Invisalign® Clear Braces
If you’re looking for a straight smile without the metal-mouth, clear aligners may be the solution. Invisalign® is a set of transparent (see-through) aligners that fit over your teeth. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign® aligners are removable & replaced every two weeks for the entire course of your treatment.
Invisalign® is the revolutionary way to help you get even, straight teeth without noticeable metal braces. Virtually undetectable, Invisalign® aligners are made of strong, clear plastic & gradually guide your teeth into perfect alignment. Unlike metal braces, they have no wires or brackets. Tooth impressions are made, from which Invisalign® develops customized aligners that will slide directly over your teeth. Aligners are typically worn full-time. Most cases are accomplished in under 12 months. Aligners are replaced every two weeks as your teeth shift into place.
From very mild misalignment to more difficult orthodontic issues, there are a number of Invisalign® treatment options to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
Your Invisalign® treatment begins by scheduling a consultation with our team, in which we will discuss your individual case & treatment options, costs & insurance options, as well as any other questions you may have pertaining to the treatment.
We will then take impressions & x-rays, creating a 3-D digital image of your mouth & jaw. This will help the doctor visualize exactly how long your treatment may span, as well as a digital visualization of the realignment phases. You will receive your own personalized clear aligners, made of smooth, BPA-plastic free materials. They will be switched out every two weeks to accommodate your new smile!
Although each Invisalign® case is different, it is common for adult treatment process to last about a year. For teenagers, the treatment length is similar to that of traditional orthodontic methods—but the best part about Invisalign® is that you’re able to see the treatment process in effect because of the clear aligners. Your aligners should be worn for at least 20 to 22 hours a day in order for the treatment process to be fully effective.
What Is Invisalign®?
Invisalign® uses a series of clear aligners to straighten your teeth. Each clear aligner only shifts your teeth slightly, so you need to “upgrade” them every two weeks. You’ll wear around 20 to 30 sets of aligners before your treatment is finished. Some patients need to wear more sets & others need to wear fewer. It all depends on your specific case!
It is a powerful tool for treating minor to moderate orthodontic problems. If your problem is severe enough, we may not be able to treat your case with Invisalign® aligners. Traditional metal braces are a reliable alternative that can correct most bite issues. To find out which treatment is best for you, please call for a consultation today!
Invisalign® vs. Traditional Braces
Removable aligners are handy, but taking them out too frequently can make your treatment more difficult. If you spend too much time without wearing them, you can actually lose progress & increase the time & expense of your Invisalign® treatment. You may even need to go back to wearing an old pair of aligners! Dentists recommend keeping your aligners on for at least 22 hours a day. Only remove them for meals & special occasions, & keep track of the amount of time they aren’t in your mouth. If you tend to be forgetful, you may be better off with traditional braces.