Invisalign
For decades, it seemed the only way to achieve a straighter smile was to endure years of braces and endless office visits. Invisalign has flipped the script with its patented alignment system, yet few people understand what Invisalign is or how it works.
What Is Invisalign?
Unlike traditional braces that use brackets, bands, wires, and hooks to straighten and align your teeth, Invisalign uses clear, smooth plastic trays that fit over your teeth to gently move then into place. Invisalign aligners are meant to be removed to eat, drink, brush, and floss making them more hygienic than traditional braces. Their smooth plastic and the gentle movement they encourage also make them a more comfortable way to a better smile.
How Does Invisalign Work?
While many dentists are offering Invisalign in their practices, it is an orthodontic treatment. Trained doctors create digital treatment plans that map out how and when each tooth will move over time. This treatment plan is then translated into a series of clear aligners, each to be worn in succession. Simply put the first aligners over your top and bottom teeth and wear them 22 hours per day, taking them off only to eat, brush and floss. After two weeks, pop in the next set of aligners and so on until you reach the final set. On average, a treatment plan lasts 6-18 months, depending on how much movement needs to take place and how closely you adhere to your instructions. When you are finished wearing the final aligner, you are finished with the treatment. All you are left with are straight, beautiful teeth and an improved bite.
Is Invisalign FDA Approved?
Invisalign aligners received FDA clearance for use in 1998. Since then, they have successfully transformed the smiles of more than 7 million people and 1.4 million teens. Aligners are made from medical-grade thermoplastic polymers and do not contain BPA.
How Do I Clean The Aligners?
Invisalign Aligners are easy to clean. Simply use the cleaning system given to you in the office or purchase one online. Aligners can also be cleaned with a toothbrush, toothpaste and warm water. Never use hot water to clean your aligners as the high temperatures can change the shape of the aligner and warp the plastic.
Is Invisalign Right For You?
Invisalign is a great alternative to traditional braces for adults and teens. However, it is not the best option for everyone. Children are not considered candidates for Invisalign because the aligners require compliance to be effective. Invisalign may also not provide the best results for people with complex cases of misalignment. The only way to know whether Invisalign is right for you is to visit our office for a free consultation. Not only will we answer your questions, but we can also determine your out-of-pocket costs after insurance and help you understand all of your orthodontic treatment options.
Call today to schedule your appointment and get started on the road to a straighter, healthier smile.