pinot Gris has a bit more body, and American Pinot Gris will have the most exaggerated fruit flavors of all. Why not try one of each and see which you like the best?

6) Pinot Noir

A second red option in this list, Pinot Noir is a popular and special grape to wine experts and novices alike. There’s just something so appealing about the many flavors that can result in a good Pinot Noir. An obvious burst of bright cherry or bold raspberry is often tempered and made more complex by whiffs of mushroom or cola. Pinot Noir grows beautifully in a number of regions around the world, including Oregon, France, Germany, New Zealand, Chile and South Africa. Enjoy this delectable red with food or on its own, but be sure to savour its many flavors and nuanced character.

7) Riesling

Riesling has gotten a terrible rep over the years as being a cloyingly sweet, uninteresting wine with little to offer the refined palate. That description could not be further from the truth. In actuality, Riesling is and remains one of the most interesting wines that a person could drink. Riesling has a long history in Germany, and Hieronymus Bock even mentioned it in a novel he wrote in the 16th century.

With a masterful control of its level of sweetness versus acidity, German producers have, in particular, been essential to defining Riesling. It also happens to be a very age-worthy white wine, which is pretty difficult to find, and a great complement to food. Expect variable flavors, from juicy pineapple to distinct diesel fuel. Also, Riesling is made into a dry wine just as frequently as it is sweet. Look out for the word “Trocken” if you want a German wine that is dry on the palate.

Conclusion

Drinking a glass of wine in the evening is a cherished habit for many of us, and with this list you don’t have to worry about staining your beautiful smile! Be sure to brush and rinse your teeth each night afterwards, however, as all alcohol still has residual sugar that isn’t beneficial if it’s left to hang around your mouth. And if you’re working on your Impressions smile, don’t forget to remove your aligners while sipping!

If you are looking to improve the shape of your teeth, get in touch with us to set up an appointment. Impressions is a top at-home aligner system that makes orthodontic adjustment as easy as can be. We are always looking to help out more people with getting the smile they always hoped for, and we may be able to help you out too!

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Impressions Celerbrates Library Card Sign-Up Month in NC

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Did you know that September is National Library Card Sign-Up Month? To celebrate that distinctive feeling from many pleasant hours spent scouring favorite corners of the local library, we’re encouraging everyone who doesn’t have a library card to sign up for one today!

Throughout the month, bring a library card to your consultation at the ImpressionsHub in Asheville or Hendersonville and get a special $300 discount for Impressions invisible aligners. If you aren’t familiar with this new at-home treatment from Blue Ridge Orthodontics, they can straighten your teeth in half the time of traditional treatment and for half the cost.

Am I A Candidate?

Additionally, we are going to purchase a book for your local library, if you bring in a library card to your appointment.

What Do Beautiful Smiles & Library Books Have in Common?

Are you curious about why we are running this library card special? Besides a deep love of the knowledge and enrichment contained within a good library, research has shown that improving your smile and reading books can improve our feelings of well-being and increase our positivity. Additional studies indicate that more young people are finding their way into the library, and we want to do our part to encourage this trend in North Carolina.

Still skeptical? This infographic should illustrate our point even more clearly:

Graphic showing common benefits from straight teeth and reading books

Benefits of Reading Books

When was the last time you enjoyed a good book? Hopefully, it wasn’t too long ago, because non-habitual readers are missing out on a significant number of benefits. Reading books on a regular basis can lead to:

  • Improved writing skills
  • Increased empathy
  • Added knowledge and information
  • Improved focus and concentration
  • Increased creativity
  • Enriched language and vocabulary

Benefits of Straight Teeth

With Impressions, it has never been easier (or more affordable) to get the smile of your dreams! Besides the aesthetic benefits, straighter teeth can lead to:

  • Stronger teeth
  • Improved confidence
  • Corrected speech impediments
  • Improved digestion
  • Decreased tooth decay and gum disease
  • Better breath

As we mentioned before, both reading and straight teeth produce some similar benefits that we want to highlight this month – those being a greater sense of well-being and a positive attitude.

Who wouldn’t like to feel that?

Conclusion

National Library Card Sign-up Month is a special event, and we’d like to encourage more people in North Carolina to visit their local library. These institutions deserve our support – and you may be pleasantly surprised if it has been a while since you visited one. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for regular updates throughout the month. If you have any questions about our library card special, then please don’t hesitate to ask us a question using our online chat or at 844.846.8836.

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How Your Diet Affects Your Teeth & Smile

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We all know that our diet is impactful on the health of our bodies, but did you know that your diet can affect your teeth as well? It’s true! There are certain foods that benefit the health of your teeth, and others that degrade their physical condition. Some may be obvious, like sodas and candy, but others are often less apparent.

Every food or beverage you consume comes into contact with your teeth, meaning that those foods will impact the health of your teeth and gums. How exactly does that work? We’ve compiled a guide to explain food’s impact on your oral health.

Did you know that the benefits of straight teeth extend much further than simply building your confidence? They can have a significant impact on your overall dental health as well. Try Impressions invisible aligners to straighten your teeth for 50% less than traditional orthodontics like braces.

Am I A Candidate?

 

Culprits to Cavities and Decay

We were all young once, and likely we all endured the unfortunate experience of realizing that we had cavities that needed to be filled. Many foods that typical American children consume一processed sugar, candy, soda一eat away at the tooth’s enamel, causing cavities. These foods have come to be associated clearly with tooth decay and are readily avoided by most parents.

But what about the other foods that cause cavities? If you hadn’t thought of that question in the past, don’t worry: few people do. But there are other foods that should be avoided to ensure good dental health.

