Invisalign® clear aligners are custom-made removable trays that straighten teeth by gradually moving them into place. These clear trays are nearly invisible and very comfortable since no metal wires or bands irritate the mouth. They are also removable for meals, oral hygiene, and special occasions. Brushing and flossing are also more accessible because the aligners can be removed to keep them from blocking these hygiene tools. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign® treatment allows patients to smile confidently throughout the process!
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a clear alternative to traditional braces that uses a series of custom-made, clear aligners to gradually shift your teeth into place. The treatment takes a modern approach to straightening teeth by using 3D computer imaging technology to map out the complete treatment plan from the initial position to the final desired position. This treatment plan will then be the basis for the fabrication of a series of custom-made, clear aligners. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks and moves the teeth incrementally until the final position of straightness is achieved. Regular checkups with your dentist are required so your progress can be monitored.
Patients love not having the brackets and wires of traditional metal braces, as well as the fact that Invisalign is virtually invisible. But the biggest draw is the ability to see the final position of the teeth before starting the treatment. This way, patients can envision what their teeth will look like when the treatment is complete. Plus, since the aligners are removable, they can still eat their favorite foods and brush and floss normally. There is no need to adjust what you eat or worry about getting food stuck in your braces. Simply take off your aligners when you eat and put them back on when you are finished. Brushing and flossing are also the same as before; just remove the aligners then brush and floss your teeth as normal.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Invisalign?
If a patient is a good candidate for traditional braces, they are an ideal candidate for Invisalign as well. Because both forms of treatment use steady force straighten teeth, patients who have moderately misaligned teeth are likely to benefit from undergoing treatment with either system.
While Invisalign does utilize a clear aligner, the treatment still relies on the same principles of straightening teeth as traditional braces do. Patients who opt for Invisalign treatment will need to wear their aligners for at least 22 hours per day to see optimal results. Additionally, they must also follow the treatment plan prescribed by their dentist to achieve optimal results. They must also keep up with regular checkups with their dentist throughout the duration of treatment to ensure the teeth are moving as planned.
How Long Does Invisalign Take To Work?
While Invisalign does work in under a year, most treatments typically last between twelve and eighteen months in total. Patients wear each set of aligners for two weeks at a time and then move on to the next set in the series. The average treatment time for Invisalign patients is one year. However, this timeframe can vary based on how much your teeth need to move and how many aligners you need during treatment.
Patients typically need to wear their aligners for 22 hours a day. They take them off before eating, drinking, brushing their teeth, or for special occasions. While treatment with clear aligners is more comfortable than traditional metal brackets and wires, it’s not totally maintenance-free. Make sure you’re willing to commit to regular teeth cleanings and daily flossing. Without proper oral care, the aligners can trap bacteria and increase your risk for tooth decay.
To learn more about the benefits of Invisalign aligners, visit Smile Now Dental Studio at 950 E Colorado Blvd SUITE 201, Pasadena, CA 91106, or call (626) 797-3451.
