Traditional metal braces are synonymous with the awkward teenage years. Brace face, metal mouth, ya feel me? These days, however, many adults are choosing to straighten their teeth, but they aren’t thrilled with the idea of metal braces. Despite the temporary inconvenience, braces are no doubt a great solution for achieving that perfect smile, but what if there’s a better way? You can get straight teeth without the brackets, wires, and restrictions. Hello, Invisalign!
Invisalign 101
So what is this magic alternative to braces? Invisalign treatment consists of wearing a series of clear removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth. The flexible plastic aligners are FDA-approved and do not contain BPA, BPS, latex, or gluten. Invisalign is the preferred pathway to straighter teeth because the aligners are not only made to fit your teeth, but also your lifestyle. You can enjoy all of your favorite foods, even ones forbidden with braces, ahem, popcorn and gum! Got a job interview or a special occasion? No big deal because you can simply remove your aligners for brief periods of time. Invisalign is virtually invisible; some people might not even notice you have it!
Sign me up for straight teeth!
Invisalign treatment is a multi-step process. First comes the consultation with a trained Invisalign provider, such as the dentist. During the consultation, the doctor will assess your smile and create a digital treatment plan. You will get a 3D scan of your smile, and the doctor will use a software to digitally map the shifting of your teeth. Thanks to the wonders of technology, you can even get a sneak peak of what your new smile will look like!
Once your digital treatment plan is created, your clear aligners will be custom-made and individually trimmed to fit your gumline. Comfort is key! The doctor will examine the fitting of each aligner to make sure it sits just right over your teeth.
The average length of treatment is 12-18 months, and each set of aligners are typically worn for one to two weeks. Don’t be alarmed if you experience some mild discomfort and pressure when you begin a new set of aligners. That means it’s working - your teeth are shifting! You will have appointments every month or so to check the progress and receive your next batch of aligners. For best results, aligners must be worn for 20-22 hours a day. You can remove them to eat and drink as well as to clean them. Properly cleaning the aligners is important so be sure to follow the instructions provided.
Invisalign can correct the following problems:
- Crooked teeth - teeth not positioned straight, often the result of a misaligned bite
- Crowding - not enough room in the jaw to fit all the teeth causing them to bunch up or overlap
- Crossbite - upper teeth that are sitting inside lower teeth instead of on the outside
- Gap teeth - extra space between two or more teeth
- Open bite - upper and lower teeth that don't touch when the mouth is closed
- Overbite - upper front teeth overlap with lower front teeth
- Underbite - lower front teeth are in front of upper teeth
If you are interested in scheduling a consultation for Invisalign, call us at 954-344-4488, or complete an online appointment request to schedule your consultation.