Skip the Sticky

Tacky foods such as honey, raisins, dried fruits, and molasses, as well as starchy foods like potato chips and bread, cling to the surface of your teeth and increase the risk of cavities. These items are best enjoyed in moderation and followed by good oral health habits, such as brushing and flossing, and are acceptable in small amounts.

Watch the Acidity

Fresh produce such as tomatoes, lemons and oranges are all important parts of a healthy diet, however the acidity in citrus fruits and other types of fruits can negatively affect your tooth enamel. Try eating them with other foods as part of a meal.

Be Mindful of Staining

Drinks such as coffee, tea and red wine, though delicious, can adversely affect the outer layer of your teeth, known as enamel. The color pigments present in these beverages, called chromogens, attach to and stain enamel. While that doesn’t mean they’re totally off limits, be sure to drink plenty of water to wash it down.

Drink Responsibly

Alcohol consumption can lead to dry mouths and dehydration, which are two risk factors for tooth decay. While limiting your alcohol consumption over time is a smart move, especially since alcohol can increase your risk of mouth cancer, make sure to drink lots of water alongside any alcohol that you consume.

The Right Eating Habits

Blueberries and other anti inflammatory foods are good for your teeth and smile

This guide isn’t all about the stuff you should avoid一we also want to equip our readers with a good idea of what foods are good for teeth.

Go for Anti-inflammatory

Anti-inflammatory foods, such as cherries, blueberries, kale, broccoli, beans, lentils and more, can help the health of your teeth as much as they do the rest of your body. Studies show that an anti-inflammatory diet correlates with healthier gums and lower rates of teeth loss, while certain refined foods and saturated fats contribute to inflammation.

Calcium Counts

Those who get the recommended daily amount of calcium, which is between 1,000 and 1,300 milligrams each day, are less likely to develop gum disease. Milk is an obvious source, as are other dairy products, but other foods can satisfy a calcium need, including beans, almonds and leafy greens.

Keep it Balanced

The American Dental Association recommends eating a well-balanced diet, made up of fruit, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins like fish and beans, as well as dairy. All these foods contribute to better oral health.

Healthy Fats

An important component of an anti-inflammatory diet, healthy fats promote oral health. This includes olive oil, fatty fish such as salmon, avocados, and nuts. Be careful with that last one一though nuts are good for your health overall, you’ll want to make sure to brush and floss after you’ve eaten them.

What Else Can You Do?

Toothbrush used to maintain good oral health in patient

Now that you have a better idea of what to eat and what to avoid in regards to your diet, consider the other actions that you can take to promote the health of your teeth.

Stay Hydrated

Water is essential to the protection of our teeth (and the health of our bodies!), so don’t skimp when it comes to hydration. It supports the health of your teeth and washes away residual food particles that could negatively impact your oral health. Water also stimulates saliva production, which keeps the mouth clear and free of leftover food.

Try Sugar-free Gum

It may not be something that you’re used to hearing, but if the gum you chew is sugar-free, it can be really good for your oral health! Chewing sugarless gum reduces the risk of cavities because it stimulates saliva and moves around materials that may lead to tooth decay.

Practice Good Oral Health Habits

If you are trying to keep your teeth healthy and happy, the best way to do so is keeping them clean. Be sure to practice good oral health habits, like brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day. Leftover food particles can contribute to the erosion of enamel and the creation of cavities.

Your diet can affect more than just your waistline–if you’re not careful, you may find yourself in an unfortunate dental situation. Avoid any unnecessary doctor visits and cavity fillings by keeping your mouth and teeth in pristine shape through a series of good dietary choices and even better cleaning habits.

If you have questions regarding your teeth and wish to speak to a doctor, contact Blue Ridge Orthodontics, a leader in Asheville dental services.

We hope that your teeth are in the best shape they can be. If you are in need of orthodontic correction, find out if you’re a candidate for Impressions.

Am I A Candidate?
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North Carolina’s Top Style Bloggers

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North Carolina is quickly becoming a stronghold of fierce, fashionable ladies who offer inspirational stories right alongside their expertly styled looks. In the last couple of years, style has seriously improved in the Tar Heel State, and we for one are very excited about it. Whether you’re an Asheville area local or hanging on the coast, there are plenty of inspiring bloggers out there proving that fashion doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

Check out some of our favorite style and beauty experts and what they’re serving on their blogs.

Meet Brooke – The Tony Townie

We had to keep it local for our first gal! Brooke Williams (otherwise known as the Tony Townie) is an Asheville native and wardrobe stylist who found a way to blend her passion for fashion with her life as a mother. Williams integrates her lifestyle and her daughter, Harlow, into the beautiful posts and fashion tips that she’s made her career on. She also features our awesome home city of Asheville in lots of her posts, and we have to commend her for that!

