Benefits of Using Invisalign

When the term teeth brace is mentioned, most of us immediately think about the metal braces. Understandably so, considering metal braces were and are still the go-to orthodontic treatment. But, with the introduction of the Invisalign®, you don’t have to wear visible metal braces. You can still correct your teeth malocclusion with clear braces and get the same results.

Invisalign treatment uses a series of clear aligners to gradually reposition the teeth. These aligners are worn for several hours (as instructed by a dentist near you). Here are five benefits of why you need to get Invisalign near you.

1. They are Virtually Invisible

Invisalign and traditional braces do the same thing, move the teeth to the correct position. But that is where their similarities end. While the traditional braces are made of wires, Invisalign is crafted from a clear thermoplastic material. This makes them invisible and not noticeable to the naked eye. Once you wear them, they reflect or take up the color of your teeth.

2. Duration of Treatment

Invisalign is used to correct moderate bite and alignment problems. Because of that, the braces produce positive results in a few weeks. Some people report positive results within six months of wearing the braces.

3. Improved Hygiene

The one downside of metal braces is that they trap food and make it hard to clean the teeth properly. The Invisalign braces are removable. This means that you can remove them and clean them as you brush your teeth, making it easy to maintain dental hygiene.

4. Freedom to Eat What You Want

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners do not change your lifestyle. You can eat what you want, as long as you remove the braces when doing so.

5. Convenient

At the beginning of the treatment, our dentist in Highland Village, TX, will give you a set of aligners. This gives you the freedom to do the treatment at home. You are only required to visit the dentist every eight weeks for assessment.

How is Treatment Done?

The Invisalign treatment is done in phase:

1. Phase one: mapping and planning of the treatment

The treatment begins with a comprehensive dental assessment. Using a 3D scanner, the dentist will create a precise impression of your smile. This is used to make the customized aligners. Next, with software, the dentist will determine the pressure and time needed to reposition the teeth. He will show you an image of the expected results, and if satisfied, the aligners are sent to the lab.

2. Phase two: the treatment begins

You will receive a series of aligners at the start of the treatment. These aligners are designed to move the teeth gradually throughout the treatment.

For successful treatment, you need to wear the aligners for 22 hours every day, and only remove them when eating or brushing.

A follow-up assessment is needed every six to eight for the dentist to check the progress.

3. Phase three: retention phase

The treatment phase will differ based on the severity of the problem, but on average it can take 18 months. Once the braces are off, the dentist will give a retainer. This will keep the teeth in the correct position and prevent them from reverting. The dentist will give instructions on when and how long you need to wear the retainer.

How Can You Keep the Aligners Clean?

Hygiene is paramount when wearing clear aligners. Here are tips to help you keep them clean:

• Rinse the braces every day with cold water. Do not use hot water as it may alter the shape.
• Use a soft brush to clean the aligners, but don’t use toothpaste.
• Rinse the braces and your mouth before putting them back.
• Store the aligners in water to keep them moist when you are not using them.
• Wear the aligners for the recommended 22 hours.
• Visit the dentist on the set appointment date.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Campbell & Williams Family Dental for more information on Invisalign, how the treatment is done, and how to benefit from it.