Invisalign: The Invisible Braces

More children, teens, and adults are choosing Invisalign over traditional metal braces, and it's not hard to understand why. Invisible braces are a great alternative to those who don't look forward to a mouth full of wires and metal.

Invisalign was first introduced in 1999. They are a clear set of plastic aligners that fit over your teeth and will gradually move them into alignment. Today they have become one of the most popular choices because they are more aesthetically pleasing to wear. So how does it work? Invisalign is not much different from previous aligners. At your first trip to the orthodontist, the doctor will take photographs and impressions of your teeth. The impressions are then used to create a 3D computer projection of how your teeth will incrementally move. Based on this projection, you will receive a series of custom made aligners.

Every four to six weeks the patient will receive a new set of aligners. Most patients require 20-30 aligners for both upper and lower teeth. Many complete the treatment in less than a year, but the length of time varies depending on your alignment problem. The aligners can be taken out when you are eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth. However, they need to be in your mouth for at least 20 hours for the treatment to work.

Although everyone would love to ask the orthodontist for Invisalign over traditional braces, not everyone is well suited for them. Those with severe alignment problems or complex bite problems will not be able to use them. Invisalign can be used to treat overcrowding of teeth, widely spaced teeth, an overbite, a crossbite, and mild relapse after braces.

There are many great benefits to choosing Invisalign. The most obvious is that you won't have a mouth full of metal and wire. Many are self-conscious about the way braces look, especially adults who choose to get braces later in life. Invisalign is also very comfortable. Speaking from experience, wires are uncomfortable, especially when going for a tightening. With Invisalign, you are not restricted to what you can eat because you take them out. You cannot eat anything hard, crunchy, or chewy when you wear braces because they may damage the wires.

Invisalign has many great advantages, so speak with your orthodontist today about your options for braces.


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