Continuing my #selfcare reboot from last weekend into the new week 💚 For far too long I’ve been parceling myself and my spirit into tiny pieces trying to stay on top of everything I “need” to do, leaving very little time for anything I want to do. It’s like every minute of my day is scheduled before the day even dawns. Guilt runs rampant and it seems no matter how I structure my day something goes undone or doesn’t meet my standard and rather than focus on all I have achieved I get mired down with all I should’ve done. A miserable spiral if there ever was one… • So my current approach is take it as it comes. Embrace this somewhat chaotic season of life and realize one day I’ll miss it. To stop worrying so much about schedules I can’t meet and feel good about what I can fit in. To say no when I just can’t accommodate. To let inspiration strike when it’s there instead of forcing something to check a box. To soak up these last few days of summer and realize I only have 16 left until my baby flies on her own wings….what could possibly be happening that’s more worthy of my attention than these fleeting precious moments?? Time sure seems to be passing faster than I ever remember… • Dress and bag: @virtueasheville 👗 Photo: @bri.digital 📷 • • • • • • • #ashevillenc #asheville #ashevilleblogger #828isgreat #iheartavl #ashevillelocal #ashevillelove #blondesandcookies #lovedailydose #prettylittleinspo #theeverydaygirl #belovedstories #thedarlingmovement #alittlebeautyeveryday #myeverydaymagic #momentsofmine #lifestyleblogger #motherhoodinspired #bloggermom #modernmom #summerstyle #summerdress #frenchgirlstyle #strawbag #fashionphotography #fbloggerstyle #styleinspiration #enjoythemoments #summerstateofmind

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Be sure to check out Brooke’s blog and Instagram for some daily beauty inspiration, and follow her for updates!

Meet Melissa – Melissa Chanel

Melissa Chanel is a master of beauty, style, and achieving the perfect hair day always based in Charlotte. She is fashion-forward always and unapologetically so, and we are forever envious of her sweet collection of kicks. She is not only a source for inspiring outfits of the day but hilarious, honest commentary on her own life, including a great piece about online dating.

Follow Melissa Chanel’s Instagram for incredible looks shot in and around Charlotte, and in case you were wondering, Chanel is really her middle name.

Meet Lauren – Lauren Schwaiger

Lauren is a lifestyle blogger with a beautiful smile based in Charlotte. She also spends her time as a real estate agent. There’s a lot to love about her blog–the photos are great, she always looks stylish, and she’s clearly a big fan of wellness–but perhaps the best thing of all is how honest and approachable she seems. She’s not afraid to have a little fun and keep it classy while she does so.

Check out her Instagram to get updates on her casual-chic style.

Meet Kirby – Fashion By Day

Kirby Wolf is the woman before the lens of the expertly coordinated Fashion by Day blog. She spent years in L.A. as a personal stylist, and it certainly shows in the looks she sports. Her style is definitely classic with a heavy dose of West Coast cool. Kirby is one of those people who has the ability to make almost any item look wearable, even a pair of bright orange flared capri pants.

Take a look at Kirby’s Instagram for regular posts that will inspire you to reach outside the box with your look and still pull it off, as well as some lovely shots of her wedding.

Meet Louella – Louella Reese

Talk about well curated! Louella Reese is the creative brainchild of Laura Leigh, a Charlotte resident in her 20s who has an eye for color coordination and detail (plus a seriously beautiful head of hair). Her style is certainly girly but not without a fair bit of spunk, especially when she rocks a pair of overalls. She also talks candidly about her husband and her relationship.

Casual Sunday vibes 💙 just a reminder {because I know you neeeeed another one 🙈} today is the last day of the #NSale and my sweater + jeans are included and surprisingly still in stock! My sweater comes a variety of colors {black, pink, orange, cream, and red} and is perfect to wear now and later, I wear it around the house lots! … On another note, today is legit super casual and laid back for us, as our whole weekend has been! Which I’ve totally loved! May, June, and the first half of July were so busy for us, I’m really appreciating the slow down…before things get bananas the last week of August all the way through September 😬🎉 how’s the end of your summer shaping up to be? A slow-down or busy as ever? … Shop my #nordstromanniversarysale look + accessories by following @louellareese in the @liketoknow.it app or click the link in my bio for easy access to all the detail #liketkit http://liketk.it/2wQcj #freepeople #framedenim #summerstyle #casualstyle #blueandwhite #americanstyle #ootdmagazine #lcdotcomloves #summerdenim #summersweater #thehappynow #thatsdalring pc: @kristen.bishop.day

A post shared by Laura Leigh | Louella Reese (@louellareese) on

Check out her blog and follow her on Instagram  for selectively organized content.

Meet Ferriss – Just Ferriss

The woman behind the blog Just Ferriss is enviable in many ways, including her excellent wardrobe and gorgeous red hair. Her style is most definitely classic with an edge (as it says on her Insta), and she keeps things relatable by recycling key pieces and showcasing items that clearly came from a bygone era.

Follow Ferriss on Instagram for a look around Asheville and her many adorable outfits.

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Are You a Candidate for Impressions Invisible Aligners?

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When getting started with Impressions, the first step is to visit one of our ImpressionsHubs for an evaluation performed by a board-certified dental specialist. During this appointment, they will decide if our proprietary aligner system is best for you to achieve the smile of your dreams.

Am I A Candidate

Currently, ImpressionsHubs are situated in Western North Carolina, but the goal is to expand our network across the country.

Invisible aligners are taking the dental world by storm right now, and we get a lot of questions from individuals (like yourself) regarding their candidacy. Impressions may not be the right solution for everyone, so we’ve compiled a list of common questions and answers to give you an idea of whether or not you’re a candidate for our Impressions aligners.

What Are You Looking to Fix?

This is by far the most important indicator of candidacy for Impressions. What exactly are you looking to improve about your smile and how severe is your condition? Invisible aligners are great to fix a host of common issues一crowding, spacing, overbite and underbite一but there are limits to what they’re able to do: severe orthodontia is best left up to traditional correction systems.

If your issues are severe, you may be better suited to traditional braces, clear braces or the Invisalign system. The best way to find out is to come in and speak with one of our doctors during a complimentary consultation. If they find that you qualify for Impressions, you could get started with an 3D iTero digital intraoral scan before you leave the office that day!

Are Your Teeth Healthy?

