Invisalign® 101
Teens aren’t the only ones wearing braces these days. With Invisalign clear aligners, adults are getting in on the action too! Invisalign is the most popular brand of clear aligners in the world and has given millions of patients beautifully straight smiles.
Why Patients Love Invisalign®
- Aesthetics: There is minimal impact on the patient’s appearance. That’s because the aligner trays are made of a high-tech clear plastic and virtually invisible when in use.
- Comfort: Invisalign clear aligners fit over the teeth, not on top of them, for a low profile and secure fit. Plastic aligner trays are rigid enough to stay in place all day and night. They are also smooth, so they don’t cut or scrape the lips or cheeks.
- Convenience: Clear aligners are removable for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene. During treatment, patients do not have to change how or what they eat. Nor do they have to change anything about their at-home oral hygiene routine.
How Invisalign® Works
Once the patient receives their custom aligner trays, they can start treatment. They wear their Invisalign clear aligners for 22 hours a day, changing them out every 10 days or so, as their dentist indicates. Sticking to this regimen will keep treatment progressing according to plan.
The clear aligner trays fit snugly over the teeth and exert gentle pressure to transition them into proper alignment. Each successive set of aligner trays is designed to move the teeth a specific amount. As the patient continues to change out their aligner trays, they will start to notice a difference in their smile since the clear plastic doesn’t hide anything.
At certain points in the treatment process, the patient will check in with their dentist to ensure everything is going as planned. During these appointments, the dentist may affix tiny tooth-colored buttons or attachments to the fronts or backs of specific teeth for the clear aligners to grab onto and push against. Attachments help fine-tune the movement of the teeth into alignment. They are removed once treatment is complete.
Call Your Invisalign® Dentist
Invisalign can help nearly anyone achieve the straight smile they desire. Whether it’s their first time undergoing orthodontic treatment or they had braces as children but the teeth have shifted since, Invisalign is a good choice, offering unparalleled comfort and convenience.
If you are thinking about straightening your teeth or you have a teenager who would benefit from orthodontic treatment, call our office located in Livermore, KY. We’d be happy to schedule an Invisalign consultation to show you what this incredible treatment can do.
