If you’re an adult whose smile has lost its luster due to shifting teeth, you can regain your perfect smile with Invisalign. Because your teeth can shift over time, it’s not surprising that today one in five orthodontic patients is an adult and Invisalign offers busy adults an ideal way to straighten their teeth quickly and easily. An attractive, easy smile affects your self confidence as well as overall health and Zonies-Holgado Dental Associates has helped our patients from across Cherry Hill and southern New Jersey dramatically improve their smiles.
What Are Invisalign Clear Braces?
Invisalign is popular orthodontic treatment option that many people choose when they want to straighten crooked teeth. An alternative to traditional wire braces, Invisalign clear braces use a series of clear, custom-made plastic appliances called aligners to gradually straighten teeth over time. Among those that have experienced orthodontic treatments using both traditional and Invisalign braces, the vast majority reports that Invisalign was dramatically more comfortable and convenient.
The Benefits of Invisalign Braces
Whether you choose Invisalign braces or a more traditional way to have your teeth straightened, you’ll clearly be happy with the result, however Invisalign braces offer some benefits that more traditional braces don’t, including:
Invisible – Invisalign clear braces are clear and not as noticeable as metal braces, which may draw unwanted attention that could make any teen or adult self-conscious.
Comfortable – Invisalign invisible braces have a smooth surface and are gentler than other methods, reducing the level of discomfort.
Convenient – Invisalign braces allow the wearer to remove them for routine meals and dental hygiene, which is much more flexible than most other options.
Affordable – Although costs can vary based on each person’s particular circumstances, Invisalign prices are comparable to those of traditional braces.
Fast – Typically, the treatment time when using invisible braces from Invisalign is less than that of traditional metal braces.
Clearly, when considering orthodontic options to straighten your teeth or that of your loved one, invisible braces from Invisalign offer many great options.
How Does Invisalign Work?
The Invisalign process is remarkably similar to that of traditional braces, however it occurs in a much more comfortable, discreet fashion. While traditional orthodontic treatment normally uses metal braces that are continually adjusted over an extended period of time, the Invisalign system uses a series of customized, clear plastic aligners that when worn over time gently reposition your teeth to produce a beautiful smile.
Steps in the Invisalign Process
Not unlike that of the traditional orthodontic alternative, the process used to create Invisalign braces requires a number of steps. This involves first identifying the current position of your teeth, then determining the desired position and then creating the clear aligners that will be used to gradually guide your teeth into place. The basic steps in creating these invisible braces include:
Create a Model – During your dental visit, we will take x-rays, pictures and impressions of your teeth that will be used to create a 3D model.
Treatment Plan Developed – Using the dental model, our doctors will create a treatment plan for the application and use of the Invisalign clear braces.
Manufacture the Clear Braces – A set of custom aligners is created to match the treatment plan. Compared to traditional braces, the aligners are much more comfortable.
Aligners Delivered – Once the Invisalign aligners arrive, you will be given specific instructions about when to wear them and when to change from one aligner to another. Normally, for best results it’s recommended that patients wear the clear braces for 20 to 22 hours per day.
Occasional Check Ups – As the treatment period continues, you’ll be asked to return in order for us to assess progress and make any adjustments necessary.
Complete Treatment - On average, Invisalign treatment can last anywhere between 9-15 month and patients can wear 18-30 aligners in the process, however this can vary based on the individual.
As you may see, the course of treatment with Invisalign braces is fairly simple and straightforward, however you may still have some questions about the basic steps or how they may apply to your specific situation. If so, you’re welcome to contact us to ask any questions or schedule an appointment to determine if Invisalign is a good choice for you.
