Invisalign is a comfortable, attractive alternative to traditional metal braces, and it is an effective orthodontic treatment that’s designed to align your teeth correctly.
Unlike cumbersome traditional braces, Invisalign uses clear aligners in order to position your teeth. These aligners are created from computer-generated images and impressions taken by your dentist.
How Invisalign Works
Invisalign aligners are made so that your teeth will move in small steps to reach a straighter position. Each time you place a new aligner in your mouth, the new tray is shaped for teeth that are just a bit straighter than your own. This pressures your teeth so that they move to meet the aligner.
Rather than using the fixed metal wires that traditional braces rely on to pull teeth into position, Invisalign uses these clear aligner molds to move your teeth marginally with each new aligner, fitting them in a new, better position that matches the shape of the aligner.
Each Invisalign aligner set is worn for about 1 to 2 weeks, allowing your teeth to straighten gradually over this period.
Invisalign patients visit their dentist once about every six weeks to make sure your treatment is progressing well.
Why Select Invisalign?
Invisalign aligners are practically invisible to others, unlike metal braces, because they are crafted from clear plastic. And, along with looking better, they feel better, too. In fact, they can even be removed for 2 to 4 hours every day. Metal braces cannot be removed from your mouth - even if they don’t feel comfortable you have to wear them every day, 24 hours a day.
Also, the time necessary to conclude the Invisalign process is often less than that for traditional braces, on average 6 to 18 months rather than a typical 2-year time period for metal braces.
Throughout those months, between 20 and 50 different Invisalign aligners are worn. The number of aligners varies - you and your teeth are both individuals after all. But no matter how many are worn, it’s important to keep them in your mouth for the required number of hours each day, removing them only to eat or drink anything other than water, and to brush and floss your teeth.. If you don’t, your teeth may not move into the position anticipated, which will throw off the calculated fit for aligner trays.
Dental Care While Using Invisalign
Along with wearing your aligners for the amount of time required each day, be sure to also take the aligners out in order to brush and floss twice each day. And be sure to clean your aligners with a soft toothbrush every time you brush, too.
The Invisalign process is great for all ages. They are attractive, unobtrusive and easier to use, and are also more flexible and comfortable for teens and adults.
Ready to Learn More?
If you’re interested in learning more about Invisalign, we are ready to help. Call us today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment. We’ll look forward to hearing from you!