Invisalign® changes how people feel about their smiles by gently shifting tooth alignment over time. Clear, medical-grade plastic aligners provide a discreet, effective solution that fits into your busy schedule.
In most cases, Invisalign treatment takes about 12-18 months. However, this general time frame may be shorter if you need only minor corrections, or longer if we need to address more complex issues, such as changing your dental bite. Some patients can see results in as little as 6 to 9 months.
This blog explains which issues this treatment can address, shares the Invisalign treatment process, and answers our patients’ most common questions about using this method to straighten their smile.
Alignment Issues Invisalign Can Correct
This clinically proven system can address the following:
- Tooth spacing: If you have unwanted gaps between your teeth,
- Crowding:
- Dental bite issues:
If you have more complex issues, you may need more extensive orthodontic treatment. However, for most mild-to-moderate corrections, Invisalign is an excellent choice.
How Invisalign Works
The Invisalign system consists of a series of graduated clear aligners. To design your aligners, we take detailed digital impressions of the hard and soft tissues in your mouth to create a complete 3-D model. We use this model to create your aligners, shifting each tooth individually over time. As you change aligners every one to two weeks, your teeth will gradually move into their final positions. After your aligner treatment, you will need to wear a retainer to maintain your results for the long term.
Comparing Invisalign and Traditional Braces
Invisalign:
- Better oral hygiene due to the ability to remove the appliance
- No food restrictions
- Discreet treatment
- More comfortable than braces with no metal wires or brackets to irritate sensitive tissue
Braces:
- Good for complex alignment issues and severe bite problems
- Versatile
- Permanently fixed to the teeth
- They can be challenging to clean and maintain
Choosing Invisalign Treatment
If you’ve always wanted a straighter, more even smile, it’s a great time to talk to your dentist and discover whether Invisalign is right for you. We are ready to answer your questions and schedule your consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign
Who is a good candidate for Invisalign?
Most healthy adult and older teen patients with misaligned teeth can benefit from Invisalign. Patients need to commit to their treatment, take responsibility for daily wear and maintenance, and follow all of our instructions to achieve success.
For extensive dental alignment issues, you may benefit more from an alternative treatment, such as metal braces. At your consultation, we will direct you if Invisalign is not your ideal choice.
For how long each day must I wear my aligners?
You will need to wear your aligners for at least 20-22 hours daily, removing them only to eat, drink anything other than cool water, and care for your oral health. If you skimp on your daily aligner schedule or forget to replace them after a meal or snack, you may experience treatment setbacks.
How do I care for my aligners?
Aligners are made from advanced medical-grade plastic. They are highly durable, but careful maintenance protects your investment. Never eat or drink anything but water with your aligners in place. Clean them gently with an extra-soft toothbrush and clear, antibacterial liquid soap or non-abrasive toothpaste. Colorful soaps will stain the material, and an abrasive whitening toothpaste could etch it.
Alternatively, you can use branded cleaning crystals available through the manufacturer. Avoid rinsing the aligners with warm or hot water since they can easily warp.
Are there any food restrictions with Invisalign?
Since Invisalign comes out when you eat, you can have any food you like, within reason. The key to success is thorough brushing and flossing after each meal and snack. Keeping up with your oral hygiene routine will protect you from developing tooth decay and gum disease.
How can Invisalign improve my oral health?
Gapped and crooked teeth often trap more food and plaque than well-aligned teeth. Oral hygiene habits like brushing and flossing are easier to maintain with straighter teeth. In addition, patients treated with Invisalign have improved gum health compared with those with braces, due to differences in oral hygiene.
Our team at Dental Associates of Farmington, CT, has decades of experience with Invisalign treatment. We can show you how this system can create a gorgeous, even smile with as little hassle as possible. Please call us today to schedule your consultation!