Olathe Doctors

Does Invisalign Work?

before i spend thousands (ugh) I want to make sure Invisalign works as promised in the advertising.

Invisalign works very well and good outcomes are very predictable when the patient is compliant with wearing their Invisalign trays.  It is most effective when the patient's bite fits correctly in the back and there is mild to moderate crowding or spacing of teeth in the front of the mouth.  Having said that, Invisalign can also work on some more advanced cases of crowding or bite correction.  An orthodontist can help you decide if Invisalign is right for you.

Andrew Young, DDS

Olathe Orthodontist

Candidate For Damon Braces Used to Widen a Narrow Smile? (photo)

I am considering braces to correct an overbite (told it was 80%)and am in my late 50's. I have tension in my jaw, signs of TMJ and my bottom teeth feel pressure from the overbite. As long as my gums and bones are healthy will Damon braces work for me? I have a lower 3 unit bridge that would be re-sectioned or removed til after treatment. I have fillings in my top back 4 teeth and lower back teeth that are old and want to know if crowns would be the way to go after treatment.

As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, Damon braces will do a great job of straightening your teeth.  The orthodontist you select will provide you with a thorough diagnosis and select which Damon braces are best for your treatment.  Often times, the correction of your bite may aid in resolution of jaw joint problems.  Your general dentist can help you decide on the need for crowns after your orthodontic treatment is completed.

Andrew Young, DDS

Olathe Orthodontist

Where Can and Can't You Inject Fat on the Face?

Where can and can't you inject fat on the face? The doctor I recently consulted with told me that fat cannot be injected into the nose tip and chin because fat doesn't exist there.

Fat grafting or transfer is a great way to improve the harsh facial contours that develop as one ages.  In my hands, I do not inject fat in the lips (it absorbs too fast because of all of the motion) and I do not inject specific fine wrinkles. I use other injectables for those problems. Other than that I feel that I can really improve the global changes in the face with fat.  The results are soft and natural appearing.  It can be a stand alone procedure in younger patients or combined with other procedures in older patients.  Good luck!

Hannah Vargas, MD

Kansas City Facial Plastic Surgeon