For many, a good smile is a signal of confidence and beauty. But if you suffer from a less than perfect smile, it can be hard to have any confidence in anything you do. This is where orthodontia can come help you, but many people are wary of investing in traditional metal braces because of the look and the cost. Enter Invisalign.
Invisalign is a braces treatment, but with a twist. Instead of using metal and manually having to adjust your teeth into place, an Invisalign treatment uses custom made plastic aligners to slowly straighten your teeth and make your smile glow again.
Here we answer some frequently asked questions concerning the Invisalign treatment as a whole.
Are Invisalign aligners the same as traditional braces?
When it comes to moving your teeth into place, yes, they are the same. But that is where their similarities end, as Invisalign is a much more convenient solution. Invisalign aligners are clear plastic, meaning you cannot see them once they are in your mouth. They also come without rubber bands and the food restrictions you have to abide by when wearing metal braces.
How does the Invisalign treatment work?
Your orthodontist will create a specialized treatment plan for you, and will map where your teeth need to go and how they will fit in your mouth once properly in place. Then, the doctor will develop a series of aligners, which work by placing the right amount of force onto a specific tooth at a time. While you can remove these aligners to eat and drink, to ensure you have the best results it is required to wear each aligner for 22-23 hours per day. Depending on your plan, you can expect to put in a new aligner every one to two weeks. After your initial treatment is completed, you will have a refinement period where you’ll get a whole new set of aligners meant to fix any stubborn teeth before you’re completely finished.
Who can benefit from Invisalign?
Anyone can benefit greatly from an Invisalign treatment! From teenagers referred by pediatric dentistry professionals, to adults looking for a discrete way to manage their smiles, all will find success with Invisalign. Plus, this treatment is enhanced enough to fix and mend almost all common orthodontic problems, so don’t feel that you cannot get Invisalign simply because your smile is at its worst.
Are aligners the only part of the process?
No, sometimes a patient may need to have attachments bonded to their teeth in order to have the aligners work properly. Attachments are enamel-colored ridges that stick to the outside of your tooth so the aligners can click into place. They are important because they allow the aligners to work better and shit your teeth easier, without pain. Without the aligners in, it looks like you are wearing clear braces, but with the aligners in they are virtually invisible.
Are aligners easy to take care of?
Yes. They will come with a carry case, and all you have to do is to brush your teeth every time you remove the aligners. This means carrying around a mini toothbrush and toothpaste everywhere you go, in case you need to get a quick brush in. Be aware that if they are not brushed after every meal or drink they are more susceptible to stains.
Choosing Invisalign can be a great way to get your smile back in tip-top shape. With its flexibility, the clear aligners, and no restrictions to what you can eat and drink, Invisalign is perfect for people of all ages looking to gain their smile back.
