Having crooked teeth is one of the most common dental concerns that plague patients. Besides cosmetic appeal, straight smiles improve oral health by alleviating jaw pain and chewing problems caused by a misaligned bite. However, many adults that are interested in straighter teeth are discouraged by traditional braces. They can be somewhat of a hassle, not to mention uncomfortable and unattractive. Enter Invisalign®, the modern, discrete way to straighten your teeth without sacrificing your smile in the process!
What is Invisalign®?
Invisalign® offers an advanced approach to straightening teeth and correcting misaligned bites or uneven tooth spacing. And best of all, it does it all without the use of unattractive metal brackets and uncomfortable wires. Invisalign® treatment utilizes a series of trays, called aligners, that slowly guide teeth into place. The aligners are made from a smooth, clear plastic that is custom designed to fit each patient’s mouth so that they are comfortable and nearly invisible when worn.
Does Invisalign® work as well as metal braces?
Invisalign® can handle any orthodontic problem that would traditionally be treated with braces. In fact, in many situations, Invisalign® straightens teeth in less time than traditional braces. This is because Invisalign® aligner trays move each tooth individually according to your treatment plan, providing an advantage over those unsightly metal brackets!
While some mild discomfort is common the first few days after starting a new aligner tray, this is simply a sign that teeth are moving into place. Many patients find Invisalign® more comfortable and easier to maintain than traditional braces and prefer the discrete design to metal brackets.
Do I have to avoid certain foods while using Invisalign®?
Nope! Invisalign® aligner trays should be worn at all times except when you are eating. Trays are removed during meals, so you can eat anything you normally would. Simply brush your teeth as usual and pop the tray back in after your meal.
What is the Invisalign® treatment process like?
Premier Dental Care dentists start by creating an individualized plan of action for your unique teeth and goals. At an initial consultation, your dentist will take advanced 3D digital images of your jaw and teeth before discussing your personal goals for orthodontic treatment. We will use these images to evaluate if Invisalign® is the best option for your needs and create a computer simulation of how each tooth needs to move in the mouth to result in the beautiful, straight smile you desire. You’ll even be able to see a computer simulation of your “after” smile!
If you like what you see, we will proceed to have your first set of custom aligner trays made. Typically, you will wear each set of aligner trays for two weeks before progressing to the next set, and will visit Premier Dental Care every four to six weeks to check up on your progress. Most patients will go through a series of 20-29 aligners to reach their ideal smile. Your teeth move a little more with each step of the aligner series, and visible improvements are often made between each appointment!
Contact Premier Dental Care today to schedule a consultation and learn what Invisalign® can do for your smile!