There are many ways of straightening a smile. Over the last few years, invisible aligners have become a popular and affordable choice for many patients. Invisalign was a pioneer in this type of corrector and leads the market in research, recognition and success.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a clear aligner that may correct many issues concerning bite, crowding and crooked teeth. The process begins with a dental consultation to determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign treatment. During the appointment, the dentist will take either impressions or digital images of your teeth before mapping out a plan that is customized for each patient. You can even see a 3-D model of how Invisalign can shape your smile before you leave the office!
The Procedure
Invisalign works like traditional braces: using pressure to move and manipulate the teeth to achieve alignment. Not everyone is a candidate for Invisalign, but a reputable dentist or orthodontist will be able to best recommend what is right for each patient.
After deciding that Invisalign is right for you, your dentist will order the lab to begin producing the personalized Invisalign trays for you. You can expect this process to take about four weeks. When the trays arrive at the dentist office, you’ll come back in. Some patients require tooth-colored attachments be affixed to teeth to keep the aligners better adhere to the teeth, and at that time those attachments may be placed. (Don’t worry – they are removed at the end of your Invisalign treatment.) Occasionally, some patients may need to wear rubber bands with their aligners. We’ll also make sure the aligners fit well and explain what to expect from your treatment, including when we want to see you again and how often you’ll need to change your aligners out.
Once your aligners are well-fitted and you’re ready to move forward, you’ll need to wear the aligners all the time, other than during meals. You’ll also remove them when you brush and floss but be sure to brush your aligners too. Wearing the trays as directed will help you achieve the end-results you want and will help future aligners fit properly. Most people wear a tray for two weeks and then switch out to the next tray, but it’s important to follow your dentist’s or orthodontist’s instruction. Your teeth will begin to move gradually as you wear your Invisalign trays as instructed and move through the prescribed regimen.
What You Need to Know
With Invisalign, some of the concerns caused by traditional braces are alleviated, like the ability to eat whatever foods you like, fewer issues with brushing and flossing and the fact that they are usually less noticeable than traditional braces. Another benefit to using Invisalign is the regular support, oversight and guidance of a dental professional. With some of the other brands of clear aligners, you never even see a dentist!
Let Admira Help You with Invisalign
At Admira Dentistry, we have helped countless people achieve great smiles, and many of those have used Invisalign. Contact the office today at (904) 733-9144 to see if you might be a candidate for Invisalign.
