Advantages with Invisalign
They are clear – the aligners are made from a transparent material that is designed to shift teeth to correct an overbite, underbite, or cross bite.
They are removable – this allows the patient to continue to enjoy all the foods they love throughout treatment. Aligners are taken out for snacks and meals, and replaced immediately when done.
In addition, being able to remove aligners for daily oral maintenance means teeth and gums can be cleaned without any obstructions helping the patient to maintain excellent dental health.
They are comfortable – there are no brackets, bands, or wires … the absence of metal means no oral abrasions.
They are convenient – this teeth straightening method allows the patient to keep the process moving without frequent visits to the dentist for adjustments.
How Does Invisalign Work?
A virtual program using a digital process may be implemented. Dental impressions, x-rays, and photographs may also be used to develop a series of aligners that will be replaced every two weeks. As aligners are replaced the new aligner is snug; over the next couple of weeks teeth are being shifted to correct the malocclusion. This process is repeated until the teeth straightening program has reached its conclusion.
Patient compliance is important; aligners must be worn twenty to twenty-two hours every day to keep the program on schedule.
Once teeth straightening has been achieved, the final step is as important as the straightening itself. That is to wear the retainer your dentist will provide for you. In order for your teeth to remain in their new location, the bones that hold teeth in place require time to develop a memory. That is the job of the retainer.
This step can take several months; initially the retainer will be worn 24/7 (but it is removable, just like the aligners). Eventually, you may be able to wear it just at night. Failure to wear the retainer as prescribed may result in teeth shifting.
Invisalign clear aligners can provide a major improvement in your smile and dental health. To find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign, contact Tate Family Dentistry and schedule your consultation today.