Invisalign Orthodontics

Invisalign is a treatment that uses a series of invisible tooth aligners to gradually shift teeth into their optimal alignment. Though the goal is the same as traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are less invasive, nearly invisible, and can be removed easily to allow the patient to floss, brush, and eat meals normally. Invisalign aligners are custom-designed for each individual’s mouth.

Understanding How Invisalign Works

This method is popular both with child dentistry and adults too. Below we explain how the treatment works so that you get your perfect smile and we get our satisfaction.

  1. Before you get your first set of Invisalign aligners, you will have a consultation with one of our orthodontists, who will examine your mouth and find out the extent of alignment issues and ensure if Invisalign is the right treatment for you. Using 3D technology, our orthodontist will map out a treatment plan for you and show you what your teeth will look like at the end of the treatment.
  2. X-rays and impressions of your mouth with be taken and sent to the lab. The lab will multiple sets of custom aligners that you will use throughout the treatment process. Every two weeks you will get new aligners that continue to gradually shift your teeth into their right position. The aligners are made from BPA – free plastic and are comfortable to wear. They are also smooth, which keeps them from bothering your cheeks and gums as you straighten your teeth.
  3. You can remove the Invisalign aligners before you eat, brush or floss your teeth. This ensures that you maintain strict oral hygiene regime throughout the entire straightening process. Make sure that you wear your aligners for 20-22 hours each day to get best results. Invisalign aligners are practically invisible, so you can wear them without anyone knowing. They are comfortable to wear on a daily basis.

Braces Vs Invisalign

 

  Braces (irremovable)         vs   Invisalign (removable)  
Metal-typically silver; can pay extra for color or enamel color Color Clear/invisible
24/7 for an average of 2 years, depending on patient needs Treatment time 22-24 hrs/day for 6 to 18 months, depending on patient needs
Brush brackets and wires regularly while brushing teeth; water pick may be helpful. Maintenance Invisalign Cleaning system, or brushing and rinsing trays in luke warm water
About every month Follow up visits Change aligner trays every 2 weeks; visits every 4 to 6 weeks
Positioner or retainer likely needed ongoing, maybe only at night Follow up to treatment Positioner or retainer likely needed ongoing, maybe only at night
More effective for more complex issues
No temptation to leave them out, so less self discipline is needed for success
No extra cleaning steps required besides regular brushing and flossing		 Pros Invisible
Removable
No issues with food getting caught
No difficulty eating
No discomfort from wires
May have some pain, sores or discomfort from wires, brackets or tooth movement
May have some tooth discoloration or breakage
May have difficulty eating sticky, hard foods		 Cons May have discomfort from tooth movement
Must remove before eating or drinking anything but water
Must brush after each meal to avoid staining
Patients playing rough contact sports regularly NOT ideal for Patients with:
bridgework
back tooth bite issues
the need to rotate canines or premolars
the need to move teeth vertically
lack of discipline to keep trays in for at least 22 hours daily

Invisalign Suitability

There are certain orthodontic problems that cannot be treated by Invisalign. In more chronic conditions that require the application of greater pressure and continual force on your teeth, a conventional brace is required to achieve best results.