Many people are reluctant to strengthen their teeth because they don't like the appearance of metal brackets and don't want the discomfort that comes with traditional braces. If that sounds like you, you may want to consider Invisalign®.
Invisalign® Overview
Invisalign® is a technology that gradually straightens teeth with a series of clear aligners. Each aligner tray is manufactured so your teeth are slightly straighter than the previous tray. The trays are changed every two weeks, for six to eighteen months, depending on the severity of the misalignment. In some cases, tooth-colored composite bumps (similar to brackets) may be placed on the teeth that help the aligners move the teeth into the desired position.
Dental Problems Invisalign® Treats
Invisalign® helps treat a number of dental problems, including:
- Crowded teeth
- Gapped teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
Strengthening your teeth is not just about improving the appearance of your smile, it also affects your oral health as a whole. Crowded teeth can make it difficult to floss and can result in cavities. Gapped teeth expose the gums and make them more vulnerable to periodontal disease. Overbite and underbite can put pressure on the jaw and can lead to chronic jaw pain and headaches. Thus, Invisalign® promotes overall good oral health.
Benefits of Invisalign® Over Traditional Braces
Invisalign® provides a far more comfortable and faster experience to traditional braces. Not only are the mouth trays transparent, they are also removable and don't interfere with your daily routine. The Invisalign® aligners can be removed when brushing, flossing, eating, and drinking, and are easy to clean.
The key benefits of Invisalign® include:
- Barely noticeable
- Works twice as fast as traditional braces
- No irritating wires or brackets
- No limitations to the food you can eat
- Removable and easy to clean
Best Candidates for Invisalign®
To determine whether you are a good candidate for Invisalign®, several factors need to be considered, including the severity of the problems you are trying to fix, your age, and your level of dedication to fixing your teeth. If you have a complicated case, such as if your teeth need to be rotated or your jaw needs to be shifted due to a severe overbite, you may not be a good candidate for Invisalign®. Invisalign® is best for simple/mild cases.
In terms of age, Invisalign® is best suited for older teenagers and adults, but not children because their teeth are still developing.
Lastly, you have to be really dedicated to fixing your teeth to see results. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign® aligners are removable, which can increase the risk of them being misplaced or abandoned. You have to be committed to wearing your clear aligners 20-22 hours each day for them to work.
Success Rate
As mentioned above, the success of Invisalign® depends largely on the patient. The patient has to be committed to wearing the aligners for at least 20-22 hours a day. In addition, the patient has to swap out the aligners every two weeks and attend follow-up appointments throughout treatment as necessary. Any deviation from the prescribed treatment plan can hinder orthodontic progress.
Call our office at (925) 705-7093 or schedule a consultation with us online to see if Invisalign® is right for you.