Invisible aligners surround the teeth, slowly pushing them into proper placement. Due to the design of these aligners, it’s important that a patient’s teeth be in good dental shape. Wrapping a set of teeth in durable plastic for 22 hours a day can exacerbate existing dental issues.

Anyone interested in Impressions aligners must have visited their dentist within the last year and have any cavities filled ahead of time. Taking care of these steps in advance will make treatment that much easier and ensure your oral health is in top condition, which can further benefit the rest of your body.

What Is Your Age?

Candidacy for Impressions certainly depends on a person’s age. Invisible aligners benefit adults and older teenagers the most一their teeth and jaw have stopped growing, and they’ll be able to comply with the needs of treatment. As an added bonus, invisible aligners offer transparency, which is a much bigger area of focus for older patients. They want to be able to seek the treatment they’ve always wanted without putting their life on hold.

With Impressions, you get to see your smile change and don’t have to feel self-conscious while it’s doing so. Bulky metalware can make a young adult feel like a kid again, and rarely go over well in office settings. On the flip side, younger patients benefit from traditional braces because they don’t need to be removed at any time during treatment. While there are exceptions to every rule, generally candidacy is best for those patients that are nearing adulthood or already there.

Are You Dedicated to Fixing Your Smile?

This kind of question is important for anyone seeking orthodontic treatment一the investment is significant and work is certainly required一but it’s especially important for those interested in Impressions.

One of the key differences between invisible aligners and traditional methods of treatment is that aligners can be removed. When an Impressions patient eats or drinks anything other than water, their aligners have to be removed to keep them clean and sanitary.

Afterwards, the patient must brush and rinse their mouth thoroughly before replacing their aligners. It is also important to regularly clean aligners to keep them free of bacteria and prevent clouding. Though Impressions is certainly easier and more comfortable than most orthodontic options, this responsibility cannot be overlooked.

After the treatment period, which lasts between six to nine months on average, you will be responsible for wearing your retainer to maintain the new shape of your teeth. This is standard for all orthodontic correction options, but it’s important for a patient to understand what’s expected of them before beginning treatment. Invisible aligners are only as effective as you allow them to be; if you don’t wear them for the recommended 22 hours a day, they will not produce the best results. Younger patients with less discipline may be inclined to remove aligners because of some discomfort, and thus are not recommended to seek this style of treatment.

What Other Dental Work Have You Had?

Though previous orthodontic corrections and dental work do not exempt your candidacy for Impressions, it’s important that your doctor know ahead of time so that they can decide if aligners are the right fit. Many adults who previously received orthodontic treatment via traditional metal braces may have a permanent retainer on either the top or bottom rows of their teeth. If this is the case, the retainer will need to be removed before they can begin treatment with Impressions. The aligners can’t shift a permanent retainer, and it would hinder their ability to correct that row of teeth.

The same is true for implants or bridges. Implants are screwed into the jawbone, and thus will not move during treatment. Talk to your family doctor about the best course of action if you currently have permanent or semi-permanent pieces in your mouth, and please feel free to come in for a complimentary appointment to consult with our doctors as well.

Am I A Candidate

Conclusion

While all the above questions should be considered before you make a decision about treatment, the most important one really is, are you ready to have the smile that you’ve always wanted? Impressions is an exciting option for those who are seeking mild to moderate orthodontic correction. Because of the teledentistry model we use, patients save time and money when they use Impressions. Just read what our good friend and patient Kaitlin Gonzalez had to say about her experience using Impressions.

There is a lot to love about invisible aligners, but they may not be the right style of treatment for every individual. Ask yourself the above questions or fill out this small questionnaire to find out if Impressions is right for you.

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Invisible Braces: What are the Advantages?

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What’s the deal with invisible braces?

Your friends are doing it, you’ve heard about it from a coworker, and now even your parents are showing interest. Invisible braces are sweeping the country, and it seems like there’s no limit to how popular this orthodontic option can become.

Am I A Candidate

Thanks to new teledentistry models like Impressions, more people than ever before have the opportunity to correct their smiles without having to sacrifice their comfort or confidence. But what exactly are the advantages to this style of treatment?

The Braces Are Practically Invisible

Most adults you ask will say the same thing: they can’t imagine having to wear a mouth full of metal for months at a time just to fix their smile. This kind of reasoning has kept millions from achieving the smiles they’ve always wanted. Braces have never been pleasant, but the idea is especially unattractive for those who are trying to rise up in their career.

Enter Invisalign, the system of dental correction that relies on clear aligners to do the work. Invisible braces have changed the way that people see orthodontic care, and yes, they actually are invisible, especially if you take proper care of them. Skepticism over how clear the aligners can be makes sense, but there’s no need to worry, and that goes double if you’re using Impressions.

via GIPHY

The Impressions system was created to offer treatment for mild to moderate cases. Invisalign, while convenient, is expensive and usually intended for serious dental correction. Impressions was designed to work fast and provide results; patients will wear a set of aligners for a week or two at most before switching to their next set. This ensures that the aligners stay clean and clear. Patients that use Impressions should never have to worry about excessive cloudiness and opacity in their aligners for the entirety of their treatment.

You Eat What You Love

The Braces Diet is a very real adjustment that patients have to deal with if they seek traditional treatment, but not so with invisible braces. With Impressions, we use clear plastic aligners made from an ultra-durable material to correct the shape of your teeth. Their design is based off an iTero digital intraoral scan of your mouth, which affords us total accuracy.

These aligners can be taken out whenever a patient needs to, especially while they’re eating, meaning there’s no need to skip the pretzels and peanut butter at snack time! While the window a person has to enjoy their meals may shrink, it will be hard to find much change in your eating habits after beginning treatment. Some patients have even claimed to lose weight while using Impressions.

