Invisalign has become increasingly popular in the past two decades, still holding the number one spot as the leading manufacturer of clear aligner technology. However, there are a lot of misconceptions about Invisalign, especially when it comes to who is a suitable candidate for the treatment. Read on in this blog from Evergreen Dental Co. to find out if it’s right for you.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a clear aligner orthodontic system that involves gradually shifting the teeth into the proper alignment by exerting gentle pressure onto the teeth. When tooth movements cannot be performed with the aligners alone, Invisalign attachments are bonded to the teeth.
These are buttons of composite resin that come in different shapes to help anchor the aligners for increased pressure and to move teeth in certain directions. With the addition of elastics, the aligners can also correct bite problems.
The Invisalign process begins with taking impressions of your teeth and sending them to the Invisalign lab where lab specialists will fabricate custom-made aligners that fit perfectly over your teeth. Using advanced digital software, we can digitally plan your orthodontic treatment from start to finish.
After the treatment planning stage, you will be able to view a 3D model of your teeth and look at the progressive movements of your teeth that will occur, including the final result. You will change your aligners every 2 weeks and attend intermittent routine checkups every few weeks.
Benefits of Invisalign
Invisalign has so many advantages over traditional braces. The biggest advantage is its discreet and transparent aesthetics. You don’t need to wear silver metal brackets and wires over your teeth that attract attention.
Instead of uncomfortable and painful metal wires pushing on your teeth, you can wear a cushioned aligner made of thermoplastic that places gentle pressure on the teeth. Since these aligners are removable, you can brush and floss all of the surfaces of your teeth with ease.
This avoids white spots that often plague the teeth after wearing braces and it gives you the freedom to eat whatever you want so long as you remove your aligners first. Since Invisalign is used to treat most minor to moderate cosmetic orthodontic problems, treatment is also shorter than treatment with braces.
Candidates for Invisalign
Invisalign needs to be worn for a minimum of 22 hours a day, so we don’t recommend this clear aligner treatment to patients under the age of 15. This is because they tend to lack the self-accountability that is necessary to comply with Invisalign instructions and maintenance.
Children under 15 may also not have all of their permanent teeth yet, which is important for Invisalign treatment. Invisalign can treat issues such as mild to moderate misaligned or crooked teeth, small gaps, minor overcrowding, minor bite problems, and rotating teeth within 20 degrees.
However, it is not suitable for severe orthodontic problems like severely misaligned teeth, large gaps, and teeth that need to be rotated greater than 20 degrees or need to be moved higher or lower into the gums. Patients must be in good oral health and willing to follow instructions.
Schedule Your Invisalign Consultation Today!
Invisalign is a great option for teenagers and adults with mostly cosmetic issues with their orthodontic alignment who are looking for an alternative to braces that is more discreet, comfortable, faster, and more convenient.
If you’re ready to transform your smile with Invisalign clear aligners, then contact us at Evergreen Dental Co. to schedule a consultation with Dr. Tariq Jah.