If you have always wanted to straighten your teeth but hesitate due to the hassles posed by traditional braces, Invisalign® may be an ideal solution. Invisalign combines state-of-the-art computerized design with durable medical-grade materials to provide reliable care.
This blog describes how Invisalign can improve your smile and maintain your oral health. It also shares tips on getting the most out of your orthodontic treatment experience.
Advantages of Invisalign
Comfortable
One of the primary benefits of Invisalign is comfort. The aligners are smooth to the touch, and there are no sharp-edged brackets or wires that can irritate oral tissues. Becoming accustomed to wearing Invisalign takes a few days to a few weeks.
Discreet
Braces sometimes attract unwanted attention. Even well-meaning comments can be distracting. With Invisalign, no one needs to know you are straightening your teeth. Others may notice a gradual change in your smile.
Highly Adaptable
The Invisalign system can adapt to correct issues like overbite and underbite. Your dentist can install smooth resin “buttons” and elastics to help realign the bite.
No Food Restrictions
Braces patients often complain that they cannot eat their favorite foods. Popcorn, candy, nuts, steak, and corn on the cob are on the menu with Invisalign because the appliances come out whenever you eat or drink.
Improved Oral Health
Patients with braces encounter higher rates of tooth decay and gum disease. Keeping braces clear of plaque and food particles can be challenging and require extra equipment like floss threaders and interproximal brushes.
Invisalign patients have better gum health than braces patients, and they are less likely to experience oral health problems in the years after completing treatment.
Faster Than Braces
While traditional braces typically take from 18 months to three years to work, Invisalign can be as quick as 12 to 18 months. For minor malocclusion, Invisalign treatment can be as fast as 6 to 12 months.
The Invisalign Process
The Invisalign process starts with a dental consultation. You can share your needs and expectations with your dentist. They will answer your questions and assess whether you are a good candidate for Invisalign.
Your dentist uses an intraoral camera to take digital images of your teeth and oral tissues to create a 3-D model. They use this digital model to design a graduated series of clear aligners that will guide your teeth into ideal positions.
Your dentist will send the designs to the Invisalign lab, where experts craft your aligners from medical-grade plastic. When your aligners return, you will receive your first set. Your dentist will ensure they are comfortable and send you home with detailed instructions.
Each aligner in the series moves teeth gradually over time. As you move to the next aligner in the series, your teeth will move a little more. Your dentist will see you every six to eight weeks to assess your progress.
At the treatment’s conclusion, you will be amazed at your new smile. As your teeth settle, you will wear a retainer full-time at first and then your aligner at night for a prescribed length of time.
Tips for Success With Invisalign
- Wear your aligners 20-22 hours daily
- Keep your aligners spotlessly clean at all times to avoid stains and bad breath
- Avoid using hot water or abrasive toothpaste to clean your aligners to avoid damage; use branded crystals or clear antibacterial soap instead
- Keep all progress appointments with your dentist
- If you lose or damage an aligner, notify your dentist immediately so you will not lose progress
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign
Why should I wear a retainer after Invisalign treatment?
If you do not wear a retainer as prescribed, your teeth will slip back to their original positions. You will lose your financial investment and the time you dedicate to straightening your teeth.
Can teens receive Invisalign treatment?
Teenagers with all their permanent teeth can receive this treatment. They appreciate the ease and discretion of Invisalign. However, ensure that your teen is motivated and following instructions.
At Jacobs and Thatcher Dentistry, we provide expert Invisalign treatment and many other essential services to keep your family’s smiles healthy and strong.
With decades of experience in the Sun City Center community, we are honored to be your family’s dental home. Contact Jacobs and Thatcher Dentistry today to schedule an appointment.