Your Oral Hygiene Won’t Suffer

It can be very difficult to brush and floss your teeth with traditional braces on, and because of that some patients who seek that style of treatment see a decline in their oral hygiene. Invisible aligners are convenience and comfort at its best 一remove the aligners whenever you need to brush and floss, and place them back in when you’re finished.

It’s important that you brush and rinse after every meal and snack while using invisible braces. This keeps your teeth clean and free of bacteria or acids that can collect there and build up over time, which can damage the aligners. Traditional braces may contribute to gum disease and gingivitis due to neglect, but invisible aligners keep oral hygiene easy and accessible.

Safer and More Comfortable to Wear

Traditional metal braces are more than just unsightly, they can often cause lacerations if gum tissue gets stuck in a bracket. Clear aligners are totally smooth and mold to the shape of your teeth. There isn’t any excessive or protruding wire to catch or scratch your gum and tongue, and your mouth will be much more comfortable.

via GIPHY

Braces can be bulky and take up a lot of space. They can also change a person’s speech pattern slightly and make patients feel self conscious, especially in a professional setting. Invisible aligners are steadily becoming more popular, especially with those who don’t wish to sacrifice their confidence in the short term. They are impossible to see and won’t obstruct the way that you talk, leaving you free to make as many presentations as you’d like.

Start Feeling Better Today

A beautiful smile is the best accessory for both men and women. It can transform a person’s life just by supplying them with the confidence they’ve always wanted. Too many Americans are letting their teeth shape the way their future will unfold, but that doesn’t have to be the case. A good first impression is much easier to make when you feel good about the way you look.

Not only do invisible aligners offer a solution to those who want to discreetly correct their teeth, they show results much faster than traditional braces do. Because of this, treatment time with aligners is usually much shorter, which can save patients money. The average impressions patient is only using aligners for 6-9 months, after which time they’re left with the smile of their dreams.

Conclusion

Oral care and dental correction no longer needs to be done with metal braces. Thanks to revolutionary new technology and incredible materials, more people are going to be able to see the change they’ve always hoped for. Additionally, orthodontic care doesn’t need to cost insane amounts: Impressions typically costs half that of Invisalign, and we file with all insurance companies. If that still isn’t quite enough, we offer financing options as well.

The perfect smile is waiting. For anyone who’s wished they could fix the way their teeth look, there’s Impressions. Get in touch with us today to request an appointment and come in for a complimentary consultation with one of our doctors. Together, you’ll decide the right course of action and get started on treatment before you leave that day.

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How Impressions Brings Orthodontics to More People in North Carolina

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The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services just released a report saying that more than 60% of counties in the U.S. do not have an orthodontist office. This means that residents of those counties do not have easy access to an orthodontic practice and likely have to take additional time off work and out of school to seek treatment. Impressions is doing its part to help out. Thanks to the teledentistry model in place, more Americans, and specifically those in our home state of North Carolina, are able to access quality orthodontic care and achieve the smile of their dreams from the comfort of their homes.

Impressions is a new and exciting orthodontic care option that delivers the trays to you. Instead of spending a chunk of time in-office, most of the treatment for Impressions can be done from your favorite spot on the couch. Our aligners, made from the same ultra durable material as Invisalign, are delivered all at once, so a patient can follow instructions and see results in less time than normal.

Since less in-office time is needed for treatment, Impressions is able to reach a wider audience. We’ve been able to help patients from all over the state of North Carolina. Three trips to one of our ImpressionsHubs, including the complimentary consultation, is all that’s required to get straighter, brighter teeth in a matter of months. Find out if you’re a candidate…

Am I A Candidate

Why Use Impressions?

Though we are proud that the teledentistry model has made quality care available to those who are traditionally underserved in this country, there are other great reasons to use Impressions too! Even if you live in a county that has a strong orthodontic presence, you may find Impressions is easier and more affordable than the options offered at a traditional practice. That’s because Impressions has revolutionized the clear aligner system.

Unlike Invisalign, which is effective but often costly, Impressions produces results for half the cost of traditional clear aligners at half the required time. We developed this infographic to provide more information about Impressions and what to expect.

Impressions Was Created By BRO’s Dr. Roberts

Dr. Luke Roberts developed Impressions because he sincerely believes that more people deserve the smile of their dreams. After years of working in an established orthodontic office, he realized that many members of our community in Western North Carolina can not afford traditional treatment, and thus are unable to make the changes that they hope for.

With Impressions, our driving goal is to bring orthodontic treatment to more people across the U.S.

How Does These Invisible Aligners Work?

Impressions is an incredibly easy-to-use system that also offers results. When you come in for a consultation at one of our ImpressionsHubs, a doctor will examine your jaw and teeth. If you are a candidate for Impressions, you will receive an iTero Digital Scan that same day at no cost to you and will be able to see a 3D image of your future smile within minutes.

Why 3D Scans Are Better Than The Putty for Impressions

We decided to use the iTero Scanner because we saw how the traditional dental impressions taken with putty often lead to ill fitting aligners. A quality impression is one of the most crucial aspects to treatment, so we took a page out of the Invisalign book.

Instead of sending putty and a tray to patient’s houses and expecting them to get a good impression on their own, we bring our patients to an ImpressionsHub and take a comprehensive, accurate 360 degree digital scan of their entire mouth and build our aligners from there. With the iTero Scan, nothing is left up to chance. Patients will be able to preview their treatment course from the office and leave knowing exactly what to expect moving forward. That’s just another reason to love Impressions invisible aligners.

