If you’re looking for a comfortable, easy-to-care-for alternative to traditional metal braces, Invisalign can be a great solution for many patients, and one that works very well to align your teeth correctly.
The Invisalign process works by using a series of clear aligners to position your teeth. Your aligners are shaped based on computer-generated images and impressions that your dentist takes.
How Invisalign Works
Less uncomfortable and more convenient than metal braces, Invisalign’s aligners work by incrementally moving your teeth into straighter positions. The aligners are given to you as a series which changes slightly each time you put a new aligner in your mouth. So, with each tray change, your teeth are a little straighter, and each tray is shaped for teeth just marginally straighter than your own teeth as the process takes place. The result is more gentle than metal braces, because it works by just putting a mild pressure on your teeth in order to move them to match each of the aligners gradually.
Instead of using the fixed metal wires that traditional braces utilize to pull teeth into their new, straighter position, Invisalign uses the clear aligner molds to gradually shift teeth so they move into a better position as they fit the shape of each new aligner.
Each individual Invisalign aligner set is worn between one and two weeks, allowing necessary time for your teeth to gradually straighten.
Patients using Invisalign visit their dentist approximately once every six weeks. This way your dentist can make sure the treatment is going well and your teeth progressively get straighter.
Why Choose Invisalign?
If offered as a choice to straighten your teeth, there are many reasons to choose Invisalign over standard metal braces. Invisalign aligners are far more comfortable for patients than metal braces. And they are also more attractive. As they are made from clear plastic, they are almost invisible to others when you are wearing them.
And, you can also remove Invisalign trays for 2 to 4 hours every day, including when you eat. Metal braces cannot be removed, and must be worn 24 hours a day, seven days a week even if they feel uncomfortable.
So How Long Does Invisalign Take?
Along with being more comfortable and attractive, Invisalign also takes less time to straighten your teeth than traditional metal braces! Metal braces can take two full years to complete teeth straightening, whereas Invisalign takes, on average, between 6 and 18 months to straighten your teeth.
During the months you wear Invisalign, you’ll wear 20 to 50 different aligners. That number varies because you and your teeth are unique - not the same as anyone else’s. Regardless of how many aligner trays are worn, the important rule to follow is simply to be sure they’re in your mouth for the number of hours required daily. If you don't, your teeth won’t move into the anticipated position, which can disrupt the use of the aligner trays, affecting their fit.
Dental Care During Invisalign Treatment
Of course, besides wearing your aligners every day for the amount of time your dentist tells you is required, it’s also important that you take care of them properly. But it’s easy to do.
First, just remember to remove your aligners whenever you eat or drink anything other than water.
Second, remove your aligners to brush and floss twice daily.
Third, don’t forget to clean your aligners with a toothbrush whenever you brush your teeth, too. Simple, right?
Who Can Wear Invisalign?
The Invisalign process is effective for patients of just about all ages, teens, adults, and many children, too.
They’re comfortable, easy to wear, unobtrusive, and provide a quicker process for teeth straightening compared to metal braces. Just be sure that you are able to wear your Invisalign aligners every day as your dentist directs!
Ready to Learn More About Invisalign?
If you’re ready to learn more about Invisalign, or to schedule an appointment, just reach out to us today. We’re ready to help!