Invisalign®
Invisalign has been in the orthodontic spotlight since its inception in 1997. By utilizing a series of clear aligners that patients swap out every two weeks, Invisalign slowly but surely re-aligns the teeth. Invisalign® is meant to be left in at all times except when eating and cleaning teeth. This revolutionary alternative to braces utilizes a completely different, but proven system to re-align teeth without the need for bonding brackets to the teeth. However popular the option has become in the past few years, there are still several questions you might have surrounding the product and process.
Common Questions:
What is Invisalign® and how does it work?
The invisible aligners are made from a thermoplastic material uniquely developed for Invisalign and it’s treatment plan. They look like teeth-whitening trays, but are custom-made for each individual, moving your teeth in the sequence determined by your dentist.
Several aligners will be provided to you during the course of treatment, each aligner will make minor adjustments to tooth position. This process is mapped out in advance by your dentist specifically for your teeth. Over time, your teeth will gradually shift from their current position. Approximately every two weeks you will use a new set of aligners which will continue the teeth aligning process.
What are the primary benefits of Invisalign?
Invisalign® aligners are virtually invisible. It’s possible that no one will even notice that you are wearing them, making them a seamless fit with your lifestyle. They are also removable, Invisalign® aligners should be worn for 20 to 22 hours each day. However, unlike braces, during eating, drinking, and cleaning, they can be removed. Additionally you will likely spend less time in your dentists office, due to the fact that your visits will not include metal or wire adjustments.
How will Invisalign affect my life?
Some people experience temporary discomfort for a few days at the beginning of each new aligner. The discomfort is often described as a feeling of pressure, this feeling means that Invisalign is working. The feeling of your teeth moving from one position to another will typically go away after a couple of days.
The length of treatment depends on each individual case, but on average it takes about 12 months for adults.
Invisalign® may temporarily affect the speech of some people, however as your tongue gets used to having aligners any speech lisps caused by the aligners should disappear.
What happens after treatment is completed?
It is recommended that anyone who has completed orthodontic treatment use a retainer to prevent teeth from migrating back to their initial position. Because each set of teeth are different, you will need to confirm if that is what your dentist would recommend.
Contact Sand Springs Family Dentistry for your Invisalign® Appointment.
Here at Sand Springs Family Dentistry, we take your smile seriously. We offer Invisalign® services to aid you in your alignment process to a better smile. To learn about our services, or to book your appointment today, contact our team now. We’re always happy to answer additional questions you might have.