Straight Teeth in Half the Time As Invisalign

Impressions is designed to provide treatment in a drastically reduced amount of time. No, we haven’t cracked some secret code that makes your teeth move at hyperspeed. The mission of Impressions from its inception was to provide orthodontic care to those who need mild to moderate correction in the Asheville area. Most Americans would benefit from some kind of orthodontic care, but only a handful are able to afford it.

Impressions wants to bridge that gap, offering corrections in cases that aren’t as serious as others. On average, our patients are able to achieve the smile of their dreams in only six to nine months. Compare that to the average treatment time of Invisalign (18 months) or traditional braces (24 months), and you can see why so many people in Western North Carolina are looking to Impressions for orthodontic care.

Straight Teeth for Half the Cost of Invisalign

Finally, Impressions costs much less than most other orthodontic treatment options, and that is for a couple of reasons. First and foremost, Impressions is an at-home orthodontic treatment, which means that the majority of your #teethgains can be done from inside your office or the comfort of your couch. Not only will you spend less money out of pocket for the treatment, you won’t have to waste resources on gas and time away from work to make constant appointments.

Of course, our team is available to you via phone, email, or social media. If needed, you can make emergency appointments at our ImpressionsHub. Fortunately, most patients will only need to come into the office three times throughout their entire treatment.

Within six weeks following your consultation appointment, your invisible aligners will be shipped to your front door. You’ll wear each set for the dictated amount of time before switching to the next one. All of your materials will be labeled and each Impressions kit comes with a short but detailed manual (with illustrations), as well as a complimentary whitening gel.

Before you know it, you’ll be sporting a bright, white, perfectly aligned set of teeth that everyone around you will be complimenting.

Book Your Consultation Today

We understand that life moves a mile a minute, and more people than ever are working long hours to achieve their dreams. Impressions is the orthodontic option that works with you. It offers quality care alongside convenience and affordability. To find out if you are a candidate for Impressions treatment, click the button…

Am I A Candidate
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14 Reasons People Love Impressions Invisible Aligners

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Straight teeth in as little as six months, invisible braces that are shipped to your door for half the price of Invisalign, do Impressions invisible aligners really live up to the hype?  It’s understandable that you might be skeptical of these claims, but you ask one our patients, they’ll tell you the same thing– “I love my Impressions!”

This at-home at-home treatment is based on the Invisalign system and proven to straighten your teeth in half the time as those clear aligners.

Am I A Candidate?

But don’t take our word for it: read what other people are saying about Impressions and how it can change your life for the better.

1) Get Your Dream Smile in Just 6 Months

So many people end up with treatment that takes years to work. With Impressions, the average length of treatment is 6 to 9 months. That means less time worrying about your teeth and more time flashing a flawless smile!

2) Minimal Office Visits

Impressions starts with a complimentary consultation at the ImpressionsHub where you’ll get to meet our orthodontic specialists in person and get an idea of what to expect during treatment. On that very same day, we’ll take a 3D scan of your teeth that will show you exactly how your smile will transform over the coming months. You’ll leave our office feeling fresh, excited, and ready to make an incredible impression.

3) No Messy DIY Putty Kits

Other providers of at-home alternatives to Invisalign may send you a DIY putty kit to take a mold of your teeth and develop trays from there, but we’ve found that a 3D scan is the most effective way to capture an image of a patient’s teeth. A lot can go wrong when mixing and applying putty to your own teeth; we figured we’d keep it clean and easy, ultimately making the process of getting your invisible aligners more convenient for everyone involved.

4) You Get To Preview Your New Smile

Another great part about our initial consultation is that you’ll be able to see exactly what your smile will look like at the end of treatment before you even walk out the door. That’s thanks to our 3D iTero scanner and some amazing dental technology.  If you want to see a preview of your dream smile, just let us know!

5) Your Impressions Trays Are Shipped to Your Door

Impressions box with clear aligners gets delivered to patient in Asheville

Your entire set of trays will be shipped directly to your door within six weeks of your initial consultation. You hardly have to leave your house to get started on the smile of your dreams. Our box includes every aligner that you’ll need throughout treatment, as well as a little something extra!

6) Work with a Diamond-Level Invisalign Orthodontist

You may not be familiar with the phrase “Diamond-Level”, but it’s basically the highest certification that an Invisalign provider can achieve. Translation? You know that your teeth are going to be in good hands throughout treatment.

7) Impressions Aligners Are Made With the Best Material

When compared to other Invisalign alternatives, Impressions is second to none. It’s the best product in its category because of three things:

  1. Every treatment starts with a 3D iTero scan of the teeth
  2. Impressions uses the Invisalign system to develop a treatment plan and manufacture the aligners — so the patient is getting the best product made with the best materials in the clear aligner industry
  3. Impressions treatment is planned by a Diamond-level Invisalign provider. This assures the patient that they will have the best and most effective clear aligner treatment

8) It’s Half the Cost of Invisalign & Braces

Invisalign is a wonderful way to correct one’s teeth, but the cost can be significant. Enter Impressions, the clear-aligner alternative to Invisalign that offers effective correction at literally half the cost. That means that you’ll be saving thousands on treatment and still walk away with a gorgeous set of teeth.

9) They Offer Affordable Financing Options

We believe in Impressions, which is why we want our patients to be able to experience the difference first-hand. To that end, our financing options have never been better. Not only does Impressions cost half of what Invisalign costs, it files with all insurance companies. Still not able to afford it? Don’t worry, we have a number of flexible financing options that can make Impressions available to you.

