Invisalign ® is a new orthodontic treatment system that works to straighten teeth through the use of a series of clear plastic molds (aligners). Invisalign ® “invisible” braces eliminate the metallic smile that is characteristic of traditional orthodontic braces. View this page to learn more about invisalign®, including information about cost and the benefits of using the clear retainer system.
Invisalign Process
When you begin treatment, you’ll wear each set of custom-made aligners in approximately two-week increments. The aligners gently move your teeth into position, and at the end of each two-week period, you “graduate” to the next set of custom-made aligners. As you progress through the series of aligners, which you only remove to eat, drink, brush and floss, or for special occasions, your teeth will begin moving, little by little. To monitor your progress, you will also have occasional checkups with your doctor, usually only every six weeks or so. And you don’t have to wait until you complete treatment to see your smile change—you may start seeing positive changes early in the process.
Length of time Until You Reveal Your New Smile
Of course, your total treatment time depends on your particular situation You’re in control of your treatment’s success, the more you wear your aligners, the better. But as a rule for most adults, treatment time is just under one year. For teens, the length of treatment is comparable to that of braces, but since your teeth won’t be covered by wires and brackets, you’ll be able to see improvement much sooner. For best results and a timely outcome, you should wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, throughout your entire treatment.
Pros and cons of teeth whitening
People who fail to wear their clear invisalign® retainer at all times may find that their teeth don’t change position as quickly as they would like. Some people with sensitive teeth and gums may feel some discomfort when they switch to a new aligner in the series. These problems with invisalign® are minor and most patients feel that the benefits far outweigh any problems.
Perhaps the most apparent benefit of invisalign® is that patients can straighten their teeth without anyone knowing. Most adults would rather live with crooked teeth than spend two or more years with the metal braces that they remember from their teenage years.
The invisalign® system also boasts improved hygiene over traditional braces. Because the clear retainers are removable, patients can brush and floss as they normally would, reducing the chances of possible staining and decay that often occur with traditional braces. Food and drink choices are less restrictive, as well. If patients wish to eat sticky candy or drink soda, they may do so after removing their clear invisalign® retainer.