Invisalign is a way to improve your smile without the look of traditional metal braces. People may choose Invisalign because the system provides a discreet and flexible method for correcting dental alignment. This treatment uses clear, removable trays to gradually move teeth into their proper positions over time. Clear aligners allow teens to maintain their established lifestyle habits while working toward a straighter smile.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign consists of a series of clear, custom-made plastic aligners that fit snugly over the teeth. These aligners appear more discreet in social and school settings than traditional metal braces. Orthodontists design each set of trays using digital imaging to achieve a precise fit for the patient. Clear aligners can completely eliminate the need for metal brackets and wires in the mouth.
Clear aligner therapy is an alternative to conventional orthodontic appliances for many common dental issues, such as misaligned bite patterns or crooked teeth. These clear plastic trays are designed for comfort and durability during daily wear. Since the aligners are removable, patients can eat and brush their teeth as normal. An orthodontist can perform an evaluation to determine if a patient is a good candidate for clear aligner treatment.
How Does It Work?
The process begins with a digital scan of the teeth to create a personalized treatment plan for the wearer. Each set of aligners is worn for about one to two weeks before moving to the next set in the series. The aligners create consistent pressure to shift the teeth according to the specific movements planned by the orthodontist. Consistent wear is necessary for the system to function correctly and reach the desired results.
The wearer follows a specific routine to help the aligners work effectively throughout the day:
- Wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours daily to keep the correct pressure on the teeth.
- Remove the trays when brushing teeth, eating, and drinking anything other than plain water.
- Clean the aligners regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria or plaque.
- Visit the orthodontist for progress checks every few weeks to receive new trays.
How Long Does It Take?
The duration of treatment varies for every patient, depending on the complexity of their dental alignment issues. On average, many teens complete their treatment in 12 to 18 months, which works out to be about the same timeline as braces when you factor in the time it takes to fabricate the trays. Some orthodontic issues may resolve faster or slower than others; your orthodontist can provide more details about the timeline after evaluating the initial digital scans of the mouth.
Staying compliant with the wear schedule directly impacts how quickly the treatment progresses for the wearer. If a patient forgets to wear their trays, the teeth might shift back, which adds time to the overall process. Regular appointments allow the provider to monitor movement and make any necessary adjustments to the schedule. Finishing the series on time requires dedication to the daily requirements set by the dental professional.
What Are the Benefits?
One of the advantages of this system is the ability to perform oral hygiene and other activities as normal during treatment. Since the trays are removable, teens can brush and floss without navigating around more permanent metal fixtures. Patients may also participate in sports and musical activities without the risk of mouth injuries or discomfort from wires. The smooth plastic trays do not have sharp edges that could cut the cheeks or lips during physical contact. Additionally, there are no dietary restrictions because the trays are taken out during meal times.
Learn More About Invisalign
A qualified orthodontist can examine the patient’s bite and explain the best options for their specific alignment goals. A straighter, more aligned smile is easier to keep clean and reduces the risk of cavities. Scheduling a consultation provides an opportunity to ask questions about the cost, timeline, and expected outcomes. To learn more about Invisalign, consult an orthodontist near you.
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