10) Impressions Aligners Compliment Your Busy Lifestyle

Woman takes out her Impressions invisible aligners before taking a selfie

Impressions is the best orthodontic treatment for people who are constantly on the go. Whether it’s for business, pleasure, or both, you’ll be able to bring your trays with you wherever you go. Since all of your aligners arrive in the mail at once, there’s no need to schedule deliveries or request early pickups, which can end up being quite the hassle. When it’s time to eat or drink, Impressions aligners pop right off!

11) Impressions Comes with a Complimentary Teeth Whitening Kit

Since we know that no perfect set of teeth should have to be dull, we’re offering complimentary teeth whitening with all Impressions kits. Inside your box, you’ll find a sample of a premium whitening gel that will lighten your teeth – you’ll notice significant difference after the first time you use it. See what Kaitlin Gonzalez, makeup artist and online beauty blogger, had to say about it in our interview with her.

12) Have Questions? The Impressions Team is Here to Help

We understand that the idea of “at-home” orthodontic treatment might be a little intimidating. What do you do when you have questions about your trays? And what if a set gets lost? When we launched Impressions, we dedicated ourselves to providing exemplary customer service. We know that unexpected potholes come up on the road to oral correction, which is why we want you to know we are here for you!

See that chat box in the right hand corner? You can ask our team questions whenever you need to!

13) Get Your Perfect Smile一Without Sacrificing your Confidence

The beauty of clear aligners is that they offer the opportunity to achieve the perfect smile without having to sacrifice your confidence along the way. Our trays are made with the most-durable material in the business and are virtually undetectable.

Let’s face it, who wants to spend 18 months with a mouth full of metal in order to get straight teeth? With Impressions, you can feel confident during your treatment, because our aligners are virtually invisible. There’s no need to feel shy as you work your way to the smile of your dreams.

14) Keeps Your Mouth Kissable

Woman feels confident with invisible aligners on date

Maybe this isn’t on the top of everyone’s list of priorities, but it’s certainly nice to know. With Impressions, your teeth are treated by a clear set of plastic aligners made from a super durable material. You’ll be able to feel the difference that the aligners are making, but your significant other won’t.

Am I A Candidate?
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Beauty Blogger, Unstoppable Mom, and Rising Instagram Star Kaitlin Gonzalez Shares Her Impressions Story

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Kaitlin Gonzalez understands aesthetic appeal…

As a freelance makeup artist and online beauty blogger with over 13k Instagram followers, she is literally the face of her company. When Kaitlin needed discreet orthodontic correction, she saw the appeal in Impressions invisible aligners right away.

Recently Kaitlin sat down with us to discuss the details of her experience with Impressions (so far). We couldn’t be more excited to share her Impressions journey with you today!

How did you find out about Impressions?

Well, I had an acquaintance who worked for Dr. Roberts at Blue Ridge Orthodontics in Asheville. She asked if I had ever considered doing something to correct my smile. By chance, I had recently gone in to get scanned for Invisalign with a different orthodontist. So this acquaintance excitedly shared the details of this new treatment they were offering called Impressions. Compared to Invisalign, these new invisible aligners were incredibly affordable!

You see, this was not my first time seeking orthodontic treatment as an adult. I had gotten traditional metal braces about 6 years ago. After 18 months of treatment, my smile was certainly looking better, but I wasn’t great about wearing my reminder. It eventually got to the point where my retainer didn’t fit in my mouth anymore. After that, I admittedly gave up on it. If I was going to going to make this investment in my smile again, I wanted to do things differently. After learning about all of the advantages with Impressions, it was a pretty easy choice.

Did you have any concerns about the treatment before you got started?

I was worried that I’d be required about to come in to their office frequently一this would have been a deal breaker for me. Fortunately, that is not something I have to worry about with Impressions. When they say it is an “at-home orthodontic treatment,” they mean it! Impressions invisible aligners are a perfect fit for me as a mom and business owner who works from home.

Compared to traditional metal braces and Invisalign, the Impressions treatment plan is much more affordable, requires less office visits, and takes a lot less time. If you are curious about Impressions, they will offer you a complimentary consultation at the ImpressionsHub — it’s definitely worth it!

What was the experience when you visited our ImpressionsHub?

It was great!!

Everyone is very welcoming and their ImpressionsHub is nothing short of impressive. The staff is great and I loved Dr. Schuler! During my consultation, they were very open and took the time to go over each of my options. That made a big difference for me一I felt cared for right off the bat.

Upon arriving, I met with the treatment coordinator and got some pics and X-rays taken. Then I was shown a video and a real example of the impressions trays, which I liked. After that, I met with one of their orthodontists, Dr. Schuler. She made sure I understood what I would need to do to ensure the best results with Impressions, but she wasn’t pushy about anything.

My projected treatment time was just 16 weeks!!

Were you shown how Impressions would transform your smile when you came in for your scan?

Yes! I was able to see a 3D preview of my smile, which took less than 10 minutes to complete— it was super fast. I was given the option to come back in again to meet with the Dr. Schuler if I had any concerns about the treatment plan after the scan. While I didn’t have to, I really appreciated that Dr. Schuler would have been willing to meet with me again. It really made me feel important and cared for, which was awesome!

Can you tell us a little bit about the Impressions box when it arrived at your home – what was your initial Impression?

I got my Impressions box in about two weeks (though it normally takes up to six.) It was delivered right to my doorstep and it contained this hand written note from the person who had packed it. The note was really touching and encouraged me to reach out if had any issues. There are details and clear instructions for everything included in your Impressions box, like what you need to do with the trays.

