Invisalign® is a system used to straighten teeth, improve spacing, and sometimes help solve minor over- or under-bite issues. In many cases it can be a good alternative to traditional braces, particularly for those who want a more discreet treatment.
With Invisalign, sets of clear aligners are crafted from a thermoplastic material and designed to fit over your teeth. Because they are clear, they are inconspicuous. The aligners are made specifically to fit your teeth, and they work by moving your teeth gradually on a schedule your dental health care provider will determine. Generally, people need to wear their Invisalign aligner 20 to 22 hours a day.
What is the Process?
At your first appointment, your dental health care provider will take an impression of your teeth to make your first set of aligners fits your teeth properly.
Then you will wear the aligners as instructed—usually 20 to 22 hours a day—until your next scheduled appointment.
Every few weeks, you will need to return to your Invisalign provider to get a new set of aligners that will continue to move the teeth in the right direction.
While using Invisalign, you will need to remove your aligners while you eat or drink or remove them afterwards and clean them. This is because if any food or liquid gets trapped in the aligners, it can allow bacterial growth that could cause cavities. In addition, any liquid that gets trapped in the aligners could stain your teeth. It is also important to continue to practice good oral hygiene throughout treatment.
How Long Will It Take to Straighten My Teeth with Invisalign?
How long your treatment plan will depend on a variety of factors, such as how much and what kind of correction you need, and how old you are. How well you follow your dental health care provider’s instructions matters too—if you don’t wear the aligners for the prescribed amount of time each day, it will slow down the process. People using the Invisalign treatment system must be prepared to commit to following their instructions to achieve the quickest results. In general, most adults can expect treatment to be completed in about a year.
What are the Advantages of Invisalign?
Many people choose Invisalign over traditional braces because of how “invisible” they are. Because they are clear and fitted so well to your teeth, most people won’t even know you are wearing them.
Another advantage is that unlike metal braces, Invisalign can (and should) be removed for daily brushing, flossing, eating, and drinking.
While the Invisalign system does require you to return to your dental health care provider’s office on a regular basis, it is generally less often than those who wear metal braces, which require frequent adjustments to the metal and wire.
To determine if Invisalign is right for you, you should consult with an orthodontist to discuss whether you are a candidate depending on your specific needs and your desired outcome. If Invisalign is right for you, it can be a less conspicuous, more convenient option to help you get the smile you want.