What is Invisalign®?
Invisalign® is a type of orthodontic device that straightens and adjusts teeth using clear tray aligners. Invisalign® can be used to effectively correct a wide variety of dental problems, including teeth that are crooked, crowded, or widely gapped, as well as overbites and underbites.
Invisalign® aligners are made of a unique blend of BPA-free clear plastic, and are designed to fit easily and comfortably over your teeth. Like traditional braces, these aligners put pressure on targeted areas of your teeth in order to shift them into an improved position. However, they contain no metal brackets, are virtually invisible, and can be removed for eating and brushing.
What is the Invisalign® Treatment Process?
Step One: Schedule a Consultation
Invisalign® treatment begins with an initial consultation to determine if you are a good candidate for this form of dental treatment. Keep in mind that not all orthodontists are trained to work with Invisalign®. We are specially trained Invisalign® providers who will develop an individualized treatment plan to ensure best results.
Step Two: Create Your Custom Aligners
Next, we will create a precise 3D image of your teeth using x-rays and impressions. This process allows us to map out a fully custom treatment plan based on your desired results. These scans will be used to design clear Invisalign® aligners made just for you.
During this stage, we will also generate a virtual image of how your teeth will look at various stages during and after treatment.
Step Three: Start Wearing Your Aligners
Now that you have your custom Invisalign® aligners, you will begin wearing them on a daily basis. For best results, you will need to wear your aligners for 20-22 hours per day. These aligners are easy to remove, so you can take out your aligners when eating, drinking, or cleaning your teeth.
Approximately every 2 weeks, you will begin wearing a new set of aligners. This allows you to progress quickly and steadily through your treatment goals. To ensure that everything is going according to plan, you will schedule in-office check-ups every 6-8 weeks.
Step Four: Enjoy Your New Smile
Typically, patients continue Invisalign® treatment for a period of six to eighteen months, with an average of approximately one year for adults. For teens, the length of treatment is comparable to that of traditional metal braces.
Once you have achieved the beautiful smile you desire, we may recommend retainers to help your teeth remain straight and aligned over time.
Invisalign® vs. Traditional Braces
Invisalign® straightens teeth just as quickly and effectively as traditional metal braces, and offers many additional benefits:
- Virtually Invisible: Invisalign® clear plastic aligners are discreet and barely noticeable. Straighten your teeth without detracting from the natural appearance of your smile.
- Gentle & Comfortable: The wire and metal brackets used in traditional braces can poke, scrape, and irritate your gums and cheeks. Invisalign® is made of smooth, solid plastic that is comfortable to wear all day long.
- Removable: Enjoy all of your favorite foods with zero restrictions. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign® can be easily removed for eating, drinking, flossing, or brushing. No need to worry about popping off a bracket while enjoying chewy or hard foods, or struggling to floss between brackets.
- Suited to Your Lifestyle: Planning a special occasion? It is perfectly fine to remove your Invisalign® for an important event or celebration. Invisalign® is also ideal for athletes, including those who play a contact sport that requires a mouth guard.
The convenience, comfort, and effectiveness of Invisalign® appeals to people in all stages of life. Enjoy the benefits of straighter teeth and a beautiful new smile with minimal impact on your lifestyle or appearance.
Schedule a Consultation
Our team of Invisalign® specialists at Yenne & Schofield can help determine if this is the right treatment for you. Contact us today to schedule your Invisalign® consultation!