Impressions box with clear aligners gets delivered to patient in Asheville

It was short, sweet and easy to follow.

There was a sample of the premium whitening gel in the box, which worked really well for me! I will probably end up buying more of the whitening get after I run out. They also include a sticker in the box that has some details about the person who packed your Impressions box. For me, this personable touch makes a really big difference and elevates the whole experience. I learned that my box had been packed with care by Karissa.

So another cool aspect of Impressions is that you get all of your trays right at the start. You are getting a sneak preview of what my teeth will look like by the end of treatment. That’s really cool!

Anything you wish you knew before you started on Impressions?

I don’t think so, it really has been a simple process for me. It’s not difficult to stick to your treatment plan with Impressions invisible aligners. One personal tip: I always have my tray case on me. This habit works as a nice little safety net, since I don’t need to stress if I ever have an unexpected reason to take out my tray.

At this point, I’m five weeks in with Impressions and everything has become second nature for me.

How do you clean your trays?

I haven’t had any issues with cleanliness.

Holding Impressions invisible aligners in Asheville, NC

The box included a special cleaner solution that works on invisible aligners like Invisalign, but I honestly haven’t had to use it yet. I brush my trays every time I brush my teeth, plus I use cleaning crystals.

What is your favorite part about the Impressions treatment?

I know I’m getting the smile of my dreams without having to sacrifice anything for it. Unlike when I had metal braces in my mouth six years ago, I never feel self conscious with Impressions. As I’ve been growing my Instagram following, this has been an incredible perk! Ironically, my husband has traditional braces right now.

Why do you think others should consider Impressions compared to other treatment options?

Well, if you’d like to get your dream smile without having to struggle through the self consciousness that comes with traditional orthodontic treatments, I would highly recommend Impressions invisible aligners!

It’s cheaper than braces and Invisalign and I can’t praise how convenient it has been for my busy lifestyle. As one person who has actually had traditional braces as an adult, I can confidently say that Impressions is far easier, less painful and less invasive.

Am I A Candidate?

Kaitlin, thank you so much for talking with us and we are so happy to hear how much you’re loving your experience with Impressions!

You can follow Kaitlin Gonzalez @katedgonzalez on Instagram and find her go-to beauty products at Younique.

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Impressions Will Be at the Veils & Tails Wedding Festival in Greenville

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Attention all brides- and grooms-to-be: We’re excited to announce that our Impressions Pop-Up Shop will be at the Veils and Tails Wedding Festival in Greenville, SC on Tuesday, June 12th! Why you should you stop by? One of our orthodontists will be with us as well as the entire Impressions team and our 3D scanner. This means that you can have your initial consultation at the festival!

On top of that, we have a special offer for anyone who stops by our pop-up shop: $100 off the total cost of treatment  if they get started that day! Given that Impressions is already half the cost of Invisalign, this is a pretty amazing deal! (You can see if you are candidate for Impressions by clicking the button below)

Am I A Candidate

Anyone who’s gone through the rigamarole of wedding planning knows that success is in the details, including color coordination, floral arrangements, music selection, and the kind of food that will be served at the reception. You’ve already taken so much time to organize this celebration, why not guarantee you’ll have the perfect smile?

We’ve helped many brides and grooms in the Asheville area achieve their dream sm(aisle) moment. Now, we’re excited to set up shop in Greenville!

How can your naturally gorgeous smile be improved? Read on for a couple of our suggestions.

Teeth Whitening

You have options when it comes to the whitening of your teeth, but it’s always a good move prior to nuptials, especially for the bride. You don’t want your teeth to look lackluster next to the brilliant shade of cream or white that you’ve chosen for your gown.

Premium Teeth Whitening In Every Impressions Box

The fastest and most effective way to whiten your teeth is a professional treatment. Luckily, this is something that you automatically receive when you choose to get your teeth straightened with Impressions!

Bride-to-be gets Impressions Box delivered to her door

DIY – At Home Whitening

It’s an exciting moment when you receive your Impressions Box. Opening it up and seeing all your trays at once provides a surreal preview into what your smile will look like when your treatment is completed. On top of that, each box comes with our premium teeth whitening treatment solution. This is the ultimate way to whiten your teeth at home!

All you need to do is put some of the teeth whitening solution into your tray before you go to sleep for the night. While you are getting your well-deserved beauty sleep, our special solution will be doing some serious to ensure you have a smile that really sparkles!!

Remember that it’s crucial not to eat or drink anything that could stain your teeth for at least two days before the wedding. Afraid you’ll turn into a bridezilla without your morning caffeine boost? No worries, just use a straw.

Straight Smile Perfection

While a bright smile is good, one complete with beautiful, straight teeth is even better! That’s why we’re coming to the Veils and Tails Wedding Festival with our Impressions team and iTero scanner in tow.

If you aren’t familiar with Impressions, it’s a proprietary orthodontic service that straightens teeth through clear aligners in half the time and for half the cost of Invisalign. Though the Impressions trays are made from the same top-notch material, Dr. Luke Roberts has invented a method of production that cuts down on overhead costs and only requires two office visits. The rest of treatment is done from the comfort and convenience of your home. Come see us at our pop-up during Veils and Tails for more information and learn if Impressions is right for you.

To make the deal even sweeter and reward those soon-to-be brides (and grooms) who have worked so hard, we are offering $100 off total treatment for anyone who starts treatment that day!

We cannot wait to meet the lovely brides and grooms in Greenville and help them achieve the smiles of their dreams. Veils and Tails will be held on Tuesday, June 12th and tickets are available online. You can find more information and purchase tickets at the Wedding Festivals website.

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