A comfortable choice instead of traditional metal braces, Invisalign is an excellent orthodontic treatment that works to correctly align your teeth.
The Invisalign process utilizes clear aligners that position your teeth. The aligners are shaped from computer-generated images and impressions that are taken by your dentist.
The Invisalign Process
Invisalign’s modern aligner system is far less cumbersome and uncomfortable than metal braces. The aligners incrementally move teeth into straighter positions. Aligners are changed over time so that every time that you place a new aligner in your mouth, your teeth are a little straighter, and each subsequent tray is shaped for teeth that are just marginally straighter than your teeth. The result is a gentle pressure on your teeth that moves them gradually to match up with the aligner.
In other words, rather than using the fixed metal wires of traditional braces to pull teeth into a new position, Invisalign uses the clear aligner molds to do so, shifting your teeth gradually into a new and better position as they fit into the shape of the aligner.
Each individual Invisalign aligner set is worn for between one and two weeks, allowing teeth to straighten gradually over that time.
Patients who use Invisalign will visit their dentist approximately once every six weeks, to be sure the treatment is progressing well.
Why Invisalign?
There are many different advantages to using Invisalign aligners rather than metal braces. For one thing, they’re made from clear plastic, making them almost invisible to others. They can also be removed for about 2 to 4 hours every day, while metal braces can’t be removed and are worn 24/7 even if uncomfortable.
And you’ll find that wearing Invisalign to straighten your teeth takes less time than traditional metal braces, too. While metal braces may take two years to complete straightening, Invisalign takes between 6 and 18 months on average.
During the course of the months you wear Invisalign, you’ll wear between 20 and 50 different aligners. The number varies because you and your teeth are both entirely unique. But however many aligner trays are worn, it is important they’re kept in your mouth for the number of hours that are required daily. If you don’t - your teeth won’t move into the anticipated position, and that can throw off the aligner trays and their fit.
Dental Care During Invisalign Treatment
As noted, it’s vitally important that you wear your aligners for the amount of time that your dentist tells you to wear them everyday day. But it’s also important that you remove your aligners when you eat or drink anything other than water.
Also, remove your aligners to brush and floss twice daily; and clean your aligner with a toothbrush whenever you brush your teeth, as well.
Choosing Invisalign
The Invisalign process works well for both teens and for adults. They can work well for kids, too.
They’re unobtrusive, easy to use, flexible, and comfortable, as compared to metal braces. But, it is important that you are able to wear them as directed every day.
Desert Orthodontics is Ready to Help
Interested in learning more about Invisalign? At Desert Orthodontics our experienced dental team can answer all your questions or schedule an appointment. Just reach out to us - we look forward to hearing from you!