Even a teenager would agree that having a smile full of straight teeth is a wonderful concept. However, the idea of wearing traditional braces and wire braces for two years to achieve straight teeth is much more difficult to achieve.
Teenagers dread wearing braces, and for them it makes the awkward moments that are natural for teenagers to experience, even more uncomfortable. Not only does food get caught in the braces and wires, making it very uncomfortable for the wearer, but it can also lead to plaque. accumulation and increased potential for dental caries.
For adults who work as professionals, traditional braces are even less feasible.
Fortunately, there is a solution to straighten your teeth without wires or braces! Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners that fit over your teeth and, with slow pressure, move your teeth to the desired location.
Since the aligners are removable, you can continue eating, brushing, and flossing as you normally do!
Invisalign Process
Look for a dentist who is a certified Invisalign provider. The process begins with a consultation where your Invisalign certified dentist will determine if you are a good candidate for treatment. In some complex orthodontic cases, traditional braces may still be recommended. If you are a good candidate for Invisalign, your dentist will discuss the process and financial obligation and will be prepared to make your decision.
Getting started with Invisalign
Your Invisalign dentist will start by taking impressions of your teeth and creating a 3D digital image of your bite. From these images, your dentist can begin to map out a precise treatment plan. From this digital representation, you will be able to see how your teeth will look at each stage of treatment. Once that’s done, it’s time to order your custom-made aligners and begin treatment!
What are Invisalign aligners?
The Invisalign lab will build your custom aligners based on your dental impressions and individual treatment plan. Unlike metal braces that often irritate the inside of your cheeks and gums, Invisalign aligners are made from a BPA-free plastic that’s comfortable to wear.
Simply wear the aligners during the day and at night while you sleep. You can take your aligners out for up to 2 hours a day. So when you’re eating or brushing and flossing your teeth, giving a speech, or about to say your wedding vows, go ahead and remove your aligners!
By wearing your aligners, your teeth gently and gradually begin to move into a proper straight and healthy position. Best of all, the people around you won’t even notice that you’re getting orthodontic treatment, as the aligners are virtually invisible.
How often do I need check-ups during Invisalign?
Most people assume that they will have constant dental appointments while having Invisalign. Could not be farther from the truth. Approximately every six weeks it is recommended to visit your dentist for a check-up.
How often do I change the aligners?
About every two weeks, you’ll wear a new set of aligners, leading you into the next stage of your treatment. Unlike traditional braces where you only see the results at the end, you can see how much closer you are to having a healthier, straighter smile that reflects the smile you’ve dreamed of at every point in the process.
How long does the entire Invisalign treatment last?
Invisalign treatments typically last about a year for adults. For teens, the duration of treatment is similar to that of braces, up to 2 years, but you won’t feel as long. Since your teen’s teeth won’t be covered by wires or braces, progress will be visible much sooner and motivation will be part of the process.
Part of the responsibility is yours. For optimal progress, Invisalign aligners should be worn 22 hours a day throughout treatment. Wearing the aligners less than this can delay your success.